It has been a minute. And I’m only free to jot this morning
because I’ve been duh’d again.
To explain..
To explain..
I’ve been scurrying about for the last 48 hours, in order to clear a full day
off from my immediate responsibilities, so I could take a required out-of-town
Continuing Ed class for Real Estate, which has since been cancelled due to a
lack of participation. This is the story of my life: massive preparation,
followed by twist of irony, likely making said preparation totally moot. I’m
not complaining, at least there’s a bit of a literary style, and honestly, I
never see it coming. Even though, duh.
Here in South Mississippi, fall is having one of those minor “pay attention to me” episodes where it flares up with wintery behavior, and undoubtedly
returns
to tank top weather all in the same week. Sunday, I could have worked on my
tan. Monday I was scrambling to put on every pair of socks I own all at the
same time. And just to be safe, I packed both my fluffiest coat and a pair of
lightweight linen pants for this trip to the big city of Meridian. Here in South Mississippi, fall is having one of those minor “pay attention to me” episodes where it flares up with wintery behavior, and undoubtedly
(Obvious consolation prize to my class being cancelled
--> I still get to spend a weekend with Drew.)
We have been playing in Hattiesburg every weekend since he
returned from Knoxville, with the exception of a work weekend he had to spend
in Maine. I mean, it’s October/November, and there just isn’t a vacant Friday
or Saturday night to be had. And yes sometimes, even Thursday night wants to
show out. Between Live @ Fives, a Generationals show (new favorite, btw), the
local burlesque show, our annual Halloween party (we were Ursula and King
Triton), actual Halloween (by which time I was too exhausted to have 8 legs
again), post-Halloween brunches, top secret birthday brunches and Amanda’s
wedding, I haven’t been still much.
 |
| Here we are at Hattiesburlesque. Not quite sure what Drew's up to with the pink ball. |
So I’m actually quite grateful to have a dull moment with
which to type a thing. It should be no coincidence that next week is
Thanksgiving. My “grateful for” list has grown and swelled over the last few
years, and I have found myself adoring this age I’m settling into. Though
there’s much more to do and take care of than in my early 20’s, there’s a lot
less overall headache, anxiety and fear. Which brings me to the title of this
post..
I’ll be honest, when strangers or folks I haven’t seen in
ages ask me “What do you do?” I’m both
excited and terrified to tell them. I can feel my brain actually freeze and fracture
into chunks, like an iceberg whose number is up. In business school, they tell
you to practice your elevator pitch. Short, sweet. You tell me how to make this
short and sweet: I’m a real estate agent. I own an all-natural cleaning
company. I coordinate community festivals for non-profits. I consult with small
businesses on their marketing. And lately, I help out at a gym four days a
week. Should I come up with an acronym?
I know that when someone asks that question, they really
only want to hear what is most prominent in my life. But the answer to that
could actually vary by the hour of the day. And then the poor asker wants to
know how I balance it all. I usually just shrug and explain that I’m a Gemini,
and “easily bored.” I know this makes me sound a little manic. Unstable.
Uncommitted. Any other un-words?
But the truth is the opposite.
But the truth is the opposite.
I recently learned, while sitting at happy hour, that it’s not
uncommon to take supplements, whether prescribed or herbal, to moderate the
wild ride of life’s emotions and inclinations—stress, anxiety, and of course,
the usual culprit behind productivity theft, ADD. I’m apparently in the minority on this one. All
I can do to deal with my bizarre life is make sure I get proper sleep, eat well,
wake up early and be prepared, regardless of whether the thing is cancelled at
the last cussin’ minute. But these
little efforts build on one another. And you know they are the things your mama
told you to do anyway!
In the course of the day, I’ll bounce back and forth between
handling last-minute cleaning reschedules or recruiting new contractors, to auditing
a local video store’s web presence, to showing a home or addressing a leaky
toilet at a rental property. No, I don’t have a traditional 8-5, 9-4 or
anything even close. Then there are days when I’m lucky enough to catch a
glorious mid-afternoon nap, wake up, and work until it’s time for bed. My
schedule and my life are super weird.
Here’s the thing I’ve learned. If you don’t allow yourself
to be scared, nervous, and sometimes brimming full of trepidation when it comes
to your next challenge, you’re likely going to miss out on the calm after the
storm as well. If you medicate or distract your way through hurdles, the
well-designed system that is your physical/mental arrangement will never ever
learn to adapt. But boy is it capable. You just have to trust it and push it a
little. You will cope like you’ve never coped before!
Think about learning as a little kid. At one point, you
stood on the edge of a precipice, unsure of how to cross a certain scary
bridge. Starring as an angel in the kindergarten play. Cartwheels. First kiss. And then you get
older. Essays. College boys. Job interviews. Breakups. Cross-country drives
without killing anyone. All these things looked a bit mortifying from the
outset. But by now, you’re handling them like a champ, and also knowing when to
stay the heck away from the whole situation, i.e. college boys.
The same is true as a quasi-adult, the category I put myself
in. Back in college, I used to obsessively read an online Canadian blog called
Digs Magazine that targeted the “post-college, pre-parenthood, quasi-adult
generation.” (It featured cool loft apartments, long before Apartment Therapy
was a dot com.) That is me, and many of my friends. We have stable income. We
don’t always manage it well. We’re figuring it out. But we’re not letting
tradition or expectation dictate our story. Man, I love that about us.
Like me, many of my friends are self-employed. As far
as I’m concerned, it's the only way to go, but let’s face it.. being your own boss
ain’t for everyone. It’s especially tricky if you do have a touch of
attention-deficit. I mean, who doesn’t? Just writing this post is a major
struggle for me and I’m still not sure I’ll make it through. How on earth to
deal? The simplest answer is often correct. Let distraction happen. Allow
yourself to come naturally back to focus when your mind is ready. This won’t
always work for deadlines, but it’s pretty healthy during your normal workflow.
If you suppress distraction at work, you’ll find it in other unwanted areas of
your life. Like when you’re thumbing through Instagram while on a date.
Ew.
The biggest issue with self-employment is the total
unknown. There’s very little “company precedent” for how to handle new
situations, types of clients, etc. Recently, I was looking at my calendar from
the week before with amazement. I remembered being aware of that week well in
advance, of how scary it was going to be with insanely tight scheduling, new
corporate clients and zero room for error. I’m pretty sure I thought I might
actually die that week. Just wake up dead from stress. But that didn’t happen,
and before I knew it, I was looking back thinking, ‘well, I mean really it was
nothing.’ And just like that the big, nerve-racking deals go from something to
nothing.
Conclusion, my life is crazy and yours probably is too. The only
thing college boys are good for is finding you a Ritalin supplier. Run away. Get
enough sleep and don’t be so hard on yourself after getting lost in cat videos
for like, an hour. Embrace the fear and charge it head on because if you don’t,
you may never see the other of the bridge. And hey, it could look like a whole
morning spent in bed typing a blog post, after all.
(Gimme a break, it’s 9 a.m.)
*This advice is not real advice. It's a major oversimplification of a complicated matter. Just do what you do if that's working for you.
 |
| Where we going, Chief? |
It's a little imbalanced at the moment. I have held a lot more baby animals than I have buried time capsules, for instance. But this is only month #1.
As a result of making this list, I find myself wanting to push the limits and DO things that aren't on the list at all. Like camp constantly.
I only camped for the first time a few months ago when we went to a Toyota Jamboree in Nowhere, Texas. First the first time, I was able to sleep in a tent that's been in my family, unused, since I was at least a freshman in high school. It was a dangerous introduction. Not the actual camping experience, but how it made me fall a little bit in love with the idea of being homeless.
(Do not get me wrong-- I am so grateful for my launchpad. Four walls and a cat are pretty crucial to my daily grind. But if I ever had to walk away, at least I already have a tent. And now I know how to use it.)
My mom reminded me the other day that when I was little, I would take a handkerchief, stuff it full of plastic toy food, tie it to the end of a kid sized broomstick and say, "Ok bye, I'm going home now." It was pretty perplexing to her since I was always already home. Or at least I was at my address.
Home is where the ___________ is.
Then last weekend, I floated from Ocean Springs to Deer Island with a small crew. A two-hour float to the place that all the mutant, gigantic horseflies must have once been exiled to. Every bite worth it, just to fall asleep around a fire telling stories, jokes, playing cards, and waking up to the sunrise. That morning I hopped out of the tent and grabbed a fishing pole--they had been dancing all around us on the float to the island--and a big blue crab scuttled under Drew's boat. He was so large it sounded like someone was knocking on a door. He stared at me with big angry eyes and for a minute I felt like I had really invaded his personal space.
That's the beauty of nature, it belongs to no one.
Nobody caught any fish, but we did have a cluster of dolphins tease us on the way home. I really wanted to, but I didn't put Touch a wild dolphin on my #30before30 list only because it just seems a bit wrong. I just squealed at them instead. I'm fine with only getting to squeal at dolphins.
One of my oldest friends, Lauren Stovall, is now a talented bluegrass singer/songwriter in Boulder, CO. We used to sing Dixie Chicks songs together in the back of the choir room, and I should have known then that she would stick with it. She was always an amazing singer and now she's out there showcasing her gift. She's formed a band called The Railsplitters and they are winning all kinds of recognition and gaining major ground in the bluegrass world. It's a huge feat, especially in Colorado where you can't throw a rock too far in any direction without hitting a mandolin.
Here's one of my favorites called "Boarding Pass" .. written by her band mate Dusty Rider. Yep, that's his name. (He's on lap steel in this vid if I'm not mistaken.)
Ain't she something? And to think, you can come out of the Bellegrove neighborhood in Brandon, Mississippi and manage to make it out of the state alive with all that talent. Bravo Lauren!
I should add it to my #30before30 list to watch your full band play a live show.
In case just one video wasn't enough for you..
So 10 days ago, I turned 29. My general response to most changes is to make a list, and this occasion was no different. Typical Gemini. A few days before my birthday, I scribbled out a laundry list of thirty things to accomplish before I turn 30 years old. And I put it out there for all my world to see, as a means of accountability. I would have shared a picture of the handwritten version, but it was hardly legible.
Here is the note I made on my phone, always accessible.
A few said, how are you gonna get all these things done in a year? Is it enough time? I explained that some of these items would be accomplished all at once, such as staying up all night with friends, while on a cruise. I should probably also clarify, that these are not all things I have never done.
#3, 7, 16, 20, 21, 27, 28 -- I've all done at some point, but not lately, or in some cases, not since I've been an adult. Whatever that means. I've been on mountains and in a cave or two as well.
That's really not the point.
Let me put it this way: Being a fully formed individual (I'm not growing any taller), who has an idea of what she wants and pays her own bills, gives new meaning to being on top of a mountain. So much new meaning, in fact, that I just might have to blow bubbles about it. Make sense?
So far, I've..
..held TWO baby animals
- a bat and
- a teensy froggy
..cooked 3 of 52 new recipes
- egg rolls,
- the printed-on-the-bag version of red beans and rice
- and homemade goat cheese
..gone two whole days (non-consecutive obviously) without internet!
^ May not seem like a big deal, but I'm a real estate agent and the webs is pretty much my office
..started reading book 1 of 12
- Breakfast of Champions, Vonnegut
(Taking suggestions in this category if you have any)
Maybe my favorite thing about this list is how it's gotten a few others to publish their #30before30 lists as well. I'm reposting these lists on my ig if you're interested. I love that we can all help each other mark items off these lists, or at least celebrate when someone else gets to cross a thing off theirs. In fact, some things on my list will require lots of help. If you know anyone with a sailboat, drop me a line.
Here is the note I made on my phone, always accessible.
A few said, how are you gonna get all these things done in a year? Is it enough time? I explained that some of these items would be accomplished all at once, such as staying up all night with friends, while on a cruise. I should probably also clarify, that these are not all things I have never done.
#3, 7, 16, 20, 21, 27, 28 -- I've all done at some point, but not lately, or in some cases, not since I've been an adult. Whatever that means. I've been on mountains and in a cave or two as well.
That's really not the point.
Let me put it this way: Being a fully formed individual (I'm not growing any taller), who has an idea of what she wants and pays her own bills, gives new meaning to being on top of a mountain. So much new meaning, in fact, that I just might have to blow bubbles about it. Make sense?
So far, I've..
..held TWO baby animals
- a bat and
- a teensy froggy
..cooked 3 of 52 new recipes
- egg rolls,
- the printed-on-the-bag version of red beans and rice
- and homemade goat cheese
..gone two whole days (non-consecutive obviously) without internet!
^ May not seem like a big deal, but I'm a real estate agent and the webs is pretty much my office
..started reading book 1 of 12
- Breakfast of Champions, Vonnegut
(Taking suggestions in this category if you have any)
Maybe my favorite thing about this list is how it's gotten a few others to publish their #30before30 lists as well. I'm reposting these lists on my ig if you're interested. I love that we can all help each other mark items off these lists, or at least celebrate when someone else gets to cross a thing off theirs. In fact, some things on my list will require lots of help. If you know anyone with a sailboat, drop me a line.
I was first introduced to the latin phrase, Caveat emptor, in my early real estate classes in college.
"Let the buyer beware" is not only an ominous warning, it's a contract law principle pertaining to the purchase of real estate. Basically, it states to the buyer that if you aren't the most educated on all the elements potentially affecting your home purchase and value, that's really your problem, dude.
As if buying a house isn't complicated and stressful enough!
"Let the buyer beware" is not only an ominous warning, it's a contract law principle pertaining to the purchase of real estate. Basically, it states to the buyer that if you aren't the most educated on all the elements potentially affecting your home purchase and value, that's really your problem, dude.
As if buying a house isn't complicated and stressful enough!
One day I'd like to advocate for Home Buying 101 to be included in all public high school and university core curriculum. Is it not the American dream? Yet no one equips you with the tools or knowledge as to how to actually prepare for, buy and eventually sell a home.
And in far too many cases, first-time buyers are taken advantage of due to the their ignorance. There are many steps along the way, and many chances for your lack of experience to cost you big time, now and down the road.
I have several friends and clients who purchased their first home years ago without the assistance of their own agent. Some never saw a copy of the Seller's Disclosure on their house (a document that describes any known damage to structure, any repairs, etc.) until it was too late.
Some weren't given the chance to see what that same house was purchased for in the past, or what other homes in the neighborhood sold for in the last year. These buyers weren't given a chance to see the full picture of the home's value. Many paid close to list price, only to find out that today, their home is not worth what they paid, or in some cases, what they still owe.
Some weren't given the chance to see what that same house was purchased for in the past, or what other homes in the neighborhood sold for in the last year. These buyers weren't given a chance to see the full picture of the home's value. Many paid close to list price, only to find out that today, their home is not worth what they paid, or in some cases, what they still owe.
These buyers, now trying to sell, are not alone in their predicament. Unfortunately, it's a very common occurrence and it can happen to anyone.
If you or someone you know looking to buy, I'd advise you to seek your own agent first things first. Find someone who is responsive to you, who will work for you regardless of your budget. Insist on being informed and find out what questions you need to ask. Most importantly, don't overextend your budget. Just because you can finance 2.5 times your salary, does not mean you should.
Fortunately in Hattiesburg, you can find great homes in a variety of price points. Just last month, I helped a client close on a 3 bedroom/2 bathroom home for less than $55k. These deals are out there if you hunt them down, which is where using a professional comes in.
Fortunately in Hattiesburg, you can find great homes in a variety of price points. Just last month, I helped a client close on a 3 bedroom/2 bathroom home for less than $55k. These deals are out there if you hunt them down, which is where using a professional comes in.
If you're a new buyer, you're about to spend more money that you've ever spent on a single purchase, so take the time to be sure it's right for you and that you're getting the best possible deal.
Have real estate questions? I'm easy to reach. I won't always tell you what you want to hear, but I'll give you facts so you can make the most informed decision.
Jacqueline Lee
Magnolia Real Estate
601-447-1954
Magnolia Real Estate
601-447-1954
At the end of last summer I saw this video on YouTube while searching for yoga workouts. I didn't know what acroyoga was at time. The flow was so inspiring (love the music by Ben Howard too) that Drew and I decided to try it in my front yard that evening. We were surrounded by citronella candles to keep the bugs off of us, probably looking like hippie seance holders. I live on a well-trafficked corner, and hanging upside down from his feet, we got some serious drive-by stares. Totally worth it.
Yoga is awesome on its own, but team yoga, with crazy looking holds supported by a partner is almost the most fun you can have.
Last weekend we went to Orange Beach with some of our favorites! Joel and Casey snagged a few shots of us goofing around with some moves. I'm pretty sloppy out there, but we'll work on it and hopefully by our next beach trip we can really show out.
I definitely recommend trying it out. You'll need
This is real. It's happening. March 29. See fb for details. Do not be lame and not come. If you insist on being lame, you can always come and cheer for an unlikely champion. In which case, homemade pom poms are mandatory, even if they are edible, and in fact, cheeseburgers. Pretty much anything goes.
Update: We moved The Blunder Games to Sunday, March 30, due to Hubfest.
Update: We moved The Blunder Games to Sunday, March 30, due to Hubfest.
Yes, it's 2014 and Asians are still winning the cool race.
I think every science/invention fair I ever participated in as a kid, my projects always revolved around this goop, except for that one year I made a leash that would walk 3 dogs at once. Still holding out for the patent on that one.
