Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Heels...

I LOVE sexy heels & I have to say that Bordello- The Ultimate Line in Seduction has the cutest heels I have seen in LONG time! Any color, tie up, strap, or slip in! The highest heels & you can even wear them out of the house too! If I ever hit the lotto I'll buy every pair they make. Prices start @ $60-$130 for each pair. Check them out you won't be disappointed!

Happy shoe shopping!!!

Monday, January 24, 2011

Who You Are Following....

I have written a few posts & done my 1st blog hop. As I was viewing these pages I wondered who some people were. A brief description & somewhat witty writing is catchy but enough to "follow" IDK, I guess I'm particular about who I choose as "friends" even in the cyber world lol

So if your like me wondering about who your "following"...
>I'll be 25 this year

>I am married to my middle school sweetheart we have been together since I was 13...we do not act our age because we feel like a old married couple @ times :)

>There are 2 kids so far a boy who's almost 3 & a little girl who will one next month.

>I am a Indianapolis Colts fan & you will hear & see about them on my blog. My whole family =huge fans!

>I have a English bulldog Georgia, if you have one you know why it's like having another kid.

>Supernatural is my favorite TV show...looks ain't bad boys & a good plot!

>I LOVE Starbucks, pretty shoes, Dove Chocolate, Stand up comedy, movies especially comedy's,American Eagle is my favorite place to shop for clothes, I usually don't wear makeup, Target over Wal- Mart any day & living in the south rocks!

>I have been in Real Estate for 5 years now & Property Management as well. I love my job it allows for each day to be different help people with there most important purchase of there life & allows flexible hours for my children. I plan on doing this for a Long time. I really enjoy it. (If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask!)

> I am a Christian & feel like I will soon find a church to feel @ home @. I don't look down on other religions, I have friends with opposing views. I just just don't think it's a deal breaker with friends!lol

>I enjoy cooking on my terms, my schedule is really inconsistent so I do my best to make sure everyone eats good meals but my kids & husband each have different likes/dislikes..this makes it really hard. Oh & don't forget food rules either...geez! If you have easy healthy receipes please post them on your blog I am always looking for more!

>Music I like all kinds on Pandora though my favorite station is Jon B Radio, old school r & b just makes my heart flutter!

>I come from a large southern family this would be a book in itself. I don't have enough patience to go there!lol

>Favorite Foods---Mexican, German, Italian, & Southern Soul Food
Examples: Homemade nachos, stroganaff, spaghetti/Alfredo, 6 course Sunday dinner plates...oh & did I say carbs are my weakness?

>What you will find in my blog: Information, I want to be informative on real estate no matter what state you are in I hope I am able to help you! I want you to be able to relate & laugh I love my kids but they are crazy! I'm just trying to stay sane & enjoy life!


Email me topics or questions your wondering about, I will be happy to help!

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Adventures In Bodybuilding & Weightlifting Intro!

My husband started in this in late fall. There is so much more to this than you would think. Life is hectic enough as it is & he throws this in the mix. So I have searched for blog detailing life in this area. I have found nothing. He goes to the trainer 2x a week (who by the way is a cool guy & I hope awesomeness comes there way this year! Big Things Happening!) then he has to do his cardio too. Nutrition is ANOTHER job. You dont realize how unhealthy you cook & what you eat is until you have to scrutinize it.

Let's just say grocery shopping has completely changed & it is more expensive to cook this way too, but it is healthier. I think this is more beneficial for my kids in the long run. I am committed to trying to give my kids healthy eating habits. I don't care if they have sweets, drink sodas, or "eat like a kid" from time to time. You have to prepare your kids in so many different ways & I think that this is a great place to start!

Here are a few tips for eating/cooking healthier to start out.(I am still learning & will share information as I learn too!)
  1. Nothing fried-AT ALL
  2. Fruits a few servings a day & a great way to get your requirements is through smoothies(I will post a recipe for this)
  3. Veggies-Buy local & frozen if possible. Boil or lightly steam. Try not to have any "sauces" on it. A little salt/pepper or Mrs. Dash is ok.
  4. Dairy-reduced fat (lite or dark blue top) watch your intake here, especially if you use milk in your smoothies. String cheese, yogurt, or cottage cheese are a good snack.
  5. Carbs- Are really tricky! I try to do potato's 1x a day of some kind. (Baked, sweet, or whole) Research your carbs bc everybody is different.
  6. Pasta-Whole wheat, add veggies to your sauce, lean meat is a good protein source(turkey or the leanest hamburger meat, chicken too) Stay away from white sauces, I know they taste better but you can reduce your calorie intake & fill up with a red sauce.
  7. Protein-Chicken, steak, or turkey-leanest cuts grilled, baked or broiled. Pork is very fattening so watch it!
  8. Drinks-Water if you can always, carbonated drinks(Sprite or ginger ale), teas (green, hot, sweet w/real sugar no substitutes)
  9. Bread-Whole wheat, Hawaiian rolls in moderation, no white bread of any kind!
  10. Snacks- This is hard because your snacks have to hold you over until meal time but not have a ton of calories & fuel your muscles. I like string cheese, handful of nuts, homemade salsa, fruit of choice, a protein shake, popcorn, or veggies in a fat free dip.
  11. Desserts- I think everything in moderation.  Once a week I make my husband sugar cookies or brownies. That's it. He gets no other sweets period. Holidays are an exception. The kids can have as many cookies as they want. At this point I do not have ice cream or any frozen desserts on period.
I hope this helps you if you need a place to start for getting heatlhier & losing weight or gaining muscle. I will have blogs to follow on this one because it is a learning experience.

If you are local I would like to encourage you to visit Olympus Gym, they have personal trainers on hand for you to USE! Tanning beds, sauna, childcare, group exercise & less than $15 a month with 2 locations in the Boro!

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Things To Do In Murfreesboro!

I often find myself racking my brain on what to do each weekend, if your new to the area this might be a starting point!


Bowling-We have 2 bowling alleys Lanes Trains & Automobiles is the newest. It has bumper cars, multiple restaurants, bar, arcade, TONS of lanes. www.ltadepot.com/


For more traditional bowling atmosphere visit www.strikeandsparebowling.com 


Skating- Skate Center West located near Broad street & Medical Center Pkwy www.skateandplay.com/


Parks- There are PLENTY of parks in Murfreesboro there is wooden castle play area close to Stones River Mall, Barfield Park has extensive walking trails & nature center.
http://www.murfreesborotn.gov/default.aspx?ekmenu=316&id=2382


Malls- There are 2 malls the main difference being Stones River mall is indoor & The Avenue is a outdoor mall www.shoptheavenue.com


Go Karting/Put Put Golf- There is 1 place to go for this http://www.gousafunpark.com/ near the malls & I 24


Golfing- There are quiet a few places to golf no need to elaborate here are the websites
http://www.murfreesborotn.gov/default.aspx?ekmenu=120&id=934
www.indianhillsgc.comwww.cedarcrestgolfclub.net
Swimming- There are many options for staying cool in the summer here, you can read my blog on neighborhoods with swimming pools or visit one of there public venues.
Pools
Sports Com has been totally re-vamped & is much like a mini-Nashville Shores!
Movie Theaters- We have 2 theaters as well. A Carmike off Cason Lane & a locally owned theater in Jackson Heights Plaza
Carmike Wynnsong-http://www.carmike.com/showtimes.aspx?fct=5&tid=50
Premeire 6-http://goseeamovie.com/
Athletic Clubs- There are plenty of these around, I will list the top few I can think of
Olympus Gym-www.gymolympus.com/
MAC-www.murfreesboroathleticclub.com/
Golds Gym-www.goldsgym.com/gyms/tennessee/murfreesboro/1310
Have fun & ENJOY what Murfreesborooffer!

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Murfreesboro Neighborhoods...A few with Amenities you'll LOVE!

Murfreesboro has neighborhoods that make life a little simpler for our hectic lives. I thought I would compile a short list of a few neighborhoods that offer a little more comfort...

Marymont Springs-This one is slated to have a state art community center with a pool,club house, fitness center, walking trails, & a playground. It sits on the land of a old plantation home (which now serves as the information home) Prices start $300's for the 1st phase. Eventually there will be starter homes, townhomes, & mid-range homes as well.. If custom is what you want you can do it here!
Close to schools, interstate, shopping, & entertainment off Hwy 96

Berkshire-This neighborhood features some colonial style homes as well as more modern style homes. A community clubhouse & pool. Each phase has a different period feel for it. There are 1 level homes for a first time homebuyer all the way to a custom built home to your taste. This neighborhood has lots still available to choose from.
Close to schools, interstates (24 & 840), shopping, & entertainment near Beasley Road

Cedar Crest- This neighborhood sits beside Cedar Crest golf course. This community is the most rural on this list. Off Jefferson Pike & Mona Rd. This neighborhood starts in 200s
It's not close to much but a treat if you take the time to view it.
Close to: 840


Indian Hills-This neighborhood features a golf course with multiple clubhouses, pool, playground, & restaurant on site as well. If you like golfing this may the neighborhood for you, it's 1 of two with a golf course on site. Prices range from 140s to the million range. There are some townhomes available as well.
Close to schools, interstates (24), shopping, & entertainment near 231/South Church Street

Liberty Valley- In North Murfreesboro off Central Valley Rd this neighborhood has all brick homes with a community pool. Its a little off the beaten path but offers newer homes in North Murfreesboro starting from the 175 range to 300k
Close to schools, interstate (840), shopping, & entertainment near the soccer fields & sports com off 231 North

Prestwick-This small neighborhood is off Rutherford Blvd close to MTSU & offers community pool. You are very close to MTSU, might be a great place for you sports fans!

Savannah Ridge-This neighborhood has a community pool & sits right behind a local favorite Camino Real Restaurant.
Close to schools, interstate (24), shopping, & entertainment near 231/South Church Street

Stratford Hall- This neighborhood has a community pool, playground & it is a gated community near MTSU. Newer custom homes within walking distance of campus.
Close to schools, interstate (24), shopping, MTSU, & entertainment near Rutherford Blvd, HWY 96E

Weston Park-This neighborhood has a community pool & sits right off Salem Hwy. Close to the newest Murfreesboro Exit off 24. It has new construction & the price range goes from 160s to 400s
Close to schools, interstate (24), shopping, MTSU, & entertainment near Old Salem Hwy

I hope this helps you if you are in search of a home ina  neighborhood with amenities. Each of these neighborhoods has something to offer a seasoned buyer. Don't worry if you can't purchase a home in one of these neighborhoods yet, baby steps you will! Everyone has to start the home owning process somewhere.

Below I have links with information on the neighborhoods listed (If I forgot a neighborhood please email me!)
Marymont Springs-Marymont Springs | Privately Gated, Resort Life-style Residential
Berkshire-www.berkshireconnected.com/
Indian Hills- http://www.indianhillsgc.com/ 
Liberty Valley-http://www.libertyheightshoa.com/
Savannah Ridge-http://www.savannahridgehoa.com/
Stratford Hall-http://shhoa-tn.com/shhoa-tn/page.html

Monday, January 17, 2011

Why Starbucks ROCKS!

I hear "It's expensive"or I don't like coffee alot when I say I LOVE Starbucks. It has branded quality drinks with a clean, relaxing atmosphere for decades. I like to know where they are located  where ever I am traveling. You have to give it a chance & more times than not you'll be hooked. I once heard a comedian say no on would be surprised if they found out crack was in Starbucks. Anyone who has drank it would agree  & laugh.

I know I can count on getting exactly what I like each time I go there. Quality ingredients even in the food. I do not go to McDonald's for anything anymore, it's too fattening. The barista usually have a spunky mood even if its super early & encourage you to try a drink to see if you like it! 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, I have myself got a drink & it didn't taste right & they replaced it free & without any questions.
I would like for them to be open til 11pm daily that's my only complaint. Less expensive would be great but I don't foresee that happening.

Starbucks is celebrating 40 years & introduced just today a new size drink 'Trenta". Thanks for listening!
We all want more...

If you don't have a favorite here are a few I can recommend.. All can be Hot or Cold!
Tall(Small), Grande(Medium),Venti (Large),Trenta(Ex Large)

Vanilla Latte- Is my FAVORITE, no foam, extra hot please...you can have any drink "skinny" for 1/3 less fat**
White Chocolate Mocha
Hot Chocolate
Caramel Macchiato- Cold extra caramel!
Cinnamon Dulce Latte-Yummy!
There are seasonal drinks, Gingerbread, Eggnog, Creme Brulee, Peppermint Mocha, or Pumpkin Spice Latte
They also have teas, frappucinos(milkshake), Viviannos(Smoothie), Cider, & kids drinks too!

I Love Starbucks & I hope you give it a try too! Become they're friend of Facebook it pays off when they post a deal! Grab a book & head to Starbucks....

Saturday, January 15, 2011

Fences Make Good Neighboors...

This old saying is true more times than not. If you are looking to install a fence here are a few tips to ease the process.
 You could try a little DIY fencing. Honestly unless you are really handy & have the required tools on hand to complete this, leave it to the professionals!lol
(Farrer Bros, Lowes, &  Home Depot all rent the tools you would need even trailers to haul it to the house)

Professional Installation is my preferred method. You get a warranty on defected installation unlike the DIY method. You don't have wear yourself out, get snowed, rained or frustrated with the job. There are a few companies in town that can assist you. Please make sure that the company you use has insurance before starting work on your property. This is mandated by Tennessee State Law.

Personally I have dealt with quite a few but Bratton Bros here in Murfreesboro does great work. They can construct just about anything you request & will be honest with you. Your welcome to choose whom ever you would like this is just my personal review**

Factors of Fence Pricing-
Rock- If you have a lot of it be ready! Someone has to remove it....
Size of the area you would like to fence-The bigger the more it costs
Materials-Some materials are less expensive than other is all about look & durability(Wood, PVC, IRON)
Labor-How labor intensive the job will be.
(It is done by the foot, plus gate & rock removal cost)

Some local companies....

http://www.brattonbros.com/
www.midtennfencing.com/
www.cleancutfence.com/
www.titangateandfence.com/
www.hooperfence.com/

Friday, January 14, 2011

One of the MOST touchy subjects...Your Pets!

I have a English Bulldog -Georgia she is our families latest addition. We adopted her from the animal shelter roughly 6 months ago, we are still getting to know her. Believe me anyone with a English Bulldog will tell you, life is intrestingly fun & gross. I understand where you die hard amimal lovers come from. We care for her & shame on me if she stays outside too long! Having a animal when selling your home is a subject that should be covered & instructions followed if needed by any agent showing your home.

I once had a listing appointment with a couple who didn't have any kids but had 2 small dogs who might as well been children. I toured the home  & performed my listing presentation. We came to agree on everything but the situation with their dogs. They would not let them outside during the day while they were gone, put them in a kennel, or put them at a "doggie daycare" so showings could be performed. This was a very upscale home, well kept, & honestly we could have sold it I believe. The major deal breaker is the dogs. They refused to do anything with them (they were major barkers too) It was beyond reason to them that a potential buyer would be annoyed by this or walk away completely. You may LOVE your dog but not everyone is a dog lover.

I just don't understand when a REALTOR tells you something has to be done to sell your home & you flat out refuse over a pet.

I will tell you if your home smells like pet urine! Thanks to my nose after having children, I am very sensitive to smells. I am not embarrased to say "Mr & Mrs. Smith you need to replace the carpet before we list the home it has a strong urine smell." It's not personal it's business, I am hired to effieciently sell your home for as much & as fast as I can. I run across this problem & honestly as nasty as it sounds most people don't realize the smell until someone else says something, they are used to it.

Kennel your pet! A potential buyer should be able to freely walk around the home without worrying about your "really docile rottweiler". How can one feel at home when they are worried about keeping they're appendages?

Poop Scoop your back yard.
A potential buyer should be able to walk around outside without smelling or stepping in your animals feces. This will be a MAJOR deal breaker & will end up on your homes floors incidently too.

Finally don't be offended if the feed back from a showing on your home deals with one of these issues. Every pet owner "thinks" they're  home doesn't smell. Take it seriously if you would like to sell your home. Offer to replace the carpet after closing of you can't do it until you close the home.
Owners should go the extra mile seeing as your pet did damage  in the home.

Be a Responsible Pet Owner & IT WILL PAY OFF when you sell your home!

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Why to choosing a REALTOR is IMPORTANT!

Whether I am dealing with a first time homebuyer or a client who has purchased before, a few of the same questions or topics arise. The market is constantly changing & as a REALTOR is my job to keep you informed. I feel like the golden rule applies in real estate. Treat everyone as you would want to be treated. I will relay good & bad information even if it might be hard to hear. I think too many REALTORS try & play nice & just hope that the home closes. I believe there are a few items of advice that you should know when begining to purchase or sell a home.

>Make sure that the person you choose truly holds a license with the state your in
(Each state ensures that continuing education & insurance is strictly adheared to)

>I think that chemistry is important with your agent. You should be able to trust them explicity to follow the laws & to try to meet your requests. This is a major step in life & you should be represented correctly & hopefully make a friend along the way !

>Search the MLS even if your agent already is. Your agent will send you homes via email that fit your criteria but it can't hurt to keep looking too. This ensures communication.

>When looking at the home be HONEST if there is something you don't like tell your agent!! This is not personal so don't be afraid to explain why the pink kitchen is just off the list!

>If you have questions ask them, either right away or write them down so everything can be explained clearly to you.

>Have access to a computer,email, fax, printer, or scanner (You & Your Agent)
There are times especially in short sales & foreclosures paperwork must be signed ASAP! Any delay could jepordize the offer.

> The market dictates sales price as your agent you will be giving you expert advice on what a home could be worth. If your selling your home get 3 opinions if you do not agree, be careful though the highest list price may cost you in the end. Statistics matter in real estate not what you believe your home is worth. Again it's not personal you ar presented facts based on what has sold & for what in your area.

When purchasing the same applies, offering 20k below list price for your dream home will not only offended the seller but could get your offer rejected completly & you might be back to square one in your search. Consider what your agent says on list price when making a offer. A suggested offer price is not created out of thin air, it is based on statistics in the area your home is in. Make a educated decision & be aware the terms of your offer.

>Short Sales & Foreclosures are usually a long process & can emotionally drain your excitment of the home buying process. Things will go much smoother if you prepare your self for this. In this case be ready for anything the bank is not aware of any history on the home your home inspection is VERY important!

>GET A HOME INSPECTION!! You are making the biggest purchase if your life do not go into the home blind.

>To wrap it up remember that your agent is not superman or superwoman. No one is perfect & at the end of the day we are all human. Even if you are at the end of your rope with things. Please treat each other with respect. Refrain from yelling, cussing, or belittling your agent. Yes you have hired them to represent you & sometimes things just do click or work out. You have every right to choose someone else.
                              THE GOLDEN RULE APPLIES ALWAYS!