What Your Coffee Order Says About Your Real Estate Personality

Are you a black coffee buyer, a pumpkin spice seller, or something a little more complicated?

Close-up of a cup of cappuccino with a heart-shaped latte art design on top of the foam.

Your coffee order might be revealing more about your real estate personality than you think. ☕🏡

After years of working in real estate, I’ve developed a few theories about people, houses, and the occasionally questionable decisions we make when emotions enter the equation.

And while I can’t scientifically prove that your morning cappuccino determines how you’ll negotiate a home purchase, I have my suspicions.

So, whether you’re buying your first home, preparing to sell, or simply keeping an eye on the Virginia real estate market, let’s have a little fun.

Welcome to The Realtor RN’s Coffee Psychology 101.

☕ Black Coffee — The No-Nonsense Negotiator

No cream. No sugar. No nonsense.

As a buyer: You want facts, figures, comparable sales, and inspection reports. You’re not interested in the seller’s emotional attachment to the kitchen backsplash.

As a seller: You’re ready to price competitively, prepare the property, and get down to business. Sentimentality isn’t part of your pricing strategy.

My diagnosis: Refreshingly practical. We should get along beautifully.

☕ Cappuccino — The Aesthetic Enthusiast

You appreciate the finer details. Beautiful architecture, thoughtful design, and a room that just feels right.

As a buyer: You’re drawn to original hardwood floors, natural light, architectural character, and beautiful finishes.

As a seller: You understand the value of presentation. Staging, professional photography, and thoughtful preparation matter to you.

My diagnosis: Excellent taste. Just remember that a gorgeous chandelier doesn’t fix a failing HVAC system.

☕ Iced Vanilla Latte — The Optimistic Dreamer

You want the best of everything. And preferably at a very attractive price.

As a buyer: Your wish list includes the dream kitchen, fabulous location, spacious primary suite, and room in the budget for vacations.

As a seller: You want top dollar, minimal inconvenience, and a smooth transaction.

My diagnosis: I admire your optimism. But occasionally, we’re going to need to introduce your expectations to the market data.

☕ Cold Brew — The Strategic Thinker

Cool. Calm. Calculated.

You’ve done your homework, probably have a spreadsheet, and aren’t particularly interested in making emotional decisions.

As a buyer: You’ve been tracking listings, price reductions, and comparable sales for months. You know the days on market before we walk through the door.

As a seller: You understand pricing strategy, market timing, and the importance of positioning your property against the competition.

My diagnosis: You’re speaking my language. Let’s make sure we’re interpreting the data correctly.

☕ Pumpkin Spice Latte — The Sentimental One

You love a good story. A beautiful memory. A home with character.

And sometimes, your heart gets a little ahead of your calculator.

As a buyer: You’ve already pictured Thanksgiving dinner, holiday decorations, and where the Christmas tree will go.

As a seller: You remember every birthday party, holiday gathering, and family milestone that happened inside those walls.

My diagnosis: Homes hold memories. But buyers purchase properties, not the memories attached to them. We’ll honor the sentiment while making sound financial decisions.

☕ Dirty Chai — The Beautifully Complicated One

You’ve got layers. Lots of them.

As a buyer: You want historic charm, modern conveniences, acreage, mountain views, walkability, a garage, and absolutely no maintenance.

As a seller: You’ve got a contingency, a complicated timeline, or another home to purchase before you can move.

My diagnosis: Nothing a thoughtful plan and a few honest conversations can’t help us navigate.

☕ Matcha — The Intentional Minimalist

You’re thoughtful, grounded, and more interested in quality of life than impressing the neighbors.

As a buyer: You’re looking for natural light, functional spaces, peaceful surroundings, and a home that supports your lifestyle.

As a seller: You’ve already decluttered, organized, donated, and possibly saged the house.

My diagnosis: You’re prepared, intentional, and understand that sometimes less really is more.

☕ Water, No Coffee — The Overwhelmed One

You’re exhausted before we’ve even started.

And frankly, with all the conflicting real estate advice floating around, I understand.

As a buyer: You’re trying to understand mortgage rates, closing costs, inspections, contingencies, and whether now is actually the right time to purchase.

As a seller: You’re staring at a house full of belongings, a list of repairs, and approximately 47 opinions about what your property is worth.

My diagnosis: You don’t need more noise. You need a plan, clear communication, and someone willing to walk you through the process.

That’s where I come in.

The Truth About Real Estate Personalities

Your coffee order probably isn’t a reliable predictor of your real estate behavior.

But here’s what I’ve learned: every buyer and seller brings different priorities, expectations, emotions, and circumstances to the table.

Some people want detailed analysis. Others need guidance and reassurance. Some are ready to make a decision tomorrow, while others are still exploring their options.

There isn’t one perfect formula for buying or selling a home.

There is, however, tremendous value in working with someone who listens, understands your goals, and isn’t afraid to have an honest conversation.

After more than two decades working in emergency nursing, I’ve learned that staying calm, asking the right questions, and paying attention to the details can make an enormous difference.

I bring that same philosophy to real estate.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply wondering what your home might be worth in today’s market, I’m happy to help you make sense of it.

And if you’re a pumpkin spice latte seller convinced your house is worth $50,000 more because of the memories?

We’ll talk. I’ll bring the coffee. 😂

Carolyn Book, REALTOR®
The Realtor RN | eXp Realty

Serving Staunton, Waynesboro, Augusta County, Charlottesville, Albemarle County, and surrounding Shenandoah Valley communities.

www.realtorrn.com

Now tell me: What’s your coffee order, and did I get your real estate personality right?

Moving to Charlottesville for UVA Residency in 2026? A Housing Guide for Incoming Residents

Match Day 2026 is approaching. Incoming residents across every specialty are beginning to plan their move. Specialties include Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Anesthesia, OB/GYN, and beyond. Many are going to be moving to Charlottesville, Virginia.

For many, the assumption is simple:

Residency = Rent.

But that isn’t always the only option.

I work alongside the UVA healthcare community. I understand the pace and demands of academic medicine. I know housing decisions during residency are rarely just financial. They are logistical. Emotional. Strategic.

If you are moving to Charlottesville for UVA residency, this guide will assist you in evaluating renting and buying. It does so thoughtfully and realistically.

Should You Rent or Buy During Residency at UVA?

Charlottesville rental inventory can be competitive. This is especially true in late spring and summer. During this time, medical trainees, graduate students, and university faculty all enter the market at once.

It is a strong spring market.

And just like you prepared for exams, rotations, and interviews — preparation matters here too.

Many incoming residents are surprised. They find that buying a home in Charlottesville during residency may be more feasible than expected.

Not every resident should buy.

But every resident should evaluate both options before signing a lease.

Financial Considerations

Physician loan programs in Virginia may offer:

Low or no down payment options
Flexible debt-to-income considerations
No private mortgage insurance in some cases
Ability to consider employment contracts for qualifying

Residency often lasts 3–7 years — long enough to build meaningful equity.

Renting vs Buying in Charlottesville During Residency

Let’s look at a simplified example.

Average rent for a newer 3-bedroom townhome near UVA may range from approximately $2,400–$2,700 per month.

Townhome purchase prices in Charlottesville often range from the mid-$300s to mid-$500s depending on location, age, and features.

If a comparable purchase resulted in a mortgage payment in a similar range (numbers vary based on rate and loan structure):

Renting builds equity for your landlord
Buying builds equity for you

Even modest appreciation over several years of training can create long-term financial benefit.

Every situation is unique. The goal is clarity — not assumption.

Charlottesville Neighborhoods & Commute Strategy for UVA Residents

When you’re working long shifts, night rotations, or 24-hour call, commute time directly impacts recovery and quality of life.

Here is a practical look at approximate commute times to UVA Medical Center:

Fry’s Spring / JPA area
→ 3–7 minutes

Belmont / North Downtown
→ 5–10 minutes

Pantops
→ 8–15 minutes

For residents open to slightly longer drives in exchange for space, new construction, or pricing flexibility:

Crozet
→ Approximately 20–25 minutes

Waynesboro
→ Approximately 25–30 minutes

Staunton
→ Approximately 35–40 minutes

Ruckersville
→ Approximately 20–25 minutes

For some residents, being close to downtown Charlottesville and nightlife is essential.

For others, particularly those relocating with partners or families, a slightly longer commute can offer more space. It can also lead to quieter neighborhoods or newer townhome communities.

There is no single right answer.

There is only the right fit for your season of life.

Why the Spring Market Requires Preparation

Charlottesville real estate in the spring can be competitive due to:

UVA hiring cycles
University employment transitions
Graduate program relocations
Limited inventory in desirable neighborhoods

Strong properties can move quickly.

Having financing clarity, neighborhood strategy, and timing awareness in place before peak season reduces stress dramatically.

Preparation is power — just like it was during training.

Residency Is Demanding. Home Should Be Restorative.

Residency requires long hours, time away from family, and significant emotional and intellectual investment.

Wherever you land — whether renting or buying — your home should function as a place of rest and stability.

When your days are intense, your housing decision should reduce stress, not compound it.

The goal is not simply ownership.

The goal is alignment.

Physician Loan Programs in Virginia

Physician mortgage programs are designed specifically for medical professionals and may offer:

Low or zero down payment options
Flexible qualification structures
No private mortgage insurance in certain cases

If you would like to explore physician loan programs in Virginia, I can connect you with local lenders. They have experience working with incoming residents and fellows.

Timeline: What to Do After Match Day

Week 1 After Match Results:

Confirm employment contract and documentation
Start lender conversations (if exploring buying)
Evaluate rent vs buy options realistically

Weeks 2–4:

Narrow neighborhoods based on commute and lifestyle
Schedule virtual or in-person showings
Obtain pre-approval if pursuing a home purchase

Late Spring / Early Summer:

Inventory shifts quickly in Charlottesville
Competitive homes may require strong, clean offers
Early planning provides flexibility

Waiting until late May can narrow options.

Planning early creates opportunity.

Before You Sign a Lease

If you are matching to UVA in 2026 and want to explore your options, I offer brief strategy consultations. They are designed around demanding schedules. You can consider buying vs renting in Charlottesville, Crozet, Waynesboro, Staunton, or Ruckersville.

No pressure. Just clarity.

Schedule Your Resident Housing Strategy Call

I serve both Charlottesville and the Shenandoah Valley, providing flexibility if you are open to commuter options.

Welcome to Charlottesville — and congratulations on what’s ahead.

—
Carolyn Book
Realtor | RN
Charlottesville & Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

Local Holiday Happenings: Your Guide to a Festive Winter

This season is full of cozy inspiration, local events, Santa sightings, winter home tips, design ideas, and even a delicious recipe to warm up your evenings. I’ve gathered my favorite Valley happenings to help you soak up all the festive magic this time of year has to offer.

Click below to open the full Winter Newsletter and explore everything inside — from community highlights to seasonal home inspiration

Wishing you a season filled with warmth, joy, and all things local. ✨
— Carolyn Book, REALTOR® | eXp Realty

A Realtor Took a Vacation?! Rome, Architecture, and the Beauty That Follows You Home

Realtors aren’t supposed to take vacations — at least that’s what people love to tell me.
But this spring, I traded contracts and closings for cobblestones and Caravaggios… and I flew back to Rome, a city that steals my heart a little more every time.

And what did I learn?

You can take the Realtor out of real estate, but you absolutely cannot take the love of architecture, art, and beautiful spaces out of the Realtor.

Rome is a living masterclass in design.

Every time I return, I’m reminded that homes and cities are not just places — they’re stories. They’re layers of people, ideas, risks, reinventions, and moments of genius that last long after their creators are gone.

So, while this was “vacation,” it ended up being the kind of trip that fills your creative soul to the brim. Here are the highlights — the places that made me stop and think about space, history, and the quiet magic of stepping back in time.

The Hidden, the Grand, and the Completely Mind-Blowing

Domus Aurea — Nero’s Lost Palace

Imagine a palace of more than 300 rooms, glittering with gold and frescoes… buried on purpose and forgotten for centuries. Nero’s Domus Aurea was rediscovered only when a young boy fell through a hole in the ground, and Renaissance artists like Raphael and Michelangelo were lowered in by rope to study the walls. Walking through it feels like being inside the bones of ancient Rome.

Palazzo Colonna — 900 Years of Living History

Still owned by the same noble family, this palace is pure operatic beauty. The Great Hall feels like stepping straight into a painting — mirror-lined, golden, breathtaking. It’s grandeur with a pulse.

Doria Pamphilj Gallery — Intimate, Gilded, Unforgettable

This private palace-turned-gallery is quiet and deeply personal, with masterpieces by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Velázquez displayed just as the family intended. A completely different museum experience — like visiting an old friend with exquisite taste.

Passetto di Borgo — The Popes’ Escape Route

This elevated corridor has been saving lives since 1277. Popes fled through it during invasions, most famously during the brutal Sack of Rome in 1527. Standing beside it, you feel the weight of fear, power, and survival baked right into the brick.

Castel Sant’Angelo — Mausoleum, Fortress, Sanctuary

Originally built as Emperor Hadrian’s tomb, it morphed over centuries into a papal stronghold, treasury, and prison. Every level tells a story — some glamorous, some dark. And the rooftop view? Pure magic.

Caravaggio’s Churches — Masterpieces in the Wild

This is one of my favorite parts of Rome: Caravaggios casually hanging inside neighborhood churches, no ticket required. You slip into the shadows, and suddenly you’re face-to-face with raw, dramatic beauty.

Borghese Gardens — Rome’s Breathing Space

Wide tree-lined paths, sunlight filtering through pines, families strolling peacefully. It’s the perfect place to wander with no destination and let the city slow you down.

Baths of Caracalla — Engineering on an Epic Scale

Built in just about four years by roughly 6,000 workers, these ancient baths were once a lavish complex of pools, saunas, libraries, and gardens. Today their ruins stand open to the sky — breathtaking, massive, and humbling.

Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore — Ancient, Sacred, Timeless

One of Rome’s four major papal basilicas, built in the 5th century and now the resting place of Pope Francis, who chose this Marian shrine for his tomb. Its mosaics and relics make it feel as though the centuries have layered themselves gently inside.

And yes — I climbed the new panoramic terrace. The views? Absolutely worth every step.

Fontana delle Tartarughe — A Small, Perfect Jewel

The Turtle Fountain in the Jewish Ghetto is one of Rome’s sweetest little surprises. Delicate, elegant, and tucked into a quiet piazza, it’s pure joy — proof that even Rome’s small moments carry art and charm.

So What Does This Have to Do With Real Estate?

Everything.

Travel reminds me why I love what I do:
helping people find spaces that speak to them.

Rome is a city of layers — ancient foundations supporting Renaissance beauty supporting modern life. Homes are like that too. They hold our stories, our histories, our dreams.

And just like exploring Rome, finding your perfect home is part research, part instinct, part magic.

So yes — the rumors are true.
Your Realtor took a vacation.
And she came back more inspired than ever.

If you want Rome travel tips, architecture chat, or you’re ready to find your own little masterpiece closer to home, I’d love to help. ❤️

🍂 Above, Through & Below: Fall Adventures in the Shenandoah Valley

Autumn in the Shenandoah Valley is pure magic — golden light, crisp mornings, and the kind of scenery that makes you pull over just to take it all in. This season, I’m exploring our region from every angle: above ground, through the ground, and below it.

Above Ground: Skyline Drive & the Blue Ridge Parkway

Leaf-peeping season doesn’t get better than this. Cruise along Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway — both are showing off right now with sweeping views, crisp air, and more photo ops than your camera roll can handle. Pack a picnic, roll the windows down, and let the mountain breeze reset your soul. Bonus: even with the government shutdown lingering, Shenandoah National Park remains open for visitors. Just remember that what you pack in-you pack back out.

Through the Ground: The Blue Ridge Tunnel

For a unique twist on “fall walk,” head underground — well, through ground — at the Blue Ridge Tunnel. Just outside of Afton, this historic railroad tunnel stretches nearly a mile and a half beneath the mountain. Bring a flashlight (it gets dark!) and enjoy the cool air, echoing footsteps, and the feeling of stepping through history.

Below Ground: Grand Caverns

When you’re ready to really go deep, Grand Caverns in Grottoes are waiting. It’s America’s oldest continually operating show cave — think cathedral-sized rooms, dramatic limestone formations, and the perfect steady 54°F. Guided tours run daily, and it’s a great way to experience nature’s art gallery from a whole new angle.

Until Next TimeThe Shenandoah Valley always knows how to put on a show, especially in fall. Whether you’re chasing foliage or dreaming about your next move here, I’m happy to share local pumpkin patches and corn maze locations-don’t forget apple picking.

Warmly,
Carolyn Book, The Realtor RN
eXp Realty | Staunton, VA

The Realtor RN — Guiding Moves with Heart & Precision

carolyn@therealtorrn.com

The Realtor RN

Q2 2025 Real Estate Market Report: Augusta County, Staunton, and Waynesboro

The Greater Augusta Association of Realtors just released the Q2 2025 housing market stats — and while the numbers are the same ones every Realtor in our area has, my job is to interpret them so you can make smart decisions whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about your home’s value.

Inventory Rising

Buyers now have more homes to choose from than this time last year:

Augusta County listings up 18% (165 homes)
Staunton up 2% (65 homes)
Waynesboro up 28% (88 homes)

How Fast Are Homes Selling? If I got a dime for every time I am asked this question…

Days on market tell us how quickly homes are going under contract. Staunton is moving fast — down to just 6 days on average — while Waynesboro has slowed slightly to 11 days. If the price is right-don’t blink or you will miss out.

Price Movements

Prices moved in different directions: Staunton saw a 4% dip in median sales price, creating potential opportunity for buyers. Waynesboro prices rose 5%, great news for sellers. Augusta County prices held steady with a slight 1% bump.

Sales Volume Surge

The big winner in total sold dollar volume is Augusta County, jumping 65% over last year.

Why Does this Matter?

Market trends don’t wait. Whether you’re thinking about listing this fall or buying before rates shift, now’s the time to align your plans with the numbers. Let’s talk about your next move. I don’t have a crystal ball. I cannot tell you exactly what will happen next month, next quarter or even next year. What I can tell you is that numbers matter whether you are listing a property to sell OR looking to buy a home in Staunton, Waynesboro or Augusta County. When you match goals to data closing happen!

1431 DOGWOOD ROAD: A VERSATILE AND ENJOYABLE HOME COMBINING COMFORT WITH REFINEMENT

Welcome to the spring 2024 issue where we present an extraordinary home nestled in the prestigious enclave of Dogwood Road in historic Staunton, Virginia.

A Home with History

Built in 1955 for the Schwarzschild Family, this custom home was designed by Marcellus Wright & Son Architects from Richmond, Virginia. Marcellus (Eugene) Wright entered the world of architecture at age 16 and eventually transitioned to Philadelphia, PA, where he obtained degrees from the Philadelphia School of Applied Arts and the University of Pennsylvania. By 1922 he was elected to be a member of the American Institute of Architects.

Marcellus Wight & Son Architects is considered one of the founding firms in Richmond. While designing buildings of historical significance throughout Virginia, they maintained private residential clients as well. Some of their other notable buildings include Altria Theater, Hotel John Marshall, Byrd Terminal Richmond International Airport, and The Chamberlin Hotel.

Interiors: Attention to Detail

The home stands as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Stepping inside, one is welcomed by the warm embrace of custom millwork, a testament to the attention to detail that permeates every corner of the residence.

The interior design, curated to perfection, features custom drapery by the esteemed Thomas-Hines inc. in Richmond VA, lending an air of sophistication and luxury to the space. Soft color and carefully curated palettes envelope the interiors, creating a sense of tranquil luxury that resonates throughout every room.

Grand Salon: A Place for Conversational Gathering

The salon is a place to come together with loved ones to cherish each other’s company. Whether it’s for the celebration of a milestone or the opportunity to discuss the latest book club novel over wine and charcuterie, the salon is a place of gathering and celebration.

Dining Room: A Place to Relax

Step into the opulent dining room where elegance and comfort seamlessly converge. Gleaming with natural light, the inviting ambiance of this dining room is the epitome of luxury living with a touch of warmth.

Family Room: Places in Which We Gather Fill the Heart

The family room provides a cozy retreat for relaxation and connection in perfect harmony. The French door opens into the boxwood garden designed by the famous landscape architect Charles Gillette, referred to as the architect of Southern landscape.

Kitchen: Nourishing Hearts

Indulge in the timeless elegance of the custom kitchen designed with masterful craftsmanship. The galley-style layout, widened to exude spaciousness, showcases bespoke cabinets and moldings that define understated luxury.

Library: Nourishing the Mind and the Soul

The library is an exemplary testament to the craftsmanship of bygone eras, showcasing enduring care and attention to detail. This cozy space exudes charm with its rich, warm fabric and paint colors that compliment the intricate cabinetry.

Primary Bedroom: A Retreat

Elegance, harmony, and refinement are reflected in the grand owner’s suite. With a marble ensuite and walk-in closet, the suite is timeless elegance for a modern age.

The Second Floor

Hidden behind double doors is the private entrance to the second floor allowing for privacy of guests and family members. The second level lends to a relaxed casual ambiance to unwind, rejuvenate and relax with views over the boxwood garden and peaceful backyard from both bedrooms.

Secret Garden

Nestled behind the home, a hidden oasis awaits in the form of a meticulously designed boxwood garden inspired by renowned southern landscape designer, Charles Gillette. Tucked away from the street view, this secret garden serves as a delightful surprise, offering a tranquil retreat for all who enter.

Elevations: Unassuming, Quiet Luxury

Nestled on a knoll overlooking Dogwood Rd, the deceiving facade of the home masks its true grandeur. Extending out the back, the home unveils a much larger interior that initially perceived.

Encircled by meticulously maintained boxwood gardens, this home embodies elegance and charm.

Details for Discerning Buyers

This home has 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and spans 3,786 square feet. It sits on a 1.79-acre plot and is offered at $850,000.00. The seller is represented by eXp Realty LLC and photography is provided by Millpond Photography.

In Conclusion: Home

Comfort, love, belonging, sanctuary, memories. All these words encapsulate the essence of a home, and 1431 Dogwood Road is no exception. It’s a place of versatile and enjoyable living that combines comfort with refinement.

For more information, please contact Carolyn at 540.414.5332 or carolyn@realtorrn.com

Falling in Love With Virginia

Crisp mountain air. Foggy mornings. Steaming mugs of coffee. Autumnal hues on the mountainsides. Fresh apples. Scent of wood smoke curling from a chimney. Falling leaves. It is easy to fall in love with Virginia.

Fall is a beautiful time in Virginia-especially in the Shenandoah Valley. The mountainsides become a watercolor of autumnal hues, the valley floor and vineyards are wrapped in early morning fog, pumpkin patches and corn mazes pop up and you understand how the Blue Ridge Mountains got their name.

Fall is also a perfect time to buy a home in Virginia.

As the mornings become crisper and days shorter, sellers are often more motivated (who wants to keep up with an on-market home through the holiday season), and buyers have more wiggle room for negotiations. What does this mean for you? You may be able to negotiate closing costs or repairs. What this doesn’t equate to is a seller accepting a low-ball offer, but you may be able to make your money worker wiser and not harder for you. That is a win!

Inventory remains historically low in Virginia which means competition amongst buyers, especially in certain price points can be fierce. Traditionally, in the fall and early winter buyers tend to put their house hunting on hold (brrrr it is COLD outside), but bundle up, put on that scarf, and prepare to head outside. This can work in your favor! As a buyer, a chill in the air can mean that less competition. Let those cooler temps fuel your house hunt.

If falling leaves encourage you to turn over a new leaf and begin, or revitalize, your house hunting journey here in the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding areas, reach out and let’s talk about finding you the perfect property. Let’s get outside, enjoy fantastic fall days and explore your options.

P.S. If your dream property isn’t nestled in the Shenandoah Valley and you are exploring other regions of the US, or even thinking about a Tuscan farmhouse, reach out and let’s talk-I have contacts around the world that can assist you in finding your perfect property.

How I Stayed Out of Jail Today

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

In today’s day and age, stress has become an inevitable part of life. With the fast-paced lifestyle, it’s easy to get stressed and feel overwhelmed. And it is no secret that one of the best ways to combat stress is by working out.

Working out is a great way to de-stress since working out releases endorphins. Ever heard of the “runners high?” I’ve heard of it, but honestly I have never experienced it because I LOATHE running. I feel like the Pillsbury Doughboy plodding down a city street. I prefer to get my cardio through 10k steps a day and some quality time on my Peloton-and that “Peloton Power” high is legit. I may not feel like getting on the bike. I may clip in, sit and seriously contemplate clipping out and walking away-but I know that even a 20 minute ride makes me feel like a better human.

Exercise isn’t just for our physical health but our mental well being too. I find that when I take time for myself to walk, cycle, take a Pilates class or strength train-I feel more centered. I am more focused on tasks I need to accomplish. Taking that essential time for me allows me to be more present when others need me the most-whether that is as a Realtor or an ER Nurse.

I heard once that people who live a healthy lifestyle are less likely to end up in jail. Well, today’s workout (thank you @PelotonJenn on IG) kept me out of a velcro orange jumpsuit. What a day! (stay tuned for future blog post on today’s adventure in real estate). Exercise is a fantastic way to burn off that negative energy-it is my favorite way to “simmer down” when dealing with a difficult transaction. Somedays that means that I walk, Peloton, take a pilates class AND an evening meditation. Hey-I don’t look good in bright orange 🙂

https://carolynbook.exprealty.com

Be present. Take care of you. Life is short. Incorporate daily “me time”-even if it is 10 minutes locked in the bathroom while kids are screaming. When you put yourself first you are better prepared for this roller coaster called life.