Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Angry Birds - What is in the Name?


The craze these days is the Angry Bird Game.  I am exposed to a lot of people in my profession and I have realized that it does not matter age, creed, color, sex, EVERYONE is talking about it!  I believe that the name itself, may not be appealing to some folks, while it is obviously appealing to the majority.  Why, one would ask?  Well, for me, I would fit in the first category.  Being in a people business, where for the past 4 years I have met with clients on a weekly basis that are VERY Angry.  Most weeks, at least 2 couples have sat at the dining room table with me either crying their hearts out or "cussing like a Sailor" that the biggest investment of their life is in the toilet And there is no immediate hope. So, the last thing that I want to do is go cuddle up with my iPad and play a game called Angry Birds!  My day was spent with Angry people, why would I?  The word angry just doesn't even have a nice connotation, much less enjoyment!
 
However, One must realize that this game is a popular game that other's are enjoying!  Apparently, it is fun, captivating and Rewarding.  Only did I realize how compelling this game Is, was  when my 4 year old Grandson's face lit up like a Christmas tree one Saturday morning, when I walked into the family room with an Angry Birds T-shirt on!  Really? I was amazed, you would have thought he had just seen Santa Claus. Wow!
 
Does a name really matter?  I don't know! I have said for years I could work for "Garbage Real Estate" and be successful.  If you give a high level of customer service, treat people like you want to be treated and know your product, a name, really will not make the difference. What matters is the Branding! Brand yourself(or in this case, a game) and the value is maintained.    
 
For all Angry Bird Lovers enjoy your Birds!  For those of us who can't play anything with even a hint of angry, this to shall pass.  Because, the real estate market is improving and we are going to be working with all happy people in the future! 
 
Just go for it! Name" it " what your heart desires!  In my humble opinion, it is not about the name!

So, what do you think about trends?


Are you they type who has to rush out and get the latest and greatest and be sure it’s incorporated into your home? Do you even know what the latest trends are?

One of the reasons I hate to follow trends is just about the time you start to follow one and think you finally know what is “in” you are actually out. BUMMER!  More significantly, I just like to be unique and do my own thing. I really don’t like the idea of someone else telling me what is in or out.

When I start to see the same types of accessories pop up in everyone’s home, I have to admit I cringe a little bit. Especially if it is pretty obvious it is done to follow a trend. I’d rather fill my house with things I love or that have significance to me, even if they are not on the current “hot list.”

It isn't hard though, because when you start to see everyone heading in a direction, it is easy to fall in love with the look and want to copy it for yourself. And there really isn’t any thing wrong at all with incorporating some trends into your own style, if you truly love them.
I am happy to see that the trends have moved away from the stark modern look to a style that incorporates some richer and bolder colors, more textures, layers, antiques and items collected. It seems like the current trend makes it easier for those who have been collecting things over time to be somewhat “in” without even trying!
It is easy to get stuck in a rut of what you’ve always done and not really know how to update your look on a budget, even if you wanted to. By being aware of the trends, it is easier to shop and be able to pick out bargains that keep your style current, if that is important to you. You don’t need to shop at the high end shops when you know what to look for in the bargain or thrift shops!
I do appreciate seeing things in a new way, so it is worth looking over trends to see how you could use what you already have and see it with fresh eyes! And in some cases, you might already own some of the new trends! You might even think of them as out of date when really, they are back around again and even being used or paired in new ways. So I guess if you already have something that is in, even though you’ve had it for 20 years, it makes you a trend setter! YES!
Natural materials with organic textures and finishes will become even more popular... think wallpaper, upholstery and drapery in nature-inspired patterns and neutral colors.
I see people are still ridding themselves of all things brass, but in case you didn’t know, brass is in again. Yes. You can stop spray painting now! Unless of course, you really don’t care about what is “in” and you do actually hate brass. Then spray paint away! And if you see brass at my house, don’t shake your head at me thinking I’m out, I am SO IN.
So, what do you think about trends? Is it something you prefer to ignore or do you like to look at what is new? Or like me, are you somewhere in the middle between enjoying seeing what is new and yet not wanting to over think it?

Chemical Facial Peel

Ok, so I buy this facial off Groupon. Which is an awesome site if you are not signed up for I highly suggest it! I thought I was going in for this relaxing facial. When the lady told me it was going to take about 30 min I was a little skeptical because most facials I have had have been at least an hour. I also did not read the fine line when she told me there was going to be some down time. I was like, what does that mean?? I laid down in the chair and it burned a little while she was applying it. My skin looked like I had a bad sun burn. It took about 5 days to look semi normal again. However it was worth every weird look that I got! It took about 5 years off my face and I love my new skin!! I will most defiantly be doing it again in a few months! Beauty is pain right??!! It was the best decision I made even though I didnt know what I was getting myself into!! Having grown up in Florida and having sun damage on my face it made a world of difference and I am very happy!!

Perfect Cup of Cocoa


Now that the weather is starting to cool down nothing can beat a cup of steaming hot cocoa on a cold winter’s night.  Add this surprise flavor of crushed peppermint candies for a gourmet taste.

   Triple Chocolate Mint Cocoa Mix

6 cups nonfat milk powder
1 package (16 ounces) confectioners sugar
2 jars (8 ounces) Swiss chocolate-flavored non dairy powdered creamer
1 package (15 ounces) chocolate mix for milk
1 package (7 ½ ounces) round peppermint candies, finely ground
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon salt

Mix all ingredients together   and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.  To serve pour 6 ounces of hot water over 3 tablespoons cocoa mix,  stir until blended.

A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS


No where is the title of this Blog more important and critical than it is in the photos being used to illustrate and promote your residential, commercial and land

Listings and brochures.  They should be in good focus, not cluttered but clean and balanced. The horizontal should be horizontal and the vertical should be straight. Lighting

Should be adequate. Paying attention to these five requirements in shooting your photos will get you off to a winning start. Good Luck