Home is more than four walls and roof. Home is a door opening to you, your family, your pets, your lifestyle, your neighborhood, your community, your city. It’s all encompassing on so many levels.
Three Ways Buyers Cheat On Their Agent (And Why It Always Costs Them)
Buying a new construction home or condo? Learn why the builder's sales agent represents the seller—and why having your own buyer's agent matters from day one.
Every agent has this story. Weeks of searches, previews, and late night "is this a good deal" texts. Then the buyer goes quiet. Next thing you hear, they walked into a new construction sales office alone. Or clicked a Zillow "contact agent" button. Or toured a condo with the listing agent standing right there, grinning at both of them.
It's not betrayal. It just feels like it.
None of these shortcuts are actually cheaper. They just feel faster. Those are not the same thing.
New Construction
New construction is built to seduce you. Everything's shiny, the sales rep is warm, the model home is staged to make your actual life look aspirational. Nobody puts this on the sign out front: that friendly rep works for the builder. Not you. Their entire job is protecting the builder's margin. Some buyers don’t realize that you should bring your agent or at least disclose that you have one.
Walk in solo and you hand over your negotiator on upgrades, closing costs, and a contract written to protect exactly one party. Not you. Most builders still honor your agent's representation as long as you bring them on visit one. The model home isn't going anywhere. Bring backup.
Condos
Condos hide their landmines in paperwork. HOA docs, reserve studies, special assessments, rental restrictions, pending litigation. The list is long and boring enough that people skip it. That's exactly when you need someone paid to actually read it, you know, like me!
Touring with the listing agent feels efficient. It also means the person fielding your questions about the building's finances represents the seller. They owe you nothing about that special assessment vote next month. Efficient and informed are not the same thing.
Zillow Leads
This is the big one. Midnight scroll, "contact agent" click, and now you're talking to whoever paid for that lead. A stranger. Doesn't know your budget, your story, your deal breakers. Optimizing to close you fast, not to find you right.
That listing is public. Nobody paid to find it, and it definitely wasn't exclusive to whoever's name popped up on that button. Send the same listing to your own agent instead. Same house, same price, except now the person showing it to you already knows what you actually want.
The Pattern Isn't Subtle
Same appeal every time: faster, more direct, no middleman. Same truth every time: that "middleman" is the only person in the deal whose job is representing you. Builders represent builders. Listing agents represent sellers. Lead sites represent ad revenue. Your agent represents you. Not a technicality.
There’s nothing more disappointing than talking with a potential buyer and then finding out they used a listing agent or lead to purchase. Loop them in before the model home, before the condo tour, before the click. Costs you nothing. Might be the only person in the room actually on your side and in the end could get you a better deal made for you.
Your Man Cave Called. It Wants to Grow Up.
The man cave had potential all along. Here's how to create a sophisticated, comfortable space that actually feels like him — no word art or throw pillows required.
Dad, Use Your Words!
There is a man in your life who, when asked what he wants for Father's Day, will say "nothing." When asked how he wants his living room to look, will say "I don't know, whatever you think." When shown two throw pillows, will say "they look the same to me."
Psssh, he might not be saying it, but he does care and is screaming inside with ideas.
That very same man has very strong opinions about his chair. He knows exactly where the remote goes. He has a specific spot for his coffee cup and a quiet but firm reaction when someone moves his stuff. He cares. He just hasn't been given permission to care out loud.
So this one's for him. And honestly, for whoever is shopping for him.
Sophisticated Dad decor is not a contradiction. It's actually one of the most satisfying design challenges there is — spaces that feel lived in but intentional, comfortable but not sloppy, personal without being precious. Think leather that actually gets better with age. Wood tones that feel warm instead of builder grade. A bookshelf that holds real things he actually reads or collects, not decorative objects that exist purely to be dusted.
The formula is pretty simple: start with one anchor piece he genuinely loves — the worn leather chair, the vintage record cabinet, the bar cart he built himself — and build the room around that. Let the thing he already chose tell you the story of the room.
Creating a space for Dad shiuld feel intentional and not overdone.
Keep the palette grounded. Warm neutrals, deep greens, navy, whiskey browns. Nothing that requires explaining.
Layer texture over color. A wool throw, a jute rug, matte finishes on the hardware. The room should feel good to be in, not just good to look at.
Give everything a home. The man who says he doesn't care about decor absolutely cares about clutter. Built ins, trays, baskets with lids. Contain the chaos and he will love the room without knowing why.
Make it smell right. A cedar candle or a leather diffuser does more for a space than most people realize. Scent is the detail that makes a room feel finished.
Rooms like this are just as important in value as the “craft room”. Dad needs a space to call his own just like anyone else and when you create these areas in a home, the story gets broader. When it’s time to sell, purchasers can see versatility and inclusiveness that goes beyond the standard spaces.
I think a lot of men want some class and elegance in their lives. Not in a pretentious, untouchable way — but in a "this room actually feels like me" way. A place that absorbs the weight of a hard day the moment they walk through the door. Somewhere they can decompress alone or pull their people together and just be able to hang in comfort.
They just never felt like they were allowed to ask for that.
So consider this permission. His space should be his own, something more than a recliner pointed at a TV. No word art or throw pillows with inspirational quotes. Just a room with some soul, some comfort, and enough intention to make it clear that the man who lives here knows where home is.
The Best Graduation Gift Nobody Gave You
What if your diploma came with a down payment? Richmond home values have nearly tripled since 2015. Here's what every new grad needs to know about real estate.
Graduation season is here. The caps are in the air, the cards are stuffed with cash, and somewhere out there a well-meaning relative is handing a new grad a card that says "The world is yours!" — along with a check for $200.
Sweet. Totally useless. But sweet.
Here's a thought I want you to sit with for a second.
What if, back when you walked across that stage — let's say the Class of 2015 — someone had handed you a down payment on a house instead?
In 2015, the median home price in Richmond was around $145,000. Today that same home is worth somewhere north of $400,000. That is not a mistake. That is a gain of over $250,000 in equity sitting quietly in a house while you were out here living your life.
You would have bought a whole asset for what some people are currently paying in rent every two years.
Now I know what you're thinking. "I was 18. I didn't know anything about buying a house." Fair. Nobody told you. That's actually the problem I'm pointing at.
We spend twelve years in school learning things most of us will never use again, and somehow "how to build wealth through real estate" never made the syllabus. Algebra: mandatory. Understanding equity: optional. Cool system we've got.
So here's what I want to say to every grad crossing the stage right now:
You are not too young. You are not too broke. You are not too early. You are exactly on time — if you start paying attention right now.
Richmond is still one of the best markets in the country for first time buyers. It's affordable relative to other East Coast cities, it has strong appreciation history, and it has neighborhoods with actual character and soul. This city rewards people who get in.
The grad who buys something modest at 22 is the one sitting pretty at 32 while everyone else is still writing rent checks to someone else's mortgage.
So now that you’ve walked across that stage, how about walking over the threshold?
Ready to talk about what homeownership could actually look like for you? Let's connect.
I Told You So
Ditch the beige! Discover the home decor trends moms are loving in 2026 from Grandma Chic to biophilic design.
Every year, the design world gathers in hushed, reverent tones to announce the hottest new trends in home décor. Pinterest boards are updated. Instagram feeds shift. Interior designers charge a lot of money to explain what's "in."
And every year, somewhere, a mom says "I told you so."
Because here's the thing about 2026's biggest home décor trends: your mom — and quite possibly her mom — was already doing all of this. Decades ago. Without a mood board or a TikTok tutorial in sight.
So this Mother's Day, let's pour one out for every mom who was just ahead of her time. Here are the trends taking over homes right now, and the mom who already nailed it.
Grandma Chic (Yes, Really)
The trend: Also called "Grandmacore" or "Curated Abundance," this is the design world's way of saying: floral sofas are back, patterned wallpaper is back, ruffled cushions are back, and maximalism is not only acceptable, but actually aspirational. The days of cold, sterile all-white interiors are over. Warm, layered, pattern-mixed rooms that look like someone actually lives in them are everywhere right now.
The mom who did this first: Every grandmother who ever had a floral couch, a china cabinet full of things nobody was allowed to touch, and a collection of decorative plates on the wall that somehow worked perfectly together.
She wasn't behind the times. She was a decade early. Maybe two.
How to get the look: Mix florals with stripes. Layer throw pillows shamelessly. Bring back the velvet. Display the china. Hang the plates. Call your grandmother and apologize for every eye-roll.
Wall Plates Are Having a Moment
The trend: Decorative plates displayed on walls are one of the fastest-growing décor trends of 2025–2026, showing up in kitchens, dining rooms, living rooms, and even bedrooms. Designers are calling it charming, whimsical, and deeply chic.
The mom who did this first: Your Aunt Betty, circa 1987. She had a full wall of blue and white Delftware in the dining room and you thought it was the most embarrassing thing you'd ever seen.
Aunt Betty for the W.
Pro tip: No two plate walls are the same, which means this is genuinely one of the easiest ways to add personality to a room. Hit up an estate sale, grab a mix of vintage and new, and get hanging.
Biophilic Design (That's Fancy for "Mom's Plant Collection")
The trend: Biophilic design: bringing natural elements, organic materials, and live plants into your home. It is one of the most enduring trends in interior design right now. We're talking natural wood, stone surfaces, linen textiles, earthy color palettes, and yes, lots and lots of houseplants. Studies actually show it makes people happier. Real estate listings featuring biophilic elements are among the fastest-growing on the market.
The mom who did this first: The one with seventeen plants in the living room (my mom), a basket collection in every corner, and linen curtains before linen curtains were a thing. You tripped over a terracotta pot every morning before school.
She wasn't a hoarder. She was a visionary.
How to get the look: Start with a few statement plants (a fiddle leaf fig, a monstera, or an olive tree if you're feeling bold), swap out synthetic materials for natural ones where you can, and embrace earthy tones like terracotta, chocolate brown, forest green, warm cream.
Moody, Dark Colors
The trend: The all-white everything era is officially over. Deep, rich, moody color palettes. We’re thinking dark green, terracotta, burgundy, chocolate brown, and navy. They seem to be dominating interiors in 2026. Designers are painting walls, ceilings, and even cabinets in dramatic, saturated hues. The bolder the better.
The mom who did this first: The one who painted the dining room burgundy in 1994 and everyone thought she'd lost her mind. Turns out she was just running on a 30-year design cycle.
That burgundy dining room? Extremely on trend.
How to get the look: You don't have to repaint everything. Start with one statement wall, a dark-painted piece of furniture, or even just swapping throw pillows and rugs for deeper, richer tones. Commit to at least one room. Be brave. Your mom was.
Cottagecore & English Country Style
The trend: The shift away from modern farmhouse (all shiplap, all the time) toward something warmer, more layered, and more English/French countryside is in full swing. Think mismatched textures, ornate fixtures, floral patterns, worn wooden furniture, and spaces that feel like they evolved organically over decades rather than being staged for a photoshoot.
The mom who did this first: Any mom who ever dragged the family to an antique store on a Saturday when everyone wanted to go to the movies. She was building her cottagecore aesthetic before cottagecore was a word. She just called it "shopping."
How to get the look: Embrace imperfection. Mix old and new. Don't match everything. Buy the vintage piece that speaks to you even if it doesn't technically "go." That's the whole point.
Thick Frames & Vintage Art
The trend: After years of minimalist thin frames and float-mounted prints, the design world is swinging back toward thick, chunky, vintage-style frames — especially for art displays. Gallery walls are getting warmer, more layered, and more personal.
The mom who did this first: Every mom who ever had a gallery wall of family photos in thick wooden frames going up the staircase. You walked past those photos every day for eighteen years and never once thought: this is good design.
It is, though. It really is.
This Mother's Day, before you hand over the gift card or the flowers (both appreciated, never wrong), take a moment to look around at your mom's home or your grandmother's, look fresh?
That layered, pattern-mixed, plant-filled, plate-on-the-wall, dark-painted, slightly-cluttered space she's been living in for thirty years?
Design Twitter just discovered it. They're calling it "intentional." They're calling it "curated." They're calling it a trend.
She's been calling it home.
For more on this home look, click below:
A Mother's Day Gift Guide to Finding Home
Looking for the best neighborhoods for families in Richmond, VA? From Short Pump to Midlothian, find your perfect fit this Mother's Day.
Photo by: Jo Ann Breaux | Porchella in Bellevue, 2026
Home is where dirty socks and tablets scatter. Home is where kitchen chaos and angsty teens slam doors. And home is where mom should feel confident in her surroundings.
Here are a few choice Mom-friendly areas in and around Richmond that are built for putting down roots.
Short Pump & Twin Hickory (Henrico County)
Best for: Families who want top-rated schools, newer construction, and everything 10 minutes away.
Short Pump is the Richmond suburb that basically has everything. Great schools, major shopping (Short Pump Town Center), a growing dining scene, and neighborhood amenities that make weekends easy. Henrico County Public Schools boasts a strong on-time graduation rate, and the county continues to invest heavily in education and recreation.
What the data won't tell you: Short Pump moves fast. Well-priced homes in top school zones often receive multiple offers within days. If you're targeting this area, you need to be ready, pre-approved and decisive.
Price range: Varies widely, from the mid-$300s for townhomes to well over $700k for larger single-family homes in established subdivisions.
Mom's verdict: High convenience, low stress. The kind of neighborhood where you can run errands, pick up the kids, and grab dinner without getting back on the highway.
Midlothian (Chesterfield County)
Best for: Families who want a little more space, a little more green, and still excellent schools.
Midlothian is quietly one of the most well-rounded suburbs in the entire Richmond metro. You've got established communities like Salisbury (golf, pool, large lots), RounTrey (resort-style amenities, newer builds), and Hallsley (a nationally recognized luxury community). Each one has its own character but all delivering on the fundamentals: great schools, strong resale value, and a sense of neighborhood.
Home prices range from the $400s into the $1.5M+ range depending on the community. And the commute? Easy access via Route 288 and the Powhite Parkway keeps downtown Richmond well within reach.
What the data won't tell you: Not all of Midlothian is created equal. School zones can vary significantly even a few streets apart. It helps knowing which subdivisions feed into which schools.
Hidden gem alert: Moseley, just southwest of Midlothian, is one of the fastest-growing new construction markets in the entire Richmond metro. If you want brand-new without the Goochland price tag, this is worth a serious look.
Glen Allen (Henrico County)
Best for: Families who want suburban comfort with easy access to the West End and I-295.
Glen Allen delivers the full suburban package — great schools, established neighborhoods, diverse price points, and the kind of community feel that makes people stay for decades. It's one of the most searched areas in Henrico County for families, and for good reason: the combination of location, amenities, and school quality is hard to beat.
Price range: Generally mid-$300s to $700k+ depending on the neighborhood and home size.
Mom's verdict: Reliable. Solid. The kind of place where neighbors actually know each other.
Bon Air (Chesterfield/Richmond border)
Best for: Families who want character, mature trees, and a more relaxed pace without sacrificing proximity to the city.
Bon Air is one of those neighborhoods that people discover and never want to leave. Oversized wooded lots, charming older homes, walkable to small shops and the local library, and a genuine community feel that's increasingly rare. It sits right on the Chesterfield/Richmond county line, which means you'll want to check school zones carefully, but the payoff in terms of lifestyle is real.
Bon Air straddles the Chesterfield/Richmond city line, meaning school quality can vary dramatically street by street. Homes on the Chesterfield side feed into James River High School, one of the top-ranked public high schools in Virginia. Three blocks away, it's a completely different story. This is not a neighborhood to navigate on your own.
Price range: $400s to $800k+.
What makes it special: Bikeability. Mature tree canopy. A neighborhood where kids still play outside, and nature that sits in your backyard.
The Fan & Museum District (City of Richmond)
Best for: Moms who love walkability, culture, historic architecture, and a neighborhood with actual personality.
Not every mom wants a backyard and a cul-de-sac. For the family that wants to walk to restaurants, bike to the VMFA, and live in a stunning historic rowhouse, The Fan and Museum District deliver something the suburbs simply can't.
Tree-lined streets, incredible architecture, and access to some of Richmond's best dining and culture make this one of the most sought-after urban neighborhoods in the state.
Public schools in The Fan are a mixed bag with William Fox Elementary as well-regarded, but middle and high school ratings are more modest. That said, Richmond's magnet and private school options, including the highly competitive Maggie L. Walker Governor's School, give motivated families a compelling alternative.
Price range: Mid-$500s to $1M+ for historic rowhomes and single-family properties.
Reality check: Parking can be challenging. Yards are smaller. But the walkability score and neighborhood energy are unmatched in the region.
Mechanicsville (Hanover County)
Best for: Families prioritizing affordability, stability, and top-notch Hanover County schools without the premium price tag.
Mechanicsville doesn't get the flashy press, but families who land here tend to stay here. Hanover County schools are consistently well-regarded, the area is growing with new development and infrastructure investment, and property taxes are lower than city rates. It's the kind of place where you get more house for your money and a strong sense of rooted community.
Price range: Generally more affordable than Henrico or Chesterfield equivalents, a major draw for growing families watching their budget.
Mom's verdict: Smart money. Great schools. Room to breathe.
Bellevue (North Richmond)
Best for: Buyers looking for affordability, charm, and a tight-knit community feel close to downtown.
Bellevue is one of those neighborhoods that earns its reputation the old-fashioned way. A predominantly single-family neighborhood just 10 minutes from downtown, it's known for its cute bungalows and varied architecture amongst community driven neighbors. Mom can be confident her kids will be biking til dusk on the wide, tree-lined avenues. You’ll also find neighborhood haunts, food truck nights, a beloved Garden Walk, and seasonal porch concerts. Turnover is rare here and prices have climbed to reflect just how desirable it's become, but you can still find some affordability in the nearby neighborhood of Rosedale.
Linwood Holton Elementary is a genuine neighborhood highlight. It is well-rated, walkable, and beloved. Middle and high school options through Richmond Public Schools are more modest, though magnet programs like Maggie L. Walker remain accessible. Families willing to explore private options will also find solid choices nearby
Price range: Median around the mid-to-high $500s — prices have appreciated significantly in recent years, reflecting just how much demand this neighborhood has earned.
So, Which Neighborhood Is Right for You?
Here's the truth: the best neighborhood isn't the most sought after one. Mom’s need to find the one that fits her family the best and that includes an all-encompassing home.
The right answer depends on:
School district: Are you prioritizing elementary, middle, or high school?
Commute: Where do you (or your partner) work, and how much drive time is acceptable?
Budget: Not just what you can afford today, but what you want your equity to look like in 5–10 years
Lifestyle: Walkable urban vibe vs. yard-and-garage suburban vs. rural acreage?
Speed of the market: Some of these areas are extremely competitive. Knowing what to expect before you start looking is the difference between landing the home and losing it.
This Mother's Day, Give the Gift of Home
Whether you're buying for yourself or helping a mom in your life find her forever neighborhood, there's no better time than now to start the conversation.
I know this market. The streets, the school zones, the neighborhoods that move fast, and the hidden gems that are still underpriced. Let me help you find the right fit.
Schedule a free, no-pressure neighborhood consultation, and let's find the home that fits your family.
Who’s Falling for Richmond?
Who’s moving to Richmond in 2026? Explore the new Southern buyer, migration trends, and why Richmond, VA continues to attract professionals, creatives, and returning residents.
The New Southern Buyer in 2026
Photo by: Stephanie Rhee
With over 52,000 people moving into the Richmond area since 2020, it is not absurd to think, “They like us! They REALLY, REALLY like us!” Let’s be honest, we have a lot of charm and a lot of green flags. Transplants and returnees desire some character in their surroundings, and with RVA having walkability, culture that fits different lifestyles, and a diverse topography, it is no wonder why we get chosen time and time again.
So who exactly is falling for us?
Let’s take a look.
The Northern Transplant
Those Nawtheners are coming from New York, New Jersey, Boston, and D.C. Their jobs are remote or hybrid and they’ve been priced out of the metropolitan areas. What you can have in RVA including a yard and garage far surpasses the high price points of these cities. These are people who are tired of the hustle and bustle and want more space to breathe. We are a centralized location making it easy for commutes as well.
These folks are looking for an upgrade and will more than likely find themselves in The Fan, Church Hill, and the Museum District while others will find a lot more square footage and good schools in the West End, Moseley, and UofR neighborhoods.
The Remote Creative
Richmond is has become a mecca for creatives. It has quietly become one of the most respected creative hubs in the country, and that’s not accidental. Between the talent pipeline coming out of VCU’s Brandcenter and the long-standing presence of The Martin Agency, this city knows how to produce thinkers and makers who understand both strategy and storytelling. We have a strong creative community that is collaborative without the ego.
Creatives seeking home here will more than likely enjoy Church Hill, Scott’s Addition, Manchester, and Carytown. Lifestyle will win over square footage for them, and having a vibrant art scene entices these movers.
The Richmond Curse
More than likely our former neighbors didn’t do their respective 50 laps around Monroe Park and have found themselves home once more. We’re seeing a noticeable return of buyers who grew up in Virginia, spent time in Charlotte, Atlanta, Nashville, or D.C., and are now ready for something more settled.
These homecomers have migrated to a new phase in life where they’re thinking about schools, space, raising families near grandparents. But they have a need to maintain a lifestyle that is active and accessible. We’ve maintained Southern hospitality without stagnation, growth without losing identity.
Richmond never loses it’s familiarity no matter how much the landscape changes, and what were once crime heavy neighborhoods are now sprinkled with yoga pants and baby strollers.
The Intentional Downsizer
We’ve noticed an increase of empty nesters moving to Richmond city proper. They want less house, but more walkability. They are big restaurant people and want to walk to the coffee shop in the morning to get their lattes and scones. These are movers that want a minimalistic home with low maintenance, but an area that will enhance their well-being.
They want connection over isolation, and quality experiences and discoveries without being overwhelmed by big city living.
The Perfect Match
We are the biggest little city in Virginia. People move here for all sorts of reasons. Due to its proximity to the ocean, the mountains, and other big cities, it is primed for desire. It is easy to navigate, has diverse neighborhoods and architecture, embodies charm and sophistication, and you honestly never know who you’re going to run into.
Sometimes we want to keep it our little secret, but at the same time wear her on your arm like she was your most prized heirloom. We cater to so many different types of people, lifestyles, and cultures that Richmond feels like a Bridgerton in season. Talked highly about, a little rough around the edges in places, but undeniably attractive and impossible to ignore.
Richmond Holiday Gift Guide
Richmond has no shortage of thoughtful, locally made gifts. This holiday gift guide highlights some of my favorite RVA artisans, shops, and experiences to help you give with intention and support the our lovely city.
Here we are, the time of year when I overthink my gift giving. I mean how many socks, ties, and guitar parts can I get for one person! If you are anything like me, the gift giving involves creative thought, fun ideas, and the support of local vendors. We are fortunate that we have so many talented artists in the area and stellar shopping options. I decided to be a good little elf this year and provide you with some ideas of my own!
World of Mirth Blind Boxes
Local toy shop, World of Mirth never disappoints in the gift giving area and these cool mystery boxes are sure to be a hit.
Make a Gift, Give a Gift with Clayground
Whether you are the creative gift giver or giving to a creative recipient, Clayground has unique and affordable workshops for all!
The Gift of History and Art
A membership to any of our fine museums is a great gift with many perks!
VMFA (duh)
Branch Museum (really cool exhibits)
Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens (they have good shows there!)
Give not thy love in words alone, but in wrapped delights.
We have some very talented thespians out there and what better gift to give than that of the theater. This isn’t your high school teacher’s Shakespeare.
All That Shines
I love getting jewelry for Christmas. Doesn’t have to be fancy, but does have to have some character. Check out these loves local to RVA.
MuseGlass: Hayley Douglass is a true artist and makes the most divine pieces
Sarah Tector: LOVE her creations
Sun & Selene: The jeweleresses create the most stunning pieces
Almas RVA: She carries some of the best local artisans in town!
Art from Local Artists
Frame one of these statement pieces and call it a holi..day.
Ryan Meyers: Fun RVAcentric pieces
Jamie Betts: Phenomenal local photographer
Todd Hale: Cool and interesting pieces
RVA Coffee Stain: I love this local artist! Also RVAcentric
Check out the artists at Eric Schindler Gallery…so many great locals to invest in!
Cooking with Chef Tammy
Chef Tammy Brawley of The Green Kitchen teaches a variety of classes and is a gift that keeps giving, especially when you are invited to the table.
A Very Knife Gift
Join or Die Knives are some seriously pretty knives and make for a cool gift for any kitchen or utility use, they have other wares as well.
Other Suggestions
Richmond Triangle Players Gift Certificate (fun shows and a good time!)
Blanchard’s Coffee Gift Sets
Rostov’s Tea Sets
Make them a vinyl box set using records from Deep Groove or a local record shop.
Gift Certificate to one of our incredibly talented tattoo artists
Chef’s Table at Shoreline Seafood Market
Buy Gift Certificates to our local performing arts:
RPAA Residents: any of these organizations would appreciate any support and most offer membership or gift certificate options.
Check out any of the holiday markets and pop ups around the city for unique and handcrafted gifts!
December 7th: Broad Street Holiday Market
Dec. 22-Dec. 21: Holiday Makers Market with RVA Black Farmers Market
Nov. 28-Dec. 28: Made in RVA Holiday Shop
Nov. 29-Dec. 23: Bizarre Market
Saturdays-Wednesdays in November, Saturdays-Thursdays in December, through Saturday, Dec. 27: Holiday Bazaar Shop at Floris (VMFA)
Check out RIC Today for more
Have a merry holiday and hope you find the perfect gift for them!
Staging your home for Holiday buyers
Elegant holiday staging tips that make your home feel inviting, spacious, and buyer-ready this winter.
Photo by Austin
Yes, it’s true, not all listings go dead in winter. In fact, I tend to ramp up during the season and while everyone is sleepily getting ready for the new year, I encourage those who want to buy with less competition and with more motivation, to buy during the winter months. I love the idea of a new home for the holidays!
If you want to sell during the holidays, then play into it. Buyers at this time are looking for homes that feel cozy and comfortable.You definitely don’t want to stage like Santa puked Christmas all over your house. The key is balance mixed with warmth. Here are a few suggestions:
Minimal is Best
Pick a small tree that doesn’t take up a lot of room and decorate it minimally. You want to create the holiday spirit, but not so that it is distracting to the rest of the home.
Choose cohesive themes: use colors like creams, greens, winter blues, and play into the colors of your home rather than clashing with them
Don’t overcrowd your dining table. Choose an elegant runner and a small holiday/wintry centerpiece.
Decorate mantles and shelves with hints of greenery or holiday decor
Don’t mess with the flow of the home by obstructing walkways
Scents, Sounds, and the Feel of the Holidays
If you have an open house and a fireplace that works, light ‘em up! Who doesn’t love a lite fireplace. Choose vanilla logs for added flair
Lighting should be soft around the home, replace those bright bulbs
Light some cookie scented candles before showings
Stick to cedar, pine, and subtle vanilla scents throughout the house
Replace bedding with soft blankets
Have a bluetooth speaker set up in the living room that is playing holiday music softly
Curb Appeal
Add a wreath to the door
Put candles in the window to illuminate at night
Avoid putting too much clutter in the yard, aka gigantic air filled characters or anything that would warrant a stop on the Tacky Light Tour
In summary, you want to create a warm and calm atmosphere with just enough inspiration that will give potential buyers a picture of what their holidays in the house will feel like. Even if your listing is vacant, consider staging a little by adding some warm holiday cheer. Your property will stand out and sell quicker.
If you are looking to sell during the holidays, I have just the elves to put the spirit in your listing.
Why Investors Need the Right Lender
Why the right lender matters for real estate investors—and how smart financing can strengthen your offers, protect your ROI, and help you scale faster in the Richmond market.
Photo by Jill Evans
Real estate investing moves fast. Richmond’s market especially loves to keep you on your toes—one minute you’re running numbers on a duplex in Northside, the next you’re in a bidding war with three cash buyers and someone’s uncle who’s “thinking about getting into flipping.”
And while investors obsess over cap rates, rents, and whether the roof is about to retire, too many skip the most crucial part of the whole equation:
Your lender. Your actual teammate. Your deal’s co-pilot.
Not all lenders understand investors, and that’s where deals fall apart. If you want to make money—not headaches—you need the right person handling your financing.
Here’s why.
Investors Live and Die by Speed and Certainty
This isn’t the land of slow underwriting and surprise conditions. Investment deals move fast, and you need someone who actually answers the phone.
A great investment lender understands:
How to close quickly
How to communicate clearly
How to underwrite investment properties
Your offer is only as strong as the person backing your financing.
Investor Loans Are Their Own Animal
This is not 30-year conventional suburbia. Choosing the wrong lender can wreck cash flow before closing day.
The right lender knows:
DSCR loans
Portfolio products
Renovation financing
Short-term + bridge options
How to structure deals that actually make sense for investors
Investors Need Problem-Solvers, Not Paper-Pushers
Investment properties rarely behave. They come with tenants, half-finished renovations, title issues, or “exterior character.”
A good lender doesn’t panic…they troubleshoot. They know how to pivot. They get ahead of problems so your deal doesn’t crumble.
The Right Lender Understands Richmond’s Rhythm
You want someone who knows the market—not someone googling ZIP codes.
Great investor-focused lenders know:
Which neighborhoods rent easily
How appraisers treat multi-units
What sellers respond to
How to structure your file so your offer lands
Your Financing Reputation Follows You
Investors who consistently close smoothly get more opportunities. Agents talk. Sellers remember. Lenders build your credibility before you even write the offer.
Show up with a stellar lender behind you, and suddenly:
Your contracts get picked
Your timelines tighten
Your momentum grows
Show up with the “low-rate, no-service” option, and you’ll be explaining delays to everyone, including your own future self.
The Right Lender Protects Your Long Game
This is wealth-building, not one-off buying.
A smart lender helps you:
Maintain liquidity
Preserve your debt ratios
Avoid tax-time surprises
Scale intentionally
Plan your next buy while finishing the current one
A bad one just closes the loan and disappears.
The Real(t)
Your lender can make you money or cost you money—before you ever pick up the keys.
Investors need lenders who speak the same language, move at the same pace, and understand the strategy behind every purchase. If you want your investments to grow instead of stall, choose your lending partner like it actually matters. They are like a good hair stylist, once they give you a great look, you stick with them.
If you want a vetted list of investor-friendly lenders I trust here in RVA, I’ve got names. Good ones.
Just reach out to me.
Changing the mindset
Buying a home today isn’t impossible—it’s about mindset. I share how to rethink homeownership, build equity, and buy smart in any market.
As the shift this year for me went from buyer to seller, I could not help but be faced with the challenges that brought my buyers to disappearing acts. I for one am no stranger to the difficulties everyone has faced these past few years in achieving home ownership. You’d think a winning lottery ticket had better odds than purchasing a home.If you’ve scrolled through headlines lately, you’d think buying a home right now requires a lottery win, a miracle, and maybe a time machine.
One of the hardest things about my job is —people’s opinions. The truth is, there really isn’t a “right” or a “wrong” time to buy a home. That is all dependent on the needs and ability of the buyer. Now, how we buy homes vs when we buy homes is a different story.
The Shift in Thinking
Buying was such an easy thing to do in the recent past. It was a free for all and the biggest question was “how much more am I going to bid on this home”. Where once the list was number of bedrooms, baths, and square footage has now been replaced with shifts in the mindset. what was once $350K affordability is now $475-500K. It’s no longer about the “forever” home, but the home that will take you to the next chapter.
We have to stop seeing homeownership as a one-time checkpoint. You might not love taking 2,500 square feet and compromising to 1,800, but it’s doable. Buyers need to change the mindset of perfection to progression. The question should be: What can I live in right now that will help me build the equity I need to obtain the home of my dreams?
Facts
Rates are temporary. Roots are not.
You can refinance a rate. You can’t refinance time lost waiting for perfection.Equity still happens in imperfect markets.
Richmond and the surrounding areas continue to grow. It’s slow and steady, but also people that come here, stay here. Every payment is a small deposit into your future wealth. Think of it as the long game.A home is more than numbers.
It’s stability. It’s security. It’s not paying someone else’s mortgage. It’s knowing that even when the world feels uncertain, you have a place that’s yours.Flexibility is power.
Maybe you buy smaller. Maybe you choose a neighborhood on the rise. The mindset includes creative planning. It’s about the investment whether you decide to rent a room or refresh the components, and if you can just stretch it out a bit, you as a buyer can thrive.
Rewriting the Narrative
Instead of asking, “Is it a good time to buy?” Ask, “Is it a good time for me?” Your goals, your finances, your phase of life, that matters more than someone else’s opinion.
This market rewards clarity. It rewards the buyers who come in informed, grounded, and guided by more than fear. If you can get pre-approved, understand your budget, and stay open to possibilities, you’re already ahead of half the crowd waiting for perfect conditions that may never come.
The Real(T)
Home buying isn’t just a financial decision; it’s an emotional one. You can choose to go out on the pitch or stay on the bench, but sacrificing some square footage at square one will leave you in a better place for the future. Don’t box yourself in and keep telling yourself you can’t because of this and that. The key is to plan, be creative, and think of your future. You define your path—consider possibilities rather than perfections.
New Traditions: Breaking bread not Gratitude
I explore how divided families are reshaping Thanksgiving— from boundaries and new rituals to finding gratitude in solitude.
Once upon a time, Thanksgiving meant showing up to Grandma’s house with your stretchy pants and a can of cranberries. You’d pass the rolls, argue about which sibling is getting the China, and everyone knew the their lines—even when it came to debating an issue.
These days? The guest list feels complicated. Some families aren’t speaking. Others would rather stay home than walk into another upheaval of viewpoints disguised as dinner. The world outside has crept into our dining rooms, and suddenly a holiday meant for gratitude feels more like tiptoeing across pumpkin pie.
We’re not just carving turkeys anymore — we’re carving out emotional space.
The Divided Table
In so many homes right now, the table itself has split. Maybe your parent’s politics has become cringeworthy. Maybe your aunt’s “just saying what she thinks” hits a nerve. Maybe someone you love hasn’t been invited this year — or maybe you’ve decided to sit this one out.
And while that hurts, it’s also honest. We’re living in an era of honesty — uncomfortable, overdue honesty. Families are redefining what togetherness and traditions looks like, and that’s not all bad. Sometimes, protecting peace is something to be grateful for.
Building New Traditions
Here’s the truth: gratitude doesn’t depend on everyone showing up at the same table. It can be shared in smaller spaces or even solo.
Here’s what that looks like in real life:
Keep the door open, but the boundaries clear. You can love your family and still choose your own peace. A boundary isn’t rejection; it’s respect — for both sides. Set the precedence with the invitation.
Find connection where it still exists. Holidays do not punctuate connection and love. I have always thought these things should be practiced at any time. You might have to reach out to certain family members on your own time and express gratitude in those moments.
Start fresh rituals. I love new traditions. Establish some or build on others. Try going for a walk, create a playlist together, do a roundtable of drawn questions or simply pull from the gratitude jar and read them out loud. It’s hard to be divided upon common bonds.
Let grace do the talking. No one wins a holiday argument. Sometimes silence and kindness are the best response you’ve got.
Gratitude in Solitude
For some, the only seat left this year is the one you set for yourself — and that’s okay. Light a candle. Make your favorite meal or treat yourself to a fabulous restaurant.
Gratitude doesn’t need an audience. It just needs a pause.
Allow the Space
Take time this season to reflect, to show understanding, and to be true to your heart. No amount of political upheaval or beliefs can sever the quiet threads of love that run beneath it all. They may stretch, they may tangle, but they rarely break.
So light the candle. Send the text. Say the prayer, or the thank you, or the I miss you. Let gratitude be the bridge where words cannot. Because even in divided times, a little grace goes a long way—and love, still shows up at the table.
Let’s Talk About Gentrification — Because Pretending It Isn’t Happening Helps No One
Gentrification in Richmond isn’t slowing down—but it doesn’t have to mean erasure. Let’s talk about how the city’s rapid growth can honor its roots, keep longtime residents included, and build a future where progress and preservation coexist.
Photo by: Jian Xhin
“I’m all for people becoming a part of our city, but I’m not a fan of people homogenizing it. If you’re going to move to an “up and coming” neighborhood, then contribute to it and respect what was in place.”
Richmond has always been a city of contrasts. Old soul, new blood. Brick and bourbon. Corner stores turned coffee shops. You can stand on a block that’s been the same for fifty years and, two doors down, find a new restaurant bar glowing with Edison bulbs pouring $15 cocktails with a bar full of…non-Richmonders.
That’s the thing about this city — it keeps changing its outfit. And lately, the change feels faster than ever.
“Gentrification” is the word everyone whispers like it’s a curse. And depending on where you stand, maybe it feels like one. Rising home values, safer streets, fresh paint — sure. But also: rent hikes, relocation, and the slow fading of long-held bar stools.
The truth? Gentrification is coming whether we sign off on it or not. The question isn’t if it happens — it’s how we handle it.
Let’s Start With Some Honesty
Richmond’s popularity didn’t happen by accident. People are moving here because it still feels authentic. It’s creative, gritty, soulful — and (for now) a bit more affordable than the bigger metros circling us. But all that love and investment comes with a cost if we’re not paying attention.
When neighborhoods get “discovered,” the ripple isn’t just economic — it’s emotional. The same front porch where someone’s grandma watched the block grow up might now overlook something that doesn’t look like her anymore. I for one can speak to it when I sit on mine and am no longer receiving the Hello’s or Good (insert time of day) by passerby.
So What Can We Do Differently?
Change is inevitable as I say, and although I cherish the nostalgic moments of the Richmond I grew up in, we can’t very well freeze time. But we can grow with intention.
Honor what was already here.
Every street has a story. Know it. Tell it. Whether you’re selling a home or moving into one, carry the history with you instead of deleting it. Tell people about your neighbors. Hell! Get to know the neighbors! You’d be surprised at how much you can learn from them especially in historic areas.
Work with the community, not around it.
Support the locals. If there is anything I cannot stand is watching people move into neighborhoods that don’t contribute or support it. Be a part of it by joining neighborhood organizations, clean-up days, and attend events happening in your area. Love Thy Neighbor people!
Push for fair growth.
Advocate for policies that keep housing mixed — incomes, ages, backgrounds. We need both the dreamers moving in and the folks who’ve been holding down the block for decades. This is essential. Diversity contributes to the thrive of a neighborhood and a good way to learn the history of it. You’re not moving into a hot spot, you’re becoming part of it.
Here’s the Heart of It
Change is natural. Erasure isn’t.
Richmond’s magic has always come from its layers — We are a rich and culturally diverse city. Having transplants isn’t always comfortable, but it does breathe new energy that contributes to old familiar ways. There is a place for everyone, and although gentrification might be inevitable, it doesn’t have to be a force of displacement. I’d like to see it be a movement of renewal with respect to what has been long established.
We're Going to the Backyard and We're...Gonna Get Married
It’s #NationalWeddingMonth and what better way to save duckets by having your celebration…
“For me it was holding onto the magic of it all. What woman doesn’t want to sip her tea or coffee in the morning while gazing upon the spot she said “I Do”.”
Photo by: Jo Ann Breaux
Kai and Sam Parker tied the knot at their gorgeous historic farmhouse last year.
It’s February, which means love is in the air and it’s officially National Weddings Month. February does own the most weddings to a single day. The trajectory of matrimony has evolved in recent times. No longer are couples waiting to buy homes after they tie the knot and couples are being more cost conscious when thinking about the thousands of dollars spent on a one day event.
Think about it. Would you rather start your life together in debt or would you rather have a budgeted wedding day where you can maybe take a fantastic honeymoon or maybe save for a future endeavor? I love a backyard wedding. There’s so much you can do without the hassle of extra costs or stress from dealing with vendors to time restraints to transportation. Home is where the heart is in this scenario. As of 2022, the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $30,000, which includes the ceremony and reception and that’s only in some states. Depending on where you are, you could be looking at 40K+ for your big day. Imagine how much you could within your home for that much! I don’t—thank you very much.
Here are a few money saving ideas for your backyard wedding, but remember, it is about what you want in the end.
Local Author Ward Howarth and wife of 20 years, Amy had a beautiful and intimate wedding.
“It felt more personal, less formal. No rules, just more like us.”
Lights: You can’t go wrong with a dusky wedding. Ground lanterns to light up walkways or hanging jars with electric candles. And of course string lights will work nicely for the occasion.
Picnic: A great idea is having a picnic wedding in the backyard. Having blankets strewn about as you lay about for the happy couple.
Projectors: Using a projector to provide a slideshow backdrop can be sentimental and fun.
Trees: Trees are great for swings, hanging lights, photos, fabrics, and are great to hold a laundry line where guest can pin up the polaroids or sentimental notes.
Privacy Fences: These are great to hang family photos, lights, or use as a photo backdrop.
Food: Use a local caterer or make it a potluck, it doesn’t have to be from a Michelin star restaurant so make it easy.
“We were about to make a life together. We loved our house and it just felt like the natural thing to do. It is a memory that is etched into where we live and love.”
Have a look at these RVA backyard lovebirds!
Karen and Doug had an intimate ceremony in their backyard and then did it again in Poe’s.
Kristy and Keith Rader opted for the front yard underneath their pretty magnolia tree—how Southern of y’all.
Victoria and Joe Deroche did the casual thing with her children by their sides under the pergola.
Austen and Savannah vowed to have a great time with their fun backyard nuptials.
For more simple and budget friendly ideas:
Guilty by Association
Knowing the difference between an Homeowners Association and a Neighborhood Association…
Photo by: Photographer Frederik Trovatten
Years ago my mother bought a house in a neighborhood in the far West End of Richmond. My mother grew up in the jungle of Santiago, Panama. She knows how to stretch a dollar to the fullest. When she moved in, she would hang her laundry out back because a) it’s what she’s used to and b) it saved money. Neighbors did not take kindly to her resourcefulness nor did they like it if I parked in front of her house, nor did they want her doing anything to tarnish their impeccable image. She hated living there.
I recently had a client dealing with her 2 HOAs in addition to her Neighborhood Association. Yep, two different entities, 3 different fees, and double the disclosure package. So fun. I decided this would be the subject of this month’s piece—educating others on the differences. Here we go…
A Homeowners Association (HOA) and a neighborhood association are both community organizations, but they have distinct differences in their structure, purpose, and functions:
HOA (Homeowners Association): Primarily focused on managing and maintaining common areas and amenities within a residential community. HOAs often enforce community rules and architectural standards, collect dues, and address issues related to shared facilities. For example, there might be rules on what type of structures you can have on your property or if you can have a business out of your home.
Neighborhood Association: Generally has a broader focus on community engagement, social activities, and advocacy. While some neighborhood associations may also address common issues like beautification and safety, their scope is often more varied and may include organizing events, fostering a sense of community, and representing residents' interests to local authorities. For example, a neighborhood association can vote on a pet friendly environment or encourage others to help with buying playground equipment.
Membership and Dues:
HOA: Typically, residents within a specific housing development or community are mandatory members of the HOA, and they are required to pay regular dues to fund the association's activities. In Richmond, HOA fees run on average between $200-$300 a month. Depending on how lux the community will determine price usually. The more amenities, the higher the cost.
Neighborhood Association: Membership in a neighborhood association is often voluntary, and residents may choose to participate by paying dues or getting involved in community activities. Some neighborhood associations are good for maintaining the beautification of a community or helping to prevent criminal activity, although they can be a bit like Mrs. Kravitz where certain neighbors will cause headache to others.
Governance:
HOA: Governed by a set of covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&R) that outline rules and regulations for the community. The HOA is usually managed by a board of elected homeowners or the property management company for condos/townhomes.
Neighborhood Association: Governance structure varies, but neighborhood associations are often more informal and may not have the same level of regulatory authority as an HOA. Leadership may consist of volunteers or elected representatives.
Enforcement and Regulations:
HOA: Has the authority to enforce community rules and regulations through mechanisms like fines, architectural review processes, and, in some cases, legal action.
Neighborhood Association: Typically has a more limited regulatory role, focusing more on community engagement and collaboration rather than strict enforcement.
Scope of Activities:
HOA: Primarily concerned with managing property values, architectural standards, and common facilities within a specific development.
Neighborhood Association: Engages in a wider range of activities, including organizing social events, community outreach, and advocating for broader neighborhood interests.
If you choose to live in a community that has an HOA, make sure you understand all the bylaws and restrictions that come with your new home. If you are a homeowner that wants the freedom to do what thy will upon your property, you may not want to get into a home that has an HOA attached to it. It can affect things like the color of your home, where you park, noise restrictions, and so forth. Also note that when you sell your home or condo, you have to pay for the resale package which can be quite pricey.
My mother no longer lives in a restrictive community, but she does have a neighbor who thought it’d be a good idea to park a large RV and build a tiny house right up to her property line. Can’t win them all!
Interested in maintenance free living? Contact Me Today!
Seeing Red
The color red can be tantalizing, energetic, and inviting and shades of it in your home can prove to be a stand out choice…
Ah the color red, when I think of it in cinematic terms, the red room in Twin Peaks comes to mind and The Shining’s geometric rug. Not the most positive use of the color, but I did find Amelie’s bedroom dreamy as well as the grandeur of Downton Abbey’s grand room to the bewitching vibe I was looking for. It’s that time of year where I spotlight the color of the year trends, but unfortunately this years choice has left a bland taste in my mouth. Sorry Pantone but Peach Fuzz doesn’t do it for me. The remainder of 2024 color trends of the year are leaving me with lukewarm feels as I don’t tend to favor too many of the cool tones they’ve chosen this year. This is the year to feel emboldened!
I have always gravitated towards the color red and is the only pop of color I give leeway to in my wardrobe, however, I don’t see it enough in interiors. Reds can invoke warmth and energy in a living space not to mention what it can do when creating a lush bedroom dreamscape. In Asian cultures, red symbolizes good fortune and happiness, perfect in celebrating the Year of the Dragon. It also draws an audience to a focal point within a space. You want to be where it is.
I’m talking about deep warm reds for interiors, for example my staircase wall will be full of drama this year as I coat it with Benjamin Moore’s Flamenco. You have to be careful with reds which makes it all the more exciting to coat you with my dear. It’s a strong color, not for the weak. It says “LOOK. AT. ME.” with danger, desire, and mystery. You have to be confident to use such pigment, but once you yield to it, you won’t regret it.
Entryways
Red in an entryway says, “Greetings, come inside, let me show you more.” It' is a perfect lead in exuding confidence and interest.
Living/Sitting Rooms
I’m a fan of an “conversational” space and how I love thee Victorian aesthetic. I am destined to owned a velvet chaise lounge. Nothing says, “Spill the very juice tea” like a vermillion velvet loveseat. Now, I’m talking a lot of vintage here, but red has its place in the modern decor world as well. Artwork in particular comes to mind, thinking Rothko and Rauschenberg prints or red accent furniture. Red also pairs well with natural materials making it an ease to mix and match with. Finding Oriental rugs dominated by the color is a nice option to tie a room together. Pairing shades of oranges, yellows, and blues with the strength of red can create a relaxing atmosphere.
The Kitchen
Finding pops of ruby in a kitchen through appliances and cabinet backgrounds will bring any kitchen to life. Making tapas was never so vibrant!
The Bedroom
This is a “duh” color for this room. Since red stimulates conversation and invokes passion, it’s a desired choice. You may not want to go too deep with red walls, but you will still feel flushed by adding velvet curtains and linens for a dramatic effect, how Moulin Rouge of you!
Photo by: Pars Sahin
Red courage
Working with reds in your home can be a hard choice. When we think of red, it gives us different connotations of meaning…alert, blood, sirens…vampires—it can be alarming or too kitschy in some instances, so choosing the right shade for you is important. Red can create a beautiful and lush space. We know that red is quite the popular color with exterior doors and why wouldn’t you want your home to stand out! Incidentally, red doors historically mean that your mortgage has been paid off, but I do believe today it’s more of an invitation than a brag. Don’t be afraid to use the shade, have fun with it, play with it, you won’t regret the results. Here are few more ideas to fire you up…
Soup's On!
It’s Soup Season and I’m here for it!
Oh January! We all just want to cuddle up by the fire and enjoy a good read or watch our stories. January is the month of the soup and while you are all cuddled up, perhaps you’ll need some nourishment. I found these soothing and simple recipes for some added warmth.
I’m featuring my top five soups, but I have collected a few on my Pinterest Board. Click on the pincode for more delicious soup recipes and feel free to share yours in the comments.
Italian Wedding Soup
It’s heart and full of good yums.
Photo Source: Good in the Simple
Sancocho
With Panamanian pride, I cherish this cozy comfort from my homeland. This soup is made in different Latin countries with different variations.
Photo Source: Iheartcilantro on AllRecipes.com
Lentil Soup
It’s super easy to make and is totally good for you, add Chorizo or veggie Chorizo for a little spice. Qué Rico!
Photo Source: Maricruz Avalos Flores
Pho
The Cure All! I love Pho when I’m not feeling well or if I just want something that I can feel in my soul!
Photo Source: Ananas J
French Onion
It might be the bread and the crispy cheese on top, but French Onion soup will be put me in a place of satiated comfort.
Photo Source: sheri silver
Honorable Mention: My Mama’s Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
This soup takes some tender loving care, but also not a soup in my definition, more like a stew. It’s all in the roux baby.
Photo Source: My Cousin Tiger Breaux
Photo Source: Nathan Dumlao
Soup Scene
Can’t be bothered making the stuff? No worries, we have some very good brothy finds in RVA proper.
Pho Luca is my Photastic find and of course Pho Tay Do.
French Onion Soup is très bonne at Chez Max.
Garnett’s always has great variety in their Soup du Jours.
Every soup I’ve ever had at Lulabelle’s Cafe has been spot on.
If you ever want just a really good Chicken Noodle Soup, Izzy’s is the spot!
And for our Ramen lovers…Grace Noodle is the highest rated.
Slurp It Up!
For More Soup Recipes, visit my Pinterest Board.
Gratitude Attitude
It’s time for being grateful and giving thanks, but also doling out acts of kindness in a bleak world…
We are at the time of year where we say thanks and graciously appreciate all that we have. I know it’s been rough. I think this year has tried to kill any spirit i have left. I feel a lot of us are struggling in ways we hadn’t seen before and they can be both scary and disorienting. The best thing to do to remedy these feeling is to do something good. I’m big believer in collective energy and I fear that is what the world is missing right now. That energy is also contagious, so if we all just tried to do something kind and good for others, perhaps we can shift this heavy dark weight?
Here’s a start:
VOLUNTEER: Find a local charity and take a day with you, your family, your friends, whoever and go help an organization out.
FUNDRAISE: Hold a donation drive for your favorite local charity. Every bit counts so make it fun and festive while helping these organizations stay afloat.
WRITE A LETTER: Whether you send a card or write a letter, you won’t believe what it feels like to see that in the mail amongst all the bills. I guarantee you, it will make someone’s day.
DELIVER A MEAL: Make some baked goods or a simple meal to bring to other’s doorsteps. It will be a delight for sure!
OFFER TO BABYSIT: My friend’s with kids are so exhausted. They barely have time to spend with each other or do anything for themselves. Frankly, I’m tired of seeing kids at breweries. Volunteer some time to babysit for your friends. They will appreciate the the cherished time spent on adulting.
DRIVE BY COMPLIMENTS: This is one of my favorite TikTok things. I love the people at stop lights or driving by slowly and giving others compliments. The smiles are so worth it! Positive Catcalling if you will!
TEACH: Do you have a friend who is constantly needing help with a skill that you possess? Take a day and have a teaching session. This not only goes a long way, but you are giving something of great value to someone else.
It doesn’t take much to be kind or to appreciate the things you have. Giving others the same will bring everyone to a better place.
This year I am raising money for the following charities, help me reach my goals!
Photo: Jesus Espinosa/Xinhua via ZUMA Press
Cruz Roja Mexicana: The Red Cross in Mexico to help those displaced during Hurricane Otis.
Jeremy and Kristen Turner: Friends of mine who lost everything in the Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii Fire. They are just trying to start over.
Latin Ballet of Virginia: I love this organization and what they do to give kids confidence in their identity and connects them with their culture. It is an organization close to my heart and who doesn’t love to dance!
Sashay RVA
National Square Dance Month has us swinging out partners…
Image Source: Ozark County Times
Do you remember those awkward moments in PE class when you had to learn to do si do and sashay? I grew up in a place where dancing was essential to your being, and whether you grabbed your grandma or your wife, you can be sure you’d be on the dance floor before the night is over. From what I know now, these days, Square Dancing is no longer taught in PE and I wondered how alive this tradition is these days. It seems like the tradition of people dancing together has become obsolete, unless you’re donning leather over at Fallout or waltzing the night away at some cotillion, the act of dancing cheek to cheek or hand to hand is hard to find.
So what is square dancing? Square dancing is a traditional American folk dance with European roots brought over by the settlers and then modified over time with the intermingling of different cultures. It consists of four couples fitting into the corners of a square. Usually square dancing is associated with country folk, but these traditional dances primary stem from Scottish/Irish, French and English origins. There are many types of square dances depending on what region you live in and in Virginia, Square Dance was designated as the official folk dance in 1991.
Square Dancing is made up of different “calls” from “callers”. Callers shout or sing out the instructions to the dancers to follow and often entertain the crowd. Here are a few calls you may or may not have heard of, but are most common:
Circle Left: All eight dancers join hands and walk in a left circle
Allemande Left: Everyone face their corner, take a left forearm with their corner and circles around until they are facing their partners again, Drop arms.
Do Si Do: Face your partner, step past each other passing right shoulders and without turning around step back to back then back up passing left shoulders until you are in front of your partner again.
Promenade: Couples in a skater's position, men on the ladies left side, and slightly behind her, take hands and walk together in a counterclockwise circle until you reach your home position. (Starting Position)
Swing: Couples in a ballroom dance position, circling in a clockwise direction a full 360 degrees or until facing the line of dance. Man twirls the lady under his arm to finish the swing.
Weave the Ring: Everyone face their partner and walk forward in a circle formation passing each other with alternating shoulders, starting with the right. Stop when you get to your partner.
Here’s a little video presentation from RVA Squares featuring Grant Hunnicut as the Caller.
I was actually surprised to find some Square Dance clubs here in RVA and now my interest is peaked. It may not be 7th grade PE, but looks and sounds like a good time. If you are interested in promenading into one of these groups, here are a few suggestions around town.
Livin' La Vida Verde
If you are looking to add some life into your spaces, but are prone to killing all things green…
I grew up with a mother whose green thumb would put Poison Ivy to shame. The woman can cultivate anything! You may think that plant is dead, but give it to my mom and she’ll whisper that thing right back to life and thensome. I, however, was not given such gifts. My plant magic consists of being able to keep a succulent alive half a year. I don’t know why, I just kill anything that hues green.
As I drooled over the past year’s dark cottage core/academia aesthetic styles, I pondered—can I too enjoy the benefits of plant life? I decided to do some research on helping me get started and if you too have a black thumb, maybe you will consider these leafy specimens.
Top 5 Favorite Plants for Your Home
The Snake Plant aka Mother-in-law’s tongue
I’ve seen these around before, but man, did this become a popular plant in recent times. This one will help remove toxins in the air and require a quite minimal maintenance program
Image Source: Plantz
Kentia Palm
Requiring little to no water and light, the Kentia is perfect to add some height (12-18 inches) to your space. They live a long time and are great at purifying the air.
My Favorite RVA Plant Houses
Sneed’s: They are friendly and helpful and have great classes, oh and don’t forget Cricket the kitty!
Cole’s Plants: Love this locally owned shop and has a great variety of houseplants made for home decorating.
Green Vibes RVA Pop Ups: Love what this lady does. It really does feel like walking into someone’s home and picking out what speaks to you.
Lavender Fields: Not only is a nice drive there, but I love ending my purchases with some Lavender Honey Ice Cream or Tea. They have a good variety of things here and it’s a nice place to visit.
Devil’s Ivy aka Pothos Ivy
This climber of a plant has been a staple in my mother’s home for decades. You barely have to glance at her and she thrives. She’s fun to decorate with as well, especially if you have a screen for her to adorn.
The Peace Lily
Just as it suggests, this low maintenance beauty curbs anxiety. I like that it’s a flowering plant to compliment your home decor as well.
Succulents
Yes, I know they’ve been trendy for a while now, but honestly these are my favorites. They just provide such versatile looks with color, shape, and texture. You can do so much with them and they don’t require much in return. Consider the Aloe plant and its medicinal properties.
Planning for the Worse
Here are some good tips to be ready for disaster…
I think a lot of us say we know what we’d do in certain circumstances, but if we’re all being honest here, when panic sets in, it’s hard to think straight. I for one am one of those people that likes to freeze. I’d be the first to die in any apocalyptic scenario due to my ability to disassociate myself from traumatic events. That being said, I think if I can give someone tips on how to be prepared then I feel I at least participated in the disaster relief program.
In all seriousness.—my friend, who lived in Lahaina, HI lost their home and everything in it in the wild fire that ravaged the island last month. It was tragic and she and her husband are still reeling from the loss. I cannot imagine what it was like for them to lose everything they owned, leaving them displaced and in a state of shocked. It makes you stop and think about how you’d prepare yourself for something like that or can you?
Disaster has no mercy nor does it have a timeline. Things just happen and unfortunately sometimes Mother Nature’s chancleta can be quite destructive. As we are in the midst of our Hurricane season and this month is about preparedness, I thought I’d give you some tips on some things we can do to help when disaster strikes.
Have a Plan
Make sure you and your family have a plan.
Do you know your phone numbers by heart?
Do you have a meet up location in case you get separated?
Do you know where the emergency supplies are?
Do you have a nearby place to crash in case you can’t go back home?
Do you know where the nearest hospital is?
This is when knowing your neighbors can be helpful.
Do you know where the evacuation routes are?
Don’t
If the government is actually following protocol for once in its life and thinks it is dangerous enough to issue an evacuation, take heed. Better to be safe than sorry.
Be an amateur storm chaser. Yes, I know it looks really cool to see the inside of a tornado, but do you want to die because you don’t want to disappoint your socials audience?
Divert from the plan. Practice the plan and keep it consistent.
Forget about planning for your pets.
Go swimming when it’s flooding, you know because electricity and water don’t mix.
Do
Invest in a waterproof bin that is easily accessible.
Have a tank of gas available that is also easily accessible.
Have at least three weeks of non-perishable food and water stored, not like Doomsday stored, but you know in case you are stuck.
Include your children in the safety portion of the Plan. You don’t need them panicking while you are all trying to stay safe.
Make sure that you have important documents copied and saved in a safe place.
Get flood insurance if you are in a flood zone area.
Give your neighbors your contact information.
Spend the money on a generator
Know how to disconnect your utilities
Supplies
Remember, easily accessible, in a waterproof container, one on site and one off-site. Here are some things you may want to include:
First Aid Kit
Batteries
Battery Powered Radio
Wireless Charger that is Charged!
Blankets
A set of clothes for each member.
Diapers
Prescriptions
Feminine Products
Multi-Use Tool, ie. Leatherman
Strong Flashlight
Wireless Lanterns
Matches/Lighters
Scissors/Knife
Rope
Flare Gun
Cards
Pet Food
Water
Plastic Cutlery, Save when you get takeout
A list of emergency numbers
Or you can buy one that’s already built for you!
If you would like to donate to Kristen and Jeremy to help them get back on their feet, you can do so by clicking the button below. Thank you!