Vol. 255 – A New Recipe!

What’s New?

It’s only taken me 22 years to get Thanksgiving right, but I think at long last, I finally did it . . . not the turkey and fixin’s part, mind you (although that too, took several years) but the concept of “Thanksgiving” as a whole. You know the part where one is truly grateful for all they have, all they have been given, and all they have to share? (Yeah, that part.)

Instead, I have wasted far too much time anguishing over what I felt was required of me, resenting the burden of a too LARGE gathering, and losing sleep over the unrealistic expectations I placed upon myself to achieve “perfection” at the table.  Between moving furniture, setting tables, polishing the silver, and ironing linens, I always managed to work myself into quite a frenzy.  No wonder I really dreaded the Thanksgiving holiday altogether.  It was a ton of work and ultimately a BIG let down, primarily of my own foolish making. (Help!)

If that isn’t a recipe for disaster, I don’t know what is.

This year I took an entirely different approach . . .

“Let go with both hands,” a good friend reminded me as the holiday approached (a tough concept for one who craves “control”).  “Who cares if everything is ‘perfect?’ You’re guests are coming for the company and the stuffing anyway.”  (An “Ah, Ha” moment!)

And the miracle for me at least, is that I actually listened to her advice and as a result, had the  BEST THANKSGIVING EVER ! (Thanks.)

Perhaps it’s the tryptophan in the turkey, but it’s amazing how well things fall into place once we let go of our expectations, give up on “perfection,” and adjust our intentions (this works with our children as well). Once we let things fall where they may, life has a way of working out for the better – even when it isn’t necessarily the outcome we might have planned, designed, or even desired. (Wow!)

What’s this got to do with Real Estate? you may be asking.

In a nut shell (a pecan shell, a chestnut shell . . .) listen up and let go of “perfection.” It doesn’t exist at any stage of the game. If we spend the bulk of our time looking for the flaws, we are bound to find them. That doesn’t mean throw caution to the wind, but for those of you who can be more flexible and open to the journey, you’ll undoubtedly have a much better result in the end (certainly, you will have a more pleasant one).

OR as my friend Dan wisely says, “Cease fighting everything and everyone.  It’s all going to work out one way or another.” (Dan lives on a much higher plane.)
 
For the rest of us mere mortals, sometimes this kinder, gentler, philosophy requires Herculean efforts, especially when we enjoy a rip-roaring debate, followed by a good fight so very much (who doesn’t?).  

“It’s not the money, it’s the ‘principle,’” my best intentioned (and smartest) clients have been known to say.

To which I can only reply the old adage, “Do you want to be ‘right’ or do you want to be ‘happy?’”

With “happiness” in mind, for those parties interested in resolution, rather than conflict, some give and take must usually take place in order for the goal to be achieved (aka: “compromise”).  When we let our egos drive the event, that’s very likely, “a recipe for disaster.”  No matter how “personally invested” we are in our homes or in the hunt, when it comes time to buy or sell, we need to leave room for the unexpected to occur (and then we need to let it).

Having “faith” at such times can be difficult to come by, especially if we don’t have a clear idea of what we are moving towards, or when we are disappointed with the results thus far.  I get, it.  I do, but sometime, it’s the sheer “possibilities” that provide the most magical moments in our lives.  When we make room for new opportunities to occur, life can surprise us in wondrous ways. (Wow!)

When I stopped trying to control Thanksgiving (and everyone involved with it) redirected my intentions more selflessly, and focused on the meaning rather than the result, a miracle took place: I was rewarded with untold joy! From the Turkey Trot here in town, all the way through to the pumpkin pie at my house after the evening’s feast, the day could not have delivered more enjoyment. Does life really get any better? (No, it doesn’t.)

Who knows what next year will bring? (It’s anybody’s guess.) BUT today, I can give “thanks” and be incredibly grateful for all that I have, all that I have been given (except for the ten extra pounds the stuffing and desserts invariably bring) and all that I have to share . . . .

And thanks to all of you for making my year so complete.  I look forward to continuing our journey together.  I hope your Turkey Day was every bit as loving and memorable.  (Now if I could only carry these feelings through Hanukah and Christmas.)  More turkey anyone? (I swear it’s the tryptophan!)

Happy Holidays!

What’s Coming?

We’ll see fewer and fewer new introductions as the holidays descend, but Dave Higgins has a great new listing on the Piedmont side of Montclair at 6241Wood Drive.  This two-level home is just blocks from Montclair Village and features an updated chef’s kitchen, open living and dining rooms with walls of glass overlooking a wooded canyon view, large lower rumpus area with fireplace, unpermitted bonus space, and two-car detached garage.  List price: $889,000. Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm.  www.grubbco.com  

Bebe McRae brings 215 Highland Avenue in Piedmont to the market on December 9 for its first showing.  This bright and beautiful Victorian features 3bdrms/2bths – all on one level – and a bonus room below, opening to the large, level yard.  List price: $895,000. www.grubbco.com 

Anian Tunney’s listing at 231 Pacific Ave in Piedmont has taken a significant price reduction. This glamorous Mediterranean features 3+bdrms/4bths, SF Bay views, built-in pool & spa cabana, and loads of extra rooms and space.  It’s “resort living” in Piedmont.  Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm.  List price: $2,050,000.  www.grubbco.com

Sherry Benninger has just listed 249 Sheridan Road in Upper Rockridge.  This 3bdrm/3+bth modern home features a gracious open floor plan, sophisticated style, two master suites, and tremendous space.  Open Sunday, 2-4:30pm.  List price:$779,000. www.grubbco.com

What’s Pending!

The sweet bungalow at 1423 Berkeley Way in Berkeley quickly found a buyer. List price: $549,000.

I love selling homes this time of year.  Don’t let the holidays deter you.

What’s Happening?

It’s the annual holiday Montclair Stroll here in the Village.  Make time on December 6 to shop locally and shop small.  All your favorite boutiques, shops and restaurants will be open for business throughout the evening and many will offer treats to keep your energy up!  Make your holidays bright and support your neighborhood vendors while checking off your shopping list!

What’s Fun!

Christmas Tree Lighting!

It’s that wonderous time of year when everything’s aglow!

Join your neighbors and friends at Piedmont’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Wednesday, December 5th for hot cider, holiday carols, festive conversation, and a visit from Santa.

Sponsored by the Piedmont Beautification Foundation, this happy holiday event begins at 7:00pm in the Piedmont Park in front of the Community Center.

See you then!

Building Community One Family at a Time . . .