Dear Friends, Family and Clients,
Wow, where did the year go? It’s all ready January 6, 2010 and I haven’t even written my yearly letter yet? I would normally feel a little guilty but I’ve had a lot going on in just the past few weeks.
Unfortunately, my fathers’ health has taken a turn for the worse. He got Pneumonia, and was admitted to the hospital on Thanksgiving Eve. He was so bad that my brother Mike flew from Alaska to come visit him. He’s doing better but the sickness really affected his dementia. Dementia is not a nice way to get old. All I can say is please eat healthy, exercise and keep your mind active.
My mothers mind is still as sharp as ever. I still can’t beat her at Scrabble, her and her “Qa”. Her mind is sharp but her body is slowing down but she still lives on her own. She’s an amazing woman and a great mother.
We just moved! We’ve only been in our new home for about a week. It came a little sooner then we initially expected (we knew we wouldn’t be at that big home forever) but we found a smaller home that fit our needs so we decided to take the plunge. Plus, I’ve been preaching to potential buyers and sellers that it IS actually a great time to make a move even if you have to sell. Yes, you get less on your sale but you buy lower and your tax base will be lower on your purchase. For us, it was definitely a wise financial move, even though we are sad about leaving one of the most amazing architectural homes in Fullerton. Please make note of our new address.
My children are doing well. Last year I was probably more worried about Avalon and her mindset and Liam was happy go lucky. What a difference a year can make. Avalon seems to be in a really good place. She’s struggling a little with a couple classes but she’s taken it upon herself to get tutoring during lunch break. She’s in 11th grade and all ready contemplating what college she will go to. I think she’s decided to stay local and go to Fullerton J.C to complete most of her General Ed classes. Liam, on the other hand, is having a rougher time in school and we’ve had to force tutoring on him. He is also at the age he’s getting sassy and won’t give me hardly any affection. This makes me sad because he has always been my affectionate cuddly one but I know it’s just the teen years. All in all, they are very good healthy teenagers and I feel blessed.
Next I want to take a moment to solicit. Not for me this time, but the world, the earth and people who do not have it as fortunate as us. Say a prayer for all the families in places that have war, hunger or disease at their doorstep. The Internet has made this a small world and we need to remember that we all affect each other. Just because someone lives in another part of the world we are all in this together and realistically trying to do the same thing, stay alive and healthy and provide for our families.
Also, please think about our earth. Better than recycling is to not use at all. When ordering fast food, don’t take so many napkins or ketchups. When shopping, try not to use a bag, you can carry a couple items to your car without a bag. Switch to re-usable water bottles. Walk or ride a bike to your destination. These all seem like little things but if everyone watched their consumption it would make a difference. We’re hurting our beautiful earth but we can make a difference if we all try. Regarding charities right now, they’re really hurting in this economy. Try to donate any amount you can to your favorite charity or even better, volunteer. Volunteering feels really good and it’s a good example to your children. Better yet, get your kids involved as well
Lastly, ending on a good note. It seems like the economy is getting better. Real Estate is currently on fire! (At least here in Orange County) I’m working with several buyers and facing multiple offers with people going over the asking price $20k-$50k, particularly in the lower price range. Inventory is very low and this “flood of foreclosures” that we keep hearing about seems to never be coming. Also, when talking with contractors to fix up our new home, they are saying they are very busy, especially for a December. I’m hoping that this is a sign that we are coming out of this recession.
Last, I want to thank my husband. He is my backbone and keeps our family running as smooth as possible behind the scene. He helps me with my parents, which allows me to concentrate on real estate. I am blessed with good family and friends. With that, I may be late wishing you a Merry Christmas but I wish you a blessed, healthy and prosperous 2010.
Sincerely,
Jacki O.
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