Thursday, April 14, 2016

Frogs of Mandarin

lauralander.net

Have you seen any frogs around? One day while I was driving the twists and turns of Mandarin Road, I noticed a painted frog on the side of the road. To my delight I started spotting more and more. This became a game; how many more frogs could I find? I wondered who had been putting all these cute creatures around. Where did they come from? Recently, I read an article about “The Frog Man of Mandarin” on Jacksonville.com and loved learning his story. The frog man starting placing frogs along the road last summer. He makes them  using a mold he has had for years. Apparently there are now over 37 frogs placed around the community, so keep an eye open for them. I love that these frogs were created just to make someone smile. For me, the frogs represent the need to slow down and take time to notice the world around me. So, don't drive too fast and miss the frogs. Relax and be like the frog man, do something for someone else today. 


Tuesday, January 12, 2016

Jacksonville, FL Real Estate Market Update

As you may have heard the listing inventory is low. Meaning buyers do not have as many options when looking for their next home. November of 2015 had a drop of 19.9% listings versus the previous year. Year to date closed sales increased 11.6%. Listings may be down but buyers are ready and willing to purchase NOW. If you or anyone you know is thinking about putting their home on the market now is the time. Since the New Year has hit buyers are looking even more versus the last few months. If you are interested in the value of your home do not hesitate to call me and I will do a free market analysis on your home.  If you are out of the Jacksonville, FL area and need real estate assistance I can refer you a great agent too. I'm Local, I'm Global!

 

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Football Fanatic


 
Being a 24-year-old somewhat girly girl, you might not believe that one of my passions is football. But, I became a football fan during my college years.  I did not know what to expect before my first year at Auburn. I'd heard about the eagle flying in the stadium and I learned a couple of chants, but I couldn't imagine the excitement.  No one can prepare you for your first day of tailgating or the anticipation of entering the stands for your first home game. Everywhere I looked; I saw is orange and blue. Let me tell you, collegiate football fans are fanatics! I got chills when the War Eagle soared above and landed on the 50 yard line. I jumped up and down with the roar of the crowd. I was glued to the Jumbotron during the pre-game videos. I was in heaven on the plains. Happily, Auburn continued their undefeated winning season. A sign posted on my dormitory door read 7-0 and I felt "great to be an Auburn Tiger."  I soon realized that Cam Newton, our quarterback, was an outstanding player- one of the best ever. But, I still didn't expect post season play. However, we kept winning and we’re going to the National Championship. I could hardly believe it. After Auburn won the final game, I joined all the other students at Toomers Corner to participate in the famous toilet papering of the trees. It looked more festive than Christmas with garlands of white toilet paper all around and I felt it, too.