Good afternoon all: I hope you're enjoying your weekend! I was thinking this morning about how we've all been humbled by what's going on in our world. Personally, I think it's a good thing. We all know better days are ahead and we'll once again return to the proeperity we once knew. In the meantime, I think it's o.k. to have a wake up call once in awhile.
In fact, I truly appreciate the humble, modest, thankful people I know. Those are my favorites because they have put things in perspecitive. I had the opportunity to ride with a friend of mine in his Porsche last week. It was really fun to say the least. And it's obviously an expensive car. What struck me though was his comment about it was just a car. This is his approach to life. He has such a giving presence that drives him; I think it's awesome! I know another realtor who is one of my favorites. Why? Because she is so thankful for every opportunity and makes sure everyone knows it.
So I say that we should all be grateful and humbled by what is happening. An attorney friend of mine would often say "no one died" when discussing events and things that happen to us. Would I have liked to have a better year last year? Absolutely! Did it turn out to be a stellar one production-wise? No. It really wasn't that good. But I still love what I do and this year is starting out great. So hang in there, remember what you're really thankful for, and give! That's the key. Thanks for reading. Enjoy your weekend!
Paul McFadden

Thanks for the reminder Paul,
I went to Ho Chi Minh City with Vietnamese friends of mine last September. The city is noisy and dirty, people are hustling, energetic and poor. They seemed to have a very cheerful, upbeat outlook though, it surprised me, I expected them to be ...miserable, grouchy..
It's all attitude, it has nothing to do with money or material success.
Good way to look at things Paul. I am sure you are going to make it with your attitude. Unfortunately even with an attitude as yours, and other people around us, we still cannot plan our destiny. The market is not good, it has not been for several years. We are going to endure more bad times in this immediate year. We as a nation have to heal once we are on our feet, yes it is a wake up call to us all. Even the top executives are starting to get the picture. If only they would have seen it coming sooner, and acted accordingly. Just think of what could have happened if all these op exec's could have had an attitude of giving, conserving, and helping others? Would we be where we are now? I think we might be a bit better off. Nice post.
With challenges also come many opportunities for improvement and many ways to serve others. You've got a great attitude Paul.
Bob - while I realize that much of the country's real estate market has been suffering for years, here in the Pacific Northwest there had been unheard of (and unreal) appreciation of values (and tons of deals) until we started to see a noticable change in the market 12-18 months ago. There is still a lot of 'adjustment' left for this market.
Still the same, there are deals to be done and properly priced properties do sell in a 60-90 time frame. This is a more realistic market than a couple of years ago when properties were selling same day in bidding wars. Good opportunity to do the work that people in the real estate industries are paid to do.
Joe: Thanks for the complement. I also appreciate your insight. Take care.
Bob: I think this year will be much better and wish you well. Enjoy your weekend!
Peter: Thanks for your thoughts. Yes, compared to other people's way of life, we should feel so blessed! Have a great day!
When the economy gets rough, people return to the simple things in life and the values they were brought up with.
I'm seeing a lot of people I know practice this of late.
Just wish it didn't take a recession to cause.
Drew: We all do although I believe it's important to appreciate what life has to offer in good times and bad. Take care.
attitude is everything, and I know that it is hard than ever to stay positive, but, starting off the day wach day with a good one is everything
James: Thank you. The way I look at it we all have so much to appreciate. It doesn't mean we're always going to have stellar days. But if we remind ourselves of the beauty around us it helps! Take care.