Emotional residue

   The pollen count has been off the charts in the area for weeks.  The clues are inevitable- watery eyes, running nose, scratchy throat and, of course, the yellow pollen settling on cars, park benches and sidewalks, all subtle hints from Mother Nature that Spring has sprung.

"Easter is almost upon us while bringing up nostalgic feelings" by: Jessica Shepard

   I feel like we’re in this weird time vortex since we shifted clocks forward an hour.   It just dawned on me that Easter is really this weekend and I can’t figure out where the time has gone.

"Looking for that gem hidden among all of the rocks" by: John Sample

   We have headed south for over a month now - we haven’t seen this type of pullback in four years.     There probably will be some recovery, as so many quality stocks have been lowered to more than reasonable P/E ratios based on forward months earnings projections.

PSA: Ask these 2 questions before buying a home

   If you’re looking for a new place to live, you’ve probably heard people say buying is better than renting.It sounds simple, but it’s not.   The right choice depends on your situation, your budget, and how long you plan to stay.

"Reel Reviews: ‘Pretty Lethal’ pits ballerinas against mobsters on Prime Video" by: Jessica Shepard

   Last week I was curious and scrolling through a variety of streaming services to find a relatively new movie that could hold my attention.

The Black Sheep

   I bet you already guessed I was the black sheep in my family.  It was a struggle for me to fit in.   It wasn’t even about fitting in, it was that sense of belonging I didn’t innately pick up on.    Granted, being the baby of the family, my parents dotted on me, the siblings, not so much.

Resolution #3: Outdoor Rooms & Curb Appeal

April  With the indoor clutter tamed, April is the moment to carry that feeling of ease beyond your front door.   Curb appeal isn’t about perfection; it’s about thoughtful edits that make arriving home feel intentional and welcoming.

"Rising spring temperatures teasing early summer feel" by: Jessica Shepard

   The official first day of spring was last week and I feel like temperatures have been nearing summer staples for weeks.   Sure, we had that last, teeny tiny cold front blow through and last roughly two days.   But, now we’re topping the mid-80s and I’m not impressed.

"A new week and a completely new set of rules" by: John Sample

   After four down weeks sending the S&P 500 index down to 6500, investors are looking for a life line.     The only real answer would be for the Iran situation find some sort of resolution.     It appears that it is all up to the President.

PSA: Take charge of your debt, one step at a time

   If you have debt that feels overwhelming, you can regain control.   First, know what you owe.   List all balances from mortgages, auto loans, medical bills, and credit cards, and divide that total by your gross income.   Aim for less than 35% with a mortgage or 20% without.