| May 2025 Living OUTSTANDING Highlights & Reflections |
May 2025 Living OUTSTANDING Highlights & Reflections |
Welcome to the May edition of Living OUTSTANDING! As school winds down and the calendar fills with celebrations, this month has been a beautiful blend of learning, connection, and reflection. In this issue, I’ll take you along to my latest Obsession—a delicious new restaurant with a fun twist—and share Updates from a recent downsizing seminar. You’ll see a charming little Treasure I picked up that’s perfect for open houses, and hear what’s been playing on my screen in this month’s Sounds & Stage. There’s a creative Tech tool I’ve been loving for personalizing my cards, and a sweet local Discovery that reminded me how much I love exploring small-town gems. I’ll also pass along what I’m Anticipating—a free virtual summit for women redefining success—and spotlight a Networking connection who introduced me to a powerful workplace tool I can’t stop thinking about. This month’s Inspiration came from a heartfelt memoir that offered a beautiful perspective on life and loss, and I’ll share a Notable read packed with timeless insights on influence and persuasion. I’ll wrap things up with a moment of Gratitude for some meaningful words from my daughters that reminded me just how much love can grow with time. As always, I hope this edition brings a spark of joy, insight, and connection into your world. And I’d love to hear what’s been making your month outstanding, too! <Note: You may need to click "view entire message" at the bottom to read the whole thing... Outstanding is a long word:)> |
Welcome to the May edition of Living OUTSTANDING! As school winds down and the calendar fills with celebrations, this month has been a beautiful blend of learning, connection, and reflection. In this issue, I’ll take you along to my latest Obsession—a delicious new restaurant with a fun twist—and share Updates from a recent downsizing seminar. You’ll see a charming little Treasure I picked up that’s perfect for open houses, and hear what’s been playing on my screen in this month’s Sounds & Stage. There’s a creative Tech tool I’ve been loving for personalizing my cards, and a sweet local Discovery that reminded me how much I love exploring small-town gems. I’ll also pass along what I’m Anticipating—a free virtual summit for women redefining success—and spotlight a Networking connection who introduced me to a powerful workplace tool I can’t stop thinking about. This month’s Inspiration came from a heartfelt memoir that offered a beautiful perspective on life and loss, and I’ll share a Notable read packed with timeless insights on influence and persuasion. I’ll wrap things up with a moment of Gratitude for some meaningful words from my daughters that reminded me just how much love can grow with time. As always, I hope this edition brings a spark of joy, insight, and connection into your world. And I’d love to hear what’s been making your month outstanding, too! <Note: You may need to click "view entire message" at the bottom to read the whole thing... Outstanding is a long word:)> |
OBSESSED:What I'm enthralled by |
OBSESSED:What I'm enthralled by |
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I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of honeygrow in Montrose earlier this month and I'm definitely obsessed. This fast-casual restaurant specializes in customizable stir-fries and salads, allowing you to add or subtract ingredients so it's just the way you like it. I really enjoyed the garlic chicken stir-fry. Beyond the food, I loved the thoughtful little extras—like the fun puzzles and games printed on the napkins—that made the experience special. I highly recommend you check it out! |
I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of honeygrow in Montrose earlier this month and I'm definitely obsessed. This fast-casual restaurant specializes in customizable stir-fries and salads, allowing you to add or subtract ingredients so it's just the way you like it. I really enjoyed the garlic chicken stir-fry. Beyond the food, I loved the thoughtful little extras—like the fun puzzles and games printed on the napkins—that made the experience special. I highly recommend you check it out! |
UPDATES:What I'm working on |
UPDATES:What I'm working on |
This month’s Planning Your Next Chapter Downsizing Seminar was a huge success! Hosted by New Leaf Homes and Development at their beautiful clubhouse in The Retreat at Rosemont, we welcomed a fantastic group of attendees eager to learn more about the downsizing journey. We covered everything from how to prepare a home for sale in today’s market to expert tips on decluttering, plus an overview of a unique lifestyle loan program that can help finance that next chapter. A big thank-you to Emily Kelly from EMK Incorporated and Bill Cavanaugh with Mutual of Omaha for sharing their knowledge and helping make the event such a hit! If you missed it and want to be notified about future seminars—or if you'd like a copy of our home staging checklist, decluttering guide, or donation center resource list—just reach out. I’m happy to share! |
This month’s Planning Your Next Chapter Downsizing Seminar was a huge success! Hosted by New Leaf Homes and Development at their beautiful clubhouse in The Retreat at Rosemont, we welcomed a fantastic group of attendees eager to learn more about the downsizing journey. We covered everything from how to prepare a home for sale in today’s market to expert tips on decluttering, plus an overview of a unique lifestyle loan program that can help finance that next chapter. A big thank-you to Emily Kelly from EMK Incorporated and Bill Cavanaugh with Mutual of Omaha for sharing their knowledge and helping make the event such a hit! If you missed it and want to be notified about future seminars—or if you'd like a copy of our home staging checklist, decluttering guide, or donation center resource list—just reach out. I’m happy to share! |
TREASURES:Thing I'm loving |
TREASURES:Thing I'm loving |
My latest treasure is this adorable business card holder I bought that's shaped like a real estate sign. Seriously, how cute is this?!? It will definitely make sharing my cards at open houses and events a lot more fun! |
My latest treasure is this adorable business card holder I bought that's shaped like a real estate sign. Seriously, how cute is this?!? It will definitely make sharing my cards at open houses and events a lot more fun! |
SOUNDS & STAGE:What I'm watching or listening to |
SOUNDS & STAGE:What I'm watching or listening to |
Lately, I’ve been hooked on Person of Interest—a show I just discovered on Prime Video (even though it originally aired years ago). It follows a former CIA operative and a reclusive tech billionaire who use advanced surveillance software to prevent violent crimes before they happen in New York City. I’m almost through Season 1 and I've enjoyed it so far. If you like a mix of action, crime, and just a touch of sci-fi, this might be your next watch too! |
Lately, I’ve been hooked on Person of Interest—a show I just discovered on Prime Video (even though it originally aired years ago). It follows a former CIA operative and a reclusive tech billionaire who use advanced surveillance software to prevent violent crimes before they happen in New York City. I’m almost through Season 1 and I've enjoyed it so far. If you like a mix of action, crime, and just a touch of sci-fi, this might be your next watch too! |
TECH:What's making my life easier |
TECH:What's making my life easier |
Puzzle Creation Generator |
Puzzle Creation Generator |
One of my latest tech finds is a website that lets you create your own puzzles—everything from mazes and word searches to connect-the-dots and crosswords. The possibilities are endless! I used it to design a moon-shaped maze to tie into the theme of my Mother’s Day cards (I love including a little something extra to make my mail more fun). |
One of my latest tech finds is a website that lets you create your own puzzles—everything from mazes and word searches to connect-the-dots and crosswords. The possibilities are endless! I used it to design a moon-shaped maze to tie into the theme of my Mother’s Day cards (I love including a little something extra to make my mail more fun). |
ANTICIPATION:What I'm looking forward to |
ANTICIPATION:What I'm looking forward to |
Thriving through Motherhood |
Thriving through Motherhood |
I’m really looking forward to an upcoming virtual summit my friend Melissa is coordinating, happening June 12–15—and I think many of you might be too! It’s a free, women-led event designed to help us redefine success on our terms. This summit is for women who are scaling their businesses without burning out, leading with purpose, and doing the deep inner work right alongside school drop-off and soccer practice. It’s for those of us who are craving more—but without the guilt, grind, or martyrdom. You’ll hear from inspiring speakers and experts sharing actionable strategies on how to: Build sustainable success that truly aligns with your values Master your time and energy to thrive in both business and life Cultivate a supportive community of like-minded women
If that sounds like something you’d enjoy (or need!), you can learn more and register by clicking the link below. |
I’m really looking forward to an upcoming virtual summit my friend Melissa is coordinating, happening June 12–15—and I think many of you might be too! It’s a free, women-led event designed to help us redefine success on our terms. This summit is for women who are scaling their businesses without burning out, leading with purpose, and doing the deep inner work right alongside school drop-off and soccer practice. It’s for those of us who are craving more—but without the guilt, grind, or martyrdom. You’ll hear from inspiring speakers and experts sharing actionable strategies on how to: Build sustainable success that truly aligns with your values Master your time and energy to thrive in both business and life Cultivate a supportive community of like-minded women
If that sounds like something you’d enjoy (or need!), you can learn more and register by clicking the link below. |
NETWORKING:Who I've connected with |
NETWORKING:Who I've connected with |
From the moment I met Karen Lawhun with Day 91 Consulting at a Chamber luncheon, I was intrigued by the Predictive Index tool she uses to help teams work better together. This month, I finally had the chance to sit down with her and take the assessment myself—and wow, was it eye-opening! It’s just two questions and takes only a few minutes, but the results were incredibly insightful. Here’s a snippet from my report: Erin is an ingenious and innovative problem-solver and troubleshooter… a self-starter who makes decisions and assumes responsibility for them… with a strong competitive drive and a need to know and learn more.
Honestly, it felt like it captured me to a T. Karen explained how businesses can use the Predictive Index for everything from hiring and onboarding to leadership development and team dynamics. It’s a powerful tool that helps ensure you’re putting the right people in the right roles and giving them the support they need to thrive. If you’ve ever struggled with hiring the right person, finding that perfect team fit or managing different work styles, it might be worth reaching out to Karen to learn more. I’m so glad I did! (You can email her at lawhunk@day91.consulting.com) |
From the moment I met Karen Lawhun with Day 91 Consulting at a Chamber luncheon, I was intrigued by the Predictive Index tool she uses to help teams work better together. This month, I finally had the chance to sit down with her and take the assessment myself—and wow, was it eye-opening! It’s just two questions and takes only a few minutes, but the results were incredibly insightful. Here’s a snippet from my report: Erin is an ingenious and innovative problem-solver and troubleshooter… a self-starter who makes decisions and assumes responsibility for them… with a strong competitive drive and a need to know and learn more.
Honestly, it felt like it captured me to a T. Karen explained how businesses can use the Predictive Index for everything from hiring and onboarding to leadership development and team dynamics. It’s a powerful tool that helps ensure you’re putting the right people in the right roles and giving them the support they need to thrive. If you’ve ever struggled with hiring the right person, finding that perfect team fit or managing different work styles, it might be worth reaching out to Karen to learn more. I’m so glad I did! (You can email her at lawhunk@day91.consulting.com) |
DISCOVERIES:What I'm learning or discovering |
DISCOVERIES:What I'm learning or discovering |
Cambria's Bistro in Wadsworth |
Cambria's Bistro in Wadsworth |
I found myself with a little time to spare in Wadsworth last week, so of course I made a stop at one of my favorite local gems—Uniquely Inspired Gifts. It's always full of fun finds and creative treasures. After browsing, I popped into the bistro next door (Cambria's) for a bite to eat and ended up having the ravioli of the day: a four-cheese ravioli in a spicy, creamy marinara sauce. Let me tell you—it was out of this world. Hands down some of the best pasta I’ve ever had! I can't wait to go back! |
I found myself with a little time to spare in Wadsworth last week, so of course I made a stop at one of my favorite local gems—Uniquely Inspired Gifts. It's always full of fun finds and creative treasures. After browsing, I popped into the bistro next door (Cambria's) for a bite to eat and ended up having the ravioli of the day: a four-cheese ravioli in a spicy, creamy marinara sauce. Let me tell you—it was out of this world. Hands down some of the best pasta I’ve ever had! I can't wait to go back! |
INSPIRATIONS:What is inspiring me |
INSPIRATIONS:What is inspiring me |
A book I listened to this month that was really inspiring and stuck with me is Stay by Julie Fingersh. It’s a beautifully written memoir that explores the complexities of family, love, and resilience. Fingersh recounts her experiences with her brother who struggled with mental illness and with her college-bound daughter being diagnosed with a chronic health condition. She also relays her challenge of finding her purpose after being a stay-at-home mom. Through these intertwined narratives, Fingersh reflects on the emotional toll of caregiving and the strength found in staying present during life's most difficult moments. It especially hit home for me as I have a daughter ready to embark on her senior year and will be heading to college soon. |
A book I listened to this month that was really inspiring and stuck with me is Stay by Julie Fingersh. It’s a beautifully written memoir that explores the complexities of family, love, and resilience. Fingersh recounts her experiences with her brother who struggled with mental illness and with her college-bound daughter being diagnosed with a chronic health condition. She also relays her challenge of finding her purpose after being a stay-at-home mom. Through these intertwined narratives, Fingersh reflects on the emotional toll of caregiving and the strength found in staying present during life's most difficult moments. It especially hit home for me as I have a daughter ready to embark on her senior year and will be heading to college soon. |
My favorite business book I listened to this month was Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Dr. Robert Cialdini—a deep-dive into why we say “yes.” Cialdini unpacks seven universal principles that quietly guide our choices: Reciprocity – we feel compelled to give back when we receive. Commitment & Consistency – we like our words and actions to align. Social Proof – we look to others for cues on what’s right. Liking – we’re persuaded by people we genuinely like. Authority – experts and credentials carry weight. Scarcity – limited opportunities feel more valuable. Unity – we favor those we see as “one of us.”
The book uses real-life examples, research studies, and stories to illustrate each principle and shows how they are used in marketing, sales, and everyday situations. Cialdini also emphasizes the importance of using these techniques ethically to build authentic, trust-based influence. |
My favorite business book I listened to this month was Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Dr. Robert Cialdini—a deep-dive into why we say “yes.” Cialdini unpacks seven universal principles that quietly guide our choices: Reciprocity – we feel compelled to give back when we receive. Commitment & Consistency – we like our words and actions to align. Social Proof – we look to others for cues on what’s right. Liking – we’re persuaded by people we genuinely like. Authority – experts and credentials carry weight. Scarcity – limited opportunities feel more valuable. Unity – we favor those we see as “one of us.”
The book uses real-life examples, research studies, and stories to illustrate each principle and shows how they are used in marketing, sales, and everyday situations. Cialdini also emphasizes the importance of using these techniques ethically to build authentic, trust-based influence. |
GRATITUDE:What I'm grateful for |
GRATITUDE:What I'm grateful for |
May is always a full month, with both my birthday and Mother’s Day falling just days apart—but this year felt especially meaningful. My daughters, now 15 and 17, are at the age where they’re starting to really see me—not just as Mom, but as a person. They each made me the most beautiful cards with the kindest words, sharing how much they appreciate me and acknowledging the sacrifices I make for them. It completely melted my heart. Those little moments of recognition mean the world—and remind me that the love we pour into our families truly does come back to us! If you’re currently in the thick of toddler tantrums or navigating the emotional rollercoaster of pre-teenhood, I hope this encourages you to hang in there. The day will come when your kids look back and see it all—the love, the effort, the late nights, and the unwavering support—and they’ll thank you for it. |
May is always a full month, with both my birthday and Mother’s Day falling just days apart—but this year felt especially meaningful. My daughters, now 15 and 17, are at the age where they’re starting to really see me—not just as Mom, but as a person. They each made me the most beautiful cards with the kindest words, sharing how much they appreciate me and acknowledging the sacrifices I make for them. It completely melted my heart. Those little moments of recognition mean the world—and remind me that the love we pour into our families truly does come back to us! If you’re currently in the thick of toddler tantrums or navigating the emotional rollercoaster of pre-teenhood, I hope this encourages you to hang in there. The day will come when your kids look back and see it all—the love, the effort, the late nights, and the unwavering support—and they’ll thank you for it. |
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| | Outstanding Ohio is brought to you by Erin Johnson, eXp Realtor |
Outstanding Ohio is brought to you by Erin Johnson, eXp Realtor |
Erin's mission is to be Ohio's most Resourceful Realtor by providing the resources to help people buy and sell houses and live their best lives in the outstanding state of Ohio. Erin specializes in assisting clients in Copley/Fairlawn/Bath and Summit County, but is willing and able to serve most of Northeast Ohio. If you live outside of this area, she can refer you to an experienced agent who can serve you.
If you are thinking about buying or selling and would like a free consultation or home valuation, call/text 330-227-4355 or email erin@outstandingohio.com. |
Erin's mission is to be Ohio's most Resourceful Realtor by providing the resources to help people buy and sell houses and live their best lives in the outstanding state of Ohio. Erin specializes in assisting clients in Copley/Fairlawn/Bath and Summit County, but is willing and able to serve most of Northeast Ohio. If you live outside of this area, she can refer you to an experienced agent who can serve you.
If you are thinking about buying or selling and would like a free consultation or home valuation, call/text 330-227-4355 or email erin@outstandingohio.com. |
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2857 Riviera Rd Suite 201- Fairlawn, OH 44333 |
2857 Riviera Rd Suite 201- Fairlawn, OH 44333 |
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