| August 2025 Living OUTSTANDING Highlights & Reflections |
August 2025 Living OUTSTANDING Highlights & Reflections |
Welcome to the August edition of Living OUTSTANDING! August has been a month of energy, connection, and discovery—filled with the thrill of music, the comfort of familiar places, and the excitement of what lies ahead. In this issue, I’ll share the local lunch spot I’m Obsessed with, along with an Update on my latest real estate activities. You’ll hear about a small but mighty Treasure that’s been a lifesaver during hot summer days, and I’ll relive the Sounds & Stage moments that made August feel epic. A long-overdue Tech upgrade has made its way into my daily routine, while Anticipation builds for the return of a favorite fall tradition. I’ll reflect on the Networking opportunities that are already shaping a new chapter of growth, and highlight a Discovery that deepened my appreciation for the history of the community I call home. This month’s Inspiration comes from meaningful lyrics that lingered long after the music faded, and a Notable read offered perspective through powerful storytelling. I’ll close, as always, with Gratitude—this time for sweet, full-circle moments with my daughter. As summer winds down, I hope this edition encourages you to soak up the last golden days of the season, notice the treasures hidden in the everyday, and carry forward a sense of anticipation for what’s to come. I’d love to hear—what made your August outstanding? <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 August edition of Living OUTSTANDING! August has been a month of energy, connection, and discovery—filled with the thrill of music, the comfort of familiar places, and the excitement of what lies ahead. In this issue, I’ll share the local lunch spot I’m Obsessed with, along with an Update on my latest real estate activities. You’ll hear about a small but mighty Treasure that’s been a lifesaver during hot summer days, and I’ll relive the Sounds & Stage moments that made August feel epic. A long-overdue Tech upgrade has made its way into my daily routine, while Anticipation builds for the return of a favorite fall tradition. I’ll reflect on the Networking opportunities that are already shaping a new chapter of growth, and highlight a Discovery that deepened my appreciation for the history of the community I call home. This month’s Inspiration comes from meaningful lyrics that lingered long after the music faded, and a Notable read offered perspective through powerful storytelling. I’ll close, as always, with Gratitude—this time for sweet, full-circle moments with my daughter. As summer winds down, I hope this edition encourages you to soak up the last golden days of the season, notice the treasures hidden in the everyday, and carry forward a sense of anticipation for what’s to come. I’d love to hear—what made your August outstanding? <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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Lately, my favorite lunch spot has been Ken Stewart's Grille in Akron. I'm not a fancy eater—and I don’t even eat steak—but I can’t get enough of their Cobb Salad. It’s the perfect combination of my favorite ingredients (once I swap out the bleu cheese), and the warm, fresh bread they serve alongside it makes it even better. |
Lately, my favorite lunch spot has been Ken Stewart's Grille in Akron. I'm not a fancy eater—and I don’t even eat steak—but I can’t get enough of their Cobb Salad. It’s the perfect combination of my favorite ingredients (once I swap out the bleu cheese), and the warm, fresh bread they serve alongside it makes it even better. |
UPDATES:What I'm working on |
UPDATES:What I'm working on |
Even though it may seem like all I've been doing is traveling, I've also been working hard, even when I'm away. I’ve been fortunate to have an amazing month with two closings and three new listings. I appreciate the referrals I've received and the trust my clients have placed in me to help them through their transactions. Check out my latest ranch listing in Fairlawn at www.houseinFairlawn.com, and stay tuned for another new listing later today in Old Brooklyn. |
Even though it may seem like all I've been doing is traveling, I've also been working hard, even when I'm away. I’ve been fortunate to have an amazing month with two closings and three new listings. I appreciate the referrals I've received and the trust my clients have placed in me to help them through their transactions. Check out my latest ranch listing in Fairlawn at www.houseinFairlawn.com, and stay tuned for another new listing later today in Old Brooklyn. |
TREASURES:Thing I'm loving |
TREASURES:Thing I'm loving |
Before my Europe trip, I picked up a portable fan that fits perfectly into my fanny pouch. It’s been a lifesaver at concerts, amusement parks, and anywhere the summer heat feels overwhelming. Small, simple, and oh-so-handy! |
Before my Europe trip, I picked up a portable fan that fits perfectly into my fanny pouch. It’s been a lifesaver at concerts, amusement parks, and anywhere the summer heat feels overwhelming. Small, simple, and oh-so-handy! |
SOUNDS & STAGE:What I'm watching or listening to |
SOUNDS & STAGE:What I'm watching or listening to |
This month was nothing short of epic for concerts—starting with four days of Lollapalooza in Chicago, where I got to see Luke Combs, Gracie Abrams, Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, plus a bunch of other bands. I also had a blast seeing one of my favorite artists, Andy Grammer, at Cain Park (great venue!). Music-filled days like these fill me with energy and joy, especially when I get to share them with my family. |
This month was nothing short of epic for concerts—starting with four days of Lollapalooza in Chicago, where I got to see Luke Combs, Gracie Abrams, Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter, plus a bunch of other bands. I also had a blast seeing one of my favorite artists, Andy Grammer, at Cain Park (great venue!). Music-filled days like these fill me with energy and joy, especially when I get to share them with my family. |
TECH:What's making my life easier |
TECH:What's making my life easier |
I finally joined the world of earbuds, picking up a pair in the Amsterdam airport while I was traveling last month. This is my first set, so I have nothing to compare them to, but I love the comfortable fit, great sound, and the convenience of the charging case. They’ve quickly become my go-to for podcasts on my walks. I see they're on sale on Amazon right now for around $20. I definitely paid more than that at the airport, but still worth it! |
I finally joined the world of earbuds, picking up a pair in the Amsterdam airport while I was traveling last month. This is my first set, so I have nothing to compare them to, but I love the comfortable fit, great sound, and the convenience of the charging case. They’ve quickly become my go-to for podcasts on my walks. I see they're on sale on Amazon right now for around $20. I definitely paid more than that at the airport, but still worth it! |
ANTICIPATION:What I'm looking forward to |
ANTICIPATION:What I'm looking forward to |
NFL Football Survivor Pool |
NFL Football Survivor Pool |
I’m excited to kick off the third year of the Outstanding Ohio NFL Football Survivor Pool! Each season brings friendly competition, surprises, and plenty of bragging rights—and this year is no exception. Best of all, the pool supports a great cause: proceeds will benefit Zane's Inc, making every pick matter even more. It’s simple to play and there’s still time to get in on the action. Join in on the fun for only $25 (you don't even have to know anything about football!) Click the button below for more details and to sign up. |
I’m excited to kick off the third year of the Outstanding Ohio NFL Football Survivor Pool! Each season brings friendly competition, surprises, and plenty of bragging rights—and this year is no exception. Best of all, the pool supports a great cause: proceeds will benefit Zane's Inc, making every pick matter even more. It’s simple to play and there’s still time to get in on the action. Join in on the fun for only $25 (you don't even have to know anything about football!) Click the button below for more details and to sign up. |
NETWORKING:Who I've connected with |
NETWORKING:Who I've connected with |
Leadership Akron Signature Class 42 |
Leadership Akron Signature Class 42 |
I’ve been enjoying getting to know my Leadership Akron Signature Class 42 classmates. We’ve had our first couple of events, and I’m looking forward to the relationships, conversations, and growth that will come as we journey through the year together. |
I’ve been enjoying getting to know my Leadership Akron Signature Class 42 classmates. We’ve had our first couple of events, and I’m looking forward to the relationships, conversations, and growth that will come as we journey through the year together. |
DISCOVERIES:What I'm learning or discovering |
DISCOVERIES:What I'm learning or discovering |
This month, I discovered the Akron History Center, which opened downtown this year as part of the city’s 200th anniversary. The exhibits do a wonderful job capturing both the highs and lows of Akron’s story. Even after living here most of my life, I learned so much! |
This month, I discovered the Akron History Center, which opened downtown this year as part of the city’s 200th anniversary. The exhibits do a wonderful job capturing both the highs and lows of Akron’s story. Even after living here most of my life, I learned so much! |
INSPIRATIONS:What is inspiring me |
INSPIRATIONS:What is inspiring me |
New Artists; Meaningful Lyrics |
New Artists; Meaningful Lyrics |
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Music continues to inspire me, especially songs with meaningful lyrics. There’s something powerful about watching new artists break through in such a competitive industry, and this month I had the joy of discovering several “new-to-me” voices whose words and melodies left a lasting impact. Some moments stood out—like meeting Ben Abraham at the Andy Grammer concert (and having him sign a shirt!), and catching Vincent Lima up close on the Toyota Den stage at Lollapalooza, where I even got to chat with his mom. These personal connections made the music feel even more special. Here are a few of the songs and lyrics that resonated with me most this month: Mark Ambor – Good to Be: “Damnit, it's so good to be alive.” Vincent Lima – Orpheus: “How do you know which memories to save? Like the very last footprint that Orpheus made. 'Cause the last ray of sun made Eurydice cold. And did she know? Did she know?” Ben Abraham – Never Been Better: “I’ve never been worse, but I’ve never been better… Two different things can both be true at the same time.”
These lyrics remind me that music has a way of capturing life’s contradictions—hope and struggle, joy and uncertainty—and turning them into something beautiful. |
Music continues to inspire me, especially songs with meaningful lyrics. There’s something powerful about watching new artists break through in such a competitive industry, and this month I had the joy of discovering several “new-to-me” voices whose words and melodies left a lasting impact. Some moments stood out—like meeting Ben Abraham at the Andy Grammer concert (and having him sign a shirt!), and catching Vincent Lima up close on the Toyota Den stage at Lollapalooza, where I even got to chat with his mom. These personal connections made the music feel even more special. Here are a few of the songs and lyrics that resonated with me most this month: Mark Ambor – Good to Be: “Damnit, it's so good to be alive.” Vincent Lima – Orpheus: “How do you know which memories to save? Like the very last footprint that Orpheus made. 'Cause the last ray of sun made Eurydice cold. And did she know? Did she know?” Ben Abraham – Never Been Better: “I’ve never been worse, but I’ve never been better… Two different things can both be true at the same time.”
These lyrics remind me that music has a way of capturing life’s contradictions—hope and struggle, joy and uncertainty—and turning them into something beautiful. |
Under the Tulip Tree by Michelle Shocklee |
Under the Tulip Tree by Michelle Shocklee |
I listened to the audiobook Under the Tulip Tree by Michelle Shocklee this month. A moving work of historical fiction, it shines light on the painful history of slavery through a powerful story of resilience and hope. It was a beautiful reminder of the importance of listening to voices from the past. |
I listened to the audiobook Under the Tulip Tree by Michelle Shocklee this month. A moving work of historical fiction, it shines light on the painful history of slavery through a powerful story of resilience and hope. It was a beautiful reminder of the importance of listening to voices from the past. |
GRATITUDE:What I'm grateful for |
GRATITUDE:What I'm grateful for |
As I help my high school senior navigate her next steps and visit colleges, we’re making sure to have some fun along the way. On a recent trip to Central PA, we squeezed in a quick stop at HersheyPark—our first visit since 2013. Re-creating some of those old photos from when she was five was both nostalgic and heartwarming. Time sure flies! |
As I help my high school senior navigate her next steps and visit colleges, we’re making sure to have some fun along the way. On a recent trip to Central PA, we squeezed in a quick stop at HersheyPark—our first visit since 2013. Re-creating some of those old photos from when she was five was both nostalgic and heartwarming. Time sure flies! |
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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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