| January 2026 Living OUTSTANDING Highlights & Reflections |
January 2026 Living OUTSTANDING Highlights & Reflections |
Welcome to the January edition of Living OUTSTANDING! January is often a time to reset, refocus, and settle into new rhythms after the holidays. This year, it’s also arrived with bitter cold, naturally slowing things down. From simple comforts at home to moments of connection and perspective, this month has been a reminder that meaningful progress often happens quietly. In this issue, I’ll share a sweet Obsession that I love to indulge in, along with Updates on behind-the-scenes work designed to help buyers navigate a shifting market with confidence. A fun new Treasure quickly earned its place in our kitchen, while a heartfelt movie took center Stage during quieter evenings at home. I also leaned into creative Tech solutions to preserve memories, and I’m eagerly Anticipating the next Euchre Tournament for a great cause. This month brought meaningful Networking connections through intentional one-on-one conversations, along with eye-opening opportunities to Discover the dedication and compassion of those who serve our community every day — even in the coldest conditions. Inspiration came from witnessing care, commitment, and purpose in action, and a Notable new book club added a fresh layer of connection to my reading routine. As always, I’ll close with Gratitude — reflecting on an amazing week in the sun. As the year settles into its early chapters, I hope this newsletter encourages you to embrace the slower pace winter brings, appreciate the warmth found in simple moments, and move forward with curiosity and intention. I’d love to hear — what made your January 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 January edition of Living OUTSTANDING! January is often a time to reset, refocus, and settle into new rhythms after the holidays. This year, it’s also arrived with bitter cold, naturally slowing things down. From simple comforts at home to moments of connection and perspective, this month has been a reminder that meaningful progress often happens quietly. In this issue, I’ll share a sweet Obsession that I love to indulge in, along with Updates on behind-the-scenes work designed to help buyers navigate a shifting market with confidence. A fun new Treasure quickly earned its place in our kitchen, while a heartfelt movie took center Stage during quieter evenings at home. I also leaned into creative Tech solutions to preserve memories, and I’m eagerly Anticipating the next Euchre Tournament for a great cause. This month brought meaningful Networking connections through intentional one-on-one conversations, along with eye-opening opportunities to Discover the dedication and compassion of those who serve our community every day — even in the coldest conditions. Inspiration came from witnessing care, commitment, and purpose in action, and a Notable new book club added a fresh layer of connection to my reading routine. As always, I’ll close with Gratitude — reflecting on an amazing week in the sun. As the year settles into its early chapters, I hope this newsletter encourages you to embrace the slower pace winter brings, appreciate the warmth found in simple moments, and move forward with curiosity and intention. I’d love to hear — what made your January 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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I’m normally a chocolate girl (dark is my go-to), but I have a special place in my heart for SweetTart hearts. I don’t know why they taste so much better than the ones in the tube package — they just do. The Easter-shaped ones might even top the list. They’re a staple snack for me in the winter and early spring, and I fully embrace it. |
I’m normally a chocolate girl (dark is my go-to), but I have a special place in my heart for SweetTart hearts. I don’t know why they taste so much better than the ones in the tube package — they just do. The Easter-shaped ones might even top the list. They’re a staple snack for me in the winter and early spring, and I fully embrace it. |
UPDATES:What I'm working on |
UPDATES:What I'm working on |
With the market being a little more hit-or-miss lately — sometimes calling for aggressive multiple-offer strategies, and other times leaving room to negotiate — I created a Buyer Guide to help buyers better read the market and write compelling offers appropriate for the situation. Every situation is different, and having a clear framework helps buyers feel confident instead of reactive. I think it'll be a great tool to help educate buyers and help them be strategic during a shifting market. |
With the market being a little more hit-or-miss lately — sometimes calling for aggressive multiple-offer strategies, and other times leaving room to negotiate — I created a Buyer Guide to help buyers better read the market and write compelling offers appropriate for the situation. Every situation is different, and having a clear framework helps buyers feel confident instead of reactive. I think it'll be a great tool to help educate buyers and help them be strategic during a shifting market. |
TREASURES:Thing I'm loving |
TREASURES:Thing I'm loving |
My big Christmas present this year was a Ninja Slushi machine — and we didn’t wait long to break it in. We actually got it early on Black Friday so we could use it at our holiday parties, and it did not disappoint. You can put almost any beverage (or combination of liquids) into it, and it turns it into the perfect slushie without ice. We’ve tried juices, pops, and even made a chocolate “frosty” that tastes shockingly close to Wendy’s. It's easy to clean too! |
My big Christmas present this year was a Ninja Slushi machine — and we didn’t wait long to break it in. We actually got it early on Black Friday so we could use it at our holiday parties, and it did not disappoint. You can put almost any beverage (or combination of liquids) into it, and it turns it into the perfect slushie without ice. We’ve tried juices, pops, and even made a chocolate “frosty” that tastes shockingly close to Wendy’s. It's easy to clean too! |
SOUNDS & STAGE:What I'm watching or listening to |
SOUNDS & STAGE:What I'm watching or listening to |
I really loved the movie Regretting You on Netflix this month. It's a super cute romantic drama. |
I really loved the movie Regretting You on Netflix this month. It's a super cute romantic drama. |
TECH:What's making my life easier |
TECH:What's making my life easier |
I’m a big fan of Shutterfly for creating photo books and keepsakes. I used to make handmade scrapbooks, but they were so time-consuming (and expensive) that it became hard to keep up. Years ago I switched to using Shutterfly to create a photo book for every vacation, each of my kids’ birthdays, and one big book each year. Still time-consuming — but much more manageable — and I love having those memories preserved and easy to revisit. I now have so many Shutterfly books that I need another book case just to hold them all! (at least they take up less room than the traditional scrapbooks did) |
I’m a big fan of Shutterfly for creating photo books and keepsakes. I used to make handmade scrapbooks, but they were so time-consuming (and expensive) that it became hard to keep up. Years ago I switched to using Shutterfly to create a photo book for every vacation, each of my kids’ birthdays, and one big book each year. Still time-consuming — but much more manageable — and I love having those memories preserved and easy to revisit. I now have so many Shutterfly books that I need another book case just to hold them all! (at least they take up less room than the traditional scrapbooks did) |
ANTICIPATION:What I'm looking forward to |
ANTICIPATION:What I'm looking forward to |
I’m looking forward to the next Outstanding Ohio Euchre Tournament to benefit Sawyer’s Wish, scheduled for February 26th. This will be the fourth one. It's always a fun time to connect with new people, play some Euchre, and support a great cause. Sawyer’s Wish does incredible work supporting families during unimaginably difficult times, providing colorful bed sheets to children in hospitals across the country. If you know how to play Euchre and are free on February 26th, I would love to see you there! Use this link to register. |
I’m looking forward to the next Outstanding Ohio Euchre Tournament to benefit Sawyer’s Wish, scheduled for February 26th. This will be the fourth one. It's always a fun time to connect with new people, play some Euchre, and support a great cause. Sawyer’s Wish does incredible work supporting families during unimaginably difficult times, providing colorful bed sheets to children in hospitals across the country. If you know how to play Euchre and are free on February 26th, I would love to see you there! Use this link to register. |
NETWORKING:Who I've connected with |
NETWORKING:Who I've connected with |
I’ve set up several Connection Days this month to get to know people better, learn their stories, and deepen relationships. These one-on-one conversations are always energizing and meaningful. If you’re interested in setting up a meeting with me, you can do so using this link — I’d love to connect. |
I’ve set up several Connection Days this month to get to know people better, learn their stories, and deepen relationships. These one-on-one conversations are always energizing and meaningful. If you’re interested in setting up a meeting with me, you can do so using this link — I’d love to connect. |
DISCOVERIES:What I'm learning or discovering |
DISCOVERIES:What I'm learning or discovering |
Akron Fire EMS Ride Along |
Akron Fire EMS Ride Along |
As part of my Leadership Akron “out-of-class experiences,” I had the opportunity to do an EMS ride-along with Akron Fire. It was remarkable to witness firsthand what these professionals do to serve our community — often under intense pressure and in challenging conditions. I walked away with a deeper appreciation for their work, their dedication, and the realities they face every day. |
As part of my Leadership Akron “out-of-class experiences,” I had the opportunity to do an EMS ride-along with Akron Fire. It was remarkable to witness firsthand what these professionals do to serve our community — often under intense pressure and in challenging conditions. I walked away with a deeper appreciation for their work, their dedication, and the realities they face every day. |
INSPIRATIONS:What is inspiring me |
INSPIRATIONS:What is inspiring me |
Akron Children's Hospital |
Akron Children's Hospital |
This month, I also had the opportunity to shadow a doctor at Akron Children’s Hospital. Seeing the level of commitment, compassion, and care provided to patients (and their families) was incredibly inspiring. It’s powerful to witness people doing meaningful work with such heart and purpose. We are so fortunate to have such a wonderful resource in our community! |
This month, I also had the opportunity to shadow a doctor at Akron Children’s Hospital. Seeing the level of commitment, compassion, and care provided to patients (and their families) was incredibly inspiring. It’s powerful to witness people doing meaningful work with such heart and purpose. We are so fortunate to have such a wonderful resource in our community! |
The Echoes of Old Books by Barbara Davis |
The Echoes of Old Books by Barbara Davis |
This month, I joined a local book club and read The Echoes of Old Books. It's a historical fiction mystery set in multiple timelines that explores the power of forgiveness and the endurance of love. It was an enjoyable read and I appreciated the opportunity to meet and connect with some new people. |
This month, I joined a local book club and read The Echoes of Old Books. It's a historical fiction mystery set in multiple timelines that explores the power of forgiveness and the endurance of love. It was an enjoyable read and I appreciated the opportunity to meet and connect with some new people. |
GRATITUDE:What I'm grateful for |
GRATITUDE:What I'm grateful for |
A sunny week in Punta Cana |
A sunny week in Punta Cana |
I’m extraordinarily grateful for the opportunity to travel to Punta Cana earlier this month with my 18-year-old daughter. My best friend from high school invited us, and it was such a gift to enjoy sunshine, relaxation, and quality time together. Those shared moments — away from schedules and distractions — are the kind that stay with you. And remembering those warm days is helping me get through this bitter cold month! |
I’m extraordinarily grateful for the opportunity to travel to Punta Cana earlier this month with my 18-year-old daughter. My best friend from high school invited us, and it was such a gift to enjoy sunshine, relaxation, and quality time together. Those shared moments — away from schedules and distractions — are the kind that stay with you. And remembering those warm days is helping me get through this bitter cold month! |
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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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