Last year at this time, it was my office’s annual awards meeting. Our office votes on things like best negotiator, most inspirational, etc. And then my broker David rattles off the top 25 agents in the office (we have about 90). If you’re like me, you LOVE awards…my office awards are all proudly framed and displayed on my desk and the walls of my office.

 Just a side note so you understand this competitive nature is deeply rooted in my personality. When I was three, I did a solo tap competition…my mom said I tapped around and was in my own world, confidently doing my own thing. In elementary school, I held top prizes in field day and was declared, “Presidentially fit!” In high school, I did competitive cheerleading and it wasn’t enough to win state championships as a team, or place in the top tier of teams nationally, I had to compete individually…I wanted to know how I stacked up mono y mono. So when I started in real estate, the competitive environment suited me.

Last year, I couldn’t wait to get into the office…I wanted to see where I ranked. And it turns out; I was the #1 agent. (Hooray!) But this year, being at that meeting to receive praise in front of my peers was not important to me at all. I was actually at home, cleaning up spit up, feeding Reagan, doing laundry, reading Reagan a book five times in a row and rocking her to sleep…yes, all within the hour that takes up the office meeting, I did all those things. My head spins sometimes with the different directions I’m going in…all while being filled with theme songs from kid shows like The Cat in the Hat…sorry, it’s catchy!!

Since having a baby, I can’t tell you how many times I was asked, “Are you still working?” “Are you still doing real estate?” And I answered yes, yes…YES! I still sell houses.

I have always continued working since Reagan joined us b/c I really do love it. What I’ve learned in having a baby is how to work smarter. My family is my first priority and I don’t ever want Rob or Reagan to think a real estate sale is more important than them.

Ray Ray and Mommy

In 2013, I had a great year…I adopted a baby, learned more about myself, my spouse and what it takes to be a working parent all while maintaining my same sales as the previous year. You are probably wondering how? And I have to say it’s because of you guys! God has continued to bless Rob and I through our friends and my past customers, many who have also turned into friends. You are all SO loyal to me! I know there are lots of Realtors in this town, but my friends, family and past customers have only heard of one. And so…their friends…have only heard of one. I can’t begin to tell you how appreciative I am of you guys putting your name on the line and telling people things like, “this is the only Realtor you need to know” and then dropping my name.

While I wasn’t the number one agent in the office, a friend and co-worker let me know that I was the #5 agent in the office this year, and #2 in buyer sales. That is b/c you guys are relentless in sending me people and I am filled with gratitude for your trust and your loyalty. Thank you so much for your support…I can’t wait to see what 2014 holds.

p.s. if you know of someone who needs a Realtor…