Well it has been awhile since the last house update, but the truth is there has been a TON of progress made! Today let’s talk about the front door and how a makeover can add extensive value and curbside appeal. In a study by Zillow, homes with black or charcoal gray front doors sell for $6,271 more than expected. Wow! A little bit of “sweat equity” can go a long ways. There are other improvements that can be made, so let’s talk about 6 ways to makeover your front door to add more value and style to your home.
Happy Saturday, y’all! I have done a few talks about current book reads, but I decided it is time to start a book review series. I am almost always in the middle of one or two books – and on the hunt for new books. The goal for this book review series is to cover a variety of genres and share reviews a few times per year with honest thoughts and recommendations. Most of the time I learn about new books through other’s reviews, so my hope is that this book review series helps you do the same!
Book Reviews #1
Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies About Who You Are so You Can Become Who You Were Meant to Beby Rachel Hollis: Written by a woman who is a blogger, mother and the best friend you never met, the author is very relatable in covering topics of the heart. She goes through multiple “lies” that we all tend to think about ourselves, such as “I am not good enough”, and provides inspiration through her own traumatic and humorous experiences. The overall message is a reminder that you are in control of your life. While not all of the advice is original, every chapter you feel more empowered than the last. I recommend this as a must read for all women in their 20’s and 30’s!
Capital Gainesby Chip Gaines: As a fan of Chip and Joanna Gaines, I was really looking forward to this book. I resonate with Chip because he reminds me of my own family members: goofy and serial entrepreneurs. In his own words, Chip Gaines narrates smart things he learned while doing stupid stuff. He gives a glimpse on his past, present and future and a laughable way. A biography with stories of his antics, lessons and advice. Chip’s book is an easy listen that leaves a smile and full heart. If you are fond of the “Fixer Upper” family you will like this quick read.
The French Girlby Lexie Elliott: Ten years ago a group of friends from Oxford University were out celebrating on a summer getaway when one of them is tragically and mysteriously killed. Fast forward to present time when her body is found and a high profile murder investigation is re-opened. Each of the friends are considered possible suspects in this suspenseful, murder mystery story. While the plot does move a little slow at times, I loved the author’s descriptive writing style and each characters depth. Overall I give it four out of five stars. I recommend it if you are fans of I Know What You Did Last Summer or Girl on the Train.
Get Paid For Your Pad: How to Maximize Profit From Your Airbnb Listing by Jasper Ribbers & Huzefa Kapadia: This book is incredibly informative for those considering investing in short term real estate rentals, like Airbnb. Whether considering a rental listing for a room or an entire house, the authors educate step-by-step through the Airbnb process. This opens up your eyes to the potential of hosting a short term rental, as well as the authors tried-and-true tips. I love the pace of this book and by the end you feel like the authors are your friends. One downside is because of the nature of the fast moving industry, I worry some of this information is not as up to date since it was published four year ago. Regardless it is definitely a book I will be re-reading and using as a guide should I get the opportunity to dive into this hot real estate market.
Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate: Back in 1939, Rill and her siblings were taken away from their parents and brought into an orphanage. As a 12 year old, she fights to keep them together despite opposition and danger. In the present day, successful Avery Stafford has events unfold that lead her to start learning about her family history. A story that intertwines the past with the present, this novel is both heart wrenching and heart warming. Based on historical events in which children from a Tennessee orphanage were kidnapped and sold, be prepared for pulls on all the emotional heart strings. This book has future movie potential and is a must read!
What is next on my book review list?
Whiskey in a Teacup: What Growing Up in the South Taught Me About Life, Love and Baking Biscuits by Reese Witherspoon: As a lover of the southern culture and the powerful Reese Witherspoon, this book has been at the top of the list since I first heard of its debut early in the summer. Reese is going to cover moments from her childhood, with her Grandma, Dorothea, with entertaining food, decor and beauty tips along the way. If you are as excited as me to read this book, Reese will be traveling on a book signing tour in September. A road trip down to Waco just might be in store!
Excellent deal alert! Most of the books I “read” are using Audible, an audio book service by Amazon. There is currently an excellent deal on Groupon for two months of Audible for $1.90! Plus 30% off any additional purchases. Just remember to cancel after 2 months if you do not want to start a monthly subscription. If you are a book lover, I cannot recommend Audible enough! I have been an Audible member about four years now and look forward to selecting my new book every month.
What books are you currently reading? Which do you recommend? Comment down below so we can all see!
While I love sharing a lot about fashion on Joyfully So, the purpose and intent behind Joyfully So is to cultivate joy. What makes you happy? What makes those around you smile? What do you look forward to in the morning? Those are thoughts I think about on good days, but especially on bad days. My mom, one of the wisest and most selfless people I know, tells me when life gets tough, don’t feel sorry for yourself but rather focus on those around you. Make the world a better place. Help others and in turn, you will help yourself.
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While I love sharing a lot about fashion on Joyfully So, the purpose and intent behind Joyfully So is to cultivate joy. What makes you happy? What makes those around you smile? What do you look forward to in the morning? Those are thoughts I think about on good days, but especially on bad days. My mom, one of the wisest and most selfless people I know, tells me when life gets tough, don’t feel sorry for yourself but rather focus on those around you. Make the world a better place. Help others and in turn, you will help yourself.
