Hi Strangers!
Remember me?
I thought today would be a good day to come out of hibernation, being that it is my THREE year Bloggiversary and all..
Three years- can you believe it?
Seems like just yesterday that I sat down to write my first post on my original blog over at Flippinghomes.com. Actually, I take that back. It seems more like 3 lifetimes ago, but you know what I mean.
So, I spent the ENTIRE day baking a delicious Bloggiversary cybercake for all of us to enjoy. It’s dark chocolate with black raspberry filling and a cream cheese frosting……
Mmmmmmm…. looks delish, doesn’t it?
Go ahead and help yourselves- there’s plenty to go around…
So, anywho, in case you were wondering what the hell I’ve been up to (clearly not blogging), the truth is…. I’ve been in somewhat of a funk lately.
Also, I’ve been suffering from writer’s block, as well as a mild to moderate case of REI burn-out.
And also, my lower back has been kicking like Chuck Norris for about two weeks now, and last but not least, I think I’m coming down with the flu or something. (Mom, if you’re reading this, I just made all of that up for dramatic effect, so stop worrying).
So yeah, I’ve not been very productive in the real estate/blogging departments lately.
I expect this funk to last approximately 0-2 more days, and then I will be back in the swing of things, dammit.
I considered keeping the details of this little rut to myself, but I figured if you guys are on the internets and in the real estate arena, you already have enough people blowing smoke up your ass on a daily basis, so I thought I’d do something a little different and tell it like it is.
Zing.
On a lighter note, I start my orientation to become a volunteer at the Humane Society this Saturday, which I am really looking forward to. I’m going to be an animal companion, which basically consists of taking the dogs outside to give them exercise. I’m also going to see if Jim will qualify for the Pet-a-Pet program. Perhaps I’m biased, but I think he would make the perfect therapy dog….
Well, that’s all I’ve got for now, guys.
If you don’t see another post from me by the weekend…..send help. Just kidding.
Later Alligators!
P.S.
Thanks to all of you for sticking with me these last 3 years- you guys are the best, and I truly appreciate all of your support. For real.
P.P.S.
Don’t forget to wipe the cake crumbs off your chin. 
P.P.P.S.
There are still a few copies of my Flip This REO! eBook left in cyberspace. Click here to grab yours now! 
On October 21, 2009 at 4:41am, Boyd said...
Hey Steph,
Glad to see that you’re still here. I got a little nervous after reading your “burn out” post on Flipping Homes.
Happy Blogiversary!
On October 21, 2009 at 7:28am, Stephani said...
Hi Boyd,
Nothing to get nervous about- I just needed a little break from REI.
Thanks for stopping by.
On October 21, 2009 at 5:21am, Shae said...
Congrats on your 3 YEARS Steph! That cake was mmm mmmm good
You’ve worked so hard and deserve every bit of success you’ve achieved. Hope your rut ends soon! Ruts happen for a reason and you’ll be stronger for it afterward and should feel excited again about how you plan to proceed.
Go girl!
On October 21, 2009 at 7:29am, Stephani said...
Thanks, Miss Shae.
Glad you enjoyed the cake. Feel free to go back for seconds. Hehe.
On October 21, 2009 at 5:40am, AnotherSteph said...
Happy Blogiversary!
I love that you are so honest with us, even when you are in a rut! You’re right – I’d much rather hear honesty than someone blowing smoke!
Hope you are able to get over this soon….you have our support!
And, thanks, the cake was yummy!
AnotherSteph´s last blog ..Creating Effective Craigslist Real Estate Ads
On October 21, 2009 at 7:35am, Stephani said...
Hola Steph!
I’ll be back up and at ‘em shortly.
Thanks for your support..
On October 21, 2009 at 6:11am, Bilgefisher said...
Congrats on 3 years. Think of the amazing progress in that time. Its nice to see you finding your passions as well. Many folks can’t claim that.
On October 21, 2009 at 7:39am, Stephani said...
Thanks Jason,
I really can’t wait to start volunteering. I put it on my list of goals to accomplish this year, and have been putting it off for one reason or another all year..
On October 21, 2009 at 7:44am, Shae said...
Ya know, I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Jim, but I just KNOW he’ll make a great therapy dog (well…as long as there’s no thunder and lightning at the time of the therapy) LOL!
Shae´s last blog ..Busy, busy, busy!
On October 21, 2009 at 8:05am, Stephani said...
Yeah, if it’s storming we’ll definitely get thrown out. He likes to sit on your lap when he hears the faintest sound of thunder. I don’t think that would go over too well considering he is over 70 lbs.
On October 21, 2009 at 6:32am, Scott Costello said...
CONGRATS STEPH!
I think it’s great that you posted about being in the “rut” you are in now. For people who are trying to stay motivated it’s important to know that even the ones who’ve made it have motivation down turns as well.
You’ve been a machine for the last few years, it’s tough to keep that pace up without taking a break.
Thanks Steph!
Scott Costello´s last blog ..MLS Access at Last!
On October 21, 2009 at 7:41am, Stephani said...
Hi Scott,
Yeah, I seem to go through these phases from time to time. I think everyone does, no matter what level they are at.
Thanks for stopping by, and CONGRATS on getting MLS access- Woohoo!
On October 21, 2009 at 7:44am, Hugh said...
Hi Steph,
Glad your back… I’ve missed you. and the cake is great.
I’ve been in a rut myself. My question to Steph and anyone that been in a rut.
What are some steps or stratiges that could help someone can take to get themself out of rut and get back going again?
My Plan.
Step back few weeks and just try to refocus on whats important in my life.
Try breaking my problems in small chunks and attack it little everyday.
Walk on my treadmill at least 20 min each day.
Hugh
On October 21, 2009 at 7:48am, Shae said...
Hugh, I think that you’re on the right track buddy…exercising, stepping back and refocusing, is a great idea. For me personally, I also add prayer (more than usual) to the mix (helps me with the focus) and I do make sure to write my thoughts out and revisit the goals I had written…its a sanity check. Did I get off track? Or have circumstances made certain goals not nearly as important? That type of stuff.
And I’m 100% in agreement on breaking things up unto smaller manageable pieces…my pal Scott had to remind me of that yesterday
We all need a reminder sometimes!
Shae´s last blog ..Busy, busy, busy!
On October 21, 2009 at 8:03am, Stephani said...
I also think you are on the right track, Hugh.
I found it really helpful to look at my long term goals and focus on those. Taking a break from all things real estate was also much needed. I’ve been pretty much living and breathing it for the last 3+ years, and just need a break.
Once you get your head clear and come up with a plan, then it’s time to take action. I had a long discussion with my mentor (Steve Cook), and that was the one thing that he kept emphasizing. It takes a lot more effort when you are just getting going, so you have to commit to taking massive action until the ball starts rolling again. Once momentum is on your side, it’s soooo much easier.
Keep your chin up bud,
Steph
On October 21, 2009 at 11:25am, ARodOfIron said...
Hey Steph, good to know that when REI slows down you have mad bakery skillz to fall back on!!
Keep it up, we need you out here!!
On October 22, 2009 at 6:10am, Stephani said...
Hi Alex,
Actually I am dangerous in the kitchen (not in a good way).
I can cook toast and frozen pizza, and that’s about it.
On October 21, 2009 at 8:24pm, Taylor said...
mmm…. i like cake.
It’s been fun watching you develop Steph. From posting on FH’s.com and the NadaGuru sessions with JP to… Cake!
Congrats. Keep it up. I for one miss your daily (or at least a couple times a week) batch of bullshit and craziness.
Keep rockin kid!
-Taylor
On October 22, 2009 at 6:13am, Stephani said...
Hey Stranger- long time no see!
I’ll try to get back to posting on a regular basis here shortly…
Hope you are doing well, and thanks for stopping by.
On October 21, 2009 at 8:51pm, Jerry said...
Keepin it real!
Go get some pendings!
On October 22, 2009 at 6:08am, Stephani said...
On October 21, 2009 at 9:42pm, Joe Ziolkowski said...
It’s great to see you back in the blogesphere Steph! Your story keeps me motivated in the beginning of my journey. Maybe I’ll write a blog about mine sometime soon
Anyway, hope you feel better. I know what it’s like to be in a rut, and slowing down and stepping back can be just the thing. Continued success!
On October 22, 2009 at 4:51am, Shae said...
Oooh….a blog from Joe…I’d read it
Shae´s last blog ..Busy, busy, busy!
On October 22, 2009 at 6:07am, Stephani said...
Hi Joe,
I think you definitely should start a blog and join all of is out here in the Blogosphere.
It helps to keep you accountable when you know other people are “watching”…
On October 21, 2009 at 11:55pm, Tamara said...
Awww, Happy 3 Year Blogaversary, Steph! I hope you are feeling better (in body and spirit wrt to REI). Your post on Flippinghomes.com about feeling burnt out was SO real and im sure everyone who read that appreciated it. Us newbies need to know that its not all butterflies and dollar bills everyday, all day and that THAS OK.
On October 22, 2009 at 6:04am, Stephani said...
Thanks, Tamara.
I am feeling better, just needed a wee bit of a break from all things real estate.
On October 22, 2009 at 4:51am, Chris Ranney said...
Hey Steph, this is optimist aka Jack-you are a funny girl.
Anyway, I believe you of all people earned the right to speak out on Short sales. I love your blog.
On October 22, 2009 at 6:03am, Stephani said...
Shut up, Optimist.
Hehe. Just kidding.
I actually read the article last night on the Mortgage Fraud Blog, and unless I was just too tired to comprehend it, it sounds to me like the people charged were doing short sales the same way a lot of other people are doing them.
I’ll go back and read it today..
Thanks for stopping by,
Steph
On October 22, 2009 at 8:37am, Vannie said...
Congratulations on the 3rd year of your blog, Steph!! Im sure that I can speak on at least a few people’s behalf in saying that I APPRECIATE the fact that keep things real – in all things real estate investing as well as personal. I makes me feel as if I can relate to and CAN do the things that you have done and it is inspirational. Whether you continue wholesaling or find another path in investing or otherwise, your determination and good will will take you to greater places!! Thanks for all the time, effort that you put helping others through this blog, through your articles, and your posts on Flipping Homes, Facebook, and Bigger Pockets sites (and so many others!). You are an inspiration to many. Cheers to your continued success!!!!
On October 22, 2009 at 10:46am, Joshua Dorkin @ BiggerPockets said...
Congrats on 3 years, Steph! It is amazing how time flies . . . keep rocking the blog world!
On October 22, 2009 at 2:06pm, Lui said...
Welcome Back! Although i’ve only been reading your blogs for a month, i definitely noticed your absence and i’m glad you’re still alive and kicking! Congratulations, blogging for 3 years is impressive!
On October 22, 2009 at 5:09pm, Bruce said...
CONGRATULATIONS STEPHANIE!!!….what a cool accomplishment. Not just a blog, but one that I’ll bet has a lot of readership. You have developed a “Name” on the internet and a following- not a small thing.
Amongst all your talents, I think what I like best about you is how you care for your dog Jim….and the Humane Society is lucky to be getting your assistance.
Bruce, Chicago
On October 23, 2009 at 8:42am, Kelly Miller said...
Happy 3 year!! Wow, doesn’t seem that long. I read your book in the airport and on the plane, LOVED it. Thank you for taking the time to write it!!
I want to tell you how refreshing it is to know that you are genuine and don’t have a hidden ‘agenda’.
On October 23, 2009 at 8:43am, Kelly Miller said...
Oh,
————->
And that is my doggy Duffy
Kelly Miller´s last blog ..Vegas update for October
On October 23, 2009 at 8:49am, Stephani said...
Thanks Guys and Gals for the support- it is much appreciated.
On October 25, 2009 at 2:55pm, ToyaVG said...
Congrats. Steph on 3 years and thanks for being such a blessing. You and Shae are my heroes