You may think I’m pulling your leg when I say that every December, when I look back at the work I’ve done, I’m amazed. Even shocked.

Yes, of course it’s true that I push myself to do better every year, but the effects of that hard work never truly hit me until I stop at the end of December and look at the numbers. Once again this year, I was amazed. In 2016, I closed 107 transactions and generated nearly $18 million in sales volume.

Oh my goodness gracious, how did that happen!?

Well, actually I know how it happened. Of course I worked hard and was crazy busy all year (HUGE thanks to Chris right here for taking me on several memorable vacations and resort getaways to recharge my batteries). But there is another, more important, reason for my greatest successful year yet. And it’s YOU — my awesome clients.

I adored working with all of you last year. I had a ton of first-time buyers, who are always so exciting to meet and work with. I love their energy, and I love being a part of such an important milestone in their lives. Thank you for trusting me with such a monumental thing!

And beyond my first-time buyers, I had move-up buyers, relocation buyers, and down-size buyers. The vast spectrum of people I was able to work with last year was remarkable. And making connections with wonderful people is such a valued part of my job. It’s what I love; it’s what motivates me. So thank you, all of you, from the bottom of my heart!

As we move into 2017, I’m thinking of how I can do better. How can I make the process even smoother for my clients? How can I grow my network of connections (handymen, service providers, etc.) so that I can be a one-stop source of knowledge for ALL of my clients’ real estate needs? I’m always striving, and I’m always here for you.

Finally, as promised in that headline up there, we did add a few new members to our family last year. I thought I’d share! In addition to two Boston terriers, we rescued a sweet little cat. We found her on top of our woodpile, cleaned her up, and named her Bootsy. We’re in love with her. As you can see, she’s queen of the castle (or at least the range) around here!

Happy New Year, everyone! I look forward to another terrific one with you.