I started the Wayfaring Wednesday newsletter to share encouraging stories, practical tips, and insights for navigating life’s journey, whether in real estate, family, or personal growth. It’s my way of connecting with others and creating a sense of community through meaningful content. You can always reach out with ideas, comments, and your own stories to share: [email protected]

I hope you’re enjoying the Wayfaring Wednesday Newsletter! I want to take a moment to remind you that you’re always in control of how we stay in touch.

If at any time you’d like to unsubscribe, you can do so easily using the link at the bottom of this email. I value your time and want to ensure this newsletter is something you enjoy receiving.

Here’s a quick reminder of how else you can stay connected:

• Website Blog: wayfaringlancaster.com – for local events, community insights, and fun things to do in Lancaster.

• Social Media: Let’s connect on Facebook! Here’s my profile where I share community tips, fun updates, and more.

• Real Estate Info: If you’d like information on the value of your home, updates on market trends, or homes available in your area, please don’t hesitate to reach out directly.

Thank you for being part of this growing community! If you have suggestions for topics or ideas you’d like to see in future newsletters, I’d love to hear from you.

Warm regards,
Sandra Burkholder
Creator of Wayfaring Wednesday
Realtor | EXP Realty

Got some winter blues?

Got some winter blues? Its common for many people at this time of year. It’s formally known as seasonal depression. My Mom used to struggle with this. It feels dark and we have less connections with people. Virtual just does not work the same. The solution can often be just as simple as getting out a bit more. Lancaster, PA, has plenty to keep you active and entertained this February.

Here are some top picks to help you shake off that cabin fever:

1. Lititz Fire & Ice Festival (February 13–23): Kick off with the Winter’s Coolest Night Out at the Lititz Shirt Factory on February 13. Enjoy live ice carving, music, and local photography. Don’t miss the Chili Cook-Off on February 15 at Lititz Elementary School, and bring the family to the Winter Funderland in Lititz Springs Park on February 17 for games and activities.

Discover Lancaster

2. Vitamin String Quartet at American Music Theatre (February 14): Experience unique renditions of Taylor Swift’s hits and “Bridgerton” favorites on Valentine’s Day. A perfect blend of classical and contemporary sounds.

amtshows.com

3. Indoor Adventures: These are more kid oriented activities but are indoor opportunities to stay active. I have been known to join my kids on these adventures, especially Sky Zone.

• Go ‘N Bananas: Offers a ropes course, mini bowling, laser tag, and more.

• Laserdome: Features laser tag, arcade games, and a holographic theater.

• Escape Room Lancaster: Challenge your mind with immersive escape scenarios.

• Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Bounce around and get a workout at the same time.

Discover Lancaster

4. Museums and Galleries: Explore local culture and history:

• North Museum of Nature & Science: Great for kids and adults alike.

• Lancaster Museum of Art: Showcases local and national artists.

• Demuth Museum: Dedicated to the works of Charles Demuth.

Discover Lancaster

5. Live Theater: Catch a show at one of Lancaster’s renowned theaters:

• Fulton Theatre: Historic venue with a variety of performances.

• Sight & Sound Theatres: Known for epic biblical productions.

• Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre: Enjoy dinner and a show in one place.

LancasterPA.com

Don’t let the winter chill keep you down. Lancaster offers a variety of activities to keep you engaged and lift your spirits this February.

10 home organization ideas during the cold months

It often feels like spring is a time to add spring in my step because it’s so busy. I enjoy the winter because it often gives me a time to regroup and organize. It’s no secret that lots of kids and a busy career make organization a top priority. Here are some practical and fun home organization ideas to make the most of your time indoors during the cold months:

1. Declutter One Room at a Time

• Start small, like a drawer or a closet, to avoid overwhelm.

• Use the “keep, donate, toss” method for quick decision-making.

2. Organize Kitchen Spaces

• Tackle the pantry: group similar items, use clear bins, and label them.

• Clean out and reorganize your fridge and freezer by zones (e.g., snacks, leftovers).

• Add hooks or magnetic strips to cabinets for better use of vertical space.

3. Closet Revamp

• Rotate your wardrobe: store out-of-season clothes and bring forward cold-weather items.

• Use shelf dividers, bins, or under-bed storage for bulky sweaters and blankets.

4. Create a Family Command Center

• Set up a small area with a calendar, corkboard, and baskets for mail and keys.

• Include a whiteboard for to-do lists and meal plans.

5. Organize Kids’ Spaces

• Sort toys into labeled bins by category.

• Make use of vertical storage like wall hooks or stackable bins.

6. Tidy Bookshelves

• Sort books by genre, color, or author.

• Donate ones you don’t need anymore and create space for décor items like plants or candles.

7. Digital Organization

• Declutter your phone, email, and computer files.

• Back up important photos and documents.

8. Tackle the Junk Drawer

• Use small containers to sort items like pens, batteries, and odds and ends.

9. Set Up Cozy Zones

• Rearrange furniture to make reading nooks or cozy corners with blankets and pillows.

10. Prep for Future Seasons

• Inventory holiday decorations or seasonal tools and organize them in labeled bins.

These activities not only improve your home but also bring a sense of accomplishment while staying warm indoors!

Too Many Choices!

How to Narrow Down Your House Hunt Search

Have you ever faced an overwhelming abundance of choices? A friend once shared a story about returning to the U.S. after living overseas for several years. Their first trip to the grocery store was a surreal experience—not because they couldn’t find what they needed, but because there were too many options. Aisle after aisle of varieties of cereal, bread, and coffee left them frozen with indecision. Shopping for a home can feel exactly the same.

The abundance of options in the housing market—different neighborhoods, architectural styles, and price points—can make your search exciting but also paralyzing. If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling through listings at midnight wondering how to choose, you’re not alone. The key to avoiding overwhelm is to narrow your search, focusing on what truly matters. Here’s how:

1. Define Your Must-Haves

Think of this step like grocery shopping with a list. Instead of wandering the aisles aimlessly, identify your must-haves before you begin. Ask yourself:

• How many bedrooms and bathrooms do I need?

• Is a large backyard or specific square footage non-negotiable?

• Do I need to be within a certain distance of work, school, or family?

Creating a list of non-negotiables ensures you spend your time looking at homes that meet your basic requirements.

2. Clarify Your Budget

Your budget is your guide. Just like you wouldn’t fill your shopping cart with items you can’t afford, you shouldn’t waste time viewing homes outside your price range. Meet with a lender to get pre-approved for a mortgage and establish a comfortable price point. Factor in taxes, utilities, and potential repair costs to avoid surprises.

3. Prioritize Location

Location often makes or breaks a home purchase. Narrow down your options by selecting a few key areas to focus on. Consider factors like commute times, school districts, proximity to amenities, and the vibe of the community. Take time to drive through neighborhoods to get a feel for them before scheduling showings.

4. Identify Your Lifestyle Needs

Homes are more than walls and floors—they’re the setting for your life. Think about what you do daily and what kind of space supports those activities. Do you need a home office? Are you looking for a modern kitchen for entertaining or a quiet retreat surrounded by nature? Identifying what fits your lifestyle will help you eliminate homes that don’t align.

5. Use Filters Strategically

Online home-search platforms are powerful tools, but they can add to the overload if not used wisely. Filter listings by your top priorities, like price range, location, and features. Don’t be afraid to set strict criteria—you can always expand your search later if needed.

6. Take It One Step at a Time

When grocery shopping, you don’t need to explore every single aisle. The same applies to house hunting. Tackle your search in manageable pieces by focusing on a few homes at a time. Compare their features, schedule showings, and assess how they measure up to your needs.

7. Trust Your Gut (and Your Agent!)

Sometimes, when shopping for cereal, you just know which one feels right. Trust your instincts when visiting homes. A great real estate agent can also help you stay focused and provide guidance to refine your search based on what’s realistic and available.

Conclusion

Just like shopping in a store with endless aisles, the housing market can feel overwhelming. By taking the time to define your must-haves, clarify your budget, and prioritize what matters most, you can narrow your focus and find a home that’s just right for you. Remember, it’s not about seeing every house—it’s about finding the one that feels like home.

Not intended to solicit any properties already listed for sale with another real estate agent. If your home is already for sale, then please disregard this message.