The Surprise That Mattered Most
Every year in real estate, there are certain seasons when the pace feels relentless. Spring and early summer are often some of the busiest months of the year. Homes are coming on the market, buyers are out in force, inspections need scheduling, offers need negotiating, and home preparation projects are in full swing. Coordinating painters, stagers, landscapers, cleaners, photographers, and contractors can make the days fill up quickly.
A few weeks ago, right in the middle of that busy season, Maryann and I made a decision that reminded me of something important.
We cleared our schedules, boarded a plane, and flew to Hawaiʻi.
Not for a vacation.
Not for work.
We went to surprise our great niece (and Maryann’s Goddaughter), Christy, at her graduation from the University of Hawaiʻi.
For months, everyone had managed to keep the secret. Christy had no idea we were coming. When her graduation day finally arrived and she spotted us in the crowd, the look on her face made every mile traveled worthwhile. After the ceremony, we met her on the football field, and the photo accompanying this captured that moment perfectly. Pure joy. Pure surprise. Pure happiness.
Earlier, as I watched Christy walk across the stage, I found myself reflecting on how quickly time passes. It feels like just yesterday she was a precocious little girl. Maryann and I babysat her countless times when she was little, hosting sleepovers and trying our best to keep up with her energy and curiosity and laughter. In fact, we seriously binge-watched Super Nanny for parenting tips preparing for those weekends. Those memories feel both distant and remarkably recent at the same time. She graduated high school at the height of COVID but now she's a college graduate preparing to begin an exciting new chapter of her life.
She has grown into an incredible young woman; so smart, determined, compassionate, and capable. Seeing her accomplishments celebrated by family and friends was a powerful reminder that life's most meaningful moments rarely show up on our calendars as urgent. They aren't usually the things demanding our immediate attention. Instead, they're the moments we choose to make time for.
It's easy to convince ourselves that we'll attend the next gathering, make the next trip, or celebrate the next milestone. After all, work deadlines, obligations, and responsibilities always seem pressing.
But the truth is that some moments only happen once.
There will always be another email to answer, another project to finish, another item on the to-do list. Opportunities to hug a loved one after a major life achievement are much rarer.
One of the unexpected benefits of working in real estate is that I get a front-row seat to people's lives. I help families through exciting beginnings, major transitions, and sometimes difficult endings. Over the years, I've learned that when people look back on their lives, they rarely talk about the extra hours they spent working. They talk about the people they loved, the experiences they shared, and the memories they created together.
This trip reminded me that success isn't just measured by production, transactions, or accomplishments. It's also measured by whether we're making room for the people who matter most.
I'm grateful that Maryann and I made the trip. I'm grateful we were there to surprise and then celebrate Christy. And I'm grateful for the reminder that sometimes the most important thing we can do is pause, step away from the busy schedule, and show up for the people we love.
Congratulations, Christy. We couldn't be prouder of you, and we can't wait to see what comes next.
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What milestone are you most looking forward to celebrating with family this year? Sometimes the best memories come from simply being there!
If you're thinking about buying or selling, now is the time to plan strategically for the market we're heading into. If you want to talk about what this market means for your plans, let's brainstorm. The right preparation and strategy can turn today's market into a successful sale.
COMMUNITY CORNER
SAN LEANDRO - Tai Chi & Memory Care
Monday, June 22, 2026 10:30 AM
San Leandro Main Library
Tai Chi and Mindful Movement to support balance, focus, memory, and overall wellness. This June series offers a unique opportunity to experience gentle movement and mindfulness in a supportive group setting.
After each session, learn about the library’s Memory Care Kits and how they support memory health.
-Open to adults and seniors of all skill levels
-No registration required!
Sessions : 6/22 - 6/29
PLEASANTON
One of my favorite East Bay traditions each summer is a visit to The Alameda County Fair in Pleasanton. Running through early July, the fair offers something for everyone: carnival rides, live music, livestock exhibits, action sports, shopping, fair food, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment.
If you're planning a visit, my advice is to arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and pace yourself on the fair food! Be sure to check the daily schedule before you go, as special events, concerts, and attractions vary throughout the fair.
One hidden gem many visitors overlook is simply wandering through the agricultural exhibits and 4-H displays. It's a great reminder of Alameda County's agricultural roots and gives kids a chance to connect with farm animals and local traditions. The fair has been a local tradition for more than a century and remains one of the best ways to celebrate summer in the East Bay.
Our Fourth Biannual San Leandro Red Oak Realty Blood Drive
Watch this space for the next blood drive!
QUOTE OF THE MONTH
“Don’t pee on my leg and tell me it’s raining.” Judge Judy
REGISTER TO VOTE
Daily, we're experiencing the results of not enough people voting. If you are not registered, please do so. If you are, please spread the word to five others to encourage more people to do so. Every single vote matters. You can use the link below.
https://www.nass.org/can-i-vote/register-to-vote
HOMEOWNERSHIP TIP OF THE MONTH – Clean Your Windows
One of the easiest and least expensive ways to improve the look of your home is professional window cleaning.
Clean windows allow more natural light into your home, make rooms feel brighter and larger, and improve curb appeal from the street. Over time, dirt, pollen, hard water spots, and grime build up on the glass, often so gradually that homeowners don't notice until the windows are cleaned.
Summer is an ideal time to tackle this project. Not only will your home look better, but regular cleaning can also help extend the life of your windows by preventing the buildup of damaging minerals and debris.
My recommendation: Have both the glass and screens cleaned at the same time. You'll be amazed at the difference it makes and your view will thank you.
LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT – Top Notch Energy & Spas
One of my favorite parts of this newsletter is highlighting local businesses owned by people I've known for years. This month, I'd like to recognize Top Notch Energy & Spas and its owner, John Notch.
John is a friend, a former Sheffield Village neighbor, and the person who recruited me into the Lake Merritt Breakfast Club many years ago. Since 1981, he has built Top Notch into one of the Bay Area's leading fireplace installation and service companies.
Top Notch specializes in gas fireplaces, fireplace inserts, outdoor fireplaces, repairs, and maintenance. They also install and service hot tubs and spas, helping homeowners create comfortable indoor and outdoor living spaces.
What has always impressed me about John is his commitment to customer service. For more than four decades, he and his team have built a reputation for expertise, honesty, and standing behind their work.
If you're considering a fireplace upgrade, need service on an existing unit, or are exploring hot tub and spa options, I encourage you to give John and his team a call.
RECIPE OF THE MONTH: Red, White & Blue Watermelon Salad
A Perfect 4th of July Side Dish
If you're looking for something light, colorful, and refreshing for your Independence Day barbecue, this watermelon salad is always a crowd-pleaser. The sweet watermelon, tangy blueberries, creamy feta, and fresh mint create the perfect combination of flavors for a hot summer afternoon.
Ingredients
- 8 cups seedless organic watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup fresh organic blueberries
- 1 cup feta organic cheese, crumbled
- ¼ cup fresh organic mint, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh organic basil, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin California olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions
1. Place the watermelon cubes in a large serving bowl.
2. Add the blueberries, feta cheese, mint, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lime juice.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
5. Finish with a few grinds of fresh black pepper.
6. Chill for 15-30 minutes before serving.
Greg's Tip
For the best flavor, use a watermelon that has been refrigerated for several hours before preparing the salad. Add the feta and herbs just before serving to keep everything looking fresh and vibrant.
Why I Love This Recipe
Every 4th of July gathering seems to feature burgers, hot dogs, potato salad, and plenty of heavier dishes. This watermelon salad brings a burst of freshness to the table while naturally showcasing patriotic colors. It's simple to make, visually striking, and usually one of the first bowls to disappear.
Serves 8-10 as a side dish.
TRAVEL
Besides our quick trip to Hawai’i to see our great-niece and Maryann’s God-daughter Christy graduate from college, we slipped away for a few days to Calistoga to celebrate our anniversary. I’m also planning the fourth annual “Boy’s Roady” with my cousin Scott and his 13-year old son JP. We’ve been visiting National Parks throughout the west. Planning on Pinnacles and Sequoia in early August. Still hoping to get Seattle back on the calendar. Maybe September?
Do you have any trips planned?
RESTAURANT OF THE MONTH: Berkeley Social Club
Every once in a while, you stumble across a restaurant where every dish that hits the table makes you smile. That was our experience recently at Berkeley Social Club in downtown Berkeley.
Located on University Avenue next to the UC Theatre, Berkeley Social Club serves contemporary Korean-American cuisine in a lively, welcoming setting that's perfect for brunch, date night, or dinner before a show.
We started with the edamame and sautéed shishito peppers. Both were excellent and perfect for sharing. The edamame was warm and flavorful, while the shishitos had just the right balance of char and spice.
For our entrées, we ordered the Japchea Rice and the Spicy Seafood Dolsot. The Japchea Rice combined bulgogi, vegetables, glass noodles, and rice into a comforting and satisfying dish.
But the star of the evening was unquestionably the Spicy Seafood Dolsot.
Served in a sizzling stone pot, it featured shrimp, scallops, calamari, mussels, vegetables, rice, and a sunny-side-up egg. Every bite was packed with flavor. The crispy rice that forms along the bottom of the bowl added wonderful texture, and honestly, it was one of the best dolsots I've ever had.
Friendly service, great cocktails, and outstanding food made for a memorable meal. Berkeley has no shortage of excellent restaurants, which makes it all the more impressive when one stands out. Berkeley Social Club definitely does.
Social Club delivered from start to finish. Every dish we ordered was excellent, but the Spicy Seafood Dolsot alone is worth the return trip.
If you're looking for a memorable meal in Berkeley and enjoy Korean-inspired cuisine, put Berkeley Social Club on your list. And I didn’t even talk about their Millionaire Bacon!
We'll definitely be back.
Where have you been eating out?
PICKLEBALL TIP OF THE MONTH - The Second Shot
One of the most misunderstood shots in pickleball is the second shot (serve return).
Many newer players (and quite a few experienced ones) think the goal is to hit a winner or put their opponents immediately on the defensive. As a result, they try to drive the ball hard. Too often, that shot ends up in the net, sails out of bounds, or comes back so quickly that they're caught out of position.
The true purpose of the serve return is much simpler: to give you enough time to get established at the kitchen line.
That's it.
To accomplish this, your serve return should generally be deep and relatively soft, often directed down the middle of the court (less room for error). A deep return forces your opponents to hit their third shot from farther back while giving you valuable time to move forward and join your partner at the non-volley zone line.
If your accuracy is good enough, there's another advantage to consider: aim for your opponent's backhand. Most recreational players have a weaker and less consistent backhand than forehand. A soft, deep return to the backhand side often results in a less aggressive third shot, making it even easier for your team to gain control of the kitchen line.
Remember, the team that controls the kitchen line usually controls the point. Don't think of the serve return as an offensive shot. Think of it as a positioning shot. Its job is to help you claim the most important real estate on the court.
Let me know if you want to play or learn!
MOVIES/THEATRE/TV
Besides a little Judge Judy (I love the landlord cases) I haven’t been watching much of anything.
What are you watching?
MUSIC – Bob Dylan at the Greek Theatre: I Wanted to Love It
I've been looking forward to seeing Bob Dylan for a long time.
After all, we're talking about one of the most influential songwriters in American history. A Nobel Prize winner. A Rock & Roll Hall of Famer. Seeing Dylan live felt like one of those bucket-list experiences.
Unfortunately, it was also one of the most disappointing concerts I've attended.
Before Dylan took the stage, Maryann and I were treated to an opening performance by John Doe Folk Trio, and honestly, they were terrific. Their set was engaging, energetic, and full of personality. In many ways, they ended up being the highlight of the evening.
Then came Dylan.
Now, I realize what I'm about to say may border on sacrilege for some readers.
There's no question Dylan is a legend. His place in music history is secure. But the actual concert left me cold.
The biggest issue was that many of the songs sounded remarkably alike. Even as someone reasonably familiar with his catalog, I struggled to identify most of what he was playing. The arrangements blended together, and the only song I immediately recognized and genuinely enjoyed was "All Along the Watchtower." Listening to it, I found myself imagining Jimi Hendrix hearing it for the first time—and wishing I was hearing his version.
Adding to the challenge, Dylan never spoke to the audience. No stories. No introductions. No banter. No connection.
The stage lighting was also incredibly dark. Much of the time Dylan appeared almost entirely in silhouette. I understand that's part of his long-established style, but from where I was sitting, it created distance rather than atmosphere.
As the evening went on, the concert felt detached and, frankly, a bit boring.
I know that's not the popular opinion. Dylan has countless devoted fans who adore exactly what he does on stage, and that's perfectly fair. Art is subjective. But for me, the experience never lived up to the anticipation.
Do I regret going? Absolutely not.
Bob Dylan is one of the few truly iconic figures in American music, and I'm glad I can say I've seen him perform live. But if I'm being honest, when I look back on the evening, the performance I'll remember most wasn't the headliner.
It was John Doe Folk Trio.
What are you listening to?
Greg's Top 10 John Doe & X Songs
After seeing the excellent John Doe Folk Trio open for Bob Dylan at the Greek Theatre, I found myself revisiting the catalog of both John Doe's solo work and his legendary band, X. Narrowing this list down to just ten songs wasn't easy, but these are the tracks I keep coming back to.
10. "White Girl" — X
Fast, chaotic, and unmistakably punk rock. One of the songs that helped define the early Los Angeles punk scene.
9. "Because I Do" — John Doe
A beautiful, heartfelt song that showcases Doe's gift for storytelling and melody.
8. "Poor Girl" — X
A classic duet between John Doe and Exene Cervenka. Raw, emotional, and timeless.
7. "The Golden State" — John Doe
A love letter and lament for California all at once. Few songs capture the beauty and contradictions of the state so well.
6. "Los Angeles" — X
The title track from one of punk rock's greatest albums. Urgent, intelligent, and still relevant today.
5. "The New World" — X
One of X's most powerful songs. Its themes of uncertainty and disillusionment feel as current today as when it was released.
4. "Burning House of Love" — X
An absolute blast of energy. Catchy, loud, and impossible not to sing along with.
3. "See How We Are" — X
A more mature and reflective X song that demonstrates how much the band evolved beyond its punk roots.
2. "A Little More Time" — John Doe
A gorgeous solo track that highlights Doe's ability to combine vulnerability, wisdom, and great songwriting.
1. "4th of July" — X
For me, this is the masterpiece. Written by Dave Alvin and sung by John Doe and Exene Cervenka, it's one of the most haunting and beautiful songs ever recorded. Equal parts heartbreak and nostalgia, it somehow gets better every time I hear it.
What's your favorite John Doe or X song? I'd love to hear what made your list.
REVIEW OF THE MONTH
Greg is patient and personable, on a few occasions we had to drag our tiny tots (aka ticking time bombs) with us from house to house, and he embraced them as his “little apprentices.” This flexibility goes a long way in the stressful house hunting process. Greg gave us great advice in crafting a competitive offer in a tight market. And now as we’re unpacking and exploring our neighborhood, we are even more confident we got the best house for us and we are grateful for Greg’s guidance!
I have more than 50 five-star reviews from previous clients. You can use this link to read or write a review about my real estate services: Zillow
REFERRALS
Always happy to talk with you or your friends about Real Estate goals. I know many great agents who work throughout the country so if you or someone you know is thinking about a move, call me. Let's brainstorm!
>> 2025 Top Producer Red Oak Realty
>> 2025 Top Selling Agent Red Oak Realty San Leandro office
>> 2025 Real Trends Verified Top 1.5% of all agents nationwide
>> 2005-2025 Top Selling Agent Sheffield Village Oakland across all brokerages
>> Realtor and Real Estate Investor working throughout the East Bay Area California. I also buy and tastefully remodel distressed properties bringing them back to their former glory.
>> I have an outstanding nationwide and international referral network. No move is too far.
