Fun Daily Activities for Kids in Middle Tennessee

The final bell has rung, the backpacks are tossed aside, and just like that—school’s out for summer! For parents, that can mean a mix of excitement and a little bit of panic: How do we keep the kids entertained all summer long?

Whether you’re new to Middle Tennessee or a local looking for fresh ideas, here’s a list of daily activities and local gems to help make this summer fun, active, and screen-free (at least part of the time!).

☀️ Monday – Museum Day

Explore indoor (and air-conditioned!) fun that’s both educational and engaging.

• Discovery Center – Murfreesboro
  Hands-on science and nature fun for all ages.

• Adventure Science Center – Nashville
  Climbing structures, planetarium shows, and interactive exhibits.

• Tennessee State Museum – Nashville
  Free admission and perfect for learning about our state’s rich history.

🎨 Bonus: Try a craft or art project at home inspired by what you saw!

🌳 Tuesday – Take a Hike (or Nature Walk!)

Tennessee is filled with beautiful parks and trails.

• Barfield Crescent Park – Murfreesboro
  Shaded trails, a wilderness station, and creeks to splash in.

• Long Hunter State Park – Mt. Juliet
  Flat and easy trails near Percy Priest Lake.

• Cedars of Lebanon State Park – Lebanon
  Great picnic spots and wildlife viewing.

🐶 Dogs are welcome on most trails—perfect for family (and furry friend) adventures!

🧁 Wednesday – Workshop or Baking Day

Pick a day to create something together—whether it’s in the kitchen or with craft supplies.

• Bake cookies, decorate cupcakes, or make homemade popsicles.

• Set up a DIY craft table with dollar store supplies.

• Try science experiments like slime, volcanoes, or oobleck.

🥇 Tip: Let kids “host” their own mini bake sale or art show for neighbors or grandparents!

🎬 Thursday – Theater or Movie Day

Beat the heat with movie magic.

• Free or $1 Summer Movies – Many local theaters offer weekday matinees.

• Set up an outdoor movie night in the backyard with popcorn and blankets.

• Let kids create their own skit or puppet show at home!

🎥 Don’t forget the photo ops—it’s memory-making time.

🧺 Friday – Field Trip Friday

Plan a local adventure every Friday.

• Nashville Zoo at Grassmere – Explore wildlife and play areas.

• Lucky Ladd Farms – Eagleville
  Petting zoo, splash pad, pony rides, and more.

• Historic Downtown Franklin – Cute shops, ice cream, and family strolls.

🚗 Even short drives can feel like big adventures with the right snacks and tunes.

🎨 Create a Weekly Schedule

Let the kids help design a summer routine using these theme days. Hang it on the fridge and keep things flexible—some days may turn into “PJ Day,” and that’s okay too!

Here’s a sample layout:

🏡 Life’s Better in Middle Tennessee

Summer is one of the best times to explore your town, meet neighbors, and make lasting memories. If you’re new to the area or thinking about making a move, I’d love to help you find the right neighborhood for your family—and your summer adventures.

📞 615-653-2741
📧 kpaul@realtracs.com + Add New Category
🌐 kathypaulrealtor.co

– Kathy Paul
Rooted in Middle Tennessee. Ready to Guide You Home.

Top 5 Ways to Get Your Home Ready to Sell: Expert Tips for a Successful Sale

I have started getting some calls about listings for the spring. This is a great time to start making time to prep your house to look its best to attract views on Social Media and possible buyers! Take a few minutes to read these tips, and as always, I would love to help you on the journey! Selling your home can be a rewarding yet challenging process. As a realtor, I’ve helped countless homeowners prepare their properties to attract serious buyers and sell at the best possible price. If you’re wondering how to get your house ready to sell and maximize your profits, you’ve come to the right place!

Here are the top 5 ways to get your home ready to sell—boost your curb appeal, make essential repairs, and more—to ensure a smooth, successful sale.

1. Declutter and Depersonalize to Maximize Appeal

One of the first steps to preparing your home for sale is to declutter and depersonalize your space. When selling, you want buyers to envision themselves living in your home, which can be difficult if your personal belongings are all over the place. Start by clearing away any unnecessary items, from knick-knacks to excess furniture. Organize closets, cabinets, and countertops. The goal is to create a clean, neutral environment that makes the space feel open and inviting.

SEO Tip: Use keywords like “decluttering tips,” “how to depersonalize your home for sale,” and “tips for home staging” to help potential buyers find your blog.

2. Deep Clean Every Room to Shine

A clean home sells faster—it’s as simple as that! Potential buyers will pay attention to the details, so giving your home a deep clean can make a big difference. Clean your windows, wipe down walls, sanitize bathrooms, and clean every surface—inside and out. Pay special attention to areas like baseboards, vents, light fixtures, and kitchen appliances. Don’t forget about carpets, floors, and grout—professionally clean carpets if necessary or replace them if they’re too worn.

3. Make Essential Repairs to Boost Value

One of the biggest mistakes sellers make is neglecting minor repairs. Little issues like chipped paint, broken faucets, or worn-out hardware can quickly add up and make buyers question the home’s overall condition. To get your house ready to sell, take a walk through the property and fix anything that’s broken or outdated. If you’re unsure where to focus, ask a real estate agent (like me!) for advice on which repairs will yield the best return on investment.

4. Boost Curb Appeal with Simple Updates

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions matter—curb appeal is everything. Buyers will make judgments about the property before they even step inside, so make sure your home’s exterior is looking its best. Begin with basic maintenance: mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and clear any debris. Add some fresh flowers or plants to brighten up the garden beds. If your front door is old or worn, consider painting it for an instant upgrade. A clean, well-maintained exterior will make your home stand out and invite buyers inside.

5. Partner with an Experienced Realtor for Expert Guidance…ME!

While these five steps will certainly get your home in tip-top shape, partnering with a knowledgeable realtor can take your sale to the next level. A real estate agent can help you price your home competitively, create a marketing strategy to attract buyers, and guide you through negotiations.

Ready to sell? Contact me today for a personalized consultation to get your home listed at the right price!

As we wrap up the year, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to truly connect with people in this digital age. The word that keeps coming to mind is REAL. Social media often showcases perfection—flawless homes, seamless transactions, and realtors who seem to have it all together. But life, and real estate, isn’t always picture-perfect. And I am learning that’s okay.

This year, I’ve committed to embracing authenticity, both in my personal life and my career. I’m not just your REALTOR®; I’m your REALtor—someone who’s here to help you, imperfections and all, with honesty, empathy, and expertise.

What “REAL” Means to Me as a Realtor

1. Real Relationships
   Real estate is about more than buying or selling houses—it’s about people. It’s about listening to your dreams, understanding your challenges, and walking beside you through one of life’s biggest decisions. Whether you’re an empty nester ready to downsize or a growing family searching for the perfect neighborhood, I’m here for you. Not just as a professional, but as a partner who genuinely cares.
2. Real Advice
   I’m not here to sugarcoat things or make empty promises. If a house isn’t right for you, I’ll tell you. If the market isn’t in your favor, we’ll strategize together. My goal is to give you honest, straightforward advice so you can make informed decisions that align with your goals.
3. Real Effort
   Behind the scenes, real estate isn’t always glamorous. There are long hours, late-night negotiations, and the occasional hiccup in the process. But I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Every bit of effort is worth it when I see the joy on your face as you turn the key to your new home.
4. Real Me
   Beyond my job, I’m a real person with real experiences. I’ve navigated my own life transitions—downsizing, family changes, and the journey to discover what truly matters. I’m a hiker, a dog lover, and someone who believes in the power of creating a home, not just a house. Sharing these pieces of myself isn’t about selling; it’s about connection.
   

   Shopping at TJMaxx for a bargain!

During this season, a lot or realtors take a break. Not me. I am in the office now working on various projects to better assist my clients. One thing I love to do is to use my teacher-brain and hone in on creative posts to engage readers.

As we are all budgeting and buying for the season, let this little jingle fill your mind.

🎄 12 Days of Christmas: Realtor Edition 🎄

🎁 On the 12 Days of Christmas, my realtor gave to me…

• Day 1: A home in the perfect community 🏘️
• Day 2: Two dream homes to tour 🏡
• Day 3: Three expert tips for selling 💡
• Day 4: Four local hotspots to explore 🍴
• Day 5: Five glowing reviews 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
• Day 6: Six homes to view this week 👀
• Day 7: Seven snowy landscapes ❄️
• Day 8: Eight moving tips for success 📦
• Day 9: Nine kitchens ready for baking cookies 🍪
• Day 10: Ten first-time buyers celebrating 🎉
• Day 11: Eleven offers pending 🔑
• Day 12: Twelve dreams fulfilled with new homes ❤️

✨ From my family to yours, I hope your holidays are filled with joy, and your real estate dreams come true in the new year! 🎅

Let’s make your housing goals a reality—reach out today! 😊

One Last Classroom

On this journey of mine I am blessed in so many unsuspecting places! From friends who invite me on trips or adventures to the ones who check my location to make sure I am home after a busy day and to my dad surprising me with a fresh cut lawn in 95 degree weather (and the goodies from my mom of fresh tomatoes, okra, or cornbread!)  The heartfelt love and compassion shown to me is appreciated way more than anyone can imagine. So, when opportunities arise to be there for others, I want to do all I can to help.

I was approached multiple times over the summer for various teaching positions that I gave the nicest “no” I could muster. I appreciated the thought and trust that these administrators across 2 counties placed in me.

In August, I was approached by administrators about a Job Share Position at the elementary school I attended in Smyrna. I would work 2 days a week and every other Friday. I could still tend to real estate clients. My teaching partner would be one of my dearest friends. Hmmmm. I decided to consider this offer.

We went for the “interview” where the administrators began with, “The Lord has answered us!” Then they simply asked, “How can we serve you?”

We accepted the position with gratitude for the trust being placed on us (I didn’t know these ladies, yet my teacher reputation is still good in Rutherford County Schools!) The outside-the-box thinking to provide excellence for their students was to be commended. We started with attending in-service, decorating our classroom, and sorting files and lesson plans. Things were rolling along. Life was good. I had deals to work on my days off. I had many things to do while at school to ensure these kiddos were getting my 100% attention.

Fast forward to a scary night for my partner’s dad.  Fear and worry set in.

Life is too short to work the moments away. Our parents are here for only a moment, and while we are lucky enough to have them we need to value and honor their presence in our life.

We had a decision to make, and it was not taken lightly.

We sure didn’t want to let anyone down. We had bonded with our team of professionals and the children. The kiddos were making progress; they needed us. However, my friend’s dad needed her more. Since I didn’t feel that I wanted to step into a full time classroom position,  we met with the principal to announce our departure in the upcoming weeks. She was nothing but kind, gracious, and understanding.

As we wrapped things up, the Lord placed a candidate on the admin’s schedule to interview. She got the job, and the children will continue to be loved on and will continue to make strides in their education!

Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”.

You see, before the initial “Job Share” was presented, I had been praying for guidance. I was worried. I was asking the Lord, “Do I return to teaching where I know I have a safe and steady income or do I continue working in real estate in a time of uncertainty?”  Then the Job Share opportunity came to me, and I just KNEW that God’s sense of humor was saying, “OR? Who said anything about OR? I am saying BOTH.” And I was good with that.

Maybe we needed to take the position to allow time for the new person to hear from Him. Maybe He had to use us to get her to the school. Maybe it was so I could reconnect with high school friends turned educators. Maybe it was so I could reconnect with friends of friends. Maybe it was so I could meet new friends. Maybe it was so I could reconnect with a former neighbor who has grown up and become a mama herself.

Either way, we did it.

Now I focus on my business. I am spending time organizing and planning how to end the year. I know how I want my business structured. I want to educate clients. I want to treat them how I want to be treated. I want to stand by my word.

This week, I am working and attending various appointments while getting a lot checked off my list-vet appointment, car appointment, a realtor zoom class. I am filling my calendar with meetings and appointments.

In this unsettled world, I thank God for knowing best.

As you enter this fall, take a moment to list the things you are grateful for. It truly is life changing. In my quiet times, I try to list at least 3 things a day as I pray for the many on my prayer list. It’s a habit that I am trying to set. It is easy to fall asleep some nights without finishing my list, but the attitude of gratitude does change our brain’s make up.

I am thankful for you, my reader, for extending grace and kindness to me throughout this blog, our times together, or a simple “thumbs up” on this.

Be kind to someone today; it can change the world.

Deciding whether to buy or sell a home can be a tough choice, especially with the ever-changing real estate market. Understanding the current trends, interest rates, and market dynamics is essential to making an informed decision. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether now is the right time to buy or sell a home, with a market analysis to help guide your next move.

Current Real Estate Market Overview

The real estate market is always evolving, influenced by various factors like economic conditions, interest rates, and buyer demand. As of 2024, here’s a snapshot of the current market:

• Interest Rates: Interest rates are a crucial factor in the decision to buy or sell. Rates have been fluctuating recently, with lenders offering competitive rates to attract buyers. Lower rates mean lower monthly payments for buyers, making it an appealing time to purchase a home. For sellers, lower rates can drive more buyers into the market, potentially increasing demand for your property.
• Inventory Levels: The current inventory of homes on the market plays a significant role in determining whether it’s a buyer’s or seller’s market. In many areas, inventory remains relatively low, which can drive up prices due to high demand. For buyers, this might mean more competition and potential bidding wars. For sellers, this scarcity can lead to higher offers and quicker sales.
• Home Prices: Home prices have been steadily rising in many markets due to limited inventory and strong demand. For buyers, this means acting quickly and being prepared for higher costs. For sellers, rising prices create an excellent opportunity to maximize your home’s value.

Is It a Good Time to Buy?

For potential homebuyers, now can be a great time to enter the market, but there are a few factors to consider:

1. Interest Rates: With interest rates currently lower than historical averages, buyers have an excellent opportunity to secure a more affordable mortgage. Even a small decrease in rates can lead to significant savings over the life of the loan.
2. Rising Home Prices: While home prices are rising, buying sooner rather than later can save you money as prices continue to increase. Waiting could mean paying more for the same property down the road.
3. Personal Financial Readiness: Beyond market conditions, your financial readiness is key. Ensure you have a stable income, a good credit score, and enough savings for a down payment and closing costs. A favorable market won’t compensate if your personal finances aren’t in order.
4. Long-Term Plans: If you plan to stay in your home for several years, buying now could be a smart move, even in a competitive market. Homeownership builds equity over time, and the longer you stay, the more you can benefit from appreciation.

Is It a Good Time to Sell?

For homeowners considering selling, market conditions are currently in your favor in many areas:

1. High Demand and Low Inventory: With fewer homes on the market, sellers are often receiving multiple offers, sometimes above the asking price. This competitive environment can work to your advantage, allowing you to negotiate better terms.
2. Rising Home Values: Increased home values mean you can potentially sell your home for more than you would have a year ago. This is especially beneficial if you’ve owned your home for several years and have built up significant equity.
3. Faster Sales: Homes are selling quickly, often within days or weeks of listing. This means less time dealing with showings and the selling process, allowing you to move on to your next chapter faster.
4. Buyers Motivated by Low Rates: Many buyers are motivated to purchase now to lock in low rates before they rise again, creating a sense of urgency that works in your favor as a seller.

Key Takeaways

• For Buyers: If you’re financially ready and prepared to act quickly in a competitive market, now could be an excellent time to buy. Take advantage of low interest rates before they potentially increase and start building equity sooner rather than later.
• For Sellers: With high demand, low inventory, and rising home prices, it’s a strong market for sellers. Listing your home now could result in multiple offers and a higher sale price, making it an opportune time to sell.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the current market conditions offer opportunities for both. Buyers can benefit from lower interest rates and the potential for property appreciation, while sellers can take advantage of a competitive market with high demand and rising prices. Always consult with a real estate professional who understands your local market to ensure you make the best decision for your unique situation.

If you’re still unsure whether now is the right time to buy or sell, feel free to reach out for a personalized market analysis and expert advice tailored to your needs.