October 2025 Newsletter
As the final days of October pass, we celebrate the growth, transitions, and fresh opportunities that this vibrant month has inspired.
🎃October Reflections – Change in Full Color
As I’ve watched the leaves change this past week, I’ve been reminded how breathtaking, bold, and beautiful this season truly is, full of transformation in every direction. A recent work trip to Michigan gave me eight hours of vibrant color along the drive, and it felt symbolic of the season of change unfolding in more ways than one.
Lately, I’ve been wrapping up several projects close to my heart, including helping organize the 30-Year Celebration for our local Habitat for Humanity. We’ll also host our annual Dueling Pianos event in just a few weeks, which is always a community favorite. But with an upcoming surgery, I’ve had to face the hard truth that I might not be able to help on the day of the event. My coach challenged me to practice the power of no and to allow myself the time and space for proper recovery. For a self-proclaimed control freak, that’s not easy! Yet when I reached out for help, someone gladly stepped up, and since the event has become a recurring one, my team can still manage the prep.
As I told a friend recently, I think my season of running events might end, and that’s okay. I still love being involved, but over time, the help has lessened while the demands have grown, all as work continues at full speed. Maybe this is simply my cue to pass the torch, to allow new leaders to step in, bring their ideas, and continue investing in our community. I’ll still be cheering from the sidelines, but I’m also ready to embrace a new rhythm that allows for a little more calm and “me time.”
It’s hard to believe I’ll pull out Christmas decorations in less than a month, but I love transforming the house for the season. As I enter the rest of this year, I’m focused on gratitude and intention, ready to finish strong, yet gently. I encourage you to do the same: set one small, meaningful goal before Thanksgiving. What’s one thing you’d be proud to complete this year? For me, it’s creating a peaceful oasis at home, finally repainting our bathroom, and adding that accent wall in our bedroom that’s been on my list for far too long.
Here’s to slowing down, giving thanks, and welcoming this next season with open hearts and full gratitude. 🍂
With gratitude,
PS If you’re here for local community events or market updates, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! You’ll find that link to my local community newsletter here. 👇
https://ashleyfredrick.nexthomehubcity.com/pages/newsletter-subscribe
📚 This Month’s Book Recommendation:
Identity Shift by Anthony Trucks
If you’re looking for a read (or listen!) that challenges and uplifts, I highly recommend Identity Shift: Upgrade How You Operate to Elevate Your Life by Anthony Trucks.
Anthony was a keynote speaker at one of our conferences, and his energy was electric; honest, raw, and deeply motivating. It had been a while since I’d read his book, so I recently decided to listen to it again, and it hit just as powerfully the second time around. It’s a reasonably quick listen but packed with many takeaways that make you stop and reflect.
In Identity Shift, Anthony shares his incredible story — from foster care and hardship to NFL athlete, “American Ninja Warrior,” and transformational coach. His message is simple but profound: lasting success doesn’t come from just working harder; it comes from becoming someone who naturally achieves what you want. He walks through his “Shift Method,” helping you see the identity you’re chasing, shift how you operate, and sustain the version of yourself you’re becoming.
For anyone looking to level up in business, leadership, or life, this book reminds them that the biggest breakthroughs start from within. If you’ve been feeling stuck or craving growth, give Identity Shift a listen and ask yourself: Who do I need to become to step into my next chapter?
A Quick Heads-Up! 🛍️✨
I love sharing things that make life easier, better, or just more fun, whether it’s in real estate, business, or everyday living. Some of the links in this newsletter are Amazon affiliate links, which means if you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!).
I only recommend products I genuinely love and think you’ll find valuable. Your support helps me continue sharing great content, and I truly appreciate it! 💙
Pre-Holiday Home Prep: A Little Now Saves a Lot Later
Before the holiday rush arrives, now is the perfect time to give your home (and your mind) a little reset. A few small steps now can make the season feel lighter, calmer, and more enjoyable later.
Here are a few quick ideas to get ahead of the chaos:
🧹Deep Clean: Tackle the easy-to-forget areas: baseboards, vents, windows, and light fixtures. A clean home always feels a little brighter as the days get shorter.
🧺Pantry Purge: Check expiration dates, organize baking supplies, and list staples you’ll need for holiday cooking and entertaining. (Future you will thank you when the cookie cravings hit!)
🔧Schedule Maintenance: Have your furnace serviced, change air filters, and clean gutters before winter weather sets in. If you use a fireplace, get it inspected and ready for cozy season.
🕯️Guest & Gathering Prep: Freshen up the guest room or stock an “entertaining bin” with candles, napkins, and those little touches that make hosting easier.
🌿Add Seasonal Warmth: Swap out décor —cozy throws, autumn-scented candles, and a fresh wreath go a long way toward creating that fall feeling.
Small actions now add up to a smoother, more peaceful holiday season, giving you more time to focus on what matters: connection, gratitude, and a few extra sugar cookies. 🍪✨
My Favorite Crock Pot Recipe: Beef and Potato Stew🍲
There’s nothing quite like walking in the door to the smell of a hearty meal that’s been simmering all day. This Beef and Potato Stew is one of my go-tos for busy fall or winter days — simple to prep, full of flavor, and pure comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients:
2 lbs. stew beef
1 tsp. paprika
3 large potatoes
1 1/2 tsp. salt
1 c. condensed beef broth
1 large onion
1/2 c. soy sauce
1 can tomato sauce (8 oz.)
1/2 c. flour
4 large carrots
1/2 tsp. pepper
Directions:
(1) Mix meat, soy sauce, salt, paprika, pepper, & flour in separate bowl.
(2) In a slow cooker, layer potatoes then carrots.
(3) Add meat mixture.
(4) Layer with chopped onions.
(5) Combine beef broth & tomato sauce and pour overall.
(6) Cover and cook on low 7-8 hours or high 4-5 hours.
I like to top mine with Greek yogurt and shredded cheese for extra creaminess and flavor!
💡Tip: If you enjoy BBQ flavor, add about 1/4 cup barbecue sauce before cooking for an extra "kick".
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