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Simplify & succeed

Learnings, teachings and tips & tricks

Rachel Spakes Rachel Spakes

Strides & Smiles: A Community Run Day Celebration

Ready, set... celebrate! June 4th is Global Running Day, and it’s the perfect opportunity to get your community moving—at any pace.

Encourage residents of all ages and abilities to lace up their sneakers and enjoy the outdoors. Walking counts! Even if someone prefers a slower stroll or uses a walker or wheelchair, they can still join the fun with seated warm-up and cool-down stretches—or cheer on neighbors as they move through the course!

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Cheddar Together: A Resident Cheese Celebration

 It’s time to get grate—June 4th is National Cheese Day, and there are so many fun, flavorful ways to celebrate with your residents. Whether you keep it simple or go all out, a cheesy gathering is sure to spark engagement and conversation.


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Dear New Property Manager: Yes, It’s Hard. But You’re Exactly Where You’re Meant to Be.

If you're in your first few days—or even your first few months—as a multifamily property manager, there's a good chance you've second-guessed your career choice once or twice.

Maybe more.

That’s normal.

This job is not easy. You're managing people, property, paperwork, and pressure... all while trying to keep the peace and hit your numbers. No one really talks about how overwhelming it can feel at the beginning.

But I want you to hear this loud and clear:
Don’t doubt your choices.
You are in this business for a reason.

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Sit, Stay, Move! How to Keep Your Dog (and Yourself) Active

 Dog lovers, this one’s for you! Many of us are willing to sacrifice our own comfort for our four-legged companions (who else sleeps on the edge of the bed so their dog can sprawl out in the middle?). If you need an extra push to be active, do it for your pup! Take more walks, play fetch, or even try a dog-friendly workout.

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Walk Your Way to Wellness: The Benefits of a Daily Stroll

 Go barefoot in the grass, lace up your walking shoes, and get moving! Walking is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve your health. If you can’t commit to daily walks, make it a goal to walk at least 30 minutes today.

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From Sedentary to Strong: The Move More Month Game Plan

 If the idea of tracking miles sounds overwhelming, start with a simple goal: move more. If you’re averaging 1,000 steps a day, aim for 1,500–2,000 and gradually increase. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress!


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Mind Over Matter: Simple Ways to Manage Stress This Month

 Stress is inevitable, but how we manage it makes all the difference. Physical activity, mindfulness, and self-care practices can significantly reduce stress levels. Find what helps you unwind—whether it’s a workout, yoga, meditation, or a long walk—and make it a priority.


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March is National Berries and Cherries Month—Let’s Celebrate!

Did you know March is National Berries and Cherries Month? That’s right—an entire month dedicated to those tiny, juicy, vitamin-packed powerhouses. And what better way to celebrate than by bringing a little berry-filled fun to your community? Whether you go big with an event or keep it simple with small, meaningful touches, there are so many ways to make this month extra sweet for your residents.

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Overwhelmed? Let’s Fix That in 5 Simple Steps!

Did you know that February is National Time Management Month? The holiday chaos is behind us, January’s exhaustion has settled, and now—finally—we have a chance to breathe. But before we blink and suddenly it’s summer, let’s take this moment to get organized, reclaim our time, and set ourselves up for a season of balance and breathing room (instead of stress and scrambling).

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Celebrating Love & Literature: A New Take on Valentine’s Day

When February 14th rolls around, our minds instantly go to Valentine’s Day—hearts, flowers, and a whole lot of pink and red. But did you know there’s another holiday on this day that might just steal your heart? International Book Giving Day. And honestly, while I do love a good Valentine’s celebration, International Book Giving Day holds a special place in my heart. Because while Valentine’s Day can be fun, it can also be a little, well, complicated. Not everyone loves it, and for plenty of reasons. But books? Books are for everyone. So why not bring the two together and turn your Valentine’s event into a celebration of love and literature?

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Wear Red, Eat Well, Stay Active: Celebrating Women's Heart Health Week

It’s Women’s Heart Health Week!

Every year, during the first week of February, we take time to highlight and focus on women’s heart health. And for a good reason—heart disease is the number one cause of death for women. It often goes undiagnosed, and the symptoms can be different from those in men, making awareness and education even more critical. The good news? Small, intentional changes can lead to big improvements, and knowledge is power!

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Make National Popcorn Day a Poppin' Good Time for Your Residents

Popcorn is my absolute favorite snack! Whether it’s buttery, sweet, savory, or all of the above, it’s hard to resist this classic treat. If you’re as big of a fan as I am, you probably already know that January 19 is National Popcorn Day—a perfect opportunity to spread some joy and bring your community together.

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The Best Hot Chocolate Mix in the World!!

Years ago, a coworker brought this amazing hot chocolate mix to work, and it completely changed the game for me. Since then, it’s been the only hot chocolate I drink. Why? Because it’s ridiculously rich, creamy, and full of flavor that feels like a warm hug on a cold winter day. Plus, it’s super easy to make, which makes it the perfect holiday gift for friends and family!

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Crafting Connections: How to Host a Memorable Make A Gift Day

December 3rd marks National Make A Gift Day—a perfect opportunity to kick off the holiday season with creativity and connection. Why not host an arts and crafts event at your property, giving residents the chance to create thoughtful, handmade gifts for friends and family? This activity not only encourages residents to embrace their crafty side but also builds a sense of community as they work together in a festive, relaxed atmosphere.


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November is National Gratitude Month

As many eagerly put up their Christmas trees on November 1, we can’t forget the holiday that comes first: Thanksgiving. November is aptly designated as National Gratitude Month, a time to pause, reflect, and appreciate the good in our lives. Embracing gratitude can lead to a simpler, less stressful life, and it also provides a wonderful opportunity to engage with your residents through meaningful activities.

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Prioritizing Emotional Wellness: Strategies and Activities for Residents This October

Wellness is a complex concept encompassing various facets that require attention to achieve total well-being. October is designated as Emotional Wellness Month, making it an ideal time to highlight the significance of caring for your emotional health. As a property manager, you have a unique opportunity to promote a better understanding of emotional wellness and provide practical tips to your residents throughout this month.

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