Birthday Thank You

This past Sunday was my (Lauren) birthday. I have to say that this year was a great birthday. This is not to say that I did not have quality birthdays as a child. Some of my most memorable parties were at the Knoxville Zoo, Showbiz, the Tennessee School of Beauty, and my surprise 17th birthday. However, now to have a good birthday does not require a big party or elaborate gifts. This year I just wanted a good meal with my family and friends and a relaxing hike in the Smoky Mountains. I lucked out and got both.

Thank you to everyone who celebrated with me.

Now is the time to be an American

As a moderate independent, this election has been one for the books. Some are really excited today because Obama won and others are upset that McCain lost, but either way you feel, today we must come together as a nation.

Our political leader does not control our life so do not get down on this great country or the presidency because your man did not win. Instead, find ways to make a difference in your life and your community. We are not going to get out of this recession by sitting back and waiting for the government to bail us out. It is on our shoulders to take care of our personal finances. As Obama said last night, "if you ever thought you could not do something, this election is your proof." Quit blaming the other side for the missed opportunities in your life. Stand up for yourself and do not let anyone stop you from working hard to provide for yourself and your family.

My wish for the next four years, is that we put our political affiliation away and focus on getting back to basics. Our government is to big to operate successful and is giving out to many "freebies" to our citizens (and non-citizens). As the bible says, we need to teach folks to fish instead of continually throwing them a fish to eat. I hope that you will stay in touch with the politically environment and not wait until the next election to tune in. We, the people, lead this nation and our government representation will follow.

God bless America!

Our New House

Finally, a picture of our new house. It is our mountain house in the city.

Is the Election Over Yet?

Wow, this could go down in history (at least for the next 4 years) as the longest presidential campaign. It has gone on so long that it is becoming anti-climatic now. I am so sick of hearing about McCain and Obama, that I just want the election over. Don't get me wrong, I will be voting in this election (as all legal American citizens should!), but I can't wait until I can turn on the TV or log onto Yahoo and there not be a new example of why America has a major leadership problem. This vote, as most presidential elections, is simply choosing who you believe to be the lessor of two evils.

So, here is my point, even though this election has gone on way to long and both candidates have numerous flaws it is your duty as an American to educate yourself, pick a candidate to support, and on November 4 GO VOTE!

We're Homeowners, again.

Chris and I closed on our second house on Tuesday. As of today, it feels like a vacation home because we have not moved in yet. We only go visit at night or during the day when we are getting deliveries. However, we plan to start moving in tonight.

I am thrilled about the new house! It is a beautiful house with loads of potential. Chris has been working non-stop on the perfect landscape design. His design is in CAD and he is just waiting on the land survey to finish. A beautiful yard is a perk of being married to Chris Herbstritt. I can't wait to see what his creative mind has come up with.

As for the inside of the house, the wall color is just my style and the wood floors and carpet are perfect so all I need is beautiful furniture to fill the space. The furniture buying will be a process because I refuse to go in debt to have the furniture. Instead, I want to buy piece-by-piece as we have the money to do so. In order to carry out my plan, I have gotten a part-time, seasonal job at Pottary Barn. The extra income and discount at Pottary Barn will help tremendously towards furnishing the house.

We bought a house that is great for entertaining and we hope that y'all come visit us soon!

P.S. - I promise I will have pictures soon.

Our Closing Date is Set

Well, our life chapter is Mississippi is almost at the close. We heard today that we are closing on the sell of our first house (and probably our favorite) on Monday, September 22. I am so excited for the woman who is buying the house because it is a home full of love, laughter, and great memories. I hope it brings her as much joy as it has brought Chris and I.

So, you might be asking, what is your next step in Knoxville? Well, let me tell you. We have put a contract on a great new (as in new construction) house in West Knoxville. It is super convienant to everything and we are so excited to be the first owners of this houes. The deal is not totally done, but the builder has accepted our contract and we are waiting on the home inspection and punch list to be completed. Chris and I are hopeful we will be in our new house around the first week of October. I will try to have pictures posted soon.

I want to say a big THANK YOU to eveyone who has been praying for us as we have made this life change. God has really blessed our lives with great friends, family, and careers so even though this has been exhausting and sometimes emotionally draining, we are grateful for the experience.

House Update

Our Mississippi house has a solid contract on it now. It was a blessing that the first contract fell through. I admit the first contract caused great anixity and frustration, but the second offer was better. We are set to close on the house on Monday, September 29th. I have not met our buyer, but Phyllis Enis, the best realtor in Columbus, has spoken to her and is very complimentary. It was my prayer that the person/family that bought our house would get to experience the love and joy that the house has brought Chris and me. It is not over yet, but I feel confident that we will be closing on schedule. I sure hope so, because Chris and I have been house hunting in Knoxville. More to come about that search ...