Happy 4th of July!

This is it - My favorite summer holiday! As a child growing up in Glendora, the 4th of July was an exciting time as we could feel the heat of summer in full swing, we were used to lazy days of swimming and relaxing, and ice cream was a daily treat! Although we were usually in town for the holiday, it always felt like we were on vacation! The 4th of July brought the annual Twilight Zone marathon on channel 9 (before it was even KCAL -- before cable!); with the background noise of postmodern televised science fiction and the foreground laughter, swimming pool games of "Marco-Polo", diving board hi jinks and unabashed over-abundance, we rang in our Independence. Although, as a child, I felt it was the Independence from responsibilities, I have come to internalize it as the Independence we have in America that is cause for celebration.

In an election year, with a war going on out of our daily sight, and in a time where the world seems to move too fast - I hope the dream of owning a home can become realized for you - if has not already been. A home is not just a place to "be", for me, it is an anchor to all that is real for me and my family. A home is a place to live, thrive, center, and enjoy what we have as Americans.

A home is also a place to think about giving back to those in need. I invite you to search the website for Habitat for Humanity at www.habitat.org, to find out more ways you can help those in need. If you are in search of assistance, they may be able to help you as well.

While so many of us are concerned with the dollar value of our home - our biggest investment - let's keep in perspective we all have an equal right, ability and chance to own a home - whether it is a condo, mobile home or single family residence. That is a right to be celebrated!

HAPPY 4th of July!!!!!!!!!!!


Stacy