Thoughts about Economy, Future, and Life

Well it certainly has been a crazy month! The markets have been a little “roller coaster” to say the least, the triathlon season is over and eating has become an old hobby, and the family is settling into the Fall Season.

In times like these I often think back to what truly is important….relationships! The markets have sent a scare through most of the country, including middle Tennessee. It is going to be this way for awhile. We will see some up/downs and probably a good rise after the election. That being said, I believe we are in for a real change in the future. Change back to our parents and grandparents days. We will keep a closer eye on our spending, the need for bigger and better will shift back to “hey, I am doing alright”, houses will become smaller, and family/friends/loved ones/ relationships will come full circle and be a focal point of our days.

This past weekend was proof of how good it can be. My brother (Matt) and his friend John came down for the weekend. We did more than our fair share of eating at some of the best Southern Cookin fine dining establishments, but we also spent some quality time on the front porch. Just sitting, talking, listening to music and relaxing. I believe we will discover over the next few months that we don’t need to spend a bunch of money to entertain ourselves; we can entertain ourselves without spending any money at all! Focus on what is really important…People. People’s feelings, their likes and dislikes, sporting teams, music, loves, faith and dreams. I just read a great quote “the richest people in the world are those who have accumulated a wealth of experiences by spending time helping another person”.

Life continues to be good in TN. I have completely fallen off the exercise, health driven life for the past month. Eating most everything I shouldn’t and not running, biking or swimming. Well, that is about to change, had enough of feeling like a sausage, and visiting with a dietician and fitness coach on Wednesday. The coach was in my triathlon swimming class, has lost 100lbs and done numerous Iron Man competitions. I will be willing to bet my diet has to change! The family is doing well too. Kailey attended her first homecoming dance this year. She went with a group as “just friends”. I know they were, but still looked and felt like dating to me. Do I seem like an overprotective father? Yea, I know! Julia is good too, she sang last week at a festival in downtown Leiper’s Fork, she had a great gift, hope she realizes it and pursues the gift! Tracy is good, and really thankful she has passed some of the hard parts of PTO. She has done a great job in rallying the troupes and is thankful for the opportunity!

I wish you all the best as Fall approaches. Take a few moments out just for you, do some front porch sittin, and be thankful for all you have. We are thankful for you and appreciate all of you!