Thanksgiving: Celebrating Gratitude and Family As the leaves turn golden and the chill of late November sets in, a familiar warmth fills our hearts: the Thanksgiving season has arrived! This holiday has always been one of my favorites. As a child, I remember going around the table during Thanksgiving dinner, stating what we were thankful for, one by one. And frankly, mine was almost always... my birthday is next week. But as I think back to the comments from those who are no longer with us, it is more about being around my favorite people, my family. Thanksgiving isn't just about a table filled with delicious food but about the bonds we share, the gratitude we express, and the love we give and receive. This season invites us to pause, look around, and genuinely appreciate what — and who — God has given us to share life with. The Heart of Thanksgiving: Family In our busy lives, we often overlook the people closest to us. Family — whether by blood or by choice — is the foundation that grounds us and gives us a sense of belonging. Thanksgiving reminds us to appreciate those who stand by us through every twist and turn of life. Sitting around the table with loved ones, we are given the perfect opportunity to express our love and gratitude for the ones who know us best and love us anyway. Families aren't always perfect; sometimes, we may face difficult patches. Yet it's often during these times that we grow stronger together. Thanksgiving allows us to reconnect, heal, and deepen our bonds. Whether it's a hug, a laugh, or simply being in the same room, these moments strengthen our relationships and renew our sense of family. Being Thankful for the Blessings We Have It's easy to dwell on what we lack or what we wish we could change, but Thanksgiving encourages us to focus on the blessings we already have. From our homes to our health, from opportunities to challenges that have helped us grow, the season nudges us to count our blessings. Gratitude, after all, has a transformative power. When we choose to see what we have rather than what we lack, we experience a shift in perspective that brings peace and contentment. On Thanksgiving, remember to thank God for our blessings. Whether it's our housing situation, food on our table, or simply a kind heart to lean on, recognizing these gifts deepens our appreciation for what we've been given. Every small blessing reminds us of the abundant love and grace that God shares with us. The Importance of Sharing Thanksgiving also invites us to reflect on how we can extend our gratitude beyond our immediate circle. A truly grateful heart finds joy in giving and in sharing blessings with others, especially those in need. Whether it's lending a helping hand, donating to a cause, or simply sharing a meal, Thanksgiving allows us to live out our gratitude through acts of kindness and generosity. A Season of Reflection Thanksgiving isn't just a holiday; it's an attitude we can carry forward every day of the year. As we gather with our loved ones, let's take a moment to reflect on the journey we've shared, the blessings we've received, and the love we have to give. Let's be mindful of the people around us, take the time to express our gratitude, and recognize the beauty of our shared lives. Thanksgiving is a reminder of the beauty of gratitude, family, and love. It's a time to remember what really matters — the people who support us, the blessings we've been given, and the grace of a loving God who guides us through life's journey. This season, let's open our hearts, express our gratitude, and embrace the power of thankfulness. Happy Thanksgiving! May your hearts be full, your tables abundant, and your homes filled with love.

BE vs DO The Blessing of Being in Love with Jesus Christ Resting in His Salvation vs. Striving to Earn It I’ve spent the better part of my life doing for the Lord versus being in love with Him. Recently, my eyes were opened to the madness of trying to work my way to Christ. Allow me to share a bit of my story. In a world where so much of our identity is tied to what we do, it’s easy to assume that the road to salvation follows the same path. Many believe, “If I just do enough good things... if I am moral... if I obey all the rules... if I am nice to others... then I will earn my way to heaven.” But the message of the Gospel turns that idea upside down. Salvation is not something we achieve by our works; it is a FREE gift that comes through a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. One Sunday morning in 1991, I heard a message that changed my life. In that moment of revelation, God removed the scales from my eyes, my mind, and my heart. I received the knowledge about who He is and surrendered my life to Him. I have been walking with God for more than 30 years now, and the struggle I often hang on to is works. I often find myself back in my old mindset, thinking if I do [insert deed], then God will [insert blessing]. I couldn’t be more wrong. Refocusing my mind takes a minute (day, week, or longer), which then rerouts my brain and heart back to Him. I’ve found that often, my struggle is the struggle of others. So, I hope my explanation of why BEing in love with Jesus is different than DOing things to earn His salvation or love. And I hope my words/insight will help you in your relationship with God and Jesus. The Gift of Salvation: BEing Over DOing At the heart of the Christian faith is the understanding that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:8-9 makes this abundantly clear: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Salvation is not a reward for human effort or accomplishment. It is an unearned gift. The Bible teaches that no amount of good deeds, moral living, or religious rituals can make us right with God. Instead, Jesus offers salvation to anyone who believes in Him and accepts His sacrifice on the cross as the atonement for sin. To fall in love with Jesus is to recognize that we don’t need to strive for His approval—He already gave it to us in full on the cross. This brings freedom. Instead of chasing perfection or a checklist of good works, we can rest in the assurance that we are already loved and accepted by God. The Blessing of Being in Love with Jesus Being in love with Jesus means that our relationship with Him transforms every aspect of our lives. It’s not about performing tasks to gain His favor but about responding to His love with our whole hearts. When you’re in love with someone, you naturally want to please them—not because you’re obligated, but because you delight in them. Jesus invites us into a loving relationship with Him. This relationship, rather than our efforts, is the foundation of our salvation. John 3:16, one of the most well-known verses in the Bible, declares: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This promise is rooted in God’s love for us, not our works. The moment we accept His love, believe in Him and surrender our lives to Jesus, we receive the gift of eternal life. Salvation is about being united with Christ—not doing enough to earn His approval. The Trap of Trying to Earn Salvation There’s a danger in believing that we can earn our salvation through good works. When we fall into this mindset, we reduce our faith to a system of transactions. We begin to believe that if we do enough good things, avoid certain sins, or follow a religious checklist, God will reward us with salvation. However, this approach puts the focus on us and our actions rather than on Jesus and His finished work on the cross. Putting the focus on our actions of earning our way will lead to pride, self-righteousness, or discouragement when we inevitably fail to meet the impossible standard of perfection. The Bible reminds us that no one can achieve salvation through their own efforts. Romans 3:23-24 says: “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.” No matter how much we do, we will always fall short of God’s standard. Our good deeds, while important, do not earn us salvation. Instead, they are the fruit of a life transformed by grace. The Role of Good Works in the Life of a Believer So, if we aren’t saved by our good works, does it mean they don’t matter? Not at all. Good works are the natural outflow of a heart transformed by the love of Jesus. When we experience His love and salvation, we are compelled to love and serve others. James 2:17 says: “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” This doesn’t mean we do good works to earn salvation. Instead, out of overflowing hearts, our good works are evidence of our faith in Jesus. They flow from a life surrendered to Him. As we grow in our relationship with Jesus, our love for Him compels us to live out His teachings, not out of obligation but as a joyful response to His love. Being Transformed by Love, Not Duty When we love Jesus, our focus shifts from trying to earn salvation to being in an intimate relationship with Him. This relationship transforms our hearts, leading us to live in ways that reflect His love and grace. Rather than striving to check off religious duties, our lives become an expression of the love we have received. The joy of knowing Jesus and experiencing His grace empowers us to live out the values of the kingdom—righteousness, humility, love, forgiveness, and service to others. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus offers a beautiful invitation: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Jesus is inviting us to rest in Him, to trust in His love and grace. There is no heavy burden of works or performance to carry—just the invitation to be with Him, to be loved by Him, and to live out of the overflow of that love. Rest in the Finished Work of Christ The blessing of being in love with Jesus is that we don’t have to earn our salvation. His love, His grace, and His sacrifice on the cross are enough. We are saved by being in a relationship with Him, not by doing enough good works to merit His favor. Once we accept this truth, we are free to live out our faith joyfully and authentically. Our good works become a reflection of the love we have for Christ, not a desperate attempt to gain His approval. Rest in the truth that you are loved, you are saved, and you are free—not because of what you do, but because of what Jesus has done. In Him, salvation is a gift to be received, not a prize to be earned. This message reminds us of the beautiful simplicity of the Gospel and the power of grace. When we fall in love with Jesus, we are transformed from the inside out, no longer striving but resting in the finished work of our Saviour and Lord. If you find yourself longing for a relationship with Jesus, I offer you the following prayer. Dear Lord, I ask that you come into my life and make me a child of God. I ask that you forgive me of my sins and fill me with your presence and peace. I thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, as my Savior, Messiah, and Lord of my life. I accept His sacrifice for my life and I ask that you fill me with your peace and presence. If you prayed this prayer for the first time, please let me know. I would love the opportunity to walk alongside you as you journey into a relationship with Jesus. Feel free to reach out via text or call Deb Long at 205-447-3476.

FOOTBALL: AMERICA'S GAME The American Pastime: My Football Story The anticipation grows for the upcoming weekend. It's the second weekend of high school football and week one of college football. It's in my excitement that I write this Blog. For the record, I LOVE FOOTBALL!! Where did it start for me? Well, I grew up in Chicago and was surrounded by die-hard Bears fans. Somewhere in the '70s, I watched a guy I couldn't get enough of, Terry Bradshaw, the quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers. If you are familiar with the football days of the old era, then you know the Bears were a defensive powerhouse; however, they lacked some on the offensive side. Watching Terry play was exciting, and his offensive moves drew me in and made me a fan. I pivot here for a minute to talk about the most significant running back of all time, Walter Payton. Walter brought me back to the Bears in the mid-80s. He led the 1985 team to a Superbowl win in what is known as one of the greatest seasons in NFL history. I still love the Bears and the Steelers, but now I pull for all sorts of teams. I love a good underdog or comeback story. Frankly, this year, I am pulling for Aaron Rogers to have a great year and give the Jets a great season. The Heartbeat of the America: The Importance of Football Most people focus on pro ball up north, yet it's all about high school and college in the South. Shortly after moving to Alabama, I was asked who I would pull for: Alabama or Auburn. Being a young 13 yo, I responded with the important question... "what are their colors?" I was told, "Red and black or orange and blue." As I pondered my decision, I didn't know any team that was red and black, but the Bears were orange and blue. My decision was made: "I am for the orange and blue team!" I've been an Auburn fan ever since. Go Tigers!! All this nostalgia had me wondering: Why is football so important to our country? I did some research, and here are my thoughts. Let's explore why football is more than a game and how it shapes our community identities. American football isn't just a sport in the Southern United States—it's a cultural phenomenon that transcends the gridiron. From Friday night high school fields to Saturday college stadiums and Sunday's professional arenas, football holds a place of unparalleled significance in American communities. High School Football: The Bedrock of American Culture High school football in the South is an institution, often seen as the lifeblood of local communities. On Friday nights, small towns and large cities alike come alive with the roar of the crowd, the smell of concessions, and the rhythmic clash of pads on the field. For many, these games represent more than just a chance to support their team; they're a cherished tradition that brings people together. The importance of high school football is deeply rooted in Southern culture. The Friday night lights serve as a communal gathering where families, friends, and neighbors unite. The game often becomes a backdrop for local pride, where winning or losing can have a significant impact on community morale. Coaches and players are seen as local heroes, and the stories of their triumphs and trials become part of each town's folklore. Moreover, high school football can be a launching pad for future success. Many players use their high school performance as a stepping stone to college scholarships and, eventually, professional careers. The sport provides an avenue for personal growth, discipline, and teamwork, offering young athletes a chance to excel and gain recognition beyond their local community. College Football: A Southern Passion When it comes to college football, the South takes its passion to another level. The region is home to some of the most storied programs and fierce rivalries in the sport. The SEC (Southeastern Conference) is renowned for its competitive teams, enthusiastic fan bases, and high-stakes games that capture national attention. College football games in the South are a spectacle of pageantry and tradition. Tailgating is an art form, with fans arriving hours before kickoff to set up elaborate spreads and enjoy pre-game festivities. The atmosphere in the stadiums is electric, with cheers, chants, and fight songs creating an environment that is both exhilarating and unique. The impact of college football extends beyond the games themselves. It drives local economies, boosts tourism, and fosters a sense of regional pride. Schools like Auburn University, LSU, and University of Georgia are not just educational institutions; they are cultural landmarks that shape the identity of their communities. The success of these programs can elevate a city's status, attract investments, and generate widespread media coverage. Professional Football: The Pinnacle of American Football Culture At the professional level, the America's love for football continues to thrive with the presence of teams like the Pittsburg Steelers, Kansas City Chiefs, and the Dallas Cowboys. NFL games are a major draw, attracting fans from across the region and beyond. The professional game offers a platform for athletes to showcase their talents on a global stage and contributes to the American's football culture in a significant way. The professional game also has a substantial economic impact, providing jobs, stimulating local businesses, and creating a sense of unity among fans. NFL teams often engage with their communities through outreach programs and events, further strengthening the bond between the sport and its supporters. Additionally, the presence of professional teams contributes to a sense of area pride and identity. Fans celebrate their teams' victories and mourn their losses, creating a shared experience that brings people together. American Football: A Deep-Rooted Tradition Football is more than a game in the United States—it's a deeply ingrained tradition that shapes community life, drives regional pride, and provides a sense of belonging. From high school fields to college stadiums and professional arenas, the sport is woven into the fabric of American culture, reflecting the values, passions, and unity of the American People. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the sport, it's clear that football holds a special place in the hearts of those who support the team and players. As the game continues to evolve, its role in America remains a powerful testament to the enduring love for football and the community spirit it fosters. So to my teams, Go Warriors! WDE! And I'm waiving my terrible towel!

Have you considered investing in Real Estate to fund your child's college education? Great news... we have! And here are some ideas to consider. Investing in real estate has long been considered a stable and profitable venture. With rising education costs, many parents are exploring innovative ways to fund their children's college education. One such strategy is using real estate investments as a financial vehicle to cover these expenses. We call it "Give Your Kids a Chance." Below is a comprehensive guide on investing in real estate to pay for your child's college education. Why Real Estate? Real estate offers several advantages as an investment: Appreciation: Over time, properties generally increase in value. In the Birmingham-Hoover metro area, we've seen a 119.1% increase over the past 20 years. Passive Income: Rental properties provide a steady income stream. Tax Benefits: Real estate investors can take advantage of various tax deductions. Leverage: You can use borrowed money to invest in real estate, amplifying your potential returns. Steps to Get Started Set Clear Goals Determine how much money you'll need for your child's education. Calculate the timeline until your child starts college. Set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your investment. Choose the Right Property Location: Invest in areas with strong growth potential, good schools, and amenities. Type of Property: Consider single-family homes, multi-family units, or commercial properties. Condition: Opt for properties that require minimal repairs and maintenance. Understand Financing Options Traditional Mortgages: Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages. HELOCs: Home equity lines of credit can be a flexible financing option. Cash Purchases: If you have substantial savings, paying cash can save on interest costs. Generate Rental Income Long-Term Rentals: Offer stability and consistent income. Short-Term Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb can provide higher returns but may require more management. Lease to Students: Renting to students can be lucrative if the property is near a college. (In a college town, you are able to charge rent per student. If you have a 4-bedroom home, you could charge $800 per student for $3,200 per month.) Manage the Property Self-Management: Handle all aspects yourself to save money. Property Management Companies: They handle day-to-day operations for a fee, which can be worthwhile if you prefer a hands-off approach. Monitor Market Trends Keep an eye on real estate market trends and economic indicators. We can help you with this as our monthly or quarterly email report will provide sales data for your area of town. Stay informed about changes in property taxes, insurance costs, and rental market dynamics. Planning for College Expenses Estimate College Costs Research the estimated tuition, fees, room, and board for potential colleges. Factor in annual increases in college costs. Create a Savings Plan Allocate rental income towards a college savings account, such as a 529 plan. Reinvest a portion of the rental income to grow your real estate portfolio further. Sell or Refinance When college time approaches, consider selling a property to liquidate funds. (This could be a rental property that was purchased for this specific reason.) Alternatively, refinance your property to pull out equity without selling. Benefits of Using Real Estate for College Funding Diversification: Real estate adds diversity to your investment portfolio. Long-Term Growth: Real estate can appreciate over time, potentially outpacing inflation. Control: Unlike other investments, you have more control over the property and its management. Risks and Considerations Market Fluctuations: Real estate values can go down as well as up. Liquidity: Real estate is not as easily liquidated as other investments. Management Challenges: Being a landlord requires time and effort. Conclusion Investing in real estate can be a viable strategy to fund your child's college education. With careful planning, the right property, and prudent management, you can generate substantial returns to cover educational expenses. As with any investment, it's essential to do thorough research and consider consulting with a financial advisor to ensure this strategy aligns with your financial goals. By leveraging the power of real estate, you can secure your child's educational future while building a solid financial foundation for your family. We understand the ins and outs of real estate as an investment for the use of college funds. With our expertise, we look at properties from an ROI (return on investment) perspective to help you select a property that fits your goals. We invite your call and questions. 205-588-8282 To request our brochure on this subject, email info@calltodayshome.com and provide your name and address.  #todayshome  #giveyourkidachance  #realestate4yourfuture

The Importance of Fiduciary Duty: A Real Estate Agent's Commitment to Buyers As many of you know, the real estate industry is making tremendous compensation changes. Moreover, which party is now responsible for paying the agents? Additionally, with these NAR-mandated changes, consumers will be required to enter into an agreement with an agent BEFORE touring a property. So, this change got me thinking, too, and I pondered the question, "Do buyers understand the duty owed to them once they sign a Buyer's Agent Agreement?" To help clarify the changes coming, effective August 18, 2024, I think it will be helpful to define some real estate terms in the weeks leading up to this change to equip consumers better. This week, let's look at Fiduciary Duty. When you're on the journey to buying a home, having a trusted real estate agent by your side is one of the most critical aspects of the process. Beyond just showing properties and negotiating deals, a real estate agent has a legal and ethical obligation to uphold a "fiduciary duty" to their clients. But what does fiduciary duty mean, and why is it so crucial from a buyer's perspective? Let's delve into this fundamental concept to understand its significance. What is Fiduciary Duty? Fiduciary duty refers to the legal obligation of one party to act in the best interest of another. In real estate, a fiduciary relationship is established when a buyer engages an agent to represent them in the home-buying process. This engagement is identified and defined by signing a Buyer Agency Agreement. Additionally, the duty of a buyer's agent encompasses several key responsibilities: Loyalty: The agent must prioritize the buyer's interests above their own. Confidentiality: The agent must protect the buyer's private information. Disclosure: The agent must disclose all relevant information that could affect the buyer's decision. Obedience: The agent must follow the buyer's lawful instructions. Reasonable Care and Diligence: The agent must provide competent and professional service. Accounting: The agent must accurately account for all money and property entrusted to them. Why is Fiduciary Duty Important for Buyers? Trust and Confidence When you hire a real estate agent, you place significant trust in them to guide you through a complex, often overwhelming, and stressful purchasing process. Knowing that your agent is bound by their fiduciary duty provides a layer of security and confidence that your interests are being safeguarded at all times. Informed Decision-Making An agent with a fiduciary duty is obligated to disclose all known material facts that could influence your decision. This includes information about the property's condition, neighborhood, market trends, and any known potential issues. With complete and transparent information, buyers will make well-informed decisions that align with their goals and needs. Ethical and Professional Conduct Fiduciary duty ensures that your agent adheres to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. This means they must act with honesty and integrity, avoiding any conflicts of interest that could compromise their ability to serve you effectively. Advocacy and Negotiation A fiduciary duty requires your agent to advocate for your best interests, especially during negotiations. Whether negotiating the purchase price, terms of the contract, or contingencies, your agent's loyalty and commitment to you may significantly improve the outcome. Protection of Confidential Information As a buyer, you will share sensitive information with your agent, such as your financial situation, personal preferences, and future plans. The fiduciary duty obligates your agent to keep this information confidential, ensuring that it is not used against you or disclosed without your consent. This confidential duty survives closing. Real-Life Implications Imagine you're interested in a particular property, but your agent discovers that it has a history of structural issues. A real estate agent with a strong fiduciary duty will inform you of these issues, even if it means you might decide against purchasing the property, thereby losing a potential commission. This level of honesty and transparency is what fiduciary duty is all about—proving information regardless of the outcome. Conclusion In real estate, fiduciary duty is a cornerstone of the agent-client relationship, assuring buyers that their best interests are always the top priority. As you embark on the journey of finding your dream home, choose an agent who understands and upholds this crucial responsibility. With a fiduciary-minded agent by your side, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the market, knowing that you have a dedicated advocate looking out for you every step of the way. At Today's Home, we are committed to excellence, especially in our duty to our clients. We understand that buying a home is more than a transaction; it's a significant milestone in your life. We want your purchase to be smooth, informed, and successful. Visit us today and discover how we can help you find your dream home! Contact Today's Home Address: Three Riverchase Office Plaza, Suite 210, Hoover, AL 35244 Phone: 205-588-8282 Email: info@calltodayshome.com Website: www.calltodayshome.com Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/calltodayshome Instagram: www.instagram.com/calltodayshome X = Twitter: www.twitter.com/calltodayshome

A Continued Story - Today's HomeTransforming Lives Through Homeownership As I stated in a previous blog, posting every week is new for me. I am naturally an introvert, so putting my thoughts and life online is different. Bare with me as I join the ranks of many and share my story and life online. This week, I want to talk more about Today's Home and why our focus is what it is. You see, I believe homeownership has the power to transform lives. Although not everyone can own a home at every point in life, having a solid, sound roof over your head can transform your current situation. For me, it's more than just a sale; it's housing—a basic need for everyone in society, regardless of social standing. Let's dive into the why of Today's Home. Discover Today's Home: Transforming Lives through Homeownership in Birmingham, Alabama Today's Home is a boutique real estate brokerage nestled in the heart of Hoover, Alabama. Our vision is simple yet profound: "We are a real estate brokerage that believes home ownership transforms people's lives for the better." This guiding principle drives every aspect of our business, from the way we engage with our clients to the organizations we partner with to further our mission. The Heart of Our Mission At Today's Home, we believe owning a home is more than just a transaction; it's a life-changing experience. Homeownership offers stability, security, and a sense of belonging. It creates a foundation for building memories, fostering community connections, and achieving personal and financial growth. We are passionate about helping our clients find not just a house but a place they can truly call home. "There's no place like home," said Dorothy in The Wizzard of Oz. Our Approach Personalized Service: As a boutique brokerage, we are free from the oversight of larger brokerages, and we pride ourselves on offering a personalized, client-centered approach. We understand that each client's journey to homeownership is unique, and we design our services to meet their individual needs and preferences. From our initial consultation to closing, Today's Home is dedicated to providing exceptional service and support beyond the closing. We are advocates for our clients, always looking for opportunities to enhance their experience. Expert Knowledge: Our team of experienced professionals thrives to be current on industry changes and housing statistics. We regularly attend classes to stay up-to-date with the latest trends, negotiating strategies, property values, and neighborhood developments to offer our clients the best possible advice and insights. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or looking to sell your property, we have the expertise to guide you through every transaction step. Community Focus: We believe in the power of community and strive to make a positive impact in Birmingham. We are actively involved in local initiatives and support various community organizations. Our goal is to contribute to the growth and development of Birmingham, making it a better place to live, work, and raise a family. Why Choose Today's Home? Transparency and Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of transparency and integrity in all our dealings. Our clients can trust us to provide straightforward honest advice and always act in their best interests. We provide the information and options, and our clients make the decisions. Comprehensive Services: From property searches and market analysis to staging, repairs and maintenance, negotiation, and closing, we offer a full range of services to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. Our comprehensive approach saves our clients time, reduces stress, and maximizes their satisfaction. Client Satisfaction: Our success is measured by the satisfaction of our clients. We are proud to have built lasting relationships with our clients, many of whom return to us for their future real estate needs and refer us to their friends and family. Transform Your Life with Today's Home At Today's Home, we are more than just a real estate brokerage; we are partners in your journey to home ownership. We are committed to making the process as enjoyable and rewarding as possible, helping you find a place where you can create a lifetime of memories. So, neighbors in Central Alabama, we invite you to experience the difference. We are "helping people find home!" Visit us today and discover how we can help you find your dream home! Contact Today's Home Address: Three Riverchase Office Plaza, Suite 210, Hoover, AL 35244 Phone: 205-588-8282 Email: info@calltodayshome.com Website: www.calltodayshome.com Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook: www.facebook.com/calltodayshome Instagram: www.instagram.com/calltodayshome X = Twitter: www.twitter.com/calltodayshome Together, let's make your dream of home ownership a reality. Welcome to Today's Home, where we believe in transforming lives through the power of home ownership.

Honoring Sacrifice and Patriotism: The Essence of Memorial Day Every year, as May draws to a close, Americans across the nation prepare to observe Memorial Day. This day, set aside to honor the men and women who have died in military service to the United States, is more than just a long weekend marking the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals to ensure the freedom and safety of our country. As I look forward to the coming weekend, I cannot help but think of my Dad and his service during the Vietnam War. He was fortunate to come home. However, some of himself was left behind in the valleys of Saigon. He was shot during wartime and lived his life with the visible reminder of his service. Yet there were wounds of the heart and mind that were not visible but remained a daily reminder of all he endured as a sacrifice for his country. My Dad was (and still is, even though he now lives in heaven) my hero! He accepted the call and served his country with honor and dignity. He was proud to be an American; he loved our flag and the American freedoms that he fought for. So, in honor of my Dad, I want to talk about the meaning of Memorial Day. The Origins of Memorial Day To fully understand its meaning, we must first go back to the beginning. Memorial Day has its roots in the aftermath of the Civil War, a conflict that claimed more lives than any other in American history and necessitated the creation of the country’s first national cemeteries. In the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities began holding springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers. On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance later that month. "The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion," he proclaimed. This date was chosen because it was not the anniversary of any particular battle. Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day was established to honor those who had died during the Civil War. However, after World War I, the observance expanded to include all American military personnel who died in all wars. In 1971, an act of Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday and placed it on the last Monday in May. The Meaning of Sacrifice The core of Memorial Day is the recognition of the ultimate sacrifice made by soldiers. These brave men and women left behind their families, their dreams, and their futures to serve their country. Their sacrifices are a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom and the price paid for the liberties we often take for granted. Every soldier's story is a testament to courage and patriotism. From the trenches of World War I and the beaches of Normandy to the jungles of Vietnam and the deserts of the Middle East, these individuals exemplified the highest ideals of service and sacrifice. Their willingness to lay down their lives for their fellow citizens is a profound demonstration of love for country and an unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy and justice. Patriotism and Remembrance Patriotism on Memorial Day is not just about waving flags and attending parades; it is about understanding and honoring the profound commitment of those who served. It is a day to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and recognize that they come at a significant cost. This reflection can take many forms: Visiting cemeteries and memorials. Participating in community events. Simply taking a moment of silence to remember the fallen. The National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress in 2000, is observed at 3:00 PM local time on Memorial Day. Americans are encouraged to pause for one minute to remember and honor those who have died in military service. This act of collective remembrance reinforces the day's purpose and unites us in a shared expression of gratitude and respect. Moving Forward with Purpose As we honor the fallen on Memorial Day, we should also consider how we can support the living veterans and active-duty service members. Ensuring they receive the care, respect, and resources they need is an ongoing responsibility. Volunteering with veteran organizations, advocating for veterans' rights, and supporting military families are meaningful ways to show our appreciation and uphold the values for which so many have given their lives. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance and a call to action. It reminds us of the importance of unity, service, and sacrifice. As we enjoy the freedoms afforded to us, let us never forget the price paid by those who have served and ensured their legacy lives on through our actions and commitments. In remembering the sacrifices of the past, we find inspiration to build a future worthy of their legacy. This Memorial Day, as we honor the fallen, let us also pledge to uphold the principles of freedom, justice, and democracy for which they gave their lives. I love and miss you, Dad, and I appreciate the sacrifice you made. I will remember and honor others just as you did when you were here.  xoxo Debbie