I've spent the last few hours making a serious dent in the packing extravaganza. It's only fitting that I should begin this daunting task on the fourth of July - Independence Day.

We've purchased a house. It's ours. We can paint our rooms any colors we like. We can use power tools to make holes in the walls. We can plant flowers and herbs. We'll need a weedwhacker! With our Jim Thome and BooBerry bobbleheads side by side, a three-story townhouse will become our home.

Though this is the biggest financial investment and responsibility either one of us has ever made, I feel a sense of freedom as we embark on this new adventure. I'm so grateful for this life we have.