"You live in the Bates' house, right?"

Three years ago this month, Jim and I moved into our new home. We were transplanting ourselves into a new town and a neighborhood we didn't know much about - LaFayette Ridge.

Jim had always called a subdivision "home." I, on the other hand, grew up on a street with only 5 others homes (2 of which were my family members). I'd never experienced a trick-or-treater ringing my doorbell, holiday decorating and a true sense of community. Over the past three years, we have grown to know and love so many of our neighbors. We are so thankful for the kindness, generosity and genuine friendship that we have experienced here.

Our first week in our new home

Moving - like life - is scary, challening and exciting. We thank you for being such wonderful neighbors and friends and we look forward to many more years in LaFayette Ridge.