Hi Debbie,

I am curious as to why there is such a manpower shortage. Is it because of so many people being relocated after the storms? It is good to hear that Louisianna is doing so well.

As for here... there was an upswing (is that a real word?) in Sacramento county house sales last month. All of them foreclosures purchased by first time home buyers and investors. I find the investor part ironic since investors make up a large percentage of the foreclosures.

Our daughter is one of those first time homebuyers. Less than a year ago the house would have cost her at least $375K. She is getting it for $230K. Getting a loan has not been difficult but dealing with the bank who owns the property has been a lesson in patience for her.

I can not help but have mixed feeling here. My daughter is the sole provider for herself and young son. If it was not for all this mess she would not have been able to buy a home for the two of them. Unfortunately another young family lost this home 3 months ago.

Judy