“Do what you love. Love what you do.” Meet the Zorich Family

In a world where the daily grind often precedes passion and fulfillment, the Zorich family is an inspiring example of how a simple motto can lead to a life filled with happiness, purpose, and unwavering unity. For the Zorichs’, "Do what you love, and love what you do" is not just a saying; it's a way of life that guides their every decision and brings them immeasurable joy.

The Zorich family consists of John, Christina, their son John Brayden (12), and their beloved family dog a Cavapoo named Ace (2).

Love at First Sight

It was a recipe for true love when Christina and John met. Friends brought them together, a restaurant on the water on Fairview Beach, and the rest is history. They have been together for 14 years now. Throughout their years together they have formed countless memories that bring them joy. The birth of their son, buying their first home, then their second home, and their third.

Pursuing Passions:

The Zorich’s understand the importance of personal growth and fulfillment. Christina is a licensed realtor and a short-sale negotiator in Virginia. Becoming a realtor is not just a job; it's a rewarding profession that allows individuals to make a significant impact on people's lives while enjoying a fulfilling career. While many people might initially think of real estate as simply buying and selling properties, the role of a realtor goes far beyond transactions. For Christina, it is one of the most rewarding careers not only to help provide for her family but to be able to help first-time home buyers, military families, and so many others in this venture. She ensures to make it enjoyable and a stress-free experience for them.

As someone who bought a home during the real estate battles of having six rejected offers, I can appreciate Christina’s passion for real estate. It’s not just about finding any house but the right home for her client.

As a short sale negotiator, Christina’s primary role is to act as a liaison between the homeowner, the lender, and potential buyers. Short sales occur when a homeowner cannot pay their mortgage and seeks approval from the lender to sell the property for less than the outstanding mortgage balance. Their expertise helps streamline the often complex and time-consuming short sale process, benefiting all parties.

John works for a company called Cognosante, working with facilities and operations. The owner of the company recently bought the Washington Spirit, which is the professional women’s soccer team in DC. He will work closely with the team and get to work on some of the games. They will build a stadium shortly, and he is looking forward to participating in that process.

 

Community and Giving Back:

Community involvement in your community is vital because it strengthens social bonds, fosters a sense of belonging, and promotes collective well-being.

John grew up playing baseball and golf his whole life and played baseball at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. John used to play slow-pitch softball at an elite level, traveling all over the U.S. and playing in the United States Specialty Sports Association Conference. He recently retired from softball two years ago and now focuses on golf and coaching baseball. 

Therefore, there couldn’t be a better assistant coach for their son’s baseball team. Not only does he bring his knowledge and experience, but he gets to bond with his son.

John runs the Tuesday Night League (TNL) at Augustine Golf Club. TNL is all handicapped based, so any level of golfer is welcome. TNL is always looking to grow and get more players.

For the past 11 years, John has hosted a golf tournament through his work to fundraise for Final Salute Inc. A nonprofit organization that specializes in providing housing assistance to homeless female veterans. This past year, they raised 40k for the organization.

Like Father Like Son

John Brayden, from the moment he could sit up, was handed a baseball bat and golf club. They had to switch the golf balls at a young age to foam ones so that he wouldn’t accidentally break a window because of how far they would land.

John Brayden currently plays baseball for the Stars Organization; in the spring, he plays golf on the Under Armour Junior Golf Tour; he plays Basketball in the Winter for Stafford County Parks and Rec, and he is on the track team at his middle school. Aside from his incredible athleticism, John Brayden is a great student. Not only does he care significantly about his schoolwork, but he also has an artistic side, something he shares with his mom.

Where History Meets Modern Living: Colonial Forge

Nestled in the heart of Stafford County, Virginia, Colonial Forge stands as a vibrant community that beautifully blends history with modern living.

Christina knew that their current home was the one they would settle in until their son graduated high school. The cherry on top is that their best friends live one street over. The community amenities are plentiful, and with a picturesque backdrop, it’s the perfect investment for any homeowner.

Every neighbor is friendly, and they love to sit on their front porch at the end of a busy day and enjoy their time together. One of their favorite pastimes is walking to Colonial Forge High School to support the football and baseball games. The neighborhood has an annual end-of-summer party, and during the winter, they have neighbors’ nights out for adults to socialize in different community events. 

The Zorich family's motto, "Do what you love, and love what you do," has not only enriched their lives but has also given them a profound sense of purpose and joy. It reminds us that the pursuit of passion and fulfillment, as a family, can lead to a life filled with happiness, meaningful connections, and a profound sense of accomplishment. The Zorich’s stand as a beacon of hope for all who dare to follow their hearts and embrace the motto that has transformed their lives.

 

Liz Hensel - Content Coordinator

Liz has been living in the Stafford area for the last two years. However, her ties are rooted to Virginia, as Virginia was her first duty station while she was on active duty with the Marine Corps. Her husband is still on active duty, and they hope to make Stafford their forever home with their two daughters and two rescue dogs.

While serving in the Marine Corps and Marine Corps reserves has allowed Liz to see all parts of the country and the world, there is truly no place like home. Working on this magazine gives Liz the opportunity to meet her neighbors and the local businesses and more importantly, she gets to showcase them to others.

Liz is also the founder of a nonprofit called Leave No Paws Behind USA. She led the campaign to have legislative change to include pet transportation fees included in military moves. With her leadership, the bill was passed in the FY23 National Defense Appropriation Act.

Liz is excited to continue to write the stories of the FXBG Neighbors

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