A Lesson, A Memory...

After a little softball tonight (2 wins for the good guys!), I just wanted to post about something on the heart. First, I'd be silly for not mentioning a happy belated birthday to our great friend Joe. I just mentioned to Melissa that we have to remember Joe and Lisa's birthday's... what'd we do? Miss it... Joe and Lisa are our fantastic neighbors and friends. They have a cocker spaniel named Max who is great friends with Duncan. They also introduced us to our church and have become great friends! Happy birthday buddy!

Yesterday was a very special day for our family, my dad's birthday. If he were alive, he would be 55 years old. It's been over 10 years since his passing - but it never seems to sink in. There are some days where it is just unbearable, others where you smile and cry at the same time, but most where you just think about your family and how you grow together through adversity.

In a few months, we will be parents. I think back to childhood and really am proud of the work my parents did. I learned a tremendous amount from my father while he was here, but I continue to learn a ton after his passing. What's different? We are closer as a family. I got closer to my sister (she was a pain for so many years). I learned that I couldn't take my mother for granted. My favorite memories are of the county fair, baseball games she took me to, sporting events she watched or shopping trips we took. Even though there were the teenage times (as tough as they seemed), I wouldn't be ready for parenting without her. I wouldn't be ready to be a leader without the lessons from mom and dad. I want our children to look back someday and say they are proud, because of the lessons Melissa and I have learned... we know they will.

Words cant express how much I miss dad, but then again, if you listen closely - you can hear him whisper. You can hear that goofy laugh, see that bushy beard. I write something for him in the GB paper every chance I can. For his birthday I mentioned how it's no mistake how when you are hurting and need a friend, there is a friendly breeze or hug. How the warm sun makes you smile...

Thanks for all of the lessons and memories. Parents are amazing! Time for us to make our mark. Pretty cool!