The SIDELINE

Summer 2011

2011-06-05T23:28:00.004-05:00

My plan is to record the events of summer and not let them slip away into the empty void that is my brain, where they become forgotten history. This might not be good blogging but hopefully it will be good record keeping.

Summer has begun. Today marks the end of our first weekend end of summer and here is what has happened.

Friday I came home very tired, ready for school to be out and encountered a very tired wife who was ready for me to be home some. It seems that we have been lacking in consistent parenting these past few months and our kids have been forgetting some simple items of being a kid. Like listening and obeying. Shar and I are big fans of consistent parenting but have admittedly slacked off, so Blake and Anna got a lecture before dinner about the new rules of summer. 1st time obedience, consequences, listening, .... and other stuff. Then we went swimming. Our kids like most love the the pool and we feel very fortunate to have a neighborhood pool that we can use all summer long.

Sat morning we woke up early since we were still on school schedule and ate breakfast. Then Blake and I went fishing and Anna opted to stay home with mom and watch cartoons. It was at this event that Blake landed his first good fist of the summer and I believe he is hooked on fishing for now. It was about a 1 1/2 pound bass I believe and he set the hook and reeled it in on his own. The picture will hopefully tell you the truth.

I then had graduation which I really do enjoy. It is good to the kids one last time and on graduation day everyone is clean and well dressed so it leaves a good memory in your mind. These kids are special to me because they were the freshman class when we arrived at Keller. These boys played for me as freshman and have grown in front of my eyes these past 4 years.

We I got home we ran a few errands before heading to the Woodward's for dinner and swimming. Great time with our new friends and our kids are within a year of each other so playing is relatively smooth. We are grateful for this family and had a great time with them.

Sunday church, where our good friends Charlie and Lana Moore were excited about the baptism of their oldest daughter. She is going into 3rd grade and is such a mature and sweet girl. Charlie did a wonderful job and controlled his emotions the best he could. After the baptism our small group and the Moore's family all surrounded the Katie and Lana and Charlie to congratulate them. The awkward moment was when Blake watched the other people hug Katie. He then slowly made his way toward her. Neither really knew what to do and as the uncomfortable side hug took place Lana and I laughed. Charlie kept an eagle eye on Blake the whole time. It was funny.

Lunch and naps were followed by Blake and I attending Marcus Pittman's graduation celebration which was followed by yard work and more swimming. Then Blake and I fished again. I caught one bass and Blake got 12 blue gill/sun fish. (?)

I can't explain to you how much I love summer time.

Anna Jo

2011-04-28T22:36:00.002-05:00

My little girl will turn 6 tomorrow. Tonight I told her the story of her actual birthday minus the adult details. She loved the fact that Mrs. Dana was the first to hold her and that her mom got a neat necklace for having a little girl.

More to come about our little princess but for now I want to say that I love her and want her to stay my little girl for forever, but can't wait to see all the ways that God will use her a she grows.

Happy Birthday Anna Jo.

Sad Girl 2

2011-04-27T22:19:00.002-05:00

So she is looking at the picture of her and I and crying and tells me that when she looks at this picture it reminds her of how much I love her. She is doing her best to beat me up.

So I calmly hesitate and try to think through the various reactions that I can and should have. I never lost my temper with Anna during this event which is something I am working on, but I needed to make an impact on how serious her behavior is in class. So I told her to sit there and think about what she did, and then I went to talk to Shar.

Shar was no help. She was tired and had endured a long day and basically told me to deal with it. So I did. I went back into the room and told Anna that I was very disappointed with the way she acted in class and then informed her that she would be getting a spanking. Her crying had stopped by this time but when I said that she look at me with her head slightly tilted to the side and her eyes began to fill with tears. She got down off the bed and turned around, placed her hands on the bed spread and looked forward.

And then I gave her the softest spanking in the world. Honestly I was wanting to be careful in this spanking but in doing so I actually missed and barely even made her flinch. She then turned to me, and began to cry. With Blake the idea of the spanking is not near as bad as the actual event. With Anna the idea that a spanking will take place or has taken place is often greater then the actual spanking. She hates them.

We hugged and she cried and all was better in the next few minutes. This morning when I woke her up I gave her plenty of love and we agreed that she would visit her teacher and apologize for having to move her clip. I later found out that she kept her word and all was well. We make a progress with Anna in the last 24 hours. It ended up to be a good teaching moment.

Sad Girl

2011-04-26T22:26:00.002-05:00

Anna got in trouble today. Had to move her clip because she was talking in class. This has happened more than once this year and her reaction toward the importance of this event has often been less than what we desire as parents. Shar and I agree that comparing Anna to Blake is not wise, but the one time Blake had to move his clip as a kindergartner be was heart broken.

Anna has often "forgotten" that she moved her clip or considered it a minor offense but we have stressed that the actions in class are very important. Today she told her brother that she was going to be brave and just tell dad that she had to move her clip. She remembered that when Blake told dad that he had to move his clip, he got a hug and did not get in trouble. Sharla corrected Anna by reminding her that it had happened to Blake one time and that this was a ongoing problem for Anna. She did not like that answer.

When I got home from spring ball tonight Anna met me at the door and quickly confessed her sins and shed a single tear. I gave her my stern look and as I noticed her reaction turning toward sadness and a slight fear of my reaction, I gently told her that I was disappointed and sent her to her room.

I entered her room as she sat on her bed crying and gave her the abrupt direction to go shower. Following her into the bathroom I again told her that I was disappointed with what happened today and informed her that she would be in trouble. This was not what she wanted to hear and her tears began to run once again.

When I came into Anna's room she was sitting on her bed crying holding something in her hands. I sat on the floor across from her bed and asked her what she thought about her actions at school. Between the tears she expressed her sorrow and looked down at the object in her hands. I then asked what we should do about her behavior in class and all she did was cry and look down again at her hands. I noticed the significance that Anna was placing on the item in her hands and asked her what she was looking at. She then showed me a small framed picture of me holding and kissing Anna Jo when she was just a baby. She looked at the picture, looked at me and began to cry even more.

The rest of the story tomorrow. Goodbye for now.

John 4

2011-04-03T22:24:00.002-05:00

Still feeling very blessed to be at The Hills church. For those of you with smart phones out there you can download an app, or whatever you non iPhone people call it, and get live streaming of worship, old sermons and other cool stuff. Check it out and let it bless you.

John 4 today. The story of Jesus and the woman at the well and the living water thing. Very great lesson presented by the new associate minister whom I do not recall his name but he is coming from California so he must be good.

The question to consider is who are we in the story? Are we Jesus? Are we the woman? Are we the disciples in town?

Jesus: The giver of the water that will never cause you to be thirsty again.

The Woman: The person who is in sin.

The Disciples: In town making preparations for Jesus.

I always knew I was not Jesus, although some prideful place in my mind allows me to consider the possibility that I am the bringer of this amazing water. But I recover from that and remind myself that God can work through me but it is always God doing the work. So I say to you that I am not Jesus.

The Woman is a sinner and an adulterer and I am not that bad. I know and believe in Christ and do a darn good job of living a very comfortable life in my christian bubble. I would notice Jesus if he approached me and I would not be on my 5 spouse. Nope. Not me.

I did always see myself as the disciples in town. Working for Jesus so he could do great things. Not perfect but definitely not a Samaritan and I am mindful that Jesus really needs me to buy him food because he already used his "make a bunch of food" miracle and he could not do that twice.

Sadly, today I was slapped in the face with the truth once again that I am the sinner needing water. I am the lost person who chases a thousand other things to fill the empty spots in my life, instead of turning to the giver of life and being filled with him.

The adultery of the woman is sin, but confronting her current sin might not be the point. Instead the point could be that looking for items on this earth to fill my life is not what Jesus is wanting from us because those things always leave us thirsty back at Jacob's well. We need what only Jesus can provide and I will remain thirsty until I accept that reality.

I need to wake up. I need fresh water. Water from Jesus.

Japan

2011-03-18T12:04:00.002-05:00

The tragedy in Japan is just awful. Here are some pictures that should give you a deeper insight into the conditions that exist there now.

I lived in Japan when I was 9 years old. My dad was stationed on Okinawa in 1983 - 84 and we went to live with him on base for a long summer. It was a great experience and we made some wonderful memories there.

2011 C

2011-02-27T21:21:00.003-06:00

Life sails by us at an unrealistic rate. I am amazed at how quickly the days, weeks, and months fly by.

I am under the impression that one of the wisest actions that Sharla and I have taken in our recent lives has been to attend a parenting class at church. It is amazing to me that for years we have attending training for our jobs and even classes and education for our marriage, but once we had children we seemed confident to lean on our inclinations or the models that were handed down from our parents. Both are good resources but alone only offer to repeat the mistakes made by our parents and create voids in the nurturing of our kids. A parenting class taught us techniques and reasons for doing or not doing certain things that would otherwise be a natural response. I am grateful for The Hills offering Growing Kids Gods Way and even more grateful or Shar making me go. Even 18 months later it is still paying off.

We are sampling a new church, kind of. It is actually the same church but at a different location. The Hills was asked to take over the South Lake Church and this location is very close to our house so it seems logical to see if we fit there. We as a couple have agreed that the most difficult thing about moving is finding a church. We you leave a community that you love and that loves you it is very trying to find a similar match. We have grown into the family at The Hills (old North Richland Hills) and felt a community there. Now we are trying a new building, but have the benefit of the same leadership and a key blessing which is the lessons of Rich Atchley. All of this to say that this was our first Sunday. It went well, but it is still new and will not be home for a while, if it becomes home at all.

Anna has begun her soccer career. It is not a smooth as it was for Blake who would rather kick a ball than eat. But she did enjoy her first practice last week and her first game on Saturday. We got our lips beat off 11 - 4, but she had fun and looked great in her uniform. We will see if the year improves. As always I am coaching because no other dads felt the need to do so. Coach by default is the actual title.

While at the park the other day with another dad for church and his two girls, we decided on a notable piece of wisdom that I will now share with you. His daughter was doing some jungle gym activities that she had not done before. The events were not too exciting but she was conquering new ground thanks to Anna going ahead. We agreed that she was doing these new items because it seemed natural to stay with the friend you trust, from church none the less. The wisdom goes as follows. "Peer pressure causes change. Some for the good and some for the bad. Either way, change will most likely occur."

Have a good week.

stupid people....

2011-01-28T22:18:00.000-06:00

Stupid people make me mad. Follow the link to see a stupid person.

2011 B

2011-01-19T22:13:00.005-06:00

Where does the line fall, in secular work, were you are devoted and committed to your job, but you could most likely rather be doing other things?

Why is it in the secular world that we are seemingly forced to strive to succeed and reach new goals in our "work", when we are promised that "All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of he field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever."? 1 Pet. 2

The problem is not whether we are hard workers. The problem is that the work of this world is not my priority. It is my job, not my existence.

I want to be a "stranger in the world". 1 Pet. 1.

I want the wisdom of Solomon.

"I need, I need, I need". Name that movie if you can.

Respond to the serious part above if you are willing.

Church.

2011-01-10T21:29:00.004-06:00

I am amazed at how God placed the church; something so fragile yet so powerful in the hands of humans. It is so very amazing to me.

The Hills Church here in Ft. Worth where we attend is doing some amazing things. I am so very pleased to be here and have the chance to worship, grow and work here. It has been a struggle and the opportunity to take an active role has been often difficult for me (not so much for Shar), but I continue and still feel blessed and directed by God in the fact that we are here. And at the same time I feel sure that where we have landed is not a perfect place. Being new, and the church being so large, I am unaware of those at this time but I am sure they exist.

At the same time, my childhood church is dealing with the failures of humanity and struggling to hang on to it's identity and still reach out to a changing world that continues to need Jesus. It pains me to watch my parents and family (Donielle and Kenny) struggle and work through church issues that seem somewhat clear from the outside, yet are so cloudy and complex when you are surrounded by them.

In all of this activity my brother in law is turning out like his father, who would be in line for Sainthood if it was a common practice. Kenny has allowed the scriptures to guide his thoughts and actions and attitude and is a great example to the body there in Escondido and continues to be a clear example of a Godly man, husband and father to me.

Without reenacting the entire event in California, I would like to pose a few questions about church. Your opinions would be very interesting to me.

Q. What is the role of an Elder in (a.) Church's of Christ and (b.) in Christianity?

Q. At what point does their authority get to be questioned or challenged by the body they serve?

Q. Are Elders (a.) CEO's or (b.) Shepherd's or (c.) both?

Q. Does the size of the church dictate the actions or responsibility of the Elders?

2011 A

2011-01-04T21:19:00.004-06:00

So that Fruit of the Spirit thing that sounded so pious and righteous has not happened yet. Sunday night we discussed it as a couple, Monday night beat us up, Tuesday night I had a soccer game and now we are, the kids are in bed and we have no fruit. Beat down.

I would like to talk about how much cool stuff the kids have and how I am trying to decide where to draw the line and how to keep them grounded. Blake got two cool Air Nerf guns for Christmas along with a Rip Stick and a remote control Air Hog helicopter and to top it off a portable basketball goal for the house.

Anna got this stinking Baby Alive that you have to feed and then change it's stupid diapers. We have enough Pocket Pets to start a zoo and with her own camera and fake Ugg Boots she is ready for high school.

Do we need this stuff? No. Is it sooooo cool? Yes. And we do, believe it or not, limit what we give and have family give to our kids. So where is the line to be drawn and how to I teach my kids in this new age of stuff and electronics and computers, how to be confident in what is unseen, since "the things that are unseen are eternal."?

Any advice is welcome.

Also, I hate to proof read so if you get a typo, sorry.

2011

2011-01-02T00:54:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year to the 3 of you still out there. I am going to make a commitment to this blog thing and see how it goes. No promises.

If I try this then it would be good to hear from you. Leave a comment and make it real. I am o.k. with you not liking my posts or having a different opinion to my ramblings. This really should be a two way street.

This year Shar and I are going to be more specific in our parenting. We have good kids but are very aware of Satan and how his lies are powerful and often unseen. We want to be overly intentional about what we do with our kids. We took a very long and detailed parenting class in spring of 2010 called Growing Kids God's Way. Wonderful study and we are implementing still many of the things we learned.

One item that we are going to work on as a family will be the Fruits of the Spirit. We are planning on teaching the kids this values that God holds in high priority and hoping to provide a clear example of these items as we teach them.

Question. What do you think about our plan?

Question. What do you remember from your childhood that had a large impact that was beneficial in future years?

Question. What is your favorite fruit. Real or of the Spirit?

Uncle Bill

2010-10-18T13:41:00.004-05:00

Most families have grandparents. Many have at least one set and often have two sets of grandparents. I was one of those kids that grew up with 3 sets of grandparents. My Nana and Papa on my dad's side. My grandmother and grandfather on my mom's side. And then there was Uncle Bill and Aunt Marge on my dad's side. They were my dad's uncle and aunt and so they were a great uncle and aunt to my sister and myself. Their significance in my life was great.

Living in California my entire life created a geographical separation between me and my grandparents living in Dallas. The alternate grandparents were Aunt Marge and Uncle Bill who retired in San Diego in the Coronado Cays after spending 50 years in ministry.

I grew up with Christmas and 4th of July being celebrated with Bill and Marge. They loved us as their own, and it worked out since their grandchildren lived in other states and countries, so we were able to provide a significant presence in each other's lives.

Bill died this past week after 94 years of full life, preaching the word of God in 38 countries and finding full peace in his commitment to the kingdom. He will be remember for his eloquent prayers, long and slow stories, yacht rides around the San Diego Bay and his love for his family.

My life has been blessed by this saint and I look forward to our reunion in heaven.

Kojie Again

2010-09-06T20:58:00.003-05:00

Blake and Anna Jo buried their stuffed dog today. It was sad watching Blake carry the dog from front of the house where the truck is to the back yard. Anna walked quietly along side and put her hand inside his arm when they got close to the bucket for the burial. I was not sure what they would recall from that day but it seems they took in more than I was expecting. I hope that is not their only memory of that great dog.

Football is here again.....

2010-09-05T23:59:00.001-05:00

O.K. So to say life is buys with football season is an understatement and to think that my profession is the only busy activity right now would be arrogant and to think that every other coach in the state is not feeling the burden for family and football would be wrong.

Here is something to watch for those of you who still read this worthless blog and have nothing better to do for 8 minutes. It is really good. Turn up the volume and listen. If you played football last year or 60 years ago you will like this song. If you followed Bum or Bear or the Steelers or the Horns or the local high school team then you will like this song.

Talk to you later.

My Son

2010-08-23T21:34:00.005-05:00

Blake's birthday came at great time in our lives but also at a very busy time. Born in Week 0 of football season was great, but since then it has been a balancing act between football games and practice and his special day. Coach Atkinson here at Keller High is very pro family and allows us to leave and return around our kids activities. It is a blessing.

I have dropped the ball because I do not have a 7 year movie of Blake and slide show to share with you all. He does not realize that but someday he will, but isn't it normally the second child that gets the shaft so maybe he will be o.k.

His birthday was great. We went to Saturday night church and were able to stay home Sunday morning and do family birthday. Blake's big gifts this year were a Jedi Build a Bear from Shar's parents, $40.oo in cash from MeeMaw which Blake bought a remote control 4 wheeler and his first real set of golf clubs from my parents. He was fired up. Our big gift to Blake was his first Keller Indian Football Jersey. He will be wearing this to the games this year and is so pumped. Shar gave him number 10 and had his name put across the back. So very cool.

The official party was at Chuck E Cheese that afternoon and it was a blast. 13 kids total and a handful of parents and good friends. It takes a special friend to sit a C.E.C. for 2 hours and we have those people here.

I love my son and I am so thankful for how is growing and maturing and learning. He is a wonder to me and I praise God for how he was made.

Your mom and I love you son and cherish our time together. Have a wonderful year.

Blake is 7

2010-08-23T06:22:00.002-05:00

My son turned 7 yesterday and I did not have a chance to write about it. It bothers me that life is so busy that I I can't find 20 minutes to sit down and tell the world how great my son is and how blessed Shar and I are as parents to have him and Anna Jo. I will, but for now you should know that 7 years ago I had 1 day old boy and did not know a thing about parenting. Today I have a 7 year old boy and still don't know much.

Tom Winter

2010-08-21T00:25:00.002-05:00

We were fortunate to be able to attend the memorial service of Tom Winter. Tom was the uncle of my best friend and brother in law Kenny winter. The crazy part was that he was only 3 years older than his nephew. Cool I guess.

To hear his wife and oldest daughter speak openly in front of a large crowd about the love they had for their husband and father was just amazing. To hear old friends praise him for being the example of Christ in their lives was inspiring and moving. To listen to his older brothers David and John speak tenderly about their baby brother and the qualities that he had was so kind and loving. To listen to Kenny speak about his "older brother" and the example of a true follower of Jesus that he was caused me to look once again at my own life.

This is the second time we have memorialized a man that has left this world too early. This is the second time in 6 months that we have listened to a wife speak boldly about her departed husband with the strength of 10,000 angles. This is second time in 6 months that I have listened to the warning that life passes quickly and the moments that we have a so very valuable and precious.

I have pledged again to be better in the moment and not so concerned and worried about the future. I am reminded again that God has our days numbered and has a plan for us that is far greater than the things that we consider important.

I want to think in terms of God and His Kingdom and eternity. I want my wife to see me as patient and caring and willing to serve. I want my kids to know that I love their mother and cherish every moment I have with them. I want to be better than I am. Listening to so many speak of Tom reminds me of that once again.

When the service was over my brother in law came to me. We hugged and cried and as he pulled away from me he said, "I'm going to go first so I don't have to speak at your funeral." Amazing is that I was thinking the same thing.

Kenny, Bubba, Mario, Gil, Izzy, BYoung, Bedard .... good luck.

Well, Well, Well

2010-08-17T23:31:00.002-05:00

In case you did not know it is football season here in Texas which means coaches all over the state are putting in ridiculous hours in hopes of making the boys that they have play wildly above their God given ability. It is a fun job, and interesting.

Wake up 5:30.

Field House at 6.

Freshman workout from 7 - 8:30

Inservice from 9 - 2 or so.

Varsity film and weights at 2:45.

Practice from 4:30 - 6.

Off from 6 - 7.

Second practice from 7 - 8:20.

In the Field House by 8:45.

Home by 9:30 or later.

Start over tomorrow morning.

Have a great night and I will see you in November.

Friendship

2010-08-01T00:10:00.004-05:00

Friendship is a funny thing. It is similar to family and very different, at the same time???

There are lines in friendship that are often not crossed and they should be. The crossing of lines allows the depth of the friendship to increase or exposes the weakness of the friendship and causes it to fail.

I am mindful of the variety of friendships that I have and the value I place on different ones. Some are very surface and superficial and others are deep and highly valuable. The interesting things is my interpretation of the friendship might be very different from the person on the other end.

Life long friends like Kenny and Bubba or Jeremy. Seem to never fade. College friendships fade or grow stronger threw the years, based on the energy and activity that they create. Adult friendships based on work or children have immediate necessity and value but their future is still uncertain even though they may have great significance at this moment. They may last the decades and miles to come, or possibly only serve both parties at this current time.

My thoughts on friendship tonight exist because of three events that have happened involving 3 different friends. Two tragedies and one joy. Two chose not to use the friendship that existed and therefore we were unable to help or serve during times of struggle and crisis. One chose to call on friendship and test the depth and value there of (possibly used that wrong?).

I am grateful for all three friendship but I am also sad at the two who did not test the value of the friendship by reaching out for help. I am pleased with the one who called on us and I am happy that we were able to serve. Today one friendship grew vastly stronger, one began to grow again and one still struggles. Time will tell what happens to these.

Let me encourage you to reach out to those whom you consider your close friends. Share your struggles and call on them to do the same. Test the bond that exists and see if it grows stronger.

Kojie

2010-07-12T00:33:00.005-05:00

Today was a sad day in our family. We had to say goodbye to our dog Kojie. I know that it is just a dog and there are others whose pain I hope to never bare, but any loss of something dear to you is difficult and Kojie was dear to us.

Sharla Smetana got Kojie when she was just 5 weeks old, from her roommates sister. That was in April of 1995. I remember taking that little black puppy to Temple in Shar's Ford Probe and watching her dad laugh as she brought it in the garage door.

Taken today before we went to the vet.

Easter 2010 in Temple

Kojie lived back and forth between my college house and Shar's, but mainly stayed with me on E.N. 22 in Abilene. She did not need a leash, and could find her way from the Campus Center, intramural fields and Shar's house on 15th street back to my house. She was a great dog. Everyone loved her.

When we got married and moved in to the little house on E.N. 15 we would take Kojie on walks around campus and we would sometimes stay too long in the Campus Center. If we came out and Kojie was not sitting there then we would walk to my old house on 22nd and she would be on the front porch. Never did she run away.

She loved Temple and felt at home and Shar's parents house and at our place on Pappus Ct. Still no leash. Walks all over the neighborhoods and she would stay with us. Loved to eat pecans and chase squirrels in Ron's backyard.

With Blake and Anna Jo, Kojie was perfect. Never had any aggression toward kids and seemed to love being their pillow or lounge chair. Great a fetching a ball when Blake was learning to through and loved a swim in the lake. One year we even drove her to California and let her run on the beach and in the ocean. She was at home around water.

Early fall of 2007

Spring of 2006 in Temple

When we came home with her from Temple this past Friday she ate a bowl of food that night, and that was her last meal. She did not eat the rest of the weekend. Her bones, joints, ribs and spine were now fully exposed under her skin and her rear legs were barely functional. I gave her some water this afternoon and she could not hold it down. I knew her time was up. I picked her up out of the flower bed where she was keeping cool. Set her in the shade in the grass and began to clean her. Brushed her hair and wiped the mud off her face. Her eyes were tired as she looked at me. My tears sank into her fur.

Shar began to call local vets and I began to dig a grave for her. We gathered the kids into the kitchen and Shar explained Kojie's long life and how it was time for her to go on to heaven. I took the kids outside for some time to be with her.

We loaded into the truck and took her to the vet. Our time in room was nice. Kojie weighed in at 19 pounds, less than half her adult weight. She lay on the table and we held her and touched her. Crying parents cause children to cry. The vet came in and we said our last goodbyes.

Anna wailed in the truck. Blake sat with me on the tailgate and cried softly. They brought Kojie out to us in a neatly folded blanket and we took her home. I carried her around the back and the kids went through the house. The stroked the blanket where Kojie's head was and cried some more. We place her in the ground, prayed and covered her up. And now here I am for the first time in 15 years and I don't have my dog. And I am sad.

Snow day this past winter.

Easter of 2009.

Fall of 2004

Spring of 2004

Taken by Brandon Young in Abilene, 1997.

The Trip Home...

2010-06-20T22:24:00.004-05:00

On the way to and home from Disney World we stopped in Mobile Alabama, which is not the greatest place in the world from our two nights in that town, but good enough to drive through. Sorry if you are from Mobile. Our trip took us from Mobile to Jackson Mississippi and then to I 20 into Dallas. Jackson Mississippi is a special place to me for a strange reason and this is one part of our trip that Shar did not plan and yet it was very special and meaningful for us and for some dear friends.

Bubba was my youth minister growing up. He was not just a youth minister, but my mentor, my employer, one of my best friends and one of my best men in my wedding and outside of my own dad he is one of the most significant men in my life.

Bubba was raised at a children's home in Mississippi, on the north side of Jackson called Sunny Brook. I do not know all the details of why Bubba and his siblings went to Sunny Brook, but I do know that his childhood was not ideal or pleasant and he lived at Sunny Brook from his elementary schools years until he left for college. He considers Sunny Brooke his home, and the couple he considers responsible for raising him are Alonzo and Catherine Welch.

Alonzo was one of the founders of Sunny Brook and served as it's director and in several other capacities for over 30 years. He has impacted thousands of lives for the kingdom and one of those lives was Bubba.

The accurate details of how Bubba went to Harding, met his future wife Robynn, returned back to Sunny Brook to serve as a house parent and then moved to California are more than I can share. I do know that Bubba was encouraged to go to California, where Robynn was from, by Alonzo and he also encouraged Bubba and Robynn to seek out and serve in the church in Escondido that meet at 7th and Orange. This is where my family went to church.

How Bubba became the youth minister and then got into construction and then did both full time and hired me and helped raise me is too long of a story. The fact is this. Bubba and Robynn were my second home throughout high school and college and they have loved me and my family, and my wife and my children as far as I can recall.

I tell you all of this in a ramble and in random sentences to impress upon you the unexplainable respect, appreciation and love I have for Bubba and Robynn.

So, when we left Mobile last Monday morning I called up Sunny Brook and after explaining my relationship to Bubba and how that kind of connected me to Alonzo, I requested a visit with him. The receptionist explained how age and health had required the Welches to retire to a home north of Jackson and then offered me the phone number of their daughter who was helping to care for them and encouraged me to call her. Being a Bundy, which means I have no problem starting conversation with complete strangers, I called her. Her name is Mary.

Mary was kind and polite, but confused at why I wanted to see her dad, until I relayed the connection I have with Bubba. Once I had explained my relationship she immediately invited us to her parents home and said her dad would be awaiting our arrival after lunch.

We arrived at a large plantation style home on the north side of Jackson, in Madison just after 1 p.m. Mary waved us toward the back porch and pointed us to park by her truck. We unloaded the family and moved toward her and after introductions we proceeded toward the house. I explained that we only needed to stay for a few minutes and that we did not want to impose on her parents. She smiled, escorted us through the back door and through the kitchen toward the sun porch were her father was sitting in a large wicker chair.

Sharla and the kids stayed behind me with Mary as I went to Alonzo and shook his hand. I took a knee next to his chair and began to explain my visit. "Why are you wanting to see me today?" he asked in an eloquent voice. I explained, "my name is Byron Bundy and my family and I live in Fort Worth." He smiled. I continued. "I was raised in California and Bubba Martin was my youth minister." His smile grew as he sat back in his chair. At that time Shar and the kids came by to make their introduction. He held Sharla's hand with both of his and smiled and then I introduced Blake and Anna Jo. He naturally held out his arms and motioned them toward him. He wrapped his massive hands and arms around my children, kissed them both on the head and smiled. As they went on to Sharla I began to explain myself.

The entire conversation was random and scattered. Alonzo is 92 and he does not know me from Adam. But I had something to say to him and this was my only chance.

I explained to him that I wanted to come and meet him so I could thank him face to face. He looked confused and I continued. I wanted to sincerely thank him for his efforts, time and energy that he spent raising Bubba. I wanted him to know that his work created a mighty man of God and I was a beneficiary of that work since Bubba was so influential to me. As I explained my admiration for Bubba and the impact he had on my life Alonzo took my hand in his. "Words like this young man are worth more that all the wealth in the world". He quietly listened as I shared stories of how Bubba had greatly impacted so many lives and how Alonzo had truly changed the kingdom by loving and caring for that one boy.

This was my opportunity to share my gratitude to the previous generation for faithfully serving the kingdom in order to impact future generations for the glory of God. Alonzo had done that and I wanted him to hear me say thank you. Bubba has followed the example of the man that raised him and has impacted the kingdom and I remind him of that and thank him often.

As my conversation ended with Alonzo he explained to me again how grateful he was that my family stopped by. He then proceeded to explain that this is God's plan for the kingdom. We are to work doing God's will in our lives so that the next generation will be moved toward God. The glory is not for us, he reminded me, but we do these good works so that God will receive glory and the kingdom will grow. He then hugged me, shook my hand and we left.

I assume that I will not see Alonzo again in this life. Shar and I made that stop in Madison to honor Bubba and to thank Alonzo. I am grateful for both men. The greatness of the kingdom though is that there was a person somewhere in Alonzo's past that moved him toward serving God, and I in turn need to be working to impact the next generations that will come after me.

Lots to Say....

2010-06-19T22:34:00.003-05:00

I have a lot of things on my mind that I want to share, but also feel so full of thoughts and ideas that I do not know where to start.

We have successfully made our first family trip to Disney World. It was smooth and loads of fun and a truly flawless trip. The kids did great, Shar planned a perfect trip, the drive was fine and I can't really think of anything that went poorly. I even lost a camera one day and found it an hour later in the lost and found. Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Theme Park were all a great hit with our family and it was a great time to be together.

To not bore you with too many Disney Details, I will give the highlights and hopefully blog details later.

1. Anna and Blake had a character meal every day. This was primarily set up for Anna Jo since most of the characters are princesses, but Blake enjoyed seeing Mickey and Friends and endured the princess time.

2. Blake was fortunate to make the list of kids that get to go to Jedi Training Camp. It was a 45 minute event with Jedi robes and light sabers and Darth Vader appeared and fought thea and Yoda spoke through the trees and Blake was pumped to be there.

3. Anna rode Thunder Mountain and did not cry.

4. Blake rode Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain and Expedition Everest and loved them all.

5. Sharla is queen of the Fast Pass line and we love the Fast Pass.

6. No Bundy kids got a spanking the entire trip, which is good for our kids.

Disney really was the happiest place on earth.

Tomorrow, which is father's day I will write about the trip home. Have a great night.

Golf.

2010-06-01T22:01:00.003-05:00

It is just something that the guys in my family do. From the earliest memories I have of family vacations, we always traveled with my dad's golf clubs. If my papa (dad's dad) went then we traveled with his clubs also and when I got into high school my clubs went along. Golf has always been a part of my life.

So we always had plenty of golf clubs, and good ones too for a middle income family who did not have money to join a country club and never really got fitted for the equipment that we had. My first set of clubs were Cougars, but my dad and papa always played Ping Irons for as long as I can remember. And a set of Pings is not something that you get rid of so when my dad found a new to him set he kept the old ones. Ping Karstens to Ping I's, to Ping I 2's, to Copper Ping I 2's to Ping Zing and then finally I got my own set of clubs. When I finished college and got married my dad had me fitted for my Ping I 3's which are my current set of clubs. I was measured and fit for the angle of the hozzle and the length and strength of the shaft and still play the same clubs. In golf years 10 years is a long time but since I am not going pro any time soon I will remain happy with my irons.

When we lived in Austin my dad took me to the Golf Smith there in Round Rock bought me a new driver, which was a brand new 2 year old Ping TISI. On sale for $99.00. I loved and hit it well or well for me for the past 1o years, but technology has come so far and I made the mistake of getting my swing looked at by the pro at Edwin Watts and that is how I got to where I am. The proud but poor owner of a brand spanking new Ping G15 Driver and 3 Wood. 9 degree driver with a Serrano stiff shaft, low torque high kick point which is more that any of you care about.

Now I am just waiting to hit the darn thing. Come on summer vacation.

Oh bye the way, this is the first golf club I have ever bought for myself. Up to now my golf equipment has been funded by my father. Now I am on my own, but dad did mention getting Blake a set of clubs this summer so I assume he is still financially invested in the family addiction.

Memorial Day 2010

2010-05-31T21:44:00.002-05:00

Another day to remember the brave men and women who have given their lives in order to defend and honor the country that we get to live in has come and gone. I am appreciative of those whom have served our country in the military and proud that I have family members on both sides of the family that are proud veterans.

I was impressed this year at how many various and random forms of respect and acknowledgement for those in the military I saw this year. Radio announcements, billboards on the highway, the preacher at church, signs and flags draping the streets of Keller. Even Google had a message across the base of their home page remembering this day. It is good to see effort placed on honoring and remembering this day.

But I am still bothered by the idea that I like some many others did not offer the thanks for this day that it actually deserves. Memorial Day like most other holidays and significant events really come and go quickly for the masses and only have real meaning for those who are somehow tied to the day. Although the above stated is somewhat morbid and unhappy it is true, for myself included. The truth is that there are no World War 1 United States Veterans living and the large population of World War 2 Veterans is shrinking quickly. There will come a time when Korea and Vietnam are ancient wars and the men that fought will be ancient themselves. This is the reality of life, and the truth of sacrifice. There are men and women who died serving our country who I will never even have an idea about, and yet I live under the umbrella of freedom that they provided. It is because of that fact that I chose to shake the hands of random soldiers and express my small and insignificant gratitude one more time.

Thanks and appreciation go to you Dad, and Jim Venigoni, Jim McKinny, Eddie Lester, Bob McQueen, Seth Simmons and Henry Browning. John Dewar and Chad Williamson and the many others that I know personally and cannot recall at this time.

My Day.

2010-05-16T21:28:00.003-05:00

Random things that happened to me and the family today. Worth remembering to me.

1. Typical Sunday morning, getting the kids fed and out the door for church. No traffic on 377 which is a sign from God that the day will be special

2. Great lesson from Rick. He pulls the scripture apart and gives you reason to study on your own. Peter's calling and the fish and net story. Greatness.

3. Bible class was good, but I was zoned out. Kevin taught on James 4:17 which is a great verse but I was not fully there. Cory Rogers lead the closing prayer which was really long, but he called on God to heal many hurting people.

4. Home for a fast lunch and then off to swim lessons. Yes swim lessons on Sunday. A girl from one of my classes, Jamie, is a swimmer for the high school and her mom is the coach and she is letting us take swim lessons. Blake is doing good and learning to breath on his side. Anna cried the whole time. Jamie would say "let's wipe the tears off 1, 2, 3" and then she would dunk Anna. I loved it.

5. From swim lessons we went to Wal Mart. Nothing good to report.

6. From Wal Mart we went to Cost Co which is our new favorite place. We bargain shop and eat samples and have a great time. Easily spent and hour and a half there.

7. Treats at Cost Co are fun. We got a churro and a swirled yogurt. When we were in line for our snacks an older man in clean jeans, a nice western button down and nice straw cowboy hat came in line behind us. Blake starred at his hat and I killed the silence by informing the gentleman that my son thinks cowboys are cool. His reply was "I used to be a pretty tough cowboy but now I am all worn out." We ordered or snacks and moved toward the registrar and the cowboy ordered his berry smoothie and came in behind us. I caught the man off guard when I bought his drink for him. He put is dollar away, we shook hands and Blake and I headed back toward Shar and Anna at our table. The man headed for his cart, and the pushed it toward us while removing his wallet from his front shirt pocket. I assumed he was wanting to repay me, but instead he came to Blake and said "I want to show you something." That is when he flashed his Texas Ranger Badge. A real Texas Ranger!!! We chatted for a few minutes and then parted ways. I have never met a Texas Ranger until today, and this old man was not anywhere near worn out.

8. From Cost Co we just had to stop by South Lake Town Center because Shar just might have to find some great deal. We left there after only spending twenty minutes and 10 bucks so I call that a victory.

9. Home to rest, mow the yard, do some laundry. Shar is working on end of year stuff for the pre school and the kids were mainly outside with me. Blake has a self propelled mower so he feels that he is mowing the yard with me. It keeps him entertained for about 20 minutes or so and he likes working with me. HOPE that will continue through the years.

10. At 6 pm I told the kids we were going for snow cones. I thought it was more like 4. Shar said no snow cones before dinner, the kids looked at me expecting me to back down to the GREAT AND MIGHTY MOM while hoping I would just this once stand my ground. Well I did and we left for snow cones but I told those kids that if they didn't eat dinner when we got home then the wrath of dad would be upon them. It worked.

11. While at the snow cone shop Blake noticed a Vietnam Veteran hat on an older gentleman. Retired Air Force. We talked at the table while the kids ate their snow cones. He enlisted in '62 and got out in '82. I told him about my dad and he informed me that he had a son that was a Marine and they felt very fond of the Corpsmen from the Navy. It was then that I asked were his son was stationed. The man dropped his head and quietly said that his son had been killed in Afghanistan. I apologized for his loss and shook his hand and his next comment really caught me. "These things happen to soldiers." This dad who had seen war himself had a perfect understanding of the situation his son was in and the pain was more than he could bare at the moment. Our conversation ended and we left.

12. We got home and the kids ate there dinner and all was well.

13. Showers and off to bed. Anna begged me for a "Princess Anna" story and I came up with a great one about The Dark Cannon and The Blake Smoke (Lost) and how the faithful horse of Princess Anna, Sunshine had been taken to The Dark Cannon. Anna loves the stuff I make up. Story time is fun.

14. And now I sit here, beat after another long and fast weekend. This will be our last week of Spring Ball and school is winding up quickly. I am wondering how I am going to teach history for the next few weeks without boring my kids to sleep. We shall see.

Have a great week.

Maybe?

2010-05-04T21:12:00.002-05:00

Kids are funny and right now in our life we have a boy who is 6 about to 7 and a little girl who has just turned 5. These are really fun times at the house and with the family.

Anna begs for stories from me every night. She gets stories every weekend, about the strong, brave, beautiful and kind Princess Anna. Very original I know.

So she knows that this is a weekend activity, but I got home way to late tonight and did not get to be with the kids much before bed, so she asked for a story.

She asked while I was drying her hair in the bathroom and kindly said "daddy, will you please tell me a princess story tonight? A short story would be o.k." I reply, "Anna, it is late and we need to get to bed." She asks again "please daddy, just a short story?" I answer her "maybe" and she says to herself, "maybe means yes and yes is good."

How does she know that so young? How has she already learned to get her way? Who is teaching her this?

5

2010-04-30T07:28:00.002-05:00

My little girls is 5 and I can't believe it. She is such a joy and a wonderful little girl and we love her so much. She is growing and changing her personality is so loving and fun and I am so happy she is my little girl.

May God give me the strength it takes to be the father that I am supposed to be. That I can teach her and guide her to be the woman that He designed before time existed and that she will be a wonderful servant in the kingdom.

Anna Jo. You mom and I love and Blake love you so much and consider you a blessing from heaven. May the Lord bless you and keep you.

Teaching?????

2010-04-27T21:17:00.002-05:00

I was planning on being a youth minister, but I got scared of Greek and a conversation with Dr. Jim Mankin steered me toward education.

I sometimes get bothered by the idea that I will really never see the fruits of my labor in my profession. I am not all that great of a teacher and I realize that, so I base my efforts in the classroom and in coaching with the premise that the relationship that I form with these kids will have a significant impact on their lives. There is a certain amount of arrogance that is present because I often feel that my moral lessons are making great and lasting marks on my students, but reality hits me in the mouth and I quickly realize that they are most likely hearing the same amount of life lessons from as they are hearing history lessons. Retention of a high school student is about 14% of what they hear. That's not good.

So sometimes I get bummed about my job and how I am really just a highly paid babysitter. I don't always see myself like that but there are good days and bad days in my job, just like there are in yours.

Today was a good day.

My first year at Keller was great and my classes were full of amazing kids and I have had a great time watching those kids grow. I get attached to all my classes but my first year at Keller really was great.

I had a conversation with one of those kids today. A great kid, who will be wonderful as a parent some day but has made some decisions in life that are creating some difficult consequences. This was one of those conversations that really can't take place in public school. I got to say things talk about things that most teachers don't get the opportunity to express, and it appeared that I was making an impact.

So many kids that I see every day have not clue how great they will be in the future. They just live and hope they don't fail again, instead of seeing how great they can be even though the here and now seems bad.

My talk with this student today reminded me why I became a teacher and energized me to do better in the coming months. I really hope this kid makes it. I hope they will come see me and Shar someday when they become as great as I know they can become.

Ruper???

2010-04-07T21:30:00.003-05:00

Where do imaginary friends go when you quit talking to them? Do they become the friend of someone else or since they are imaginary do they just stop existing, or did they ever exist? Am I going nuts or am I already there?

Blake has always had an imaginary groups of friends that would change from time to time but the one constant was Ruper. Ruper has been around since Blake could make and keep friends and remember names. Ruper was invited to parties, spent the night, played all sorts of sports with us, got in several fights with us and one time told us to do something we were not supposed to do. Ruper went to the barber shop, and to church and to the store and when his family moved to another state he lived with us for a while. Ruper was sad when we moved to Keller and would sneak in the car with Mimi and Paw and come for visits but would always go home after the weekend was over.

There was a time when I was worried about Blake having an imaginary friend. There were also times when I was embarrassed that he had this imaginary friend. Eventually I matured and embraced Ruper and invited him along with us to the store or to church.

My concern now is that Ruper is no longer around. He has been replaced by friends at church and school and high school kids that Blake considers friends. It is not that I am concerned for Ruper's well being, but the fact that my son is past the age of childish imaginary friends. Blake is growing and maturing and leaving behind some of his more childish characteristics and picking up new ones and watching it brings me joy and at the same time slaps me in the face and reminds me that my own fate will be similar to that of Ruper's. No, I don't think Blake will forget me, but there will definitely come a time when he will not need me as he has thus far.

The parts of parent hood that you don't hear about in "the how to be a parent class". Fun.

Easter 2010.

2010-04-04T21:31:00.002-05:00

Another Easter has come and gone. Enjoyable to be with family again and it is always good to be back in Temple, even though we feel more at home in Keller now we still love seeing all of those wonderful people and being with Shar's parents and grandmother is always a blessing.

I want Easter Sunday to be significant to me, more so than other Sunday's but it never really has. I am not downplaying the resurrection or doubting in my faith in a risen lord and my dependency on Jesus, but isn't that how a believer should feel every Sunday, or every day?

Death is more real to me now. All of my grandparents on my side of the family are passed on and the remaining old generation are my Great Aunt Marge and Great Uncle Bill, both in their 90's. Shar's two grandmothers are both living, even though her dad's mom is in a nursing home and has all but forgotten who we are. Her mom's mother is in her late 80's and doing well, but likes to talk about what she will be buried in and were the good jewelry is hidden if she happens to go quick. Fun conversation.

Death is more real since my parents and in-laws are both getting older. Nothing out of the ordinary, but age is age and we are all moving along at a normal pace. My dad's surgery a few years back brought us to the real option of death and God grated him more time but his body, like all of ours has flaws and that is just a fact.

Death is more real to me since Brian died. I miss him, and seeing Dana and the kids at church without him just seems wrong. The resurrection promises hope for all of us and Brian already sees that hope but I still miss him.

Death is more real.

I went to see John and FA Bowen after lunch today. Saints from Western Hills that allowed me to love them and in return they treated my kids like gold. Married for forever and hanging on to their independence as long they can, they are almost out of fight. Their minds are crisp, but their bodies are tired and they hate being away form each other, so when I visited FA at Scott and White she felt confident that John would be able to come from the nursing home and sleep in the empty bed next to her and that way they would be closer to home and it would be easier to get there the next day. Reality is they are most likely not going home and will finish this life in nursing care. Seeing them today reminds me of great days gone by and that the end is near.

My ramblings have brought me to this point and I know not what to say next. I appreciate the words of Solomon that life is meaningless and all if futile. All the effort we put into this earth so we can grow old, and be taken care of by other people before we die and meet our maker.

Death is real to me, more so than it has been in my life and I am more aware that I have a calling to be a witness for Christ and a voice for the kingdom while here on this earth. Death will come to me and I hope to meet it with grace and confidence, because we were made to die, and with death comes the life that we were living for all along.

Greatness!!!

2010-03-07T20:52:00.002-06:00

I would really encourage you to listen to this weekends sermon about answering God's call. Sermon # 4 about Ester is just greatness. I am amazed at how Shar and I are being overwhelmed with the exact things that we are discussing or need to hear. God is working on us. Mainly me.

Family

2010-03-06T21:37:00.002-06:00

Blake has had a rough day. He has not been treating his family, mainly his sister and me, as he knows he should. So this evening as Anna Jo was in the bath, I took some time with Blake to talk to him about some of his actions and words from today. The main principle of the talk was around family and how important family is to us.

The conversation was great and I think I made my point, and after several hugs and tears we began to talk about Anna Jo and Blake and how Auntie Ell and I are also brother and sister. This went into the full realm of family and who all counts as family and so we began to go through the family tree. Moms, dads, bothers, sisters, children and so on and he had a good grasp of all of that. But his question came with Uncle Kenny. "How is Uncle Kenny family to you", Blake asked me. "Well son, since Uncle Kenny married my sister then he becomes apart of my family and we become apart of his family." Blake paused for a second or two and then smiled like he had just stolen something.

"So you got your best friend to marry your sister?", he asks. "What a great trick you played on her right dad?"

"Yes son, it was a great trick."

Anna Jo

2010-03-03T19:56:00.003-06:00

I am amazed at how time is passing by so quickly and how I am getting old and my kids are growing up. Our house has mostly been a divided house, with Blake leaning more toward me and Anna Jo leaning more toward her mom. This is a constant and I don't see it as a negative in our house, but when free time exists Blake tends to want to be more with dad and Anna Jo with her mom.

It has only been in the last 4 months or so that Anna has started to cling to me more. Possibly an adjustment since Blake has been at school, and with Anna and Shar having much more time together she is looking for a different face, but she has been wanting more time with dad.

This is great. I love Anna Jo so terribly much, and little girls have a certain power over dad's that is unexplainable, and I love it. Our new tradition is bed time and stories.

Like most things, Shar has nearly always put Anna to bed and me Blake, when I am home at bed time which is not often enough. But lately Anna has been requesting me and a story about a princess. I will be the first to tell you that my stories are poor, but Anna loves them and so I continue to create adventures for the beautiful, strong and kind Princess Anna to endure and enjoy. Dragons, monster of the land and sea and acts of kindness for the local village have been our most recent tales, and she consumes the very idea of another story. It is such a joy to tell her how kind and brave and wonderful she is going to be and all of the great things I see inside of her, and in her future. To watch her listen to the jumbled words that leave my mouth is to watch pure joy. She is the princess, and I am the king. There is a great country song about that very thing.

At the end of each school year I give the kids in my class a charge to be good and do right, and then I give the girls in my class a special talk. I explain to them how precious they are and how perfectly God made them and that they are special because they are some body's little girl. Not all of my kids come from a perfect home so I get to tell them that they belong to God and he loves them just as I love my Anna Jo. As my little girl grows the talk I give takes on new meaning and becomes more difficult.

I am already planning for the end of this school year.

I wish I cold blog....

2010-02-28T22:24:00.001-06:00

Time is winning and I am running low in energy and feel unable to do all the things I want to do, and somewhere on that list is to blog.

I am missing events in life and this has been my online journal and the place where I can share my thoughts and worries and joys and pain and fear, and I am finding myself unable to set aside the time to do this.

I am letting great preaching go by without telling you about it. I am letting memories of my kids and wife slip by without recording them for future years. I am passing up opportunities to remember Brian White and share the items that come to my mind during the week about him and Dana and the kids. I have missed the opportunity to talk about David Bazaillion and his daughter and their loss. I am not blogging and it is something I enjoyed.

I will give it one more try. I will try for myself and for the thoughts I want to express and the memories I want to capture in words.

On another topic, I am curious about prayer. Shar has been doing some great studying on prayer and is growing, and we are discussing but I curious about prayer and what it does, and what God is hearing and what we should be praying for and why we pray, and if we can move God to change what is happening and what about the items we pray for that do not happen or move God to act in our favor and how to we explain or understand that, or can we even begin to understand? Does anyone out there want to share their thoughts on prayer?

Face Book

2010-02-17T21:24:00.001-06:00

It may be taking over the blog world and this blog possibly, but this post from a preacher friend was great and had to be shared. Like it or not, it is great in my opinion.

Happy birthday to the stimulus package. 6% believe it worked. More believe Elvis is alive & we never landed on the moon...really.

Diet and Health

2010-02-05T23:26:00.002-06:00

I want to be healthy. I want to work out and be stronger and more fit. But that takes effort and desire and I am lacking both. Shar on the other hand has always been health conscious and has made an active effort over these past 13 years to be fit, healthy, in shape and so on. I on the other hand am still counting on my faster than normal metabolism.

Here is my diet for the day.

6:15 - 2 sausage biscuits from Mc Donald's.

11:30 - a home made chocolate chip cookie that I took from Tyler Park. His mom makes great cookies.

11:35 - large cup of sweet tea. Very sweet.

11:45 - bowl of Chunky Soup.

5:00 - turkey and cheese sandwich on the way to the soccer game. Package of cheese and crackers, smaller serving of chips, small tootsie roll.

7:50 - Double Cheese burger from Mc Donald's (team mom gets them for us after away games), Gatorade and a small brownie

11:30 - Chips and salsa from Chilies.

Do I care? No.

Work, Work, Work.

2010-02-03T22:00:00.003-06:00

I am not sure what you do for a living. I am not sure if you love your job or hate it and what your plans are in the future. I will say that I really enjoy coaching football. It is a mental and brutally physical game that I was not good at as a boy but that I really enjoy teaching to young men. Teaching history is fun but I am not all that great at it and my kids are most likely missing out on some significant details that they need to know. For that I am sorry and I will work to improve on that as I do every year.

The one thing I am pretty sure of is I have no clue what I would do for a job if I was not teaching and coaching. It just might be one of the greatest jobs in the world. Similar to youth ministry which I have considered in the past, teaching kids is just great. But even better is the time and opportunity you have to build a relationship with kids. I love it. I could write all night sharing the events of just one day. There is something really special about high school kids and I get to be around it, the good and the bad, every day.

I am grateful for my job and my career, and I am amazed at how God used Dr. Jim Mankin all those years ago to nudge me in this direction.

""For I know the plans I have for you, "declares the Lord.""

Hey.

2010-01-24T23:09:00.006-06:00

If you are not listening to Rick's sermons online then I would have to say that you are really missing out on some great insight from God's Word. We are again examining our giving and understanding of giving to the kingdom. Check it out.

Sing,,,, Sing A Song.....

2010-01-23T22:48:00.003-06:00

I drive a bus. Not everyday but as often as I can. Games, school trips, and other events for the school. On Friday I took Mrs. King and the Keller Choir on their recruiting trip to the local feeder schools. Great day, great kids and amazing voices. The day caused me to think about some stuff.

As Mrs. King and I were eating the fine food of Double Dave's Pizza, she began to ask about my singing and if I would be interested in being involved in her fall adult choir show. She really thinks it would be great if the kids saw coaches singing. I decline and use my football responsibilities to not commit at this time since the concert takes place around week 7.

But the part of the day that caused me to think was watching these young men and women sing and thinking back to the days of Western Hills and my short lived endeavor of leading worship. I remember feeling so confident and able and I acted as if I knew what I was doing, but now I realize how out of place I really was. In Mrs. Kings choir there are many future praise team and worship leading singers and they are awesome. I do not have the ability to even hold their music much less sing with them, but my epiphany came when I thought back on the massive amount of talent that I was privileged to sing with in Temple.

Jim and Syree are musical masters that could read, sing and write anything they desired. Their gifts and knowledge were unmatched. Todd and Mike are professional musicians in my opinion and can lead with authority because they understand music. Lorean Glover is a mighty Alto/Tenor and could sing both at one time, or so it seemed. LeGay sang with elegance and her heart made the music that much better. Sharisa and Jenna have pure beauty leave their mouth every time they sing. The are amazing. Julie and Randy are modest and prefer to stay out of the spotlight, but have musical talent share. Richard is the bass of the basement and is unlimited in his depth.

When I think back on how arrogantly I entered that room every Wednesday night, I become embarrassed and can only imagine what those trained singers and musicians thought of that pompous coach. Good thing we were at church and grace abounded. Watching Mrs. King direct her choir and hearing those kids sing gives me a greater appreciation for what we had in Temple and what I was lucky enough to be involved with. Only now do I fully understand how much I must have irritated the talent I was with. My sincere apologies to all of you. It was my honor to be able to sing with you for those years.

Money..

2010-01-14T22:31:00.003-06:00

Had another great discussion on Wednesday night about finances and our understanding of how we use them for God's kingdom.

How do we save for our later years in life and be good stewards of the finances we have and still trust that God will meet the needs we have?

In Proverbs 30 the ant is praised as being wise for storing up food for itself in the summer, but in Matthew 6 we are reminded of how God provides for the even the birds of the air.

So where is the middle ground that God will be pleased with?

The greater concept that Shar and I are discussing is this: all we have comes from and belongs to God. If that is so, then is my savings account a safety net if God does not provide? Does my tax deferred annuity question God's ability to take care of us? The ant stored food for the summer. How many summers is enough?

Another question deals with my desire to retire. For me in my teaching career that age of retirement is 52. Then what? What section of scripture deals with retirement? Where does God encourage us to work hard for 30 years and then stop and rest and enjoy the good life? Is that a biblical idea or an American idea?

The conclusion to our discussion was that we need to individually work to have biblical principles guiding our finances and not American or worldly principles dictating our financial goals, thoughts and decisions. What does God want me to do with the money he has entrusted to my care?

Money

2010-01-06T23:07:00.004-06:00

We are having a 2 week study with our small group at church on giving generously. I am convicted at the moment, and hopefully it will last, at how much we have, how little we might give, and how we consider the things we have to be ours and not gifts from God. We is me, and you, and our peers. I will be sharing more on this in the coming days, but I wanted to leave you with a wealth calculator to see where you stand in comparison to the other inhabitants of the world.

How rich are you?

First Post 2010

2010-01-01T08:43:00.002-06:00

Good morning, and Happy New Year.

We shall see if this blog will last another year.

I have never really been a big "new year resolution" kind of guy. The one tradition that we had as a family growing up was that my Papa (dad's dad) would get out the Saxaphone and play Auld Lang Syne on the front porch at midnight, and my Nana (dad's mom) would sing.

Some people are really set on the fact that January will bring them the desire to have drastic change in their life and that it is an opportunity to start over. To me, January 1st is the first day of the calender year, but that is really it. I try to be a better husband, dad, friend, coach, son and follower of Christ just as much on February 1st as I do on January 1st. Life does not start over for me on this day for a few reasons, which are long and boring and will not be discussed at this time.

So instead of resolutions, I am telling you things that I want for New Years 2010. If you could buy and send me these items I would be very grateful.

1. I want to be more patient. With Shar and the kids I often lack the patience that God desires me to have.

2. I want to be more dependent of God. I need to hand my life back to Him and trust that His desires for my are good, and my dependence on him makes me a better father and husband.

3. I want to be more willing to serve. Being in a larger city, and in a larger church and as Blake and Anna Jo grow and need more attention I have found myself less willing to serve others. I want to take more opportunities to serve others and provide my kids with experiences of helping others so they will have that desire as they grow older.

These are just a few items that I want for this new year of life that we have. There will be many joys and some sorrows this year, as there was in the previous year and I trust that God will continue to be faithful and loving as he always has.

Happy New Year.

Christmas..

2009-12-29T08:48:00.002-06:00

I was the first one up this morning, again, and I am sitting here in Ruidoso watching the slow gently fall to the ground. What a great way to start your day.

The house we are in is just great, sitting on the golf course which offers a great place to go sledding. The cousins all love being together and are having so much fun.

Kenny and I and the older boys are going snow boarding and the rest of the family is heading to a tube park after lunch. The fresh powder should make it perfect for both.

Have a great day.

Christmas

2009-12-25T14:08:00.002-06:00

Hope the rest of you are having fun with family and gifts and food. Beautifully cold Christmas here in Central and North Texas and the weather looks good for our activities next week.

Santa came and delivered to Blake and Anna Jo again and they still have the tender hearts needed to believe in that fun story. We can't go to sleep on Christmas Eve without spreading out the Reindeer food so Rudolph will know where to go.

Have a great day and weekend and enjoy your time with your family. Remember to be mindful and prayerful for those who are missing loved ones this holiday season. Joyful times and painful times and I want to be more aware of those who are hurting and more conscious about loving the ones that are here.

Merry Christmas.

Brian....

2009-12-10T21:37:00.002-06:00

When Brian and I first met we both drove Toyota Extra Cab trucks with 4 wheel drive. Each truck had a crack in the front right turn signal. He pointed that out to me.

Both loved golf and felt that playing church league softball was one way to get closer to God.

Loved to water ski and would often find ourselves on Belton Lake, in my boat with Sharon. The three of us could have been an up and coming water ski team. Lane Smith was our full time alternate.

We both loved to skip church, or at least talk about it because it made Dana and Shar so mad.

Being with Brian was like being with that kid in school that was good enough for your mom to let you hand out with, but bad enough to do fun things that your not supposed to do but not get caught.

He played a big draw and out hit me and I never beat him at a full round of golf. Front nine a few times, but never a full round.

We talked about everything. Church, golf, business, coaching, wives, marriage, raising kids, stupid people, cool people, sports, golf, wives and a whole bunch of other stuff.

Dana was wanting to paint Rian's room, but Brian's first surgery had just happened and so she asked Shar if I would. Dana picked out this paint that had a pound of sand added to it. Brian was laid up on the couch, I was painting Rian's room the girls were gone with the kids. We yelled back and forth about that stupid paint and he swore that if he could get off the couch he would throw the whole can in the street.

When the four of us were together it became boys verse girls. Dana and Shar swore that the two of us brought the worst out in each other. That was what made it so much fun.

Brian and I first met in 1995 at a Kojie Social in Abilene. I had no idea at the time what a great friend God had just put into my life. What a blessing Brian was to me.

Brian was an easy friend to have. Comfortable.

Brian White...

2009-12-09T22:10:00.004-06:00

So I burst into tears last night while typing. It has been an emotional week, but I have held it in, without really trying, but last night as I walked through my own thoughts I was overcome with sorrow for the loss of a dear friend.

As we walked up the hallway from the FLC at church to the main entrance of the church, I began to see the crowd that was coming for the funeral. I greeted a few as I walked with Shar and the other pallbearers to receive our instructions. It was at that moment that the emotions I had been anticipating came so unexpectedly. I saw old friends. Not just people we went to church with, but the old members of our small group.

When we first moved to Temple Shar and I really did not want to attend Western Hills. Shar was raised there and wanted new environment to worship in. The only problem was Dana. She begged us to come the WH and hated the idea of us worshiping somewhere else. We had been friends with Dana and Brian too long to not go to church with them, but we needed to search out the best place for us. God opened doors for us at WH. We shopped around but found our home there. Once there we needed a community our age and began meeting with some other young marrieds that were in our age group and life stage. The group grew and change over the years and included a variety of people, most of whom moved away from Temple as we did. The beauty is that so many were returning for this event. This is was caused my heart to break.

I saw Jeff and Danette. My tears began with them. Carl and Lane were next. Barry and Diane, Kyle and Cami, Chris and Jenn, Jason and Kendra, Todd and Julie, Ryan and Amy, Scott and Sandy, Aunt Sharon (with Jarrod) and the Meyers ( and of course Dana and Brian). It was a homecoming of sorts, but for the first time I understood that one was missing. My heart broke and I realized that my friend was gone.

I cry.

The people that you are with when your children are born hold a special place in your heart. They see you and assist you through some wonderful and difficult times and those memories and friendships can not be replaced. These are the people that prayed over Shar when she was pregnant. These are the families that we spent our free time with. These are the people we studied the Bible with. Prayed with, laughed with and cried with. This was our family and now the circle was smaller.

I hate that the circle is smaller.

Brian White..

2009-12-08T21:46:00.003-06:00

I do not have the reputation of being emotionally strong. Emotional yes, strong no. It is not something I am ashamed of, but rather something I have embraced over the years and years of uncontrollable crying in front of other people. For the above reason is why I have been so disappointed with myself these past few weeks.

We lived one street over from Brian and Dana in Temple. We went to church together, played softball and water skied and golfed and watched each others kids. It was a great situation and friendship. I was still coaching and teaching in Belton when Brian was diagnosed, but just as Dana expressed at the funeral, I was confident in Brian's healing because he made me feel that way. He had cancer, he was going to beat it and we would grow old as great friends.

When we left Belton in 2007 and I did not do a good job of keeping up with Brian and. We talked when Shar and I would visit and played a few more rounds of golf in the summer but I was removed from the area and felt removed from the situation. I was emotionally unattached to the pain the White's were enduring. It was an error of mine and I wish I would have acted differently.

I sat with him this summer at church as we sang It Is Well With My Soul. I hugged his neck and kissed his cheek and told him how much he meant to me. He was fine, I was overcome with emotion. I was hurting for him, but my life resumed back in Keller and distance caused my emotions to ease. When the cancer returned, I was again comfortable that Brian would win. He always had and would continue to do so. I had no reason to doubt.

With the latest rounds of scans showing more and more cancer areas in his body I began to fear a negative outcome. A lack of faith or a pessimistic outlook. Either way I began for the first time to visualize what we all dreaded. Seeing Brain and Dana at Thanksgiving was difficult. Family all around and Brian was obviously feeling bad, and our only communication was a hug in the hallway of church.

My heart sank when we heard the results after his Saturday night emergency room visit. I was in shock, but still without tears. I hurt, but I could not bring myself to cry. The news of Brian's passing came to us on Thursday morning. Shar called me at school and I went home to pack for our family. We arrived in Temple that evening. Shar went to serve Dana Friday and stayed until Sunday. I was busy with the kids and still guarded my heart from what had happened. The viewing was Sunday afternoon and it was my first time to see Dana. I expected to fall into pieces, but she was so strong and so drained that I fed off of her response to me. I kissed her cheek, told her of my love for her husband and family and went to the store to buy her a Dr. Pepper. If I stay busy I stay calm. A trick I learned from my dad and Bubba.

Lunch before the funeral was fine. Great stories with Patrick and Bullock and other family members. I laughed with Dana at the ties she had us wearing and we agreed that it was Brian's last joke on the pallbearers. The time from 11:30 to 1:30 was a very peaceful pre funeral meal, and even though I knew the actual ceremony would be difficult for me I was still not fully aware of the fact that my friend was no longer with us.

Too emotional to finish tonight.

Brian Whte.

2009-12-07T22:23:00.003-06:00

We buried Brian today. The last 5 days seem like a bad dream that I cannot awaken from. I sit here in Keller tonight and still do not believe that my days of friendship with Brian on this earth are complete. The idea stops my thoughts.

We arrived in Temple on Thursday and Shar went to Dana's on Friday morning, and returned to her parents house Sunday afternoon. There is a small group of childhood, lifelong friends that Dana requested be with her and they all answered. Wonderful ladies that love Dana and Brian and willingly put their lives on hold to serve and care for their dear friend. The children also sacrificed because they were with their dads, alone for those days. Blake and Anna did fine on Cheetos and Dr. Pepper.

To describe the funeral today would take to much time and emotion. A near 3 hour visitation the day before, with a line wrapping half of the funeral home was followed today by a funeral service with roughly 700 in attendance. The details I have stored in my mind are too heavy at this moment. Let me provide you with one scene of the day. Dana stood in front of this audience, with her husband's casket below and in detail and in length expressed her love for her God, her love for husband and her love for her family and did so with the greatest of eloquencey. It could not have been more perfect.

I will share more tomorrow. Continue to pray for Dana and her family, parents and in-laws. God is answering your prayers for strength and grace.

Be Still and Know that I Am God......

2009-12-03T10:24:00.003-06:00

Our dear friend Brian has left this life to be with our Lord. I ask your prayers to be for Dana and her children and their family.

2009-12-02T11:54:00.003-06:00

"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. "Plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart. I will be found by you," declares the Lord.

Words of the Lord, recorded by Jeremiah.

Prayers.

2009-11-29T17:18:00.002-06:00

I am asking for you to take time this evening and tomorrow morning to be prayerful for Brian and Dana White and their children as they struggle with the realities of Brian's cancer.

Turkey Week

2009-11-28T07:51:00.002-06:00

Football ended and life works back to normal again. Turkey week this year was interesting and busy. It began with Anna having her first lab work which is required based on the anti seizure medicine she is taking. We were nervous about sticking our 4 year old with a large needle and drawing 4 tubes of blood. Anna sat in Shar's lap, and Shar secured her off arm and her body. I grabbed her other arm and held it under the elbow and on the wrist. As the tech showed us the needle I told Anna to look at the ceiling and before we could say anything else she was laughing. As she lowered her head to watch the blood flow through the tube she asked to make sure it was her blood and then gladly watched in amazement. She earned a Happy Meal for that one.

Thanksgiving in Temple with Shar's family and missing one more grandparent. Hal Marks passed away this past July and missed him this year. Jo Ann is doing very well on her own and has such a great spirit and attitude. She is a wonderful woman and a blessing to our family.

Black Friday was a success because I slept in and Shar went shopping with her mom. It was successful, based on the fact that we did not spend out entire savings account. Another success is that I did not have to take part.

We hope you had a good week with your families and enjoyed the time together. Happy Thanksgiving.

2009-11-20T22:57:00.004-06:00

Downswing: Weight balanced. Right elbow in. Left arm pulling club through.

Through Impact: Proper weight transfer to left foot. Hips rotating through the ball. Right arm straight.
Finish: Hips through. Belly button pointing to ball. Arms high with full finish. Left foot grounded with right toe in ground.
Sometimes it helps for the dad to watch and let someone else teach.

Church

2009-11-20T22:44:00.003-06:00

Church is a funny place.

Full of love and friendship, pain and joy and mostly full of people who share a common love for the One who created the world and the Son who sacrificed his life so we could be with him.

But still at times a funny place.

Two short stories.

A few years ago I had an accident where I fell out of a tree and suffered some relatively serious injuries. 4 Broken ribs and a punctured lung, along with a wife who was mad at me for falling. It happened on a Saturday and of course they announced it the following Sunday at two local churches where Shar and I were active. Two weeks later when I was able to return to church, it was a Sunday morning and I slipped into the back of the church and sat without bringing any attention to myself. The preacher, who is a buddy of mine noticed me and before his sermon announced my attendance to the congregation. The members turned and looked and then began to clap, like I had done something. I was grateful and appreciative, but did not think my attendance to church deserved applause. But I accepted it.

This past Wednesday night was my first time to be at Wednesday night church since mid July. I skipped small group and quietly sat in the back of the church by myself while Shar taught class. When the preacher began to speak he mentioned that several from the church had participated in a marathon and half marathon in San Antonio. He mentioned my good friend Dave who is a minister of something, and then began to relay to the crowd there that Dave had completed the marathon and had qualified for the Boston Marathon. Instantly the crowd began to clap and carry out a rather long applause for Dave completing this task. I knew Dave was not there so I did not clap, but I am proud of him. The greatest moment was when the preacher said that he hated Dave for his success in running the marathon with such success, and then explained that scripture tells us to "walk by faith" and not to run.

What Now?

2009-11-17T22:03:00.001-06:00

Any advice on what a High School Coach does when football season is over? I'll take suggestions.

By the way, soccer season starts after Thanksgiving so you need to pass on your ideas fast.

It's Over.

2009-11-15T11:24:00.003-06:00

Football season is over. I am home and not at the field house and I will reintroduce myself to my family. I have some things to share with you about the events of last nights game against Coppell and the fun that we had at the new Texas Stadium and the fun of the evening. For now I will try to be a dad and husband. Talk to you soon.

Armistice

2009-11-11T21:34:00.003-06:00

The signing of the declaration to officially end World War 1 takes place on 11-11-1918 at the 11 hour. It was the end of The Great War and it signified the desire for the world to be at peace and never enter such a conflict again. The League of Nations was born out of that war, which eventually turned into the United Nations, although the original was a near failure from it's beginning. Armistice Day does not become Veterans Day until Jimmy Carter in the late 1970's makes it the official day of recognition for soldiers of all wars and conflicts to be honored and for the country to remember those who have given the greatest sacrifice for the comfort that we enjoy.

I am again grateful for the soldiers who have gone before and helped to make this country that we live in so wonderful. I am always mindful and thankful for my dad's service and thankful that he not only served but survived the Vietnam War and then served our country for another 20+ years. I am always looking for soldiers to meet and thank and introduce my children to. At last weeks game against Fossil we had the pleasure of watching the Leap Frogs from the Navy Seal Team fall from the sky and bring in the game ball. I introduced myself to them and shook hands with a sailor who was on the West Virginia on December 7 of 1941 and told me more horror stories in 5 minutes then I ever wanted to hear. As he shook Blake's hand I told my son that he was holding the hand of a super hero. Blake just smiled.

I'm glad you made it home dad. For those of you out there who served in the military, thank you and my God bless you.

Happy Veteran's Day, and welcome home.

Playoffs 2009

2009-11-09T23:42:00.001-06:00

These are the guys that are helping us win in the 2009 Playoffs. Great Young Men.

The View From a Coach and His Family

Week 11

2009-11-07T07:28:00.002-06:00

Well, we beat the cross town rivals again, and this time we are going to the playoffs. The game was great and the boys played so well and Fossil did not have an answer to what we were doing on Defense or on Offense. 48 to 28 was the final now on to the playoffs against Coppell, but the exciting part is that we are playing in the new Cowboy Stadium. Can't wait to be on that field.

Prayers.....

2009-11-05T10:41:00.003-06:00

We beg of you to be in prayer for our dear friends in Temple who are fighting cancer. I have asked for prayers before and as difficult times approach them I request your prayers again. Results are not what they are wanting, but their faith and outlook is truly inspirational.

Brian and Dana White and their 3 kids, along with their family.

Thank you.

Byron

Results

2009-10-28T21:48:00.002-05:00

I was not able to go to the doctors office with Shar and Anna Jo as I had planned. The results given were good in that we know what we are dealing with and there is no major medical complication causing these seizures.

The doctor wants to begin treatment with medication soon. This will involve several things that we are not excited about.

1. Blood work every 3 to 6 months. I know that many of your kids have endured this but since we have not then we count this as a negative.

2. Side Affects. We do not want anything to change the sweet and playful personality that Anna Jo has. Medication will most likely have some impact on her. We are unsure what.

3. Not treating will potentially cause safety issues. If Anna has a seizure while walking down stairs or crossing the street or playing on the play scape then we could have a fall and create other issues. Glass half empty thinking but necessary thoughts at this point.

4. Drugs. We are not big fans of pumping synthetic drugs in our kids. I love them for me but for my 4 year old I prefer not.

We are looking for wisdom and guidance in this are and hope for a clear mind to make good decision. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

Readings

2009-10-28T05:59:00.002-05:00

Today we get Anna's E.E.G. read. Nervous is one way to describe how we feel. Our appointment is at 1 p.m.

Dinner is Served

2009-10-27T22:21:00.003-05:00

Since coaching is such a full time job, I get to build a really good relationship with the guys that are on the football team. The ones I spend the most time with are the guys I coach, the Safeties. We have always wanted to share our lives and family with the boys I coach since I spend so much of my time with them. This is why we have always made a effort to have the guys into our home a few times each season for a meal together. Tonight was another Bundy Football Dinner.

5 guys, all safeties and all very hungry. Shar goes all out to feed these boys. Brisket, Green Beans, Cheesy Potato Casserole, Rolls, and home made Chocolate Chunk Layered Cake. It is like feeding kids that have never eaten. Worth every penny of their UIL mandated contribution.

All day long and even during practice they ask what is for dinner and I keep it a secret. Fajitas are the usual but Shar changed it up on them. After dinner and dessert and conversation we have play time. Normally it is football or something outside, but tonight Tyler brought his Nerf Guns and Blake got his out and we had a huge Nerf Gun War. So much fun. Robert turned the lights out, Brandon is hiding in the hallway, Drew is behind a curtain and Paul is behind the couch. Blake and Anna run wild through the living room and Shar runs for the bedroom to hide.

I am very grateful for these young men. It is so important to me that they know me as more than a football coach. I want them to know my wife and kids and see me interact with them. I want them to hear me pray for them by name and hold my kids hands around the kitchen island as we thank God for all we have. I want them to see a normal life because some of them don't get to. I want them to remember more than just football from me. I want them to know that I care about them now and in 10 years. It matters to me that they hug my wife and kids when the enter the house and when they leave. This teaching and coaching thing has to be more than just class and football. It has to be a relationship with the kids I am with.

Retreat!!!

2009-10-25T23:36:00.004-05:00

Marriage/Family Retreat with small group and class from church this weekend was just great. So good to be away for just a few hours during this busy time and be a dad and husband.

Topics: Life, Family, Children, Parenting, Marriage, Kids Activities, Church and Sex. Now I've got your attention.

Chris and Stacey Hatchet were the ones offering wisdom from scripture and from years of experience and it was so good to listen and learn. Chris is so honest and blunt, it is like I was sitting with an old friend. His dear wife Stacey was so easy to listen to and she offered Shar and the other wives such encouragement and kind words of support. I would listen to them talk for hours if I could.

WOW!?!?!?

2009-10-23T22:30:00.003-05:00

Thanks for that.

Anna is having Absence seizures, also known as petite mal seizures. Nothing severe and barely noticeable, but they are a concern to us and to our Pediatrician. We will meet with the Pediatric Neuro Specialist next week to look at a course of action. Medication is the first step, and that is not our desired answer but we will trust the physicians, and research on our own and try to find the best fit for our family.

Difficult to watch your 4 year old girl, with electrodes fastened all around her head laying still on a hospital bed while the computer screen bounces. Helpless is not a comfortable place for me. Shar is amazingly strong and educated on what we are facing. I am tense and ignorant (without knowledge, but not stupid, for those that know me).

The Blog is Breathing, Barely......

2009-10-20T23:23:00.003-05:00

I am at the point where I might be canceling the blog. Not yet, but the thought has crossed my mind. What the heck is this blog for anyway?

I began the blog back when my dad was first planning his trip to Houston to have major surgery. Check out the first few posts. They were some of the best things I have ever written. The blog just stuck around and I have used it over the years, but technology has grown and the blog is almost outdated. Twitter and Face Book have grown and over taken the public information sharing scene and the blog seems old and boring. And honestly, how many people are still reading my ramblings? 10 to 20 of you at the most.

On the other hand, the blog still offers a more personal way in my opinion to share more meaningful thoughts and events. It allows me to express myself in long or short form and it is honestly unaffected by the number of readers. Often times the blog exists for me to think and open up and allows me a arena to speak and not be judged, too much.

Like tomorrow, Anna Jo is having an E.E.G. test at 1 p.m. Shar and I are really worried and unsure what will come of tomorrows tests, so the blog gives me an online voice to request prayers for my daughter, and if you read this and pray then God is glorified by your faith. If you read this and go on with your life then at least you have a small view of what my family isdealing with at the moment.

So for now the blog will linger on, and I will try to give it some attention, but Family, Football, Teaching and Grad School are not allowing the blog to have the time it desires, like it actually has feelings, or does it?

Great Lesson!

2009-10-04T21:53:00.003-05:00

We are very lucky to go to Richland Hills Church of Christ. It is a great place. The sermon series that Rick is starting is on Luke 15 and the Prodigal Son. I would really encourage you to listen to this twist on a great story about our God. Have a great week.

Prayers.....

2009-09-28T21:02:00.003-05:00

We are asking you to be prayerful for our dear friend Brian White. He is again battling cancer and he, along with his wife and kids are in need of strength and peace that can only come from our God. I am asking God for mustard seed faith. Please remember Brian in your prayers and feel free to share this with the other believers in your life.

Byron

School

2009-09-16T21:35:00.003-05:00

Blake is in his 3rd week of school and it amazes me that he is a school kid. For so long I have told my own students about my kids, but my kids were home with my wife. Now my kids are sitting in some teachers classroom listening to their stories. Funny.

Blake is having trouble at school. This girl at recess will not quit chasing him. When he asks me for advice I shrug my shoulders and explain to him that I really never had that problem.

Shar thinks Blake and I are a lot alike. She tells me all the things that I do that bother her and then explains that Blake does all the same things. Funny. If I told Shar that her daughter always likes to be right and wants to have things her way do you think she would understand my hidden message. I better not try.

Here We Are.

2009-09-08T22:36:00.002-05:00

Busy days here in Keller America. This past weekend we did some yard work and ate a free meal.

Question? If your hedge trimmer broke on you and you were too cheap to go to the local hardware store and buy another one, what would you use to trim the hedges that your wife said you had to before you could eat dinner?

a. Hand Clippers

b. Go buy a new trimmer

c. Your Chainsaw.

If you picked C then you know me pretty well. Why not use the chainsaw? It cuts things, fast and is easy to use. The neighbors thought that I was bordering on white trash, but that was not near as bad as what I did with the two trash cans full of trimmings.

How do you feel about free food? Me, I am all over it. I was known in college for finding ways to enter The Bean without paying, which is wrong and I know that at 34, but at 19 it seemed harmless and fun and ACU was taking so much from me that I thought they owed me little. Anyway, free is good. So after a long day of yard work, my land owner said we were going to Chic Fil A for dinner and it would be cheap, if not free. I was in. The deal was this. If you wore your favorite team shirt or hat to Chic Fil A then they would give you a free chicken sandwich. Great deal, so piled in the truck and head to Chic Fil A with the rest of North Tarrant County. Feeding a family of four for only $5.11 is so worth the effort in my opinion. White trash or not?

I would like to put out a special word for the Chic Fil A company and encourage you to visit their stores. Good food, nice people and they are giving away a lot of food these days which is really great of them. I am sure they are still making money, which they should, but their effort to help people get a good meal in a bad economy is kind an appreciated.

1 and 0 is GOOD!!!

2009-09-04T00:02:00.002-05:00

We beat Midlothian tonight. It was a great crowd for a Thursday night game. Slight delay at half due to a lightning storm that passed by. Offense and Defense both played well and we found a sophomore kicker that has Ice in his veins. He was solid.

Shar and the kids came to game tonight and I was very grateful. A school night game and the week is long on Shar with me being gone so very much. She had open house for the preschool where she teaches and Anna attends, so Blake got dropped off at the Field House at 5:40 and did not leave until after the game around 10:30. That is late for a school night and that is where Shar is great. It would have been normal to stay at home and have Blake in bed at a decent hour, but Shar sees the priority of me seeing the kids and the kids enjoying the football season, and that makes for some great memories. Blake loves to be there, and Anna has a Senior cheerleader that goes out of her way to give Anna some special attention. Thanks Steph. I am thankful that Shar sacrifices so I can be with the kids and so they can be at the game. I Love You Shar.

Blake Turns 6

2009-08-27T21:23:00.002-05:00

Click to Play

Here is the short version of Blake's 6th Birthday.

First Day of School for Blake

2009-08-25T21:48:00.002-05:00

This is my boy on his first day of school. He is now a full time student, and will be one hopefully for the next 17 years. Have fun son. We love you.

Welcome Back.

2009-08-22T01:25:00.002-05:00

The beginning of football season beats me up. We have just finished 2 a days for this year and will begin school and regular practice on Monday. Let me just tell you my daily schedule these past 2 weeks. Not complaining, just sharing.

Monday through Friday of Week 1.

Wake up: 5:45 a.m.

Arrive at school: 6:30 ish.

Meeting with staff and prepare for 9th grade work out.

9th grade practice: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Coaches meet and watch film from previous day. 10:30 to noon.

Noon to 1:30 p.m.: Lunch.

Back to field house for practice organization.: 2 p.m.

J.V. and Varsity arrive at Field House: 3 p.m.

Pre Practice begins: 4:14 p.m.

Practice begins: 4:30 p.m.

First practice ends: 6 p.m.

Dinner: 6 to 7 p.m.

2nd Practice begins: 7:15 p.m.

2nd Practice ends: 8:30 ish p.m.

Coaches meeting: 9 p.m.

Defensive meeting to plan the next days work: 10 p.m.

Home before 11 p.m.

Now for week 2 I would like you to place school in-service in there from 8:30 to 3:30. So much fun.

Tonight was our first test against Hebron. Good team and a pretty good showing by both groups. Film on Saturday morning will most likely change my opinion of that but at 1:34 in the morning I think it was o.k.

Tomorrow is Blake's Birthday and Shar as planned and organized and prepared the entire thing by herself. It will be a great party.

California 4

2009-08-03T22:23:00.003-05:00

Are you tired of these lame posts yet? I would assume you are, and yet I keep posting them. Crazy.

Speaking of crazy, these two munchkins are almost nuts. They are cousins Brooks and Anna Jo and they are joined at the hip in California. Just 2 months apart they are forced to do most of the activities together, but their age and fearless approach towards life allows them to be perfect for each other. In the car going to dinner they decided that being a super hero required special glasses, or goggles. This is fine in the car, but as we enter the restaurant we notice that people are laughing at us, or at them. The goggles are still on, and super hero action moves are taking place. The magic is that they thinks it's great.

Oh to be 4 and careless of what the world thinks of you?

California 3

2009-07-30T19:35:00.003-05:00

This is a special picture for me and for my dad, and some day maybe for Blake. The golf tradition starts with my dad's dad, Sam Bundy who was Papa to me. He was the first golfer of the family and ever since I can remember my dad and Papa would load up the clubs and go play several times when the family got together. I remember Papa taking me to Sleepy Hollow Golf Club in south Dallas when I was just 5 or 6 and letting me drive the cart and take cuts at the ball. Golf is just something we have always done and I hope Blake learns to love the game as Papa, Grandon and his own dad have.

Blake. Keep your head down, hands low and swing smooth - let the club do the work.

California 2

2009-07-26T08:09:00.004-05:00

There was a time in my life, back in the day that I could do more with this surfboard that just stand there in the whitewash and look confused.

Blake and I were in the garage at my parents house and Blake saw my old surfboard. "Dad, what's that?" he asked so innocently. As I explained to him that I can stand up on water and ride the waves on that thing, and he begged me to take it to the beach that day and surf. "Sure I will son." Isn't it, once you learn to ride bike you never forget. Well, I forgot. The waves were rough that day and it was colder than I wanted it to be, but the fact is, my surfing days are now officially over. This, sadly is the best picture that Sharla got.

I think at one time I was a cool kid from Southern California. Now, now I am not.

California 1

2009-07-25T00:22:00.003-05:00

So we went to California for almost 2 weeks this summer. It was a great trip and I love slipping back into that SoCal mode of life for a while. The weather is great, the beach is so great, and being surrounded by family and wonderful friends from my childhood is very refreshing.

So here is the first picture of California I want to define and explain.

From left to right is the following: Kenny (my brother in law), Jay, Bubba and me. The common factor in this picture is twofold. The first being Jesus and the second being Bubba. In no way am I saying the two are equal, but these two factors link the 4 of us together for life.

Jay is the oldest of us, and was the oldest youth group member when Bubba began working with the youth group in Escondido. He began the standard of Bubba being more of a father/brother/friend for those of us to come. Kenny was next in line and although Jay and Kenny were vastly different in their high school years, they both were connected to Bubba in the same manner. I am the pup of the group, but carried on as Jay and Kenny had, seeing Bubba as family more than friend.

To explain this relationship that the 3 of us share in common would take far too much time and I would do a poor job, seeing that the story stretches over 25 years now and contains more details than I have the energy to share. Let me try to simplify.

Bubba was instrumental in sharing the gospel and showing Jesus to the three of us. Bubba, and Robynn and the kids accepted us as one of them, although Jay had left for college by the time Kenny was entering the family and Kenny had left for college by the time I took my place. The constant factor, again through all of the years was Bubba. He had the ability and desire to care for and love each of us and be the friend that we each needed.

The lessons he taught us about life and work, family and 4x4's, the perfection of the Kingdom and the value in serving others are things that we will not forget. Bubba and Robynn were there to celebrate our victories, and were always ready to comfort us in our darkest hour. Jay, Kenny and I can all share story after story of the great memories with Bubba and Robynn. Crashing on their couch, late night ice cream and cookies at the house, great trips to Glamis, long summers of work and most of all how Bubba and Robynn never quit loving us.

There are certain people in the world that remind me of the pure goodness of God, and Bubba and Robynn are two such people. Jay, Kenny and I owe a great deal to Bubba and Robynn and there are not enough days left to thank them.

I look forward to many more years of valued friendship with you all.

12 Years.

2009-07-19T22:22:00.002-05:00

She said yes and that is a miracle in itself. Shar and I are spending this anniversary apart, as we have for the past few years. Kids, life, travel and a bunch of other stuff seem to get in the way of romantic dinners and uninterrupted evenings. Shar is in Temple picking up the kids from her parents and I have work tomorrow, so we will celebrate our wedding day later this week.

What a blessing a godly, beautiful, talented and loving wife truly is. I am very blessed man.

Sharla Ann, I love you so very much.

Up To Date

2009-07-19T14:40:00.002-05:00

It has been a very busy summer. We have been to California, Las Vegas, Temple, Colorado and now back home for a while. It has been a busy, but very enjoyable and I am grateful for the time with my wife, kids and with family and friends.

Wilderness Trek 2009 was just amazing. We climbed Mt. Shavino in Colorado, white water rafted down the Arkansas River and had safe travel. The youth from Richland Hills that went were so impressive and we are thankful to Gregg and Stacy for inviting us. It was wonderful.

I would go on but more important news takes my attention at this time. We are sad for our dear friends Brian and Dana, as the post radiation scans showed that the cancer has grown. We are continuing the beg God for His mighty hand to move over Brian and for healing to take place. Please be in prayer for this dear family as we kneel before our God with humble spirits. Thank you for your love and concern for these dear believers and friends.

Life Is ........ Part 2.

2009-07-09T21:57:00.004-05:00

So as we are at the viewing of Hal (you had to ready the previous post) there is another viewing taking place at this funeral home. It is for a young 21 year old boy who died in a motorcycle accident coming home from college, on the same day as Shar's grandfather. But as the funeral director is asking which viewing are you hear for, I begin to notice that I recognized many of the attendants for the other viewing. I asked the director to see the program for the young boy and I quickly realize that I coached the young man while I was at Belton.

It was really wonderful to reconnect with the people I saw, even though the situation was so tragic. Coaches I had worked with, boys I had coached, and parents of those kids. As a teacher and a coach you are unaware of the impact you are having on a family while you are doing your job, but so many were thankful to see me and Shar and so amazed at how the kids were growing. Talking to parents that I had not seen in years and finding out the success and struggles that there son's are having and their appreciation for the work we did while in Belton. It made the evening a bit more positive for Shar and I.

So back to life is ........ As we are saying our goodbyes to an 85 year old man, a family and friends are saying their goodbyes to a 21 year old man. And as I looked at Hal in his coffin, and Justin in his coffin I was reminded again of how brief and fragile this life is, and yet how the sadness only exists for those still here. Jo Ann cried over Hal and Justin's sister struggled to even leave the funeral home, and yet Hal and Justin just lay there.

I was trying to explain to Blake and Ann Jo that even though we can see PawPaw, this is just his body. His spirit is with God. Like an and egg and egg shell. The shell is all that we see here, but the egg has gone on to be in heaven. Could I have given a worse explanation????

And as I struggle with death in this life I am equally perplexed about the idea of living forever in eternity. FOREVER!!! What is that?

Life Is ........

2009-07-08T23:12:00.003-05:00

Interesting week for our family. We returned from the West Coast on Wednesday and had plans to go to Temple that weekend to be with Shar's grandmother. Shar's grandfather had a minor surgery, that turned into an extended stay, that turned into a broken hip, and a fractured elbow, and Shar's parents had a trip planned with their oldest friends so we were going to take over the care duties while they were gone. By Friday evening PawPaw had taken a turn for the worse and on Saturday morning we got a call that it could be just hours before he passed. We got on the road and headed to Temple, and Harold (Hal) M. Marks passed away on July 4th, at 11:45 p.m. at the age of 85. Very Sad.

Hal was born and raised there in Heidenheimer, Texas and lived there his entire life. There are 3 things that I would like to tell you about Hal (I should have spoken at the funeral). Here is the shortened version.

1. He was patient. He married Jo Ann Trout at the age of 51 and was faithful to her for the next 35 years. Every niece and nephew said Hal was their favorite, so you know his family loved him, but to wait for that long to find your love is an admirable event.

2. He was brave. He served in World War 2, in C Company, the 145th Infantry in the Pacific Campaign. He received numerous ribbons, 4 Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart. He spoke of the Second Great War as most do from that generation. As a duty, a responsibility, a expectation. He told great stories about the food (Hal loved food) and people and fighting that he encountered. And he survived which is something to proud of.

3. He Loved. He spoiled Sharla from the time I met him. Back when laundry machines ran on quarters, he would give her 2 or 3 prescription containers of quarters every time we came to Temple, and would often leave a $20 in her purse or on the seat of her car. He treated Diana like his own daughter and was one of the most happy old men I can recall.

Hal loved his family and was a hard worker his entire life. He will be missed, but this is how life and death goes. It is only difficult for those of us here.

Why # 7

2009-07-04T12:14:00.003-05:00

We have returned from California and a short trip to Las Vegas, and now the summer is drawing to a close for this coach and his family. On the plane coming home I found the June 29 issue of Time Magazine, and read a great quote that caused this blog in the "Why" series.

Quoting from Time, June 29, 2009:

"Everyone Guessed Wrong": Joe Biden, Vice President, acknowledging that the Administration's $787 billion economic-stimulus plan has failed to reduce the unemployment rate.

Why did we guess on $787 billion economic-stimulus plan?

Prayers.....

2009-06-10T21:40:00.003-05:00

We again ask you to pray for our dear friend Brian and his struggle against cancer. He is in his second round of treatment. His wife and kids desire him to be lifted to God during this difficult week.

Soccer is Over

2009-06-09T08:19:00.003-05:00

Soccer season is over, and Blake is a little bummed that he does not have practice tonight and will not have a game this Saturday. He loves playing soccer and is always wanting to practice and play in the backyard. It was so much fun coaching him and watching him play. He takes it so seriously; it is church league, and we really don't keep score, but Blake can tell you how many goals we won by. I'll be working on a movie this summer - Blake is already asking me when it will be done.

Congratulations son on a great season. We are very proud of you and we love to watch you play and compete. We love you Blake.

Go Army????

2009-06-03T23:08:00.003-05:00

These are words that were not mentioned at my house. We were a Navy family, and even though my dad did not attend Annapolis, we were always Navy and not Army. But I just read a story that caused me to whisper, quietly, so my dad would not hear me say "go Army". Read it hear and enjoy.

Tooth

2009-06-02T13:02:00.003-05:00

Blake lost his first tooth. It has been loose for about 3 weeks, but this past week while Shar and the kids were in Temple it became a hanger; only staying in his mouth by a thread. So Shar shows it to Mrs. Dana and the nurse in her cannot help but take action. Blake's trust in her stems from the history that we share with our kids, that Dana got them out of mommy's tummy. So when Dana told Blake to open his mouth so she could "see" his tooth he did not hesitate. Thanks for your help Dana. We love you.

Blake raked it in with his first tooth. $5.00 and a gold coin. The gold coin will be his prize for future teeth, but we wanted to signify the first tooth with a larger sum of money. Blake is growing up so fast, and I am amazed at how quickly time is moving by us. What a joy it is to be a parent.

What's Been Happening???

2009-06-01T15:56:00.002-05:00

That is the question out there, since blogging has taken a back seat to life in general, and that is really a good thing, so I've decided to let you in on the happenings of the Bundy Family and provide you with the shot version of our happenings.

I've been to both the Byron Nelson and the Colonial in the past 10 days. These are two traditional and very historical golf tournaments in the DFW area, and I love golf. The great thing is that I have some friends that are really great and they have connections to get into the "red carpet" area of these tournaments. Both tournaments we got to enjoy the catered lunches in the private areas were only those with special badges could go. The tournament alone is great, but the high cotton version is so much better. It was a blast. Blake got to go to the Colonial and he had a great time. The problem will be that he is going to expect that for future tournaments.

Thank you Michael and Dave for treating me to these events.

Did You Know???

2009-05-27T13:44:00.002-05:00

We watched this video in 24/7 a few weeks ago and it was awesome. I found it on Mike Cope's blog and wanted to share it with you. The information goes fast, but it is so eye opening. Enjoy.

Prayers...

2009-05-26T22:19:00.004-05:00

We ask that you pray for our dear friend Brian in Temple, who began his first round of aggressive radiation this evening at 5 p.m. We are praying for the faith to move the mountain. Please go before our God and place this family at His feet.

Memorial Weekend Rambling

2009-05-25T22:05:00.004-05:00

Happy Memorial Day Dad. I am forever grateful for you willing sacrifice to do what you did, from 1966 through 1991. Your service, in peace times and in times of war, and those who do the same, before and after you, is one of our countries greatest strengths and we should be aware of the sacrifices of the American Soldier, and their families.

This has been my best year in teaching World War 1 and World War 2. I am not a great teacher, but this year I did my best in teaching these two amazing historical events. The kids in my classes were impacted by the things we discussed in school, and that is something to note in public education these days.

But at the same time I am still amazed at the overwhelming waste of life and resources that takes place in war. I am not discussing or arguing the need for war, only the enormous cost of life and the amazing destruction of resources.

It bothers me because there were great men and women from W.W, 1 and W.W. 2, Korea, Vietnam, Dessert Storm, and today in the Middle East, who did amazing things, and those things are already forgotten. Just like there were amazing men and women at Thermopylae, Carthage, and Mesopotamia who did amazing things for their countries. Nearly all are forgotten. This is how life is. We work and fight and bleed and die to protect and hold dear what we have now, and trust the future into the hands of the unborn, to carry on the same, or a greater legacy.

If you have a chance to thank a American Veteran who served their country at some point in recent history, please do so. The gratitude received now for heroic things that they did as young men is appreciated, and rightfully deserved.

I stopped a Korean Veteran today and shook his hand, said thank you and told him I was glad he made it home. He could not speak back to me. Tears came to his eyes and he walked on.

Do something this week to make some one's life a little better.

Fighter, Lover, or Chicken

2009-05-23T22:05:00.004-05:00

What are you? A Fighter, a Lover, or a Chicken? Sure you can be a combination of the 3 but most people tend to lean heavily to one of the 3. I am not here to admit my own personal opinion of myself, or of any other person, but I do think that one of the 3 classifications describe most of us fairly well.

When was the last time you were in a fight. Not an argument, or a confrontation, but a knock down, drag out, cuss, swear, punch, hit, kick, grab, last man standing, fight? It has been a while for me personally. 6th grade the best I can recall, but that almost changed this past week. It was ...........?

The story is good, but the details aren't mine to share. Sorry. But I would like to ask a question and maybe get some responses flowing. Where is the craziest place you have seen, or for some of you, been apart of a brawl? I would love to see if your story can match mine. This is your chance to confess. Come on, it will be fun.

The Symphony

2009-05-17T21:25:00.007-05:00

On Saturday night Shar and I were invited to attend the Dallas Symphony with some great friends from church. It is not the typical evening of early 30's couples of Fort Worth, but Shar and I were really excited about it and loved the show that we saw.

The performers were a young and upcoming performance in the symphonic community called The 5 Browns. A truly amazing group of 5 siblings who all attended Julliard in New York within a 9 year period. The show was awesome and if you have the chance I would recommend it.

I have a very distant connection to the Dallas Symphonic Society. Very Distant. Here is the short version of the story.

My Dad's side of the family is predominantly Nazarene by christian heritage. A very musical bunch and family gatherings always included family musical productions. It began with my dad's parents, my Nana and Papa. Both music majors in college, Nana played the piano and sang alto and papa played the piano and the alto sax. Aunt Marge, Nana's sister sang soprano and also played the piano and saxophone. Uncle Bill, her husband played the trombone and french horn. My dad played the trumpet, along with his cousins C.P. and Billy. Billy's older brother and my dad's other cousin Byron played the flute and guitar. Now that is just the family that I distinctly remember. Everyone sang of course and most of the kids my age played some instrument. It would not be uncommon to have 12 to 15 instruments going as we sang old church songs and holiday carols. Now, Uncle Bill, my dad's uncle had a sister named Hazel whom we all called Aunt Hazel. Her husband Emil, Uncle Emil is my connection to the Dallas Symphony.

Hazel and Emil lived in South Dallas and we would always see them on trips back to Texas from California to visit both sets of grandparents (my mom's and dad's) in Dallas. Hazel and Emil lived in a dumpy house right off I-20 in South Dallas there entire married lives. Hazel taught school and piano lessons and Uncle Emil tuned pianos. He was a big man, and odd, but he had a perfect pitch and was the most highly sought after piano tuner in DFW, and in the state. He would tune all the piano's for the big churches of Dallas and Fort Worth, and also would tune the piano's for the Symphonic society. He was a really remarkable man.

As we entered the symphony I could feel the memories of my child hood returning. Most of the attendants of the symphony are older and each couple reminded me of my Nana and Papa and Uncle Bill and Aunt Marge. I felt as if I was stepping back in time and reliving a scene from a time when I was 6 years old. Odd feeling.

As we watched these amazing siblings perform my desire increased for Blake and Anna Jo to have some musical training. I was the only grandchild not to take piano lessons. I did not need to take them since I would be going to the pros in basketball or soccer. What a moron I was. Nana and Papa would give me little lessons and I was always so amazed at their natural and learned abilities. The piano keys molded to their fingers and music was the natural result of their movement. Did I mention what a moron I was (am).

Go to the symphony, to Broadway musicals and local plays. The artistic side of our civilization is all to foreign to the majority of our nation and the world. I hope my kids take a liking to the art of music, along with the the joy of athletics and whatever else they can find to make themselves as well rounded as possible.

One of my goals for them is to surpass me and Shar. For the next generation to be better is what my dad said to me. I need to pay more attention to that.

The Graduate......

2009-05-11T23:49:00.004-05:00

The question to all YCW Pre K Graduates as they walked across the stage was, "and what do you want to be when you grow up?" Doctor, Vet, Cheerleader, Power Ranger, Race Car Driver, Princess, Firefighter and all the other standard answers were given.

"Blake, What do you want to be when you grow up?" Blake's response, "a Marine".

Change the World

2009-05-07T11:52:00.003-05:00

I am sharing this from another blog. I hope I, and you can find a way to make the world a better place.

Pray.

2009-05-04T22:19:00.002-05:00

If you pray to God, then I would ask that you lift up our dear friend Brian and his wife Dana and their family. Brian is heading toward some very serious surgery on Tuesday morning to deal with some cancer on his brain.

We are grateful to serve a God that listens when His people pray.

Why # 6

2009-05-03T22:26:00.004-05:00

Why are we freaking out about the dreaded Swine Flu here in the states, when not 1, at this moment American has died from this new flu? With roughly 35,000 Americans dying yearly from the "regular" flu, why is the Swine Flu such a concern to our government?

Come on Jason, you can do it!!!

Ignorant Gratitude......

2009-05-01T23:34:00.004-05:00

I have a habit when out in public. When I see a veteran, primarily the older ones but any veteran that I happen to pass while out in town, I always stop them and thank them for what they did. With Blake and Anna I always tell them that these guys did something very special when there were young, and the kids shake their hand. I want Blake and Anna to appreciate those in the Armed Forces. To the old guys for WW 2, Korea and Vietnam, I tell them my thanks and that I am glad they made it home, and then I pass along the fact that I was raised by a Navy Corpsman.

This comment normally gets a special reaction from old soldiers, but especially from the Marines. The Marines I meet really like guys like my dad and from there the conversation moves forward with ease and enjoyment.

Last week the family is in Home Depot. Shar and Anna are ahead of me and Blake and we happen to pass an old man wearing the traditional red U.S.M.C. hat. He looks old and worn out, with dirty overalls on and a half chewed cigar hanging out of his mouth. Big dirty beard, a tattoo on his arm and leathery hands. I stop him and ask about his service and thank him and as I shake his hand I turn to Blake and say that this guy did special things for our country, just like Grandon.

Then the old Marine lets go of my had an bent down to Blake. He kindly takes my sons hand and says "one day you'll be ready to serve won't you son?" My heart stopped. I looked at that old man, and then at my clean little boy and I became very scared.

As we walked away I flashed through Blake's next 20 years. Then I looked at that old man and realized that at one time he was a clean little 5 year old boy holding his dad's hand also. The idea from the man's words haunted me.

"Serve"? Do I want Blake to serve his country, like that? To face that danger and willingly, possibly, offer that much. The old man said it so ...... honestly. "Serve".

I am grateful for the soldiers that have and that do stand for our country. I become more appreciative as I realize more and more what they leave behind when the go.

I love my son and daughter very much.

FOUR

2009-04-29T22:14:00.004-05:00

Anna Jo is born on April 29, 2005

Anna Turns 1 year old.

Anna Turns 2 years old.

Anna Turns 3 years old.

This is my 4 year old little girl.

It has been a wonder and a blessing to be the parents of Anna Jo. She is everything we asked God for and we are so blessed to have her in our lives. I am amazed still at how fast the years are racing by me, and how quickly Blake and Anna Jo are growing and changing. God has been so good to us, and we pray God's continual blessings on our children.

Thank you to all of the countless people that have been apart of Anna Jo's life. We ask that you pray for Anna Jo and Blake and we are grateful for your love for our children.

Happy Birthday Anna Jo. Your Mommy, Blake and I love you so very much.