Summer time thrills!!

Hold your fishing pole tight!!

Catchers First Fishing Pole

Last night I asked all my kids what was the most memorable thing that happened this summer. I got many answers ranging from riding that scary roller coaster to hanging with my cousins in VA. So after the lengthy session of remembering all the fun stuff, my oldest daughter turned and asked "what about you daddy"? After a minute of thought, I had it. It was surprising for me but it wasn't all the fun times with the kids, or the camps and leagues, dating my wife on Thursday nights, being around friends, watching my brother get married or a missionary trip. That stuff was great!! But the one thing I'll never forget is the look on my 4 year old son's face when he accidentally dropped his brand new Superman fishing pole off the back of the boat and watched it slowly sink to the bottom of the ocean. He seemed to display every emotion possible on his face-wonder,fear,doubt,excitement,anger,hope,adventure, disbelief, etc. The worst part about it was the fact that I had to admit that Daddy's not gonna dive into the ocean and get it. Up to that point, my son thought I could do anything. What a let down for both of us!! The life lesson was short and to the point: Don't drop your fishing pole in the water!! Its my guess that my son will drop another pole into the water at some point in his life, but I can guarantee he will be holding onto it more than ever after the bad experience in the summer of 2009. I love you Catcher!!

PS: At least we have the picture

Best Days of Our Lives

Sitting in the Soak Section with Shamu

"Catcher" at the Helm

Little Miss Jo on her first real Roller Coaster

Piper with the flamingos at sea world

When I take time to sit and think about all the great blessings God has given me I get overwhelmed. The one thing I enjoy more than anything is to "Give". My wife often tells me, would you please stop giving the shirt off your back. I can't stop!! I've always taken Bible verses like "Give and You will receive", "Its better to give than get". "You can't out give God" very seriously. So early on in my walk with God I gave, gave, gave. So guess what's happened? I just keep receiving stuff. First off I got the most amazing wife ever, then I got these three kids. Wow!! What a huge blessing. We just got back from our spring break vacation. What an amazing time! We stayed on our boat in the San Diego harbor, went to Sea World, went kayaking, rode "Roller Coasters" at the beach boardwalk, watched fireworks every night, had lunch with our cousins and made about a million memories. God is so good to us in so many ways, and I'm sure its because of our faithfulness to him and willingness to GIVE. Thank you Lord for all you Give. I love You!!

Youth Basketball 2009

We had a great Youth Basketball clinic with almost 100 young athletes. Its always a thrill this time of year to be apart of teaching basketball and the word of God. This summer we will be hosting many different youth sports activities. For information about what we have coming up click http://www.shepherdsports.org/ . Come join us for a summer of fun!!

Little Boys are The Best

My 3 year old son "Catcher" is becoming known for plenty of mischievous acts. We recently found him in the sink with the dirty dishes, and last week he got up in the middle of the night and helped himself to both the refrigerator and freezer. He forgot to close the doors and everything was warm and melted when we found it in the morning. Catcher is a true gift from God, and my wife and I are constantly reminded of Gods faithfulness and love. I pray that I can love my children and others with a portion of Gods kinda love.

My Favorite Team

I've had the privilege of coaching Hillcrest Christian High School's Varsity Soccer Team. This has been a rebuilding year for the team, so there have been many frustrating matches this season. I'm so proud of my team because of their heart to play no matter what the challenge was like. This past Thursday we played a match in the pouring down rain. The field was a virtual mud puddle. My players stepped up to the challenge and fought like courageous men. They ended up winning the match, respect for their school and the heart of their Coach. Great Job Team!!

Merry Christmas 2008

Merry Christmas to everyone. This year we are staying home for Christmas. We will miss our Grandma and Grandpa, Aunts and Uncles, cousins, brothers, sisters, nephews, and nieces. Our three kids are so excited. Even tho they are thrilled to be getting gifts, they will tell you how important it is to celebrate the birth of Jesus. As parents we are constantly challenged to strike a good balance between the excitement of the season and the true meaning. I pray through the busyness and excitement of this time my children will always remember and celebrate what God has done for us. Merry Christmas Jesus!!