It's been about two months since my last blog entry. They have been eventful and great and have flown by so quickly. So, in the spirit of fun, light-hearted enjoyment, Id like to take this opportunity to express my joy and love for my family…so here goes nothin’!
I absolutely love my family.
Joe Joe is, as you know, our oldest. He will be 10 next month and already has the personality of a 14/15 year old. This is such a great age. He has such a great sense of humor, still wants to share his experiences and loves spending time with his family. This is a phase that I hope lasts forever. Unfortunately, I know better. All to often, the kids get to early teenage ears and shut down all communications with their parents. This cannot happen….fingers crossed. Here lately, the two of us have been slipping away to the skate park every Saturday morning. It has been such a joy watch him go through a certain sequence of events, repeatedly, each Saturday. This is how it normally goes; He sees someone else at the park perform a move or a trick, gets excited about how cool it looks, expresses an interest in doing it himself, and like clockwork, tries over and over again to do said trick until eventually, he does just that. It may take 5 minutes to accomplish. Other times, it takes the better part of our session. But, each and every time, Joe Joe accomplishes that which he sets his mind to. There have been a few instances where he got pretty bruised up in the process, but even then, he pushes through and ultimately prevails. What a wonderful exercise in conquering ones fears. And the great thing is, it happens multiple times in a short span of time. I am sure that this will translate into a strong, driven, unstoppable force within my son and am so excited to watch it spread throughout his life like wildfire. I am so dang proud of him.
Emma is our precious little princess of a daughter who can do no wrong in my eyes. Although I am quite hard on her at times, I am truly proud of her sincere, kind-heated disposition. I could spend hours just watching her exist. She and her little friends take turns hosting little play dates at each other’s homes. I love watching the roles that they all assume. It is great to see them each take turns running the show so to speak. They are so polite to each other. Emma loves to put little outfits together for school and needs no help doing so. I look forward to each morning, wondering what outfit she will come downstairs in. Every single time, she hits a home run! She is so kind to all those she comes in contact with. I have never known a 7 year old with such drive to please their parents. She goes out of her way to make her mama happy, which in turn, brings my such joy. I love this stage in her life as well. I am not looking forward to the days when she goes through all the stereotypical hormonal mood swings. I want her to stay in this phase forever. This way, she will always be mine. I don’t want her to ever leave.
Little Ryan is our youngest. He is 4 years old and, I swear, this child has the attitude and wit of someone twice his age. He is on this kick lately, where, rather than answer a question positively, he clicks his mouth twice, winks. And snaps his fingers, ending it with a finger point at ya, as if to say, “you got it dad!” When hes not playing his little video games, he is absolutely tormenting the two tiny dogs we have in the house. I hafta tell this child at least twice a day to get away from the dogs and leave them alone. That being said, Ry Ry is a such a little angel in so many ways. He can look at you in a way that can dispel and frustration you may have had with I'm just moments before. He is still the child that climbs into bed with us on a nightly basis, claiming that he cant sleep. This doesn’t bother me in the least. Knowing that he is our last baby, I find that I have more patience with him than I had with the other two children in the past.
April, my wonderful wife. Where do I begin? If I could spend every waking hour with this precious being, I so would! She truly makes want to be a better person, each and every day. She is the source of much inspiration and drive for me in my life. It is her presence in my life that absolutely drives me to work harder at everything I do. It is April who makes me want to continue on this path of life, reaching every day, for the next level of success in whatever capacity that may be. She has this unbelievable ability to make everyone she comes in contact with, smile ear to ear. I marvel at the way she holds peoples attention throughout the night, regardless of the venue. I have watched her transform an otherwise mediocre evening, into a long lasting night to remember. I have lost count of the times my wife has surprised me with an small token of her love for me and, no matter how hard I try, I will never be able to even come close to repaying all those wonderful memories…but I will always try to do so.
That’s gonna do it for me this evening. Bottom line is that I love my family and am in a truly happy time in my life. I look forward to the continual betterment of our lives and know that it is the people within my life that will be the source of that betterment. …
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Monday, November 8, 2010
Ever so Grateful...
In February, I will have been married for 11 years. In that time, I have learned so much about whom I am and what is truly important in this life. The one thing that Im sure of and it’s this: Love is so extremely important in our lives. It is what inspires us to create lavish dishes, orchestrate timeless ballads and change our life’s course to meet the otherwise unattainable expectations of those we love so dearly. Without love, our soft, giving dispositions tend to all too often solidify into an unrecognizable jaded distain for life and everything it has to offer.
I was talking to some friends from my past this morning, who have genuinely had difficult lives. Although they are still pressing onward, it is quite evident that they have been mistreated, and that, as a result, they are more inclined to deprive others of the love they have to offer, rather than run the risk of getting hurt again. A vicious cycle, perpetuated by their abuse, by those individuals initially considered trustworthy, the depravation of love can only bring about more of the same.
For instance, a young boy is mistreated by his parents and deprived of the loving and nurturing experiences that teach him how to love himself, grows to a man. As an adult, the boy does not have an understanding of the importance of love and in return, does not have the capacity to offer this important sustenance to his girlfriend or wife. Instead, he replaces the patience, love and understanding that would otherwise be there, with frustration, rage and abusive actions.
Love is so very important in our lives. It is extremely important that we receive it. And in return, as we gain an understanding of its effects, we will feel compelled to freely administer it to those around us. I feel that this is the only way to break the vicious cycle. Someone has to start giving in order for the poison to be extracted, so to speak. This charitable emotion is one of action, which can truly help us heal ourselves and those around us. Just like any other healing device, some require, and will take a great deal more, for a much longer period of time, before the affects thereof begin to manifest.
In closing, as easy as it is for me to say, allow yourself to love freely. Forgive others swiftly. It will make you so much happier. Be patient with those who recoil from your loving gestures. They have their own demons they are dealing with. Recognize situations and relationships for what they are/were. Look for learning moments, retain them and dispose of the negative. My loving wife April always says, resentment is like taking poison and hoping the other person gets sick. Let it go and move on. Know that there is a higher being who loves you unconditionally, everyday. He is waiting to hear from you, everyday. If you are looking for someone to lean on, who is trustworthy of your love, who won’t hurt you and who will listen, He is the one for you…everyday.
I was talking to some friends from my past this morning, who have genuinely had difficult lives. Although they are still pressing onward, it is quite evident that they have been mistreated, and that, as a result, they are more inclined to deprive others of the love they have to offer, rather than run the risk of getting hurt again. A vicious cycle, perpetuated by their abuse, by those individuals initially considered trustworthy, the depravation of love can only bring about more of the same.
For instance, a young boy is mistreated by his parents and deprived of the loving and nurturing experiences that teach him how to love himself, grows to a man. As an adult, the boy does not have an understanding of the importance of love and in return, does not have the capacity to offer this important sustenance to his girlfriend or wife. Instead, he replaces the patience, love and understanding that would otherwise be there, with frustration, rage and abusive actions.
Love is so very important in our lives. It is extremely important that we receive it. And in return, as we gain an understanding of its effects, we will feel compelled to freely administer it to those around us. I feel that this is the only way to break the vicious cycle. Someone has to start giving in order for the poison to be extracted, so to speak. This charitable emotion is one of action, which can truly help us heal ourselves and those around us. Just like any other healing device, some require, and will take a great deal more, for a much longer period of time, before the affects thereof begin to manifest.
In closing, as easy as it is for me to say, allow yourself to love freely. Forgive others swiftly. It will make you so much happier. Be patient with those who recoil from your loving gestures. They have their own demons they are dealing with. Recognize situations and relationships for what they are/were. Look for learning moments, retain them and dispose of the negative. My loving wife April always says, resentment is like taking poison and hoping the other person gets sick. Let it go and move on. Know that there is a higher being who loves you unconditionally, everyday. He is waiting to hear from you, everyday. If you are looking for someone to lean on, who is trustworthy of your love, who won’t hurt you and who will listen, He is the one for you…everyday.
Monday, October 4, 2010
What Influences You
This weekend, I spent time with my family, decorating the house for Halloween and picking out pumpkins at the local pumpkin patch. It was truly a wonderful time. Although, I have always found it interesting how, whenever we decide to do something as a family, that would undoubtedly bring us closer together, April and I tend to get into some silly argument just before. For the most part, it’s always about something inconsequential. I don’t think this is a coincidence. It’s clear to me that we are not alone here on earth. Through my experiences and research, I am sure of this. I believe there are powers for good and evil, constantly influencing us from the moment we awake, to the second our head hits the pillow at the end of the day. We are not free from these influences at any point. This concept is mockingly represented, in so many of the movies we watch, as a little devil on one shoulder and a small angel on the other, always whispering in our ears.
We are here to gain knowledge, to carryout God’s will, and rear families to share in our knowledge and happiness. By doing these things; we stand to gain happiness that would be otherwise unattainable by any other means. With that in mind, and considering that the great majority of ideas and principles can be loosely sorted into categories of good and bad, and agreeing upon the idea that there are intelligences on either side of the spectrum, it makes sense that one stands to be influenced by one or the other at any given time.
The part that I find interesting is the fact that each one of us has it within ourselves to choose to act upon those influences, whichever they may be. Even though we are small in the grand scheme of things, we are mighty in OUR grand scheme of things. This self realization will, in fact, give its possessor even more control over their thoughts, words and actions. Furthermore, as each of us realizes this, and strives towards self-mastery, we begin to recognize and identify the very intelligences that so swiftly influence our lives. Focusing upon the positive promptings and working towards getting our lives in consistent harmony with the will of our Father in Heaven, gives us the positive momentum that compels us to seek out the positive influences. Consequently, we give less power and influence to the negative intelligences that so quickly draw our spirits down, encouraging insubordinate thoughts and discourage the obedience that we so genuinely need in order to be truly happy.
This concept can easily be understood within the life of an alcoholic (Brian). Set aside the issues and experiences that caused the person to arrive at their current position of “addict” and focus upon today. As Brian wakes for the day, he prays for help and strength to refrain from partaking in the drug that so thoroughly ruins him. While watching television, he sees a beer commercial that associates alcohol with fun and enjoyment. Although Brian has learned through his own experience that drinking has brought him nothing but unhappiness, he still wrestles with the idea. The beer companies want to sell a product at any cost. They are pushing their agenda. While at his arrival to a daily AA meeting, he listens to the voice of reason over and over again as his co-addicts relay their struggles, and the steps they’ve taken towards sobriety. Brian recognizes the fact that, life becomes increasingly easier, each day that he listens to the positive influences in his life. As he distances himself from the negative and adheres to his strict set of standards, he finds happiness and stability in his routine.
I have a firm testimony of the importance of focus and positive influences in life. They will compel you to strive towards serving others, living a life long example of how the savior would have us live, and refrain from thoughts, words and actions that will do nothing but cause unhappiness to yourself and those around you. Work towards self-mastery. Listen to and focus upon the good intelligences that sit upon your shoulder, waiting to be heard and acted upon. Learn to recognize them and distinguish between them and the negative intelligences that hunger for your attention. Be slow to anger. Be quick to forgive. Through doing these things, you will come to know of thy Saviors love for you.
We are here to gain knowledge, to carryout God’s will, and rear families to share in our knowledge and happiness. By doing these things; we stand to gain happiness that would be otherwise unattainable by any other means. With that in mind, and considering that the great majority of ideas and principles can be loosely sorted into categories of good and bad, and agreeing upon the idea that there are intelligences on either side of the spectrum, it makes sense that one stands to be influenced by one or the other at any given time.
The part that I find interesting is the fact that each one of us has it within ourselves to choose to act upon those influences, whichever they may be. Even though we are small in the grand scheme of things, we are mighty in OUR grand scheme of things. This self realization will, in fact, give its possessor even more control over their thoughts, words and actions. Furthermore, as each of us realizes this, and strives towards self-mastery, we begin to recognize and identify the very intelligences that so swiftly influence our lives. Focusing upon the positive promptings and working towards getting our lives in consistent harmony with the will of our Father in Heaven, gives us the positive momentum that compels us to seek out the positive influences. Consequently, we give less power and influence to the negative intelligences that so quickly draw our spirits down, encouraging insubordinate thoughts and discourage the obedience that we so genuinely need in order to be truly happy.
This concept can easily be understood within the life of an alcoholic (Brian). Set aside the issues and experiences that caused the person to arrive at their current position of “addict” and focus upon today. As Brian wakes for the day, he prays for help and strength to refrain from partaking in the drug that so thoroughly ruins him. While watching television, he sees a beer commercial that associates alcohol with fun and enjoyment. Although Brian has learned through his own experience that drinking has brought him nothing but unhappiness, he still wrestles with the idea. The beer companies want to sell a product at any cost. They are pushing their agenda. While at his arrival to a daily AA meeting, he listens to the voice of reason over and over again as his co-addicts relay their struggles, and the steps they’ve taken towards sobriety. Brian recognizes the fact that, life becomes increasingly easier, each day that he listens to the positive influences in his life. As he distances himself from the negative and adheres to his strict set of standards, he finds happiness and stability in his routine.
I have a firm testimony of the importance of focus and positive influences in life. They will compel you to strive towards serving others, living a life long example of how the savior would have us live, and refrain from thoughts, words and actions that will do nothing but cause unhappiness to yourself and those around you. Work towards self-mastery. Listen to and focus upon the good intelligences that sit upon your shoulder, waiting to be heard and acted upon. Learn to recognize them and distinguish between them and the negative intelligences that hunger for your attention. Be slow to anger. Be quick to forgive. Through doing these things, you will come to know of thy Saviors love for you.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Today's Rambling Tangent
I have doing a lot of thinking on relationships and all of the things people say a good one should contain. Interestingly, these things tend to vary between men and women and the young and old. In thinking about it, I have realized that my expectations have changed. So too, has my appreciation for the little things in love.
April and I have been married for 10 years now and are in a great place. That’s not to say there haven’t been a few ups and downs. There have been. What intrigues me is the fact that, we seem to be stronger now than we were when we started. We are much more secure in our feeling for the other and have found great joy in helping each other through trials.
When I consider the people I know, who have had a “privileged life” and haven’t had to endure hard times, it all makes sense to me. I’ve always thought that there are only three things that make us happy. One of those things is hard work. So, in working through hard times, trials and tribulations successfully, we find ourselves happier and stronger. In the gospel, this is referred to as, “The Refiner’s Fire.” In others words, through intense heat (trials) and the cooling waters ( the guidance of The Spirit of God), like a fine tempered blade, we become strong, indestructible and able to cut through the trials of life that, for most, seem overwhelming.
That being said; is it better then, in the long run, to live a lavish, overindulged life of flighty expectations and unquenchable worldly desires, or one of reverent appreciation for the people in one’s life and the investment of time and hard work into the relationships therewith. It truly is a hard pill to swallow for some of us.
Consider the following: Why is it that when we spend our days in the pursuit of the almighty dollar, and trying to decide what we want to spend it on, in many instances, we are left wanting more, planning our next purchase. Conversely, we spend time with our family members and friends, engaging in good wholesome activities, all the while, learning more about each other, we come away with a very different sensation. Our hearts are filled with appreciation for those whom we have grown to love and a satisfaction that is not easily reproduced any other way.
How will you invest your time? What is important to you now? Will that change as you go through life? When was the last time you evaluated your wants and weighed them against your needs? What if the things that were important to you remained constant? Family, friends…people. Serve the Lord with all you might, mind and strength. Be a good example to those around you. Pray unceasingly for prudence and the strength to carry out that which you know to be right.
April and I have been married for 10 years now and are in a great place. That’s not to say there haven’t been a few ups and downs. There have been. What intrigues me is the fact that, we seem to be stronger now than we were when we started. We are much more secure in our feeling for the other and have found great joy in helping each other through trials.
When I consider the people I know, who have had a “privileged life” and haven’t had to endure hard times, it all makes sense to me. I’ve always thought that there are only three things that make us happy. One of those things is hard work. So, in working through hard times, trials and tribulations successfully, we find ourselves happier and stronger. In the gospel, this is referred to as, “The Refiner’s Fire.” In others words, through intense heat (trials) and the cooling waters ( the guidance of The Spirit of God), like a fine tempered blade, we become strong, indestructible and able to cut through the trials of life that, for most, seem overwhelming.
That being said; is it better then, in the long run, to live a lavish, overindulged life of flighty expectations and unquenchable worldly desires, or one of reverent appreciation for the people in one’s life and the investment of time and hard work into the relationships therewith. It truly is a hard pill to swallow for some of us.
Consider the following: Why is it that when we spend our days in the pursuit of the almighty dollar, and trying to decide what we want to spend it on, in many instances, we are left wanting more, planning our next purchase. Conversely, we spend time with our family members and friends, engaging in good wholesome activities, all the while, learning more about each other, we come away with a very different sensation. Our hearts are filled with appreciation for those whom we have grown to love and a satisfaction that is not easily reproduced any other way.
How will you invest your time? What is important to you now? Will that change as you go through life? When was the last time you evaluated your wants and weighed them against your needs? What if the things that were important to you remained constant? Family, friends…people. Serve the Lord with all you might, mind and strength. Be a good example to those around you. Pray unceasingly for prudence and the strength to carry out that which you know to be right.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
To New York and Back
I recently visited New York for five days, for our annual Memorial Day campout. Friends that haven’t seen each other for a year or more, come together, catch up on life and reminisce for hours. While there, I was able to see people that I consider to be some of my best friends. Additionally, I got to know some people I attended high school with. We had a fantastic time.
I was able to visit one of my favorite restaurants of all times. It’s called, “Reid’s” and it’s by far the place to go to get unbelievable burgers, fries and milkshakes. Not to mention the fact that it is as cheap as heck. The entire week was filled with good food, camping and friends. It couldn’t have gone any better.
Throughout my time in New York, I couldn’t help but think of my wife and kids…the entire time. Each time we went someplace new, I found myself thinking, “My wife and kids would love this.” It’s amazing how we change as we progress through this life. As I compare and contrast the person I was when I lived in Buffalo, and the person I am today, a lot has changed. Presently, each and every day of my life is spent in the service of my wife and children…and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Once in a while I may stay up late with a neighbor playing video games, or head up to the mountains for a day of fun in the snow, but those times are few and far between. And as I consider everything (past & present) I can genuinely say that I am much happier today, in the service of my family, than I ever was, living for myself. I don’t think that’s a coincidence.
One of the things that I have gleaned from life thus far is that joy and pleasure are quite different, and that there are very few things that bring us true joy and long lasting happiness. For me, it is only three things. They are; God, family, and truly hard work. I’m referring to extremely exhausting, physical & mental exertion. What is intriguing to me is how these three things seem to be inseparable. Consider the following.
God tells us to, “Love the Lord thy God with all thy might…” We are also told to love thy neighbor as thyself. Throughout the scriptures, we read that the word “love” is considered an action word. So, to “love someone in an active manner can only mean one thing. We are to love others by way of service. Service, for the most part, is a truly exhausting thing, that is rarely convenient in its timing and, at all times requires sacrifice of one kind or another. Thus, to help others is a sign of our dedication to the Lord and his teachings. And so, I find that, the harder I work at something and strive towards completion of whatever it is, the happier I become. There is definitely a direct correlation between the two.
I had such a great time there in New York and consider myself truly blessed to have such great friends who love unconditionally. I am so grateful that they have the desire to keep in touch as I do. I look forward to next year, when we can get together once again and exchange stories of the years past.
I was able to visit one of my favorite restaurants of all times. It’s called, “Reid’s” and it’s by far the place to go to get unbelievable burgers, fries and milkshakes. Not to mention the fact that it is as cheap as heck. The entire week was filled with good food, camping and friends. It couldn’t have gone any better.
Throughout my time in New York, I couldn’t help but think of my wife and kids…the entire time. Each time we went someplace new, I found myself thinking, “My wife and kids would love this.” It’s amazing how we change as we progress through this life. As I compare and contrast the person I was when I lived in Buffalo, and the person I am today, a lot has changed. Presently, each and every day of my life is spent in the service of my wife and children…and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Once in a while I may stay up late with a neighbor playing video games, or head up to the mountains for a day of fun in the snow, but those times are few and far between. And as I consider everything (past & present) I can genuinely say that I am much happier today, in the service of my family, than I ever was, living for myself. I don’t think that’s a coincidence.
One of the things that I have gleaned from life thus far is that joy and pleasure are quite different, and that there are very few things that bring us true joy and long lasting happiness. For me, it is only three things. They are; God, family, and truly hard work. I’m referring to extremely exhausting, physical & mental exertion. What is intriguing to me is how these three things seem to be inseparable. Consider the following.
God tells us to, “Love the Lord thy God with all thy might…” We are also told to love thy neighbor as thyself. Throughout the scriptures, we read that the word “love” is considered an action word. So, to “love someone in an active manner can only mean one thing. We are to love others by way of service. Service, for the most part, is a truly exhausting thing, that is rarely convenient in its timing and, at all times requires sacrifice of one kind or another. Thus, to help others is a sign of our dedication to the Lord and his teachings. And so, I find that, the harder I work at something and strive towards completion of whatever it is, the happier I become. There is definitely a direct correlation between the two.
I had such a great time there in New York and consider myself truly blessed to have such great friends who love unconditionally. I am so grateful that they have the desire to keep in touch as I do. I look forward to next year, when we can get together once again and exchange stories of the years past.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
A Week Without My Wife
For the past week, I have been trying not to burn the house down while my wife was away. See, April (my wife)and her friends from England, all got together at one of their homes in Florida. She spent six wonderful days there while I was home with the children, attempting what I thought was a the impossible.
I chose this as the topic for a blog entry because I feel it sheds light on the importance of wives/moms in our lives.
I knew right off the bat that this was going to be hard. I knew this because I have received countless phone calls from April in the past relaying her frustration with the days tasks and the monotony and exhaustion therein. So, to avoid a great deal of heartache (i.e. house cleaning), I did an initial cleaning of the house, packed the kids up and drove down to my brother’s house in Colorado Springs, where we would stay for four of the six days, patiently awaiting the return of “sanity” (April). The time we spent in the springs was fantastic. We spent time with cousins, aunts and uncles and had an all around grand time shooting guns, riding four wheelers and being in the mountains. The time flew by. The time to return home and prepare for Aprils return quickly approached. We wanted to get home on Sunday, to ensure plenty of time was had to put the finishing touches on the house and spend some time together, just Dad and the kids.
The kids definitely took advantage of the situation, eating whatever they wanted, whenever they wanted too. They got to stay up later than normal and not take showers as often. I was at the point where I had way more tasks and responsibilities than I had time to accomplish them. So, I had to choose the things I considered most important, do those and let the other things fall upon the wayside. That’s where I get confused. I don’t recall April ever talking about this dilemma. I don’t remember a time when she spoke of having to disregard some things to get the more important ones done. What was I doing wrong? How does she do it? To me, it seemed absolutely impossible to do it all. Anyways, one day they’d get to bathe, the next, they’d straighten their room. One day, I made lunch and we had a light snack for dinner. I was a wreck! My insides were screaming for a break! I was able to get through it because there was an end in sight. None of the kids’ homework was done. Their teeth were all but falling out of their heads and dying to be brushed. There was more dirty laundry than I knew we even owned! … But, the dishes were done and the kids had fun I think my priorities were a bit askew!
Which brings me to the point: I’d like to take a moment and commend my lovely wife for all that she does. Throughout the last ten years, she has ALWAYS found a way to ensure everything gets done. There is dinner on the table when I come home. Our children always dress properly and look kept. My home has always felt like home. I know that at the end of the day, when I am spent and have nothing more to give, my sweet wife is still going strong at home, in preparation for my arrival. When we get the kids to bed, she is still folding laundry. She puts the energizer bunny to shame. It is April who initiates family home evening each week. It is she, who gets us out the door to church on time. And it is my wife who gives the credit for all of these things to everyone but herself. I am so grateful for her in my life and can’t envision it without her. Thank you to all the Moms and wives who fight daily to ensure their families are taken care of and presentable. To those who do not these things and want to know what you aren’t doing, take a look at my wonderful wife who gives until it hurts…and ignores her needs to meet ours. Thank you Buddha! We love you.
-joe
I chose this as the topic for a blog entry because I feel it sheds light on the importance of wives/moms in our lives.
I knew right off the bat that this was going to be hard. I knew this because I have received countless phone calls from April in the past relaying her frustration with the days tasks and the monotony and exhaustion therein. So, to avoid a great deal of heartache (i.e. house cleaning), I did an initial cleaning of the house, packed the kids up and drove down to my brother’s house in Colorado Springs, where we would stay for four of the six days, patiently awaiting the return of “sanity” (April). The time we spent in the springs was fantastic. We spent time with cousins, aunts and uncles and had an all around grand time shooting guns, riding four wheelers and being in the mountains. The time flew by. The time to return home and prepare for Aprils return quickly approached. We wanted to get home on Sunday, to ensure plenty of time was had to put the finishing touches on the house and spend some time together, just Dad and the kids.
The kids definitely took advantage of the situation, eating whatever they wanted, whenever they wanted too. They got to stay up later than normal and not take showers as often. I was at the point where I had way more tasks and responsibilities than I had time to accomplish them. So, I had to choose the things I considered most important, do those and let the other things fall upon the wayside. That’s where I get confused. I don’t recall April ever talking about this dilemma. I don’t remember a time when she spoke of having to disregard some things to get the more important ones done. What was I doing wrong? How does she do it? To me, it seemed absolutely impossible to do it all. Anyways, one day they’d get to bathe, the next, they’d straighten their room. One day, I made lunch and we had a light snack for dinner. I was a wreck! My insides were screaming for a break! I was able to get through it because there was an end in sight. None of the kids’ homework was done. Their teeth were all but falling out of their heads and dying to be brushed. There was more dirty laundry than I knew we even owned! … But, the dishes were done and the kids had fun I think my priorities were a bit askew!
Which brings me to the point: I’d like to take a moment and commend my lovely wife for all that she does. Throughout the last ten years, she has ALWAYS found a way to ensure everything gets done. There is dinner on the table when I come home. Our children always dress properly and look kept. My home has always felt like home. I know that at the end of the day, when I am spent and have nothing more to give, my sweet wife is still going strong at home, in preparation for my arrival. When we get the kids to bed, she is still folding laundry. She puts the energizer bunny to shame. It is April who initiates family home evening each week. It is she, who gets us out the door to church on time. And it is my wife who gives the credit for all of these things to everyone but herself. I am so grateful for her in my life and can’t envision it without her. Thank you to all the Moms and wives who fight daily to ensure their families are taken care of and presentable. To those who do not these things and want to know what you aren’t doing, take a look at my wonderful wife who gives until it hurts…and ignores her needs to meet ours. Thank you Buddha! We love you.
-joe
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Im the Luckiest man EVER!!!!!!!
Aside from my wedding, the birth of my children and the day I joined/separated from the military, there aren’t many memories in my life that stand out vividly, as the ones that were made last weekend. I have truly been blessed beyond my wildest dreams and I owe it all to my precious wife and her dedication to our family’s happiness. With that, I will go ahead and jump right into it:
For our 10th wedding anniversary, April and I decided to get a babysitter and head to a local restaurant that was said to be one of the best in northern Colorado (Texas-de-Brazil). We’d decided we were to get dressed up fancy to make it seem more official. The entire day was filled with anticipation for both of us. Aside from the disbelief that ten years had come and gone, we were just excited about spending time together, alone. The time had come. The babysitter arrived. I grabbed my keys and was heading for the door to start the car. I wanted it to be nice and warm for my precious bride. As I reached fro the door, April shouted from the second floor, “Don’t go Out There!” Immediately, I knew something was up but was unsure what it was exactly. So, I stayed inside and waited patiently for my date to come downstairs. There was very little difference in my anticipation and that of a teenager awaiting his prom date at the bottom of the stairs. Finally, she came down and boy-oh-boy was it worth the wait.
We hugged and kissed the kids and left our final instructions with the sitter, and proceeded outside. To my surprise, a black, shiny, stretch limo was parked in front of our home with a sign on taped to the back that read, ”Just Married (10 yrs ago)” . I had no idea that this was coming and couldn’t believe she slipped it past me. What a wonderful surprise. After some fun pictures, we jumped in the limo and headed to the restaurant.
The food at this place was fantastic. Truly, I think it was some of the best I have ever had. We enjoyed wonderful flowing conversation and food. I don’t think I can remember a date in my life going better than this night. Let me tell ya, I had no idea what was in store for me. I asked for the check and as it arrived, the waiter handed us am envelope. Now, for those of you who love reality television, you probably know what the bachelor is. In it, towards the end of a season, as the contestant reaches the final two women, at a dinner for two, a card is read that reads, “Should the two of you choose to forego your individual rooms, please take this key and stay in our fantasy sweet for the night.” Just before opening the card given me by the waiter, I recited that line as a joke, and April cracked up laughing. You guessed it. That’s exactly what the card read. I joined April’s laughter momentarily and, thinking that the “fantasy sweet” was our bedroom back home, I said, “I will take it!!!!!!!”
We jumped in the limo and as we were driving home, April and I talked about all the good times we’ve enjoyed over the past 10 yrs. I really enjoyed her company and loved watching her expressions as she recounted her fond memories. The limo stopped and the door opened. We stepped out to thank the driver and, preoccupied with figuring out how much to tip him, Id neglected to recognize that he had brought us to a local 5 star hotel. My jaw absolutely hit the floor. She’d done it again.
As we walked into the spacious lobby of the hotel, we were greeted by a man, calling us by name and informing us that the water in the rooms was at a comfortable 130 degrees and, should we need assistance, not to hesitate to ring them. I was soo surprised and excited to see what the room looked like. We headed to the top floor of the hotel and walked down the long dimly lit hallway. I opened the door, to reveal rose pedals scattered across the room in a delicate path, begging to be followed. They led us to the bedroom where the word “SHMILY” (See How Much I Love You?!) was formed on the bed with even more rose pedals. Well…we enjoyed a wonderfully romantic evening and slept in that next day. That morning, April and I enjoyed a romantic breakfast by a roaring fireplace as the snow fell in huge flakes just outside our window.
While we were eating, my lovely wife handed me two cards that were labeled ’50 minute couple massage”! Are you kidding me?! When will the heaven end?! I suggest that it will not. WE enjoyed that massage together and were preparing to head to Colorado Springs to pick up our kids that my family so lovingly agreed to watch while April surprised me repeatedly for an entire weekend. As we started for the door, a card was slipped under the door. Gimme a friggin’ BREAK!!!!!!!!!!! Another surprise?! I looked at April who was just tickled with herself at this point and unable to contain her excitement. She told me to open it. I did and was soooo blown out of the water by what was in the envelope. It was two tickets to see a famous comedian Brian Regan! At this point, I was so overwhelmed with appreciation for my wife, I couldn’t see straight. We had such a wonderful time there and throughout the night.
At this point, I’d like to address the obvious here. I am a truly blessed man who, at times, doesn’t feel too deserving. April has been such a blessing in my life. Someone who has lifted me past what I could’ve ever imagined achieving in work, in family and beyond. For that I am grateful and hope to surpass her expectations throughout our lives as she did this last weekend. We shall hafta see what happens. Stay tuned….SHMILY?!
Joe
For our 10th wedding anniversary, April and I decided to get a babysitter and head to a local restaurant that was said to be one of the best in northern Colorado (Texas-de-Brazil). We’d decided we were to get dressed up fancy to make it seem more official. The entire day was filled with anticipation for both of us. Aside from the disbelief that ten years had come and gone, we were just excited about spending time together, alone. The time had come. The babysitter arrived. I grabbed my keys and was heading for the door to start the car. I wanted it to be nice and warm for my precious bride. As I reached fro the door, April shouted from the second floor, “Don’t go Out There!” Immediately, I knew something was up but was unsure what it was exactly. So, I stayed inside and waited patiently for my date to come downstairs. There was very little difference in my anticipation and that of a teenager awaiting his prom date at the bottom of the stairs. Finally, she came down and boy-oh-boy was it worth the wait.
We hugged and kissed the kids and left our final instructions with the sitter, and proceeded outside. To my surprise, a black, shiny, stretch limo was parked in front of our home with a sign on taped to the back that read, ”Just Married (10 yrs ago)” . I had no idea that this was coming and couldn’t believe she slipped it past me. What a wonderful surprise. After some fun pictures, we jumped in the limo and headed to the restaurant.
The food at this place was fantastic. Truly, I think it was some of the best I have ever had. We enjoyed wonderful flowing conversation and food. I don’t think I can remember a date in my life going better than this night. Let me tell ya, I had no idea what was in store for me. I asked for the check and as it arrived, the waiter handed us am envelope. Now, for those of you who love reality television, you probably know what the bachelor is. In it, towards the end of a season, as the contestant reaches the final two women, at a dinner for two, a card is read that reads, “Should the two of you choose to forego your individual rooms, please take this key and stay in our fantasy sweet for the night.” Just before opening the card given me by the waiter, I recited that line as a joke, and April cracked up laughing. You guessed it. That’s exactly what the card read. I joined April’s laughter momentarily and, thinking that the “fantasy sweet” was our bedroom back home, I said, “I will take it!!!!!!!”
We jumped in the limo and as we were driving home, April and I talked about all the good times we’ve enjoyed over the past 10 yrs. I really enjoyed her company and loved watching her expressions as she recounted her fond memories. The limo stopped and the door opened. We stepped out to thank the driver and, preoccupied with figuring out how much to tip him, Id neglected to recognize that he had brought us to a local 5 star hotel. My jaw absolutely hit the floor. She’d done it again.
As we walked into the spacious lobby of the hotel, we were greeted by a man, calling us by name and informing us that the water in the rooms was at a comfortable 130 degrees and, should we need assistance, not to hesitate to ring them. I was soo surprised and excited to see what the room looked like. We headed to the top floor of the hotel and walked down the long dimly lit hallway. I opened the door, to reveal rose pedals scattered across the room in a delicate path, begging to be followed. They led us to the bedroom where the word “SHMILY” (See How Much I Love You?!) was formed on the bed with even more rose pedals. Well…we enjoyed a wonderfully romantic evening and slept in that next day. That morning, April and I enjoyed a romantic breakfast by a roaring fireplace as the snow fell in huge flakes just outside our window.
While we were eating, my lovely wife handed me two cards that were labeled ’50 minute couple massage”! Are you kidding me?! When will the heaven end?! I suggest that it will not. WE enjoyed that massage together and were preparing to head to Colorado Springs to pick up our kids that my family so lovingly agreed to watch while April surprised me repeatedly for an entire weekend. As we started for the door, a card was slipped under the door. Gimme a friggin’ BREAK!!!!!!!!!!! Another surprise?! I looked at April who was just tickled with herself at this point and unable to contain her excitement. She told me to open it. I did and was soooo blown out of the water by what was in the envelope. It was two tickets to see a famous comedian Brian Regan! At this point, I was so overwhelmed with appreciation for my wife, I couldn’t see straight. We had such a wonderful time there and throughout the night.
At this point, I’d like to address the obvious here. I am a truly blessed man who, at times, doesn’t feel too deserving. April has been such a blessing in my life. Someone who has lifted me past what I could’ve ever imagined achieving in work, in family and beyond. For that I am grateful and hope to surpass her expectations throughout our lives as she did this last weekend. We shall hafta see what happens. Stay tuned….SHMILY?!
Joe
Friday, January 29, 2010
How Blessed Are You?!
I have had the opportunity to support the Haiti relief efforts by providing satellite imagery analysis packages, which illustrate the extent of the devastation and identify the hospitals and safe landing zones to be used by those in such terrible distress. During this short period of time, which seems to have dragged on for an eternity, I have gained an acute appreciation for the blessings in my life. Aside from faithfully relying upon God for direction and recognizing his hand in my life and our country, I am eternally grateful for my loving wife and three children.
In the past, my wife and I have had conversations about how our home seems to be shrinking as our children are growing. There are times when it seems like we are right on top of each other. That being said, it’s amazing how a catastrophic event such as the Haiti earthquake can fundamentally change your perspective on even the little things. Since then, I have realized that I am blessed to even have a home and one that is structurally sound, warm and dry. A house that once seemed to small and the cause of short tempered arguments has become a place of peace and refuge from the world. Our children haven’t been arguing as much lately. Granted, there is still one or two instances where one of them pulls the other one’s arm off and beats them with it, but all in all, things are far greater.
Along with my contribution to the relief comes long hours at work and lunches (and often times dinners) at my desk. Interestingly enough, I leave work so much more fulfilled, with an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and empathy for anyone who experiences such devastation disasters such as this.
In closing, take time to focus on the things in your life that regularly go unrecognized as the blessing they truly are. They are the small things that we take for granted that so many outside this wonderful country don’t have. Know that you are blessed beyond the possibility of complete recognition. ….That doesn’t mean you cant try.
Joe
Friday, January 8, 2010
Yesterday was a hard one for the kids. Unfortunately, it was a bit of my fault… I love my little ones with all my heart and enjoy seeing them happy and full of life. For some reason yesterday, I was in a foul mood (according to my lovely wife) and kept biting their heads off at every turn. I don’t know if it was because I was tired or what. Regardless, I am feeling quite convicted this morning because of it. Now here I sit at work, trying to concentrate and cant seem to do so…hmm, wonder why. And to top it all off, little Emma woke up in the middle of the night and wrote me a note that said, “I love you dad even when you get mad”. That just sealed the deal for me. Needless to say, I will be going home and apologizing to my kids tonight.
Be patient with the ones you love. They want nothing more than to make us happy. Let them…
Be patient with the ones you love. They want nothing more than to make us happy. Let them…
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Blessing Abound
I had surgery yesterday on my gums in an effort to revise my gum line. According to my internal dialogue, I had quite the “gummy smile”. For quite some time now, it has been affecting my confidence at work and everywhere else in my life for that matter. That being said, I decided to treat myself to a new smile. This was the first step. It was a very surreal experience. I went in earlier that morning for a consultation. I was interested in what the gum specialist was capable of achieving and wanted to know how much it would cost me. As he described the procedure and outcome, I was quite interested in proceeding.
Unfortunately, the cost was set at $1000 which, for me, was just too much money during this time of year. I couldn’t justify spending that much money on myself when there are things my family could use that were far more important to me. Just as I had all but given up the dream for the time being, the good doctor continued by saying, “but, in the spirit of Christmas and considering the fact that I had a huge cancelation this morning that I would otherwise have to eat, I would be willing to do the job for you for $100.” I was instantly overcome with emotion and unable to speak for a moment. After composing myself, I relayed my appreciation and the fact that I considered this a true blessing from God. So, we booked an appointment for the same day and proceeded accordingly.
There is a reason I chose this experience as the topic of my entry today. I am a true believer in the concept of being blessed for doing the Lord’s work. The day before, my family and I committed ourselves to the service of our fellow man in a capacity to sacred for me to elaborate on in this setting. Nevertheless, we donated our time to the service of others with no expectations for reciprocation. In this day in age, we (society as a whole) are so overwhelmed with our own personal responsibilities and “burdens”, we very rarely find time to serve each other. This is an extremely unfortunate truth that few of us are exempt from. Whether work, finances or marital issues, we seem to focus on them and allow them to occupy our every thought. Well, as we continue through the holiday season, our thought should be focused on serving each other.
Serving others is a very interesting thing to me. I have found, as I strive to be of service to my family, friends, co-workers and neighbors, and to free them of their concerns and/or burdens, my problems seem to truly melt away. I have a testimony of the strength of service and the affects it has, not only on the recipients, but on us in the process. It’s a great concept that, if accepted and implemented by all, would solve so many problems and simultaneously. If I help you and those around me, and those around me do the same, the odds are that my problems and concerns will be addressed by someone else.
What a concept this is. I could go about my life, addressing my personal issues and minding my own business and most likely, I would be able to solve many of them. The satisfaction derived from solving my own problems is there but it is minimal at best. Conversely, if I focus on helping others, rather than myself, it gives them hope and brings me great satisfaction know that a friend has one less concern.
Charity, the unconditional love of Christ, is boundless. It is a love that is a verb. It’s an action. For those of us who call ourselves Christians, which is a lifestyle, this concept is inseparable. Give of your time. Give of your substance. Don’t just tell your family and friends that you love them, show them. We have the ability to inspire those around us by merely leading by example. It is the most effective way to affect change. In a time when we are so focused on the negative in our lives, let go, look to your neighbor, and give them something to smile about. Allow virtue and love to garnish your every waking thought and the blessing in your lives will grow exponentially.
“If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?”
Merry Christmas.
Unfortunately, the cost was set at $1000 which, for me, was just too much money during this time of year. I couldn’t justify spending that much money on myself when there are things my family could use that were far more important to me. Just as I had all but given up the dream for the time being, the good doctor continued by saying, “but, in the spirit of Christmas and considering the fact that I had a huge cancelation this morning that I would otherwise have to eat, I would be willing to do the job for you for $100.” I was instantly overcome with emotion and unable to speak for a moment. After composing myself, I relayed my appreciation and the fact that I considered this a true blessing from God. So, we booked an appointment for the same day and proceeded accordingly.
There is a reason I chose this experience as the topic of my entry today. I am a true believer in the concept of being blessed for doing the Lord’s work. The day before, my family and I committed ourselves to the service of our fellow man in a capacity to sacred for me to elaborate on in this setting. Nevertheless, we donated our time to the service of others with no expectations for reciprocation. In this day in age, we (society as a whole) are so overwhelmed with our own personal responsibilities and “burdens”, we very rarely find time to serve each other. This is an extremely unfortunate truth that few of us are exempt from. Whether work, finances or marital issues, we seem to focus on them and allow them to occupy our every thought. Well, as we continue through the holiday season, our thought should be focused on serving each other.
Serving others is a very interesting thing to me. I have found, as I strive to be of service to my family, friends, co-workers and neighbors, and to free them of their concerns and/or burdens, my problems seem to truly melt away. I have a testimony of the strength of service and the affects it has, not only on the recipients, but on us in the process. It’s a great concept that, if accepted and implemented by all, would solve so many problems and simultaneously. If I help you and those around me, and those around me do the same, the odds are that my problems and concerns will be addressed by someone else.
What a concept this is. I could go about my life, addressing my personal issues and minding my own business and most likely, I would be able to solve many of them. The satisfaction derived from solving my own problems is there but it is minimal at best. Conversely, if I focus on helping others, rather than myself, it gives them hope and brings me great satisfaction know that a friend has one less concern.
Charity, the unconditional love of Christ, is boundless. It is a love that is a verb. It’s an action. For those of us who call ourselves Christians, which is a lifestyle, this concept is inseparable. Give of your time. Give of your substance. Don’t just tell your family and friends that you love them, show them. We have the ability to inspire those around us by merely leading by example. It is the most effective way to affect change. In a time when we are so focused on the negative in our lives, let go, look to your neighbor, and give them something to smile about. Allow virtue and love to garnish your every waking thought and the blessing in your lives will grow exponentially.
“If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?”
Merry Christmas.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Giving Thanks
I took last week off of work for the Thanksgiving holiday, to prepare the house our guests (family) and spend time with my wife and kids. It turned out to be a great week. April made a huge Thanksgiving feast in which she cooked a 24lb turkey and all the trimmings. We had 14 people in our house for the occasion and had a blast. One of the things April did was design a game for us in which all the things we were happy for were written on construction paper turkey feathers and taped to a big fat turkey picture on the wall. After we all ate dinner, the children took turns plucking feathers from the turkey and reading someone’s thing that they were grateful for. Then, we all had to guess whose item it was. It was extremely entertaining! It got me thinking about all the things that I was eternally grateful for.
First and foremost, I am grateful for Christ’s unconditional love and atoning sacrifice for me. I know that it is through him and by keeping his commandments that we shall return to live with our Heavenly father some day. I know that, by abiding by the precepts within the gospel, I will stay free from all the things in the world that ensnare the hearts of men and keep them from true happiness.
Second only to the Lord, is my appreciation for my wife, April. I would not be the man I am today had it not been for her patience and persistence when it came to me. As cliché as it sounds, she is what makes me want to be a better man…..cuz if I don’t, shell make my life hell…ha-ha just kidding. She has helped me understand and realize my potential and has always held me to a higher standard than I was at, at any given time. For that, I am eternally indebted to her. I love her un conditionally.
My children are a huuuuuge source of happiness for me. Although they can be a handful at times, their happiness and successes in life bring me great joy.
I love the friends that I’ve made throughout my life, which I am still in contact with. The memories that I have of them are cause for laughter and celebration.
I am also grateful for a steady job and a warm home to reside in. The two are very important to my family’s survival. The quality of which, is very important to my happiness.
Lastly, I am grateful for music and the inspiration I draw from the lyrics and harmonies within.
These are the things I am grateful for in my life at the young age of 32. I wonder how much they will change throughout the next year. We shall see.
First and foremost, I am grateful for Christ’s unconditional love and atoning sacrifice for me. I know that it is through him and by keeping his commandments that we shall return to live with our Heavenly father some day. I know that, by abiding by the precepts within the gospel, I will stay free from all the things in the world that ensnare the hearts of men and keep them from true happiness.
Second only to the Lord, is my appreciation for my wife, April. I would not be the man I am today had it not been for her patience and persistence when it came to me. As cliché as it sounds, she is what makes me want to be a better man…..cuz if I don’t, shell make my life hell…ha-ha just kidding. She has helped me understand and realize my potential and has always held me to a higher standard than I was at, at any given time. For that, I am eternally indebted to her. I love her un conditionally.
My children are a huuuuuge source of happiness for me. Although they can be a handful at times, their happiness and successes in life bring me great joy.
I love the friends that I’ve made throughout my life, which I am still in contact with. The memories that I have of them are cause for laughter and celebration.
I am also grateful for a steady job and a warm home to reside in. The two are very important to my family’s survival. The quality of which, is very important to my happiness.
Lastly, I am grateful for music and the inspiration I draw from the lyrics and harmonies within.
These are the things I am grateful for in my life at the young age of 32. I wonder how much they will change throughout the next year. We shall see.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Long Time, No Type
I know it’s been a while since my last entry but, for some reason, this has become less of a priority. So, that being said, I am going to try harder to write more frequently.
We have been here in Colorado now for a little over a year and still love it! I have been working for a commercial satellite corporation called DigitalGlobe as an imagery analyst and graphic designer. It truly has been the dream job. I’ve had the opportunity to travel to San Diego California and Colorado Springs for trade shows, where I learned even more about satellite imagery innovation. Anyways, I hope I can stay here at DG for a long time to come.
Family life here in Northern Colorado has been nothing but a dream. The people here are soooo family oriented and make plans with children in mind. April and take the kids swimming at our gym’s pool on the weekends. They spend the entire time we are there jumping on my back, trying to drag me to the bottom of the pool. They have a blast and I get a great neck workout. We had a great harvest corn festival here in Erie and spend loads of time at my brother’s property in the mountains, camping and catching up on lost time.
Joe Joe is going to be 9 yrs old in February and is truly one of my best buds. He has participated in everything from karate and scouts to basketball and coach pitch baseball. He is coming into his own these days. He is starting to find his own style and has a little swagger to his step. I have to admit though; the two of us butt heads quite a bit. I think it’s because we are so much alike. I love him dearly and want him to be happy. At the same time, I am trying to instill a sense of obligation and work ethic in him. Man-oh-man is that a hard act to balance! I think I could calm down a bit and be more patient with him. I guess I’m just so excited about watching him grow that I forget he is “only” 8 yrs old. He has the personality of an older child and so that’s how I treat him. Something for me to work on I suppose.
Little Emma…..She is truly my princess and is growing up way too fast. I can’t believe she is going to 7 yrs old in February. She is becoming such a beautiful girl and embracing the girly girl within. She loves going to her dance classes and putting on mama’s make-up. She spends quite a bit of time playing dress-up with her girlfriends when they come over for play dates. She is a loving girl who has to have a huge hug and kiss before I go anywhere. I really hope she doesn’t ask me for anything expensive or unattainable cuz…..I don’t know how I’m going to say “no’.
Ryan is our little bruiser. He reminds of my little brother Jared, who is the strong opinionated type, who would give you the shirt of his back if you asked him to. Ry Ry is 3 yrs old and has to be included in everything his older siblings are doing. If they are playing video games, he has to be holding a controller and acting like he is playing right along. He is on the verge of being completely potty trained and talks up a storm. Although, he had an accident the other day in which he proceeded to empty his butt on our carpet. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he then took one of my video game disks and dipped it into the “baby leavings”. After which, he brought the soiled disk into my office and placed it in our brand new computer!!!!!!!! Ya gotta love him and hug him, cuz if ya didn’t, ya might do something more sinister. Ha, just kidding. He is a great child though.
April has made quite a few girlfriends over the past year. She is part of a cooking club that meets about every other week and shares recipes and taste tests each of them. They have about 20 girls that attend regularly. I love it, because I get to test all the new recipes when she cooks them for dinner. She is an extremely hard worker around the house of which, I am eternally grateful. I come home to a clean house and dinner on the table on a regular basis, which I never imagined would be my reality. She has truly become a dream wife and consistently held me to a higher standard that I am at at any given moment. She is sincerely the reason I have been successful in my life and for that, I owe her dearly.
So that’s what we are up to these days. Life is great. We are filled with happiness and gratitude for all the friends and family that we have. It is nice to finally live near family and get to spend time with them on a regular basis. The kids love there cousins and get along with them so well. They look forward to the weekends when they can hang out with them. Its been fun catching up with my brothers and parents and getting to know my sisters-in-law. I truly feel like this is where we are meant to be. It is truly a wonderful community and will bring us happiness for years to come. Til next time.
Joe
We have been here in Colorado now for a little over a year and still love it! I have been working for a commercial satellite corporation called DigitalGlobe as an imagery analyst and graphic designer. It truly has been the dream job. I’ve had the opportunity to travel to San Diego California and Colorado Springs for trade shows, where I learned even more about satellite imagery innovation. Anyways, I hope I can stay here at DG for a long time to come.
Family life here in Northern Colorado has been nothing but a dream. The people here are soooo family oriented and make plans with children in mind. April and take the kids swimming at our gym’s pool on the weekends. They spend the entire time we are there jumping on my back, trying to drag me to the bottom of the pool. They have a blast and I get a great neck workout. We had a great harvest corn festival here in Erie and spend loads of time at my brother’s property in the mountains, camping and catching up on lost time.
Joe Joe is going to be 9 yrs old in February and is truly one of my best buds. He has participated in everything from karate and scouts to basketball and coach pitch baseball. He is coming into his own these days. He is starting to find his own style and has a little swagger to his step. I have to admit though; the two of us butt heads quite a bit. I think it’s because we are so much alike. I love him dearly and want him to be happy. At the same time, I am trying to instill a sense of obligation and work ethic in him. Man-oh-man is that a hard act to balance! I think I could calm down a bit and be more patient with him. I guess I’m just so excited about watching him grow that I forget he is “only” 8 yrs old. He has the personality of an older child and so that’s how I treat him. Something for me to work on I suppose.
Little Emma…..She is truly my princess and is growing up way too fast. I can’t believe she is going to 7 yrs old in February. She is becoming such a beautiful girl and embracing the girly girl within. She loves going to her dance classes and putting on mama’s make-up. She spends quite a bit of time playing dress-up with her girlfriends when they come over for play dates. She is a loving girl who has to have a huge hug and kiss before I go anywhere. I really hope she doesn’t ask me for anything expensive or unattainable cuz…..I don’t know how I’m going to say “no’.
Ryan is our little bruiser. He reminds of my little brother Jared, who is the strong opinionated type, who would give you the shirt of his back if you asked him to. Ry Ry is 3 yrs old and has to be included in everything his older siblings are doing. If they are playing video games, he has to be holding a controller and acting like he is playing right along. He is on the verge of being completely potty trained and talks up a storm. Although, he had an accident the other day in which he proceeded to empty his butt on our carpet. As if that wasn’t bad enough, he then took one of my video game disks and dipped it into the “baby leavings”. After which, he brought the soiled disk into my office and placed it in our brand new computer!!!!!!!! Ya gotta love him and hug him, cuz if ya didn’t, ya might do something more sinister. Ha, just kidding. He is a great child though.
April has made quite a few girlfriends over the past year. She is part of a cooking club that meets about every other week and shares recipes and taste tests each of them. They have about 20 girls that attend regularly. I love it, because I get to test all the new recipes when she cooks them for dinner. She is an extremely hard worker around the house of which, I am eternally grateful. I come home to a clean house and dinner on the table on a regular basis, which I never imagined would be my reality. She has truly become a dream wife and consistently held me to a higher standard that I am at at any given moment. She is sincerely the reason I have been successful in my life and for that, I owe her dearly.So that’s what we are up to these days. Life is great. We are filled with happiness and gratitude for all the friends and family that we have. It is nice to finally live near family and get to spend time with them on a regular basis. The kids love there cousins and get along with them so well. They look forward to the weekends when they can hang out with them. Its been fun catching up with my brothers and parents and getting to know my sisters-in-law. I truly feel like this is where we are meant to be. It is truly a wonderful community and will bring us happiness for years to come. Til next time.
Joe
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Hell must look like a one room hotel!
As much as I love my little rugrats, and as patient as I try to be, it is very hard to maintain sanity when there are five people in a 20 x 20 foot room. Anyways, enough about the negativity.
We finally got word that we will be getting the keys to OUR house on Friday. Yeah! I will own my first house in less than a week. We have a few things we want to do with it initially but, overall its ready to move into as is. I cant wait to wake up next to my wife and just my wife. I dont know that I remember what that feels like. There are other things that I dont remeber but we wont get into that. April has been quite a trooper lately. She has to drive 100 miles a day bringing the kids to and from school. And on top of that, Joe Joe has Scarlet fever and strep throat. Can you believe it?! Scarlet fever! Anyways, I am truly proud of her and pray that she keeps fighting the good fight.
Friday....new house....here I come.
We finally got word that we will be getting the keys to OUR house on Friday. Yeah! I will own my first house in less than a week. We have a few things we want to do with it initially but, overall its ready to move into as is. I cant wait to wake up next to my wife and just my wife. I dont know that I remember what that feels like. There are other things that I dont remeber but we wont get into that. April has been quite a trooper lately. She has to drive 100 miles a day bringing the kids to and from school. And on top of that, Joe Joe has Scarlet fever and strep throat. Can you believe it?! Scarlet fever! Anyways, I am truly proud of her and pray that she keeps fighting the good fight.
Friday....new house....here I come.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
How Do You Measure Success
Alot has happened over the last few months. I quit my job at BAE systems and gained employment for another corporation in Longmont, Colorado. We are currentlty living in a hotel while our house ownership paperwork is finalized. We have been living in this one room hotel for the past two weeks.
Its interesting what type of things occur when you are confined to one room with four other humans, three of which are under the age of eight. AAAGH! To be perfectly honest, I think its harder on my children than it is on me. I can become a little bit irritated rather quickly, and my children get the brunt of it. I know this isnt right, but is the reality of it. So Ive decided, in an effort better control my temper and extend my patience, I would llist some if things in my life that, to me, define success:
1. I have a wife that I absolutely adore. I would have never guessed life could be this good when i was younger. April is truly my reason for becoming the man I am today. If not for her, I wouldnt even be a fraction of "me". She brings me such joy and hapiness. To sum it all up, she puts the passion in my every day.
2. I have three perfectly, disasterously wonderful children who try to make me proud on a daily basis. They do a very good job of it. I am so proud of the people they've become and the children they are becoming. I hope I can give them happy memories of their childhood and raise them in the gospel, all while protecting them from the world.
3. I am a member of the true church of Jesus Christ. The curch has brought me loser to the Lord and helped me to gain a personal testimony of his existance and glory. I am grateful for the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ and it's infinite healing power and majesty. I hope to become better each day and grow in the gospel. I wish for the opportuntiy to help others on a daily basis in an effort to spread the gospel thoughout the world.
I have so many things to be grateful for that arent material belongings. i am constanly reminded of the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and hope to remind others of His love for them at every opportunity. I love my family and pray that I may give them teh father they need to become extrememly valuable contributors to society.
Amen.
3
2.
Its interesting what type of things occur when you are confined to one room with four other humans, three of which are under the age of eight. AAAGH! To be perfectly honest, I think its harder on my children than it is on me. I can become a little bit irritated rather quickly, and my children get the brunt of it. I know this isnt right, but is the reality of it. So Ive decided, in an effort better control my temper and extend my patience, I would llist some if things in my life that, to me, define success:
1. I have a wife that I absolutely adore. I would have never guessed life could be this good when i was younger. April is truly my reason for becoming the man I am today. If not for her, I wouldnt even be a fraction of "me". She brings me such joy and hapiness. To sum it all up, she puts the passion in my every day.
2. I have three perfectly, disasterously wonderful children who try to make me proud on a daily basis. They do a very good job of it. I am so proud of the people they've become and the children they are becoming. I hope I can give them happy memories of their childhood and raise them in the gospel, all while protecting them from the world.
3. I am a member of the true church of Jesus Christ. The curch has brought me loser to the Lord and helped me to gain a personal testimony of his existance and glory. I am grateful for the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ and it's infinite healing power and majesty. I hope to become better each day and grow in the gospel. I wish for the opportuntiy to help others on a daily basis in an effort to spread the gospel thoughout the world.
I have so many things to be grateful for that arent material belongings. i am constanly reminded of the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and hope to remind others of His love for them at every opportunity. I love my family and pray that I may give them teh father they need to become extrememly valuable contributors to society.
Amen.
3
2.
Monday, July 14, 2008
New Beginings
I'm thinkin' the winds of change are truly blowing in my direction these days. About two weeks ago, April i got together and determined that our relationship was more important than money and that she would quit her job to stay home with us where she belongs. Her face lit up at the prospect of coming back home. That being said, we also decided it was time for us to move out of our current house (which we are paying way to much for rent) and find something more affordable to help us make ends meet. We have been unable to find a place thats big enough and in a safe neighborhood. We were becoming destraught do to the fact that we couldnt find anything resonable. We were desperate and praying for some kind of divine intervention. About two weeks into our rapid build-up of anxiety, we got a break. I received a call back for a job that I applied for in Colorado. The company is called DigitalGlobe and they are the bigest commercial satelite imagery provider in the world. I applied for a Technical sales Executive position.
It is by far the coolest job on the planet. I get to go to tradeshows and demonstrate their product for up to 12000 people at a time. No, thats not overwhelming. Why do you ask? So I have interviewed with the recruiter and the first sales executive. Now I have to interview in Colorado. hopefully this week some time. I pray that all goes well and we can get out of this money whole of a state that is Virginia. I only wish I could take the fireflies with us. Oh well.
--joe
It is by far the coolest job on the planet. I get to go to tradeshows and demonstrate their product for up to 12000 people at a time. No, thats not overwhelming. Why do you ask? So I have interviewed with the recruiter and the first sales executive. Now I have to interview in Colorado. hopefully this week some time. I pray that all goes well and we can get out of this money whole of a state that is Virginia. I only wish I could take the fireflies with us. Oh well.
--joe
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Am I Truly There For Them
So April went to visit some of her girlfriends in sunny Georgia this weekend and gave me the wonderful opportunity of staying with the children for the weekend. As sarcastic as that my sound, let me reassure you that it is as sincere as the intentions of the rain on a hot July day. My kids and I have grown quite close over the last few months and I am eternally grateful for that. I feel like they teach me something new on a daily basis.
While April is away, the older two children and I are camping out in the living room each evening, watching movies until the wee hours of the morning and sleeping in as long as baby Ryan will allow us. Well, this evening, while we were watching an Indiana Jones movie, Emma informed me that she couldn't keep her eyes open and that she was ready to go to sleep. I think o spent the next 5 minutes or so watching her fight to keep her eyes open. I thought Id help the process along by rubbing her temples and playing with her hair. Once I got that goin', there was no way those eyes could stay open. In her final moments of coherency, she opened her eyes one last time, and said, "Dad, when I get older, will you baptize me?" What a random thing to say on your way into sleepy time. I of course told her I would and she was out...
My children mean the world to me. As they grow, I find myself feeling more and more inadequate for the job of Father. I find myself second guessing my choice of words or the things I require from them on a daily basis. My father once told me, that he as I was learning to be a good son, he was simultaneously learning how to be a good father. That's stuck with me. I think Ive said it to Joe Joe a couple times already and he's only seven. I want to be the best dad I can be. I want my children to look back on their childhood and remember nothing but good times. I want to remain connected to them as they grow through their teenage years. I want to protect them from any and all harm that may possibly befall them. They seem like they are pretty happy. Although, at the same time, it seems like they are always seeing what they didn't get to do rather than what the just got to do. I hope that makes sense. We could be walking out of Chuck E Cheese's, after just spending an hour or so, and there are times when all they do is complain about something. That's frustration to say the least. I sure do love them.
Am I overindulging them? I wonder. Are we spending to much time focusing on fun and not enough on "what's important"? I guess time will tell. I know they are kids but I just cant seem to knock the sense of entitlement out of them. Is this something that We've instilled? That can't be the only answer. So whats the answer to my dilemma? Is there an answer? Well, if spoiling the kids is wrong, I'm guilty. I love seeing their faces light up.
So as I sit here at 3:47 am, trying to fall asleep, I watch my children peacefully sleeping the night away. My heart is full of gratitude for the gifts that are my children. I pray that their lives my be filled with experiences and people that will build strong moral character. I pray that my wife and I can rear our children in the gospel and not place to much focus on worldly needs. This is my prayer...
Joe
While April is away, the older two children and I are camping out in the living room each evening, watching movies until the wee hours of the morning and sleeping in as long as baby Ryan will allow us. Well, this evening, while we were watching an Indiana Jones movie, Emma informed me that she couldn't keep her eyes open and that she was ready to go to sleep. I think o spent the next 5 minutes or so watching her fight to keep her eyes open. I thought Id help the process along by rubbing her temples and playing with her hair. Once I got that goin', there was no way those eyes could stay open. In her final moments of coherency, she opened her eyes one last time, and said, "Dad, when I get older, will you baptize me?" What a random thing to say on your way into sleepy time. I of course told her I would and she was out...
My children mean the world to me. As they grow, I find myself feeling more and more inadequate for the job of Father. I find myself second guessing my choice of words or the things I require from them on a daily basis. My father once told me, that he as I was learning to be a good son, he was simultaneously learning how to be a good father. That's stuck with me. I think Ive said it to Joe Joe a couple times already and he's only seven. I want to be the best dad I can be. I want my children to look back on their childhood and remember nothing but good times. I want to remain connected to them as they grow through their teenage years. I want to protect them from any and all harm that may possibly befall them. They seem like they are pretty happy. Although, at the same time, it seems like they are always seeing what they didn't get to do rather than what the just got to do. I hope that makes sense. We could be walking out of Chuck E Cheese's, after just spending an hour or so, and there are times when all they do is complain about something. That's frustration to say the least. I sure do love them.
Am I overindulging them? I wonder. Are we spending to much time focusing on fun and not enough on "what's important"? I guess time will tell. I know they are kids but I just cant seem to knock the sense of entitlement out of them. Is this something that We've instilled? That can't be the only answer. So whats the answer to my dilemma? Is there an answer? Well, if spoiling the kids is wrong, I'm guilty. I love seeing their faces light up.
So as I sit here at 3:47 am, trying to fall asleep, I watch my children peacefully sleeping the night away. My heart is full of gratitude for the gifts that are my children. I pray that their lives my be filled with experiences and people that will build strong moral character. I pray that my wife and I can rear our children in the gospel and not place to much focus on worldly needs. This is my prayer...
Joe
Monday, June 23, 2008
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
My Little Princess
There was once a time in my life when I thought all I needed was a son or two and I'd be content as can be. I could have never imagined the joy that comes with having a daughter. I love my sons. They are fun to be around and wrestle with. I do love my boys so....but little Emma....She has already got me absolutely wrapped.
It takes all that I have to resist her incredible powers of persuasion. She gets whatever the heck she wants and I dont know how she does it. On second thought, I know exactly how she does it. She does it with her perfect little smile. She does it with her "puppy dog eyes". Although, I wouldn't have it any other way. Its so funny to me....It comes time to correct her for something she did, and before I know it, I'm askin' her if she'd like some ice cream and apologizing for something that I'm supposed to do as a dad. How entertaining she is. She is 100% disappointed if I don't rouse her from her sleep to tell her "good morning" as I leave for work each morning. TO think that she would rather be awakened than remain asleep, just to say, "I love you" is a true heart melting thought.
I can remember like it was yesterday, peering through the incubator at the hospital for the first two weeks of her life, not being able to hold her or feed her ourselves. It was truly hell on earth. All we wanted to do was hold our little girl. She has come along way since then. nowadays, I cant get enough of my little Emmy. She accompanies me on my various errands, plays video games with us and loves to hang out with her mamma. She loves helping her mommy around the house whether cooking or straightening up. I could have never asked for a better, more beautiful little girl.
I thank the Lord on a daily basis for the love of my daughter. So many fathers are disconnected from their daughters. I feel really lucky to have found a way to stay close to Emma for now. I know her teenage years will yield some problems, but they are issues I consider trivial when compared to all the good times we've had and will have. I pray that I will be able to be a good example of what a good husband should be. I pray that I can instill the self-confidence, paramount in the maintaining of ones personal chastity. I love my little girl and cant wait to see what type of adult she becomes. She truly is my flawless princess. I sure do love her.
Joe
It takes all that I have to resist her incredible powers of persuasion. She gets whatever the heck she wants and I dont know how she does it. On second thought, I know exactly how she does it. She does it with her perfect little smile. She does it with her "puppy dog eyes". Although, I wouldn't have it any other way. Its so funny to me....It comes time to correct her for something she did, and before I know it, I'm askin' her if she'd like some ice cream and apologizing for something that I'm supposed to do as a dad. How entertaining she is. She is 100% disappointed if I don't rouse her from her sleep to tell her "good morning" as I leave for work each morning. TO think that she would rather be awakened than remain asleep, just to say, "I love you" is a true heart melting thought.
I can remember like it was yesterday, peering through the incubator at the hospital for the first two weeks of her life, not being able to hold her or feed her ourselves. It was truly hell on earth. All we wanted to do was hold our little girl. She has come along way since then. nowadays, I cant get enough of my little Emmy. She accompanies me on my various errands, plays video games with us and loves to hang out with her mamma. She loves helping her mommy around the house whether cooking or straightening up. I could have never asked for a better, more beautiful little girl.
I thank the Lord on a daily basis for the love of my daughter. So many fathers are disconnected from their daughters. I feel really lucky to have found a way to stay close to Emma for now. I know her teenage years will yield some problems, but they are issues I consider trivial when compared to all the good times we've had and will have. I pray that I will be able to be a good example of what a good husband should be. I pray that I can instill the self-confidence, paramount in the maintaining of ones personal chastity. I love my little girl and cant wait to see what type of adult she becomes. She truly is my flawless princess. I sure do love her.
Joe
Thursday, June 12, 2008
So Maybe He Does Know a Thing or Two
Alright, so one of the main things I have been focusing on throughout this blog is the fact that April has been working nights. It has been a pretty jagged pill to swallow and we have been tough on each other lately. Throughout all of this, our children wait patiently, for us to get over whatever argument we have decided to selfishly get into. They are truly a blessing in our lives. Sometimes, it is hard to stay focused on that. It is very easy to allow yourself to become impatient with the ones that did nothing wrong in the first place. Case and point. I was on the phone with my father the other day, talking about life in general and just kinda "catching up". As we were conversing, my children were having a grand old time, running through the house, acting the way children should. Well, being that I'd had a long day, and was somewhat irritated in general, I found myself being short tempered with them. I repeatedly snapped at them to be quiet or to go play in the other room (all while my father patiently stood by, waiting to continue the conversation). After about 30 minutes of this, my dad chimed in with a small piece of advice...."Joseph, just hug your children."
It hit me like a ton of bricks. See, my dad wasn't always the most 'patient' individual. There were even times when I may have been extremely critical of his "dadding" skills. Boy, when he said that, it was as if something clicked in me. It was the first time in a long time that I truly heard what he was trying to convey. He continued by reminding me to allow them to truly be their age and enjoy their childhood. I am grateful for my father's council and feel that it was truly inspired. It's weird how every once in a great while, you actually "hear" what someone is trying to get across to you. That mind's eye isn't always open fully for me. Luckily, this time it was.
...What a difference the last few days have been. I find myself becoming emotional while I work at my desk during the day, as I ponder the gravity of my father's statement....Just hug your children. It's as if I literally see my children differently. I have found more patience for their antics and allow them more freedom to be silly. I don't require them to be SO regimented. I was reminded of the importance of fun in my kids lives.
I am truly grateful to have a father who is living his life correctly. He has changed quite a bit over the past 10 years. For the longest time, I was indifferent about his presence in my life...Now, I find myself looking forward to talks with him about whatever. I especially look forward to watching him interact with my children.
Hug your children, no matter their age or disposition. It is truly amazing the changes that take place when you hug them instead of scold them. I pray that I can find an added measure of patience with my family members each day. I am truly grateful for them and owe everything I am...all that I have become today......Its all because of my family's influence on my life. I am eternally indebted to them.
joe
It hit me like a ton of bricks. See, my dad wasn't always the most 'patient' individual. There were even times when I may have been extremely critical of his "dadding" skills. Boy, when he said that, it was as if something clicked in me. It was the first time in a long time that I truly heard what he was trying to convey. He continued by reminding me to allow them to truly be their age and enjoy their childhood. I am grateful for my father's council and feel that it was truly inspired. It's weird how every once in a great while, you actually "hear" what someone is trying to get across to you. That mind's eye isn't always open fully for me. Luckily, this time it was.
...What a difference the last few days have been. I find myself becoming emotional while I work at my desk during the day, as I ponder the gravity of my father's statement....Just hug your children. It's as if I literally see my children differently. I have found more patience for their antics and allow them more freedom to be silly. I don't require them to be SO regimented. I was reminded of the importance of fun in my kids lives.
I am truly grateful to have a father who is living his life correctly. He has changed quite a bit over the past 10 years. For the longest time, I was indifferent about his presence in my life...Now, I find myself looking forward to talks with him about whatever. I especially look forward to watching him interact with my children.
Hug your children, no matter their age or disposition. It is truly amazing the changes that take place when you hug them instead of scold them. I pray that I can find an added measure of patience with my family members each day. I am truly grateful for them and owe everything I am...all that I have become today......Its all because of my family's influence on my life. I am eternally indebted to them.
joe
Monday, June 2, 2008
Plaster of Paris in the Rain
While April was away at work this evening, oddly as was, I actually wanted to clean up the house for her as a surprise. She is constantly doing things for me and the children without ever asking for recognition or reciprocation. So, I figured this was the time to do just that. So I took care of some key things that plague her on a daily basis so tomorrow will be that much easier for her. Maybe, just maybe, she will find time to sit back and take a breath....maybe even time to reflect upon the things she is most grateful for.
Anyways, This last weekend was nice and relaxed. We spent most of the time as a family in the house enjoying the inclimate weather. The thunderstorm was absolutely magnificent. We let the kids run out in the rain, which was coming down so hard that you were soaked the instant you stepped into it. After the rain dance, the kids came inside, dried off and spent the next hour or so painting these little figurines brilliant colors. We are spending a lot more time together now and it has been such a blessing. We grow closer each day.
Every day that April works is a day that I DON'T get to spend with her. It is very frustrating. I don't watch TV anymore because all the stuff I usually laugh at has lost it's comical impression upon me due to her absence. Id rather not watch it. So, as I've said all along, I look forward to the time when she comes home for good. I never thought Id miss the "we are around each other so much that we are getting sick of each other" arguments. I sure do love my angel. I pray that the Lord remains with her thus making her burdens light and her countenance bright.Joe
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