Archive for January, 2009
My recent trip to Nashville
On Saturday, January 24, 2009, I had to travel to Nashville. On Friday night, my father had a massive heart attack. When I got the the VA Hospital that Saturday night, he looked so much better than I expected. This was the first time I had seen my dad in 3 to 4 years. Both my sister and I spent about 2 to 3 hours Saturday and Sunday with him. He doesn’t believe that he had a heart attack, but I think that is because he has dementia.
I talked to his doctor today before I came back to Mississippi. He told me that my dad’s main artery was blocked and he had 3 stints put in. He had moderate damage to his heart as well. He will be at the VA until Wednesday and then he will go back to the nursing home.
Thanks to everyone for their thoughts and prayers during this time. I really felt them and have had peace during this whole situation.
Ping!
I really must take the time to keep updating our blog. After a very hectic week, I realize that I have been remiss in updating the events. My son has even asked on occasion when I am going to post the story about his last deer of the season. 
I’ve got tons to say, but I am tired and am going to spend the evening with my wife. Regardless of the hustle and bustle of the situations I am in, I do thank God for all He has provided and for who he is.
Here I go again…
Troy and I talked tonight about me losing weight again. I know that I have to do this, but I haven’t been motivated to do it. So now we have come up with a new plan. I will pay for it out of money that I earn keeping the nursery at church. When I reach the first goal of 180 pounds, Troy will get my first gift. When I reach my goal weight, he will get my big gift. So…. Weight Watchers, here I come again!!!!
Success Part Deux!
We went to the camp again this weekend and Ryan was able to bag his second deer, a small spike. He was so excited to shoot a buck.
When we got to our stand, we were there for less than 15 minutes when a doe entered the plot we were hunting. I told Ryan to get ready as a buck may be following the doe. Sure enough, less than 5 minutes later a 6 pointer showed up from the same spot where the doe entered. I told Ryan to get ready. He didn’t move. I slowly looked over and he was ASLEEP! I was able to wake him up but by the time he got ready, the buck had slinked back from the way he came. Fortunately, another deer, a spike, (actually it only had one antler, the other was broken off) came in the field. We waited and waited but no other bucks came. Finally a doe came into the plot. The spike (or unihorn as Ryan called it) saw the doe and started chasing her around the plot. Ryan and I laughed as we watched them for over 10 minutes. The buck would grunt and chase her but she was able to keep him at bay. When it got almost dark, I did let Ryan take a long shot a the spike which was about 50-60 yards away. He looked through the scope and pulled the trigger. All I saw was the flash from the barrel of the gun as the spike ran off. We got down and looked and almost immediately found blood and hair. We tracked it for less than 30 yards and walked up on his deer.
As we walked back to the 4-wheeler to go and get his deer, he told me “Daddy, do you know what my favorite part of hunting is? Spending time with you.” My heart melted. I am so glad we have the opportunity to spend this time together and look forward to the years to come with him, Bryce, and Deanna. I hope I never take for granted the gift of my family that God has provided.
Home for Christmas
On Christmas morning, we were woken up by the pitter patter of little feet and shouts of “Santa came! Santa came!” My mom always talked about how much she liked our waking her up on Christmas morning and the excitement in our voices. I now know what she is talking about.
After opening presents which were highlighted by a Rip Stick for Ryan, Nintendo DS games for Bryce, and a Disney Princesses bike for Deanna, we packed up and headed to Tennessee. We did a lot of running around and visiting and while it is great to see everyone it is also VERY tiring. We made it home and are now beginning to unpack and take down the Christmas decorations.
As we start 2009, my prayers are that our family will be able to grow closer together as we grow closer to our Lord Jesus.