What a Week

This has definitely been a week of ups and downs. Unfortunately, it seemed to have more downs than ups. It started out well…on Monday I reenlisted for 3 more years, which will take me to 21 years of service in the Marines. My wife was presented a Certificate of Appreciation for her unfailing support and understanding during my career. As nice as it was, I still think words can ever justify the great person she is for the sacrifices she (and my children) have made during my career. Other than that it hasn’t been so great. Right now my eldest, who has recently begun his teen years, has been challenging the limits and the patience of his parents. I fully understand this is a normal process and I was probably much worse at his age….I guess I am just being selfish and not wanting to go through the process. I am learning from it though so there is a good side to it. The other ups and downs stem from my work. I have a small instructor staff that works for me and I am ecstatic that professionally we are agreeable on almost all points. From a professional stand point that is great, it makes my job that much easier. From a personal stand point I am struggling…part of my responsibility is to be there as a mentor/advisor with personal issues. Unfortunately I have strong moral opinions contrary to a couple of issues and I am trying desperately to find the right words to say. I don’t want to come across like I am judging them (because I am not) , yet I am compelled to help them, especially when it concerns unborn children and marriage. I do want to end this on a positive note though….so here it goes. If you notice on my blog, there is a new widget on my blog for C28.com. It is a Christian store that sells some pretty cool stuff. I have already gotten a pretty bold T-shirt from them at the tobyMac concert I went to. I also have recently ordered some vinyl stickers for my car. I highly recommend them and if you wish to check them out just click on the widget. So if you are looking for something that’s stylish, makes a bold statement for your faith, from clothes to jewelry, check them out. I believe you will be glad you did. Well that is about it for tonight. Just remember challenges come and challenges go but without challenges we would never grow. Good Night!

Today’s Quote: The man who lets his children take second place to his work will live to regret it.