Sarah

Happy birthday to my sister, Sarah, today! She's older than I am...it's important to know that up front. Here are some of my thoughts about my older (did I mention that already) sister...

- Enough with the degrees already! With almost 40 years of education under your belt...stop already;-) Actually, I'm quite proud of her 37 Masters Degrees (maybe a slight exaggeration)...she works hard to grow and develop.

- I had her as a student teacher when I was in high school (did I mention that she's older than I). She was a good teacher way back then...I'm sure she's even better now.

- She's one of the people who taught me much about grace. As the "baby" of the family, I was occasionally inclined toward wanting my own way. Sarah was always so gracious to me.

Happy birthday, Sarah...

M@

Grandpa Al

I was the goofy kid down the street. I'd stop over at Al and Bette's home unannounced. And never once did they act put out. He didn't need my company - his life was full, his kids were adults, and a 7 year old kid...well, he'd done that already.

He'd let me pal around with him in the garden or down in the woodshop. As he went about his business, he made sure I was learning the trade. An early morning found us putting the boat in the water for an adventure on the high seas of Lake Michigan - the fish were safe that day.

When I kept falling down while learning to cross country ski, I'd get so frustrated. Knowing that misery loves company, Al would take a dive now and then...just so I wouldn't be alone lying in the snow.

My grandparents lived in other states. And after my father's death, his parents didn't stay in contact. Grandparents' day at school would have been a huge bummer...except that Al would be there waiting. He take an interest in my schoolwork and eat some lunch with me. He didn't have to...he just did.

He served his country in World War II. He served his community as a volunteer. He servced God through his church. He served his family as a husband, father, and provider. And this humble man served a seven year old kid from down the street.

I learned a little bit about gardening, woodwork, boating, and skiing from Al. But more than any of that, his gentle presence taught me about God's love. The gifts he gave me I carry in my soul even today.

Al lost his battle with cancer last week. But this "loss" created the opportunity for him to walk the victor's walk. Today, he see clearly what he saw as only a dim reflection in his life - God's love for him. By God's grace, you ran well, Grandpa Al. Godspeed...

Matt...the kid down the road...

stunning...

The Pats' loss to the Giants last night was stunning...

- Eli wins the big one in half the career of his older brother.
- Eli spends most of the year trying to keep his job...now he's the Superbowl MVP.
- Bill Belichick was outchoached and seemd to channel the spirit of Schottenheimer.
- Brady's offensive line was...offensive.
- Eli out-Brady-ed Tom Brady. Brady is famous for getting the final drive into the end zone for the win.
- the Pats busted tail all year long to loose only one game...THE game...

Yup...stunning...

And now I know what it feels like to be a Buckeye fan...

Congrats to the Giants fans.

quick hits

Not much of an update, but I just couldn't not do something...

- not too inspired by many candidates this political season. I normally like the presidential race. At this point, it's a B-Movie kind of year...

- Go Pats!! I'm hoping for a Pats blowout this weekend...what a great way to end a football season!

- Kids are all healthy...today...

- good things going on at church. I love being a part of this ministry team! Every day I am thankful for God brining me to The Chapel.

See...not much of an update...but it's something.

Have a great weekend!

M@