Just a mini-blog to convey our sentiments this Thanksgiving. Ryan is now nine months old. Nine precious and precarious months of hope. His doctor pronounced him to be "thriving" at his checkup. Every day is Thanksgiving when his eyes flutter open.

There are "God shots" all around, and I am sure to forget the vast majority of them. But for the sake of appreciation, here goes. I'm thankful for my wife, Laura. Her grace and patience drives me to heights previously thought unattainable. I'm thankful that with all that she knows of me, she continues to love me.

I'm thankful for the healing power of God, and for the gift of second chance. As of this glorious fall day, the majority of our familial ties are intact. This was unheard of in days past, but here these relationships now stand on their own merit. Such a blessing is the support of family.

The fervor that this humble citizen feels for his country is beyond any coherent description, but since when did coherence prevent me from pontification? America's vast expanse, replete with divergent viewpoints and subcultures, its wealth, its mayhem and its shining beacon of freedom are the reason the late champion Sam Snead opined that "if you live anywhere but the U.S. of A., you're campin' out!"

Many thanks must be extended to all of our friends and acquaintances in the best kept secret in Florida... DeLand. We are so fortunate to live in a community, as opposed to a neighborhood. People stop and say "hello" and when they ask how you are, really want to know. The concern and support given to us during Ryan's birth and hospital stay was inspiring.

I cannot express the blessing of what this year has meant professionally. Many friends have also become clients, and to be entrusted with what is in some cases an enormous part of their financial existence is a daunting and exhilarating task. There have been hiccups, and the dialogue can at times be rather heated, but I wouldn't trade the opportunity for all the Rogaine in Donald Trump's overnight bag.

There's a dynamic afoot in our house that must be addressed sooner rather than later. My constant companion over the past two decades, the venerable Bombay known affectionately as Thurthton Thithtertinton, is unraveling. He is unsure of surroundings, relieves himself indiscriminately, and generally has no quality of life. I have prayed for him to slip away peacefully. He continues to battle. There are now health considerations which supercede his interests. The timeline is unclear, but a decision must be made soon. Every moment with him has been a comfort, and that is what makes this all the more a dilemma. Say a prayer for him, and for us, at this critical juncture.

Very cursory, I know. But a list nonetheless. Regardless of the PC nonsense out there, this is a day of thanks to a risen God for the blessing of existence with all its accompanying tapestry. Life is to be savored. God Bless, and enjoy the attached photos of our son, Ryan Walker.

Bigger smile
Deep blues
Funny Face
Hello Camera
Hi Gammy
Huh?
Huh2?
Huh3?
I'm full
Kittykat
pears
pre-occupied
Pretty colors
Ryan and monkey
Spittle
Yummy
I love you THIS much!

Posted by: Paul @ 1:02 PM