2022!

Congratulations!  Happy New Year!  We made it to another year.  The past couple of years had plenty of challenges to deal with.  Since we survived the political, mental, physical, natural storms and pandemics and national divisions, I believe we did it with divine help and not on our own.  We lost a lot of family and friends this past year in 2021.  I mean, some of them were very close.  Too many to count.  Not all of them were due to the pandemic.  Strokes, cancer, accidents natural causes and other situations still exist.  Where do we go from here?  There is so much disinformation and lies surrounding us that we don’t know who or what to believe.  I will always believe social medias are playing major roles in causing confusion for its followers.  America seems to be an easy target for those who want to destroy us.  We are being used as pawns in a master scheme of things and don’t know it.  Someone is benefitting from this bitterness, anger and hatred.  Whether it is being done for money, insanity or just for the pure pleasure, there are people who enjoy watching a mighty country sink. What can we do?  Well, we can be more respectful to each other and understanding.  It’s not much but a beginning.  We need to put our trust in God and if you do not believe, then find a divine creator other than man or woman to believe in.  All I know is that we can do better and be better as a people.

Happy Grace Day!

Yesterday was national Thanksgiving Day. Macy's Thanksgiving Parade was back on TV since Covid shut it down last year. Several major department and grocery stores were closed. Families and friends got together to share food and fellowship .Sports fanatics shared wins or losses of their favorite teams most of the day. What a day for many or a reason for some not to celebrate. My experience yesterday was joy and grace. I was among those who because of deaths of loved one and failed relationships had nothing to celebrate. I should have been grateful to even be alive but misery, solitude and denial always won the fight. For several years, I was comfortable being alone. I wasn't caught up in self-pity, I just didn't want to be bothered or obligated to anyone. Thanksgiving was just another day. Until, my wife changed the script. I have learned what forgiveness and mercy and compassion can do for my spirit. She never fails to surprise me. I celebrated the day with her family, cousins and friends. The fact is, she and I prepared the meal from scratch and desserts were supplied by her cousins. I was truly impressed with energetic Milly, a three year child who ran all over the house and backyard. She immediately welcomed herself in our home.  We had more than enough of everything. I talked a big game about being glad when it's over before it started. Yet, at the end I regretted not being able to take pictures of everyone. We were exhausted when the dinner and games were over but realized just how blessed we were. It's easier to find the worse in ourselves, we're surrounded by negativity in and on the air. It's a fight every day. I started searching for grace and found it. I'm not saying its the cure-all. But, it sure helped me peep over the hole I dug for myself. I hope you find grace everyday and be thankful for each one. 

RIP, Richard Martin!

 Blessings to you, Richard. 

Happy Birthday, Mom! Love you!

One Year Later, Mother Irby!

 October 3, 2020, the date you went back home, Mother Irby.  One year later and we all are mourning your transition.  We know it's for the better, but we still miss you.  It's still tough on your girls, they are dealing with it in their own way.  I sincerely believe that you all are interceding for us.  We need all the prayers we  can get.  Love you.

My Cousin's Thanksgiving Day Settings!!!

I got to give you props, Cuz. You know how to do it! I can't wait for you to get your blog/vlog on line!

Love your!

We Miss You, Austin! God Bless You!

July 24, 2015.  It's been 6 years since your transition, brother.  You are surely missed. I spoke with your children this week and sent them a few pictures of you from your junior and senior yearbooks.  I saw you in your NJROTC uniform for the first time and you really looked good.  Devin commented how much he looked like you in your younger days.  We all knew that already.  Tia looks like you, too. Teria, took after her mom but has your personality. BTW, her daughter Mai, is cute as a button.  She will be a year old on August 7th.  Of course, you may already be aware of all of this, I don't know.  Nevertheless, we miss you and send our love.