WOW! After having 2 weeks of relative down time from work and any outside distractions, I am refreshed at feeling blessed to have my wife and kids. Again, WOW! What kind of GOD gives such blessings as he's bestowed upon me with Keish, Saniya, and Aaryn! I just say Thank You.

As I look back on 2008, it truly was a year of change. Yes we elected Barack Obama! That was change for the world. But I'm talking about personal change. 2008 brought a refocus on family and those close to me. I have always worked hard and also felt challenged to balance my career with family. Saniya and Aaryn are both growing and are involved in many activities, all of which I want to see. I was also blessed with a career opportunity this year that has afforded me the flexibility to be there as Father and Husband.

Life is full of distractions. Things that will take your focus from where it needs to be...away from where GOD has ordained. Thankfully I believe in a forgiving GOD that allows for mistakes and never stops loving. 2009 will surely be time for me to continue to grow stronger in my faith and in my family. The place for distractions that previously existed, will be filled with things that are sure to make me a better Man, Husband, and Father.

Proverbs 18:22 Whoever finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor of the LORD. (I'm thinking of making this my next tattoo. This is good stuff!)

Stay tuned, I plan to add to this blog at least 3 times per month. Aaryn is starting soccer, Saniya is continuing Jazzy Jumpers and ruling the soccer field. Keish has earned her Master's and is ready to make a deeper impression on America's education. I'm headed into my 2nd year as Executive Director for a great YMCA branch that will be making huge strides. A lot of milestones for my family this year, so I have a lot of material. Again, stay tuned and please share your thoughts and opinions. Love to you all!

Gabe