Thank You Mom and Dad...

As busy as this final day is, I think it is important to take a few minutes to talk about the two most influential people in my life, who helped to bring me to where I am today--My parents, Nelson and Marie.

My father reminds me often that back in 1984 I ruined his summer vacation by showing up nearly a month early on an otherwise normal Friday in August. Since then I have caused my fair share of trouble and gotten into some situations where only a parent could see through it and still love me. I am forever grateful for his loyalty. We share a fairly unspoken understanding of love and affection for each other, but today I do not hesitate to shed a tear when I think about just how much he means to me.

My mother has been the single most influential person in my life. I have never met anyone on this planet with a heart as warm as hers. She has always been there for a word of encouragement even in my darkest of hours. I cannot imagine where I would be today without her. I cannot come up with the appropriate words to thank her for everything she has done to get me to this point in my life.

My parents are the perfect role models for myself and Julie, as newlyweds. There have been ups and downs for them over 30+ years of marriage, but they remain a great inspiration for us. We are so thankful to have had them beside up since day 1, and I know they will be there to help both of us as we go through this period of separation.

And of course I cannot forget about Kellie. If my parents are the bricks in our family home, Kellie is the mortar.  I remember the day Kellie was born. I was 5 years old and so excited to have a little sister. I always wanted to be a good role model and protect her along the way. I can only hope that I did good in that quest. Now her and David provide for Savannah Belle with the same care and concern that our parents showed to us. I am happy that she has grown into such a strong woman.

Thank you all for being such an important part of my world. I will fight to my last breath to defend you guys. You have given everything for me, and I would gladly give everything for you. I cannot wait to be home in Michigan, reunited with the family for the holidays. It will be the most wonderful Christmas of all time.

Until next time...

Chris