Thoughts from a Traffic Jam

This morning as the rain was pouring down and my car was literally in park as I was sitting in traffic, I had a long, long time to sit and listen to music. One of my favorites came on, and before I knew it I was choking up. I hadn't heard "Don't Let The Sun Go Down on Me" by Sir Elton John in a while, but every time I do I am immediately taken back to happy childhood days, driving nowhere with my Dad as he played the song over and over again.

I became so overcome with gratitude and emotion for my family. I thought of my Dad and how he started his company literally from our basement. He has worked so hard to provide for our family and get to where he is now. Now that I am older, I know that at times money was tight--really, really tight--but Dad never cracked. Him and my mom did everything in their power to let us kids have a happy and carefree childhood. Not only were we cared for temporally, but I know that they loved me, Jace, and Brittney more than anything, and what an amazing feeling that is. I am a Daddy's girl by heart, and I am so grateful for the example he set that helped me realize the kind of husband and future father to my kids I would want.

I wish there wasn't so much distance between my family and me. It's hard sometimes. But I know that families can be together forever, and this short time that we are separated is ironically meant to bring us closer. I am so grateful for the memories we have created, and cannot wait for the many happy times ahead.

So without getting too mushy on everyone, I would just like to say thank you family, I love you.

A picture from long ago -- ca. 1998