Thanking the Academy

There is a trophy in Hollywood closely resembling the Icarus tattoo that I have on my left arm that is given out to masters of the acting craft. The clichéd response from every award winning actor or actress that has ever accepted such award is…

“First off, I’d like to thank THE ACADEMY.”

They usually move on to thank spouses, family, friends, co-workers and eventually God himself.

I haven’t received any awards recently but I do think it’s about time that I thank some of the fine folks that have been on my mind lately.

I’d like to publically thank my wife – Michele. There may be some that question her sanity for actually pushing me towards this career and life changing decision. I too have wondered if she was serious at times….and here I am – In Alaska! Of course we made the decision together back in June/July but since then, she has been my savior, psychologist, supply clerk and sounding board – all from close to 3,000 miles away. Michele calmly “listens” to me voice my concerns of teaching and living in a new district. She listens and re-directs my focus with a gentle touch, like only a wife can. The Post Office personnel should by now recognize my wife and her Flate Rate boxes headed for the Arctic. If ever anyone needed a consultant on Amazon Prime, I recommend seeking Michele’s advice.  Her love language is solidly in the “Acts of Service” and “Gift Giving” chapters and for that – and for her – I am forever grateful.

My kids – forgive me Lord for being so selfish to steal away on some crazed Alaskan Adventure at the expense of living an ordinary day to day life with my kids. They deserve the utmost love, attention and thanks for just being as awesome as they are. Through modern technology I can talk to them when our schedules match and either of us is in need of an update or a pick me up. SKYPE will never replace a hug or a pat on the back but it’s our new normal. They’re becoming experts at sharing the happenings of their lives in an engaging conversation. Even if the picture is sometimes a little grainy, I could listen to them talk for hours. Emma shared her perfect progress reports last Saturday. Logan has learned to give me play-by-play descriptions of his BIG tackle of the week. They are good kids and working so hard at helping Mom. Their sacrifice is not going unnoticed.

I’d like to thank my other family and very close friends. Your regular contact reminds me that I have surrounded myself with good people up to this point. People that want to be in my life even when my life is above the Arctic Circle. A care package here and a hand written letter there meant a lot in the mid ‘90’s when I was in the Marine Corps. It means just as much, if not more, now. Although I’m a big boy and fending for myself, Uncle Sam isn’t setting me up with 3 squares a day. My physical needs are being met but a treat in the mail satisfies my emotional needs, perhaps even more.

Since leaving the Lower 48, I have heard positive feedback from former teachers of mine. In an odd twist that perhaps those former teachers can appreciate, I hear regularly from former students of mine. Now young adults, I hope they realize that each time they reach out to me with a kind word or quick update, I beam with pride. Thank you. There are fellas that I served in the Marines with…guys that would bite off their right arm if I asked them to. Although it’s getting closer to twenty years since I’ve seen many of these dudes, a number of them keep checking in on me – making sure that I know that they are there to help if ever I needed anything. Semper Fi – men.

The Fire Chief wrote me a good old-fashioned Postcard. I didn’t know they still made them. His daughter messaged me on Facebook from the Deep South. The gal I student taught with, retired colleagues and friends, hockey coaches and youth football coaches, fishing and hunting buddies, friends young and old… the World is a smaller place these days. Social Media can be a curse but the positivity and love that I’ve felt from you all has filled my tank when times have been tough. Thank you.

The Readership of this Family Soliloquy – thank you. As I watch the numbers tick by on the counter just below the Archives, I daydream that my musings are bringing a smile to your day. I can’t always promise a witty story or beautiful picture. I know that sometimes you might be disappointed to find no update since you last checked in. Please keep coming back. Leave a comment when you’re so inclined. Comments help me feel alive – connected – tuned in. But you don’t have to leave a trace – just carry a piece of this adventure with you. Hug your little ones. Smile at strangers. Pick up the next piece of litter you see. Do good in the world because contrary to what some may think… I’m not “Living the Dream”.

You are!

And thank you God.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.