"A Father's Pride!"

It is hard to believe, but soon Kari and I will be empty nesters! Mitchell will graduate from Silver Creek High School on Thursday, June 3rd and will be looking forward to starting the next stage of his life at the University of Louisville.

I have been proud of all of my children, but Mitchell is very special. He demonstrates a caring for people that is rarely seen in other persons his age. He also has a maturity that is far past his years. He is not one who gets caught up with the pettiness of some young people and he refuses to take sides when the pettiness starts. In fact his nickname is "Switzerland," because he won't take sides.

Mitchell, like his siblings is very focused on what he wants to do in life. He wants to be a music teacher (band or a drama teacher) and wants to share his love for music with high school students. I have been so amazed in his musical ability and have witnessed him growing in that talent over the years.

Kari and I are recipients of his musical talents everyday when he goes to his room, takes out his guitar and begins singing. His voice gets stronger everyday and I want to thank Mr. Robert Lee for being one of the reasons for that improvement.

I am proud of Mitchell, because he gave me a chance this past school year to perform on stage with him as a member of the quartet (with him) in the Silver Creek production of "Music Man." I don't know very many young people who would want their father in their high school production. But Mitchell and I did something before every performance that will stay in my heart forever. We would embrace each other and tell each other we love each other. I don't think you can realize how much that moved me. And what moved me even more is Mitchell did that in front of the rest of the cast members. He wasn't ashamed, but rather pleased that we could do that in front of others.

Mitchell begins a new phase in his life. He starts out his time at the University of Louisville by attending band camp, since he has been accepted into the U. of L. marching band. I pray that his time at U. of L. will be one of the greatest experiences in his life.

So Mitchell, my son, you have made me proud to be able to say I am your father! I know that you will continually make me proud and I am looking forward to your next phase. I love you son and yes I will miss our daily "concerts" and the house is going to seem empty, but my heart is filled with joy knowing that you are going to live your dream!