It has been quite some time since I last wrote—almost 18 months, in fact! My sister, Jessica, has been giving me a hard time about it, so here I am, getting back into writing mode. My last blog post was in September 2023, and so much has happened since then.
The biggest and most wonderful event? My son, Ryan, married an amazing woman, Katelin Carney, on September 30, 2023. Having a daughter-in-law has been an absolute joy. She makes Ryan so happy, and as a parent, what more can you ask for? Seeing your child find someone to share their life with and enjoy all the things they love together is incredibly fulfilling. They’ve built a beautiful life together in their home, and on November 25, 2024, they welcomed their first child into the world. Just like that, Tammy and I became grandparents!
I never knew my heart could hold this much love until Hadlee Blair Bale arrived. Being a grandpa is an experience beyond words, and I’m soaking up every moment with her. She has me completely wrapped around her tiny fingers, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Watching Ryan and Katelin step into parenthood has been so special—it’s a joy like no other.
Beyond our growing family, Tammy and I have been embracing our love for travel. Since my last blog, we’ve visited Antigua and Jamaica, with plans to return to Jamaica this coming April. This will mark our sixth trip to the island, officially earning us the honorary title of “Jamericans.” If you know, you know—“Wagwan!” The warmth of the people, the stunning beaches, and the laid-back island vibe keep calling us back.
In addition to traveling, we’ve taken on a couple of new ventures. We started a home dog-watching service, which has been an absolute blast. Spending time with different dogs, playing with them, and getting to know their unique personalities has brought so much joy into our daily lives. We’ve also ventured into the world of travel advising, helping others plan their dream vacations. It’s more complex than you might think, but it’s incredibly rewarding to assist people in creating unforgettable travel experiences.
On the sports front, I’m thrilled that baseball season has officially started! That being said, I’m not too thrilled about the Braves’ rough 0-3 start. The Padres seem to have our number early on, but it’s a long season—there’s plenty of time to turn things around.
So, here’s to writing more, embracing new adventures, and enjoying every moment with family, friends, and, of course, our sweet granddaughter, Hadlee. I’ll do my best to keep this blog updated more frequently—Jessica, I’m holding myself accountable!
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