A Father/Son Thing

Yesterday my son and I returned from a long weekend in Colorado. The trip was the result of an epiphany a few months back when I realized that life was happening to me, and my kids were growing up too fast. As one never to take things lying down, I decided to invest in my son by taking him to my hometown in Summit County, Colorado, and introduce him to the slopes at Breckenridge.

Of course, being the maverick that he is, he chose to snowboard instead of ski. I'm not sure of the attraction to boarding, but I'll share the mountain with them as long as they acknowledge their place as the poor cousin to skiing.

A single day of snowboarding lessons, and my son was ready to join me. One of the coolest father/son moments in my life to date was watching him board down Crescendo while I skied behind. I'll never forget that moment.

The only downside to the entire trip was that my father, having joined us on the trip, had to return early due to health problems. (For all concerned, he's doing fine now. Just a case of the crud mixed with a large dose of high altitude.) Perhaps next year's Lucas Men Getaway will be someplace tropical?!

My hope for all of you is that you could all enjoy a father/son thing of your own (or mother/son, mother/daughter, father/daughter...you get the picture.)

Happy Birthday to Me!

Yesterday I turned 37. My family took me out for lunch and gave me some very thoughtful gifts. It is nice that my kids are now old enough to actually think of me when they are buying gifts. With teenagers, it is nice to be thought about at any time.

My birthday was capped off by getting to continue my Revelation Revealed series. After putting it off for so many years, it has been exciting to get into preaching Revelation.

Thanks to all the well wishers and gift givers. I'm blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life. I can only hope my next 37 years will be as great as my first 37!

Coaster

Yesterday we had another turning point with our daughter. I had a sit down with her boyfriend. Actually, it was quite the meeting, as he brought his uncle to help communicate and to demonstrate his seriousness in pursuing the relationship. I also brought a good friend to translate--and I'm so glad I did. His help was immeasurable, and it evened up my side of the table.

I really like this boyfriend. He seems decent. From everything he said I believe he wants to do the right thing. However, it became very clear in our conversation that my daughter had lied to him about several things, and withheld some important details. I withheld nothing. I believe the truth is absolutely necessary for a good relationship.

The wedding will wait until at least August. In the mean time, he is working and he told her she needed to work and save money. He also told her to finish school and to treat her parents with respect. How cool is that? We'll see if she is inclined to follow his advice. In any event, I have him on speed dial now, as well as his uncle.

Raising teenagers. What a roller coaster!

Time of Your Life

Yesterday my daughter slipped back into her old form. Things had been quiet over the holiday, but it was as if nothing had changed when she let loose her venom. As it stands now, she says she is moving out very soon. My wife and I are at peace with it. Odd, I know. Unless, of course, you've been there.

Strange as it may seem, I can really see God working in this. I find it easier to relate to my coworkers (who are all suffering in their own ways with kids, family, health, etc.). I also find it easier to pray, and my prayers are far more desperate--which is a good thing! I can see that God's plan for Flora may also include a good dose of humility served in a dish of her own making. That's always the best kind, by the way.

So, my request of all of you is to offer up a prayer for Flora. I'll leave it to you to know what to pray. I suggest something along the lines of "Your will for her." And please say a prayer for me and the rest of my family. I, in the mean time, will listen to Green Day's Time of Your Life a few more times, acknowledging the profound truth of such a painful song.