Kalispell? Whitefish? Montana?

 Dear Leah and Logan,

When Mary first chose Kalispell, Montana for our 2024 ski destination, I was a little bit scared. There just wasn't an easy way to get there....and we had a 15-month-old who can turn into a demon on road trips. But I smiled and booked the flights and pretended everything was going ok.

Now, Brecken wasn't perfect on the 2 flights to Montana (including a Denver stop), but he was manageable for a stressful 12 hr travel day, which eased my anxiety a little bit. But it only took me 10 minutes at the Whitefish Mountain Resort to understand why everyone should ski there just once: All the views, all the great skiing, none of the line waits. 

Our trip was amazing!

You all will surely bookmark this ski trip as the trip your Dad took snowboarding lessons, and had 2 eventful stories to share. I don't regret my decision to try something new, but when the inspector said it would take a week minimum to learn snowboarding, I knew I'd be switching to skiis at lunch. 

Whitefish Mountain Resort December 2024

On Day 1 when I met up with you all for lunch, I'll always remember the news update: Leah killed it all morning and Logan struggled.  Now, Logan eventually got over the early jitters and knocked out a couple Black Diamonds, but it was exciting to see you both enjoying the slopes so much. 

On Day 2 of skiing, the 4 of us enjoyed the super-long run of 'Russ's Street' (blue run), which had some moguls, steep spots, jumps, and spectacular views.  I kept thinking to myself: I would totally come back here!  That sentiment was reinforced when the 2 of you told me you'd pick Whitefish again.

After 2 days of skiing, we headed East to check out Glacier National Park. Much of the park was closed, but it got me motivated to bring you back when the 'Road to the Sun' was open. 

Amazing trip with some well-deserved down time!  I LOVE that you 2 LOVE skiing!!  PS. No more snowboard attempts from Dad!

Love,

Dad

Park Signs GNP, 12.24

Middle School Sports, Fall 2024

Dear Leah and Logan,

This fall was a rollercoaster for our schedule, that translated to a rollercoaster of emotions!

Leah, lets start with your volleyball. Your 8th grade Rockvale Varsity team had high expectations this season after you got 2nd place in the JV tourney last year. But the journey you girls took us on will make memories for a lifetime!

Starting the season with wins against tough rivals Oakland and Eagleville, you girls went undefeated in district play, earning the #1 seed for the final tournament.  Then, you went full steam ahead all the way through the finals to beat Stewarts Creek in the Championship. You played some of your best volleyball in your 3 tournament games, which earned you All-District Tournament honors. 

Rockvale Middle School Varsity Volleyball, County Champs 2024

All District Volleyball Team

Well done, ladies! Season recap video here!

Logan, not only did Fall '24 mark your first full season with Pool 1, but it's also the first year Kings Hammer implemented the Academy program. So on top of your already intense State League, your squad would be playing teams throughout the entire Southeast. The results didn't yield any medals, but you all finished in the top of the standings chart against several Atlanta teams and were 1 win away from going to the NPL national tournament. This NPL experience has elevated both your individual play and your teamwork, so I'm grateful you're getting this opportunity. 

Final Dad thoughts: Rutherford County sports are no joke! Whether in your travel leagues or your middle school teams, you are facing top-notch competition every time you go compete. And I'm proud of each of you because you've embraced your sport and put in the time and dedication to elevate both your skills and leadership--those are skills that will serve you well (no volleyball pun intended) your entire life. Keep grinding! Keep pushing!! and I'll continue to be your biggest fan!

Love,

Dad

Miramar Beach, Part 2...Plus- Parasailing!

Dear Leah and Logan,

In June 2024, we packed up a Turo vehicle and joined the Hickman County/Fairview crew for the group's 3rd beach vacation. We returned to Miramar Beach in a beach house just a few blocks from 2022. This year, Beach Olympics were as competitive as ever, and all the middle schoolers got to enjoy a week with Brecken.

The 2024 Beach Video is here!

Always an amazing time, and on the last day, I decided to take you 2 parasailing, so we went up-up-and away!!  

I know everyone's schedule keeps getting busier and busier, but I hope this is a tradition that we keep forever!

Love,

Dad