EVER LEARNING, EVER LOVING

Hi Guys,

“Oldest Roth Kid” reporting in - - -

Thank you, “Roth Kid“, for taking leadership in this area. I have ignored all of you far too long - I am sorry! I want to start off by saying how glad I am that you are all my brothers and sister J I love every one of you very much.

I am not sure what you guys think of me- My life in many respects, has not added up to much, and I certainly have not come close to the expectations that I felt were set up for me. But I am working on putting all those feelings and failures behind me. Everyday now, for me, is another day to hug my kids and find something to teach them that I ended up learning the hard way - they all want to learn so much - the challenge for me, is coming to grips with their individual learning processes. I know, from what I remember about growing up, that I learned remarkably well those things which were impressed upon my emotions. For instance--History--when it was taught enthusiastically, acted with passion, or written in an exciting manner, I always retained more knowledge of the facts. When Mrs. Spriggs taught Algebra, I could not help but learn because of her love, not only for me, but also for the subject matter.

Many of my earliest childhood memories are those in which Dad was present. Maybe because he commanded such respect when we were children, there was always that mixture of worshipful fear and love that caused me to be so sharp mentally when I was near him. I remember being with Mom, too, of course--especially the time when I was six and had just gotten my first skateboard. I managed to run my head into a brick about 10 minutes before we were supposed to leave for Wednesday night church. I will never forget the look on Mom’s face when I came running in the house with blood all over my face and head. I remember every stitch and how comfortable the doctor and nurses made me feel. But, I also remember how glad I was to have Mom holding my hand. Now, that I am a parent, I have much more of an appreciation of the pressure Mom and Dad must have felt at those times of crisis in our lives. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World's_Fair

There is hardly a day that goes by that some mental trigger is not pulled that brings back the memory of the day, May 26, 1982. That is the day Dad took me to the 1982 World’s Fair in Knoxville, TN for my 12th birthday. Outside the day Christ saved me and the day I married Justina Kerr, that day was and still is the single most important day of my life. I learned more about parenting in that one day than I have in the last ten years of trying to be a good dad myself. It was the single most defining day of my life. Thank you, Dad, for the sacrifice you made to me that day--I will never forget it. I Love You!!

Recently, I have been struggling to find a job that I enjoy (most of the time) and that is moderately lucrative, but also allows me to stay up to date with the lives of my wife and children (not to mention all of yours). I had two interviews on Feb. 21 and have secured employment with the Chattanooga Times Free Press. I will be conducting outside sales for them at various locations around the greater Chattanooga area. This week is training and next week I start full time. Please pray that I will do well. I really want something that will “stick”--both me with it and it with me. Now for some final personal comments:

Sally Jane, Tina gave me a footbath two nights ago with the Dr. Scholl’s machine--It was GREAT! Thank you.

Citamarie, I love you. I can’t wait to see your new hairdo. Thanks for the awesome pictures.

Cary David, I know you have tons of stuff to share--So let’s hear it. This should be great outlet for you!

Caleb, I am glad you gave Kid Clif the encouragement he needed to get this project underway. Only time will tell how great things may come of this blip on the blogesphere-Keep the faith!

Curtis John, You are growing up fast right now--Every time I have seen you lately, you seem to be exuding a new sense of maturity and credibility. Keep growing and telling us what God is doing in your heart.

Mom and Dad, This is a great place to come when you’re having a tough day--I am sure there will be pictures soon--maybe even instant messaging--For my part, I will always do my best to find something nice to say to you or about you--(As if there was anything badJ)

TaTa for now. I love you all! Big Brother C Roth