I was having major computer issues several weeks ago, so I wasn’t able to post a wonderful memory involving Samuel. His parents and I took him to his very first baseball game, a Reading Phillies game at First Energy Field. He loved it—not just learning about the game but all the fun that goes with it, like the mascots (Change-Up the Turtle, Blooper the Hound Dog, Quack the Duck, and Bucky the Beaver), the on-field sillies in bewteen innings, the wonderful ballpark food and snacks, and the Ostrich hotdog guy. It was also “Dinosaur Night,” so that was some extra fun.

Bethany and I got choked up several times, not only because it was a “first of many” kind of event, but more so because of the relational dimensions of the outing. Baseball is a great game, but shared experiences with those you love is priceless.

And that’s what’s been happening all week. We’re at the Outer Banks right now with all four Whites, and we’re having a blast. These little munchkins give so much joy to my heart. As I watch them play in the sand, I pray that they can be spared the harsh realities of this evil world for as long as possible. Lord willing, we’ll be back on Sunday. Maybe I’ll have some beach pictures to share.