GCTR

 I have learned so much during my tenure at GCTR. I feel like I have become a better person, a better leader and a better friend.  I have learned so much about people and what it means to be honest.  I have learned so much about myself.  I have learned what my negative predisposition is and I have made progress toward addressing it when it reappears

I am so proud of the many obstacles we have overcome.  The financial difficulty that faced us in 2010 seemed almost insurmountable, yet here we are in 2013 seeing signs of actual trust from our vendors and hearing positive reports from our employee’s concerning vendors.  This has been a big deal.  We faced our employees when they were irritated with our inability to pay our vendors in a timely manner and we explained things to them in such a way that kept them from jumping ship from fear of financial instability.  We made tough phone calls to our vendors and explained our situation and let them down and worked to re-establish relationships with them.  We have stood our ground and made tough calls concerning many things, accepted responsibility for those calls and worked hard to repair relationships after tough calls were made. 

We have struggled and fought to establish cost analysis and business case evaluations.  When I look at the Gross Profit numbers for Pressure Technology and Repair, I am reminded of the battles and frustration we faced as we fought to make GCTR profitable.  No longer do we chase every business idea that presents; now we analyze the opportunity and make sound business decisions based on fact.  Only three or four people realize what a difficult transition that has been. 

We developed a culture for GCTR.  We developed a Vision for GCTR and we developed core values for GCTR.  In 2010, decisions were being made on a whim and our identity was very loosely defined.  After building an incredible reputation thru word of mouth based on superior customer service, it was time to define who GCTR really was.  We struggled mightily in the beginning to define ourselves but now, in the end, we are confident in whom we are and we have managed to make that confidence a part of every one of our employees. We know that employees, customers and vendors have a choice and we are committed to being that choice.

We developed an identity for GCTR.  In 2010, we were a small rental company without much presence.  Today we have an identity.  An identity that is stable and professional.  We have placed branding where it needs to be.  This was a huge job.  Create Branding and then apply that Brand to everything that is GCTR.  We are now recognizable and our presence is professional, clean and easily recognizable.  All of our documents are branded, our vehicles are branded, and our buildings are branded. 

GCTR always cared for their employees and wanted them to be taken care of.  No one could ever accuse the shareholders of being greedy but we were able to create a benefit package, a review package and a pay scale that is commensurate with the industry.  We were able to give our employees a reason to be proud to work for GCTR.  Retirement, improved Health Care coverage, employee manual, loan program, employee assistance, consolidated payroll and reporting, Christmas bonus program, employee luncheons, all employee meetings and significant training have all played a role in obtaining and retaining some of the best employees in the industry.  GCTR was always Loyal to their employees but now that loyalty is definable. 

This makes me begin to think about the employees we had in 2010 and compare them to the employees we have now:

We had drivers in 2010.  We had to determine how to create a better presence in front of our customers without the added cost of a salesman.  We got rid of the drivers that were incapable of representing and now we have Customer Service Reps who drive…big difference.

We promoted Lalo to Repair Manager.  It was a good decision.  We worked very hard to train and assist Benny and eventually we replaced him.  It was a good decision.  We worked hard to train Jason Bearce and eventually replaced him.  This was an upgrade.  I think of Blake, a young kid with very little direction.  I look at him now; shows up for work on time, has promoted twice and has developed two levels in his current position.  I think about Sarah, Cheryl, Cynthia, Mike, Heron, Will, Erick; all employees who have experienced significant growth because of the opportunities afforded and the environment created. This takes time and significant effort.  All of the foundation that must be developed to determine the “correct seats on the bus, develop a plan for those seats and then fill them with the right people has been significant”.

I think about cleaning up the mess that was Rental.  We were able to remove a guy who was not working, stealing from us and not taking care of his business.  I remember the pile of paperwork that he left and I think about what our Rental Division looks like now.  We have established Processes and Procedures that work, Workflow and forms that work, employees that are happy and we hired a manager that no one wanted and he has proven to be invaluable to us. We now make wise purchasing decisions in our Rental Division, we have opened our retail area and it looks amazing.  Our Rental Division has been upgraded at every position; we went from a Manager and a Driver to a Manager, Inside Sales Rep, Warehouseman, Rental Repair Technician and a Driver.  It took time to remove the employees that were not willing to catch our Vision but I am so proud to say, we accomplished it. It took time to evaluate who we are and develop an identity.  We now know who we are, we go out and sell our identity with confidence and we have the personnel to back that confidence.  We had a huge amount of paperwork and invoicing that was not managed correctly.  We had inventory all over the place and no idea where many of our tools were.  We were purchasing tools for inventory with no consideration of business case.  We have cleaned that up.  We have witnessed a loss in revenue and worked hard to replace the loss and exceed it. 

Purchasing was a mess and while it is not compete yet, we have made significant strides in making it better than it was in 2010.  People were buying at will and there was no collaborative effort to review pricing and/or value.  We have changed that.  We have struggled with our extremely complex supplier situation and although we are not happy with where we are, the truth is that we have made significant strides toward excellence.  We are currently researching what parts we use the most and setting up blanket orders and min/max arrangements for those parts.  In 2010, we couldn’t even define where to get the parts from.  We are in the process of creating Repair software that will automate our entire Repair division including Purchasing.  We have determined that 90% of our parts come from 8-10 sources and we are in the middle of defining the correct vendor to purchase these items from.  In addition, we have established a manual min/max program

Accounting had no direction and reporting was basically non-existent.  Invoicing was relatively accurate but Payables and Receivables were in serious need of direction.  Accounts Payable was a complete mess with no structure whatsoever, expense reporting had to be created, taxes were not being paid properly and confusion prevailed as to who was responsible and accountable for decisions and tasks. We continued to find things that were not being handled as they should be.  We spent time, effort and money to train our Controller and bring him up to speed on what GCTR needed.  In the end, we made the necessary changes there even though it involved lifelong friendships.  We developed a plan and created a mental image of what our Accounting department should look like.  Darren took charge in this area with the intention of carrying out the plan we had devised. At this point, we are very close to having our accounting department performing exactly as it should be. 

The Repair division had no direction.  So many assumptions were being made; most of them were in the 2^nd circle.  All the discussions we had around electrical tools and their significance to our Vision.  I recall so many discussions around Hoist repair and all the opinions about suppliers and the correct way to run a repair division.  Hours and hours spent discussing technicians and purchasing and tool tracking and cost and profit.  Those discussions and that work have produced a definition of the role our Repair Division plays in the overall Vision of GCTR.  We now know that electrical tools may be required to gain access to the more profitable repairs.  We know that software is necessary to track tools, parts and productivity and we have developed a plan to accomplish this.  We have determined what the pricing structure should be for Hoist repair.  We have promoted a manager in this division and while he is not finished learning, he is completely on board with our Vision and he is eager to learn every day.  We recognized a problem with parts and developed a plan to fix it.  A new secure parts room, a dedicated parts employee, work orders to track parts and tools, an acknowledgement system to make sure customers know we have their tools and follow-up system to let them know when to expect tools.  A completely revised tool workflow system that allows us to be much more efficient in turnaround time.  Most of all, a pricing structure that allows our Repair division to be profitable.

Fluid technology was losing money every time it sold a pump.  We have developed the ability to more accurately track actual cost and we have increased prices (which was very difficult).  We have worked to make this division accountable for parts and workflow.  We have struggled to develop processes and procedures that would assist in under promising and over delivering to our customers.  We have established a process for quoting to our customers.  We discussed, planned and completed the Hertz filter/regulator program.  We designed and produced literature and a website for this division.  We struggled to remove the motorcycle shop from our facility so that some employees would concentrate on GCTR business and not be distracted. 

 

We had numerous contracts that were entered into without proper due diligence and we have worked to clean those up and reduce expenses in the company.  Reviewing these contracts and exploring new opportunities takes time.  We had to replace an existing I/T Support provider that was a personal friend.  This was difficult and it took time to develop I/T support that would work properly for a company our size.  We have accomplished that while upgrading our entire network.  Upgrading the network requires time and finances.  Our I/T network is working great and the support system established is excellent.

There were many loose ends with International Tool.  We have cleaned them up.  We were paying rent on a warehouse full of stuff that we were not using.  We cleaned that up.  We had contracts that were still assigned to IT and we went thru the tedious process of cleaning that up.  This included combining accounting from the two entities.

Our facilities have been upgraded, organized and cleaned to a point of pride.  We have organized the warehouse and developed a mentality of “everything has a place and everything in its place”.  We have completed the Rental Center, built a parts room, upgraded air and electrical, reorganized the warehouse, added parking, built an additional building, organized our parking areas and storage areas, developed and executed plans to handle new business (such as Bechtel containers)

As part of the Vision created, we expanded to Beaumont by purchasing an existing company there.  The negotiations, the structure of the agreement and the transition have been monumental.  In addition, we were very surprised, after closing, to learn that everything had not been disclosed.  We have developed a plan for this, made some very difficult decisions and we are now set-up for success in this new area.  We have also targeted the Corpus Christi area for expansion.  Just recently we have made inroads into being able to open a facility there. 

Working with our current Quickbooks issues has been daunting.  Balancing the issue of arriving at the correct solution (while being concerned with cost) and trying to keep frustrated employees motivated to continue working with a system that is less than satisfactory is a difficult task.  It looks like we may have finally found the correct solution. 

When we started in 2010, corporate documents were not being filed correctly, there was no buy/sale agreement, there was no insurance coverage for partners or executives.  We set-up structure and legal documents, secured Corporate representation and started following the correct procedures for corporations.

Amanda and her Italian Adventure

1-21-13
Today I watched Amanda walk into Terminal E at IAH.  Twenty-one years old and off to Italy for a semester of learning.  She will be attending the University of Rome and she will have the opportunity to become immersed in the Italian culture and history.

My only thought as she walked away from me was; have I given her enough, taught her enough, explained enough...have I equipped her to a point that she can handle this next great adventure?

About 3 years ago I wrote about her last game of volleyball as a senior and I mentioned that she was becoming a lady and she was not near as scared as I was.  Nothing has changed.  She has now visited Africa and Japan, lived in Nashville and completed 3 years of college.  She seemingly never meets a stranger and she has "danced" with every opportunity that has presented itself.  She will conquer this challenge as well.  Is she equipped?  Probably not; however, she has the one ingredient that Julie and I tried so hard to instill in her and her sisters...she isn't afraid to step out and try something new.

Yes, I am scared.  Rome is a long way away and I cant get there near as fast as I could get to Tennessee. I am nervous but I could not be more proud!  Amanda, you go girl!  Dance

Life handbook

Got this list today, in email form, from a friend. When I started this blog business, I stated that I hoped to leave some stuff for my kids and grandkids to enjoy. Hopefully, someday they will read this and it will speak to them like it speaks to me today.


HANDBOOK 2010


HEALTH:

1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy.
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games.
7. Read more books than you did in 2009.
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile! :-)

PERSONALITY:

11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake .
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your spouse with their mistakes of the past; it ruins your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class, but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

SOCIETY:

25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick; your friends will. Stay in touch.

LIFE:

32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
34. GOD heals everything!
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come.
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

My Dad

Today my Dad turns 71. Woke up this morning remembering many things about him and smiling. I started thinking about the things my Dad taught me and decided to write some of them down so my kids and grandkids will have an awareness of how awesome Pawpaw Gary really is.

First of all, he taught me. This morning I started recalling our “truck talks”. Dad went very few places that he did not take me. We went everywhere together and when Dad needed to teach me, it was usually in the truck riding somewhere. During these talks he would say ”son, while I teach you I try to remember what my dad told me when I was your age”. Dad, just this week I had a teaching moment with Amanda. Guess what, I tried to remember what you told me. Those “truck talks” are something I cherish and I refer to them often as I try to be the person that you raised me to be.

Dad taught me to be a Christ-follower. He never told me how I should communicate with God but he showed me the value of a personal relationship with Him. Although he was big and strong and tougher than everyone else’s dad, I watched many times as he wept while communicating in his way. I don’t communicate that same way my dad did and my dad would never expect me to; however, I do communicate with Christ and I know the importance of it because of the example my dad set. We are on a journey to discover who Christ is and my dad has encouraged me to question and study. My dad, at 71, is so open to the things of God and he is not afraid to be honest and transparent. He will never know how much that has meant to me the last few years.

Dad taught me to Serve. No one knows the countless hours dad served others. Funny that he has always been known as a loud, tough, no-nonsense man’s man. I watched him come home day after day, eat dinner, load all his tools in the truck and go serve. The church he attended was blessed immeasurably by his “maintenance skills”. He worked for widows and those that were in need. Many times he did all this work without any chance of ever being paid for it. I watched as mom and dad decided that mom would Serve instead of building a career. For many years mom worked for the church and dad never complained that she could be making more if she pursued a public job. Recently my dad’s pastor sent me a picture of dad working at the church, at 70, and the caption said; “Kevin, you have some big shoes to fill”. You are right Nate, dad is teaching me to Serve.

Dad taught me to win. “Never give up. Never quit. I don’t care what the score is, give it everything you have got.” I am competitive. I refuse to accept anything less than winning. I was in the 5^th grade and we were having a sales contest, selling ads for our yearbook. The prize was great and I wanted it so bad. I went out to the local business in the neighborhood determined to sale more ads than anyone. After a couple of refusals, I went home ready to give up on life. Dad stopped and we had our first talk about not giving up. I went back out with a new determination to succeed. I won that contest and that same tenacity has carried me my entire life. Every sales contest I have won, every order that I have secured, every sales success that I have enjoyed…at least some part of that success came because Dad taught me how to win.

Dad taught me to lose. I remember performing poorly on a particular test. When dad came home he asked me about this test. I fearfully told him that I did not win on this one. Dad asked me one question that has shaped my life and the way I teach my children even today. He said; “did you do your best”? I learned something that day. I learned that it is okay, not acceptable but okay, to lose, if you do your best. He taught me to smile and congratulate those that beat me in sports or sales or life. He did not teach me to enjoy it, he did not teach me to be satisfied with it but he did teach me to understand losing and learn from it.

Dad taught me how to treat my family. I never heard my dad scream at his family. Tough, rigid, strict, hard…yeah maybe some know that side of him. I know the side that said son, life is not easy, you are going to face tough decisions. I am going to do everything in my power to prepare you to face those decisions and do the right thing. I also know that no matter what, my dad is there for me. He was a very busy man with incredible responsibility and many people under his direction. He told me, “son, if you need me, call me. Anytime day or night, call me and I will stop what I am doing and be there for you. He still says the same thing and I have watched time and time again as he has been there for us.

Dad taught me to work. When he loaded those tool boxes into the truck, he loaded me in as well. How many toilets have we unstopped? How many roofs have we completed? How many houses did we paint? Wow! We worked. In fact, just yesterday, we removed a tile floor from his kitchen. He stayed right there with me all day. My dad is a worker. We were working for Mr. Holderfeld and we ran into an issue that puzzled dad. He told me that we should back off and think about it. During that next week he called me and said, “son I figured it out….” Many many times in my life, I have ‘backed off’ and figured it out. “Son, if you think about it long enough, you will figure out how to get anything done.” I now work with a life coach and last week he asked me to list my greatest strength. I listed resourcefulness. My dad is the reason for that.

Dad taught me many other things that I can't even begin to recall right now; however, they always seem to come to mind just when I need them the most. Dad I love you and I thank you for teaching me.

Does the ad affect us?

While driving down the road on Friday, I noticed a handwritten sign on the island next to the light where I was waiting (the avarage American spends two weeks of their lives stopped at red lights...what a waste). The sign was handwritten, (poorly I might add) and it advertised a house for sale. As I looked at the sign I thought, that house is probably a terrible little run down shanty on the worst street in Houston.

The light changed and I drove away.

At the next light I look up and see a billboard on the 45 that is advertising Remax and it says in bold letters: SOLD! I thought, Remax sales awesome houses, look at their sign.

As I rolled away from the light, I was suddenly struck by the thought: Kevin, you have no idea about the house with the handwritten ad and you have no idea about the house that is proclaimed by $10k billboards. The truth is you have never looked at the inside of the house, spoken with anyone who knows the house, researched who built the house...truthfully, you have judged the house by standards that do not tell the real story. You have allowed someone to influence your opinion based soley on their "advertisment". After all, is it not possible that the handwritten ad could be offering the finest home in Houston? Is it not feasible that Remax may sale a run down shanty on the worse street in Houston?

I am convicted. God, please continue to convict me when I judge someone or something without understanding of that person or thing. Forgive me when I judge based on "advertisement".

Someone placed both of those ads in my world and I allowed what that person placed in my world to affect my thinking about the house. Even though I did not really know or understand the house.

I want to love God and love others like never before. I want to present myself and others to God. Period. No preconcieved ideas, explanations or excuses. When someone places an "ad" in my world, I want to ignore the ad and get to know the truth.

I also want to know God like never before. I have promised God that I will study His word and know him for myself. I will not allow the "ads" that have been placed in my life to tell the story...I will research, question, study, learn and love His word for myself.

The truth is that God Made me and He has plenty of Grace and Mercy to save me. He left me an instruction manual that has EVERYTHING I need to know in it and he wants me to learn it for myself. I will not look at the advertising, will not be sold by the commercial, the facade...I know that you made all of us and you have given me Your word. That is really all I need to know.

Today, I will ignore the ads!

22 Years

Well here I am on Mexicana airlines. Headed to Isla Majeres with my chick and two awesome friends. Celebrating 22 years of wedded bliss to my soul mate.

Wedded bliss? What is that? Well in my life that has been interesting.

We have had money, no money, plans dreams, no plans or dreams.

We have had quiet moments of wonderful reflection and we have had some louder moments of sincere discussion…

We have celebrated the births of three beautiful girls, experienced fear during one of those, experienced unbelievable joy during all three (well at least I did, maybe not so much for Julie).

We have been thin and young. Now I am old and fat.

We have been on every diet known to man…grapefruit? Seriously? What was I thinking? I have gained and lost at least two of myself.

Julie has maintained an incredible workout schedule for at least 20 of these years and it shows. She is smoking!!!

I have chased every dream I ever had and she has supported all those endeavors.

We dream together…5 kids, Fortune 500 company, Mansions, land, pool (still working on that one), Harley’s, RV’s, summer homes, lake houses, Colorado (that is going to happen)

We love our friends. We have been blessed with many and each has a special place and time of influence

We have experienced babies, toddlers, adolescents and teenagers…wow we wish they came with a manual.

We have experienced Christ in an incredible way. Growing everyday and realizing two things about Him: There is so much too know and He loves us way more than we could ever love Him

We love our church. Life…thanks, thanks for loving us, accepting us and influencing our lives toward knowing who He really is

We are thankful for every spiritual influence He has sent our way. We are thankful for every experience and the knowledge and influence of each

We are thankful for godly parents

We travel. We work really hard to pay for trip.

We love big Christmas. We work really hard to pay for big Christmas.

We like quality food and incredible ambiance (for you Scott).

We work really hard to pay for quality food and ambiance.

We like to give our kids cool stuff

We work really hard to pay for cool stuff…I think I see a trend here.

We do have a trend…we committed to the task of commitment. When you commit to that, it does not release or protect you from bumps and bruises.

It does not remove every obstacle.

It does not remove every hurt.

It does not remove every temptation.

It does mean that no matter what happens, at the end of the day we will NOT go to sleep being mad at one another (been some long nights in the Gary house (for you Denise))

It does mean that we will learn what it means to love one another and we learn something new everyday

It does mean that we will learn what it takes to raise the children God gave us.

It means we have entered His kingdom and we will be an asset to His kingdom (for you Royce, see I do listen)

It also means that we will make mistakes trying.

It also means we have to admit those mistakes

It means we will dance (huh girls?)

It means we will fall

It means we will get up

22 years and on our way to Isla Mujeres. Daughters that have accepted the responsibility of taking care of things (their little baby angel), friends that will be with us, friends that will be there if the girls need them, parents who will assist and God who will protect all of us.

22 years of dreaming

22 years and no bitterness

22 years, and we have no enemies (if you consider us an enemy, please forgive us and don’t tell us)

22 years of success

22 years of failure

22 years of love

22 years of DANCING!

My hope and prayer for each of you is this same life…I would not change a thing!

Go out today and DANCE!

I hope you never lose your sense of wonder

You get your fill to eat

But always keep that hunger

May you never take one single breath for granted

God forbid love ever leave you empty handed

I hope you still feel small

When you stand by the ocean

Whenever one door closes, I hope one more opens

Promise me you'll give faith a fighting chance

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance

I hope you dance

2010

As we begin 2010, I am reminded of New Year’s resolutions. On December 31, I heard, “I hope that my family draws closer to God this year”. Immediately upon hearing this, I began to feel unrest, curiosity, conviction and motivation. “Closer to God?” What does that mean? How do you measure that? Yes, I feel the same way! Yes, my life’s desire is to be closer to God. Yes, I want to have the same goal for 2010. However, is this statement just empty words that cause my friends to believe that I am somehow spiritual? Is it empty words that sooth my conscience and make me feel more spiritual?

The curiosity has fueled my search for what it means to “draw closer to God”. Jesus said “love me and love others”. Can I measure that? He left many answers in His word. Obviously, the answer is yes…therein lies my resolution for 2010. Yes, I accept the challenge to “draw closer to God”, and this is my prayer.

God, help me as I study your word and try to implement the fruits of the Spirit in my life. Reveal to me your unfailing mercy and grace as I try to understand and extend the same to others. Assist me as I struggle with selfishness and judgment. Remind me that You are the judge, You are the jury and You have instructed me to “love”. Give me direction as I try to follow You. Can I accept those that do not look like I expect them to look? You did. Can I love those that smell, judge, are rude, cut me off in traffic, slow me down in traffic, do me wrong, judge me, talk about me, ridicule me, don’t provide the level of service that I expect...? You did.

I really want to exhibit love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. I really want to love Him with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. I really want to love my neighbor as myself. I really want to do all those things; however, I must first understand what these things mean and how they are truly applied. On December 31, 2010, I will be able to measure my success in achieving new years resolutions. Do I understand more about what it means to “draw closer to God” and have I applied this understanding?

My Birthday

Today I celebrate 16,060 days of existence on this great planet. The day started with my wonderful girls (all 4 of them) singing to me and telling me they were proud of me. Spent time at lunch with special friends while enjoying Greek Salad and shrimp (no Irma’s). Awesome!! Came home to one of my favorite meals (with chocolate cake) and spent time enjoying the artwork and love of my girls.

I have received countless birthday wishes. As I began to reflect on those, I realized all over again how blessed I am. I have heard from people who have been friends since we moved to Houston when I was less than two years old. Heard from people who have become friends during this last year and acquaintances made in between.

Spent the day working in the office so I had the opportunity to reflect on every person as the birthday wishes came in. I remembered how every person has affected me in some way. With some, many memories have been made. With others, we have just started making memories. I think I am getting older (although I still don’t know what I want to be when I grow up) because I get so sentimental when I realize how much those influences have molded me into the person I am today.

I am truly thankful for every experience and every memory and my prayer is that my influence will create memories for those around me that will make them smile as they have made me smile today. Now my girls have granted me one last birthday wish…control of the remote. Can anyone say Monday Night Football!!!!

My Mom

Mom,

Happy Mothers Day!

I have often thought about what I would say if I was ever asked to speak at a Mother Daughter Banquet and how I would say it without bawling like a little girl the whole time.

I would talk about Mary, the Mother of Jesus. I think about Mary and what type of lady she must have been. Knowing that so many attributes in our lives are displayed in the actions of our children, I consider her attributes. When I begin to think about those attributes my mind always goes back to you and how your life must resemble the life of Mary.

Caring – Jesus was so compassionate. He always made every situation better. He stopped and healed the sick; he took time for those who were not accepted by others, he handled disputes in a way that resulted in win-win, he taught and led and example. Jesus loved His children so much that He paid the ultimate price so they could experience undeserved Grace. He Cared! Mary must have really cared for those she came in contact with.
Mom, I have watched you for many years and I know you like few others do. You have stopped in the restroom and provided a damp washcloth, a gentle rub and a prayer while Tammye and I were so sick we thought we would not live. I have also seen you take the same care and compassion with kids that were not even yours. I have watched you be the Peacemaker in our family and in the lives of others. You have an incredible ability to say the right thing so a situation will calm. Tammye and I were close when we were younger and still are to this day. That is because our Mom worked hard to keep our family united. I have heard many people tell me they loved to stop by your office at the church and have “little talks” with Ma Gary. You teach everyone you come in contact with and you never want anyone to feel left out. You have always wanted to help everyone you can. You paid a great price to work in God’s Kingdom and make a difference. While others pursued successful careers, you worked to make a difference in the lives of a bunch of crazy kids. We all experience Grace today, in part because you were there to point us in that direction. I cannot think of anyone who cares for people anymore than you.

Organized – Mary must have been incredibly organized. She also had to possess incredible training skills. She was responsible for the Savior of the world. He had to be trained properly. He had to understand right from wrong; he would be tempted in every way after all. He needed to be responsible. He had to accept the consequences of His actions. When He could have called 10,000 angels, he accepted the responsibility that was ultimately His.
When Dad told me I could go to Florida with the youth but my car would set in the driveway with a busted engine. You could have persuaded him otherwise but you understood that there would come a day when Dad would not be there to bail me out and I needed to know responsibility. You set up at night waiting on Tammye and I to get home and then you would spend time listening to our lives and offering training so we would be prepared to face life. You have always had your “list” and I must admit that The List has made a difference in our lives. You never told us we had to have a list but you led by example and now my life sometimes (a lot of times) seems out of control and I refer to “My List” to get it under control. Many times I have been called to accept responsibility for my actions. You never tried to use position or influence to change the consequences. Instead you stood beside me, helped me, loved me and offered direction that would detour me from those actions in the future.

Enabler– Mary knew when He needed to be gently pushed. She also knew when it was time to step back and allow Him to be about His Fathers business. Looking back, I see many times that you could have diverted problems because you knew the outcome would be different than I expected. You knew it was time to step back. Wow, that must have been so hard! (I have kids now…) Because of those times, I have been able to learn invaluable life lessons. There have been times that you have made gentle suggestions and you have always encouraged me to pursue my legend. Mary enabled her Son to a point that He felt He could accomplish anything He set His mind to. And He was the greatest man that ever lived. Mom you have always made me feel like I could conquer the world if I set my mind to it.

Godly – Mary must have been the most godly lady on the face of the Earth. In fact, she was so godly that she was chosen to bear and raise the Savior of the entire world. I have been blessed to have a Mom that is an incredible example of what it means to be a Christ-follower. I have watched your life and learned how to love my enemies, forgive, keep silent (although some would say this is still a work in progress), walk away when it is best and most importantly, develop a relationship with God. “If you can’t say something nice do not say anything”, how many times? Kevin, do not say that. Kevin, treat others like you want to be treated. Bubb, you have to learn to control your temper and your tongue. Kevin, stand tall and be proud of what you are. Bubb, is that the way you really feel? Kevin, act like Jesus himself is in the room with you and base your actions on that. I know how to conduct myself in a Christ-like fashion because you led me by example.

Mom, I am certain that Mary was a very special and Godly lady. I am also certain that you and Mary have a lot in common except I think you would be a better Mom. Everyday I think about you and Dad and I hope that I am making you proud. I love you and I am so proud to call you my mother. Happy Mothers Day!

Ashton

Wow! Ashton you are turning 15 tomorrow. I remember when you promised me you would be 5 forever. "Really Daddy I will always be your 5 YEARS old". Well, you are no longer 5 but you still have the same smile that you had then and you still light up my day, everyday. No matter how bad my day has been, when I come home you always come running, smiling and telling me you love me. Really lets me know that everything is going to be ok.

We have a big date tomorrow night and I will do my best to explain to you the importance of Commitment. Being committed to God first and foremost. While planning this, I started thinking about your story and why I think God has BIG plans for you....not far into your life Mom began to have complications. Seems you were really anxious to enter the world. 26 weeks into your life, your Mom and I were at anniversary services for Pastor & Mrs. McClain. Your Mom sang a beautiful song in the service and in the middle of serving family and friends I was told that something happened to your Mom. We rushed to the emergency room and they immediately began trying to persuade you to refrain from being born. I overheard a phone conversation when the nurse told the doctor that she did not think she could stop the birth and she was afraid that the doctor would not make it in time. Scared. Due to the incredible work of the doctor and staff, you were convinced to wait a little bit before changing our world.

I remember watching your Mom over the next three weeks. She was on complete bed-rest because the doctor had told us you could not come into this world until your lungs had a chance to develop more. They gave your Mother a shot every week that took 5 minutes to complete. The entire time they were administering the shot she had to remain completely still. I remember tears rolling down her face because of the pain, but she never moved. This shot was to help develop your lungs faster so you could make your World Premiere. The shot also made you Mother very hot and everyone who came to visit wore a jacket because her room was freezing.

After a couple weeks, we made the decision that I should start staying at home more because Amanda was young and did not understand why her parents were not with her. One night your mom called me numerous times saying that the baby was about to be born. Based on data coming from the contraction monitor, her fears seemed unfounded. At shift change the nurse completed an examination only to learn that mom was indeed about to give birth. I remember the phone call very clearly, "Kevin, Julie is about to have the baby and we will not be able to stop it this time, please Hurry".

After leaving Amanda with Mamaw & Pawpaw and rushing to Labor & Delivery, I immediately ask about you and your mom. The nurse just handed me a set of scrubs and explained that she could not tell me anything. I went into a dark cold room to change clothes and I remember feeling more alone than I have ever felt in my life. After changing, I was escorted down a long dark hallway that was very quiet. Escorted from the serenity of this hallway thru a door and into controlled chaos. You had indeed made your first premiere. There were nurses and doctors running everywhere and in the middle of the room there was an operating table with Mom laying on it. I went to her to make sure she was okay and she directed my attention to the corner of the room where my new little Ashie was being attended by numerous Medical personnel. I walked over and looked at my new darling and I immediately begin to think about how I would tell Julie that our new baby did not live. You were so tiny and almost transparent looking. I could see your veins and you were INCREDIBLY small (two pounds). Miraculously, you made it into the stage 3 neonatal unit. This is where you began to receive your pampered treatment. Your bed and 24 hr. nurse cost over $750 per day! You were under a sunlamp and covered by a special wrap. Youngest customer ever to attend day spa!

At first report, the doctor began to explain that you would have head bleeds (born natural and breech) and they could be very dangerous. The doctor explained that these head bleeds could cause Cerebral Palsy and it would be two weeks before we knew about the severity of them. There were wires and tubes everywhere. Your little hands were so small that they could not put a needle into them. You IV had to be inserted into your foot. Your life was hanging in the balance and your Mom and I learned what it meant to be really really scared.

During this time, Pastor McClain had our entire church praying. All our family and friends everywhere were praying. As this premiere continued, we began to feel a peace like I have never known before or since. I think this was God's way of telling your Mom and I not to worry, He had BIG plans for you.

Everyday we would go to the hospital and observe you as you received the Royal Treatment. You were indeed a celebrity. One day the doctor called before we arrived at the hospital and asked us to come immediately. There had been a problem. We soon learned that the vein carrying your medication had ruptured and caused a burn behind your knee, from the inside out. Plastic surgery on a baby doll requires incredible skill and God directed the surgeon to repair you good as new. You have a scar on the back of your leg. Another reminder that God has His hand on you and He has BIG plans for you.

On the day you were born, we noticed a smudge on your shoulder. We thought it was dried blood that the nurse had failed to clean. To our amazement, we learned all about hemangioma. Turns out this "dried blood" was hemangioma that continued to grow. We learned that you have hemangioma in your liver. As you grow they become evident in a number of areas on your body. The doctor had some concern about the ones located in your liver so you had extensive testing and they decided that these would be okay if we watched them.

The day we brought you home from the hospital we were so happy! You were very very little and it took you a couple years to catch up to cousin Kasey. The doctor told us to be prepared for an independent young lady. He said that they place a baby on it's Mothers chest immediately after birth so the baby will feel the heartbeat and know Mom is still there. You were not able to experience that. You had to fight on your own and therefore would be very independent and maybe even a little bit of a loner. I am with him on the independent, you would not let us do anything for you as a child, but the loner tag doesn't really apply although you do enjoy your quite time. As you grew, there have been numerous trips to the hospital. One time you were so sick that you were placed in a tent. Again, you could not have a normal visit to the hospital, it had to be a camping trip....

Tubes were installed, Tonsils were removed, hemangioma were removed and eventually a broken leg. Trying to get a cookie, you twist violently and slide off the counter. The doctor puts a cast on that goes to your hip. He explains that the high cast is necessary so that you will not be able to walk. Your Mom and I explain that he does not know you! He says trust me I know what I am doing.....that afternoon you were RUNNING on the cast. Like WE said, he did not know you. After that, you go running to the door to tell Mommy bye, hit the corner and immediately get stitches in you forehead. See, all these things happening to you and you are still alive. I told you God has big plans for you!

Teeth are coming in and to our surprise they are missing an essential element...ENAMEL. Trip after trip to the dentist for special treatment on the toothage. Talk about pampered princess! The missing enamel is the only result of all the morphine that you received as a baby. God is good! When your adult teeth came in, they were fine.

I remember laying in bed at night and waiting on you to come in. You would walk up to the bed in you "shorts like daddy's" and t-shirt. You would tell me to close my eyes and then you would take off your t-shirt (it was ok to see you w/o shirt but not okay to watch you undress). You wanted to look like daddy! You would then crawl in bed beside me so we could snuggle-up. The only one of my girls that really likes to snuggle. I loved those moments! They passed way to quickly and they do not come often enough now.

Remember you starring in a fashion show as a little girl (well I thought you were the star) and being scared. We developed our little sign to let you know all would be ok. Thumbs up and a wink! It is still going to be ok, Daddy will always be there.

As you started school, a hearing problem was discovered. Instead of making this an excuse for you, we went to all your teachers and explained your situation. We asked them to set you in front of the room (more preferential treatment for the princess) so you would be able to hear. We asked them to be sure you were looking at them when they spoke to you. We also asked them to never tell you that there was a problem. We knew you could overcome because we had witnessed your ability to overcome your entire life. When you were 12 the doctor finally felt like your ear insides had matured enough that he could perform surgery and repair the problem. Your Mom and I searched for the best possible doctor. After finding him, we visited him a number of times to be sure. He told us about the chance that you could never hear out of that ear again. We prayed and experienced fear all over again. I remember the doctor coming into recovery after the surgery and tapping on the large cone they had placed on your ear. As he tapped, he asked if you could hear it? You said yes! The doctor turned to us and said "it was successful. There is no way she would have heard that before". God is so good.

You, Amanda and I will always share a special Colorado story! "beeeeeppppp ......................."

Our dates are so much fun. You obviously are not my "5 years old" anymore but you are and will always be Daddy's little bitty. As I watch you grow into a young lady and I see your personality develop, I continue to be thankful that you are kind, considerate, compassionate and loving. I love our "life lesson" talks. You have stretched me and enriched me in ways that you will never know. We still have many trails to traverse and paths to follow. I look forward to each. I will always be committed to stand beside you. No matter what happens, we will face it together!!! I am so proud of the lady you are becoming. Remember our conversation tomorrow night and stay committed to God, yourself and your family. Most of all, Dance!

New Thing For Me

Sunday, September 07, 2008

Recently a friend of mine had the opportunity to visit the olympics in Beijing. She used a blog to spread the word about the awesome time she was having and the great experience the Olympics proved to be. In addition, another friend was chosen as a delegate at the Republican National Convention and he used a blog to relay news from the convention floor.
This got me to thinking about all the wonderful opportunities that I have been afforded and I started thinking that a blog would be a great place to record those for two reasons:
1. So that I will not forget them and I can bore my grandchildren with the stories in the future.
2. I want to be able to look at these cool events on days when the stress and pressure of my life feels unbearable, so that I am reminded of the good times.

So that being said, I will start to list cool events, awesome blessings and random musings from a 40 something that is still a big kid at heart. Some will be from years ago (when I happen to remember them) and some will be more recent (next blog will be about recent Hawaii vacation). Overall, no one will be responsible for this except me, so if you think it is stupid......blame.......oh I don't know pick one. How about Global Warming or Sweet -N-Low. They get blamed for everything else.

Ike

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Well Well, Ike came to Galveston on Saturday. Here is the cool part. School was cancelled for the girls on Friday and I remembered hearing of this new really cool hotel in the Dallas area. Based on these two facts we decided on a mini vacation. On Thursday morning I made sure to tie up some loose ends and we headed off on our mini-v. Took 7 hours to get to Dallas because of Houston traffic; however, we did stop at Woody's Smokehouse in Centerville, TX where we ate some of the best BBQ ever. I would highly suggest the Ribs, Chopped Beef or Chicken. All were delectable!!!!

We arrived in Grapevine @ about 8PM and checked into the Great Wolf Lodge. What a cool hotel. It is decorated like you are in the middle of Colorado wilderness and it has an indoor water park that is included in the price of a room. We took Averi down to the Waterpark (although it would only be open for 10 more min) because she "could not wait". She ran thru the humongus treehouse and played as hard as possible for the entire 10. Up the next morning and spent the rest of the day in the wave pool (where Amanda, Ashton and Averi tried to dunk me to no avail), huge slides and lazy river. I highly suggest this place.

Left Grapevine on Friday afternoon and drove South to Troy, TX the home of the Bass Family (my sister Tammye, her husband Kenneth, Karonna and Kasey). They have become our primary point of evacuation for impending Hurricanes. They were nice enough to take us in and while we were there we saw the Simoneaux family who were in from Africa. Now that is really running from the storm!!!! No, actually they were in Houston and had to flee. We made contact and were able to have dinner with them. How cool is that? Ike came and because of that, we got to renew old aquantances and stay with our family.

Oh well, it is Tuesday and it looks like my electricity will be back on by this afternoon or tomorrow morning. C ya soon!!!!!

Ike Devastation

Friday, September 19, 2008


First of all, I would like to say Thank you to my buddy, Kenny Pierce. Kenny stayed in Santa Fe during the storm and when I returned (after he told me the electricity was back on) he had already reset my tree that fell over due to Ike. Thanks Kenny! UDMan

Well today I witnessed first hand the worst devastation I have ever seen in my life. Pastor Jim and I visited some of the church families that live in Seabrook. Each of them had approximately 4 feet of standing water in their homes. There are thousands of trees and limbs laying everywhere. Houses have been lifted off their slabs and moved accross the street. Many houses on piers were literally blown off the piers. Cars are blown all over the place. Yachts have been blown all over. I saw a Bart Simpson character from Kemah Boardwalk all the way across the bay and laying in a neighborhood. There is a refrigerated reefer (18 wheeler trailer) out in the bay about 300 yards from the shore. See my Kemah Devastation Pics

I also saw the Peace of God that passes all understanding. People who are facing the very worst times, looked at me and said "we may have lost all material things but we still have our family, we are blessed. We found out that these material things are not really that important." When they were saying this I looked into their eyes and I came to understand "the Peace of God". Wow! What a great blessing!

Awesome People

Sunday, September 28, 2008


Awesome people

This has been an interesting week! I have made new friends because of Ike and the experience has caused me to think about people. These are my random thoughts.

Many times we see and hear bout people we would consider "bad". I mean come on, don't you think a murderer is a bad person? Seems we hear an awful lot about people like that. Well, I am going to tell you about the "good" people I met / observed this week.

First there were the volunteers that worked untiringly to help those devastated by Hurricane Ike. Over 100 volunteers from Life Church were in Seabrook on Thursday, Friday and Saturday working in some of the worst conditions imaginable. They never complained and stayed until the job was done. While working there, I looked around me and I saw volunteers at many different places, all smiling and working extremely hard....for free! There are STILL great people in the world and I think that they should get more attention.

I met a single mom who has three beautiful daughters living in Deer Park. As i spoke with her I learned that she teaches students with special needs. I listened as she spoke with passion and love. Not for her children (although she obviously loved them greatly) but for children that belong to others. She told story after story about the HONOR of working with these kids and making a difference in their lives.

I met another family with a special needs son. I watched as they poured love upon him and laughed with them as they told stories about his "escapades". They talked about how he flooded the upstairs of their home, drove his dad's truck (he is about 9) and followed all that with "he is the greatest blessing our lives have received". I am in awe of them!!

This morning I saw a picture of the new Student Center at Life Church. I am amazed at how totally cool it is. (See my pics) This Student Center was done with volunteer help. These guys (if I try to name all I will forget some) and gal (Kristie, your the best admin asst ever)worked untiringly to meet a deadline that was almost impossible. No one complained. Every time I saw them they were smiling and working hard.

These are the kind of people who we should recognize. Forget the derelicts of society. Find the quiet volunteer, the generous giver, the person who is always available to help and never expects to be recognized.

This is a challenge! Find a "good" person today and say "Thanks". Thanks for all you do as a "good" person.

To the people I spoke about in this blog. Thank you! You changed my life this week.

Amanda

Written in Nov and posted on MySpace

A few days ago, I had the opportunity to watch Amanda play volleyball in her last game as a senior. Wow did that bring back a rush of memories. In my first blog here, I said I would be posting random musings and memories as they pop in my head.

I remember the day that Amanda was born. At about 3AM, Julie wakes up and says "Kevin, I think my water broke". I was leaving at 4 to go work in San Antonio so I was glad the warning came when it did. Julie gets up and goes to the restroom, I get up and follow. As I walked behind her, I was certain that her water had indeed broken....fast forward past epidural, breakfast with Father and Father-in-law, "get me a Dr. Pepper as soon as the baby is born", 40 people in the L&D room, my announcement that I would watch the Astros that night with my BOY and my surprise at the beautiful baby GIRL God honored me with and we arrive at a quiet time after everyone is gone and Julie and I are staring at this beautiful baby girl that I am holding. As I rock her, Amanda opens her eyes and looks at me. From that moment to this, I am wrapped around her finger and she knows it.

As she became upset because her team was losing, I remembered many times that we have shared...."look Julie she rolled over" (all the family came over after church to see the amazing feat), airplaning, her stubborness (pick up the pen and give it to Mom), our POOP experience, walking in the rain, her swing set on Sweetbriar, first boyfriend, bad boyfriend, promise ring, first car, first wreck ($4300)....

She became more upset and I realized that she has some of my attributes that she would be better of without. I remembered the stupid jokes that are only funny to Amanda, Ashton and I. I remembered "life lessons", explanations of why (not just because I said so), talks that have shown me she is a logical thinker and really really thinks thru a decision.

Most of all, I remembered Butterfly Kisses....she caught me on the couch as it came on the radio and turned it up, came over and crawled in my lap for the entire song (I cried) and gave me a butterfly kiss......I remember a kiss or phone call every night (never missed one) and I remember that I am proud of her. She is turning into a young lady, reaching for independence and finding her own way. I don't think she is near as scared as I am; however, I know she will "do her best" and I know that I will stand beside her no matter what and we will face the world together standing side by side.

Wow, being a Dad is the greatest!

Christmas

Actually written and posted to MySpace before Christmas

Wow! Since Hurricane Ike my life has been cccrrrraaazzzyyy! My wife and kids have been absolutely terrific (as if they weren't before) and I have been working like a madman. Kenny is relentless and awesome, Eldredge and I have laughed about "Grand Slams" (the pitch, he swings, ooooohhhhhh it is GONE) more than any two people should be allowed to be amused.

Now I am setting in Branson Missouri in the coolest house anyone could ever desire. There is a little loft on the 3rd floor with a chair, footstool and bookshelf filled with wonderment. I am setting in that chair and I am blown away by the goodness of God and the incredible love of Family.

When we arrived on Saturday night we immediately left for Noah (the drama), upon our arrival I see Joel Osteen in the parking lot and get to intro myself to him (said he was getting away from the big city for a few days. I empathize). Appreciate someone that is comfortable with themselves no matter what critics might say! Saw the incredible production (all the animals were moving! you have to be there). Woke up Sunday morning took a long hot shower and spent the rest of the day laying around in pajama pants and being spoiled by the greatest parents on earth. Watched football with Kenneth (brother-in-law) and Dad. Begin to think about all my friends. Wow, I am blessed.

I have now visited Branson Landing and Dixie Stampede. It is about 20 degrees and we are about to go to Silver Dollar City. COOL HUH!. Today I received a friend request from Donnie Farrell a high school friend that I have not heard from in forever. Went to his myspace page and became reaquainted with him and his family. It is so cool to see a pic of him with the explanation that he is trying to lead his young people in the right direction. Wow! You go Donnie! Now I am remembering all my great friends from the old ACA. Good times! Surprised Bro. Porter was not grey earlier. And by the way, THANKS Bro. Porter we all owe you a debt we will never be able to repay.

Boy am I nostalgic or what? Oh well, I am blessed and honored that each of you have chosen to tolerate me for all these years and allowed me to call you friend. I hope that each of you have a Merry Christmas and a blessed 2009!

P.S. I want a cobalt blue steel Daisy Red Ryder with a compass in the stock.

Thanksgiving

In early November, Bear Bait (honey...get it?) (my beautiful bride) came home and announced a great plan for the month.  Each day we were to write something we were thankful for on a piece of paper an d place it in a vase on our dinner table.  On Thanksgiving we open each of these and read them with explanation about our writings.

All day on Thanksgiving, I spent time with my wonderful family and gorged myself on every type of food known to man.  Afterwards I went back and ate some more because.....well I am not really sure why I did.  So, I am thankful for food.

As I looked around the area and noticed the people there I became overwhelmed by the Grace of God.  My Father-in-law had a minor stroke this year and he is in good health.  My grandparents are in good health and Nanny was there to provide direction to those that "need" it.  I spent time thinking about conversations that I had with Eldredge as he worried about his future and providing for his family.  He now has an incredible job and his future is so bright I need shades.  Stan & Jennifer are better off than they have been in a long time.  Brandon got a great job @ Lubrizol and bought a house & Harley.  Hillary is now engaged.  I could go on and on, the bottom line is this.  

We are living in times of uncertainty but MY GOD reigns!  It does not matter what is going in the economy, family or culture....MY GOD reigns!!!  When you have your family and God, can you really complain?