Chritsmas Presence 2022

 

Growing up my parents helped make the Christmas season a special time of year for me. From the incredible decorations and tree put up with artistic precision by my father to getting Christmas cards sent out by mom to the wonderful smell of fresh baked apricot and nut cookies to delicious mushroom soup made by my father. The Christmas Eve service at a packed church with a beautiful rendition of 'Oh Holy Night' that took you back to the manager. Having friends and family over after service at my parents house was joyous. Cookies, hors d'oeuvres, drinks, music and laughter ruled the evening. Christmas morning was incredible. The magic of opening gifts wrapped with the utmost care by my father brought a big smile to my face. And when I got older the joy of giving mom& dad gifts equaled then exceeded what I received. Then I enjoyed going to church on Christmas morning. Later in the afternoon we would head up to my aunts with what one could only describe as a decadent feast. My aunt could out cook anyone on the Food Network. Ham melted in you mouth. The most moist turkey you ever had. Chicken soup with homemade noodles. Apple and pumpkin pies that made you always want a second piece. After we went home I always fell asleep with a smile on my face. I was blessed that all three of my children were able to experience this as well. With all that being said my parents always made sure the focus was on the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Fast forward to today. My parents and my aunts and uncles have passed away. Unfortunately the last time I spoke with my cousins was when my mom passed. I have resigned myself to the fact that we probably will never get together again and that saddens me a great deal.

In 2011 my life took the best turn possible when I met and married my soul mate Valerie Geis Horosz Soon after that God blessed me with employment after looking for three years and in 2014 God saw fit to bless me with the best job ever in IT with Publix Supermarkets.

Valerie's parents remind me so much of my own. It was so hard saying goodbye to her father this year. I am so glad to be a part of this family.

My wife truly enjoys decorating the house for Christmas. Lights, decorations, garland, battery candles, and a beautiful tree with ornaments made by my dad. It looks fantastic !

In 2019 we had one of the most incredible blessings of our life as our granddaughter Eliana Grace Skaggs was born. Words cannot express the inexplicable and unbelievable joy she brings to our lives !

In 2022 just this past week we experienced another most incredible blessing when Adiella Mae Skaggs was born. We are over the moon excited, happy, and praising God for her and are on pins and needles until we can get back up to Ohio to meet and hold her - and Ellie too !

Five years ago in October I found out through a Facebook post that one of my cousins passed away. It really hit me hard. When I sent a sympathy card to her husband I remembered what he told me when my mom passed away - "we never hear from anyone anymore". It all makes sense now.

I wanted so desperately to recreate what my parents had. But I've come to the realization its gone. For one reason or another my family has splintered into their own units - with brothers and sisters only. Despite attempts to reach out to my cousins they have not responded.

It's up to Valerie and I to make memories for all our children and grand children - Will, Victoria, Andy, Peter, Jessica, Brian, Ellie, and Addie - to enjoy and remember. Whether it's a phone call or spending time with them the message is always the same - we love you !

The best part of Christmas to me is not presents but presence - the presence of Christ in our hearts and in our home.

Merry Christmas !

Christmas Presence

Growing up my parents helped make the Christmas season a special time of year for me. From the incredible decorations and tree put up with artistic precision by my father to getting Christmas cards sent out by mom to the wonderful smell of fresh baked apricot and nut cookies to delicious mushroom soup made by my father. The Christmas Eve service at a packed church with a beautiful rendition of 'Oh Holy Night' that took you back to the manager. Having friends and family over after service at my parents house was joyous. Cookies, hors d'oeuvres, drinks, music and laughter ruled the evening. Christmas morning was incredible. The magic of opening gifts wrapped with the utmost care by my father brought a big smile to my face. And when I got older the joy of giving mom& dad gifts equaled then exceeded what I received. Then I enjoyed going to church on Christmas morning. Later in the afternoon we would head up to my aunts with what one could only describe as a decadent feast. My aunt could out cook anyone on the Food Network. Ham melted in you mouth. The most moist turkey you ever had. Chicken soup with homemade noodles. Apple and pumpkin pies that made you always want a second piece. After we went home I always fell asleep with a smile on my face. I was blessed that all three of my children were able to experience this as well. With all that being said my parents always made sure the focus was on the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Fast forward to today. My parents and my aunts and uncles have passed away. Unfortunately the last time I spoke with my cousins was when my mom passed. I have resigned myself to the fact that we probably will never get together again and that saddens me a great deal.

In 2011 my life took the best turn possible when I met and married my soul mate Valerie Geis Horosz. Soon after that God blessed me with employment after looking for three years and in 2014 God saw fit to bless me with the best job ever in IT with Publix Supermarkets.

I can't say enough about Valerie's parents. I see both my parents in both of them and I am truly blessed to have them in my life. They really do make me feel loved and a part of the family.

My wife truly enjoys decorating the house for Christmas. Lights, decorations, garland, battery candles, and a beautiful tree with ornaments made by my dad. It looks fantastic !

In 2019 we had one of the most incredible blessings of our life as our granddaughter Eliana Grace Skaggs was born this past July. Words cannot express the inexplicable and unbelievable joy she brings to our lives - so much so we went up a few weeks ago to see my children and our granddaughter.

Three years ago in October I found out through a Facebook post that one of my cousins passed away. It really hit me hard. When I sent a sympathy card to her husband I remembered what he told me when my mom passed away - "we never hear from anyone anymore". It all makes sense now.

I wanted so desperately to recreate what my parents had. But I've come to the realization its gone. For one reason or another my family has splintered into their own units - with brothers and sisters only. Despite attempts to reach out to my cousins they have not responded.

It's up to Valerie and I to make memories for our children to enjoy and remember. Whether it's a phone call to Columbus to wish our children Merry Christmas or taking them out Christmas Day for a special dinner the message is always the same - we love you !

The best part of Christmas to me is not presents but presence - the presence of Christ in our hearts and in our home.

Merry Christmas !

Christmas Presence

Growing up my parents helped make the Christmas season a special time of year for me. From the incredible decorations and tree put up with artistic precision by my father to getting Christmas cards sent out by mom to the wonderful smell of fresh baked apricot and nut cookies to delicious mushroom soup made by my father. The Christmas Eve service at a packed church with a beautiful rendition of 'Oh Holy Night' that took you back to the manager. Having friends and family over after service at my parents house was joyous. Cookies, hors d'oeuvres, drinks, music and laughter ruled the evening. Christmas morning was incredible. The magic of opening gifts wrapped with the utmost care by my father brought a big smile to my face. And when I got older the joy of giving mom& dad gifts equaled then exceeded what I received. Then I enjoyed going to church on Christmas morning. Later in the afternoon we would head up to my aunts with what one could only describe as a decadent feast. My aunt could out cook anyone on the Food Network. Ham melted in you mouth. The most moist turkey you ever had. Chicken soup with homemade noodles. Apple and pumpkin pies that made you always want a second piece. After we went home I always fell asleep with a smile on my face. I was blessed that all three of my children were able to experience this as well. With all that being said my parents always made sure the focus was on the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Fast forward to today. My parents and my aunts and uncles have passed away. Unfortunately the last time I spoke with my cousins was three years ago when my mom passed. I have resigned myself to the fact that we probably will never get together again and that saddens me a great deal.

In 2011 my life took the best turn possible when I met and married my soul mate Valerie Geis Horosz. Soon after that God blessed me with employment after looking for three years and in 2014 God saw fit to bless me with the best job ever in IT with Publix Supermarkets. We also were blessed with Will & Peter moving to Brandon and enjoy seeing them.

I can't say enough about Valerie's parents. I see both my parents in both of them and Im truly blessed to have them in my life. They really do make me feel loved and a part of the family.

My wife truly enjoys decorating the house for Christmas. Lights, decorations, garland, battery candles, and a beautiful tree with ornaments made by my dad. It looks fantastic !
But for myself the past couple of years it's almost been a chore for me. Decorating, music and the season felt hollow. Gifts are nice and my wife does exceptional with what she gets me. But something was missing.

A few weeks ago I found out through a Facebook post that one of my cousins passed away. It really hit me hard. When I sent a sympathy card to her husband I remembered what he told me three years ago when my mom passed away - "we never hear from anyone anymore". It all makes sense now.

I wanted so desperately to recreate what my parents had. But I've come to the realization its gone. For one reason or another my family has splintered into their own units - with brothers and sisters only. Despite attempts to reach out to my cousins they have not responded.
It's up to Valerie and I to make memories for our children to enjoy and remember. That's why we have a celebration of Christmas at a nice restaurant for all of our children to enjoy ahead of Christmas. Christmas Day we exchange gifts then go out for Christmas dinner to make sure our children know how special they are to us.

The best part of Christmas to me is not presents but presence - the presence of Christ in our hearts and in our home.

Merry Christmas !

Happy New Year 2016

Wishing all my friends a safe, healthy, and blessed New Years 2016 !

Use and practice these words more often in 2016: love, joy, peace, encouragement, gentleness, patience, kindness.

Pray without ceasing.
Worship wherever you are.
Read God's word.
Be a friend.
Enjoy family.
Encourage, support, and love your children.
Take care of the temple that God has given you.
Tell your spouse, children, and family that you love them.
Set attainable and realistic goals for yourself.

2015 Highlights.

In February Valerie and I celebrated our fourth wedding anniversary. Every day with my beautiful bride is better than the day before. I am truly the most blessed man in the world.

In early March we drove down to Bradenton and caught a Pirates spring training game with Will & Peter. Perfect weather and a beautiful ballpark.

Mid-March we celebrated one year in our new house. We are thankful for God blessing us with a nice place to live.

In late March we travelled to Pittsburgh to catch two Penguins games, pay respect to mom and dad’s graves, and take a day trip to see our beautiful Victoria Horosz & Andy Skaggs.

We were pleasantly surprised as my dad’s grave finally had a marker from the United States Navy. We also found one of our favorite burger places called Burgatory.

We hosted Valerie’s family for her dad’s birthday. We had a blast. Her dad was very animated and makes me smile every time I think of him.

July I completed my first year at Publix Supermarkets. This is by far the best job I have ever had with the best manager I have ever had. With God’s blessings I would love to retire from here.

Will and Peter moved into a two bedroom apartment almost right across the road from where Will works.

Had oral surgery in April to remove my third tooth since moving down to Florida.

Valerie and I had the pleasure of attending a Stanley Cup Final’s Game here in Tampa. In spite of losing we had a lot of fun.

We took a second trip to Pittsburgh in September for my 35th reunion at Geneva College. It was the best reunion by far as I got to show off my beautiful Valerie to all of my college friends. Lots of sharing, laughter, and fun.

The church we had attended back in 2011 (Crossing Church) started Saturday afternoon services which fit perfectly into our schedule and lifestyle. Rock solid teaching not above or below you but meeting you right where you are.

Passed the Technician Class exam for a Ham Radio License.

Mid December we flew Victoria down for a weekend. I took her shopping to Kohl’s, visited Moreno’s Bakery, enjoyed seeing It’s A Wonderful Life at the Tampa Theater and capped it off with a family dinner at Maggiano’s.

Christmas day we celebrated by continuing our tradition of eating out by going to “Spinners” at St. Pete Brach – a revolving restaurant. Food was excellent and the views were magnificent including a beautiful sunset.

Celebrated New Year's Eve with Will & Peter by watching two Star War's movies.

Some scripture I’d like to share:

“Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” Deuteronomy 5:16

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

“16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.” 1 Thessalonians 5:8

 “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13

Our Christmas Wish For All

Our Christmas wish for all !

"I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play
And mild and sweet their songs repeat...
Of peace on earth good will to men

And the bells are ringing (Peace on Earth)
Like a choir they're singing (Peace on Earth)
In my heart I hear them
Peace on earth, good will to men
And in despair I bowed my head
There is no peace on earth I said
For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men
But the bells are ringing (Peace on Earth)
Like a choir singing (Peace on Earth)
Does anybody hear them?
Peace on earth, good will to men
Then rang the bells more loud and deep
God is not dead, nor doth He sleep (Peace on Earth, peace on Earth)
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men
Then ringing singing on its way
The world revolved from night to day
A voice, a chime, a chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good will to men
And the bells they're ringing (Peace on Earth)
Like a choir they're singing (Peace on Earth)
And with our hearts we'll hear them
Peace on earth, good will to men
Do you hear the bells they're ringing? (Peace on Earth)
The life the angels singing (Peace on Earth)
Open up your heart and hear them (Peace on Earth)
Peace on earth, good will to men
Peace on earth, Peace on earth
Peace on earth, Good will to men"

See

Five Years Ago

Five years ago today I wrapped gifts for the kids and was getting ready to go to Christmas Eve Service at The Vineyard Columbus at 3:00 PM followed by a friend asking me to her church at 7:00 PM. Will, Peter, and Victoria were going to stay overnight with their mom and come over Christmas afternoon. This gave me a lot of time to reflect. I had driven down to Memphis a couple weeks earlier to meet someone who in short order crushed me. I had no significant other in my life. I had been looking with no success for over 2 years but still didn't have a job. After I got back from the second service, I got on my hands and knees in the middle of my apartment and prayed. Not for a Christmas miracle but for someone who loved me. God told me right then and there to get off all the other dating websites except for Christian Mingle.
And in short order in a few weeks I met the most beautiful woman in the world who became my bride 15 days latter. Not long after that I landed my first job in almost three years. God had told me all along that a relationship and job were going to go hand in hand. And I had prayed pretty specifically fro what I was looking for in a spouse. Well God ripped that up and gave me a lifetime more than I could have ever asked for with my Valerie Geis Horosz. Don't ever give up on God. Don't ever stop praying. I give praise, honor and glory to Jesus Christ. "With God All Things Are Possible".

The Annoucement

“It’s been a long time coming. I could hardly contain myself. I’ve been bursting at the seams to share the news that I am a father! I could not be more proud of my healthy son. And I am going to make sure to announce this. I am not going to post this because I know it would fall on deaf ears and blind eyes. I’ve considered the options. First I chose some reliable messengers to share this news. Second, I made it clear where he was – this was part of what the messengers shared. Third, being my child and my family were in need of money to take care of expenses, I sent out some additional messengers. The messengers had contacted three very prominent and wealthy men who came from a very far distance and gave us gifts to help take care of the expenses.  If have been contacted by one of the messengers, please don’t hesitate to visit us. I know that my son will do great things.”

Luke 2: 1-21 NIV

“2 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. ² (This was the first census that took place while^[a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) ³ And everyone went to their own town to register.

⁴ So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. ⁵ He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. ⁶ While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, ⁷ and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

⁸ And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. ⁹ An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. ¹⁰ But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. ¹¹ Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. ¹² This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

¹³ Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

¹⁴ “Glory to God in the highest heaven,
    and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

¹⁵ When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

¹⁶ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. ¹⁷ When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, ¹⁸ and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. ¹⁹ But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. ²⁰ The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

²¹ On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived.”