I am enjoying a day off from work. I just finished an enjoyable six mile run and after submitting this blog, will try to read before my family starts returning home. Ever since my wife and I decided to adopt three foster children, I have had little time for my two favorite hobbies. Our daughters, ages ten and twelve, have been in our home for almost fifteen months and our fifteen year old son for almost six. I spent a little time this morning asking myself, “what if”. What if we decided not to go down this road? I definitely would have more time for my hobbies and even a nap. I know I would be able to buy a quart of ice cream and it would still be in the freezer, for my enjoyment, the following day. I would be able to have more dates with my wife. Enjoy a good baseball game. But as I write my selfish list, I realize I would not change my new journey for anything in the world. I love watching my fifteen year old son mow our yard and then the neighbors. I love going to gymnastics practice and band recitals. I got enjoyment this morning when I found my jogging water bottle filled with pickle juice, which my oldest daughter likes to drink. Fourteen months ago, I finished my first marathon. This was a great accomplishment, considering I have been suffering from chronic Achilles Tendinitis for almost five years. I trained for this marathon in: triple degree heat, six feet of snow, wind, rain, and sleet. I finished injured and crippled, but under my goal of 4.30. At the finish line, I was greeted by my wife and two daughters. That event symbolized one dedicated and rewarding journey, being replaced by one far superior. After we decided to adopt, my wife quit her career to be a part time “lunch lady” and stay full time mom. This means, I do not have time to both read and nap. I LOVE IT.