I spotted this image today on the front page of the New York Times. I was transfixed, and humbled. This is the caption that goes with the photo:"When 2nd Lt. James Cathey's body arrived at the Reno Airport, Marines climbed into the cargo hold of the plane and draped the flag over his casket as … Continue reading Final Salute

In four more days:

Yesterday marked the bittersweet end of an era in the life of our family. Our last girls softball game at Orange Grove park.We have been watching, cheering on, encouraging, and participating in coaching our girls at this simple little ball field for the past 10 years or so. Yesterday, our team won the league championship … Continue reading Orange Grove Park, The End of a Softball Era

I come from a small family of three; I am an only child. Growing up, I remember our family life together often felt, well, rather small. And sheltered. And sort of isolated. Not a lot of connection with the wider outside world. Safe and insulated, that was our family. My parents liked it that way. … Continue reading This Weekend, Dickens, and Nicholas Nickleby

Today I am remembering my Dad, Roland Steele Norris (1920-2007), who served this country in World War II, as a B-17 pilot trainer, and air-sea rescue captain. I am also remembering the more than 4,000 American families who have paid the ultimate price of sacrifice in the war in Iraq.May there be Peace on Earth.

This is Zac Sunderland. He is 16, and is planning on sailing around the world. Solo.This morning I opened the LA Times to find this article about Zac's coming adventure. Zac has a web site here, where we all can follow his travels, and watch an introductory video.Zac is also going to be writing a … Continue reading Zac's Big Adventure

I know, some people love it, others are not so impressed. We are excited. Date tonight with my sweet wife!

Today I pondered this short conversation between Jesus and his followers.Mark 9:38-40 (New International Version)"Teacher," said John, "we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us. "Do not stop him," Jesus said. "No one who does a miracle in my name … Continue reading Against us, For Us

Discover Channel is running this in June. I am so excited.

Yesterday, I rode home from church with my older daughter, Kelly, who is now 17. College is a bit more than a year away, and the little girl days are many years behind her. I am slowly getting over that; it depends on the day.As is typical, when we got in the car, she pulled … Continue reading Kelly, Joni, and I