They had expectations. We knew to be home before the street lights came on, or there would be no playing after school. We could order anything from a restaurant menu, as long as we ate it. If we missed curfew, there would not be a next time.
They gave support. As children, we tried many things. Soccer, Baseball, Swimming, Gymnastics, Twirling, Dance, and so on. We could do anything we wanted, but we couldn't quit. As such, I was only enrolled in many of these activities for one year.
They taught us to set goals. We learned that nothing in life comes free or without hard work. Therefore, if you want something, you have to go after it. A self fulfilling prophecy, you have to see it first...then make it happen!
Growing up, both worked multiple jobs. Still, they learned to balance work with family life, and remained committed to supporting our activities. They made juggling it all look easy. Meanwhile, they always had a dream. The hard work they put in for so many years was to have a "little peace of Texas" to call their own. Perhaps after retirement, they could live there.
Just like so many lessons they taught us through the years, the best was that of a role model. They dreamed, saw it, and made it happen. This is the "Diamond J Ranch".
The view of the property from their back patio. It ends beyond the trees at the base of the clouds.
They are on the verge of living their dream...not because they ran into money...but because they worked hard...for many years. Many people in this world will say they are going to do things. But, few actually do them. It is so cool to take a turn at saying to my parents," I am proud of you".
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