Elli’s Slideshow / Photoshot

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Jake’s Photo Shoot

Now comes what they call the “second honeymoon”; except this time we have a much more defined set of perspectives, a better list and order of priorities, a deeper understanding of life, a richer love for each other, much looser skin and fading eyesight.  Now comes the fun part–grandchildren…I’ve heard all the stories, even practiced with other people’s grandkids; but this Christmas we will officially become grandparents.  Today, August 22, 2009, we officially became “old” – definition of “old”; when you team up with another couple and the men ride in the front and the women in the back…yep, it happened today without a bit of notice.

After the fireside I had the opportunity to interview about 30 (or so) fans . . . My question was simple; “What do you like about David Archuleta?” – “He’s so cute”, “He’s adorable”, “Such a sweetie”, “He’s so incredible NICE!!!!”, “He seems so kind”  and on and on…I then asked – “What about his MUSIC?” – unanimously, all loved it – I find it very interesting that even though David Archuleta reached “stardom” on a reality singing show, his fan base developed because of his sincere and genuine personality…talk about things that make you go hmmmmm.  In a world where everything seems to have an angle of deception, I honestly believe we hunger for that which will truly fill us.  While I’m not saying David Archuleta is “the answer”, but he is definitely part of a formula that makes this world a nicer place to be.  Whether we have celebrity, fame or fortune or whether we’re just 9 to 5er’s, whether or talent is music or tuning a car, what good does it do if we’re not true to ourselves and others.

David, thanks for causing us to pause and look past “the music”.

You watch “Reality” shows (Like American Idol) and you see singing sensations, you witness the growth and popularity of a certain few and we all become part of someone’s “dream come true” – Right?  Well, sometimes…but it’s rare to see  the “real thing” (and I’m NOT talking about Coke).  Like millions of others I watched Season 7 of American Idol, and like millions of others became a fan of David Archuleta – why? well, first he can actually sing, second, he seemed so REAL, humble, sincere, non-pretentious, approachable, the boy next door…BUT, was it all an act?  I’m here to tell you that the David Archuleta you saw on American Idol is very real!

On July 30th David Archuleta paid a surprise visit to a full house of waiting fans and friends.  With no prior announcement of who would be speaking (or singing) at a  ”special musical fireside” held at the Brandon Stake Center for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, David Archuleta spoke and sang while the entire congregation witnessed first hand that this young man was the “real deal”.  Speaking for nearly 40 minutes and singing several of his favorite hymns, David spoke from the heart expressing deep conviction and gratitude for his faith, beliefs, and blessings.  He did far more than just sing, he touch hearts and caused many to reflect on the more important aspects of life.

David Archuleta is not just another singing act – his voice will take you beyond just listening, it will take you to a level of hearing that few other singers have the capacity to deliver.  It was an honor, pleasure and joy to have met such a spiritual giant – oh yeah, he sings really well too…did I happen to mention one of the nicest guys you’d every want to meet.

A note of thanks to the former Honorary Mayor of Brandon, Florida, Mrs. Tammy Holmberg.  We appreciate all you do for our community and for the local area commerce.  I’m sure I speak for many when I say “Thank You”.

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Manny Cabrera III, Fourth Degree Black Belt, Chief Instructor, Owner, Operator Sidekicks Family Martial Arts Center joins Don Ashley on the Osprey Observers program “Osprey Press Release”.