It’s been a very interesting month at Shumway Strength. The workouts continue, but are sometimes done on only 4-5 hours of sleep. Like I mentioned before our house gets pretty hectic around Christmas time. I’ve been getting to bed around 11-11:30 at night and getting up at 4-4:30 for work. With that said it has been a great month and I wouldn’t change it for anything. The generosity we have seen is astounding. The amount of food and cash that we have collected for those less fortunate blows me away. Last night my children had the opportunity to help collect the donations and feel that spirit of giving first hand. I stood there in awe as people reached into their wallets and pulled out large sums of money to put into the collection bins as well as bags full of canned food. On one occasion my son Rex was standing on the side walk with his bucket while 2 teenage girls pleaded with their father to donate some money. The father reached into his wallet and handed each girl a $100 bill which they put into Rex’s bucket. He would have been just as excited if it was $2 instead of $200. I’m so thankful that in a time of greed and worldliness that my children are able to witness that spirit of giving.

With everything that is going on in the world today… The great divide within our country and the attack on human values pitting side against side, I hope that we can all take a step back from the FB, Twitter, Instagram phenomenon (after you read my post of course) and focus on our families and those around us who make life special and bearable everyday. I’m thankful for the family and friends that I’m able to be with this Christmas and for the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. I’m so glad that I’m able to live my dreams and become better everyday. Merry Christmas to you all.

On another note I have some big plans for 2014. I’d like to compete in some capacity, whether it be Powerlifting, Crossfit, or just some obstacle races. I’m also looking forward to doing some additional advanced training for my job. Always growing!!! If any of you have ideas or challenges for me I’m up for anything. Hit me up and we can work toward our goals together. I’m excited for what 2014 has in store.