We’re finally starting to find our rhythm with the new pups in the unit. Rupert, my little shadow, has been with us for about three weeks now—we got him when he was just eight weeks old. Let me tell you, he keeps us on our toes. Some days, it feels like I’m dealing with two completely different dogs. I’m convinced it’s because Rupert is a Gemini baby, and he’s definitely living up to the reputation—double the energy, double the personality.
Despite his quirks, Rupert is learning fast. He already knows over six commands in both English and Spanish, and he’s been doing great on visits. He even came with me to visitation where he meet Xamy, my mom, my sister, and the kids. Watching them interact with him, seeing their pride in how well-trained he is—it reminded me that what we’re doing here matters. The dog training program isn’t just a way to pass time. It’s a real skill, something that can absolutely transition into re-entry opportunities. We’re even learning pet grooming—a whole new layer of responsibility and care.
This past weekend, I had a wonderful Father’s Day visit with Xamy and the kids. We hadn’t seen each other in over 60 days, so that time together felt extra meaningful. There’s something about being with your people—even for a short while—that fills you up in a way nothing else can.
Lately, the rain has been relentless, but I can’t complain—it’s perfect weather for reading. Honestly, I’ve lost track of how many books I’ve finished. Two standouts this week were The Fifth Mountain and The Handmaid’s Tale. A special shout-out to my sister, who sent me Handmaid’s for Father’s Day, and to Amanda Biles, who got me hooked on Margaret Atwood in the first place. I’ve been devouring stories like food lately—something about the storm outside makes the words on the page feel even more alive.
As always, my reading has led me back to Scripture. One verse that’s been echoing in my mind is 2 Kings 19:25:
“Have you not heard? Long ago I ordained it, in days of old I planned it; now I have brought it to pass, that you have turned fortified cities into piles of stone.”
That verse stopped me in my tracks. It reminded me that the plan has already been written. The hard part has already been overcome. So many guys in here talk about “coming back,” about bouncing back after this. They speak with conviction, but when it’s time to show up—really show up—they stall. They’re overwhelmed, unprepared, or they’re waiting for the perfect plan to appear. But what this verse says to me is simple and powerful: Just. Show. Up.
We don’t have to knock down every wall or understand every step. We just need to trust that God already ordained the work—and start walking into it.
So whether it’s training dogs, rebuilding trust with family, learning diesel mechanics, or reading another chapter—I’m going to keep showing up. Because that’s where it starts.
Until next time,
You have really shared the perfect scripture today. As the world around us seems off its axis, you have trusted that God already knew of the difficulties and he continues to place in front of us the solutions. We must be like you, and open our eyes, ears and hearts to fulfill the predetermined destiny. We love and miss you my dear friend!