Inaugural address

Wow--what the heck am I doing? Satisfying the insatiable desire to write, chat, talk, I suppose, even without time to do it. So I'll "make time."

That seems to be my motto--if there's not enough time, just make some more. As if there is a "Kraft Macaroni and Cheese" instant box type concoction that could do this; how ridiculous, of course.

So why the title?

Well, as the father of five active children, ages seven to 19, you might think that's enough. And it is. But to that I have a full-time law practice that keeps me busy. "Full-time," I said. And I am a publisher of a sports magazine, Kentucky Sports Report, with daily web duties as well. And if that's not enough, I enjoy teaching--have taught at Birmingham School of Law for twelve years, and have been an adjunct professor in the Paralegal and Accounting programs at Virginia College for five years.

So my time is full, right?

Nah. You can always add a few more grains of sand to your cup.

Last fall I had decided enough was enough--no more "volunteering" for me. I had coached my kids in basketball for about ten years, serve on the school's PTO Board (Chairman of Publicity), perform publicity for school and community plays, do the photography and the videography. So no more.

Ha!

"Darrell," the school's Athletic Director called out to me with the plea of a man needing a big favor. "I need a coach."

My son's first grade basketball team.

"John, I can't do it. I teach three nights a week already."

So that's how I became the head coach of the first grade basketball team.

I picked up my son from basketball camp last week. While there, the same A.D. called out to me, "Darrell....." (I knew how the rest would fit).

"No, John. I can't do it." It was a feeble attempt. I know how the script goes, and there's no ad-libbing permitted.

"Darrell, we need a volleyball coach for the 3rd/4th grade girls."

So that's how I became the head coach of the volleyball team. Of course, it includes my 9-year old daughter, Rachel. She's "excited"--I think--that I will be her coach. She told me I could not call her by any of the "pet" names I call her at home while I am in practice. "Dad, you'll embarrass me," she said. She's probably right.

First practice is Friday afternoon/evening. I have two full days to learn how to coach volleyball. Wish me luck.