The Flood

So, obviously, this blog has been a bit quiet lately… But I suppose for good reason. At about 1:30am on Tuesday, April 21^st, I awoke to my son crying across the hall from his room. Since he’s under a year old, I just assumed he dropped his pacifier and it would be a quick fix to pop it back in and then I could go back to bed. So, I step out of bed… into about 3 inches of water… Naturally, this was a pure WTF moment.

Long story short: the meter on our main water line burst and, since we don’t have a basement, nearly our entire first floor had flooded (with the miraculous exception of our son’s bedroom). And in the process of mold remediation later on, it was found that we had vinyl asbestos flooring everywhere. Now, while it’s been a rollercoaster of emotions for me and my family to say the least, I’m choosing gratitude for several reasons:

1. Our son has a history of respiratory issues, so if this didn’t happen, we would never have known we were sitting on asbestos which could have been a HUGE problem for all of us years down the road.

2. Our family showed up in a big way. We’ve been living at my in-laws’ for the past 2 months while repairs are being completed.

3. Since we were living there, we were able to help with my wife’s grandmother in her final days. Especially considering she got to spend some time with our son (her great grandson) which helped elevate her spirits. She passed away on May 31^st, 2026 at the age of 99. Rest in peace, June. <3

4. My professional colleagues have been incredibly supportive during this time of crisis, reiterating that family comes first and that taking care of things at home is by far the most important thing I can do.

5. I’ve also had a great support system in my local dad/workout group through everything. Thanks for always offering a positive outlet, some good laughs, and a steady flow of coffee! (Spartan Race next year, for sure!)

6. We still managed to celebrate my son’s baptism and 1^st birthday (a little early) with the help and support of family and friends.

7. I’ve had the best partner and friend I could ever ask for in going through all this: my wife, Tara. Love you always and forever, Lady!

8. I’ve still managed to book voiceover work in the meantime thanks to a makeshift studio set-up in my father-in-law’s work room in the basement. (Thanks, Bob!) More details coming soon!

As I reflect on all this, even though it’s been quite a journey and a VERY eventful Spring, we’ve got a light at the end of the tunnel and should be back home soon. Thanks so much to all of you for the love and support (you all know who you are)!

Family trip to Audible!

Of course, I had to point out some titles I narrated on the "What Are You Listening To?" wall at Audible. Already getting the side-eye from my son. ;)