Times Fly By

14 years, 9 months, 26 days, and a wakeup. My gosh, how has time flown so fast? Sarah's and my oldest son graduated 8th grade from Trinity Lutheran School last night and has started his transition to High School. All the memories flooded back last night from bringing him home for the first time to his last basketball at State in Fort Wayne with him jumping into the arms of his Coach/Principal, Paul Rosin. The emotions last night were raw and unscripted, and watching Sarah break down was hard to say the least. To say that I didn't tear up a little would be false, but it was good. He is ready to move forward with his academics and continue to grow as a young man with a clear love for Christ and His Holy Church.

Just Yesterday

Yesterday, he was just our baby boy. Today, he’s a teenager with deep convictions that go beyond anything I could have ever taught him. I’m eternally grateful to everyone who helped shape the young man he’s becoming. Starting with pre-school and through 8th: Jodi Freshour, Becky Veen, Jodee Price, Kristin McGirr, Teresa Blystone (Kenny wants a redo year because of COVID), Meta Hublein, Larry Brummet (yes the same Brummet that I had as a 6th Grader), Matt Albertine, Dawn Flatt, and Sherry Ludwig, with honorable mentions to Paul Rosin (Principal/Coach/Religion), Pastor Mason Vieth, Pastor Spencer Mielke.

Today, Kenny is a full-fledged young man—an intrepid, astute Christian athlete with big goals, high hopes, great dreams, and a remarkable personality. I’m incredibly proud of the man he’s becoming and grateful for the opportunity to continue encouraging him to grow—in Christ, in his academics, and in life.

As not only his dad but also his baseball coach for most of his career, I’ve seen firsthand just how special he is. His determination to grow, his willingness to put in the work, the heart he brings to everything he does, and his unwavering dedication to whatever path he pursues—all of it makes me confident in his future.

A Public Letter to my Son:

Dear Kenny—my namesake, your Grandpa’s namesake, and now uniquely your own name,

I pray that the bittersweet ending you had at Trinity Lutheran School was everything you dreamed and hoped it could be. I know there were things this year that didn’t go the way you expected—events and moments that shifted your outlook. But I truly believe you’ll come out of it stronger, wiser, and more resilient.

At the graduation ceremony, away from the noise and the crowd, I could see you trying to keep a stoic front—and for the most part, you did. But I know you. I’m proud of the young man you’ve become—your integrity, intelligence, and the loyalty you show to your family, friends, and teammates in both baseball and basketball.

Son, never forget: it’s okay to smile. It’s okay to show emotion. It’s okay to be the man God made you to be. There is no weakness in feeling deeply. And always remember—God has a plan for you. Even when your plans don’t align, I pray that yours and His intersect in a way that makes life’s transitions just a little bit easier.

I’ve added a photo gallery below. Look at those pictures often. Add to them. Fill your memory bank with reminders of the joy, the love, and the adventures you’ve had. And don’t shy away from capturing the harder moments too. Sometimes, remembering the difficult times helps you appreciate the good ones even more.

Most importantly, DO NOT forget that your mother and I are always here for you. Even if we disagree or see things differently, we are here to help guide, support, and comfort you through the highs and lows. We will hold you accountable—with the love, trust, and respect you deserve.

Please know this above all else: we love you unconditionally. Always. And we are so proud of you.

With love,
Your Father,
Kenneth L. Holmes

Photos and Video of the Past and Present

Until Next Time

Until next time - which I hope is not so infrequent, but it is what it is!

PEACE