new to the site and a big thank you

[ddouglass]

Hello everyone, I was recommended to join this forum since I live in the area and enjoy this hobby so thank you Marcos from Exotic Reef Creations for recommending this site. I started fresh water when I was very young, and over the years really wanted to move to salt water, but my parents didn't have the time or the money to start this dream. Well life seemed to take a hold of me.  I was never in one place at a time, work and school seem to take over. When I finally settled down and started a family of my own I turned back to trying to get a salt water tank, but because of other events I was unable to. I stayed with freshwater until I meet Mark Callahan (Mr. Saltwatertank TV). I was blessed enough to get a wonderful salt water tank because of Mark and I am very grateful. My Foster Children and my own children love watching and interacting with the tank. Over the course of a year I have noticed a big change with all the children in my house, increase awareness of the ocean and since of responsibility. The Biggest change I have seen since getting a tank of my own is you all. Since I have been in the saltwater world, I am so surprised on how amazingly kind, helpful, and giving you all are. Everyone has a story to tell, my story is how no matter if your family or not everyone around has been a blessing to my family. I once was told it takes a village to raise a child, but what about foster children who have broken lives? I believe it takes more than a village to care for them, it takes everyone to show that this world is more than hurt and pain, but life and kindness. So from my family, my foster children I thank you. You have touched my family’s life forever for the good. Keep helping others like you already do, because you could be helping more than one person.

 

here is the video if you want to see it:

 

http://www.mrsaltwatertank.com/mr-saltwater-tanks-ultimate-tank-overhaul-contest-winner/

Edited December 18, 2014 by ddouglass

[YHSublime]

Welcome! Thanks for sharing your story, and for the work you do! We are lucky to have a an amazing reef community! We hope you'll keep with us and continue updates!

[DuffyGeos]

Looks like the tank could not have gone to a better family. Thank you for opening your home up to the foster child program. It takes a special type of person to do so. We have friend that have 2 foster kids along with 2 of their own. In the end they adopted both the kids. They now have a better chance for success in this world with a support system and someone to tell them what is right and what is wrong, and that someone loves and cares for them.

[Rburgee]

Welcome!

[surf&turf]

Welcome!  Awesome video!!

[monkiboy]

fantastic to see you on here and that post up - you've found a new reefing home in WAMAS, for sure. look forward to seeing you soon. happy holidays to you and yours!

[TrueTricia]

Congrats on the tank, and thank you for the wonderful work that you do. Children are so lucky to find loving, supportive, and education-driven homes. I know your foster children are lucky to have you in their life.

[Origami]

Looks like the tank could not have gone to a better family. Thank you for opening your home up to the foster child program. It takes a special type of person to do so. We have friend that have 2 foster kids along with 2 of their own. In the end they adopted both the kids. They now have a better chance for success in this world with a support system and someone to tell them what is right and what is wrong, and that someone loves and cares for them.

+1. I couldn't have said it better. I'm thankful that you've joined us, ddouglass!

[smallreef]

Welcome!

[Jim Mc]

When I watched the video the first time I wondered if you were in the club.  Welcome.

[s2nhle]

Welcome to the club

[NovaReefer]

Welcome!

[gmerek2]

Welcome! Beautiful family and tank! Well deserved.