Hello from the land of snake handlers. I am in Scottsboro, Alabama where my lovely wife grew up. It really is pretty up here but I wouldn't want to live here. Today we spent most of the day in Birmingham. It has to be one of the prettiest cities anywhere-especially South Jefferson County and Shelby County. The mountains and rolling hills are breath-taking. Birmingham holds a special place in my heart. It is where I have 2 college degrees from. It is also where I met a young lady named Cassandra Frazier. My roomate, Rob Jackson (pastor of Central Baptist, Decatur, AL) was dating a girl named Tonya whom he is married to today. Her roomate and best friend from Scottsboro was Cassandra. They introduced us and I am forever grateful. She is my best friend. Today we went to the Gallaria today and it brought back memories of our dating. It was cool to show our children where we hung out and went to college. Jacob commented how beautiful it is in Birmingham especially around I-459. Birmingham is where I had a tragic car accident while delivering 4 paper routes to pay for grad school and Cassandra's engagement ring. That forever marked my life. Birmingham is where I met many life-long friends. I will always cherish my 6 years living in Birmingham. I don't know when we will ever get back but it was nice to visit today.