Chris and Jimmy Houston

Nomination:

I've known Jimmy and Chris since their son and I threw cat poop out of the sandbox. They have lived a life of sharing and giving, and outside of my own deceased parents, the only couple I refer to as people "who got it right" in terms of love. When I describe what I yearn to have in my relationships, it's these two. In fact, I have my young boys around them as much as possible because of their outpouring of love, and their example of hard work, teamwork and service.

My mom passed when I was young and they were always there for me and my family. It meant so much when Chris would introduce me as her "other" son when I tagged along on the family cross-country to Jimmy's tournaments. They always treated me like their own, and that sentiment is just as strong today.

Jimmy and Chris are the consummate team and their love for Christ is evident in their daily business. Most people hear about the tournaments and boat and tackle shows, but what you don't hear much about is the constant fundraising for veterans, children and the elderly. They have worked countless hours filling gift bags, making sure that fishing poles work for 500 kids and providing opportunities for terminally ill children through Make-a-Wish.

All that they do is wonderful, but I have my own reason to nominate these two. I was over at their house, watching a football game and Jimmy was seated in the recliner. Chris walks up with a homemade hoagie, wrapped tightly in a paper towel. She stands next to her husband, just as intent about the game as he is…without skipping a beat, she lowers the sandwich to Jimmy's shoulder and he takes a bite, neither of them taking their eyes off the game. At the end of the day, THAT's what I want – not the sandwich – but the meshed, blended, mutual heartbeat…the unity…the completeness. I am so very proud and privileged to know these two, and yes, so very inspired.