Sunday was a special day as lady and I celebrated our 34th year together. No, we did not have a party or do something exotic. We did what we liked ... be together and and just let the moment pass into our memories. Who we were 34 years ago is much different than who we are right now but what hasn't changed is our love. In 1975, she was my new wife ... now, she is my best friend. It is had to imagine it any other way. The memories could fill the biggest storage vault and best of all it is in our minds to be replayed with the simplest of effort. Lunch was simple ... MacD's, as the grand kids played on the floor and brought many memories back as we watched. Maybe the gray hair, wrinkles and extra inches exist for us but what I see through these hazy eyes is her love and how much I wish to be right there. Things go slower but that allows for time to savor every bit of the emotion and excitement. Life is always too fast and the special times are quickly pushed aside for the present and what it will do for you. I am thankful that we took the time then to create the memories that flood our thoughts. I couldn't imagine the emptiness if we stood here now having never shared or done the things that two people in love do as they live and grow together. Could we have done better? Yes, but from where I see this ... we have done a lot right to make these memories. Memories you ask? These are some of the special ones.
1. A beautiful woman reciting her vows in front of God, friends and me.
2. Standing there looking at our car on a snow pedestal, wheels inches from the ground, wishing we could start our Honeymoon.
3. The cat running away with our Pork Chop meant for our first meal together.
4. Standing in the living room of our first house, 4 bedrooms, wondering where we would ever find furniture. Our total possessions were outside in the Pinto.
5. Our first move to California, her first time (far) away from home.
6. Picking up bottles to cash in to wash clothes.
7. Driving in the Sierra's just to see snow (lot's of it).
8. Graduation from the University and the realization I would be able to spend time with my wife on weekends.
9. Watching her pin me upon Commissioning. Those little dogs never cooperate.
10. Those Thursday Nights when I was on Alert and eating dinner with her always praying the Klaxon wouldn't sound sending me scurrying to the plane. (It did happen, several times)
11. Coming back from a long B-52 mission to find the candle lit in the window.
12. Standing in a room looking at a 3 month old boy and wondering what our first child would be like. (Tuned out it was him).
13. Standing in a small Hospital Chapel, receiving another small bundle of love and joy.
14. The 3 month camp-out in California waiting for a house.
15. Ronda being named Volunteer of the Year. My wife the best ... well, I already knew that.
16. That long trip back to Virginia that has turned out to be our last move.
17. The rest of the story is known by all our friends and has been playing for 19 years.
How can I say anything but "WOW!" I love my wife and find it inconceivable that life could get any better. Well, except for Christ's Return. But then again, we will both be there. So the memories will never end.
I LOVE YOU ... RONDA
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
The Days After
Well, Christmas 2009 has come and gone. We are headed straight and fast towards 2010. I missed the Christmas Eve Service and being able to share it with my family and friends. Christmas Day was a great day spent with family and friends. The only downer was I was sick. From December 24-27, I spend almost all my time in bed or reclining when my breathing got bad. I am now back up and running with only minor left over effects. Christmas morning breakfast was as usual ... great. Breakfast Casserole and Fresh Fruit Salad, how can you go wrong? Me, Lady and AJ spent some fun time waiting for the older ones to wake up. Santa's gifts for the kids was a two part affair. AJ had our whole focus as he opened a mountain of gifts twice his height. Who says he isn't spoiled? The cutest part was his insistence to place each piece of torn wrapping paper in the trash bag before removing the next. That won't last long. We adults did not share gifts as we just spent the time together and watched the kids. The family meals and time sitting around snacking were special too me. We get lost in the gift part and lose the sharing time part. That made this Christmas very special and one to be remembered for a long time. Saturday, the second wave came as Lew and Lil Princess showed up to open their gifts. One word described that time ... Tornado. It was a blast as they opened gifts in a flurry of paper and played with each others and of course ... squabbled over the toys. Good estimate there was 3 kids with 15 new gifts between them and they still wanted to fight over just one. The Weekend ended with Church and the delayed Christmas Cantata. I would have to say from my stand point that this years Christmas was a very good one.
Bowling on Sunday was not a good time as #1 was absent and I was out of bed for the first time in 4 days. So my energy drained very quickly. Lady and I went to her workplace after bowling for their Holiday get together. It was nice, had good food and I saw people for the first time in a year.
#1 made two round trips to Myrtle Beach with his friend this past week. Peanut was invaluable in helping Lady get all the food, gifts and baking stuff ready. Star came over and called several times and just blended in to all the fun. It was great seeing her so happy. AJ, Lew, and Lil Princess made the whole place brighten up with their antics and unbridled excitement.
Wild Mom is excited as the Cruise is only 9 days away. Sailing anyone?
Other Family News: My brother had a heart attack on the 23rd and he is now home, feeling better and readjusting to life. A real good friend of ours and Wild Mom passed away after a long sickness, we will miss you Betty. My Aunt Madeline, age 97 passed away in her sleep Christmas Night. I have many memories of her and she will be missed.
Bowling on Sunday was not a good time as #1 was absent and I was out of bed for the first time in 4 days. So my energy drained very quickly. Lady and I went to her workplace after bowling for their Holiday get together. It was nice, had good food and I saw people for the first time in a year.
#1 made two round trips to Myrtle Beach with his friend this past week. Peanut was invaluable in helping Lady get all the food, gifts and baking stuff ready. Star came over and called several times and just blended in to all the fun. It was great seeing her so happy. AJ, Lew, and Lil Princess made the whole place brighten up with their antics and unbridled excitement.
Wild Mom is excited as the Cruise is only 9 days away. Sailing anyone?
Other Family News: My brother had a heart attack on the 23rd and he is now home, feeling better and readjusting to life. A real good friend of ours and Wild Mom passed away after a long sickness, we will miss you Betty. My Aunt Madeline, age 97 passed away in her sleep Christmas Night. I have many memories of her and she will be missed.
Response to Previous Comments by "I Care"
RESPONSE TO COMMENT MADE TO THE BLOG "START OF CHRISTMAS WEEK.
Well, it seems someone doesn't like my blogs. I have allowed this comment so that each person may form their own opinions. I am disappointed that "I Care" feels like it is acceptable to make false accusations and then hide their identity. Seems like the cowardly way to address a problem if there is one. But this is life.
I take exception to the comment " but it seems like all you can do is bash her and tell her she is no good piece of trash and she is throwing her life away all because you don't approve of her ways and that she did not want to fall for you and all your stupid rules."
1. I have never bashed her in this forum. I have disagreed, voiced my sadness on her decisions but I have never bashed or trashed her on this site. For that matter, I have never bashed or trashed her with my words.
2. I have NEVER called her "Trash". For you to say that or infer that is saying what you want to have said.
3. Yes, I do not approve of some of the things she has down. Especially, living with a married man and playing house is wrong. And you don't have to be a Christian to know that.
4. We have supported her as much as she has allowed. We were there to help her get through High School, offered numerous times to help her job search, I have always tried to coach her to get back in school and get a degree. But our urgings met with passive words of acceptance and never any follow through.
5. She has shown us over the last several months that she wants no contact with us and to have no interaction of any kind. We have stepped back so that she can be independent and live her life her way. Go for it but we have never bashed or trashed her for doing it.
6. As for the statement - "I don't think it is all fair what you have done to her or the way you have treated her." That is your opinion. I would get a second opinion if I were you, your source is blurry. We have always treated her fairly and with love. At least, as much as she would allow.
7. As for "Dead Beats", this is of no concern of you. What goes on inside my home only concerns those that live there.
8. I have finished growing up and I am satisfied with the final product. All that is left for me is the polishing and effects of experience.
9. My Christianity is of no concern. I know who my Savior is and I am satisfied that I am doing his will. Am I perfect? No, but you or anyone else's opinion is of little or no concern.
I consider this issue closed. Further comments are being moderated as I do not want a flame war started between people taking sides.
She has set her life's course and we accept that.
As for "I Care", please remember that this is my blog site and what I say here is my thoughts and what I talk about is what I want too. If the subject or thoughts are not to your liking, then feel free not to read my words. You were not forced here or required to be here so as such you can leave just as freely.
Well, it seems someone doesn't like my blogs. I have allowed this comment so that each person may form their own opinions. I am disappointed that "I Care" feels like it is acceptable to make false accusations and then hide their identity. Seems like the cowardly way to address a problem if there is one. But this is life.
I take exception to the comment " but it seems like all you can do is bash her and tell her she is no good piece of trash and she is throwing her life away all because you don't approve of her ways and that she did not want to fall for you and all your stupid rules."
1. I have never bashed her in this forum. I have disagreed, voiced my sadness on her decisions but I have never bashed or trashed her on this site. For that matter, I have never bashed or trashed her with my words.
2. I have NEVER called her "Trash". For you to say that or infer that is saying what you want to have said.
3. Yes, I do not approve of some of the things she has down. Especially, living with a married man and playing house is wrong. And you don't have to be a Christian to know that.
4. We have supported her as much as she has allowed. We were there to help her get through High School, offered numerous times to help her job search, I have always tried to coach her to get back in school and get a degree. But our urgings met with passive words of acceptance and never any follow through.
5. She has shown us over the last several months that she wants no contact with us and to have no interaction of any kind. We have stepped back so that she can be independent and live her life her way. Go for it but we have never bashed or trashed her for doing it.
6. As for the statement - "I don't think it is all fair what you have done to her or the way you have treated her." That is your opinion. I would get a second opinion if I were you, your source is blurry. We have always treated her fairly and with love. At least, as much as she would allow.
7. As for "Dead Beats", this is of no concern of you. What goes on inside my home only concerns those that live there.
8. I have finished growing up and I am satisfied with the final product. All that is left for me is the polishing and effects of experience.
9. My Christianity is of no concern. I know who my Savior is and I am satisfied that I am doing his will. Am I perfect? No, but you or anyone else's opinion is of little or no concern.
I consider this issue closed. Further comments are being moderated as I do not want a flame war started between people taking sides.
She has set her life's course and we accept that.
As for "I Care", please remember that this is my blog site and what I say here is my thoughts and what I talk about is what I want too. If the subject or thoughts are not to your liking, then feel free not to read my words. You were not forced here or required to be here so as such you can leave just as freely.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Chuckles Abound
Some people never learn. As I sit here watching the pedestrians across the street, every now and then one comes along who makes you laugh even through their misery. To set the scene, 1 snow bank approximately 5 feet high, 1 dirty puddle of water about 4 inches deep, rush hour traffic with reduced lanes and 1 lady in a big rush. After dodging the rush hour traffic by running across 5 lanes of stopped traffic, she attempted to scale the snow and ice wall that stood between her and the nice clean sidewalk. Needless to say, she made it only halfway up before she lost momentum. In desperation she lunged for the top and only managed to slide and spin her way to the bottom back into the awaiting water puddle. Now as she sits there in the water, she is thoroughly pissed and extremely embarrassed. She once again she launches up the snow and ice wall but now the water only manages to make it icier and more slippery. Once again, she made it to the puddle without even making it halfway up and the dirty water cools her off. By now her dress is torn down the front, her right shoe hopelessly buried in the snow bank, her rear exposed from the slide and everything, hair, coat, clothes and papers, are dripping wet with the dirty water and who knows what else. She now gives up and walks the quarter block to the crossing she originally had no time for. Here she can use the path cut through the snow bank to reach the clean sidewalk.
Moral: Sometimes the shortest path isn't the quickest.
Moral: Sometimes the shortest path isn't the quickest.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Start of Christmas Week
Four days until Christmas and it will be a white one. We got about 20" this weekend and my back and arms can attest to it. I spent a good part of Sunday clearing the driveway and sidewalk. Hopefully the sun will do some damage today and dry off the driveway. My luck will be that when I go home, I find the plows have pushed clumps of ice and slush into my cleared driveway entrance. For the most part, this weekend was a quiet, a stay in the house type of weekend. Lady did get some cleaning done and re-arranging done. Now comes the challenge of finding stuff once again. Lots of gifts for the kids were wrapped and put away until Thursday. If not AJ would have them all opened in a blink of an eye. Lew and Lil Princess stayed at their home this weekend. So our weekend was quiet as possible with just AJ there to entertain us. Perhaps Lew will be over Wednesday night to make the cookies for Santa, he was going to do the baking Saturday but the weather interfered. Church and Bowling were called off Sunday so we had a rare day to relax and do some other things. We managed to go over to Friends and bask in the warmth of the outdoor hot tub. We even managed to get a picture with the snow in the background. Picture us in the hot tub in 20" of snow and the outside temperature is 25 degrees. Sounds crazy but it was really nice. Two weeks from Wednesday, we head south to the warmer weather. Sad part is that we won't even miss the cold weather we leave here. Wild Mom is doing fine and getting anxious for the days to pass. She really wishes she had come up here for the Holidays, especially now that they will be white. Muffin is sick and giving her something to worry over.
I, and I alone made a decision this past week about some things in our life. Probably not the right one, but dang it, I am going to stick by it, no matter the outcome. Sometimes I get tired of feeling the boot tracks up and down my back. And there seems to be no end in sight, so I put a end to it.
Wednesday Night is Christmas Eve service at the Church. Would be nice to see all the family there ... but reality comes into focus and I will spend it with my wife as we always do. Can't get much better than that.
I, and I alone made a decision this past week about some things in our life. Probably not the right one, but dang it, I am going to stick by it, no matter the outcome. Sometimes I get tired of feeling the boot tracks up and down my back. And there seems to be no end in sight, so I put a end to it.
Wednesday Night is Christmas Eve service at the Church. Would be nice to see all the family there ... but reality comes into focus and I will spend it with my wife as we always do. Can't get much better than that.
Friday, December 18, 2009
7 and Counting
One week to go till Christmas. Better yet, they are predicting 7-11 inches of snow this weekend and the temperatures will stay in the low 30's through Christmas. Result: A White Christmas ... the first in a long time. Many things are going on around the house and Church in preparation for Christmas ... so it is a bee-hive of activity. Yesterday, we received all our Cruise papers leaving only the packing and travel down there. As it grows closer the anticipation grows. Temps in the Mid-80's and sun, no work, and a lot of goofing off. Last night we were dreaming about a cruise to Australia in the near future. That would be awesome and such a dream come true. Would really be nice if Lady and I could retire by then and make it even longer and more special. This Sunday the kids have their pizza party to celebrate their season and get their trophies. I must not forget the camera as Lew will bowl and he will provide a lot of laughs and action shots. It dawned on me today that in 3 months is the National Bowling Tournament in Reno. This will be my 21st consecutive one. Seems like my first one in Toledo Ohio was only just a few months ago. Thinking back, we had just arrived in the Northern Virginia area and bought our house. So much has happened since that day ... good, bad, but for the greatest part an adventure. Yes, I wish a few things had been different, events and decisions, but they are memories to cherish for a life time.
Wild Mom is ready to go and I have all her cruise papers to bring to her next month. Sure wish she was here since she always wants a white Christmas. Lady is busy and enjoying the times. We seem to play a lot of Christmas music especially when the snow is falling. #1 and #2 have no change except #1's football team lost last night so his Friday morning is a rough one. Peanut run out of presents to wrap and is bored. School is great and she gets closer to graduating. Gee, just dawned on me she will be the first to finish college ... I mus plan something special. I can't wait to see the kids eyes when they see all the gifts and then open them. I have to remember not to let any smoke get in my eyes and give me blurry vision as they do. Would hate to miss it. Star is having fun and partying up a storm while she visits. She will be ready to go back to Atlanta just to rest.
I have thought of something to do as a special treat for my family and I must get to work at it now. Maybe I can have it ready by New Years. What I wish for the New Years will remain unspoken as I see if I can mentally will it to happen.
Wild Mom is ready to go and I have all her cruise papers to bring to her next month. Sure wish she was here since she always wants a white Christmas. Lady is busy and enjoying the times. We seem to play a lot of Christmas music especially when the snow is falling. #1 and #2 have no change except #1's football team lost last night so his Friday morning is a rough one. Peanut run out of presents to wrap and is bored. School is great and she gets closer to graduating. Gee, just dawned on me she will be the first to finish college ... I mus plan something special. I can't wait to see the kids eyes when they see all the gifts and then open them. I have to remember not to let any smoke get in my eyes and give me blurry vision as they do. Would hate to miss it. Star is having fun and partying up a storm while she visits. She will be ready to go back to Atlanta just to rest.
I have thought of something to do as a special treat for my family and I must get to work at it now. Maybe I can have it ready by New Years. What I wish for the New Years will remain unspoken as I see if I can mentally will it to happen.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Jingle Jingle Jingle
I am glad the weekend is over so I can let my body recover. I spent most of the afternoon and evening putting bunk beds together. The worse part was the stupid tool they give you t use. My thumb and hand were sore after screwing this monster screws into the wood. Then on Sunday, there was no rest as Bowling took precedence. The kids did it going from wire to wire in First Place. The only downside was they were tied on the last week forcing a one game roll-off. But true to form they stepped up and won the game when it counted the most. Next week I get to take Lew to bowl as we party and receive the trophies. That should provide a clear picture of next January when he will bowl the whole season. The adult team continues to battle and hang on to 3rd place.
Star showed up on Friday for a visit. It was a good surprise though Lady's surprise was negated by a little birdie telling her in advance. Oh well. It is good to see her and we look forward to more time spent together this Holiday Season. Welcome Home ... Star. Wild Mom is busy getting ready and packing for her Caribbean trek less than 4 weeks away. The rest of her time is spent going to doctors appointments and pet appointments. Then she adds a few Craft classes in and all her time is gone.
Lady has been in a baking, Christmas tree decorating, Present buying and wrapping mode for a while now. Of course the waist line shows the "baking" effect." The snicker-doodles and rice krispies bars were over the top. #1 is still working and trying to get back to his old bowling form. His youth team finished 4th. Perhaps his proximity to the "30" plateau has something to do with slowing him down. #2 continues to vegetate in the job market ... maybe we should turn him into a vegetarian for a while till he is successful in locating some work. Peanut is getting ever closer to finishing her classes as today she turned in her business plan. Hmmm, wonder what kind of boss she will be ... hey, she could hire #2!!! In her free time Peanut is in the baking mode or is it her "Susy Homemaker mode?" Hmmm.
The kids were like jumping beans Saturday night with the new bunk beds. It seems they though the beds were more jungle gym than bed.It was fun watching them use my tools to help with the screws and boards. The intensity and grunts as they exerted themselves was priceless ... even NANA managed to get pictures. Only AJ is fighting the sniffles right now and he will see the doctor today and get some meds. Princess works like the seven dwarfs. Not much more to report.
Star showed up on Friday for a visit. It was a good surprise though Lady's surprise was negated by a little birdie telling her in advance. Oh well. It is good to see her and we look forward to more time spent together this Holiday Season. Welcome Home ... Star. Wild Mom is busy getting ready and packing for her Caribbean trek less than 4 weeks away. The rest of her time is spent going to doctors appointments and pet appointments. Then she adds a few Craft classes in and all her time is gone.
Lady has been in a baking, Christmas tree decorating, Present buying and wrapping mode for a while now. Of course the waist line shows the "baking" effect." The snicker-doodles and rice krispies bars were over the top. #1 is still working and trying to get back to his old bowling form. His youth team finished 4th. Perhaps his proximity to the "30" plateau has something to do with slowing him down. #2 continues to vegetate in the job market ... maybe we should turn him into a vegetarian for a while till he is successful in locating some work. Peanut is getting ever closer to finishing her classes as today she turned in her business plan. Hmmm, wonder what kind of boss she will be ... hey, she could hire #2!!! In her free time Peanut is in the baking mode or is it her "Susy Homemaker mode?" Hmmm.
The kids were like jumping beans Saturday night with the new bunk beds. It seems they though the beds were more jungle gym than bed.It was fun watching them use my tools to help with the screws and boards. The intensity and grunts as they exerted themselves was priceless ... even NANA managed to get pictures. Only AJ is fighting the sniffles right now and he will see the doctor today and get some meds. Princess works like the seven dwarfs. Not much more to report.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Ponderings #3
1. Why is it we do the same thing someone else does but we rationalize our actions as acceptable and condemn their actions as inappropriate? Are we that much better? Or do the rules we are supposed to play by only apply to "everyone" else? Perhaps that is why so many people have trouble with Christianity ... there is a double standard that has been set, not by God, but by everyone that claims the label of Christian. I guess after having this as a topic and then observing it first hand, my mind began to churned with the question, "why?" There is no doubt this is wrong and not the accepted norm as described by Jesus Christ. We are to look past the problems or issues and show compassion just as Paul showed the Thessalonians. But we don't ... we cry foul ... all the time forgetting we are standing out of bounds. Just because we bent a knee and prayed a prayer does not give us any right to assume an air of authority and make decisions until Christ returns. We need to lose the "ME" and replace it with "WE". Compassion should be our mantra not condemnation for violations according to our standard of beliefs. Why did Jesus place such an emphasis on Love? Because that is the essence of being like him. Loving each other even when we are mad, upset, disappointed, punished or scorned by another person. Love isn't something just for a fair or good day, that is the easy way, but it most productive when we show it on the darkest and most difficult of days. Do we need to start over and wrinkle or dress or pants as we kneel and ask forgiveness and strength to start all over? Yes.
2. Another thought process I am chewing on concerns -- Trivial words. How many times a day do we ask forgiveness for messing up or doing something we shouldn't? For most of us, it is many times. Now consider this, how many years has this been going on? Have we trivialized the words "Jesus forgive me ... I won't do it again?" Once again the answer is yes. Kind of like a child saying "I am sorry." They learn the phrase gets them out of trouble but as soon as the memory fades they are right back at it. As adults we are quick to say "I love you." But is it real when you say it or a phrase that ends all conversations or events? Have you ever hurt someone and ended your apology with I love you only to hurt them again in a short time? We have because like sorry it is a automatic response that we know gets results or helps us bypass pain. So then since we trivialize the phrase Love no wonder we trivialize Jesus. He is love and what he did for us was out of love. Let us find compassion and change in our life. Forget the little hurts and pains of others and show unrestrained compassion. Then we might reach a point where asking Jesus for forgiveness will really be a life changing event. If I remember right, accepting his love and salvation made us a new person.
2. Another thought process I am chewing on concerns -- Trivial words. How many times a day do we ask forgiveness for messing up or doing something we shouldn't? For most of us, it is many times. Now consider this, how many years has this been going on? Have we trivialized the words "Jesus forgive me ... I won't do it again?" Once again the answer is yes. Kind of like a child saying "I am sorry." They learn the phrase gets them out of trouble but as soon as the memory fades they are right back at it. As adults we are quick to say "I love you." But is it real when you say it or a phrase that ends all conversations or events? Have you ever hurt someone and ended your apology with I love you only to hurt them again in a short time? We have because like sorry it is a automatic response that we know gets results or helps us bypass pain. So then since we trivialize the phrase Love no wonder we trivialize Jesus. He is love and what he did for us was out of love. Let us find compassion and change in our life. Forget the little hurts and pains of others and show unrestrained compassion. Then we might reach a point where asking Jesus for forgiveness will really be a life changing event. If I remember right, accepting his love and salvation made us a new person.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
December Begins, I am just Late!
Well, I have forgot to write sooner and the week is almost half gone. Where did all the fun times go? Saturday was our first snowfall and it was really nice ... now we need 24 more inches from the next one coming tonight! Today has been a slow one for me as my stomach has decided to take up gymnastics and the first class is somersaults. Hopefully this will pass and I can get back to full speed. Bowling went well last weekend. Next week (12-13-09) is the last week for the kids. They are in first place with a 7 point lead. The adult team has slipped a bit from second to third even though we did have a good week. Work remains the same with a lot of people out burning off their vacation time prior to the end of the year. Less than four (4) weeks to the warm Western Caribbean weather!
Wild Mom is about ready for the Holiday's and wishing for more visitors. Her craft room is about done. She has managed not to sent the new alarm system off ... so far. Lady is busy. While it was snowing Saturday morning, the Christmas music was turned on and the first attempt at putting the Tree up was tried. Needless to say the lights didn't play along and we will have to try again. She has secured most of the grand kids gifts and stashed them away from prying eyes ... especially #2's. #1 is getting about with only minor twinges with his back. He even bowled but for the most part could only claim the " I Participated Award." #2 has no change to anything in his life. Except maybe, he has found a few of those cheating games that #1 says exists. Peanut is getting her business going and even managed to schedule a few practice sessions as she learns the little tricks of the trade. What could be better than 3 little kids at Christmas time? The are amazing to watch as the talk and do those things that make you laugh and cry. Lady wrapped a gift for Lil Princess and AJ unwrapped it immediately after it was place by the Tree. He was quick. Lil Princess tried several time to get me to do something by blinking her eyes and putting on a pouty face. It didn't work! At least not initially. Star is back in Georgia and settling down to her new place and the Holiday Season. She hopes to drop by during Christmas if all goes well.Trucker Justin (TJ) and Blue are burning up the road as they crisscross the United States delivering stuff for Prime. TJ is almost to the point of completing his training and getting his own big rig. Now does that scare you? My prayers are with Blue as he deals with some family issues. But then again, don't we all have some?
Wild Mom is about ready for the Holiday's and wishing for more visitors. Her craft room is about done. She has managed not to sent the new alarm system off ... so far. Lady is busy. While it was snowing Saturday morning, the Christmas music was turned on and the first attempt at putting the Tree up was tried. Needless to say the lights didn't play along and we will have to try again. She has secured most of the grand kids gifts and stashed them away from prying eyes ... especially #2's. #1 is getting about with only minor twinges with his back. He even bowled but for the most part could only claim the " I Participated Award." #2 has no change to anything in his life. Except maybe, he has found a few of those cheating games that #1 says exists. Peanut is getting her business going and even managed to schedule a few practice sessions as she learns the little tricks of the trade. What could be better than 3 little kids at Christmas time? The are amazing to watch as the talk and do those things that make you laugh and cry. Lady wrapped a gift for Lil Princess and AJ unwrapped it immediately after it was place by the Tree. He was quick. Lil Princess tried several time to get me to do something by blinking her eyes and putting on a pouty face. It didn't work! At least not initially. Star is back in Georgia and settling down to her new place and the Holiday Season. She hopes to drop by during Christmas if all goes well.Trucker Justin (TJ) and Blue are burning up the road as they crisscross the United States delivering stuff for Prime. TJ is almost to the point of completing his training and getting his own big rig. Now does that scare you? My prayers are with Blue as he deals with some family issues. But then again, don't we all have some?
Ponderings #2
Stress is the trash of modern life - we all generate it but if you don't dispose of it properly, it will pile up and overtake your life.
There is no such thing as a bad day, just bad moments that we choose to take with us all day long.
It takes 8,460 bolts to assemble an automobile, and one nut to scatter it all over the road. If you must drink and drive, drink Pepsi.
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”
"Will someone else's life be brighter tomorrow because of what you have done today?"
The process of discovering who I really am, begins with knowing who I really don't want to be.
Just when you think you're at the end of your rope and you just can't hold on any longer, you find out that there's actually a net about an inch underneath you and was there all along ... if you just let go.
Life can only be understood looking backward, but must be lived looking forward.
"Failure doesn't have to be a set back, but a stepping-stone to a brighter future."
There is no such thing as a bad day, just bad moments that we choose to take with us all day long.
“Happiness is not the absence of problems but the ability to deal with them.”
There is no such thing as a bad day, just bad moments that we choose to take with us all day long.
It takes 8,460 bolts to assemble an automobile, and one nut to scatter it all over the road. If you must drink and drive, drink Pepsi.
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.”
"Will someone else's life be brighter tomorrow because of what you have done today?"
The process of discovering who I really am, begins with knowing who I really don't want to be.
Just when you think you're at the end of your rope and you just can't hold on any longer, you find out that there's actually a net about an inch underneath you and was there all along ... if you just let go.
Life can only be understood looking backward, but must be lived looking forward.
"Failure doesn't have to be a set back, but a stepping-stone to a brighter future."
There is no such thing as a bad day, just bad moments that we choose to take with us all day long.
“Happiness is not the absence of problems but the ability to deal with them.”
Friday, December 04, 2009
Pondering #1
Light travels faster than sound. That's why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
Life isn't like a box of chocolates. It's more like a jar of jalapenos. What you do today, might burn your butt tomorrow.
When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.
Ho - Ho - Ho
Well, another week comes to an end and they are even predicting snow on Saturday. How much better can that get! Saturday also marks 4 weeks till we head for the warm waters (80+ degrees) of the Western Caribbean. Work remains the same and after awhile you just reach a point of toleration. DCRTV (Sources: 105.1 Up For Sale? - 12/3) started a rumor we (WAVA) was up for sale. I guess when they run out of news they just make it up. Youth bowling is nearing the end ... 2 weeks to go. The kids are still in first place but we will have to work at it . The adult team is also hanging in their despite last weeks results. All games were very close and hotly contested. Tomorrow night is "Dinner and Movie night" at the Church. So we will be there to have an Italian dinner and watch the movie "Fireproof". Hmmm ... does that mean no Mexican food for lunch?
Wild Mom is fine. She is packing and planning for next month. This is one of her favorite times because of all the crafts opportunities. She will have to pay the house cleaner extra because of all the residue. Lady continues to do what she always does ... everything. She is even dabbling on facebook some now. Before you know it, she will have more friends than I will. #1 still works and then fights with the cheating x-box. It is amazing how many games they make with that darn cheating module hard wired inside. #2 ... well let's say ... no change. Peanut studies hard and is doing well. Now she is planning to do some massage therapy on the side for practice. This should create a lot of smiling faces. AJ is getting over a cold and thrills us by the minute. Watching him Christmas day will be a blast. Princess works. Star is back in Georgia from gallivanting off to Tennessee. She had a blast but like all things ... eventually you must return home.
Thursday night Bible study completed the second week of 10 last night. It is a very good study and is generating quite a bit of discussion. That makes it easy to lead when everyone can't wait to get their $.02 worth into the conversation.
Lots of things going on or upcoming ... but more about them later.
Time to dream .... If you could have one dream come true this Christmas, what would it be?
http://www.dcrtv.com/
Sources: 105.1 Up For Sale? - 12/3
Wild Mom is fine. She is packing and planning for next month. This is one of her favorite times because of all the crafts opportunities. She will have to pay the house cleaner extra because of all the residue. Lady continues to do what she always does ... everything. She is even dabbling on facebook some now. Before you know it, she will have more friends than I will. #1 still works and then fights with the cheating x-box. It is amazing how many games they make with that darn cheating module hard wired inside. #2 ... well let's say ... no change. Peanut studies hard and is doing well. Now she is planning to do some massage therapy on the side for practice. This should create a lot of smiling faces. AJ is getting over a cold and thrills us by the minute. Watching him Christmas day will be a blast. Princess works. Star is back in Georgia from gallivanting off to Tennessee. She had a blast but like all things ... eventually you must return home.
Thursday night Bible study completed the second week of 10 last night. It is a very good study and is generating quite a bit of discussion. That makes it easy to lead when everyone can't wait to get their $.02 worth into the conversation.
Lots of things going on or upcoming ... but more about them later.
Time to dream .... If you could have one dream come true this Christmas, what would it be?
http://www.dcrtv.com/
Sources: 105.1 Up For Sale? - 12/3
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Pork-out Aftermath
This Thanksgiving Holiday was a very good one. We stayed home and celebrated with family. The meal stuffed us not to mention the effect of the chips and dip prior to the meal. We missed two of the grandkids but oh well, that is life. Star was gallivanting about Tennessee while Wild Mom celebrated with Gung-Ho Jen. We have been getting real good use of our friends hot tub ... nothing like sitting outside in the tub in 40 degrees while the steam rises from the water. Everyone of us enjoy the relaxing quiet time. I am very thankful of friends that are a joy to be with. It seems as the economy takes it toll we spend more and more time together having a great time. I can't imagine going through this time alone with no very close friends. Well, except if it was with family. Bowling still continues to wind down. The Youth team is still in first with 2 weeks to go. Can we go wire to wire in first place? The Adult team continues to hang in the second spot. We seem to lose on the same night as the others around us, thus keeping us in 2nd.
#1 is back working after his back issues. How long it will last is any one's guess. #2 continues to avoid the jobs but he is in serious jeopardy of getting his butt kicked out. The meter is running and will appear to run out on Thursday. Time will tell. Peanut is getting smarter and smarter though lately she has been fighting the crud. She also involved in developing her business plan for when she graduates in the late spring of 2010. AJ grows and grows. He is carrying on conversations with you now, even though you don't know exactly what he is saying ... just nod and smile. Lil Princess is also going through that phase so at times you get a double barrel load of kidspeak. Lew is growing and becoming quite good at logic games. In January, he will start his first bowling league. That will prove to be quite interesting. Hopefully he will listen more than #1 did. It took a while for #1 to realize that Dad did know a little bit about the subject. Princess continues to work most the time with an occasional text message. I am horrible at text messaging and fumbling with the microscopic keyboard so not much is said. So I must assume she is well and happy. Star spent the holidays in Tennessee with my nephew and his family. Now we need to get her home from her long vacation this fall and put her to work. She needs some dental work and as we all know ... it costs money.
The cruise grows closer. For those with inquiring minds ... 6-20 January 2010.
Can you believe the New Orleans Saints are 11-0. Who would have thunk that? Needless to say the Redskins are nowhere bound for the Holidays. Old, tired, and retirement-eligible teams usually go nowhere.
#1 is back working after his back issues. How long it will last is any one's guess. #2 continues to avoid the jobs but he is in serious jeopardy of getting his butt kicked out. The meter is running and will appear to run out on Thursday. Time will tell. Peanut is getting smarter and smarter though lately she has been fighting the crud. She also involved in developing her business plan for when she graduates in the late spring of 2010. AJ grows and grows. He is carrying on conversations with you now, even though you don't know exactly what he is saying ... just nod and smile. Lil Princess is also going through that phase so at times you get a double barrel load of kidspeak. Lew is growing and becoming quite good at logic games. In January, he will start his first bowling league. That will prove to be quite interesting. Hopefully he will listen more than #1 did. It took a while for #1 to realize that Dad did know a little bit about the subject. Princess continues to work most the time with an occasional text message. I am horrible at text messaging and fumbling with the microscopic keyboard so not much is said. So I must assume she is well and happy. Star spent the holidays in Tennessee with my nephew and his family. Now we need to get her home from her long vacation this fall and put her to work. She needs some dental work and as we all know ... it costs money.
The cruise grows closer. For those with inquiring minds ... 6-20 January 2010.
Can you believe the New Orleans Saints are 11-0. Who would have thunk that? Needless to say the Redskins are nowhere bound for the Holidays. Old, tired, and retirement-eligible teams usually go nowhere.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
11-26-09
Day before Thanksgiving and a 4 day holiday. I hope everyone has a great day and will spend it with someone that truly loves you. If not .. come over here and I will. The feasting has already started. I attacked the chips and dip and got scolded for it. Sniff. Those pies looked good and I have been know to steal them and eat them long before the Thanksgiving dinner. Ahhh so ... secret ninja sneak and grab. I thought about listing everyone and saying something ... but I may forget someone or they take it the wrong way ... so I will just say ... I love each and everyone of you and can think of no better way to show it than giving you a big hug. Separated by time and space ... so I pass you one huge cyber hug!
But one person will get a mention ... Lady ... without her I would be nothing. She is my wife, best friend, confidant, soul mate, and the essence of me ... I LOVE HER!
My prayer is that everyone is safe and happy tomorrow. A special prayer for Blue as he deals with family issues.
But one person will get a mention ... Lady ... without her I would be nothing. She is my wife, best friend, confidant, soul mate, and the essence of me ... I LOVE HER!
My prayer is that everyone is safe and happy tomorrow. A special prayer for Blue as he deals with family issues.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Thanks for all the Great memories
Well, Thanksgiving is almost here and thus the Holiday Season will start. I am amazed that Christmas music is already being played ... can't we enjoy the fall holiday first? If they think this will get me in the festive mood and spend more money ... then they are really sucking on some strange weed. If anything, I will balk out of irritation. Bowling continues to be good as the kids are in first place with three weeks to go and the adult team is in second with a long way to go. Lately we have spent time at Carl and Lynne's trying out their new hot tub. Nothing like sitting outside as the water vapor rises and the outside temperature is in the low-50's. Of course the walk out to the tub is fun and one you don't dally on. Work is there and helps keep the stress level elevated. It just isn't as fun anymore. The cruise is only 6 1/2 weeks away. Sun and water with temps in the mid 80's. Gee, that sounds like heaven. Blink-Blink.
Wild Mom is finishing up moving stuff and creating her new craft room. It is keeping her busy and happy. Lady is doing well and gearing up or the baking and cooking season. Tonight is the final on "Dancing With The Stars" and she has her fingers crossed that M`ya wins ... not! #1 is still dealing with his sore back. He tried bowling but after one game had to stop. It sure is tough being "almost 30." His body is slowly breaking down as age takes it toll. Or is it because I am setting the bar too high as I averaged over 200 this weekend? #2 is the same ... no job. Peanut is still learning in school and now she is planning her business. Figuring out a name and business cards provides a lot of laughs but underneath we are very proud of her as she works to make it on her own. Princess works. Star is moving to a new apartment and will spend Thanksgiving in Nashville. She continues to impress us as she makes a life for herself. The kids are great. Serenity is growing and filling out. Her vocabulary makes every conversation a delight. Believe me, she is learning how to flirt, use her eyes and facial expressions to get what she wants. Of course, I am immune. AJ is turning into the little man we knew he would be. It is so much fun watching him grow and learn to talk with with us. Lew is excited about bowling with me in January when the new league starts. This should be fun. The circle is complete as several people are re-entering our lives. They diverged for a few years but are coming back. This enriches our lives so much and gives us a chance to love them more.
I was suprised this morning to find out my home mortgage had been sold and no one told me. In the past I recieved 30-45 days notice it was happening. Oh well, squash the little guy ... he only pays the bill so don't worry.
Wild Mom is finishing up moving stuff and creating her new craft room. It is keeping her busy and happy. Lady is doing well and gearing up or the baking and cooking season. Tonight is the final on "Dancing With The Stars" and she has her fingers crossed that M`ya wins ... not! #1 is still dealing with his sore back. He tried bowling but after one game had to stop. It sure is tough being "almost 30." His body is slowly breaking down as age takes it toll. Or is it because I am setting the bar too high as I averaged over 200 this weekend? #2 is the same ... no job. Peanut is still learning in school and now she is planning her business. Figuring out a name and business cards provides a lot of laughs but underneath we are very proud of her as she works to make it on her own. Princess works. Star is moving to a new apartment and will spend Thanksgiving in Nashville. She continues to impress us as she makes a life for herself. The kids are great. Serenity is growing and filling out. Her vocabulary makes every conversation a delight. Believe me, she is learning how to flirt, use her eyes and facial expressions to get what she wants. Of course, I am immune. AJ is turning into the little man we knew he would be. It is so much fun watching him grow and learn to talk with with us. Lew is excited about bowling with me in January when the new league starts. This should be fun. The circle is complete as several people are re-entering our lives. They diverged for a few years but are coming back. This enriches our lives so much and gives us a chance to love them more.
I was suprised this morning to find out my home mortgage had been sold and no one told me. In the past I recieved 30-45 days notice it was happening. Oh well, squash the little guy ... he only pays the bill so don't worry.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Storm Clouds are Brewing
Hump Day and I am still alive and kicking. Though the kicking part will become more noticeable. I am getting near the end of the rope and it won't be pretty or comfortable when I reel it back in. Yes, you guessed it ... I am in a fowl mood and nothing good ever comes out of it. I am tired of being used and I guess it is time to start changing that. painful as it may be.
We went to the Gideons Pastor/Spouse Appreciation Dinner as St. Mark's representative. The dinner was the best we have had in quite a while. The speaker was really good. I would have to rate this experience as the best ever and I believe lady feels the same way. The new working hours are the pain in my tush. I am not adjusting or adapting to these new work hours. Besides, I found an easier way to do all this, isn't that the name of the game? How about "Dancing With The Stars" last night? Surprised? We were as we watched it with some good friends. I have several resumes out and hope to hear back on one of them this week. I just gotta do what I have to do. Can you believe Thanksgiving is next week and 5 weeks later we head for the Caribbean and we still have to squeeze Christmas in there somewhere.
Today is 1/2 priced burger day, the highlight of my culinary weekday. The hardest part is waiting for 11:30 when my stomach is growling now and I can smell the grill warming up.
We went to the Gideons Pastor/Spouse Appreciation Dinner as St. Mark's representative. The dinner was the best we have had in quite a while. The speaker was really good. I would have to rate this experience as the best ever and I believe lady feels the same way. The new working hours are the pain in my tush. I am not adjusting or adapting to these new work hours. Besides, I found an easier way to do all this, isn't that the name of the game? How about "Dancing With The Stars" last night? Surprised? We were as we watched it with some good friends. I have several resumes out and hope to hear back on one of them this week. I just gotta do what I have to do. Can you believe Thanksgiving is next week and 5 weeks later we head for the Caribbean and we still have to squeeze Christmas in there somewhere.
Today is 1/2 priced burger day, the highlight of my culinary weekday. The hardest part is waiting for 11:30 when my stomach is growling now and I can smell the grill warming up.
##### free-load; free-lohd – verb (used without object) Informal. ######
##### 1. to take advantage of others for free food, entertainment, etc. #####
##### 1. to take advantage of others for free food, entertainment, etc. #####
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Great Quote
"As an American I am not so shocked that Obama was given the Nobel Peace Prize without any accomplishments to his name, but that America gave him the White House based on the same credentials."
Newt Gingrich
Fall is arriving slowly
Well, time marches on and I still can't figure out the drumbeat so I can get in step. This week and the next should prove to be long and tiring as I work over night upgrading the servers. This old body doesn't react well when I flip the sleep cycle. When I was a youngster it was a lot easier. All is is going fine. The kids are about to lock up first place in their league. The adult team hangs on to 2nd place. I am amazed at how things are working out in that league. This week we have a dinner to attend that is hosted by the Gideons. Since the Pastor can't make it, I am filling in. This week the new Bible Study starts so I am reading and planning in my spare time.
Wild Mom is doing fine. She is moving furniture around and preparing for the holidays. Lady just finished a retreat at Sandy Cove, MD. with several ladies from the church. They had a great time with their only wish was for the rain to stop. #1 is about recovered from his pulled back so work and bowling should return to normal. #2, well, no change and no job. Peanut continues to go to school and work to her dream. Her and #2 are slowly getting more active in the young adult group at the church. Star is getting a new phone and will soon be calling me on a regular basis. Looks like she is heading to Chicago when everything falls into place. Gee, she keeps moving further and further away. Princess just works and works. Haven't seen lew and Lil Princess in a while and I sure do miss them. They do grow on you.
Wild Mom is doing fine. She is moving furniture around and preparing for the holidays. Lady just finished a retreat at Sandy Cove, MD. with several ladies from the church. They had a great time with their only wish was for the rain to stop. #1 is about recovered from his pulled back so work and bowling should return to normal. #2, well, no change and no job. Peanut continues to go to school and work to her dream. Her and #2 are slowly getting more active in the young adult group at the church. Star is getting a new phone and will soon be calling me on a regular basis. Looks like she is heading to Chicago when everything falls into place. Gee, she keeps moving further and further away. Princess just works and works. Haven't seen lew and Lil Princess in a while and I sure do miss them. They do grow on you.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
TWO CHOICES
What would you do? ... you make the choice. Don't look for a punch line, there isn't one. Read it anyway. My question is: Would you have made the same choice?
At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves children with learning disabilities, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question:
Yet my son, Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?' The audience was stilled by the query. The father continued ... 'I believe that when a child like Shay, who was mentally and physically disabled comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child.'
Then he told the following story:
Shay and I had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, 'Do you think they'll let me play?' I knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but as a father I also understood that if my son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.
I approached one of the boys on the field and asked (not expecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, 'We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning.' Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt. I watched with a small tear in my eye and warmth in my heart. The boys saw my joy at my son being accepted. In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three.
In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands.
In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again. Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat. At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game? Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball. However, as Shay stepped up to the plate, the pitcher, recognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact. The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed. The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay. As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher. The game would now be over. The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman. Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game. Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, out of reach of all team mates. Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, 'Shay, run to first! Run to first!' Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base. He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled. Everyone yelled, 'Run to second, run to second!' Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base. By the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball, the smallest guy on their team who now had his first chance to be the hero for his team. He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head. Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the base s toward home. All were screaming, 'Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay' Shay reached third base because the opposing shortstop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, 'Run to third! Shay, run to third!' As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were on their feet screaming, 'Shay, run home! Run home!' Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won the game for his team.
'That day', said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, 'the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world'. Shay didn't make it to another summer ... He died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making me so happy, and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!
AND NOW A LITTLE FOOT NOTE TO THIS STORY:
We all send thousands of jokes through the e-mail without a second thought, but when it comes to sending messages about life choices, people hesitate. The crude, vulgar, and often obscene pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion about decency is too often suppressed in our schools and workplaces. If you're thinking about forwarding this message, chances are that you're probably sorting out the people in your address book who aren't the 'appropriate' ones to receive this type of message. Well, the person who sent you this believes that we all can make a difference. We all have thousands of opportunities every single day to help realize the 'natural order of things.' So many seemingly trivial interactions between two people present us with a choice:
Do we pass along a little spark of love and humanity or do we pass up those opportunities and leave the world a little bit colder in the process? A wise man once said every society is judged by how it treats it's least fortunate amongst them.
You now have two choices:
1. Delete
2. Forward
At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves children with learning disabilities, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question:
'When not interfered with by outside influences,
everything nature does, is done with perfection."
everything nature does, is done with perfection."
Yet my son, Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?' The audience was stilled by the query. The father continued ... 'I believe that when a child like Shay, who was mentally and physically disabled comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child.'
Then he told the following story:
Shay and I had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, 'Do you think they'll let me play?' I knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but as a father I also understood that if my son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.
I approached one of the boys on the field and asked (not expecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, 'We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning.' Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt. I watched with a small tear in my eye and warmth in my heart. The boys saw my joy at my son being accepted. In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three.
In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands.
In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again. Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat. At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game? Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball. However, as Shay stepped up to the plate, the pitcher, recognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact. The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed. The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay. As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher. The game would now be over. The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman. Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game. Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, out of reach of all team mates. Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, 'Shay, run to first! Run to first!' Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base. He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled. Everyone yelled, 'Run to second, run to second!' Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base. By the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball, the smallest guy on their team who now had his first chance to be the hero for his team. He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head. Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the base s toward home. All were screaming, 'Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay' Shay reached third base because the opposing shortstop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, 'Run to third! Shay, run to third!' As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were on their feet screaming, 'Shay, run home! Run home!' Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won the game for his team.
'That day', said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, 'the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world'. Shay didn't make it to another summer ... He died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making me so happy, and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!
AND NOW A LITTLE FOOT NOTE TO THIS STORY:
We all send thousands of jokes through the e-mail without a second thought, but when it comes to sending messages about life choices, people hesitate. The crude, vulgar, and often obscene pass freely through cyberspace, but public discussion about decency is too often suppressed in our schools and workplaces. If you're thinking about forwarding this message, chances are that you're probably sorting out the people in your address book who aren't the 'appropriate' ones to receive this type of message. Well, the person who sent you this believes that we all can make a difference. We all have thousands of opportunities every single day to help realize the 'natural order of things.' So many seemingly trivial interactions between two people present us with a choice:
Do we pass along a little spark of love and humanity or do we pass up those opportunities and leave the world a little bit colder in the process? A wise man once said every society is judged by how it treats it's least fortunate amongst them.
You now have two choices:
1. Delete
2. Forward
May your day, be a Shay Day.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
November Heat Wave
Well, can you believe November is almost halfway done. It doesn't seem like it with the temps we are having ... Low 70's. Even an almost hurricane managed to show up in the Gulf Coast. All is well for the time being at home. Everyone is busy and starting to look forward to the Holiday's. The Fall festival at church was a success. Though the rain did show up we still had a great time. The Moon Bounce was a hit with the kids. Especially with Lil Princess. She loved it. We finished our Bible study of "The Shack" and will be starting a new one by David Jeremiah in a couple weeks. Bowling continues to surprise us. The kid are in first place with a 15 point lead with 4 weeks to go. The adult league team continues to hang onto 2nd place. We seem to get everyone on their off night. Hey, I am not complaining. Work is the same. They want us to smile and be happy but that is hard when the pay and benefits are lowered.
Wild Mom is learning a new security system (ADT). So far only one close call with getting locked in/out. Her holiday's will be quiet but followed up in January with the cruise. lady is preparing for her weekend with the church ladies next weekend. Well, another chance to scrounge for food as I survive as a class B bachelor. #1 pulled his back and messed his bowling up last weekend. Now he has to figure out how to go to work and keep the dollars coming in. #2 has job-dodging to an art. You guessed it ... no job. peanut is still doing great in school and a few people have gotten to experience her massages. Not bad! Lew loved the face painting at the festival and dressing up in his fireman's costume. Lil Princess charmed us all as Elmo. She was easy to see in that red costume. AJ pimped the girls as the GodFather. Though the word are gibberish to me ... he is chattering up a storm. Star is doing well and staying busy. I just miss talking to her though there are a lot of pictures to look at. Hmmm ... I wonder what was under that red skirt in that one group of pictures. Princess works and occasionally texts ... so I guess she is ok.
A old friend I hadn't heard from in a year contacted me this past week. Mainly because I forgot to recreate their email after the Blackhawke Server went down. Anything to make contact once again.
Wild Mom is learning a new security system (ADT). So far only one close call with getting locked in/out. Her holiday's will be quiet but followed up in January with the cruise. lady is preparing for her weekend with the church ladies next weekend. Well, another chance to scrounge for food as I survive as a class B bachelor. #1 pulled his back and messed his bowling up last weekend. Now he has to figure out how to go to work and keep the dollars coming in. #2 has job-dodging to an art. You guessed it ... no job. peanut is still doing great in school and a few people have gotten to experience her massages. Not bad! Lew loved the face painting at the festival and dressing up in his fireman's costume. Lil Princess charmed us all as Elmo. She was easy to see in that red costume. AJ pimped the girls as the GodFather. Though the word are gibberish to me ... he is chattering up a storm. Star is doing well and staying busy. I just miss talking to her though there are a lot of pictures to look at. Hmmm ... I wonder what was under that red skirt in that one group of pictures. Princess works and occasionally texts ... so I guess she is ok.
A old friend I hadn't heard from in a year contacted me this past week. Mainly because I forgot to recreate their email after the Blackhawke Server went down. Anything to make contact once again.
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