Grief is about life, not about death. Those that grieve are still alive. A person's understanding of death affects how they grieve for the deceased. Many people are afraid of dying and afraid of pain, and some think GOD punishes us which of course, is not true.
It all comes down to, TRUSTING GOD AND HIS PROMISES. Sometimes, people say they trust God but then are asking WHY did this happen.God must not love us as he said. Some people trust God as long as it is safe, feels good, and doesn't require any trust on their part and everything is going according to the way they think it should. When GOD follows His own plan for our lives, we don't understand and we can't tell what is going to happen and we get scared. Then we realize we really weren't trusting Him. Some people then decide that is too hard because they can't handle what they can't control.
On our own understanding, there are many things we cannot handle. We can only handle it when we LET GO and give it ALL to God to handle for us. Jesus is our Savior and died on the cross to save us. He sent the Holy SPirit to guide us on this path of the unknown in our lives. He is our comforter and loves us. We just need to ask for guidance and direction everyday as we start anew and ask what we may do this day to please God and help someone else along the way. When we help others, God in turn helps and heals us.
We all miss our love ones when they die because they are no longer with us and we can't hug them and kiss them. They are in GOd's care and we, still living, still have a life to lead here and things to do for the Lord. God has a purpose for each of our lives and we don't have to see the whole picture-We just have to Trust God for today. We are in His Care and He loves us beyond all understanding. He Promises Eternal Life with HIM.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Aunt Doris
Aunt Doris just had knee replacement surgery. She is 83 and has never experienced so much pain. She is a tough old lady but this one surprised her. She is brave and is learning how to cope with the rehab. She has to have the other knee done in a few months. Sherry, her daughter, is taking such good care of her but has realized how much the old lady did around the house. Sherry is getting tired and everynight around 9 she is ready for bed. Doris says this is more pain then she has ever had. But she will be okay and be stronger for it. If she doesn't have both knees fixed, she could live to be 99 and be in a wheel chair most of that time. So she believes, she better get both knees fixed.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Monday, August 10, 2009
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Thursday, August 6, 2009
The Welcome Wagon
In the 1960's in New Mexico, they still had the Welcome Wagon girl that would come around to your house when you moved into the neighborhood and give you a nice welcome. Something cooked, coupons and all kinds of helpful literature that would tell you where everything was and things you might need to do. She had a big basket and a sign that said Welcome Wagon. They always gave out lots of goodies that would help you get settled. That was fun. In Ohio, they had green stamp stores. You got green stamps every time you shopped. When you filled a book you could go turn it in at the green stamp store in exchange for an appliance or something neat for free. This was just a thought I had and wanted to write it down before I forgot.
The Welcome Wagon has moved online: Welcome Wagon.com
The Welcome Wagon has moved online: Welcome Wagon.com
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
what every young person should know
Gilbert Seifert What every young person should know
By Carmack Kersey/Edward Jones
June 30, 2009
Editor’s note: Carmack Kersey of Winchester recently shared the following advice with the 2009 graduating class of Williamsburg High School. None of these, he said, are his own.
Over the years, we all have heard, read or been witness to things we wished we had known beforehand. Today, I would like to go over some thoughts we all hope and pray our children and grandchildren know before they leave home — or heck, they might come back.
First, life isn’t fair. Get over it and go on. They should know their parents did not prepare them for every conceivable situation.
They should know, just because things get difficult doesn’t mean that God is on vacation.
They should know things are rarely as good or bad as they seem.
They should know victims are never happy.
They should know everybody has bad days, when the toilets back up, their dog bites them. It doesn’t mean God is picking on them.
They should know they’ve worked hard to get where they are-whether it was making good grades or just sleeping on the couch each day.
They should know life isn’t about avoiding struggles, but about overcoming them.
They should know overcoming difficult times is how people gain self-respect and the respect of others.
They should know if they make one person’s life easier today, God will be pleased with their efforts. They should start with their mom.
In five years, they won’t be the same person they are today. They could earn a college degree, feed the hungry in Africa, or defend their country. They should know the difference between childhood and adulthood is that in adulthood, they can’t give up!
They should know self-discipline is a major key to solving life’s problems.
“Overnight successes” have often worked 20 years to become one.
They should know the power of habits. Some of you may remember the first two weeks of high school football practice in July. The three-hour workouts in what seemed to be 100-degree temperatures were horrible, but as each day passed, the pain would lessen and after three to four weeks, the transformation of being in “football shape” would happen.
Bad habits are easy to keep. That is why they are bad. Good habits, on the other hand, can cause physical and mental pain that can be grueling. A good habit starts with courage, ends with discipline and is fueled by desire.
They should know if they hang out with heavy drinkers, drug users and partyers, it is a sure-fire way to start thinking like a heavy drinker, druggie or partyer. On the other hand, having to pass up partying with friends to work later doesn’t mean life has turned bad.
They should know being drunk or high is no excuse for bad behavior.
Successful people do things others don’t like to do — like be organized. They keep up with what’s going on in the world. They do not show up for work or class exhausted, hung over, and begging for an aspirin. They show up for class or work clear-eyed and alert.
They should know if it is worth it they will have to work for it!
College and graduate school are hard, time-consuming, and just warm-ups for life. If getting a good job was easy, everyone would have one.
They should know to show up on time for class, work, interviews and for relationships.
They should know the way they dress at 8 p.m. can make them look irresponsible at 8 a.m. Many professors in college and bosses would prefer not to see their tattoos or nose rings.
They should know the world is filled with unreasonable people and they may work for one of them or be taught by one.
Also, they should consider that “yes,” as impossible as it may seem, could be wrong!
They should know it’s impossible to learn everything while talking.
The quickest way to make a friend is to get that person to talk about themselves. The quickest way to get rid of a crowd of people is to talk about themselves.
Also, if they don’t know what they are talking about, stay silent. It is better to be thought a fool than open your mouth and remove all doubt.
They should know that boasting makes people wonder what is really wrong with them.
They should know how to carry on a conversation without using profanity.
They should also know how to defend their position without yelling, swearing, or door slamming. It’s a real bonus if they know what they are talking about.
In fact, they should know the meaning of words before confidently using them in conversation. They should know if they listen more than they talk, people will think of them as a good conversationalist.
They should know good manners so they will stun people. This can lead to favors, promotions and other benefits in return.
They should know sending hand written “thank you notes” will make them stand out.
They should know that in order to achieve their dreams, they have to have passion, commitment and enthusiasm. Think of those teachers whom you have had that you admire.
Success is not a given, it is something that is earned. Those who are successful have many different characteristics, but they all have a passion for what they are doing, a commitment to staying with it and an enthusiasm for doing it.
They should know a high school graduate will make 25 cents for every dollar a college graduate makes over a 30-year career; a college graduate will make $2 million more than a high school graduate alone.
They should know sacrifice.
They should know that only they are in control of their future, no one else is.
They are going to be challenged with an ethical decision along the way. Deep down, they know the difference between right and wrong. But sometimes it takes more courage to do the right thing. Remember, they should always do the right thing. What is right is not always popular, but what is popular is not always right.
They should know if they are doing anything on the Internet at 3 a.m., they might have a problem. Facebook can wait.
They should know if they’re screaming and yelling at people while driving, priorities have taken a left turn.
They should know how to function in a world that couldn’t care less whether they make it in life or not. Because of this, they should also eradicate any sense of entitlement.
They should know how to face problems as they happen, not put them off until they are unmanageable. They should not be afraid to make a decision. And once their decision is made, stick to it. Don’t be afraid.
They should know that reading a newspaper, belonging to church, a voting for a president and identifying with a political party are all signs of adulthood.
They should know that no job, relationship or situation ever goes according to expectations. Expect to be surprised.
They should know the ability to earn respect is what separates the adults for the kids. Maturity is the ability to determine future consequences before making a decision.
They should realize failure can lead to maturity.
They should know one of the worst things an adult can be labeled is immature.
They should know to not fear criticism. It’s a part of life.
They should know to go to every wedding they are invited to. It is a key to building and honoring lifelong relationships. One of the most important relationships they have is the one with their family and friends. Because of this, they should know to never miss a funeral of a friend or a friend’s family.
They should know adults have to answer only to themselves and God.
They should know if they focus on what’s bad, the day will go down the toilet.
They should know they can make it without their parents. In saying this, remember to look forward, not homeward.
They should know to never forget God isn’t finished shaping them.
They should know what government agency is in charge of what. If they call City Hall about their income tax return, they’ll be hung up on.
They should know to read the Bible before they argue about it.
They should know to marry character!
They should know that seeking perfection in a mate will assure them of a lifetime of loneliness and disappointment.
They should know successful relationships are based on common values, shared morals and good old-fashioned commitment.
They should know that volunteering cures loneliness.
They should know to get their teeth examined regularly. All kinds of activities are going on in their mouth.
They should know most of the world’s truly successful people wake up before everyone else.
They should know the ability to eat 16 times a day and nap all afternoon without gaining any weight will disappear soon. This is what happened to their parents.
They should know a 15-year mortgage will save them a fortune compared to a 30-year mortgage.
They should know easy money usually results in hard times.
They should know to not let their sense of entitlement get in the way of their values.
They should know the poor are made in God’s image as well as the rich. And he has written down specific instructions about the way they are to be treated.
They should know saying “Jesus Christ” has two different meanings —God prefers one not the other.
They should know that doing the right thing, no matter how costly it seems at the time, always pays dividends.
They should know to accept blame when appropriate, not pass it on.
They should know to live their lives as an example. One day they’ll have kids.
Lastly, you should know for a successful marriage it is important to fall in love again and again — with the same person.
I want to leave you with this last thought. Whatever you do in life, remember to laugh often, love much, learn more and play with purpose.
By Carmack Kersey/Edward Jones
June 30, 2009
Editor’s note: Carmack Kersey of Winchester recently shared the following advice with the 2009 graduating class of Williamsburg High School. None of these, he said, are his own.
Over the years, we all have heard, read or been witness to things we wished we had known beforehand. Today, I would like to go over some thoughts we all hope and pray our children and grandchildren know before they leave home — or heck, they might come back.
First, life isn’t fair. Get over it and go on. They should know their parents did not prepare them for every conceivable situation.
They should know, just because things get difficult doesn’t mean that God is on vacation.
They should know things are rarely as good or bad as they seem.
They should know victims are never happy.
They should know everybody has bad days, when the toilets back up, their dog bites them. It doesn’t mean God is picking on them.
They should know they’ve worked hard to get where they are-whether it was making good grades or just sleeping on the couch each day.
They should know life isn’t about avoiding struggles, but about overcoming them.
They should know overcoming difficult times is how people gain self-respect and the respect of others.
They should know if they make one person’s life easier today, God will be pleased with their efforts. They should start with their mom.
In five years, they won’t be the same person they are today. They could earn a college degree, feed the hungry in Africa, or defend their country. They should know the difference between childhood and adulthood is that in adulthood, they can’t give up!
They should know self-discipline is a major key to solving life’s problems.
“Overnight successes” have often worked 20 years to become one.
They should know the power of habits. Some of you may remember the first two weeks of high school football practice in July. The three-hour workouts in what seemed to be 100-degree temperatures were horrible, but as each day passed, the pain would lessen and after three to four weeks, the transformation of being in “football shape” would happen.
Bad habits are easy to keep. That is why they are bad. Good habits, on the other hand, can cause physical and mental pain that can be grueling. A good habit starts with courage, ends with discipline and is fueled by desire.
They should know if they hang out with heavy drinkers, drug users and partyers, it is a sure-fire way to start thinking like a heavy drinker, druggie or partyer. On the other hand, having to pass up partying with friends to work later doesn’t mean life has turned bad.
They should know being drunk or high is no excuse for bad behavior.
Successful people do things others don’t like to do — like be organized. They keep up with what’s going on in the world. They do not show up for work or class exhausted, hung over, and begging for an aspirin. They show up for class or work clear-eyed and alert.
They should know if it is worth it they will have to work for it!
College and graduate school are hard, time-consuming, and just warm-ups for life. If getting a good job was easy, everyone would have one.
They should know to show up on time for class, work, interviews and for relationships.
They should know the way they dress at 8 p.m. can make them look irresponsible at 8 a.m. Many professors in college and bosses would prefer not to see their tattoos or nose rings.
They should know the world is filled with unreasonable people and they may work for one of them or be taught by one.
Also, they should consider that “yes,” as impossible as it may seem, could be wrong!
They should know it’s impossible to learn everything while talking.
The quickest way to make a friend is to get that person to talk about themselves. The quickest way to get rid of a crowd of people is to talk about themselves.
Also, if they don’t know what they are talking about, stay silent. It is better to be thought a fool than open your mouth and remove all doubt.
They should know that boasting makes people wonder what is really wrong with them.
They should know how to carry on a conversation without using profanity.
They should also know how to defend their position without yelling, swearing, or door slamming. It’s a real bonus if they know what they are talking about.
In fact, they should know the meaning of words before confidently using them in conversation. They should know if they listen more than they talk, people will think of them as a good conversationalist.
They should know good manners so they will stun people. This can lead to favors, promotions and other benefits in return.
They should know sending hand written “thank you notes” will make them stand out.
They should know that in order to achieve their dreams, they have to have passion, commitment and enthusiasm. Think of those teachers whom you have had that you admire.
Success is not a given, it is something that is earned. Those who are successful have many different characteristics, but they all have a passion for what they are doing, a commitment to staying with it and an enthusiasm for doing it.
They should know a high school graduate will make 25 cents for every dollar a college graduate makes over a 30-year career; a college graduate will make $2 million more than a high school graduate alone.
They should know sacrifice.
They should know that only they are in control of their future, no one else is.
They are going to be challenged with an ethical decision along the way. Deep down, they know the difference between right and wrong. But sometimes it takes more courage to do the right thing. Remember, they should always do the right thing. What is right is not always popular, but what is popular is not always right.
They should know if they are doing anything on the Internet at 3 a.m., they might have a problem. Facebook can wait.
They should know if they’re screaming and yelling at people while driving, priorities have taken a left turn.
They should know how to function in a world that couldn’t care less whether they make it in life or not. Because of this, they should also eradicate any sense of entitlement.
They should know how to face problems as they happen, not put them off until they are unmanageable. They should not be afraid to make a decision. And once their decision is made, stick to it. Don’t be afraid.
They should know that reading a newspaper, belonging to church, a voting for a president and identifying with a political party are all signs of adulthood.
They should know that no job, relationship or situation ever goes according to expectations. Expect to be surprised.
They should know the ability to earn respect is what separates the adults for the kids. Maturity is the ability to determine future consequences before making a decision.
They should realize failure can lead to maturity.
They should know one of the worst things an adult can be labeled is immature.
They should know to not fear criticism. It’s a part of life.
They should know to go to every wedding they are invited to. It is a key to building and honoring lifelong relationships. One of the most important relationships they have is the one with their family and friends. Because of this, they should know to never miss a funeral of a friend or a friend’s family.
They should know adults have to answer only to themselves and God.
They should know if they focus on what’s bad, the day will go down the toilet.
They should know they can make it without their parents. In saying this, remember to look forward, not homeward.
They should know to never forget God isn’t finished shaping them.
They should know what government agency is in charge of what. If they call City Hall about their income tax return, they’ll be hung up on.
They should know to read the Bible before they argue about it.
They should know to marry character!
They should know that seeking perfection in a mate will assure them of a lifetime of loneliness and disappointment.
They should know successful relationships are based on common values, shared morals and good old-fashioned commitment.
They should know that volunteering cures loneliness.
They should know to get their teeth examined regularly. All kinds of activities are going on in their mouth.
They should know most of the world’s truly successful people wake up before everyone else.
They should know the ability to eat 16 times a day and nap all afternoon without gaining any weight will disappear soon. This is what happened to their parents.
They should know a 15-year mortgage will save them a fortune compared to a 30-year mortgage.
They should know easy money usually results in hard times.
They should know to not let their sense of entitlement get in the way of their values.
They should know the poor are made in God’s image as well as the rich. And he has written down specific instructions about the way they are to be treated.
They should know saying “Jesus Christ” has two different meanings —God prefers one not the other.
They should know that doing the right thing, no matter how costly it seems at the time, always pays dividends.
They should know to accept blame when appropriate, not pass it on.
They should know to live their lives as an example. One day they’ll have kids.
Lastly, you should know for a successful marriage it is important to fall in love again and again — with the same person.
I want to leave you with this last thought. Whatever you do in life, remember to laugh often, love much, learn more and play with purpose.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
words
Words affect our lives in a most profound way. Sometimes our mouths run freely with words that don't mean anything. Other times, what we say can change a person's life for the good. When God gives you the words to say, it is a real moment in time that He has chosen and the outcome all belongs to Him. You are just happy you are a part of it. You probably won't even be able to remember exactly what was said. The other person will and that is all that is important. The outcome belong to GOD.
There are words of Love.
Words of hate.
Words to impress.
Words you don't mean and shouldn't have said.
Words you do mean and would say again.
Words to encourage.
Words to tear down.
Words to instruct.
Words to confuse.
Words of fear and weakness.
Words of gladness and strength.
Words that say I am sorry.
Words that say I don't care.
Words that lead people somewhere.
Words that give Hope.
Words that give a warning and protect\
Words that are beautiful and give beauty to the heart and soul.
Words are a window into our minds and hearts.
There are words of Love.
Words of hate.
Words to impress.
Words you don't mean and shouldn't have said.
Words you do mean and would say again.
Words to encourage.
Words to tear down.
Words to instruct.
Words to confuse.
Words of fear and weakness.
Words of gladness and strength.
Words that say I am sorry.
Words that say I don't care.
Words that lead people somewhere.
Words that give Hope.
Words that give a warning and protect\
Words that are beautiful and give beauty to the heart and soul.
Words are a window into our minds and hearts.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Work Or Not To Work - That Is The Question
My old boss came up to me a few days ago and ask me if I would like to come back to work. She said instead of volunteering for no pay, I could work part time and get paid. They are supposed to have some new deal. I am pretty sure it would still miss up my pension. By volunteering, I can come and go when I feel like it, and I am not assigned deadlines to meet, meaning no stress.
Stress would mess up my cancer. I don't mind doing stuff for no pay. I would volunteer somewhere either way. Probably the base at Patrick AFB. I can't just sit home and bug Gil all the time. It would drive us both crazy. I am really only good for half a day at work and not everyday. When I have chemo, I need to be able to take off and rest. So, looks like I don't need to work. We have enough to pay our bills and do things, so money is not the issue. It would be nice to actually get on the computer at work and help people more, but I can't unless I am an employee. So volunteer it is.
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Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Spring Rain
SPRING BRINGS THE RAIN
Rain is from Heaven, pure, clean of earthly contaminates. It is silky, pure, clean, refreshes everything, nourishes all living things with GOD’S BLESSINGS. It clears the air, washes away dirt, refreshes nature, birds get a bath, animals have drinking water, our drinking water is replenished, allows our food plants to grow and food grows for all the living creatures on the earth.
In the Beginning, God created Heaven and Earth and all the vegetation. At first, He didn’t create the rain because there was no man to till the soil. A fine mist came up from the earth to nourish everything green and growing. Then God created man to work the earth and God created the rain. \
Gen 2: 4=6
Another teaching from the Bible about rain was Gen 6:8
The earth became corrupt before God. God told Noah, who was a just and perfect man in his generation, to build an ark for he and his family and the animals God designated to be saved. God told Noah he would cause it to rain 40 days and 40 nights to destroy the earth and all living things God had made because it had become corrupt and He couldn’t look upon it anymore.
Noah did as God commanded and it rained 40 days and 40 nights. All creatures that were not on the ark died. God made a wind to pass over the earth and the water subsided. God blessed Noah and all that were on the ark and told them to be fruitful and multiply. God established his covenant with Noah and said never again shall all flesh to cut off by waters of a flood. Never again shall a flood destroy the earth.
God set his rainbow in the cloud and it shall be a sign of God’s Covenant between Him and the earth.
Read Deut 11:13-23 Joshua crossing the Jordan with the Israelites into the Promised Land.
“And it shall be that if you earnestly obey My commandments which I command you today, to love the Lord your God and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul, then I will give you the rain for your land in its season, the early rain and the latter rain, that you may gather in your grain, your new wine, and your oil. And I will send grass in your fields for your livestock, that you may eat and be filled. Take heed to yourselves, lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside and serve other gods and worship them.
Lest the Lord’s anger be aroused against you\ and He shut up the heavens so that there be no rain and the land yield no produce and you perish quickly from the good land which the Lord is giving you.
Therefore you shall lay up these words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall teach them to your children, speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down and when you rise up.
And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates., that your days, and the days of your children may be multiplied in the land of which the Lord swore to your fathers to give them, like the days of the heavens above the earth. For if you carefully keep all these commandments which I command you to do—to love the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, and to hold fast to Him, then the Lord will drive our all these nations from before you, and you will dispossess greater and mightier nations than yourselves.
Isaiah 41: 17
The poor and needy seek water, but there is none. Their tongues fail for thirst. I, the Lord, will hear them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.
Hard times come when we run out of what we need to live. We hunger, we thirst and so we cry to God. God does not promise to spare us these times, but God promises to sustain us in them.
God will rain down his blessings on us, if we will only trust and obey Him.
Rain is from Heaven, pure, clean of earthly contaminates. It is silky, pure, clean, refreshes everything, nourishes all living things with GOD’S BLESSINGS. It clears the air, washes away dirt, refreshes nature, birds get a bath, animals have drinking water, our drinking water is replenished, allows our food plants to grow and food grows for all the living creatures on the earth.
In the Beginning, God created Heaven and Earth and all the vegetation. At first, He didn’t create the rain because there was no man to till the soil. A fine mist came up from the earth to nourish everything green and growing. Then God created man to work the earth and God created the rain. \
Gen 2: 4=6
Another teaching from the Bible about rain was Gen 6:8
The earth became corrupt before God. God told Noah, who was a just and perfect man in his generation, to build an ark for he and his family and the animals God designated to be saved. God told Noah he would cause it to rain 40 days and 40 nights to destroy the earth and all living things God had made because it had become corrupt and He couldn’t look upon it anymore.
Noah did as God commanded and it rained 40 days and 40 nights. All creatures that were not on the ark died. God made a wind to pass over the earth and the water subsided. God blessed Noah and all that were on the ark and told them to be fruitful and multiply. God established his covenant with Noah and said never again shall all flesh to cut off by waters of a flood. Never again shall a flood destroy the earth.
God set his rainbow in the cloud and it shall be a sign of God’s Covenant between Him and the earth.
Read Deut 11:13-23 Joshua crossing the Jordan with the Israelites into the Promised Land.
“And it shall be that if you earnestly obey My commandments which I command you today, to love the Lord your God and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul, then I will give you the rain for your land in its season, the early rain and the latter rain, that you may gather in your grain, your new wine, and your oil. And I will send grass in your fields for your livestock, that you may eat and be filled. Take heed to yourselves, lest your heart be deceived, and you turn aside and serve other gods and worship them.
Lest the Lord’s anger be aroused against you\ and He shut up the heavens so that there be no rain and the land yield no produce and you perish quickly from the good land which the Lord is giving you.
Therefore you shall lay up these words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall teach them to your children, speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down and when you rise up.
And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates., that your days, and the days of your children may be multiplied in the land of which the Lord swore to your fathers to give them, like the days of the heavens above the earth. For if you carefully keep all these commandments which I command you to do—to love the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, and to hold fast to Him, then the Lord will drive our all these nations from before you, and you will dispossess greater and mightier nations than yourselves.
Isaiah 41: 17
The poor and needy seek water, but there is none. Their tongues fail for thirst. I, the Lord, will hear them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.
Hard times come when we run out of what we need to live. We hunger, we thirst and so we cry to God. God does not promise to spare us these times, but God promises to sustain us in them.
God will rain down his blessings on us, if we will only trust and obey Him.
Friday, March 27, 2009
My Father Is Love
I feel it when I smell rain or orange blossoms
When I see a rabbit in a pasture
Or a big dog warming in the sun
When I touch the petals of a rose
Or touch the richness of fertile soil
When I feel the strength of ocean waves
And wind blowing against the shore
In coquinas hiding in the sand
A puzzle to solve
A line of pelicans flying by
A game of solitaire
A coke and crackers
A newborn bird
Shelling peas
Water skiing on a glassy lake
Pickup trucks
Fishing with worms
In laughing eyes
A hug so tight it takes your breath away
A touch
A kiss so gentle
A love that is understanding
A love that lasts forever
I thank God I have a Dad who is all this and more
And I thank my Father for showing me
All the faces of Love
June 16, 1991
Rosemary Estes Strange
- Rosemary wrote this letter on Father’s Day when Daddy stopped remembering. It didn’t help him remember but Rosemary felt better
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Mamoo Estes Home in Haines City, Florida
The first seven or eight years of my life, my grandmother and granddaddy Estes lived in a big two story home in Haines City, Florida. She and granddaddy let us stay with them alot on the weekends and in the summer time. It was always a big treat. They had a maid that also cooked and a yardman. The maid's name was Mary and she wore a white uniform. When we had a meal, Grandmother would ring her little bell and Mary would come to the dining room and serve us. There were several fun things about Mamoo Estes home. She had a little library with lots of good books. And everynight that we were there, at bed time, we could go into the library and pick a book for her to read to us in our bedroom. She would sit in her rocking chair and read to us. She never said she was too tired. It was neat. She would buy a new book for us to find each time we came. Up stairs there was a laundry shoot to the basement for you to throw your dirty clothes and towels for Mary to wash. There was a basket at the bottom to catch things. We considered jumping down it, but thought better of it. The stairs were neat too. They had this nice wooden waxed banister. We could slid down it from upstairs and drop off at the bottom.
The scary room was the attic. It was on the third floor and used for storage and Granddaddy's rowing machine for exercise. There was this big swinging light bulb to light the place and it cast all kinds of shadows. I wouldn't dare go up there without Mamoo. But there was a real special place in the attic, she had a big old wooden trunk. One day, she said she would show us what was inside, but we had to be careful and not break it. So she lifted that big old lid and there was a lot of white tissue paper. So she picked up one and unwrapped it. There was the most beautiful white glass doll I had ever seen. She unwrapped three more and let us hold them for a little while. But she said they were very old and we couldn't just play with them. So, she wrapped them all back up and put them away. She promised we could visit the dolls another time. That was so neat. I dreamed about the dolls that night. I loved dolls as a little girl.
On the second floor, Grandmother had a bedroom and Granddaddy had another bedroom, even when I was very little. Her bedroom had a sunroom off it where Mamoo did her sewing and knitting. Sometimes, we would make Diane clothes. She could knit real good and knitted sweaters and stuff.
When we had dinner, she tried to teach us good manners. She would use china and a lot of silverware. She would use cloth napkins. We learned which fork to use for what, to always say please and thank you, put your napkin in your lap and keep one arm in your lap. She and Grandaddy would take us out to eat at some fancy place so we could practice our manners. One time she thought Diane and I needed to see what it was like to ride a train. We took a train trip our of Haines City to Tampa to see a Circus. When we got to Tampa, we got a Taxi and it took us to the fair ground. Afterward, we got the taxi again and then went back to the train station and came back to Haines City. That was my first and last train ride.
On the second floor, Grandmother had a bedroom and Granddaddy had another bedroom, even when I was very little. Her bedroom had a sunroom off it where Mamoo did her sewing and knitting. Sometimes, we would make Diane clothes. She could knit real good and knitted sweaters and stuff.
When we had dinner, she tried to teach us good manners. She would use china and a lot of silverware. She would use cloth napkins. We learned which fork to use for what, to always say please and thank you, put your napkin in your lap and keep one arm in your lap. She and Grandaddy would take us out to eat at some fancy place so we could practice our manners. One time she thought Diane and I needed to see what it was like to ride a train. We took a train trip our of Haines City to Tampa to see a Circus. When we got to Tampa, we got a Taxi and it took us to the fair ground. Afterward, we got the taxi again and then went back to the train station and came back to Haines City. That was my first and last train ride.
She was a neat Mamoo. I don't ever remember she getting mad at us or spanking us. That just isn't in my memory. Just good times. She would also take us to the park to play and sometimes shopping. She let us take Granddaddy's rowing machine seat with its rollers down to the sidewalk and roll down the sidewalk on it. Plus, she had tricycles for us. I never went to church with her. She was Catholic and I was Methodist. We had many big family dinners at her house. I have a few pictures at her Haines city home and a picture of the house. I'll have to look for them.
The Three Storm Hurricane Season
In 2004, we had 3 hurricanes to come through Melbourne. Doris and Sherry went to stay at Aunt Vida's. The storm tore back their roof and damaged the inside of their home with water and wind. The home was so bad that they could not live in it anymore. Doris was so upset that she could hardly stand it. It really took a toll on her. Until they had the damaged home removed and a new one bought, they had to find a place to live. Plus they had to go through their home and get the stuff not damaged into storage. Of course, many people were going through this. These were three bad hurricanes. Our home was not damaged but we were without electricity. Gil and I decided to have them live with us until they could get back into their own home again. Even though there was no electricity, we did have water and a telephone.
So they moved into the back bedroom and suffered along with us without electricity for two or three weeks, and then continued to live with us for 6 months. We got to have Thanksgiving and Christmas with them. Doris helped me decorate the Christmas tree. Everyone got along really good. I was working and Gil was doing all the cooking. They cleaned and did all they could to help Gil out. Doris shared the food bill and electricity when it finally came on. We had a big ice chest on the front porch and each day would get milk and stuff to eat for the day. It was quite a time. We took cold baths, which felt good in the 80-degree temperature. I don't know how we managed so well except we knew it was meant to be. We all became very close and have been ever since. They were family and they certainly made their visit nice.
Fish Pond At Alturas Florida Home
Diane At The Fish Pond
When I was a toddler, I managed to get into the fish pond. Mother missed me and came running around the house to the backyard and discovered me floating in the fish pond. Green slime came out of my mouth and nose. They got me breathing and called the doctor. He said to put me in bed and put lots of covers on me to warm me up and just watch me. That was a close call. Daddy came out with an axe and chopped holes in the pond and let all the water out. That was the end of the fish pond.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Piano Lessons
When I was in the first grade, I took piano lessons for 7 years. My teacher's name was Mrs. Harrison. I took classical music lessons twice a week. I practiced for 1 hour everyday. In my last year of music, all her prize students competed at the florida Southern College in Lakeland fl and were judged by 4 or 5 judges. After that, I was in Jr High and discovered boys and I was tired of Mrs. Harrison. She was such a strict teacher. Mother definitely got her money's worth. I played on the piano a lot and played for church and Sunday School but mostly for my pleasure. I can still play, just out of practice. I can still read music. It is sort of like driving or riding a bike, you don't forget. It still gives me pleasure and if I had room, I would have a piano now.
Gloria (far right - front row) with her piano class at Florida Southern College
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Eddie As A Boy
In a fine suit...
I believe Eddie was dressed up because it was Mom Presley and Granddaddy Presley's 37th wedding anniversary party at Mama and Papa Capps home.
Elementary School Days... Is that a uniform?
Eddie also has this jacket on in the picture where he stands with the Capps. I think it must have meant something special. Maybe a club, scouts or something. Maybe sometime his sister Marion can shed light on that jacket.
Just a youngin' without much of a clue as to what those folks are doing with a camera...
Gloria At Seven
I had long naturally curly hair. I combed it a lot and I loved it. A lot of times mother would put my hair in pig tails which I didn't care for.
Wedding Day
Wedding Party
Newspaper Announcement Clipping
Gloria And Eddie Outside The Church
The people and family in the wedding picture are Gary Stenger-candle lighter, Benny Brown-Eddie best friend and Usher, Linda Estes-bridesmaid, Marilyn-my best friend maid of honor, Me and Eddie, Gregory was Best man, Ann Estes bridesmaid and John Stenger-my uncle usher. Preacher John Larsen Alturas Methodist church Alturas, Florida May 21, 1961.
The second picture is of me and Daddy on the steps of the church. He was very happy because he had had several tranquilizers and I was very happy because I was getting married. I had lost several pounds and had to have my dress altered several times.
Wedding Party
Gloria Estes and her father Lawrence Estes on her wedding day.
Amazing picture.
TIP: Click on any picture for a full size version.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Photos of Eddie Presley And Family
Eddie With Mama and Papa Capps
Presley Family: Marion, Jenny, Evelyn, Mom Presley, Eddie, Gregory and Fred
Flight Crew
Eddie On A Boat
Presley Family: Eddie, Gloria, Debbie, Eddie Jr. and Sheila
Presley Family At Christmas
Photos of Mom Presley
Mom Presley By The Pool - Oh La La!
Mom Presley And Lee Halfley With Evelyn and Karen Rainey!
Mom Presley With Evelyn Tedder, Evelyn Ann and Mrs. Tedder.
Mom Presley With Evelyn and Mama Capps
Mom Presley In Quite The Posh Frock
Mom Presley With Gregory And Sally
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