This is so inspiring to me. The veteran in this newspaper article is my Great Uncle A.C McCollum who lives in California. Like so many from "The Greatest Generation" he has been tight-lipped about his service during the war. They stepped up to the plate and defended our country out of love & respect! I will post a couple of pictures as soon as I can!
Giving a World War II veteran his due
Daily Breeze - Torrance, Calif.
Author: Ian Hanigan DAILY BREEZE
Date: Oct 31, 2006
Start Page: A.1
Text Word Count: 957
Document Text
Copyright Copley Press, Inc. Oct 31, 2006
Long before their generation was labeled the greatest, twin brothers posed for a photograph wearing dark Navy uniforms and boyish faces.
Both were serving on the USS Enterprise aircraft carrier, fighting tyranny in the Pacific. But only one would live to see the Allied forces prevail a few years later.
The other would draw his last breath on Aug. 24, 1942, after a Japanese bomb struck the mighty ship.
More than six decades later, the World War II Memorial was unveiled in Washington to salute the sacrifices of vets like Lomita's Alfred Clifton McCollum and his fallen brother.
But for McCollum, and so many other survivors living now with frail bodies and fixed incomes, visiting their own tribute hasn't been practical. The stately pillars and dancing waters commissioned to honor them are simply too far away.
One Lomita businessman thinks he can help.
Al Rivera, owner of Al's Automotive, has made it his personal goal to raise the money needed to sponsor the trip for McCollum, a hometown hero they call "Ace." And if there are a few bucks left over, well, Rivera wants other local veterans to go, too.
Assuming everything goes as planned, McCollum, 84, will board a Washington-bound jetliner sometime after Veterans Day. He'll take with him his dark blue "Enterprise CV-6" baseball cap, countless war stories and aging memories of his brother, Alphaus Zeno McCollum, who will forever remain 20 years old.
"I'm doing these things with you, together," McCollum sometimes says to the portrait he took with his twin so many years ago. "That's the way I feel."
* * *
Rivera, who has been in business in the South Bay for 20 years, said he got the idea from a CBS news segment. It was about a group sponsoring similar trips to the World War II memorial for veterans.
The next morning, he ran into McCollum, a longtime friend who once delivered auto parts.
Rivera's wheels were turning: What if he could raise enough cash, he thought, to send McCollum to Washington?
He figured it would have to be more than just the cost of airfare. McCollum would need a hotel room and some spending money. And someone would have to accompany him.
Rivera broached the subject that same day.
"Al said, 'Would you go if you had the chance?' " McCollum recalled. "I said, 'Yeah, but I don't have that kind of money.' "
Rivera concedes he probably could have written a check to cover the trip himself. But, he said, he saw a chance to pull the community together. To tell McCollum's story.
It's not about the money," said Rivera, 45. "It was just getting everybody involved."
Robert Munger, a friend of Rivera's who agreed to escort McCollum to the nation's capital, agreed.
"That way, everybody would know about him, and what he did for us," said Munger, 66.
* * *
Stationed on the decorated USS Enterprise CV-6 aircraft carrier, McCollum served in the U.S. Navy from December 1941 through February 1944. He took part in eight major battles during that span -- all in the Pacific Theater -- and earned a chestful of medals as a result.
His role was that of a sight-setter for a gun with a 5-inch barrel on the starboard side of the ship. Cranking a pair of dials, McCollum calculated the distance and speed of enemy aircraft, compensating each time for the wind.
Here, he earned the moniker that would stick with him even after the war.
When a round once failed to discharge, fellow crew members frantically shouted "Clear the deck! Clear the deck!" and braced for the imminent blast.
Not McCollum. Without hesitation, he reached inside the cannon, removed the live shell with his bare hands and tossed it overboard.
The man previously known as A.C. was thereafter Ace, as in the Enterprise's "lucky ace."
"I figure I saved the life of about 30 people then," McCollum said proudly.
* * *
In 1945, the fighting ended, but it wasn't until 2004 that the World War II Memorial opened on the National Mall.
Granite pillars -- representing the states and territories of that era -- now ring a vast circular pool, while two larger arches represent the war's dual theaters. Separately, a wall spangled with more than 4,000 gold stars honors the more than 400,000 Americans who lost their lives.
Fortunately, McCollum was not one of them -- a fact he attributes to luck as much as anything else.
These days, he is no longer the scrappy twentysomething who slugged it out for his country. He is instead a sharp-witted octogenarian, a man blind in one eye who gets around with the help of a cane.
Nevertheless, he walks 15 to 20 blocks a day, easily enough paces to see the memorial from all angles.
Rivera, who set up an account at South Bay Bank in Torrance, hopes to get him there by the middle of November. Having printed up fliers and passed them out to the local Kiwanis Club and to the Chamber of Commerce, he figured last week he had already collected close to $2,000.
Still, he's hoping to receive donations in excess of what it will cost to send McCollum to Washington. Whatever's left over, he said, will be passed on to the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Lomita.
In the meantime, the man they call Ace is getting ready to see the memorial that honors him and so many others who did nothing more than save the free world. And, as a bonus, he's getting a little extra attention back home.
"Here's a man that no one knew about," Rivera said, "and now his neighbors are approaching him and thanking him after so many years."
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Monday, March 26, 2007
SLED DOG!!!
A Message From GB Jones
AAFES Is Home!!!
by staff
My sincere thanks to all those who have expressed their concern for my missing dog Aafes. This dog became detached from the team while negotiating through deep overflow and high winds outside of the Rohn checkpoint on the Alaska Range. Words can not express the happiness of having this dog safely back home!
Aafes was recently recovered from the Rohn cabin area by Manny Wrase and Allen Winkelman who had flown to the search area three times and spent several days looking for Aafes. I give my heartfelt thanks to Manny and Allen for all they did to make this tragic event turn into such a happy ending! I also give my thanks to Robert Donhauser who also flew his private aircraft to the search area on three occasions, looking for our missing teammate.
It is also worth noting that several of the Iditarod Air Force pilots conducted Ariel reconnaissance of the search area looking for Aafes, and I am very appreciative of their efforts as well.
Upon arrival in Anchorage, Aafes was taken to the VCA Bering Sea Animal Hospital and was examined by Dr. Karen A. Medkeff. Aafes was found to be in reasonably good health, and is now living indoors and eating and sleeping a lot! I give my thanks to Dr. Medkeff and to the staff of the Bering Sea Animal Hospital in examining Aafes.
Once again, many thanks to the multitude of good people who gave their prayers, sent messages of support and who contributed to the searching and safe recovery of Aafes.
We sometimes forget the value of life and the love we have for our pets until they are removed from us. In this instance, I am blessed that I have been given a second chance with Aafes.
-GB Jones
AAFES Is Home!!!
by staff
My sincere thanks to all those who have expressed their concern for my missing dog Aafes. This dog became detached from the team while negotiating through deep overflow and high winds outside of the Rohn checkpoint on the Alaska Range. Words can not express the happiness of having this dog safely back home!
Aafes was recently recovered from the Rohn cabin area by Manny Wrase and Allen Winkelman who had flown to the search area three times and spent several days looking for Aafes. I give my heartfelt thanks to Manny and Allen for all they did to make this tragic event turn into such a happy ending! I also give my thanks to Robert Donhauser who also flew his private aircraft to the search area on three occasions, looking for our missing teammate.
It is also worth noting that several of the Iditarod Air Force pilots conducted Ariel reconnaissance of the search area looking for Aafes, and I am very appreciative of their efforts as well.
Upon arrival in Anchorage, Aafes was taken to the VCA Bering Sea Animal Hospital and was examined by Dr. Karen A. Medkeff. Aafes was found to be in reasonably good health, and is now living indoors and eating and sleeping a lot! I give my thanks to Dr. Medkeff and to the staff of the Bering Sea Animal Hospital in examining Aafes.
Once again, many thanks to the multitude of good people who gave their prayers, sent messages of support and who contributed to the searching and safe recovery of Aafes.
We sometimes forget the value of life and the love we have for our pets until they are removed from us. In this instance, I am blessed that I have been given a second chance with Aafes.
-GB Jones
Sunday, March 25, 2007
THANK YOU LORD, IT'S THE WEEKEND!!!
I don't meant the title of my post with any disrespect, I am literally thankful it is the weekend!
I have had an incredibly over the top week, moreso than the usual. Charles has been on Spring Break, he's pretty low maintainance these days but I've had to pick up a friend of his a couple of times and bring him over so they can hang out. I've worked this week, gotten 4 new tires put on my car, after suffering a flat tire, had the exterminator out in between cleaning houses, driven back & forth to Youth Group, groceries, blah, blah, blah.....
Dave was on vacation Friday and is off tomorrow (Monday)too. We've been working in the yard some more and he began staining the deck again yesterday. We've gone to the movies twice, Friday night and yesterday! We're playing catch up since there is finally some good stuff at the show! "The Ultimate Gift" that we saw last weekend is already gone! Those "Fox Faith Films" are around just a week maybe two if you're lucky!
We saw "The Shooter" with Mark Wahlburg. It was very good! It does have violence since he plays an ex-Army Sniper (there are many kill shots to the head in this movie) who is coaxed out of retirement to help them foil a plot to asassinate the President. Not for the younger crowd. Maybe even the older crowd if you don't do these kind of movies!
Last night we went to the Dollar show and saw "Eragon". I've been wanting to see this movie for quite awhile now. I was very entertained, liking it more than Dave did. It's the story (in case you've been living in a cave the last 3 months) of a young man who comes across the last egg of the now legendary Dragons. He is, unbeknownst to him, a Dragon Rider. Of course, the evil King (played by the always entertaining John Malcovich) uses his Wizard, trained in the art of black magic to hunt down the last egg and ultimately the last rider, once the Dragon (named Saphirra) hatches. Jeremy Irons (voice of "Scar" from the Lion King for those more acquainted with Disney movies) is Eragon's Mentor. I think younger kids will like this movie, especially the relationship between Erogan and Saphirra. Watch out for some gross out evil henchman who have maggots writhing on them and the evil Wizard with black, sharp fingernails that are deadly! Look for a sequel!
Today we had church, although Dave decided to wrap up the last of the work on the deck. I will leave shortly to go pick up Charlie from his Youth Leadership Meeting that he had with the Youth Pastor. We talked about also going Bowling later on today if that works out. For dinner tonight, I'm making Jennifer's Chicken Marsala over Wild Rice, Brocolli with Cheese, Garden Salad and Banana Pudding for dessert.
I made Blueberry Muffins for breakfast and I'd better go grab another one since my stomach is growling again!
I have had an incredibly over the top week, moreso than the usual. Charles has been on Spring Break, he's pretty low maintainance these days but I've had to pick up a friend of his a couple of times and bring him over so they can hang out. I've worked this week, gotten 4 new tires put on my car, after suffering a flat tire, had the exterminator out in between cleaning houses, driven back & forth to Youth Group, groceries, blah, blah, blah.....
Dave was on vacation Friday and is off tomorrow (Monday)too. We've been working in the yard some more and he began staining the deck again yesterday. We've gone to the movies twice, Friday night and yesterday! We're playing catch up since there is finally some good stuff at the show! "The Ultimate Gift" that we saw last weekend is already gone! Those "Fox Faith Films" are around just a week maybe two if you're lucky!
We saw "The Shooter" with Mark Wahlburg. It was very good! It does have violence since he plays an ex-Army Sniper (there are many kill shots to the head in this movie) who is coaxed out of retirement to help them foil a plot to asassinate the President. Not for the younger crowd. Maybe even the older crowd if you don't do these kind of movies!
Last night we went to the Dollar show and saw "Eragon". I've been wanting to see this movie for quite awhile now. I was very entertained, liking it more than Dave did. It's the story (in case you've been living in a cave the last 3 months) of a young man who comes across the last egg of the now legendary Dragons. He is, unbeknownst to him, a Dragon Rider. Of course, the evil King (played by the always entertaining John Malcovich) uses his Wizard, trained in the art of black magic to hunt down the last egg and ultimately the last rider, once the Dragon (named Saphirra) hatches. Jeremy Irons (voice of "Scar" from the Lion King for those more acquainted with Disney movies) is Eragon's Mentor. I think younger kids will like this movie, especially the relationship between Erogan and Saphirra. Watch out for some gross out evil henchman who have maggots writhing on them and the evil Wizard with black, sharp fingernails that are deadly! Look for a sequel!
Today we had church, although Dave decided to wrap up the last of the work on the deck. I will leave shortly to go pick up Charlie from his Youth Leadership Meeting that he had with the Youth Pastor. We talked about also going Bowling later on today if that works out. For dinner tonight, I'm making Jennifer's Chicken Marsala over Wild Rice, Brocolli with Cheese, Garden Salad and Banana Pudding for dessert.
I made Blueberry Muffins for breakfast and I'd better go grab another one since my stomach is growling again!
Friday, March 23, 2007
RESURRECTION COOKIES
Easter is almost here, 2 weeks from this Sunday so I decided to repost this entry from last year. Thanks to my friend Alicia who sent it to me the first time!
EASTER STORY COOKIES
(To be made the evening before Easter)
1 Cup Whole Pecans
Wooden Spoon
Zipper Baggies
1 Tsp. Vinegar
3 Egg Whites
Pinch of Salt
1 Cup Sugar
Tape
Bible
Preheat Oven to 300.
Place pecans in Zipper Baggie and let children beat them with the Wooden Spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.
Read John 19:1-3
Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 Tsp. Vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink.
Read John 19:28-30
Add Egg Whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life.
Read John 10:10-11
Sprinkle a little salt into each child’s hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus’ followers and the bitterness of our own sin.
Read Luke 23:27
So far the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 Cup Sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him.
Read Psalms 34:8 and John 3:16
Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity of God’s eyes on those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.
Read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3
Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus’ body was laid.
Read Matthew 27:57-60
Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.
Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus’ tomb was sealed.
Read Matthew 27:65-66
Go To Bed! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus’ followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.
Read John 16:20 and 22
On Easter Morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter, Jesus’ followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.
Read Matthew 28:1-9
EASTER STORY COOKIES
(To be made the evening before Easter)
1 Cup Whole Pecans
Wooden Spoon
Zipper Baggies
1 Tsp. Vinegar
3 Egg Whites
Pinch of Salt
1 Cup Sugar
Tape
Bible
Preheat Oven to 300.
Place pecans in Zipper Baggie and let children beat them with the Wooden Spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.
Read John 19:1-3
Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 Tsp. Vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross, He was given vinegar to drink.
Read John 19:28-30
Add Egg Whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life.
Read John 10:10-11
Sprinkle a little salt into each child’s hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus’ followers and the bitterness of our own sin.
Read Luke 23:27
So far the ingredients are not very appetizing. Add 1 Cup Sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know and belong to Him.
Read Psalms 34:8 and John 3:16
Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity of God’s eyes on those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.
Read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3
Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto wax paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus’ body was laid.
Read Matthew 27:57-60
Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.
Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus’ tomb was sealed.
Read Matthew 27:65-66
Go To Bed! Explain that they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Jesus’ followers were in despair when the tomb was sealed.
Read John 16:20 and 22
On Easter Morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter, Jesus’ followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.
Read Matthew 28:1-9
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
IDITAROD 2007 WINDING DOWN
I am always impressed with the level of commitment that these mushers have for their 4-legged companions. I remember reading the following article almost 2 weeks ago. GB Jones scratched so he could look for his dog that had taken off.
GB Jones Scratches in Rohn
by Staff
IDITAROD XXXV MUSHER GB Jones, (Bib #82) made the decision to scratch at 9:24 this evening, (March 08, 2007) at Rohn Checkpoint in the Alaska Range. Race officials say the Knik Alaska musher took the wrong trail, through Ptarmigan Pass and got lost on his way to Rohn. At some point during Jones' ordeal, one of his dogs, AFEES, slipped out of his harness and ran off. Jones finally made his way to the Rohn Checkpoint, where he and his team waited in hopes the dog would find its way there. Jones scratched so he could continue searching for his dog.
Today came the news that the dog had been found alive and was airlifted out!
AAFES, Missing GB Jones Team Member, Found
AAFES, a dog from the team of G.B. Jones (Bib #82), was found at Rohn Roadhouse late yesterday afternoon. He had been missing for over a week. AAFES slipped from his harness on March 8th after Jones took the wrong trail through Ptarmigan Pass. Jones scratched from
the race on March 8th in order to begin searching for AAFES. Concerned fans will be happy to hear that AAFES was found alive and well and, according to the latest report, is in the process of being airlifted to Anchorage.AAFES, a dog that was in the team of G.B. Jones was found at Rohn Roadhouse late yesterday afternoon. AFEES slipped from her harness on March 8th in Ptarmigan Pass. Jones scratched from the Race on March 9th in order to begin searching for AFEES.
Yesterday Jones posted an email message stating "AAFES has been found alive and is doing well! She was airlifted off the Alaska Range and is currently being flown to Anchorage. The story will be told here within a couple of days. My thanks to everyone for your prayers and concern." G.B. Jones.
Great News!
GB Jones Scratches in Rohn
by Staff
IDITAROD XXXV MUSHER GB Jones, (Bib #82) made the decision to scratch at 9:24 this evening, (March 08, 2007) at Rohn Checkpoint in the Alaska Range. Race officials say the Knik Alaska musher took the wrong trail, through Ptarmigan Pass and got lost on his way to Rohn. At some point during Jones' ordeal, one of his dogs, AFEES, slipped out of his harness and ran off. Jones finally made his way to the Rohn Checkpoint, where he and his team waited in hopes the dog would find its way there. Jones scratched so he could continue searching for his dog.
Today came the news that the dog had been found alive and was airlifted out!
AAFES, Missing GB Jones Team Member, Found
AAFES, a dog from the team of G.B. Jones (Bib #82), was found at Rohn Roadhouse late yesterday afternoon. He had been missing for over a week. AAFES slipped from his harness on March 8th after Jones took the wrong trail through Ptarmigan Pass. Jones scratched from
the race on March 8th in order to begin searching for AAFES. Concerned fans will be happy to hear that AAFES was found alive and well and, according to the latest report, is in the process of being airlifted to Anchorage.AAFES, a dog that was in the team of G.B. Jones was found at Rohn Roadhouse late yesterday afternoon. AFEES slipped from her harness on March 8th in Ptarmigan Pass. Jones scratched from the Race on March 9th in order to begin searching for AFEES.
Yesterday Jones posted an email message stating "AAFES has been found alive and is doing well! She was airlifted off the Alaska Range and is currently being flown to Anchorage. The story will be told here within a couple of days. My thanks to everyone for your prayers and concern." G.B. Jones.
Great News!
Monday, March 19, 2007
Y'all Come Back Now, Ya Hear!
NORTH & SOUTH
The North has Bloomingdale's,
The South has Dollar General
The North has coffee houses,
The South has Waffle Houses.
The North has dating services,
The South has family reunions.
The North has switchblade knives,
The South has Lee Press-on Nails.
The North has double last names,
The South has double first names.
The North has Indy car races,
The South has stock car races.
The North has Cream of Wheat,
The South has grits.
The North has green salads,
The South has collard greens.
The North has lobsters,
The South has crawfish.
The North has the rust belt,
The South has the Bible Belt.
FOR NORTHERNERS MOVING SOUTH . . .
Or Living In The South for Dummies (as I like to call it-Connie)
In the South: --
If you run your car into a ditch, don't panic. Four men in a four-wheel drive pickup truck with a tow chain will be along shortly. Don't try to help them, just stay out of their way. This is what they live for.
Don't be surprised to find movie rentals and bait in the same store....do not buy food at this store.
Remember, "y'all" is singular, "all y'all" is plural, and "all y'all's" is plural possessive. Get used to hearing "You ain't from round here, are ya?"
Save all manner of bacon grease. You will be instructed later on how to use it.
Don't be worried at not understanding what people are saying. They can't understand you either. The first Southern statement to creep into a transplanted Northerner's vocabulary is the adjective "big'ol," truck or big'ol" boy. Most Northerners begin their Southern-influenced dialect this way. All of them are in denial about it.
The proper pronunciation you learned in school is no longer proper.
Be advised that "He needed killin." is a valid defense here
If you hear a Southerner exclaim, "Hey, y'all, watch this," you should stay out of the way. These are likely to be the last words he'll ever say.
If there is the prediction of the slightest chance of even the smallest accumulation of snow, your presence is required at the local grocery store. It doesn't matter whether you need anything or not. You just have to go there.
Do not be surprised to find that 10-year olds own their own shotguns, they are proficient marksmen, and their mammas taught them how to aim.
In the South, we have found that the best way to grow a lush green lawn is to pour gravel on it and call it a driveway.
(Thanks to Miss Brenda, the most Texiest gal I've ever met, for sending me this little gem!)
The North has Bloomingdale's,
The South has Dollar General
The North has coffee houses,
The South has Waffle Houses.
The North has dating services,
The South has family reunions.
The North has switchblade knives,
The South has Lee Press-on Nails.
The North has double last names,
The South has double first names.
The North has Indy car races,
The South has stock car races.
The North has Cream of Wheat,
The South has grits.
The North has green salads,
The South has collard greens.
The North has lobsters,
The South has crawfish.
The North has the rust belt,
The South has the Bible Belt.
FOR NORTHERNERS MOVING SOUTH . . .
Or Living In The South for Dummies (as I like to call it-Connie)
In the South: --
If you run your car into a ditch, don't panic. Four men in a four-wheel drive pickup truck with a tow chain will be along shortly. Don't try to help them, just stay out of their way. This is what they live for.
Don't be surprised to find movie rentals and bait in the same store....do not buy food at this store.
Remember, "y'all" is singular, "all y'all" is plural, and "all y'all's" is plural possessive. Get used to hearing "You ain't from round here, are ya?"
Save all manner of bacon grease. You will be instructed later on how to use it.
Don't be worried at not understanding what people are saying. They can't understand you either. The first Southern statement to creep into a transplanted Northerner's vocabulary is the adjective "big'ol," truck or big'ol" boy. Most Northerners begin their Southern-influenced dialect this way. All of them are in denial about it.
The proper pronunciation you learned in school is no longer proper.
Be advised that "He needed killin." is a valid defense here
If you hear a Southerner exclaim, "Hey, y'all, watch this," you should stay out of the way. These are likely to be the last words he'll ever say.
If there is the prediction of the slightest chance of even the smallest accumulation of snow, your presence is required at the local grocery store. It doesn't matter whether you need anything or not. You just have to go there.
Do not be surprised to find that 10-year olds own their own shotguns, they are proficient marksmen, and their mammas taught them how to aim.
In the South, we have found that the best way to grow a lush green lawn is to pour gravel on it and call it a driveway.
(Thanks to Miss Brenda, the most Texiest gal I've ever met, for sending me this little gem!)
Sunday, March 18, 2007
YESTERDAY!!!
No, this morning I'm not singing a Beatles song in my head. Yesterday was a really full day. It started with Dave & I going to the Cumberland Children's Home for a work day. Our church, Cross Timbers is opening a campus here in Denton!!! For the last 7 years, since the church began really, we've been going to the Argyle, Texas campus. It's here that the "sprung" is, the large bubble like building which can house a huge morning service. Next to the campus is a Christian school where we've held additional services to relieve the pressure off of the sprung. Dave & I typically go the 8:30 service there every Sunday morning. In Winter of 06, the Anchor Church in Keller, joined with our church and we have a Keller Campus now as well. The decision was made to stop renting the gym from the Christian school and launch a campus in Denton.
So, we are renting the gym from the orpanage and planning to have our first service on Easter!!! Dave & our family will start going to the new Denton campus the following Sunday. Jennifer & Corey will be coming for Easter and we will go to the Sprung for services. Needless to say, getting the gym at the orphanage whipped into shape is a HUGE task. I scrubbed bathrooms (what I seem to do best) and helped with painting. Dave was part of the brute workforce that was moving weight equipment and emptying out the various rooms to the storage facility. Then he was painting as well. The orphanage is in the city part of Denton so there's a real mission field here at hand, not to mention ministering to the children!
Once we completed our tasks we headed home and worked in the yard all afternoon. We had bought flowers before going to the orphanage so we could plant once we returned home. Dave weeded out the front yard canoe planter while I cleaned up the back canoe planter. I planted my Caladium bulbs and trimmed back all of the ivy that ha been trampled so badly last Fall when all of the work was being done on the house. Charlie cut the grass and we got the yard looking presentable! I still need to get a couple more plants for one of my flower beds.
After showering, Dave & I decided to grab a bite to eat at Rudy's Texas BBQ and go see a movie. We had really earned it! Charlie is on Spring Break and he pretty much did nothing all day except cut grass, sleep, play video games, watch a hockey game and lay around. Ahh the joys (?) of being 16 and still a kid!
The movie we saw was another "Fox Faith Films" called "The Ultimate Gift". It has James Garner in it as the grandfather. The story is wonderful and I highly recommend it! James Garner's character is very wealthy and when he dies, all of the rich relations are expecting their share of his estate. The grandson is left a video message from the grandfather, a process he has to follow if he thiks he will get anything. The grandson is the typical, rich kid with no purpose in life. The movie chronicles his transformation into a completely different person. It was such a good movie, we are hoping to see it again. These films aren't the big Hollyweird Blockbusters so they don't stick around long!
If you want to see a heartwarming story I suggest you go see this movie!
So, we are renting the gym from the orpanage and planning to have our first service on Easter!!! Dave & our family will start going to the new Denton campus the following Sunday. Jennifer & Corey will be coming for Easter and we will go to the Sprung for services. Needless to say, getting the gym at the orphanage whipped into shape is a HUGE task. I scrubbed bathrooms (what I seem to do best) and helped with painting. Dave was part of the brute workforce that was moving weight equipment and emptying out the various rooms to the storage facility. Then he was painting as well. The orphanage is in the city part of Denton so there's a real mission field here at hand, not to mention ministering to the children!
Once we completed our tasks we headed home and worked in the yard all afternoon. We had bought flowers before going to the orphanage so we could plant once we returned home. Dave weeded out the front yard canoe planter while I cleaned up the back canoe planter. I planted my Caladium bulbs and trimmed back all of the ivy that ha been trampled so badly last Fall when all of the work was being done on the house. Charlie cut the grass and we got the yard looking presentable! I still need to get a couple more plants for one of my flower beds.
After showering, Dave & I decided to grab a bite to eat at Rudy's Texas BBQ and go see a movie. We had really earned it! Charlie is on Spring Break and he pretty much did nothing all day except cut grass, sleep, play video games, watch a hockey game and lay around. Ahh the joys (?) of being 16 and still a kid!
The movie we saw was another "Fox Faith Films" called "The Ultimate Gift". It has James Garner in it as the grandfather. The story is wonderful and I highly recommend it! James Garner's character is very wealthy and when he dies, all of the rich relations are expecting their share of his estate. The grandson is left a video message from the grandfather, a process he has to follow if he thiks he will get anything. The grandson is the typical, rich kid with no purpose in life. The movie chronicles his transformation into a completely different person. It was such a good movie, we are hoping to see it again. These films aren't the big Hollyweird Blockbusters so they don't stick around long!
If you want to see a heartwarming story I suggest you go see this movie!
Saturday, March 17, 2007
DAVID & TEKLA MONSON
March 15, 2007 Honorary 2007 Iditarod musher Susan Butcher's husband David Monson and his daughter Tekla share a moment on a break on their 700 mile mushing trip honoring Susan near the Elim checkpoint. Photo by Jeff Schultz.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
EXCITED!!!
If you look over on my blogroll list, I have added a new link!!! It's for Beth Moore's blogsite that she and her daughter Amanda journal in (Living Proof Ministries). By now most of you now how much I enjoy Beth's teaching and how she is truly annointed by the Holy Spirit. Make sure you check it out and mark it as one of your favorites!
Until later!
Connie
Until later!
Connie
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
MEME
I stole this from Mary over at Bead Fluff!
A. Available or Single?
Whole-heartedly taken! Pun intended! Dave & I have been married over 20 years and every year just gets better & better!
B. Best Friend?
Okay, earthly-wise I'd say my hubby Dave, Brenda back in Missouri, Lois back in Missouri and Lynette here in Texas. They are all different in personality and each one of them holds a special place inside my heart!
C. Cake or Pie?
Birthday cake with lots and lots of rich buttercream frosting! The more my teeth hurt, the better it is!
D. Drink of Choice?
Apricot Iced Tea
E. Essential Item?
BOOKS!!!!!!!
F. Favorite Color?
Earthy greens!
G. Gummy bears or worms?
Hands down, gummi bears. I have a distinct memory of my Omi (German for grandmother) sending "care packages" when I was a young girl that included gummi bears. All of my friends wanted to know what they were because they weren't available here in the States back then. I woud take one or two and place them in a bowl of water just to watch how big they'd swell!
H. Hometown?
St Louis, Missouri! YIPEE! I love Missouri!
I. Indulgence?
Soaking in our bathtub with lots of bubbles. We have a large, round bathtub that our 4 year old grand-daughter likes to go "swimming" in!
J. January or February?
January! That's when my first-born made her appearance into the world!
K. Kids and names?
Jennifer (29), Jessica(24), Laura(19) & Charles(16)
L. Life is incomplete without?
A relationship with Jesus Christ! Everything else is fuzzy, out of tune and without color!
M. Marriage date?
November 8th, 1986
N. Number of siblings?
4 older half-siblings (Gwen, Dennis-deceased, Carl & David) and 5 younger half-siblings (James, Erin, Brad, Daniel & Sara). A stepbrother, (JR who passed away suddenly this past Decemner of '06) and a stepsster (Yvonne who is currently battling colon cancer). Since I'm the only child my mother had, that makes me an only child from a large family!
O. Oranges or apples?
Oranges! The very best I have ever eaten came from Spain and I ate them when visiting my Omi in Germany!
P. Phobias/fears?
I cannot handle the thought of being trapped or drowning. Put me in a sinking car and you have my ultimate nightmare!
Q. Favorite quote?
"Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part!"
R. Reasons to smile?
I am saved and it doesn't get any better than that! I have the love of a Godly man, children that are a blessing, granddaughters that I enjoy, a wonderful church, parents that instilled values and character within me, friends that warm my soul, most of my health so that I can enjoy God's creation and revel in it!
T. Tag 3 people--
Hmmm... have to come back to that one.
U. Unknown facts about me?
I have been to Graceland while Elvis was still alive! My father met him when they were both stationed in Germany with the Army in the late 1950's. My mom knew him also because he would come into the store where she worked and she would wait on him. She has an autographed picture of him to this day. We have family that lives in West Memphis and so once while we were in town, we went over for a visit!
V. Vegetable I hate?
Rutabagas and "greens" cooked up into some kind of a slimy mess. Blech!
W. Worst habit?
Not spending nearly enough time in prayer and the Word! Trips me up every the time!
X. X-rays you've had?
I had lots of kidney infections as a child so I probably had to have some sort of x-ray with that. I broke my left wrist in 4th Grade falling head first off the slide at the playground onto asphalt (no mulch like there is today!) MRI's and Cat scans related to my ITP and possible bleeding in my brain. My spleen from where it was removed 2 years ago, also ITP related.
Y. Your favorite foods.
German, Mexican & Seafood.
Z. Zodiac?
The only sign I believe in is the sign of the cross!
A. Available or Single?
Whole-heartedly taken! Pun intended! Dave & I have been married over 20 years and every year just gets better & better!
B. Best Friend?
Okay, earthly-wise I'd say my hubby Dave, Brenda back in Missouri, Lois back in Missouri and Lynette here in Texas. They are all different in personality and each one of them holds a special place inside my heart!
C. Cake or Pie?
Birthday cake with lots and lots of rich buttercream frosting! The more my teeth hurt, the better it is!
D. Drink of Choice?
Apricot Iced Tea
E. Essential Item?
BOOKS!!!!!!!
F. Favorite Color?
Earthy greens!
G. Gummy bears or worms?
Hands down, gummi bears. I have a distinct memory of my Omi (German for grandmother) sending "care packages" when I was a young girl that included gummi bears. All of my friends wanted to know what they were because they weren't available here in the States back then. I woud take one or two and place them in a bowl of water just to watch how big they'd swell!
H. Hometown?
St Louis, Missouri! YIPEE! I love Missouri!
I. Indulgence?
Soaking in our bathtub with lots of bubbles. We have a large, round bathtub that our 4 year old grand-daughter likes to go "swimming" in!
J. January or February?
January! That's when my first-born made her appearance into the world!
K. Kids and names?
Jennifer (29), Jessica(24), Laura(19) & Charles(16)
L. Life is incomplete without?
A relationship with Jesus Christ! Everything else is fuzzy, out of tune and without color!
M. Marriage date?
November 8th, 1986
N. Number of siblings?
4 older half-siblings (Gwen, Dennis-deceased, Carl & David) and 5 younger half-siblings (James, Erin, Brad, Daniel & Sara). A stepbrother, (JR who passed away suddenly this past Decemner of '06) and a stepsster (Yvonne who is currently battling colon cancer). Since I'm the only child my mother had, that makes me an only child from a large family!
O. Oranges or apples?
Oranges! The very best I have ever eaten came from Spain and I ate them when visiting my Omi in Germany!
P. Phobias/fears?
I cannot handle the thought of being trapped or drowning. Put me in a sinking car and you have my ultimate nightmare!
Q. Favorite quote?
"Poor planning on your part does not constitute an emergency on my part!"
R. Reasons to smile?
I am saved and it doesn't get any better than that! I have the love of a Godly man, children that are a blessing, granddaughters that I enjoy, a wonderful church, parents that instilled values and character within me, friends that warm my soul, most of my health so that I can enjoy God's creation and revel in it!
T. Tag 3 people--
Hmmm... have to come back to that one.
U. Unknown facts about me?
I have been to Graceland while Elvis was still alive! My father met him when they were both stationed in Germany with the Army in the late 1950's. My mom knew him also because he would come into the store where she worked and she would wait on him. She has an autographed picture of him to this day. We have family that lives in West Memphis and so once while we were in town, we went over for a visit!
V. Vegetable I hate?
Rutabagas and "greens" cooked up into some kind of a slimy mess. Blech!
W. Worst habit?
Not spending nearly enough time in prayer and the Word! Trips me up every the time!
X. X-rays you've had?
I had lots of kidney infections as a child so I probably had to have some sort of x-ray with that. I broke my left wrist in 4th Grade falling head first off the slide at the playground onto asphalt (no mulch like there is today!) MRI's and Cat scans related to my ITP and possible bleeding in my brain. My spleen from where it was removed 2 years ago, also ITP related.
Y. Your favorite foods.
German, Mexican & Seafood.
Z. Zodiac?
The only sign I believe in is the sign of the cross!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
BUTCHER'S ASHES SCATTERED ON IDITAROD TRAIL
Butcher's Ashes Scattered on Iditarod Trail
Four-Time Champ Died of Leukemia in August
By MARY PEMBERTON
AP Sports
UNALAKLEET, Alaska (March 11) - While two four-time champions were among those fighting for the lead Sunday in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, a fourth champion was making a last stop at her favorite spot on the trail.
Dave Monson, husband of four-time champion Susan Butcher who died last August of leukemia, said some of his wife's ashes would be scattered Sunday afternoon at a place called "Old Woman," between Kaltag and Unalakleet on the Iditarod trail.
Monson is traveling by dog team 700 miles from Manley, where he and Susan homesteaded, to the end of the trail in Nome. He said he feels like Susan is going to Nome one more time.
Tekla, their 11-year-old daughter who not only looks like her mother but has some of her same spirit, is driving her own team of eight dogs.
Tekla is driving a team of her mother's favorites and wearing the red suit that her mother wore. Monson is wearing a blue wind breaker that belonged to Susan that has an Iditarod patch.
"She said that was her favorite place on the trail," Tekla said of the stop at the base of Old Woman Mountain.
Susan Butcher was made the honorary musher at the ceremonial start of this year's race from downtown Anchorage on March 3. The honorary musher is the first musher out of the chute. Tekla drove the first sled out of the chute. Her younger sister, Chisana, rode along.
Monson said he hopes that race officials will allow his daughter to drive the sled across the finish line and under the burled arch in Nome.
"What would be pretty cool is if she can mush up Front Street and under the arch," he said.
Monson said he expects to arrive in Nome with his daughter on Friday or Saturday, several days after the race leader.
Butcher dominated the 1,100-mile sled dog race in the 1980s, winning in 1986, 1987, 1988 and 1990.
"She always loved it," Monson said of the stop at Old Woman. "People always get a spiritual feeling going through there, a little shiver like someone is watching you."
This way when the Iditarod mushers go through there, a little bit of Susan will be there to make sure they are "doing it right," he said.
Monson said Tekla, who was introduced to dog mushing when she was 4 years old, has been handling the trail remarkably well. She even camped out in a tent in 50-degree below zero temperatures.
"She never complained once and is taking good care of her dogs," Monson said. "What I've seen improving every day is that Tekla is becoming more self-assured."
Tekla had a bit of trouble on the trail - like most Iditarod mushers do eventually - when her sled went one way and she went the other. She was dragged down a hill before losing hold of her team.
The team, like sled dogs are inclined to do, took off.
"They could have disappeared into the sunset," Monson said.
But they didn't. The dogs were about a half mile away when the lead dog looked back and noticed Tekla was not on the sled. The dog stopped the team and slowly brought it around.
"They ran right back into Tekla, right into her arms," Monson said.
Tekla - showing some of her mother's toughness - said it didn't have to do with love.
"I'm the food provider," she said.
Tekla said she might one day race in the Iditarod.
"I don't know, mushing seems really easy for me," she said.
Four-Time Champ Died of Leukemia in August
By MARY PEMBERTON
AP Sports
UNALAKLEET, Alaska (March 11) - While two four-time champions were among those fighting for the lead Sunday in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, a fourth champion was making a last stop at her favorite spot on the trail.
Dave Monson, husband of four-time champion Susan Butcher who died last August of leukemia, said some of his wife's ashes would be scattered Sunday afternoon at a place called "Old Woman," between Kaltag and Unalakleet on the Iditarod trail.
Monson is traveling by dog team 700 miles from Manley, where he and Susan homesteaded, to the end of the trail in Nome. He said he feels like Susan is going to Nome one more time.
Tekla, their 11-year-old daughter who not only looks like her mother but has some of her same spirit, is driving her own team of eight dogs.
Tekla is driving a team of her mother's favorites and wearing the red suit that her mother wore. Monson is wearing a blue wind breaker that belonged to Susan that has an Iditarod patch.
"She said that was her favorite place on the trail," Tekla said of the stop at the base of Old Woman Mountain.
Susan Butcher was made the honorary musher at the ceremonial start of this year's race from downtown Anchorage on March 3. The honorary musher is the first musher out of the chute. Tekla drove the first sled out of the chute. Her younger sister, Chisana, rode along.
Monson said he hopes that race officials will allow his daughter to drive the sled across the finish line and under the burled arch in Nome.
"What would be pretty cool is if she can mush up Front Street and under the arch," he said.
Monson said he expects to arrive in Nome with his daughter on Friday or Saturday, several days after the race leader.
Butcher dominated the 1,100-mile sled dog race in the 1980s, winning in 1986, 1987, 1988 and 1990.
"She always loved it," Monson said of the stop at Old Woman. "People always get a spiritual feeling going through there, a little shiver like someone is watching you."
This way when the Iditarod mushers go through there, a little bit of Susan will be there to make sure they are "doing it right," he said.
Monson said Tekla, who was introduced to dog mushing when she was 4 years old, has been handling the trail remarkably well. She even camped out in a tent in 50-degree below zero temperatures.
"She never complained once and is taking good care of her dogs," Monson said. "What I've seen improving every day is that Tekla is becoming more self-assured."
Tekla had a bit of trouble on the trail - like most Iditarod mushers do eventually - when her sled went one way and she went the other. She was dragged down a hill before losing hold of her team.
The team, like sled dogs are inclined to do, took off.
"They could have disappeared into the sunset," Monson said.
But they didn't. The dogs were about a half mile away when the lead dog looked back and noticed Tekla was not on the sled. The dog stopped the team and slowly brought it around.
"They ran right back into Tekla, right into her arms," Monson said.
Tekla - showing some of her mother's toughness - said it didn't have to do with love.
"I'm the food provider," she said.
Tekla said she might one day race in the Iditarod.
"I don't know, mushing seems really easy for me," she said.
Monday, March 12, 2007
SPRINGTIME IN TEXAS!!!
The Bradford Pear tree across the street is in full bloom and in all it's glory! I'm reminded how Jesus said on the Mount when he gave His sermon, that
"Solomon in all of his splendour wasn't clothed as elegantly as these",
referring to the flowers of God's creation. I would have to repond with AMEN!
JEFF'S FINAL POST ABOUT LAURA
Thanks to Jennifer for forwarding me this e-mail from Jeff Laughlin. He is her classmate from High school whose wife suffered a traumatic bain injury in a terrible car accident. His faith in God continues to humble me.
Connie
Laura fought long and hard for more than 19 months, with the support
and encouragement of thousands, all while showing us what is truly
important in life. In the end, her brain function could no longer
support the autonomic systems required to sustain life (unfortunately,
an all too common problem among victims of severe traumatic brain
injury). She was laid to rest and lifted up to heaven on February
20th, 2007. Brain injury had won the battle, or had it?
In life, Laura never gave up and now is not the time to quit. We all
courageously lifted each other up, building and equipping ourselves to
new levels, all while waiting for Laura to be completely healed. Hard
to believe this time is now here. Laura is not only healed, but
forever our guardian angel. We have learned so much in facing this
struggle. Now, we have a duty to use our new capabilities, because
many are and will be in need of help.
Recently, a survey was sent out to gather preliminary research and
potential interest in creating a foundation. While never seeing the
surveys, I was told that over 500 were submitted in less than a weeks
time. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and supportive. Why
should we be surpised? You have been so good to us for so long, it
really can't be a surprise anymore.
Having said this, it is with great joy to announce that Laura's family
has collectively decided to establish, The Laura K. Laughlin L6 Brain
Injury Foundation, with 501c3 status pending IRS approval. Our vision
is simple and highly challenging, to become the nationwide leader in
the battle against Traumatic Brain Injury. Core to our work at hand is
our mission; to foster education, increase prevention awareness,
advance patient care, and fund research to find cures in the field of
traumatic brain injury.
Our foundation may appear to resemble others, but we plan on being
different. We will bring 21st century technology to our fundraising
strategy, but in a hip way. We will function professionally, but never
forget to have fun in the process. We will educate in a serious manner
about a serious dilemma, but with a smile on our face. Progress will
be made. We will create change.
Very soon, the foundation website will be live and ready for viewing
at www.lauralaughlinL6.org (naming rights are already purchased). We
are taking the time to make this a creative, yet professional site.
When launched, it will give you a much better summary of the
foundation than I possibly could give in a correspondence such as
this.
We already have an email address for the foundation
(L6foundation@gmail.com). Feel free to contact us with suggestions or
your desire to get involved.
There is an L6 foundation myspace page already created online at
www.myspace.com/L6foundation. Please, join as a friend to the
foundation and encourage your friends to do the same. Spread the word!
It will be a supplement to the website for keeping people posted on
events and overall foundation happenings.
We are choosing to use Laura's life for service for one simple reason,
she wants it that way. Many have already been touched, yet many more
need our help. Let's be the ones to proactively change lives. What
could possibly go wrong? We have our very own angel manning the ship!
This foundation is yours. It doesn't belong to the founders, to family
and friends, or even to Laura. It belongs to each and every one who
desires to be of service to our community through the gift of time,
talents, or resources. We would love to utilize your passion and
creativity in reaching out to others. Don't be afraid to step out of
any comfort zones. Please, contact us if you desire to be of service
in any way.
In a way this letter is like our story. It's good, yet bad; happy, yet
sad; bitter, yet oh so sweet. As one door closes, it really isn't the
end. It's just an opportunity for another door to open and for
something else to begin. This letter does signify the end of the Laura
Laughlin google group. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking of the
road we have traveled together and what we've all been through. Yet,
this letter leaves the past as the past and provides a new
opportunity.
If you want to be a part of this foundation and this new opportunity,
the most important action you can take is to join our new group set up
specifically for the foundation. If one things stirs you to action, it
should be this paragraph. The new group will have the title, The Laura
K. Laughlin L6 Brain Injury Foundation. It will be used to keep
everyone informed of upcoming events, provide periodic e-newsletters,
and discuss current foundation happenings. It will be your best
resource to become and stay involved. Make sure your email of choice
makes it onto this list. Three ways to achieve this: do a google group
search and type in the name of our group, or copy and paste this
hyperlink (http://groups.google.com/group/l6foundation?lnk=srg&hl=en)
into your browser, or if you have problems with these other two
methods, please email us at L6foundation@gmail.com with the email
addresses(s) you wish to be added. We can add you to the group in a
matter of seconds. Don't miss out!
In closing, this foundation will represent Laura's strength, our
family's devotion, our friends' loyalty, our community's needs, and
God's love. The miracle of Laura Laughlin is real! It lies within all
of us, now responsible for carrying the torch. We welcome you to be a
part of this mission and come along for the ride. Will you join
Laura's team?
Thanks in advance for your support and interest
* Mark your calendars. For planning and temperature reasons, the 5K
Run/Walk in Chesterfield Valley has been moved. It will take place on
Saturday, August 25th, 2007. Stay tuned!
Signing off with all our love and gratitude,
Jeff and Laura Laughlin
"And now, isn't it wonderful all the ways in which this distress has
goaded you closer to God? You're more alive, more concerned, more
sensitive, more reverent, more human, more passionate, more
responsible. Looked at from any angle, you've come out of this with
purity of heart." (2 Corinthians 7:11)
Connie
Laura fought long and hard for more than 19 months, with the support
and encouragement of thousands, all while showing us what is truly
important in life. In the end, her brain function could no longer
support the autonomic systems required to sustain life (unfortunately,
an all too common problem among victims of severe traumatic brain
injury). She was laid to rest and lifted up to heaven on February
20th, 2007. Brain injury had won the battle, or had it?
In life, Laura never gave up and now is not the time to quit. We all
courageously lifted each other up, building and equipping ourselves to
new levels, all while waiting for Laura to be completely healed. Hard
to believe this time is now here. Laura is not only healed, but
forever our guardian angel. We have learned so much in facing this
struggle. Now, we have a duty to use our new capabilities, because
many are and will be in need of help.
Recently, a survey was sent out to gather preliminary research and
potential interest in creating a foundation. While never seeing the
surveys, I was told that over 500 were submitted in less than a weeks
time. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and supportive. Why
should we be surpised? You have been so good to us for so long, it
really can't be a surprise anymore.
Having said this, it is with great joy to announce that Laura's family
has collectively decided to establish, The Laura K. Laughlin L6 Brain
Injury Foundation, with 501c3 status pending IRS approval. Our vision
is simple and highly challenging, to become the nationwide leader in
the battle against Traumatic Brain Injury. Core to our work at hand is
our mission; to foster education, increase prevention awareness,
advance patient care, and fund research to find cures in the field of
traumatic brain injury.
Our foundation may appear to resemble others, but we plan on being
different. We will bring 21st century technology to our fundraising
strategy, but in a hip way. We will function professionally, but never
forget to have fun in the process. We will educate in a serious manner
about a serious dilemma, but with a smile on our face. Progress will
be made. We will create change.
Very soon, the foundation website will be live and ready for viewing
at www.lauralaughlinL6.org (naming rights are already purchased). We
are taking the time to make this a creative, yet professional site.
When launched, it will give you a much better summary of the
foundation than I possibly could give in a correspondence such as
this.
We already have an email address for the foundation
(L6foundation@gmail.com). Feel free to contact us with suggestions or
your desire to get involved.
There is an L6 foundation myspace page already created online at
www.myspace.com/L6foundation. Please, join as a friend to the
foundation and encourage your friends to do the same. Spread the word!
It will be a supplement to the website for keeping people posted on
events and overall foundation happenings.
We are choosing to use Laura's life for service for one simple reason,
she wants it that way. Many have already been touched, yet many more
need our help. Let's be the ones to proactively change lives. What
could possibly go wrong? We have our very own angel manning the ship!
This foundation is yours. It doesn't belong to the founders, to family
and friends, or even to Laura. It belongs to each and every one who
desires to be of service to our community through the gift of time,
talents, or resources. We would love to utilize your passion and
creativity in reaching out to others. Don't be afraid to step out of
any comfort zones. Please, contact us if you desire to be of service
in any way.
In a way this letter is like our story. It's good, yet bad; happy, yet
sad; bitter, yet oh so sweet. As one door closes, it really isn't the
end. It's just an opportunity for another door to open and for
something else to begin. This letter does signify the end of the Laura
Laughlin google group. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking of the
road we have traveled together and what we've all been through. Yet,
this letter leaves the past as the past and provides a new
opportunity.
If you want to be a part of this foundation and this new opportunity,
the most important action you can take is to join our new group set up
specifically for the foundation. If one things stirs you to action, it
should be this paragraph. The new group will have the title, The Laura
K. Laughlin L6 Brain Injury Foundation. It will be used to keep
everyone informed of upcoming events, provide periodic e-newsletters,
and discuss current foundation happenings. It will be your best
resource to become and stay involved. Make sure your email of choice
makes it onto this list. Three ways to achieve this: do a google group
search and type in the name of our group, or copy and paste this
hyperlink (http://groups.google.com/group/l6foundation?lnk=srg&hl=en)
into your browser, or if you have problems with these other two
methods, please email us at L6foundation@gmail.com with the email
addresses(s) you wish to be added. We can add you to the group in a
matter of seconds. Don't miss out!
In closing, this foundation will represent Laura's strength, our
family's devotion, our friends' loyalty, our community's needs, and
God's love. The miracle of Laura Laughlin is real! It lies within all
of us, now responsible for carrying the torch. We welcome you to be a
part of this mission and come along for the ride. Will you join
Laura's team?
Thanks in advance for your support and interest
* Mark your calendars. For planning and temperature reasons, the 5K
Run/Walk in Chesterfield Valley has been moved. It will take place on
Saturday, August 25th, 2007. Stay tuned!
Signing off with all our love and gratitude,
Jeff and Laura Laughlin
"And now, isn't it wonderful all the ways in which this distress has
goaded you closer to God? You're more alive, more concerned, more
sensitive, more reverent, more human, more passionate, more
responsible. Looked at from any angle, you've come out of this with
purity of heart." (2 Corinthians 7:11)
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
DRAGGIN' MY TAIL
This has been one of those weeks so far, where I am really dragging. Dave left on Sunday and went to Atlanta and will be home tonight. I originally was going to do some little projects around the house, touch up painting, painting a wall in the den another color, cleaning out the utility romm, etc. Instead, I have done next to nothing! I am tired, tired, tired this week! I'm actually wondering if there could be a corollation with my diet? I might have to keep a journal and see if a pattern develops.
I am in need of a vacation! Luckily I have a week of hiking with Dave in Yosemite coming up next month! We head out April 21st and come home the 28th. I realized last week, that as of this Fall, I will have been in the house-cleaning business 10 years! WOW! It's been a great part-time job for me, has given me lots of flexibility and has helped out with extra vacations and 2 weddings. It's a physically demanding job though and maybe it's catching up with me. That would explain my dragging tail too. I find that when I have a day off, I'm running errands and doing all of the necessary stuff we wives and moms do to keep our families going. On Saturdays I'm doing laundry and cleaning house. Sunday is church of course and I try and make a nicer meal than normal. Of course anymore, the 4 of us are seldom together for a nice meal. Maybe that's why I just want to do do nothing when a little free time opens up; I'm just plain tired! I've not been sleeping well the past 2 weeks either. I think I need to go to a chiropractor because my neck and the area right between my shoulder blades is really stiff. Now that I think of it, maybe I'm not just tired, maybe, I'm worn out! I've worn out all of my original equipment! Ha Ha!
Actually, I have decided now that the weather is nicer I'm going to start doing some conditioning to prepare myself for vacation next month. I need to get these legs and lungs ready for some dayhikes. This summer, for the first time ever, we have a 3 week family vacation planned. We are stopping at Yellowstone in Wyoming before heading up to Glacier National Park in Montana. After a few days there, we head up to Banpf and Jasper up in Alberta, Canada! Charlie is going to hike with his Daddy and his Uncle Perry on one of their backpackiing trips. If I could survive it, I'd go too. I'm too overweight though to try and do a punishing backcountry hike carrying the extra weight necessary for a trip like that! They'd have to leave me on the side of the trail, lying there like some squashed slug!
Well, I need another cup of coffe this morning so maybe I can jumpstart this tired, worn-out, draggy self. Heck, I might need to make another pot! Ha Ha! Have a great day today!
UPDATE!!!!
As of 3:08 Alaska Standard Time, Connie Marie's favorite musher, Martin Buser is in 1st place!!! I'll bet she's doing the happy dance!!!
I am in need of a vacation! Luckily I have a week of hiking with Dave in Yosemite coming up next month! We head out April 21st and come home the 28th. I realized last week, that as of this Fall, I will have been in the house-cleaning business 10 years! WOW! It's been a great part-time job for me, has given me lots of flexibility and has helped out with extra vacations and 2 weddings. It's a physically demanding job though and maybe it's catching up with me. That would explain my dragging tail too. I find that when I have a day off, I'm running errands and doing all of the necessary stuff we wives and moms do to keep our families going. On Saturdays I'm doing laundry and cleaning house. Sunday is church of course and I try and make a nicer meal than normal. Of course anymore, the 4 of us are seldom together for a nice meal. Maybe that's why I just want to do do nothing when a little free time opens up; I'm just plain tired! I've not been sleeping well the past 2 weeks either. I think I need to go to a chiropractor because my neck and the area right between my shoulder blades is really stiff. Now that I think of it, maybe I'm not just tired, maybe, I'm worn out! I've worn out all of my original equipment! Ha Ha!
Actually, I have decided now that the weather is nicer I'm going to start doing some conditioning to prepare myself for vacation next month. I need to get these legs and lungs ready for some dayhikes. This summer, for the first time ever, we have a 3 week family vacation planned. We are stopping at Yellowstone in Wyoming before heading up to Glacier National Park in Montana. After a few days there, we head up to Banpf and Jasper up in Alberta, Canada! Charlie is going to hike with his Daddy and his Uncle Perry on one of their backpackiing trips. If I could survive it, I'd go too. I'm too overweight though to try and do a punishing backcountry hike carrying the extra weight necessary for a trip like that! They'd have to leave me on the side of the trail, lying there like some squashed slug!
Well, I need another cup of coffe this morning so maybe I can jumpstart this tired, worn-out, draggy self. Heck, I might need to make another pot! Ha Ha! Have a great day today!
UPDATE!!!!
As of 3:08 Alaska Standard Time, Connie Marie's favorite musher, Martin Buser is in 1st place!!! I'll bet she's doing the happy dance!!!
Monday, March 05, 2007
MOVIE REVIEW!!!
Saturday night, Dave & went to Texas Road House for dinner and then off to the movies. We saw a really nice, feel good, family friendly movie called, "The Astronaut Farmer".
Now my first thoughts were, "Ugh, Billy Bob Thornton". Need I say more? Well, obviously I have forgotten what a really good actor he is and how many really good movies he's been in! "A Simple Plan", "The Alamo" (remake). "Sling Blade", "Friday Night Lights" and "TOMBSTONE" (one of my top 5 movies of all time!) I think the negative hype he's received, deserved or not, has kind of overshadowed him as an actor and writer.
In this movie, he plays, Charlie Farmer a married rancher with 3 children trying to keep alive his dream of going into space. He was in the program many years earlier until a family crisis made him withdraw and come back home to Texas. He's been building a rocket ship in his barn with the love and support of his wife and children. His kids idolize him and he has done a remarkable job of instilling in their kids the belief they can accomplish their dreams. They are a close-knit and loving family. Their 15 year old son Shepherd, has probably gotten a better engineering education from his relationship with his father than many college graduates! When it was all said and done, Dave & I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, gave it a solid 4 out of 5 stars and will buy it when it's released to DVD.
Dave & I are pretty selective about what we go see at the movies. I can't remember the last movie that WE chose that we didn't like. (The last horrific movie I paid good money to go see was with a group of us at Christmastime a few years ago. The movie was "Love Actually" and I really wanted to walk out of it!) We tend to wait and see what "normal" movie goers rate the movies in the Dallas Morning News. The critics are too off base when it comes to their recommendations. "The Astronaut Farmer" was just released this weekend so in a sense it was a gamble. It looked like something we would enjoy though from the previews.
Now my first thoughts were, "Ugh, Billy Bob Thornton". Need I say more? Well, obviously I have forgotten what a really good actor he is and how many really good movies he's been in! "A Simple Plan", "The Alamo" (remake). "Sling Blade", "Friday Night Lights" and "TOMBSTONE" (one of my top 5 movies of all time!) I think the negative hype he's received, deserved or not, has kind of overshadowed him as an actor and writer.
In this movie, he plays, Charlie Farmer a married rancher with 3 children trying to keep alive his dream of going into space. He was in the program many years earlier until a family crisis made him withdraw and come back home to Texas. He's been building a rocket ship in his barn with the love and support of his wife and children. His kids idolize him and he has done a remarkable job of instilling in their kids the belief they can accomplish their dreams. They are a close-knit and loving family. Their 15 year old son Shepherd, has probably gotten a better engineering education from his relationship with his father than many college graduates! When it was all said and done, Dave & I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, gave it a solid 4 out of 5 stars and will buy it when it's released to DVD.
Dave & I are pretty selective about what we go see at the movies. I can't remember the last movie that WE chose that we didn't like. (The last horrific movie I paid good money to go see was with a group of us at Christmastime a few years ago. The movie was "Love Actually" and I really wanted to walk out of it!) We tend to wait and see what "normal" movie goers rate the movies in the Dallas Morning News. The critics are too off base when it comes to their recommendations. "The Astronaut Farmer" was just released this weekend so in a sense it was a gamble. It looked like something we would enjoy though from the previews.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
THE IDITAROD BEGINS!!!
March 3, 2007 In honor of the late 4-time Iditarod champion, Susan Butcher, her husband David Monson and their daughters Tekla and Chisana take a team down 4th avenue during the Iditarod ceremonial start day in Anchorage.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
SUSAN BUTCHER, HONORARY MUSHER
In an article I read from Cabela's website, Susan Butcher has been given the #1 ranking as Honorary Musher in this year's Iditarod 2007. The way the article reads it sounds as if they are leaving some of her ashes at one of the checkpoints (Old Woman cabin, about two-thirds of the way from Kaltag to Unalakleet) along the Iditarod Trail.
"From now on, Monson (Susan's husband) said, if mushers shiver and feel an odd presence as they pass by, it's Susan checking out their dog teams and wishing them good luck."
Friday, March 02, 2007
THE LAST GREAT RACE!!!
I may be a mid-western born (not bred, that happened over in Germany) transplant living in Texas but I love to tune in to the yearly event known as "The Last Great Race". Iditarod 2007 starts tomorrow! I first took an interest in the Iditarod, while we were living in Lincoln, Nebraska from 1986-1990. It was during those years that the great Susan Butcher was the champion of the 1049 mile race through some of the roughest terrain on earth. I have a lot of respect for these ahletes, two & four legged alike! Last year I followed Rachael Scdoris the legally blind musher who along with her trail interpreter, finished 56th & 57th! My blogger friend that lives up in Alaska (Connie Marie) introduced me to her favorite, 4 time Iditarod winner Martin Buser. He seems like a really nice guy. He and his wife have 2 sons- their youngest just won the Jr Iditarod! He is running again this year as is last years champ, Jeff King. Sadly, last August, Susan Butcher lost her battle with cancer. I hope that there is a recognition and remembrance for this incredibly strong woman. It's because of her contribution to this sport that I began to follow these races.
Here's some history on the race that I got from the Cabela's website. They are the official sponsors of the race-and one of our favorite stores! I was just there this past Monday night.
"Over the years, thousands of excited sled dogs have lined up in downtown Anchorage, eager to begin a marathon journey to Nome, some 1,100 miles away.
The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, an Alaskan tradition built over the past 30 years, remains one of the most unique and arduous athletic tests of our time.
Dubbed "The Last Great Race On Earth," the Iditarod pits men and dogs against raging blizzards, bitter arctic cold and rugged mountain terrain as they wind their way north along frozen rivers and historic trails. Their reward? Spectacular wilderness scenery; vast stillness punctuated only by the panting of dogs and the swish of sled runners on the snow; a special camaraderie with fellow racers and, maybe, a finish in the money.
But, most importantly, mushers develop a special bond with their traveling companions - the dogs. These are the real athletes. Lean and fast, they love to run. Anyone who has ever witnessed the start of the Iditarod has seen these well-trained dogs, anxious and eager to begin their northern quest.
The Iditarod was inspired by a monumental and historic event – a dog-sled relay of life-saving serum from Anchorage to Nome in 1925. That January, in the middle of a frigid winter, deadly diphtheria broke out in Nome, remotely located along the Bering Sea. Between the stricken town and the nearest serum in Anchorage was nearly 1,000 miles of Alaskan wilderness.
The Alaska Railroad ferried the medicine 250 miles north to Nenana. From there, 20 volunteer dog-sled drivers relayed the serum non-stop the remaining 674 miles. When the first musher left Nenana, the temperature hovered at 50 below zero. According to legend, the serum was nearly lost when a huge gust of wind toppled the sled of the final musher. The musher frantically dug the serum out of the snow with his bare hands, righted his sled and continued on.
Through the efforts of those heroic mushers, the serum arrived in Nome five days and seven hours after leaving Nenana. The town was saved.
Today, Iditarod mushers brave much of the same wild Alaskan trail as those early heroes. Lives of Nome residents no longer hang in the balance, but the journey remains just as challenging. And challenges that require the most effort are also the most rewarding."
Here's some history on the race that I got from the Cabela's website. They are the official sponsors of the race-and one of our favorite stores! I was just there this past Monday night.
"Over the years, thousands of excited sled dogs have lined up in downtown Anchorage, eager to begin a marathon journey to Nome, some 1,100 miles away.
The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, an Alaskan tradition built over the past 30 years, remains one of the most unique and arduous athletic tests of our time.
Dubbed "The Last Great Race On Earth," the Iditarod pits men and dogs against raging blizzards, bitter arctic cold and rugged mountain terrain as they wind their way north along frozen rivers and historic trails. Their reward? Spectacular wilderness scenery; vast stillness punctuated only by the panting of dogs and the swish of sled runners on the snow; a special camaraderie with fellow racers and, maybe, a finish in the money.
But, most importantly, mushers develop a special bond with their traveling companions - the dogs. These are the real athletes. Lean and fast, they love to run. Anyone who has ever witnessed the start of the Iditarod has seen these well-trained dogs, anxious and eager to begin their northern quest.
The Iditarod was inspired by a monumental and historic event – a dog-sled relay of life-saving serum from Anchorage to Nome in 1925. That January, in the middle of a frigid winter, deadly diphtheria broke out in Nome, remotely located along the Bering Sea. Between the stricken town and the nearest serum in Anchorage was nearly 1,000 miles of Alaskan wilderness.
The Alaska Railroad ferried the medicine 250 miles north to Nenana. From there, 20 volunteer dog-sled drivers relayed the serum non-stop the remaining 674 miles. When the first musher left Nenana, the temperature hovered at 50 below zero. According to legend, the serum was nearly lost when a huge gust of wind toppled the sled of the final musher. The musher frantically dug the serum out of the snow with his bare hands, righted his sled and continued on.
Through the efforts of those heroic mushers, the serum arrived in Nome five days and seven hours after leaving Nenana. The town was saved.
Today, Iditarod mushers brave much of the same wild Alaskan trail as those early heroes. Lives of Nome residents no longer hang in the balance, but the journey remains just as challenging. And challenges that require the most effort are also the most rewarding."
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