Happy Birthday Michelle

I believe Michelle was 21 in this picture above

Now, how old are you??

Sorry Michelle, just couldn't resist putting that picture on. You haven't changed a bit. I hope you have a wonderful birthday. I wish good health, lots of laughter and a ton of love in the coming year. I love you!

My Favorite Christmas '09 Pic

No words necessary

Christmas 2009

Christmas, what a wonderful time to share with family. I always say that "this" Christmas was the best ever. I was a loose ends this year, running and running up until the very last moment. I am usually better organized, but this year I needed two of me. Not sure why, but it turned out wonderful, and lunch was pretty good, even if I did cook it.

I look at pictures of past Christmases, and can't believe how quickly the grandchildren have grown up. They are just about the best four kids, oops I mean, 3 young ladies and one very handsome young man, on earth. I don't even know how to count my blessings anymore. They are abundant in so many many ways. I want to thank the handsome men in my life for giving me wonderful daughters, and beautiful grandchildren. In spite of the empty chair at our table, I know he was watching and laughing right along with us. I wish for good health for all of us and those that we love. 2010 will bring more joys and laughter to our souls and hearts. Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year everyone.

Happy Birthday Danelle

Happy Birthday Danelle

My wish this year is that you

are blessed with good health,

happy times,

a love filled life.

God Bless You Sweetie

I love you!

My Quest For Justice

You have heard the song; "Climb Every Mountain, ford every stream.......". I must confess that that is what I felt like from April until August of this year. I wrote a piece in April about Atomic Veterans and their plight. And from that point on, it was my quest to hold accountable those persons responsible for the exposure to radiation that my husband Gary got while he served in the US Navy. You see I believed with every fiber of my soul, that the cancer that he suffered and died from was a direct result of his exposure to radiation during his duties in the South Pacific. I can remember not long after he died, I made the comment, that I wondered if his participation in the atomic testing in 1962 played a part in his cancer, and I remember that my oldest son asked the question.."what are you going to do Mom, sue the Federal Government?" I find that somewhat funny now. When the secrecy pact was lifted for those who participated in the tests, a group of veterans started their own quest to work and make sure that those who participated were honored for their duty to their country.

When I started this, I was afraid to pursue it. That's the honest truth. I didn't know where to start who did I contact first, where would I get all of this documentation I needed. The form was 18 pages, with lists of what supporting data they needed. So, I made my own list and I started from the top. I wrote first for his military records. It took from April to July to get them. Then I pursued his oncologist. No help there. I must say at this point I was very disappointed in that doctor. The hospital where his treatment and last surgery took place is no more. I could not get those records. So, I thought that all was lost. But my wonderful friend Gary Thornton, said try the medical center where the original surgery and diagnosis took place. So I sat down wrote them a letter listing every single thing I needed. A wonderful clerk called me and said she couldn't help me unless I could prove I was entitled to the records. I asked how would I do that. She said did he leave a will. WELL, after 7 years, I had destroyed it. So then I had to call the attorney who made the will and praise the Lord he had a copy. Sent one to me and faxed one to the medical center. In a few days, I received those records. It was really hard to read them. It stirred up lots of memories of a bad time. But, I will say the surgeon of record was very thorough in his documentation of what he did during the surgery. I could even tell you what type of stuff they used to sew up the wound. I decided then that I would write to this doctor to see if he would write a letter stating only the facts of the cancer and so forth. Well, this doctor was absolutely wonderful and his letter was so full of facts, it was unbelievable. Then I went to a former ship mate to see if he would write a letter to verify the fact they served together during the tests. He did and so I was armed with that too. There were so many pieces of documents, I can't believe I kept them straight. But the long and short of this is On August 20, 2009 I mailed the package to the Department of Justice for consideration. I sent it overnight, and they signed for it at high noon on August 21, 2009. One week later I had two letters from them. One was the return of the original birth, marriage, death etc certificates. The second was a letter introducing me to the person handling my claim with a claim number to refer to if I needed to contact them. The letter also wanted me to understand that the claim could take up to a year to process. Now I give you all this information so that you understand, this was a high mountain to climb, and those streams were deep. But I made it through it all, and by the grace of God, they OWNED the responsibility and approved my claim for recognition for my handsome sailor. I fought the war and I WON!! It took only 4 days shy of 2 months for them to come to their decision. You have no idea of the nay sayers I encountered, I don't think that very many of them understood the gravity of it all. Maybe they had it in their minds that I was off on some tangent, who knows, and that's okay. I can forgive them I guess, because my immediate family are the winners here. People get all wrapped up in their tiny worlds, and don't take the time to understand what's outside. I don't know maybe some just think that , those type of things happen elsewhere. I knew in my heart that what I was doing was right. It finally gives me closure as to why. Those that supported my quest will forever be in my debt. I could not have done it with out the veterans who pushed me forward, the friends that listened to me whine, when I took two steps backward, before I took one forward. And not to forget my wonderful sons, their wives and my grandchildren they understood my passion to do this and finish it. My Gary is a hero, and that's the bottom line here. I know that when I opened that letter and it said " I am pleased to inform you that your claim has been approved", Gary was smiling down on me and saying job well done Nanny, and that's the most important thing in all of this. HE WOULD HAVE APPROVED OF THE QUEST!!!!

Homecoming 2009

I don't know how this Gramcracker got so lucky. This is my favorite #1 granddaughter. She is going to the Homecoming dance tonight. She looked so pretty. She is being escorted by a very handsome, very tall young man named Tyler. Her dress was black and white with the touches of a vibrant pink. The over skirt of the dress had the black swirls and touches of glitter. It is a beautiful dress for a beautiful young lady. I didn't get to see her and Tyler together, I will have to wait for the pictures from her folks. I understand that he is wearing a tie that matches the pink in her dress, with black slacks and white shirt. They should look awesome. I hope that they have a wonderful time. These are the memories to cherish for her and of course for me. Love you my sweet Valleri.

That Lady Tiger Emily is AWESOME!!

Emily serving up that volleyball. WOW, what a great job she does. Always cool as a cucumber, never rattled; just gets the job done. She is fun to watch. When she is on a roll serving, those other coaches call time outs, change players, doing everything they can to rattle her. She just maintains her focus and keeps serving those points. It is so much fun to watch her and the success she is having. Never mind that I am prejudice, after all she is my granddaughter!! AND, I only call them as I see them. Take note of the rockin' socks they are wearing. Some one's Mom found them, and the Layman's club of the school purchased them for the girls. They have "tiger" paw prints on them. SO COOL!! Lots of parents, family and friends come out to support the team. The joint is rockin' with the chants and the cheers. Win lose or draw, they are wonderful to watch.

Are You Ready For Some Football!! GO WARRIORS

Sweaty, but still smiling.

This is one of the best things about being "gramcracker". You get to spend your "spare" time watching your grandchildren do their favorite things. I don't care if it's football, track, tennis, soccer, pole vaulting, volleyball, or basketball; it is the best way there is to spend your time. These are from my grandson's football game yesterday. He is #30, and I love watching him do what he likes best.

The picture of him dressed down is after the game......all sweaty, but still smiling and showing that million dollar dimple.

Girls just want to have fun!!

How much better can it get, than having your nails and hair done.

I had such a great time today with my #3 granddaughter. She just turned 13 yesterday. It all started with Valleri when she turned 13, then Emily and finally Shelbie. A day with Grandma, shopping, and primping. It was a good day, and I have loved every minute I have spent with the girls. NOW, what in the world will I do when Landon turns 13. It's a good thing I have a couple of years to think about it. I don't think he would want highlights or a nail job. We shall see. Thanks for a wonderful day Shelbie. Love you lots........

Sara you are the best!!

HAPPY 13TH BIRTHDAY SHELBIE!!!

My beautiful "baby" girl is 13th today. Can you believe it!! I remember her with the most adorable little chubby cheeks, you know the kind you just kiss and kiss. She is such a loving young lady. I, so enjoy spending time with her. She loves soccer, tennis and last but not least fastpitch softball. She has done some funny things in the past, one I won't soon forget is tattling to her Sunday school teacher that her gram said a bad word. I think it was shut up or something like that. I was not embarrassed cause her daddy was one to tell everything when he was little. Must be in the genes. I just want to say to her Happy Birthday Sugar, this is a momentous day for you. I don't know where the time has gone, but it's gone. I am very proud of you and your accomplishments. Have the best day ever, enjoy every minute 'cause you're only 13 one time. I LOVE YOU!!

Some Snip-ettes

First clip is just after Emi served the volleyball, and..........................SCORE!!

Second clip is Shelbs being hit to, and the ball was out of bounds..................SCORE!!

Gramcracker Four

Here you have my beautiful granddaughters and my handsome grandson. The center picture I like to call "DOG PILE ON THE DIVA". Of course the girls are all diva's. But Vallie was on the bottom. That's what you get when you're the oldest. They all seemed to like that pose, well.......all except Val. The other two are showing that brotherly/sisterly love, or maybe not. Shelbie has Landon in a choke hold. L O L It was time for a new group pose. If you want to see them all, they are on my facebook page. That's it for now. Have a blessed day.

In A Galaxy Far Far Away..............

August 29, 1964
45 Years Ago Today

First Day of School

I swiped these from my daughter in law. I thought they were good pictures. Now, I am just waiting for pictures of the other two, so I can steal them too. This is what 7th grade and 5th grade look like. Pretty cute...huh?? When I get what a sophomore and an 8th grader look like, I will add them to this.

Birthday BBQ Pictures

Eleven Candles

A boy & his Dad

Val and Emi

Shelbie made the cake, it's a turtle

Uncle Cracker and Aunt Cheese, put quarters inside 11 balloons for a grand total of 11 dollars. What fun to pop the balloons and find the treasure.

HAPPY 11TH BIRTHDAY TO MY #1 GRANDSON!!

Today is my little "prince's" 11th birthday. My goodness he has grown up way to fast. I know how excited he was last year to be 10, you know, he was now "two" numbers old. Funny how they view that type of thing. The pictures I have posted are some of my personal favorites. They are recent, with the exception of the little one. He was maybe 6 months old. Landon is the sweetest little boy, always has hugs for his grandma, and will talk your leg off. He will talk to you about anything. He is always reminding me that I drive a "pimped out" car. Heaven only knows where those things come from. I think it means it's a cool car. He and I have a deal that when he comes to my house we always get Kentucky Fried Chicken. He tells me that no one else at his house likes it. So we try to do that. I absolutely love it when he and I get the one on one time. Now that he is older we don't do it very often, but I savor it when we do. Sometimes I wish they would stay small, you know, when going to grandma's was the highlight of the day. Darn it, they just grow up too soon.

Landon loves sports. His favorite is football and he loves the Greenbay Packers. He plays football in the fall, and it's a fun time to watch him. He comes off the field with smiles, especially when things are going good for the team. He played baseball this summer and was a really good catcher. I don't much like that position, it's hot and dirty. Maybe that's why he likes it. He can get down and dirty.

Just in case you haven't guessed it, I love this little guy with all my heart and soul. When I look into his eyes I see his Granddad. He has those dark dark eyes, the kind that tell you everything you want to know. Landon is someone really special and I want him to have the very best 11th birthday ever. Love and kisses to my "prince", I love you very much. ~Gram.

The GIRL of Summer....

Watching girls fast pitch softball was so much fun. These are pictures of my favorite #3 granddaughter. These pictures are from one of the tournament games of this past weekend. Watching grandchildren play a sport is the closest thing next to heaven....you are watching them enjoy something they love and in this case, very good at it. She is a team player, and what was so amazing to me, was the fact she had her head in the game all the time. She knew what was going on, where all the runners were and knew exactly what to do, if the task fell upon her. I saw her field 5 grounders hit to her put the runner out at first base every time, and make a double play. That was exciting. She caught a fly ball, and put the runner out on second base, when the runner came back to tag up. What a thrill. She was awarded a S.H.E. Award at one game. I think I have this right: S=sportsmanship H=hustle; E=enthusiasm. I am sure someone will correct me with what is right and I can change it. But you get the idea. What a great season she had, and next year she moves up, so she will really have to work hard to make the grade. BUT, I know she will do what she needs to do to make it. Thanks for a great season munchkin!!

Gram's MVP!!

First of all, I forgot my camera tonight. So this picture is of Shelbie playing in another tournament. But the colors of the uniforms are right. They are proudly wearing the black and gold of Newton. The game tonight was pretty darn good for 12 & 13 year old girls playing fast pitch softball. Shelbie played 2nd base and was absolutely awesome at the postion. She fielded 5 out 5 ground balls hit to her and threw the runner out every single time. The fifth was the kicker, because that out won the game for the Newton All Stars. They advanced to the next round which is at 9 am tomorrow morning. Not sure who they play, because that game was after theirs tonight. We shall see in the AM. Oh yeah, they won 5-4 against the Mulvane team. It was a really good game, everyone played well on both teams. You played a great defense in the game Shelbs!! I think the thrill for this Gram was to see her run off the field and jump into her Dad's arms after she made that final out. Reminds me of a similar scene a long time ago. Remember Uncle Cracker?

GOOD TIMES

Good Times! A few of the pictures taken at Celebrate 2009. I had a good time and I hope they did too.

Celebrate The 4th of July & Home Town Heros

The Atomic Veterans ~ Hometown Hero's

Beautiful fireworks to celebrate the 4th of July 2009.

I had the pleasure to attend an Independence Day celebration today. My family that included my sons Tim and Mark, my daughter in laws Danelle and Michelle and my beautiful grandchildren, Valleri, Emily, Shelbie and Landon. My sister in law, Sherry and her husband Andy were all in attendance to witness a celebration of Home Town Hero's. Everyone who knows me, knows that I have passion and determination to have my husband recognized, along with countless others as Atomic Veterans. I have published my feelings regarding these HERO'S. Tonight, in front of God and the city of Wichita those HERO'S were recognized for the contributions they made to the world and to humanity. 48 veterans were recognized tonight. They were saluted for their service to their country. As a widow of an Atomic Veteran I stood in place of my husband. It was bitter sweet, but an honor just the same. My thanks to KAKE-TV, who had the fortitude to take a stand for these wonderful men and to give them something they have deserved for over 60 years. There were Army, Air Force and Navy Veterans present to receive their HERO recognition. My thanks also to those who have read my postings, and took a stand by talking about the A-Vets, writing a letter or maybe even saying a prayer that the Congress of the United States of America will do the right thing and recognize these hero's.

**there are other pictures and I will post another time.

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Some pictures I really like to look at.  MY HEROS!!

The "Best" Surprise of all!!

What a big surprise for Sharon

Well, my dear friend you have entered into a new chapter of your life....."retirement". After many weeks of planning, emailing and days of blood sweat and tears, it happened. Sharon got the biggest and I think, the best surprise of her life. Everyone needs to be celebrated when they retire from their vocation. My oldest, dearest, BFF retired from her job with the school system after 16 years. She worked in a school system in another state, but the bulk was here. She has seen many changes in how the schools teach the children. The behavior of the kids, and how the so called government reduction in paper work grew instead of shrunk. My job in all this was to get the place, keep it from her, lie and cheat to get her there on time. Her family and friends were there and just as she settled into the party mode, her children and grandchildren showed up. Now you may not think that it not a big deal when your kids show up, but this one was. You see, her daughter came in from New Orleans and her son and grandchildren from Chicago. She did not know they were here, and they just walked in. It was a priceless moment in time. I am so glad she was clueless. Thanks to those who kept it a secret.

David, Penne, Tim and Mic. The food was good, and the company was the best.