Emily and Andrew

Remember my post about cousin Emily and a dress she needed to choose for a military ball? She found one she couldn't resist. Kudos to her, she did a fantastic job picking it out! AND, she did get a new one. No thanks to Uncle Dave, just a little of her own hard earned money. Well worth it too I might add. I would love to have seen her in person but this is the best we can do. Tonight is the big night. May she and Andrew have a magical evening!

Roger

These are my office neighbors. My hubby in the background and Roger in front. Since 2 weeks ago today, our workplace hasn't felt the same. Roger has been diagnosed with cancer. He went for a test 2 weeks ago and found he had colon cancer. The following Monday they removed what was left of his colon and found it had spread to his liver. Doctors have given Roger til possibly Christmas or the end of the month. Maybe even more. Thankfully Roger has a strong Catholic faith and made the decision to return home to his family and celebrate life with them. (he has 3 little boys under the age of 11)

Yesterday we had a bake sale on his behalf. It was amazing how much food was brought in and how much was purchased. My co-workers should be commended for coming together like they did. We had the biggest bake sale we've ever had. I brought home the money and counted and recounted and took it to the bank today to have it officially counted and to get larger bills. We raised $2300!! I was so excited. The bank teller asked the reason of the bake sale. She was excited too. All I can say is thank you to my work family for pulling together for such a great reason. Roger.

Another co-worker, Dennis, and I took Roger his money and cards today. Offenders from Roger's wing in the housing unit even wrote messages on a card for him. I gave him a card with a package of chocolate kisses. The funny thing was, he knew immediately that I had done that. We saved the big card for last. He didn't count his money, but the look on his face was fantastic. He stated he had no idea that many people cared about him. Dennis and I quickly told stories of every one's reaction to Roger's health news and how much we miss him. Roger appeared surprised. I wish I could be a fly on the wall when Roger's family counted the money for him tonight. I hope they use it for something fun and memorable. I hope they have a great Christmas next week. Roger's birthday is tomorrow. He will be 43. May he have 43 Christmas' and special time with Mikey, Danny and Timmy.

The best news of this whole journey with Roger is his outlook. He explains it as a "win-win situation". If he dies he goes home to be with Jesus. If he stays, he goes home to be with his family. What more can one ask for?

We love and we miss you Roger!!

My Trip to St. Louis and A Dress for a Ball

I had such a great time in St. Louis I did not want to come home. I cannot recall a time I've ever gotten teary when I hit city limits. Then again, there aren't many trips I've been on that I wanted to return home. Weird huh? Once I'm here I'm fine. And, I do love my own bed! But I like to be out and about. As you can tell from the picture of my knee, I fell down like a total rock star without my guitar. Splits and all, bouncing down an incline in the splits position making a noise kinda like, "OOOOOOOOOOOOOOoooooooohhhh" the whole way. NOT the first time I've ever fallen, but the first time in a public parking lot. I'm a laugher when I fall. My husband says it's not funny (I've fallen twice on the very last step at his mother's house laughing my head off cause I was just sure I looked and felt ridiculous.). Luckily cousin Abby had her Nurse -friend Lauren with us so had I broken anything or split in two, she would have known what to do. Thankfully I didn't need her.

I love this picture of Nurse Lauren and Cousin Abby. They were fun and reminded me of how much I miss my silly friends!

The biggest event for me was a fashion show that was put on by Cousin Emily. She was asked to a Military Ball the day after Christmas. Emily must wear a dress..."a cocktail one"... as Julia Roberts stated in Pretty Woman. Uncle Dave and Cousin Joel were watching the Mizzou game and didn't really get the gist of the fashion show nor did they care. Uncle Dave left us, without inviting us, to see The Kinks movie. Yes, I kinda woulda liked to have seen that, but that's okay Uncle Dave. The fashion show was worth the stay!

Nurse Lauren is also the family stylist and hair doer. Every family should have a Lauren.

First was a prom dress dated 2009 I believe. A bit too weddingish. But beautiful just the same. The military man may soon want to run to Annapolis should he spot this one coming down the staircase.

This little black number had most of our votes. Very stylish, very elegant and very Audrey Hepburnish. Plus it looks perfect on 6'1" Emily. Would be perfect with a small peep toe heel. Even Bailey could tag along and match perfect!

Next was Aunt Debbie's prom dress circa 1975? Vintage is the rage they say. Or so they say.

Now if a cocktail one was not in order, I would definitely suggest this one. This number in black looked fabulous on Em. I believe Bailey thought so too since her tail is up in the air.

The green number. Yes I liked this one. Not for an important military ball, but I do like this one. What I liked was when Em picked up the glittery black overlay and you could see the true color of the green. It was nothing like it looks in the picture (or in person). It was a really weird green color.

I just wanted to get another picture of Nurse/Stylist Lauren doing her job. And then there is Aunt Debbie providing input.

Next came Aunt Paula's prom dress from 1977 or 78? Truth be know, I like this one.

OoLALA is all I have to say about this one. Very figure flattering, but possibly not cocktailish enough. Some heels, drop earrings and a sparkling bracelet is all this one needs.

OOOoooo La La!!! Please be prepared for the final dress. We all oooed and ahed over this blue number. It's the one we liked. Emily wasn't so sure. But it sure did look like her...

All she needs is a picnic basket and red sparkly shoes. Bailey was just in the other room.

I'm gonna go Emily's bond and agree that maybe she does need a new dress for this so called ball she is attending. Big sales are happening EVERYWHERE UNCLE DAVID!!! But in case this doesn't happen you can leave me a comment and tell me which dress you vote for Emily to wear to the Military Ball with her handsome date. Family members can leave me an anonymous comment in order to leave a comment, but please include your name if you do so. This way, Emily will know who you are.

PIctures by Toni

Toni's Keen Eye

Remember the beautiful pictures my friend Toni took several months ago? I was tickled pink when I opened my mail this afternoon to find these gems. She has quite an eye. And, I suspect she could do a little moonlighting as a photographer for someone. I love the look on kitty's face. And to catch all that's going on in the bottom picture makes me turn green with envy. I have a few more I'll post throughtout the week.

Standing for Those Who Stood for US

Today was one of those days that made me appreciate family even more than I probably normally do. Aunt Debbie and Shane came up from St. Louis for a quick visit and was able to stand with us to honor our local fallen hero Adam Smith.

The funeral began at 1pm, the community came out to show their support for the family very early in the morning. Numerous Patriot Guards spent the night and were buzzing around town up until it was time for their escort.

Helicopters hovered the area. Thankfully I heard of no unrest of the fanatical Kansas Church that threatens to protest funerals such as Adam's.

Our local acting police chief led the way with the MSHP following as well as the Macon County Ambulance Service.

Patriot Guards carried large U.S. Flags leading the procession in front of Adam and his loved ones.

I tear up every time I see this photo...thank you to those for protecting Adam and his family.

There were many vehicles with family and friends. Many with uniformed soldiers paying their last respects.

Having no idea how many riders brought up the rear of the procession, I would guess possibly hundreds.

To the Patriot Guard for protecting this family, we thank you. To the soldiers and Adam, thank you for upholding a country we believe in...

Adam O. Smith, We Honor Your Sacrifice

October 2, 2010, our town is busy with visitors from the Patriot/Freedom Riders and just good ole American citizens wishing to honor our fallen Navy Seal. It amazes me how much support comes out to block the unethical fanatics who want to protest a day such as this. Maybe I should really say it amazes me how unethical fanatics want to protest a day such as this. I believe since this war began, the majority of US Citizens do what they can to support fallen soldiers and their loved ones. But when it hits home, it really hits home. Thank you to all the men and women who come for miles to honor a true hero...

A Navy Seals Memorial Service to honor those who passed in the Black Hawk Helicopter crash on September 21st. May you rest in peace Adam O. Smith. May you understand the depth of gratitude we have for your unselfish choices for a country you love...Rest In Peace...

R.I.P. Adam Smith - Navy Seal

This war makes my heart heavier than anything. I've been in Jeff City since yesterday afternoon and came home this evening to find out a hometown boy was killed in a helicopter crash yesterday in Afghanistan. Adam Smith served the Navy Seals with such honor and dedication, making the ultimate sacrifice for a country he loved. God Bless his mom Michele Jorgensen and father Eric Smith and the numerous other family and friends that were blessed to know him.

I will always remember him as a little blonde crumb cruncher with the cutest little grin. His mom is a sweetheart and step-cousin, so to speak, to me. May Jesus wrap his arms around her and carry her through this terribly tragic time. You are in my thoughts and prayers...

Kenny Chesney - The Boys of Fall

Nothing catches my attention more than a sexy bald man with a sparkling smile and twinkling eyes. Kenny Chesney equates eye candy and great music. Just recently I've started listening to country music again after making a long road trip with a co-worker. He quickly turned the station after taking over the wheel. But I did learn one thing on that trip. Country music is quite profound. So is Kenny Chesney. You get the point...

August 29th debuted his video "Boys of Fall". I had previously heard the song but it really didn't do much for me until I watched the video. Then I cried. this song sparks the memories of so many people who live for a sport they love passionately. Fans who yearn to be young again to live the moments of Friday nites...

Thank you Kenny for a wonderful song.

I Love Being an AMERICAN!!

God Bless the USA

A Trip to Weston, Missouri

Mom and I ventured out today a little unsure where we were headed. We've been wanting to go to Weston for quite some time, and today was the day. Perfect weather made for a relaxing stroll throughout town. I must say, Weston is a beautiful little town that I would seriously consider moving to. If I hit the lottery, it very well may be my next summer home. The town was clean, pretty and the homes were fantastic. From the picture above I think you can tell it looks like an All-American town.

As soon as we parked our car and turned around, there was this beautiful home. A little big for me, but absolutely beautiful. Yellow is one of my favorite colors for houses. And it fit this one perfectly.

Mom liked this brick one. I chose the white one beside it. Maybe some day we can be neighbors.

The little shops were eclectic and fun. This one had a fantastic window display.

Oh, of course this beautiful town had my favorite dog breed. He didn't seem to like me as he barked when I took his picture. I think he preferred to drive.

Just like Mayberry U.S.A. there must be a police department.

A local Kansas City Artist made these witches. The gourd on the left was actually grown in her garden. I would love to have bought one of these for my friend Gayla at Oatmeal and Whimsy. When I win the lottery...

This candle shop was fantastic. Many, many fragrances including Tighty Whities (which believe it or not smelled amazing), Big Girl Panties (yes, amazing too), Candy Corn, Witchy Woman and my fav Pumpkin Spice.

This chalkboard made me feel like I was sitting in the front pew at church.

A very lovely church, something I think brings such peace to any community.

The parsonage.

Weston had many Bed and Breakfasts and pubs. A very entertaining community.

This is one of my favorite views as we were walking back to our car. I think another visit is in the near future.