Maya Angelou, we have lost a beloved woman

"My great hope is to laugh as much as I cry; to get my work done and try to love somebody and have the courage to accept the love in return." 

Maya Angelou has walked on this morning from her home at 86 years old. The angels are singing, old friends are embracing her as we here will miss her terribly and mourn her inspiration and her beauty. A profound sadness sweeps my heart that I never had the opportunity to sit with her, just for a moment, to look into her eyes and touch her hands listening to her raspy and most remarkable words that came from her heart. Walk on phenomenal woman, you will be missed by the world.  Maya has given each of us enough to be more than we thought possible with each step we take...if only take the step.

Words of wisdom for all to read, to hear, to put into action steps... while recognizing that we are more  alike than we are different. 

  We will miss you, will mourn you and will laugh as much as we cry remembering the wisdom you have given all to learn and live from through the years.... Thank you Maya Angelou for your life and your gifts. Watch over us please... Let us all remember a bit of what you said,
    

"Our country needs us all right now to stand up and be counted. We need to try to be great citizens. We are necessary in this country, and we need to give something -- that is to say, go to a local hospital, go to the children's ward and offer to the nurse in charge an hour twice a month that you can give them reading children's stories or poetry," she said. "And go to an old folks' home and read the newspaper to somebody. Go to your church or your synagogue or your mosque, and say, 'I'd like to be of service. I have one hour twice a month.'

"You'll be surprised at how much better you will feel," she said. "And good done anywhere is good done everywhere."

With deep respect and gratitude for a phenomenal woman.

DrSherry
 

Memorial Day around the Nation, grief strikes America

The wreaths have been laid, Rolling Thunder has rolled into the Nations' Capital once again, thousands and thousands have paid their respect and honored the fallen. Memories and hopes left unfilled by those who gave all for our freedoms on this land as Taps has been heard over and over. The wait list for burial continues as more and more flag draped coffins come home. 

Many have now returned to work, have returned from long awaited vacations to the beaches or the mountains, the grills have been cleaned new memories made, and it's back to the grind.  Our soldiers are out there 24/7 in situations that most of us would not ever understand even if they voice recorded a 24 hour day and sent it personally to each of us.

So many year of wondering when will this senseless war(s) end and our men/women/service dogs come home and receive all the care and treatment that they have so willingly provided to our country. While now the scandals are filling the news of those Vets on the streets, unemployed, dying to get care at VAMC.

Some things just do not make sense.

Spending the weekend, honoring the fallen, celebrating the very freedoms we the people have as a result of those who signed their names on a blank check when putting on their uniforms however long ago.  Those who visited the final resting places of loved ones; some took a bottle of Jack or a beer and sat awhile... others lay on graves and cried until they were weak missing their loved one, while still others toasted all the fallen between whatever it was they were doing that made them feel good as they enjoyed their freedom.

Some used the time to bitch, complain, whine and show their hate and want of something different or better.  Millions got on their bikes and rode to D.C. once again with flags flying to D.C. to be a part of remembering, honoring, and demanding, "DO NOT FORGET, and Bring them ALL HOME", as a Marine stood in salute when they rode past him. Just like every other year before as so many stood on the sidewalks waving and offering their support, love and gratitude.

In other places across the Nation, folks took to the highways, the skies and went on that long weekend to destinations known for the fun, the sun and the relaxation. Many flags could be seen flying with pride. Children, adults, Elders... some fishing, many swimming, all just living their lives and hearing the sound of their souls that life is good.

Yet, have we not taught the children who are now young adults ... do they get a pass of undervaluing life itself as we hear of shootings in Myrtle Beach over the weekend? Yesterday at beautiful Clearwater Beach, beginning in a parking lot of the Hyatt Resort, gang activity with someone going home to get his gun and returning, there is gang violence and shootings?
Near a pier where families always go, past a beach where people are laying, playing and having the times of their lives, there is a shooting and gunfire?  Up the tourist road to a restaurant known best for its sunsets, there is a shooting?  Gangs now go to the beach over Memorial Day weekend to "settle it", to "do what rival gangs do"?  Where is the moral fiber of people and the knowledge that someone will die, perhaps that someone who has nothing to do with the rival or the petty issues of those with gang mentalities that are entering into the space of resorts and a beach? What in the world has happened to our communities and our country and especially on a day when we are honoring the fallen?

 How does a person get "into it", leave a place to go and retrieve a gun, return just as pissed off and all hell break loose...  It makes a person wonder, what how others are raised in life, what they played with as kids, how they studied in schools, where they think the justice system stands on this... and how they can involve everyday people who are just out living their lives.

Out in California, the shootings, the video's the comments that I have yet to read... the craziness of desire of want and of entitlement to take the life of another. Or to even entertain that is OK, will continually boggle my mind.  

3 hots and a cot, cable t.v., and a place to get "buff" while serving some time must not look like much of a deterrent to such horrific actions of some against others. 

We as a Nation of people are stuck in a grief cycle without completion; one of shock/depression/Anger... as it keeps going, going, going... with no end in sight.  It makes a person sick on the inside and others afraid to go outside.

Remember the fallen, the walk they must of made as you continue to stand, continue to walk vigilantly with your head high while looking for the good.  Parents, Grandparents, People, teach your children well... stand UP against violence, against behaviors that you would not want to see inflicted on you or loved ones, or anyone.

Yes we know there are horrid things happening all over the world, countries that have histories longer than our imagination based on blood shed against their relations, against their neighbors, we send them our brothers and sisters, we send them our money while having none for ourselves. BUT we must take care of our own, we must find ways to end this lack of compassion in the streets, in homes, and random attacks on good people and a justice system that is broken reminding one of a hotel for the broken where the meals are paid for by citizens and our folks in Nursing Homes go with far less.  We must stop this madness with more than hate posts, comments and name calling.  It begins in each home, each community.
 

That is all.


 

Happy Memorial Day

A long weekend, many are firing up the bbq's across the Nation, many are now hitting the roads to return to their homes after time with loved ones, time at the mountains or the beaches across the lands.  Millions have spent this weekend at wreath laying ceremonies in Washington D.C., standing on the sidewalks watching and hearing as Rolling Thunder rolled by solemnly once again to remember, to honor, to stand for those who have fallen in service to their country.  They have come from across the Nation on their bikes, gathering at the Pentagon, lining up and meeting at the Wall of the Vietnam Veterans with flags flying, with arms linked in a bond that will never be broken. 

Many will stop everything at 3pm for a moment of silence, to play "Taps" wherever they are, to visit graves, to send messages to friends in other states asking that they take flowers to the headstones on their behalf.  

Some Gave All ~ All Continue to give some.

Many spent the weekend with a cold beer and flood gates of memories, of times they were on the line fighting for our freedoms, our country, now still wondering at times how it was they escaped the ultimate price of their lives. So many more reminded of those times, those places, those situations that have been told to be a living hell like no other and at the same time, a time when they found a band of brothers and sisters like they will never know again.

Today, we salute the fallen... all over our lands those white stones in cemeteries, the niches for ashes of those who paid the ultimate price... their families that still miss them so and their potential lives and what could of been.

War continues, we continue to see and witness soldiers coming home in flag draped coffins, veterans coming home as wounded warriors, help being given to everywhere but home it seems. We continue to shake our heads, and if possible to cross the street to shake the hand of one who has served or is serving.

Seems those who lay in neat rows at Arlington probably didn't care when on the line if one was of a certain color, a certain party line... they were united for our country. We would be wise to take a lesson from that.
Maybe parties are places to go or to host, to have a grand time or not, but not a thing of division, of ugliness, of agendas to benefit one and deny the other while so many are left out of the mix for the greater good of our country.

Maybe it is time to thing larger, to live better, to be more in thankfulness as One Nation, remembering and honoring the fallen as we speak kinder, live better and get our men and women home where their boots can relax and concentrate on restoring the United States to the greatest country in the world united.

As you move into your Monday, may you dance harder, pray stronger, laugh louder, be kinder.
Fly your flag and remember while thinking you have it so hard, there are so many  millions who laid down their lives so that we can stand together united as America. 
Salute:

We Remember the Fallen, Memorial Day

WITH AMAZING GRACE

WE REMEMBER THE FALLEN

...

I love and have always respected

ROLLING THUNDER along with those who are willing to sign a blank check for our country.

"Some gave all, all give some".

 

Hundreds of thousands have rolled in for this weekend of remembering; of honoring the fallen.

ROLLING THUNDER

we can count on and rely upon them to be there always.

And they do have a presence along the highways and the streets

across the country in the days before, the week-end of the city in our Nations Capital.

People have been known to pull off the interstates as they roll by;

to get out of the cars and wave, to blow horns in letting them know of their love and support across the states.

Those who do not know of them

will gaze and wonder!

AT what began in 1987 by four Vietnam Vets as a demonstration to raise awareness at what had happened to those who were missing in action (MIAS) and prisoners of war (POWS);

and now has grown to such magnitude that it is a National Organization.

Now a monumental tribute to the fallen;

riders come from all over these United States of America arriving in the Nations Capital to pay respect, to honor, to let the world know we still have and need to bring ALL HOME that are MIA/POWS

and they do ROLL in like THUNDER!

Thank you

Some Gave ALL

ALL GAVE SOME

///\\\

When you see those bikers out there,

give them a thumbs up,

give them some space,

show them some love

...

Rolling Thunder came through yet again

for Walter, he was the young one in Healing Heartaches who wanted to ride on a Harley before his death;

all of a sudden, he heard the sounds of thunder rolling along the street of his home,

and wouldn't ya just know?

A dream came true for a young man when burly bikers rolled into a neighborhood

and it was

ROLLING THUNDER!

As he was lifted to the bike,

next we knew, he was holding on to the handles and VROOM, off they all went

ROLLING THUNDER

with what looked like a gang of bikers

and a young kid who was sure to have bugs in his teeth from the size of his grin!

...

A dream realized thanks to bikers and a bit of magic.

Memorial Day weekend,

more than the bbq., more than the long weekend.

Healing Heartaches as we remember the fallen.

as we take the time to play "Taps at 3pm" across our lands and stand in silence and gratitude.

Healing Heartaches as we remember the fallen.

Thank YOU seems not quite enough, it rings not loud enough in my heart, in my mind…

There has to be more, has to be stronger words to match the feeling;

perhaps

it is with such a heart, mind, spirit, soul

of deep gratitude that works better for me as tears streak my face as I remember the fallen, as I pay tribute to those who serve, have served have paid the ultimate price for our freedoms.

As I now think of those who are still missing in action, those POWS

those who ride this weekend

those who stand and live around that wall, that I’ve shared along with the millions this weekend.  WE honor, we remember, we thank you, your families. We Will NEVER FORGET your sacrifices.

May we use this weekend to remember, to vow to be a better citizen, to stand strong as we hope for a more peaceful country while honoring the lives that have fallen.  So many we hold in our hearts, now laying beneath sacred ground as we enjoy our freedoms today.

WE THANK YOU FOR DEFENDING OUR LANDS AND OUR LIVES.

May God Bless you all, 
DR Sherry

Billboard Awards, Music, and clothes.. wow

Oh what a night it was; as many took to the stage and sang their songs... The Music, the glam, the clothes (or lack thereof), the tribute to Michael Jackson that made tears fall, that made folks sit in awe of technology as we remembered such talent, such perfection on a stage, now gone from the internal pain that led to addiction and death. 

I love music, it speaks to my soul, it fills me up and I particularly love music that has a story behind it. I'm old school, loving R&B, loving country, loving music where the main event is the music not what appears to be sex on stage.

However, sex sells, always has and always will, but I cannot for the life of me figure out why such talented artists feel the need to expose so much when their talent is so grand.  Guess Patti Labelle nailed it when she said there are no real divas left anymore out there.

One good thing though, the men on stage typically just grab their crotch while singing, but they are fully clothed with swag, or with outrageous outfits that do not make you wonder about them; some good, some great and some make you shake their head while trying to understand the lyrics.

Of course we still have Miley Cyrus doing her giraffe impersonations with every chance she gets; yes we get it, God gave her a tongue... it may be time she learns to keep it in her mouth though, she may find that is what mouths are for, to house our teeth and tongues.  Once again she walked away with an award; not sure it was based on talent or outrageous behaviors.

JLo was stunning; she is one beautiful woman with a body that just won't quit... now we've all seen her sensual/sexual moves as she takes to the stage, her songs that top the charts. As much as I love her, she too could stand to wear a bit more clothing and still look incredible as she did when she performed in that sparkly and stunning outfit.
She received the 2014 Icon Award at the event, and it was well earned, she was beautiful as she accepted it.  She was humble, thankful, and thanked everyone with grace and style. She is the first woman to receive this prestigious award... Bravo JLo, you have inspired many along the way as you get them on their feet!

 Music sweet music; it often speaks to the soul when nothing else can get there. Music the oldest of healers, the one thing that most can count on, when it seems everything else falls short.  From the days of doo -wap, to before, to the roots of the drum...rhythm and blues, country, bluegrass, good ole rock n roll to jazz to just about everything.

Interestingly, back in the day, we could be entertained, by records, 8 tracks, cassettes, CD's that made millions for stars while attending concerts and screaming our heads off at those performers we had come to love, while loving what they wore from faded jeans to gowns to matching suits of the Temptations... we were intrigued and moved by each lyric, each beat of the drum or dance across the stage. Many a time, when words fail us, the music moves us to great understanding and great heights...

Just thinking today; so many could do more with that if they wore more clothes! There would be no distractions to the sounds, the lyrics, the expressions... no fear of "twitter blasts" the next day, of haters or those who like to compare one against the other. While I am the first to admit, there are some drop dead gorgeous bodies taking the stage these days, I don't need to see what appears to be soft porn while they are singing their songs, don't need to wonder where the next wardrobe failure will happen, nor where the next how far we can go might just go.

Seems to me that The Supreme's of days gone by, seems the Temptations did just fine with their moves as Mowtown blew up the charts with song and dance long ago and still in the homes and hearts of many. Seems Ms. Patti Labelle is still stirring it up with millions of fans who recognize a true diva and songstress who plays to them, who takes the stage by storm, who takes the the time to connect with the fans. 

The award winner and new sensation Lordes still makes me think she is having a seizure when performing and I also hope there is an EMT crew backstage just in case it's needed. 
....
Remember the hip thrust of Elvis and swoons along with the outrage? We've come a long way baby!

  Let the music move you...let speak to you, dance dance dance... and when you are behind closed doors let it move you in ways that we don't have to hear about, privately and wonderfully. But, when you are on the stage, entertain us, make us a part of the magic of your gifts; preferably not of your sexual life.

that is all.

Dance, Dance in a way that makes you move your feet across the stage or the living room while knowing that music is the Universal Language of joyful noise to heal, to hope, to happiness.

Carry on.
DRSES

Sweet Sunday blessings

Sweet sunny Sunday here with coffee, quiet moments of reflection.  May the Creator remind you that you are the light for you and so many; with a kind word, a positive action, a movement like ripples on the water. A day where many will be out and about, doing and seeing sights, hearing sounds, while making a great impact on others just with their presence and their words.
Let your presence be one of light, of kindness, with rays that outshine the sun in all good ways. Many will be fighting their fight; wish them strength, many may speak without thinking, wish them quiet moments, many will remember to laugh without reason, applaud them well. Some will find the moment to say something that just fills the heart of someone else... So many possibles on this Sweet Sunday. May it be more than you even thought possible as you move through it with great gratitude, remembering to say "thank you" ...

"When you know who you are; when your mission is clear and you burn with the inner fire of unbreakable will; no cold can touch your heart; no deluge can dampen your purpose. You know that you are alive. ~ 
Chief Seattle

May you have a blessed day!

 
Sending up prayers, good thoughts, great vibes to all:

 
DLB, Dot/COB/Mom, Angela, Kamryn Elijah, D'Vante, Olivia, Joan,  Linda McDonald, Laura, Mitch, Eileen, Mary, Kelley, Joanna, Renie, Jean, K & A, Tony, Dave, Cheri, Dan, Audrey, Anne, Patti R., Pat, Stephen, Matthew, Jane, Walter, Jen, Snoop, Lance Dyer, Dakota, Bev, Erik, Shari Taylor Webster, Stephen Bright and family, Gayle, Chris W., Penni, Suz, Chase, Jaxon, Matthew, Bryan, Corey Richardson (Kokie), Dave, Eric, Paul, Rick, Alexis, Bill, Tom, Bob, Kurt, Dianne, Suzannah,
Elizabeth Gardiner Myers, her beloved sister-in-law and family,  little Rylie, Jan, Charlie, Eagan,  John D, John S., Kurt, Kendra, Matt, Stoney, Regina, Suz, Corby, TK, Ericka, Louise, Tommy, Joan, Bob, Fluff, Scott, The Korabek/Shram tribe, AnneMary, Shirley, Karen, Lori, Tanya,  Kendra, Kurt, Joan, Jack, Tom, Chris, Sabian, Rus, Stan, Greg, Scott, Christian, Mike, Richy, Areila, Penny, Ford, Bob, Frank, Eric, Kurt, Bob, Chases Cows, George, Justan, Phillip, Deion, Hunter, Pop, Ledg, Matthew, Stephen, Pat, Jennifer, 

ZERO, soar on dear one, we miss you always yet know you are with us in all the familiar places ... Prayers and strength for Alexis and her family,  Chelsea, Baby Florenzo, and Sara may the Creator welcome you all home to the Ancestors...   Those in Christiansburg VA and surrounding communities for strength and healing, VAAP, Stephen Deirslen and family,  Kurt, Ali, Jeremiah, Pop Spring, Joe, Rachel, Matthew, Nick, Leanne, Leslie, Stephen, Gayle, Karen, Janet, Perry, JT, Moses, Little Nicholas, Karen, Ericka, young Peyton, Bill, Shauna, Dixie, Kurt, J&L, John, Alexis, Kassity, Kelsi, Bob, Lauri, Larry, KM, Osh Kosh, DC, Courtney and baby, Choctaw Nation, SODA, Kari, Jamie, Tiffany, Bob, David, The Durant P.D., Windhorse, Hezra and Dan, Pat, Joan, Jane, Mickey, Cynthia, Rubuye, Patches, Charla, Kurt, Lyle, Bear, Sylvia, Heidi, Samatha, Marcus, Brenda McQuire, Jan, Joan,  Louise E. Duckwork and her family, friends, Brother Michael Belford, Rev Bev and family,Erin, Bear, Ellie, Andrei, Maggie, ED, Mary, Ari, Kostas, Jean, Rene, Joanie, Stevie, Nat, Matt, Jamie,

For Sandy Hook and those in Newtown CT., for all those who have been touched, shattered and devastated by violence we are with you here and pray for an end to such horrible things happening in our world. 

For our warriors, We are fighting alongside you and thinking about you.

Rebecca, Hudson, Peyton, Dottie, Zero, George, Peyton, Billy Ray, Yvonne, Les, Lana, Lanita, Kelly, John, Bill,

~ `~

For:

Erin, Ellie, Andrei, WM, Yvonne Cassie, Mildred, Michele, Evelyn, Kelly, Betsy, The Faulkner Family, Stan, Dan, Christie, Ledge, Rick Paul, Colin G Brady, 

  NYPD, Guardian Angel Hospice and those there, Lanita, Dana, Leslie, Dottie, Kelly, Molly, Evan, Jeff, Ruby, Kevin, Scott, Dakota, Ruby, Dottie, Todd, John, BK, Clare, Yvonne, Evelyn, Sonny, Trace, Lyle, Michael, Beverly, Shauna, Dixie,

Julia Skinner and her NRV ELITE in Christiansburg VA,thank you for a wonderful year.

Coach Woodka, the Tarpon Springs Basketball team, Coach Carb and family, Cooper, Mark, Marvin, Zaden, Zamerion, Daniel, 

Carol, Sandy, Carrie and her family in Aurora,Ali,BK, Carolyn, Karen, Kelly and her family up North,

For those who have asked and we are standing with you in your time of sorrow, angst, difficulties.

   Heidi and family, Dianne, Ken,  Lori, Cynthia, Scott, Ali Legend, and children,  Heather Belle, Carolyn, Rog, Dusty, the 5,000 guardians now standing in the memory of Thomas O'Brien, the family of Trayvon Martin,

For:

  Harriet, Sherry Reed, Mary Grace, Shirley, BK, Stephanie, Lorrie, Pop and his family,

Sherry C.,  Katie and Bill Majestic, Marvin, Layne, Lori, Jim, D, Heidi, Julia, Rolling Thunder, The Patriot Guard, Carol,The Schram/Korabek family, Kyle, Mark, Todd, Yvonne, Harry, Kevin, Jen, Charles,  Glenn, "the littleOne", Anne Klein, Monica Graff, Penny, Chris, Joy, Anne, Sara, Jenn, Shirley, AnneMary, Michael, Jeannie,Patti Labelle and family, The Wounded Warrior Brigades,   Warren Buffet, Best of health be yours sir, Kyle Jones in TN; a magic maker, a musician and a good man, M Dave Glenn Alley a talented musician who is extending himself in service to others, blessings to you friend,BK, Kevin, Dash, Graham, Suzannah,

Seth Greenberg and family, Eileen D. and family, Steve and family, Anne, A, Sandy, "EI", Kev, Chris,

Lyle Emerson and his family in Buffalo and little Kendra fighting Lymphoblastic Leukemia,

Bernice Etsitty and the life of her son, gone too soon Garrett Joe,Joey, Sam, Tyler, Robbie, Elizabeth, Tommy,

Duke Limongello gone too soon,

and all the children of all colors, all ages, and causes

gone to soon.

Sandy Hook Elementary School

in memory and prayers:

  Charlotte Bacon, 2/22/06, female
- Daniel Barden, 9/25/05, male
- Rachel Davino, 7/17/83, female.
- Olivia Engel, 7/18/06, female
- Josephine Gay, 12/11/05, female
- Ana M. Marquez-Greene, 04/04/06, female
- Dylan Hockley, 3/8/06, male
- Dawn Hochsprung, 06/28/65, female
- Madeleine F. Hsu, 7/10/06, female
- Catherine V. Hubbard, 6/08/06, female
- Chase Kowalski, 10/31/05, male
- Jesse Lewis, 6/30/06, male
- James Mattioli , 3/22/06, male
- Grace McDonnell, 12/04/05, female
- Anne Marie Murphy, 07/25/60, female
- Emilie Parker, 5/12/06, female
- Jack Pinto, 5/06/06, male
- Noah Pozner, 11/20/06, male
- Caroline Previdi, 9/07/06, female
- Jessica Rekos, 5/10/06, female
- Avielle Richman, 10/17/06, female
- Lauren Rousseau, 6/1982, female (full date of birth not specified)
- Mary Sherlach, 2/11/56, female
- Victoria Soto, 11/04/85, female
- Benjamin Wheeler, 9/12/06, male
- Allison N. Wyatt, 7/03/06, female

   

and for

OUR President and his family

of our United States of America,

those who are serving our Nation and their service animals

and all who have served

and their families,those who have fallen and are still missing we honor and thank you,

May the Creator bless you for holding us in your arms to protect our freedoms.

We  remember.

 Jenn, Bill, Denise, Ashe, Stuart Jr,  Barry Gibb, his family, Whitney, the Houston family, the family of our disco queen Donna Summer ,

Andre, Bill, Taft Abras, Mary Labyaks' family , Andrea, Patti, Jamie, Sasha, Kerri, Josh, Kar, Cash, Neil, Lori, Cindi, Tom, Shasta, Bill Simpson and Family, Jenn, Steph, Dana, Kari, Sandy, Marty, Marsha, Wanda, Ellen, Cindee, Peggy, Joyce Cruz, a CANCER survivor working at Southwest Airlines *it was an honor to meet you dear one*, Ike Davis, in New Mexico, an artisan who plays in the mud and creates beautiful tings out there, *http://www.negroartist.com/* what a joy you are to so many of SOUTHWEST, thank you for visiting with me, prayers of continued success and tobacco to your Pueblo uncle! and for Christos Fandaros, Thomas Galvin, John Knudson, Curtis, Susie Langham, Stasia and Billy Hall, Christina Chavez and Rick and Ryan, Pam Meyer, Whitney, Diane Bystista, Susan, Leann Vincent, Roxanne Duran, Carole Poppendeck, Mary Jo H-shortes, Bridget, Robert Tanner Mara Tanner, Yolanda L Acosta, Antonio F. Balderrama, Denise Flowers, Lisa Balance, Sherry Stedman, Rose, Marquette, Acosta, Ortega, The Pueblo Peoples,

All those I was honored to spend time with in

" Choctaw Nation, IN, VA, DC, MD, FL, CT, PA, Ohio, Michigan, South Dakotas, Geisinger Medical Center, Michigan, Oklahoma, Ohio, Solaris Hospice, Evercare, Hospice of the Western Reserve, Gesinger, Guardian Angel Hospice,  Crossroads Hospice, New Hope Hospice, Comfort Keepers KS, El Paso, Santa Fe, Albuquerque"

Jeremy, Florence, Cal, Sarch, our friends of Portugal, Mike, AnnMary,Stephanie, Jimmy, Keli, Kasi, Katherine, Julie, Allan, Lynda,LeeAnn, KS Comfort Keepers, Stephen Bright, Linda and staff Melody,Brenda A and children Sarah, David Rachel; Gloria, Pete, Fred, Max, JJ, Barb and Leo Henning, Rick Fechner, Ryan Baurain, Melissa Reid, "Probation Professional pals", Jim Vander May (*who has been working in the Professional field for 45 years in Michigan*, Dale, Herschel, Bonnie, Louise, Holly, Jerry, Faith, Yvette, Happy, Audrey, and Rod Markowski and family, Lynn, Ryan, Jordon, Darryl Markowski, I thank you for your service) Brian Markowski, Shannon Becker, Nick, Reagan, Dr Iris Taylor of Detroit Medical Center,, please take best care of you) Sandy R. Carol, Stephanie, Geri, Chris, Matt, those in Oklahoma City, in Tulsa, In Ft Worth, Dallas, Ike, Isabel, Teresa, Janelle, Patricia, Susan, Karen, Laura in Yuba City CA, The Walter Reed Warrior Transition Brigade, Hope Hospice, Crossroads Hospice and those who care out there working and walking the walk, Perry, Clayton, George, Janet, and all in green! Rick, Calley, Ron, Rebekeh, Brenda, Becca, Audrey, Gabe, Dena, Beth, Lill, Jay Hanson, Jennifer, Beth Jett, Huntsville AL, Sheri, Wendy Reese and family, Sandy, Toby, Edith Vaughn and family,Susan, Greg and Kyle Korabek (Landon Korabek on the other side now), Stephen Bright and family, Walter Littlemoon, Jane, Laura, Mitch, Jenn, Chris, Mary, Taft, Martha Deaver, Morris, Dahlee, Rose Brick, The Baitinger Family, The Yaslowitz Family, The St Petersbug PD, Congresswoman Gabbie and her family, Dahlee in NJ, Judy Kelley, beloved husband and family, Jennifer, (now being watched over by her beloved husband and child), Norma, and Angel eyes Jack, Daniel, Dave, Cindy and Steve, Marty, Jeremy, Dennis, Darrel, Greg, Leroy, Rebekka, Carly, John, Diana, Crystal, Karen, Janet, Callie, Lorie, Laura, Larry, Clive,

2 Wolves and Jinx in SD, (http://www.2wolvescreations.com/)

Kelly and family,Judy W and her 4 sons up there in New England, Cherokee Wick, Benni, Gayle, Jonathan, Great Aunt Effie's family, Marilyn Warren, Ilene,  Jen and Brian, Ericka, Shannon, Hannah Sherabow, Pam C. and family, Susan S., Angela A., Nancy W, Sue G, Kelly and family, Susan Brouse, Cindy and Stevie, Kim, Olatz, EVB, Yiva, Mary, Sandra and family, Christina Helen, Dotti B., Susan and Greg, Amy, Becky and Barry Long, Christina, Matt and children, Aaron, Lisa and family, Freda, Linda Katie, Pat D, Tink and Mitch, LITTLE Ben, Jerry, Trish, Barb, Anastasia, Mary, Rylee, Lindsay, Ann, Sarah, Ruth, Johnny, Bobby and the Tucker Family, The Spraker Family,Kenny H, Michelle, Sandy, Addie and family in Canada, Sandy, BraveHeart, Rowena, Chris, Robyn Elizabeth, Jean, Duke,Rowena, Chris, Baby Robyn Elizabeth, Diane Smallze and family, Patti and family, The Korabek Family and friends, The Gasse Family and Friends,

Officer Crawford of St Petersburg, The Kocab Family, baby Lilly Nicole Kocab, The Curtis Family, Tarpon PD, those serving here and there in Uniform... Those now walking The Thin Blue Line, (far to many joining that line recently across our Nation),

Mylee, Mikey and family in DC, Jack M & Janis in OC, Stephen, Stuart Wittel  of the US MARINES and his parents Sandy and Stuart, Lavie Coltrane and family, Andrea Gasse and family here and in New England, Ali and family, Randy and Winnie in New Mexico, Jill Wheaton L, Dr Peter in NY, Dr Rev Bev, Irene M, Bernice, Eileen and family, Vicki, Matthew and family, Chris, Lovie, Nancy, Pedro and Our adopted family in BRAZIL,  The Windcross Convservacy and those beautiful Spanish Mustangs known as "pocket ponies"... the dolphins , always our most remarkable dolphins!!!

AND for:

Anne, Jim, JADE, Cynthia, Joseph, Cathy Madden, Nathan, and her family., Cindy in NC, Liz, Lee, Molly, Joanie, Jude, COFA, Judi, Ken, Matthew, Nick, Matt, Mark's family and many friends , Pat, Irene, Kevin, Dr D, Deb, Randy, Dr B, Isabelle, Kelsey, Sabrina , Charlie and family, Jean, Julie, Rhonda, Victoria, Mildred, Andi and family, Faith, Denise, Jim, Tom, Joey, Shelby friends and family, Judi, Phylis, Joyce, Gina, Tonya, Beverly and Family, Janeth, Melissa,Virginia, Stacey, Elizabeth, Nita, Gary Siegal, Adrienna, Brian Mawbey, the Boyan Family, Jean R and friend Christy Rider, Victoria and hubbie, Stephen, Gayle, Steph, Chris, Erica, Eileen, John, Mindy, Jack, Susan Werth Becken, her brother Mike and family, Craig James Lightfoot and his family, Kenny, Audrey, Ed Saner, Patty Crowley, Bennie, Gail, Jonathan, Moe, Beverly, Dennis, Peter, Trish, Cynthia, Heidi and her family, Kathy Knights family, Edith Vaughn, Candy, Cynthia, Jenn, Eve, Edith, Jason, Karen, Linda, Joyce, Belinda, Jeanette, Jennifer, Patti, Sandy S, and . .. 

(Feel free to let me know if you would like to add your/or a friends name to our prayer bowl.

Walk in beauty
DRSES

Somedays... ridin the waves or sittin on the shore

Somedays...just thinkin' we all at times need a few reminders on those things known as "just one of those days", those"somedays" that give either opportunities or challenges. 

Somedays we can either ride the waves, dive under the wake, or sit on the shore. Somedays we might find that we instead sit and wonder where the opportunity went, the missed chance or we were too busy wondering the depth of the water rather than jumping in and enjoying the moments, the feel of the waters and the adventure of life in all its complexities.

Somedays we all get so busy doing that we forget to "be" in awe of the world. We don't take the time to stop for those moments to see all that is around us, above us, below us, on the sides of us.  Somedays are just like that and then they are gone from our sight.

Somedays it may take another to point out that remarkable flower, beautiful sky or clouds, a song that has lyrics seeming to speak directly to us at that time we need to hear it the most.  These days folks are running and doing, or contemplating, or busy with so many things... some have become their story that lives behind them or have come a label assigned by others.

Somedays you are the windshield, somedays you are the bug... it's just how it is, and it will pass as all things do. 

Somedays will feel great, some not so much as we take on the stories we hear, the news we listen to, the events that surround us.  Somedays we may need to wash it clean with a shower and let it all go into that little hole at the bottom of the tiles... imagining all we have done and heard being washed away, never to be retrieved again.

Somedays... we will look back and wonder where did the time go, wishing for a re-do, or not!

Somedays we will need a reminder that you cannot touch the same water twice; so we will be sure and touch it often and with gratefulness and grace.

 STILL is still movin' to me.

Somedays we will just  want to lay down, to rest and then get up remembering there is a fire within that has been God given... with all we have been through, the good the awful, the heartache, the happy, the tears and the laughter... we are still here.  Somedays we need a reminder of that, knowing that is good. Real good!

Somedays there will be times when we just shake our heads, when we need to turn the volume up on the music and down on the opinions and thoughts of others.

Somedays we might just want to smile more, speak less, while remembering that "Love Wins".

and...

Somedays we want want to take advise from frogs, yes frogs. We might want to put a post it note on our dash board, our mirror, our frig and even write "frog"on our palms before engaging in conversations as a gentle reminder to seek and find "happy"always.

Somedays, always, may we remember... this is our path

Walk it with your head high, your moments pure and look around, up, down for the beauty that is yours always.  May you ride the waves knowing they are ever changing, always moving and somedays will knock you on your ass... GET BACK UP!!!

That is all.
Walk in beauty
DRSES


 

 

Just a thought or two... Landon Korabek Annual Jamfest reflections

As I sit admiring the hibiscus,feeling the warmth of the sun,I realize I am still absorbing so many moments in time of the Landon Korabek Jamfest 2014. With each beat of my heart, I hear Sabien at the drum, see his likeness to Landon in his profile, see his passion when those sticks are twirled in his hands. He is one hellified drummer and he left it all on the stage, all but "one stick" that I now find myself looking at with awe. That one stick looks like a dog got a hold of it in places where it is splintered almost to pieces, where it will never be the same again.

As I look at it, I am reminded of Susan and Greg when I said to them, "Who you are is not who you were and you can't go back there again. Who you are is different now and it is learning to live differently that is the challenge."  That stick reminded me again of that message, of the true meaning of our gathering together of the differences in each person that filled that room with such painful loveliness remembering Landon... who made a stupid choice while with his friends.  He just didn't know he would never wake up again. I'm certain that hell and his pals didn't give it a thought; "what could go wrong,  he might have thought", if he gave it any thought at all.  Our kids that are 17, our kids who are 20... their brains are not yet fully developed, they are easily swayed at times, just out for a good time!  Seems a lot of adults are doing the same thing yet, supposedly their brains are fully developed and the ability to make sound and good choices or decisions still escape them at critical times.

With each beat of the heart, often it is the beat of drum, the chord of a guitar, the magic movement sound of bass that moves us to next step.One step, sometimes on uncertain ground, one step at a time. When it all comes together, the step is lighter, the ability to hold your head up is there and remembered. Creativity sets in, just as your heart is playing the song that will move you to then moment in time. The dance may be different than ever before, but the music is there, waiting for you to rejoin the dance of life.
It may be different, at times sideways, upside down and off beat, you may walk away with scars, with a limp, or with a new dance as you join the music... BUT the music is waiting on you to dance, you are the one that must find your steps, in your time and in your way.

 Notice that drum stick? Just a thought to gnaw on as you move into your week... whatever your view, your thought, your step. Just keep walkin' ... the music will be playing with each beat of your heart.

A special "shout out" to VPN Studio for sending me the magic of this video snippet last night: Please enjoy, "ONE LOVE".
VPN Studio did a fantastic job for the jamfest with recording it (most if not all of it)...
 Just click here!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLe6K5z5biI 


TIME TO do those things that fill your heart with gladness... carry on!

Walk in beauty,
DRSES

The LANDON KORABEK ONE LOVE JAMFEST 2014... was more than

It was more than... this year's Annual Jamfest remembering Landon.

This was on the back of the shirts worn by Susan, Greg and Kyle Korabek.

The anticipation, the work that was involved by the "committee" was once again amazing... The Thirsty Marlin and their staff were ready for a day unlike any other day... and it was just that and so much more!  The Thirsty Marlin was transformed into "The Landon Korabek  Jamfest 2014 as we all became a part of something so much greater than self, so much more than tragedy, so much more than even imagined by all who had suffered such heartache. Bands were on the ready to take the stage as if playing for the concert of their lives and left their hearts, sweat, and soul on the stage!

I was so very honored to once again kick off the event; this year asking for silence as I"popped a top" on a can of coke in Landon's honor!  After words of hopeful inspiration to those there and those yet to arrive, I looked out into faces that have become familiar, have become so loved through such tragedy as I spoke knowing that Landon was already there. YOU could feel him enter as only a trickster would. His heart and hands touched all that were there on what has become"the main event each year" as I found the eyes of Susan,Greg and Kyle while I spoke ...

 This was the day just three days since his "angel-versary" that we would now sit back today and still feel "One Love" after getting together that beautiful Saturday.  After my words it was not long after that Landon's Dad Greg and Landon's guitar teacher/friend/mentor took to the stage. Greg is carrying on the legacy of those lessons now, and this year he took the stage as he and Bear took our hearts and breath away! I'm thinkin' there was not a dry eye in the place... Landon had to be sitting between the two of them I have no doubt.

 The raffles, the 50/50, the silent auctions, the One Love merchandise was flowing as strong as the love that was filling the Thirsty Marlin... How in the world the wait staff moved through the crowds remembering food and drink astounded me, but they did it as the sweat poured off them.  And the community showed up and showed out... including the recipient for last years' scholarship for music thanks to the One Love JamFest! He looked just as proud as proud could be... And received a powerful applause and congratulations from Susan, Greg and Ruth Eckerd Hall.

As the day brightened, the music got started, more folks walked in... the white shirts became more and more visible... the photo-bomb pictures, the fun, the dancing, the hugs and touch filled the space where once heartache lived.  From his grandparents, to his Aunt from California, his uncle from N.C., to those who never met him, they came... they ate, drank, and emptied their pockets to benefit N.O.P.E and Ruth Eckerd Hall for music scholarhips to benefit some lucky someone who loves music as much as Landon loved it.  Landon's friends showed up and showed their love to the Korabeks' each moving along in their lives and each remembering a friend gone too soon.  Curt Korabek and Matt Pilson once again ran around snapping pictures like bosses, both loved Landon and both are remarkable men... Amazing they can balance a beer, a hug, and a camera at the same time! They are just that good. 

the music was again, "off the chain" bringing folks to their feet,clapping and hollering to fill the blue skies with joyous noise and some fierce playing.

He's even known to throw that guitar behind his back and play on, just play on!

As they got to their feet and just seemed to "dance on"~

This year, brother Kyle Korabek introduced the Shenanigans to the stage; the band that let Landon play with them oh so long ago. the band whose members love beyond measure and give beyond words. Kyle took to the stage like "a boss", once the guy who wouldn't say too much, the quiet one... NOT this year, my friend has found his voice along this arduous path, and spoke from his heart along with his wicked humor. He took the time to wish his Mother Susan Korabek 'Happy Mothers' Day, along with his Grandmother Joan who was there, and his Grandmother in N.C.; he took his time to say what he wanted and then he smiled that smile and let the Shenanigans take to the stage they had been itching to get to all day long!

Oh how they played their hearts out for Landon, along with the others that walked on that stage on May 10, 2014... 

Saying his Name: Landon LANDON... as we all remembered, as we all "got together" for something greater than we even knew.

Landon's friends with Susan Korabek; they haven't lost touch, they still come around... 

Life is different now, it goes on, it goes on with the hope and each time Susan walks on a stage in a school and tells Landon's story,  she saves a life from a bad or stupid choice .  Each year that we gather, as these talented musicians play their hearts out; Landon lives on through the music. They have walked into my heart and I am so very honored that they have chosen to stay.

 they all left it ALL in the hearts of all there, and on that stage. 
At the close of this year's JamFest, Susan, Greg and Kyle were called to the stage. At that time, Shenanigans presented them with a Fender Guitar that was signed with each person who took that stage for them and for Landon during the day. Talk about breathtaking!  Tommy and Jack sure knew what they were doing with that surprise, and my heart is still recovering from watching them receive it.

 I could go on and on with photos...

but in closing I will share the one that says it all:  this is the back of Landon's friend... he is the one in the group photo with the shirt on that said, "Every damn day, just do it"

ThankYOU to all who attended The Landon Korabek 2014 Jamfest, to all who worked their butts off to prepare, during, and after... and those who played their hearts out for Susan, Greg and Kyle along with a community that continues to grow.


Just do it ... every damn day.

Walk on,
DRSES