Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Peaks and Valleys

Wow, so besides the post on the Volleyball tournament I have been a blogslacker.
Hrm, I believe I just created a new word.

But I wanted to jot some thoughts down that have been milling about my brain.

So often in life we wonder, "Why is this happening to me?"
During an interview with Quincey Jones about Michael Jackson on the CBS Sunday Morning Show this past week, Quincy said (I won't quote since I don't have it verbatim) Life is full of peaks and valleys. Everyone is there when you're on top, but it's the valleys that show you what you are made of.

Those are true words, people.

It's 30 days shy of my first layoff. A second layoff followed less than 5 months later. Tough times. (Not the first, I'm sure not the last.)
BUT WHY?

Because today, I have an amazing job that I love (even after 3 months! lol)
New coworkers who are fast becoming good friends.
I have a new home that is more than I need but perfectly harmonious with how I see my future. I have parents who yet again, have displayed their unconditional love. The hopes and dreams they have for me are undying and my happiness seems to be all they need. I am so thankful and I love them more and more.
My friends - there is something about people you choose to love and make your family that is gratifying. I love you guys. You guys can make me smile in any situation.
I can't imagine this world without any of you!

So, when I create that time trail in my head and look back, I clearly see why things have happened and where they have led me.
I need to remember that when someone or something (including myself)steps in (or I screw up)and changes my life, it doesn't mean they (or it) controls the outcome. . . that's mine and only mine to own, mold and guide.

This life keeps getting better and better.

Peaks and valleys, my friends.
Peaks and valleys. . .

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

3rd Annual Fenton Dawson Memorial Volleyball Tournament


WOWZA! Has it been an entire year already?!?!?
Indeed it has and with that, I am SO proud to announce the 3rd Annual Fenton Dawson Memorial Volleyball Tournament!

YOU GUYS!!! MAN, YOU GUYS!!!

You ALL continue to overwhelm us with your enthusiasm, love and support!
Last year we had 17 teams participate; up 6 teams from 2007! Absolutely outstanding!
We could not ask for anymore than what everyone of you bring to this tournament each year.
Truly, you touch our hearts.

I will continue to say this as long as this tournament exists - We can think of no better way to remember, honor and CELEBRATE Fenton than by bringing a group of people together as friends and family for a day of being together, laughing, competing and havin’ fun playin’ a little volleyball!

(I just got goosebumps!)

I’ve gotta give a HUGE shout out to KBA!
NONE of this would be possible without KBA donating their facility!
Hats off guys! You’re the best!

Here are your 2009 details!!!!

WHEN: Saturday, August 8, 2009

WHERE: KBA has graciously donated their facility for the 3rd year!

TIME: Opening serve begins promptly at 9:00 AM

Check-in will open at 8:30 AM

COST: $120/ Team

DIVISIONS: B & C CoRec 6’s (at least 2 females per team please!)
You may compete with 4 but you must have two females, please.

Please visit www.fdmvt.com for more details, registration forms and contact information.

For pictures and blogs about the tournament go to www.fdmvt.blogspot.com!

We are SUPER EXCITED to see you all!!

Best regards,
Dave, Christie, Susie, Stephanie, Lisa & Mike

Monday, May 25, 2009

Taking a moment this Memorial Day

It's been a long time. That last time I was here I was celebrating a new job.
Life is back to busy now that I have roughly 10 hours less in my day.
The job is going so well. I am such a fortunate girl!
We are so busy which makes my days fly by.
This would be good if it weren't also my life flying by, but hey. . . at least I'm loving my work and having a good time during all the in betweens.
I've made some new friends who are reminding me of my silly side. (Like it needed to resurface!)
I'm remembering every day to be thankful of all that is.
Very very thankful.

Today is Memorial Day, it is raining which to me is so peaceful. Outside, I hear the birds singing. It is mixed with news reminding us to take a moment of silence for those who have fallen in service to our country.
Just a moment. . .

This past week I enjoyed a family vacation in a beautiful, ocean front home.
I ate, drank and sun bathed on the shore of a calm, sandy beach.

Last Sunday night I sat on a deck overlooking the water while having dinner with my father.
He's a retired Master Sergeant: 11 years Airforce, Vietnam Veteran, 10 years Army Reserve, activated during the Gulf War.
During dinner, I asked him if he was ever truly scared while in Vietnam.

"Yea, one time in particular. There was this plane on our base and me and this guy's job was to guard this plane. Now, the Airforce didn't carry guns but there was a building where if we came under attack we would go and get a gun. Well, we were right on the perimeter of the base so there was a fence, a field, then a trench with another wire fence beyond that. Well we look up and see the VC scaling that outer fence so we went and got guns. I just knew that any minute those VC were going to be coming over our fence. I'd never shot anyone."

Daddy paused.

"Thank goodness we never saw them. The Army was in that trench picking them off as they came over. I never had to shoot, but I was terrified."

"You know, this didn't used to bother me then, but it does now. I used to have to drive around the edge of that base to get to the mail drop every evening. I'd pass by where they would load the dead bodies to take them . . ."

His voice trailed and he turned his head. His eyes filled so I reached for his hand.

"The sunset sure is pretty here." I said

It is almost incomprehensible to look at him, my Daddy, and think that there was such a great chance that he would never live to be my Daddy. He was just a kid.
It is heart wrenching to know that almost 40 years has not been enough to ease the memories of what he experienced. It fills me with pride that MY life and freedoms are in part granted by him and so many others like him.

I think about all the men and women who will come home from serving this country and one day sit on a beach and share a story with their child.
I also think about all those who won't.

For some of us Memorial Day is more than just taking a moment, because a moment, simply isn't enough.