Family Tree Posters

I'm in the process of creating Family Tree Posters for this family.  They are available from the Photo Albums menu on the right.

Here also is a link.  It will give you a message about the redirect, just accept the redirect warning.


There are mistakes I'm sure in these Trees.  If you would like to see a change made, most in this family know how to reach me over facebook, email, etc.  I will admit to mistakes easily; you don't need to send me anything more than a politely worded request, and I will make the changes you've asked for.  I do appreciate the corrections, as I have limited access to some portions of the family for details.  So I am not certain on a lot of things.  Thank you.

My Cup Runneth Over

I attended the memorial service today of my Dad's cousin Randy.  During the service, I listened to all the wonderful stories of how this humble man affected them in a moment of crisis in their own lives.  I, too, had a few of my own stories of how Randy was there for me and my family during moments of dire need.  I had time only to share one during the moment of open mic.  When my Dad and Randy were kids, they were much more like brothers than cousins.  I remember Randy staying with me through many a melodrama storm of my family - he was always such a calming presence for me.

When Randy learned that my Dad was seriously ill with cancer, he simply asked for where we were, and he hopped in the car and drove the six hours to sit with Dad.  Randy then hopped back in the car and drove six hours home.  During that time with Randy, I saw my Dad relax for a bit, and Dad came back to us for a little while.  Those were a few hours which I'll never forget.  Randy gave us a gift so precious.  The gift of time and love.  That seemed to be the theme through out all the stories I heard today.

I am struck by how blessed I am to have so many Godly men who've absolutely poured out their lives for their loved ones. My Dad had his faults, I am not saying he was a saint or trying to put him on a pedestal.  He made many hurtful choices, especially when he was younger and before he had accepted Jesus into his heart.  But this I know. My Dad Loved Me.  When he didn't have to.   I wasn't blood.  He poured out his life for me and my siblings. Randy did the same for his family, especially after Randy was changed by his acceptance of Jesus as his lord and savior. I listened to Randy's daughters speak of how he cared for their needs, spiritual and physical, and I'm struck by the many parallels.  These men were too young to go, but they left an impression on those left behind.  I have difficulty thinking of Randy singularly without also recollecting my Dad.  For me, they were so close as brothers, that in my mind they had a a strong bond. Perhaps this was a divinely inspired bond due to the burdens they would bear.  Only God can answer these and many other questions I have.

I choose to trust that God has a purpose in taking them when He did. I know this is what Randy would've wanted.  We will continue to mourn, as he touched so many on so deep a level.  But we must remember, he is with his Lord.  And we will see him again.  I know many miss him in the waiting.  My Cup Runneth Over to have had these men in my life at all.

Time

Time is such an intangible thing.  I hate and love time.  Time is both a gift from God, and a disciplinarian.  What I wouldn't give to hug these two people again.  Just once.

We lost Randall Ward late last night.  Too young.  I believe that it's not a coincidence that those my Dad had strong bonds with have died relatively young.  Natural causes, yes.  But, something in these men who were so unlike each other bonded them together.  Perhaps it was Jesus, who knew these men would need to help each other when their turn came.

I'm so grateful too, of the time spent.  Of the time God granted us.  God still grants us time.  Open your eyes to the people around you.