Signing Off

December 31, 2009

It's time - time to take a break from the blog. Why???? My heart is not into writing, and when my heart is not into it, then I'm afraid all the blog would become is a means to air my heart ache and frustrations; to air all that is wrong with life, the world, politics, and any thing else that troubles me.

I know there a few who do follow the blog, and for those who do, not to worry, I will be back!!!! When? Sooner than later - I hope!

2009 was a year of ups and downs, as have all the years in the past. I have always tried to think of only the postitive, but too many times the circumstances of life have tried its best to tear down the optimistic atttitude I have tried to live by.

I know many love the pictures - especially those of old - and I may post pictures periodically.

Bill and I would like to take this opportunity to wish all of you a Happy New Year, and pray that the year 2010 is your best year yet!

Precious Gifts from the Heart

Saturday - December 26. 2009



I only had one comment for my last post - thanks Jeni, and I have to agree with you, that would be a perfect gift! :):) . . . . especially after the holidays and all the cooking, cleaning, and all the hustle and bustle that tends to go along with family gathering and the holidays!!

I have never really asked for anything for Christmas, birthday, anniversary, etc. - oh sure, Bill and I love to check magazines indicating things we like in them, but to specifically ask for something - can't think of anything I specifically requested. Even when we talked with Santa, it was always what ever you want to give me!! I was too afraid to ask him because I never felt as if I had been good enough that year to get anything from him! :):)

This year's Christmas purchases was all about Cora - her first Christmas!!! She has still to receive the gifts from Granddad and me, so I can't tell what we got her! :):)

Bill and I celebrated Christmas quietly yesterday morning before leaving to spend the day with Mom. The gifts I received from Bill were unexpected and beautiful. He does have good taste when picking out special things for me. . . . . and I believe I surprised him this year as well!!!!

There was a gift I received that was unexpected and will always be very precious to me!!! Most of you know that my oldest brother had a stroke back in February. We are so thankful for the progress he has made. He knows his limitations, but is able to let us know what he wants to do. He told Rhonda he wanted her to shop for Mom, Opal (his mother-in-law), Rhonda, and the boys. He had seen a commercial on TV showing a necklace with a heart that contains bells. Every time the heart jingles you are to think about the person who gave you the necklace. Apparently I was on the list to also receive one of those special necklaces. Dink, every time I wear the necklace; every time I hear it jingle; and every time I see the box it came in - I WILL THINK OF YOU!!! Mom holds anything her oldest son picks out for her near to her heart - this will be at the top of the list for her too! You have always given me a hard time - just like John and Mike - deep down I always knew you all really liked me! :):) You all three got more delight out of giving me a hard time and ganging up on me!!!! That's what brothers are suppose to do! :)

I received another precious gift this year as well - one that made the connection of the Layne siblings go back in time. The sad thing was that there should have been one more gift; one that had the year 1969! That gift would have been for John. Bill located a site that sold sweatshirts and t-shirts with the logos of our high schools before they were consolidated!! He bought the three of us one with Huntington High Pony Express and the year we graduated. We loved it.
As you can tell, Mike and Dink were having a good time at my expense - great time with the family!!!!!



Bill also got Mom one with Logan Wildcats and the year 1940 - the year she graduated!!! She absolutely thought it was wonderful - especially when Bill pulled out one for him with Williamson Wolf Pack on it - Logan's arch enemy!!! Some may think these were trivial gifts, but they were gifts from the heart that brought all of us together not just in the present, but the past as well! Job well done Bill!!!!!

Even with these special gifts, we all know that the most special gift we received was the love we have for one another and the time we can spend time with the family. None of us expected to receive gifts, but we know that those we received were given with love.The greatest gift of all came when God sent his only Son to die for our sins. That gift is one we all are thankful for every day of our life. We know that with this gift, one day we will be able to be with all the loved one who have gone Home before us!!!We hope you all had a great day with family and friends

The Perfect Gift

Wednesday - December 23, 2009

Hmmmm - it would be interesting to see what all of you think would be the perfect gift. I am afraid there are way too many people who wait for that "perfect" gift year after year. The thing is, over two thousand years ago we received the most perfect gift imaginable - God sent his only son to earth to die for our sins so that we might have eternal life. We need to believe in God's word and follow what has been written!!!! We need to become a little more humble and remember that Christmas is not about us, but about the reason we celebrate Christmas!

I know that many of you DO realize this was the most amazing gift, but it would be interesting to see what you as the readers believe would be another perfect gift for you. I have so many ideas running through my head, but I won't share with you for a few days. :):) I guess the is one of my "writing prompts" I would use with my kids. I didn't give them examples because so many would use my examples as their idea! Thus, the absence of my thoughts for my "other" perfect gift idea!

I really would like to hear from you and your thoughts - besides it will give me an idea as to how many are still reading the blog!!! Yes, there is a counter, but a number of those numbers posted are coming from where we check on the blog! :)

So if you could just take a moment or two - let us know what you think your perfect gift would be!!!!! Write it soon enough and have that special person read your response, and who knows, you just might receive that perfect gift sooner than later!!!!

Christmas List

Monday - December 21, 2009

There are may of us who are stressing out about now. Christmas Day will be here in a little over three days. The weather has hampered many doing the shopping they intended to do; visit the loved one they had planned to spend a little extra time with; and even some procrastinated about sending out a special Christmas wish through the mail. Why do we do this to ourselves? Yes, we know the real meaning of Christmas, but there has been a tradition for us to bake something special, send out cards to those near and far, and to find that perfect gift for those close to us!

I am among those feeling the stress! Having been sick two weeks ago after a long month of trying to help Mom with the church rummage sale and church bazaar, as well as all the preparations for Thanksgiving, and then here came the snow!!!! Put all these things together and I feel like I am way behind with what I want to do for Christmas. I will do what I can for all I love and pray that they know it was done with love! The good thing about being part of a large family is that we pitch in and help when another needs it! Christmas has not been the same for me since we started losing close family members - our grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings!! Thus the wish to make each Christmas a little more special for those who are still with us, and the need to let them all know how special they are!

The poem I am including in this post was included in two separate Christmas cards. Mom received several in her cards too. So, to all those who may not have received a card or a gift from us this year, know that you are thought of with fond memories and have made a mark in our lives!

Christmas List

I have a list of folks I know, all written in a book

And every year at Christmas time I go and take a look

And that is when I realize that these names are a part

Not of the book they're written in, but of my very heart.

For each name stands for someone who has crossed my path sometime,

And in that meeting they've become the Rhythm of the Rhyme.

And while it sounds fantastic for me to make this claim

I really feel I am composed of EACH remembered name.

And while you may not be aware of any special link

Just meeting you shaped my life more than you can think.

For once you've met somebody, the years can't erase

The memories of a pleasant word or of a friendly face.

So never think my Christmas greeting is just a mere routine

Of names upon a Christmas list forgotten in between.

For when I send a Christmas greeting that is addressed to you

It's because you're on that list of folks I am indebted to.

For I am but a total of the many folks I've met,

And you happen to be one of those I prefer not to forget,

And whether I have known you for many days or few,

In some way you had a part in shaping things I do.

And every year when Christmas comes, I realize anew

The BIGGEST Gift life can give is Meeting Folks like YOU!

And may the spirit of Christmas that forever and ever endures

Leave its richest blessings in the heart of You and Yours!

anonymous

(From our house to yours - Merry Christmas)

Heinz 57

Wednesday - December 16, 2009

Okay Bill, you knew I was going to write something - and I hadn't thought of a title until you reminded what you had given me when I turned 57 - a bottle of Heinz 57 Steak Sauce. So, I guess this will be your Heinz 57 gift!!!!

Yes, you are a year older but what a year it has been. One of the greatest gifts you could have ever received came in March - a little early for a birthday gift, but that's okay. I have seen the smile on your face, and the joy you received when holding your first grandchild. The thrill you must have felt when you held your son the first time must have been one of the most special days you will never forget. Then there came another day (night) that was also a gift to last forever! The first time you held your grand-daughter, Cora Ann!

The birthday gift I want to give to you is going to be a few of my favorite pictures of you holding your precious grand-daughter. These are moments I know you will hold dear to your heart forever. Happy Birthday and may your day be a happy one!!!!!!

Your first time holding Cora Ann

Three generations

Cora's first visit to one of your favorite places to eat - Chili Willi's

The love . . .



. . . the wonder . . .

. . . the joy . . .

. . . when you are holding . . .

. . . this precious baby girl!!!

. . . and this picture is priceless!!!

Happy Birthday to my Heinz 57!!!!!!!!!!

"Mary, Did You Know?"

Monday - December 14, 2009

For the last couple of week I have been a little out of sorts - both mentally and physically. Bill and I both had the dreaded virus which left us both weak. We are better, but I really could care less if any food is placed in front of me:( The virus hit hard and fast. I hope no one else come in contact with it. We more or less isolated ourselves away from others so as not to spread the virus.

Not feeling well and missing all those we have lost in the last few years had almost made me wish "The Season" would quickly go buy. I have always loved this time of the year! I love decorating for Christmas. At one time I had decorated every room in the house - even the bathrooms were in tune with the season! We decided that by the time we would get our things up, it would be time to take them down again. So, we opted not to put out any decorations. However, had there been a little girl coming to visit - decoration would have been up regardless of being sick! :)

But when I stop and think about it, "the season" is not about the decorations or the buying of gifts. We all need to stop and reflect about the sacrifice that was made when that little baby was born. Sure, I am down a little because of being tired, sick, and missing the loved ones no longer with us. I have stopped and looked around me and know how blessed I am to have a loving and caring family and friends; I am blessed that God loves me regardless of my many short comings. I really try, but sometimes I know I could do a lot better. I love my family, and I love God.

After going to The Gaither's Christmas Homecoming Concert, a song has embedded itself in my mind. When listening to the words of this song, I know how lucky I am. How would I have felt had I known the baby I had just given birth to was to die for all our sins. Mark Lowry wrote the lyrics to the song "Mary, Did You Know?" When hearing the song and reading the lyrics, I am so glad that I believe!!!!!

Mary, Did You Know
Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day walk on water?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy has come to make you new?
This child that you've delivered, will soon deliver you.

Mary did you know that your baby boy will give sight to a blind man?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will calm a storm with his hand?
Did you know that your baby boy has walked where angels trod?
And when you kiss your little baby, you have kissed the face of God.

The blind will see, the deaf will hear and the dead will live again.
The lame will leap, the dumb will speak, the praises of the lamb.

Mary did you know that your baby boy is Lord of all creation?
Mary did you know that your baby boy will one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy is heaven's perfect Lamb?
This sleeping child you're holding is the great I am.

Songwriters: Mark Lowry and Buddy Greene

Saying Good-bye

Tuesday - December 1, 2009

Sitting here at Mom's, listening to the sounds - the furnace kicking on and off, hearing the ice maker filling up with water and then dispensing the ice, the alarm system indicating which door is being opened - all were the same sounds we as a family were listening to four years ago tonight. But those sounds back then sounded as if a B24 Bomber was flying over the roof of the house! Each noise was so loud, but as I listen to them tonight, they really weren't as loud as we thought they were.

Four years ago tonight we knew that Dad was about to leave us and go to his heavenly home and be with God and all those who had gone before him. To let go was not easy, but when Dad said he was ready to go home, and seeing the strength that Mom had, told all four of us - Dink, John, Mike, and myself - it was time to say good-bye. I have never liked saying good-bye because it always sounded too final to me. I will say, "I'll see you later, or I love you," and I will try and steer away from saying good-bye. Occasionally, I will say "bye" which doesn't sound as final to me!

Not only were the four of us here, but so were Rhonda, Debbie, Billy, Todd. Bobby, Meghan, and Bill were coming and going. David even was able to come to the house before Dec 2 and spend the afernoon. Dad loved not only Mom, his four children, but he loved his in-laws, and oh those precious grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I know this will make some of you cry and wonder how I can write this. It's not easy by any means because not only does Mom miss Dad everyday, so do the rest of us. Everywhere I look, I see Dad. There is something he made or fixed; or it's the place he always sat; and it's the smell of the wood where he had been working in the wood shop. Dad may be gone from our presence, but his memory is with us always.

The one thing I really regret was that I was not here when Dad left. I was on my way to get some relief from a sciatica nerve problem which had caused me to be almost doubled over. For a week I had put off going because I wanted to spend all the time I could with Mom and the rest of the family as Dad was about to begin his journey Home. The pain took over, and I did leave. It was also the time Dad left for his heavenly home. Before going out the door that morning, I kissed my dad; told him I loved him; and told him good-bye. I think I knew in my heart that my daddy was going to a far better place before I returned back to the house.

I do feel comfort in that I know that my brothers, sisters-in-law, and nephews were here with Mom as she said good-bye to Dad. They held his hands and assured him that we would take care of Mom - his one concern was always about Mom - he was her protector and provider for 59 years, and he didn't want her to worry about anything. Dad knew deep down that we would all be there for Mom. Mom told Dad it was okay and that she would be fine. A gentle peace seemed to go over Dad and he knew in his heart that all would be well - God was in control.

Much has happened in the past four years. Mom had a stroke/heart attack and recovered. Her eye-sight is getting worse, but she is still plugging along doing almost anything she wants. She will be turning 90 years old in February - so let's have a party!!!!! She is very active with the activities at church and loves every moment of it - even though she tires quicker now than she use to!

Dink suffered a stroke and heart attack back in February. He is progressing and we are so thankful for him and his progress. Rhonda has been support, cheer leader, and coach - and for that we love her that much more!!!!! Dink, I know Rhonda reads the blog to you, so I am telling you that your "favorite" sister LOVES YOU!!!!! and we are all so proud of you!!!!

We've had three weddings - David and Jeni; Bobby and Shanda; and Todd and Cassie. There have been two great grand-daughters born - Brooke Irene and Cora Ann; plus we have another baby on the way (Dawn) - due to be here in May.

With the many happy things that have happened, we have also had many more who we have had to say good-bye to which included many aunts and cousins; and then our precious brother John. I know that my twin was greeted by Dad and the rejoicing that has been going up there has brightened the heavens to the highest. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about both Dad and John. I would love to be able to pick up the phone and call each one of them and say one more time, "I love you." Dad would say, "I love you too;" while John would say, "Ditto, Sis!"

When leaving your family and close friends, don't just say "good-bye" - tell them you will see them soon and that you love them, because you never know if you'll get another chance to say that!

This post is for you Dad! We are trying our best to take care of Mom and watch over her. You would be so proud that she has been honored for being a Rosie the Riveter. I'm sure you hear her when she is talking about something you did years ago - many times it was something that could get you in trouble with her! :):) Her love for you has never wained, and she knows that you are waiting on her - it's just not time for us to say good-bye to her yet! We love you Dad and miss you so very much!

Thanksgiving

Wednesday - November 25, 2009

Giving Thanks

For the hay and the corn and the wheat that is reaped,
For the labor well done, and the barns that are heaped,
For the sun and the dew and the sweet honeycomb,
For the rose and the song and the harvest brought home --
Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!

For the trade and the skill and the wealth in our land,
For the cunning and strength of the workingman's hand,
For the good that our artists and poets have taught,
For the friendship that hope and affection have brought --
Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!

For the homes that with purest affection are blest,
For the season of plenty and well-deserved rest,
For our country extending from sea unto sea;
The land that is known as the "Land of the Free" --
Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving!

~Author Unknown

Wishing all a very Happy Thanksgiving with family, friends, and all who may gather together to give thanks for the many blessing bestowed upon you this year!!! God has been good to His children and will always be there for all!

Isn't She Precious?

Wednesday - November 18, 2009

We are so thankful that we know how to use the computer and have figured out how we can save and then share pictures of Cora. Jeni and David do a great job posting new pictures of her so that we might see how much she is growing and changing each and every day. Capturing Cora smile with a camera has not always been an easy feat! :) The following pictures were taken by Jeni and David, and I hope you enjoy looking at them!

Thank you Jeni and David for posting pictures!!!!!

My Road - Was It The One Less Traveled?

Tuesday - November 16, 2009

Many of the post I've written have come from the heart in which I thought some would appreciate, like, or agree with. I felt many times I would get a response about the post. Guess I was wrong! I'm not writing to win an award or a pat on the back, but to share with family and friends what might be going on in our lives. But I do know someone reads the blog - according to the counter - so that is good! I just hope that some of the things that have been written, a picture, and even a memory will touch your hearts in a positive way!!!

There are many things weighing heavy on my heart, some of which I will share, other I have chosen not to. God is the only one who knows all my worries, thoughts, hopes, and dreams. I will say that I worry about my family - all have their own individual obstacles to endure and hopefully overcome. I pray that God is with them and will help them through all that in front of them! My prayers are that they all will be able to accept and go forward with whatever God places in front of us all. HE is the ONE in charge!!!

Naturally, one that I worry about is Mom. She is 89 and at times thinks she's 29!!! She can literally at times out work the grandchildren and does it without complaining!!! He generation knew nothing but hard work. They had only themselves to depend on when work was to be completed, because each person had their own responsibilities. She has worked hard her entire life, and she still feels that is the way it should be. Recently she was told by the doctor to keep her feet elevated to help with the swelling. This has been one of the hardest things for her to do. She has followed the doctors orders for the most part! It is so hard to see her wanting to be doing things she did all her life, but doesn't have the stamina to keep up the pace as she use to! She does great, and we try to let her be as active as she can without over doing! How do we decide what is too much and what's not. We let her decide. Her body is telling her, and we watch for the signs!





Dink is another one I worry about - he has been trying so hard to regain what the stroke took away from him. HE and Rhonda both have been relentless with do his therapies even though they have taken a hiatus from the St Mary's Therapy due to the potential of being exposed to all who may have the flu. Rhonda is constantly with Dink, and I worry about her as well. Both are working around and over obstacles many of would never dream about enduring!

I could name all my family and why I worry about them, but the good Lord knows why. I love them all, and will always pray for them.

One little fellow who has caused much worry for Bill and me is Toby. He is our 13 year Old Boston Terrier - just in case those who read this didn't know that bit of information! :) Toby is now under pain management for the rest of his life. How long that will be is in God's hands. Bill and I can not think about that day we know is approaching sooner than later. Some may say, "what's the big deal? It's just a dog! " No, Toby is NOT just a dog. He has been our companion, our friend, our buddy, and our "babee" for the last 13 years! He has loved us unconditionally and has appreciated all we have done and given him throughout his entire life. It will be a very sad day for us when we no longer hear his bark to go outside; his staring at us when we eat awaiting one tiny bite - which the vet said he could have; the piglet sounds while trying to locate the last crumb dropped on the floor; and the snoring when he finally settles down for the night!! He is and has been the best friend we have ever had.



Those I haven't mention should know they are on my mind as much as those I have mentioned!! Bill, David, Jeni, Cora, Mike, Debbie, Laurie, and ALL my nieces and nephews to name a few more!!!!! Some days I just want to crawl under the covers and not come out until all I love have overcome all that faces them and that they are the happy side of the road of life!!!!

Have you ever thought about what life would be like had you chosen a different path? I think human nature has probably caused most of us wonder a little about that! What if I had taken that other path, where would I be and what would I be doing????? Even with all I worry about, I believe I have taken the right paths - I worked at a job that I loved more than I disliked; I have a family I love and would never trade for anything; and most importantly I have God who loves me when I'm up and when I'm down.

Robert Frost wrote a poem called:

The Road Not Taken

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.

I don't know if I took the "road less traveled" or not, but it is the road in which has given me much more to be thankful for even with the worries I might have!!!

WE ARE . . . . . MARSHALL

Saturday, November 14, 2009

39 years ago tonight will be etched in the memories for thousands of people from the Marshall University community. The plane carrying most of the team, coaches, staff, and fans, hit the hillside as they approached the Tri-State airport. All aboard the plane perished that fateful night. I remember that night, and remembering thinking this can't have happened. Many of the players had been or were classmates of mine at MU. Many were friends with John because he was taking the athletic classes in which most of the team was taking!

As I looked over the names of the coaches, players, and the fans, I shudder when I realize at how many I actually knew or had some special connection. The players such as Ted Shoebridge, Michael Blake, Marcelo Lajterman, Allen Skeens, David Griffith, and Barry Nash were members of some of the classes I had taken or were taking in education. Our family's medical doctor and his wife were on that plane, Dr. Joseph and Margaret Chambers. They had three daughters in which two were MU cheerleaders! Dr. Joe's father had been our pediatrician. We knew them well! Other fans on the plane were the parents of many who attended the same high school as I had.

It still makes me shiver when I think back about that night. I was watching my grandmother, who was living with us after my grandfather had passed away earlier that year. Mom and Dad had friends up and they were playing rummy in the kitchen and eating the cheese, pickle, and a cracker tray I had fixed. The boys were milling around watching the game and what ever we had on TV to entertain Mammaw. Then we got a phone call. The daughter of the lady visiting us called and said a plane had crashed out at the airport. Then they interrupted the program on the TV to say a plane had crashed and that there was the fear it was the Marshall plane!

Many people around town jumped into their vehicles to rush out to the airport to see what they could do to help. My brothers also went out to the crash site. Needless to say, there was nothing that could be done! What it did do was embed memories of that fiery plane crash in the minds of all who rushed out to be of assistance - including my brothers!

It was a very long week for the community. Funerals were being planned with many here in Huntington, while others were being sent home to Ohio, Alabama, New Jersey, and Georgia just to name a few of the states. Coach Dawson tried his best to attend all those funerals, because he had recruited many of those boys to come to Marshall. Each funeral had a representative from the coaching staff as well as a surviving team mate who had not been on the plane due to a variety of reasons.

The first day back in one of my classes, there were three black roses on three separate desk scattered about the room. The roses were placed on the desk of three of the players who had been on that plane! That was one of the hardest classes to concentrate in I believe I have ever had!!!

This tragedy did not just touch the lives of those who live in Huntington, or who went to Marshall. It also touched the lives of many sports fans from across the nation, and most definitely the family and friends of all aboard that plane. The flight crew, the coaches, and the players were from all around the United States. They all may be gone, but they will never be forgotten!

The 1970 Team and Coaches

The Coaches:

Rick Tolley – Head Coach
Al Carelli – Offensive Line
Jim “Shorty” Moss - Offensive Coordinator
Deke Brackett – Kicking Coach
Frank Loria – Defensive Backs
Carl Kokor – Defensive Line (was not on the plane)
Red Dawson – Defensive Coordinator (was not on the plane)
Gail Parker – Freshman Coach (was not on the plane)
Mickey Jackson – Offensive Backs (was not on the plane)

The Players:

Jim Adams
Mark Andrews
Michael Blake
Dennis Blevins
Willie Bluford
Larry Brown
Thomas Brown
Roger Childers
Stuart Cottrell
Rick Dardinger
David DeBord
Kevin Gilmore
David Griffith
Arthur Harris
Robert Harris
Bobby Hill
Joe Hood
Tom Howard
Marcelo Lajterman
Richard Lech
Barry Nash
Pat Norrell
Bob Patterson
Scotty Reese
Jack Repasy
Larry Sanders
Al Saylor
Art Shannon
Ted Shoebridge
Allen Skeens
Jerry Stainback
Robert Van Horn
Roger Vanover
Fred Wilson
John Young

Tom Zborill

The following players were not on the plane:
Tony Barile
Richard Brautigan
Jon Calvin
Dickie Carter
Ed Carter
Jack Crabtree
Dave Cyrus
Ed Deeds
Greg Finn
Dennis Foley
Fred Gaudet
Wes Hickman
Frank James
Felix Jordan
Gary Morgan
Pete Naputano
Paul Oden
Nate Ruffin
Jim Sly
Mike Swartley
Richard Taglang

David Withers

Other Athletic and Football Staff:
Charles E. Kautz – Director of Athletics
Gene Morehouse – Sports Information
Jim Schroer – Head Trainer
Donald Tackett – Assistant Trainer
Gary George – Student Assistant Statistician
The following were not on the plane:
Ed Starling – Assistant Director of Athletics
Jim Hodges – Business Manager
Eugene Jones – Assistant Football Manager
Gerald Sieber – Assistant Football Manager
John Hagan – Equipment Manager
Mervin G. Black – Assistant Equipment Manager
David W. Byrd – Student Equipment Manage
Joseph Wortham – Student Assistant Statistician

The Fans:
There were twenty-four of Marshall’s most diligent supporters who went with the team on that fateful trip.

Charles M. Arnold
Rachel Arnold
Donald Booth
Joseph Chambers
Margaret Chambers
Shirley Ann Hagley
Ray Hagley
Arthur L. Harris
Emmett O. Heath
Elaine Lois Heath
Cynthia Jarrell
James Jarrell
Kenneth Jones
Jeff Nathan
Brian O’Connor
Michael Prestera
Glenn H. Preston

Phyllis Preston

Courtney Proctor

Herbert D. Proctor

Helen Ralsten

Murrill Ralsten

Parker Ward

Norman Weichmann

The Flight Crew:

Captain Frank Abbott
First Officer Jerry Smith
Stewardess Charlene Poat
Stewardess Patricia Vaught
Charter Coordinator Danny Deese

The Headlines


The fountain which was designed as a memorial for the 75 who lost their lives. There are 75 points on top of this fountain! Each year on November 14 the fountain is turned off for the season!

WE ARE . . . . . . . MARSHALL

Veteran's Day - The Tear In His Eye

Wednesday - November 11, 2009

The following is a poem written after witnessing the heinous acts that took place on 9/11! I watched the news with disbelief - how could this be happening??? There was an image of a veteran standing and looking on as the hundreds of rescue workers were trying their best to find survivors. Tears were streaming down his face as he stood silently watching what was taking place in front of him. My thoughts were: was he crying because of what had taken place on US soil; was he crying because he lost loved ones and friends on that fateful day; or was he remembering when he and his friends had made sacrifices so our freedoms and lives would be out of harm's way? I really believe it was a combination of all!

To the veteran who shed tears; to the veterans of all ages; to all the veterans who have gone on to their heavenly home; and to all those active members of the Armed Forces - THANK YOU for doing all you've done and are doing to preserve the freedoms we hold as Americans. Without the sacrifices of all the brave men and women (and their family), I would not be able to write this poem or blog. We do not live in a perfect place, but we do have many freedoms that citizens from other countries do not!

The Tear in His Eye

The veteran represents a nation proud and strong;
Inspiring her to do what is right and not what's wrong.
Sadly he sits, and we are wondering as to why
This soldier of old has a tear in his eye.

Watching with disbelief so quietly, brave, and tall;
The nation he fought for is together for the good of all.
This obscured enemy will eventually learn about defeat
As God guides his nation back on her feet.

This veteran has witnessed her sufferings in the past,
Wars, assassinations, and the Oklahoma blast.
Now, we need not wonder why there's a tear in his eye,
As he watches the devastation that started in the sky.

The lives lost in Pennsylvania, Manhattan, and DC
Will not have died in vain, on this we all will agree.
So, to the veteran with the tear glistening in his eye,
We ask that you not worry on us you can rely.

The battles he fought helped mold us today;
The tear in his eye will now be wiped away.
His nation will comfort this veteran of old,
As the facts of what happened begin to unfold.

Phyllis Sue Hardin

Laziness or Poor Attitude

Sunday - November 8, 2009

Very seldom will I write about something that bothers me that I know is out of my control. But today's topic has been bothering me for a very long time. Saturday's experience was the straw that broke the camel's back!! Back during the time when my sciatica was giving me fits, and I was finally able to go to the store, I starting noticing how many times the customers were having to place the bagged groceries into their buggies to wheel out to their cars!

Some may think or say, "Well, they put the groceries into the buggy, so what's the big deal about putting the bagged groceries into the buggy?" The weight of the bags might be part of the problem, but I thinking that didn't the cashiers (or a bagger) use to do this for the customer? My first trip to the store after my back was starting to mend really frustrated me. One of our local stores had installed the "lazy-Susan" style of bag holders that I began to notice that the service to help the customer had started to diminish. Apparently, (or so I've been told by employees of these businesses) that with this style of bag holders, the cashier is NOT responsible for placing the bagged groceries into the buggy. They just twirl it around so the customer can do it. Hmmmm - prices are higher and service to the customer has diminished!!! Most days this would not bother me, however on days my back is not feeling the best, it does bother me. Chances are Bill will be at home to help carry the bags into the house! What about all those senior citizens who are in the 70's, 80's, and even 90's? Are they required to do the work for these cashiers?

I have actually noticed how many senior citizens are placing their bags into the buggy. No help from the cashiers or any of those standing around talking with other employees. There was a day when as a customer, all that we needed to do was buy the items, and then worry about getting them out of car and into the house. Most stores had the cashiers or the young men hired as baggers to place the groceries in the bags and then place them in the car. Most of the boys who did this received a small token as a tip! It was well worth it to the customer to have this kind of service.

But alas, no longer do most of the grocery establishment offer this type of service. Too many times the attitude of the cashier is one of "I really don't want to be here," which gives us the impression this person is rude. At one time, an employee with this type of attitude would have been let go. That is not the case today.

After taking Mom to her Ladies' Circle Meeting Saturday, we stopped at the store. We need to remember that we had just completed working HARD for the last two days in the church's rummage sale. The days of preparing for it should also be considered when thinking about how tired we were. Mom had a buggy for her purchases, and I had one for some things for me to take home to Bill and Toby! We had no problem shopping. Most of you know that Mom's eye-sight is not good. Therefore, we (whomever takes her to the store) will unload her groceries (after all she is 89) and then use her debit card to pay for them. No problem, we are helping Mom. The clerk saw that I was trying to unload Mom's buggy, and then was trying to unload my buggy as quickly as possible so I would be ready to pay for Mom's. She knew they were two separate orders - I placed the bar between our orders. I got my order out before she had complete rung Mom's up on the cash register - I was fast! :):)

What really irritated me was that while I was paying with Mom's debit card, this cashier just stood there not offering to place Mom's bags in the buggy. If she couldn't have placed them in the buggy, then she needed to call for some one to come and help - she did neither!! Therefore, in order for her to ring up my order, I had to quickly as possible pull Mom's bags off the "lazy-Susan" so my groceries could be placed in a bag. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr - I was out of breath from trying to unload two buggies, pay for two separate orders, and placed the bagged groceries in the buggy - then load them into the car. The cashier was NOT friendly and considerate - especially towards Mom - I guess that's what really irritated me!!! It is one thing to treat me that way, BUT not my mother!!!!!!

I will confess - I was extremely tired from the work I had put in with the rummage sale! But, I try to put on a friendly face, because I know these cashiers have to deal with the public which can really been tough at times. There should be mutual respect from both parties - the cashier and the customer! I have seen some of the cashiers/employees verbally abused for apparently no just cause. So I really try to be as friendly and cooperative as possible when I go to the store!However, some of these cashiers appears to be "lazy" or are they just harboring a poor attitude because they have to work??? I really don't know! But I do know, that I steer away from some of these cashiers, and go over to one who has a smile on their face, even if their line is the longest - there might be a reason for these long lines! :):)

This posting is definitely NOT about all who works at the stores or are cashiers - it is about those who are rude, lazy, and very unfriendly to the paying customer. If they are that unhappy with their job - then get a new one. If they can't get a new job, then try your best to enjoy what you're doing as long as you can! I do not and will not frequent these business unless I really have too because of the attitude and the poor treatment from some of their employees! I have also heard from friends that they had noticed these poor attitudes and do not frequent these businesses as often as they have in the past! Is this called boycotting??????

A smile goes a long way and will make you and all around you a happier person!

Sorry for venting - but had I not been there with Mom (which would never happen, because one of us has to always take her) would this cashier have made her bag her groceries?????

Mom - Crafts for the Church Bazaar

Tuesday - November 3, 2009

I want to share a post that has a happier overtone than my last posting!! The church that Mom attends is having its first ever Christmas Bazaar with most of the proceeds going towards the youth program. Mom has always made items for Christmas - usually crocheting gifts. I remember when we were in grade school, she would always crochet dollies for our teachers. The recipients were always thrilled with the gifts. It was not until I was older that I realized why they were so thrilled with the gifts - they were homemade!!! When Dad started working with wood and making small things, Mom would find a pattern she thought he would enjoy making, and between the two of them they would make, decorate, paint, stain, and then give them away as presents!!

Mom's eyesight has been slowly leaving her. She can crochet some patterns which now makes those gifts even more special. We always teased her saying she could crochet with her eyes closed!!! She wanted so badly to help make something for the Church's Bazaar. So, we came up with some plans on things she would be able to help make. She loved the reindeer necklace which was given to me years ago by a former colleague. She loved it so much I gave it to her. She asked me if I thought we could make some of these necklaces! She was able to stain the clothespins. I later painted the nose on each deer as well as glued the wiggly eyes on each. Then we both strung the clothespins, beads, and bells on the ribbon to make the necklace. She had a blast and whistled all day while we worked on these! This made all the hard work worth it!!!

Hope you enjoy the pictures of the progression of going from little clothespins to a reindeer necklace - by the way - she has already given at least three away! :):) This means we will be making more for the bazaar!!!!

Mom showing how I drilled the holes in the clothespins using my craft tool!

Mom staining the clothespins - she wore plastic gloves to keep from staining her hands! :):)

She concentrated so hard to make sure she covered every inch on the clothespin!

Making sure each was perfect!

. . . and she did a great job . . .

. . . all the clothespins stained and ready to be strung . . .

. . . Santa Red paint for the nose . . .

. . . Rudolf would be so proud . . .

. . . all now have a red nose . . .

. . . now the tedious job of gluing the wiggly eyes in place . . .

. . . "I see you!" . . .

. . . actually, they all see you . . .

. . . organization of the materials made the job of stringing the ribbons a lot easier . . .

. . . we used red and green ribbon . . .

. . . two of the finished necklaces . . .

Even though Mom did not make these completely by herself, she did enough to feel she has made a contribution to the bazaar! This has made her happy anad useful!!!

The "Babee"

Monday - November 2, 2009

Are you all going to read or look at the pictures? :):)

GO REDS!!!! That's what I'm suppose to say according to Dad!

Today our world was rocked a little! We were told by Dr. Brown that our "babee" has four vertebrae which are fused together which has allowed arthritis to grab hold of his spin. He is, according to the doctor, in continuous excruciating pain. Toby has always been a "tough man" and his tolerance of pain would put most of us to shame! We all do not want Toby to be in this much pain, after all he is our "babee!"

There are many skeptics in this world, which may include family, friends, and more than likely strangers, who would say, "He is just a dog!" Pardon me, but he is more than "just a dog" to Bill and me! We fell in love with him when we first saw him over thirteen years ago! He became our "babee!" He became our friend, buddy, companion, and a means of helping us release much of our stress! Many health organizations are utilizing the help of "therapy" dogs to help patients of all ages. Stroking the back of a dog or cat has proven to help calm the nerves of many patients and owners of these dogs and cats!

He knew when it was time for us to get home from school and would be looking out the door for the car to come across the railroad crossing! You might ask how I would know this. Simple, when staying home from school due to being sick, I would lay on the couch in the Reds' Room. Toby would hear the buses start their trek toward the school around 3:00. He would then go to the door and sit there patiently looking down the road for the first sight and sound of the car. He knew the sound of our car. He would start to get anxious when he saw and heard it. Then he would start whining when it would pull under the carport. He was ready for his mommy and daddy to get home. He was all over us when we would get in the house, and then it was time for a game outside.

He loves us unconditionally - regardless of the scoldings he might have received for doing things puppies do, or even when we were away from home a little longer than usual. He has given us so much pleasure. When we would have a really bad day at school, he would greet us ready to play. We would play Frisbee with him and before we knew it we were laughing at Toby's antics. He would always try to play keep away and make us chase him all around the back yard! He could make us laugh regardless of how bad our day had been. He never expected anything special, but would show his appreciation when he did receive a new toy, a treat, or even his food and water.

The thought of him being in pain brought tears not only to our eyes this afternoon, but to the vet and his assistants as well! We were told nothing other than pain management would help Toby now. No surgeries - not that that would have been an option for his age - would help his problem!! The plan is to try and get him to be as pain free as possible. Today he was given a steroid shot with some new pain medicine - 1/2 tablet twice a day. We go back in a week to see if this medicine will work. He may have to have a shot every two weeks, which is something we will be administering to him.

These are some of our favorite pictures of Toby - I could have posted hundreds of pictures of him, but that would have taken a long time to upload! :):)

Toby all snuggled under his covers with one of his "new" buddies!

Okay, so he has crooked teeth - but you have to love that smiling face!!!!

One of his favorite games to play now is to chase this big ball around the back yard! He can no longer see the Frisbee flying through the air! :(


He loves "new" toys and is not happy until he finds the noise maker in each one.


Toby had to go to Ohio State for two separate surgeries! The first one was to have his anal sacs removed. He looked so pitiful!

The second surgeries was on his eye. He had to have a skin graft placed over his eyeball to save he eye. He is now almost completely blind due to cataracts.

One of his favorite times of the day is to snuggle under his blankets - especially when the air is on and it's cold!!!!

This picture was taken right after the first time Cora came to visit. He appeared to be peeping out from under the blanket saying, "Are they gone yet?"

As with most of my posting, I don't expect to receive comments. As I was told once, you know people are reading them by looking at the counter. This is true, Today's posting is one that has my heart breaking because I don't know what the future holds for our "babee!"