Life Stories, Memories and a Birthday

My grandpa would have turned 86 today.

In January of 2007 my grandpa nearly passed away after having a heart attack while in surgery. It is a true miracle that we did not lose him then. After that happened he decided to write his life story. It is all handwritten and filled with amazing memories and love. I am so grateful that he decided to so this and I have one for myself.

Here is one of the stories that I had never heard and just laughed so hard when I read it. In fairness I would have thought the bees dead too. I wouldn't have put them in my pocket but what do you expect from boys?

Another favorite "Footnote" that he added.

Walter Dale Kohler - Age 18

Does it ever get easier? I think of you every day, I miss you more than ever. I feel as is I've accomplished alot these past three years you've been gone and I would love to tell you all about it. I know you'd be proud. I know that you are. I just want to talk to you, steal your cane, go to the mall, eat Costco hot dogs, sneak in your model room and touch the cars ever so carefully. Can't we just go back for a while? Take a drive up to Logan for a Papa Kelsey sandwich and Bluebird chocolate's. Maybe, someday. For now I say to the heavens that I love you with every fiber of my being. So so much.
                                      Happy Birthday you handsome devil.

Proud to be ME

So I re-posted Troy’s post on Facebook about supporting gay marriage. It started a strong debate, which is fine. I welcome a good healthy respectful debate. However a line was crossed with a gay slur and an attack on my character (I feel) it hurt for a second. I’m not going to lie and say I didn’t care, it stung. I sat here and thought about myself and the things that I stand for.


The hurt went away and I felt proud.

Never in my life have I been as happy as I am now. In my marriage, in my life and in ME.

In my past I have made mistakes and I have grown from those. I have had dark periods and done things I am NOT proud of. I have forgiven myself. I have learned. I have been able to help others through some of my experiences.

I have my spiritual beliefs and they differ from everyone because I don’t follow a book to a T. I follow my heart. I follow what I believe to be right. I have never felt this spiritually connected in my life. I love it.

I will continue to stand for what I believe is right. People may not like me for it but oh well, their loss. I must say I am a pretty darn cool person.

Thank you for the post that made me realize how much I actually love and respect myself.

As I am accepting my award I want to thank my husband Troy for being the ultimate support. You Sir are one amazing man with an incredible Spirit. I love you.

One more thing when I do stand before my Maker I will stand proud of who I am and what I fight for.