Hello Folks! As I reflect on the last week or so, I am over come with emotions. Wondering, will this be our Nana's last Thanksgiving with us. Just how many years has it been since we buried my sister the day after turkey day? Will my friend that lost her 36 year brother last Sunday, be able to handle the emotions....for she struggles with mental issues??
OOOO the holidays.....a mixed bag of emotions for so many. But, we must look around and see all the reasons to continue to live and celebrate life. Our children, families, friends. Our wonderful communities, a warm home, a hot meal, a smile from a stranger all a small sample of those reasons.
As we sat at our Thanksgiving table. Our Nana started us with her special Blessing for the meal. After which, Robby ....who is stationed at Fort Benning....began to eat. And eat.....and eat. Man my cooking must be awesome.....sorry I digressed. His sweet words rang volumes in my ears, "I haven't had a homemade turkey dinner in three years, I made one for me and my men two years ago, but it was nothing like this". Although most of those at the table heard his words, I'm not sure they REALLY heard what he was saying. But for me.....it was a huge dose of reality. How can any of us feel sorry for past, current or future situations in our lives......when so many young soldiers like Robby sacrifice everything on a daily basis so that we may have all those reasons to continue to live and celebrate life?
Thankful indeed, that Robby has come into our lives and serves our country so that we may live free in the best country in the world. We are truly Blessed! Love and Blessings....Sherry!
Sunday, November 30, 2014
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
I Give Thanks
Today, the day prior to turkey day.....I give thanks! I give thanks for Beth, Natalie's first tennis coach at age 5. Not only was Beth a great tennis player and coach, but she was an awesome mentor for Natalie and so many. Beth was an amazing mother, wife and daughter prior to entering the Gates of Heaven a few years ago. We miss her every day! We are very Thankful this Thanksgiving Season that she was in our lives, for our lives are better because of it.
This is a snapshot of a page from a scrapbook a dear friend made for me in 1996. It is very interesting to me that the theme of the book was angels and there is an angel sticker above Beth's head. Some how a comforting find today. Love and Blessings.....Sherry!
Monday, November 24, 2014
Video
Howdy from a HOT Georgia! Yes, I said HOT....as in 80 degrees. A beautifully sunny day, that has our Nana enjoying the outdoors on the front porch. When I ask her if she's doing ok, she says "ooooo yea, I'm fine". She may not come back in until the sun goes down.
Well, it took several days but I think I figured out the issue with my video production. So, as promised here is the video recapping Alumni Weekend:
Thursday, November 20, 2014
Alumni Weekend!
Good Day from sunny south, although cold! Last Friday, Natalie finished coaching and she and I headed to Knoxville. It was alumni weekend for the both the men's and women's tennis teams. Was to be Nat's first since graduating in 2012. She was really looking forward to being part of such a special occasion.
Upon arriving, made a quick stop on campus to pick up Lady Vol basketball tickets from our friend Jessica. Thanks Jess! Then we checked into our hotel. After a very fast 20 change....Natalie went from a hot mess to a hot momma. I think the front desk people thought it was someone other then who I checked in with. Sorry, I digressed. Anyway, we headed back to campus where Nat dropped me at the game and she head to the first alumni event. A meet and greet at a local place. She had a blast and so did I!
We both climbed into bed by 10. I passed out, she dozed waiting for Ed (her bro) and Robby (her bo) to arrive. After they did, we all had some giggles and passed out. Up and out early on Saturday, we dropped Natalie on campus. She and the other All American Legends were to meet with the current Lady Vols team to give them some inspiration.
The boys and I head to McKays. For I brought some of my dad's record collection to sell. Of course having the extra muscles around to help was greatly appreciated. After McKays we headed back to campus to give Robby the tour of the tennis center and to catch him up on Natalie's career there. I think he enjoyed himself and seeing the place. As well as watching our gal on the court. She couldn't play, but she was able to feed tennis balls to those that could. All the ladies seem to really be enjoying there time on the court. And it is really important for the current team to be mentored by such decorated alumni.
Although we had planned to kinda "drill" and run em through the mill.....Robby got off easy. Unfortunately, someone kinda tipped him off so it took the fun right out of it. But don't worry, we will get to that. hahahahahah But for real, we enjoyed Robby being with us and getting to know him a lil better.
A quick lunch and walk across campus...in the frigid weather and we were at the alumni tailgate tent. We watched the Vol Walk and the Band, while enjoying some treats and drinks. After which we headed to the game. You know, to show Robby how we do it in the SEC. Even tho the game was great, we were freezing. We had a blast cheering on the Big Orange team.
Here is a video of some of the sites and sounds of our trip....sorry but the lighting in the tennis center is not good for taking pictures. I did the best I could! Please enjoy!
Well, having issues with the video....once I get it figured out I will post it...sorry ;(
Love and Blessings.....Sherry
Upon arriving, made a quick stop on campus to pick up Lady Vol basketball tickets from our friend Jessica. Thanks Jess! Then we checked into our hotel. After a very fast 20 change....Natalie went from a hot mess to a hot momma. I think the front desk people thought it was someone other then who I checked in with. Sorry, I digressed. Anyway, we headed back to campus where Nat dropped me at the game and she head to the first alumni event. A meet and greet at a local place. She had a blast and so did I!
We both climbed into bed by 10. I passed out, she dozed waiting for Ed (her bro) and Robby (her bo) to arrive. After they did, we all had some giggles and passed out. Up and out early on Saturday, we dropped Natalie on campus. She and the other All American Legends were to meet with the current Lady Vols team to give them some inspiration.
The boys and I head to McKays. For I brought some of my dad's record collection to sell. Of course having the extra muscles around to help was greatly appreciated. After McKays we headed back to campus to give Robby the tour of the tennis center and to catch him up on Natalie's career there. I think he enjoyed himself and seeing the place. As well as watching our gal on the court. She couldn't play, but she was able to feed tennis balls to those that could. All the ladies seem to really be enjoying there time on the court. And it is really important for the current team to be mentored by such decorated alumni.
Although we had planned to kinda "drill" and run em through the mill.....Robby got off easy. Unfortunately, someone kinda tipped him off so it took the fun right out of it. But don't worry, we will get to that. hahahahahah But for real, we enjoyed Robby being with us and getting to know him a lil better.
A quick lunch and walk across campus...in the frigid weather and we were at the alumni tailgate tent. We watched the Vol Walk and the Band, while enjoying some treats and drinks. After which we headed to the game. You know, to show Robby how we do it in the SEC. Even tho the game was great, we were freezing. We had a blast cheering on the Big Orange team.
Here is a video of some of the sites and sounds of our trip....sorry but the lighting in the tennis center is not good for taking pictures. I did the best I could! Please enjoy!
Well, having issues with the video....once I get it figured out I will post it...sorry ;(
Love and Blessings.....Sherry
Monday, November 17, 2014
Goobers
Got to spend UT Tennis Alumni weekend with these goobers and a few more. They are, Natalie, her bearded brother Ed, her now official boyfriend Robby and current UT player Ashlee. More stories and pictures to come!
Thursday, November 13, 2014
38% In One Week
Burrrrrrr Baby it's Cold Outside! Hope everyone is staying bundled and warm. Father Winter is letting his presence be known.
The very good news, physical therapy is going really well. Natalie's toe has gone from not moving an inch to moving. Her range of motion went from zero to 38% in one week. Yes, she is determined! The PT wiz...Tab....is very happy to say the least. She has been going to the pool everyday and walking. Which I guess is causing a stir with some folks, much to Nat's dismay. Now mind you, she is walking in the THERAPY pool. And on two different occasions an older gent has said, "hey, that's not swimming that's walking". Genius' eh?? Needless to say, she wasn't a happy camper with their comments.
Anyway... back to the good news, she is walking, she is wearing a normal shoe, the boot is around ...somewhere, her attitude has improved. She has finally allowed herself to believe that her toe/foot is going to better one day soon. Seeing her toe move again has brought all of us a bit of comfort.
Today, Natalie was up and out early. On her way to Atlanta to teach lessons. She will spend the night up there (to save gas money) and teach again tomorrow. After which she and I will head to Knoxville for a UT Tennis Team Alumni weekend. She is excited to attend, for she has been on the court during the past years.
While Nat's at the dinner on Friday night, I will go watch the Lady Vols basketball team, thanks to Jessica. We will reunite at some point and join Edward (Nat's brother) and Robby (Nat's ??) (not sure official yet....hahahahha). Who will drive up separately due to their work schedules. Then on Saturday morning we will watch the tennis alumni hit some tennis balls, well except for Natalie. After which, we will join the Vol Navy on the Boles Boat for pre game party. Then we will be off to the football game.
Looking forward to a very Orange weekend and showing Robby how we do it in the SEC. Being a Nebraska fan....yea I know we won't hold it against him....he knows the fun of a big game and stadium. But he hasn't experienced Vol Nation or the Vol Navy......sooo this is gunna be fun. And besides, we can pick his brain a lil while Nat's not around and put him thru the "mill" ...heheheheh.....which will also be much fun.
Must say, there is some exciting news ahead....yes...that's a hint. More on that in the near future. Hope you are planning to stay warm and are getting exciting about the upcoming holiday seasons. Love and Blessings....Sherry
The very good news, physical therapy is going really well. Natalie's toe has gone from not moving an inch to moving. Her range of motion went from zero to 38% in one week. Yes, she is determined! The PT wiz...Tab....is very happy to say the least. She has been going to the pool everyday and walking. Which I guess is causing a stir with some folks, much to Nat's dismay. Now mind you, she is walking in the THERAPY pool. And on two different occasions an older gent has said, "hey, that's not swimming that's walking". Genius' eh?? Needless to say, she wasn't a happy camper with their comments.
Anyway... back to the good news, she is walking, she is wearing a normal shoe, the boot is around ...somewhere, her attitude has improved. She has finally allowed herself to believe that her toe/foot is going to better one day soon. Seeing her toe move again has brought all of us a bit of comfort.
Today, Natalie was up and out early. On her way to Atlanta to teach lessons. She will spend the night up there (to save gas money) and teach again tomorrow. After which she and I will head to Knoxville for a UT Tennis Team Alumni weekend. She is excited to attend, for she has been on the court during the past years.
While Nat's at the dinner on Friday night, I will go watch the Lady Vols basketball team, thanks to Jessica. We will reunite at some point and join Edward (Nat's brother) and Robby (Nat's ??) (not sure official yet....hahahahha). Who will drive up separately due to their work schedules. Then on Saturday morning we will watch the tennis alumni hit some tennis balls, well except for Natalie. After which, we will join the Vol Navy on the Boles Boat for pre game party. Then we will be off to the football game.
Looking forward to a very Orange weekend and showing Robby how we do it in the SEC. Being a Nebraska fan....yea I know we won't hold it against him....he knows the fun of a big game and stadium. But he hasn't experienced Vol Nation or the Vol Navy......sooo this is gunna be fun. And besides, we can pick his brain a lil while Nat's not around and put him thru the "mill" ...heheheheh.....which will also be much fun.
Must say, there is some exciting news ahead....yes...that's a hint. More on that in the near future. Hope you are planning to stay warm and are getting exciting about the upcoming holiday seasons. Love and Blessings....Sherry
Monday, November 10, 2014
Captiva Island 2014
Good Morning! And a beautiful fall morning it is, with the sun highlighting the lil color left in the trees. Must say, sorry for not blogging for over a week but much has been going on and frankly I had a break. Well, sorta a break!
Following our trip to see Doc Anderson in Charlotte, we tried to figure out a plan of action. You see, Natalie was to escort a player to the Captiva tourney, I was to tag along. Yea, I know a tough job but someone has to do it. Sorry, I digressed! Anyway, with the news from Doc, Natalie was determined to start PT right away. That toe's lack of movement had her very worried. So, first thing that next morning she made several phone calls. First, to Tab her PT wiz who said he couldn't see her that day but could on Monday. Next a call to the gal Nat was to escort, who by the way was wavering going due to her own injury. Those calls changed all the plans, Nat was not going to Captiva.
A dear friend of ours made arrangements for a condo for us, so I made my way to Sanibel and Captiva. Something I will always be sooo very grateful for! A lil too last minute to find anyone to take with me. But I was able to work with a player and her mom who seem to be having issues. Kinda of a mentor if you will. Must admit, was much easier for me once they left. I enjoyed the tourney and beach, and the alone time. Amazing how well I can sleep when out of the stressful place known as home.
While I collected seashells by the seashore, Natalie got busy with Tab. As well as with the bands....rubber bands that is. Part of her PT is to use a lil rubber band on her big toe. This idea tickles my funny bone soooo much, that in the upcoming days I will be making a video.
But until then, here is a recap video of some of the sights and sounds of Captiva Island tourney:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sly9QvEHMzE&feature=youtu.be
Following our trip to see Doc Anderson in Charlotte, we tried to figure out a plan of action. You see, Natalie was to escort a player to the Captiva tourney, I was to tag along. Yea, I know a tough job but someone has to do it. Sorry, I digressed! Anyway, with the news from Doc, Natalie was determined to start PT right away. That toe's lack of movement had her very worried. So, first thing that next morning she made several phone calls. First, to Tab her PT wiz who said he couldn't see her that day but could on Monday. Next a call to the gal Nat was to escort, who by the way was wavering going due to her own injury. Those calls changed all the plans, Nat was not going to Captiva.
A dear friend of ours made arrangements for a condo for us, so I made my way to Sanibel and Captiva. Something I will always be sooo very grateful for! A lil too last minute to find anyone to take with me. But I was able to work with a player and her mom who seem to be having issues. Kinda of a mentor if you will. Must admit, was much easier for me once they left. I enjoyed the tourney and beach, and the alone time. Amazing how well I can sleep when out of the stressful place known as home.
While I collected seashells by the seashore, Natalie got busy with Tab. As well as with the bands....rubber bands that is. Part of her PT is to use a lil rubber band on her big toe. This idea tickles my funny bone soooo much, that in the upcoming days I will be making a video.
But until then, here is a recap video of some of the sights and sounds of Captiva Island tourney:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sly9QvEHMzE&feature=youtu.be
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