Life is Changes

Wellllll a couple years later...but here I am. Soon, I will change the name of our blog.  Doing so because of all the changes in our lives.

First some updates.....

Natalie left the pro tour and joined the ranks of college coaching.  Spending a couple of years at Gonzaga in Washington State.  An awesome job and team.  Which caused her many tears when she left for a job in the SEC, Arkansas...Hawg country.

2018, had plenty of highs and lows!  In February, we lost our beloved Nana.  With Natalie’s pending nuptials in May....made for a very emotional spring for the wedding planner and funeral planner......me.   The wedding was amazing and our bride beautiful........

As for me, as many of you know I’ve been playing poker.  Not as a pro, but as a recreational player.  Mainly playing WSOP circuit events and WSOP Vegas in the summers.  Of course, the last couple of years of family issues has taken priority.  I continue to study the game and play as often as possible.

Which brings me to my next point....this blog.  Which brought me a lot of happiness during our travel days with tennis.  It did so because of all of you, your comments bout it kept me going.  And I appreciate all of them but most of all I appreciate your continued support of Natalie and her dream.  Since, all of us are moving on in life....this blog must do the same.  Therefore, it will be renamed and focused on my travels as a poker player.  And of course, mixed in there will be Natalie and Pluskota Fam updates.

Hope you continue with me in my life’s new direction.....many changes forthcoming.  Many thanks!  Love and Blessings.....Sherry

Spokane or Bust

Good Morning from a beautifully chilly Georgia!

Don't pass out, but I'm about to blog for the second time this week.  Not only did I need to step away for a bit. But, Google made changes, which led to me not being able to access our blog.  They got it straight, well except for the picture download part.  So, for now I can't post pictures.  I've spent many hours trying to do so, just not working.....sorry.

A Nana update....she is doing fine these days.  She just celebrated her 92nd birthday!  Amazing indeed.  Although we lose a lil more of her everyday, we are thankful for our time.  She spends most of her day watching tv and being in la la land....she is happy.   Hard to watch, but thank goodness she doesn't realize what is going on with her mental state.....a plus side.

Because of Nat's commitment to her summer job, we decided it would be best if I flew to Spokane to apartment hunt.  So, July 17th, I did just that.  In two days, I looked at 35 apartments/complexes.  Yes.....35!  You see, on the first day I looked at 15, finding only 2 that were suitable.  I panicked, and spent that night planning the next day.  It was crazy, but I did it!  I was able to find a place, but could only see a two bedroom because there weren't any vacant one bedrooms.  The managers Bob and Midge told me they would have on available September 1st.  Perfect!

The goal in mid August was to help our gal buy her first new car.  Mission accomplished, on August 19th, I picked up her 2016 Ford Edge from Mike Fitzpatrick Ford.  Many thanks to Mike and his staff for working with us and our craziness.  You know, having to work with me and of course long distance with Natalie.

You may be asking, why buy the car in Georgia?  How is it getting to Spokane?  Well, let me tell ya.....

On August 21st, I loaded Natalie's new car with some of her belongings.  The Princess Peach and I headed west.  I decided to take 16 days to get to Spokane, to take in the sites.  I made it to Metropolis, the home of Superman, on the first night.  Then to Kanas City for the second and third night.  Onto Council Bluff, IA for the fourth night.  Spent the next two days at Mount Rushmore.  Then a day in Bozeman, MT and the Grizzly Encounter.  Then a day hike at Big Sky, before reaching Yellowstone.  Where I spent five glorious days filming the animals and nature.  (Hopefully, I'll be able to post pics at some point).  I went onto the Grand Tetons for a few days then to Spokane.

Yessssss....a trip of a lifetime.  I was able to film bison, moose, deer, bears, bear cubs, coyotes, an owl.  I took a chuck wagon dinner tour and a photography safari.  Both well fantastic, I highly recommend.  Boy, I hope to post pics and share my view via my lens.

I arrived in Spokane on Labor Day.  Natalie flew in from the Hamptons the next day.  And started work the following day.  The great news....we both made it safe and sound......the bad news....the apartment wasn't going to be ready till the following week.  So, we unloaded the car into the hotel room so that we could begin to shop for her apartment.  For she needed everything....a bed, towels, bedding, EVERYTHING for a kitchen, sofa, table and chairs, dresser, etc. 

Everyday, we hit the ground running.  Nat would go to work and then we would shop and off load to the hotel room.  We ordered the mattress set and bed and couple of hours after her arrival.  Then I would ride with her and while she was at HR doing paperwork I would go to Goodwill and send her pics for approval.  We were able to get glassware and dishes, etc. at Goodwill.  Our theory was to get things second hand that she could donate back once she decides to move elsewhere.  Buying new the things she would be willing to haul to the next city.  Although exhausted, we continued that pattern every day.  We giggled often at the sight of our hotel room and wondered what the maid thought.  Lol!  I mean we had dog cages, coffee tables, bed in a bag, TV, lamps, dishes, glassware, etc.  lol!

Then finally her apartment was available for a walk through and our first visit.  She....we....loved it...soooo lucky to have a great place with great management.  It's like she has apartment parents.  Wewwwww....things we falling into place.

We got the keys and started to empty the hotel room.  I would stay at the apartment and wait for deliveries, Nat went to work.  Happy to say the bed arrived as promised and we were on our way to furnishing the rest.  By the time I left on September 16th, she was only waiting on her table and chairs, UT wall hanging and throw  pillows.  We were able to hang most of her pictures and curtains.  She was set and could fill in the rest as she goes.  I however.....spent.....exhausted.....all the while being very excited for Natalie.  I mean new job, new city, new apartment and new car......awesome indeed!

Ok, there you have it....what happened this summer.  And how Natalie, her new car and stuff go to Spokane.  Love and Blessings....Sherry!

I'm Bbbaaaacccckkkkkkkk!

Hello Folks.....

Hope all is well with you and your families! Especially those dealing with this recent storm.  Please let us know if you need anything and I mean anything!

Over the next few weeks, I'm gunna try to get you up to speed on what has been going on with our girl and family.  Truth being told, I had to step back and get the emotions out of my writings.  So that, I may try to explain what was the end of Nat's pro career.  Those emotions being fueled by outside influences who "thought" they knew what was going on and continued to comment negatively or even positively.  Unfortunately, some jumping to unfair conclusions which added distress to an already stressful situation.

Because tennis is an individual sport, the mental game on and off the court is huge.  Therefore, when a player is recovering from a devastating injury, they need support in many ways that are different then the "regular"  person.  Especially when that injury occurs a few weeks before a major, like the US Open.  Because injury steals an athlete's confidence as to what their body will or will not do on the court.  The athlete and those that support her, must help to ensure that the lack of confidence doesn't creep into other aspects of their game and life.  Again, because tennis is  a sport that is 80%+++ bout the mental disposition.

Someone who blindly tries to support an elite athlete, can do more harm then they will every know.  Let me give some examples....when Natalie is out on the road and a friend continues to text, how they miss her and need her to come home.  I'm sure you are thinking wow really Sherry....but YES!  When a player's confidence is low, it doesn't take much for them to want the "comforts" of home.  That friend may have the best of intentions, but the texting distractions feeds the negativity of being on the road.   I mean if you are struggling with your health, being away from home, lack confidence, wanting a home cooked meal, wouldn't you like to go home and snuggle with soup and your blankie?

Blindly supporting a player is not helping a player.  Unfortunately, those that do it, have the best of intentions but have no clue as to what it take to be a pro tennis player.  Most of the time, those that blindly support say things like, "hey, just don't do it anymore".  Unfortunately, that is not addressing what is going on with that top level player.  That player has spent a lifetime to get to this point, to dismiss that dedication reflects the lack of knowledge one has about the person they blindly support.

Instead, I offer a couple of suggestions!

-Ask the athlete what they need to get back to the sport they love
-Don't ever support the easy way out, quitting
-Help remind the athlete that all top level athletes have setbacks and injuries
-Or stay completely out of it, take the athlete out for some fun and don't bring up their sport
-Try not to make the athlete feel like they are missing out cuz they chose their job...their sport
-Don't blindly support....better to say nothing then to comment on something you are not an expert at

Now, I climb off my soap box to talk about Natalie.  Two years ago July, Nat broke her foot during a singles match in Canada.  Being the crazy athlete that she is, she finished the match on that foot.  Yes, she has a very high tolerance of pain, crazy high.  Anyway..... By the time I arrived in Canada, Nat was on crutches.  We had to find a Doc,  in the USA and in Seattle.  Within a day, we were in Seattle.  Getting the heartbreaking news of the type of injury and lack of docs to repair it.  Secondly, the reality that the US Open was 3 weeks away, she had a chance to play it for the first time....a dream!  Needless to say, Natalie was an emotional wreck in the parking lot.

We spent the next couple hours driving back to Vancouver.  During which time, Nat began to call the players she had lined up for doubles and mixed double for the Open, and her coach, family.  It was an absolutely horrible couple of hours in that car!  Of course, those on the other end of the receiver were awesome, sweet and very supportive.  Supportive because they understood the complete realm of the situation.

If I could turn back time, I would go back to that drive in the car.  When we were frantically making calls before losing phone service going into Canada.  You are probably wondering why I would want to go back to a horrible afternoon.  Because hind sight is 20/20....one of my first calls should have been to a sports physiologist!  The mental devastation of that day and injury was more then one would have ever guessed.  To discontinue a sport you gave a lifetime to due to fear, a travesty.

Fear of injury, fear of being hugely disappointed, a fear that you spend a year or more to "get it back" only to fail, a fear your "clock" is running, a fear you are too old.....once fear creeps in....that confidence thing plummets more......again ....wouldn't you like to go home and snuggle with your soup and blankie?

Now, don't get me wrong....not all of those examples applied to Nat....trying to make a point.  When you blindly support a top athlete you MAY be doing more harm then good.  Although your intentions may be very noble....stay out of the sports side unless you are directly involved in that sport.  For there is more to it then meets the eye.

I'm going to jump to the present for a moment.  Natalie's choice to stop playing professional tennis was not an easy one.  She was struggling with it prior to her injury.  Her degree choice and long term plans have always been to coach Division I tennis.  So, she landed a job to do just that!  Nat is very excited to announce that she is the new Assistant Ladies Tennis Coach at Gonzaga!   She has a great boss, new apartment, new car, and new job....one very lucky and Blessed young lady!

Ok. I think this blog long enough ...a great start to getting you up to speed.  Boy, do I have some stories for you!  Love and Blessings......Sherry!

Blog Issue

There seems to be a technical issue with our blog via Google.  I'm trying to upload this message via my phone to see if it will post!  

Save The Lady Vol Logo!

Morning Peeps!  After a much needed weekend with girlfriends.  Natalie returned from Portland at 1:00 a.m. Tuesday morning.  Slept a few hours then headed to Nashville.  

Why Nashville?  To help "Save the Lady Vol Logo", of course.  Today, she will Lobby ....along side other former Lady Vols and supporters.  

The group will spend the day at Tennessee's Capital to rally support for a new law.  The law will mandate that the Lady Vols be titled such ...forever.  

Here's what our gal looks like this morning in preparation to tackle the Capital:

Here's hoping you are enjoying your spring as much as I am ours!  Love and Blessings.... Sherry!

Don't Forget To Vote.....

 Yes, I've been quiet for a reason, as a matter of fact ....many reasons!

But for today ....

DON'T FORGET TO VOTE....

The Fire Is Out.....

 Here is the post Natalie made to Face Book this morning....

First I want to take a few minutes to thank everyone who has been by me through so many ups and down, victories, failures, challenges, highs, lows, opportunities, championships, recruiting, surgeries and rehab. Thank you to every single person who has been there for me on my quest for greatness. Thank you to my housing moms/dads/sisters/brothers for creating such amazing atmospheres for me to be a part of. You guys are many of the reasons why the tour is fun and exciting. The people always make the places. So I thank you from the bottom of my heart for that.

I also want to thank my mom, dad, Nic, Ed, and Clementine (the most solid and greatest team anyone could ask for, let alone call mine) for always being there for me. Thank you for pushing me to become the best that I could be. Thank you for pushing me when I needed it most. Thank you for providing the opportunities to glorify God through my talent on the tennis court. Thank you for humbling me everyday and reminding me that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. I'm forever grateful for all that each one of you have done for me the last 22 years of my tennis career. I couldn't have done it without you guys. Thank you for giving me the best 22 years of support while playing this game.

I also want to thank every coach and trainer who has taught, instructed, challenged, and motivated me through the years. Thank you for taking the time to make me better and into the player I am today. Thank you Beth for believing in me even when I was a mere 40 pounds. You truly were an inspiration and monumental at instilling fire and passion into the game for me. From the depths of my heart, thank you.

To the Vol Nation.. The best four years of my tennis career was when I was at Tennessee. I want to thank everyone there who fueled the fire to compete with such passion and love. Thank you for all those who came to our matches and for creating an unbelievable atmosphere and energy, unlike any I have ever experienced. Thank you to the staff who helped me recovery from my injuries and helped me through pivotal moments of rehab. Thank you for always believing in me and challenging me to get better and stronger. Thank you to every team mate I had that pushed me everyday to be better. Thank you for all of the memories and laughs! I'll never forget looking next to me and seeing everyone battling and grinding together, making history. Thank you all. I will always be a Lady Vol for life and bleed orange.

To all of my friends and family, thank you for every bit of support! Without any of you, none of this could have been possible. You guys are the reason I can stand here today and say, I had the opportunity to do something great, impact people around the world, and experience all that I have. Thank you all for taking the ride with me.

With a heavy heart I write this post to announce my retirement from playing tennis. I have been struggling with decision for quite some time but know it's the right move for me moving forward. This game has taught me many things and has exposed me to so much, I'm extremely humbled by all that it has given me and showed me.

Much love to every single person who has walked into my life up until this point.

The closing of one chapter will lead to the opening of another.

Bron Bron

Hey peeps!  Natalie is enjoying her time in Midland.  She did not get into doubles.  Truth be told, she was probably happy!  

Natalie continues to participate with the community outreach programs.  As well as work with the local youth on the courts.  She had great visits to a couple local schools.  Here's a peek:

And here are the "boys"....

Sorry! I don't know the name of the two cuties on the left.  Andrew is on the right and is Nat's house brother.  

This is Bron Bron....who according to Natalie and Diane...he misses me!  Ugh!

Natalie is in Midland thru the weekend! She loves Midland, the tourney and especially the people.  All of which she will soon miss.

Wishing all of you a month of live and blessings....Sherry!

Midland Update

Greetings from Vegas!  I'm here and Natalis is in Midland, Michigan.  The weather is to turn to snow for her by Tuesday.  Being one of her favorite tourneys, she won't mind it.

Natalie was looking forward to seeing the Frickeys including my favorite...Bron Bron the dog.  This moose of a dog scares me to no end, but as Diane is quick to point out...."he loves you Sherry".  Yup, he is always at my side, which for me ...a person VERY afraid of big dogs ...is unnerving.  Let alone I'm very allergic to him.

Annnyyyywayyyy, Natalie is enjoying her time with all of them.  She has been able to work with several groups of kids on the courts.  As well as, take part in a kids questioning session.  That I might add had a stumper of a question, "what's your favorite thing?".  Natalie and Nicole Gibbs were for a loss with that tough one.  Lol!

At this point, Nat is not in the 100k in Midland.  We won't know for sure until 12:01 p.m. tomorrow.  Not looking good.   

Here are a few pics of Natalie and friends....

The ladies, Savannah, Clair, Mia, Salma and Natalie.

Team Pluskota....woot!

Natalie and Nicole

Daytona, Midland

Greetings from Georgia!  Sorry for the delay in blogging, but this week has been eventful and not in a good way!  We returned to GA yesterday, after a three day hiatus in Tampa.  A bit of a regrouping if you will.  More bout that at a later date.

Last weekend, we packed up the car including Natalie's brother Nic and the dog (Princess Peach).  Nic is post op and on sick leave from work, so we convinced him a change of scenery would be good for him.  And Peach, just cuz!

We made our way to Daytona Beach.  Very grateful for the wild card opportunity into the 25K.  Natalie partnered up with Katia Kamendova, a local pro.   Because Natalie's ranking is so low, that was the only hope of getting into the tourney.  We didn't know Katia before this pairing, but knew others that know her.  She is a very sweet young lady, who is loved at her tennis center.

Unfortunately, our team drew a tough first round opponent.  Cako/Loeb, both seasoned tour doubles players.  This would be Katia's first attempt.  Although our team had many chances, our poor serving and ground strokes made it wayyyy tooo easy for the opponents.  Losing 1-6, 3-6.

Here are a few pics from Daytona:

Natalie will head to Midland, Michigan next week.  Hoping for a wild card into doubles of that 100K.  The chances are slim, but she will attempt it.  She loves that tourney and would love to play this year, we shall see.  Last year she made the journey there and helped with the community outreach program.  Natalie's favorite program of all tourney.  She is looking forward to seeing the Frickey family, including  Bron Bron.....the dog!  According to Nat, my favorite host dog.....lol!

Hate that I will miss Midland again this year.  Not only are the people awesome, the tourney is first class.  But I always enjoy the snow, for I love snow....or at least I love visiting snow.  I know they will take great care of Natalie and she will enjoy herself and Midland.  Love and Blessings.....Sherry

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

From Our Home to Yours!

Love and Blessings.....Sherry

Speaking of Spirit....

Merry Christmas Y'all!  Hope this brief blog finds you and yours in good health and spirits!

Speaking of spirit.....if you are in the giving spirit and would like to help Natalie in her quest for success as a professional tennis player.....please feel free to gift her via the PayPal account listed in the left margin of our blog.  Thanks for your consideration!

Here's a lil message.....

Save the Logo....the Lady Vol Logo that is

Season Greetings from Georgia!  Hope everyone is getting ready to have a great time celebrating Christmas and the reason.....Jesus!  And if you happen to celebrate a different holiday, Happy Holidays to you!

Last weekend Natalie heading to Knoxville on Saturday morning.  After practicing with some of the men's team, she was able to hang out with some friends.  Always a great thing to do in one of her favorite places.

On Sunday, Amy, Jeanne and I headed to Kville too.  We were to support Natalie and the others, in the movement to Save the Lady Vol logo.  A rally was scheduled at the statue of Pat Summitt, prior to the basketball game.

Just a quick review for anyone that may have missed prior blogs on the subject.  When the University hired the new AD....Dave Hart, one of his first decisions and projects was to rid the teams of the Lady Vol Logo.  That on top of combining the women's and men's departments.  In the process he got rid of 15 positions.....12 of which were filled by women.  Yea.....in my opinion.....he doesn't give of flip about the female athlete.....nor employee.

Anyway......all but ONE of the female team's were stripped of the logo this past July.  Anding salt to the wound, the basketball team was allowed to keep the logo.  I call BULLSHIT!  It should be all or all!  Pat Summitt and all the Lady Vol athletes worked long and hard to earn the much deserved title of Lady Volunteer!  Removing said logo is a slap in the face to them and all women as far as I'm concerned.

At the Save the Logo Rally, TN State Rep. Roger Kane made an important announcement.  He, along with others introduced several Bills concerning the matter.  One of which is to made the Lady Volunteer Logo a law.  In doing so, we will never have to have this discussion again.  The University will have no choice but to use the logo ....FOREVER!

If you live in Tennessee, have family  or friends there....PLEASE contact Kane and any other government official to support our efforts.  Here is a website if you are interested:

bringbacktheladyvols.com

Here is a short video comprised of the pictures taken that day.....please enjoy:

https://youtu.be/jn_Tulr2eN4

....And Begging....

Hello from the dreary, yet beautiful Smokey Mountains.  Enjoying a lil peace, quiet and amazing stress free sleep.  Ooo yea, and a lil poker, the WSOP to be exact.

Spent yesterday in my room trying to draw up a plan of action for Natalie's 2016 tour.  The ITF,  USTA changed the schedule.  Which threw a wrench into our plans.  We thought she could start the season in Florida, playing 10Ks.  But now there are only three 25Ks there.  With her ranking in the 1,200s and the fact the 25Ks are the first of the year....we doubt she would get into the draw.  Again, a bite in the ole AS* for not playing last spring.

Anyway, I searched the schedules in different countries.  Looked at the maps in said countries.  Checked airline ticket prices.  Evaluated the safety issues involved with travel to such places like Turkey.  And still .....no plan of action.

Although, she worked last summer to fund her return to the tour.  It is hard to spend upwards of 4-5K on a three week tour to France, England or Asia.  So we debate, do we fundraise to send her, do we wait till March to play the 10Ks in the USA.  Do we send her to a possible unsafe country....HELL NO!

For now we put out feelers, are there any wild card tournaments for doubles at any tourneys here in the USA?  Can she get into any qualifying draws for dubs?  Can she secure any dubs wild cards?  As you can see, soooo very much involved.  We continue on, planning, working, hoping, praying.....

.....and begging......

If you happen to have some end of the year extra bucks around and would like to gift them to Natalie and her tour.  Please feel free to do so via her PayPal.....link in the left margin of blog.  OR  Contact Natalie or myself for another method of gifting.  Please be reminded, no gift is too small.....every dollar matters.

Thank you!

Tomorrow, I rest in my room again, thank God for free rooms.  Waiting to play in the ladies tournament on Saturday.  And wait for Natalie, Amy and Jeanne to arrive.  Natalie will only spend the night, then head to the University of Tennessee for practice.  As well as, a rally to be held on Sunday, prior to the basketball game.  Rally....what rally.....you ask.

As many of you know,  the UT Athletic Director, Dave Hart decide to get rid of the Lady Volunteer Logo.  A logo I might add, that Pat Summitt and her teams, spent many years earning and fighting for.  In July, Hart stripped the logo from all the lady's teams except the basketball team.  Viewed by many as a slap in the face to the other female athletes and their teams.  The basketball players are called Lady Vols, the rest just Vols.

Since, spring Natalie and many others have been active in the quest to "bring the logo back".  Many of you may remember reading an article Nat wrote, that I linked here on the blog.  She has been invited to attend the Rally at the Pat Summitt statue at 12:30 on Sunday.  There is to be an announcement at the Rally.  One of which, we have no official word as to what it is.....we can only HOPE that Hart got a HEART and the logo will be back.

The rest of us, will play in the ladies tourney on Saturday.  Then head to UT for the Rally and game on Sunday.  Guess I will be a UT tour guide, which of course I love!  Will have to take Amy and Jeanne to the UT Tennis Center and show them who is "hanging" around.  And maybe a sneak peek at the indoor football facility and a quick hello to Donna Thomas.  Gosh, I miss her and her sense of humor.  What an amazing Assistant Athletic Director....altho I don't know her new title....and really don't want to look it up.  Anyway, she's a big wig....deservingly so!  She was and is a great role model to Natalie and me.  She too, has done much in the world of female sports on behalf of our athletes.

Before I close, must send our thoughts and prayers to those in San Bernardino affected by the horrible terrorist attack.  God Bless America!

Love and Blessings......Sherry!

When the Old One Dies....

Cheerio Cyber Monday friends!  Hope you are getting your shopping on, for economy of course.  LOL!

Sure hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving with your family and friends.  All of us have so very much to be thankful for, Nana comes to my mind.  Having been told in the Spring of 2014, that her days were "numbered".  And the fact that we lose her a lil more every day.  Makes the following story even more special and fun to share.

As we sat around the feast on turkey day, we devising our shopping plan.  Heading out later that day on a quest for televisions.  My kids questioning why I needed a new one for my bedroom.  Since it was one of our quests last year.  Began to explain, that I would put the new 50" in my bedroom and take the current one and place it into Nana's room.  Replacing her older 19" TV.

Upon hearing this, Nana says "oooo wow, that is awesome, thank you".

Pointing at the TV in our living room, I say "when the old one dies, we'll just replace it with the one from my room".

A gasp and moan from Nana.

Natalie and look at each other, both realizing at the same time that Nana thought I was talking bout her. I say, "Nana, we aren't talking about you".  The entire crew burst into laughter.  Much to Nana's relief, I might add.

It's moments like that continues to remind us, how thankful we are that Nana is still with us.  We can only pray that she will be healthy enough to be with us for a very long time.  But we know that at some point soon, her wings will be awarded.

Time to get back to Cyber Monday my friends.....Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

Much Happiness for Our Friends on Their Special Days

Greetings from a chilly Georgia!  Been a bit crazy around here the last two weeks.  Besides Natalie's normal practice and workout routines, we've been involved with two weddings.  And helped to throw a wedding shower.  A bit crazy indeed!

Mid week, I had the pleasure of capturing two brides prior to their vows at the courthouse.  I was honored to be asked to catch some special moments between two very special ladies.  Two people, I might add that are very loving and caring.  Here is a couple of pics from their special day:

Amy and Jeanne

Then on Friday night, we headed to north of Atlanta, not an easy feat on a Friday.  But prior to even getting on the highway,  I was pulled over by the po po.  LOL!  Funny now, but not at the time.  I just couldn't understand why I was targeted.  Being behind a very slow vehicle,  knew it wasn't due to speed.  We were in lil Ed's new car.....expired tag.  The sweet lady officer let us off with a warning.  And away we went to Trey and Kylee's wedding.  Here's a few pics:

What do we do while the po po is checking your license....Selfies of course!   LOL!

Natalie and her brothers, Nic and Ed.  Great kids, if I say so myself!

Mr. and Mrs. T. Reeves!

There was no rest for the weary on Saturday.  It was wedding shower day, for Mike and Jessica.  It was to be a surprise shower and really up to the last minute, didn't know if we could keep it a secret.  Much drama around Mike's job that almost cost us the surprise and the shower.  But, we pulled it off and had a grand time.  Here's a few pics:

Wew, what a week we had.  Filled with much happiness for our friends and their special days.  Through the years, we haven't been able to afford to go back to Chicago for weddings, showers and holidays.  So, it was really awesome to be able to share in these special occasions.

Time to get the orange on and await the game.  Gunna be cold at Mizz, but hopefully "our" great playing will warm everyone up.  Till next time....Love and Blessings....Sherry!

God Bless Paris!

God Bless Paris!

Happy Veterans Day

Good Day Folks!  I think today will by our first day without rain in fifteen.  Fingers crossed!  Its been making life miserable for Natalie's practice life.  Although she has been finding practice time on indoor courts, it hasn't been enough.  We are looking at different options.

Unfortunately, the rainy weather has dampened Nat's ability to teach lessons.  Every day is a battle to find an indoor court, texting back and forth whether or not there will be lessons, training etc.  On many days a waste of time, energy and frustration.

This coming weekend, we will attend Trey's wedding.  He started out as a friend of my boy, but quickly became a son from anotha motha.  And another brother for Natalie.  We are looking forward to sharing in the special day, our Nic is a groomsman.  Then on Saturday, we are hosting a wedding shower for a friend of ours, it's a surprise......sooooo can't mention the names.  LOL!

On Sunday, we will head to the mountains and hopefully the fall colors.  Hoping that the leaves aren't completely gone.  As I've mention many times before, the drive via the Smokey Mountain pass, is amazing.  The beauty of the ride only heightens with the fall foliage.

Like to take a moment to wish all the past, present and future Veterans.....a very Happy Veterans Day!  Thank you for your service.  Our county is great and we can thank you for that and more!  God Bless You and America!

Well my friends,  gotta go......Love and Blessings....Sherry!

HEROS for Diane

First, I will say......This is my blog.....this is my opinion....this is my perspective.  I make no claim that I know all the facts or non facts as they pertain to the story I'm about to tell.  My OPINION was formed by reading newspaper articles, info on the internet and FB posts.  All of which were filled with truth, some "hear say", some non truths.  However, cuz I'm not directly involved, I could have some of it incorrect.  It is what it is....my opinion.   Guess, you can probably tell by those few words that I have something very serious to write bout.

Let me begin with, this story has a victim.  Her name is Diane Pranske.  She and I went to grade through high school together.  I remember her as a thin, blonde happy go lucky gal.  With a very contagious smile.  All of which, for me anyway.....makes the current chapter of her story so sad, maddening, frustrating, infuriating and disheartening.  And yet, so heart warming and loving.

Diane

Diane and Ted

This story has the "do gooders".  A church, whose pastor.....Mr. Veemer (won't ever call him a Pastor) was passionate bout his beliefs concerning rehabilitating convicts.  So much so that he,  his church, Oak Glenn United Reformed Church and its members participated in prison visits in the name of God.  With hopes of transforming the "bad" into "the good", so to speak.

This story has a villain, or in this case a MONSTER!  C. Clay is a multi offender and from this point forward will be addressed as "the monster".  At the time of the current crime, the monster was on parole following a 2010 conviction for armed assault.  He also, had convictions of larceny and felony firearms.  Clearly not a "minor" offender.  Clearly a very dangerous monster.

My understanding, again may not be correct.....is that in the past, this monster approached a lady and her children in a parking lot.  She was able to escape him by locking herself in her car and pulling away.  The monster followed her.  She phoned the police, who directed her to the police station.  The monster followed and was arrested.  I ask the question.....what would have happened to this lady and children had she not been able to escape??

My understanding, again may not be correct....is that in the past, this monster and a friend(s) held up a bar.  Keeping three men captive, and shooting at least one of them in the head.

This story has a hero....as a matter of fact it has a town of heroes.  Wait, NO.....it has a country of heroes.  The pictures to follow will illustrate the love and compassion for Diane's family, friends and community.....near and far.

Now to the story.

One evening in September, Diane returned home and "walked into a burglary in progress".  The monster came at her with a hammer and forced her into the trunk of her car.  He drove Diane across the state border.  To a couple of banks to make withdrawals on her cards.  He then drove to a parking lot and sexually assaulted her multiple times.  This monster then strangled our poor Diane until she passed out.  When Diane woke up she stated she, "recalled being on FIRE and walking from the scene".  YES, this monster set her on fire.  Stolen items from Diane's home were found at his home.  Once arrested the monster admitted to the crimes.  Horrible indeed.....

The Monster......C. Clay

The Monster.....making bank withdrawals while holding Diana captive

Now, if all of what this monster did to our poor Diane wasn't enough.  The information that came to light following that horrible night was the salt to the wounds of all who love Diane and to the community.  You see, the way that this monster came into the community was via the "do gooders"....Mr. Veemer and his church.  They "testified" on his behalf, that he was a changed man and should be released from prison.  They arranged for him to live in a rental home of one of the church members.  They took him around the neighborhood and introduced him as someone with a "little" troubled past. 
 
SHAME, SHAME .....Mr. Veemer

At NOOOOOOO point in time......did Veemer, his committee members, nor his church members ever WARN the community that they were moving this violent offender...... the monster into this rental.

I ask the following questions:

•  WHAT THE HELL WERE YOU THINKING???  What was Veemer, his committee and church members thinking bringing this MONSTER into the community??
• What is Veemer and the Oak Glen United Reformed Church community going to do for Diane the victim?  To date, I have not heard they have done anything but post the following statement:   

STATEMENT REGARDING RECENT EVENTS
We at Oak Glen United Reformed Church are deeply grieved for and our hearts go out to the victim, the family and loved ones affected by the recent heinous crimes of violence. In Jesus Christ, we pray to our Heavenly Father for her healing and recovery from the terrible injuries inflicted upon her. We desire and intend to reach out to her with expressions of support and care.
The man charged with these crimes is a former prisoner who, after several years of Christian discipleship and education while incarcerated, was paroled by the State of Illinois, joined our fellowship, confessed faith in Jesus Christ, and received from us benevolent assistance and pastoral care as he transitioned from prison to civilian life.
We are greatly saddened that he has been charged with actions that represent a shocking betrayal of our expressions of Christian mercy and acceptance. We pray that appropriate justice is done in this case.
Finally, we testify that Jesus Christ, who heals the afflicted and welcomes sinners, is the only remedy for man’s wickedness. We also look to him as the one who provides ultimate justice, true peace, reconciliation with God and man, and who alone can heal all wounds.
“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”        II Thessalonians 3:16

• If the monster was soooo amazing why didn't Veemer, allow him to live in a spare bedroom or next door to him? 
• Did the lady who owns the rental home get paid rent by Oak Glenn United Reformed Church?
• Did the lady, who lives in Ohio, who owns the rental home know this violent offender was her new tenant?
• Were there laws bypassed (i.e. background check) if church was listed as the "renter"?
•  How many more violent offenders have been placed in the community by Oak Glen and where are they?  What were their crimes?
• How many other churches in the USA are doing this?
• Why didn't Oak Glenn United Reformed Church choose to help the homeless, VETS, battered women, victims of crime, or even less violent offenders? 

Someone posted that the church arranged for the monster to work for a flooring company.  And that the company was hired to do the floors in Diane's home prior to the incident.  I don't know if that is true or not.  But if it is true....I ask the questions....What the HELL were you thinking Veemer and church members? Were any laws bypassed (i.e. background check for employment) in the hiring process?  Why did they (Veemer, church members) think it was acceptable to allow this violent offender to enter homes in the community?  Did Veemer or his church members allow the monster into their homes?  If I had to guess.....and I'm guessing now....not basing this next statement on ANY FACTS....but I would guess the answer to that last question is NO....HELL NO.  For they would want to keep their family safe right?

Here is an excerpt from Oak Glenn United Reformed Church's online bulletin:

The catechism season resumes on Sunday, September 13.  All catechism classes are held at Illiana Christian High School.  The classroom assignments and instructors are listed as follows:

Mr. Bob Venhuizen (5th and 6th Grade, Room 107)

Elder Pete Smith (7th and 8th Grade, Room 108)

Mr. Daniel Beezhold (9th and 10th Grade, Room 111)

Rev. Vermeer and Mr. Carleous Clay (11th and 12th Grade, Room 109)

Take note that Carleous Clay will be under the weekly tutelage of Rev Vermeer throughout the catechism year in the junior and senior catechism class, assisting him in the teaching of the course on the Belgic Confession.

Can you imagine, the church was planning to put this monster into a classroom of children??  I thank God this is not going to happen.  But,  I ask the questions.....What the HELL were you thinking?  This is a violent offender, on parole for a few months.  How many more churches in the USA are doing this?  How many violent offenders are being placed into classrooms?


Now onto the HEROS of our story.....

And then they appeared.......Purple Ribbons....near and far.....

Lansing's American Legion Riders

 The HEROS went to work on "the rock".  In front of Diane's (mine too) high school is a rock.  This rock has been painted by students in the weeee hours of the night as a right of passage.  A group of HEROS got together at The Rock on Diane's behalf:

  And then the HEROS went to work....fundraising for Diane's expenses.......

Mark Wojciechowski of Harker Heights, Texas began to make and sell jewelry.  

Here is the link to Mark's ETSY page, if you would like to check out his jewelry for Diane:

 https://www.etsy.com/listing/249503269/for-diane-charity-for-recovery

Kathy Stasko sells stickers

Karen Kijewski and Kathy Stasko sell bracelets

JJ Kelly's food booth at the Autumn Fest set up a display and collection site

LaRosa de Guadalup Bakery "baked purple" to raise funds for Diane

Up and Coming event on December 5th at Margarita's Restaurant

This is where Diane works, very sweet of them.  Last time I checked, this fundraiser raised $14k.  HEROS!

This fundraiser is up and coming at Bottoms Up on November 21st!

If you would like to help..... A GoFundMe page was set up by her loving daughter April....here is the link:

https://www.gofundme.com/LavenderRibbon

That was a small, well really a HUGE sample of the HEROS and their actions on Diane's behalf.  I know there are more loving people doing more events and sales to raise money.  Sorry, I can't list them all cuz I don't know them all.  Please forgive me for that!

Repeatedly running through my head were the above questions and how to make this a positive.  I posted my opinions and suggestions, which I'm sure were not unique to me.....on the town's FB page.  Suggesting a vigil for Diane, as well as a law.....Diane's Law....if you will.  Here is a link to the newspaper and the pics from the Vigil.  It was hosted by Rev. John Holyer and the members of Trinity Lutheran Church:

http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/illinois/hundreds-attend-vigil-for-lansing-woman/article_8166d3cc-1dec-5ee6-9da4-e3d8e28d2733.html

I lost sleep over this situation.  How could this happen and most importantly.....how can I help to make sure it isn't repeated.  Hence why the blog entry.....to inform.  To encourage anyone involved with a prison outreach program, a church that has one, etc.......to please make sure you are helping to place minor offenders, with an open book policy to the community.  Let the professionals and the system handle the violent offenders.  Better yet, advocate change.....to help Vets, victims, battered women, homeless.

Well, silence has fallen on this subject in the town of Lansing.  I'm sure its due to all involved lawyering up, as expected.  I tried to go back to the FB postings on the town site, seems they have all been removed.  Not sure if due to threats of law suits or if the site manager was trying to change the subject.  Either way....the comments should NOT have been removed....FREEDOM OF SPEECH and all.

I will pray for the following:

• That our victim, Diane Panske continues to heal physically and mentally.  Hopefully, she will find comfort from the power of the healing prayers and efforts of her story's HEROS.
• That our HEROS continue their work in Diane's name.
• That a Diane's Law is written, submitted and passed. Forcing churches, organizations, etc., to give full disclosure to a community of a prisoners past.  Putting laws in place as to where parolee can live, work and play.  (a small sample of my thoughts of the Diane's Law)
• That the Oak Glenn United Reformed Church, Veemer and all involved with their efforts, continue to pay via Karma for their actions.  And, that the courts make them pay monetarily.
• That the Oak Glenn United Reformed Church, stops their prison outreach program.  Instead focusing on Vets, homeless, batter women, victims.  They can start with Diane!
• That the monster burns in HELL!  So, that he may NEVER, EVER victimize again! 

Well my friends, that ends the chapter for today.  Thank you for listening or should I say reading.  Please consider becoming one of Diane's HEROS via making a donation, buying a bracelet or buying jewelry.  As I climb off my soap box I mutter.....May Diane and her family.....live happily ever after!  Love and Blessings.....Sherry!

1279.....1279

Good Morning from a lovely and sunny Biloxi!  Yes, it's poker time!  LOL!  Actually....the freebies are too good to refuse.  Let me list em:

• Free room for five days
• Free turkey platter
• $150 in free slot play
• Free vacuum cleaner.....yes...vacuum.....LOL!
• Free baking pan kit
• $40 Resort Credit for food or spa
• Free - 2 buffets
• Free - 2 more buffets
• Free gift certificate for a turkey or ham
• Name in drawing for prizes....most importantly for a Yeti cooler.  Which Nic want for Christmas and I can't afford to spend $400 to buy.  So, fingers, toes and legs crossed!
• AAAAANNNNDDDD......one can walk the beach for free.......

Yup.....don't mind if I do!

Anyway.....

The real reason for this blog....Natalie of course!  LOL!  Happy to be celebrating her NEW ranking of 1279.  Yes, a hard pill to swallow....from 157 in the world to non ranked.  To now, 1279.  A direct consequence of not sticking with our plan last spring.  A shame really.....but as they say.....keep moving forward with the here and now.

Time to shower and get ready for the noon poker tournament....wish me luck.  I'm trying to turn my $60 investment into a free seat into their Freeroll tourney.  And a chance at a free $2500 seat into their 250K tourney.  HHHmmmm wonder where Natalie gets her competitive side from......

Love and Blessings.....Sherry!