To my dear nieces and nephews,
I wanted all of you to know that my heart goes out to you in the earthly loss of your sweet grandma. My Grandma Rhodes was one of my dearest friends and when she passed away I was heartbroken, so I understand some of the pain you're experiencing now.
I loved hearing the stories some of you told at the funeral about Grandma and I really hope that others of you will share your memories here on the blog. Although I have no recollection of this, I learned from an entry in my baby book as well as from Mom herself that when I was around 2, if I was naughty and knew I deserved a spanking, I would look innocently into her face and say, "Don't 'pank me Mama. I am a yittle g'rl. You are the best Mama in the whole w'rld!" Worked every time!
After her funeral it occurred to me that Grandma made every one of you feel like you were the most important person in the world to her. And that's why it's so hard to lose her.
She is NOT lost to us forever, though. She's not "lost" at all--she's in heaven with her Lord and all who believe that Jesus is their Savior will see her again. She wants to see you again as much as you want to see her. Make SURE you do!
I love you all,
Aunt Carol
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Sunday, April 18, 2010
The Unrelenting March of Time
I'm way overdue for an update here. I don't remember how recent my last post was, so forgive me if I repeat myself.
I came back to Colorado Springs on Jul 22nd of last year. I did all my in-processing, and proceeded to sit around in a small cubicle with way too many other new airmen, taking out everyone else's trash and shredding everyone else's paper for about five and a half months. On January 11th, I started Unit Qualification Training (UQT). That would probably have been completed in late March or early April, but beginning April 5th, my base began performing under the scrutiny of an Operational Readiness Inspection. This meant that, had I been certified to be on crew, I would be subject to evaluation at any time. With no real-world experience, I would be likely, under those circumstances, to reflect poorly on my Wing, Group, and Squadron. So UQT got a new, later completion date. I should be on crew, actually doing my job, right around the one-year anniversary of starting class at Tech School. Shortly after that, or so they say, my satellite will be switching over to a new operating system, which probably means I'll be going back to training, for the new system. I'm sure I won't be in training for my entire term of enlistment though, right?
Daniella and I got married, legally, and will be having a ceremony in Palmer Park on August 28th. When we get it more set-up, you will all be receiving invitations.
I finally have a car of my own-- a 2007 Honda Fit. They've been popular in Europe and Japan for about a decade, but 2007 is the first year they made them in the USA. It's fuel-efficient, roomy, and I thoroughly enjoy it. As of yesterday, there's a picture of the gas tank cover on my other blog.
Hope you all are well!
I came back to Colorado Springs on Jul 22nd of last year. I did all my in-processing, and proceeded to sit around in a small cubicle with way too many other new airmen, taking out everyone else's trash and shredding everyone else's paper for about five and a half months. On January 11th, I started Unit Qualification Training (UQT). That would probably have been completed in late March or early April, but beginning April 5th, my base began performing under the scrutiny of an Operational Readiness Inspection. This meant that, had I been certified to be on crew, I would be subject to evaluation at any time. With no real-world experience, I would be likely, under those circumstances, to reflect poorly on my Wing, Group, and Squadron. So UQT got a new, later completion date. I should be on crew, actually doing my job, right around the one-year anniversary of starting class at Tech School. Shortly after that, or so they say, my satellite will be switching over to a new operating system, which probably means I'll be going back to training, for the new system. I'm sure I won't be in training for my entire term of enlistment though, right?
Daniella and I got married, legally, and will be having a ceremony in Palmer Park on August 28th. When we get it more set-up, you will all be receiving invitations.
I finally have a car of my own-- a 2007 Honda Fit. They've been popular in Europe and Japan for about a decade, but 2007 is the first year they made them in the USA. It's fuel-efficient, roomy, and I thoroughly enjoy it. As of yesterday, there's a picture of the gas tank cover on my other blog.
Hope you all are well!
Monday, February 8, 2010
New Living Adventure
Hello Family!
First off, I'd like to apologize for not updating all of you sooner on my new living establishment. Second, I'd like to thank you all for your prayers and support during my time in Lincoln County. Every day in there, I took time to meditate on my life and decisions, and God showed me what I need to do to change. Currently, my case is still going through court and the next date is Febuary 19th, so please continue to pray.
Third, I am now living in Downtown Denver, staying at Step 13, and looking for work. Step 13 is a non-profit, all-male community for alcoholics. There are approximately 80 residents ranging from 18-60. Right now, I am living in the dorm (I call it a barracks) which contains about 45 beds and 30 dressers. In addition to the dorm there are 20 rooms downstairs, and 15 upstairs. Each resident also has two lockers, one shelf in a refrigerator, and a dry cupboard. The only requirement is attending a meeting from 7-8 o'clock on Monday-Thursday afternoons. All residents must leave Step at 7:30 Mon-Fri and not return until 4 pm.
It is a very clean place with a lot of good, generous guys, and I plan on staying here until I am sentenced with the court, and have a good job. I have had a couple interviews at a few different places, and my most prospective catch is with Johnny Rockets in downtown. Being downtown is really run because there is always something to do and see!
Four, What in the heck is going on with everyone else?!?!
Please feel free to write or come for a visit:
Evan Bontrager
2029 Larimer St.
Denver, CO 80205
Love You All!
First off, I'd like to apologize for not updating all of you sooner on my new living establishment. Second, I'd like to thank you all for your prayers and support during my time in Lincoln County. Every day in there, I took time to meditate on my life and decisions, and God showed me what I need to do to change. Currently, my case is still going through court and the next date is Febuary 19th, so please continue to pray.
Third, I am now living in Downtown Denver, staying at Step 13, and looking for work. Step 13 is a non-profit, all-male community for alcoholics. There are approximately 80 residents ranging from 18-60. Right now, I am living in the dorm (I call it a barracks) which contains about 45 beds and 30 dressers. In addition to the dorm there are 20 rooms downstairs, and 15 upstairs. Each resident also has two lockers, one shelf in a refrigerator, and a dry cupboard. The only requirement is attending a meeting from 7-8 o'clock on Monday-Thursday afternoons. All residents must leave Step at 7:30 Mon-Fri and not return until 4 pm.
It is a very clean place with a lot of good, generous guys, and I plan on staying here until I am sentenced with the court, and have a good job. I have had a couple interviews at a few different places, and my most prospective catch is with Johnny Rockets in downtown. Being downtown is really run because there is always something to do and see!
Four, What in the heck is going on with everyone else?!?!
Please feel free to write or come for a visit:
Evan Bontrager
2029 Larimer St.
Denver, CO 80205
Love You All!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Veteran's Day
This morning I was remembering and missing Grandpa Amos on the day we celebrate our veterans. But, it isn't just a day to remember those who have died. We have two cousins that are active duty servicemen, one of which is a Vet. Be sure to contact Matt and Andy today to thank them for their sacrifices!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Evan and Zion
As most of you probably know, Evan has spent the last few months in Lincoln County Jail. Yesterday was one of his court dates, and I called my mom to ask her what ended up happening. I got my answer when Evan picked up the phone! Basically, he has a few future court dates but is on probation for at least a year. His plans after that include enlisting in the army. Right now he's at my folks' in Limon, so give him a call if you have time. Be sure to be praying for him too! We love you Evan!
Also, I thought I'd post a photo of Zion. If you've seen baby photos of Elizabeth (or for a select few, remember her at that age!), you just may mistake this for one of them. :)
If you've looked on Facebook, you've come up woefully emptyhanded of pictures of the darling boy. That is because Liz and Carlos' computer is not uploading photos. But, Liz's good friend Jennifer Kent posts pictures of him on a regular basis when she sees him (lucky gal!). So if you see an album of hers that Elizabeth is tagged in, take a look. It's probably pictures of Zion.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Life is Good for Us; Hope it is for You, Too
Bev and I just got back from Chattanooga. Josh and Kyleen are doing well and Aidan is a beautiful little boy. They still haven't sold their house in Houston. They are staying in a beautiful (but small) townhouse along the Tennessee River, which a church leader is letting them they in rent-free. Josh really enjoys his work.
Lori and Jonathan are expecting another baby, in April. Their Abby is such fun. If you haven't seen it, go to their webpage, http://www.thetowells.com; Lori has tons of pictures, videos, and information there.
Daniel and Maggie are in Fort Worth, hoping for better, more permanent jobs.
I think all the kids will be home for Christmas.
I had many tests during summer; all results show no sign of cancer, but there are other problems in the neck, so I will have surgery Nov. 20, just a week before T'Giv; if we can travel, we will try to make it to Colo. Bev and I would love to have any of you come here for a visit.
We love and hope you are well.
Lori and Jonathan are expecting another baby, in April. Their Abby is such fun. If you haven't seen it, go to their webpage, http://www.thetowells.com; Lori has tons of pictures, videos, and information there.
Daniel and Maggie are in Fort Worth, hoping for better, more permanent jobs.
I think all the kids will be home for Christmas.
I had many tests during summer; all results show no sign of cancer, but there are other problems in the neck, so I will have surgery Nov. 20, just a week before T'Giv; if we can travel, we will try to make it to Colo. Bev and I would love to have any of you come here for a visit.
We love and hope you are well.
Friday, August 28, 2009
We've been a little lax
Wow! We must have all had very busy summers! We missed a lot of birthdays on the blog, but I'm willing to hope that we all made phone calls and sent e-mails at appropriate times. So. . .
Happy anniversary to:
Elizabeth and Carlos!
Katie and Chris!
Lori and Jonathan!
Josh and Kyleen!
Daniel and Maggie!
Happy birthday to:
Meg! Even though I don't think you read this, Meg, I love you so much! I think you are the best movie quoter ever and you're so beautiful (notice I didn't say cute or adorable)!
Andy! I'm so proud of you for getting through the past several months. You are so strong and I love you and miss you.
Micah! You have so many qualities and are willing to do so many things that I admire, like biking all over Denver, and being brave enough to just go to a new place and see what happens there. Love you so much!
Evan! I know you can do whatever you put your mind to, and I pray for you lots. You are strong and I believe in you and love you!
Daniel! I miss your humor and having Speed tournaments with you. Hopefully Dallas will open all sorts of new and incredible opportunities to you! Anyone who doesn't hire you is a total imbecile because you are so talented and determined. I love you!
Emily! I can't say this enough: I love being friends with you! You are so talented and incredible and you give me great new perspective on life.
Katie! Thank you so much for being a leader and a role model. You are a fantastic mother and friend and since before we used to play "Katie and Betsy" as kids, I've wanted to be like you! Love you forever!
Nelson! You have grown into such a fun person and I love to be around you. I'm in awe when I watch you play basketball! I seriously love you, cousin!
Josh! Your laughter and enthusiasm for life have been inspiration and comfort to me and others! I'm sad that you are so far away now, but I know that this was a job the Lord had in His plans for you. You are certainly someone I look up to and admire!
With all that said, I'll add some news from my life. After I worked last year as a nanny, the family decided to put their youngest child (the one I was primarily watching) into preschool, so I finished that job up at the end of May this year. I got hired a couple weeks ago as an administrative assistant at UCCS in the writing center, where I will most likely become a consultant (like a tutor, they review and help students with their papers and other writing assignments) there in the next few semesters. I really like the work and my coworkers. I also started classes there this week and they should be interesting courses. By which I mean that they will probably be really, really easy. But hopefully interesting, too. At this point, I just feel really lucky to have a job, to be in school again, and to have both at the same place that's like a ten minute drive from home. I'm super blessed!
Love you guys! Now let's hear about your summers and what's coming up!
Happy anniversary to:
Elizabeth and Carlos!
Katie and Chris!
Lori and Jonathan!
Josh and Kyleen!
Daniel and Maggie!
Happy birthday to:
Meg! Even though I don't think you read this, Meg, I love you so much! I think you are the best movie quoter ever and you're so beautiful (notice I didn't say cute or adorable)!
Andy! I'm so proud of you for getting through the past several months. You are so strong and I love you and miss you.
Micah! You have so many qualities and are willing to do so many things that I admire, like biking all over Denver, and being brave enough to just go to a new place and see what happens there. Love you so much!
Evan! I know you can do whatever you put your mind to, and I pray for you lots. You are strong and I believe in you and love you!
Daniel! I miss your humor and having Speed tournaments with you. Hopefully Dallas will open all sorts of new and incredible opportunities to you! Anyone who doesn't hire you is a total imbecile because you are so talented and determined. I love you!
Emily! I can't say this enough: I love being friends with you! You are so talented and incredible and you give me great new perspective on life.
Katie! Thank you so much for being a leader and a role model. You are a fantastic mother and friend and since before we used to play "Katie and Betsy" as kids, I've wanted to be like you! Love you forever!
Nelson! You have grown into such a fun person and I love to be around you. I'm in awe when I watch you play basketball! I seriously love you, cousin!
Josh! Your laughter and enthusiasm for life have been inspiration and comfort to me and others! I'm sad that you are so far away now, but I know that this was a job the Lord had in His plans for you. You are certainly someone I look up to and admire!
With all that said, I'll add some news from my life. After I worked last year as a nanny, the family decided to put their youngest child (the one I was primarily watching) into preschool, so I finished that job up at the end of May this year. I got hired a couple weeks ago as an administrative assistant at UCCS in the writing center, where I will most likely become a consultant (like a tutor, they review and help students with their papers and other writing assignments) there in the next few semesters. I really like the work and my coworkers. I also started classes there this week and they should be interesting courses. By which I mean that they will probably be really, really easy. But hopefully interesting, too. At this point, I just feel really lucky to have a job, to be in school again, and to have both at the same place that's like a ten minute drive from home. I'm super blessed!
Love you guys! Now let's hear about your summers and what's coming up!
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Elizabeth and Carlos are parents; Josh and Kyleen's move
By now most of you may have heard, but thought I better put it on here anyhow...Zion Benjamin Ramirez arrived at 7:15 PM last Friday, May 22nd. He weighed in at 8 pounds 10 ounces (whew - love those big Bon babies!!!) and 20 1/2 inches long. Elizabeth and Zion are doing fine. I was waiting to post on here in hopes that I could include a picture, but alas, I am still waiting to see photos of the little guy.
Also, Josh and Kyleen are in the middle of moving to Chattanooga, TN, where Josh will be taking a youth pastor position! Congrats on the job change to Josh, and my prayers are with you for an uneventful move. Keep us updated on your new life in TN!
Also, Josh and Kyleen are in the middle of moving to Chattanooga, TN, where Josh will be taking a youth pastor position! Congrats on the job change to Josh, and my prayers are with you for an uneventful move. Keep us updated on your new life in TN!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Luke's Birthday, a little late
Hi Luke!
Sorry I am behind on this, but happy birthday last Friday! Hope you have a great trip to CO and can celebrate with your fam. I'm so proud of you for your service to our country, and hope you don't have to be so far away from us forever!
Sorry I am behind on this, but happy birthday last Friday! Hope you have a great trip to CO and can celebrate with your fam. I'm so proud of you for your service to our country, and hope you don't have to be so far away from us forever!
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Here I am with my Hand
Hi Everybody! I completed Basic Military Training last weekend, with honors, and have spent the past week in-processing at Vandenberg Air Force Base. Monday I'll be starting my Space Systems Operation classes, and if the intel I've received is reliable, I'll be stationed back at Schriever Air Force Base, Colorado in about 8 weeks! A couple more if I get approved to participate in the Recruiter Assistance Program. So... yeah! That worked out well, huh?
If you're ever in San Antonio, I highly recommend seeing a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. It's a really fun little theater. Plenty of legroom, and get there early, because the pre-show entertainment is amazing.
Hope you all are well! Peace be with you, and also with me.
If you're ever in San Antonio, I highly recommend seeing a movie at the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. It's a really fun little theater. Plenty of legroom, and get there early, because the pre-show entertainment is amazing.
Hope you all are well! Peace be with you, and also with me.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Happy Day to Chris
Hi Cousin Chris!
Just wanted you to know we're thinking about you on your birthday and hope it's great!
I personally have so many great memories of you at family get-togethers and always looked up to you as my cool older cousin. You, Wendy and I had a special time together before all the other cousins were born and I'm grateful for that!
Sorry your birthday had to come with such crummy weather, but after growing up in Colorado it shouldn't even phase you, right? :)
Just wanted you to know we're thinking about you on your birthday and hope it's great!
I personally have so many great memories of you at family get-togethers and always looked up to you as my cool older cousin. You, Wendy and I had a special time together before all the other cousins were born and I'm grateful for that!
Sorry your birthday had to come with such crummy weather, but after growing up in Colorado it shouldn't even phase you, right? :)
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Way to go Nelson!
Nelson and the Peyton Panthers basketball team are the district champs!! The team is ranked #1 in Class 3A, and they're headed to the Regional playoffs this weekend. They will play at home on Friday at 7 PM, and then again on Saturday at 1. If you're on Facebook, he has some photos on his page. Drop him a line there, or here, to congratulate him on this exciting accomplishment! We love you, Nelson!
Monday, February 23, 2009
Matt's coming home!
Here is a note from Aunt Patty about the party she is having for Matt when he comes home from Afghanistan.
Hi Everyone!!
The votes are in, and the winner is ---Saturday, March 21, 1:00pm until whenever!!!
I'd like families to bring a main dish, any kind of side/salad/dessert, and drinks.(and please pray for nice weather!!!) I will provide paper/plastic products, maindish, drinks and Fluff!!!
Please RSPV (no misprint - that is Respond Soon to Patty VanTasseel) soon!!
Love
Patty
Hi Everyone!!
The votes are in, and the winner is ---Saturday, March 21, 1:00pm until whenever!!!
I'd like families to bring a main dish, any kind of side/salad/dessert, and drinks.(and please pray for nice weather!!!) I will provide paper/plastic products, maindish, drinks and Fluff!!!
Please RSPV (no misprint - that is Respond Soon to Patty VanTasseel) soon!!
Love
Patty
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Happy (Late) Birthday to Alissa
Dear cousin Alissa,
I love you with all of my heart. From the time we were really little, you have always been a fun playmate, and as we got older, you became a close confidant. I adore your positive spirit and humor. And if I could describe you in one word, it would be helpful. You're always looking to serve others and make sure they're comfortable. That's awesome! I need to be more like you. I'm praying things are going well for you in school and work because you are the best!
We love you!
I love you with all of my heart. From the time we were really little, you have always been a fun playmate, and as we got older, you became a close confidant. I adore your positive spirit and humor. And if I could describe you in one word, it would be helpful. You're always looking to serve others and make sure they're comfortable. That's awesome! I need to be more like you. I'm praying things are going well for you in school and work because you are the best!
We love you!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Jonathan & Mrs. Bobbie
Around Christmastime, I posted a video on my personal blog that the husband made to advertise Sunset's website to its members. That video is now going viral. It hasn't reached massive numbers, but people are sharing it on blogs and other sites.
See for yourself: Neatorama, The Huffington Post, Unterekless Thoughts, The Findbuzz, Christ Wire, Hackaday, The DW, Michael Reuter, and Attack of the Show.
Mahalo even has a profile for Mrs. Bobbie.
Husband put the video on YouTube over a month ago. On Friday, I posted the video on Neatorama's Upcoming Blog. From there, the video was voted up until it made Neatorama's homepage on Saturday. Before Saturday, it had been seen about 100 times, according to YouTube's counter. By the end of the weekend, it had been seen close to 4,000 times. Then, other blogs started picking up on it and posting it. As of this writing, the video has been seen 25,450 times.
Those numbers aren't anything compared to many other web videos. Still, it's fun to see the video being shared and people getting a laugh. So, in case you haven't seen it, here it is:
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