Thursday, October 28, 2010

Ups and Downs *long post*

Hello friends! I'm sure you could tell by the absence of activity on my blog that I've been gone for a little while. This will be a post of happiness and sorrow. It will also have lots of photos and long narrative...just so you know.

I know I told you that Jon was graduating from basic training/AIT and that is where we went. It was really a neat experience for me and when you add in that my son is one of the less than 1% of the people in the US that are part of the military my heart just swells with pride! He has truly followed the path he believes God has set out for him during this time in his life.

While I so enjoyed the trip and the things we got to do I did receive the news that my beloved grandpa passed away while we were gone. My dad called early last Saturday morning and I knew that was what the call was for. While my brain is so relieved that grandpa isn't hurting anymore my heart breaks for the loss of the wonderful man my grandpa was. I will be holding tight to the memories that I have of my grandpa and the legacy of love, acceptance, hard work and humor that he has left. I look forward to the day I get to see him and the other loved ones that have gone before me once again.

I have a couple of photos to share with you. The description of what they are will be beneath the photo.
This is, quite literally my last photo and memory of my grandpa. It was taken as we drove away from his house this summer. The trip was a wonderful one and only adds to my wonderful memories of him. And now, we take care of his wife, Fern.
Here is my boy, 2nd from the left closest to me, during the pass and review. I guess it is a tradition of some sort but honestly, I wasn't listening I was trying to find him to take this photo!
And here is another photo of tradition. When a man (did I just type that?) graduates from Infantry Basic Training he earns the blue braided cord for his uniform. The cord signifies to all that he is Infantry and that they are the best in the world. Okay, that isn't what they said but you get the idea! Oh, this ceremony was called Turning Blue.
Finally, is a photo of Jon and I that someone was nice enough to take for me. Good Lord, I look old! Anyway, I had a horrible time finding him in the mass of people and soldiers that are all wearing the same uniform and look the same 'til you are up close. It could also have had something to do with the fact that I thought he was 2nd platoon and he was actually 3rd. Duh, for mom!

Alright, that is it for today. If you've made it this for congrats and thank you for hanging in there. I will pass any comments made about Jon's graduation onto him. I should be back tomorrow with my Clearing the Clutter challenge project. See you then!

14 comments that make my day!:

Kristine said...

That wasn't very long at all Lorie! =o) Look at all those good lookin' men! Yes, i said it... MEN! LOL. He's very handsome and you're such a proud military mom. I remember going a similar ceremony for my brother when he graduated. And you look very "hip" and young with your short haircut! Lookin' good chica! =)

I remember that same photo you posted after your trip last summer. I'm glad he's in a better place where there is no pain. It's always difficult on the people left behind though... but not for long. You will all be reunited one day YOU KNOW THAT! =) What an awesome day that'll be huh?! Hugs!!

Basement Stamper said...

Lorrie: Big hugs going out to you on the loss of your Grandfather. That is so difficult even when expected or they are suffering.

Congrats on Jon's graduation-how exciting for him and for yourself. I love the picture of the 2 of you and you do NOT look old whatsoever!

Danni said...

I'm so sorry for your loss!!

It is so hard to find them at ceremonies! I let Sam find me these days! Congrats to your son!

And my dear friend, you look do not look old!!

hugs

Missy said...

First off I wanted to send my condolences your way. I am sorry for your loss. I know all to well what it is like to lose a grandparent. My heart and prayers for you and your family.
As for your son. Definitely a proud moment. I remember trying to find my brother when he graduated from Boot Camp. It was quite the experience and even as a sister I was beaming with pride. Please thank him for his service to this beloved country and those whom he serves.

Diane said...

Such a beautiful pic of you & Jon!
Very proud Mom there!

I'm so sorry for your loss,I know what your Grandpa meant to you. But he is now looking over you until you meet again.
Hugs to you Lorie!

Jeannette Siciliani said...

What great photos {and memories}. My heart goes out to you, and I'm giving you a big {{HUG}}. As a Mother, I can share in your joy, and pride. What a blessing our children are to us, and what a gift for us Americans that Jon serves his country, and our God, in such times of uncertainty. May God bless these men and women who protect us.
I'll pray for you during this time of loss and sorrow. Thank you for sharing moments like this, and for posting these lovely photos of your loved ones.
In Christ,
xoxox

Sharon said...

So sorry to hear about your Grandpa, so hard losing loved ones.

Congratulations to your son, my son goes to basic training in May, I have mixed emotions, but I am very proud of him, just worry about him like any mother does.

Hugs
Sharon

Sue from Oregon said...

Hi Lorie, So sorry to read of the passing of your beloved Grandpa. It is amazing the love and wonderful memories Grandparents leave us! My Granny died 40 years ago and I still remember her like it was yesterday! Hugs to you and your family.
Wonderful pics of Jon! A proud Mom for sure!

Debby said...

My Smypathy's on your losing your Grandpa. It is very hard to lose someone you love and are close to. I lost my Dad in January and I so miss him.
Your son looks just like you ano no you didn't look old. Your so pretty.
angel hugs
Debby

Unknown said...

Lorie...I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of your Grandpa. I know how close you were to him and loved reading and seeing pics of you two enjoying time together. I'm glad you got to visit him this summer. My heart is with you in this time of sorrow.

As for Jon...WOO HOO!!! Please tell him that I am so very proud of him and thank him with all of my heart for protecting our country. He truly is a "man" now and how wonderful that is.

Also...I LOVE the picture of you and Jon. It is so natural, not posed, and so happy. What a wonderful pic and you look absolutly amazing. Way too young looking to have a son that just finished basic trainig!! You go girl!

Hugs and much love Lorie.
xoxoxoxo
Lorraine

CreativeMish said...

You must be such a proud Mama! He is such a handsome young man.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your Grandpa, Lorie. Will keep you in our prayers. Great pic of you and your son, you must be so proud of him! Thank for sharing.
Amelia X

Stacy said...

Lorie,
I am obviously a little behind at reading blogs. I am so sorry to hear about your grandpa. That is such a bittersweet time to know they are in a better place is often times a pretty tough one to swallow. What a battle we have with our inner strength in such a trying time. You and your family are in my prayers.

On a happier note, congratulations on Jon's graduation! What a proud moment for you and your family. Thank you for sharing.

JustYolie said...

Your son has your smile! :)
Sorry to hear about your grandpa.