Oh my goodness! The last two weeks have been so very rough on us. So this is my post to catch everyone up on what the deal is.
2 weeks ago, my husband went into work to find out that the company had lost their funding suddenly and had to close its doors...immediately. The unexpected layoff left everyone in shock. There was panic, fear, tears, sadness, and mourning over the loss of such a wonderful company. The following days involved D and I going through all of our options and weighing each one carefully, but one thing was certain - we could not afford our house without D working. We had a HUGE budget deficit and we needed to stop the bleeding as fast as possible. Luckily, we are blessed to have a ton of options and enough savings to get us through a couple months.
And here is the decision. We are moving back to Tucson. Tucson is hurting for math and science teachers so the job market is ripe for me to gain quick employment, something that I have been unable to do here in San Diego. In addition, the cost of living there is low enough that we can afford it on my salary alone. That isn't even taking into account how much healthier I am there!
Although we are confident in our decision, there are several things making this move a challenge. First, there is the sadness in telling my students and their families that we are moving and I will no longer be able to work with them. These kids are amazing and I will miss them dearly. Then there is my sinus surgery coming up next week. Ever tried selling a house while recovering from surgery? Yea. That should be interesting. Then, there is moving away from family who is just getting used to having me close by - aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins. Finally, there is trying to coordinate interviews when you don't even live in your destination city yet. Well, if nothing else, we are keeping life interesting!
As Rodney Atkins tells us, "If you're going through hell, keep on going. Don't slow down, if you're scared don't show it. You might get out before the devil even knows you're there."
Bipolar Musings of my life, humor, health, family, friends, and beliefs.
Showing posts with label goodbyes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label goodbyes. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
Saturday, February 2, 2013
Honoring the Past, Looking Forward to the Future
Today, I finally put away the Nativity Scene. I know Christmas is long gone, but having it up gave me a sense of closeness with my Oma. My brother and I would help her set it up every year we were near. Carefully we would place each piece in whatever arrangement met our fancy that year. It was always set up on this long, dark table that sat against the wall in the formal living room. It was one of the first things you saw when you entered her house. Setting up the Nativity Scene was one of many traditions we shared with Oma.
As I wrap each of the pieces in gobs of tissue paper, I try to be as gentle as possible. Most of the pieces are in excellent condition but a few are chipped and worn. In particular, poor Joseph's paint is cracking all over the place. He gets the most tissue and the least direct handling. Each piece is placed carefully inside the handmade manger before wrapped carefully in plastic and stored in a plastic tote.
As I wrap, I notice a piece of paper stuck to the bottom of one of the figures. It has the shape and texture of one of those cheap sticky price tags you might see in the dollar store but it is worn and faded. On it is typed two letters and three numbers - DM 2, 50. Five of the figures have this same stamp. Another is marked DM 2, 25 and three others are marked DM 2, 75. Knowing my Oma came from Germany, my assumption is these are prices: Deutsche Marks. For these figures to come from Germany means my Oma either inherited them from another family member or she bought them herself. If she bought them, it would have been long ago since I remember this Nativity Scene from my very young childhood. I can only assume these pieces are at least 30 years old.
I also know my Oma came from Germany when she was a young girl, a teenager I believe. She was in Germany during WWII. After she came to the United States, after the war was over, Oma went back to Germany to visit family several times and sometimes they would come visit us. Despite knowing of her visits, I like to think this Nativity Scene came over with Oma when she was a girl. Maybe it is the faded paint on the figures or the style of artwork and craftsmanship, but it feels old. These figures are potentially 60 years old - or more. A piece of history, a time when things were both simpler and more complex than today.
I cannot thank my Oma for all the Christmas memories she gave me. I cannot thank you for showing me the importance of tradition. All I can do is honor the past and pass these memories and traditions on to my own future children.
Danke schön, Oma, und gute nacht.
As I wrap each of the pieces in gobs of tissue paper, I try to be as gentle as possible. Most of the pieces are in excellent condition but a few are chipped and worn. In particular, poor Joseph's paint is cracking all over the place. He gets the most tissue and the least direct handling. Each piece is placed carefully inside the handmade manger before wrapped carefully in plastic and stored in a plastic tote.
As I wrap, I notice a piece of paper stuck to the bottom of one of the figures. It has the shape and texture of one of those cheap sticky price tags you might see in the dollar store but it is worn and faded. On it is typed two letters and three numbers - DM 2, 50. Five of the figures have this same stamp. Another is marked DM 2, 25 and three others are marked DM 2, 75. Knowing my Oma came from Germany, my assumption is these are prices: Deutsche Marks. For these figures to come from Germany means my Oma either inherited them from another family member or she bought them herself. If she bought them, it would have been long ago since I remember this Nativity Scene from my very young childhood. I can only assume these pieces are at least 30 years old.
I also know my Oma came from Germany when she was a young girl, a teenager I believe. She was in Germany during WWII. After she came to the United States, after the war was over, Oma went back to Germany to visit family several times and sometimes they would come visit us. Despite knowing of her visits, I like to think this Nativity Scene came over with Oma when she was a girl. Maybe it is the faded paint on the figures or the style of artwork and craftsmanship, but it feels old. These figures are potentially 60 years old - or more. A piece of history, a time when things were both simpler and more complex than today.
I cannot thank my Oma for all the Christmas memories she gave me. I cannot thank you for showing me the importance of tradition. All I can do is honor the past and pass these memories and traditions on to my own future children.
Danke schön, Oma, und gute nacht.
Monday, May 30, 2011
The Model of a Life Well-Lived
Today, I said goodbye to a person very dear to me. I laughed and I cried. If you knew him, you would understand why. A father-figure, a friend, a family member, a brother, a father, a confident, a roll model, and a husband. Gary Granico. He touched the hearts of many and he enriched the lives of so many more. He lived life to the fullest and never backed down. He was the first with a wise-crack and never left your side. He showed me the model of a well-lived life.
I met Gary through my brother playing baseball. Gary's son and my brother ended up on the same little league baseball team. Gary and my dad bonded instantly. I believe I was about 10 at the time. From there, it grew into a blending of families involving baseball, fudgesicles, nights at Straw Hat Pizza, and BBQs, just to be followed by ties that bind as strong as blood, camping and houseboat trips, nights on the town, and family parties. Yes, our families became close. To my brother and I, a second father. To my dad, a brother.
A long-time vet of the Airforce, we fittingly said goodbye to Gary on this Memorial Day. May he rest in peace.
To help you get a feeling for how special this guy is, here are some words from friends who wrote in the guest book:
May 27, 2011
Debbie, John, Jeana, Linda, Toni Lynn & Family.
Gary was my cousin and my friend. He had a gift that if you were his friend you were his family. There was always 7 steps to Gary. I admired that he would color outside the lines, because that's who he was and he was endeared for being himself. He was a giver and his lust for life was contagious. I have so many fond memories of being in Chester with Gary and the rest of our cousins.
He will be missed by all. The world has lost a ray of sunshine.
Your Loving Cousin,
Joan
May 27, 2011
rest in peace Gary.
~
don babcock,
sutter creek, California
May 27, 2011
Gary, you will be truly missed. It was a pleasure knowing, working, and playing with you. I have many fond memories of you and will truly miss you. R.I.P. my brother.
~
Michael Foley,
a.k.a. Foo Foo,
Salida, California
May 27, 2011
Gary was my sons little league coach in Rosemont. He was a great guy and had a great passion for coaching all of our kids. I will miss seeing him at that the local pizza parlor (straw hat). As they say " only the good die young". Gary will be missed by a lot of people in the Rosemont area.
~
The Cobb family.
May 27, 2011
We love you Gary and will miss your contagious laugh and your humongous smile! Life will not be the same without you but we know you are now at peace and out of pain. Love Jon, Kylie, and Abigail
~
Kylie Villalva (Latimer),
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
~
Alissa Morotti,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Debbie, John, Jeana and the Granico & Cheek families,My heart is filled with sadness at the loss of Gary. He really was a remarkable person. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
~
Denise Pellerin-Johnson,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Toni and Linda and family. I'm so sorry for your loss. In my teenage years I received the name " Baby Stowe" from Gary. He made a big impact in my life. He was a big brother figure to me, gave me advice and let me know I did matter in this world, he made me fill special. He opened his home to me when I needed a place to live, and eat and sleep. I have lots of good, fun and crazy memories with Gary that will always make me laugh, especially rafting trips down the American River. He was good man. God Bless you and your family. You are all in my Thoughts.
~
Lisa Gentry ( Baby Stowe)
May 27, 2011
Gary the things i learned from you and the good talks we had i will never forget. Spring training, Chester and most of all coaching. we had some great times. Thank you for everything.
~
Sid Lucero,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Gary was not only every young man who went through Rosemont Little League's mentor and coach but like a father as well. He touched many lives and left a mark and a place in their heart.
"The coach's main job is 20 percent technical and 80 percent inspirational."
~Franz Stampfl
God Bless you Debbie, John and Jeana for sharing Gary (dad) with us all!
~
Teresa and J.P. Savage,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
We are sorry to hear about your loss. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. God is now taking care of Gary for he was a good father, husband, and a friend to all he met.
Winnie, Jeni, Maria, Susan and Tere
~
Winnie Cooper,
Rocklin, California
May 27, 2011
Gary was my cousin and my friend. Anyone who was his friend they became his family. He was a wonderful husband and caring Dad. He appreciated all the colors this world had to offer. Debbie, John, Jeana, Linda, Toni, & Family, wishing you comfort and love during this sad time.
~
Your Cousin Joan
May 27, 2011
Dear Toni and Linda --- I am so sorry to hear about Gary's passing. He will be missed. He was always one of my favorite childhood friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
~
Love, Sharon Dorsey
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Hey Bud - We are so glad our paths crossed with yours in this life! You were definitely one in a million and we think you knew at least a milliion people! You will be missed by them all. There's one thing that has to be said, it was always amazing how the tenor of a room, the garage, the golf course or where ever you were, changed when you showed up. Thanks for being our friend Gary and having us in your life...you will never be fogotten. God bless you and your family. Rest in peace my friend! Mike and Susan Levitt
May 27, 2011
Granico Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Gary was an inspiration to many young kids who were a part of Rosemont Little League. He always made my son Justin laugh and gave him more confidence than any other baseball coach. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
~
Debbie Smith,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Gary
I will miss you old friend, I truly enjoyed our days at Hiram Johnson (Class of '69). R.I.P.
~
Pat Dowden,
Loomis, California
May 27, 2011
Debbie, John, Jeana, Gary was not only the best Husband, Father and Family man, he was also a great friend. He is now with God and others we have lost recently. My heart and prayers go out to all of your family. We will truely miss him in our lives.
~
Kathy, Keith Jouganatos
May 27, 2011
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Granico family. We will all miss Gary and his fun ways deeply. He was a great, friend, mentor and coach to a lot of us. We had many fun adventures coaching baseball and having post games talks over a brew or two (most likely more…lol). The Chester fishing trips to Lake Almanor were the best. I still remember Gary’s face when Kenny Rogers, Rodney and I pulled up to his gasless boat on the lake with fuel. Priceless! Thanks Gary for all the fun times!
~
Stefan OConnor,
Rosemont, California
May 27, 2011
I was shocked when my mom called to tell me about Gary. I hope you are all doing as well as can be expected at time like this. One of my first thoughts were of Larry, he would have been heart broken to have experienced this loss. Hopefully he and Gary are somewhere starting their on Fantasy Football League, smokin' a cigars and talkin' sports!!! My heart aches for all of you. Gary was a great guy, always a joy to be around. Hold on to your memories they will keep you strong.
~
Paula Alvarado Smith.
May 28, 2011
Granico Family,
Our deepest symapthy for your loss. My God bless you and your family during this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
~
Rico & Antoinette Morotti,
Gold River, California
May 28, 2011
Debbie,John,Jeana,Linda,Toni Lyn,I am So sorry for the loss of Gary. I have fond memories of Gary's younger days. He was loving and a delite to be with. The memories of Chester will always be with me.He will be missed.
Love and God Bless. We will meet again Gary.
~
Love you, Aunt Jo
May 28, 2011
I am very saddened to hear about Gary's passing. It has been so many years since I last saw him as I moved out of the area but I always think about him. Gary was a great friend and an inspiring teammate. Not only was he a great coach and teacher of the game but a tremendous player. He was a big part of our "Express" Softball family. We had so much fun together and I will always remember his smile, his laugh and his gold glove. I miss you "Snake" and will always cherish the great times we had. May God Bless you, watch over you and give you peace!
~
TC Martin,
Green Bay, Wisconsin
May 28, 2011
It's raining in seattle! The yankees are in town! I never saw anyone play third base or shortstop, better than Gary! What a glove. lucky
~
larry pirch,
seattle, Washington
May 28, 2011
MAY YOUR SOUL REST IN ETERNAL PEACE
~
ED JONES,
SACRAMENTO, California
May 28, 2011
My heart is broken but I know you are free and not in pain any more. Thank you for always being there for me...good times and bad. I know you and Doug have a line in the water and a beer in your hand. Love you my brother.....Shorty
~
Shorty
May 28, 2011
I knew when I first saw Gary and signed up for Baseball that this guy was a special guy. What I didn't know, was how much Gary would touch me and my Family.
It has been said that you are fortunate if, in a lifetime, you can meet enough great people to count on one hand. In my lifetime I have had the opportunity to meet alot of people both business and leisure.I also think I am fortunate to have many friends, but Gary Granico was my "One Hander". He stands as one of those men you can count on one hand.
As Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet " He was a man. Take him for all and all. We shall not look upon his like again."
Rest in peace my Brother you will be thought of every day.
~
Mike Hamburg
May 29, 2011
Peace to you Gary, you are so sweet.
~
Laura Bishop,
Roseville, California
May 29, 2011
the world will stop spinning!
i'm a little lost for words this morning!
but i thought of this..
god will blink.. the world will stop spinning and baseball will bow their heads and tip their hats...
ug
~
USAF gonnella,
scottsdale, Arizona
May 29, 2011
hello im eric gunnarson gary/ snake and i were best friends back in the day my heart is very sad i cried i havent seen or will ever c gary again 4 30 years we all had nick names mine was trout im sorry i or we never had time to get together i only know in my heart he was a great man i remember the times we had as friends and i will cherish those times im sorry 4 your lose i dont know u but in my heart i feel your pain thats the wrong word i feel your lose only know we were friends u can ask others of me miles and time seperate friends the last time i saw gary it was as if we had never been apart 30 years ago i loved him as my brother and we were we just went different ways in life to his family i say im sorry and if u wish u can call me id like that 778 886 6029 im in canada GOD bless u all garys friend gunnar
~
eric gunnarson,
blaine, Washington
May 29, 2011
Our time shared as baseball dads was much appreciated by me and will always be remembered. Your and Debbie's kindnesses toward Steven are not forgotten. You are missed.
~
Glenn Thompson
May 30, 2011
Gary was there for the lives and deaths of my Great Grandfather, Great grandmother and Great Uncle. He will always be remembered, by me, as a kind, worm hearted Man, who was always there in a time of need.
Thank you for all you've ever done for my Family, Gary. You will be missed by many. We love you.
~
Kayla Kardokus,
Rancho Cordova, California
May 30, 2011
My prayers go out to the family and friends of Gary. I was in Turkey with Gary and played ball with him. Very sad to hear he is gone. God bless him.
~
Dennis Avery,
Litchfield, Michigan
May 30, 2011
Gary, thanks for the memories. The many nights at Crabshaw listening to the 'Skins' will stay with me always.....
~
Norm Longtin,
Omo Ranch, California
.
I met Gary through my brother playing baseball. Gary's son and my brother ended up on the same little league baseball team. Gary and my dad bonded instantly. I believe I was about 10 at the time. From there, it grew into a blending of families involving baseball, fudgesicles, nights at Straw Hat Pizza, and BBQs, just to be followed by ties that bind as strong as blood, camping and houseboat trips, nights on the town, and family parties. Yes, our families became close. To my brother and I, a second father. To my dad, a brother.
A long-time vet of the Airforce, we fittingly said goodbye to Gary on this Memorial Day. May he rest in peace.
 | |||
| Gary "the Snake" Granico |
August 28, 1951 - May 24, 2011
Born August 28, 1951 in Sacramento to Tony and Jean Granico. Gary passed away on May 24th surrounded by his loving family. He is survived by Debbie, his devoted wife of 29 years, his son John, and his daughter Jeana. He was the brother of Linda and Toni, the uncle of Zack, Cason, and Shawn, and the brother in law of Jeri and Mike. Gary served in the USAF for 4 years and retired after 40 years of service from the Dept. of Defense. His greatest passions besides his family were fishing and coaching more little leaguers than we can count. He was blessed with many lifelong friends that will miss him dearly.
To help you get a feeling for how special this guy is, here are some words from friends who wrote in the guest book:
May 27, 2011
Debbie, John, Jeana, Linda, Toni Lynn & Family.
Gary was my cousin and my friend. He had a gift that if you were his friend you were his family. There was always 7 steps to Gary. I admired that he would color outside the lines, because that's who he was and he was endeared for being himself. He was a giver and his lust for life was contagious. I have so many fond memories of being in Chester with Gary and the rest of our cousins.
He will be missed by all. The world has lost a ray of sunshine.
Your Loving Cousin,
Joan
May 27, 2011
rest in peace Gary.
~
don babcock,
sutter creek, California
May 27, 2011
Gary, you will be truly missed. It was a pleasure knowing, working, and playing with you. I have many fond memories of you and will truly miss you. R.I.P. my brother.
~
Michael Foley,
a.k.a. Foo Foo,
Salida, California
May 27, 2011
Gary was my sons little league coach in Rosemont. He was a great guy and had a great passion for coaching all of our kids. I will miss seeing him at that the local pizza parlor (straw hat). As they say " only the good die young". Gary will be missed by a lot of people in the Rosemont area.
~
The Cobb family.
May 27, 2011
We love you Gary and will miss your contagious laugh and your humongous smile! Life will not be the same without you but we know you are now at peace and out of pain. Love Jon, Kylie, and Abigail
~
Kylie Villalva (Latimer),
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
~
Alissa Morotti,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Debbie, John, Jeana and the Granico & Cheek families,My heart is filled with sadness at the loss of Gary. He really was a remarkable person. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
~
Denise Pellerin-Johnson,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Toni and Linda and family. I'm so sorry for your loss. In my teenage years I received the name " Baby Stowe" from Gary. He made a big impact in my life. He was a big brother figure to me, gave me advice and let me know I did matter in this world, he made me fill special. He opened his home to me when I needed a place to live, and eat and sleep. I have lots of good, fun and crazy memories with Gary that will always make me laugh, especially rafting trips down the American River. He was good man. God Bless you and your family. You are all in my Thoughts.
~
Lisa Gentry ( Baby Stowe)
May 27, 2011
Gary the things i learned from you and the good talks we had i will never forget. Spring training, Chester and most of all coaching. we had some great times. Thank you for everything.
~
Sid Lucero,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Gary was not only every young man who went through Rosemont Little League's mentor and coach but like a father as well. He touched many lives and left a mark and a place in their heart.
"The coach's main job is 20 percent technical and 80 percent inspirational."
~Franz Stampfl
God Bless you Debbie, John and Jeana for sharing Gary (dad) with us all!
~
Teresa and J.P. Savage,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
We are sorry to hear about your loss. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time. God is now taking care of Gary for he was a good father, husband, and a friend to all he met.
Winnie, Jeni, Maria, Susan and Tere
~
Winnie Cooper,
Rocklin, California
May 27, 2011
Gary was my cousin and my friend. Anyone who was his friend they became his family. He was a wonderful husband and caring Dad. He appreciated all the colors this world had to offer. Debbie, John, Jeana, Linda, Toni, & Family, wishing you comfort and love during this sad time.
~
Your Cousin Joan
May 27, 2011
Dear Toni and Linda --- I am so sorry to hear about Gary's passing. He will be missed. He was always one of my favorite childhood friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
~
Love, Sharon Dorsey
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Hey Bud - We are so glad our paths crossed with yours in this life! You were definitely one in a million and we think you knew at least a milliion people! You will be missed by them all. There's one thing that has to be said, it was always amazing how the tenor of a room, the garage, the golf course or where ever you were, changed when you showed up. Thanks for being our friend Gary and having us in your life...you will never be fogotten. God bless you and your family. Rest in peace my friend! Mike and Susan Levitt
May 27, 2011
Granico Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Gary was an inspiration to many young kids who were a part of Rosemont Little League. He always made my son Justin laugh and gave him more confidence than any other baseball coach. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
~
Debbie Smith,
Sacramento, California
May 27, 2011
Gary
I will miss you old friend, I truly enjoyed our days at Hiram Johnson (Class of '69). R.I.P.
~
Pat Dowden,
Loomis, California
May 27, 2011
Debbie, John, Jeana, Gary was not only the best Husband, Father and Family man, he was also a great friend. He is now with God and others we have lost recently. My heart and prayers go out to all of your family. We will truely miss him in our lives.
~
Kathy, Keith Jouganatos
May 27, 2011
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Granico family. We will all miss Gary and his fun ways deeply. He was a great, friend, mentor and coach to a lot of us. We had many fun adventures coaching baseball and having post games talks over a brew or two (most likely more…lol). The Chester fishing trips to Lake Almanor were the best. I still remember Gary’s face when Kenny Rogers, Rodney and I pulled up to his gasless boat on the lake with fuel. Priceless! Thanks Gary for all the fun times!
~
Stefan OConnor,
Rosemont, California
May 27, 2011
I was shocked when my mom called to tell me about Gary. I hope you are all doing as well as can be expected at time like this. One of my first thoughts were of Larry, he would have been heart broken to have experienced this loss. Hopefully he and Gary are somewhere starting their on Fantasy Football League, smokin' a cigars and talkin' sports!!! My heart aches for all of you. Gary was a great guy, always a joy to be around. Hold on to your memories they will keep you strong.
~
Paula Alvarado Smith.
May 28, 2011
Granico Family,
Our deepest symapthy for your loss. My God bless you and your family during this sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
~
Rico & Antoinette Morotti,
Gold River, California
May 28, 2011
Debbie,John,Jeana,Linda,Toni Lyn,I am So sorry for the loss of Gary. I have fond memories of Gary's younger days. He was loving and a delite to be with. The memories of Chester will always be with me.He will be missed.
Love and God Bless. We will meet again Gary.
~
Love you, Aunt Jo
May 28, 2011
I am very saddened to hear about Gary's passing. It has been so many years since I last saw him as I moved out of the area but I always think about him. Gary was a great friend and an inspiring teammate. Not only was he a great coach and teacher of the game but a tremendous player. He was a big part of our "Express" Softball family. We had so much fun together and I will always remember his smile, his laugh and his gold glove. I miss you "Snake" and will always cherish the great times we had. May God Bless you, watch over you and give you peace!
~
TC Martin,
Green Bay, Wisconsin
May 28, 2011
It's raining in seattle! The yankees are in town! I never saw anyone play third base or shortstop, better than Gary! What a glove. lucky
~
larry pirch,
seattle, Washington
May 28, 2011
MAY YOUR SOUL REST IN ETERNAL PEACE
~
ED JONES,
SACRAMENTO, California
May 28, 2011
My heart is broken but I know you are free and not in pain any more. Thank you for always being there for me...good times and bad. I know you and Doug have a line in the water and a beer in your hand. Love you my brother.....Shorty
~
Shorty
May 28, 2011
I knew when I first saw Gary and signed up for Baseball that this guy was a special guy. What I didn't know, was how much Gary would touch me and my Family.
It has been said that you are fortunate if, in a lifetime, you can meet enough great people to count on one hand. In my lifetime I have had the opportunity to meet alot of people both business and leisure.I also think I am fortunate to have many friends, but Gary Granico was my "One Hander". He stands as one of those men you can count on one hand.
As Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet " He was a man. Take him for all and all. We shall not look upon his like again."
Rest in peace my Brother you will be thought of every day.
~
Mike Hamburg
May 29, 2011
Peace to you Gary, you are so sweet.
~
Laura Bishop,
Roseville, California
May 29, 2011
the world will stop spinning!
i'm a little lost for words this morning!
but i thought of this..
god will blink.. the world will stop spinning and baseball will bow their heads and tip their hats...
ug
~
USAF gonnella,
scottsdale, Arizona
May 29, 2011
hello im eric gunnarson gary/ snake and i were best friends back in the day my heart is very sad i cried i havent seen or will ever c gary again 4 30 years we all had nick names mine was trout im sorry i or we never had time to get together i only know in my heart he was a great man i remember the times we had as friends and i will cherish those times im sorry 4 your lose i dont know u but in my heart i feel your pain thats the wrong word i feel your lose only know we were friends u can ask others of me miles and time seperate friends the last time i saw gary it was as if we had never been apart 30 years ago i loved him as my brother and we were we just went different ways in life to his family i say im sorry and if u wish u can call me id like that 778 886 6029 im in canada GOD bless u all garys friend gunnar
~
eric gunnarson,
blaine, Washington
May 29, 2011
Our time shared as baseball dads was much appreciated by me and will always be remembered. Your and Debbie's kindnesses toward Steven are not forgotten. You are missed.
~
Glenn Thompson
May 30, 2011
Gary was there for the lives and deaths of my Great Grandfather, Great grandmother and Great Uncle. He will always be remembered, by me, as a kind, worm hearted Man, who was always there in a time of need.
Thank you for all you've ever done for my Family, Gary. You will be missed by many. We love you.
~
Kayla Kardokus,
Rancho Cordova, California
May 30, 2011
My prayers go out to the family and friends of Gary. I was in Turkey with Gary and played ball with him. Very sad to hear he is gone. God bless him.
~
Dennis Avery,
Litchfield, Michigan
May 30, 2011
Gary, thanks for the memories. The many nights at Crabshaw listening to the 'Skins' will stay with me always.....
~
Norm Longtin,
Omo Ranch, California
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Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Learning Who My *Real* Friends Are
Ever thought you knew someone, and then one day you find out they totally aren't who you thought they were? Ever thought you could count on someone and then when you really needed them, they weren't there? That was my night last night. I needed a friend, and I chose to take a chance and call on someone and they weren't there. Then when they finally showed up, well, lets just say I was disappointed. A very dear friend is dying and I get to hear about how parts of my life are screwed up. Yea. Helpful. Oh if they only knew all the shit I did for them and the crap I went through.
Today, I have a migraine, so I went back to bed to take a little nap and I am woken up by a text message from this same person essentially saying I screwed up somehow and I am now written out of their life forever. Do you think they tell me what it was I did? No. Do you think they give me a chance to refute whatever accusation is going on here? No. Do you think they respond when I ask what the hell I did this time? No.
Well guess what. I don't give a damn anymore. I do not have the mental or emotional energy to deal with this kind of childish bull shit anymore. I have more important things in my life to deal with. I have a husband who was laid off and is looking for a new job. I have school that is kicking my ass because I am taking double classes right now. I am having sinus surgery in a week. I have rheumatoid arthritis that I have to manage without one of my medications because of that surgery. I have a dear family friend, someone who is family despite the lack of blood relation, who I have known since I was 8, who is dying of lung cancer and may be leaving this world any day now. I have a best friend who I fear is on the verge of collapse because of all the shit she has going on in her life. I have my own insecurities and esteem issues to deal with. So you wanna write me off without telling me what I did? Fine. Good riddance. Have a nice life, cause I don't give a good God damn anymore.
.
Today, I have a migraine, so I went back to bed to take a little nap and I am woken up by a text message from this same person essentially saying I screwed up somehow and I am now written out of their life forever. Do you think they tell me what it was I did? No. Do you think they give me a chance to refute whatever accusation is going on here? No. Do you think they respond when I ask what the hell I did this time? No.
Well guess what. I don't give a damn anymore. I do not have the mental or emotional energy to deal with this kind of childish bull shit anymore. I have more important things in my life to deal with. I have a husband who was laid off and is looking for a new job. I have school that is kicking my ass because I am taking double classes right now. I am having sinus surgery in a week. I have rheumatoid arthritis that I have to manage without one of my medications because of that surgery. I have a dear family friend, someone who is family despite the lack of blood relation, who I have known since I was 8, who is dying of lung cancer and may be leaving this world any day now. I have a best friend who I fear is on the verge of collapse because of all the shit she has going on in her life. I have my own insecurities and esteem issues to deal with. So you wanna write me off without telling me what I did? Fine. Good riddance. Have a nice life, cause I don't give a good God damn anymore.
.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Out With the Old, In With the New
2010 was an awesome year for me. It came with some challenges and I met them well. I beat even my best expectations for myself and then made some new ones that are going even better. Here is a brief recap of the last 365 days:
In January, I hired and trained my replacement at University of the Pacific. It was heart-breaking to say goodbye to all my friends and co-workers I had met over the previous 5 years, but I felt the most awesome opportunities lay ahead of me in Arizona where my husband had started working at his dream job.
In February, I made the final trek to our new home in Tucson, AZ. Though I was excited about the changes, I was scared. Would I be successful? Would I survive away from the friends and family I had been with for the last 10 years? Time would tell.
Once in Tucson, I wanted to make sure to continue my journey to better health and happiness. To do so, I joined a gym and got a new personal trainer since I had to leave my my favorite trainers behind in Stockton (Lance and Denny with CBPT).
Once everything was finally situated in Tucson, I signed up to get back to the school books! I finally have the chance to focus 100% on school and get this teaching degree DONE!
I started school and found I loved the program at University of Phoenix. Admittedly, I don't always like the fact I have to work in teams, but I at least understand the concept behind it. After moving to a bigger apartment, I finally started meeting some people who would turn out to be great friends. Seeing as making friends was one of my biggest concerns, this was a huge feat for me.
As time would go on, I would learn more of the city, learn more things to do, get involved in my community through volunteer work, meet wonderful people who offered superb opportunities, make great friends, and learn I am a much stronger person than I gave myself credit for. Even as my health issues have piled up in the last month or two, I am still holding strong with the support of those around me who love me.
To each and every one of you who had supported me at one time or another, thank you. It is because of you that I am who I am today and I can accomplish my dreams.
And what exactly are my dreams for 2011? To buy a house, to start a family, to get my rheumatoid arthritis back under control, and to blog more! But above all those dreams, I truly only have two New Year's Resolutions: Make time for what makes me happiest and say goodbye to the things that don't. May 2011 be my happiest year yet. :)
.
In January, I hired and trained my replacement at University of the Pacific. It was heart-breaking to say goodbye to all my friends and co-workers I had met over the previous 5 years, but I felt the most awesome opportunities lay ahead of me in Arizona where my husband had started working at his dream job.
In February, I made the final trek to our new home in Tucson, AZ. Though I was excited about the changes, I was scared. Would I be successful? Would I survive away from the friends and family I had been with for the last 10 years? Time would tell.
Once in Tucson, I wanted to make sure to continue my journey to better health and happiness. To do so, I joined a gym and got a new personal trainer since I had to leave my my favorite trainers behind in Stockton (Lance and Denny with CBPT).
Once everything was finally situated in Tucson, I signed up to get back to the school books! I finally have the chance to focus 100% on school and get this teaching degree DONE!
I started school and found I loved the program at University of Phoenix. Admittedly, I don't always like the fact I have to work in teams, but I at least understand the concept behind it. After moving to a bigger apartment, I finally started meeting some people who would turn out to be great friends. Seeing as making friends was one of my biggest concerns, this was a huge feat for me.
As time would go on, I would learn more of the city, learn more things to do, get involved in my community through volunteer work, meet wonderful people who offered superb opportunities, make great friends, and learn I am a much stronger person than I gave myself credit for. Even as my health issues have piled up in the last month or two, I am still holding strong with the support of those around me who love me.
To each and every one of you who had supported me at one time or another, thank you. It is because of you that I am who I am today and I can accomplish my dreams.
And what exactly are my dreams for 2011? To buy a house, to start a family, to get my rheumatoid arthritis back under control, and to blog more! But above all those dreams, I truly only have two New Year's Resolutions: Make time for what makes me happiest and say goodbye to the things that don't. May 2011 be my happiest year yet. :)
.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Cherish every day
Some people come quietly into our lives and leave just as quietly, leaving little memory of them behind. There are no strong emotions and no teary goodbyes. Some people enter and change you more dramatically. They leave or heal a scar, and you know you will remember their presence forever, but there is only a slight sadness or relief when they move on. Then there are those who not only enter our lives, but they enter our hearts. Attachments are formed, traditions, and love. They become family. Shit hits the fan in your life or theirs, and the other comes running to help clean up the mess.
And then the day comes where the shit can't be cleaned off the walls anymore. The broken pieces can no longer be put back together. But you will try. Your family will run to their family and you will scrub and scrape like mad because life stinks sometimes and you hate the smell, but it remains.
A brother to my father. A second father to my brother. Family to us all. We may not be blood, but our two families are forever entwined. How do you stop scraping long enough to enjoy the short time you have left with them? How do you ignore the stink long enough to smile, laugh, and be thankful for the time you had with them? Now, how do you do this from 1200 miles away?
Stage 4.
6 months.
May the Lord bless us all and give our families comfort and joy.
.
And then the day comes where the shit can't be cleaned off the walls anymore. The broken pieces can no longer be put back together. But you will try. Your family will run to their family and you will scrub and scrape like mad because life stinks sometimes and you hate the smell, but it remains.
A brother to my father. A second father to my brother. Family to us all. We may not be blood, but our two families are forever entwined. How do you stop scraping long enough to enjoy the short time you have left with them? How do you ignore the stink long enough to smile, laugh, and be thankful for the time you had with them? Now, how do you do this from 1200 miles away?
Stage 4.
6 months.
May the Lord bless us all and give our families comfort and joy.
.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
For my Oma
For my Oma, Ingeborg,
Two years ago today, I had to say good-bye to my grandmother, my Oma. For those of you who have never heard me speak of her before, Oma is German for grandma.
When we were young, she took care of my brother and I when we were too sick to go to school. She often took us to our baseball and softball events after school. During the summer, we would spend a lot of time at her house. I met wonderful friends through her and swam in the neighbor's pool. My first time riding the "light rail" was with her, as well as my first time on a bus that broke down. A boy in her neighborhood gave me my first kiss, and oh did that cause problems. Hehe. My brother and I would make forts out of blankets, chairs, and other furniture throughout her house. This was all before we moved to Texas for high school.
When we returned to California after high school, older, and supposedly wiser, I lived with her for a short time. I broke her heart for a bit when I moved out. I didn't spend as much time with her as I should have. It was inconvenient and visiting with her was so boring. She always wanted to pry into my life and know all the little details and it drove me crazy. I don't blame her. It isn't like I made an effort to tell her much. I didn't see or understand how much pleasure she got out of just having us stop by to say "hi."
Then I grew up a bit more and I moved an hour away. Suddenly, it wasn't such an inconvenience to see her when I was in town. I began to notice how she enjoyed just the little things my brother and I did. We would go to her house and eat this horrible little microwave pizzas she would keep in the freezer because she thought we loved them. We weren't particularly fond of them, but it made her happy.
In the last few years, we made it a point to take her out to eat because we couldn't be sure she was eating enough at home. Leatherby's. Crab sandwiches and chocolate shakes. Macaroni grill. Grilled salmon and asparagus. Oh how that woman loved her salmon. Strings. Italian deliciousness. And of course, champagne brunch...with wasabi...a story for another time.
But all things must come to an end. She lost some weight...and then she lost some more weight. Then she stopped traveling and we knew something was up. She lost more weight, and ended up in the hospital. She came out of the hospital just to go right back in a short time later. Then we got the news she wouldn't be with us much longer. We took shifts, my parents, my brother and I. We all had work and my brother and I had school on top of it. My job was so kind. I took almost a week off work with no hassles.
She was unconscious. Infection raged through her system. I sat with her and watched football while doing homework, talking to her about school and my husband who sat with me most of the time too. At first we switched off, taking turns to go home and sleep. The last couple days, I refused to leave. I didn't want to miss "it." Sometimes I wish I had.
And `then she started to move. My mom and husband were with me. We thought she might be in pain, but the nurse just told us it was close. We called in dad and my brother. We tried not to cry. We didn't want her to worry about us. We held her hands as she took her last breath. The nurse checked her heart and told us she was gone...and then the tears came.
We were sad to see her go, but we were glad she was happier now that she could be with Opa again. I was sad she couldn't stay to see her future grandchildren, but I am glad she got to meet my wonderful husband. We are sad she doesn't get to join us at the holidays anymore, but she left us with wonderful memories of fighting over the thermostat. I am sad she isn't here to see what I am doing with my life, but I know she would be proud of who I am today.
Oma, I love you and I hope you are resting in peace with Opa at your side and I know I will see you again one day.
Love always, your granddaughter,
Alicia
.
Two years ago today, I had to say good-bye to my grandmother, my Oma. For those of you who have never heard me speak of her before, Oma is German for grandma.
When we were young, she took care of my brother and I when we were too sick to go to school. She often took us to our baseball and softball events after school. During the summer, we would spend a lot of time at her house. I met wonderful friends through her and swam in the neighbor's pool. My first time riding the "light rail" was with her, as well as my first time on a bus that broke down. A boy in her neighborhood gave me my first kiss, and oh did that cause problems. Hehe. My brother and I would make forts out of blankets, chairs, and other furniture throughout her house. This was all before we moved to Texas for high school.
When we returned to California after high school, older, and supposedly wiser, I lived with her for a short time. I broke her heart for a bit when I moved out. I didn't spend as much time with her as I should have. It was inconvenient and visiting with her was so boring. She always wanted to pry into my life and know all the little details and it drove me crazy. I don't blame her. It isn't like I made an effort to tell her much. I didn't see or understand how much pleasure she got out of just having us stop by to say "hi."
Then I grew up a bit more and I moved an hour away. Suddenly, it wasn't such an inconvenience to see her when I was in town. I began to notice how she enjoyed just the little things my brother and I did. We would go to her house and eat this horrible little microwave pizzas she would keep in the freezer because she thought we loved them. We weren't particularly fond of them, but it made her happy.
In the last few years, we made it a point to take her out to eat because we couldn't be sure she was eating enough at home. Leatherby's. Crab sandwiches and chocolate shakes. Macaroni grill. Grilled salmon and asparagus. Oh how that woman loved her salmon. Strings. Italian deliciousness. And of course, champagne brunch...with wasabi...a story for another time.
But all things must come to an end. She lost some weight...and then she lost some more weight. Then she stopped traveling and we knew something was up. She lost more weight, and ended up in the hospital. She came out of the hospital just to go right back in a short time later. Then we got the news she wouldn't be with us much longer. We took shifts, my parents, my brother and I. We all had work and my brother and I had school on top of it. My job was so kind. I took almost a week off work with no hassles.
She was unconscious. Infection raged through her system. I sat with her and watched football while doing homework, talking to her about school and my husband who sat with me most of the time too. At first we switched off, taking turns to go home and sleep. The last couple days, I refused to leave. I didn't want to miss "it." Sometimes I wish I had.
And `then she started to move. My mom and husband were with me. We thought she might be in pain, but the nurse just told us it was close. We called in dad and my brother. We tried not to cry. We didn't want her to worry about us. We held her hands as she took her last breath. The nurse checked her heart and told us she was gone...and then the tears came.
We were sad to see her go, but we were glad she was happier now that she could be with Opa again. I was sad she couldn't stay to see her future grandchildren, but I am glad she got to meet my wonderful husband. We are sad she doesn't get to join us at the holidays anymore, but she left us with wonderful memories of fighting over the thermostat. I am sad she isn't here to see what I am doing with my life, but I know she would be proud of who I am today.
Oma, I love you and I hope you are resting in peace with Opa at your side and I know I will see you again one day.
Love always, your granddaughter,
Alicia
.
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