I saw this on Pinterest, and thought it was a great idea.
Day 1, August 5, 2012
I am going to start with the people I am grateful for who
are no longer living, for they also had an impact on my life.
My Dad, Richard Ley, was killed in an accident in 1984. I was 12, he was 32. I will never forget when I turned 33 and
thought about how I had outlived him. I
am grateful for my Dad because, well he was my Dad. I remember feeling very loved by him. He liked to play with us, snowmobiling,
mushroom hunting, fishing, camping, etc.
He worked a lot, but spent as much time with us as he could. I mostly remember him being funny. Once, he came out of the bathroom with Q-tips
stuffed up his nose. I remember this
being hilarious. I guess to a 12 year
old it is. He used to tell mom he was
taking us to church and then would take us to the arcade instead. These were fun times. He also used to let us watch movies that he
really shouldn’t. Once, we watched the
exorcist. I was scared out of my
mind. Mom was sooo mad…I wish I had more
memories, but things fade. I really love
to speak to one of his brothers, he is a lot like I imagine my Dad was or would
be at this point in his life.
I think I get my
sense of humor from him. Certainly my
curly hair. I wish I had more time with
him, and that he had lived to see his grandchildren. He always said he wanted to be a grandpa and
he is. In this picture, he is holding
me. I hope he is holding Zachary in
heaven,
Day 2, August 6, 2012
Zachary Feasby, my son, dies when he was 14 months old. This is quite possibly, the most significant
event in my life. It forever changed me
in ways you cannot imagine. His death
left a hole in my heart that cannot be filled.
January 22, 1999 was the day I wanted the world to stop so I could get
off. I hope none of you ever experience
the anguish of having a child die. The
pain is so sharp, you cannot breathe. As
time goes on, things get better, but the sadness is always there. However, I can think of the good things now .
.
He was beautiful, I know every parent says that, but look at
him! Those eyes, the ornery smile, those cheeks! He was a chub and had the sweetest belly
laugh. You could not help but join
in. And, Oh how he loved us. He would light up when Brett, Caitlin, or I
were in the room. He liked to stroke
your hair and cuddle. What a sweet boy. I cherish every minute I had with him.
I often wonder what kind of teenager he would be. I imagine him as quiet, shy, and kind to
others. I look forward to seeing him
again.
We used to sing to him “I love my Zachary, oh yes I do. I don’t love anyone as much as you, when you
aren’t with me, I’m blue. Oh Zachary, I
love you.” I would listen to Enya and
dance around the house holding him.
#3 Don MacDonald
I lived with my grandparents after I graduated from high
school in 1990 until I went to college in January 1991. Don showed me how death could be graceful
even when painful. When we went to see
him in hospice shortly before his death, he tried to be brave for the
girls. Although you knew he was in
terrible pain, he stroked Julia’s hand and told her he loved her. She stroked his hair and told him how much
she would miss him. It was a beautiful
moment.
#4 Paul Herman
Paul worked in my dad’s office, we spent a lot of time with
his family. He had us convinced
alligators lived in his basement. Paul
was patient with us and didn’t seem to mind when we ran around in the
office. When Dad died, Paul stayed in
contact with us. When Zachary died, he
helped Brett and I through the planning process. You were there in the dark times and I thank
you.
#5 Tom Case
Tom was my Dad’s boss.
After dad died, Tom helped my family a lot. He stepped in and did all he could for
us. He remained close to my brother
through the rest of his life. I am
grateful for your love and generosity.
#6 Larry Haffy
I am not sure how Larry entered our lives. I just remember him being there. We went on vacations with Larry and his
wife. His sister was our babysitter. He never had his own children, so we were his
stand- ins. Larry would watch movies
with us, buy us candy, and just generally spent time with us. Larry was there throughout high school when
we needed him. You were a good man and I
thank you,
One week down. I am
enjoying the memories. Actually spending
time thinking of these people and trying to remember how they changed my life
has made me remember some very good times.
I have also remembered some very sad times. Now, in no particular order, I will continue
through with people who are still alive and kicking.
#6 Mary Harting
What can you say about your mom? I love you and appreciate all that you
do. You have taught me to be independent
and strong. You have suffered many
losses and have always come out the other side stronger than you were before. You
are generous and faithful to those you love.
You taught us to have a strong work ethic and to be compassionate to
others. I appreciate the devotion you have to your
family and all you have done for us.
#7 Brett Feasby
You have given me three wonderful children, provided a home,
and have been my friend for many years.
I look forward to seeing what happens in the next 20 years. You are a wonderful father and husband. We are lucky to have you. Thank you for all that you do.
#8 Caitlin Feasby
Miss Caitlin, I love every single thing about you. Having you changed my life from being about
me to being about you, and I am glad it happened. You are beautiful in every way. I am so very thankful that I was blessed by
you. You have a grace and confidence
that will lead you through the decisions you will need to make in the
future. You are generous and loving,
gentle and strong, and I appreciate how hard you work to achieve your
goals. I could not be more proud of
you. The way you handle yourself with
poise even when you are having difficulties is inspiring to watch. You have a loving heart that is frequently
exposed in the way you care for others.
I thank you for all of the good times, all of the memories, all of the
long talks; you are very special to me. I pray for you daily and ask God to watch over you.
#9 Julia Feasby
My dear, there is never a dull moment with you around! You have a gentleness and loving spirit that
fill my heart with joy. Although you are
quite stubborn, you are fiercely devoted to those you love. Your sense of humor will carry you far. I love you and am so proud of you. I look forward to watching you grow. Thank you for the laughs, the stories, the
walks, and the fun. You inspire me to be more brave and outgoing, and not to sweat the small stuff. I am grateful that
God gave you to me.
#10 Jason Ley
You are generous and kind hearted. Your sense of humor is legendary. We had a pretty wonderful childhood. You were the perfect kind of brother…didn’t
make us watch any sports you were in =) I am so glad to have you in my
life. I have wonderful memories of
you.
#11 Brooke Ober
You are dedicated to your family, a great sister, always
ready to lend a hand or listen. I wish
we could see each other more often. I
love the times we spend together just hanging out. Those are the best kind of memories, just
being us. I am so grateful that I have
you as a sister. I hope I can be as
helpful to you as you are for me. I pray
for you daily, in hopes that you will achieve all of your dreams and will be
rewarded as you deserve.
#12 Stephanie Bowers
You are genuinely kind, loving, and devoted to your
family. I enjoy spending time with
you. I am also grateful to have you as a
sister. I wish we were able to
coordinate our schedules and see each other more often. Those days a few years ago when you would
stop by each day after work were some of my favorites. I pray for you and your family, may you be
healthy and happy. I love you!
#13 Jessica
Ley
You were one
cute baby. I remember being so proud
when you were born. I loved babysitting
for you and playing with you. When you
were older, you spend so much time at the apartment with Brett, Caitlin, and
I. You would spend most of your summer
with us and became very close to our family.
I so wish all could have continued to go well for you. I am sad at the way things have turned out
for you. May god be with you every day
and keep you safe. I am grateful to have
you as my youngest sister. Despite all
of the hardships, you are a wonderful person and I love you.
#14 Gwen Ley
Your home is an example of how I want mine to be. Upon arrival, you can feel how welcome you
are. When there are times of joy and
sorrow, you are always available to listen.
Your laugh is contagious and a party is just not a party without
you! I have so many fond memories of you
in coconut bras, hula skirts, and all manner of funny situations! Your devotion to your children is obvious as
you enter your home. I have tried to
pattern myself after you in that way. I
hope to always keep family in the center of my life as you do. Thank you for setting that example.
#15 Keith Ley
You are the person I have always imagined my Dad would be
like if he were still alive. You also,
make everyone feel welcome in your home.
I just love to be around you. I
appreciate how hard you work and how you leave time for fun. I thank you for the fun times, the love, and
the example you have always set.
#16 John Ley
As My paternal Grandfather, I wish you lived closer. Although we do not see each other very often,
you are close to my heart. I will never
forget after dad died, you took Jason and I out for doughnuts at the coffee
shop in Celina and cried with us. Now,
years later I know how bad it hurt you to lose a child, but you also grieved
for your grandchildren who had lost a father.
You came to visit with my Mom when others didn’t. When Zachary died, you were again there for
me. I so love and appreciate you. Thank You!
#17 Roger Harting
You are a blessing to us, and I love you as a father. You have
been the wonderful grandpa my kids needed, you are always available with advice or to
lend a helping hand. You have loved us
as your own children, no family could ask for more. I am grateful that you entered our lives. You have been kind and generous to us, and have never treated us as anything other than your own children. Who could ask for anything more of a step-father?
#18 Jo Feasby
So many people tell me horrible mother-in-law stories. There are even movies on the subject. I must say, I have no complaints! You are generous and kind. I cannot think of anyone who will put their
family before themselves more than you.
You give of your time, your money, your love, and yourself. I am so lucky to have you in my life.
#19 Christine
MacDonald
I remember the trip we took to Washington DC; it
was so fun. We always had fun together,
playing cards and doing crafts. You helped
my learn to play piano and encouraged us to be creative and put on “plays” in
your basement. I am grateful for all you
have taught me.
#20 Clarence Eckstein
When I think of what a grandpa should be, I think of
you. I remember playing games with you
as a kid, you attending all of the plays and band events I was involved in, and
just generally always being there. You
always made us feel loved and important.
I love how excited you always are when we visit and how you love my
children. You taught me a love of gardening and growing things. I am
so lucky to have you in my life!
#21 Alberta Eckstein
The thing I remember most about you and my childhood is the
wonderful food. I loved spending times
at your house with you teaching me how to cook.
Those are some of my favorite childhood memories. You were always cooking or sewing it seemed,
but I am sure you did other things too.
I learned so many things from you that I still follow in my life. I am sure my love of cooking came from
you. Thank you! I am grateful that you are in my life.
#22 Steve Feasby
I think I got pretty lucky in the in-law department! You have been a great help to us over the
years. You love your children and
grandchildren completely. You are
dedicated to them and doing anything you can to help them. I love how involved you have been in my kid’s
lives and how they know they can always count on you. Thanks for the advice, the handy work, the
carpentry, etc. We are lucky to have you
in our lives. Thank you for raising my
husband to be a man who adores his children.
#23 Greg Milner
Although you were my boss, I have also always thought of you
as a friend. I feel like we walked
through fire together and came out the other side! People see your temper, I saw your
kindness. When Zachary died, Rhonda and
you were the first to come to the viewing.
You stood by me and held my hand and sobbed. That gave me the strength to make it through
that day. I do not know how long the two
of you stayed, but it meant a lot to me.
After that, you continued to check in on me, trying to keep me from
losing my mind. You may never know how
much you helped. Thank You.
#24 Ed Wyerick
You may not know this, but you gave me my love of missions
and volunteering. In high school and
college, you were the example of what I hoped to be as an adult. Your love of youth and the desire to spread
the love of God were inspiring to me. Thank
you so much for planting that seed in my life.
I am grateful that God put you in my life just when I needed you!
#25 Sarah Farnsworth
As the vocal director of the contemporaries, you encouraged
me to have some confidence in myself and to be braver. Thanks so much for that! You also inspired me to volunteer, as I have
ever since. I was able to start a youth
service at my church and lead the worship team partly because of the
inspiration you gave me years ago. God
also put you in my life at exactly the right time. Funny how he does that! I pray that you are being rewarded for all
you have done and that you are enjoying your grandchildren! My high school years would not have been the
same without your wise counsel.
#26 Gretta Anspach
You also were brought into my life at the right time. I still have the mask you made me for
graduation and look at it daily. You saw
right into my soul in a way no one else at the time did, and possibly besides
my daughter, still. I have so many fond
memories of you and am so happy at the way your life has turned out. I am so very grateful that god brought you
into my life!
#27 Fr Ken Alt
Father Ken taught my confirmation class at the Catholic
Church. During that period of my life, I
was really questioning the church and Christianity. Throughout that year, he would speak to me
candidly about my questions. By the end,
I left the church and chose Christianity.
I thank you for not just telling me why I should be a Catholic and
instead helping me decide on my own.
#28 Aaron Brady
It actually took me awhile to remember your name! You were the first and only boy to ever get
between me and a friend. I am grateful
for you because you taught me no boy is worth it. I thank you for that!
#29 Ava Burkheimer
My high school best friend.
You were the confidant that was always there. Your family took me to church and introduced
me to Christianity, and I thank you for that!
I always felt so welcome in your house and with your family. We had so many good times at dances, in band,
and in classes. We grew up
together! I am so blessed to have had you
in my life!
#30 Beckie Book
Even though we were
only roommates in College for a year, I love you dearly. You were my maid of honor, came when I had my
first child, and were there when I lost a child; you have been there for all of
the good and bad. I am so blessed to
have had you in my life. We had so much
fun doing such dopey things together.
Cinnamon bread while watching movies, Debrands while studying, playing
cards, dancing, and singing at the top of our lungs. It was fun and I am glad we did it. I thank you for being a part of my life and a
huge part of my becoming an adult.
#31 Lorissa Hoot
You , my dear, inspired me to homeschool. You are the only person I had ever known that
had been homeschooled and you were pretty great! I am so glad that God showed me how wonderful
the experience could be through you and your family. I will never regret that time I had with my
girls.
#32 Nikki Carson
You were always a great friend. I wish we still saw each other more
often. We grew up together and had so
much fun in high school. I am grateful
that you have been a part of my life.
#33 Sherrie
Guggenbiller
We had so much fun at band camp and football games. I am glad I know you! I am grateful for all of the fun we had in
high school.
#34 Marlene Steele
I feel like I have known you forever. I am not even sure when or how we met. You were always there through high school and
college. Even after we were both married,
you made sure that we still saw each other.
Now that our children are older, we do not have the time we once
did. I miss you!
#35 Gretta Novean
We spent our entire time in high school together. We practically lived at each other’s
houses. You knew every secret and helped
in any way you could. We went through
dating, break ups, homework, dances, classes, etc together. I always had so much fun with you. I wish we had not drifted apart after we were
married. I am grateful that you were a
part of my life.
#36 Marcia Alt
You were like my second mother. I am so glad you introduced me to
Christianity and patiently continued to encourage me until I got to the point
of acceptance. I remember your laugh
being so contagious! Thank you for being
a good example to me.
#37 Amy Taylor
You taught me that I could be a mom and still do well at
work. You were a great example of how
you could balance everything and still do well.
I always looked up to you and respected you. I am grateful that I had the pleasure of
having you for a boss.
#38 Brenda Rupright
You are a woman who loves her children fiercely. I have always respected the way you were able
to attend every game your children ever played in. You have been a wonderful confidant to me
over the years. You are fun to spend
time with and a wonderful person to be around.
I am grateful that you have been a part of my professional life.
#39 Ted Kennedy
You were one of my favorite teachers. You inspired me to love learning. Your laugh was contagious. I thank you!
#40 Dwayne Grace
You were another of my favorite teachers. You were intense and expected a lot from us,
but you taught me to apply myself and work hard to be rewarded. Your class actually challenged me and I loved
it. You inspired my love of
science. I thank you!
#41 Everyone at Erin’s
House for Grieving children
You truly saved our lives.
The service you provide is wonderful.
I am so appreciative that we were referred to your program in our time
of need. Without you, and your support,
we would not have survived the death of Zachary. You helped our family to heal and for that I
am eternally grateful.
#42 Ken Ley
After dad died, you were around a lot. I liked spending time with your family, it
made me feel closer to dad. You were always
available with advice and a helping hand.
As an adult, I love to sit and talk with you. I am grateful that you are my uncle.
#43 Vickie Ley
You have always been kind and loving. I remember you helping my mom out a lot after
dad died. Thank you so much for being
there for us. As an adult, I love to
talk to you also. You always invite my
family to come visit, and when we have, it has been wonderful. Thank you for always making us feel so
welcome.
#44 Rachel Klein
You are probably the cousin I have been the closest to. We spent so much time together as kids. I am grateful that you have always been a
part of my life.
#45 Wayne Karges
You are a wonderful pastor and a great example of the type
of person I would like to be. Your love
of Jesus is evident in everything you do.
I pray for you and am very grateful to have you in my life. I appreciate your Godly advice and listening
ear.
#46 Boyd Laughridge
You were my band director in high school. I always had so much fun in marching
band. I thank you for making it
fun! You taught us to work hard and it
would pay off. You expected us to do our
best, and in turn, we tried harder.
Thank you wor teaching me to always do my best.
#47 Becca Frey
You have been a wonderful best friend for Caitlin. We have been so blessed to have you in our
lives! I am thankful that god brought
you together!
#48 and #49 Danielle
and Matt Frey
As the parents of Miss Becca, you have been Caitlin’s home
away from home. I am thankful that your
family accepted my daughter and loved her.
I have also enjoyed the time we have spent together. I could not have asked for a better family
for my child to spend time with. Thank
you!
#50 Dan Winner
Your dad died in sixth grade shortly before mine. Although we were not great friends, I always
felt like I wasn’t alone. I am grateful
for that.
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