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Ruth Winter Obituary
Ruth Winter
Ruth is survived by her husband, Everett Winter Sr.; sons, Everett Winter Jr. (Beth), Steven Winter (Kirsten); grandchildren, Austin, Haley, Paige, Jon, Grace and Delany Winter; mother, Ruth McNiel; sixteen brothers and sisters; and many other relatives who loved and adored her.
A memorial service will be held beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 16, 2010, at Cascade Christian Reformed Church in Marysville, WA.
In lieu of flowers you may donate to the Ruth Winter book fund, Everett Public School Foundation, PO Box 3112 Everett, WA 98213 or www.epsffoundation.org. When going to site click donate and then memo Ruth Winters book fund when making a donation.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ruth Winter
Natalie Thomas
November 2, 2011
Made it through another day without you. Another random day. My life is consumed with the boys now. I watched them run across the lawn with stick swords thinking how much they seemed like your boys. Their imaginations running wild and beaming. The laughter so honest and roaring. I miss you Ruthie. I know you know I ache for you. I know you expect me to be strong but I'm not. I'm making it through because I have to for these boys. I love you. Thank you for teaching me how to love little monsters. I always thought I should have had the boys and you should have had the girls. My girls think I'm right too. Hahaha. I love you. God bless.
Natalie Thomas
October 28, 2011
I have almost made it through October. It's still so hard. I miss you. I live you. And I want you here. God bless.
Natalie Thomas
October 11, 2011
Made it through yesterday. It was a long painful day. I felt a strange closeness to your boys. Like they needed me or maybe rather I needed them. Now to get through today. I love you. Kisses. God bless.
natalie thomas
October 9, 2011
today it's been 52 sunday's. tomorrow marks a year. it's already been an eternity in my heart. i love you my sweet sister and i miss you so deeply. god bless us all.
Natalie Thomas
September 29, 2011
Good morning my sweet sister. It's the 4th anniversary of Rick's passing. I know you guys are hanging out together doing your best to keep us all safe and whole. Thanks. I love you. I miss you. God bless. Kisses.
natalie thomas
September 18, 2011
miss you so much. been reading foot prints in the sand over and over. thanks for carrying me these past two weeks. i love you my sweet sister. god bless
Natalie Thomas
September 8, 2011
Dreamt of you all night. A little confused about some of it but grateful you came to me. I will follow through and adjust where need be. So glad to know you are on my side. Like always. I love you my sweet sister. Kisses God bless
Natalie Thomas
September 2, 2011
Another new month, another no you. Everyday is another baby step and I try to continue doing right by you. Thanks for looking out. I love you Kisses God bless
Natalie Thomas
August 27, 2011
My migraine medicine helped a little but it makes me throw up like the last one so we are looking for one that doesn't have painkillers in them so I don't get sick. I throw up so much they had to put an IV in to rehydrate me. An hour of my life I'll never get back. Thanks for helping me pass the time. I'm hoping for a solid month of work. Pinch me if I even think about icing my head instead of going to work. Your strength and determination will see me through. I love you my sweet sister. God Bless Go Seahawks. :)
Natalie Thomas
August 17, 2011
Another day. It's already been a long week and it's only wednesday. I felt your sweetness and warmth yesterday. It helped me through a tough day. I thank you for that. My program is a big hit and now we have added a further certification to it. The children are signing up for it faster then I get to all of them. I wish you were here to see it unfold. I read through some of my journal from 2 1/2 years ago when you were encouraging me to follow through and now I am so glad I listened. It has been a long hard fight but it is worth it. I know you are pleased. God bless my sweet sister and thanks for your love and support.
Natalie Thomas
August 12, 2011
Dave called yesterday. We talked about how much we love and miss you and cried. He said he felt bad for not writing sooner but I said Ruthie know's our hearts. I told him this is my safe place. The place I write things down when I need you so very much. I guess I would be writing in here all day everyday if I could. It has been a long ten+ months and I still cry everyday. Dave and I discussed why God took you instead of us and which one of us would be here longer. We know the answer to that one, don't we? Can't say we could blame him. God wanted his angel home. Rest in peace my sweet sister. God bless
Laura Rogers
August 8, 2011
I think about you each and every day. I cry each day. Each day, there is always something I want to tell you. I miss you so very much, for many reasons. I miss your laugh, smile, advice, listening ear and shoulder to cry on. You were my sister and my best friend. I have been told that each day should get better. I still don't believe that. It hasn't. I love you and miss you Ruth
Dave McNiel
August 8, 2011
Oh Ruthie, sorry I've not said a thing since the day I lost you, but it hurts so bad, you taught me so much, but you never taught me how little brothers are to go on without big sisters, well I guess I'm learning but it's no fun. I have a pain in my chest the hurts so bad and a hole in my heart that I can not patch. I just keep telling myself to "Breath-in, Breath-out,...Breath-in, Breath-out..." But Ruthie the part that scares me most is when those times come when I need my big sister's hug and I realize I won't hear you voice or see you smile I find that I can't breath, though I fight, I can't breath. I miss you Ruthie, I miss you very much. From your little brother...
Dave McNiel
August 7, 2011
Oh Ruthie, sorry I've not said a thing since the day I lost you, but it hurts so bad, you taught me so much, but you never taught me how little brothers are to go on without big sisters, well I guess I'm learning but it's no fun. I have a pain in my chest the hurts so bad and a hole in my heart that I can not patch. I just keep telling myself to "Breath-in, Breath-out,...Breath-in, Breath-out..." But Ruthie the part that scares me most is when those times come when I need my big sister's hug and I realize I won't hear you voice or see you smile I find that I can't breath, though I fight, I can't breath. I miss you Ruthie, I miss you very much. From your little brother...
Natalie Thomas
August 7, 2011
Please give me the stength to follow through with this one. So sad and so frustrating. You always knew what to say. I need you so badly right now. Tell me what to do. And don't just say "you know what you need to do" walk me through it. I don't feel strong right now. I love you
Natalie Thomas
July 24, 2011
Went swimming with the boys yesterday and couldn't help but think of all the times we went to the lake. The boys are about the age yours were during those extremely fun times. Man we had fun back then. The best memories of my childhood were always with you. I love you and miss you so very much. Kisses my sweet sister.
Your Loving Husband
July 19, 2011
Thank you for the gift of our son, to help me thru the dark days, to remind me of you, and the continued legacy of love you had for us all.
Buddy
July 19, 2011
Today you gave birth to me, 39 years ago:-) mom, i still cry every day. I miss you so much. You will be with me all day.
Natalie Thomas
July 18, 2011
Talked with Dave on Saturday. Sounded like his family had a fun filled birthday planned for him. He was busy so I told him I would call later on this week to have a less rushed call. He has always been a great brother to us. I love him and I love you my sweet sister. God bless.
Natalie Thomas
July 10, 2011
The smell of your french vanilla guardian angel candle will stick with me throughout the day. I love you Ruthie. God bless you my sweet sister. Kisses
Natalie Thomas
July 6, 2011
I know I tell you this every year but the monsoons are here. It's 100+ outside. The boys and I are dancing in the rain until the lightening starts. So much fun. I love you my sweet sister. Kisses I miss you. I want to call you so bad. Some days are just worse then others. Tomorrow's another day. :)
July 1, 2011
The beautiful beginning to a wonderful holiday weekend. God bless. Always thinking about you my sweet sister. Please keep everyone safe and happy.
Natalie Thomas
June 26, 2011
Alicia's birthday. 54 years young. Love you my sweet sister. Kisses
Natalie Thomas
June 24, 2011
It's a beautiful day. God is good and you are loved and missed. Kisses
Natalie Thomas
June 19, 2011
Another Sunday. Peace with you my sweet sister. God bless
Natalie Thomas
June 14, 2011
Happy Birthday my sweet sister. I love you. Kisses. God bless
Natalie Thomas
June 6, 2011
Already June. Celebrated Hollis' 22nd birthday and like every year thought I better get ready only 10 days until Ruthie's. It hurts to think that this year will be so very different. It's almost been 8 months but it's still with me every day. I miss you terribly but keep myself busy with the boys. I think June will be the month I spend my vacation days here and there to be able to be with them. Our summer vacation here starts the end on May so it'll be perfect. I will either take them to the zoo or to the Children's Museum on your birthday to keep busy. I want to celebrate your life not your death and to do so what better way then watching the excitement of life through my grandson's eyes. I love yo so much Ruthie. Help me stay strong and stay positive. I want to make you proud and keep your happy manor alive and well. God bless you my sweet sister.
Natalie Thomas
May 29, 2011
I cannot remember when I have had three consecutive uplifting days. Thank you ever so much. We played cards, dice, made airplanes, origami and BBQ'd. Went to the park and the library. Absolutely loved our days together and laughed and laughed. Even watched Men In Black 2 together with popcorn and thought of you. I told the boys we had to have twice as much fun for Ruthie. They know how much I miss you and weren't about to disappoint me. Too sweet, right? I love you so much and know that you are with me. The plans in my head are starting to unfold and the people at work are getting on board because they know my methods are working. Our long talks of the adjustments that would need to be made are coming full circle. I am more determined then ever to see this through and to push on. God bless
Natalie Thomas
May 28, 2011
So Brendon, Matthew and I are on our second day of summer vacation. I am back to work tomorrow but hoping to be home early enough to not be missed. Not gonna happen but that's what I want. It'll be 90 something by the time I get home so maybe some reading or origami and airplanes. They definitely are all boys, as John says. I love you and think of you every single day. Come enjoy the weather with me. I want to feel you all around me. Kisses God bless
Natalie Thomas
May 22, 2011
Good morning. I love you my sweet sister. I am sure you are rather amused with all the goings on down here. Glad not to have to be a part of it? Wish I weren't but I have been looking at things through a different shade of rose colored glasses and am dealing with things better. My important relationships are bloosoming and summer is almost here so the boys and I can spend more time together. I knew I saved up all these vacation days for a reason. =) Come sit and have some iced tea and lemonade with us anytime you want. I love seeing you in my dreams and feeling you in my heart. I just plain love you. God bless
Natalie Thomas
May 19, 2011
Allergies! Gotta love them. Right? Sounds like Rosie could use a little bit of sister (angel) support right now. You get this shift. :)
Natalie Thomas
May 18, 2011
Wow. One amazing thing after another. You never stop amazing me. You said to do that Christmas song and put one step in front of the other and I would be walking across the floor and soon I would be walking out the door...I guess I thought it would be open. NOPE!! Wake up call. LOL See why I need you here? Kisses
natalie thomas
May 18, 2011
oh my sweet sister. all is good in the world. all that you always told me and all that we knew true is unfolding. you are amazing and loved by me so deeply. thank you and you are so right. amazing!!
natalie thomas
May 17, 2011
oh my sweet sister. all is good in the world. all that you always told me and all that we knew true is unfolding. you are amazing and loved by me so deeply. thank you and you are so right. amazing!!
Natalie Thomas
May 10, 2011
Long night. Couldn't sleep. Saw you across a crowded room. Just standing there smiling at me, only to fall asleep and save a little baby girl from drowning. Deep in the deepend of the pool with so many people around doing nothing. She was just holding her breath staring at me like she knew I would come. I was screaming at people for help and they were just looking at me. Nothing, just nothing. Lit your candle and prayed. Miss you terribly. Glad to have the boys with me and glad they like to cuddle, even in their sleep. Makes my heart not feel so heavy. I love you my sweet sister. God bless
Natalie Thomas
May 8, 2011
Your boys first Mother's Day without you. You were the best momma those two could have ever wished for. They grew to be the caring parents they are because of you. I know it'll be hard on them today but hopefully they will see the love their children have for their momma's and appreciate life. They say that every death is a wake up call for us to live life fuller. I love you Ruthie, my sweet sister. Smile down on us and give us your blessings.
Natalie Thomas
May 5, 2011
A busy week but an eventless one, thank goodness. Too busy to have the drama too. Cinco De Mayo today. My favorite day of the year. Probably will spend it drinking iced tea and having a water gun fight with the boys but I'll take it. I love you God bless.
Natalie Thomas
May 1, 2011
OK!! Finally got to see Soda's ring. BEAUTIFUL!! She called it her starter ring. LOL She is something else, that girl. They are both so happy. It was so good to see them after their trip. Thanks for bringing them back safe. I love you my sweet sister. Kisses
Natalie Thomas
April 27, 2011
Soda is engaged. Wow!! Never thought that would happen. The girls look at marriage like "with the happily ever after love affair that you and dad had and it still fell apart, what chance do we have?" I am so pleased she accepted. Michael is good for her. They are planning for 2012 August but no set date yet. They headed off to Las Vegas to celebrate the yesterday. Soda texted me way into the wee hours of the morning. I finally told her to put the phone down and go play with Michael. She is just soooooo excited. :) I am so happy for her. She will have Rick's best friend Jerry give her away with me. As long as Michael knows she's just a loaner. She'll always be my baby. LOL I wish you were here to walk me through this. You were always so much better at being a girl then me. That's why I never understood me with my girls and you with your boys. God had a plan. I love you my sweet sister. God bless
Steve Winter
April 25, 2011
Well mom we made it through another holiday, I miss you so much every day. Right now I am reading a book that so much reminds me of you and how gods love is there for us always. I love you mom
Natalie Thomas
April 24, 2011
Easter Sunday!! Always a special day of the year growing up. Coloring the eggs and playing the Easter egg color tag game. Whatever it was actually called...who knows. I just remember it was fun. I am remembering the few words I got to actually see on that card. I am not dwelling on the way he died just that he died for us. That sure sounds like Jesus humbly doing what his Father had expected of him not expecting pity. Aunt Euphemia is with you all now too. I bet you guys are cooking to be the band. =) Lucky heaven. Mmmmmmmm I love you my sweet sister. Happy Easter!!
Natalie Thomas
April 19, 2011
It's hard for everyone to continue on with out you because we don't want to disrespect or disappoint you but life does go on, especially trying the fill the huge void of not having you. "I will not apologize for love" because I loved you so deeply and completely. God bless you. Smile down on me sweet sister. I love you.
Natalie Thomas
April 18, 2011
Thank you for coming to me last night even if it was just a card in the mail. I can't get the dream out of my head. I tried to go quickly back to sleep to finish reading it but when I did Dave already had the card and I had to look over his shoulder and couldn't see very well. I loved seeing your hand writing and that it was signed Bud, Ruth & Boys. Like when they were little. I did get to read the part where you told me not to dwell on how he died but that he died for us and that a good church is important. I love you my sweet sister. Come to me again please. This doesn't feel finished. I know there was more you wanted to tell me. God bless and thank you again.
Natalie Thomas
April 17, 2011
Another Sunday. Just sad today. To many things not feeling quite right. I love you my sweet sister. God bless
Natalie Thomas
April 14, 2011
Got to go to Brendon's first school musical. It was so precious and magical. Hollis didn't even want to go but was so glad she did. Soda was so bummed she had to work. She would have just loved it. I am making leaps and bounds at work with the programs I have implimented in detention. They have really taken off and the children are so proud. The waiting list is impressive. I know you are smiling down on me. I remember telling you about this idea a few years back and you said if anyone could pull it off it's you. I am Ruthie. I really am. It feels so good. I love you my sweet sister. Thanks for the thumbs up. With you on my side how can I go wrong? God bless
Natalie Thomas
April 11, 2011
I talked with Bud last night. The boys were playing games on my phone and were excited to see his name come up. They ran to me saying "it's Uncle Bud, it's Uncle Bud". They had so much fun with him when he came down to visit. I think we all did. He is doing wonderful things in your memory. I know you are pleased. He is talking of quilts made from your clothes for the children and grandchildren and, of course, himself. I think it will do a world of good for everyone. :) I love you my sweet sister. Thanks for looking out. Kisses God bless
Natalie Thomas
April 10, 2011
When I lit your gaurdian angel candle this morning I felt more at peace then sad. Thank you for that. I dreaded this morning more then most sundays. My right headlight went out on my way to work ar 4:30am. I didn't know if it was a sign from you or just something that happened. I love you so much and miss you deeply. Six months seems like a day and a life time all in one. God bless you my sweet sister. Be at peace.
Natalie Thomas
April 7, 2011
Busy week but today is my friday. Not looking forward to sunday. They are always difficult now but this one will be the sixth month mark and I am dreading it. I know you have finally found the true peace we all wait for but I am human and I want you here physically to hug and hold and see. I love you my sweet sister. I miss your voice, your positive out look on things and your "hello hello". Thanks for looking out for us. Some days we just get through but other days we thrive. Such is life. God bless you and all the millions you have touched. I am blessed to be your sister. I love you Kisses
Natalie Thomas
April 3, 2011
Sad day. I know I'll get through it but still...sad, sad day!!
Natalie Thomas
March 29, 2011
Good morning my sweet sister. Laura turns 31 at 7:59 tonight. Where did all these years fly by to? I'm sure you are asking yourself the same thing since your boys are over a decade older then girls. I miss the days when she would fling her long freshly unbraided hair around. I have a picture of her doing just that over 20 years ago at one of our many camping trips to Lake Chelan. Seems like sooo very long ago. Happy Birthday Laura. Please watch over her and keep her safe and happy. I love you!!
Natalie Thomas
March 27, 2011
Morning Ruthie. I love you. Hard night but you are always here to talk to. I like that. I hope this week goes smooth. Both Laura and Rick's birthdays are in it. One day at a time right? I would say sweet dreams my sweet sister but it is time to get going. God bless =)
Natalie Thomas
March 24, 2011
Brendon Bam Bam Bear had a great 6th birthday. People weren't there for him besides Soda and I but he didn't care because WE were. Amazing boy!! I am so blessed! Your family is hurting and rising all at the same time. We love and miss you but surviving. Help us LIVE!! God bless my sweet sister
Natalie Thomas
March 20, 2011
This crud that's going around is making it hard to want to keep going. Crappy way to diet. Finally found Laura. Thanks for watching out for her. She is a handful even at 31. :( I wish I could just keep her safe or at least make her aware of her surroundings. With everything she has been through I wish she would just come be with me. Whisper in her listening ear won't you? Thanks I love you
Natalie Thomas
March 17, 2011
Long day today but with everything that's been thrown at me I have stood strong, confident and held my own. I have started trying to do one extra thing each day to make you proud. Like today scheduling a second class for the boy who is having a tough time in my class. Just a little extra help. Even if we just help just one child we will have done well (you told me) and we have done VERY well because we have helped thousands and are still trying. I got to tell you though, since tomorrow is my saturday I am wearing JEANS!! LOL I love you Ruthie. Thanks for everything. God bless
Natalie Thomas
March 16, 2011
Been having some very busy and good days and I say thank you to you every time something else goes right because I know it's you. I also know that you are smiling at me for changing my wardrobe. John really likes seeing me dressed up. Not always in jeans anymore. It's taking some getting used to but I can do it. Keep me strong and honest. I love you my sweet sister. Kisses God bless
Natalie Thomas
March 13, 2011
I wake up on Sundays and just sigh. This morning I almost didn't get up. Then I thought of you telling me "it's a fresh new day, get up and enjoy it." I'm trying. Keep me strong and honest. I love you my sweet sister.
Krissi
March 11, 2011
i though of you today..... i cant believe you are gone.. i wish i could just talk to you one more time.. i miss our talks you always knew what to say... i love you auntie fly peacefully and enjoy your wings
Natalie Thomas
March 11, 2011
When I think of the weeks going by without you I think one of two things. Why am I even trying or now I have to live life twice as loud. Some days I do good and some days I do bad. Yesterday at the 5 month mark I did good. I played at the park with Soda, Michael, Brendon, Matthew and Natasha. Today I am feeling sad and trying to get going. I will. I always do. Some days are just harder then others. I love the smell of your Gaurdian Angel candle. FRENCH VANILLA!! LOL I remember. Yes, I remember. I love you my sweet sister. Tomorrow is another day. I can't wait to be with you and Rick. I love you
Natalie Thomas
March 10, 2011
The tail end of a very crazy work week. It's 85 today so when I do get out of here it is off to the park with the grandbabies. Just get out of the house and out of work and watch as they play. Matthew has a new scooter and Brendon gets one in ten days and then watch them race. LOL Come sit by me on the park bench. We can laugh and talk and smile together. I love you my sweet sister God bless
Natalie Thomas
March 7, 2011
The birthday party went ok but Hollis was too worked up about the State Board today to stay focused. Sit right there on her shoulders and make her stay focused today. Thanks sissy I love you God bless
Natalie Thomas
March 6, 2011
Another Sunday to get through. After work it is birthday party time for Matthew. He turns 4 on Tuesday. He sure is a handful and I wouldn't have it any other way. Come have fun with us. =) Love you my sweet sister
Natalie Thomas
March 4, 2011
I hung the first finger painting I did in school when I was four that you gave me framed and perfect for my wedding present today. I remember thinking how incredible that you kept something for all those years that was obviously special to you that I didn't even know existed. I miss RB but honestly I miss you more. You are the best sister ever. Our sisters are good but you hands down are the best. We are busy trying to make you proud. I am working harder then ever to make the detention children grow to be outstanding adults. I know you had faith in them even when they didn't in themselves and I am showing them the same. Please keep me safe and honest and responsive to the needs of others. I love you. God bless
Natalie Thomas
March 4, 2011
It was a very hectic week but March is now here and getting to play more outside with the children is making everyone a lot happier. Both the boys and Laura have birthdays this month. Should be fun. Come enjoy with us. I need to feel you with me. I want to call and hear your voice so bad. I miss you. I love you. God bless
Dee Dee Mohr
March 1, 2011
You'll always be forever young to me. Memeories are forever. I cherish the memories of our youth. You were a very good friend.
Natalie Thomas
February 27, 2011
It snowed on the way to work this morning. It made me very depressed. i couldn't wait to get inside away from it. I am glad there are no outside windows in this place. My granddaughter Maddie turns 7 today. I wish she was closer so we could have all the cousins spend time together. I miss you Ruthie. Some days more then others but Sundays make me ache down to the bone. I love you
Natalie Thomas
February 23, 2011
Always looking upward and moving forward. God is good and kind and comforting. The skies were clear and full of stars last night. I thought of all the amazing things he gives us and looking up to the heavens I was reminded of just that. I love you my sweet sister. God bless
Natalie Thomas
February 20, 2011
Another Sunday. I am so glad I work them but man how I hate them now. You are with Jesus and we are still grieving. We know you are happy and safe and loved and we are all happy for that but we miss you terribly. Tomorrow is Bud's birthday. I know he wishes you were here to wish him yet another one. It's going to be hard. Keep him safe and sain.
bev
February 20, 2011
from me for you
February 20, 2011
from me to you
Natalie Thomas
February 17, 2011
Better days ahead. That's what I keep telling myself. With Apollo out of the picture it may actually happen. I know the boys are happier. Always so much drama. I need a few days of peace. I love you my sweet sister thanks for having my back.
Natalie Thomas
February 16, 2011
What a horrible night but you saw me through it and today is brighter for it. The kitchen is clean and the children and Hollis are safe. That's what matters, right? I love you my sweet sister Kisses
Natalie Thomas
February 15, 2011
A wonderful Valentine's Day for Brendon. He got his first kiss on the cheek from Emma in his class. He was so excited to give her a candy rose. He is the sweetest boy ever and she told him so. I wonder if she will be in his life 15 years from now. She is a bossy little girl but pretty enough to carry it off. Brought back lots of memories and some so sad I had to hide the sadness from him. He was having such an awesome day I wasn't going to let anything spoil it. Thanks for looking out. I love you
Natalie Thomas
February 14, 2011
The first Valentine's Day without you. From the candy hearts you gave me as a girl to the Valentine wishes I got as a woman I appreciated every last one. I hope you ease everyone's hearts that are missing you and smile down on each of us. I love you my sweet sister. Happy Valentine's Day :)
Natalie Thomas
February 13, 2011
Missing you terribly today. Sundays are always my hard days. Just trying to stay busy at work and then off to the children. I do much better when I am busy taking care of them but the bills need to be paid and until I win that dad gum lottery off I go to work. LOL Bless us all and keep us safe. I love you God bless
Natalie Thomas
February 12, 2011
Morning. Today is going to be busy. Brendon and I are doing his valentine cards for his first valentine party. He got a special one for Emma. =) Time is flying way too fast and I am trying to absorb all of it. Today we all go back to the gem show and then the park for kite flying and a picnic. It probably won't hit 80 but close. Remember flying kites at that park in Marysville with the boys? I am taking so many pictures today and showing them off to the world. I love you my sweet sister. I hope you have fun with us today. I feel strong enough to carry you on my sholders today but I guess Natasha will already have that spot. LOL Love you God bless
Natalie Thomas
February 11, 2011
OK so we went to the gem show again today. I had Natasha on my shoulders and Matthew and Brendon and Soda by my side. We had so much fun I could barely stand it. I know it was you. I just know it. I wanted to show you everything. All the rainbow colors, all the things I know would make you smile. I wish just once you would have come down here and shared this with me. The sunsets are like nothing I have ever seen. I guess you get to see it all now. I love you Thank you soooooooo much
Natalie Thomas
February 10, 2011
When I went out to light your candle it was chilly and clear and a zillion stars out plus one. I couldn't decide which one was you so I talked to all of them. It's been four months and I still can't believe it to be real but it's been nearly 3 and 1/2 years for Rick and I still expect to turn around and see him grinning at me. One of the last things he said to me was that it would all be a lot easier is you wasn't so hot. Not a real poet with words but he got his point across. I miss him and I miss YOU!! I love you my sweet sister. I went to the gem shoe with Soda today. I found this awesome necklace that I just had to have and after walking around for awhile I talked her into letting me buy one for her too, even though she doesn't wear jewelry. I used the "I won't be around forever card" so she caved. Then I took her out to lunch and we sat across from each other adoring our necklaces and how they brought out the blue in our eyes. =) I got a cool tie dye summer dress. So soon it will be summer dresses, sandles and iced tea. Come sit with me and we can paint our toe nails. LOL I love you Kisses God bless
Natalie Thomas
February 8, 2011
Another cold but clear and beautiful morning. While I talked with God on the way to work I thought of the children we have taught and helped and loved even though they tried to push away. Just like I still do as my safety net. I have been working on that as you know and appreciate your guidance along the way. Matthew wanted to light your candle for a little bit last night. He points to the guardian angel and says "That's your sister? Looking after the children?" He is good for my heart. I love you my sweet sister. Kisses God bless
Natalie Thomas
February 6, 2011
It's been seventeen weeks since that fateful call. The one telling me you were gone from this earth. The one that stopped my heart again. I miss you so much my sweet sister. I think of you everyday and pray with you. I don't always feel strong and usually it's these Sundays that get me. Not all but most. I know you want me to hang in there and be happy and I try. I really do but it's hard. Please give us peace. God bless
Natalie Thomas
February 2, 2011
Man it's COLD. Supposed to hit a whopping 43 today. When it gets cold in the desert it gets really really cold. Brrrrrrrrrr Bring on the sun. It's days like these I like that I work indoors and today I get to wear a lot of hats so I will be staying warm by running around like crazy. You know those days. Wish me luck. I am not as young as I used to be but hitting the gym every day is helping. I love you God bless
Natalie Thomas
February 1, 2011
A new month with COLD weather ahead everywhere even here in Tucson. Awaiting March when the weather starts changing for the better. At least February is a short month. :) Things looking up for the future. I know you are smiling down on me and helping me make positive changes. I love you my sweet sister. Kisses God bless
Natalie Thomas
January 31, 2011
Morning! :) The last day of the first month of 2011. I feel so energized. Thanks for letting Brendon sleep through the night without having a coughing spell. I know it was you and Rick looking out. Now he can have a great week at school and I can get to sleep through the night. Thus the energy. I love you my sweet sister. God bless
Natalie Thomas
January 30, 2011
Back to work. I hate missing then there is so much catching up to do and problems to fix after the fact. Oh well, good to have a job. Another hard night for Brendon. Help him get better. He is such a good boy. :) Thanks for watching out. I love you. God bless
Natalie Thomas
January 26, 2011
So today when I was getting my chest X-ray done Matthew was behind the screen with the technician and when she took the x-ray and he saw the picture he jumped down and ran to me and said "she hurt you, she hurt you" The lady came around the corner and said no that doesn't hurt it's just a picture. Matthew spun around and screamed at her "Yes you did I saw!!" He is so protective of me. What a sweet/naughty boy he is. :) These grandbabies of ours. WOW!! I love you my sweet sister. God bless you. Keep us all safe and bring back all my tests OK. Thanks Kisses
Natalie Thomas
January 25, 2011
Off to the doctor again. Silly doctors!! They want to check my head again and again like I told you just let it go. It is what it is and there!! I miss you. I know we each go through our issues and I really wish you haddened had to go through your back pains and your headaches but I am glad all that pain is behind you. You know I can't do drugs because they make me so sick so the doctors are going to have to just shrug their shoulders again. Chemo and radiation isn't going to save me from this and ewwwww what a gross painful way to go. So here I go again, for not. Got to keep up the face. LOL I love you my sweet sister and wish you were here to still confide in. Was it you whispering in my ear last night? Kisses God bless
Natalie Thomas
January 24, 2011
They are calling today "Blue Monday". Sad to think there so many people with Seasonal Depression. I just read another article on it. Makes you want to go hug the stuffing out of all of them. I know it was always worse from the end of October until the beginning of April for Rick. Oh the winter depression. It's hard for me to watch the girls when they start slumping back. I try to get them out in the sunshine and soaking up the natural vitamin D. Thanks for another great night and a beautiful morning. I love you my sweet sister. God bless
Natalie Thomas
January 23, 2011
Morning. :) Another beautiful day. We had so much fun coloring and making stuff last night. Even with Natasha's stitches things were up beat. I got you the prettiest candle Friday. A gaurdian angel. She is looking down on the little children. I love you God bless
Natalie Thomas
January 22, 2011
Hello hello is cool but I still hate it when you call me little missy. I always knew I did something out of step. So what was with the "wrong shirt he'll be mean to me"? I don't like dreams. I love you. Kisses sweet sister
Amber Blackmon
January 21, 2011
My dearest Aunt Ruth,
Oh how I sure do miss you so! I've been think a lot about you lately. I love all the memories I have of you. They keep me happy, most of the time. I miss your "Hello, hello, hello" and your always full cookie jars. I know that you wouldn't want me to be sad/depressed, so I'm trying my hardest to stay positive. You will always live on in my heart and mind. Forever and ever. I will live my life in a way that you will always be with me. I love you SOOO much!
This song is what goes through my mind whenever I think of you. It's called "If I Die Young" by The Band Perry.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NJqUN9TClM
Much loves!
True Devotion
Your Devoted husband
January 21, 2011
My beautiful Ruth. This will be the last entry into this book I make. I am going back to my Journal, that I started when you passed. I can truly express all my feelings that only you understood, thru our lives. I know that there you will give me what I seek from you only. That will give our loved ones the insight into our love affair, that only should be shared with them, as we did thru our lives together, I know that is your legacy, Love, unconditional decvotion, & a deep love for our heavenly father. Yes this is your legacy.And I will continue to share this with our granchildren. Yes you have done well faithful servant. I love you deeply my darling.
Natalie Thomas
January 21, 2011
Good morning! Love you! A couple of days off with the grandbabies. :) The usual...library and the dollar store. I re-read the last letter I sent you about loving them and thinking it was so past great having our children have children for us to spoil. I know you love being a grandma as much as I do. What sweet/naughty little angels. They keep us hopping, don't they? Thanks for the past few days. I really needed to catch my breath and see the world a little kinder and a little less grim. Keep looking out, please. Know that you are loved my sweet sister. God bless
Natalie Thomas
January 20, 2011
You know I am a realist and yet you have put peace and positivity in my heart and head. You are amazing. I normally see the negativity in the world because there is so much of it and hate all around us but if I look deep enough and hard enough and right under my nose I see all the beauty and love too. I have not felt this at ease and this peaceful in months. Today I light this candle to signify the light you turned on in my heart and head, helping me come out of the dark dispair I have been feeling. I am not a quitter so I pick myself up most mornings but the past few have been easy and I have welcomed them. Thank you so for that. I love you my sister sister and I thank Jesus for you everyday. Talk to you tomorrow. Kisses
Your beautiful smile! Just for me!
Your Devoted Husband
January 19, 2011
Hello Darling, I had a wonderful day today, both our sons were here and we had a great visit. Crying, laughing, just being family. Something that you always loved is to see us all together. It looks like Buddy and I will be working together again, he so wants it and so do I. We love working together. Steve is like a mother hen, wanting me to build a place next to them, ( his excuse to watch his family while he's gone!)making sure I'm taking my pills & just checking on his dear old Dad, and I love it all. Yes we are together and happy sharing our love with each other. You have worked your's and GOD'S love well within us Ruth. I love you so my beautiful love. Yes you have done well!
Your Devoted Husband
January 19, 2011
Ruth, Oh what a beautiful day to be awakened by the beauty of GOD. My heart soars with your guidance & GOD'S wonderful love. It will be better I know. I now understand when you talked about the personal conversations you had with GOD, they are so true. Yes once again you have helped me from the darkness within and showed me the light of GOD. I know you have not left me. If anyting I can feel you next to me now more then ever. I still greive terribly for you, but I am alive and I will survive with your love and GOD'S love. Yes I am alive in CHRIST. Thank you my love Thank you!
Natalie Thomas
January 19, 2011
You are just rocking this for me, aren't you? I read more things from you yesterday and for the first time didn't soak myself in tears but really listened. I "AM" strong. I "AM" capable of doing anything I set my mind to. I "AM" going to stay warm for the both of us. (LOL You are funny by the way.) I "will" be true to my self and not let anyone bully me into doing anything I don't really want to do. Not for guilt, not for pity, not for nothing...you were right when you said you can get pulled down so low you just can't see the top so just start climbing. I have started climbing. I love you my sweet sister. God bless
Etta delaney
January 18, 2011
ruth you were the sweetest,kindest loving person with a heart of gold, a laugh that was infectious, i remember one fourth of july when the boys had motorcycle helmets on and were shooting bottle rockets at eachother. we all laughed so hard.i think it was you who told me one day boys will be boys and as long as theres no bloodshed no worries. bless you ruth and your wonderful family you will be truely missed by us all but you will be safe in all our hearts and in gods loving hands.
Your Devoted Husband in CHRIST
January 18, 2011
My Darling Ruth, I love you so. I've been in alot of turmoil trying to decipher what it is that God wants of me to do? My heart is telling me to completely stay with what I am doing , but yet it does'nt feel right. My spirit is telling me to go the opposite way, to seek what the Lord is directing me to. It is such a turmoil and I am confused. My spirit calms me more when I direct myself to go the way my spirit gives me. I have been thinking alot of you(still & always will) and what you would have done and what you would want me to do. I can feel you and God's presence's within me and am feeling that I know what it is you both want, and that is to seek him and trust in God unconditionally. You gave me more then your Love Ruth, you gave me the inner passion and love of God that I will hold onto forever. Yes I will follow the Holy Spirit and give my Love to God only. I am sad in one way that I am leaving the other way, but am alive in Christ to follow his way. I love you my love and no one will ever be able to match what we have and had. Yes I now know ! Thank you my Love.
Natalie Thomas
January 18, 2011
Scary dream last night. Thanks for letting me wake up before she made me see that. I knew she was ready to pull back the screen and show me what she did to him. It's good to feel you with me and be able to talk to you in the mornings. I know you are busier up there doing all your good deeds then you were down here but I appreciate you taking the time for your little sister. I love you my sweet sister God bless
Natalie Thomas
January 17, 2011
Another gorgeous day here. The sunshine not only warms me up and brightens my day but it warms my heart and gives me happier thoughts. Let's go sit in the sun together and feel the warmth. A glass of iced tea my lady? Maybe a slice of lemon? :) I love you my sweet sister. God bless
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