More Top Picks High Chairs
player ready...Was Monday just another day to you, or did you remember that it was one of our country’s most important days. Whether you are 10 or 90, please take time to know and remember Pearl Harbor — the start of World War ll for the United States and the beginning of four years of too many lives lost far too soon.
I still remember, as a little girl, coming home from school, and instead of meeting us at the door with a hug, our mom was sitting right next to the radio with tears streaming down her face. We ran to her asking, “Mama, why are you crying?” When she told us a lot of sailors and soldiers had been killed when Japan bombed our ships, even as little kids, it was scary and so sad. It still brings tears to my eyes remembering.
But I also remember how Americans stood together. There has never been a time since then where our country stayed together and prayed together — where uppermost in everyone’s mind was working together as one nation under God. Even kids knitted little squares that were then put together as blankets to send to the troops, and used their allowance to buy stamps to put in a little book that would purchase a war bond when it was filled.
At every school event, sporting event and concerts, the national anthem and often “God Bless America” were sung loudly by everyone. School began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer. Churches and synagogues were packed. Flags flew from every home.
I remember my uncle coming home a different man — he was no longer the goofy, happy guy we loved playing with but had a sad look in his eyes, and never would talk about his experiences. It was a time of sadness, sacrifice and pride. Maybe by remembering, we can once again become the America we once were, and pray for our troops to come home so no families have to suffer the sadness and hurt of losing a loved one to war. God bless America.
There are two adorable third-graders in Cedar Lake who probably gave their elementary school principal one of the greatest gifts she has ever been given. Think back to when you were a third-grader and, if you are like most of us, your life didn’t revolve about much besides your friends and you.
But Max Jarvis and Brody Quinn are not typical 10-year-olds. There is something extra special in their hearts. These two buddies, since they don’t live near each other, began having “meetings” at school to make plans for things to do. When they decided that their principal, Melissa Walley, works so hard for everyone at school, they wanted to do something special for her. And the plan was made.
The boys designed a bench so she would have a place to sit and relax. With the help of their dads, the project became a reality, and after building, sanding and painting, the result was a bench of love. No formal design, no formal training, just two young men who definitely showed the gift of thanks to their surprised principal, and the lesson of caring to all of us.
They are already planning their next project, and I don’t think we’ve heard the last of them as they continue to make the world a little — no, a lot — better. Brody and Max, your gift of caring touches all of us. Thank you. You are my pet persons of the week.
An exceptional, lovely lady enjoyed an evening of thanks on Tuesday evening.
When Sharon Kish said “yes” to being the director of United Way of Porter County in 2001, her vision to expand ways to truly make our county united had begun. Now, almost 15 years later, the thousands of hours she has given have made the United Way of Porter County an outstanding servant of our area. The staff has grown from four employees to 12, and the lives that have been touched by her constant push to include every community member numbers in the thousands. From an agency whose main focus was raising funds for not-for-profits and those in need to an agency that all of us are a part of is a lasting legacy for Sharon.
Being united by volunteering, giving of our time and talents, enjoying sharing on the Day of Caring with new friends truly shows that Porter County does things the United Way. Thanks for paving the way, Sharon. Your legacy will continue to grow and make you as proud of us as we are of you. Enjoy your retirement, but don’t forget to volunteer!
Happy Hanukkah to all my Jewish friends. As each candle on the Menorah is lit, may your blessings be many and your life filled with love. And I hope you all have a great day because you deserve it. Thanks for reading. Fly your flag.
Lorrie Woycik is a freelance columnist for the Post-Tribune.