“Memory Keepers”

Our memories are the stories of our lives, our history and our personal time-lines. Memories bring us joy, a smile, a tear and tug at our heart. Our soul is the scrapbook of those moments in time and keeper of the joy and sorrow that is passed on to generations. Speak of them often and keep the memories alive and in full color to reflect on and share.

 Share your memories with us…

If you are a “memory keeper” for a loved one, send your memory, poem or letter and photo and we will post on the website to share and pass on to others. Email to: alzart18@icloud.com

MEMORIES:

Tommie A. ~

Tommie A. who attended our very first class in 2008! The piece of art she created that day, Kitchen Table (shown below) confirmed that our techniques and our collective dream to give birth to our organization could come to fruition. Tommie came to class every week for the past 5 years with a fantastic smile, unbridled enthusiasm and her quirky sense of humor which was evident in all of her art. As the instructor I have to say, it’s Tommie who kept me coming and kept me inspired. When you met Tommie, you fell in love with her. I’ll always reserve a seat at the table and a corner of my heart for Tommie.

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Jane W. ~

“It’s time to paint!” she would say as soon as she saw me enter the room, this always warmed my heart. Eager and enthusiastic, Jane never shied away from a challenge, and would not leave the classroom until she was finished. Jane was as determined and focused as she was creative. The longer you knew her, the deeper you fell in love with her. You sincerely appreciated Jane’s honest affection…and the purity of her art. I feel fortunate to have shared in her joy!

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Rose N. ~

“ A Rose to know, is a Rose to love” and she was every inch of her namesake. A professional artist and instructor, Rose was my “go to” mentor! Rose was always gracious in her critiquing of other’s art…and she was always right. Whether it was composition, balance, or color selection Rose was quick with the solution. Most would forget the principles and foundations of fine art, but not Rose, ever. She took her art work seriously and would take her time to get it right, every time…and it showed in every creative wonder she produced! I’ll miss her sweet smile and hugs and the passion she brought to every class. I’ll forever think about her, especially when I admire and smell a Rose.

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Lorma ~

My dear, dearest Lorma.  We shared many hours together, first at Atria then the Arbors…painting, gluing, admiring your creative works of art! I am missing your smiles and happy greetings. You, your art, our memories…shall always be close to my heart. Do they have art classes in heaven?? I’ll speak of you often and keep our memories alive my dear. Rest artfully, love Lynette.

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Renate Esling ~

November 10, 1930 – December 26, 2010

Dear Renate, your smile will be very missed but your light continues to glow! I am missing our weekly hello’s and missing Paul as well. Your loving husband, at your side everyday, driving 100 miles roundtrip through rain and snow and wind to hold your hand and complete your day. The most loving husband and caregiver I have ever had the pleasure to meet and admire.  We are all missing you Renate and know how lucky we were to have known you and spent time with you. We will think of you and speak of you often to keep your memory alive! Safe journey my dear, love Lynette.

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Alex ~

Dearest Alex, I read a poem today, I know that you will like…it will make you smile, maybe even laugh…your heart was full of wonder, your horizons wide and tall, you lived life in technicolor and no hurdle was too small.  You inspired me Alex and live on in my heart…enjoy the poem-

The Dash by Linda Ellis

I read of a man who stood to speak, at the funeral of a friend- He referred to the dates on her tombstone, from the beginning to the end

He noted that first came the date of birth, and spoke the following date with tears- But he said what mattered most of all, was the dash between those years

For that dash represents all the time, that she spent alive on earth- And now only those who loved her, know what that line is worth

For it matters not how much we own; the cars, the house, the cash, – What matters is how we live and love, and how we spend our dash

So think about this long and hard, are there things you’d like to change? For you never know how much time is left, that can be rearranged

If we could just slow down enough, to consider what’s true and real- And always try to understand, the way other people feel

And be less quick to anger, and show appreciation more, and love the people in our lives, like we’ve never loved before

If we treat each other with respect, and more often wear a smile, remembering that this special dash, might only last a little while

So, when your eulogy is being read, with your life’s actions to rehash, would you be proud of the things they say, about how you spent your dash?

From what I’ve heard, and what I’ve read your dash was big and strong and bold, and full of love and cookies! Your axe fell hard, but your touch was soft…your memory will never leave my heart. Avoir, Lynette

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Lillian ~

Lillian, what a very special lady, with a sweet, sweet smile, kind heart and positive attitude. You were loved and your kindness will be missed. Diana Roberts

Lillian ~ April 8, 2010

Our dear Lillian, rest in peace and quiet. You now have your memories back and the spring in your step! We shall keep our memories of you tucked in the folds of our hearts and the visions of your art safe in our souls. You smiled every day, your spirits were always high and you brought joy into the room. You shall be very missed my dear…big hugs from everyone, and we wish you wellness on your new and gentle journey. Lynette Schweigert

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Jay Farmer

You are in my thoughts today as you have been everyday in the past.  You bring a smile to my face when I remember our times together…all the times we shared. You will forever be in my soul and I will keep and protect our memories for as long as I can!  Your journey is not over, but the time is near, my dear, go softly…All my love, Lynni. PS Tell Donna Happy Birthday when you see her!

 Grandpa Jay

 I have too many wonderful memories of my grandpa Jay to count and they are far too numerous to wrap up in a small blurb. But some, mundane and insignificant as they may seem, will forever stand out in my mind and will always make me happy. When we would visit grandma and grandpa in Oklahoma every summer, grandpa Jay would take just me to get donuts at the Mannford, OK, IGA. We would chat the whole way (well mostly I would talk and he would listen). He always acted like what I had to say was the most important thing in the world! It was truly one of the highlights of my year…going to get donuts with grandpa. I will keep this, along with hundreds of other precious memories, locked in my heart. Though I will be deeply saddened by his loss, I am endlessly comforted by the knowledge that he is going somewhere where he will once again have all his memories back. All the memories we have held dear and safe for him will be his again to cherish. I love you grandpa, more than words can possibly say.

Your Ashley

 

 Jay Farmer Nov 10, ’23 ~ May 9, ’10

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 Farmer Marvin…Written 9/1/02 to “Daddy”

 

 You look, but You cannot see, You listen but you cannot hear, You touch but You cannot feel…don’t fear i’m here i’ll do it for You. 

You don’t know who i am, yet You know that i care…i can see it in your eyes, even though they stare… right through me, they bump on my heart. 

don’t worry daddy that You can’t remember- Your memories are safe with me…forever! 

how much You loved mom, how You cared for Peter, how You called your puppies and lambs to dinner! 

i’ll keep the memories alive for You tucked safely in the corners of my heart and soul. 

the buildings You drew were tall, strong and handsome, but none as tall, strong and handsome as You are in my eyes! 

Your memory keeper dad… love lynni

“I don’t know who you are…but I know that you love me!” by Marvin…the 1st day he did not recognize me…

Marvin Schweigert  July 28, ’24 – October 17, ’02