THANK YOU - BLESS YOU - LOVE YOU!
Woke up this morning thanking
God for the many blessings he has given us; The true blessings
of Family, Friends, Love, Hope, Joy, Forgiveness
and
ESPECIALLY YOU!
I (Ruben Sr), haven't stopped
thinking about the incredible Fundraiser that was held for
Marina my wonderful and beautiful wife.
WOW! - THANK YOU!
Saying everyone had a great time,
is an understatement.
Thank God for the spirit of Love that surrounded us on that
special occasion.
The whole day was so inspiring, so magical and so loving.
We are so happy you chose that day to share a portion of your
Love and Friendship with Marina and each other.
We truly appreciate and thank you for your
Love and Support; your gracious gifts will be used on Marina's
healing journey, they really are a blessing.
It will assist us with
the medical and transportation expenses to that miraculous
and blessed place, UCSF Medical Center / Benioff Children's
Hospital in San Francisco
UCSF Medical Center, whose hands are always
outstretched to those in need of Hope and Miracles, has changed
Marina's and our lives forever in a wonderful and incredible
way.
You have made our lives richer and more complete
because of it.
Dr. Andreadis and his caring Staff, the amazing
physicians at UCSF Medical Center, and all the people with
whom we have come in contact with in the City of San Francisco;
you have all been so caring, so kind, and so awesome!
Thank you!
Marina is currently receiving treatments at
UCSF.
____________________
When we arrived at Lake Yosemite that
afternoon you were all so friendly and welcoming.
Prior to arriving, Marina was a bit nervous
and anxious as we got closer to the venue; it had been a very
long time that she had been out in a public setting since
being diagnosed with cancer.
Because the Loves and Hugs were so tender,
so beautiful and so genuine and comforting, Marina soon regained
her composure, took a deep breath and calmly flashed a beaming
smile that I'll always remember.
Knowing that you were all there for Marina
made the day more special for all of us.
Seeing that many close friends and family
members could not attend, because of the great distances for
some and work the next day (Monday) for others, they nonetheless
sent their heartfelt Love and Prayers; seeing as the Spirit
of Love can travel, faster than an old school flux-capacitor
powered '64 Chevy Impala SS, It arrived on-time.
Marina and I didn't want to leave Lake Yosemite that evening
after the lively Fundraiser.
We remained around as long as we could to
admire the picturesque calmness of the lake as the sun slowly
set.
The view of the lake was stunning, breathtaking!
We didn't want this incredible, special moment
to ever end.
It was just too wonderful of an emotional
and spiritual experience for us to just say "Adios/Farewell".
____________________
The next morning, awaking at the same
time, we just looked at each other and thanked the Lord for
another beautiful and blessed day, then shared an emotional
tear and a heartwarming smile.
Resting at home now, Marina and I sit back
and relax, close our eyes allowing ourselves to be transported
back in time and replay that whole day's glorious encounter
in our hearts.
We were totally convinced that the moments,
the feelings we were experiencing at home were real and nobody
could persuade or prove us otherwise.
The weird and wacky thing is that we felt
like we weren't daydreaming, and it wasn't a mirage or a hallucination,
it was really happening.
"I" personally could see everyone
having the time if their life exchanging amusing stories,
the mouthwatering taste of Birria still linger on my lips,
I could hear the band playing, people dancing and the laughter
of the children as they play nearby.
I could smell everything too (It wasn't me, the couple sitting
in the table behind...never mind).Lol
It really felt as if I was in the hall at
Lake Yosemite, delighting in Marina's, our kids', our grandkids
and all the guests laughter and joy; the sweet mood blended
with song; witnessing the building of new and the fortifying
old friendships with Love...the intimate interactions with
everyone in attendance created an utterly breathtaking experience.
It was surreal.
Over the course of the night, delightful tales
were recounted, fond memories revisited, new and lasting friendships
forged.
Like watching your favorite movie on TV (pre
DVR), we wish we could make July 20, 2014 play-on forever.
This loving encounter had become, "Our
NEW Favorite Movie", which we will play over and over
our hearts forever.
Does anyone know where I can get a "live
remote control", like the one on the movie "Click",
one that will allow me to rewind and play this day over and
over and over?
I haven't checked Amazon yet
Lol.
____________________
Cal "Sky Hawk" it was so delightful
to welcome you and your beautiful family.
The Bear Creek Crew sends their Love to you
You, like your kind and dear father (Mr. Haynes)
before you, have always been an incredible and inspiring performer
and longtime good and loyal family friend.
Thank you for sharing in your sacred Dancing
and Stories, Love for the Holy Spirit, and reminding us that
we are not alone; we are a part of a bigger family; we are
children of the Most High.
The story you shared about me when we were
kids... I owe you one. Lol!
All the best to you and your family!
Thank You!
____________________
Not trying to draw any attention to them selves;
there was no confusing the Harley-Davidson motorcycle's unique
sound as riders proudly yet humbly rode in.
"Sky Hawk" invited them into the
Fish and Game Hall and they, without delay joined all the
guests for a loud and deafening roof-razing cheer for Marina,
then in a reverent Mass like opening prayer.
"We all gathered and rallied here today
for a special person and a special cause that is close our
hearts, because cancer affects many people, and especially
when it is the Mom of a very close friend", stated one
of the riders.
Friends, family and members of the biker family
gathered as the motorcycles were parked in two perfect rows
forming an aisle for Marina.
"I am so happy. This has been extra special;
forgive me, I don't know what to say" stated Marina,
"Thank you all for coming. You don't know how much this
means to me."
Prior to departing they all gathered around
her, and one -by-one they tenderly hugged and kissed her,
telling a tearing Marina how much they admired her, that she
was very special to everyone and promised to pray for her.
Earlier they presented her with gifts and
showered her with their warmhearted Love.
Marina's face beamed with a smile from ear-to-ear,
like a child opening presents on Christmas Eve, as they assisted
her onto a few of their many awesome bikes and took pictures.
As the riders prepared to leave, we felt the
entire ground shake as the Harleys circled the parking lot
before departing.
Many of the guests darted out of the Hall
to locate the source of the thunder they had obviously heard
and felt.
They gathered and silently watched in awe
as they again experienced the sound of the Harley's engines
pumping and pounding throughout their bodies.
As they rode away I saw everyone waving and
shouting their good-byes, as I turned toward Marina; her knowing
that the thunder of the bikes motors would make it nearly
impossible for any of them to hear; I saw her saying her Good-bye
with a heartfelt smile and a joyful tear.
Marina is so cute and Sweet
____________________
Jimmy and the Guys in the Band, and the DJ thank you; you
and your families were awesome!
Marina and I, along with everyone present
were moved and got carried away with your excellent performance.
The playlist and the band member's incredible
musical talent had the perfect blend of Old School Oldies
for the OG's, Musica Mexicana for our parents "the Original
OG's", and Rock'n'Roll for the Rockers...
Jimmy and the band members, your warmth and
enthusiasm; the friendship and Joy were obvious in your musical
performance, you struck the perfect chords.
The sensation of extreme Joy, which can only
be reached through listening to your all-time favorite song,
you guys took us there.
Jimmy if that was your intention; that feeling
my friend was effectively reached and we are thankful.
As a direct result of this most extraordinary
celebration; this moment quickly became "Our NEW Favorite
Song".
The delightful sensation that you provided
for all, is forever seared in the rhythm of our souls.
From the bottom of Marina and our hearts,
thank you Jimmy, band members and DJ for sharing your music,
family and friendship with us and for becoming a very necessary
instrument of "Our NEW Favorite Song".
You guys, "Rocked the House!" with
the passion and joy that can only come from within.
Surely you are true
entertainers!
____________________
To the many sponsors and makers of the great
raffle prizes our sincere thanks go out to you.
Jessie (my mother-in-law) thank you for long
and hard work on the charming homemade gifts you crocheted
with Love, Bless you.
Also to the many friends and family members
who wore the many different hats of cooks, servers, ticket
sellers, decorators, clean up crew...
"Everything is so fantastic!" was
the jingle most heard throughout the event, when commenting
on how fantastic the food, service and their experience was.
Marina and I want to thank you publicly for
your hard work, sacrifice and dedication.
This memorable day could not have been more
perfect!
You all gave up your time to be, "behind
the scenes", we will forever be grateful.
I just wanted to let you know-the things you
did for Marina did not go unnoticed.
May God shower you with many Blessings!
You were the essential harmony in "Our
NEW Favorite Song".
We appreciate your dedication and hard work,
and I know others did too...
You guys were AWESOME Thank You!
____________________
The storytelling magic of the day's
events: The reverent prayers, timeless songs, delicious homemade
food, sacred dancing, the picturesque view of Lake Yosemite,
children laughing and playing
The equally inspired Old-timers sharing their
life's stories with the young or with any of the many guests
who dared to listen; this interaction soon earned them all
an invitation/right to become official or maybe certifiable
Family Members. Lol
The melody is far from over. These new notes
will find their way into the playlist of life, set against
acquaintances new and old, sung by people who give meaning
to the music.
This compiled collection of delightful individual
short stories propelled this enchanting tale of Love, Laughter
and Friendship into everyone's NEW Favorite Movie and Song.
Just like looking at old photographs is a
treasured family pastime, this playlist/song too will find
its own unique way into becoming a musical journey that will
light up dreary day.
____________________
Marina tearfully and joyfully remarked,
"I can't believe you all came here for me.
I feel like I am a part of a larger Loving
Family, Thank You!
It was one of My Best Good Days, of which
I was blessed and honored to experience.
Thank You God, I Love You so much!"
The Love, Prayers and Support that you all
showered on Marina and us, are going to be remembered fondly
on the "Good Days", and as encouragement in the
"bad days".
Thank you for thinking of Marina; you made
her feel so Special and Loved.
You will always be a part of our lives.
With all the gratitude our humble hearts can
offer.
May God's Blessings to you be joined with
Love, Peace and Joy!
Love Always...
Ruben, Marina and Familia <><t
This never ending melody of Love is written
by God, and is born into the hearts of all people
Similarly, the journey of life can well be
described as one long playlist of our Favorite Songs: With
us shuffling from one memorable Loving tune to another.
The melody of true Love plays on...
1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Love is patient, love is kind. It does
not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude,
it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps
no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices
with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always
hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails...
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