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What am I thankful for?
What am I thankful for?
This Thanksgiving, I have several things to be thankful for.
The number one is for the Lord Jesus, for dying on the cross for our sins and rose from the dead and living forever. My hope and faith is in Him. I know I will have eternal life with my Lord and Savior when my life has ended on earth.
I thank the Lord, for a caring-loving family, who is always there when I need them.
I am thankful for Chimney Rock Villa at Bayard, where I have been a resident over seven years.
I was born with Spastic Cerebral Palsy. It has effected my walking, speech and coordination. I will be 60 years old in January.
The staff at Chimney Rock Villa is very kind and caring to me. Most of them can understand when I talk to them. They might not understand me the first time, but I will say it over until they know what I am saying. I appreciate their patience with me. Some of them will visit with me if they have time, and I enjoy visiting with them.
I have a couple dear friends who are residents at the villa also. We sit at the same table at meal times. Sharon and Toni and myself have lots of fun. We talk, laugh, share with each other and pray together. I feel so fortunate to have these two ladies as my friends. I know the Lord Jesus sent them here for me.
Before I always lived on a farm near Minatare with my parents and sister, until my sister had her own place and family. My mom died 13 years ago, the end of December, from cancer. I live with my dad over five years until I need more help.
I have received many nice letters from people who had read my book, and how much it has encouraged and blessed them. I just praise the Lord Jesus for this. It blesses me knowing I am helping others through my book.
I am so glad I had sent a copy of my book to my former teacher and he got to read it, before he die a couple months ago. I had received a nice letter from his wife, telling me how much he likes it and telling me thanks for writing so many nice things about him.
Since I came to the villa, I been writing my little thoughts that the Lord Jesus has given me to write in my church bulletins (Hope Congregational Church), which is called Marsha’s Corner. My pastor tells me how much the people like reading them each week. I am blessed I can do this with the Lord’s help.
I have been writing the news of the villa to put in the Bayard Paper ever other week. What we do at the villa and all the activities we have.
The Lord Jesus has really used me and blessed me in so many ways.
Marsha Faye Schmall
Bayard
What am I
thankful for?
Every Friday evening, from 8 to 9 p.m., I watch a short story on my Mexican channel. It’s about different families that are struggling for some reason or another. Throughout the program, they always ask Our Lady of Guadalupe for help. It always has a beautiful ending, and out of nowhere, there is always a beautiful white rose that appears in front of the picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s picture.
Something similar happened to me and that is why I’m writing this letter to you.
For the last three months, my car has been in badly need for repairs, but I kept putting it off and praying that it would get me through another day. Finally, it gave out. I was able to get it to an auto shop about three blocks from my house. They said they would call and let me know what was wrong and quote me a price of the cost. I was waiting for the worst because it’s a 1976 Buick, and that afternoon I got the call I was waiting for. It shook me a little but I told them to go ahead and fix it, that my son, Edward from Kimball, would help me with the expense.
That night, I prayed to Our Lady of Guadalupe and asked her to help me.
The next day, I decided I didn’t want to put that kind of financial burden on my son, so I walked a mile, even though the air was a little nippy, to my bank. I asked for the loan manager and spoke with him. He told me they didn’t make loans on cars that old, and I panicked. I prayed in silence and asked for my Lady’s help. He said they would carry it as a personal loan, because I had been a faithful customer for many years. He had me sign some papers and said the check would be ready at 2 p.m., the next day. I was so excited I don’t even remember walking home. That night, I thanked Our Blessed Lady of Guadalupe for helping me.
The next day, I got a call from the auto shop at 11 a.m., telling me my car was ready. At 2 p.m., I got a call from the bank telling me the check was ready. A worker from the auto shop gave me a ride to the bank, and I brought the check for $1,500 and gave it to them. In return, they gave me the keys to my car and a beautiful thank you. I walked to my car and opened the door and across the seat lay a beautiful white rose. Needless to say, I was crying like a baby. I knew then I hadn’t gotten through this above Our Beautiful Lady of Guadalupe had been beside me all the way. As soon as I got home, I put the rose in a beautiful vase and placed it on my altar. I knelt and thanked Her for helping me when I was so desperately in need of help.
Later, I asked the mechanics how the rose got in my car. He told me they always give a rose to special customers.
In my heart, I will always know my Blessed Mother of Guadalupe was close by.
Violet Avila
Scottsbluff
What am I
thankful for?
In early 1944, my then fiancé (Sam) and three of his friends received notices that they were to be shipped off to war shortly. As they were visiting and contemplating what the future may hold for them, they made a pact that if they all came back they would get together for a drink to celebrate. They sealed their pact by signing their names on a dollar bill. They tore the bill in half and Sam took one half and another friend the other half. Sam still carries his half where it has been for the past 64 years. All four came home with lots of experiences to share. One was shot while in Germany, engaged in fierce battle, and he lost the use of his arm for the rest of his life. About a month ago, we attended his funeral. He was the third of the four to die, and now my husband is the last one left.
They never did get together for that drink to celebrate, but very often on Sunday morning, when we get home from church, we open a bottle of wine, a box of crackers and a block of cheese and toast the past, our old friends and also our future, whatever it may hold.
As the years pass swiftly, I am grateful to have my favorite veteran to share the rest of my days with.
Irene Kraus
Morrill
What am I
thankful for?
Laura Kelley’s third-grade class from Bayard Elementary:
I am thankful for the Bayard Fire Department because they save us from fire so we won’t die from smoke and they teach us safety. They are volunteers, and they come to our school in October for Fire Prevention Week. I am thankful for my mom and dad because they sometimes help me with my homework. If my mom does not know it, she makes me go ask my dad. If my dad is asleep, then I don’t know what to do. I am thankful for the flowers we grow in our garden at home and in my grandma’s garden during the summer time. It takes the whole summer for them to grow.
Taya Autry, age 9, daughter of Amber
Jackson and Fred Cruz
I am thankful for my parents because every year they tell me to try my best in school. Math, social studies, science, AR, D.O.L. acrostic poems, Math Minutes, and spelling tests are some of them. The janitors, teachers — Kindergarten-6 are the ones who keep the school working. I’m also thankful for the Army because they give us freedom. We get to say a speech whenever we want, freedom of religion and freedom from segregation. They gave it all to us and some gave up their lives just for us. Finally, I am thankful for trees because they give us paper, air, lumber and wood. We need all of this. It’s all important, and if we didn’t have that, we wouldn’t be here probably. Bees are also important because they spread pollen.
Samantha Trevino, age 9, daughter of Ricardo and Gracie Trevino
I am thankful for love. My mom and dad love me soooooooooo very much! Mom and Dad provide me with shelter, food and water. I love my pets, too. I am thankful for trees. They give me air. They give me lumber for building houses. Certain trees give me nuts, bananas, peaches, apples and coconuts. I am also thankful for the Army. They protect us against intruders.
Colin Hendrickson, age 9, son of Amy Dalbey and Nick Hendrickson
I am thankful for the Army because they fight for our freedom. I am thankful for schools because they help us learn and read. Also, so we get smarter. I am also thankful for flowers because it helps bees find their food. I am thankful for honey to put on celery.
Connor Muhr, age 8, son of Brian Muhr
I am thankful for trees. We would not be alive if we didn’t have trees. I am thankful for trees because we need air, and I need paper for writing. The Navy gives us freedom and also saves America. The ships in the ocean are fighting for our world’s peace. Freedom is for us, our country and others.
Cody Miller, age 9, son of Louie and Amanda Miller
I am thankful for the Army because if it wasn’t for the Army, I would not be here. My mom is white and my dad is black. Back then, black and white people could not see each other. The government made it a law that it is illegal to segregate. I am thankful for the government and Army. I am also thankful for my family because my mom and dad provide me with food, shelter, my brother and sister 24/7. I am thankful for schools. They teach me spelling and how to read. My favorite subject is math. School is also where I make friends. Last, I am thankful for the world. It is where I live and play. I like our world.
Risaiah Anderson, age 9, son of Roxanne Anderson
I am thankful for Moms, Dads and family. I am thankful for family because they provide food, clothes, houses, and health, and much more. They’ve given me a school to learn at. I’m thankful that my mom and dad push me right back up when I’m having troubles in school subjects. My favorite subjects in school are art, math, science, English and writing. I’m thankful for my mom and dad because we do lots together. We have fun and we learn. That’s what I love about my mom and dad. I’m thankful for love around the world. I love my pets, family and reading. I have fun with my cat and dog. My dog always wants to have fun. When we’re done, my dog lays on my lap. My cat lays by me and I pet them both. I also have fun with my family. When the electricity goes out, we play card games and board games. Everyone in my family loves to read, especially my sister, Lauren. When we have time, we read. We read lots. We read funny books; scary and serious. I’m thankful for Jesus. He provides all that I have such as school, love, trees, nurses, glasses, houses, clothing, stores, freedom, military, holidays, farmers and ranchers. I love them all. Jesus does, too. They help us very much. So, I am thankful for them.
Shaley Petersen, age 8, daughter of Travis and Karen Petersen
I’m thankful for my mom and dad because they raised me as a smart student and child. They have taught me to be nice to my sisters and even though I don’t have a baby brother, to be nice to every child. They have also taught me to not do drugs when I grow up. I am also thankful for freedom and clothing and a house. I am thankful that I am Mexican, and I have many friends. I’m thankful for my education at Bayard Elementary School. I am thankful for anybody who works at the fire department. Without them, we would have been unsafe. I am thankful for my grandma because she is nice to all of us. I’m thankful that my aunt could feed all the animals at her house. Also, for all the holidays, like Christmas. That is my favorite holiday.
Migdahi Garcia, age 9, daughter of Gaspar and Maricela Garcia
I am thankful for school because they help us learn math, science, social studies and how to read. I am thankful for teachers, P.E. teachers, cooks and music teachers. I am thankful for stores because they give us food such as water, milk, cheese, meat and cereal. Plus, they give us shirts, pants and sweaters. I am thankful for trees because they give us air to breathe, paper to draw and write on, and we can climb them, and make things out of them. I am thankful for glasses because they help me see better. I am thankful for optometrist because they check my eyes to see if I need glasses. I am thankful for the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard because they save our country from the inside out.
Jordan Hofmann, age 9, son of Greg Kawaguchi and Shannon Hofmann
I am thankful for Red Ribbon Week because everyone teaches us that smoking is bad for you. Also, during this week, we can dress up like clowns. I am also thankful that I have a family. They care for me, and if I get hurt, they might help me. I just think that it was nice of God to give me a family. I’m thankful for friends because they are nice to me. One of my friends is Shaley. We have been friends since we were three.
Jaicee D. White, daughter of James and Tressa White
I am thankful for the fire station because they put out fires fast and save people’s lives. I am also thankful for trees because they give us air, lumber, paper and some trees have maple syrup. I am also thankful for the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and the National Guard. They all keep the world safe and they are really strong.
Devin Bell, age 8, son of Nikki Juzenas
I am thankful for my dad because his farm grows the vegetables, corn, beets and alfalfa that our cows need. He also grows some other plants. It is fun to help him plant. I like to water the corn so we can have sweet corn to eat. I am thankful for shelter. It protects me from danger, keeps me warm and cool, it has furniture and electricity. Our roof keeps me safe from lightning, thunderstorms and tornados. I feel happy with our home. I am also thankful for the love my family gives me and takes care of me. I love them back so much. We sometimes play games together. They also teach me not to talk to strangers or play with matches from a lit candle.
Krissa Martinez, age 9, daughter of Jorge Mayra Martinez.
I am thankful for my family, books, the cooks, friends, and education. I am also thankful for my shirts, pants , sweaters, and jackets.
Zackary Greever, age 8, son of Stephanie Greever.
I am thankful for books. I love to read! I blame books for getting me in the spelling bee. That is two of the reasons why I love the book fair. The way I spell is probably different from your way. The way I spell is that I write the word the way I think it should be. If it does not look right, I think about it. Then I change it, and if it looks right, I leave it the way it is. I will be reading fiction books most of the time. I am thankful for shelter. Without shelter, I would probably go mad. I am not much of a wilderness kind of a guy! So, I am very thankful for shelter. Without shelter, I would have nowhere to read. I am thankful for clothes! No clothes means…ew, never mind. I can’t look at the thought. It’s too ugly. Well, it would be very, very cold. It is cold in some places even with coats. I had three different coats on this morning, and it was still cold.
Colt Edmunds, age 8, son of Charles and
Barbara Edmunds
I am thankful for my family. They love me even though my dad is in Iraq. Sometimes he sends my mom, my brothers, and me videos. He might come home at the end of January. I feel happy because when he comes home, we will ride on his back like bull riding! I am thankful for trees because trees make paper so we can write on the paper and trees make air so we can breathe in oxygen. Also, trees produce apples, oranges and bananas. Trees also grow flowers. I’m thankful for love. My family loves me, my dog loves me, and I love my dog, Godzilla. I also love my mom, my brothers and my cousins.
Savannah Anderson, age 8, daughter of Dave and Elisa Geisler
What am I
thankful for?
My classroom at Bayard Elementary is overflowing with thankfulness!
Angie Shaw, Bayard
Elementary Third Grade
There are many things I am thankful for. The first one is I love the freedom we have as Americans. I honor the armed forces because if we didn’t have freedom, we wouldn’t have the lives we have now. The second thing is we can go anywhere we want to. People in other countries have to go certain places at certain times. Here, we can make our own choices. We can go to the church we want to go to, we can drive the car we want to drive, and we go to what school we want to. In our thoughts, we can make it happen. We also can have what we want to eat and we can choose where we want to eat. I am thankful that we can do all this as Americans.
Mitch McKibbin, age 9, son of Randy and Micki McKibbin
I am thankful for freedom. Without freedom we would be slaves. Without freedom we would be treated badly. Next, I am thankful for peace. Without peace in the world, there would be fire, explosions and violence. That would be terrible! Another thing I am thankful for is my family. Without my family, I would not be anything. Without my family, I would not be alive. I’m also thankful for school. Without school, we would all be dumb. We wouldn’t know how to read or write. The last thing I’m thankful for is the world. The world has bad things and good things. The world is the best thing that has happened to us.
Alex Araujo, age 9, son of Jenifer Araujo
I am thankful for my family finally being together. I am thankful for love because I love my family. My family is beautiful. I am thankful for my community because I love my community. I am thankful for the cops we have in Bayard because the cops here are nice. I am thankful for my teacher, Mrs. Shaw, because she helps me with a lot of stuff. I am thankful for Forrest Sterzer because he is a great friend. I am thankful for everybody in my class because they’re so nice. I am thankful for the world because the world is important.
Carson Dally, age 8, son of Bernadette and Lucas Dally
I’m thankful for air, freedom, shelter, water and food because without these, we would all die. I’m thankful for my parents, my brother, my family and my friends. More things I’m thankful for are hands, feet, arms and legs. Without these things, we could not move or eat and we would die. Oh yeah, I’m thankful for the whole world. Without the world, we wouldn’t be created.
Forrest Sterzer, age 8, son of Nathan and Andrea Sterzer.
I have a lot of things I am thankful for. The first thing is air. I am thankful for air because if we didn’t have air, we would die. I’m thankful for food because if I didn’t have food, then what would I eat? I am thankful for my home because if I didn’t have a home where would I live? I am thankful for freedom because if we didn’t have freedom we would all be slaves. I am thankful for clothes because if I didn’t have clothes, what would keep me warm in the wintertime? I am thankful for God because if God was not here we would not be here. I am thankful for the janitors at our school because if we didn’t have janitors our school would be a mess! I am thankful for my family because if I didn’t have a family, who would care for me?
Avery Kildow, age 8, daughter of Jeff and Kim Kildow
I am thankful for lots of things. The first thing I’m thankful for is my family. I am thankful for them because if I didn’t have my family, I wouldn’t be writing this note right now. I’m also thankful for freedom because if we didn’t have freedom I probably wouldn’t live where I live or go to school or have my friends Nicole, Avery, Shae, Sarah or Megan. I am thankful for the wars that keep the U.S.A. safe and also if there weren’t a war, nobody would be safe.
Elisabeth Brown, age 8, daughter of Jill and Travis Brown.
I’m thankful for many things. I’m thankful for air. If we didn’t have air we wouldn’t be able to breathe, and if we couldn’t breathe, then we wouldn’t be alive. I’m thankful for school because if we didn’t have school, then we wouldn’t be reading, writing, or adding. I’m thankful for food and water because without them, we would die of thirst and starvation. I’m thankful for my house because I don’t want to live outside.
Nicole Barker, age 8, daughter of Stephanie and Cory Barker
Obviously, I have many things to be thankful for. For example, I’m thankful for my fluffy, yellow and orange tabby cat, Jingles. I have good reasons to be thankful for Jing, and, (O.K. this is embarrassing…) Jing helps me feel…. Well, one more step away from nightmares! Ahhhhhhhh! I’m also thankful for clothes. Well, I’d wear any clothes, but I need fashion! If there were no fashion, I’d be dressed up like Cinderella before she married the prince! I’m thankful for books, too. I’m especially fond of the Laura Ingalls Wilder books, a series of books called “Animal Ark,” and the American Girl books. I really, really love my dad, Neil, and my mom, Stacy, my sister, Lindsey and my brothers, Sammy and Ryan. I love them with all my heart. I love God, too!
Megan Baker, age 8, daughter of Neil and Stacy Baker
I’m thankful for my mom and my dad. My dad has been gone for a long time in the Army, but now he is home! When he is home, we play games like soccer, football, basketball and Nerf tag. I’m thankful for my teacher Mrs. Shaw too. She is helping me learn and she is one good teacher to have!
Cole Kramer, age 8, son of Kimi and Wyatt Kramer
I’m thankful for many things like freedom. Freedom is a good thing to have because I get to worship wherever I want to. I’m thankful for my family. Families are a fantastic thing to have. I’m also proud of my friends because friends are good people to be proud of. I’m thankful for food. Food is a very, very, very, very fantastic thing to have. I’m also thankful for teachers, classmates, desks, books, pencils, stuff and clothes. I am thankful for a buncha stuff! I’m thankful for Thanksgiving. I don’t know why, but Thanksgiving is a very, very, very, very special holiday to me.
Kaitlin Mohrman, age 8, daughter of Shannon and Ryan Mohrman
I am thankful for my home, my family and friends, food, joy, love, faith and people. I am thankful for my home because my home keeps me warm and safe from the animals. I am thankful for my family and friends because it is nice to have family and friends and they are thankful for me too. Another thing I am thankful for is food like pizza and ice cream. Food is good because you wouldn’t live without food. That is why I like food. I am very, very thankful for joy because it is what makes you happy! Something else I’m thankful for is love. My family gives me lots of love. Love is very special to me. The last thing I am thankful for is people. People are very special in my life. That is what I am thankful for.
Shae Belford, age 8,
daughter of Casey and Robert Belford
I am thankful for many things. First, I’m thankful for my dad. My dad is a very hard-working man! The reason why I’m thankful for my dad is because he says no matter what happens to him, he will always love me and keep me safe! His name is Michael Huff. He lives in Kimball. Next, I’m thankful for my mom. My mom is going to college in Scottsbluff. The reason I’m thankful for my mom is because she is a very protective mother! One time, me and my brother were playing and she told us there was a bad guy outside! My mom’s name is Rebecca Huff and she lives in Bayard. The third thing I’m thankful for is my little brother, Hayden. He’s just a regular kid like me. I’m thankful for him because he won’t let anyone hurt me. He lives in Bayard, too. The last thing I’m thankful for is water. If we didn’t have water, we would be very, very, very, very, very, stinky!
Tori Huff, age 9,
daughter of Rebecca and Michael Huff
I’m thankful for many things. I’m thankful for freedom because I want to worship who I want to, and live where I want to live and go to school where I want to go. I’m also thankful that I can have my own opinion about anything. That way I don’t have to vote for someone I don’t like to be elected. I’m also thankful for our troops that protect our country so we can have freedom. I’m also thankful that I can choose what job I want to do when I grow up. I’m thankful for electricity so I can watch T.V. and see with the lights on so I can see where I’m going. Another thing I’m thankful for is for God. I’m thankful for him because he helps me work through my challenges through life. I am also thankful that I can go wherever I want to go in the United States of America or in the world. Finally, the last and most important thing I’m thankful for is the President of the United States because he (or maybe someday she) will do a good job for the country!
Bryce Burry, age 9, son of Brent and Kim Burry
The things I am thankful for are my teachers that I had and have right now. Mrs. Langhofer was my preschool teacher, Mrs. Johns was my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Gregory was my first grade teacher and Mrs. Shaw is my third grade teacher. I’m guessing you are wondering why my second grade teacher isn’t listed. It’s because I was not in second grade. I am thankful for my mom, dad, sister and my brother. They really come in handy! I am glad that I have friends to play with at school. I’m also glad that I have freedom and I am glad that I have the right to go to church because I don’t want to be ruled by other people. I also am thankful for is my country, the U.S.A. Because if we didn’t win the War of 1812, we could be in trouble! The last thing I am thankful for is my pets. When I am sad, I go out and play with them.
Sarah Reish, age 8, daughter or Elliot and Shawna Reish
What am I
thankful for?
In our world, many folks do nothing but complain. But take a close look and see the simple things in life, the things that make should make us a truly thankful people. What am I thankful for? God has blessed me in so many ways.
First and foremost, I’m thankful for my God, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for without Him, I would be nothing. He is “The way, the truth and the life.”
I’m thankful for my beautiful wife, Carissa, and my two beautiful daughters, Brittany and Natasha. I could not ask for a more Christ-like wife and my daughters are not only the “apples of my eye” but are truly the most precious daughters any daddy could ask for.
My parents, sister and her family, in-laws and extended family, as the years go by, you realize how important the love of a family really is.
I’m truly thankful to live in America and for those that have fought for its freedom. No doubt, our country is in turmoil. But we still live in the land of the free and the home of the brave. We still have the freedom to worship God. We may disagree with our leaders, but we still have the opportunity to rise up and defend our rights. We still have the right to pray and we must pray that our leaders will allow God to work in their lives and decisions.
I’m thankful for my church family at First Baptist. They are a rock. Their prayers, support and love for Jesus is amazing.
I’m thankful for my job at RWMC. The opportunity to go to work everyday and make a living is taken for granted by so many.
This is my simple “Thanksgiving letter.” I close with Phillipians 4:6, “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with Thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”
Thank God, He provides everything we need. Be truly thankful this season!
Chris Smith
Scottsbluff
What am I
thankful for?
We should be so very thankful for our family and our health, which are a true blessing from God. We are often so busy to make ends meet and getting our children where they need to be, that we do not relish our many blessings.
When I was fifteen, I lost my mother and two sisters in a car accident. My sisters were only twelve and nineteen. My faith in the Lord was shaken but grew through this tragic loss. I lost my younger brother just a few years later. I wish I could have told them that I loved them and hugged them one last time. We need to be thankful for our loved ones and tell them always of our love for them because we have no idea when the Lord will call us home. I would like to thank my family for all your love and support while I battle this rare bone disease. I pray constantly for the ability to walk again and for my pain to heal. I am saddened yet grateful for the donor who lost his or her life and provided donor bone for myself and provided organs for the other recipients. The family is always in my prayers.
We have had a wonderful blessing recently in my neighborhood, Ashytn Schwartz is responding well to treatment for leukemia. Please continue to pray for her and all of those in need.
I would like to thank all of those brave men and women who protect our country, God Bless You.
Kathy Walker
Gering
What am I
thankful for?
I am a naturalized citizen, a war bride coming from a war ravaged country from World War II. What a blessing to live in this country and raise my family, this I’m thankful for.
Cancer, a nasty word. I’ve lost my husband five years ago. My daughter is a cancer breast survivor; a grandson to leukemia 12 years ago is doing well, a junior at Wesleyan University and this year a son recuperating from pancreatic cancer, thanks to modern technologies and doctor’s expertise. Cancer has made me very emphatic, especially toward chronic or special needs.
With my faith and hope, I believe in the power of prayer, even the miracles of healing and life. I am so grateful for all the prayers, concern, support, caring encouragements that friends, neighbors, church communities from all over the state, the Prayer Chain Network. I, too, offer my prayers, give hope to those experiencing traumatic time.
My blessings are countless. The gift of life, I have food, a warm home, loving and caring family, caring church community, these my precious treasures and blessings I’m thankful for.
Tonie Watson
Bridgeport
This Thanksgiving, I have several things to be thankful for.
The number one is for the Lord Jesus, for dying on the cross for our sins and rose from the dead and living forever. My hope and faith is in Him. I know I will have eternal life with my Lord and Savior when my life has ended on earth.
I thank the Lord, for a caring-loving family, who is always there when I need them.
I am thankful for Chimney Rock Villa at Bayard, where I have been a resident over seven years.
I was born with Spastic Cerebral Palsy. It has effected my walking, speech and coordination. I will be 60 years old in January.
The staff at Chimney Rock Villa is very kind and caring to me. Most of them can understand when I talk to them. They might not understand me the first time, but I will say it over until they know what I am saying. I appreciate their patience with me. Some of them will visit with me if they have time, and I enjoy visiting with them.
I have a couple dear friends who are residents at the villa also. We sit at the same table at meal times. Sharon and Toni and myself have lots of fun. We talk, laugh, share with each other and pray together. I feel so fortunate to have these two ladies as my friends. I know the Lord Jesus sent them here for me.
Before I always lived on a farm near Minatare with my parents and sister, until my sister had her own place and family. My mom died 13 years ago, the end of December, from cancer. I live with my dad over five years until I need more help.
I have received many nice letters from people who had read my book, and how much it has encouraged and blessed them. I just praise the Lord Jesus for this. It blesses me knowing I am helping others through my book.
I am so glad I had sent a copy of my book to my former teacher and he got to read it, before he die a couple months ago. I had received a nice letter from his wife, telling me how much he likes it and telling me thanks for writing so many nice things about him.
Since I came to the villa, I been writing my little thoughts that the Lord Jesus has given me to write in my church bulletins (Hope Congregational Church), which is called Marsha’s Corner. My pastor tells me how much the people like reading them each week. I am blessed I can do this with the Lord’s help.
I have been writing the news of the villa to put in the Bayard Paper ever other week. What we do at the villa and all the activities we have.
The Lord Jesus has really used me and blessed me in so many ways.
Marsha Faye Schmall
Bayard
What am I
thankful for?
Every Friday evening, from 8 to 9 p.m., I watch a short story on my Mexican channel. It’s about different families that are struggling for some reason or another. Throughout the program, they always ask Our Lady of Guadalupe for help. It always has a beautiful ending, and out of nowhere, there is always a beautiful white rose that appears in front of the picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s picture.
Something similar happened to me and that is why I’m writing this letter to you.
For the last three months, my car has been in badly need for repairs, but I kept putting it off and praying that it would get me through another day. Finally, it gave out. I was able to get it to an auto shop about three blocks from my house. They said they would call and let me know what was wrong and quote me a price of the cost. I was waiting for the worst because it’s a 1976 Buick, and that afternoon I got the call I was waiting for. It shook me a little but I told them to go ahead and fix it, that my son, Edward from Kimball, would help me with the expense.
That night, I prayed to Our Lady of Guadalupe and asked her to help me.
The next day, I decided I didn’t want to put that kind of financial burden on my son, so I walked a mile, even though the air was a little nippy, to my bank. I asked for the loan manager and spoke with him. He told me they didn’t make loans on cars that old, and I panicked. I prayed in silence and asked for my Lady’s help. He said they would carry it as a personal loan, because I had been a faithful customer for many years. He had me sign some papers and said the check would be ready at 2 p.m., the next day. I was so excited I don’t even remember walking home. That night, I thanked Our Blessed Lady of Guadalupe for helping me.
The next day, I got a call from the auto shop at 11 a.m., telling me my car was ready. At 2 p.m., I got a call from the bank telling me the check was ready. A worker from the auto shop gave me a ride to the bank, and I brought the check for $1,500 and gave it to them. In return, they gave me the keys to my car and a beautiful thank you. I walked to my car and opened the door and across the seat lay a beautiful white rose. Needless to say, I was crying like a baby. I knew then I hadn’t gotten through this above Our Beautiful Lady of Guadalupe had been beside me all the way. As soon as I got home, I put the rose in a beautiful vase and placed it on my altar. I knelt and thanked Her for helping me when I was so desperately in need of help.
Later, I asked the mechanics how the rose got in my car. He told me they always give a rose to special customers.
In my heart, I will always know my Blessed Mother of Guadalupe was close by.
Violet Avila
Scottsbluff
What am I
thankful for?
In early 1944, my then fiancé (Sam) and three of his friends received notices that they were to be shipped off to war shortly. As they were visiting and contemplating what the future may hold for them, they made a pact that if they all came back they would get together for a drink to celebrate. They sealed their pact by signing their names on a dollar bill. They tore the bill in half and Sam took one half and another friend the other half. Sam still carries his half where it has been for the past 64 years. All four came home with lots of experiences to share. One was shot while in Germany, engaged in fierce battle, and he lost the use of his arm for the rest of his life. About a month ago, we attended his funeral. He was the third of the four to die, and now my husband is the last one left.
They never did get together for that drink to celebrate, but very often on Sunday morning, when we get home from church, we open a bottle of wine, a box of crackers and a block of cheese and toast the past, our old friends and also our future, whatever it may hold.
As the years pass swiftly, I am grateful to have my favorite veteran to share the rest of my days with.
Irene Kraus
Morrill
What am I
thankful for?
Laura Kelley’s third-grade class from Bayard Elementary:
I am thankful for the Bayard Fire Department because they save us from fire so we won’t die from smoke and they teach us safety. They are volunteers, and they come to our school in October for Fire Prevention Week. I am thankful for my mom and dad because they sometimes help me with my homework. If my mom does not know it, she makes me go ask my dad. If my dad is asleep, then I don’t know what to do. I am thankful for the flowers we grow in our garden at home and in my grandma’s garden during the summer time. It takes the whole summer for them to grow.
Taya Autry, age 9, daughter of Amber
Jackson and Fred Cruz
I am thankful for my parents because every year they tell me to try my best in school. Math, social studies, science, AR, D.O.L. acrostic poems, Math Minutes, and spelling tests are some of them. The janitors, teachers — Kindergarten-6 are the ones who keep the school working. I’m also thankful for the Army because they give us freedom. We get to say a speech whenever we want, freedom of religion and freedom from segregation. They gave it all to us and some gave up their lives just for us. Finally, I am thankful for trees because they give us paper, air, lumber and wood. We need all of this. It’s all important, and if we didn’t have that, we wouldn’t be here probably. Bees are also important because they spread pollen.
Samantha Trevino, age 9, daughter of Ricardo and Gracie Trevino
I am thankful for love. My mom and dad love me soooooooooo very much! Mom and Dad provide me with shelter, food and water. I love my pets, too. I am thankful for trees. They give me air. They give me lumber for building houses. Certain trees give me nuts, bananas, peaches, apples and coconuts. I am also thankful for the Army. They protect us against intruders.
Colin Hendrickson, age 9, son of Amy Dalbey and Nick Hendrickson
I am thankful for the Army because they fight for our freedom. I am thankful for schools because they help us learn and read. Also, so we get smarter. I am also thankful for flowers because it helps bees find their food. I am thankful for honey to put on celery.
Connor Muhr, age 8, son of Brian Muhr
I am thankful for trees. We would not be alive if we didn’t have trees. I am thankful for trees because we need air, and I need paper for writing. The Navy gives us freedom and also saves America. The ships in the ocean are fighting for our world’s peace. Freedom is for us, our country and others.
Cody Miller, age 9, son of Louie and Amanda Miller
I am thankful for the Army because if it wasn’t for the Army, I would not be here. My mom is white and my dad is black. Back then, black and white people could not see each other. The government made it a law that it is illegal to segregate. I am thankful for the government and Army. I am also thankful for my family because my mom and dad provide me with food, shelter, my brother and sister 24/7. I am thankful for schools. They teach me spelling and how to read. My favorite subject is math. School is also where I make friends. Last, I am thankful for the world. It is where I live and play. I like our world.
Risaiah Anderson, age 9, son of Roxanne Anderson
I am thankful for Moms, Dads and family. I am thankful for family because they provide food, clothes, houses, and health, and much more. They’ve given me a school to learn at. I’m thankful that my mom and dad push me right back up when I’m having troubles in school subjects. My favorite subjects in school are art, math, science, English and writing. I’m thankful for my mom and dad because we do lots together. We have fun and we learn. That’s what I love about my mom and dad. I’m thankful for love around the world. I love my pets, family and reading. I have fun with my cat and dog. My dog always wants to have fun. When we’re done, my dog lays on my lap. My cat lays by me and I pet them both. I also have fun with my family. When the electricity goes out, we play card games and board games. Everyone in my family loves to read, especially my sister, Lauren. When we have time, we read. We read lots. We read funny books; scary and serious. I’m thankful for Jesus. He provides all that I have such as school, love, trees, nurses, glasses, houses, clothing, stores, freedom, military, holidays, farmers and ranchers. I love them all. Jesus does, too. They help us very much. So, I am thankful for them.
Shaley Petersen, age 8, daughter of Travis and Karen Petersen
I’m thankful for my mom and dad because they raised me as a smart student and child. They have taught me to be nice to my sisters and even though I don’t have a baby brother, to be nice to every child. They have also taught me to not do drugs when I grow up. I am also thankful for freedom and clothing and a house. I am thankful that I am Mexican, and I have many friends. I’m thankful for my education at Bayard Elementary School. I am thankful for anybody who works at the fire department. Without them, we would have been unsafe. I am thankful for my grandma because she is nice to all of us. I’m thankful that my aunt could feed all the animals at her house. Also, for all the holidays, like Christmas. That is my favorite holiday.
Migdahi Garcia, age 9, daughter of Gaspar and Maricela Garcia
I am thankful for school because they help us learn math, science, social studies and how to read. I am thankful for teachers, P.E. teachers, cooks and music teachers. I am thankful for stores because they give us food such as water, milk, cheese, meat and cereal. Plus, they give us shirts, pants and sweaters. I am thankful for trees because they give us air to breathe, paper to draw and write on, and we can climb them, and make things out of them. I am thankful for glasses because they help me see better. I am thankful for optometrist because they check my eyes to see if I need glasses. I am thankful for the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard because they save our country from the inside out.
Jordan Hofmann, age 9, son of Greg Kawaguchi and Shannon Hofmann
I am thankful for Red Ribbon Week because everyone teaches us that smoking is bad for you. Also, during this week, we can dress up like clowns. I am also thankful that I have a family. They care for me, and if I get hurt, they might help me. I just think that it was nice of God to give me a family. I’m thankful for friends because they are nice to me. One of my friends is Shaley. We have been friends since we were three.
Jaicee D. White, daughter of James and Tressa White
I am thankful for the fire station because they put out fires fast and save people’s lives. I am also thankful for trees because they give us air, lumber, paper and some trees have maple syrup. I am also thankful for the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard and the National Guard. They all keep the world safe and they are really strong.
Devin Bell, age 8, son of Nikki Juzenas
I am thankful for my dad because his farm grows the vegetables, corn, beets and alfalfa that our cows need. He also grows some other plants. It is fun to help him plant. I like to water the corn so we can have sweet corn to eat. I am thankful for shelter. It protects me from danger, keeps me warm and cool, it has furniture and electricity. Our roof keeps me safe from lightning, thunderstorms and tornados. I feel happy with our home. I am also thankful for the love my family gives me and takes care of me. I love them back so much. We sometimes play games together. They also teach me not to talk to strangers or play with matches from a lit candle.
Krissa Martinez, age 9, daughter of Jorge Mayra Martinez.
I am thankful for my family, books, the cooks, friends, and education. I am also thankful for my shirts, pants , sweaters, and jackets.
Zackary Greever, age 8, son of Stephanie Greever.
I am thankful for books. I love to read! I blame books for getting me in the spelling bee. That is two of the reasons why I love the book fair. The way I spell is probably different from your way. The way I spell is that I write the word the way I think it should be. If it does not look right, I think about it. Then I change it, and if it looks right, I leave it the way it is. I will be reading fiction books most of the time. I am thankful for shelter. Without shelter, I would probably go mad. I am not much of a wilderness kind of a guy! So, I am very thankful for shelter. Without shelter, I would have nowhere to read. I am thankful for clothes! No clothes means…ew, never mind. I can’t look at the thought. It’s too ugly. Well, it would be very, very cold. It is cold in some places even with coats. I had three different coats on this morning, and it was still cold.
Colt Edmunds, age 8, son of Charles and
Barbara Edmunds
I am thankful for my family. They love me even though my dad is in Iraq. Sometimes he sends my mom, my brothers, and me videos. He might come home at the end of January. I feel happy because when he comes home, we will ride on his back like bull riding! I am thankful for trees because trees make paper so we can write on the paper and trees make air so we can breathe in oxygen. Also, trees produce apples, oranges and bananas. Trees also grow flowers. I’m thankful for love. My family loves me, my dog loves me, and I love my dog, Godzilla. I also love my mom, my brothers and my cousins.
Savannah Anderson, age 8, daughter of Dave and Elisa Geisler
What am I
thankful for?
My classroom at Bayard Elementary is overflowing with thankfulness!
Angie Shaw, Bayard
Elementary Third Grade
There are many things I am thankful for. The first one is I love the freedom we have as Americans. I honor the armed forces because if we didn’t have freedom, we wouldn’t have the lives we have now. The second thing is we can go anywhere we want to. People in other countries have to go certain places at certain times. Here, we can make our own choices. We can go to the church we want to go to, we can drive the car we want to drive, and we go to what school we want to. In our thoughts, we can make it happen. We also can have what we want to eat and we can choose where we want to eat. I am thankful that we can do all this as Americans.
Mitch McKibbin, age 9, son of Randy and Micki McKibbin
I am thankful for freedom. Without freedom we would be slaves. Without freedom we would be treated badly. Next, I am thankful for peace. Without peace in the world, there would be fire, explosions and violence. That would be terrible! Another thing I am thankful for is my family. Without my family, I would not be anything. Without my family, I would not be alive. I’m also thankful for school. Without school, we would all be dumb. We wouldn’t know how to read or write. The last thing I’m thankful for is the world. The world has bad things and good things. The world is the best thing that has happened to us.
Alex Araujo, age 9, son of Jenifer Araujo
I am thankful for my family finally being together. I am thankful for love because I love my family. My family is beautiful. I am thankful for my community because I love my community. I am thankful for the cops we have in Bayard because the cops here are nice. I am thankful for my teacher, Mrs. Shaw, because she helps me with a lot of stuff. I am thankful for Forrest Sterzer because he is a great friend. I am thankful for everybody in my class because they’re so nice. I am thankful for the world because the world is important.
Carson Dally, age 8, son of Bernadette and Lucas Dally
I’m thankful for air, freedom, shelter, water and food because without these, we would all die. I’m thankful for my parents, my brother, my family and my friends. More things I’m thankful for are hands, feet, arms and legs. Without these things, we could not move or eat and we would die. Oh yeah, I’m thankful for the whole world. Without the world, we wouldn’t be created.
Forrest Sterzer, age 8, son of Nathan and Andrea Sterzer.
I have a lot of things I am thankful for. The first thing is air. I am thankful for air because if we didn’t have air, we would die. I’m thankful for food because if I didn’t have food, then what would I eat? I am thankful for my home because if I didn’t have a home where would I live? I am thankful for freedom because if we didn’t have freedom we would all be slaves. I am thankful for clothes because if I didn’t have clothes, what would keep me warm in the wintertime? I am thankful for God because if God was not here we would not be here. I am thankful for the janitors at our school because if we didn’t have janitors our school would be a mess! I am thankful for my family because if I didn’t have a family, who would care for me?
Avery Kildow, age 8, daughter of Jeff and Kim Kildow
I am thankful for lots of things. The first thing I’m thankful for is my family. I am thankful for them because if I didn’t have my family, I wouldn’t be writing this note right now. I’m also thankful for freedom because if we didn’t have freedom I probably wouldn’t live where I live or go to school or have my friends Nicole, Avery, Shae, Sarah or Megan. I am thankful for the wars that keep the U.S.A. safe and also if there weren’t a war, nobody would be safe.
Elisabeth Brown, age 8, daughter of Jill and Travis Brown.
I’m thankful for many things. I’m thankful for air. If we didn’t have air we wouldn’t be able to breathe, and if we couldn’t breathe, then we wouldn’t be alive. I’m thankful for school because if we didn’t have school, then we wouldn’t be reading, writing, or adding. I’m thankful for food and water because without them, we would die of thirst and starvation. I’m thankful for my house because I don’t want to live outside.
Nicole Barker, age 8, daughter of Stephanie and Cory Barker
Obviously, I have many things to be thankful for. For example, I’m thankful for my fluffy, yellow and orange tabby cat, Jingles. I have good reasons to be thankful for Jing, and, (O.K. this is embarrassing…) Jing helps me feel…. Well, one more step away from nightmares! Ahhhhhhhh! I’m also thankful for clothes. Well, I’d wear any clothes, but I need fashion! If there were no fashion, I’d be dressed up like Cinderella before she married the prince! I’m thankful for books, too. I’m especially fond of the Laura Ingalls Wilder books, a series of books called “Animal Ark,” and the American Girl books. I really, really love my dad, Neil, and my mom, Stacy, my sister, Lindsey and my brothers, Sammy and Ryan. I love them with all my heart. I love God, too!
Megan Baker, age 8, daughter of Neil and Stacy Baker
I’m thankful for my mom and my dad. My dad has been gone for a long time in the Army, but now he is home! When he is home, we play games like soccer, football, basketball and Nerf tag. I’m thankful for my teacher Mrs. Shaw too. She is helping me learn and she is one good teacher to have!
Cole Kramer, age 8, son of Kimi and Wyatt Kramer
I’m thankful for many things like freedom. Freedom is a good thing to have because I get to worship wherever I want to. I’m thankful for my family. Families are a fantastic thing to have. I’m also proud of my friends because friends are good people to be proud of. I’m thankful for food. Food is a very, very, very, very fantastic thing to have. I’m also thankful for teachers, classmates, desks, books, pencils, stuff and clothes. I am thankful for a buncha stuff! I’m thankful for Thanksgiving. I don’t know why, but Thanksgiving is a very, very, very, very special holiday to me.
Kaitlin Mohrman, age 8, daughter of Shannon and Ryan Mohrman
I am thankful for my home, my family and friends, food, joy, love, faith and people. I am thankful for my home because my home keeps me warm and safe from the animals. I am thankful for my family and friends because it is nice to have family and friends and they are thankful for me too. Another thing I am thankful for is food like pizza and ice cream. Food is good because you wouldn’t live without food. That is why I like food. I am very, very thankful for joy because it is what makes you happy! Something else I’m thankful for is love. My family gives me lots of love. Love is very special to me. The last thing I am thankful for is people. People are very special in my life. That is what I am thankful for.
Shae Belford, age 8,
daughter of Casey and Robert Belford
I am thankful for many things. First, I’m thankful for my dad. My dad is a very hard-working man! The reason why I’m thankful for my dad is because he says no matter what happens to him, he will always love me and keep me safe! His name is Michael Huff. He lives in Kimball. Next, I’m thankful for my mom. My mom is going to college in Scottsbluff. The reason I’m thankful for my mom is because she is a very protective mother! One time, me and my brother were playing and she told us there was a bad guy outside! My mom’s name is Rebecca Huff and she lives in Bayard. The third thing I’m thankful for is my little brother, Hayden. He’s just a regular kid like me. I’m thankful for him because he won’t let anyone hurt me. He lives in Bayard, too. The last thing I’m thankful for is water. If we didn’t have water, we would be very, very, very, very, very, stinky!
Tori Huff, age 9,
daughter of Rebecca and Michael Huff
I’m thankful for many things. I’m thankful for freedom because I want to worship who I want to, and live where I want to live and go to school where I want to go. I’m also thankful that I can have my own opinion about anything. That way I don’t have to vote for someone I don’t like to be elected. I’m also thankful for our troops that protect our country so we can have freedom. I’m also thankful that I can choose what job I want to do when I grow up. I’m thankful for electricity so I can watch T.V. and see with the lights on so I can see where I’m going. Another thing I’m thankful for is for God. I’m thankful for him because he helps me work through my challenges through life. I am also thankful that I can go wherever I want to go in the United States of America or in the world. Finally, the last and most important thing I’m thankful for is the President of the United States because he (or maybe someday she) will do a good job for the country!
Bryce Burry, age 9, son of Brent and Kim Burry
The things I am thankful for are my teachers that I had and have right now. Mrs. Langhofer was my preschool teacher, Mrs. Johns was my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Gregory was my first grade teacher and Mrs. Shaw is my third grade teacher. I’m guessing you are wondering why my second grade teacher isn’t listed. It’s because I was not in second grade. I am thankful for my mom, dad, sister and my brother. They really come in handy! I am glad that I have friends to play with at school. I’m also glad that I have freedom and I am glad that I have the right to go to church because I don’t want to be ruled by other people. I also am thankful for is my country, the U.S.A. Because if we didn’t win the War of 1812, we could be in trouble! The last thing I am thankful for is my pets. When I am sad, I go out and play with them.
Sarah Reish, age 8, daughter or Elliot and Shawna Reish
What am I
thankful for?
In our world, many folks do nothing but complain. But take a close look and see the simple things in life, the things that make should make us a truly thankful people. What am I thankful for? God has blessed me in so many ways.
First and foremost, I’m thankful for my God, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for without Him, I would be nothing. He is “The way, the truth and the life.”
I’m thankful for my beautiful wife, Carissa, and my two beautiful daughters, Brittany and Natasha. I could not ask for a more Christ-like wife and my daughters are not only the “apples of my eye” but are truly the most precious daughters any daddy could ask for.
My parents, sister and her family, in-laws and extended family, as the years go by, you realize how important the love of a family really is.
I’m truly thankful to live in America and for those that have fought for its freedom. No doubt, our country is in turmoil. But we still live in the land of the free and the home of the brave. We still have the freedom to worship God. We may disagree with our leaders, but we still have the opportunity to rise up and defend our rights. We still have the right to pray and we must pray that our leaders will allow God to work in their lives and decisions.
I’m thankful for my church family at First Baptist. They are a rock. Their prayers, support and love for Jesus is amazing.
I’m thankful for my job at RWMC. The opportunity to go to work everyday and make a living is taken for granted by so many.
This is my simple “Thanksgiving letter.” I close with Phillipians 4:6, “Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with Thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”
Thank God, He provides everything we need. Be truly thankful this season!
Chris Smith
Scottsbluff
What am I
thankful for?
We should be so very thankful for our family and our health, which are a true blessing from God. We are often so busy to make ends meet and getting our children where they need to be, that we do not relish our many blessings.
When I was fifteen, I lost my mother and two sisters in a car accident. My sisters were only twelve and nineteen. My faith in the Lord was shaken but grew through this tragic loss. I lost my younger brother just a few years later. I wish I could have told them that I loved them and hugged them one last time. We need to be thankful for our loved ones and tell them always of our love for them because we have no idea when the Lord will call us home. I would like to thank my family for all your love and support while I battle this rare bone disease. I pray constantly for the ability to walk again and for my pain to heal. I am saddened yet grateful for the donor who lost his or her life and provided donor bone for myself and provided organs for the other recipients. The family is always in my prayers.
We have had a wonderful blessing recently in my neighborhood, Ashytn Schwartz is responding well to treatment for leukemia. Please continue to pray for her and all of those in need.
I would like to thank all of those brave men and women who protect our country, God Bless You.
Kathy Walker
Gering
What am I
thankful for?
I am a naturalized citizen, a war bride coming from a war ravaged country from World War II. What a blessing to live in this country and raise my family, this I’m thankful for.
Cancer, a nasty word. I’ve lost my husband five years ago. My daughter is a cancer breast survivor; a grandson to leukemia 12 years ago is doing well, a junior at Wesleyan University and this year a son recuperating from pancreatic cancer, thanks to modern technologies and doctor’s expertise. Cancer has made me very emphatic, especially toward chronic or special needs.
With my faith and hope, I believe in the power of prayer, even the miracles of healing and life. I am so grateful for all the prayers, concern, support, caring encouragements that friends, neighbors, church communities from all over the state, the Prayer Chain Network. I, too, offer my prayers, give hope to those experiencing traumatic time.
My blessings are countless. The gift of life, I have food, a warm home, loving and caring family, caring church community, these my precious treasures and blessings I’m thankful for.
Tonie Watson
Bridgeport
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| ’Tis the season for holiday parades | Bayard Elementary children find plenty to be thankful about |
