Sally's Site - Message Archive 2007

Fragrance of Life

Message Archive 2007

Message 1 - Dave Bristol

Merry Christmas Sally, Andy and Shannon.

21 December 200706:14 - GR

Message 2 - Deb Vollink

Wanted to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas. I hope and pray that you will get good news when you go to Mayo. May God truely bless you.

18 December 200710:32 - Zeeland

Message 3 - Rich Olsen

Happy Holidays!!! Best wishes to yourself, Andy and Shannon.

3 December 200710:59 - Lake Geneva

Message 4 - Elaine Van Dyke

Hi Sally.
I just wanted to wish you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving. A sermon message I heard recently said "in stressful times it is best to count our blessings not our sorrows". I am always amazed at your ability to do this! Thinking of you and lifting you up in prayer!
Elaine

21 November 200706:48 - Coopersville

Message 5 - David Daniel

I'm so glad to hear about your trip south. You are an inspiration to more than you have any idea. Keep it going!!!

15 November 200713:25

Message 6 - Mary DeVries

Sally,
I’m always inspired by your notes and updates. Thank you so much for sharing. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving! Our prayers continue to flow for you and your family.
God Bless,

Mary DeVries

14 November 200708:09 - Macatawa, Michigan

Message 7 - Kim Russo

Hi Sally We miss seeing you at football. I've been thinking about you ever since the football party. You have such a postive attitude and smiles are the best medicine!

9 November 200721:37 - Kentwood

Message 8 - cyndi christian

Hi Sally, I have been thinking about you every day. Hope things are going well. I think you have been in Florida. I miss seeing you at football. I think I am going through football withdraw.

2 November 200709:50

Message 9 - Mike Ferguson

What else can be said about SUPER WOMEN! Sally, you are a inspiration to all of us! I miss that smiling face in the halls of Spartan Stores. Best to you and your family.

23 October 200711:23

Message 10 - Brenda Fritts

Hey women , Glad to here the good up date at mayo.Everytime I read your notes I can't but think about how peddy I can be about lifes LITTLE problems,and how we all can sweat the small stuff in life when all that really matters is God, heath and family. love you Bren

12 October 200706:48

Message 11 - Rog & Irene Riemersma

Hi Sally.
I finally got your address from Mary Beth Beute, formally from spartan. so glad to hear your last report from Mayo. God does answer prayer. Nice to see and talk to you at your dads viewing. Sorry it was done under such circumstances. Your dad and I had some great times at Seyfert. Those are some good memories. Good luck on the 24th of Sept. You will be in our prayers. And by the way, your Mom is right. The other team does deserve to score once in a while.

22 September 200715:33 - Byron Center Mi

Message 12 - Rog & Irene Riemersma

22 September 200715:33 - Byron Center Mi

Message 13 - Michelle Stewart

Hi Sal,
I'm very sorry to here about your dad passing. I just found out. I just want you to know that you and your family are in my prayers (ALWAYS). It's cool seeing pictures and hearing stories about Shannon. He's taking right after his mom and dad. I hope your appointment at mayo's goes good for you. Take care and keep smiling. I miss you.
Love Ya,
Michelle

12 September 200709:48 - Grant, MI

Message 14 - dick and jeanne schroeder

Sally,
jeanne and I are going to be in GR October 2, 3rd and 4th. Let me know if lunch one of those days would work for you or simply stopping by the house. i will also email Andy at work.
I'm really sorry to hear about your father, he was a joy to be around. I always admired him. He was a first class guy.

11 September 200716:37 - The y'all State of Texas

Message 15 - Larry & Pam (Conrad) Thomas

We are so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. May it comfort you to know that others are thinking of you at this difficult time, with deepest sympathy.

29 August 200709:46

Message 16 - Beth Nickerson

Hello Sally,
I just heard about your dad's passing. I am so sorry. You and your family are in my prayers.
Beth

27 August 200710:40 - Wayland, MI.

Message 17 - David Daniel

Our prayers continue for you and also your dad. I'm glad you are going back to work and please share that positive attitude you continue to have! I feel you will get some really positive results when you go back to Mayo - you certainly deserve it! Sally, you continue to be an inspiration to more people than you know.

22 August 200706:40

Message 18 - Jim Swoboda

Sally,

You and your family remain in our prayers. You update is simply inspiring. Shannon is so put together for his age, that is clearly a testament to you and Andy and your incredible outlook on life.

The words from the card are so on target. There are miracles everywhere we look if we chose to see them. You are one for sure.

Keep the faith strong. Keep being the person you are. The world is a better place because you are in it.

Oh, by the way, DON'T WORK TO HARD!!!!!

Jim

21 August 200710:11 - Kentwood

Message 19 - Joy Johnson

Hi Sally,

Our prayer chain keeps your whole family in their daily prayers. Our church has a prayer shawl ministry also and I passed on your comments to the group so they can realize what comfort this small act gives those who are going through such tough times with such grace and hope. We also keep you and your whole family in our prayers.
God Bless.JOY

7 August 200710:02 - Hudsonville, MI

Message 20 - Pris

Sally,
I just got back from vacation and wanted you to know that I was thinking about you, I will be praying for your Dad. glad to hear that your sister is home and doing well. I was so glad to read your last update . Praying this last procedure will also bring Good results. I feel it. Praying to God everyday for his miracles for you and baby Cameron.

Love You.

6 August 200710:14

Message 21 - Cheryl Clements

Sally - my heart goes out to you. I'm saying many prayers for your Dad. With the grace of God, may your Dad be healed and be able to once again give you a big hug and say "I love you!". I'm praying for your Mom, sister and all your family. God bless each and every one.

6 August 200708:24 - Spartan Stores

Message 22 - David Daniel

Sally, I will keep your dad in my prayers - you are such a strong person and it takes so much for you to be going through all this. Keep that Great attitude and know that there are so many of us supporting you!

6 August 200708:31

Message 23 - Pat Quinn

Hi Sally:
I remember your father well. Don is a great guy and I have many fond memories of times together in D&W days. He will be in my prayers for peace, comfort and healiing. As will you and your whole family during these challenging times.

Peace, Pat

6 August 200708:24 - Grand Rapids, MI

Message 24 - Elaine

Sally, so sorry to hear about your Dad. We will all have to step up our prayers for your family, and believe that God has it all figured out for us. May God bless you and keep you!
Elaine

6 August 200707:23 - Coopersville

Message 25 - Rose

Sally - know your entire family circle is in our thoughts and prayers today!

3 August 200709:09 - Grandville

Message 26 - Bryan and Linda

Nothing special, just wanted to say that we love you.

27 July 200714:24 - Hastings, Michigan

Message 27 - Sue

My sister-in-law sent this quote to me and I had to share it with you.

“A woman is like a teabag; you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.” -Nancy Reagan

25 July 200708:48 - Grand Rapids

Message 28 - Bob and Carla Ethen

Sally,
Hooray for your potentially positive news!! You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. We have a 24 year old cousin who has undergone similar treatments for liver cancer. It has been two years for her. We hope you recover quickly from this recent treatment and continue to receive positive results.

20 July 200705:47

Message 29 - Mary DeVries

Dear Sally,

I was getting ready to toss out an old copy of the “Daily Word” and came across a hand written note and started thinking about you. My note stated “The way you respond to your personal struggles shows your attitude towards God. Continue to trust him, because he is in control”.

God bless, as our prayers continue to flow for you and your sister.

Mary DeVries

17 July 200711:18 - Macatawa, Michigan

Message 30 - dave bristol

You are never out of our daily thoughts Sally.

17 July 200709:21 - Grand Rapids

Message 31 - Pat Nowak

Dear Sally
I do not know if you remember me but I worked with you when I was at Food Town. I heard that you have been fighting valiantly with cancer issues. I wish you only the best and hope that your fight is victorius. I always admired your tenacity and determination. I am sure that the traits will serve you well now.

Kindest regards

Pat Nowak

12 July 200707:44 - Ohio

Message 32 - Elaine

Hi Sally, thinking of you today as you undergo your latest treatment. I hope you don't have too much discomfort. You are in my daily thoughts and prayers. God Bless you Sal! Elaine

10 July 200713:58 - Coopersville

Message 33 - Rod Finegold

Sally, I just heard about your illness . After reading your blog, it shows through what a wonderful person you are. The ultimate measure of a person is not where they stand in moments of comfort , but where they stand in times of challange. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

4 July 200711:04

Message 34 - Aunt Donna, Uncle Don, and Clarissa

Hi Sal!
We've just been browsing all of your messages and thought we should leave one of our own! (We are also trying to impress your mother who doesn't think we know how to leave a message!

Me
- your Aunt Donna - really doesn't!) Clarissa is actually

this for us. We just finished reading update number 31 and continue to be touched by your writings. After reading all of your updates we now understand even more why so many people love you so much.(as we do also.) We'll be thinking of you on July 9th. and praying for a good outcome this time. Clarissa says: Since your parents came down for a visit I now know who my grandma is always talking to and about! I hope that your procedure goes well.I also hope I can sometime come up with my family and meet you.

P.S. tenstiger ( the e-mail address ) stands for tennis tiger!!
With much Love,
Aunt Donna, Uncle Don, and Clarissa

3 July 200713:13 - Sterling, Illinois, USA

Message 35 - Steve Biondo

Sally, the power of your spirit, the strength of your faith, your regret free approach to each day, and your heart for others is touching lives deeply. You are inspirational.
You are in our prayers every day Sal. May your strength continue, may your hope endure, and may your days be full of joy. We are also thanking God for you and for those two great guys in your life!! When we met I was impressed by your firm faith. Your faith has given you hope and the strength to keep fighting. You are living out Psalms 25:15 - "My eyes are ever on the Lord, for only He will release my feet from the snare". We love you Sal!

29 June 200707:56 - GR

Message 36 - Joe and Barb Schoenborn

Hi, Sally. We just received your web page address so want to send you our best wishes for successful treatments. We think of you often and pray for healing. Please let us know if there is ANYTHING we can do to help you!
Hope to see you soon.
Love,
Joe and Barb

9 June 200720:49

Message 37 - Priscilla Bronkema

Sally I have been thinking about you alot and I needed to take a few minutes to let you know that a day does not pass that you are not in my heart. I love you my friend and you are always in my prayers. With each treatment may you grow stronger. Denny also sends his best. I so appreciate this web site so that I know how you are doing . Love Ya Pris

19 June 200706:54

Message 38 - Val Farage

Hey Sally, the girls at Spartan keep me up to date on you, as does your website. You are such an amazing woman. God has given you strength like no one I've ever seen. Your attiude is an inspiration to all. You are always in my thoughts and prayers. Val

13 June 200706:23

Message 39 - Joy Johnson

Hi Sally,

This poem I wrote reminds me of your battle. This is from your mom's neighbor and golf buddy. She subs for my regular partner Cecile Pokora. We pray for you daily on our church prayer chain. Here it is:

IN HIS SIGHT

Searching through the cloudless sky
for something in that great expanse
I see far off a fluttering shape
insignificant in the great blue space

Closer as I watched entranced
a small bird caught in swirling winds,
whirling, struggling to escape
the Spring wind’s powerful force

At last when all seems truly lost
with feathers ruffled and nearly spent,
the small shape, mightily, with one last try,
breaks through to calmer air below

Watching the power of Nature’s wrath
how wonderful the small bird seems
to struggle through with all his might
to reach the refuge far below

Each day we find that life is hard
We struggle against overwhelming odds,
but God has given us inner strength
to meet the task and do much more

How could the Master not watch me,
so beautifully in His image made,
when he watches over the tiny bird,
and counts all the creatures in His sight

Hugs Joy Johnson

4 June 200718:59 - Michigan

Message 40 - Ellis

Hi Sally,
Praying for you and your family that this procedure works the way it is supposed to. Your strength and faith continues to amaze and inspire us. God bless

4 June 200720:16 - Kentwood

Message 41 - Sherry Galligan

Sally, I want you to know that you're in my thoughts. You are truly an inspiration to anyone reading your updates. You've show unbelievable strength through this terrible ordeal.

1 June 200711:51 - Detroit, Mi

Message 42 - Donna Highway

Hi Sally
I know it’s been awhile since I have left you a note. I have been getting updates from Andy since he is right across the isle from me now. I just really wanted to let you know that you, Andy and Shannon are in my thoughts and prayers. I also wanted to send you the following poem.
Don’t Quit
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you’re trudging seems all up hill,
When funds are low, and debts are high,
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest if you must, but don’t you quit.
Success is failure turned inside out,
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems afar.
So, stick to the fight when you are hardest hit-
It’s when things go wrong that you mustn’t quit.
-Author Unknown
Sally I truly admire your courage, inner strength, your amazing attitude, but most of all your strong faith in God.
May God bless you, Andy and Shannon.
Donna

31 May 200720:06 - Kentwood Michigan

Message 43 - Rose

Andy & Shannon - thank you for taking such good care of our friend Sally. Sally - remember your own words - stay strong, my friend! RK

30 May 200707:42 - Grandville, MI

Message 44 - Elaine Van Dyke

Hi Sal! Just to let you know I keep you on my prayer list as you keep inspiring me. God bless you as you continue this journey! Hugs to you.

25 May 200706:30 - Coopersville

Message 45 - Kristin Mattson

Hi Sally,

Just wanted to let you know we are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Ellen is keeping me posted. I found these words that might be comforting to you. They are messages from Heaven - a secular Franciscan is currently receiving. I told Ellen to pass the book (Volume One) on to you when she is finished. From Jesus - "If you are serving in illness, offer it to Me. Offer it all to me, your Jesus, and with it I will do the most magnificant things for others still serving on Earth. I will take your little offerings and use them to console the Father, who is rejected by so many. Our Father is so good. You will understand his goodness more fully when you come to me. I promise you, little beloved one, that you will rejoice in any offerings, however small, you gave to our Father during this time of service on Earth. Be filled with joy. I am with you and will never leave you. In your precious little heart, take my hand in yours. I will hold you steadily, never letting go. I am with you in each moment. "

You have so much to offer - know that it is not being wasted, just as Jesus' suffering was not wasted. We will continue to pray for healing and comfort. Love, Kristin

24 May 200715:56

Message 46 - Beth Nickerson

Sally,
I have learned so much from you as you deal with this life altering disease. Thank you for allowing us to share in your difficult journey. You have been couragous, strong, loving through it all. You are in our hearts and prayers.
Bob and Beth Nickerson
“It is difficulties that show what men are.”
Epictetus-Greek philosopher

24 May 200708:04

Message 47 - Kathy Miller

Sally, I get updates from my cousin, Beth Nickerson from Spartan, and wanted to let you know what an inspiration you are! I know you've heard that a lot - I've read your guestbook, but what a witness you are for God!! You have such faith, love and find joy and blessings in everything! You are such an inspiration and I cannot imagine what it means to others fighting illness to glimpse a means of fighting with courage, inner strengh and unyielding faith! You are in so many prayers and hearts!! xoxoxo

23 May 200722:44 - New Castle, IN

Message 48 - Hook Hoogstra

Sally, know that you and your family are still in our prayers and thoughts. Keep up the good fight.

23 May 200707:21

Message 49 - Ron & Kathy Koets

Hi Sally,
Just a note to say we're thinking about you and praying things will go well. We read the update on your trip to Mayo, so we'll continue to pray that the procedures will help you in the future (and not be painful). Keep up the good attitude!

23 May 200710:23

Message 50 - Kelly & Pat Sanford

Sally, We're praying for positive results and strength for you, Andy & Shannon.

22 May 200708:42 - Caledonia, Michigan

Message 51 - Pat & Rita Quinn

You ae in our thoughts and prayers Sally, that all will turn out well. Keep the faith and keep that great attitude going.

Peace, Love and Healing,

Pat & Rita

21 May 200712:25 - Clayton, California

Message 52 - Bryan and Linda

Just wanted to say, "We love you!

21 May 200711:25 - Hastings

Message 53 - Jeri Hamp

Sal Gal.Who would have ever guessed that this journey you are on would touch ever so many lives in such an inspirational way? Your marketing career has touched many but dims in comparison with your value of life that you so heartfully share with us with each update. For all of us who might be experiencing a "challenging" day.your thoughts and wisdom on life put it all in perspective. Prayers are the food for the soul.and mine are with you. Stay strong.love - Jeri:)

21 May 200711:16 - Bear Lake, Michigan (someday!)

Message 54 - Lorrie Reynolds

Hey, Sally! Just wanted you to know I'm always thinking of you, extra with the challenges you'll face tomorrow. Your strenth is an inspiration to me when I start feeling sorry for myself. You are, as I know you are aware, very blessed to have such a loving family and HUGE support group. Sincerely, Lorrie

21 May 200710:05

Message 55 - le'Geekster

Hey there Beautiful, oops, I mean "Curley", you have a FINE stay over there at the Mayo Resort. We'll be praying for you & the family. Sorry I can't login remotely & absorb some of that pain for you

.shoot, you wouldn't let me even if I could. :

cyal8r.

21 May 200709:50 - Spartan

Message 56 - Sikora Nelson and Families

Sally, God Bless you and your Families. Have a great Memorial Day Holiday.

21 May 200709:48 - USA

Message 57 - Howard Huisingh

Hi Sally, I have not written for a while, but wanted you to know you are in my prayers, especially in the coming weeks. May God continue to bless you through all of this, and thanks for being a blessing to all of us.

21 May 200709:40