What a Day!

Having a moment here with the memory book and looking at the beautiful crosses that Norb made out of the fallen farm tree. Just wanted to say that it was a perfect day, starting with the weather. It was so nice to have children and grandchildren of Frank, Katie, and Rosie present also. Norb and Donna, the farm looked glorious - from the mowed lawns to the painted buildings to the native grasses that lead to the big hill. (It really is big). Thank you for all you have done to make this a memorable day for all of us. Theresa

CORRECTION ON NORB'S AUCTION

The auction is on April 10, but it is on a Saturday, not Monday.  It is the first Saturday after Easter. 

 

Must have been brain dead yesterday!!!  Too much Red-Eye and party!

 

Donna

Why you don't want to give up your wine!

Okay, ladies, now we know why we need to do some of these things!! Bev

I was walking down the street when I was accosted by a particularly dirty and shabby-looking homeless woman who asked me for a couple of dollars for dinner.

I took out my wallet, got out ten dollars and asked, "If I give you this money, will you buy wine with it instead of dinner?"

"No, I had to stop drinking years ago." the homeless woman told me.

"Will you use it to go shopping instead of buying food?" I asked.

"No, I don't waste time shopping," the homeless woman said. "I need to spend all my time trying to stay alive."

"Will you spend this on a beauty salon instead of food?" I asked.

"Are you NUTS!" replied the homeless woman, I haven't had my hair done in 20 years!"

"Well," I said, "I'm not going to give you the money. Instead, I'm going to take you out for dinner with my husband and me tonight."

The homeless Woman was shocked "Won't your husband be furious with you for doing that? I know I'm dirty and I probably smell pretty disgusting."

I said, "That's okay. It's important for him to see what a woman looks like after she has given up shopping, hair appointments and wine."

As we end the month of August......

As August comes to an end, we have two birthdays today.....Sue Korkowski (Joe) is celebrating (#41) and Amy (Korkowski) Oxentenko has 37 candles on her cake. Happy birthday, ladies, and may you have a wonderful day!!

Open doors

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One Door Closes..Another Opens Revelations 3:8 When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully and let go, only 1 of 2 things will happen, either He'll catch you when you fall, or He'll teach you how to fly! 'The power of one sentence! God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor. Have a blessed day and remember to be a blessing... Jennae

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MEMORY BOOKS

If there are any of you interested in purchasing more memory books, please let us know by September 15.  We would like to have them copied at the same time if possible.  The cost is $5.00 per book. 

 

Thanks, Donna

Korkowski Auction

Hi All!  Just want to update you on the auction we will be having this spring.  It is on April 10, 2010.  The monday after Easter.   This is how we are going to do it with items we have for sale:

 

We don't want to offend any family members by selling off pieces before the auction.  Someone may have wanted the opportunity to bid on the same item also.  That way everyone has the same chance of a decision whether to buy or not and for how much.  Norb and I really appreciate all the interest and am hoping that you all can be at the auction.  Hey!  Another family get together!  We may have to wait a few days to get rested for that! 

 

Thanks, Norb and Donna

The Crosses

FYI:  We forgot to mention that the crosses were made from an actual ash tree that grew here on the farm.  That's how the poem was inspired!  It blew down and Norb dried it, cut it into boards and planed it to make the crosses.  That's how the poem was inspired.  Norb may have even planted it originally.  Makes it a real family farm memory.

 

Norb and I had so much fun and want to thank you all for coming and making our day.  Glad the family got to visit and enjoy the farm once again!  The big hill was a hit. 

 

Thanks for all the help everyone gave us! It was surely appreciated! What a family!

 

Love, Norb and Donna

A bird's eye view of the farm

Some hoedown photos

A few hoedown photos.....the Kork siblings, the Korkowski cousins, the cooks...Donna and Rose Korkowski, and the tent takedown at day's end. (Remember to click on individual photos to enlarge for better viewing!)

The State of the Union (Farm) Address

Oh, what a day it was.....dark skies turned to sunshine, the temperatures were good, and the turnout was fantastic! Yes, the hoedown was a HUGE success and many memories were discussed but also created. Thanks to Norb & Donna for hosting everyone and providing such great new memories. It was suggested that we put Donna's program on the blog so that everyone who was there can experience it again, and to those who weren't able to attend, you can better have a feel for what went on. However, if you weren't there, you have to only imagine the bit of humor she threw in here and there! Thanks, Norb & Donna, for a great party!!

This is the last Korkowski get together here at the farm, but it is by no means the last Korkowski get together. Many memories have been made here and will be in your minds forever, or until you get so old you can't remember!!! It has been my honor to be part of this family. The one thing about this family that is so wonderful, it doesn't take a piece of land to keep you all together. You had wonderful parents in Al and Grace. They provided for you here and gave you a precious gift, their Love of God and family. With that gift, they molded you into the families and extended families you are today.

I like to look around the farm and picture you all as kids playing and thinking of the mischief you got into. Now, don't say it didn't happen, because I remember my first meeting of the family at the farm. I think each one of the spouses can remember their first meeting of the family!!!

Norb has said many times that we are just the caretakers of the land. There is always someone else to take your place. We are very pleased to have Doug and Deb Schaffer to be taking over this job since they have the same sense of family and Love of God you were blessed with.

When I asked you to provide me with your favorite memory of the farm, it had a duo purpose. One, it got you all thinking of the farm and all the fun you had here. The other was to put together this little gift so that when your memories start to fade, as they can when you get older, you can be reminded of some of them. Thanks to Chris's help, there are some great pictures to go with the memories.

Norb also wanted you all to have something to remember the farm by. He has felt so blessed to have spent his whole life here. It is not easy for him to leave, but there comes a time and place for everything. Since Norb has used his hands to keep the farm flourishing all these years, it is only fitting that he would use his hands to make you a remembrance of the farm. During this process, I was inspired to write a poem initially for Norb, but it is also a reminder to all of you who shared in the many wonderful memories of the farm. This was definitely divine intervention because I am not a poet!

Also, Nate and Edith very willingly helped with the design and the engraving. Thanks!

Each bag contains crosses for the brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews. There are a few extra left for those who would like one for their family.

We also have a couple of milestones happening in the family. On August 22 Dennis and Chris celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. How do you like the party we are putting on for you? Also, Cordy will be having her 70th birthday in September. She is planning a get together a little later. Tom and Caroline made a little red-eye to toast the anniversary event, and Annette made a cake we will share at supper. Also, if anyone would like a copy of the memory booklet, we will take orders for them and have them printed together for $5.00 each.

Today's the day.....welcome home!

The long-awaited day for the hoedown has arrived, and family will be gathering soon. Norb & Donna will be your hosts, and they are all ready.

YEEEEEEEE!!!!!! HAAAAAAAAWWW!!!

HERE WE ARE DOWN HOME AT THE FARM,

GETTIN READY SO DON'T BE ALARMED!

TENTS ARE SET AND TABLES ARE HERE

PORTA POTTIES ARE THE BEST IDEA OF THE YEAR!!

ONLY ONE MORE DAY!

Never going to be a film maker, but try this....

After a trillion attempts to get this little video on here, it looks to be view-able but only if you click on the "play slideshow" button. Have no idea why nothing else works! The photos are much grainier than on the original video, but there again, there is no explanation. This will probably be my first, and last, attempt at doing a picture video!! Bev

Some farm memories...

Movies Movies Aug 27, 2009 by ckorkow View Album Play slideshow j

The wait is on!

Someone else (Donna??) was thinking, as I was, that we needed a sort of countdown to the hoedown. I prepared a little movie of photos to download, but so far, it's been impossible to get it on the blog but I'll keep trying. However, this photo shows the excitement building....just look at those EYES on everyone, as they wait for the big hoedown this Saturday!! Bev

GREAT EVENT #2

P.S.  FOR THOSE WHO ARE UNSURE OF WHAT THE GREAT EVENT IS, JUST REMEMBER-----------------HOE DOWN!!!  ALSO, YOU CAN START SINGING YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE!  NO RAIN PLEASE!

THE GREAT EVENT

THE COUNT DOWN STARTS!!! ONLY TWO MORE DAYS UNTIL THE GREAT EVENT!!

 

BRING YOUR FUNNY BONES, HATS, CHAIRS AND BANDANAS!!!

One more birthday this week....

Lots of birthday celebrations this week, and today Amber Korkowski (#26) is the birthday girl. Matt is sure to come up with something good in way of a celebration! We know you'll have a great day.

Courtney's 1 Year Old

Courtney had a great time on her birthday! She devoured her cake like every baby should!

See you all on Saturday!
Andrea

Remember when you were 4??

Today is a big day for Kiatta Korkowski (Rick & Deize) because she's 4! Birthday cake, ice cream and presents are all going to be part of her day. Look at how lady-like she is! Happy birthday, Kiatta, and have a really fun day.

A birthday AND summer vacation, all in one

A birthday during summer vacation as a kid is just the best, and Grace Korkowski (Ron & Sue) is one of those lucky ones! She turns 8 today, and it looks like a gorgeous day to be outside and having a carefree day. Happy birthday, Grace!

A "golden" day........

Pictured above 50 years ago...Christella's sister, Becky; the wedding couple; brother Jim Korkowski; and the flower girl, none other than little sister Annette (Korkowski) O'Donnell.

It's a first for the Korkowski blog.....the celebration of a 50th wedding anniversary! The day belongs to Dennis & Christella, as they look back on all the milestones accomplished in their 50 years of marriage. The entire Korkowski clan wishes you the happiest of days and we all want to say H-A-P-P-Y A-N-N-I-V-E-R-S-A-R-Y!!

Back to school we go!!

Joseph (3rd grade) and Ellie Grace a.k.a. 'Chootie' (1st grade) headed off to school Tuesday. Andrew 'Angel Pie' wasn't too happy his buddies were leaving him. Whenever he heard a noise from another room he would call out 'Ellie? Is that you?' It broke my heart! Enjoy the rest of your summer!

These pictures attached by Shutterfly Studio...

A big day for Courtney

It's party time for little Courtney Zuidema (Nate & Andrea) as she turns 1 today. Hope she gets to dive into a birthday cake and make a BIG mess! Happy birthday, Courtney.

Three years and counting....

Troy & Brandi Magnuson are celebrating their 3rd wedding anniversary today down in Hutchinson. It looks like a rainy, stormy day ahead in the weather so no picnic for you two! Brandi is also celebrating the fact that her leg has healed from the surgery, and she's good to go, so double the celebration.

In case you men have any funny ideas!!

Sam stood over his tee shot on the 450 yard 18th hole for what seemed an eternity. He waggled, looked up, looked down, waggled again, but didn't start his back swing. Finally his exasperated partner asked, 'What in the world is taking so long?''My wife is watching me from the clubhouse balcony,' Sam explained. 'I want to make a perfect shot.' His companion said, 'You don't have a chance in hell of hitting her from here.'

Two for the money

The birthdays are popping up nearly daily now and often doubling up....today the birthday people are Anna Korkowski (Paul & Sue) who turns 11 today, as well as Cory Stadsvold (#34). Nothing like cake and ice cream on a nice warm day!

When Irish eyes are smiling........

It's party time for Judi Korkowski (#66) today as she celebrates her birthday. Do we see a round of golf, some good food, and a wee bit of Irish drink to do the day up in style?? Have a great birthday, Judi, and may you have many more.

Cash for clunkers.......I qualify for the program!

If my body were a car, this is the time I would be thinking about trading it in for a newer model. I've got bumps and dents and scratches in my finish, and my paint job is getting a little dull. But that's not the worst of it. My headlights are out of focus, and it's especially hard to see things up close. My traction is not as graceful as it once was. I slip and slide and skid and bump into things even in the best of weather. My whitewalls are stained with varicose veins. It takes me hours to reach my maximum speed. My fuel rate burns inefficiently.
But here's the worst of it -- almost every time I sneeze, cough or laugh, either my radiator leaks or my exhaust backfires!!

40th bash!

I tried to get this posted earlier but have just returned from a week in H***, (I meant Disney World), in August with 13 people, ages 2-75, temps near 95.  :)

Anyhow, thought it was ironic mom posted a pix on my 40th of Ed and I from Dave and Cindy's wedding, only to share my 40th in Miami with Ed and a few friends eating at South Beach and doing some salsa dancing the next day.  Anyhow, here's a shot of Ed and I from that night!! Vive Miami!! :)

 

Have a great one!

Jennifer

 

A birthday in Brandon

Birthday greetings today for Lezlie Sumstad (#28) up Brandon way. Hope that Mitch has reservations for dinner someplace! Happy birthday, Lezlie.

Cordy's day of celebration

It was 52 years ago today that Sr. Cordy took her final vows as a Franciscan Sister of Little Falls, and only two years ago that we helped her celebrate this special occasion. Congratulations, Cordy, and maybe you could have a sip of S.C. to celebrate this special day in your life? We all send our love and congratulations!!

A birthday for Ben

No, we didn't forget but all birthdays and celebrations this week will be posted during the evening hours as we only have access to internet here at the resort during the evening hours....so, that being said, we want to send a birthday shout-out to Ben O'Donnell (#28) as he celebrates today. Happy birthday, Ben!! We wish you many more.

News From Millerville

We just started the building process today.  The wheat was combined, Pat Bitzan dug the field and Blackie was right behind him with the dozer scrapping off the black dirt to save for later.  I think it took less than an hour to accomplish all of this!

 

We waited so long for this moment and Norb had to help haul cattle today for Jackpine.  He missed the whole thing!  I took pictures so he could see the steps.  Tomorrow they start digging the hole for the basement.  Norb will be right there to supervise! 

 

Donna and Norb

just curious if the ground was breaking near Millerville for Norb and Donna's new place yet today or if Blackie Bitzan was working on someone else's property-
Jennae

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Windows Live™: Keep your life in sync. Check it out.

Birthday in Bismarck

Birthday greetings (#19) today go out to Christopher Korkowski (Tom & Caroline) in Bismarck ND. Things are surely busy as he prepares to head to UND in Grand Forks where he plans to study hard and party little (right, Christopher??) Have a happy birthday and enjoy the rest of the summer.

Baffling Story

If I had to guess who wrote this fine peice, it would be a combo of Gerald, Alan Hagedorn, Huck Finn, and maybe some Theresa.         MIKE

I am baffled also!

Hi everyone,  When I read this letter, I was thinking that Gerald wrote it.  What a surprise to see my name as the sender.  I would like to see if this is in my handwriting or was it typed?  I don't remember ever writing this nor do I think that I would have the information that is in the letter.  It is a fine piece of writing, however.  I will take credit for it if the mystery is not solved.  Your loving sister, Theresa

Mike and Mark Joining up

I ain't zactly sure who wrote this, but it's a mighty fine bit of writin'

A "letter home" found on the farm; who knew???

Dear Ma and Pa,
I am well.. Hope you are. Tell Brother Mike and Brother Mark the Army beats working for old man Florian by a mile. Tell them to join up quick before all of the places are filled.
I was restless at first because you get to stay in bed till nearly 6 a.m. But I am getting so I like to sleep late. Tell Mike and Mark all you do before breakfast is smooth your cot, and shine some things. No hogs to slop, feed to pitch, mash to mix, wood to split, fire to lay. Practically nothing.
Men got to shave but it is not so bad, there's warm water. Breakfast is strong on trimmings like fruit juice, cereal, eggs, bacon, etc., but kind of weak on chops, potatoes, ham, steak, fried eggplant, pie and other regular food, but tell Mike and Mark you can always sit by the two city boys that live on coffee. Their food, plus yours, holds you until noon when you get fed again. It's no wonder these city boys can't walk much.
We go on 'route marches,' which the platoon sergeant says are long walks to harden us. If he thinks so, it's not my place to tell him different.. A 'route march' is about as far as to our mailbox at home. Then the city guys get sore feet and we all ride back in trucks.
The sergeant is like a school teacher. He nags a lot. The Captain is like the school board. Majors and colonels just ride around and frown. They don't bother you none.
This next will kill Mike and Mark with laughing. I keep getting medals for shooting. I don't know why.. The bulls-eye is near as big as a chipmunk head and don't move, and it ain't shooting at you like the Bitzen boys at home. All you got to do is lie there all comfortable and hit it. You don't even load your own cartridges They come in boxes.
Then we have what they call hand-to-hand combat training. You get to wrestle with them city boys. I have to be real careful though, they break real easy. It ain't like fighting with that ole bull at home. I'm about the best they got in this except for that Tug Jordan from over in Silver Lake . I only beat him once.. He joined up the same time as me, but I'm only 5'6' and 130 pounds and he's 6'8' and near 300 pounds dry.
Be sure to tell Mike and Mark to hurry and join before other fellers get onto this setup and come stampeding in.

Your loving daughter ,
Theresa

The big sister is 6 today....

When you're 6, it doesn't matter if it's Monday, cloudy and cool....you just know it's your birthday and you've been waiting for months to celebrate! Natalie Zuidema (Nate & Andrea) is celebrating her 6th birthday today, and without a doubt, she'll have a great day. Happy birthday, Natalie, and just think, school's next on the agenda!

Rosemary

I am in Little Falls until Friday making a private retreat.  I have access to a nice room, chapel, pool, big campus and this computer, plus a phone. I talked to Rosie today and she said I should put on the blog that she will have surgery on two hernias on August 12.   She asks for prayers for a successful surgery with no complications.  I promised I would do this tonight.

 

I will be praying for all of our family during my week here.  They are always on top of my list.  I feel this is one thing I can do and want to do  for my special people...YOU.   

 

I loved the latest HOEDOWN announcement and of course, the entire BLOG is very fun to read...and the pictures are great too. We are very lucky to be linked in this way.  Thanks to each of you for sending such good news to our Blog.

 

Peace and love to each of you!  Sister Cordy

34 years, but who's counting??

Happy anniversary to Mike and Mary Lee Korkowski as they celebrate 34 years of marital bliss. Time flies when you're having fun, doesn't it? Hope you take the day to do something fun...maybe a cycle ride, dinner out? Enjoy your day, whatever it is.