From a sinner saved by the grace of Jesus Christ. I hope you find my adventures amusing, thought provoking, and always pointing you to the source of love - Jesus Christ
Showing posts with label Victoria Horosz. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Victoria Horosz. Show all posts
I received a phone call I knew would be coming but would never ever be ready for - that at 1:23 PM on August 31, 2013 Mom went to be with the Lord. My first thought was that my children did not get to say good bye to their grandmother. Then it hit me that they did the previous December as we flew them down to spend time with us and visit mom. The pictures posted here are the last ones of my children with mom taken in December 2012.
When Will, Victoria, and Peter arrived on August 31, 2013, we took them down to hospice to see mom. The nurses made mom look so comfortable and peaceful. I got my phone out and put on some favorite hymns including "Morning Has Broken" and "How Great Thou Art". Tears flowed freely as well as lots of hugs. We shared our memories and laughed as well. Mom was with the Lord and dad. No more pain or suffering. He legacy of love will continue for generations to come.
"Oh death where is they sting? Oh grave where is they victory?"
Wishing all my friends a safe, healthy, and blessed New Years 2018 ! Use and practice these words more often in 2018: love, joy, peace, encouragement, gentleness, patience, kindness. Pray without ceasing. Worship wherever you are. Read God's word. Be a friend. Enjoy family. Encourage, support, and love your children. Take care of the temple that God has given you. Tell your spouse, children, and family that you love them. Set attainable and realistic goals for yourself. 2017 Highlights.
In January had my fourth tooth extraction since moving to Florida.
Valerie and I celebrated our sixth wedding anniversary in February. Every day with my beautiful bride is better than the day before. I am truly the most blessed man in the world. February also saw me passing my FAA Part 107 exam and officially became a FAA sUAS Licensed Pilot. This will allow me to fly drones for commercial purposes. In June we said goodbye to Will and Peter as they moved back to Columbus, OH after living here for two years. We enjoyed their frequent visits for movies, Steeler and Penguins games and just hanging out. Excited that Will left for a better opportunity but miss both of them greatly. July saw my first real surgery as I had my gall bladder removed and umbilical hernia repaired. Recovering from hernia surgery proved to be a real challenge but I was back at work in a week. We enjoyed several family get togethers for Mother's Day, Father's Day, Val's parents birthdays, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Eve. Lots of good food and great laughs. I went through my first Hurricane in Florida in early September. The impact we had here in Tampa was not bad but other areas of Florida were not so fortunate including were I work over in Lakeland, Fl. We had a house full as Valerie's parents, Jessica, her friend, and four dogs under one roof for the night. September was #TheSocialEventOf2017 as I had the honor of walking my beautiful daughter Victoria down the aisle as she married Andy Skaggs who just happened to be Will's best friend. Tears of joy flowed abundantly that day in a picture perfect outdoor wedding in Ohio.
Christmas day we celebrated by continuing our tradition of eating out by going to “Spinners” at St. Pete Brach – a revolving restaurant. Food was excellent and the views were magnificent. We enjoyed our time with Jessica that day. Celebrated New Year's Eve by making a turkey breast and watching the movie "Dunkirk" with Valerie.. Some scripture I’d like to share: “Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” Deuteronomy 5:16 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 “16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.” 1 Thessalonians 5:8 “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13
Lady Lex & My Dad "My dad, a young lad of just eighteen Had to make a decision that wasn't keen, Losing his father was hard enough The thought of being drafted was tough, So he chose the United States Navy, For he wanted wings of gold and bravery...
His vision wasn't the best, So aviation ordinance was his test, Loading the deadly cargo every day, Hoping for peace to come quickly our way, But the ship was hit by a torpedo near some bunks, Dad used to sleep there in his trunks, He was moved about a week before, God was with him now even more
God definitely had a hand on Dad you know, Saving him from all the wars bitter blows, Friends were committed to the deep Dad cried softly for them in his sleep
When the war was over they sailed into Tokyo Bay, Devastation had definitely had it's way, When the people bowed before all the men, It made them humble, not proud again
People are looking all around for heroes your know, The kind that hit home runs or steal the show, But my kind of hero is not one of those Just an ordinary sailor, my Dad, Willing to stand against all foes
The Lady Lex served her country proud For over forty year she stood her ground, Opposing all of the enemies blows, Till father time took it's toll
God's hand is still over Dad, you see, After heart, hip, and vascular surgeries, Thou slower now we know for him That when you have Jesus Christ, you win !"
This poem was written in 2001 in honor of my Dad's service to his country aboard the USS Lexington CV16 from 1943 to 1945.
In a very short period of time, Dad's father died, his sister came over from Europe after being raised by her grandmother not speaking a word of English, and World War II started. Dad wanted to fly but did not have 20/20 vision so he chose to load torpedo's, bombs, and machine gun belts on the planes. The only time the ship was ever torpedoed was at 11:45 PM at night and if dad's bunk had not been moved - he would have been killed. Will and I went down in March, 2008 and scattered part of Dad’s ashes on the flight deck of the USS Lexington which is a museum on the bay in Corpus Christi, TX. I hope to return again with Val and all my children to have them experience the Lexington.
I am so very proud of my dad, William F. Horosz Sr. and his service to his country.
Thank a veteran on this day. And for me thank a World War II vet if you know one. I have to wait to thank my favorite World War II vet again when I see him in heaven.
I was very blessed to have not the perfect father but the perfect father for me.
I am truly at a loss for words about how much my father meant to me. He poured his life into me and gave me what I needed to succeed in life - love for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, love for mom, his passion about everything from cooking to art to sports.
I was blessed to be his son. But being his grandchild - that was special. My children not only learned art but all three of the learned how to cook from my dad. They spent two weeks every summer at my parents enjoying Kennywood, the wave pool, trips to Sam's, cooking, art projects, ice cream, gardening and much more.
We are all proud of dad's service to his country in World War 2 in the United States Navy aboard the USS Lexington CV16. He shared stories with us about his day's in the USN and the perils he faced.
Dad served the church up until the time of his injury. He was a tireless worker helping with the baking projects, making kolbasz and hurka, teaching arts and crafts, and serving as Chief Elder.
"The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him." Proverbs 20:7 NKJV
I would like to wish all father's everywhere a Happy Father's Day 2017 !
Here are the reasons that every Father's Day is a Happy Father's Day for me:
A Happy Father's Day would not be possible without my beautiful wife. Her love for her daughter and step children drives me to love my step daughter and children. A blessed circle indeed. It's capped off by her love for me and only eclipsed by her love for Jesus.
My children. I cannot be more proud of all four of them and in September welcome a firth as my daughter is getting married. Thank you for your love for each other and for Valerie and I.
"Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord." Ephesians 6:4 NIV
"The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him." Proverbs 20:7 NKJV
Three years ago at this time Valerie and I were excited and making preparations for Will and Peter to move to Florida. Today we monitor their progress as they move back to Ohio. And while we are excited for them they are taking a part of our hearts to Ohio with them.
Will has been working at Wireless Advocates for almost the entire time they were here in Florida. You may not know them by name but they are the cell phone kiosks in Costco stores. Well he found out there was a managers opportunity at one of the stores in the Columbus, Ohio stores, applied for it, and was hired. Will has earned this by his had work, dedication, and love for technology. He has had by far the best mentor on a job his former manager Rob at the Costco here in Brandon. He took Will under his wing and had a great relationship. Will was very well liked by his co workers and customers. I have seen first hand how he treats customers - even at the end of the day. There has been such growth in Will and I could not be more proud or happier for him. He really has found his niche !
Peter has had over a year in his job doing food service at Hawthorne Village in Brandon. He enjoyed his co workers and the residents and rarely complained about his job. One of the perks was being able to take food back home after work. Peter was so well liked on the job his co workers took him out on his last day for dinner and presented him with a gift of $250. Understand these are hourly people and some not full time. They told Peter they would love to see him when he comes back to visit. His supervisors and co workers gave him glowing references. I could not be more proud of Peter !
They spent the better part of ten months living with us to help them get established. Not only were Valerie and I blessed but so were our dogs - especially Diogy. She loved the boys !
The apartment they had was in a ideal location for both jobs. It was only 15 minutes from our house.
Some random thoughts in no particular order:
Instead of a 15 minute trip to see them it will now be a two hour flight.
Instead of seeing them 2 to 3 times a month it will now be 2-3 times a year.
Throughly enjoyed having them over to watch the Steelers games on the weekends. Even had some of my homemade chili !
Loved having them over for the Penguins and Stanley Cup Playoffs last year and up until they moved.
They became regulars at Valerie's family functions and were well received and loved by them.
We enjoyed going to several movie premieres together including a Star Wars and Star Trek movies.
They became friends with Valerie's daughter Jessica Bailey and had a mutual love of science fiction.
We enjoyed a Christmas dinner at Spinners in 2015 - a revolving restaurant on St. Pete beach with a breathtaking view.
One of our highlights was Christmas 2016. Will and Peter came for brunch, opened gifts, watched a movie, ate dinner, watched two more movies, and enjoyed a lot of laughter. One of my favorite Christmas's of all time. And we wished everybody a Merry Christmas !
Valerie and I purchased three phones from Will during his tenure at the Wireless Advocates kiosk at the Costco store in Brandon, FL. If you are a Costco member in Central Ohio and need a new phone, please see Will starting June 13, 2017 at the Costco in Plain City. He will take great care of you (shameless promotion for me son lol).
A huge thank goes to my beautiful wife Valerie for all she did for the boys. She was way beyond a step mother and loved Will & Peter as if they were her own children. Her efforts led to both Will and Peter getting their jobs here.
We are already looking forward to Victoria's wedding in September and seeing all my children together and welcoming Andy into the family.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Romans 8:28 NIV
Our God wastes nothing. These three years helped Will find a good career and gave Peter valuable job experience. Seeing them succeed is incredible. But seeing them leave tugs at the heartstrings and will leave a void that only seeing them can fulfill.
Please be in prayer for:
Will to do well in his new position.
Peter to find the right job in short order.
Will & Peter to find a good place to live that's not too far from work.
That they can get all the things take care of like driver's licenses & car registration.
For Valerie and I as this will leave a void in our hearts.
I close with a favorite song of ours - pray this blesses you as well.
In honor of my late father William F. Horosz Sr. AOMC 1 who proudly served his country on the USS Lexington CV16 (nicknamed "The Blue Ghost") from 1943-1945. Dad thank you for your service to your country and for being part of "The Greatest Generation". Know you are loved and greatly missed by us all.
Happy Mother's Day in heaven to the best mom in the world. Your love for me knew no bounds. Thank you for all you did for me. Thank you also for being the best grandmother to Will HoroszVictoria Horosz and Peter Horosz and best mother in law to my precious Valerie Geis Horosz and for loving Jessica Bailey. You void is a place that can only be filled by fond memories and by all of us loving each other. Miss you greatly ! "Love you ! Love you !".
Wishing all my friends a safe, healthy, and blessed New Years 2017 !
Use and practice these words more often in 2017: love, joy, peace, encouragement, gentleness, patience, kindness.
Pray without ceasing.
Worship wherever you are.
Read God's word.
Be a friend.
Enjoy family.
Encourage, support, and love your children.
Take care of the temple that God has given you.
Tell your spouse, children, and family that you love them.
Set attainable and realistic goals for yourself.
2016 Highlights.
In January I had my first colonoscopy. No polyps and I don't need another one for 5 years ! PTL !
In February Valerie and I celebrated our fifth wedding anniversary. Every day with her is better than the day before. I am truly the most blessed man in the world.
Peter was able to find a good job in food service at a time assisted living facility here in Brandon.
In late March we drove down to Bradenton and caught a Pirates spring training game. It was a very chilly day with a high in the upper 40's but I did get to see some former Pirates greats including Manny Sanguillen.
In June we flew up twice to Pittsburgh to attend Game 1 & Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals. There was a special tribute to veterans during Game 1 and I was proud to have represented my late father who served his country during World War II. We snuck in a trip to Columbus to see Victoria & Andy.
July I completed my second year at Publix Supermarkets. This is by far the best job I have ever had with the best manager I have ever had. With God’s blessings I would love to retire from here.
Had my first nuclear stress test and I passed.
Flew up to Columbus on the last day of August for Victoria's ankle surgery which went very well.
We took a third trip to Pittsburgh in November for my 40th Steel Valley High School reunion at Westwood Country Club. It was the best reunion by far as I got to show off my beautiful Valerie to all of my high school friends. We danced to the song 'Valerie' by Steve Winwood and a friend took a priceless picture of us.
We are thanking the Lord that Victoria's fiance Andy survived a devastating accident and is now home and on the road to recovery.
Christmas day we celebrated by having a brunch with Will & Peter, exchanged gifts, watched the original " Die Hard", watched the thrilling Steelers win, enjoyed dinner with Will, Peter, and Jessica, and capped off the day by watching the original "Home Alone". What a blast !
Celebrated New Year's Eve by watching the Penguins win in overtime.
Some scripture I’d like to share:
“Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” Deuteronomy 5:16
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
“16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
“But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet.” 1 Thessalonians 5:8 “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13
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I received a phone call I knew would be coming but would never ever be ready for - that at 1:23 PM on August 31, 2013 Mom went to be with the Lord. My first thought was that my children did not get to say good bye to their grandmother. Then it hit me that they did the previous December as we flew them down to spend time with us and visit mom. The pictures posted here are the last ones of my children with mom taken in December 2012. 
