Above 1200 Sq/FT Cleaning Up My Shop

[BUGTHUG]

Went to JB's to pick up my hearse. JB said that Andy had left me something
So a BIG thankyou ANDY, the gas peddle feet with my name on it is awesome. They turned out very nice. I have some that look like the ones that Grizz has. Very thoughtful of you and very much appreciated. I wish I was at JB's to visit with you as well.
Thankyou my friend, and GOD bless you. Herb

 

[Grizz1963]

Went to JB's to pick up my hearse. JB said that Andy had left me something
So a BIG thankyou ANDY, the gas peddle feet with my name on it is awesome. They turned out very nice. I have some that look like the ones that Grizz has. Very thoughtful of you and very much appreciated. I wish I was at JB's to visit with you as well.
Thankyou my friend, and GOD bless you. Herb

Photo or it never happened

 

[jbmatth]

This is what Andy made for me, I wanted to wait to share until after Herb saw his. Very cool and will be fun to put it to use... eventually.

JB

 

[dchance]

Great to Andy out

Dwight

 

[tym]

This is what Andy made for me, I wanted to wait to share until after Herb saw his. Very cool and will be fun to put it to use... eventually.

JB

Sometimes you just have to put your foot down.

 

[oldironfarmer]

Great for the four of us to spend time with you the last two days Andy.

Thanks for the food, hospitality and castings we did.

I am sure Dennis enjoyed beating on your Chevy trunk lid too.


Toto !!!

Toto !!!


I guess we are in Kansas now.

I've not been gone a month but it seems like a year.

Rian and the boys had a great trip and it was good to see them.

Just a quick copy and paste from the travel thread.......



Andy bought a 1948 Chevrolet Business mans Coupe at auction over a year ago.

But being retired, of course is crazy busy at all times.

Anyway, Dennis being a body guy, offered to remove some of the dents for him, deck lid in situ.

So the first job was hammering metal.

With nothing more than hammers and some spoons and dollies, he could not do as much as he wanted to, but it’s now ready for the next step which will be pulling the low spots back, which Andy will do.





Ready for the pin puller, then more fine tuning, skim filler and paint.

Andy chose not to remove the complex inner skin of the lid, which would make the job really easy.





In the mean time we prepped a few molds for some castings I wanted to do.





Masters out.



Ready for casting.

The casting need to be done early morning, so we would be back early on Friday morning before 08.00 to melt and cast these.

So this is out of sequence to the actual trip as Thursday evening still needs to be written up.

FRIDAY MORNING.

HEADED INTO THE SHOP.........

HOW MANY PEOPLE OWN A CABOOSE ON THEIR LAND??



One of many.



Melting videos not uploaded, will need to edit and upload some time, it takes too much time.



Open casting is not as precise, but I wanted a paperweight for my coffee table.

Results.

These are for the tailgate bench I built previously.



Paperweight, includes extra flow out that I had created in sand template.



Craig finishing off the plaques, after Dennis has trimmed then on the bandsaw.







After this we headed out to ur Lakeside Motel that Adam had gone to arrange earlier in the day while we were all doing stuff on the farm.


Craig was a bit tired and clocked out before dinner.





I will go back into the sequence later to update on the evening and motel etc.

Now get going for another long day.

Many thanks to Dennis for using his metalworking skills on my boot. Of course I've not gotten back to it.

I've done no more casting either but that is coming, soon I hope.

Looks like another few fun days out at Andy's place, never boring and always moving your feet. Looking forward to updates Andy and Grizz.

JB

Anytime Rian and his entourage is around there are fun times to be had.

Wish I were there. My old traveling buddy died several months ago. Hard to find someone free enough, and well enough, to travel any more. I am still looking though. Too bad my son in law lives a thousand miles in the wrong direction. Thanks for letting me live vicariously though. Good times. Bobby

I know what it is like to have an old friend die, Bobby. And I understand how hard it is to find someone free enough and well enough to travel. But I'm looking.

Looks like y'all had some QST in OIF's shed.. Thanks for the update and pictures, helps me live vicariously through you guys too..

The fun crowd was here. It was great.

Andy's full day schedule just too much for the young lad?

PS. Looks like Andy is too tired to post as well. So maybe it is Grizz running everyone ragged.

Craig is younger but uses all his energy trying to understand what is going on. The rest of us are just doing it.

Sharon was critical and under hospice care the day the boys were here. We kept her at home, I had night shift and her daughter and sister had day shift. Fortunately I could sleep while she slept so I had the best deal. We had plenty of help on that day so I could get some free time with the travelers.

I'll let a secret out, Rian is a trained nurse. When he came in to see Sharon he was compassionate, caring, understanding, and helpful. He gave us a bit of instruction on avoiding bed sores and was very much appreciated.

I was too occupied to post.

Andy is busy casting up some of those money making paperweights. Lol.


Shorty Korte
Always remember quality in QST

Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

That would have been a lot more fun, Shorty. Unfortunately I had a job to do that kept me from Garage Journal.

We sure did!! Andy is a quality host, only wish we were able to spend a bit more time with him.



Yep, this trip is tiring enough trying to get to seeing everyone and everything, then you meet people like Andy who just drain the rest of the energy out you. I hope I'm as active in retirement.

It's Rian who drains the energy. He doesn't have that much, just says things like "why don't we..." when what he means is why don't you.

Always great to have you visit, Craig.

 

[realvc]

Thanks for posting Andy.
It is so very good to hear from you.
Take care of yourself, God Bless you. Still praying for you.

Vince

 

[Grizz1963]

Pleasure is mine on all aspects Andy.


It’s both a pleasure and honour to know you as a friend.

 

[oldironfarmer]

Andy: looks like you are MIA so just sending a shout out to see if you are ok. hope all is well and you are just resting a bit from your super busy SATURDAY schedule you've been on the last couple months.

cheers

After much care from her family my wife died peacefully at 12:30 PM on 12 September 2019. We were all there comforting her at the moment she passed into eternal life in heaven.

She was my wife, friend, and companion for 40 years. In all that time I never once heard her say a hateful or harsh thing about anyone. When someone would mistreat me she would encourage me to understand their view and forgive. No one ever mistreated her that I know of, except for me.

Andy is fine.

Spoke with him via text this morning.

I think he just needs a few days to regroup, he has some stuff to deal with.

Normal transmission to be resumed soon.

I was and am fine, thanks, Rian. However even with years of warning her passing affected me much more than I can alliterate.

I kept seeing the quality shed time castings in other threads so I decided to catch up with your thread. It took almost two days to go through the 381 pages but I am now at the end.
Really enjoy your work.

Thank yo so much! The thread is really too long to start from the beginning.

Andy is an inspiration!

Always reminds me to do a little or as much as I can every day.

It is Saturday after all, so definitely time for me to get off my **** in front of the PC and out to the workshop!

Thanks Guster. Kind words are appreciated.

Thanks Grizz.


Shorty Korte
Always remember quality in QST

Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

Rian took his time to be considerate of others, something I need to learn.

Hoping all is well Andy. Missing your regular updates.

Thank you for the concern. Thanks for commenting.

Yea, I'm missing Andy's updates too. Hope all is well at the homestead!

The homestead is a bit upside-down without the matriarch of the clan. Thanks for stopping in.

After my annual......fishing trip to AK, I was looking forward to pages of updates.

Now, just hopeful all is well.

All is well. Hope your fishing trip was a catching trip. Thanks for the concern.

 

[Craptain]

Andy, I am so happy to see your posts. I have lost too many people in the last few years and while you get by you never absolutely get over it. But the tone of your posting shows your strength and durability. You'll get back to playing with "old iron" and other metals in your own good time and we'll be here to learn and criticize as usual.
Take all the time you need.

Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk

 

[Ford52PU]

Andy,

I don't post much but enjoy your posts and want to express how sorry I am on reading of your wife's passing. Please know she is in a better place. Prayers to you from Pennsylvania.

 

[mfg0772]

I've not been gone a month but it seems like a year.

Glad to see you back. I agree that it seems like a year. Checking your thread has become part of my daily routine - always anxiously awaiting to see what new things your are up to.

 

[TMcCay]

Andy, it is good to see you posting again. You have been missed quite a lot but we all understood the reason why. I can't imagine what you are feeling like. I can only empathize and know it isn't much. Getting back into a new routine will take time. Prayers offered up to you and your family.

 

[shortykorte]

Welcome back. Understandable that you need time. That your time but please impart your wonderful and witty wisdom with us on occasion.


Shorty Korte
Always remember quality in QST

Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

 

[pitterpat]

Andy, sorry to hear of the passing of your wife. I don't get on here much and this is first I'd heard it.
May she rest in peace.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Farmall450]

Thrilled to see you back. Sure am glad I checked the thread again tonight.

 

[Vieux]

It's good to see you again, Andy.

 

[Guster]

Great to have you back Andy.

It's not the same without you!

 

[oldironfarmer]

I am so sorry to hear that Andy. My deepest condolences to you. I hope you have a good support group around you. You have a huge support group here on the GJ.

Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk

Thank you Andrew. We do have a strong family.

I appreciate the Garage Journal support very much.

Andy: I'm really sorry to hear your wife has passed. i know you have a lot of friends and relatives and ton of support here on GJ so take as long as you like to mourn, but just know that we all miss you and would love to see you doing what you do to get the best out of everyday you wake up.

hang in there buddy and she'll always be here with you until it's your time and i'm sure she'd love to see you out working in the shop or doing something on the farm. and we'd all love seeing you posting what you do and teaching us how to do things that most of us can't learn anywhere with the style that you do things.

Thanks for the kind words, Drives. Even today I have no interest in working in the shop. I'm sure that will return.

Andy: We're so sorry to hear that. Keeping you and the restof the family in our thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for your concern.

I'm sorry to hear of your wife passing. Just know that you have people here on the board if you just want to talk. I'm not much for the phone due to wearing hearing aids but there's always the PM if you just want to chat!

Thank you. Most of the time I just want to be left alone. Not sure why, but I spend time thinking about her and how kind she always was to me.

Andy, I am so sorry about your wife. You and your family are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.

Thank you. Prayers are always good.

Andy, so sorry to hear that. You're in my prayers. Know God greeted her into his loving arms.

Thank you. She had a long deterioration of health but never complained. My vision is that she has forgotten all about this earth and is standing among millions with arms outstretched singing in perfect pitch actually looking at the visible Almighty. Even with her dear mom standing next to her, they can't take their eyes off God nor stop singing His praises. How could I want her back?

I am so sorry to hear this, Andy. I have been busy with work lately, and have not had as much time to read here, but knew it had been some time since you had last posted. Lean on your family and friends for support, as hard as it may seem. You also have a huge family and following here in the Garage Journal. Take the time that you need, but we hope to see you posting regularly in the future. Until then, you and your family will be in my prayers.

Thank you so much. Thank yo for the prayers.

Andy,
I'm sorry to hear that.
My condolences.

Thank you. No one really knows what to say at these times. I have found that little or nothing is just fine. Just your presence is appreciated.

Andy, I am so sorry for your loss. My sincerest condolences to you and your family.


Dan

Thank you, Dan. I know that my loss is her gain. There is really no unhappiness but lots of tears.

So, so sorry to learn of your loss.
God Bless you and your family.
I'll be praying for you brother.

Vince

Thank you Vince. Prayers are appreciated. Time passes and life goes on. The living are those who suffer.

 

[oldironfarmer]

Andy, I add my heartfelt condolences to those who have enjoyed getting to know you through this forum. I have admired the devotion to your wife that is evident from your comments; making sure that the bird feeders were full and positioned so that she could enjoy watching the birds from inside, cooking and caring for her daily; taking her to her favorite restaurant, and so many other small kindnesses. You must be devastated; lean on your family and your faith (also quite evident). I will be praying for comfort for you in your loss.

Glenn

Thank you Glenn. The bird feeders are now almost empty. All hummingbirds have been gone for at least a week, maybe longer. For some reason I have no desire to take the feeders down and clean them for the approaching winter. We have kept feeders full for hummingbirds for 34 summers. We believe there are generations that migrate back to our house every spring. This is partially evidenced by the fact that we always have the first birds in the area and the last to leave. I always told Sharon they had little signs up in the woods that said "Eat At Sharon's". They would regularly hover outside the windows to look at her, then fly off to resume their business. They will miss her.

I can't add more than reiterate what everyone else has said already. You have my sincerest condolences Andy!

Such tremendous love in loss and remembrance. I hope it helps you find some wind to fill your sails again.

Thank you Eugene. I know the time is coming. I don't cry as much when I stop by her grave. You know there is "survivor's guilt" and I beg her to forgive me for not doing more for her. That too will pass.

A gust now and then would be nice.

I swing by now and then to keep an eye on what you are up to in this thread Andy. I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your wife. Reading through your thread it is easy to see your world revolved around her, and the rest is just a hobby. Remember everyone here at GJ is grieving with you, and if you need to chat or just someone to lean on do not hesitate to reach out to anyone. You do so much for this community that I am confident no one will think twice about dropping everything to lend a hand, ear, or some time for you. Hang in there Andy.

Thank you very much. I'm doing fine but in no way want to bury her memory to make me feel better. I think it is important to just let the tears flow and enjoy the memories. She loved me so much I am grateful the situation is not reversed that she has to go on without me.

Andy so sorry for your loss of your wife.

Can't imagine what you're going thru. We'll pray for you.
God bless you and your wife, I know she meant the world to you.

Thank you. Prayers are appreciated. I am very glad to have the confidence that she is in heaven and that it is a better place. I actually had some real evidence of that and it puts me at peace.

Andy, so very sorry to hear of you and your family’s loss.

Thank you. Her daughter was an only child and very close to her mother. Her grief is greater than mine but we have grown closer with her mom's passing.

The news of your bride passing took my breath away. I know from the way you have spoke of her and seeing the way you cared for her in person, that she was the love of your life.

They say time heals all wounds. But I believe the holes left behind on our hearts with the loss of someone special never completely heals. Nor should it.

If it did they were no more special to us then then a person on the street.

We are here 24/7 if you ever need a shoulder to lean on.

Glen

Thank you, words well put. The wound may heal but the scar should remain. Even with 40 years of marriage it seemed we were just beginning.

Taken the wind out of me as well. So sorry to read this today.

Thank you.

Very sorry for your loss....thoughts and prayers for you and your family.

Eric

Thank you. Prayers are much appreciated.

So sorry for your loss, praying for you and your family

Sent from my SM-G955U using Tapatalk

Thank you. And thanks for praying. I know it is her gain.

Andy, at some point you need to get out the photo album and flip through it. If it's anything like mine it makes me laugh and cry at the same time. If I do it right it saves me the cost of a bottle of eye drops.

I am a horrible brother but Sharon probably kept you from noticing. I mourn her passing and share a tiny piece of your grief.

Thanks, Bob. I've not gotten to looking at pictures much. Saving those for when my eyes are dryer. I do have a few I'll post one day. She was an extremely beautiful woman but her kind personality put her beauty to shame.

I don't consider you to be a horrible brother, you always make me feel good about myself. On the contrary, Sharon always made me look bad by comparison. I must be a saint for staying with her.

Andy
I was very happy to see you back on here today
I'm very sad about your loss but grateful that you kept me in the loop.
You are a true friend and we will enjoy our friendship for years to come.
Ann's and my heart go out to you and your family

Don

Thank you Don. It surprises me how real friendships can be forged out of virtual acquaintances. Even without meeting. There are many here whom I know are true friends. I look forward to seeing you again and meeting Ann.

Andy,
I don’t often post, but I enjoy this thread. I know how much you loved your wife, your best friend. I am deeply sorry for your loss. May you find the comfort and peace to carry on. She is truly in a better place now.

Thank you. And thank you for taking the time to post in a difficult situation. I'm glad she no longer has to eat my cooking. It was good for her desire to lose weight however.

Sharon Martin was an incredible friend.

Andy

Very sad to hear this tragic news. Our thoughts are with you......

Lyndon
Down here.


Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

Thank you, Lyndon. One of these days I'm going to come see you if you'll take me for a jag in the Jag.

The example you have set in your love for your wife and your life are unparalleled. I’m sure I’m not the only youngster you’ve made a profound impression upon.

My heart dropped when I read the news, I’m very sorry to hear you lost your lovely wife.

Thank you for the very kind words. Like I've said part of me died, and I wasn't expecting that. I've heard people say that but did not comprehend the words. Now I don't know what part died, I just know part is gone.

Andy,

So very sorry for your loss. I can't fathom the grief but please know that many good thoughts are being sent your way.

Thank you. It is not what I expected. I really thought there would be some tears but a relief that the care giving is over. I miss the care giving very much. It was more of a joy than I realized.

 

[drivesitfar]

ANDY: I read all your posts and even though I know you are still very sad and probably will be for a while i see a lot of the old ANDY in those words so happy to have you back posting some good words for all of us.

i'm still sending prayers and hoping your life can still be great with Sharon whispering in your ear every moment. as I said I can't imagine what it would be like to lose my DREAM GIRL, but I know she's going to the right place as you know Sharon did.

feed the birds cause i'm sure Sharon is still looking out the window while you work in your shop when you do.

It's Saturday so hope you enjoy it doing whatever it is that might make you smile and remember your gal while you do.

BTW you may not have thought you could do more or something better, but I'm certain that Sharon thought you went far above what most of us would do in the same circumstances. she lived out her life in her home and watching you do what you do that i'm sure always made her smile. She's up there telling them to make room for her guy when that day comes many many years from now which might only be a few minutes up there.


cheers

 

[Farmerjonathan]

Andy, so many have said so much, I can only add that I saw this today and am saddened for you. Truer words and heartfelt emotions have been put on display in this thread like no other thread on GJB. All I can add is that I will add you to my prayer list to find comfort and I just want to tell you I am so sorry for you. Be well my computer friend.

 

[y'sguy]

Andy, Our family recently lost our mom in law, she was the indeed the family matriarch. Many of us are grieving but we now know she is in heaven and in no pain. She made it to 99 1/2 years. A life well lived.

While this was happening to us, You had this going on in your life also.

At the same time my computer has to go in the shop and get a drive replaced. So, I came back to this…

I am sorry for your loss. You're a strong old iron farmer. This will take all your time now, but that will be OKAY. You will meet again in heaven. You are so fortunate to have had her in your life.

Let's get together, making a broom is still on my bucket list.

 

[Redwolf947]

Andy, as mentioned on the foundry site, you and your family are in my prayers. It is great to see you posting again. I look forward to hearing about how things are going for you. Take care and God bless.

 

[Lyndon]

.
.
.
.
.
. (snip)
Thank you, Lyndon. One of these days I'm going to come see you if you'll take me for a jag in the Jag.

Andy

Good to see you posting. It's Bathurst 1000 day here, but I tore myself away from the screen to check in here. Glad I did.

And you are more than welcome to call by. There's always a spare bed ready.

Lyndon
Vroom Vroom!

 

[oldironfarmer]

Andy is sorry to hear that. You have my condolences and my family's.

Thank you Vladimir. I appreciate your sympathy.

I become very sorry reading the tragic news. My sincerest condolences to you and your family.

Thank you, sir.

My thoughts are with you Andy. I'm so very deeply sad to hear of your wife's passing.

kindest regards,

Greg

Thanks Greg. We're all glad that time heals.

Andy, please know I am still praying for you and your family. God bless my friend..
Mike

Thank you Mark. Another Sunday without an angel who walked among us.

Andy, I'm just a lurker here, but I'm very sorry to hear of your tragic loss.
Pete

Thank you, Pete. Lurkers are people too!

My thought and prayers are with you Andy. Sorry to hear that your wife has passed away. If you need someone to talk to PM me and we will get together.

Thank you. Prayers are much appreciated. I'm spending a lot of time alone right now, by my choice.

Sorry to hear you lost your wife, friend and companion. Words from us will never suffice, but we have to try. You've mentioned you have a faith, and I believe your wife had that too. You know where your strength will come from, you just have to ask Him for it. Keep the faith, and may blessings come your way.

Thanks Rex. I have confidence that God is caring for my wife. And even evidence. She told us in her last days that angels were coming and ministering to her in the night. That set us back and let us know we were just caretakers. God was and is in control.

Andy,
I don't post a lot but read this thread pretty much every day... please know that you inspire more people than you may ever realize...
I'm saddened to read of your wife's passing... thoughts and prayers for you and your family...
May you all find peace in this time of grief...
Best Regards,
...D

Thanks, D. Prayers are appreciated. I certainly have peace knowing God was and is caring for her.

Andy our hearts reach out to you as no words can. It is a sadness, Ginny and I agree, neither of us ever wish to be the first to bear. Our prayers are with you and your family. Know that our spirits walk beside you in your grief. Bobby

Thank you Bobby, and Ginny. You are good friends. You prayers are appreciated. In truth I would rather I be alone than she. My mom was ill for years then my dad passed away first. She never recovered and lived with one or the other of her kids for two years regularly asking why we wouldn't take her back home where Daddy was waiting. She finally went home.

Andy, I am sorry to hear this. You have been much in our thoughts because your participation in the forum was missed.

Dwight

Thank you Dwight.

Very sorry to hear of your loss, my thoughts are with you.

Sent from my Pixel 3 XL using The Garage Journal mobile app

Thank you very much.

I am very sorry about the passing of your wife.

I know offering condolence is tough, your comments are appreciated.

 

[bolensboneyard]

Andy we are as close as you need us to be. Bobby

 

[Toolfool]

Such sad news. Prayers to you and your family.

 

[sawduststeve]

Andy,so very sad to hear about your wife. Heartfelt condolences and prayers from my family to yours.
Let the family take care of you for a while.

Best wishes
Steve

 

[drivesitfar]

ANDY: I really hope you had a great weekend with maybe friends and family or just by yourself to feed all the critters.

more prayers sent and hope you are feeling just a tad better each day (6 SATURDAYS & A SUNDAY).

take care!!

 

[don long]

Don
Thank you Don. It surprises me how real friendships can be forged out of virtual acquaintances. Even without meeting. There are many here whom I know are true friends. I look forward to seeing you again and meeting Ann.

Just a short note Andy
The welcome mat is out and I'm looking forward to seeing you again and on my turf. It's nice seeing you back at the key board a bit again

Don

 

[tym]

Glad to see you back, Andy. Hang in there.

 

[rvieceli]

So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Ron

 

[oldironfarmer]

Sorry for your loss Andy
Nick

Thank you, Nick

Andy,

I am very sorry to hear of this. Prayers for you and your family.

Lynn

Thank you Lynn. Prayers are always appreciated.

So sorry to learn of your wife's passing. There was never a doubt when reading this thread what the top priority was at all times...

Thank you Kevin. Funny how much harder it is than it seemed it would be.

Andy - my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Thank you for your concern.

So sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers for you and your family.
Jon In Tucson

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk

Thank you, Jon. Prayers are a great help, both for the one prayed for and the one praying.

Oh damn. I have no words...

I understand no words. I'm there too.

Deeply saddened by your news, Andy.

Sincere condolences, mate.

M.

Thank you. You are on my must visit list too, you know.

Andy: I'm not going to fill your inbox with PM's so wanted you to know that i'm still thinking of you and wishing you the best. you are certainly welcome to PM, email or call me if you like even if there isn't a lot to say. I can't imagine all the thoughts running through your mind, but maybe just remembering the good times and thinking about making some more might be the best.

i'm sure your granddaughter would love to come over and help with the StudaDakota or a few of the members would love to come help you pound sand and fire up the forge or make a broom.

i'm pretty sure Simon meant well so maybe just let him know you are still ok and not ready to do your daily GJ thing yet. i'm pretty positive I wouldn't want his job of moderating this site cause along with all the great people on here there are a few that just wake up in the morning to cause problems.

IT'S SATURDAY and hope you have a good one!!

cheers and more prayers sent your way

Thanks, Drives. I'm pretty happy with no company right now.

What more can be said other than that you have shown a few of us cavemen how to properly love our wives. You have been a shining example for all of us.

You take whatever time you need and know that you have a lot of people here who are willing to listen anytime you are ready.

Those are hard words because I should have done so much more.

Thank you for your kindness. Time is healing slowly.

Andy,
My deepest condolences ...

She Is Gone

You can shed tears that she is gone
Or you can smile because she has lived

You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back
Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left

Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her
Or you can be full of the love that you shared

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday

You can remember her and only that she is gone
Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on

You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back
Or you can do what she would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

by David Harkins

It may sound strange, but take comfort in the grief you need to feel. It is just and as natural as breathing.

We are here in the shadows to support you and will be here whenever you are ready.

Thanks, Slim. Very good poem. I am not hesitating to cry but cannot want her back like she was. Still I miss her. The tears are just a reminder of the good she did for me.

My condolences Andy.
I rarely come out of the woodwork but I followed your thread here and your love for your wife really showed.

Thank you, and thanks for commenting.

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your wife.

God bless you and your family.

Lots of GJ love and support here for you.

Thank you so much.

Best thoughts from LurkerLand, you are an inspiration,

A lurker! HA! In broad daylight!! Thank you for the kind words.

OH Andy, I'm really sorry for the love of your life's departure. Prayers for ALL. Heaven received another one

She truly was an angel in every way. By her testimony they spoke to her.

Thank you.

Hi all.

I continue to be in contact pretty much daily with Andy.

He is dealing with a lot of stuff right now.

Both on the farm as well as other important things including processing the changes that have and are happening to him.

He has a good regimen going and shares part of his days with me.

Including his early morning walks with the dogs which gives him time to think.






Thank you all for your care and concern.

Glad to have you as a friend, Rian.

Thanks for the update Grizz. Thats good to hear.

Rian does good sometimes.

Thanks for the update Rian. I'm worried about Andy.

Not to worry about me. However my life has changed and I'm not sure the old me will be back. Part of me did die with her. We'll see what the new me is like.

 

[drivesitfar]

ANDY: thanks for sharing the stories about your wife and her angels. I know her passing is hard and I really can't imagine how much, but just know you did the best you could to make her last days here happy as possible.

i'm sure she enjoyed watching you run around feeding all the critters and doing what you do and probably why she lasted this long.

prayers sent and hope your day is a good one.

sunny and 60's here today, but we have the leftovers from that Typhoon that hit Japan heading our way to dump a bunch of rain on us real soon. sunny and calm and maybe a bit cold or windy today in your part of the world?

take care!!

 

[TwoBytes]

Your absence is understood and expected, but I've really missed my regular doses of Andy wisdom and your resilient humour.

So great to hear from you mate.

Can't imagine what you're going through, but your GJ family is here to help if and when you need it.

 

[Grizz1963]

Your absence is understood and expected, but I've really missed my regular doses of Andy wisdom and your resilient humour.

So great to hear from you mate.

Can't imagine what you're going through, but your GJ family is here to help if and when you need it.

Well said TwoBytes !!

I am fortunate enough to have been getting it from both barrels of the Martin Humour machine behind the scenes

However, I think what people often miss is the deeply caring nature of the guy with the needle he uses to poke us with.

In our family we used to have a saying: “If you expose your ribs, you deserve to be kicked in them” which was never meant to be malicious, but certainly made you more alert to not being stoopid

I find myself often being prodded by Andy for my own rib exposing, and I love it in a perverse way.

His humour and caring deeply about people around him certainly is refreshing and I look forward to every chat we have.

 

[oldironfarmer]

Thank you, Grizz. Please tell him how much we are thinking about him.

I told Grizz "Thanks Toothaker".

Thanks Rian.

Rian is a friend to all.

Andy: it's been early winter up her lately and we got 30mph winds to go along with our low 60's and rain weather. even though that's probably a little breeze for you and your buds in Oklahoma it sure isn't normal here.

It's Saturday and hopefully you are doing better today than yesterday.

Grizz: thanks for the update!!

We've had a wet summer and hay baling is late. My old friend just mowed the rest of mine yesterday.

We've had a low of 34F but most days are mid 70's and light breezes. I've about concluded you have more wind than we do.

I have had a few hard days. It goes with the territory.

Grizz, Thanks for the updates. I am concerned about him and look forward to when he feels up to posting again. Tell him a lot of folks here are praying for him.

Thanks for the prayers. This is certainly not what I expected.

Yep... we're here for you Andy.

Thank you.

Thanks for the update Grizz.

I'll add myself to the list of people who are thinking of Andy daily, concerned and really feeling for what he's going through.

Glad to hear you're in regular contact.

Good friends are so appreciated.

Andy: I've never heard you talk about football, but your grandsons are pretty good size so wondering if they played or maybe all kids in your part of the world are on the large size? with University of Oklahoma winning so many national championships did you watch any?

i'm far from a great football fan these days, but my wife likes our Seattle Seahawks so she scored some nice seats at last night's game and this catch helped us win. if you think that catch was amazing our QB Russell Wilson threw the pass on the run with LA Ram defenders in his face.

hope you are doing ok and more prayers sent your way.

enjoy your day and I think it's SATURDAY!!!

cheers

I've never been a sports enthusiast. I guess I just don't get it. I enjoyed watching high school basketball and football when I had friends playing. I could understand college sports if the players came from the geographical area of the school. However in my mind professional sports are just an arm of advertising. The money pours in to advertise the products and it is a lucrative business. The draft system is to help keep the teams even so the rivalries don't get unbalanced. That would be bad for revenue.

Sports figures, like other entertainment figures, get confused and somehow believe their great earning potential gives them the wisdom to advise the rest of us on non-entertainment issues. I've never bought into that concept. If you choose to make a political statement as a Realtor you would soon find your business diminished to those who believe like you, not change other peoples' minds because of your wisdom as a Realtor. Most businesses recognize it is best to stick to business, but apparently not the entertainment business (which includes professional sports). I never wanted to know Marshall Dillon's political views.

While we're on an interesting subject, I also view professional sports like ***********. You pay to watch performers do what you yourself would like to be doing. Just not my thing, I prefer to do the things I can do.

You brought it up.

Andy, so sorry to hear about your loss. My deepest condolences. I would also be lost without my best friend and love.

Thank you. Even knowing it was coming did not prepare me.

Andy,

I've not posted here before be it thoroughly enjoyed your thread including all the posts about your beloved wife. I know no words will fill the void but I'm praying God will wrap His loving arms around and bring you peace.

Sent from my moto z3 using Tapatalk

I am honored that you chose Sharon for your first post. Thank you. Prayers are appreciated. I have great peace concerning her, but my life is still a void.

Andy, been busy with the move, just caught up with this thread and hated to hear the tragic news.
Rian, thanks for the update.

Thanks for your concern.

Andy, I am so sorry for your loss.
My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Warren

Thank you Warren.

All,
Andy stopped by for a quick visit this weekend and wanted me to drop ya'll a note. He is doing quite well all things considered. He hasn't felt like going to the shop or logging on but does still think of all of his friends here. I know photos or it didn't happen right:

I also would like to say his sense of humor is still intact.

I have one more little photo to share when Herb comes for a visit.

JB

Thanks, JB.

It was great to see JB and visit for a spell. He is sure an energetic guy. And a good friend.

JB: thanks for the selfie and news about Andy cause of course we are all sad and worried that he's doing ok.

so he came to your place instead of you driving to his like you mentioned on your thread?

did you find more scrap for him to drag home so he needed to bring one of his big trailers?

sounds like you two had a fun day and weather looks decent too.

50's and raining here today, but no wind!!

JB had said he would come visit and it occurred to me the road has a lane going each way. I hadn't been to see JB in a long time.

And he was offering free goodies. They did all fit in the back of the FJ Cruiser. The day was high 70's and calm.

GREAT NEWS JB !!


Those who do not know Andy will not understand......


He has a rapier sharp sense of humour, and I know for myself, I have to on a daily basis, watch my mouth, as he will be so fast at picking up my missteps and using them against me.
On top of that, the dryness of his humour has me always looking in my rear view mirrors.


Good to see you out Andy.

Thanks for the update JB !!

Thank you, Rian, I think. I am always interested in your miss steps.

Drives,
I had 4 aluminum rims and some brass fittings to give him so not too much. I planned to swing by his place but he offered to come by mine and save me the trip.

He was only able to stay for an hour if that but we had a good time cussing and discussing shops, cars, and life.

It was 80 and sunny that day with a few quick showers. This morning it was mid 40's, but sunny and 70 now.

That he does Grizz, he caught me once off guard and I didn't have any way to react and just stood there with a dumb look on my face.

JB

Yes, I made a very inappropriate joke and caught JB flat footed.

JB thanks. I have been wanting to contact Andy but did not want to catch him in deep mourning. Glad he is on the mend. Bobby

It just takes a little time to mend, Bobby. How much time I'm not sure yet. Drop by any day!

I'm glad to hear he's doing alright.

Boy me too!!

Thanks for posting the update, JB. Glad to hear that Andy is on the mend.

Thanks. It is good to be mending. Funny it is a slow process.

Thank you JB for sharing.


Shorty Korte
Always remember quality in QST

Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

Thanks, Shorty.

Thank you for the update JB.. Good to see Andy.

I see Andy every day. Nothing special. Thanks for the good words.

 

[drivesitfar]

Andy: I'm not sure i'm willing to admit that we in the PNW have as much or more wind as you and your friends in Oklahoma so we'll have to keep an eye on that. we're getting the leftovers from the Typhoon that hit Japan a few days ago and did so much damage so wind and rain are here today that is for sure.

how is Hershey doing?

even though it's raining i've got a ton of boxes and stuff to sort through and figure out why I need all this stuff and just wanted you to know I was thinking of you.

hope your day is a good one.

cheers

 

[oldironfarmer]

You are all quite welcome, we had a good time and as always it would have been nice to have been able to chat longer.

JB

It's always fun to visit JB. But he always has stuff to do. I understand that.

Thanks JB.

Great to see Andy and hear that he is doing OK'ish.

Thanks Eugene.

Went to JB's to pick up my hearse. JB said that Andy had left me something
So a BIG thankyou ANDY, the gas peddle feet with my name on it is awesome. They turned out very nice. I have some that look like the ones that Grizz has. Very thoughtful of you and very much appreciated. I wish I was at JB's to visit with you as well.
Thankyou my friend, and GOD bless you. Herb

Thanks, Herb! I was hoping it was the right size.

Photo or it never happened

It is a mystery.

This is what Andy made for me, I wanted to wait to share until after Herb saw his. Very cool and will be fun to put it to use... eventually.

JB

Great to Andy out

Dwight

Who outed me?

Sometimes you just have to put your foot down.

Is that like putting the hammer down?

Thanks for posting Andy.
It is so very good to hear from you.
Take care of yourself, God Bless you. Still praying for you.

Vince

Thank you Vince. I appreciate your prayers.

Pleasure is mine on all aspects Andy.


It’s both a pleasure and honour to know you as a friend.

It was fun to get to know Rian. Then...

Andy, I am so happy to see your posts. I have lost too many people in the last few years and while you get by you never absolutely get over it. But the tone of your posting shows your strength and durability. You'll get back to playing with "old iron" and other metals in your own good time and we'll be here to learn and criticize as usual.
Take all the time you need.

Sent from my SM-G930T using Tapatalk

Thanks for the encouragement!

Andy,

I don't post much but enjoy your posts and want to express how sorry I am on reading of your wife's passing. Please know she is in a better place. Prayers to you from Pennsylvania.

Thank you. Her statement that angels were taking care of her leaves no doubt as to her whereabouts. Thank you for praying.

Glad to see you back. I agree that it seems like a year. Checking your thread has become part of my daily routine - always anxiously awaiting to see what new things your are up to.

Thank you. I have been up to a few things. Nothing really exciting. But I'm trying to answer posts as they occurred so it will be a few days before I get up to speed on current events, mundane as they may be.

Andy, it is good to see you posting again. You have been missed quite a lot but we all understood the reason why. I can't imagine what you are feeling like. I can only empathize and know it isn't much. Getting back into a new routine will take time. Prayers offered up to you and your family.

Thank you very much. The prayers are much appreciated.

Welcome back. Understandable that you need time. That your time but please impart your wonderful and witty wisdom with us on occasion.


Shorty Korte
Always remember quality in QST

Sent from my iPhone using Garage Journal

My wisdom may be lean but I think I have an aleck which is pretty smart.

Andy, sorry to hear of the passing of your wife. I don't get on here much and this is first I'd heard it.
May she rest in peace.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thank you. My confidence is that she is indeed in peace but joyfully serving a visible God.

Thrilled to see you back. Sure am glad I checked the thread again tonight.

I'm glad you checked too. I had two marks against your name for seldom checking.

It's good to see you again, Andy.

Thanks Vladimir!

Great to have you back Andy.

It's not the same without you!

I'm not the same without Gusts.