As I was sitting and thinking about everything that has happened in the past month I had a beautiful picture enter my mind. I could see Kristy up in heaven getting together a choir for the homecoming of President Hinckley. Making sure that everything was going to be done perfectly! Can you imagine how wonderful it must have been to see the reunion of our wonderful prophet and his dear sweet wife? And I am sure that the choirs were singing so beautifully. My life has been changed this past month for the better. As I sat at the testimony meeting and listened to those who loved her so much tell of all the amazing things she did, I realized how much more I can do in my life. I never really got to know Kristy well. I was in her parent's ward and have become so close to their family. My husband grew up with all of them and I have heard so many classic stories. :) I am so thankful for the example that she is to everyone around her. While my husband and I were trying to decide which route to go to start our family, Ann said that Kristy could throw together a fundraising concert and raise money to help us do invitro. Although we went a different route... I am very thanksful for the thought and how wonderful, caring, and willing she was to help. She would do anything for anyone. To the Palizzi family... it was wonderful seeing you again. We have missed being up in Washington. We are praying for you and love you very, very much.

Bridget Hutchings

Kristy was such a sweet person!! I wish I had gotten to know her a little bit better though. I watched her boys for her for a few months. She was always full of compliments and always had good things to say about people. I am sure that through this awesome blog and through her family that her memories will stay strong in her boys life!! Kristy was always so concerned with her boys well being and happiness and I know that she will be watching over them forever!! May this SAD event be a leson to all of us that life sometimes gets cut short and that we need to live each day as though it is our last! Take the time to see even the small things.

How to put into words...

I have known and loved Kristy for years, but didn't realize how important she truly is to me. The depth of my feelings for Kristy are such that I can't appropriately put them into words. I have had the privilege of being close to her since we were 18 and continued to live close to her since. There are so many beautiful words that have been posted about her here, that I can only echo. It was so strengthening to attend her memorial service in Washington and be reminded that she is still so close. I love you Ann and I love you Kristy, more than I can say.

Shannon (Haynie) Moeck

Kristy has touched a lot of people!

Can you believe the amount of people Kristy has either touched while she was here on earth or who she is touching now? Check out the ticker map to the left, under the blog archive. Almost 13,000 people have visited this memory blog for her. You can hardly even see the U.S. anymore, and there are hits from all over the world! She would be so pleased. Even more pleased if it happen to spark someone's interest in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints from the life she lived. What a tribute. You rock, Kristy!

~Mel

Inspiration

"It isn’t as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out. Don’t worry. I say that to myself every morning. It will all work out. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. He will not forsake us. If we will put our trust in Him, if we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers."

-Gordon B. Hinckley
(from the funeral of wife Marjorie)

For Kristy

I didn't know Kristy, but wish I had. I like Kristy say what's on my mind, only I constantly wish I hadn't. I put myself down for being so bold, intrusive at times, demonstrative and always giving of myself to rescue others. I always feel so much empathy for others, I take on their pain. After reading these beautiful messages, I am making a promise to myself that it's OK for me to be me. Although some may have a hard time being around someone who is so demonstrative, open and full of energy, and out spoken, long after they are gone, everyone loves her for being just the way she was. Thank-you Kristy and friends for bringing me to this place in my life when I am still on this earth. I also have little ones and my highlight is putting them to bed each night. I love to sing to them, read to them, and pray with them. I am most sorry that Kristy has been taken from them, they will remain in my prayers. I am also sorry her parents, siblings and girlfriends will live the remaining portion of this life without Kristy. I now believe everyone needs a Kristy in their life, and I am happy to be that person to those in my circle.

I was really missing Kristy today. I was picturing her essence, her dark hair, white skin, the way she smiled, the way Carter toddled around right at her knee, the way her patient voice said, "Brandon", over and over.
I just sit here, 20 days later, not quite able to believe this really happened. How she could be taken off this earth so quickly, so shockingly? She's taken from our lives, this vibrant woman, in a moment. We blinked and she was gone. What a tragedy. I've tried to push it from my mind day by day. Today it came around full circle. She's really gone. No amount of time will soften it. No amount of time will help me look on this event and be able to understand. I will still be confused about how someone could use a gun and take a girl, take a mother, a friend and a daughter.
She did so much, but she could have done so much more in her life as a 30-year old, a 40-year old, a 50-year old woman. Touched thousands upon thousands more. My hope is the only thing that helps me sleep. I know that there's a life after death. And I know she's living that now. But it's still so hard some days.

Precious Savior, Dear Redeemer

Hi, my name is Tamma Miles. I’m Cynthia Perry’s sister-in-law. She just sent me this tragic news. I used to work at the National Domestic Violence Center, so my thoughts turned immediately to comments about abuse. But I realized that even the most informed remarks would do nothing to comfort the sorrowing. So I’ve turned to my love of music. I hope you won’t find this cliché, but appreciate my feeble but well intentioned attempt to 'mourn with those who mourn.'

Precious Savior, dear Redeemer,
Thou wilt bind the broken heart.
Let not sorrow overwhelm us;
Dry the bitter tears that start.
Curb the winds and calm the billows;
Bid the angry tempest cease.
Precious Savior, dear Redeemer,
Grant us everlasting peace.

Precious Savior, Dear Redeemer, Hymn 103(LDS), 3rd vs.

I know that our Savior has the power to comfort all those that sorrow.

Kristy's Memories

It has taken me this long to be able to compose myself enough to be able to write this. Kristy was one of my very best friends, and I hope that she knew how much she meant to me. We first met about 10 years ago, while working for the same company in Seattle. At first, I didn't really care too much for her; she was just too much energy for me and I misunderstood her inquisitiveness as being "nosy". Soon, she went away on her mission and I didn't really give her too much thought until about two years later when she came back to that same company looking for a job, working for me of all people. When she came in for the interview, I really had no intention of offering her the position. But something happened in the 20 minutes or so that we were talking and we touched on a subject that brought us both to tears. Needless to say, I hired her . . . Over the next nine months or so, we discovered how much we had in common; namely, a twisted sense of humor. In addition, one of the things that made our close friendship a little unconventional was the fact that I am not a member of the LDS church. Kristy would joke and say , "Oh, well . . . I guess I'll love you anyway". She willingly answered all of my questions and never once tried to "convert" me; she only said that if I ever wanted to talk about it that she would be there for me. She would laugh at my aversion to be "touchy-feely", and chase me around trying to give me a hug. After she & Dave married, and moved to Utah, we lost contact for a couple of years. I tracked her down through her mother (Thank You Ann!), to discover that she had just given birth to sweet Brandon only 9 weeks earlier. She came to Seattle that same month to visit her family and we were able to see each other. You could say that since that reunion, we became inseperable (by phone, anyway). Since my son was born three years ago, I have looked forward to each Spring when we would fly down to Utah and stay with Kristy for a week. We would have so much fun just taking the kids to the park, shopping, and most of all hanging out on her humungous sofa, watching movies, SNL DVD's and stuffing our faces with junk (Thank the Lord for Dippidydoo!). The only thing I didn't look forward to was the 5-7 pounds I would gain after staying with her . . . At her funeral in Lehi, I listened to so many people speak of how wonderful and giving she was; what a beautiful voice she had and what a true friend she was to so many people. I loved those things about her as well, but mostly I loved her ability to be painfully honest, horribly disgusting, yet graceful and dignified at the same time (if you can imagine such a thing). Kristy's friendship was a precious gift that I will always treasure, and I am so proud to be able to say that I was her friend. I Love and Miss You So Much!

-Sarah M.

I went to school with Kristy from Kindergarten through the 9th grade. She has an amazing smile and a knack for telling things like they were. I have remained in contact with one of her close friends and was so sad to hear what had happened. I joined the church almost 11 years ago, but Kristy's memorial was the first LDS memorial service I have ever attended. The spirit was strong there. I usually cry at almost anything, but I felt so much peace in that room. My eyes did fill with tears as Honor sang and Ann played the piano. I remember seeing Ann at the piano many times during our elementary school years. I was amazed by that moment. I have a calling as our Relief Society music leader. It is a calling that I was in no way suited for, but have learned to love. As I was driving the hour to the memorial service I found a quiet moment and felt prompted to sing "Love One Another." When I looked at the program and read Ann's message I didn't have to think another moment about what our music appreciation song would be and why. Today as I stood up to share that moment, I talked about Kristy and the legacy of service and love she left behind. I read Ann's message to my fellow sisters and urged them to follow it. As we sang "Love One Another" the spirit was very strong in the room and many sisters had tears in their eyes. The messages of love, hope, forgiveness and charity are a sweet legacy that Kristy has left with us. When we live those principals we follow and honor our Savior. I am glad to say I knew Kristy. Our family continues to pray for those she loved and those who loved her.
Brianna (Mosebach) Keith

A Dear Friend

Two weeks ago Kristy was taken from us. I think about her so many times everyday. I have lived across the street from Kristy for 2 years. We didn't start to really become friends until about 4 months. My husband and I had been trying to sell our house, but decided to take our house off the market. Kristy was driving by and stopped to ask if we sold our house. She was so excited that we weren't moving and said that we should get to know each other better since I was staying. I'm so happy that she reached out to me, or we probably wouldn't have become such good friends. Not long after that, Kristy was sitting in front of me during Relief Society. After the opening song she turned around and said, "You have such a great alto voice, you have to be in the ward choir." She didn't give me much of a choice, so I've been in it since. Today at our ward choir practice, Sister Nylander was commenting on how wonderful we sounded at Kristy's funeral. She said that we had some angels singing with us. I said that Kristy must have done some recruiting for us. I miss singing with her. At Kristy's viewing I told Ann about a conversation Kristy and I had about how our mothers were so wonderful. I had told Kristy that she was lucky to have a mother who would come and stay with her to help her through such a rough time. I told her my mother would do the same thing. We talked about how we had the best moms. I will miss our long talks, listening to her great mission stories and testimony in Relief Society, and her friendship. I know we will see Kristy again. I love and miss you Kristy!

Carrie B.

Goodbye Kristy- til we meet again!

Dear Kristy,

Today is January 19th 2008, almost two weeks since your 30th birthday. I don’t know if you remember the last time we saw each other. It was the night that the 3rd book in the Twilight series was released and they were sold out at all the book stores but Costco had an some so you bought an extra copy for Ally and I stopped by to pick it up. If you’ll remember I came into your house and you showed me around and I was jealous of your TV. You did a great job of decorating your house, it was very nice. Little did I know that would be the last time I would see you in this life.
So, anyhow, I wanted to write this letter to let you know how your passing onto the next life has affected me. As you are probably aware many people have written many wonderful things about you on this blog and I just wanted to pass along my personal thanks for how you lived your life when you lived by us. I don’t believe I fully appreciated your personality, or maybe more appropriately your character and it is unfortunate that this had to happen before it finally hit me. I guess at the same time it is better late than never eh?
There are so many things I think I can write about you and how you live your life and I could try and emulate you in so many ways but let’s be honest we both know that it aint going to happen; it just isn’t in my nature to ask a lady if her boobs are real. ;-) I am just teasing ya Kristy; you know how that filter sometimes isn’t working.
But seriously, one thing I am going to try really hard to do is simply smile and say hello more often to people I don’t know. I promise that I will try to get to know people better and work harder at learning how I can help those who stand in need of comfort. That is the one thing that impresses me the most about you; you are always willing to be friends with anyone, regardless of their station in life. In that regard you have no filter and I want to be like that.
One last thing, you remember that blue dress you gave Boo? I remember when you gave that to her and you told Ally that it was your favorite dress when you were a little girl and you wanted Brenna to have it. I remember thinking to myself, “well if that was your favorite dress why would you give it away, why wouldn’t you give it to your daughter when you finally have one?” First of all Kristy I want to apologize about that, I am sorry that I had those thoughts; I didn’t know you at the time and I didn’t realize it was part of your character to be so giving. Also, how was I to know that you would never have a daughter of your own? I think I will always remember those thoughts I had when you gave something special and I scorned your charity. I know you will forgive me, I just need to learn to let it go myself.
I want you to know that I dug that dress out of the play clothing the week after you were shot. There are a few stitches that have come undone and it is a little worn. I showed it to my mom as she read the blog site last Saturday after the funeral. My mom was crying as she read and when I showed her the dress she held it up, and noticed the holes and said “I am going to fix this dress.” (She is really good with the sewing machine.) I want you to know Kristy that that dress will be taken care of, it will be fixed and it will be a reminder to me and I will make sure that it will always serve as a reminder to Brenna that that dress represents you and your life; in essence I will teach her that that dress represents charity.
Finally, I hope you are resting for a season and I wish you the best of luck in whatever calling you have coming your way. May God continue to bless you and your family, especially Brandon and Carter. Thank you so much for your service in this life, I suspect that when you passed through the veil you heard “well done thou good and faithful servant…” I hope that through your example, but more importantly the example of our Savior I too can be so lucky.
Peace,
Jon

Kristy grew up in my Ward. Some of my children are the same ages of the Palizzi kids. My son is a year younger than Kristy. Before my son got his driver's license Kristy drove him and another boy to earlier morning seminary. They boys would complain that Kristy would be singing wide awake every morning to the radio. They were hoping to get a few moments of rest on the drive down to the church building but no such luck. Tonight my son and his wife were visiting me. His wife asked if he had any experience with Kristy being so frank. He said yes, she told someone that he would be cute, if his ears didn't stick out, if his eyes weren't so small and his nose wasn't so big. He did finally grow into his face we are happy to say. And we all know that girls don't usually think the boys in their own ward are cute. My husband was also one of Kristy's Bishops. One summer our Stake had a youth activity. It was a backpack trek. When the youth were getting divided up into groups she was put in my husband's group. She walked to her group and looked at my husband and said, "Oh great, we have Bishop Push". My husband was the former scout leader and was famous for his killer hikes. He said it was the longest he ever heard her go without speaking. There were some very step trails with some of the most amazing views and she was taking it all in. During a night hike all the youth and leaders hiking in a line holding hands. It was pitch black. Kristy had a hold of my husband's hand and she told him, I know when we are on the trail, it is smooth and quiet but as soon as we go off the trail it gets loud and branches are breaking around us. So it is with our lives. After the Washington Memorial we had a luncheon that hundreds stayed for, neighbors, teachers, school friends, church friends, everyone who's life Kristy had touched. The church was filled with hundreds that care and love the Palizzi family. I thought of Bishop Richard C. Edgley's talk from last conference, "What happens to one happens to all. We endure together. May we be an instrument in lightening the burden of others"
Leslie

My experience with Kristy

I have known the Palizzi family for some 16 years now, Ann played the piano at my wedding. Upon hearing of Kristy's death I was deeply saddened. Since then and since the memorial here in Washington on Wednesday I have been inspired. I am attaching an email I sent out to family and friends after the service.

What I need to share with you all though is Kristy had a wonderful example of love and service in her mother. I am currently going through a heartwrenching divorce and after the memorial when most guests had left Ann enveloped me in her arms and asked how I was doing and offered love and support to me. My heart ached for them at this time and yet she embraced me and said things I so desperately needed to hear.

Ann and Al and the rest of your family, know that you will always hold a special place in my heart, and that Kristy's life will live on in her wonderful legacy!

The email I sent:

Subject: My New Inspiration

Dear friends and family,

Today I went to a memorial service for a friend who was tragically killed by her estranged husband on January 6th (her 30th birthday) on her way into church in Lehi, Utah. Despite the tragic circumstances of her untimely death this was one of the most touching inspirational services I have ever been at. You could definitely feel the love of the Lord there and his spirit burned deep within my heart as tears flowed so freely from my eyes.

Her name was Kristy and she is my new hero, someone who, through her death, has inspired me to live a better life. These two excerpts from the service really touched me and I want to share them with you.

On the program her mother said:

A Mother's Wish:

Kristy's life was dedicated to compassion and service. Her mother's greatest wish is that in her memory we follow her lead. Find someone to serve, seek out a lonely heart, make someone smile or laugh, throw a party, give a compliment....do something to lift another.


And Gloria Jacobsen shared this poem which you may be familiar with but I did not remember it or have never had it hit me like it did today, for in her short 30 year dash she blessed so many lives.......

The Dash

I read of a man who stood to speak
at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone
from the beginning… to the end.

He noted that first came the date of her birth
and spoke of the following date with tears,
but he said what mattered most of all
was the dash between those years.

For that dash represents all the time
that she spent alive on earth…
and now only those who loved her
know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not, how much we own;
the cars…. the house… the cash…
What matters is how we live and love
and how we spend our dash.

So think about this long and hard…
are there things you’d like to change?
For you never know how much time is left.
(You could be at “dash mid-range.”)

If we could just slow down enough
to consider what’s true and real,
and always try to understand
the way other people feel.

And be less quick to anger,
and show appreciation more
and love the people in our lives
like we’ve never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect,
and more often wear a smile…
remembering that this special dash
might only last a little while.

So, when your eulogy’s being read
with your life’s actions to rehash…
would you be proud of the things they say
about how you spent your dash?

- Linda M. Ellis ((c) Copyright 1999)

I hope to live my life that I can be proud of my dash! Like Kristy did.

Love,
Deone

Sister Jacobsen's Talk

I attended the Memorial for Kristy yesterday in Washington. The talks and music were absolutely beautiful, and such a beautiful honor to Kristy. I could feel her there in the chapel with us for a minute or two. The strength of Ann astounds me. What an amazing example.

I couldn't help but crying as Honor sang that beautiful song because Kristy should have been standing with her. I could almost hear Kristy's voice blending with Honor's. That's a duet I will miss tremendously.

I would love to get a copy of the talk that Sister Jacobsen gave. I really loved that talk, and would love to have it to read and study. Is there any way we can get that posted here?

Ann, Al and family, we love and care about you very much. You are in our prayers and thoughts daily!

Love, Joanne, Pamela, and family

Kristy Ragsdale's Eulogy for Washington State Memorial Service

Kristy Koreen Palizzi Ragsdale was born in Tacoma, Washington on the 6th of January, 1978. She died in Lehi, Utah on her 30th birthday, January 6, 2008. Those who knew her best will agree that she lived more in her thirty short years than most people do in 60, or in 90, or even in 120 years on this earth.

Kristy was a busy little person from her very earthly beginnings. She kept her mother on constant alert with her running, climbing, jumping, giggling, chattering, and, sometimes, her sassiness. As Christy grew older, her mother Ann was more than once overheard to say to less-experienced mothers of challenging children, “Believe me. If I could survive Kristy, you can survive too.”
For example, Ann related to her friend, Judy, stories about Kristy’s childhood to encourage Judy that she could survive her own busy little son, Sam. Here are her memories of two of Ann’s accounts.
Judy writes:
[On one occasion] Kristy decided to climb scaffolding in the gym at the stake center during stake conference and twirl on the bars twenty feet in the air . . .Kristy refused to come down and [her father] Al had to climb up to get her. I think, Judy adds, she was around 4 years old.”
Another story Judy remembers Ann telling her was that “When in the first grade, Kristy was helping a little girl [with learning disabilities] . . . and the teacher told Kristy to do her own work. Kristy [turned to the teacher and replied] that she was helping the little girl and if the teacher was doing the job the state was paying her to do she wouldn’t have to help her.

When little Kristy stopped moving long enough for a person to take a look at her, what they saw was a very cute little girl with sparkling brown eyes and a charming smile. She had a cute way of talking, too. Once, at about age three, when standing up to a pack of little boys due to some offense or another, she and her friend Naomi, who also had her own cute way of pronouncing words, were heard scolding the boys to make it clear that they themselves were not boys, they were girls. And so, Kristy and Naomi emphatically declared their gender, one stating,” Well, we’re gills,” and the other, “Yeah, we’re ghouls.”

It will not surprise anyone who knew Kristy that once, when a new mother from Kristy’s church congregation was suffering after the death of her first baby, Kristy, without saying a word to anyone about it, called up the grieving sister and asked if there was anything she could do to help. That Kristy made such a phone call is not surprising to those who knew her. What may surprise you is to know that at the time of this compassionate—and unprompted--phone call, Kristy was a mere five years of age.
Kristy had a heart turned to service from her very beginnings.

Our Savior admonishes us to be like little children, and Kristy retained childlike qualities throughout her life. Like a little child, she would approach strangers and friends alike with piercing curiosity and frankly honest comments. Sometimes those who did not know her well did not perceive the love which was at the core of Kristy and were taken aback. When someone once complained to me about such a verbal offense, I replied, “You have to remember that Kristy has no filters on what she says, but she has a heart of gold, and I love her.”

And so did many, many others love Kristy. For she not only had no verbal filters, she also had no filters on her ability to have fun, to party, to make friends, to laugh (punctuated by her famous snort), to speak out, to sing, to beautify, to listen --or to truly and genuinely love even as Jesus loved.
In fact, Kristy personified four qualities of true Disciples of Christ as enumerated in Mosiah chapter 18 in the Book of Mormon. Listen as I read them, and note how well they fit the Kristy that you knew:
[Disciples of Christ] are:
“willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light”
“willing to mourn with those that mourn”
“yea, and comfort those who stand in need of comfort”
“and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that [they] may be in, even until death,”

Here are some examples of Kristy’s outreach in each of these areas, gleaned from her online memorial:
One: Kristy was willing to bear the burdens of others, that they could be light.

From Tracy:
“[Kristy] cared about everyone she came in contact with. I remember when we found out my daughter had a genetic disorder and needed intense therapy. I hardly knew [Kristy], and yet she came to me and asked about my daughter and then asked if she could watch my other three children for me so that I could take my daughter to therapy uninterrupted. How thoughtful!
I think she offered to throw a baby shower for everyone who got pregnant in our ward—that’s just the kind of person she was!”

From Ana Garcia:
“I worked for Kristy . . . for almost 2 years, I used to clean her house, she was one of the first people that gave a job in her house to me . . . . I remember the first day that I left a flyer on her front door. An hour later she called me and since I didn’t speak English very well so we didn’t understand each other really good, she told me to just go to her house and so I went [;] that when I met her.
Since that first day I began to work with her and she help me so so much. She recommended me to the whole neighborhood, she would call her friends and would say oh you have to meet her, because she want to help me and she always tell them nice things about me and she knew that I had just gone through divorce, she help me so so much. Thanks to her, I remember when she told me “Ana I will never leave you, ever, you will be working with me forever . . .”

From Kristy’s doctor’s wife:
“Every year my husband sponsors a Sub for Santa drive through his business. He works two days for free and allows his patients to bring in gifts, food, or money for the children’s Christmas. Last year he sponsored 7 children. Kristy brought in a pair of shoes for each child. She said that if she was a struggling mother, she would want her children to have nice, warm shoes to wear, and she felt that this was the greatest way for her to help. I remember seeing all 7 pairs of shoes under his Christmas tree, and feeling so grateful to her and her generosity. It may seem like a simple thing, but I’m sure it meant so much to those children, and also to the mother of those children.

Two: Kristy had a capacity to mourn with those that mourned

From Amy:
When I miscarried a year ago this past December Kristy came by and brought me yummy cookies and cried with me. She listened to me and shared . . . “

From Corinne:
“I have so many wonderful and sweet memories of our dear Kristy. She was so very sensitive and in tune with me when I needed to just talk. She always knew what to say and how to say just what I needed to hear. She also knew when and how to listen with her whole heart and would just watch me talk with her deep beautiful brown, caring, and kind eyes that had so much love and concern and compassion in them. Oh, how I could feel her love for me and compassion for how I felt. It as though she knew what I felt!”

Three: Kristy comforted those who stood in need of comfort.

From a Relief Society sister:
“On one Sunday approximately four years ago, I was sitting in front of my fellow sisters as a member of the Relief Society Presidency. For some reason that has long escaped me, I sat facing them unable to control my tears. I remember thinking, here I am, falling apart, and not one person is noticing. Until Kristy. A note made its way to my hands, lending support and encouragement with a gentle reminder that I was not alone and that I mattered.

From Amy:
When my son had a lump in his leg last April I was so distressed at the horrible testing he had to endure that day. I reluctantly went to the Relief Society function that evening. [Kristy sang that night and] said she didn’t know why she was supposed to sing the song she chose but she knew that she had to sing it. . . . I knew at that moment why she was prompted to sing the song she did. The song she sang had a line in it [very familiar and comforting to me, which I had in my mind just before she started singing.] [Afterward,] I told her what [had] happened with my son that day and what [had] happened with her song. She hugged me and cried with me and gave me that song. She just handed it over.

And Four: Kristy stood as a witness of God in all times and all things, and in all places that she was in, even until death.

From Emily Allan Wood:
In 5th grade, she testified to our class at Milton Elementary that our history book was wrong and that Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon rather than wrote it. I remember feeling amazed that she had the courage to testify in front of the whole class, and tell them that the church is true.

From a fellow full-time missionary:
Sister Palizzi was in my district in the MTC. I remember her as a person with a strong testimony and a very outgoing personality. She was a caring and beautiful person. I wish I could have known her longer than those short 2 weeks.

From Mel Hegewald:
Kristy has a strong testimony of our Savior Jesus Christ and for His gospel. She holds fast to her testimony and her faith through trials and difficult times. She doesn’t waiver.

From a Relief Society sister:
“Kristy was smart and spiritual. I enjoyed her comments at church and in my home, as she was my visiting teacher for a while. She saw the spiritual in so many things I hadn’t. I was always impressed in her ability to quote scriptures and people. Her beautiful voice sang true praises of our lord Jesus Christ.”

From Amber:
“I remember talking with [Kristy] as we worked together in the kitchen on enrichment nights. Neither of us the type to hold back our thoughts, we had some wonderful and candid talks. But the thing I remember most about her was her testimony. It seemed to radiate from her no matter what the conversation was about.”

From a gospel instructor:
[Kristy] was such an example to me in so many ways. Never afraid to bear her testimony. Never afraid to make a friend. Never afraid to say what’s on her mind. Never afraid to help others. She had courage. She was authentic.
“Kristy had a testimony so simple and pure! She was never afraid to share it. I think every month that she lived in our ward she was up bearing her testimony. Every church lesson she had a comment. It was so nice to be a teacher and actually have someone to contribute to your lesson. What an example she was to me!”

What an example Kristy was to each and all of us. Think again of Kristy as I read the full text of Mosiah 18, verses 8 and 9:
“And it came to pass that he said unto them: Behold, here are the waters of Mormon (for thus were they called) and now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light;
“Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need to comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life—
Don’t you wish you could be like Kristy Koreen Palizzi Ragsdale in her emulation of Jesus Christ?

Think of becoming like Kristy was, inasmuch as her life reflected the qualities of our beloved Savior. Think of how much you would like to be like Christ as I read now Mosiah 18:11:
“And now when the people had heard these words, they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed: This is the desire of our hearts.”

In contemplating becoming like her Savior, Jesus Christ, I am confident that Kristy would clap her hands for joy, and exclaim: this is the desire of my heart!

May we, too, remember the example of our Savior and love and serve Him by joyfully serving His children, as Kristy did.

[Thank you, D. Allan for the link to this!!]

Kristy's Washington Memorial

Kristy's memorial was held in the Puyallup Stake center where her parents' ward meets. It was packed! People who had moved from the area that we hadn't seen in years came. Kristy's life touched many and there were old and young and in between in attendance. Most of us cried during Honor's song ("He'll Carry You") and she was accompanied by Kristy's mom, Ann. Donnell Allan gave a very nice eulogy and quoted many comments from this blog. Gloria Jacobsen spoke on the plan of salvation, it so comforting to know that in the eternities we will all be together again. The final speaker was our Stake President, Larry Steveson, who also gave us words of hope. The closing hymn was "Be Still My Soul". I think the last verse of this hymn says it all: "Be still, my soul: The hour is hastn'ing on when we shall be forever with the Lord, when disappointment, grief, and fear are gone, Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored. Be still, my soul: When change and tears are past, all safe and blessed WE SHALL MEET AT LAST." We love you Kristy and we will never forget you. Nathan's Mom

Music

Thanks so much to all of you who have posted here. It has been such a comfort to read all about Kristy. I would love to hear about the memorial service in Washington from anyone that was able to be there.

I too would love to hear Kristy singing, if anyone has her recorded.

Sharon

Kristy has made me want to do better.

I did not know Kristy personally. I am from Utah originally and still read the Daily Herald online to keep up with my old home town as my family still lives in Utah County. I read about Kristy online and can't seem to get her out of my heart and mind. I check your blog each day to see if there are any new stories about her. I wept when I read the article on her funeral. Kristy sounds like an amazing woman that we can all learn a great deal from.

I wish I could have known her personally. She has influenced my life just in reading this blog and what a loving, giving, unselfish person she was. I have made a few phone calls and written a few thank you notes this week that I have put off for far too long. I will be making a bigger effort to let the people in my life know that I love them. When I wonder how someone is doing, I will no longer wonder and actually pick up the phone and call them. Kristy has made me want to be a better friend, mother, daughter and wife. I did not know her, but yet I feel love for her.

I have been touched by the music on the blog also and was wondering if there was a recording of Kristy singing that you could put on the blog for those of us who have never heard this beautiful singing voice everyone talks about.

Thank you for the work that you are doing in letting so many people know this amazing woman. Kristy is not gone. She lives, and will continue to touch many lives through her example. My heart and prayers are with her family and friends.

Christine

Fly Away Home, Songbird

Somehow I've managed to put off writing this message. Kind of like I manage to put off doing those things in life that are really so simple, but I use the excuse of "I just don't have time". Kristy has been on my heart so much this last year, and I never made the time to find her.

Today I am going to her memorial service in Washington. How is it that someone, whom I haven't spoken to in years, has left such a void in my life? That is a testament to the person that Kristy was and what she did…once you met her, you'd never forget her. Even after she's gone from this earth, she continues to touch people's lives.

I knew Kristy as a child, we had so much fun together and I have many memories of time spent with her. I really can't remember why we went our separate ways when we moved onto high school. Maybe it was new friends, maybe it was that we were growing into different people…shoot, maybe it was a boy! What I remember is her big infectious laugh…and that she was my dear friend.

I am so thankful for this blog, through your messages I am getting to know Kristy as an adult and it makes me love her even more. It makes me want to be more like her. What a heart she had! If we could all be like her, the world would be a nicer place.
Father God, I thank you for this beautiful life you created and used for so much good. You sent her to touch the lives of so many people across this country, and she gladly followed your will with such grace and beauty. Thank you Lord for the gift of her friendship. I give you praise for the unity that her families have been able to find and I pray that their boys will always feel your love and warmth and that they will find comfort knowing that their mother is singing in heaven with you. Amen.

Our great commission in life is to love the Lord and to love each other. Let's remember to do that everyday.

Melissa (Chastain) Huffines

I read a great book the other day and just wanted to recommend it to all of you. I'm sure some of you have read it, but if you haven't, It's a great one and has lifted my spirit. Reading it has renewed my drive to do my best while here and fulfill my mission on earth; it has reaffirmed that we truly are never ever alone, and that Kristy is still checking in on us (as well as other loved ones who have passed on.) It is called "The Message" By Lance Richardson, and I think you can buy it anywhere, I know for sure that Deseret and Seagull have it as well as Amazon. It's short and easy reading, you can finish it in a couple hours. I highly recommend it to anyone reading this blog... It will help.
Erin

Such a beautiful spirit.

We've known the Palizzi Family for a long time (in Washington). Our hearts have ached for them at this time. Our hearts have also been touched by the outpouring of love expressed by family and friends towards Kristy and her family. What a blessing to have such wonderful memories. Each of our five children have expressed their feelings of sadness to me over Kristy's passing. We remember her as being so happy and exuberent. She touched so many with her sweet spirit and cheerfulness. I think of that hymn "Each Life That Touches Ours for Good", (Hymn #293). I can tell she has touched so many. She had such a beautiful voice. She sang at two of our daughter's wedding receptions (Karah and Marissa) and also at our son, Joe's, wedding luncheon. She so freely shared her talents, just like her mom, Anne. Al and Anne, we want you to know we admire your strength and testimony. Our family will continue to pray for comfort and peace to be with both families and those two precious little boys. Lovingly, Rex, Linda and Family

Kristy is an inspiration to me

I didn't know Kristy, but from what I have read about her, I wish with all my heart I did. I know she would have been a true and lovingfriend to me. I have been inspired by her all week. I have realized from Kristy's example, that I have to bear my testimony about what I feel and know is true. I can't hold myself back anymore because I am too shy. I am grateful for her example of warmth, love, friendship, honesty, service, sense of humor, beauty and dedication to her family. I know her spirit lives and she is engaged in a marvelous work. I know despite this tragedy she is happy and she is continuing to serve more people than we could ever imagine. I pray that God will bless her family and friends during this difficult time.

Thank you Kristy for being my new friend and teaching me to be a better person.

Shannon

P.S Thanks for the music on the site....Kristy continues to know how to touch people with the music she loves.

I knew the Palizzi for many years. What a wonderful family and what a wonderful individual kristy was. She always brought a smile to a room and always kept her brothers in check. She was an individual who put attention and praise on others rather than herself. My heart goes out to her children who have lost there wonderful mother. I know the Palizzi family will make sure those children know the wonderful person Kristi was. All our prayers go out to the Palizzi's.

Matthew, Cherie & Collin Larsen

For Kristy

I don’t know Kristy or her family, but I feel the need to share some thoughts. I believe that out of this tragedy her wonderful life will touch many people. I can tell by the comments posted that she already has touched many lives. She will be working hard to continue her mission and to bring others to Christ.

To Kristy,
May you be in God’s hand and I pray that he will allow your innocent children to feel your loving presence the rest of their lives. May God bless your family and all those who’s lives were touched by this event.
A friend.

My best friend

So I got back from Utah last night, after having gone to the viewing and sung at the funeral; and I have a few feelings about this past weekend.

The first is that I didn't realize just how much I loved Kristy. I knew she was like my sister, and I knew that we had the best time together, but I didn't know the depth of love I had. It was overwhelming at times. She really meant more to me than I think she ever knew. (I think she knows now, though)

Another thing that stood out to me this weekend is that everyone loved Kristy that way .... and that's the way Kristy lived .... truly loving everyone and truly caring for those she came in contact with.

I have grieved a great loss, and will continue to miss her until I see her again, however, I know she is happy. I feel in my heart that she is okay.

At times this past week, I have felt like Kristy was watching over me. A few times when I was losing my patience with one of my kids, I felt like Kristy was watching me and it made me want to be better.

That is what this has meant to me. The whole purpose of life and reason we're here is more apparent now. It took this to make me realize that some things just aren't important. Something I think Kristy knew all along.

I hope we can all use this to realize what's important to each of us, and know that service and love are where it's at. Kristy had already figured that out ....

Thank you Kristy for always believing in me.

Love, Honor

Not Lost

Thought I would take a moment to write...

I felt my baby move for the first time on Saturday! I'm 16 weeks along.. it was a great feeling. Subtle, gentle, and calming. I had to prepare a talk in my new ward, it was on Joseph Smith. I thought, how in the world can I prepare a talk this week, of all weeks??? I read a post on here about when Kristy was little and she told her elementary teacher (I'm sure very strongly and loudly) that Joseph Smith didn't write the Book of Mormon, he TRANSLATED it.

In preparing my talk, I felt touched by the spirit of God. Subtle, gentle, and calming. THIS is exactly why I should prepare this talk on Joseph Smith. The great Prophet and my great friend had quite a few things in common! They both were unafraid to share what they felt about the gospel and COMPLETELY unafraid to shine as one of the universe's most important people.

I listened to some music yesterday and closed my eyes and thought about her and for a split second, I felt her around me. Subtle, gentle, and calming. I felt the peace that the gospel brings. I felt the peace that Kristy feels now. I felt the peace that comes from truly loving the people around you and missing that girl who left us all too soon. She is ok. I'm ok.

I woke up this morning and an inspired reader had requested this song, "Lost" by Michael Buble. It talks about not being alone and not feeling lost. And I hoped so much that Kristy didn't have to die all alone. I'm so glad I know she didn't. Her mother, and legions of Angels were there to hold her hand. To hold her spirit. To meet her gaze. Listening to this song with tears streaming down my face, it felt good to remember her. I could see her doing a little jazzy sway to the music... I wish we could have gone up to her "spa" in Heber that she ALWAYS invited me to. ("Two for one, Sarah, they have two for one!!!!!")

And I only knew her for 9 months.

Love you girl,
Sarah

Amazing Example

I too, like so many others, did not know Kristy, but she truly has touched my life. When I first heard about everyting that happened, my heart ached deeply for her family, especially those dear, sweet precious children. Everyday since then, I have been reading the entries that her friends, family and complete strangers have wrote about her, and I feel like I have come to know her and love her just as much as you all did! She was so full of life and everyone that knew her loved her. I am so amazed at the Christ-like life she lead and the wonderful person that she was. Kristy has been an amazing example to me by the type of life that she lead. I can only hope to be half of the woman that Kristy Ragsdale was.

Jennifer

I do not know Kristy or any of you as her family members and friends but I cannot stop thinking about all of you. I just wanted all you to know how sorry i am and i feel tremendous pain for your aching hearts. I hope that you feel the love and support of so many friends, neighbors, and complete strangers and that their support will strengthen you now and for the long months and years to come. I pray that Kristy's little boys will be able to be happy, righteous men and be loved by grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins on both sides of their family. My thoughts will be with everyone affected for a long time to come.

Jodi

I have been touched by everyones comments on the blog. I wish I could have called Kristy "MY BEST FRIEND." I have been logging on quite frequently to read the latest comments and each time I do I cry. I feel like I know her now. She makes me want to be a better person. Gosh darn it, I'm crying typing this. I have to remember her name because she is on the top of my list of people I want to meet when I get to other side. She touched a part of my heart that has never been touched. I love you Kristy and can't wait to meet you. With Love, Your Friend

Because you're at that camp really really far away.

Dear Kristy,

I went to your funeral yesterday. It was very difficult; it seemed unreal.

I kept expecting you to pop around the corner with your huge smile exclaiming "Just kidding!" at the top of your lungs. But you didn't. You lay in your casket looking very beautiful though not quite like yourself. Don't worry, they didn't do a horrible make-up job, but you weren't smiling - it wasn't you. The curve of your forehead was the only part of you that I recognized with sickening surety and I stared at it, remembering the real you. Sometimes I stared so long I thought I saw you breathing.

Your brothers and cousins and I all agreed we were waiting for you to prank us. Tony said he could feel you next to him, taunting him to touch your hand, calling him a wuss when he wouldn't. We all laughed at that. Periodically little groups of conversation would burst out in laughter, recounting your stories. That part made it almost bearable. I know you really wanted us to have a party. You can't believe how many people came - relatives I've never even met. Ted and I talked about how we couldn't sleep until we bought our plane tickets. I know you were there in the middle of it all.

Your mother was amazing. She of course thought nothing of herself and spent every drop of energy buoying all your mourners, which were many. I never saw her without her arms around someone and a smile on her face, urging them to remember you with peace. We made her eat during the viewing even though the line was solid. So she greeted some people with turkey sandwich in hand, never slowing. When she spoke at the family testimony meeting on Friday I saw her with new eyes for eternity and I marveled. She is a small, modest, fiesty spiritual warrior. After your graveside service, she and I giggled about your "paparazzi" treatment, knowing you were loving the attention.

I think the hardest thing is: I wasn't done. I wasn't ready to be done playing with you. And there were things about you - huge, glaringly obvious things - that I missed because of my own imperfections. The way you were unfailingly honest without being judgmental. The way your interest to know was equivalent to your intent to help. And for as much as you talked, you never told anyone about all the kind things you did for other people or about how much pain you were in yourself. I hate that these are realizations forced upon me by your parting. Please forgive me.

I miss you so much. One of these days I'll stop crying, okay? I'll get there. I just really really miss you. So much. Rock that spirit world hard. (As if we had any doubts you would.)

I LOVE YOU.
~Cheryl

P.S. Dude, they sent out one of the 70s to speak at the funeral. You totally rate.

Amazing

I had the profound pleasure to babysit Kristy, Andy and Barry on occasion when they were younger. I remember this chubby cheeked girl with an amazing determination to do the work of Heavenly Father. Young people or old, Kristy was the first to befriend someone - anyone. She was fearless, bold and exuded charm. If Kristy did not amaze you, you did not know Kristy. Her laugh was contagious and her spirit was bold, unlike the quiet of the boys. But, much like the rest of the family, Kristy had a peaceful and guided spirit. She was younger than myself, but she always made me want to do better. I felt like Kristy was as close to Heavenly Father as you could get on earth.

I have to say that reading of her leaving this earth in such a way made me question my faith a little. How could Heavenly Father take such a gorgeous soul from her family and friends. And then I remembered....it was free will. The free will in all of us will bring us closer to God or have us aimlessly wander the unknown paths. For Kristy, there is no question that she is at the right hand of God. For her husband, I pray for peace of spirit. He must have had something pretty wonderful about him for Kristy to have chosen him as her husband and the father of her children. For Ann and Al, I pray for you and your sons that you know that Kristy touched so many lives throughout her time on earth. I haven't seen her in over 10 years and this has rocked me to my soul. I know that Heavenly Father has a plan for all of us and we are to have faith that all is as it should be. For my parents and myself, we will remember Kristy with love and adoration and smile knowing that she was a little heaven on earth.

Much Blessings,
Maria Sjoden (Chavez)
Tony and Betty Chavez

P.S. When I remember her, I will always see this frilly girl, chubby cheeked smiles twirling around in a dress as her mother played the piano in the Relief Society room. Oblivious to the world around her....just enjoying the moment.

Kristy

I have been touched all week about Kristy. I did not know her but what an example she has been to me. When I read of this horrible tragedy, it devastated me. I have been looking at Kristy's blog on and off all week and I am deeply touched by the life she led. What a true example in how we as women, and as humans, should treat each other. She has made me have the desire to be a better wife, mother, daughter, and friend.

I have resolved to stop being so concerned with how I am perceived and to strive to live a life of serving and being there for others. We are always taught that in our LDS meetings but it has taken this tragedy and the example that I have read that Kristy was for it to finally hit home with me. Thank you for setting up this blog. I am sure there are tons of us out there who didn't get to personally know her who feel the same way as I do, let alone those who did know her. She sounds like an amazing woman.

Laura

Music, Please.

Hello my loves across the country,

Please give me some music suggestions. If you and Kristy sang a song together, liked a song, talked about songs, have music compilations, or anything, please leave a comment to this post. Write the song and the artist and a little something about why. I hope to put together some music for Kristy's family.

Love,
Sarah

About three years ago, Kristy, Tami and I were shopping together, and for whatever reason, we were discussing how we might get sent to the 'other side'. I mentioned that in my Patriarchal Blessing, I am told that 'when it is time for me to be taken to the Spirit world, I will be taken quickly'. Kristy laughed and said, "That's how I want to go out; in a blaze of glory!"

Well, Kristy, you sure did! Makes me wonder how I'm going to go! See you there girl! Love you!

Oh, and by the way, would you give Isaac a great big hug for Gale and I when you see him? Remember when I played the music from Disney's Electrical Light Parade at his funeral? Didn't he just love it?!!! I remember feeling him there and knew how much he loved it! I know he is excited to see you again!

Linda

Letter for Kristy..

I have been really struggling this past week. I have really missed my friend...and while I wanted to write something on this wonderful blog for her, I am not the best writer...so I hope it will somehow do her justice....and convey a little of what I've been feeling.

I first met Kristy when she lived in the Jordan Meadows Ward in Lehi. She was someone I first noticed because she was always so confident and loved sharing her thoughts and opinions in Relief Society. I wanted to be her friend because I loved that about her, and I have to admit, I was a little envious at her ability to bear her testimony the way she did. She was amazing. I remember her singing, of course. It's a talent I do not have, so I thought she was simply incredible.

I got to know her a lot better when she was getting ready to leave our neighborhood. She tried to get my family to buy her house, too. I remember being amazed at how clean and "new" everything looked. I tried to reason with my husband on that note. (ha ha) She loved showing me all the new light fixtures they had put in, and her beautiful yard. I remember talking to her that day about a jello salad she was trying to make....(the one that looks like a flag) and we were laughing about the way the fruit was "leaking" all over the Cool Whip. She was so nice to me, and I remember her hugging me when I left....and telling me we needed to be good friends, even if I "didn't like her house enough to buy it". How could I not have loved her house?? She was just so funny.....

When Kristy was pregnant with Carter, I ran into her at the salon we both went to. I remember sitting in the chair, getting my hair done, and I could hear someone singing (at the top of her lungs) back in the aesthetician (spelling??) room. It was hilarious..... When she walked out of the room, I just couldn't stop laughing that it was HER. She was so cute, and full of life that day. She had wanted to get a bikini wax before her baby was born. That was so funny to me.... She was so open and treated me like I was her best friend that day. I remember laughing so loudly with her.... A few months later, she was at a baby shower I went to, and she recounted her story. Well....I still thought it was funny, and I can still remember her face just lit up and laughing. She paid me a very special compliment that day. For any one that knows me....I am not a big make up person....and I'm more into dressing my kids than myself. (ha ha) I do, however, like to go get my hair done at least once a week 'cause it's way too curly to deal with. Kristy told me she liked my hair.... It meant so much to me. It probably sounds so stupid and trivial, but it bonded us. She began going to my hair dresser, and I was able to see her even more. She and I would get the same hair color....and I loved it, because I thought she had such great taste, so it was such a big compliment to me.

I didn't talk to Kristy, like I should have, those last few months. I kept having feelings to call her.... I would think of going by her house when I'd go to Costco. She had told me I was always welcome to stop by, unannounced...."because she was always ready for company". I remember thinking I wasn't dressed right, or I just looked a mess. I kept thinking I needed lots of time to talk with her, 'cause we both LOVED to talk. I let myself get "too busy"...and I'll never forgive myself for that. I thought of her countless times, and we'd play phone tag.....but I wish I could have told her how much I cared about her. She left me a message once on my answering machine....inviting me to a party she was doing. She told me she knew I didn't get offended by her jokes...and she wanted someone there who would laugh at her, and she knew how funny I always thought she was. I'm so glad she knew that I liked her so much.... I went to the hair salon the Friday before she died. Out of nowhere, her name was brought up....and the lady who does my hair told me I should call her. I did call her that day when I left the salon. We played phone tag again, but she ended up making an appointment for that weekend before her birthday. However, she ended up cancelling that appointment and rescheduling. After what happened on her birthday, I couldn't stop thinking about her. I was talking to a friend....and we were remembering some funny things Kristy had said to us. I thought of her compliment to my hair, and I couldn't stop crying. I texted my hair dresser and made an appointment for that Tuesday. I figured it would make me feel a little better, and I needed something..... Well, when I walked in to the salon that day, my hair dresser met me with a big hug. She had told me that she was going to keep that appointment open that day, unless I called. She had given me Kristy's hair appointment. I just cried.... People reading this are probably thinking I'm the biggest nut, but we just sat and talked about Kristy and remembered her spunky personality. It meant the world to me.

I couldn't stop thinking about Kristy and what had happened to her all week. I couldn't sleep, and I feel like I was just a mess everyday. When I went to her funeral on Saturday, I can't even describe how peaceful I felt afterwards. Her family was absolutely amazing. What a wonderful Mother she has....and I could totally see just why Kristy loved her so very much. She was so generous with her hugs, and outpouring of love. I couldn't believe it..... There was so doubt to me, at that time, that Kristy wouldn't want all of moping around and worrying about HER. I was so impressed with the whole message of her funeral...and the reassuring words about the days before Kristy died. She wasn't alone.... The message of forgiveness that came out of that meeting was the most incredible thing I've ever seen or felt. I remember looking at Kristy's Mom and just loving her. What a truly selfless person. I wish everyone had a mother like her. "Wow" was all I could think....

I will always remember Kristy, and her outgoing personality...and the way she touched my life. I loved the way she would always make me laugh.... I am so grateful for our faith, and the beliefs we have about life after this. It was so comforting. Her Mom was such an example to me. In the time I was there, she touched me in a way I could never explain. I miss Kristy, and I have learned my lesson about listening to my "inner voice". I want to be a better friend....and make those calls to someone who may need someone. It hit me hard during her funeral when someone said to be careful of saying "someday". I wish I could go back and have another "someday".... to talk to her one more time....bring her a Dippidee cupcake, and give her a giant hug. She was my friend....and I'm proud that I knew her. I am so amazed at this wonderful blog set up for her...and how much everyone loved her. She was blessed to have so many friends, and we were all blessed to have her.

Carrie

A post for Kristy

It's been an emotional week after hearing about Kristy. I never want to see a friend's life end early in such a horrific way, or break the news to so many others.
I became friends with Kristy at the Benjamin Franklin Academy (BFA) in 1993. She was 15, I was 16. Many of my lifes most cared for friends were in our group. Ean Paget, Donavon & Cynthia Wagner with their whole clan, my family, Shauna Landoe, Ben from Kent, Brother Bay, so many others, and, there was Kristy. Kristy gave our group the feeling anything was within our grasp, possibilities were limitless, and we were the center of the world. It was in this group my testimony became sure, and a mission was my certain future. From September 1993 through to February 1994 we were all very close, getting together in and out of school for many activities.
I will never forget the time a few of us met down at the Sumner stake center to practice a song we were going to sing for the BFA class. My older sister dropped me off telling me she'd be back in an hour. After a half hour the practice was over. Only Kristy and her mother Anne were left. We were laughing so hard for so long that when Anne offered me a ride home I forgot my sister was coming to get me. I accepted, and the laughter continued as we unknowingly passed my sister on the way home. You can imagine how my sister waited for me at the building, then later excoriated me for not being mindful of what we had agreed on, but as a teenager it was worth it.
There were so many stake events, and other musical performances we spoke at over the following years: My Servant Joseph with Kenneth Kope, where I got to know Kristy's brother Toni; Youth and YSA dances and firesides. Kristy used to joke about "making rounds" to all the boys since she knew and spoke with all of us guys. That must have been pretty serious business to her since by the time I got to our stake young single adult ward she had already been attending for two years (Ha,ha.).
Since I knew Kristy, I asked her Dad to be my merit badge counsellor for one of the required merit badges. He was very helpful, an act I have not forgotten as a man who now spends time scouting with so many boys.

Since learning the details of last week, I tried to make it up from where I now live in Arizona to attend the Kristy's funeral. However, my three boys and wife all got sick the Wednesday before. Oh how I wanted to be there with friends and family. To mourn with those I care most to mourn with in a time like this.
Now I pray for Kristy's family. Especially her parents, and children.
I try to grasp at what Kristy must be feeling to have been taken from her two young boys so soon.
The day of her funeral I had this song in my head while wishing I could be there.
It's called Yearnings . I have no idea who wrote it.

Yearnings

Oh for the day to walk again, slow, through the forest deep.
Oh for the time to talk again, before I go to sleep.
Oh for the warmth of Summer sun, the chill of Winters breeze.
And, oh for the chance to sing my song once more before I leave.

Oh for the scent of Autumn air. Crisp, and clean, and cold.
O for the chance to travel, where the seas are blue and gold.
Oh for the friend. Oh for the kiss I never kissed.
And, oh for the chance to sing my song once more, while yet I'm missed.

Cry of bird, and bale of wind.
Word unspoken. Sin unsinned.
A night to dance. A hill to climb.
A chance to sing while there is time.

Oh for the taste of meat and (ginger)ale to linger on my tongue.
Oh for the sight of hill and dale, and faces that are young.
Oh for the hand of one I love. A time to bloom and grow.
And oh for the chance to sing my song once more, before I go.


Take what you will from that song. My best wishes to everyone. We will see Kristy again.

Benjamin Randolph, Buckeye, AZ.

Babysitter...

Kristy was my first babysitter when I first moved to Puyallup. She was only four years older than me and as we got older she became like a sister. My mom reminded me that she saved up her money and bought us Christmas presents one year. I don't think there was a more thoughtful person at that age. She had a beautiful voice, and she was beautiful inside and out. She was so sassy, but I ate it up. She came over to our house to chat about boys and just hang out. She was so nice to our little family and her family never made us uncomfortable, despite the fact that my mom was a single mom, a rarity inside the church. She was nice to everyone and everyone loved her. She was sometimes brutally honest, but I admired it. I hope, no, I know, that everyone benefited from knowing her. I hope that as we continue our lives here on earth that each of us takes the time to make someone else's day a little better because that is what Kristy always did- whether she was trying or not.

Nicolle Brady

!!!We Love Kristy!!!

From some young women in our ward:

Kristy was a shining star no matter where she went. Her glow never stopped glowing! We hope that we can help others as much as she helped us girls in the ward and everyone she knew. We have so many great memories with her, a couple of them were the "Create The Group" concert that we went to in October and going to Mc Donald's!!!
Her heart reached out to everyone that she knew. She was a great friend and the best to go to when you needed some advise. We love Kristy!
Love Ashley, Madi, Kambri & Rylee!

She finished on a high note

We will always remember Kristy as a compassionate servant of others. There is a video of a song called Nessun Dorma that seems to capture the essence of Kristy and her personality. The singer finishes Nessun Dorma on a high sustained "B" note, one of the highest notes in the tenor range. Kristy also finished her time here on earth with a high note and will always be remembered for her enthusiasm, a strength to others.

Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VCp6Q6LZYX8

--The Landoes

Saturday

A few photos from the funeral. Thanks to my sister, Hannah for taking them.

Love, Sarah

A Song, Lot’s of Laughs, and a Little Studying on the Side

I wanted to share a few of my memories of Kristy. Here are some of my favorites.

I was about 15 or 16 years old when I first met Kristy. We were both enrolled at Benjamin Franklin Academy (BFA) in Auburn, WA, a Christian school that was designed to provide an education through gospel principles. Kristy was a social butterfly who would talk to anyone and everyone about just about anything. And although both of us had very strong personalities, we somehow seemed to get along very well. Perhaps it was our mutual love of music that helped the relationship along, but either way we both enjoyed each other’s company.

When BFA fell apart after an incident at the school, I thought that was the end of our relationship. Everyone left the school, and since I lived in Maple Valley and she lived in Milton, I figured I probably wouldn’t get to see her again except maybe at a youth dance or some other event. So I was quite surprised to get a phone call a day or so later from Kristy. She said that she and some others from BFA were going to form a new study group and it was by “invitation only” because they wanted to keep out all the riff raff that had ruined the old school. Kristy was quite a salesman. She made the new group sound like it would be the coolest thing since sliced bread. Then, she really laid it on thick by saying that I was just the type of person that they wanted in this new group. She extended an invitation to me to join and, of course, I couldn’t say no. The next few months spent with Kristy, Mark and Shauna Landoe, the Wagoner’s, Ben Randolph, the Burris’s and the Leavitt’s were the best. We met a few times a week at the Milton Community Center. Like Lael said in her previous post, I think we spent more time laughing and having a good time than we actually spent studying and learning. Kristy’s infectious laugh would get us all going and I would end up laughing so hard, I’d end up crying.

If it wasn’t for both Kristy and her mother, Ann, I probably would not have earned my Eagle. In scouts, I had hit the plateau that so many young men do after achieving the Life rank. After months of searching unsuccessfully to find a worthy Eagle project that I thought would meet the qualifications, Ann approached me about some of the needs of the Milton Community Center where we met for our study group. She pointed out that the interior walls were in desperate need of a new paint job and that the outside could use some sprucing up too. Everyone in our group agreed to help with the project, but it was Kristy that really came through. Being the normal rowdy group that we were, a paint fight broke out towards the end of the day. After dripping paint all over the inside of the building, we moved the paint fight to the parking lot outside. When the fight was finished, I had paint in my ear, up my nose, plastered on my teeth and gums, and all over my arms, legs, hair, and clothes. Just about everyone left shortly after the paint fight was over, that is, everyone except Kristy. Kristy didn’t say a word about the huge mess we had made inside, she just went to work cleaning it up. She could have left like everyone else, but she didn’t. She stayed. I remember feeling so bad because while I was outside, she was on her hands and knees scrubbing the carpet to get the paint out. She stayed until it was done and all the paint was cleaned from the floors.

The next week, we came back to the community center for our study group. Perhaps it was the paint fumes from the freshly painted walls, or maybe it was the fact that Shauna and I still had paint in our hair that wouldn’t wash out, but either way, we were exceptionally goofy that day. I was especially paranoid about our freshly coated walls and didn’t want anything to scuff them up. I reminded everyone over and over to be extra careful to not scuff the walls when putting away the tables and chairs. During one of our breaks, I met up with Kristy who was leaning up against one of the freshly painted walls. I might not have cared, but she had her foot on the wall to help her balance as she leaned against it. My normal anal retentive side kicked in and I chided her for having her foot on “my” freshly painted wall. That’s about all it took for her and I to start going at it like brother and sister. She said that she wasn’t hurting the wall and that I needed to calm down. I told her that I didn’t want anything to mar the new walls that we had all worked so hard to paint. She said that she hadn’t left a mark on the wall. I pointed to where her foot had been touching the wall and said, “See, there’s a mark right there!” Then, Kristy got that twinkle in her eye. The twinkle that said, “Ean, you just crossed the line and I’m going to help you back to the other side.” She said, “Mark huh? You want to see a mark?” Then she stepped back a few feet from the wall, and with ninja fighting skills that she had probably perfected on Tony and Andy, she ran and leaped into the air and performed a flying kick that even Bruce Lee would find intimidating, and with one kick, she put her foot right through “my” freshly painted wall. Maybe it was poor quality construction. Perhaps it was defective sheet rock. But whatever it was, Kristy’s foot was now lodged inside the wall. Within seconds, Kristy pulled her foot out of the wall, revealing a hole that resembled a large foot. Fortunately she was not hurt. I, on the other hand, was speechless. Audible gasps filled the room as everyone came in to see what had happened. And true to form, Kristy told a joke to lighten the mood. I don’t remember what she said, but mortified as I was, even I laughed. She then came up to me, told me she was sorry, and gave me a big hug. Years later, whenever I saw her, I would remind her about the wall and we would always laugh about how she was a force not to be reckoned with.

Both Kristy and I shared a love of music. She had the most beautiful voice and we sang together on multiple occasions. I think I was about 16 years old when she invited me to sing in My Servant Joseph. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I sang bass in the choir and Kristy was a superstar Alto who could sing soprano when needed. Kristy and I would banter back and forth during rehearsals. She had a lot more experience than I did with this type of music and knew the kind of sound that was needed. So, under Kristy’s “tutelage,” I learned how to sing with the same breathy quality that was on the CD. It was an amazing testimony-building experience. We sang together on many other occasions. A few months after my dad died, she invited me to sing in Greater than us All. I don’t think she will ever know how much that experience helped me through one of the most difficult times in my life. I was only 17 when my dad died in a motorcycle accident. A few months after the accident, I felt spiritually bankrupt. My experience singing in Greater than us All with Kristy and everyone else completely replenished my overdrawn spiritual bank account and solidified my testimony of the Savior, the plan of salvation, and life after death. It was nothing short of a miracle in my life and Kristy was the one who invited me to participate.

I will always love Kristy. She was a true friend, a great example, and one of the most fun and exciting people you could ever associate with. I can’t believe she was taken from us so early. It is so much more difficult for those of us who are left behind. We will miss her while we are separated but look forward to the day when we will see her again.

Ean Paget

Just One More Kiss

I am Kristy's cousin and although I haven't seen her in several years, I know how she was feeling leading up to this horrible event. I too filed for divorce in October, I also got a restraining order, I feel fear for my safety. I have 3 little boys, ages 7, 5 and 15 months. I also will be 30 in March. I too am active in church and am the choir leader. When I found out the news last Sunday, I sank to my knees and cried. I know. Last night as I was putting my boys to bed I couldn't help but think what if this was the last time I would be doing this. Emotions, feeling and words started to flood my mind. Soon I had a short poem that I think Kristy would agree with. Before I share the peom though I have one funny thought about Kristy that I remember all to well. When we were kids we had a family reunion here in Washington. Sometime during the night, the boys snuck into our tent and stole Kristy's bra. The next morning, we found it hanging high in a tree. What an ordeal to get that bra out of the tree. My dad (Uncle Dean to Kristy) had to back a pickup up to the tree and find a long branch to fish it out. She was a good sport. It just makes me chuckle!
love always
Amy
Kristy's poem

JUST ONE MORE KISS
To my precious baby lying there
fast asleep without a careI
gaze at your beauty
your tenderness
and I think......
..Just One More Kiss

To my big boy so strong
playing rough, bouncing along
you fall and turn for aide......
Just One More Kiss
you run and play

I can not be there now
to kiss away
to stop a frown
but know that I watch
from Heaven above
your little light guiding
stay near me my sons.

In Memory of Kristy. I wasn't one of her close friends, and we didn't hang out on a regular basis. I am younger than her by 3 years. She was one of the beautiful Laurels I looked up to and admired. She always made me feel special and that we could do something great. I'm sure I'm not the only one from my age group that thinks or feels this way. I remember one specific time when I was about 14 we were sitting in the chapel at the stake center and she was asking me about a boy I liked, asking what it was I liked about him. She acted so interested and excited to hear about my little crush, and all my insecurities and wondering how to handle the whole situation. After probably a long time of me rambling and her acting genuinely interested she smiled and said, "I think you're beautiful, just always remember that." And she continued to talk with me. Looking back to that I feel that only a truly beautiful person can say things like that to people the way she did. She was beautiful, and she had a way of making you feel more comfortable in your own skin. I also remember watching her sing a song in "Greater than us all" and she sang the part of Mary, I remember being so touched by that and thinking she sings like she knows how excited Mary was to have baby Jesus, she sang like she really felt it and we could all feel it. I remember her singing at my sisters wedding and thinking how she uses the gifts she was given in exactly the right way; to bless others. She later sang at our wedding, it was beautiful. My heart is hurt by this tragedy, I can't imagine what people are feeling who are close to her. I will try to be more like her and think outside myself. I think the hardest thing to go through in this life is losing someone temporally or spiritually. Our Heavenly Father has a miraculous way of comforting and changing our hearts and lives. I pray for her friends and family. If there is ever anything her little boys need in the future, please let us know.

Marissa Dickson Pope

I was a Young Women's leader and advisor of Kristy's. I thought of this quote when thinking about Kristy a few days ago:

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves,
Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a Child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking
So that other people won't feel insecure around you.
We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us: It's in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine,
We unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fears,
Our presence automatically liberates others.

I think this quote describes Kristy who was never afraid to share her light with others. Her example will continue to inspire all of us to love more fully, live more righteously, and to joyfully share our light. Thank you for being my teacher Kristy.
Jane Ward

I will forever associate Kristy’s name with the smile on her face. She was always so friendly and kind towards me. I appreciate her example of reaching out towards others. It makes me want to be a better person, a friendlier person, even if I am uncomfortable. What a shock for our community. I feel such gratitude and appreciation that I live in an area where even one life is so precious to all of us. We are not invisible. We are surrounded by others who love and care about us, as this experience has taught us. I am proud to be a part of a community and church that truly love one another.
Lora J.

Kristy is my cousin, Although (because of an almost whole generation gap and living a far distance away) I never really got to have an in depth connection with Kristy, my personal experiences with her will be cherished forever. She was always the hit of the party. She could always get a good conversation going and have the entire room laughing within moments (I never really got what everyone was laughing about). Although I only ever personally talked with her a few times, I remember each and every one of them, and never want to forget them. When ever she passed through Nampa, she always made a special consideration to come and visit even if it was only for a brief moment. Later, when we moved to the Tacoma area we visited the Palizzi household more frequently and when kristy was home, the house was always very eventful. several years later, I remember going to visit my aunt and it was on the day that Kristy was helping her Mother to paint the living room which afterwards was named the "red room". That was probaly the day that I really learned what a great personality that kristy had, she was always willing to help those who were close to her, and was never afraid to let someone in and include them. I really admire how she had the ability to always say what needed to be said (even if it wasn't well recieved) and was never afraid to comfort someone that needed it. I hope that all of those who are having a hard time with this tradgedy will remember the life that she led, will laugh at all of the funny memories, and are able to surpass the sorrow and come to smile when they see or hear something that reminds them of her and, even if in the slightest way, keep her memory alive by living in her example and the Christ-like life she led. Stepping out of our usual comfort zones and notice when someone is feeling hurt and just give them a hug and remind that somebody cares, or just taking someone a small care package when they're sick (even if it's just a nice hot cup of homemade soup). What I can learn from Kristy, is that there is always an opportunity to show compassion, and sometimes the best remedy is just to sit and laugh with someone, and for that I will always be very grateful.

I love you Kristy, and I would like to thank all of those who have offered to help out her family I thank you all with heartfelt grattitude and hope that her testimoy and the testimonies of her family and friends may be strengthened and that everyone may come to more fully understand the gospel. I would like to conclude with "Even when the world seems impossible, the people who love you most haven't abandoned you."
-Timothy Ryan

After several emotional days like everyone else who knew Kristy, I just felt I needed to share some memories of her with you. I too met Kristy in the "other" ward. When they first split the ward I didn't know her but loved to listen to her testimony in Sacrament Meeting, her comments in Relief Society and listen to her sing. I was just amazed at her strength and honesty and her dedication to the Lord. I too never saw her without a smile on her face. She was always positive, upbeat and had a sincere compliment ready to help brighten someone's day. Then one Sunday, Brandon and my little girl, who are just a few weeks apart in age, decided they were hungry at the same time. We officially met in the mother's lounge at church that Sunday. She acted like she had known me forever. We talked and laughed and got to know each other through those visits as our babies nursed or were rocked to sleep. This happened most Sundays over a few months and I thoroughly enjoyed talking and laughing with her. She would joke around about how much fun it would have been if Brandon and my little girl ended up dating when they got older and what fun we would have. Even after she moved, whenever I would run into her around town it felt as if no time had passed since I had last seen her and she would ask about things we had talked about the last time we had seen each other. She truly cared about people and had such a Christ-like attitude about her. She was a wonderful friend even to those she may not have been as close to as she was to others. I find myself thinking how lucky I am that our babies got hungry at the same time on that first Sunday I officially met her so that I could get to know her better. Having been in a similar marriage circumstance over a decade ago, her death has hit me hard and my heart aches beyond words for her two precious b oys and her family. Brandon and Carter are going to miss out on knowing a wonderful woman who was also a wonderful mother. May the Lord be with you in your time of great loss. May we all also find comfort in knowing that we will get to see Kristy's smile and hear her gorgeous voice again and that she is watching out for her precious boys.
We will miss you, Kristy!
Lisa

A quote shared by our dear Bishop at the ward devotional for Kristy on Wednesday night:

“ I share with you again a simple little insight that may help you at certain junctures in your lives. It is that you must not mistake passing local cloud cover for general darkness. They are very different things, and for us to misinterpret local cloud cover, which will soon be blown away, as general darkness is a terrible thing. The restored gospel is so full metaphorically of light. We must not be mistaken about this." (Elder Neal A. Maxwell, “Insights from My Life,” Ensign, August 2000, page 7)

Mel

The Fiesty Irish Girl Left a Legacy

In 4th grade, I stole a book out of Kristy's desk at school. When I got caught, I was terrified she would rip me apart verbally and destroy me. She had a very feisty personality and was known to let her tongue loose on anyone, including adults. Part of my punishment for stealing the book was to apologize to her in person, and I wanted to disappear for fear that I had made a very strong mortal enemy. When we got to the Palizzi home, Kristy forgave me quickly and easily. She laughed at me and thought I was silly for being so upset. I was very relieved when she immediately invited me to come in and play with her.
In 5th grade, she testified to our class at Milton Elementary that our history book was wrong and that Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon rather than wrote it. I remember feeling amazed that she had the courage to testify in front of the whole class, and tell them that the church is true.
In 6th grade, she desperately tried to get me to put on makeup and look more girly because she cared about my self image. She often tried to get me out of my shy little shell, and I resisted. It wasn't until we got to be about 16 or 17 years old when we finally had a conversation that didn't terrify me. We talked together about our boyfriends and trying to "be good" despite our raging hormones. I was so thrilled we actually had something in common that we could talk about. I was happy to know we could be friends despite our differences in opinion and personality.
As I think back on these memories, and many more, I realize that Kristy lived a perfect life, even when she let her Irish personality take over and said the most embarrassing and shocking things. Even while in elementary school, she was an example of truth and right. She easily forgave others, stood up for what was right, and never apologized for believing in truth, no matter who she was confronted with. Even with her recent passing, she died as a marter, standing up for truth and right, and protecting those that she loved. Surely, she will be rewarded with eternal life for her stalwart and truth loving attitude. She was a true disciple of Jesus Christ, a protector of truth, and comforter to many throughout her life.
In tribute to her, I hope that I can be a little less intimidated by others, a little bolder in bearing my testimony, and a little less concerned with what others think about me.
Thank you Kristy for your example, your fiery spirit, and your wonderful sense of humor. Your legacy will live in our hearts until we can see you again. In the meantime, each of us will be edified as we remember the wonderful traits you possess. I have no doubt that Heaven just got a lot more chatty, loud, and happy because you are there. I am sure some of the famous people from history are blushing as you ask them intimate details about their personal lives, and many people are falling in love with your spunky and bright spirit.
I love you Uncle Bob, Ann, Al, the drummer boy, and the rest of the family. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Love,
Emily Allan Wood

My heart aches for you and what you are going through, i pray that time will dull the heart ache it will never take it away, there will always be a void. it was 2 years ago that we lost our first born justin huggins he had just returned home 89 days earlier from serving his mission. he was on the usu van rollover. there is nothing i can say to ease your pain in your heart. i just wanted you to know that you and your family will be in our prayers. also i feel talking about your daughter will help peel those layers of pain away.

AnnMarie Huggins

More Memories of Kristy

I too lived in Kristy’s old ward in Lehi. I have so many fond memories of her and her fun, bubbly personality. It has taken me all week to write this, and I really want her family to share some of the memories that I have of her. Please share them with Brandon and Carter as they get older so they too can know of the wonderful women we all love.

My husband and I got to know Kristy well through her love of music. Every time she would sing for our ward we would get a call from Kristy requesting Torrey to play for her. When I would get her call I would be so excited to have her come into our home and give me my own personal concert. I too like to sing but her voice was that of an Angel and I would feel somewhat intimidated by the beauty that hers let forth. We often made comments saying that Torrey would make a cd one day and she would sing on it. She would always laugh and then give a serious “Okay!” My favorite song that she sang was for a Mothers day, she sang the song… “A Woman's Heart”. I remember feeling the spirit so strong. It is a beautiful song that has always reminded me of her, and the love she had for being a mother.

It always impressed me that Kristy loved the youth so much. She was always found bearing her testimony to them. She would always tell them how much she looked up to them and how she knew that it was so hard for them to be obedient, but she was glad that they were strong in this world. When I was serving in the Young Womens in my ward, Kristy would come up to me and tell me that she would do a great job serving in the Young Women’s too and that if there were any positions open, she would take them! She always made me laugh…I know she would have been great!!!

We worked together for the Joseph Smith project with the youth in our ward together and she was so excited to do that! When the night came for our talent night, Kristy had tables set up and helped the youth with setting up their things. Kristy of course had music playing. The program went well and as we were talking after I realized that the music she had playing was Gladys Knights “One Voice” cd. I laughed and teased her for her choice. She was so excited about being able to play a Gladys Knight cd in the church!! I remember her laughing….it was always so contagious!

When I had my third baby she treated me so well. She sent me for a pedicure, and gave a bunch a cute girl outfits to me. She was so excited that I was having a girl. She even came over right after I had her to give be a big tub of Bath and Body works “Tutti “ lotion for the baby and I, and another outfit. She treated me so well.

When Kristy was getting ready to move and was trying to sell her house, she tried to reason with me why I should buy her house. She even made Torrey and I come over and let our boys play in the backyard with Brandon while we took a “tour” of her house (even though we already lived in the neighborhood!) She was hilarious!!!!

I have many, many more great memories of Kristy and the service that she gave to me. I love her and will miss her fun bubbly personality. Kristy was the kind of person who wasn’t afraid to share life experiences with others. She wasn’t afraid to show the love that she had for someone. She wasn’t afraid to serve others or care what they thought when she did. She was a great friend to all she met. She knew who she was and what she wanted. It is such a blessing to know that our friendships and relationships go beyond this life. I love her and will look toward the day we can meet again. I hope to live life better because of the example she gave. I am grateful that I was able to know her. Thank you Kristy!
We love you!
Jen and Torrey Harmon

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Kristy...especially her young boys! We hope that who ever takes care of them gives them all the love they deserve!! We didn't know Kristy, however her story has impacted our family! What an amazing lady!

Sandy, Utah

Memories of Kristy

I first remember meeting Kristy at a big Callahan/Despain family reunion in Washington. We were probably 7 or 8 at the time. Are Grandpa's are brothers and our Grandma's are sisters. So we are not only cousins, but double cousins. A few years later, my family was down visiting the Palizzi's at their home in Washington and I got to know Kristy much better. We were around 13 at the time, and Kristy asked me if I wanted to go to school with her that day. I was from Canada and the thought of going to school with my cousin and seeing all the cute American boys was so exciting. Kristy gave me a tour of her school and introduced me to all of her friends. It was a great day. Kristy was very open and friendly and even though I had not known her for long, I felt a connection with her from that day on. We became pen pals after that and wrote letters every now and then. Several years later I went on a mission to Temple Square. Kristy came and found me to tell me that she was on her way to the MTC to serve a mission as well. I was so excited for her and new that she would be a great missionary. After our missions we both ended up in Utah. Kristy had gotten married and I had just gotten engaged. She came to my wedding, and we ended up living really close to each other. She was in Lehi and I was in Saratoga Springs. A bout a year later we both found out we were expecting baby boys within a week or so from each other. She invited me to her "Couples" baby shower. It was the first baby shower I had been to where there were guys at it, but it actually made it a lot more fun. So, I decided to have a couples baby shower as well, which Kristy came to. She didn't know anyone at the shower, but within a few minutes of meeting everyone it was as if she had known them all for years. I remember having little play dates with Kristy and we would talk about parenting ideas while our sons played together. When Brandon turned one, my son Phoenix and I were invited to his party. Kristy threw him a big party and had a lot of family and friends at it. She made it an extra special day for him. She was a great mother to him and always tried to do what was best for him. If he had a hard time sleeping at night she would stay all night in his room with him if she needed to. She was very dedicated and put others, especially her family before herself. A year or so later Kristy and I were both pregnant again with baby boys. They were born within a week of each other. I was excited for my boys to have cousins the same age as them. The last time we saw them was at a family reunion in Lehi just a few months ago. I never would have imagined it would be my last time seeing Kristy in this life. Kristy was a great example to everyone of living life to it's fullest. She was a friend to everyone, was always so fun and outgoing and you never had to wonder what she thought. I am so grateful to have known her and to be part of her family. I will miss her smiling face. I know she is helping people on the other side and sharing her talents with them.

Love Always,

Your Cousin Caraleen