Thursday, February 28, 2008

My Best Friend

So I woke up this morning from a dream and I was crying. I haven't done that in a LONG time. In my dream I was talking to Ann and Kristy, and Kristy was herself, but different. She was a new Kristy, one that I knew had been gone. I was asking her questions about her new life, and she was answering them, with Ann's help. Then we went to a party with a ton of people (which may be just one of those weird dream things that really has nothing to do with the actual dream) At some point I was walking Kristy to a car and she was telling me that she had to go and I couldn't come. I was really sad. I said, "but you're my best friend." and she said, "I know .... but I still hear you when you think nice things about me." and then I woke up.

Okay, I woke up crying which I thought was weird, because I haven't necessarily been thinking a TON about this lately. I mean, I think about Kristy all the time, but I felt like I was over the crying part. Guess not. My point in writing this here is that I really think it takes a lot of time to completely grieve for a person. and I truly believe that the Kristy from my dream that told me she can hear me when I think nice things about her is real. I think that Kristy can know the good feelings we have for her. So I have decided that I can still think about her all the time, and she can feel those feelings, and I may not be able to "see" her, but she's here. Just not here, if you know what I mean.

Anyway, I was really writing this mostly for myself. Thanks.

Honor

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Kristy, let's just talk for a minute about how only a few days after your NECK SURGERY you came to Enrichment night. Your mom drove you and reminded you that you probably shouldn't be going out quite yet, but you were insatiably social!! I walked up to you and you were in line getting a little bit of food, and you could barely turn your head! Your eyes were all glazed over. I told you a couple of things about the upcoming week, and told you what day were we going to come to your house to see you. It was good to see you there, but something was just not quite right. Maybe she hasn't had enough rest?, I thought..

The next day I called you, to see how you were doing. After all, you did have a big slice in your neck that didn't look too fun. After a few minutes, I realized that you did not recall anything about the previous night at Enrichment! Our whole conversation just went right in one of our ears and out the other. Then you laughed and boldly explained to me that you were "hyped up on drugs" (painkillers from surgery), and couldn't remember much! We both had a good laugh (a good mormon girl laugh) and I told you I was glad to finally know what Kristy Ragsdale was like on drugs!

I miss you little girl.

Monday, February 18, 2008

Still Missing You

Kristy,

I’m still missing you (of course), but tonight I’m feeling it more than usual for some reason. Sometimes I think I’ve gotten my brain around the fact that you’ve moved on to bigger and better things, but sometimes it hits me so fresh: I can’t believe you’re gone. And then it hurts so much and I have to cry all over again, which feels so selfish, but I don’t know how to not be sad that you’re not on vacation, you’re not visiting some remote location, it’s not that your phone is out of order. You’re really gone.

And I want to say: that sucks.

I wonder about your perspective up there in heaven and what you’re thinking about and how you’re involved in our lives still, especially on behalf of your boys. I’m sure you know how it all works out in the end. We’re still struggling to have faith and ride out all the difficulties and challenges of living in this world of free agents. I wish I could borrow some of your perspective. Help me out, okay?

Miss you!!

Love,
C.

Sunday, February 17, 2008

Something From Brandon...

"Grandma let me see the computer tonight. I saw mommy's picture and she's beautiful. I love my mom."

Saturday, February 16, 2008

A Short Message

Last night after the boys went to bed, I sat down and looked through Kristy's mission pictures. It impressed me that she had so many pictures of families she worked with and baptized. There was a look on her face of pure love and joy as she had her arms around the parents and especially the children of these families. I know she loved those families so deeply. And then there were her silly pictures, smiling, doing funny things, arriving at the Elder's apartment (with a grin on her face). Kristy always appeared to be playing, but in reality, she was always getting a lot of work done. Looking at the pictures, you would think she was playing her whole mission because the look on her face was full of pure fun! But when she was pictured with the famlies she shared the gospel with, her face was full of true genuine love. It helped to stabilize me, and brought joy to my heart. She loved people SO MUCH.

Love,
Ann
Dear Kristy-

I'm sorry I haven't written sooner. It still hurts - and I miss you.

I guess you know by now how loved and admired you were and still are. I think what I will miss the most is your beautiful sparkle and brave determination to do everything in your power to give your boys the best they deserved. You must have had the weight of the world on your shoulders, but you were so concerned about others more. You always strove for the best but were kind and thoughtful to everyone you met. Sometimes I saw the pain you silently bore - and my heart ached. I still wish I could have helped you more. But in those last days, I take great comfort in knowing that you felt peace, that you knew you were being watched over and protected. I hope you know how many friends were thinking of you and praying for you.

I am so glad you have your mother - what a strength and support she has been to so many. She is my new hero. That she could be with you those last days, and that you are with her now as she cares for your dear, sweet boys - I know now that there is always hope that can come out of a tragedy. The Lord does pour out his tender mercies on those who need it most. I know your parents will do everything they can (and then some) to give Brandon & Carter the love and protection that you desire for them. They did such a good job with you. In Ann's eyes, I can see where you got a lot of your inner strength and beauty. You were taught righteous principles and lived them despite so much adversity. I admire you more than you know for that. You never gave up - you always pressed forward - trying to help as many others as you could your short time here.

I hope your sweet boys always know how important they were to you - and how brave and true and strong you were in your testimony of the Gospel. I hope they know that you did everything in your power to the live the kind of life so that you could be together forever. Maybe for this short space on earth, you are temporarily separated - but you will see them again. You will be able to kiss, hold, love, and sing to your beautiful boys again. I hope I can be there for that wonderful reunion. Can I be invited on that day? How about if I promise to go to choir practice more? (Is it too late to apologize for slacking and not going as much as I should?) BTW - Thanks for letting me come over and be taught the alto part at your piano when I couldn't come to practice. You were always so good like that. You had such gifts and were so willing to share them...

I strangely also miss your no-nonsense blunt honesty - those comments that are supposed to be compliments but kind of feel like an insult instead. I know you worried about offending people - but I secretly enjoyed it. 'Cause everyone knew where they stood with you. You were sincere and full of integrity and always meant the best. We all knew it. Most importantly, you never shied from bearing your testimony or lifting another. From day one until the very end. That's one thing I will definitely take from you - is to not hold back. To not hesitate to act or say the beautiful or truthful thing that needs to be said. To be led the Spirit and live life to the fullest.

I'm glad we were friends. 'Til we meet again, dear Kristy...

Love, S.

Friday, February 15, 2008

Kristy

I don’t know why it has taken me so long to write something, I guess just stunned.

I was not close to Kristy, but my family (the Allan's) have always been close to her family and I have memories of her throughout my entire life. She was so beautiful and outgoing and never afraid of anything. I have read many times over that I am not the only one who remembers her this way. I just wanted to let you all know how deeply sorry I am for the loss of Kristy. She has touched so many lives.
Ashley
Hi all,

If you have any "skymiles", or flight vouchers, or flight credits, they are greatly needed for Kristy's family. Email me at kristymemoryblog@yahoo.com if this is something that you could donate.

Also, a reminder: if you are looking for a way to help the Palizzi's, we have set up a fund for them via Bank of America. The information is on the left-hand sidebar. Let's help them out if at all possible.

Thanks again and have a good weekend.

Thursday, February 14, 2008

How Long?

How long does it take for a wounded heart to heal?
How long before I allow myself to feel?
It's easier to stay busy, with all the tasks at hand,
than to acknowledge the truth where your soul now stands.
I know i'll be with you again, and that this isn't the end.
I feel guilty for missing you so much, after all I was just your friend.
Your family, your children, they need you so much more than I
But still I can't help the tears my soul still wants to cry.
I know that to honor you, I must serve with all my heart
I'll try to remember that and try to do my part.
All you did for others, you couldn't know meant so much more,
a special soul sent to us where your love could pour.
So many have treasures, of days you came and went
a memory greater than gold, where a moment of your life was spent.
I wish I would have stopped by more, picked up the phone to chat.
But no regrets, we got our chances where in my backyard we sat.
I'll always try to honor your life by doing what you did best,
Loving unconditionally and showing it without regrets.

I'm thinking of you today, on this day we celebrate Love. I love you and miss you.
Erin

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Care Package

Some members of Kristy's Jordan Meadows neighborhood were kind enough to put together a care package for Brandon and Carter. This was a great act of service and sacrifice, and we would like to thank them over and over again for this gesture! The neighborhood donated toys, diapers, gift cards, clothes, activities for the boys, and more!

They spent a lot of their own money and time, and additionally were able to receive donations and gift cards from businesses. We would like to thank the following businesses that donated in Brandon and Carter's behalf.

Chuck E Cheese's @ Orem
Dinosaur Museum @ Thanksgiving Point
McDonalds @ Lehi
Kiddie Kandids
Gandolfo's @ Draper
Boondocks
Walmart @ American Fork
Hollywood Video @ American Fork
Cinemark
Smith's
Toy's R Us
Nancy Olsen @ Dyson Hair Studio in American Fork
Music by Karyn Grant

Thank you everyone that knew Kristy and those of you who did not know Kristy and gave so much time and money.

A lot of you have mentioned to me that you have not had the time to sit down and write about Kristy. I urge you to set aside a few minutes, no matter how few they may be, and email me your thoughts so we can keep reading new experiences about Kristy. It has helped all of us so much.

Thanks and Love,
Sarah

Thursday, February 7, 2008

On Sunday January 6, I looked into the face of evil as I witnessed the horrific death of my daughter. As a person who has always tried to deliberately shun evil in my personal life, it was such a wound to my soul. My very soul is bruised. It made me wonder if the whole world was headed to hell in a moment.

The sweet outpouring of love and concern is so healing on so many levels. During the weeks that followed, people commented that I was so strong as I was comforting others. As individuals we can look upon a situation and think that we know what we are seeing. It appeared that I was the strong one doing the comforting, when in reality I was taking from everyone that I hugged or touched. Every person was there because they had genuine love for Kristy and her family. I was drinking in expressions of love in its purest form, without guile or judgement. I literally was wrapped in the arms of righteousness as you hugged me. So many acts of kindness and service are so profoundly healing.

I am so amazed at the level of goodness and righteousness throughout the world. Whether you are of the same religious faith or not, you are by your very acts and deeds taking a stand for values that are right and true. This has gone a very long way in restoring my faith in humanity in this world. Yes, there is evil, but there is also righteousness flooding the earth.

It had appeared that Kristy was living the charmed life. She had a beautiful home and furnishings, cute clothes, etc. But in reality she was living a life of quiet desperation in her own emotional turmoil and pain. I ask you to be not quick to judge, but take the time to look a person in the eyes and listen to what their eyes tell you. Sometimes it only takes a huge or a smile to bring comfort to a person that is so very beaten down and is so desperately emotionally tired.

You are such totally awesome people. I want to adopt you all as my daughters. I would be so proud to be a mom to each of you. Of course that is not possible at this time as my life is now filled with little boys! Each of you have touched my life in a very profound way. I love you all for it. We will meet sometime and when we do, introduce yourself and give me a hug. My prayer for each of you is that God will allow you to have a glimpse of who you really are. And that you will come to a strong understanding of the great strength that is inherent within you. What a mighty force for good you are and will continue to be in your communities. YOU GO GIRL!!

Love,
Mom.

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

It Seems Like Yesterday

Time does keep marching and my feelings are still so fresh. I can hardly believe it has been one month and there is not one day that passes that I don't think about Kristy, her boys, her family. I had a hard time sleeping last night as I lay in bed thinking about her. I still can't wrap my brain around it. I am sad I cannot think about seeing her when I visit Washington or Utah. She was truly someone special.
-Shauna
Dear Kristy,

Today marks a month since your death, and I have had such a hard time last night and this morning. I don't know if that makes me completely selfish....but I still can't believe you're actually gone. I think of you all the time, and I know you're so proud of all the wonderful and funny memories people have of you. We all love to talk about you....and remember you. It feels so good to laugh at something completely silly you said or did. I know you would love that.

I was getting my hair done one day, and I was sharing a story about you, and I started to cry....and then I looked in the mirror and I could have sworn I heard you say (in my head...) "Go home and put some make up on, and you'll feel soooo much better!!" Maybe I'm going crazy, but it just made me laugh.

I miss you, and I hope you know that all of your friends will keep your boys and your family in our prayers. They will always be loved and cared for, I promise. We all wonder what we can do....and I truly believe that you would want that. You would want your boys to always feel special and loved. You have an amazing Mom, and it has given me such a good feeling to know she is taking care of them and loving them. They will always know how unique and truly special their Mother was.

Today I am going to eat a Dippidee cupcake ....and think of you! I'm on a diet, but I'll skip that, and eat it in your honor. ha ha! I know you loved those, and there isn't a time I go there, that I don't think of you! We all love you, and miss you more than you know.

Sunday, February 3, 2008

A Special Thank You

Hello everyone,
I wanted to send a special thank you to everyone who made the memorial service in Washington such a special and uplifting experience. It was wonderful. From the choir, to the speakers, to the fantastic job the relief society did putting on the luncheon afterwards, it was very appreciated.
I also wanted to share with you all the lyrics of a song that helped me when my dad died. I would send an MP3 for everyone to listen to, but I only have a cassette. I know that Kristy was a big Kenneth Cope fan and this is one of my favorites by him. It is from the Voices album. The song is titled: "I'm Alright."

I'm Alright
Death comes and quiets life
It was hard to accept for the longest time
And it still can make you cry
Love brings a sad goodbye
And it’s harder on those who get left behind
But if you could see through clearer eyes
You’d find I’m alright I’m right where I ought to be
But this is so hard for me
Knowing it’s hard on you
Dry your eyes
We’re right where we ought to be
Be still and you will know
It’s alright
Please try to understand
My coming here was in His plans
But you can seal what we began
Give him your hand
Soon we will be together
Though the waiting seems like forever
Without you We’re alright
Right where we ought to be
Be still and you will know
It’s alright

Even though we all miss Kristy, perhaps this song will help make things a little easier.
Ean Paget

All My Love

Palizzi Family,
My heart aches with you for the loss of Kristy. Though I hope to never have to feel the extreme extent of the sorrow and pain that you feel, I will learn from your strength and example. I lay awake at night and go over and over in my mind what thing I might be able to do to help your family in this time of need. I want what is best for Brandon and Carter, as I know you do. I am sorry for all the opposition you are facing in trying to achieve this. People can be so deceitful. I try to remind myself that there is a purpose in everything, though I struggle to see it sometimes. I try to rely on my faith that has sustained me in the past, though I may feel weak from time to time.
I pray that people will look to this blog for uplifting encouragement. I think that I can help you do what you know is best by donating at Bank of America, to give you the means to do what Kristy would want. I hope I can encourage others to do this also. If any good is to come of this tragic situation, we need to help "untie" your hands so that you can do all with in your power to care for your family.
I will never forget Kristy and I will strive to be a better person because or her example and your continuing good example of Christ-like attributes.
All my love,
Dana

Saturday, February 2, 2008

I have had many a sleepless night since Kristy's death. My heart has ached for the Palizzi family. They are constantly on my mind. They have had to deal with such sorrow and hardship and it is continuing on. I am so grateful this fund has been set up. It will be something I can do to help this family with the challenges they are facing. Perhaps it will help me sleep a little easier at night.

Friday, February 1, 2008

Palizzi Fund

Hi Everyone,

A fund has been set up for the Palizzi family!!

This will go specifically to costs that have accrued for the Palizzi family since Kristy's death. I'm sure there are many costs involved in living out of state. These costs are greater than we can all imagine! This fund has been set up by friends of the Palizzi family in Washington.

In this time of confusion and sorrow, we hope to clarify a way to get money directly to the Palizzi family. I also know there are so many of us that want to help any way we can. This is a great way to donate directly to Kristy's family and know exactly where the money is going.

Palizzi Fund
Bank of America
628 Meridian East
Milton, Wa. 98354

There are no Bank of America branches in Utah, it may be more convenient to mail directly to the bank.
(Set up with approval of Al and Ann Palizzi).

In Loving Memory

I am so grateful to have found this blog to be able to express my deepest sympathy not only to the Palizzi family but to others whom Kristy touched, through friendship or example, or the countless other ways that she has effected so many of us.
I grew up in the same ward with Kristy and we were in young women's together. We were blessed with Sister Jacobson as our Y.W. president and her fine example of what true fine LDS women are to become. Kristy stepped up to that example and magnified it beyond comprehension. I will forever love Kristy and the memories of driving back and forth to Utah for Spring Break, the fun we had, the music we would sing at the top of our lungs, the games we played, the laughing and the deep conversations that we would somehow ALWAYS get into. We had many opportunity's to share with one another our love for the gospel and love for all of our Heavenly Father's creations. She always had a way of making me want to be a better person. I am a good person don't get me wrong but, with Kristy the bar was always just a bit higher. I am grateful for the times we were able to spend together as our mothers would go over stuff that pertained to their callings and serving together, or because they were friends and spent time together so Kristy and I got to spend time together too. I think I felt connected to Kristy partly because that is just Kristy, but also because we both are the only girls in families of boys. I always loved to hear her laugh and her dark eye's full of hope, full of love, full of passion for life. I am still having a difficult time dealing with the tragic way of her leaving us, yet take comfort in KNOWING I mean really KNOWING that she has returned home to our Heavenly Father and our Savior with Honor and walks with the best of the best. On January 6Th one of the Lord's angels fell, back into his arms, and is now back to work doing his work..there really must be some really important things to be done for her to have gone so suddenly. Thank you Kristy for all the memories, for all the fun, for all the laughs and tears and for inspiring me to be a better person. Most importantly Thank you for NEVER judging me but for looking deeper than the surface and "really getting me" even though younger and wiser than me and a lot of the other girls in Y.W. You "got me" better than anyone I can think of in our little ward, and I have always loved you for that. You are my friend forever and I will do my part to continue your legacy...till we meet again!
Your big sister (as you so lovingly dubbed me)
Sister Sherry Brunette (Adams)