Due to technical errors, it has been quite some time since I have written anything in Chris's memory. Aruba was a beautiful island where those of ours that have gone before us were obviously present. The turquoise carribean, the sunsets and the gorgeous butterflies reminded us of our loved ones. This was an island of tranquility and beauty. Peace to all. JoAnne - Wednesday, July 27, 2005 at 19:42:52 (MDT) Today's art is a pastel sketch that was found in the Franklin "ART ROOM" after Chris was killed. It was an assigned task for the class to complete in one class period. The photo is of one of our Port Huron cottage vacations. Much happier times. Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, July 22, 2005 at 16:38:43 (MDT) There is now a "Chriskempa.com" sticker at the large natural bridge in Aruba. Dad <<<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, July 17, 2005 at 14:40:08 (MDT) Chris, I've been looking through your artwork again for the millionth time, and I wish I had the same talent you did. Something tells me that would have created some interesting work had we paired up. You are missed by many. Please watch over your friends and family. They all need your guidance, whether they know it or not. joe.cwik <a@a.com> - Wednesday, July 13, 2005 at 09:48:22 (MDT) test Adam <test> - Thursday, July 07, 2005 at 22:33:36 (MDT) Today's photo is Chris at one of our family vacations near Port Huron. The orange inflatable boat was a favorite of both Adam and Chris. Today's ART was a surprise. It was a sketch that "appeared" almost two years after Chris was killed. It was found in the art department and routed to us by his former teacher. A kind of “hello” from Chris. Another surprise to us was the five year anniversary show for the Suburban Sprawl Music record company at the Magic Stick to benefit the Chris Kempa Memorial Scholarship Fund. Several bands appeared including: The Javelins, The Recital, Those Transatiantics, The Pop Project, 2005 Of Berlin, El Boxeo Thank you for appearing!!!! Thank you to all who attended, it was good to see Chris’s friends again. Thank you Erik Koppin for your help. Again THANKS TO ALL. A generous donation was made to the Chris Kempa Memorial Scholarship Fund as a result of all your efforts. Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, July 07, 2005 at 13:02:08 (MDT) Today's art was done by Chris well before he was killed. Interesting the deformed eye and label on the hat remind me of the driver that killed Chris. Perhaps this is a comment on the driver from Chris....... The photo was taken at the cottage where we spent some our best days. Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, July 01, 2005 at 15:22:02 (MDT) Suburban Sprawl Music's five year anniversary show. Proceeds to benefit the Chris Kempa Memorial Scholarship Fund. Sunday July 3rd The Magic Stick. 4140 Woodward Ave. Detroit 1:30PM $7.00 all ages. Featured bands are: The Javelins, The Recital, Those Transatiantics, The Pop Project, 2005 Of Berlin, El Boxeo. Proceeds to benefit the Chris Kempa Memorial Scholarship Fund. Thank you Erik Koppin Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, June 28, 2005 at 12:54:26 (MDT) Suburban Sprawl Music's five year anniversary show. Proceeds to benefit the Chris Kempa Memorial Scholarship Fund. Sunday July 3rd The Magic Stick. 4140 Woodward Ave. Detroit 1:30PM $7.00 all ages. Featured bands are: The Javelins, The Recital, Those Transatiantics, The Pop Project, 2005 Of Berlin El Boxeo. Proceeds to benefit the Chris Kempa Memorial Scholarship Fund. Thank you Erik Koppin Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Monday, June 27, 2005 at 12:08:30 (MDT) 6/25/05...The art is a drawing Chris made in 2000 while reading Romeo and Juliet in English class. The photo was taken in June 1994, Chris' 10th Birthday party, a pool party. I was very happy to learn about Suburban Sprawl Music's five year anniversary show. It will be held Sunday July 3rd at the Magic Stick. 4140 Woodward Ave. Detroit at 1:30PM $7.00 all ages. Featured bands are: Javelins, The Recital, Those Transatiantics, The Pop Project, 2005 Of Berlin and El Boxeo. Proceeds to benefit the Chris Kempa Memorial Scholarship Fund. Thank you Erik Koppin Fran Kempa - Saturday, June 25, 2005 at 16:03:26 (MDT) Another Birthday from better times. Miss you always... Dad Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, June 23, 2005 at 16:30:10 (MDT) Chris, Adam and Fran at one of Chris's first birthdays. A photo of better times. Who knew that Chris would have so few remaining birthdays? Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, June 15, 2005 at 22:01:52 (MDT) I have not written in the guestbook in several weeks. I just wanted to ask for prayers for Bill and Joan who are going through a very difficult time right now. Transitioning to each stage of our life is difficult especially when we are beginning to lose our abilities. I know Chris is watching over his grandparents and helping us along each step. Jo <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Wednesday, June 15, 2005 at 17:18:28 (MDT) i dey hereoooooooooooooooooooooo mugu <mugu@muugu.com> - Wednesday, June 15, 2005 at 02:49:36 (MDT) thinking about chris a lot this week. i suppose it is due to his birthday just passing, which i was reminded of when reading the message board today. wondering if chrisfest will rock another wonderful july weekend away, and produce yet another fabulous scholarship opportunity for someone talented. keep me posted, mrs. and mr. kempa! chris you are often in my thoughts, but you know this already. especially this week, shawna b. and i are moving in together this summer, and i wonder that if it wasn't for your unfortunate passing, would the two of us (shawna and i) ever have re-connected our friendship. it's ironic in a way, or maybe just fate...but shawna introduced me to you during Comic at FHS and in a way you re-introduced me to my best friend. and though the irony is bittersweet, i thank you every day for her friendship and for the chance to have that back. you are missed. xo amber brown <amber218_18@yahoo.com> - Monday, June 13, 2005 at 21:08:04 (MDT) 6/11/05...The art we call BIKE..one of Chris' still life drawings from 2000 we most unfortunatly only have copies of. The photo was taken June 10, 1986 Chris' second birthday. Adam seems to be having more fun than Chris!! I thank everyone who remembered Chris, Adam and me yesterday....particularly Kurt Wilson. He has faithfully called or come over ....or both every year for five years now. I'm so happy for him, it sounds like he is really doing well! I know and realize many people have forgotten. I know that is just a fact of life... Fran Kempa - Saturday, June 11, 2005 at 21:52:39 (MDT) Happy 21st birthday, dear Chris. You will always be loved and terribly missed by your family and friends. You left us too young to be forgotten. We will never forget you. Love, Aunt Kathy K Putnam - Friday, June 10, 2005 at 20:23:32 (MDT) Happy 21st Birthday Chris. Wherever you are, know that you are missed by many. Thanks to everyone who left messages, and those that tried and were blocked by technical difficulties. Miss you always Chris... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, June 10, 2005 at 16:55:44 (MDT) Happy 21st Birthday Chris! wherever you are, know that you are missed by many. Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, June 10, 2005 at 15:40:47 (MDT) I can't believe I neglected to say, HAPPY 21st BIRTHATY to my sweet boy....wherever you are!! I love you and MISS you more than anyone can ever know! Fran Kempa - Thursday, June 09, 2005 at 22:58:11 (MDT) 6/10/05...The "art" is the memorial tribute Mr. Rheault wrote after Chris was killed. Mr. Rheault was Chris' art teacher for all of his years at Franklin. Chris' first year at Franklin was also Mr. Rheault's. He has stated more than once...both while Chris was living and after he was killed that Chris taught him things too. The photo was taken in October 2000. This is the way Chris looked on his last birthday June 10th, 2000 his 16th. Chris SHOULD be 21 today!!...How cool would that have been! I can imagine what a big deal it would have been...and he would have made it that much more...that was Chris! I can't help but imagine what we would have done for such a landmark birthday! I picture in my mind most of the celebration would have been with Chris and his brother and their friends with parents in the background....but VERY proudly in the background! I can't help wondering what he would look like and where life would have taken him by now. My mind tells me he would still look like Adam's twin and he would (should) be just finishing his junior year at College For Creative Studies. I wanted to put the perfect thing here today to mark this day. I wracked my brain trying to find the words to express what I wanted to say and what I believe Chris wants to say. I was having trouble trying to put it all together. Then yesterday our Compassionate Friends Newsletter came in the mail. There on the front page was the most perfect thing! I think it sums everything up better than I could have... Remember Me With Love Gail Gasolo SHARING May- June 2003 As years pass by and others rarely mention my name, remember me with love. When my anniversary dates arrive, take a moment to say my name out loud. If tears fall, let them! Whereever you are, I am. I live in your heart, mind and soul. Don't worry, you will never forget me and we will be together again. I have taught you about a parent's love in a way nothing else possibly could. Don't waste this lesson. Use the love you still possess to give to others. Comfort others who've had a loss; do it in my memory. And besides that, a little bit of me lives on in each person you touch. You have the power to make my legacy one I would be proud of. Light a candle, buy a rose, perform an "act of kindness"...simple things. But then our love is so great, no rememberance could ever be large enough to show how much you love me. For true love has no boundaries. And don't forget,...I love you too. Look at a puffy cloud, flower or bird. Have no doubt, my "angel spirit" is.... Contemplate the many gifts I've left and how I've affected your life in a good way. I've shown you how precious life is and have given you a greater appreiciation of it. I've let you discover how strong you really are. I hope my short time here has made you discover what's really important. Has it made you a better person? I hope so. Your faith has been tested and hopefully, strengthened. I hope your heart is filled with peace. Most of all, know that our love is eternal. If you think of me today, I'll be rejoicing from above To know you have remembered me With your precious parent's love. Fran Kempa - Thursday, June 09, 2005 at 22:54:44 (MDT) Happy Birthday Chris! You remain a constant in our minds and hearts. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Thursday, June 09, 2005 at 21:04:38 (MDT) 6/9/05...The art we call CRY. I thought it was fitting on the eve of Chris' 21st birthday. The photo was taken on June 10, 1986 Chris' second birthday. Nice to hear from some of Chris' friends. I think they tend to think of him more on his anniversaries...his birth and his death. I still think about him every day and will for the rest of my life. Unfortunatly there will be no Chris Fest this year. The cost of the insurance for the barn became too much. The scholarsip however WILL continue. I had a conversation with an actual grave digger yesterday. There is a new grave going in very near Chris' and the young man was assembling his equipment. I was watering the plant and trimming the grass around the shepherd hook. He seemed to be familiar with Chris' grave..."Some of them just stand out in your mind"....because of the fact he was so young. He commented that he had children and hoped he NEVER had to experience having to bury one of them. I assured him having barely lived through the experience, I wouldn't wish it on anyone. Fran Kempa - Thursday, June 09, 2005 at 17:14:13 (MDT) thinking of you now more than usual. i don't know why. you are still missed, remembered, and are still inspiration to me, and i know others as well. John Hicks <johnny10er@mac.com> - Thursday, June 09, 2005 at 12:17:55 (MDT) Missing my Chris so much! A Friend - Thursday, June 09, 2005 at 10:51:08 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, June 08, 2005 at 15:04:18 (MDT) 6/5/05...The art we call Blue Face. It is one of many we never saw until after Chris was killed. This is the drawing Cousin Joan liked the best. We had a copy matted and framed and gave it to her for her high school graduation in 2001. Joan graduated from college yesterday! Congratulations Joan! The photo was taken in June, 1984...Chris' first minute home. Adam rushed over to see his new brother as I took him out of the car seat. The next thing I did was put Chris in Adam's arms. Friday night we attended Michael Deady's wedding. It was a beautiful ceremony. Caleb was best man and gave the toast for his brother. I was so happy for them, I've known those kids since they were babies! At the same time all I could feel was sadness. I was once again reminded that that moment will never happen for Adam and Chris and our family. Chris should be Adam's best man when he gets married, Chris should deliver the toast....but that can never be thanks to the carelessness of a stranger and his parents. This is a hard time of year every year with proms, graduations, weddings and Chris' birthday. I find it even harder when these events are not only happening around us but we are participating in them....and I know it will be that way for the rest of my life. Fran Kempa - Sunday, June 05, 2005 at 09:00:21 (MDT) Regards, beautiful site Bob <bob@dvd.fbhosting.com> - Friday, June 03, 2005 at 08:53:55 (MDT) Today driving home as I turned into the sub I saw the signs for the Garage sale... It was always a favorite with the kids... Adam and Chris always went. A day or two after Chris was killed by Mr Schniers, I had gone to get a cup for some coffee. I reached into the cabinet and pulled out a cup. It was one of a set of "Garfield" cups Chis had bought at the Garage sale. To say "It hit me hard", would have been the understatement of the century... Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, June 02, 2005 at 22:59:10 (MDT) Tonight I was going through my emerson middle school year book and I came across the mulitple times Chris signed it. He was a great person and I miss him... he is forever in my heart! Kristie Taylor <bellagoddess2002@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, May 31, 2005 at 19:29:39 (MDT) The photo is of Adam and Chris in the sandbox that was below the "tree house" in their play structure. When we moved Chris wanted me to bring the play structure with us. Chris and Adam soon had a new "fort" at our new house. It was near the back of the lot... an old shed that had seen better days...still they used it. Last week we had the structure removed. No repair person would work on it and it had declined since the boys had "discovered it". Still for me it was a sad day to watch it taken down. A reminder of better days. Sorry Chris I never did get it fixed up as we planned. Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, May 31, 2005 at 00:03:00 (MDT) Remembering Chris today and still missing him! A Friend - Monday, May 30, 2005 at 10:59:50 (MDT) Angie Hillman was one of Chris's favorite teachers. I am not surprised that she is "TEACHER OF THE YEAR" Way to go! Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, May 26, 2005 at 15:32:07 (MDT) 5/25/05...The art is a sketch Chris did for Jen Gossett on the bus home from Emerson Middle School in 1997 or '98. The photo was taken when Chris was three months old, playing with his crib gym. Congratulations to Devin Simoa this years recipient of The Chris Kempa Memorial Art Scholarship. For what ever reason five years later, this Honor's Night hit us harder than past years. We left after the scholarship was accepted. I couldn't stay til the end. I was SO happy to learn tonight Angie Hillman has FINALLY been recognized as Livonia's teacher of the year!! I have voted for her every year for years....since Adam was in high school! I was so happy to hear it from her and give her a big hug!...She deserves this recognition...Congratulations Angie, I know Chris is proud tonight! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, May 25, 2005 at 21:17:25 (MDT) 5/23/05...The art is a sketch we found on one of Chris' school papers after he was killed. The photo was taken in the Franklin theatre Nov. 1999. Just got back from another week in Buffalo with my parents.....interesting. I had the pleasure of coming home to a backyard without a pool! I think at almost 21 Chris would have been happy to see it go too just as Adam W. was. I had the sole responsibility of choosing the Chris Kempa Memorial Art Scholarship recipient today. I didn't have Adam and Adam to help. It was difficult as usual and in the end it wasn't the art that swayed me...they were all excellent, it was the essay. The passion for art recorded in it truly reminded me of Chris. I think I made the right decision and Mr. Rheault agreed. It was so nice to see him amd Mrs. Welsh and Angie Hillman! We will both be attending Honors Night Wednesday. I wasn't able to attend last year but am stronger this year and really want to go. Fran Kempa - Monday, May 23, 2005 at 19:39:02 (MDT) It's been a long time but some things you never forget. I think of you always. And as I continue with my busy life I wish you were here to share a part of it. Sarah - Sunday, May 22, 2005 at 09:09:56 (MDT) Todays art is again, haunting... Yet another drawing by Chris of and individual with a deformed left eye. The photo is of Chris and Charlie(the family cocker spaniel). Both are gone now... Perhaps together now... at least I like to think so. Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, May 20, 2005 at 12:26:16 (MDT) Today was a sad day. Today we started the process of removing the swimming pool. Chris was our "fish" he begged for the pool to be opened. This often started in early May. Chris would swim through the cold water, and when asked if it was time to come out of the pool he would say "just a few more minutes" Today it was strange looking at the remains of the pool. Under the deck or off to the side I guess I hoped to find something. A Chris thing. But I did not................ How can the memories be so vivid? But with no trace...? Miss you always... Dad...................................................... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, May 17, 2005 at 00:09:31 (MDT) Dad <redo with fixed typo's> - Tuesday, May 17, 2005 at 00:13:16 (MDT) 5/12/05...The art is another one of Chris' eerie sketches. Another telling left eye. The photo was taken in Franklin theatre I believe in 1999. I had another very vivid dream about Chris last night. In the dream he was alive and well and doing EVERYTHING he used to do ....Those are very hard to wake up from. We will soon be having Chris' beloved backyard pool removed. Sad but necessary. Fran Kempa - Thursday, May 12, 2005 at 11:45:38 (MDT) 5/8/05...The art is a Mother's Day card Chris made for me. I'm sorry to say I don't remember the year. The photo was taken at the cottage in 1992. We spent the afternoon with Adam and Sarah. It was a very enjoyable day...but I missed my Chris SO much! Happy Mother's day!! Fran Kempa - Sunday, May 08, 2005 at 19:30:15 (MDT) Happy Mother's day Fran! I know Chris is smiling down on you today! You and your little family. Mary Saia <Westland> - Sunday, May 08, 2005 at 07:55:25 (MDT) 4/29/05...The art is a whimsical self portrait Chris sketched on an Ann Of Green Gables program as he sat in the empty Franklin theatre with Cori 11/16/00 after the Emerson Middle School matinee. I remember that day vividly. Adam F. was in D.C. and I had to work at 6:30 AM. Chris announced Wed. night 11/15 he didn't have to be to school until later the next day...because of the play. He assured me he was getting a ride with a friend and I felt assured. I called him that morning to make sure he was up and all was well. He was up and all was well.....I had NO clue he had only three more days to live. The photo was taken in 1987. Chris was three, Adam was seven. We were at Grandma Joan and Bill's in Buffalo. I happened to be listening to 97.1 FM this afternoon. D&D were talking to a local woman who had a dog featured on Animal Planet last night. He was named Popeye. He was a small dog who had been mauled by a pit bull and lost an eye. Animal Planet was visiting them two years after their initial story. For a while as I listened, I didn't think of William Michael Schniers. It wasn't until Deminsky made the comment, "Don't you need two eyes for depth perception?..Does he run into things?" And then it was like..Oh my God!, total flashbacks! Fran Kempa <Notfranny@aol.com> - Friday, April 29, 2005 at 15:43:31 (MDT) We miss him always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, April 28, 2005 at 01:06:25 (MDT) Still thinkin about you Cyndi <=w=> - Wednesday, April 27, 2005 at 12:13:53 (MDT) 4/25/05...The art is one of Chris' computer generated pictures from 2000. The photo was taken in 1987. Chris was three, we were visiting the newly renovated Buffalo Marina. The weather yesterday was CRAZY! Hard to look out and see the bleeding hearts, forsythia and grape hyacinths covered in snow! The peonies look like they really suffered but I didn't go out to examine them today. I know Chris would have been capturing it yesterday just as Adam did on Kempa.com....a most beautiful snow/tulip picture! Fran Kempa - Monday, April 25, 2005 at 20:35:02 (MDT) 4/21/05...The art is a school paper doodle we found after Chris was killed. He drew him some time in 2000. The photo was taken in 1986. Chris and his first best friend Colin Garland...darling two year olds! Oprah's guest today was Steven Cujocaru. He was speaking about his recent compromised health. He stated learning about his kidney disease was like "the worst kick in the stomach you could ever imagine." I had to disagree with him. After losing a child and then losing my health I can honestly say losing a child is a MUCH more intense kick in the stomach. Fran Kempa - Thursday, April 21, 2005 at 15:53:06 (MDT) 4/19/05...The art is a school paper doodle we found after Chris was killed. The photo was taken in March, 1985..Chris, 9 months old! Hard to believe today is the 10th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. I remember that day so vividly...Chris was ten in fifth grade. Adam was 15, a Freshman at Franklin. Claudia and I were still trading kids. It was Easter break, I had Ryan and Scott and we were all on our way to Westland Mall...Can't remember if it was to shop or to see a movie but that was our plan. As we were getting ready to go I had the TV on in the sunroom and breaking news came in....at first an odd, serious incident in OKC. That alone sparked my interest. This was a city we had lived in for five years.. Adam W. was born in and now something serious had happened in a building we had passed numerous times..but didn't give it a thought. As the reports progressed in rapid development it became clear this was a monumnental event. The boys...all four were gradually sucked into the broadcast...needless to say we never made it to Westland Mall. In the horrible days that followed I cried for many kids who had lost their parents and many parents who had lost their kids....never imagining in a million years just over five years later, I would be among them when tragedy hit our own little family. I learned many victims wewe taken to a hospital I worked at, St. Anthony's. It also made me contact the last hospital I worked at, Bone and Joint...Vivid memories when Chris was alive. NO clue at the time Chris would be gone on this sad anniversary. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, April 19, 2005 at 20:13:09 (MDT) 4/16/05...The art is the same prophetic sketch as yesterday. The photo was taken of Speck in 2002..long after Chris was killed. I put it here today in honor of Speck's fourth birthday. He hasn't changed much and most unfortunatly neither has our living room couch! VERY happy 21st birthday to Caleb Deady today! It was so great to see him and two of Chris' other good friends at his party....Matt Comben and Travis Messenger...Chris should have been there with them... I know he would have been! While I see Caleb often I hadn't seen Matt or Travis in years...but I still recognized them even though they've cahnged a lot. Fran Kempa - Saturday, April 16, 2005 at 19:13:14 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, April 15, 2005 at 13:29:21 (MDT) 4/15/05...Chris did this sketch shortly before he was killed in 2000. I think of it as a sketch of W. M. Schniers. The photo was taken in April, 1985. I was reading in yesterday's Observer a Farmington Hills man is facing charges for killing a federally protected goose. But a half blind, self proclaimed brain damaged man can get behind the wheel and kill an innocent 16 year old and walk away scott free...it will NEVER make sense to me! Fran Kempa - Friday, April 15, 2005 at 10:31:02 (MDT) $/14/05..The art is one of Chris' interesting abstracts with eye detail. The photo was his kindergarten picture, 1989. Hard to believe Speck will be 4 on Saturday! Harder to believe Chris never knew him! Fran Kempa - Thursday, April 14, 2005 at 09:46:11 (MDT) Exporter, Manufacturer and Supplier of bali beads, silver beads, sterling beads, gems beads, prayer beads....www.dewatabali.com made <sales@dewatabali.com> - Thursday, April 14, 2005 at 01:16:47 (MDT) 4//11/05...The art is Chris' beautiful Einstein he drew on his bedroom floor shortly before he was killed. I requested he do a pencil drawing because he had been devoting all his time and talent to his computer graphics and animation. He agreed to and he chose the subject. Looking back I often wonder why he drew him with an altered eye. I would be very interested in his explanation now but I never thought to ask at the time. The photo was taken in one of Chris' favorite places, Franklin theatre. I know Chris is very proud of his brother these days as we are! So nice to hear from Amanda Wong! She and her family lived two doors from us on Auburndale twenty or so years ago. Part of a big bunch of kids Adam and Chris played with as small children...fun GOOD memories! Fran Kempa - Monday, April 11, 2005 at 12:46:45 (MDT) Fran, My finacee stumbled across this site while "googling" my name. He called asking if I knew Colin and Alexis Garland among other names from the Livonia neighborhood. I was deeply saddened to hear about your loss in 2000. It made me smile to read about the creative, caring individual Chris had become. The experience was bittersweet though, knowing he would never have grown into a man. My mother and I looked through the the photographs posted. She recognized Christopher as a toddler with blonde ringlets. I will always remember your older son as the boy in the home videos in the robot costume. I also enjoyed viewing Chris' unique artwork. I will bookmark your site and continue to read your posts. Once again, I am so sorry for yours and your family's loss. Amanda Wong Amanda Wong <TriColorFiore@gmail.com> - Saturday, April 09, 2005 at 11:45:45 (MDT) Fran, My finacee stumbled across this site while "googling" my name. He called asking if I knew Colin and Alexis Garland among other names from the Livonia neighborhood. I was deeply saddened to hear about your loss in 2000. It made me smile to read about the creative, caring individual Chris had become. The experience was bittersweet though, knowing he would never have grown into a man. My mother and I looked through the the photographs posted. She recognized Christopher as a toddler with blonde ringlets. I will always remember your older son as the boy in the home videos in the robot costume. I also enjoyed viewing Chris' unique artwork. I will bookmark your site and continue to read your posts. Once again, I am so sorry for yours and your family's loss. Amanda Wong Amanda Wong <TriColorFiore@gmail.com> - Saturday, April 09, 2005 at 11:45:44 (MDT) 4/5/05...The art we call BULB..not sure when or why Chris did this one but we really like it and as usual are much more impressed with the piece in person. The photo was taken in April, 1994,... Chris' first and last... Detroit Tiger's baseball game. HAPPY actual birthday Claudia Allen!! Great job Saturday Brad...GREAT party!! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, April 05, 2005 at 19:42:02 (MDT) Chirs, I hope you have the best seat for opening day. Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Monday, April 04, 2005 at 11:59:19 (MDT) keep offffffffff ooooooooooo odumegu@maga.uk <mugu@maga.uk> - Monday, April 04, 2005 at 09:02:29 (MDT) 4/3/05...The art is a close up of a section of Chris' Captain America done in dots. The photo was taken in June, 1987 after Chris' third BD party. A bunch of balloons had escaped and gone into the tree. I've always loved this picture of Adam and Chris. While it looks staged, it wasn't! For some reason...and I'm not sure why I found myself on Franklin High's web page yesterday. I was very pleased to see they've done a lot to showcase Chris' memorial art scholarship. Dead line this year is 5/5. Had the chance to see and visit with three of Chris' friends last night. That is always very nice but tough at the same time...this is the year they all turn 21! Fran Kempa - Sunday, April 03, 2005 at 08:18:29 (MDT) 4/1/05...The art is Chris' Captain America made of dots. The photo was one we never saw until long after Chris was killed. Our friends found it while going through some of their photos and were kind enough to give it to us in a beautiful frame! April Fool's Day was always fun for me and the boys when they were younger. Chris always had fun with it. Adam had his latest gadget with him on Easter, an Ipod Shuffle...an amazing thing!...Chris would have LOVED it! He would also have loved the new cash registers at Larry's..very high tech..I wonder if he'd still be working there? I doubt it. I think by now he'd have some art related job. Fran Kempa - Friday, April 01, 2005 at 15:16:56 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, March 30, 2005 at 15:56:32 (MST) The most difficult thing for the heart and mind to absorb is death out of order. A Viewer - Wednesday, March 30, 2005 at 11:48:40 (MST) I SHALL NEVER FORGET the brilliant beauty of the rising sun the bubbly sparkle of a cascading creek the dazzling colors of fresh spring flowers the contagious laughter of children at play the stickiness of a child's peanut butter kiss the glowing warmth of a goodnight hug. I SHALL NEVER FORGET the chilling darkness of a terrible storm the threatening force of blowing winds the shrouded blackness of a weeping mother the aching emptiness of forsaken arms the broken pieces of a shattered heart. I SHALL NEVER FORGET the unusual stillness of a child's being the sadness of a hobby horse without a rider the quietness of a pool with no one to splash the terrible lonliness with people around the deafening silence of well meaning words the finality of one little word...forever. I SHALL NEVER FORGET the gift of life that could not stay the love that only a child can share the memories of days when all was right the thoughts of days we struggled together the good, the bad, the happy, the sad, the dreams of tomorrow that never will be. I SHALL NEVER FORGET Carol Cichella <TCF Rockford, IL> - Wednesday, March 30, 2005 at 10:55:08 (MST) 3/29/05...The art is one of Chris' comic...but not so funny drawings from 1999. The photo was taken Easter Sunday morning 1994. That was the first holiday I had to work since I had kids...co workers were always willing to work the holidays for me because I had "little kids." Once Chris turned 10 that changed...I never minded working weekends or holidays and neither did the boys. We worked around them...Adam F. always had a lot to say about it but it never mattered. The last few days have been SO beautiful! The cat and dog both know it..spending a lot of time sun bathing on the back deck! I went to the cemetary again today and was relieved the grave blankets have FINALLY been removed. Sincw we've had the misfortune of dealing with this cemetary they have always been removed by mid February. For whatever reason this year they lingured until almost April. It's Easter break and I can tell....not because of the kid energy in my home but the kid energy all over this and all neighborhoods! I was stopped at a stop sign today and held my breath...if I didn't know better I would have sworn Chris passed my van going the opposite direction on a bike..stone washed jeans, navy blue over the head hoodie, tan sneakers, glasses, short hair...silver bike...and for a moment, wished...hoped it was him! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, March 29, 2005 at 18:48:44 (MST) His love and laughter brightened our world. Peace to our sweet boy. XOXO - Sunday, March 27, 2005 at 18:10:54 (MST) 3/27/05...The art is the same eerie eye drawing as yesterday. The photo is another taken Easter Sunday morning 1993. Chris found his big bunny first and was looking very gratified..Adam is in the backgroung looking horrified!..It was always so much fun to watch them hunt for their baskets and bunnies!!..It was always a competition...including Easter Sunday 2000.I can STILL see Adam and Chris heavily competing for their goods that afternoon...I had to work that day so they chose to compete in the afternoon rather than the early morning...Adam had to work at Barnes and Noble that morning too. My parents and sister sat aghast and watched them crash into each other as they hunted...Adam F. and I sat and enjoyed the show! I don't remember who won that last year and most unfortunatly...we took no pictures. We spent a very enjoyable afternoon with Adam and Sarah...As I told them, truly different than any Easter I could have imagined my future would hold but enjoyable none the less....Went out for an intended breakfast which turned into a lunch. Nice visit afterward...And i'm not sorry to say, part of me MISSED Chris!! HAPPY SPRING! Fran Kempa - Sunday, March 27, 2005 at 18:07:18 (MST) Happy Easter Kempas!!! I still think of Chris and you guys offten. You will be in my prayers.I miss you Chris. Kurt Wilson <nsealt9@yahoo.com> - Sunday, March 27, 2005 at 13:46:25 (MST) 3/26/05...The art is another one of Chris' eerie eye drawings. A crystal ball with an eye in it...was he predicting his future? Did he know on some level a blind eye would end his wonderful life? The photo was taken on Easter Sunday, 1985 Chris' first. For years it was our tradition to do a basket and a toy....a four piece wood board puzzle his first year. As the boys got older the tradition became a big bunny and a basket. Many times during the many weeks we spent vacationing on the beach over the years, the boys and their various friends and cousins would play football on the grassy hill that overlooks the sand and water. I rarely if ever participated. Sat on the side lines with the other moms and made comments about how great our kids were or how beautiful the setting was, how much fun they were having and we hoped the wonderful memories they were making. I had a most wonderful dream last night. I was on the grassy hill that overlooks the sand and water in Port Huron. I was playing football with my boys...just the three of us! It was a very vivid dream. Chris was still 16, Adam 20 and I guess I was still 46. We laughed and ran and joked...Chris made his funny voices, weird faces and strange antics. We commented on the beauty of the spot, the fun we were having and the beautiful memories we were creating....We were having a GOOD time...then I woke up. I believe that was Chris' Easter present to me. I haven't had a dream about him in a LONG time. This one was special because the three of us were together again. Fran Kempa - Saturday, March 26, 2005 at 11:13:37 (MST) Good site! welcom to my page online gambling ! Alex <alex@meil.com> - Saturday, March 26, 2005 at 01:49:37 (MST) 3/25/05... The art is the same experimental signature Chris tried for his art in 1994. The photo is another taken Easter Sunday morning, 1993. So preoccupied with things lately fogot it was Holy Week!...forgot Sunday is Easter until yesterday. Sweating the results of another CAT scan. Watched Prime Time last night. Diane Sawyer did a story from a women's prison. Toward the end she commented that one thing that struck her was the fact that the women never seem give up their dreams..."they still hang on to the what might have beens." It made me realize that's still so where I am with Chris and I just don't see that ever changing...and that in itself is very imprisioning. Fran Kempa - Friday, March 25, 2005 at 10:22:01 (MST) 3/24/05...The art is one of the many signatures Chris experimented with for signing his art. This one from 1994. The photo was taken Easter morning 1993. We had our taxes done last night..we have no dependants any more. Many reasons why I'm missing Chris lately. I know he'd be helpful in the color selection for our bathroom remodel. Most times I feel Adam and I are both color challenged. Fran Kempa - Thursday, March 24, 2005 at 14:54:32 (MST) Good site! briana banks ogen laseren turkije portable magnetic readers spyware stormer paris hilton video air berlin discount cigarettes dvd cover paperclip power dvd Jone <jone@toolsmail.com> - Thursday, March 24, 2005 at 05:36:13 (MST) 3/23/05....The art was done by Chris in 1999. The photo was taken Easter Sunday morning, 1986. Missing Chris a lot lately. With Easter coming it sparks memories of Easter 2000 Chris' last holiday. For what ever reason I have many vivid memories of that day. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, March 23, 2005 at 10:57:41 (MST) Good site! welcom to my page sports books ! Kristof <sports@revolutionary.com> - Saturday, March 19, 2005 at 05:07:21 (MST) Good site! welcom to my page fioricet ! Linda <submit@ua.fm> - Friday, March 18, 2005 at 13:52:07 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, March 15, 2005 at 22:48:09 (MST) 3/14/05...The art is a sketch we found on one of Chris' school papers after he was killed. If you look closely, inside the apple to the left is one of Chris' many eye drawings. I put this photo up today in honor of my mother's 83'd birthday! Grandma Joan and Bill. One of the segments on 60 Minutes last night was devoted to George Lucas and the final Star Wars movie. I could just imagine if Chris was still alive calling him to watch it with me, "Chris, come here you HAVE to see this!" He would have been so interested! The new movie is all digital. For Chris' last birthday, his 16th, we gave him a book all about George Lucas' animation company, Industrial Light and Magic or ILM as he called it. That book remains on the bookshelf above his bed to this day. I imagine Adam W. will inherit it someday...as he and I have recently discussed, that day is getting closer. Fran Kempa - Monday, March 14, 2005 at 18:13:35 (MST) If tears could build a stairway and memories were a lane, we'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again. No farewell words were spoken; no time to say goodbye. You were gone before we knew it and only God knows why. Our hearts still ache in sadness and secret tears still flow. What it meant to lose you, no one can ever know. But now we know you want us to mourn for you no more, to remember only happy times, and life still has much in store. Since you'll never be forgotten, we pledge to you today: a hallowed place within our hearts is where you'll always stay. AUTHOR UNKNOWN Kathy - Sunday, March 13, 2005 at 15:41:39 (MST) 3/13/05....The art is a sketch Chris drew for one of his friends, Jen Gossett. She said Chris drew it for her on the school bus one day on the way home from middle school. I don't know the significance. We never saw it until about two years after Chris was killed. Jen found this one and another at that time and was kind enough to share them with us. The photo was taken in Oct. 1997 during our trip to Disney World. This was Adam and Chris' favorite game in the hotel arcade. I watched a TIVO'd edition of Larry King Live last night. His guest was the wife of David Bloom. Prior to one of the breaks Larry summed up the loss this way, "such an extremly talented young man, gone too soon."....I thought of Chris. I have to believe Chris still lives on through Adam W. and his endless creative pursuits. Chris' spirit enhances Adam's talent. I am very sad to have to miss the Franklin play Saturday night. Fran Kempa - Sunday, March 13, 2005 at 08:55:31 (MST) whats up? rachael kempa - Thursday, March 10, 2005 at 06:22:30 (MST) 3/9/05...The art is some sketches we found on one of Chris' school papers after he was killed. I think he may have been developing his next idea for one of his comic books. The photo was taken Easter morning, 1993. I saw a few things on TV recently that made me think of Chris. Last night I saw David Bloom's wife speaking about her husband's death in Iraq in 2003 from a blood clot. She said as she learned more about the cause of her husband's death " an aching truth emerges. There's every reason to think my husband should be living today had we known of this danger." That's exactly how I feel about Chris...he SHOULD be alive today. Had we known the danger of a half blind self proclaimed brain damaged Mr. Schnires driving, Chris never would have walked to school. It is an aching truth. This morning on GMA Diane Sawyer interviewed a model who survived the Tsunami but lost her boyfriend. Diane asked her, "How many times do you think about the last time you saw him?" And I thought if she's like I am, more times than she'd like. After all this time it still haunts me. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, March 09, 2005 at 11:48:21 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Saturday, March 05, 2005 at 17:57:55 (MST) oooooooooooooffffffffffffffffff MAMAMAGA <MAMAMAGU@MUGU.IN> - Saturday, March 05, 2005 at 03:34:45 (MST) While watching the evening news last night, a closing segment included a tribute to one of our fallen heros from the Iraq war. The family's comment was that their son was now a "lost treasure". I immediately thought of Chris. KATHY - Thursday, March 03, 2005 at 11:24:11 (MST) As today's photo proves....Chris was a BEAUTIFUl, beautiful baby who had grown into a BEAUTIFUL, beautiful young man...until he met with the horrible fate of Mr. William Michael Schnires running into him! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, March 02, 2005 at 19:25:40 (MST) Dear Franny, Chris and Adam WILL always be brothers..just not in the sense as we know it. Adam's brother is now his best friend and guardian angel..spirit guide!!! Much love always Jo <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Wednesday, March 02, 2005 at 12:39:06 (MST) 3/1/05...The art is an illustration Chris contained in a paper for a 1999 English class. If I recall correctly, he titled the paper something like How To Draw. He illustrated and wrote about many examples...he made it look so easy! The photo was taken in 1987. Chris and Colin. Nextdoor neighbors and first official best friends! I'm watching the new Amazing Race TV show as I type this. One of the teams are brothers...skateboarding brothers. Made me think of Adam and Chris. Not that I ever expected them to be on TV but I always expected them to always look alike, to always have interests in common...to ALWAYS be brothers...I was SO wrong! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, March 01, 2005 at 20:20:00 (MST) Just wanted to say that after all these years, and LIFE happening, I still miss you and love you always. Take care Kempa family, you're in my prayers. Liz - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 14:18:31 (MST) 2/28/05 The art is a drawing we found Chris had thrown away Sunday 11/19/00 when he cleaned out his room that night. It had obviously been drawn shortly before he was killed and did not meet Chris' standards. Don't know why he drew him though. The photo was taken in 1997 during a 7th grade field trip. Chris and Claudia shooting arrows. There was another report of an early morning accident (7:05 AM) that most likely involved alcahol in Sunday's Observer. Luckily noone was seriously hurt but one MORE case to shoot the police theory that it was TOO early for drugs or alcahol to have been involved in Chris' death. I imagine Mr. Schnires thanks some one every day for that mistake...I bet his parents do too. I believe his blood test would have been very telling. Watched the Academy Awards last night. About the third award went for Best Animation in a Feature Film.....the category I always told Chris he would be up for! Brad Bird won for the Incredlbles. During his acceptance speech he stated the following, "Animation is creating the illusion of life....and you can't do that if you don't have one." SO true. Every day I wonder where Chris would be with his art, his animation,.. his life in general. I still feel so robbed. Think of him daily, daily missed. Frtan Kempa - Monday, February 28, 2005 at 09:46:30 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, February 27, 2005 at 22:36:20 (MST) Meghan, There are many former Franklin students at CMU and many a Chris Kempa sticker in that area. Chris is never forgotten. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 19:52:21 (MST) I don't usually comment in here, but i do read it regularly. However i felt i had to share this. This year i transferred out to Central Michigan University, and figured i would be leaving everything that happened at home... at home. Yet as i was leaving the parking lot the other day, i saw a Chris Kempa sticker on someones car. I was so surprised to see someone so far away, that knew him. People who knew him are everywhere! Even 2 and a half hours away from home :) Meghan <fizzycrow@yahoo.com> - Friday, February 25, 2005 at 14:59:05 (MST) Darn. I had to work last night and missed the Fox 2 segment. Something tells me that people get tickets more for not having a seatbelt on than they do for serious and sometimes fatal accidents. Guess I should check out the Fox 2 website and see if the story is there. I'm definitely curious. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Thursday, February 24, 2005 at 15:48:02 (MST) 2/23/05...VERY interesting Fox 2 news story! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at 21:48:32 (MST) 2/23/05...The art is one of the many eye drawings from Chris...More telling, it's a BROKEN eye drawing. Always makes me wonder...on some level he had to know. The photo was taken in Oct. 1997, Chris' first..and last trip to Disney World. He and Adam loved it! While I never watch the 10:00 news on our local Fox channel, I WILL watch tonight. Their lead in is....."You kill someone while driving, you go to jail....RIGHT??" It got my attention!!...NOT in Livonia, you don't even get a ticket. I WILL watch...and pay close attention to the name of the reporter. Maybe they would be interested in Chris' story! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, February 23, 2005 at 17:03:15 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Saturday, February 19, 2005 at 22:02:00 (MST) KEEP OFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFF maga <EGO_UWA@YAHOO.COM> - Saturday, February 19, 2005 at 04:16:13 (MST) 2/18/05..the art is another sketch we found on one of Chris' school papers after he was killed. Don't know the why behind him. He always reminded me of the main character in a story book that was one of both boy's favorite....and mine in their youth...The Hungary Thing. My mother bought it for them one summer when we visited Buffalo at a garage sale. The story was about a monster who ate all kinds of things...the boys loved it..so did I. It was one of those books where voices were needed...and I supplied them! The photo was taken in June, 1993 after Chris' third grade end of school picnic. I remember the day vividly for many reasons...The most vivid, my nose became VERY sunburned that day and I often commented to friends before Chris was killed, " My nose has never been the same since that picnic." We had great fun though....a three legged race, relay racing and hot dogs and chips in Mies Park!...FOND memories! The last entry makes me happy and sad at the same time..."bitter sweet"...I have TOTALLY come to learn the meaning of the term. I have figured it out to be from the older sister of one of Chris' good friends, Mike. It makes me SO happy to read what she wrote and know it's true. I don't believe there is one person who knew Chris who. would argue with Sara...Not even the driver of the truck that killed him...Mr. Schniers own cousin...she could and to this day I believe would testify to what a WONDERFUL person Chris was....But at the same time it makes me SO sad. With an entry like that and so many memories....how can I or anyone else help but wonder where he'd be today at almost 21....if he was so wonderful at 16?...It makes me cry. Fran Kempa - Friday, February 18, 2005 at 17:29:14 (MST) It's far and few between that I get a chance to check the site, however, not a day goes by that I don't think of Chris. HE is my constant inspiration and motivation for the way I live my life, the choices I make and the way I push myself because of his words. Today is a day that makes me wish that Chris was here and also a day that makes me thank Mr and Mrs Kempa for raising such a perfect and undescribable person. My prayers are with the Kempa's always. I miss you buddy xox S.L.H. <MjParker05@aol.com> - Thursday, February 17, 2005 at 16:29:33 (MST) 2/16/05...The art is the same HOOD drawing as yesterday. The photo was taken in summer 1993. For years we set up the badminten net...rarely played but the boys discovered and used the net for BIG beach ball volley ball...it was fun! Adam F. gave me an absolutly BEAUTIFUL boquet for Valentines day! I used to love flowers but the more these hang around, the more they remind me of Chris' wake. There were SO many flowers there the smell just permiated your nose and I can't get that smell...or that memory out of my mind! Oprah interviewed Christopher Reeve's widow Dana today. I remember the day he had his accident Chris was SO upset! Toward the end of the interview she commented how she looks at signs in a whole new light since he died...like shooting stars. She said she had never really seen a shooting star until the night her husband died. Then she took it as a "hello from heaven" from him. She commented that you can choose to read these things this way or not...she chooses to, so do I! One of our dear friends celebrated his 50th birthday Monday night....a Valentine baby! We went out to dinner with him and his wife and another couple....had a GOOD time! I couldn't help remember his 40th birthday celebration....his wife always makes them special! It was a large gathering but NICE and for him at the time, a surprise. Hard to believe it was TEN years ago! I thought back to that night not because it was his birthday again Monday but because we had to leave his party early 10 years ago because Chris was sick....turned out he had strep throat....EVERY day is a memory! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at 17:59:00 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, February 16, 2005 at 00:15:54 (MST) Wrong, wrong, wrong! I do not talk to my Young Adult Child everyday either and it surely does NOT mean I don't care! I care much and she knows that without any doubt. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at 21:41:31 (MST) 2/15/05...The art we call HOOD, a drawing we found on one of Chris' school papers after he was killed. I have no idea who it is or why it is but I wish I did. Knowing Chris, it was one of his fellow art students drawn in the Franklin Art Room. The photo was taken in october, 1999. Chris and Becky Sophomore yrar Homecoming. After many twists and turns, it seems I have arrived just where I thought I'd be one day...not at this age, but at this point. My kids are gone and I realize I still have a life. I never dreamd one of my kids would be gone because he was killed....and I never dreamed anyone would accuse us of not caring, but this is where we're at. But I always felt when it was time for my kids to go, I would be happy and sad at the same time. Sad that they were going, but happy with the way I raised them. As it turned out, I was devastared when Chris went because he left in SO not the way I ever imagined at such an age, at such a time in my life....I always pictured him in my mind as a VERY successful artist or animater...Instead...he became a blob in Merriman Road...something I'm still dealing with. Adam left in the summer and I was very happy for him... but sad for myself. I vividly recall telling him after Chris was killed...but before he was buried, never to feel he should EVER now feel obligated to stay home for my sake. He didn't and I was glad. While I don't call him every day, I still have contact by phone, Email or in person at least a few times a week. It hurt me so much when someone recently implied because I don't have DAILY contact with him...I don't care....Nothing could be further from the truth and I believe Adam knows that...I CHERISH Adam....To me, the fact that we don't need daily contact just means he has a life...and thank God, so do I. We are both eeking out a life since losing Chris....and so far have been successful!...Sad, but successful. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, February 15, 2005 at 15:59:31 (MST) It's Been So Long It's been so long since I've seen your face Touched your hand, felt your embrace. Heard you laugh How pleasant the thought Saw your smile, What pleasure that brought. Saw your eyes that sparkled when glad Or the eyes that dimmed when saddened or mad The body that was so tall and trim, Oh the memories it brings. Hands so strong that built, molded And held so many things. The sight of him is in my mind Memories are in my heart I know our souls will meet again Where mother and son will never be apart Til then my son I must go on But oh my God, It's been so long. Mary Bogda <TCF Burlington County, NJ> - Monday, February 14, 2005 at 10:25:20 (MST) the thought of what all of you have gone through is debilitating. i know alot of people who knew Chris, i did not, but my heart aches for you. as a random viewer of his art, i am impressed at his abiltity. i am also impressed by his impact on peoples lives. what an awesom family he must have to have created such a positive response in so many people. i never knew him but he lives on and inspires through you. God bless you all. howard <pez75@comcast.net> - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 18:23:59 (MST) 2/13/05...The art is a Valentine Card Chris made for me in '90 or '91. Since all the art and photos have been put on computer, I have nothing tangible to reference....SADLY, I'm guessing because while my memory continues, EXACT dates escape me. The photo was taken in the same time frame. Chris, Scott and Pete at Scott's house....If memory is correct, for Scott's birthday. I STILL HATE driving down Merriman Road....let alone Merriman Road at West Chicago as I did today. It's even worse when the light changes to red and you have to SIT there for a minute, as I did today....a few feet away from where your baby was killed. I can't begin to explain it....Can anyone begin to imagine it??......I PRAY to God, noone else will ever have to feel it....but I do almost every day when I leave my house...I can't escape it....One more reason to move to Florida! Fran Kempa - Sunday, February 13, 2005 at 15:29:18 (MST) 2/12/05...The art is the same CATS like drawing as yesterday...typical Chris, strong detail to the EYES! The photo was taken in February, 1993. Chris and Scott Allen were about to leave our house for the afternoon session of third grade which was spent in a Lining Wax Museum that day. Scott was Walt Disney, Chris was Jonas Salk. After lunch I helped them get ready and just before we were to go out the door, had them pose as their characters in front of the fireplace. My Valentine card from Adam is on the mantle in the photo. I had lunch with an old friend Thursday. Later that day I talked to my sister in North Carolina. Some how during each conversation, the subject of being a mother to young children came up. We all agreed that time of our life was the happiest so far and if we could we all agreed we would go back there in an isttant! I cherished the time with my kids at the time....I just wish someone told to me cherish it extra specially because chances are, it will be the happiest time of your life...but I have no regrets when it comes to my kids. We heard on the news last night about a tow truck driver who was changing a flat tire on one of the freeways early Friday morning.....not sure what time but after sunrise, before noon. Most unfortunatly, a drunk driver hit and killed him...One MORE case that proves the Livonia police theory that drugs or alcahol played no role in Chris' death the morning of 11/20/00, "because it was too early!" totally bogus!! I will go to my grave believing Mr. Schnier's blood test that morning would have been VERY telling! Fran Kempa - Saturday, February 12, 2005 at 18:35:34 (MST) 2/11/05...The art is a drawing we found in one of Chris' school notebooks after he was killed. For some reason it remonds me of the play, CATS. The photo was taken less than three months before Chris was killed. That's him in the white shirt to the left, dancing at my parent's 50th wedding anniversary party in August, 2000. AOL had The 10 Best Of...various categories in the metro area on their changing screen last evening. The winner of the Best of 2005 in the COFFEEHOUSE category was The Coffee Bean Co. in Plymouth! The place where Chris spent just about every Monday night of his last year of life...he was there Monday, November 13, 2000 and most likely would have been there Monday, November 20, 2000 if he had not had the misfortune of Mr. Schiiers running into him. I always drove him there after Monday's guitar lesson as I did 11/13/00. I STILL remember him asking me on the way home that night as he did just about every Monday night, "Would you take me to the Bean mom?" And as often as I didn't really feel like it some nights, I never refused. I would park the van in a far away spot so no one would see him. I'd say, "Run in and MAKE SURE some of your friends are there, then come out and tell me so I KNOW you have a ride home. He would and he always did know someone there...his friend Sarah Nolan usually drove him home....He LOVED it there! If he was alive he'd think it was so cool "the Bean" was chosen! Fran Kempa - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 21:51:12 (MST) 2/10/05...Got yesterday's date wrong by a day!...easy to do when you don't work. The art is the same 2000 Sweedish Fish as yesterday. The photo was taken on the last day of basketball...I don't recall the year but I'm guessing 1994. Chris and his devoted coaches, Brad Allen and Ed Sperry. We attended every game for both boys over the years and I always gave those coach dads SO much credit! I thank them for being there for my kids! My sister E mailed me and I saw on the ABC national news the story about dying from a broken heart, "Broken Heart Syndrome" they called it....you can!...I have NO doubt. These stories however concentrated on the effects on just the heart, in my case the side effects of a broken heart were cancer and coma. On the news, one of the physicians interviewed stated that now the syndrome has been identified, it will be studied more. In summation they stated, "The good news is....you can FULLY recover from a broken heart."... I STRONGLY disagree with that statement! Fran Kempa - Thursday, February 10, 2005 at 16:58:21 (MST) 2/8/05...The art is a drawing Chris made on one of his school papers in 2000. I thought it was a character he made up. I found out just this summer there was an exchange student from Sweeden at Churchill that year who's name was Lars. He took classes at the Career Center with Chris so I guess Chris made the Sweedish Fish for him. The photo was taken in August 1984...close brothers! We were watching The Amazing Race finale last night. One of the last places they went was Geno's East Pizza in Chicago....the place where Chris engraved his name in one of the tables just 11 days before he was killed! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, February 09, 2005 at 12:13:04 (MST) 2/8/05...The art is the same skateboard deck Chris designed and was obviously planning to try out shortly before he was killed as yesterday. The photo was taken in August, 1993. Chris and Caleb on the beach...one of many wonderful weeks on Lake Huron. Caleb IM'd me today! At first I didn't recognize the screen name but once he identified himself I remembered that same scree name from so many years ago...when he and Chris were IMing each other. He sounded GREAT! I went to the cemetary today. First time in a few weeks. I was surprised to see the grave blankets still in place. I imagine they will be gone by the end of the month. That was one thing I was very surprised to learn during my recent trip to Buffalo...my parent's choice of cemetaries. At 80 and almost 83 it was a question...we had no clue. When I asked them where they want to be buried I anticipated and got the instant defensive responses but soon directed them to talk about the facts. I was SO surprised to hear they have chosen a non denominational cemetary in the city of Bullalo, Forest Lawn. ALL of our other relatives are buried in a CATHOLIC cemetary, Mount Olivet in a subarb a good distance away. My mother explained they had decided on Forest Lawn , "Because it's close to home." And after listening to me explain why we chose the cemetary we did for Chris, it made sense to them..."maybe more people will come more often" she said. I remember going to Mount Olivet once a year....Memorial Day while I was growing up and it always felt like an obligation and a chore. I didn't want that for Chris and I guess my parents don't want that for themselves....I was VERY surprised! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, February 08, 2005 at 15:15:29 (MST) 2/7/05...The art is a skateboard deck Adam W. found this summer when digging either in the garage or the basement....I can't remember which. It is obviously a skateboard Chris designed and planned to put to use sometime in his future...he didn't know at the time Mr. Schniers lurked just a mile to the south down the road in his compromised state...makings for a SHORT lived future! The photo was taken in 1998...Chris and Caleb, riding the school bus home from 8th grade. That is such a Chris look!...The expression on his face in that photo! I happened to be driving today in the vicinity of Franklin High shortly after 2:10 PM. ALL the kids walking home from school....reminisant of the way Chris looked in 11/00...jeans, hoodies, sneakers and school bags of one sort or another....Can't explain the way I felt....but it was not good! Fran Kempa - Monday, February 07, 2005 at 16:50:27 (MST) 2/6/05...The art is a drawing Chris did in '98 or '99 when studying Romeo and Juliet. Romeo unmasking himself at the ball. The photo was taken in 1984. Last week I began an attempt to increase my strength and stamina and build my muscle mass by going to the Livonia Rec Center. My current program is comical to the avid exerciser I'm sure...can ride the stationery bike only a few minutes, the arm bike a few and do three laps around the track before I am totally done. I know I'll never be where I was before my health problems but I'm working on it. The third day I was there I was sitting in the lobby recovering from my "work out" and ran into my next door neighbor. I have had little to no interaction with her in four years! She asked about my health and I asked about her family and children. She then asked if we ever heard anything from the driver.."Even an I'm sorry for your loss." I told her no. She said there are many things she finds so hard to believe in the whole tragic story but that is the most unbelieveable. "Not even his parents?" she asked, knowing it was Mr. Schnier's father's truck that killed Chris and his mother is a nurse and allowed him to drive half blind and self proclaimed brain damaged without driver's retraining. I assured her it was true. She was shocked. Adam wanted to know if I told her of the uncle's JR Schniers contacts with us and Chris' friends. I told him I did not...most people I tell don't believe that anyone could be so hateful or hurtful...didn't want to waste my time. Another Super Bowl Sunday with Chris gone from the world. I imagine at almost 21 he would't even be home for it if he was alive...hopefully doing something with his own friends...not his parents and their friends. But he would still be here and we could at least talk about it...mention it in passing...the everyday things are still the hardest. Fran Kempa - Sunday, February 06, 2005 at 11:41:07 (MST) 2/3/05...the art is the cover of a Valentine card Chris made for me in 1991 during Adam and Chris' Where's Waldo craze. I think it was more Chris than Adam but both were interested. The photo was taken in Feb. 1988. Chris wearing his Mickey Mouse slippers, hugging his Cabbage Patch doll. The slippers and the doll ( Charlie Mike) were Christmas 1987 presents. I was talking to my sister in North Carolina tonight. She was having a little trouble getting her grandson to brush his teeth. That made me remember Chris always called his teeth "pearls" and he said he "had to polish them." I told her to tell Bradley his teeth are pearls and he has to polish them. I am sorry to say I forgot about the Franklin art show tonight....I hope it was a great success! Fran Kempa - Thursday, February 03, 2005 at 19:11:04 (MST) Thanks, Miss him still... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, February 03, 2005 at 18:16:02 (MST) It's the Art Show at Franklin tonight and that got me thinking about Chris. What a talented artist he was, how blessed we all are that he left so much of his artwork behind for us to admire and treasure forever. My thoughts and prayers are always with you Kempas! Ms. Hillman - Thursday, February 03, 2005 at 17:28:17 (MST) 2/1/05...The art is a sketch Chris made of the White House for a Government paper in fourth grade, '93-'94. The photo was taken in 1993. Chris and Scott Allen with their first basketball trophies. Between Adam and Chris, this time of year was devoted to basketball for years! We got a shredder this weekend. I have (had) a closet FULL of old bill stubs and cancelled checks dating back to 1994! Things I just didn't feel comfortable throwing out. The checks were drawn on a bank that no longer exists (NBD) and written for many stores that no longer exist. (Danny's Foods, Rite Aid and Maple Drugs). I was telling a friend as I shredded them it was like my life flashing before my eyes. We ate a lot of food....should have taken stock in Larry's Foodland...I bought a lot of flowers in the summer. There were many from school activities such as field trips and PTA dues...even some for play and Prom tickets! Our car insurance hit the roof when Adam started driving and there were several from the orthodontist, dentist and Vet. Our electric and water bills have actually gone DOWN! I told my friend that the me before Chris was killed most likely would have saved a few for sentimental reasons...like the ones for Chicago, Mackinaw and the prom. But the me I have become and now am just shredded away! I have a need to rid myself of unnecessary things...I'll be at it for a long time. My work people called me this morning! That's always a nice surprise and it's nice to know they still think of me and STILL want me back! I told them I'm trying to work toward that goal...time will tell. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, February 01, 2005 at 11:02:20 (MST) 1/29/05...The art is Chris' same TIME drawing as yesterday. The photo was taken in 1993 in the sunroom. Adam , Chris and Chralie had all fallen asleep on the pillow pile. I STILL remember the night we snapped that picture. Chris woke up just as the picture was taken, Adam and Charlie stayed asleep. Chris was awake only long enough to admonish us for taking the picture then was right back to sleep. Adam and I had been out and came home to the three of them sleeping and I told him..."we just HAVE to have a picture!"...And we do. That poem makes me so sad. Not only haven't I been available to Adam for more than four years but with all the related complications as a result of Chris' death I really haven't been available to anyone including myself...And it makes me wonder and feel guilty about the toll it's taken on Adam and everyone else. I feel I'm JUST BEGINNING to come back to life...No where near there yet but after more than four years I am starting to feel a glimmer of life...and it feels good. Fran Kempa - Saturday, January 29, 2005 at 21:18:31 (MST) To Our Surviving Children And you were with us When the darkness came You stood and grieved And kept yourself alive WE THANK YOU NOW We have not always Honored who you are And often did not tend Your hidden sorrows. FORGIVE US NOW Because you loved us Well enough to wait Until we could return to you And know With joy and hope and love You are tomorrow WE CELEBRATE YOUR LIFE TCF <Northern Virginia Newsletter> - Saturday, January 29, 2005 at 14:33:52 (MST) the franklin art show is thursday, february 3rd, we would love for every one to come! henry lehue <xafix001@yahoo.com> - Friday, January 28, 2005 at 15:01:00 (MST) The art is one Chris called TIME. The actual work depicts more skulls with their mouths in various stages of being open or closed. The photo was taken in 1992 shortly after we moved onto Berwick. Chris and Charlie...STILL SO hard to believe they're both gone! I caught a bit of Oprah yesterday. A sister and mother were talking about their brother and son who was killed at a young age. Some of the things they said made me think of Chris. The mother said looking back on the way he lived she wondered if on some level he knew his time was short...I wondered the same thing after Chris was killed. His sister said looking back, he accomplished so much in such a short period of time he seemed "to pack it all in." that's exactly how Chris lived. Today I caught a little of Dr. Phil. A mother who had to return her adopted son to his birth parents said, "Our house is so quiet..it's as if our house died." That's exactly how it felt after Chris was killed. Not only was he dead but our house and our lives as we knew them were as well. Our house will never be as full as it was prior to 11/20/00...nor will our lives. But we're slowly beginning to make the best of what we have left for as long as we have it... Fran Kempa - Friday, January 28, 2005 at 14:01:25 (MST) Crystal nicely sat here too. Crystal sells homes in scottsdale and phoenix real estate agent realtor whatever crystal nicely <nunya@hoem.com> - Thursday, January 27, 2005 at 22:25:19 (MST) 1/27/05...The art is the same flyer Chris designed from yesterday. The photo was taken in 1987. Chris was three. From the time Chris was an infant he had a bad habit of reaching back as pictured in the photo and PULL his hair. There were many times we responded to his cries only to find his fist full of hair and him pulling. Once we released his grip, he was fine. I thought it was just a kind of reflex action at the time. Last night I caught only one small snipit of CSI New York. The female cop is standing over a young man's body and she tells the man cop to, "Turn his face to the side. I don't want his mother to see him like this." That first image of Chris dead on the gurney, intubated, covered with blood, eyes as big as saucers and so pale will be engraved in my memory forever. I can see it when I want to but most often when I don't. After more than four years the mental tape of the events of 11/20/00 still sometimes just start playing in mind without warning and for no apparent reason. I have no control over it and i can't stop it. It is truly tourture which I believe I will hold with me until I die. Fran Kempa - Thursday, January 27, 2005 at 11:01:48 (MST) 1/26/05...The art is a flyer Chris designed for the Franklin Fine Arts exhibit in December 2000. It was so odd to attend that event. An event he planned for, worked so hard for and looked SO forward to. His flyers were there, his friends and art were there but he wasn't...so odd. Less than a month before he told me he, "couldn't wait for the art show, my stuff's going to be there you know." The photo was taken in our back yard on Auburndale. We found the little blue car at a garage sale. As you can see Chris liked to pull things in it. He was two. I saw a story on the news tonight about a boy in North Carolina who was hit by a car and pronounced dead at the scene. When he arrived at the morgue they saw he was still breathing. He's now in the hospital in critical condition. I wanted SO badly for Chris to be alive that morning...I would have given anything, even my own lile..still would. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, January 26, 2005 at 19:32:20 (MST) xoxo me - Wednesday, January 26, 2005 at 19:12:25 (MST) 1/25/05...The art is one of many comic books Chris wrote and illustrated. You can see in the photo this is the first issue of this comic and it was done in August but I'm not sure which year. The photo was taken in the dining room on Auburndale. Chris was seven months. We recently got new cell phones...camera phones even though I didn't want them. I wondered what Chris would have thought of them last night as I sat for a long time with the instruction manual TRYING and failing to teach myself how to take a picture. I know he would have LOVED them! I intend to keep trying! I may teach myself some day! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, January 25, 2005 at 10:50:24 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, January 23, 2005 at 21:13:54 (MST) I haven't visited the site in a while...I was thinking of you today. Always in my thoughts Chris. I miss you! Melissa Frank - Sunday, January 23, 2005 at 20:49:26 (MST) 1/23/05...The art is a flyer Chris designed for Recital in 1999. The photo was taken in October, 1999 Sophomore year Homecoming. First day back from Buffao. Yesterday's flight cancelled...HAPPY to be home today. My father will never be convinced he's old, my mother's getting it. Accomplished some things for them... other things still need attention. Exchanged many Chris stories in Buffalo. Fran Kempa - Sunday, January 23, 2005 at 15:17:36 (MST) I haven't been to this site in a long time but tonight I found myself thinking of you and have been scrolling through the site for about an hour now. Thinking of you Chrissy Bartlett - Thursday, January 20, 2005 at 22:01:24 (MST) Today's "art" I believe is an altered bus pass for Livonia middle school. The photo is of Adam W. holding his little brother on his lap. Next to him is our former next door neighbor's daughter holding her little brother on her lap. One of the nice features of our neighborhood was that there were many kids for the boys to play with. Somedays it seems like forever in time back to our life before Chris was killed. But it also seems only seconds back to that day he died. Miss you always Chris... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, January 20, 2005 at 21:06:18 (MST) Today's art is a photo Chris did while taking a photography class. I really like the composition and use of focus. The photo is of the boys and their grandparents. Again a photo of happier times. Now when family is assembled there is a glaring absence. It was odd, when I think back to our life before Chris was killed, I smile. It was a "wonderful life". One happy family, and another family who ignored advice about driver retaining. A family who put a half blind and brain damaged individual who had five accidents, back behind the wheel. In my mind they were all behind the wheel. When they look in a mirror to they think of Chris? They changed so many lives forever. Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, January 18, 2005 at 08:14:22 (MST) Yesterday I took down the Christmas decoration from the memorial. They had started to turn brown. Someone had left a Jone's Soda bottle there for Chris. Ii was one of his favorites. It cheered me up... thanks Today's art is a sketch on a crumple piece of notebook paper. Chris had cleaned his room a day or two before he was killed and had filled a bag with papers and old magazines. We went through it weeks later and found more sketches. Sometimes I think Chris would be mad that we put his "discards" on the "Net". But it is all we have of his most recent work. Today's photo is of Charlie, the family dog that Chris grew up with. Charlie loved balloons. In this picture Charlie had gotten some balloon decorations and had been prancing around with them. Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, January 16, 2005 at 20:07:27 (MST) When I pick up a pencil or a paintbrush to draw, I'd think of you. It bugs me that I can't know what you think of my work now. It used to keep me from doing art after you went away. These days, I'd like to think you're still creating instead of stopping and that we'll discuss em later :o) Yeah that keeps me going. Hey miss you friend. diana - Sunday, January 16, 2005 at 05:31:40 (MST) tonight is just one of those nights....where its all i can think about. i was at work having an alright day and then the song "will you remember me" came on the radio. all i could think about was sitting in that church hearing that song play thinking this is the last time i will ever be able to say goodbye to chris. i hate that song now, just cant stand hearing it. its odd how a 3 minute song can bring back 5 years of memories jason - Saturday, January 15, 2005 at 22:39:23 (MST) A very difficult task indeed. Will keep good thoughts and send prayers that it goes well or as well as possible. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Saturday, January 15, 2005 at 21:15:16 (MST) 1/15/05...The art is the whimsical self portrait Chris drew in August 2000 for Ms. Hillman to introduce himself to her as his Radio and TV teacher. The photo is of Chris' cat Felix taken by him in 1999 in Chris' room. Felix is on his bed. In the background is his NFL pillow case. Off to Buffalo to try and convince my parents they are old...A very difficult task! Fran Kempa - Saturday, January 15, 2005 at 06:01:13 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, January 13, 2005 at 22:59:20 (MST) 1/13/05...The art is the same flyer Chris designed in July 2000 as yesterday. The photo was taken last Christmas. It's the little boy angel holding a puppy Lauren Rossi gave me that makes me think of Chris and Charlie. I TIVO'd Oprah's interview of Amber Fry when we were in Florida. During the interview Oprah refers to those events in your life that, "shake your foundation." Chris' death was one of those events. It shook my foundation, my core. It continues to every day of my life. Fran Kempa - Thursday, January 13, 2005 at 14:26:10 (MST) 1/12/05...The art is a flyer Chris designed for The Recital in July 2000, four months before Chris was killed. At the time, Adam and Chris were just beginning to appreciate each other again for their individual talents...and it was wonderful! Chris was volunteering to make flyers for Adam's band and Adam was accepting....or Adam was asking Chris to design one and he was accepting...either way, and I'm not sure how but a flyer was designed. The photo was taken in Jan. 1986. Chris was in Buffalo playing Bill's harmonica. Adam W. gave us 6 months of TIVO as one of our Christmas presents. I'll never forget the day TIVO arrived at our home. It was December 2000. Adam W. brought the package in the house and announced it should have been his Christmas gift ,"to the family." Somehow at the time it wasn't the same. He realized that and it became a part of the basement entertainment. I often thought how Chris would have loved it as I'm sure Adam and Adam did. When the family room was completed in spring 2001 the TIVO moved up. When Adam moved out in July the TIVO stayed and he bought himself a new one. Since he reactivated it I have learned to run it and I love it! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, January 12, 2005 at 21:17:07 (MST) Franny, I totally agree with you. A visit to Florida really is good for the soul...and wouldn't it be nice if we could all retire there together....I would love it! Bill,like Adam, isn't crazy about the idea..but I think it sure beats the cold and snow! Anyway, we are on our way to Orlando Florida tomorrow morning until Sunday evening. I hope that Chris and Mom watch over us as we journey down south. Peace always..and love to you all!! JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Tuesday, January 11, 2005 at 19:37:22 (MST) Hi All, does anybody know why the leaves on my avocado plant keep falling off? I've grown it from a pip about 3 months and the leaves keep falling off...what am I doing wrong...anybody?? Alan <pete_the_stick@yahoo.co.uk> - Tuesday, January 11, 2005 at 10:53:08 (MST) I have not been to this site in such a long time. I guess I get caught up in life. Tonight I was thinking a lot about Chris and I am revisiting. Silently crying. I miss you Chris!! It was neat to see the "cousins" picture. Bill Vaughan - Monday, January 10, 2005 at 20:41:05 (MST) 1/10/05...The art is a flyer Chris made for the band he called The Derelect...thrown together in October, 2000 but as evidenced by thr flyer, Chris had big plans. The photo was taken in January, 1987. Adam, Chris and cousin Billy visiting grandma Joan and Bill. Had a GREAT time in Florida! Getting out of this weather really helped. Next year I hope we stay longer if we go. I can see myself retiring there...Adam's not sure. Speck was happy to be home and we were happy to have him. Fran Kempa - Monday, January 10, 2005 at 19:56:43 (MST) 1/8/05...The art is a whimsical sketch Chris made of Cori November 16th 2000, just four days before he was killed. The photo was taken in January, 1992. Chris is throwing a snowball directly at his brother. Thought about Chris A LOT today... Fran Kempa - Saturday, January 08, 2005 at 18:42:47 (MST) 1/7/05...The art is a close up of a section of The Man Who Runs. The photo was taken in Jan. 1992....Chris' snow monster. I can STILL see Chris coming into the kitchen that afternoon and asking me if I had anything to, "paint the snow." I can still see myself reaching up into the cupboard above the stove and grabbing the food coloring...the photo is the result. NICE to hear from Kurt Wilson! Every time I hear from him I think of the video we have of Kurt, Chris and Ron in the basement playing video games, Easter vacation, 2000. Fran Kempa - Friday, January 07, 2005 at 21:08:10 (MST) 2005 wow it been a long time. I just wanted to let the Kempas know that I still think of them often and pray for them everyday. I miss chris alot and i keep the faith in my heart and mind . i know one day we will all be reunited. Until then I keep his memorie alive and talk to him offten. happy new year chris. love you. Kurt.... Kurt Wilson <none> - Thursday, January 06, 2005 at 10:25:49 (MST) Happy Birthday, Adam W. Please have a nice time in Florida, Fran and Adam F. I know Chris would want that for you. Kathy - Wednesday, January 05, 2005 at 14:30:26 (MST) HAPPY Birthday Adam! I know Chris is smiling down on you today! Love, Mom - Wednesday, January 05, 2005 at 00:12:41 (MST) 1/4/05...The "art" is our ornament from The Compassionate Friends Christmas tree in Plymouth's Kellog Park from Dec. 2002. That was the last time we had Chris included in the tree and candle lighting. 2003 and 2004 we were consumed with health issues and neglected to do so. Hopefully 2005 will be different. The photo was taken in January, 1995. Chris and Bill eating breakfast in Grandma Joan and Bill's kitchen in Buffalo the morning we returned to Detroit. Tonight we'll celebrate Adam's 25th birthday! Adam suggested we go out and I took him up on it. For what ever reason I didn't even think of it. I'm still in the days of cooking your favorite meal and making a cake for your birthday. Lately however, my cooking has been BAD! Maybe he was doing himself a favor! We sent our donations to the American Red Cross and UNICEF for the Tsumani victims. I requested they be used for the children in Chris' memory. Today while I was waiting in the check out line at Target I happened to notice all the teen magazines featured Senior Prom on their January covers. I still wish Chris had lived to attend his...I know I always will. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, January 04, 2005 at 15:03:42 (MST) 1/3/05...The art is one of Chris' computer animations from 1999 I am guessing. The photo is another taken 1/5/92, Adam's 12th BD. He had a Super Bowl cake that year. Seems the Kempa reunion in Florida has fizzled out. For some reason, I was not surprised. We're still going though...maybe the warmth will make me feel better. Christmas has been taken down and put away. Even when Chris was alive I always liked that. Since he's been gone I like it even more. Yesterday when I reassembled the living room mantle the John Hicks painting did not go back up. I put the painting my mother did...the one that was always there when Chris was alive back up. I told Adam it was as though we had turned our whole house into a shrine the last four years and I guess that was not good. There are still reminders of Chris in every room. Some are just more subtle now. When we redo Chris' bedroom the John Hicks portrait and Lego mosaic will reassume prominent positions. Fran Kempa - Monday, January 03, 2005 at 19:50:43 (MST) Each new year is hard... No new plans for us to share... Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Monday, January 03, 2005 at 17:18:36 (MST) HAPPY NEW YEAR CHRIS!! xoxo - Saturday, January 01, 2005 at 22:59:37 (MST) 1/1/05....The art is the left eye Chris did in 1999. His intention was to draw a right eye, a nose and a mouth then hang the four pieces together to form a face. It still hangs in our livingroom as a reminder why Chris is gone. The photo was taken on January 5, 1992 Adam's 12th birthday. For some reason New Years is one of the hardest holidays to take...I find it much harder than Christmas. It's the start of another year without Chris in my life and another year without Chris in the world. This is the year he should turn 21 and his brother turns 25! I'll never stop wondering! We spent a quiet night last night. Memories were sparked and I became sad. I'll never stop missing him. I'll never forget how excited Chris was in the last few days before he was killed about the new year....he was SO excited about 2001 and his brother turning 21..."I can't wait mom, I just can't wait!" Cori's message makes me sad but I know how she feels. It really shows how Mr. Schniers ended one life and impacted so many others. But it must feel horrible to walk around every day knowing you are responsible for ending the life of a wonderful human being and forever hurting so many others. I have no great hopes for the new year....just take it as it comes. If the few plans we've made happen that will be great...if not, I've learned to be disappointed. Life does go on. My only resolution is to become more techno inclined...running the DVD player and Tivo! Fran Kempa - Saturday, January 01, 2005 at 20:54:33 (MST) Chris has been all I can think about for weeks now. to this day, Chris's death is the most painful experience that I have ever had to deal with, and am still dealing with. Before, I had days where I might not think of Chris, some days it was a quick memory, and these days it's all the time. I attended a funeral viewing at Harris, the same place where Chris had his. I thought that 4 years later that I had realized how to cope with the emotions that I have regarding Chris's death. I can talk about him with coworkers, and friends, my parents, and laugh about our fights, and experiences. I can talk about the details surrounding his death, but I could not go back to that funeral home. I found out the hard way. I have only visited Chris' gravesite one time with Mrs Kempa years ago. And since then, I have tried to, but I can't. At 20 years old, looking at how my life at this time is rounding out, and even the types of people who I've dated since Chris died...I can't help but still think that I was right when I told my mother that Chris WAS my soulmate...and I might never find another quite like him. Corinne <pleasegrowforme@yahoo.com> - Saturday, January 01, 2005 at 18:35:35 (MST) 12/29/04...The art is the painting Chris gave Tracy for her graduation gift from Franklin in I believe June, 2000. The photo was taken in December, 1987. Adam and Chris in their red and green sweaters visiting Santa! That was the year Adam and his friend Mike "figured it out"...that there was no Santa. You can almost see it on Adam's face in the photo...he knew! I'll never forget that day. Adam was seven and came to me very seriously...Adam was/is always SO smart! He said, "Mom, Mike and I have discussed it and we have figured it out....there is no Santa." After asking him what knowledge they based their conclusion on I had to agree with him...but I told him not to dare tell his brother...and he never did. Last night sparked a funny Adam/Chris memory. We only needed milk from the grocery store and Adam F. offered to run into Larry's while I waited in the car after hours of shopping and I took him up on the offer. As he exited the vehicle he said..."I'll be back in less than five minutes." That one comment brought me back to a place that made me laugh and smile. From the time Adam W. was 10 til about 12...on the rare occasion I only needed milk from the store, I'd pull into Larry's parking lot...not wanting to drag everyone in and say to Adam..."I bet you can't run in and buy a gallon of milk and be out within five minutes!....Handing him the money, he always accepted the challenge...and won!...And Chris and I made a big fuss when he returned! As the years passed and Adam wasn't with me and Chris as much and on the rare occasion I only needed milk from the grocery store I would pull into Larry's parking lot and say to Chris..."Your brother was always able to get the milk within five minutes...do you think you can beat or match his record?"...and each time Chris bit and ran with it....but never beat the record...ALWAYS came close though! Today Adam stopped by and visited for a while. I asked him..."Do you remember when you were little, I'd challenge you to buy milk at Larry's?" A big smile came to his face...like he'd just figured it out...he said, "I was TRICKED!"...and I smiled and laughed! I told him I put Chris through the same paces.... not knowing if he realized it or not. The angel reflection for today: The golden glow of an angel's love warmed the Christ child in his slumber in a manger long ago. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, December 29, 2004 at 21:45:25 (MST) Yes Roast "Beast"! Joan always called it that too!....she and Chris were always a lot alike! KATHY - Monday, December 27, 2004 at 08:32:54 (MST) 12/26/04...The art is a whimsical little Santa hat boy Chris drew for Travis Mssenger when they were in middle school. Some believe it's a self portrait. The photo was taken Christmas evening, 1991..our traditional Christams dinner desert, birthday cake and ice cream. We had a nice Christmas eve with Adam and Sarah. Adam gave us a wonderful gift! He made a DVD of some Chris' computer animations, a few short films and some still photos. I wasn't expecting such a gift! We watched it together and somehow it made it seem as though Chris was with us! Adam and Sarah joined us for Christmas breakfast. At some point Adam W. made the comment, "when you get older, Christmas isn't as much fun."...SO true. When the boys were growing up we made it a point to be home for Christmas and travel to Buffalo afterward. That way we were able to start our own traditions. Since no one was coming over and we weren't going anywhere, our tradition became staying in our pajamas all day Christmas day to PLAY! It was fun! I did make them get dressed for dinner which was always 'roast beast" as Chris called it! This year Adam and I were lucky enough to be invited to friends for an unbelievable dinner and great company! Going to Florida! next week for a Kempa reunion of sorts. I'm looking forward to getting out of the cold but my sister who is there right now says it's cold there too! The angel reflection for today: Just as the angels guided the Wise Men to Christ, so too will angels guide us to our divine destiny if we but have the courage to follow. Fran Kempa - Sunday, December 26, 2004 at 20:28:03 (MST) Merry Christmass Chris.... We hung your stocking on the mantel again... Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Saturday, December 25, 2004 at 19:43:18 (MST) Merry Christmas Chris whereever you are. I miss you SO much! Love Mom - Saturday, December 25, 2004 at 10:40:46 (MST) Love and many blessings are sent your way this Christmas. We know the spirit of Chris is with your family this holiday season and always. May 2005 be a healthy year for everyone. Happy birthday, to Adam F. (12-25) Kathy - Friday, December 24, 2004 at 20:08:21 (MST) We wrap ourselves for the holidays much like the presents we give. The brightly colored paper hides what's within. When people look at us, they only see the outside. We promise ourselves, we will not come unwrapped. We'll make it through the family celebrations, the church services, and the big occasions. The paper and ribbon will remain intact. But it is the small things that manage to untie the bow. The little significant moment, the Christmas parade, the search for the tree, the discovered ornament, the special carol, the memory, and the paper gets wretched off. The Christmas presence shows itself. The inevitable tide of feeling bursts out of the artificially decorated facade. The emotions pour out. The intense anger wells up. The tears are shed and the holidays come. These are as sure as the tides of the seas and the march of time. A bereaved parent knows of what I speak. Yet the answer isn't in fighting or denying these feelings. We have paid the price. We have the right to grieve. The resolution of our grief is in grieving. Our hope for all who read this is that you will make it through the holidays. We cannot make the pain go away. But know there are others who suffer with you. We have made it together and will continue on. Hank Hewitt <TCF Scranton Pa.> - Friday, December 24, 2004 at 11:27:28 (MST) Light a quiet candle Send a quiet kiss Send a quiet fare-the-well To the one you miss. Light a quiet candle, Shed a quiet tear Sing a quiet lullaby And the Christmas star will hear. Sascha Wagner - Friday, December 24, 2004 at 08:21:47 (MST) MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!! 12/24/04 - Friday, December 24, 2004 at 01:05:05 (MST) Just thinking of you and hoping you are all well. With Love... Ms. Hillman - Thursday, December 23, 2004 at 08:38:05 (MST) As Christmas and a new year approaches, our thoughts continue to be sent your way. I know that it is a very difficult situation to go through this time of year without our loved ones. Just know you are all in our thoughts and enjoy as much as you can. Much love.... Bill, JoAnne and Billy <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Thursday, December 23, 2004 at 05:52:46 (MST) 12/22/04...The art is the same still life as yesterday... discovered long after Chris was killed in the Franklin art room. Note his initials in the lower right corner. The photo was taken on Christmas morning 1985. Chris is munching on a left over carrot from Santa's reindeer. We STILL have that piano...but not Chris. The angel reflection for today: On the day Christ was born, a choir of angels sang in sweet harmony as bells of peace pealed with joy throughout the land. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, December 22, 2004 at 21:24:45 (MST) Beneath the amber glow of the newly rising sun, Or standing on the hillside when the day is done. Riding down the highway when my work day is at an end, or sitting on a park bench talking to a friend. No matter where I am in life no matter what my task Please give me peace of mind dear Lord, that is all I ask. And when those haunting memories of the night have passed away please come rushing in my broken heart, please do not delay. Remind me he is in a far far better place and grant me a glimpse of his hazel eyes and sweet angelic face Please grant me reassurance that we'll someday meet again in heaven's bright tomorrow in Your name I pray Amen The Sibling Prayer <Lanar Carpenter TCF Onanock, Va.> - Wednesday, December 22, 2004 at 15:54:11 (MST) 12/21/04...The art is the first of many Chris works Mr. Rheault discovered in the Franklin art room long after Chris was killed. I remember how good it made me feel to find out it existed...then to see it, that was very strange. The photo was taken in December, 1987. We were visiting an animated Christmas department store window display in Buffalo. As you can see, both boys enjoyed it. Finishing up last minute Christmas preparations as most people are. But as in most years since 1999, my heart just isn't into it but I try to do a little more every year hoping that will change. This year, I got out my Christmas dishes for the first time since '99...didn't really do the trick. For all I know if Chris had lived I'd feel the same...maybe it's part of the aging process..I doubt it though. The angel reflection for today: Little children lay in snow, arms spread wide in winter's glow. Looking up with laughing eyes, making angels just their size...I remember my first snow angel and then the boys first..and how we were all amazed at the result! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, December 21, 2004 at 19:54:06 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, December 19, 2004 at 23:06:36 (MST) 12/19/04...The art is one of the panels from Chris' HMmmm comic. The photo was taken Christmas morning, 1999, Chris' last. I don't remember what either one of their big gifts were that year. I remember we gave them a Star Wars Trivial Pursuit game. Chris' last Christmas gift to his brother was the Good Will Hunting DVD. Chris' last gift to the family was Play Station's Duck Hunt second version. I found myself in St. Mary's ER again this morning. I entered today by the main door. Sept. 2003 I entered and exited by the ambulance entrance. If memory serves me, the lobby has changed quite a bit since 11/20/00. The automatic front door is the same though...for some reason, I remember that door....In any event, I DON'T have a broken arm!...THANK GOD! Just an "elbow injury." The angel reflection for today: Help me look at others the caring angel way, that I may not cause hurt by what I do or say. Fran Kempa - Sunday, December 19, 2004 at 16:25:41 (MST) 12/18/04...The art is the same as yesterday, I honestly can't remember now if Chris called it The Man Who Runs or The Boy Who Runs. The photo was taken Christmas evening 1987. Every day it feels like I'm coming back to life a little more. It's hard to believe I dropped out of life for FOUR years!...but I did.. because of grief, mourning and health issues. I was telling my mother the other day I look around my house now and see things that would have grossed me out if I saw them in someone else's house four years ago!...dirty windows, dirty blinds. But I was telling Adam W. yesterday, I guess it's a good thing I recognize the fact and will do something about them...some day! The angel reflection for today: With my unseen companion I will meet my daily challenges and reach out and embrace each obstacle as my private tutor. Fran Kempa - Saturday, December 18, 2004 at 09:40:40 (MST) I like that last entry! What a sobering site! It occurred to me to share something from my tradition. We Zen Buddhists believe that we are all waves, but deeper and less apparent, is that we are all the water itself. Waves are tall and short, beautiful and ugly, born and die, but these concepts do not apply to the water. The belief is that through our practice, we can deeply touch the nature of the water, and we are liberated from our notions of birth and death and the suffering they cause. A beautiful book you may like to look at the next time you are in the bookstore is "No Death, No Fear" by Thich Nhat Hanh. God bless, my heart goes out to you all. Zach <zachypups@hotmail.com> - Friday, December 17, 2004 at 13:46:03 (MST) You are my mother. Anonymous <daughter@aol.com> - Friday, December 17, 2004 at 12:47:16 (MST) 12/17/04...Chris called this marker on paper work The Man Who Runs. It has many different sections to it. The photo was taken on Christmas night 1992, our first Christmas on Berwick. My sister sent me the following via E mail last night. I told Adam it made me think where I was Thanksgiving time 2000. I was SO caught up in the preparation. SO caught up I was exhausted...too exhausted to drive my son to school 11/20/00. A very hard lesson to learn. Christmas Version of 1st Corinthians 13: If I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls but do not show love to my family, I'm just another decorator. If I slave away in the kitchen baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and arranging a beautifully adorned table at mealtime but do not show love to my family, I'm just another cook. If I work at the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home and give all that I have to charity but do not show love to my family, it profits me nothing. If I trim the spruce with shimmering angels and crocheted snowflakes, attend a myriad of holiday parties and sing in the choir's cantana but do not focus on Christ, I have missed the point. Love stops the cooking to hug the child. Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the husband. Love is kind, though harried and tired. Love doesn't envy another's home that has decorated Christmas china and table linens. Love doesn't yell at the kids to get out of the way, but is thankful they are there to be in the way. Love doesn't give only to those who are able to give in return but rejoices in giving to those who can't. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. Video games will break, pearl necklaces will be lost, golf clubs will rust...but giving the gift of love will endure. You can give without loving but you cannot love without giving. The angel reflection for today: We are most like angels when we stand ready to serve the good inside of us. Fran Kempa - Friday, December 17, 2004 at 11:41:35 (MST) 12/16/04...The art is one of Chris' computer animated works, same as yesterday. If I recall correctly he was trying to copy the cover of I believe a Sunny Day Realestate CD. Again, if I recall correctly, he did a good job! The photo was taken Christmas morning 1985. Chris was very much into all the festivities that year and every year after! I continue to distract myself with chores of the season. I actually enjoyed shopping on line this year! But as in years past, with every purchase or decoration, it just makes me miss Chris more! I can't help wondering what would have been on his wish list this year. As I told my sister last night on the phone, we may not have induldged the boys during the year but every Christmas we tried to give them a GREAT one and I believe we did. Tonight is The Apprentice finale. I even wonder if Chris would be watching with us tonight...I wonder if he'd even still live here...I STILL WONDER every day....what he'd be doing and where he'd be. The angel reflection for today: Angels are pure thoughts from God, winged with truth and love....Mary Baker Eddy Fran Kempa - Thursday, December 16, 2004 at 16:54:32 (MST) Today's art was a computer generated sketch that Chris had done in a program called "True Space". It was meant to look simplistic. The photo was one of our first Christmas trees in this home. I can not believe it has been 4 years since Chris was killed... Miss you always Chris... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, December 15, 2004 at 23:16:04 (MST) 12/14/04...The art is the same Chris self portrait as yesterday. The photo was taken in December 1984 after seeing Santa. I talked to Cori on line Sunday night and last night for the first time in months! I didn't have her current E mail address and lost touch. I told her I believe Chris brought us back in touch so I can wish her a happy 20th!! birthday tomorrow. She was 15 when Chris was killed...turning 16 in a few weeks. He had already given her a few BD gifts before he was killed so she has those. We copmared a few Chris memories last night and she enhanced mine. I had forgotten some major details about two things and she reminded me! The angel reflection for today: Angels have visited humanity by streams and in deserts, by cradles and by graves and by alters and by bedsides. Angels have touched us at the most earthly of places but they have seldom left us the same way they found us. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, December 14, 2004 at 20:12:30 (MST) 12/13/04...The art is a whimsical self portrait Chris did on 11/16/00 for Cori on one of the Anne of Green Gables programs. Cori said Chris drew several pictures on several programs as they sat together in the theatre after the Emerson Middle School matinee that Thursday. I am so thankful she saved some of them. The photo was taken Christmas morning 1991, our last Christmas on Auburndale. The photo was taken JUST as the boys opened their joint big gift that year...Pirate Legos! You can see the excitement and thrill on both of their faces! Adam W. stopped by this evening and helped move the lego mosaic he made of Chris from in front of the fireplace in preparation for Christmas and decorations. For the first three Christmas holidays after Chris was killed we left his portrait and the mosaic on the mantle and fireplace. Last year and now this year we have returned to our original tradition of a wreath and garland. During the next year I hope to redo the whole house. Part of that will include Chris' room. As I told Adam W. the other night, my plan is to turn his room into a "sitting room" so to speak and incorporate the John Hick's portrait, lego mosaic and SO many other momentos into it. That way Chris will always be remembered but his memory won't involve the whole house as it does now....which I guess is a good thing. We got a Christmas card today from a Kempa RELATIVE that said, "Give our best to the KIDS!!" At first I was furious but then I know it wasn't intentional...no one could be that insensative. That's ONE reason why I don't send Christmas cards anymore. I believe most people still send them because they think of them as an obligation....and most likely a chore. I am trying to rid myself of both in my old age. The angel reflection for today: Sleep my child 'til the darkness is gone, guarded by angels through the night. One will bring sleep, another sweet dreams, and one will wake you at morning light. Fran Kempa - Monday, December 13, 2004 at 20:41:07 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Monday, December 13, 2004 at 14:54:09 (MST) 12/12/04...The art is the same ironic eye as yesterday. The photo was taken Christmas morning 1997, Adam and Chris. I don't have an exact memory of their big gifts that year but if I recall correctly, Adam asked for and recieved one of his stereo pieces, Chris his video camera...but I think the joint gift was the video camera so unfortunatly I don't recall Chris' big gift. We are in the process of completing decorating for our 5th Christmas without Chris!...SO hard to believe. Our Christmas time and traditions have changed so in the last five years! I have no doubt they would have changed if Chris had lived, but not in the same way...Holidays will NEVER be the same. The angel reflection for today: We aspire to be like the angels , who are one step closer to the divine perfection that created all things. Fran Kempa - Sunday, December 12, 2004 at 21:17:58 (MST) Why is it so very hard Accepting you are gone; I guess the thought is unbearable And I am not that strong. I am too afraid to face the truth And scared to feel the pain, Of never seeing your sweet face Or hearing your voice again Sometimes I see you in my dreams And picture you still here Til I awaken dreadfully To watch you disappear. You were always happy and carefree And I don't understand How you can seem so real to me, As your grasp slips from my hand. The sixteen years of life you had Somehow do not compare, To the tragic, senseless death you faced And the cross you had to bear. I try to think of pleasant times, Of childhood memories But guilt and sorrow haunt my soul And I cannot break free. I am sorry for the times we fought And for treating you so badly I am sorry for ignoring you And wasting the time we had. You were and are my brother still When you took your last breath A part of me went on with you And I still mourn your death. Memmories Of My Brother <Jennifer TCF Ellicott City Md.> - Sunday, December 12, 2004 at 12:00:47 (MST) 12/11/04...The art is another one of Chris' ironic altered eyes. The photo was taken in December 1992. Adam was 12, Chris was 8. I ran into a woman from Compassionate Friends in the grocery store today. She wondered why we hadn't been there for awhile and I explained. She said within a year of her son's death she suffered a serious heart attack and the doctors attributed it to the stress of losing her child too. I'm sure if a study was done it would show a very high percentage of parents who lose children suffer major health problems as a result. The angel reflection for today: The true seeing is within....George Eliot Fran Kempa - Saturday, December 11, 2004 at 19:12:05 (MST) 12/10/04...The art is the same TREEGUY close up as yesterday. The photo was taken Christmas morning 1995. Adam, Chris and Felix. We're in the process of upgrading our cell phones. The one we got two years ago boggled my mind as far as the technology. This time around you can't get away from camera phones with zoom and all kinds of stuff...I just want to be able to make a freaking phone call! I know Chris would be fascinated with them. His death was the reason we all got one in the first place. Adam W. somehow thought we'd all be safer with one. Even if Chris had had a cell phone 11/20/00 it wouldn't have done him a bit of good, he was killed instantly. The angel reflection for today: Sacred are the seraphim disciples of love in action, obedient messengers of faith's promise. Cherished are the cherubs, sweet channels of joy manifested anointed purveyors of hope's deepest dreams. Fran Kempa - Friday, December 10, 2004 at 21:11:23 (MST) I hope one of these days you can relieve yourself of any regret. The regret should belong to Mr. Schniers, not you. He chose to drive half blind and impatiently. Probably did it for mornings on end. Maybe still does. Everyone a victim in his path. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 10, 2004 at 07:27:02 (MST) 12/9/04...The art is a close up of TREEGUY'S face. He looks to me like a kind, gentle, older gentleman....Father Nature so to speak. The photo was taken Christmas morning, 1991. The boys were assembling their big gift for that Christmas...Pirate Legos at the dining room table on Auburndale. We had purchased Berwick in October thinking Auburndale would sell quickly...we were wrong! By Christmas time that year we were two months into a two house payment endeavor which lasted 6 months..that was the poorest Christmas we've ever had...but the boys had no idea! TREEGUY'S face brought back a very recent memory. About a week before Thanksgiving I went to have my hair cut and colored where I usually go. The girl I go to acknowledged my arrival with a head gesture as she was finishing her last customer. I took a seat leaving one seat's distance between myself and the next person. After I sat down I looked to my right to see an older gentleman and to his right an older woman. I smiled thinking they reminded me of my parents. I had only been seated a minute before the gentleman engaged me in conversation. We talked about hair and hair dye at first, joking about it and the aging process. His wife sat and smiled. He told me they would soon be married 54 years and I told him my parents were married 54 years in August. He then mouthed to me his wife "has Alzheimers." She continued to smile and he continued to talk telling me , "we have four children." He then paused and said, "actually only three now, we lost a son in Vietnam." He then asked me if I had any children and I told him that I had actually lost a son as well. He wanted to know the details so I told him and he remembered!...He and his wife have been attending Peace Lutheran Church on the corner for years. He said, "I remember praying for your son, ...has it really been four years?" I assured him it had...almost to the day. What surprised me was suddenly his wife sprang to reality. She suddenly piped up, "When you lose a child you never get over it...it's been almost 40 years and it still hurts." Here was a woman who had been portrayed as confused....but when it came to her child she REMEMBERED! That's what I've told so many people. I picture myself sitting in a wheelchair covered with a lap robe in a nursing home saying, "I only regret not driving my son to school 11/20/00." The angel reflection for today: Angels are God's humble servants ready to give without the need or desire for recognition or reward. Fran Kempa - Thursday, December 09, 2004 at 21:01:24 (MST) Today I was looking over some of our old software titles for our home computer. several were ones that Chris used.............. Does he ever think when he looks in the mirror with.... his one eye....I killed that kid...............?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, December 08, 2004 at 23:47:04 (MST) 12/8/04...The art we call TREEGUY. He is one of my favorites. I believe it's one of the last works Chris did. In the cube inside the circle is an eye. The photo was taken Christmas morning 1992, our first Christmas on Berwick. Obviously their big gift that year was a Sega. I think I finished my Christmas shopping today! It's so nice to shop from home! This is the earliest I've ever been done. The angel reflection for today: Today, hold your spirit close and listen to the whisperings of angels. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, December 08, 2004 at 20:16:33 (MST) i need a love letter titiled ;tell me how much you love me. odii kevin <murphylin4life@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, December 07, 2004 at 06:08:48 (MST) 12/6/04...The art is the same ironic eye as yesterday. The photo was taken Christmas morning, 1997. Charlie wearing Chris' Santa hat. It's still so hard to believe they're both gone. I hope Chris remembers what a great present opener Charlie was and gives him LOTS of Christmas presents in heaven this year! I bought myself a Christmas present online this year from Creative Home Designs Ltd. I had never ordered from them before but it came today and I was pleased. Enclsosed with my order was a "statement" so to speak.."Nature's most precious gift to all of us is LIFE. Creative Living is pleased to bring you the joys of life, creativity, art, culture, purity, elegance, comfort, tranquility, luxury, and warmth to your beautiful home."...It made me think of Chris....and how much our home is missing as a result of his death. It just reinforced it, I think about it every day. The angel reflection for today: And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him....Luke:22:43KJV Fran Kempa - Monday, December 06, 2004 at 19:44:52 (MST) Very nice and useful website Chris. Please visit my website!!! :) http://www.metropolis5000.com Webmaestro - Sunday, December 05, 2004 at 20:18:09 (MST) 12/5/04...the art is one of Chris' ironic eye drawings. I believe he did this one in 1999. The photo was taken in December, 1995. We took down the pumpkins and Indian corn from the memorial today. We put a simple Christmas bough in their place. Afterward, we stopped at 7 11 for the paper. I sat in the van while Adam went in and got it. Right in front of me was a big sign imploring people to buy their original Slurpee. I can't tell you how many mornings as I drove Chris to school he'd BEG me to stop at 7 11 and buy him a Slurpee....It was 7:00 in the morning! No way was he going to start the day with a Slurpee if I had anything to do with it! I never once bought him a Slurpee on the way to school and I regretted it today. The angel reflection for today: Angels point out the way, open doors, and turn on the light. Fran Kempa - Sunday, December 05, 2004 at 17:16:43 (MST) 12/4/04...The art is the same yoyo drawing from one of Chris' school papers from yesterday. The photo was taken Christmas morning 1984, Chris' first Christmas. He's holding his favorie gift, a package of pacifers and Adam is holding him. It's hard to believe we'll be celebrating our 5th Christmas without him. Sadly, not knowing it would be his last I have little or no memory of Christmas, 1999. I don't even remember what their big gift was that year. I heard a quote last night that SO made me think of Chris..."Do all you can do with what you have in the time that you have, in the place that you are.." Chris did so to the max! The angel reflection for today: O come angel band, come and around me stand. O bear me away on your snow white wings to my immortal home. Fran Kempa - Saturday, December 04, 2004 at 20:04:10 (MST) 12/3/04...The art is a sketch Chris did on one of his school papers. The photo was taken Christmas night 1984, Chris' first Christmas. He was 6 months, Adam was just a few days shy of five. That started my tradition of taking the boy's picture in front of the fireplace at Christmas time. It got harder to do as they got older...most unfortunatly I didn't do it in 1998 or 1999, Chris' last Christmas. I saw Tim Russert interview Susan St. James on the news tonight. He asked her if a higher power had come to her and asked if she could have her son Teddy for 14 years and then he'd be called home if she still would have had him...what would any mother say? You could tell just by looking at her she's still so much in shock... and dealing with another injured son and husband in addition! The angel reflection for today: Every time you hear a bell ring, it means that some angel just got his wings... Fran Kempa - Friday, December 03, 2004 at 18:38:34 (MST) 12/2/04...The art is the same whimsical drawing as yesterday. The photo was taken Christmas evening, 1985. Chris was 18 months, Adam just a few days shy of 6. I STILL remember posing them for that photo! Adam W. stopped by unexpectedly this afternoon...alwyas a treat! We talked mainly about Christmas. I told him I had done the bulk of my shopping on line this year and how great it's been! I then shared with him our plans of attacking this house with avengence after the new year and FINALLY finishing it. Most unfortunatly that will include Chris' room..I imagine that will be the last room we do. It will entail having to decide what to do with his furniture, clothes and keepsakes such as the still packaged Star Wars figures. Adam pipied up right away, "I want his desk, I definatly want his desk!" That made me feel SO good! It's a very special desk we had procured for Chris and assembled in his room shortly before he was killed. It had been housed in one of the labs at Wayne State University for who knows how many years....solid oak with a built in light box in the top. Perfect for an artist! I hope Adam will cherish it for years to come. The angel reflection for today: Be not concerned with little things, for there are hosts of angels whose job it is to sweat the small stuff for us. Fran Kempa - Thursday, December 02, 2004 at 20:52:47 (MST) 12/1/04...The art is a whimsical little sketch Chris did on one of his school papers. The photo was taken during Christmas break, 1995....Chris and his street hockey stuff. I saw a commercial today where Lance Armstrong states surviving cancer has been his greatest victory. Having survived cancer I have to say my greatest victory has been surviving Chris' death. It continues to be a daily struggle. I really don't know how I did in the early days and don't know how I go on with him gone from my life. I guess you just do it because you don't have a choice. The angel reflection for today: Angel Gabriel, come bring me good news as you did when you told Mary of the child growing within her. Tell me Gabriel what dreams are growing within me? What miracles will I give birth to today? That's just one aspect of dealing with Chris' loss...the loss of ALL his hopes and dreams and talent. It will always sicken me to know he SHOULD still be alive. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, December 01, 2004 at 19:20:59 (MST) Today I went for a dental checkup and cleaning. The dental hygenist asked me how was my Thanksgiving. I replied "fine". She wanted more detail so I told her that we went to dinner at a friends house. I spared her the tale of woa........ Thanksgivings will always suck. Miss you always..... Dad <<<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, December 01, 2004 at 15:53:01 (MST) 11/30/04...The first photo is of Chris' grave marker taken at the cemetary. He lay in an unmarked grave for about two years because we just couldn't bring ourselves to make that final step. Then the fact that our baby was in an unmarked grave began to take it's toll on us so we had made up for him what we knew was perfect all that time. In some strange way it felt good to finally do it. The second photo was taken recently after Chris' electric guitar some how wound up in the computer room. I still remember him asking me, "Mom, isn't RETURN TABLES a good name for a band?" shortly before he was killed. Then he cut out and pasted the name on the pick guard. Four years ago 11/30 was a Thursday. I have no specific memory of a time line of occurrances after his funeral. I DO remember sitting... Just sitting on the couch or in a chair and not moving for HOURS. I remember watching day light turn into darkness MANY times and realizing I had not moved. I also remember diligantly working on the funeral acknowledgements...some how thinking if I wrote about him I could keep him alive...I guess I'm still doing that. The angel reflection for today: Do not waste your time speculating on what they look like or where they come from. Just believe that angels exist and you will see proof in your life of the miracles they bring. Every night before I sleep I PRAY that there's a heaven. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, November 30, 2004 at 20:45:09 (MST) Hey this is a nice site! If you ever need a student loan check out our student loan site! Kelly Miller <kelly.miller@nextstudent.com> - Monday, November 29, 2004 at 20:03:11 (MST) It was not the body you loved ...it was the unique and precious >spirit that dwelled within. That spirit is still with you. Spirit is eternal ...it does not die. Though unseen, He walks beside you as before Safe in the love you always knew. Joan Walsh Angland <The Friends We Have Not Met> - Sunday, November 28, 2004 at 13:27:36 (MST) 11/26/04...The "art" is a picture of what the recipient's of the Chris Scholarship receive on Honor's Night at Franklin every year in May for the graduating seniors. 2005 will be the fifth year for the scholarship. Adam F. and I will continue it until we are unable to due to health, aging or death. I then want Adam W. to continue until Franklin no longer exists or he is unable...and if he is lucky enough to have children, I hope he will have them continue it. The barn shows, web pages and memorials will eventually end...the scholarship is one sure way of keeping Chris' memory alive forever and helping fellow artists at the same time. The photo is another taken Thanksgiving day, 1990. Four years ago 11/26 was a Sunday. I have sketchy memories of cooking two breakfasts for our departing out of town relatives two hours apart. After they had all left I remember taking the Xanex Adam had gotten for me behind my back off the top of the refrigerator. I had refused to take any that week insisting I did not want to be drugged and wanted a clear memory of my baby's final days. I had no idea how I would react to it never having taken it before. I remember sitting on the couch in the living room and feeling sleepy for the first time in a week. We continue to receive cards remembering 11/20/00 in the mail....even scholarship donations! Today as I opened them I felt so good..people still remember. Then I thought, how sad, I shouldn't be feeling GOOD...the cards are in memory of Chris' death! The angel reflection for today: My guardian angel is watching over me night and day. I know whenever I need her, she's only a prayer away. Fran Kempa - Friday, November 26, 2004 at 21:48:23 (MST) The SEA of people are still silently embracing Chris and the Kempa Family today and everyday. I know this day will never ever be the same but hope it was a peaceful one. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 18:01:18 (MST) 11/25/04...The art is the last piece Chris ever worked on and never completed. We never saw it until after he was killed. I remember seeing it for the first time and seeing the missing pieces sketched in lightly in pencil and being so sickened by the waste. The photo was taken on Thanksgiving day, 1990. Adam W. was 10 and Chris was 6. My parents and sister were with us for the holiday. Molly brought the props and we posed. You can see how thrilled Adam F. was by the whole idea! Four years ago today was a Saturday...the final day, the day we buried our baby and little brother. I can still see myself standing at his casket after everyone else had filed out of the funeral home to their cars to go to the church. I can still feel the cement hardness of his cheek as I kissed him and said, "Goodnight Sweet Prince, I LOVE YOU" I can still hear the thud as they closed the coffin. I can still remember a van full of people crying as we followed the hearse. I can still remember remembering just two months before Chris asking me if he was a pall bearer for Grandma Kempa if he'd have to ride in the hearse....something he did NOT want to do. I can still remember remembering telling him, "Oh no honey, absolutly NOT." I can still remember the driver ed car passing our van and the hearse. That made me cry even more...Chris had made an appointment to drive that morning....Why couldn't that have been him driving? I can still remember walking into the church and seeing a SEA of people. I can still remember ALL the Franklin jackets. I can still remember even the priest breaking down. I can still remember GONE TOO SOON playing. I can still remember Adam F. on one side and Adam W. on the other almost carrying me out of the church. I can still remember the LONG line of cars going to the cemetary. I can still remember the prayer service conducted at the cemetary. I can still remember the prayer service ending and thinking.."oh my God, it's over." I can still remember walking in the house and finding another sea of people. I can still remember it starting to rain and telling people that that was my baby crying from Heaven...he DID NOT want to die. So today is Thanksgiving for most. To me, it will ALWAYS be the day we buried Chris. I wish all our family and friends a very happy and blessed one and I remember and mourn my beloved son. His memory and spirit keep me going... some days, like today, are worse than others. The angel reflection for today: Throughout the season of Thanksgiving, may our hearts be full of love for all humankind. Let us draw near to family and friends and reach out to strangers. In other words, may we act more like angels. Fran Kempa - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 16:46:56 (MST) I don't know if young Adam will remember this, but when we used to come up to the beach in the summer yo visit you, we used to sit out at the beach at night by the campfire. We were driving home from dinner this evening and Red Hot Chili Peppers came on singing 'Under the Bridge'...Billy exclained..."Oh my God Mom, this is what Chris, Adam and I listened to one night by the fire". What a cool memory. Jo - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 16:24:26 (MST) Happy Thanksgiving Chris, where ever you are. Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 14:03:47 (MST) I cannot hold your hand today, I cannot see you smile I cannot hear your voices now My children who are gone. But I recall your faces still, The songs, the talks, the sighs. And stormy times and winter walks, And sharing secret things. I know you helped my mind to live Beyond your time with me. You gave me clearer eyes to see, You gave me finer ears to hear, What living means, what dying means My children who are gone. So here it is Thanksgiving Day And you are not with me. And while I weep a mother's tears I thank you for the gifts you were. And all the gifts you gave me. My children who are gone. Sascha Wagner - Thursday, November 25, 2004 at 11:33:50 (MST) 11/23/04... The art is the poster from the first of many benefit shows in memory of Chris. January, 2001, just two months after he was killed. Many kids attended and all donations went to the scholarship fund. The photo to the left is one of the memorial shortly after Chris was killed. The photo to the right is the way it looked in February 2001 after the city made us remove it following a citizen complaint. Four years ago 11/23 was a Thursday...Thanksgiving day. The morning started with Chris' picture starring at us from the front page of the Livonia Observer. The three of us took Charlie to the funeral home and stayed about an hour. After sniffing around for awhile, he laid on the floor in front of Chris' casket almost guarding it. When we returned home my brother and his family had arrived from Buffalo. My fancy Thanksgiving of china, sterling and chair bows never took place. We ate off paper plates with plastic silverware and sat where ever we could find room. I ate my first meal since Sunday dinner and very much regretted it after. The full impact of the loss hadn't begun to sink in. We will celebrate our Thanksgiving tomorrow with Adam and Sarah. I made the chocolate pie tonight and as I stood at the stove stirring I thought of many Thanksgivings past and wondered how this years would have been if Chris was still here...maybe he'd have a girlfriend. I also thought of all the different ways Mr. Schniers changed our lives...he even changed the way we celebrate holidays...he even changed the way my elderly parents celebrate holidays. We bought our turkey at Larry's tonight. On the way out I couldn't help but notice they've taken Chris' sticker down. It made me sad but after four years I can understand. I'm thankful they left it up as long as they did. The angel reflection for today: Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it....Hebrews 13:2 Fran Kempa - Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 21:47:50 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 22:15:16 (MST) 11/22/04...The art is another one of Chris' many self portraits. This is the last work that was exhibited while he was still alive at the LPS Fine Art Festival at Civic center library, Spring, 2000. The photo was taken about a week after Chris was killed at the corner memorial. Four years ago 11/22 was a Wednesday. I still remember firming up the funeral music and talking on the phone to friends and relatives. As one of Chris' friends said the other day, when you're in shock you're not in control. You look back at what you did and wonder how and why you did it. What had always been the day Kennedy was killed in my mind quickly became the first day of my baby's wake. Our Thanksgiving guests arrived as expected...but not for the same reason. We were pulling out of the driveway to go to the funeral home as they were pulling in. I still remember walking into the funeral home and seeing Chris' now framed MIRRORS portrait displayed as you walked into the room. I remember seeing all the work that had gone on behind the scenes unknown to us at the time...Jeremy Rheault's display of Chris' art and Angie Hillman's touching memorial video. I remember busying myself with these and all the flowers and plants, not wanting to walk to the other side of the roon to the casket. I STILL remember finally working up the courage to go over and see my baby in his coffin...another image etched in my mind forever. My father didn't ask if they could come to my house this Thanksgiving. I think by now he knows the answer. My parents are in North Carolina with my sister and her family for the holiday. This will be our fifth Thanksgiving without Chris!...He won't be missed any less. The angel reflection for today: If love had a form it would look like an angel, soft as a cloud and bright as a star. If hope had a voice it would sing like an angel, clear as a bell and deep as the sea. Fran Kempa - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 21:25:24 (MST) I find myself getting short of breath reading Mrs. Kempa's entries. God bless the Kempas and all who still love Chris. Requiem aeternam dona ei, Domine, et lux perpetua luceat ei. Visitor <noemail@email.com> - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 20:46:30 (MST) I remember the last time I saw you...you were so tall and thin! I hadn't seen you in months and thought to myself "how handsome." I remember you being so excited about CCS and also being so excited about your new glasses and the fact that you were getting taller and thinner, "like Adam!" you said. I remember your smile SO big and bright. I will never forget the way you looked that day...SO happy. I'm lucky to have that memory. I wish you were here. You and your family are always in my constant thoughts and prayers. With much Love... Sara* <MjParker05@aol.com> - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 17:43:44 (MST) There is no closure with traumatic grief. Anonymous - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 15:21:04 (MST) I hate Nov 20th...I will forever hate November 20th. =w= <-> - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 14:09:53 (MST) I never knew Chris or the Kempas. I heard the tragic news and discovered the site through the media. Living close to Franklin I became interested and have followed the story ever since. This family has survived every familys worst night mare. It seems to me Chris was doing everything right that morning, crossing in a crosswalk with the light and the driver was doing everything wrong. It is scarry to think who may be on the road with you. I know the Kempas will never get over this loss but I pray they can trudge forward and find some happiness out of life. It seems that's what they're doing. What a tragic loss of a fine, talented young man. Mary Saia <Westland> - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 10:36:48 (MST) This weeks entries bring back memories of this tramatic and lifechanging event. These entries really broke me down, and I hardly knew him. I feel sadness for many. You're in my prayers. colleen Baidoon - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 09:33:40 (MST) keep off guys ababa <mugu@mugu.com> - Monday, November 22, 2004 at 01:44:51 (MST) 11/21/04...The art is Chris' favorite self portrait, MIRRORS. I believe he completed it in late 1999 or early 2000. He asked me several times if we could get it framed and I always responded, "someday" or "soon." but never did. The photo is the horrible intersection where Chris was killed, in the crosswalk across the street. Four years ago 11/21 was a Tuesday. I remember waking up after about an hours sleep and crying, "It wasn't a dream!" I remember going down stairs shortly after and for some reason looking into the kitchen sink. There was Chris' cereal bowl in the sink with some milk, spoon and remnents of Peanut Butter Capin Crunch....that was his last meal. That made me cry terribly. I remember two friends coming over and saying to them ,"I'm still crying." I remember going to the frame store to have Chris' mirror portrait framed and crying the whole time. I remember going to buy Adam and Chris a suit and people starring at me because I was crying. I remember telling the sales man we could take Chris' suit with us..it didn't have to be altered and telling him why. I remember standing in the kitchen ironing the white shirt Chris had worn and I had ironed just one month before for Homecoming. I remember someone offering to iron it for me...I don't remember who there were SO many people in and out of the house. I remember refusing saying I wanted to iron my baby's shirt for the last time and crying. I remember going up to Chris' room to select the under wear, socks, shoes and tie for his wake and burial. I remember the Deadys coming over to accompany us to the funeral home to drop off Chris' clothes. I remember sitting on the couch, Bill to my right with his arm around me and Kathy to his right. I remember having Chris' wing tips on my hands and clanking them together back and forth crying, "I just NEED to know he's ok!" It still makes me sick to know the only reason Chris is dead is because he walked to school...but was unfortunate enough to meet an impaired, careless driver. I truly believe we'd all be much better off if Chris was alive and well and living with us...even Mr. Schnires. Yesterday's angel reflection was telling: Guide me on a path that's safe and let my journey be a walk in grace. My sister said when she was considering buying this daily inspirational calander for me she turned to 11/20. When she read the reflection she knew it was the right thing to do. The angel reflection for today: Everything that lives is holy, life delights in life.....William Blake Fran Kempa - Sunday, November 21, 2004 at 21:51:12 (MST) 11/20/04...This is the front page of the Thanksgiving Observer 11/23/00. I've often thought that one headline summed it up so well..."FRIENDS MOURN"...he had so many and they were devastated..."GENTLE ARTIST 16"...he was such a gentle soul and talented artist and sadly, just 16. The photo was Chris' Junior school picture but we had never seen it. I still remember thinking when I saw it on TV..."See, he's alive, it was all a terrible mistake...how else did they get this picture." We found out later he just had never brought it home and the school released it to the media with our permission. Four years ago today was a Monday. What turned out to be not only the worst Monday, but the worst day of my life. I STILL remember EVERY sight, sound and smell of that day. As I told a priest at my sister's wedding rehersal last month...an old family friend who asked...it's like a tape that plays in my mind complete with sights and sounds. It plays sometimes when I want it to but often times when I don't. I think we all knew in that moment our lives would be changed forever as a result, we had no idea just how profund those changes would be. Chris' death continues to impact our lives on a daily basis and will continue to do so for the rest of our lives. As Mary stated in her entry, seems like yesterday and at the same time such a long time ago. That's how it seems to me to. Most unfortunatly Chris' death still seems like four seconds ago but his life continues to slip away from me more and more every day. It's become blurry images and distant sounds. As HARD as I try to keep the memories alive, many are slipping away. Mr. Schnires is 30 now, Chris is still 16. I wonder if he has children now. The last time I saw his wife in spring, 2001 she looked pregnant. I hope what he and his family were too selfish to do to protect a stranger's child he's not too selfish to do to protect his own...Get driver's training for blindness and brain damage. I just pray he's not still out there endangering others..strangers, family members...even himself. To a certain degree Chris' death taught me to live in the moment. I now know better than to plan for the future. I suppose you can still have hopes and dreams...just no firm plans. His death has not taught me not to live in the past. How can you lose someone so prescious and not live in the past to some degree when the past is all you have of that most cherished person? Today we went to the cemetary, the three of us and put a grave blanket on Chris' grave. We got him the little Christmas tree again this year as we did last. That has become our 11/20 tradition. We tried to light candles at the memorial tonight but it was too windy. We then went to dinner at dear friends. Another couple came. Both couples have kids who were Chris' friends...One of our friends was kind enough to toast Chris during dinner! I thank everyone who sent a card, called, made an entry in the guestbook, sent flowers, stopped by...even one of Chris' two most favorite teachers which I thouht was so sweet..or even just thought of Chris today. It really makes me feel good today...if that's possible to know that Chris is still thought of by so many. Fran Kempa - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 23:12:22 (MST) Remebering you today and always Jenna - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 21:17:01 (MST) What more can we say other than we have had you in thought ALL day...many times mentioning Chris and all of his funny escapades. We love you all and keep you in prayer as yet another year goes by without this vibrant young contributor to society and to his family and friends. It is SO hard to beleice it is 4 years!! love you always Jo, Bill and cousin Bill <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 19:59:34 (MST) Every year as November approaches, I used to look forward to my birthday. But as of my junior year of high school the month of November has taken on a whole new meaning. The fact that you were killed two days after my sweet 16th still haunts me. Why is it that I don’t remember what happened last week as clearly as I remember what happened the weekend of 11/20/2000? I remember the last time saw you in school, Friday, after the show. I had sad down next to you in the theatre and looked at your sketch book, asking you if you were going to the cast party. You told me weren’t, I remember giving you so much hassle about it. I kept persisting that you needed to go- saying, “Do it for my birthday, Chris!” I remember going to the party hoping to see you there. Traditionally, we all signed each others programs at the cast parties- I remember getting your program, and the cartoons on it… and just being so… upset with you- for not showing up at the party. I hated the fact that I was so mad… especially come Monday. It was the first week after my birthday so of course I had that whole new outfit, and although I was upset about the cast party I was looking forward to the day. It was the third hour of the day, when a substitute insisted on waiting for the morning announcements before starting class. I asked him what the deal was… and he told me. “an 11th grade art student was in a car accident this morning…. he‘s not going to make it.” At that moment. My heart stopped. I KNEW it was you. I just knew it. I knew when the principal was going to announce it, they were going to say Christopher Kempa. I held my breath until the announcement. Longest five minuets of my life- and when he came on. And said your name…everything just stopped. The first thing I felt, for the exception of complete shock, was out of complete selfishness. I remember thinking- “My God. The last feeling I felt toward you was complete anger…” You act so strange when you are in shock. You loose control.. I remember walking around school in a haze. SMILING at people because I couldn’t figure out how to function, really. I was on auto-pilot. Everything seemed so stupid and meaningless… why was I still there? I walked into the choir room after lunch and saw so many people…devastated. I couldn’t sort out how to feel. I was so angry at myself, pissed off at the world. It wasn’t until the last hour of the day that I left.. I was in the work-out room and received a note that my mother was outside. I climbed in her car and drove home.. I told her what happened, but just the facts. I couldn’t emote anything else. My mother was a mess. She didn’t know what exactly happened, she just received a call that there was an accident at school and if she had heard from me. I comforted her.. I hadn’t even shed a tear. I couldn’t at all.. Even as I watched the news. It was reality. Your face was on my TV. Even when I told my sister. Even when one of are mutual friends came to my house and sat on my bed. Reaching in her pocket and pulling out a guitar pick… looking at me with a look I will NEVER forget, telling me that it was yours.. I wanted to be able to say goodbye. To this day.. I just can’t. I won’t forget about you. Of course I wish you were here… but more then anything, I just wish I knew you were okay. Kempa’s you’re in my thoughts. Love, Jamie Weeder Jamie Weeder <aimlessthought@yahoo.com> - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 13:37:19 (MST) My thoughts and prayers go out to you three on the anniversary of this very tragic loss. I know Chris is proud of this tribute to his short and wonderful time on earth. GOD BLESS Kathy - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 08:41:37 (MST) My thoughts and prayers are with you today and always. Thank you for sharing your son with me and reminding me just how precious life is and how easily it can be over. Peace be with you, Erin Elise erin elise <erinelise@comcast.net> - Saturday, November 20, 2004 at 07:04:05 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 23:04:13 (MST) Four years :-( Seems like yesterday, seems like a lifetime. I've had the pleasure of getting to know Chris through this website. What a wonderful Son. What a wonderful Boy. What a tragic loss. Thinking of Chris and the Kempa Family on this Day and everyday. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 20:08:20 (MST) 11/19/04...The art is Chris' angel self portrait. It became the cover of the Livonia Public Schools 2001 Fine Arts Festival Program. Chris painted a companion portrait...the devil side. The photo was taken New Years Eve 1999. Chris was attending his first and last kid party. He was SO excited about "the new milenium." He couldn't wait for 2001..he thought that would be so cool, "2001 a space oddysey" he often commented! Four years ago 11/19 was a Sunday. Chris, Adam W. and I all worked that day. I got home about 3:30. I was tying up loose ends for my Thanksgiving celebration...only had that evening and the next day, 11/20 to finish. I had to work Tues. and Wed. and our company arrived Wed. Adam F. picked Chris up from work at 5 for me so I didn't have to stop working. Chris came home and we acknowledged each other. I continued polishing the silver at the kitchen sink and Chris went up to the internet...I can STILL see myself doing that! A little befor 6 we had dinner. The three of us ate and made idol conversation. We had hamburgers I made on my George Forman grill that Adam and Chris teased me about! During dinner Chris mentioned that he had picked up some extra hours at work....He would be working tomorrow 11/20. I commented that that was so unlike him...he always worked his scheduled hours but was very reluctant to take on any extra. He said Annette had asked him to and she had been very good to him so he thought he'd help her out, "Besides," he said, "I can use the money." He then asked me to help him with his driver's ed homework after dinner and I agreed. There were 25 questions to answer before his next class as I recall. He said some were "very hard." I agreed. After I did the dishes I found him upstairs in the computer room and told him I was ready to help him. I asked if he minded if we worked on the bed because I was so tired. He said that would be fine and joined me in the bedroom. I was on my right side on one side of the bed and Chris was on his left side on the other side of the bed. We had all the driver ed books between us. We worked for a good hour. Some of the questions were very hard for me too. Chris still had on his Larry's Foodland sweatshirt, Dockers and stocking feet. I was in my pajamas. I asked him if he had noticed that I nodded out on him a few times and he said no but he did notice my voice got "softer." We both agreed we needed a break. Chris turned on the TV in the bedroom for me and went back to the computer. At some point we started watching Millionaire together and talked as we watched. He sat at the foot of the bed and I was still lying down. We talked about many things, Christmas and Christmas shopping in particular. Adam W. came home from work and joined me and Chris on the bed to see Regis talk Norm out of trying for the million. After Millionaire Adam left and Chris darted in and out of the room. I stayed and watched Practice. Chris stuck his head in...showed me a card he'd made for Cori, asked me some questions. At almost 11:00 Chris came in the room. He had on a biege sweater over a white T shirt. He stood in front of the mirror and twisted and turned in his clothes. He asked me if I thought he had lost too much weight recently and I replied, "Oh no honey, you look fine." I told him the combination looked good. It was then that I asked him the most regretable question..."would you mind walking to school in the morning?" I think I explained that I was exhausted and wanted to sleep in. He very kindly replied, "Mom, if you help me tomorrow night with my driver's ed, I'll be happy to walk to school."... We had a deal. I went down stairs at 11 to iron Adam's clothes for the next day and watched the news. While I was ironing I could hear Chris and Adam F. arguing. I went to the foot of the stairs and hollered up, "What's going on?" Adam explaied Chris was deleting many of his computer art and animation files and he didn't think he should do that. True to form, I sided with Chris and said, "They're his files, if he wants to deleted them he can....HE CAN ALWAYS DO MORE!" I heard the weather for the morning as I finished ironing. Possible snow. I made a mental note that if it snowed I'd drive Chris. I set the alarm for 6:00 AM and went to bed. The angel reflection for today: Certain thoughts are prayers. There are moments when whatever be the attitude of the body, the soul is on it's knees.....Victor Hugo Fran Kempa - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 16:56:26 (MST) We will miss you tonight Mrs. Kempa! I know that you will be there in spirit, as will Chris! All the best for your health and heart! With love~Ms. Hillman Ms. Hillman - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 14:04:45 (MST) I've been without my brother for five years. I guess the hard part is over now. Sometimes I think I have aged 30 years in the past five. In a strange way, These past five years have been the best and worst years of my life. I have accomplished the many things of a typical young adult. Learning to drive, graduating from high school, going to college and starting a career. Every one of my accomplishments has been clouded by the fact that my brother George is not here to share each milestone and is not achieving any more milestones for himself. He was cheated of so many things. He will never graduate, get married, have children or travel. He will never grow old and I will never have a brother to grow old with. I'll never have any nieces and nephews. The sibling relationship, usually the longest relationship in one's life, has been cut short for us. In these five years, although I have learned to accept that he is not coming back, the difficult part is dealing with it day by day. Our relationship ended just when we started to become friends. The childish fights and other annoyances of having a big brother were changing to having real conversations and to having an occasional ally. I am angry about all the things that we have missed and all the things that will never be, and I guess I always will be. Five years heals a lot of wounds but the hurt will always be there no matter how many years pass. In these last five years, I have been forced to grow up too fast. I have been forced into a new outlook on life. I have felt lonely and alone. I now realize that I will never be the same person as before, no matter how many years pass. Maybe I am a better person for what I've been through. Five years ago, I never thought I would survive but I am still here dealing with it every day. I don't know what the next five years will bring but at least I have made it this far. Kristin Steiner <TCF Staten Island NY> - Friday, November 19, 2004 at 12:39:20 (MST) Today at work lady asked me about my son's anniversary. Another co worker was in the room and smiled. He listened as I expained that it had been four years. The lady kept asking questions about Chris's death. When the male co worker heard about how my son was killed he said. In France (where he was from) when someone kills a pedestrian they are held responsible. What a funny idea. Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 22:41:11 (MST) 11/18/04...The art is Chris' SEGMENTS self portrait. I believe he completed it in 1999. The photo was taken August 26th 2000 during my parent's 50th anniversary party...all the boy cousins. Chris and Adam were very happy to see their cousins again after such a long time. I'm not sure how many but it had been years. None of us had a clue in less than three months many of my family members would be in Michigan for Chris' wake and funeral. Four years ago Nov. 18th was a Saturday...what turned out to be the last Saturday of Chris' life. He and I both had to work. I arrived home abot 3:30 and continued my Thanksgiving frenzy. Chris came home a little after 5. Adam W. picked him up from work for me and agreed to drive him to Franklin for the play. I can still see Adam F. and me at the kitchen counter a little before 6 about to eat dinner. Adam and Chris were leaving and said their rushed goodbyes.... All of a sudden the front door BURST open...it was Chris in a hurried state. He looked at us and blurted out, "Forgot the Jones!" He picked up a Larry's Foodland bag off the green chair in the living room and the bottles CLANKED together as he dashed back out the door! Adam and I never said a word...didn't have a chance to. We just looked at each other after he was gone again and smiled and ate our dinner. Saturday about 10:30 Chris was home and announced he would not be attending the cast party. I was very surprised and disappointed for him but couldn't convince him to go and to this day don't know why he didn't. He asked if Ron could spend the night and I told him no, he couldn't spend the night because Chris and I had to work Sunday. I told him Ron could come over to play video games or watch TV but couldn't spend the night....then I went to bed. Had to be up at 5:30. As I sit here tonight and type this I'm not sure if Ron came over or not. Had I known he only had literally hours to live I would have told him to not only have Ron spend the night...but ALL his friends and I would have called in Sunday to spend the time with him... but we didn't know. The angel reflection for today: Follow your bliss and you will meet with multitudes of angels waiting to cheer you on your path to joy and happiness. Fran Kempa - Thursday, November 18, 2004 at 17:35:52 (MST) 11/17/04...The art is the inside cover of an Emerson Middle School Recognition Night program from May, 1997. Chris was in Seventh grade and drew the eagle for the cover. The photo was taken November 9th 2000 during the Chicago field trip. Four years ago Nov. 17th was a Friday. I remember sitting at work close to 3:00 change of shift, telling my co worker from India about my busy afternoon. She's told me many times since she remembers that day too. She said it sounded quite busy but she said she could tell I was happy to be doing all those things for Chris. I stopped to get gas on the way home...I can still see myself at the pump getting the afternoon activities straight in my mind. I picked Chris up and we were out the door again within five minutes. Driver Ed. from 4-6. It was a good 20 minute drive and we talked on the way. Chris had recently gotten the best report card he EVER had. He was a little disappointed with his Visual Communications grade...a B, he wanted an A. We talked about how he might improve that grade next semester. He spoke with such EXCITEMENT! They were starting computer animation Monday the 20th...he couldn't wait! Neither one of us knew he had just finished the last day at school he'd ever have and was about to begin his last Drivers Ed. class. When we reached Bryant Center he seemed a little anxious about me picking him up on time...had to be back at Franklin early for the play. I remember telling him.."I'll pick you up right where I'm dropping you off...I PROMISE I'll be there for you" I didn't risk going home and coming back so I chose to grocery shop a block away so I could be there on time. I got there about 10 to 6 and decided to go in and wait outside the classroom door so he'd know I was there. Class had let out a little early and we found ourselves walking toward each other in the hall. Chris was surrounded by other kids, laughing and joking. I remember him saying, "Yea guys, this is my mom." And we both smiled proudly! Then we were off to Larry's Foodland so he could pick up and cash his paycheck...and buy Jones soda for the girls. We then stopped at McDonalds and got him what we thought was a large chocolate shake. As we were pulling into Franklin's lot he discovered the shake was the wrong flavor and we were heading back. He asked me, "Are you mad?" And I said I wasn't mad at him but had had it with that one McDonalds they ALWAYS messed up our order even this time ordering one thing. We were back at Franklin in no time and as Chris was getting out of the van I asked him if he thought I should attend. He assured me it would be OK...said I might be bored. Told me to wait for the spring musical Peter Pan. He said he might try out for a role. He and I were off in opposite directions. I was happy to have the house to myself to finish my Thanksgiving cleaning. Chris came home about 10:30. He then rode to the airport with me at 11:30 to pick Adam up from D.C. We enjoyed more conversation on the way to the airport. Neither one of us had any idea just one mile to the south of us lived a man who had gone blind in his left eye and sustained other brain damage as the result of a brain tumor. We had no idea in just a few days Chris would be unfortunate enough to meet this man driving a pick up truck and that meeting would result in his death and the end of our lives as we knew them forever. The angel reflection for today: Eternal angel, love that knows no end, where am I going, why am I here? Help me Wise One to find who I am and to know my purpose here on earth. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, November 17, 2004 at 20:36:06 (MST) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 20:23:54 (MST) 11/16/04...The art is the cover of the program from the Livonia Public Schools Fine Art exhibit from April, 2001. LPS was kind enough to dedicate the exhibit in memory of Chris. They used one of his self portraits as the cover art. Many of his works were exhibited. The photo was taken on Nov. 9th 2000 during the art department field trip in Chicago just 12 days before Chris was killed. Four years ago Nov. 16th was a Thursday. It was the first performance ot the fall play Ann Of Green Gables. The High School always opens the play with a morning performance for the Middle School on Thursday. Chris reminded me Wed. night Nov. 15th that he didn't have to go to school until late Thurs. I was concerned at first. Adam F. was in D.C., Adam W. had class Thurs. morning and I had to work. That meant Chris would be home alone to get himself up and ready for school...that was a concern. We decided instead of me waking him at 6AM as I left for work I would let him sleep in and call him from work. I put the phone next to him when I left in the morning. He was sound asleep and our plan worked fine. He made it to school without any problem. After the performance for the Middle schoolers Cori later told me she and Chris sat alone in the empty theatre and talked. She said Chris randomly sketched on many of the discarded programs. She saved a few but many were left for the garbage. She said if only she'd have known he'd be gone in four days she would have scooped them all up..but she didn't. The angel reflection for today: The kingdom of God is within you....Luke 17:21 KJV Fran Kempa - Tuesday, November 16, 2004 at 18:48:59 (MST) 11/15/04...I found today's art on my pillow one night. I don't even remember when or how it started but Chris and I had a Good Night ritual. He would go to bed and then I'd come up a little while later and say good night. I would say and do the following, "touch the cheek, touch the chin, nibble the nose, nibble the shoulder" Then I would kiss him and say good night. I'd look down and see him lying there, eyes closed and a BIG smile on his face. He went to sleep happy! One night I either got busy and distracted or forgot all together. When I went to bed a few hours later this was on my pillow! It was one of those, "Aw Mom" moments. I knew he enjoyed the ritual as much as I did and missed it that night. I saved the drawing at the time...not as a memory of his life but to show him when he got older. The ritual ended when he was ten or eleven..Too old for mom stuff. The photo was taken at Franklin on the last day of school June, 2000. I didn't see the photo until March of 2001. I was having a very bad Chris day, thinking about him as I cooked dinner. All of a sudden the door bell rang and there was one of Chris' classmates with this photo for me! I still consider it a sign. For the first time in many years I'll miss going to the Franklin fall play. I'm still not to the point where I can sit for so long. I intend to make the spring musical for sure. The angel reflection for today: Help me learn healing my angel friend. Renew my voice with comfort and make my hands gentle; Let me speak words of forgiveness, wholeness and peace of mind. Fran Kempa - Monday, November 15, 2004 at 21:04:32 (MST) 11/14/04...The art is a broken heart Chris drew on one of his school papers. It's a fitting drawing for the season. The photo was taken in Oct. 2000 by Chris himself. He had borrowed a friend's Polaroid and taken a whole roll of pictures of just himself! This is EXACTLY how he looked the day he was killed. I don't know what he intended them for but they became a cherished posession. This whole month is FULL of memories beginning with Nov. 7th which was election day four years ago. Chris wasn't very invilved in the process at the time. Four years ago on Nov. 9th Chris was in Chicago on a Franklin Art Department field trip. It conflicted with Drivers Ed registration and I volunteered to go register in his place. I STILL VIVIDLY remember walking from the van into Bryant Center. It was a BEAUTIFUL day and I left my coat in the car. As I walked, I SMILED! I thought about Chris in Chicago and what a wonderful time he was having. I was happy Chris was interested in learning how to drive, I thought about Thanksgiving and our up coming celebration...That was the last time I remember thinking all was right with my world. Four years ago Nov. 12th was a Sunday. Chris and I did the leaves together. We TALKED as we worked. About Chicago and Drivers Ed. We talked about the upcoming play and school. We talked about art and his goals for the future...graduation then CCS. We were working but we enjoyed it....Another fond memory. Four years ago Nov. 13th was Monday and the first day of Chris' Drivers Ed. I vividly remember him bursting through the door afterward. I was polishing the diningroom furniture in preparation for Thanksgiving and he called out, "MOM! I DROVE!" I was a bit shocked being his first class and all. He seemed nervously happy. I asked him how it went he replied, "I was scared, my knees were shaking." But his teacher said he did fine...next class Friday. I went back to my furniture, he was off to the internet....neither one of us knowing in a week, he'd be dead. I am recovering from what I pray will be my LAST surgery! No more procedures on the horizon until February! The angel reflection for today: Teaching, guarding, prompting, inspiring, circled about in the arms of love; my Guardian Angel up above. Fran Kempa - Sunday, November 14, 2004 at 11:57:30 (MST) Just saw this site. We moved into the State Streets in July '01, after your son's accident. I am going to have my son, Jeremy, look at your site. He crosses Merriman at West Chicago every morning. He's a freshman at Franklin. We've seen the memorials since we've been here. It's good to get the whole story. Your son was a very talented artist. You are a great dad to him even after his death with this site and the memorial at the corner. God Bless. The Goodings 9335 Idaho St. Jim Gooding - Saturday, November 13, 2004 at 16:16:19 (MST) Today's art work was a painting that Chris had done. The Left eye is missing and the word "eye" appears over the right eye. More than a little ironic. The photo is of Chris dancing at the last home coming dance before his death... Fran is doing better each day... Many comments this time of the year... Is it the brain damage or the remaining loss of function to the right side of your body that causes your messages to be so garbled? Chris keep a close watch over your Mom. Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Saturday, November 13, 2004 at 10:54:52 (MST) The time grows short until the 20th...... Each day we can't help to think of what we were doing in 2000. The art work shows a tear. For who? I wonder. The photo is of Chris on a trip to Chicago. Chris was signing the wall (patrons were encouraged to do so). Just weeks before he was killed. I don't think some people will ever take responsiblity for their actions. In fact they seem to feel justified making comments. I feel you would have to be half blind and brain damaged not to "get it". Chris keep close watch over Mom... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, November 11, 2004 at 18:58:01 (MST) Today's artwork is a photo of Chris working a drawing of himself. The photo below is a photo of Chris performing at an "Autumn Bash 2000". It was just weeks before he was killed. Today Fran is getting stronger and is moving around more. (moving slowly) Chris keep a close watch on your Mom... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, November 10, 2004 at 19:21:27 (MST) Hello to our family... thoughts and prayers are with Franny. I saw a Jones Soda commercial today in Buffalo and immediatley thought of Chris. I have never seen that commercial before. Must be new in this area. Hugs to you all...talk soon. Much love JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 18:53:52 (MST) I missed a day! Today's art was part of a larger project Chris was working on. He intended to complete 2 eyes, a nose and a mouth as seperate similar pieces. He then planned to hang them (with proper spacing) to create a face. He only completed the left eye before he was killed by a driver who had gone blind in his left eye.......... The photo is of Fran, Adam and Chris. They were a very close trio for many years.... As November moves towards the 20th I have so many thoughts on how one individual and his family changed the life of my family. They killed one, and damaged three forever......................................................................................... Chris keep a close watch on your Mom..... Dad <<<<<<<>>>>>>> - Tuesday, November 09, 2004 at 01:15:08 (MST) Todays art is a "droid" that Chris drew. There is something in Japanese on the droid's forhead. Chris was learning Japanese from a online penpal in Japan. I have no clue as to what it means. Today I raked leaves... We paid to have it done the last few years by our lawn service. They destroyed our gardens in addition to scalping our lawn. I am far ahead of the game without them. I remember when Adam and Chris used to help. Fooling and fighting as brothers do. Who would have thought I would miss doing a chore? Fran is doing better today, a bit of improvement with each passing day. Keep a close watch over Mom Chris. Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, November 07, 2004 at 13:06:10 (MST) The art work is "Albert" the whole work shows distortion on the left side of his face. Including his eye Including his eye The photo is a Christmas during construction on our home. Old houses are in a constant state of remodling, ours is no different. Fran is home today and has along way to go. Keep a close watch over Mom Chris... Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Saturday, November 06, 2004 at 23:33:07 (MST) I mentioned Chris in a lecture today about treating each day as if it were a gift. The "I may not be big and strong" Chris quote is on my wall and as I gestured to it to make my point, I felt a lump in my throat at the loss. I think of Chris often, and use his memory as an inspiration in my own life and the lives of others whenever I can. I wish you health and peace this November and always. With much love, Ms. Hillman Ms. Hillman - Friday, November 05, 2004 at 21:09:29 (MST) The art is a portion of "Captin America" done in a comic treatment. The focus was "cropped" to the mouth of this art work to reveal the detail inside... In much of Chris's work there was something added... The photo was on the steps of my mother's home. My mom died less that a week later. Chris died too soon,three months after. More surgery for Friday... Keep a close watch over mom Chris... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, November 04, 2004 at 22:51:53 (MST) I think that this was the last family picture... November winds are back again, and we are again dragged back into thoughts of November 2000. Miss you always Chris... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 23:23:51 (MST) 11/3/04...The art we call Deniro. It's another work we never saw until after Chris was killed. He was depicting a scene from the movie, Raging Bull. The photo was taken August 25, 2000...one of the last of our family. Chris has on his Kentuckey Elliott uniform..as usual! Adam W. inherited the sweatshirt. I hope he cherishes it. I remember Chris had loaned it to Cori a few days before he was killed and she returned it to us the evening of November 20, 2000. I was in shock..there were many people at the house and she presented the sweatshirt to me. I responded by saying, "Oh honey,... you can keep it!" THANK GOD Adam W. piped up and said, "Mom, I want it." And that kind of snapped me out of it and I said something like...of course you do..what was I thinking? I would have really regretted giving that shirt away..it was so Chris! The fact of the matter was I wasn't thinking that night and for many more after that. Four more years for George. I think Chris would have been disappointed as Adam is. The angel reflection for today: Hold the fleet angel fast until he bless thee...Nathaniel Cotton Fran Kempa - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 21:38:53 (MST) combine 42 numbers in 6 sebastian <sebcurmi@onvol.net> - Wednesday, November 03, 2004 at 08:24:14 (MST) 11/2/04...The art is the Abe Lincoln Chris drew in kindergarten for President's Day, 1990. His teacher, Ms. Stromberg was SO impressed with the drawing! She made such a fuss at the time and made several copies. She told me at Chris' wake she STILL had that drawing and will cherish it!...I told her we did too! The photo is another taken in August, 2000 at Casey's cottage. That's Chris to the left in his Kentucky Elliott uniform and Casey to the right...Lake Superior is to their back. Election day 2004! Four years ago election day was November 7th and Chris was alive and WELL. This would have been...should have been the first presidential election he would have voted in. I don't think we would have backed the same candidate, but I KNOW he would have voted. Saw the Oncologist today...not all good news, not all bad. I told Adam I'm going to pretend I'm FINE until they can or cannot confirm otherwise! Another CAT scan scheduled in February. I HONESTLY was hoping to be DONE!...given a clean bill of health but I guess this is a SLOW process! The angel reflection for today: As you travel life's winding road, angels light the way and share the load. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, November 02, 2004 at 21:40:30 (MST) 11/1/04...The art is a digital picture Chris took of himself in October, 2000. The art department at Franklin had just gotten the camera and Chris decided to try it out. Digital cameras were a new thing then....Chris would be SO consumed with today's technology!! The photo was taken in August, 2000 while at Casey's cottage in Munising Michigan. Lake Superior is in the back ground. I can't believe how many Christmas commercials I've seen on TV today, just one day after Halloween! I also couldn't believe it when I saw a commercial for a new Nicholas Cage movie, National Treasure. It shows him looking at the back of a one dollar bill with a magnifying glass...he implies there's something there. Made me think of Chris' comic book HMmmmm....Goose bumps! The angel reflection for today: Anyone can be an angel to someone else. All it takes is an open heart and a loving spirit. Fran Kempa - Monday, November 01, 2004 at 21:44:01 (MST) 10/31/04...The art is the program from Franklin's spring musical, 1999. The Sound Of Music. That is the play Chris tried out for a role in but didn't get. He then went on to design and draw the cover of the program as seen here and begin his videography for this and future plays. This is Chris' personal program. As you can see he further decorated and embellished it. The photo was taken on Halloween night, 1992. From left, Chris, Bill and Adam. Tonight was the busiest trick or treating night we've had for many years. I did what I've done every year since 2001...assigned Adam door duty then hid upstairs not wanting to face the happy children to remind me of bitter sweet memories. Tonight however, after about an hour I went down and shared door duty with Adam and was glad I did. Saw some cute, cute kids! Chris I pray you enjoyed your Halloween as much this year as you did in previous years...it was your second favorite holiday. The angel reflection for today: Hush my dear be still and slumber, holy angels guard thy bed! Heavenly blessings without number gently falling on thy head.....Isaac Watts Fran Kempa - Sunday, October 31, 2004 at 22:03:38 (MST) It is here, this day of merriment and children's pleasure Gremlins and goblins and ghosties Are at the door of your house And the other children come to the door of your mind. Faces out of the past Small ghosts with sweet painted faces. They do not shout those children who no longer march laughing on a cold Halloween night. They stand at the door of your mind and you will let them in so that you can give them the small gifts of Halloween A smile and a tear. Halloween <Sascha> - Sunday, October 31, 2004 at 13:34:43 (MST) Happy Halloween Chris... Where ever you are....... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, October 31, 2004 at 10:35:56 (MST) 10/30/04...The art we call SCISSOR. We never saw this work until 2003, long after Chris was killed. Mr. Rheault was cleaning out the art room at Franklin and found this one and two others. This one was done in 1999. It was nice to see new things from Chris..even though they were old. Kind of like a sign at the time. The photo was taken during our annual neighborhood Halloween parade which is held the Sunday before Halloween...this year it's tomorrow. I've been sewing for the last two days....something I haven't done since April, 2000. My parents had come for Easter and had brought some pillows from their living room couch for me to recover. I had recently gotten a new sewing machine and was happy to do so. About a month before Easter Chris and Ron were fooling around outside and Ron grabbed Chris by the collar of one of his favorite band shirts, ripping it badly. He asked me several times during the month to sew it and I put him off. After I finished my parent's pillows that night I figured while I had the machine set up I'd sew Chris' shirt...he was SO thrilled! He thanked me and thanked me. Looking back now I'm happy I made him so happy during what turned out to be his last holiday. The sewing machine brought back the memory. The angel reflection for today: Join the company of angels and you'll soon find yourself with more than enough love to give. Fran Kempa - Saturday, October 30, 2004 at 13:17:47 (MDT) 10/29/04...The art is the self portrait Chris titled, SEGMENTS. I believe he drew this in 1999. The photo was taken in October, 1987. Adam and I were in Boston for a convention and Grandma Joan and Bill were babysitting Adam W. and Chris. That's Chris, already the artist decorating Grandma and Bill's driveway! The second last segment on 20/20 tonight focused on the latest Pixar/Disney release THE INCREDIBLES. They interviewed the animater Brad Bird. I could imagine myself calling Chris up from the basement... or these days down from the family room to see the segment as I had in the past for stories on the making of TOY STORY and STAR WARS. Chris would have been absorbed by the piece and thanking me for alerting him to the broadcast. Toward the end of the segment Brad Bird summed it up this way, "Animation is just plain COOL!" I KNOW Chris would have...and does agree. I just can't help but wonder where he'd be today. The angel reflection for today: Thanks for standing by me angel, even when I am at my least lovable. Fran Kempa - Friday, October 29, 2004 at 21:33:14 (MDT) 10/28/04..The art was created in October, 1992. Chris was in third grade during the Clinton Bush election. The assignment was to draw a picture to reflect the election. Chris decided to make himself president and put his picture on the cover of TIME magazine. As you can see he wrote, "Chris wins by 50!" And just above his left shoulder in the drawing his teacher wrote, "Excellent!" The photo is another taken in October, 1986. I went out to lunch with an old friend yesterday. We hadn't seen each other since Chris' wake but have communicated during that time. She wanted to go to the memorial and cemetary so we did. She too thought Chris' grave marker was perfect. While we were standing at the grave she told me a story of how years ago, when we still worked together, she called me one afternoon. I wasn't home and Chris answered. He told her I wasn't home and hung up. She said a few minutes later her phone rang, it was Chris. He was calling her back to tell her what time I'd be home! She said she always remembers that because she was so tickled at the time. She also commented how amazed she was by Chris' art at the funeral. She as many of my co workers said I always talked about my kids and how Chris drew, he was the artist. She and they said they had no idea how much of an artist he was until they actually saw his works in person. We both commented on the profound loss..not only such a person and personality, the waste of all that talent. You can't help but wonder what he'd be doing today. The angel reflection for today: May the love of the angels dwell in your heart and unite your soul with heaven. Fran Kempa - Thursday, October 28, 2004 at 10:57:33 (MDT) A Western Mich. Univ. student passed away Monday night after being hit by a car on her way home from class around 8pm. Maybe you can show her around up there, Chris, I am sure her friends and family would find great comfort in that. There also is a guestbook type thing for her as well, I just cannot locate the link at this moment. anon <--> - Thursday, October 28, 2004 at 10:41:20 (MDT) 10/25/04...The art is a quick rough sketch Chris made in 1997 I believe. He drew part of our existing yard in the pool area. Table, chairs and garden but added a pond! Chris LOVED ponds. He wanted one badly and had picked out just the spot for us to add one. For a few years he accompanied us on the annual neighborhood garden walk to check out ponds...there are several in the neighborhood of varing sizes. He believed the pond would attract frogs...he loved frogs! We talked a lot about it...even researched installation but we NEVER put in a pond. Chris grew older and lost interest and so did we! I'm SO sad to say the gardens are NOTHING like they were when he was alive. After the last two summers due to my health status, many were nothing but weed patches this year. I wonder if I'll ever get them back to where they were. The photo is another taken in October, 1986...leaf fun! I did see some of Oprah today...interesting. I got my flu shot today. I was telling a friend about it the other day and she said she and her husband didn't fall into the " high risk" category....I told her they are very lucky to be able to say that. The angel reflection for today: Although our angels are always just a whisper away, they are closest to us when we fear, when we worry. Then our angels hold us closely in a loving and caring embrace. Fran Kempa - Monday, October 25, 2004 at 20:34:11 (MDT) I wonder if the Kempas or the driver saw Oprah today? Mary Saia <Westland> - Monday, October 25, 2004 at 17:58:33 (MDT) 10/24/04...The art is just a little sketch we found on one of Chris' school papers. The photo was taken in October, 1986. Last week at the reception, my cousin told me he considered me a "walking miracle" having survived Chris' death, cancer and a coma. I thanked him but thought the REAL walking miracle would have been having had Chris present in his beautiful, healthy state. That's the miracle I would have preferred. The angel reflection for today: In heaven an angel is nobody in particular....George Bernard Shaw Fran Kempa - Sunday, October 24, 2004 at 17:14:05 (MDT) 10/23/04...The art is a drawing Chris made in 1999. He had made a CD and this was the cover and the title, Chris Kempa @ Home. He wrote six songs, played the guitar and sang on the CD. I believe he gave it to Cori. We borrowed it from her after he was killed, copied the cover and burned the CD so we now have our own. The photo was taken Halloween night, 1992. The boys always used pillow cases for their trick or treat bags..they didn't have to worry about running out of room that way. I can't believe it's already a week since the wedding! Chris was greatly missed but remembered in a memorial candle I lit during the ceremony. The angel reflection for today: When the rain falls and the wind blows, wrap yourself in your angel's perfect love. Fran Kempa - Saturday, October 23, 2004 at 10:13:53 (MDT) 10/22/04...The art is the John Lennon Chris drew in the summer of 1999. It's one of three drawings he submitted for exhibit at CCS that summer and the one that was chosen and exhibited by them. I remember going to see it with him...we were SO proud!..So was he. I remember how he knew his way all around campus after attending summer classes there for a few years..he took us on a tour and was so comfortable and confident! He said several times during our tour how very much he wanted to go there for college...He should be a Junior at CCS this year. The photo was taken early Halloween evening 1992, third grade. Chris had just un handcuffed his skeleton dummy from the mail box and handcuffed him to the porch! I read the front page of the Observer yesterday and cringed. Brought back HORRIBLE memories. Seems an elderly man was struck and killed by a Ford pick up truck at Hubbard and Plymouth the other day at 10:00 AM..The police gave their usual story.."I guess the driver didn't see him" and no drugs or alcahol were "detected." I wonder what method they used to arrive at that conclusion in this case. In Chris', NO testing of ANY kind was performed on Mr. Schnires while Chris' dead body was tested for every substance known to man. I'm getting stronger! It should be a law in Michigan and EVERY state that ANYONE invioved in a serious injury or fatal accident be BLOOD alcahol and drug tested at the time..and I intend to crusade for such a law. I still believe Mr. Schnire's results would have been very interesting. Chris' were all negative...something I knew before they were given to us. The angel reflection for today: When you live with a heart of compassion you have the heart of an angel. When you fill your life with deeds of compassion you do the work of an angel. Fran Kempa - Friday, October 22, 2004 at 18:36:02 (MDT) 10/21/04..The art is a picture for the cover of a school report Chris did on Indinns...I don't recall the tribe..in 1995, end of fifth grade. The photo is another of the boys in some of my favorite costumes, Captain America and Flash. During our short flights to and from Buffalo this weekend I took in some of the technology people had on the plane. Adam W. had his Ipod and the new Game Boy system...Chris would have LOVED them! I commented to Adam I could just picture them fighting over them..but I think Chris would have had his own. On the flight home I sat next to a young man who appeared to be a little younger than the 20 Chris should have been. He had a portable DVD player. I marveled at how far all these gadgets had come in just four years. Chris loved stuff like this. One of the last conversations we had on 11/19/00 was about hand held video games. I had told him to get his Christmas list together because I wanted to get started with my shopping. He told me he found what he wanted for his "big gift" on line..the latest hand held video game. The only problem he said was it listed the price in pounds and as soon as could convert the price into dollars, he'd let me know. I didn't think anything of it and had to laugh. I just thought, "we have plenty of time".....I never anticipated a half blind, self proclaimed brain damaged man crossing my child's path the very next morning. It never entered my mind that there are people like that on the road...I know better now. The angel reflection for today: Like living flame their faces seem to glow, Their wings were gold and all their bodies shone more dazzling white than any earthly snow.....Dante Fran Kempa - Thursday, October 21, 2004 at 11:43:05 (MDT) 10/20/04...The art we call Man Hand. I saw it for the first time on 11/20/00 after the police brought Chris' school bag to the house. I remember vividly going through his bag, seeing all the art and his things and holding this drawing thinking, "how can he and all this talent possibly be gone?" The photo was taken Halloween night, 1993. The boys loved to decorate for Halloween. Every year for years they made dummies out of their old clothes and stuffed them with leaves. They used a skeleton head for one and a monster head for the other. Chris loved to re pose the dummies on an almost daily basis. One day one would be handcuffed to the mail box, the next they'd be posed on the porch furniture etc... The skeleton head is still on Chris' dresser where he placed it after Halloween 2000. Today began what I hope will be my LAST round of medical procedures ending with surgery on 11/5. It will be a grueling two weeks but I wanted to wait until after the wedding to begin. The angel reflection for today: Guide me perfect angel to the place where my spirit can soar free from all earthly limitations. Four years ago today, Chris had only one month to live but no one knew. This reflection says exactly what I hope and PRAY happened for Chris 11/20/00. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, October 20, 2004 at 21:37:59 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, October 20, 2004 at 15:11:19 (MDT) 10/19/04...The art is a drawing of one of Chris' classmates during an art class. I believe he drew her in 1999. She's wearing a Braid shirt. Braid is the band that became Hey Mercedes and played the first of many shows to raise money for the Chris Kempa Memorial Art Scholarship in February, 2001. The photo is another taken Halloween night, 1991. Both Adam and Bill Deady were Joker and Chris, peeking around the corner as Batman. My sister asked me why my entries in the guestbook are made so late now. I told her I'm trying to wean myself away from here...but I can't. I can go just so long then I find myself here again. Saturday JUST as we were leaving for the church, it started HAILING like crazy! I told Molly that was Chris making his presence known. The angel reflection for today: For an angel of peace, a faithful guide, a guardian of our souls and bodies, let us entreat the Lord....Liturgy of the Eastern Orthodox Church Fran Kempa - Tuesday, October 19, 2004 at 19:31:07 (MDT) 10/18/04...The art is one of Chris' computer generated works from 99 or 2000. The photo was taken Halloween night, I believe it was 1991. Adam as Joker, Chris as Batman. Molly's wedding was beautiful! Everything for the most part went very smoothly. I saw many people this weekend I haven't seen for years. Some were very special and I was so happy to talk with them. Molly and Dan are now off to Tahiti and Bora Bora and we're back home in Livonia! We picked Speck up from boarding at the vet today...a very happy reunion! The angel reflection for today: May you always have an angel by your side as your companion and your guide. Fran Kempa - Monday, October 18, 2004 at 20:51:10 (MDT) 10/13/04...The art is one of Chris' flip book type drawings he then animated in 2000. The photo was taken in October 1993 during a pumpkin, mum expedition. Nice to hear from Colleen. She graduated this past June...she was a Freshman when Chris was killed. I watched the debates tonight. In his summation Bush was talking about all the things our country has been through in the last 3 and 3/4 years. I had to mentally acknowledge that and then thought of all just our family has been through in the same time period...mind boggling! We are off to Buffalo tomorrow for the big event! As I've said before, what seemed so far away is now upon us...and that is life. Chris will be missed greatly this weekend by cousin, grandparent, aunt and uncle but Molly and Dan will remember him during the ceremony which I very much appreciate. The angel reflection for today: If you love with the pure love of heaven, angels cannot be restrained from being your companions. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, October 13, 2004 at 21:56:26 (MDT) Well it certainly has been quite a long time since I have written in this guestbook. Fran, Adam, Adam and Sarah..have a safe flight tomorrow. The wedding weekend begins...hooray!! Chris will be watching over everyone. Have safe flights and we look forward to our time with you all. Much Love Jo <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Wednesday, October 13, 2004 at 20:52:25 (MDT) Dear Kempa's- As the months go by, and our lives change, I still have not forgotten about your family. I think about Chris every time I pass by that intersection. I know many others do too! And I pass by it a lot. That's a lot of thoughts about Chris and your family. Happy Fall! Hope all is going well. Colleen Baidoon - Wednesday, October 13, 2004 at 18:07:17 (MDT) i didn`t got what i asked for and i`m very disapionted. rochelle <wim@iway.com.na> - Wednesday, October 13, 2004 at 06:32:06 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, October 12, 2004 at 23:10:29 (MDT) 10/12/04...The art is one of Chris' anti smoking works. I believe he did this one the end of Sophomore year or the beginning of Junior. The photo was taken in October, 1986...getting ready to carve the pumpkins. Once again this year, there is no hint of Halloween in this house. We used to have SO many decorations...but not since Oct. 2000. Mums on the porch and candy to give out to the kids is about all I can handle. I had a nice conversation with one of Chris' friends this evening. I keep tabs on him through his mom but it was nice to talk to him. He mentioned that he had recently given a talk in his speech class about Chris as one of the most influential people in his life and mentioned how nice the memorial looked...that made me feel good. The angel reflection for today: Angels are doorways to the heavens and windows to our bliss. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, October 12, 2004 at 21:24:32 (MDT) 10/11/04...The art is the 1" button Adam W. designed and made in loving memory of his brother. The photo was taken in October, 1993 during the fourth grade Halloween party. That's Scott to the left as the mad scientest and Chris to the right as Robin. We had made a PERFECT Robin costume...down to the last detail. After that party, Chris refused to wear it again because the kids made fun of him..he wouldn't even wear it trick ot treating that night. I don't remember what he wore, but I KNOW it wasn't the Robin costume. Chris would be so excited about and anxious to see the new Pixar film The Incredibles! They keep perfecting the animation and I know he'd be so interested. It's hard to believe Saturday is my sister's wedding! A day that seemed so far in the future is now upon us. No matter how hard I try, I can't slow life down. The angel reflection for today: Every time I pass a platground full of children, I see the faces of angels, laughing and playing. Fran Kempa - Monday, October 11, 2004 at 21:29:52 (MDT) 10/9/04...The art is one of Chris' computer generated pictures from 1999, 2000..interesting back then.... can't help wondering where they would be today, 2004....much more advanced I have no doubt. The photo was taken in Oct. 1996, Chris walking with his back to us at Disney World! The angel reflection for today: The days, the hours, the minutes of our lives are guarded and observed by heaven....YIKES! Mr. Schnires! Fran Kempa - Saturday, October 09, 2004 at 21:35:42 (MDT) please help me find any musical confrence for the month of noveber and send an invitation to me thruogh my boxe so that i can make my trip there.Am a musicologist and i need international exposure. olalude olufemi blessing <sweetfemob@yahoo.com> - Friday, October 08, 2004 at 20:17:25 (MDT) 10/7/04...The art is one of the South Park characters Chris drew on one of his school papers. The photo was taken Halloween night, 1991. While I always enjoyed making the boys costumes these two, Captain America and Flash were among my better efforts. The best one I ever made was an Ewok costume for Chris in 1994...unfortunally, I never took any pictures. The other day I found both the Captain America and Flash costumes and the body and hood of the Ewok costume in a box in the remnants of Adam W.'s room....a flood of memories. Adam came for dinner tonight. I cooked for one of the first times in over a year! It turned out quite well. I think we're all getting used to Adam's new life. He and I now both refer to it as "home."..but I hope deep down, he'll always think of our house as home...it will always be Chris'. The angel reflection for today: Wrap yourself in the wings of an angel and you will find peace. Fran Kempa - Thursday, October 07, 2004 at 21:25:22 (MDT) 10/6/04...The art is another I never saw until after Chris was killed. It's another drawing with an altered eye...in this one it's the right, Chris was close but we've known for a long time, it's the left one that ended his life..along with the self proclaimed brain damage. As long as I live NO ONE will ever convince me that had it not been for these factors...and all that comes with them...altered reaction time, altered peripheral vision etc. my beautiful, talented son would still be alive today and looking toward his 21st birthday. Given the facts, I know the public would agree..I inquire on a daily basis. SELFISHNESS on the part of Mr. Schniers and his parents played a BIG role in Chris' death..What kind of nurse would allow her son to drive in such a state? What kind of person could drive in such an altered state and NOT be SO careful. I still believe Mr. Schnires was eating and/or drinknig that morning and on the Nextel radio telling daddy or sis why he was running late that day. The photo was taken on Halloween night, 1985. Adam was a robot, Chris was an angel. The angel reflection for today: He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white rainment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before His angels....Revelation 3:5 KJV Fran Kempa - Wednesday, October 06, 2004 at 20:08:27 (MDT) 10/5/04..Looks like I was a day ahead yesterday. The art is a first day of school project from third grade, Sept. 1992. The kids were given the figure and picture and told to pesonalize it. The teacher wrote the names...that's why Chris' is so neat. As you can see, Spiderman was big back then too. If you look closely on his shirt, Chris drew Spiderman holding up two skyscrapers then standing off to the side. The photo was taken in Oct. 1993, Chris and Adam at the nursery during our annual pumpkin, mum, corn stalk and Indian corn run. Decorating was a must back then...the boys and I loved it. The angel reflection for today: God made angels so that humans would have someone to lean on when he was busy tending the universe. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, October 05, 2004 at 21:08:06 (MDT) 10/5/04...The art we call ANGEL. Chris drew her and wrote a poem after he didn't make the play in March, 1999. He was terribly disappointed at first but later dealt with the fact very well. I'll never forget him BEGGING me to drive him to Franklin late one Friday night. Seems the cast was posted Friday after school very close to the front door. I kept telling him to wait until Monday morning to see the list..he kept begging ...so I took him. I let him off in front of the door and I waited in the van. I could see him straining to read the list sideways and after awhile he returned to the van...I asked him what part he got thinking he was at best an extra. He seemed in shock and said, "My name's not on the list." Then I was rather shocked and said, "Are you SURE?' And he replied he was POSITIVE. We had all weekend to deal with it and he had the time to reconcile the fact before he saw his friends Monday morning...He met them with a drawing and a poem titled, NOT MAKING THE PLAY. It turned out to be a learning and growing experience...for both of us. The photo was taken Halloween night, 1992. That's Chris, Adam and Aunt Molly checking out the loot. The boys did that every year...as soon as they got home, emptied the pillow cases they used as trick or treat bags and compared piles! The angel reflection for today: Divine Master, grant me that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.....St. Francis of Assisi Fran Kempa - Monday, October 04, 2004 at 21:30:24 (MDT) 10/3/04...The art is a little sketch we found on one of Chris' school papers. No idea when it was drawn or why. The photo was taken on Halloween night, 1986. Chris was a cat but refused to wear his ears. When he came home from trick or treating, he insisted upon putting all of his candy in the back of his dump truck. I had a dream about Chris last night. In the dream he was young, maybe eight, not sixteen as he was when he was killed...but in the dream he had the jacket on that he had on 11/20/00. He came home from school VERY upset, kids were making fun of him on the school bus. In the dream he was crying and I was holding him saying, "Don't worry Chris....everything will be alright." Then I woke up. Yes, his death still haunts me. We took the shepherd hook down at the cemetary today. The plant was already gone. We put mums and pumpkins at the memorial. While we were working there, two of Chris' friends drove by, parked in the church parking lot and came to talk to us. I thanked them very much. I told them it's nice to know Chris is still thought of. The angel reflection for today: An angel is love manifested in glorious physical form. An angel is grace expressed in perfect ethereal beauty. An angel is faith embodied in buoyant spiritual light. Fran Kempa - Sunday, October 03, 2004 at 21:22:04 (MDT) 10/2/04...The art is a painting Chris did in 1997 of our wonderful cocker Charlie. The photo was taken in 1994, Chris and Charlie. They were both such a huge part of our lives..it's still so hard to believe they're both gone. Imagine the craters left behind! Today is my sister Molly's birthday..just two weeks before her wedding. Today Charlie would have been 15!! The angel reflection for today: And now it is an angel's song that makes the heavens be mute....Samuel Taylor Coleridge Fran Kempa - Saturday, October 02, 2004 at 18:26:26 (MDT) If I knew it would be the last time That I'd see you fall asleep, I would tuck you in more tightly And pray the Lord your soul to keep. If I knew it would be the last time That I see you walk out the door, I would give you a hug and kiss And call you back for more. If I knew it would be the last time I'd hear your voice lifted up in praise,, I would video tape each action and word, So I could play them back day after day. If I knew it would be the last time , I could spare an extra minute, To stop and say "I love you," Instead of assuming you would KNOW I do. If I knew it would be the last time I would be there to share your day, Well I'm sure you'll have so many more, so I can just let this one slip away. For surely there's always tomorrow To make up for an oversight and we always get a second chace To make everything just right. There will always be another day To say, "I love you" And certainly there's another chance To say, "anything I can do?" But just in case I might be wrong and today is all I get I'd like to say how much I love you And I hope we never forget. Tomorrow is not promised to anyone Young or old alike, And today may be the last chance You get to hold your loved one tight. So if you're waiting for tomorrow, Why not do it today? For if tomorrow never comes, You'll surely regret the day. That you didn't take the extra time For a smile, a hug or a kiss And you were too busy to grant someone what turned out to be their one last wish. So hold your loved ones close today, And whisper in their ear, Tell them how much you love them And that you'll always hold them dear. Take time to say, "I'm sorry" "Please forgive me," "thank you" or "It's OK." And if tomorrow never comes, You'll have no regrets about today. If I Knew <XOXO> - Saturday, October 02, 2004 at 13:52:56 (MDT) 10/1/04...The photo was taken in 1986. Adam was 6, Chris was 2. We still lived on Auburndale. We were on our way to bed one night and went to peek in on the kids as we always did. We went into Adam's room first and found him in the condition depicted in the photo. Chris had climbed out of his crib and as Adam slept, took the colored stickers off a fake Rubic's cube and pasted them all over Adam's mouth and glasses..he never woke up. We then went into Chris' room. He was sitting up, grinning from ear to ear. I quickly grabbed the camera and captured the moment before waking Adam up. That was one of the first of many FUNNY and mischievous acts on Chris' part! He kept us going! The art was Chris' drawing of the event many years later. This time of year is really getting to me again...Homecoming, the leaves and Halloween now bring back bitter sweet memories. The angel reflection for today: God made humans a little less perfect than angels so we would have something to live up to. Fran Kempa - Friday, October 01, 2004 at 20:24:14 (MDT) 9/30/04...the art is an example of the way Chris was signing his works in 1996...Unfortunatly, I don't recall the specific work. The photo was taken in the same year, sixth grade on the Grant School grounds. I ran into my next door neighbor today at Kroger...we hardly recognized each other...She said, "Isn't it sad, we live next door and hardly recognize each other. " I agreed it was very sad...it made me realize how much of a hermit I've become in the last four years...first mourning Chris' death and then my illness. The debates are must see TV tonight. I remember four years ago, anticipating the same event...but Chris was here. The angel reflection for today: Your angel will always be with you, lighting your way as you walk together along life's path....I've said it once, I've said it 100 times, I PRAY Chris' angel was with him on 11/20/00 to comfort him and guide him into heaven. Fran Kempa - Thursday, September 30, 2004 at 18:22:42 (MDT) 9/29/04....The art is a photo Chris took for his first semester Sophomore year Photography class. I love this picture. The photo was taken second semester Sophomore year in the Franklin art room..Chris working on his MIRRORS self portrait. At times I forget about his left handedness.This photo brought it back. Some how Chris' electric guitar..a left handed insturment, found it's way from his room to the computer room. I hadn't seen it for a long time. Somethig he attached to the pick guard brought back a Chris memory. A few months before he was killed he was very interested in forming and naming bands. He came up with THE RETURN TABLES. I remember him asking, "Don't you think that's a good name for a band mom..The Return Tables!?" I remember agreeing with him..that it was a great name. He cut out letters to spell it and glued them to the pick guard...they're still there. I told Adam we'll have to brace ourselves. Many people forgot Chris' birthday and I'm sure just as many will forget November 20th...Life goes on. The angel reflection for today: Around our pillows golden ladders rise, and up and down the skies with winged sandals shod, the angels come and go, the messengers of God...Richard Henry Stoddard Fran Kempa - Wednesday, September 29, 2004 at 21:39:48 (MDT) 9/27/04...The art was done in May, 1994 as part of a fourth grade project. Each student was assigned a state and the report was to include different topics such as climate, landforms and history. Chris drew a picture to introduce each topic which wasn't required but he loved doing it. This sketch was used to introduce the history section of the report Chris titled, California, Here We Come. It depicts the gold rush. The photo was taken in September, 1989, first day of Kindergarten. After my sister's wedding next month, I have several medical procedures scheduled. The surgeon's name is Christopher...I feel I'm in good hands. The angel reflection for today:If angels had pockets, they would be full of blessings like a grandfather who carries gum for the children who might stop by. Fran Kempa - Monday, September 27, 2004 at 19:55:51 (MDT) 9/26/04...The art is a little story Chris was apparently developing in one of his school notebooks. As with most works, we found it after Chris was killed. The photo was taken in Sept., 1993...first day of fourth grade in Mr. Backiel's classroom. We're having the house painted. One of my last Chris memories is that of a Saturday in Oct. 2000. I pulled in the driveway after work and there were Adam and Chris painting the porch pillars...I was surprised Adam was able to talk Chris in to it...and I smiled! I RAVED about the job he was doing when I got out of the car...then he smiled and was proud of himself. The angel reflection for today: We who recognize the angels all around us can also appreciate rainbows, sunrises, tides, spring and silver linings. How very lucky we are! Fran Kempa - Sunday, September 26, 2004 at 21:48:11 (MDT) What is it about the season that takes me back in time Everything I do, I find you are on my mind. Haunting dreams find me at time when I try to sleep And every little detail is replayed, and the sadness falls so deep. Something about the close of summer seems to bring it back. Making it so hard to move onward and stay on track. Something about the dying and fading of the trees Bring my heart to sorrow with the falling of the leaves. How I long to stop it, to keep the Fall away But time marches on, and summer just won't stay. I know with the Fall, Winter's not far behind Another lonely season, and the memories flood my mind. I cry my tears of sorrow, and pray for spring to come A rebirth of the earth and the warmness of the sun. It makes the memories softer and gentler to recall But now my life is saddened with the nearing of the Fall. The Fall of Fall <Sheila Simmons, Dallas, Ga.> - Sunday, September 26, 2004 at 13:27:13 (MDT) 9/25/04...The art was done in 1993, one of the few works Chris both signed and dated. He was in the early months of fourth grade. The photo was taken in the Franklin Art room..that's Chris in the second row to the right. His friend Paul is in the front.I have to THANK Paul...apparently shortly before Chris was killed, he gave Paul one of his porfolios! It contained MANY works...LADY BOWLER among them. We had no idea at the time Chris was killed.. and shortly after...before he was buried, Paul came over to the house and gave us the portfolio. Had it not been for him we would have been wondering to this day what became of some works and not even knowing others existed! The angel reflection for today: Thank God each day for the gift of angels. Fran Kempa - Saturday, September 25, 2004 at 20:25:17 (MDT) 9/24/04...The art is another whimsical sketch we found in one of Chris' school notebooks after he was killed. The photo was taken in Sept., 1992..third grade school picture. Last night the channel 7 news began with the story of a man on a bicycle who was hit and killed. The reporter, Cheryl Chodin said something like...We all know, the only "SAFE" place to cross a street is at a cross walk...I'm here to tell her, not only was Chris in a cross walk...entered on the cross signal..even conceded to by the Insurance Co. accident reconstructionest...it was also a POSTED pedrestrian/ school zone. In my opinion, as long as there are impaired drivers on the road, like Mr. William Michael Schnires... NO roads are safe! I had heard of impaired drivers before 11/20/00...but NEVER physically impaired...like half blind and self proclaimed brain damaged..it never occurred to me that anyone could be so irresponsible and selfish. The angel reflection for today: The angels...regard our safety, undertake our defense, direct our ways and exercise a constant solicitude that no evil befalls us....John Calvin Fran Kempa - Friday, September 24, 2004 at 22:06:44 (MDT) 9/23/04...The art is one of a few anti smoking works Chris did over the years. I believe he did this one in 1999. The photo was taken in fall, 1993...beginning of fourth grade. I was very pleased to see Mr. Ed Hubert was awarded the Secondary Teacher of the Year for Livonia Schools. He's the instructer for the Visual Communications program at the Career Center. That was Chris' dream and goal...to attend that program at the Career Center. It began in Junior year of High School. From the time Chris was in 6th grade, we attended every open hose there and mainly checked out the visual communications room. Chris had just realized his dream and achieved his goal in late August, 2000. Mr. Hubert was one of his last teachers. Reading the article brought back a vivid memory of the Friday before the Monday before he was killed. I was driving him to Driver's Ed and he was telling me he was having some trouble with the measuring for a certain project in Mr. Hubert's class. I remember saying to him, "Well Chris, just tell Mr. Hubert, I'm sure he will help you." His reply was, "I'm going to mom...Monday." Most unfortunatly, Monday began for Chris but ended tragically in his death...he never made it to school. The angel reflection for today: There are angels all around us, hidden, barely out of sight. You may catch a warm halo glow or the rustle of a wing in flight. There are angels all around us, though we rarely get to see, that there are angels all around us, watching over you and me. Fran Kempa - Thursday, September 23, 2004 at 20:47:22 (MDT) Hi Chris, Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, September 23, 2004 at 15:50:29 (MDT) 9/22/04...The art is a little sketch we found in one of Chris' school notebooks after he was killed. The photo was taken in November, 1998..a proud mother hugging her son after his performance in the school play! The cemetary has changed it's rules. In the past, shepherd hooks had to be removed by Sept. 30th. They've extended it until Oct. 15th this year. The plant is still in pretty good shape so I intend to leave it as long as possible. It hasn't rained for days so I checked on the little tree planted in the park in Chris' memory today. Looks good, still hasn't started to change it's leaves but when it does, they're a vibrant red color. I still keep meaning to purchase a Tree Hugger..it's a memorial marker to attach to the tree on a spring so it adjusts to the tree's growth. A reporter from the Detroit News told me about them. The angel reflection for today: A good angel will accompany him; his journey will be successful, and he will come back in good health....Tobit 5:22 Fran Kempa - Wednesday, September 22, 2004 at 21:24:26 (MDT) 9/21/04...The art was done in fall 2000, shortly before Chris was killed. The photo was taken in fall, 1998. Chris had a very small part in the fall play LADY CRIES MURDER. He was a freshman. He loved the experience! For some reason I remembered the story of a friend's mother in law today. She lost a son and my friend's husband a brother when the boy was 7..If I recall correctly, the boy had leukemia. At the time my friend told me, the boy would have been well into his 30's had he lived. The one thing that stood out to me was the fact that her mother in law, after many years and many houses, still had momentos of her son in her bedside stand up until and including the day she died....she I believe was in her 70's. I know that's how it will be for me too. The angel reflection for today: Autumn leaves float gently to the ground like angels' wings casting off the sun's brilliant hues in a dance of red and gold. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, September 21, 2004 at 21:29:22 (MDT) 9/20/04...The art is one of Chris' computer generated works..copy of Spy vs Spy. He really liked MAD magazine and that series. The photo was taken by Chris in 2000. It's a photo of his skateboard after it's final transition. You can see how much it was used by the wearing at both ends. Chris would often paint his board and change the picture..this was his final effort. We went out to dinner tonight. One of Chris' friends came up to us, said hello and introduced us to his girl friend...It was nice to see him, hadn't seen him since his graduation party in 2002. The angel reflection for today: We are never truly alone,. Angels wipe away our tears; they tend the tender human heart, our pain, our grief, our fears. Fran Kempa - Monday, September 20, 2004 at 20:54:38 (MDT) 9/19/04...The art is an "M" Chris made for me in shop class, May 1997. It stood for "MOM" and was my Mother's day present that year! I still hve that M on the book shelf in our bedroom. The photo was Chris' 7th grade picture taken in Sept. 1996. I don't know the reason for the teddy bear...knowing Chris, he held it to be funny. The days are passing SO quickly! Soon that dreaded day will be upon us again! It's time to remove the shepherd hook from the cemetary and the plant from the memorial. Grave blankets are allowed in the cemetary after 11/25... The angel reflection for today: Which night star is your window light? On which rainbow do you slide? Which soft cloud is your playground? And in which mortal helper do you hide?....Things I've been wondering about Chris. Fran Kempa - Sunday, September 19, 2004 at 21:51:30 (MDT) 9/18/04...The art is one I discovered months after Chris was killed. I was sitting on his bed, looking at all the things he had on his bedroom wall...he had SO many things! After my eyes went around the room, on about the second pass, I suddenly noticed this drawing on the wall above his closet. As a result, we call it WALL HEAD. I have no idea when Chris drew him or why. The photo was taken 11/9/00 by one of Chris' friends and fellow class mates...she was also a co worker at Larry's. They were on an art class field trip in Chicago....That was Chris, 11 days before he was killed. We covered the pool today...a task that brought back bitter sweet memories... Chris was always very anxious to help uncover it, but not so anxious to help cover it. Not a single toe went in that pool this year. Adam W. came over and helped us a great deal. I promised him we wouldn't open it again for at least two years...and then maybe the new owners would have to deal with it...I don't know at this point. I told Adam F. we could write a children's book titled,...THE POOL THAT NO ONE SWAM IN. The angel reflection for today: That's all an angel is, an idea of God....Meister Eckhart Fran Kempa - Saturday, September 18, 2004 at 22:33:55 (MDT) 9/17.04...The art is a work we never saw until LONG after Chris was killed...a little over two years if I recall correctly. Mr. Rheault said they were cleanibg the art room and found this one with two others. As you can see in the lower right hand corner it's signed and dated, 5/99. The photo was taken in the spring of 1995..fifth grade, Chris' graduation from the DARE program. He's in the middle row, to the right. Adam W. gave me a Mah Jong game for the computer for my BD. We had gotten one in about 1997 and I loved it! When we got a new computer in summer of 2001, the game wasn't transfered to the new one. The games I play are the easiest. This one is the alphabet, the original was road signs. I vividly remember Adam and or Chris coming into the computer room when I was playing the old game, sitting on the fouton behind me and saying, "stop, stop" "PEDRESTRIAN, PEDESTRIAN"...they pointed out the matches I was missing. Today marks one year since I became comatose and was given a 5% chance to live. While I still have VIVID memory of 11/20/00, I have no memory of the coma...only coming to two and a half weeks later to discover I was intubated and couldn't move and wondering what happened. While I know I will never feel the same emotionally since Chris' death, I sometimes wonder if I'll ever feel the same physically since the coma...it's been a LONG, slow recovery. The angel reflection for today: The angels see in us God's reflection. They see the mark of their own maker. Fran Kempa - Friday, September 17, 2004 at 21:33:22 (MDT) 9/16/04...The art is a little sketch we found in one of Chris' school notebooks after he was killed. The photo was taken in October 2000. Chris and some friends participated in Autumn Bash 2000. They all wore silver face masks and called themselves , The Derilect. Chris had big plans for "the group"...I don't know if any of the other three boys did or if it was a one night thing. After Chris was killed the other three boys wrote a little note to Chris on their face masks and left them at the memorial...his is still in his room. Today marks one year from the day I became so ill and was life flighted to U of M hospital....it's one year ago but feels like one second ago, just as Chris' death seems like one second ago rather than almost FOUR years! The very traumatic events in life seem to stick with you while you can feel the distance in day to day events. I had never REALLY experienced a tragedy until 11/20/00. One month from today, my sister will be married...you can never predict life. The angel reflection for today: We should pray to the angels, for they are given to us as guardians...St. Ambrose Fran Kempa - Thursday, September 16, 2004 at 21:35:37 (MDT) 9/14/04...The art we call BLACK. It is one of the numerous works that showed up at the funeral home. The photo was taken in September, 1990, first day of first grade. That's Chris standing by the door of Ms. Scharbach's class. I started physical therapy today with the same therapist I had during the fall, winter and spring. She hadn't seen me since April and was quite surprised...not only have I lost weight but also much of my muscle mass..I have A LOT of work to do! The angel reflection for today: Created beings, we are all made angels and babies alike. We are created, loved and filled with the wonder of discovery. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, September 14, 2004 at 19:43:23 (MDT) 9/13/04...The art is another of my many favorites. We call her LADY BOWLER. She and Einstein were the last two works Chris did at home, both completed in fall of 2000. I believe he did many others at school but these two were started and finished at home. The photo was taken in September, 1984. My parents came to vist for my 30th BD and took the photo ...my, how we've all changed. One year ago I was seriously ill and didn't really realize it...so I guess I'm glad to be 50. So far it feels no different than 49! Thank you Joe, Mary and Kathy for the birthday wishes. It was a very quiet day. We had dinner out with Adam W....he even MADE me a birthday cake!! Tomorrow I start physical therapy again. I'm physically and mentally more ready this time than I was the last. I'm almost looking forward to it....it's been a LONG recovery! :The angel reflection for today: There are many things in life we cannot see, hear or touch but we know they exist because the heart tells us so. For the heart possesses a wisdom far beyond that of the intellect and a vision far grander than that of the mind. My heart tells me Chris still exists. Fran Kempa - Monday, September 13, 2004 at 21:39:41 (MDT) Happy Birthday, Franny I sure hope you have a very blessed year, and for that matter a wonderful decade of life in your 50's...you deserve it more than anyone else I know! Michael Bloomburg's comments on the loss of a child, which were spoken on the 3rd anniversary of September 11th certainly hit a very tender spot in my heart when I thought of you. Kathy - Monday, September 13, 2004 at 13:48:58 (MDT) Happy Birthday Fran!! I turned 50 last year and I must say Birthdays never bothered me until that one. Now I am 51 and still this 50 stuff is hard to get used to. So much reflection goes on in the 50's stage of life. A very weird feeling I must say. Totally different than all the previous decades. Glad to hear you are feeling more like yourself. Hope it continues from here on out! mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Monday, September 13, 2004 at 13:24:19 (MDT) Happy birthday Mrs. Kempa. I wish you the best. Joe Cwik - Monday, September 13, 2004 at 08:09:32 (MDT) i agree with you the whole event it can be logic to into somehow gabane <profbishopgabane@hotmail.com> - Monday, September 13, 2004 at 04:45:15 (MDT) i agree with you the whole event it can be logic to somehow gabane <profbishopgabane@hotmail.com> - Monday, September 13, 2004 at 04:43:33 (MDT) 9/12/04...The art is a copy of the bicycle still life that was thrown out by mistake...thank God for the copy! This was one of Chris' best works. He drew it in 1999. The photo was also taken in 1999. In the background you can see the bicycle suspended from the ceiling...the example the kids used to create the still life. Simce I stopped chemo in July, I've been slowly coming out of a fog. I'm cooking again and eating better. I've gone grocery shopping more times in the last month than I have in the last year! I usually go to Larry's...it's small and I know where everything is. I went there this afternoon after the cemetary. The entrance is directly across from the stock room door but quit a walk there ...I still sometimes imagine Adaam W. or Chris walking toward me from the stock room as I enter the store pushing my cart. I still have a vivid memory of Adam walking toward me one day from the stock room and thinking, "Oh my God, he's grown up!" On the few occasions Chris and I met walking through the doors he always said to me, "What are you doing here mom?" At times I was tempted to say, "This a grocery store...what do you think I'm doing!?" But I always replied, "shopping." Tomorrow morning when I wake up...I will be 50!!! That'a a very scary thought! I had no problem with 30 or 40 but 50 is making me think...when you hit 50 you KNOW your life is more than half over, you start reviewing it...it's been a difficult one...But I know I'm that much closer to seeing Chris again! The angel reflection for today: When life is hard, help me not dispair; angels around me, please answer my prayer. Fran Kempa - Sunday, September 12, 2004 at 18:50:08 (MDT) 9/11/04...The art is a dawwing Chris did of Beck in 1999. The photo was taken at Homecoming, October 1999. The angel reflection for today: If we look hard enough, we can find plenty of angels right in our own lives. They heal us, shelter us, feed us, teach us. They keep us safe. They entertain us. They help us. The are us. Fran Kempa - Saturday, September 11, 2004 at 21:53:33 (MDT) 9/10/04....The art is one of the many signatures Chris experimented with for his workes over the years. Shortly before he was killed in 2000, he was drawing smiley or frown faces depending on his opinion of his work along with initials or a signature. The photo was kindly given to me long after Chris' death. I believe one of the girls in the photo provided it but I'm ashamed to say...I don't remember who. That's Chris to the far right making shadow pictures on the theatre wall. Yesterday when I was poking around Chris' room, I found a mother's day card Chris gave to me in May,2000 from him and Felix. The card shows a rather stick figure of a cat on the front and is captioned by:"A Mother's Day Poem from the Cat" It continues as follows: "I thank you for the food you bring and for the squeaky little thing I thank you for your friendly talks, and when you change my litter box I thank you for the naps we share, and putting up with tufts of hair. I thank you for the things you do..." And when you open the card, it says,: But thank you most for being you......It's signed "From Felix and Chris" Felix is a very lucky cat to have been Chris'! I am NOT a cat person! If not for Chris he would have found himself back at the Humane Society.....but I can't bring myself to do that to Chris' cat! The angel reflection for today: Light my path, direct my steps, shelter me under your protectivr wings. Fran Kempa - Friday, September 10, 2004 at 16:43:59 (MDT) Your dream makes a lot of sense. Chris looked in the right lane and saw NO truck because Mr. Schnires was in the left lane with the stopped cars at the time as he admitted. I dont'think anyone wouuld have anticipated a vehicle to come whipping at them the second the light changed. How it happeded now makes sense but the reckless act on Mr. Schnier's part will NEVER make sense!! Mary Saia <Westland> - Friday, September 10, 2004 at 09:04:43 (MDT) What a horribly, rattling dream Fran. Neither you in the dream or the Angels that day could save Chris from such a wicked, unknown danger. But you have to know and believe that the Angels did swoop Chris up, kept him from all pain, from being afraid, and promptly delivered him to our Heavenly Father for safekeeping until you can be reunited again. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Thursday, September 09, 2004 at 20:48:46 (MDT) 9/9/04...The art we call BABY. I do not recall seeing it before Chris was killed but I might have...He had so many works completed and in transition, it's hard to remember. The photo was taken in February, 1993. Chris and Scott had come to our house for lunch and I had the pleasure of preparing them both for the third grade living wax museum! Today I went to the dentist and then to see my former co worker buddies...they miss me as much as I miss them! It felt SO good to be back in that atmosphere...they're saving me a place they said!! I hope to return in the winter. The dream I had about Chris on Tues. night was SO real! I woke up crying. It was almost as if I was the angel hovering above and watching Chris cross Merriman at West Chicago. That was my view point... from above. I watched him wait for the cross signal and begin his crossing. I watched as he entered the left north lane and look to his right...seeing no cars in the right north lane he continued walking....NEVER anticipating Mr. Schnires whipping around the two stopped vehicles that were in the left lane at 37 to 43 mph , let alone the fact that he was half blind and self proclaimed brain damaged!! He became air borne one foot from safety! ...I HONESTLY believe that dream was Chris coming to me to show me exactly what happened. The angel reflection for today: Every act of kindness here on earth no matter how small or insignificant it may seem, is acknowledged by the angels with joy and exaltation throughout the heavens. Fran Kempa - Thursday, September 09, 2004 at 17:15:01 (MDT) 9//8/04...The art is a scale drawing Chris did some time in 2000. Mr. Rheault found it in the art room at Franklin and sent it to me via Scott Allen in 2002...before graduation. The photo was taken in Sept. 1993, the first day of fourth grade. I had a VIVID dream last night....unfortunatly it was like seeing the morning of 11/20/00 through Chris' eyes! I honestly believe he was telling and showing me what happened. I'll relive it soon here on the web page but have to recover first. I went into Chris' room today and actually poked around...I think the dream must have prompted it. While I've opened the door and looked in since March of 2001, I haven't actually been in there ....I was amazed by how much dust had gathered....but it's been YEARS! The angel reflection for today: Life is full of moments that only you and your angel can share. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, September 08, 2004 at 22:02:35 (MDT) 9/7/04...The art we call TUBA. Another work Mr. Rheault found in the Franklin art room long after Chris' death. The photo was mailed to me in the summer of 2001. It was taken in June, 1997 and sent to me by Mrs. Leach. She was then the Assistant Principal at Emerson Middle School. In the note she enclosed in the mailing, she said she found it while cleaning her office. That's Chris to the far right in the Atari T shirt and his good friend Scott Allen to his left...Adam W. still wears that shirt sometimes. The angel reflection for today: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, the bed be blest that I lie on. Four angels to my bed, four angels round my head. One to watch, one to pray and two to bear my soul away....Thomas Ady Fran Kempa - Tuesday, September 07, 2004 at 21:25:24 (MDT) 9/6/04...The art is one of Chris' many computer generated works. When animated, it's a very funny short showing a man appear from a previously calm toilet. ...I remember the day he made it vividly The photo was taken in September, 1989...Chris' first day of kindergarten. I was very proud of Adam W. He brought over the Fall 2004 issue of the Venus magazine.(Le Tigre on the cover.) I was not familiar with this magazine. It appears to be geared to the young set. It's published out of Chicago I was told. On page 73, there is a small write up about the mosaic Adam made of Chris from bottle caps. The little passage reads as follows: " Some projects on craftster are way more art than craft. In this project, Adam Kempa pays homage to his late brother Chris by creating a mosaic of Chris' likeness made entirely out of different types of bottle caps. It's an unbelievable technical feat and a touching expression on Adam's part."....They should see the Lego mosaic! I know Chris is honored and proud. The angel reflection for today: First dare to dream big dreams then ask your guardian angel to guide the way as you move closer to achieving them. Chris had SO many BIG dreams!! He had just begun to achieve them right before he was killed. Fran Kempa - Monday, September 06, 2004 at 21:09:23 (MDT) 9/5/04...Due to a "server" problem, I haven't been able to post for a few days...thank God for Adam W.!! The art for 9/2 was a painting Chris did in 1999...a skeleton wearing head phones..another eerie work. Of all of Chris' works, this is the one Cori wanted a copy of. The photo for 9/2 was taken in February, 1993. Chris was part of a living wax museum with all the third grade classes. Chris was Jonas Salk. The art for 9/3 was a drawing Chris did in 2000. Another skeleton with EXPRESS written over his head...to me another eerie drawing! The photo for 9/2 was given to me by Jen Gossett. It was taken in 1997.. Chris and Caleb on the school bus coming home from school. The art for 9/4 was the bumper sticker we had made after Chris' death in his memory. We had it made before we found out about Mr. Schnire's blindness. Afterward, the phrase, "Keep Your Eyes On The Road" took on a whole new meaning!! Someone said we should have put, "Keep Your EYE On The Road." Someone else said we should have put, "If You Have Two!" underneath!! The photo was taken in fall, 1990...Chris' first grade school pic. Today's art is another drawing I LOVE! I believe it was done with water colors. To me it totally depicts fall. There is a drawing of an eye in the cube the corn guy is holding inside the circle! The photo was taken in May, 1996 during the 6th grade graduation breakfast from Grant School. Chris and some friends are looking at their "diplomas"! They spelled "Christopher" wrong on his and the principal, Lyn Babcock promised us a new one...but we never got it. The monthly Compassionate Friends meeting was held on Wed. Sept. 1st...once again , we didn't go. This month we forgot. While I was recieving chemo, it was always on Wednesday. The meetings are the first Wednesday of each month. I was in no condition to attend the meetings during that time and we got out of the habit. They really helped me!....We must remnember next month! I have gained 7lbs since chemo ended!! My taste buds are ALMOST back to normal and I'm able to eat more and more! I told Adam tonight, at this rate, I'd better cut out the Ensure! The angel reflection for today: In times of trouble, we can turn to the loving arms of angels sent by God as messengers of comfort and bearers of courage and hope.... As I've said many times in the past, I PRAY the angels came for Chris 11/20/00...to comfort him since his family was't there and to guide him into heaven! Fran Kempa - Sunday, September 05, 2004 at 18:42:06 (MDT) Indeed sis...you do question what takes place after death!!...But, as you said, the faith MUST continue so that our love and thoughts will keep their spirit and souls lifted to a higher place. I really think that the more you keep memories and love in your heart and keep their spirit alive by talking and remembering, they really do stay in a greater place. Let us keep the faith always!!! :)) As always, love you Fran!! Jo <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Wednesday, September 01, 2004 at 19:45:58 (MDT) 9/1/04... The art is one of Chris' simple animations from early 2000. He drew a type of flip book, a little bit on a frame each time, slowly making a picture. Then somehow he animated it! The photo I believe is Chris' second grade photo, 1992..but I'm sorry to say, I'm not positive. A few months ago, my sister in law and I were discussing what happens after death. After visiting the cemetary and the memorial this afternoon, I started thinking about that conversation. She lost her mom a little over a year ago. They were VERY close. We both agreed that death both strengthens your faith and makes you question it at the same time. It strenghtens your faith in that you must have more hope than ever that your loved ones are in heaven and they just didn't stop. Their energy and spirit live on forever....but then there's that gnawing feeling in the back of your mind sometimes...maybe that's all there is and they just ended...I'd rather keep the faith. I just can't think like that...but you do question. The angel reflection for today: Oh, to leave my worldly cares behind me far below, To chase the clouds up to the sun, and dwell where angels go. If I could only catch the wind and soar where angels fly, I would ride upon the breeze and climb to heaven high. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, September 01, 2004 at 13:15:30 (MDT) 8/31/04....The art is one of Chris' sketch books from fall 2000. We never saw this one until his school bag came home with the police on 11/20/00. We discovered many works in there such as BLUE FACe and NO TALK as well as many others. I love how he altered the cover to make Superman and his initials. He was always drawing on something! The photo was taken in 1994...Chris and his loved pool....which continues to go unused this summer....but it's clean! I appreciate the altering info...I've already decided to seek an alternative. More convention tonight. It's a good distraction! Adam W. stopped by tonight and we had another political back and forth. I can REALLY get him riled up and talk more than he usually does! The angel reflection for today: Every visable thing in this world is put in the charge of an angel....St. Augustine Fran Kempa - Tuesday, August 31, 2004 at 19:22:05 (MDT) Geez, and I thought only my house had the big debate war going on as to who is the better candidate!! Definitely divided here too which ends up cancelling out each other's votes. I'll bet Chris would have had a definite opinion this time around which would really add to the debate. College kids are very strong in their opinions and convictions come election time. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, August 31, 2004 at 07:43:25 (MDT) Ditto what Sara said. My Daughter had a lovely last minute Bridesmaid dress alteration done at Sophia's Tailoring & Alterations on Plymouth Road (south side) in the strip mall between Farmington and Stark. Can't say it was cheap, but sure did save a big hassle and the work was quality. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, August 31, 2004 at 07:28:27 (MDT) Honestly, I would get your dress altered elsewhere. I have heard nothing but alterations horror stories from David's. I purchased my wedding dress there, but did NOT get it altered there. Just didn't want to have to deal with the stress. Just a suggestion... :) Sara Kruz <sakruz@gmail.com> - Monday, August 30, 2004 at 18:03:55 (MDT) 8/30/04...The art is a drawing Chris made for Cori on the Thuraday before the Monday he was killed. He whimsacally drew a picture of himself on an ANNE OF GREEN GABLES program. Cori said he drew on many others scattered through out the theatre but neither he or she thought to pick them up....why should they, he could ALWAYS draw more and they had no reason to think he'd be GONE in four days! The photo was taken in 1993...one of our fires on the beach. That's Adam F. to the left playing the guitar, Bill Deady's legs, Chris, Grandma Joan and Adam W. in front....more good memories! We always had a fire and or fireworks in the evening...sometimes, board games after that. I intend to watch the convention tonight...There is much debate in this house! I'm backing one candidate and Adam and Adam another! I truly don't think Chris would care at this stage of his life if he was still here...I know he didn't care about Bush or Gore. The angel reflection for today: Give yourself another chance. Call on the help of angels and you will prevail. Fran Kempa - Monday, August 30, 2004 at 15:58:44 (MDT) Miss you always... dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, August 29, 2004 at 23:35:31 (MDT) 8/29/04....The art is a painting Chris did of his friend Ron in the summer of 2000. Ron said Chris did it in about five minutes.The photo was taken in 1996 at the cottage. It was taken the day we got there and Chris was SO happy to be back he went in the water with his clothes on...never went in the cottage, just ran into the water! I was reading some where on line today that custodians at London's Tate Britian modern art gallery threw out part of an art exhibit. It was placed next to the garbage and stored in garbage bags....the same thing happened to Chris' bike still life at Franklin. It was stored in a tube next to Mr. Rheault's desk in preparation for an exhibit but was thrown out by mistake. The art gallery was able to retrive it's work...most unfortunatly we were not. We do have a copy though which is good. It was some of his best work. The angel reflection for today: The unlikelist of people harbor halos beneath their hats. Fran Kempa - Sunday, August 29, 2004 at 18:23:06 (MDT) 8/27/04....The art is a transformer Chris drew many moons ago. I can't remember the exact grade or year. The photo was taken in August 1994....10 YEARS ago! That's Bill Deady to the left, Caleb behind Chris, Chris, me and Adam W. We were on our way home from the cottage, our week was over. That was always a disappointing day for the boys....such GOOD memories! I've about had it with David's Bridal! I wasn't sure what size dress to buy because I thought I may gain weight before Oct. now that the chemo is done. They told me Wed. to bring the dress in today for alterations because it's too big. I got there with dress in hand and they told me you have to have an APPOINTMENT for alterations! So I have to go back with the dress Sept. 18th. This wedding is creeping up on us. I hope I'll be ready to make it down the asile and through the service...Catholic weddings are always so LONG! The angel reflection for today: Ephemeral and eternal, the trancendent hosts of high heaven's court move through the world in fleeting visions imparting wisdom, enlightenment and joy. Fran Kempa - Friday, August 27, 2004 at 19:50:39 (MDT) 8/26/04....The art is one Chris did in 2000 shortly before he was killed. He had started signing his works in the same fashion as he did on this one in the lower right corner. Note it shows only the left eye and a scrambled brain. The photo was taken in May, 1987...Adam W.'s first Communion Adam was 7, Chris was 3. Today is my parent's 54th wedding anniversary! I talked to them this evening and they sounded good. Four years ago the four of us were at their 50th anniversary party in Buffalo. I was SO proud of both my boys. They were very helpful and sociable...EVERYONE commented on how wonderful they were....and I agreed. Seems like some people out there still have guilty consciouses....as it should be. The angel reflection for today: From the deepest depths of my yearnings,for fellowship, acceptance and peace, I have felt the comfort of angels, I have known a love that won't cease. Fran Kempa - Thursday, August 26, 2004 at 20:37:25 (MDT) 8/24/04...We call the art RAINEYE. Notice the focus on the eye...Chris was captivated by eyes...little did we know, one would contribute to his death. The photo was taken in 1994 at the cottage. The boys were enjoying some choppy water which was very scary to me. I couldn't watch and stayed in the cottage. Their dad was there to supervise. I went to the Dr. today. I found out I have to go back to physical therapy for awhile. My gait and balance are still way off and I've deconditioned some since I was discharged in April. I think I'll do much better this time now that the chemo has ended. I spent this afternoon and yesterday afternoon visiting with friends who stopped by. I enjoyed it very much! The angel reflection for today: Lullaby and goodnight, thy mother's delight, fair angels above will guard thee in love; They will keep thee from harm, thou shalt wake in my arms......Johannes Brahms Fran Kempa - Tuesday, August 24, 2004 at 19:24:42 (MDT) 8/22/04...The art we call BIRDMAN. We found it in a trash bag in March of 2001. Chris had "cleaned" his room the evening of 11/19/00 and we were smart enough to save the garbage bags he gathered to go through when we were strong enough. We found more than one work of art and a few poems. The photo is another repeat from the other day....Chris and his loved Sunkist kayak. We brought dinner to an infirm friend tonight. Enjoyed the meal and conversation. The angel reflection for today: There are moments during the day that are undeniably touched by angels. Fran Kempa - Sunday, August 22, 2004 at 21:06:12 (MDT) 8/21/04...The art is one of Chris' many computer generated works. I don't remember when or why Chris did this one...I have a feeling it was shortly before his death. The photo is the same as the other day..Chris in his Sunkist kayak and Adam in his Ivory Soap boat at the cottage. We went to visit Adam today at his house. It was quite neat and tidy...pretty good for three boys!....I think they prepared for our arrival! It was fun! We brought Speck and he enjoyed it too. He was EXHAUSTED after the trip! The angel reflection for today: All God's angels come to us disguised.....James Russell Lowell Fran Kempa - Saturday, August 21, 2004 at 21:40:20 (MDT) Whoever told you you were insane for still talking about Chris has no clue what torture losing a Child is especially in the fashion that Chris was lost to his Family, Friends and the World. Keep talking and speaking of Chris. The voice is getting stronger to let the rest of the World know how wrong Chris' death was and how it might have been prevented then and into the future. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Saturday, August 21, 2004 at 06:08:27 (MDT) How dare anyone say a Mother is insane about talking about her deceased child!! That angers me. When a loved one passes on prior to us, especially a child, it is normal to always speak of them and remember them. They lived on this earth and will always live on in our hearts...especially by always talking about them and keeping their spirit alive. Don't ever stop Fran...keep Chris's spirit alive as long as you are able to. We will always remember him..through talk and numerous memories. Forever and ever....to the person that said you are insane....get a life!!! Jo <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Friday, August 20, 2004 at 21:12:00 (MDT) 8/20/04....The art is a drawing we found on one of Chris' school papers after he was killed. If memory serves me, that's how he signed it. The photo was taken in 1993 at the cottage. That's Katrina Deady to the left, Adam W., Michael Deady, Deady's cousin David, Chris and I don't recall the boys name to the right of Chris. Caleb is on the ground in the front. A few weeks ago, someone told me I was "insane" because I was still talking about Chris...all I could think at the time was this person is insane for saying that. I will NEVER stop talking about Chris! I don't understand how some people can write him off as though he never existed! He was my child...my baby. He LIVED! He had a full, wonderful life. If something jogs a memory and I speak about him ...get over it! I will never stop. The angel reflection for today: Angels provide a resting place for weary souls on their way to heaven. Fran Kempa - Friday, August 20, 2004 at 20:20:57 (MDT) Mr. Schniers got off scott free because in the case of Teens being hit it is always assumed that the Teen did something wrong! Yes, sometimes they make mistakes, but in many cases they do not but are lumped in with those that made a wrong instant choice because of their age. Still and foremost it is up to Drivers to keep their heads about them and their eyes open to be aware of any slight mistakes that may go on around them. There is no win win situation in car vs. pedestrian or car vs. motorcycle. Someone always gets hurt or killed. The roads are a very scary place for everyone. Livonia Police most definitely handled Chris' case horribly which added more pain and anger to an already horrific tragedy. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Friday, August 20, 2004 at 06:30:39 (MDT) 8/19/04....The art is one of Chris' computer animated creations from 2000. The photo was taken in August, 1990...our first year at the cottage. Chris was SO proud! There was a very interesting article on the front page of the Livonia Observer today. A 40 year old man riding a motorcycle was hit and killed by a pickup truck July 3rd. The man who hit him was charged with negligent homicide. Livonia police Sgt. Wes McKee said alcahol and drugs were not involved and the man who hit him told investigators He DIDN'T SEE a motorcycle as he made a turn. "This charge is typical in a fatal accident," Mckee said. I'm not trying to minimize the loss of this man...he had three children and a wife of 17 years....I KNOW the hell they're going through and will for the rest of their lives. The point I'd like to make is, a motorcycle/ on foot..no drugs or alcahol involved..but they never tested in Mr. Schniers case. Both drivers claim they "didn't see the victim"...so why does one death result in charges and the other results in scott freedom...not even a ticket for failure to yield to a pedestrian?? Chris' death wasn't even investigated...an accident reconstruction at most. They were announcing on the 8:30 AM news 11/20/00 that no charges woulf be filed.... Only an hour after he was pronounced. The police didn't find out Mr. Schniers was half blind and self proclaimed brain damaged until MONTHS later....they never investigated. Tied it up in an hour and blamed Chris. No, I'm not minimizing this family's loss. I have nothing but sympathy and grief for them. My point is about the Livonia police. Now that my chemo is finished and I'm regaining my strength, I think I'll start asking some questions....Something I planned to do a long time ago....health issues got in the way. The angel reflection for today: As I travel life's road, help me find joy in the journey....I pray Chris had a joyful soul on his way to school 11/20/00..as he always did! Fran Kempa - Thursday, August 19, 2004 at 17:55:43 (MDT) 8/18/04...The art is another panel from Chris' Hmmmmm comic book. The photo is another from 1992 at the cottage in Lexington Mi. We always say Port Huron because it's the biggest city near by but the cottage was in Lexington. I went to the cemetary today. I've been going every other day to water the plant. I can tell autumn is just around the corner...the petunias are sticky and the pool temperature is well below 70 degrees. The angel reflection for today: When I am lonely, you comfort me with hugs and friendship. When I am afraid, you empower me with courage and compassion. When I am confused, you encourage me with clarity and direction. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, August 18, 2004 at 21:28:42 (MDT) 8/17/04...The art is another from Chris' HMMMm comic book. The photo was taken in 1994 I believe. That's Adam towing the boat, Chris in the boat and Deady's cousin David in between. Last night I had dinner out with Adam and Sarah. Tonight I had dinner out with a dear friend. Adam says I'm getting spoiled but I disagree. I ENJOYED the company, conversation and the distraction. The angel reflection for today: I left my home in heaven to come to earth below, But I wasn't left alone here; God sent angels to guide me home. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, August 17, 2004 at 21:17:11 (MDT) 8/16/04...The art is a panel from the "Hmmmm" comic book Chris was writing shortly before he was killed. Once again, the computer doesn't do it justice. You can get a sense of it but in person the detail is amazing! The photo was taken in 1993. That's Chris to the left and Adam and some friends of theirs enjoying the pool. Saturday night I had another sleepless night. I just stared at the ceiling and watched the clock as my mind played the horrible tape of 11/20/00 over and over. I swear, it's like torture....I wonder if Mr. Schnires or his parents ever lose any sleep over it?? The angel reflection for today: Have faith in angels, and you'll always have a friend to talk to, confide in and trust until the end......Chris is now my angel. Fran Kempa - Monday, August 16, 2004 at 20:19:22 (MDT) 8/15/04...The art is a drawing in memory of Chris. One of his Franklin friends presented it to me during the first year memorial vigil, November 20th 2001. Most unfortunatly, I don't remember exactly which friend....it was a very emotional evening. What a thoughtful gesture on that boy's part. The photo was taken in August, 1994 at the cottage. Chris in his Sunkist kayak and Adam in his Ivory Soap boat. Every year at the cottage it was a fun, fun time!...we used to say we were on "beach time" because the week was very laid back and slow. Once again, all these back to school ads on TV and in the paper are really getting to me. Chris should have been a Junior in COLLEGE! I still firmly believe he would have gone to CCS, (College for Creative Studies) and should have majored in art and/or animation. He would have done very well. The boys always were interested in back to school shopping....not for clothes but for school supplies. Not as excited as the current Meijer commercial but they were definatly interested. That was one of the last things Chris and I did alone together. In October 2000 Chris had a back pack but decided he wanted an over the shoulder bag, "just like Adam's." I had gotten Adam one a few days before. They came in green or black. I suggested he get a black one so as not to confuse it with Adam's. Chris INSISTED on the green one so I got it for him....we still have his bag but it's all scuffed up and the shoulder strap is broken. I think Chris had it on his shoulder when Mr. schniers hit him and sent him literally flying through the air...as the police reported, he became "airborne" The angel reflection for today: The world has angels all too few, and heaven is overflowing.....Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Fran Kempa - Sunday, August 15, 2004 at 19:13:23 (MDT) 8/14/04....The art was not done by Chris, it was done after his death by his good friend Moriah. She told me she couldn't sleep one night for thinking about him. She got up and painted this and gave it to me! It has resided on a bookshelf in the our bedroom ever since. The photo was taken at the cottage in 1994....Chris and his Sunkist kayak. How he LOVED it!! If it wasn't in the lake, it was in the pool. This has been one of the worst summers I can remember!...cool and wet. Needless to say, NO ONE has been in the pool yet. If this keeps up it will remain that way until it's closed. I was watching a show last night about parents who had lost a daughter. At one point the mother said, " Never will there ever be another day that's normal"....She was SO right! The angel reflection for today: May you live today with hope that is as certain as the sun, strength that is as steadfast as the mountains, and love that is true as the angels..... I think I have strength and love down....I have to master HOPE that I see my youngest son again. Fran Kempa - Saturday, August 14, 2004 at 19:46:35 (MDT) 8/13/04...The art is one of the many works we never saw until after Chris was killed. I believe he painted her in May of 1999...he was taking an independant painting class the last of sophomore year....his first and last nude! I guess he just left her at school until Mr. Rheault found her. The photo was taken in August, 1993. That's Scott Allen running out of the water and Chris STILL swimming! It was taken at the cottage we rented on Lake Huron for MANY summers. The last year we were there was 1998. Today is Friday the 13th. I don't believe in superstitions or luck anymore. I never really believed in superstitions but I believed in luck before.. 11/20/00....Fact of the matter, anything can happen at any time...in the blink of an eye. The angel reflection for today: The touch of the sun on a warm sunny day must be what the touch of an angel is like. Fran Kempa - Friday, August 13, 2004 at 16:35:32 (MDT) The PiercingLife Shop is the premier source in the World for unusual and exclusive top cheap quality body piercing jewellery, catering for all tastes and fashions, and delivering worldwide. Belly button rings Body Jewellry <xp@piercinglife.com> - Friday, August 13, 2004 at 05:07:30 (MDT) 8/12/04...I'm not sure why Chris painted this little boy but I think it's a self portrait of himself all those summers at the beach! The photo was taken during our first summer on Lake Huron, 1990. That's Chris and Katrina Deady building one of their MANY! sandcastles. I had a Chris memory yesterday! I'm SAD to say they are few these days. It was Christmas time 1991. We had just gotten Charlie and brought him to Buffalo with us to show him off. We were at Adam's mother's house and Charlie was sleeping on the living room floor. Chris was in his devilish mode at that point in his life and kept teasing him. He was warned several times to stop but he continued. Suddenly, Charlie protested by nipping him in the face. I couldn't blame the dog so the old saying, "Let sleeping dogs lie" was reinforced and NEVER challenged again! Another BAD Chris day for me....I'm not sure why...I think because I MISS him so much! I'm adjusting to Adam W. being on his own. As I told his girlfriend, I know he's alive and well and just a phone call or E mail away....unlike his little brother. : The angel reflection for today: Stop, be still and listen! Can you discern the gentle swoosh of a pair of delicate wings? Do you hear sweet voices singing in divine harmony? Stop be still and listen! For there are angels near. Fran Kempa - Thursday, August 12, 2004 at 17:32:45 (MDT) 8/11/04....The art we call NO TALK, it reminds me of William M. Schnires...he doesn't know anything...it "just happened." The photo is another taken in late August, 2000 at Casey's cottage. Chris had JUST turned 16 in June. He's wearing the shoes he was killed in. One of the songs at the musical Sat. was, The Great Pretender...It dawned on me today that must be how most parents of dead children are....walking around with a BROKEN heart pretending every thing is just fine. After almost FOUR years, still nothing is fine. Angels and ministers of grace, defend us!....William Shakespeare. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, August 11, 2004 at 19:23:08 (MDT) 8/10/04....I'm not sure why Chris drew this, it was on one of his school papers. To me it looks like a tooth. The photo was taken in mid August, 2000. That's Chris to the left and his friend Casey on the beach of Lake Superior. The angel reflection for today: Only through the lens of faith can angels be seen. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, August 10, 2004 at 21:45:09 (MDT) 8/9/04...The art is a painting Chris did in 1997. Today is the first anniversary of Charlie's death so I asked Adam to put it up to honor him. He was a GREAT dog and a member of our family for 13 years! I never dreamed he would out live Chris! The photo was taken in late August, 2000. I asked Adam to put this one up today because this is how our family SHOULD be!! Besides the first anniversary of Charlie's death, today is our 29th!!! wedding anniversary. We went to dinner and a movie...Farenheit 9/11. It was INTENSE!! I thought it was just pot shots at Bush, but it was so much more. They interviewed a woman who had lost her son in the war....BAD memories of Chris. It doesn't matter how you lose a child, any way rips your heart out. Just when Chris was beginning to see what life had to offer, his life was taken,just as that young soldier. The angel reflection for today: The smallest of heaven's angels is more powerful than the largest earthly problem. Fran Kempa - Monday, August 09, 2004 at 20:49:25 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Monday, August 09, 2004 at 00:19:50 (MDT) 8/8/o4....The art is one we didn't see for approx. two years after Chris was killed. Mr. Rheault happened to find it in the Franklin art room after all that time. He explained it was a still life he had the kids do. The photo is another taken in August, 2000 at Casey's cottage on Lake Superior. I had a WONDERFUL time last evening at the play! I so thank my friends for treating me. The play was hysterical! They took 28 songs from the 70's and 80's and rewrote the lyrics all to apply to menopose! I recommed all women pushing my age....50 in just over a month, to see it. It makes you LAUGH at your situation...age! The angel reflection for today: Music is said to be the speech of angels....Thomas Carlyle From the time the boys were babies, we ALWAYS had music going, recorded or live. We started out with Neil Diamond, Cyndi Lauper....and every thing in between, to live music performed by Adam, Adam and Chris...I don't think all three ever played together but there was something musically happening every day!...It's SO quiet now. Fran Kempa - Sunday, August 08, 2004 at 20:26:43 (MDT) As long as I can, I will look at this world For both of us. As long as I can I will laugh with the birds, I will sing with the flowers I will pray to the stars, For both of us. As long as I can, I will remember how many things On this earth were your joy. And I will live as well As you want me to live For as long as I can. Sascha Wagner <For Both of Us> - Sunday, August 08, 2004 at 11:08:23 (MDT) Enjoy Menopause the Musical. It's getting rave reviews. Too bad Adam is not going. They say it is a must see for all Husbands too, but many would prefer Not! Enjoy! Laughter is good for the soul and health. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Friday, August 06, 2004 at 22:27:18 (MDT) 8/6/o4......The art is a picture Chris had on one of his school papers....he may have designed another comic book charactor for all I know. The photo was taken in mid August, 2000 while at Casey's cottage. We talked every night he was gone.....either he'd call or we'd call. One night he called and said, "mom, I jumped off a bridge today!" I almost had a heart attack....but then I was reassurd that all the kids do it...you cannot be in Munising and not jump off the bridge! I was should have gotten my Maid of honor dress this evening....something came up so I'll get it tomorrow. I'm going to see Menapose the Musical tomorrow night with some friends...no Adam. I'm very interested! The angel reflection for today: If you pray truly,you will feel within yourself a great assurance: and your angels will be your companions....Evagrius of Pontus. Fran Kempa - Friday, August 06, 2004 at 18:24:36 (MDT) 8/5/04..... The art is a John Lennon painting Chris did in 2000...ANOTHER work we never saw until sfter he was killed. The photo was taken in mid August, 2000. Chris was at his friend Casey's cottage for ten days. That's Chris and Casey's cousin on the beach of Lake Superior. I was SO tired yesterday....after Tuesday's Onclogy appointment. We were there for a little over three hours! And then you always second guess your decision..... I wonder if Mr. Schniers ever reviews his decision to pass the two stopped cars at 37 to 43 miles per hour?!....resulting in Chris' death 1 foot from safety!? The angel reflection for today: Some attributes of a guardian angel: The keen sense of an eagle, The wisdom of a sage, The patience of a saint, The integrity of a martyr; A warrios's courage, A mother's love, A father's guidance, And a divine nature inherited by God...... Chris had a divine nature and that was a joy. Fran Kempa - Thursday, August 05, 2004 at 20:25:59 (MDT) Look out for your family and friends Chris they all need your help... Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, August 04, 2004 at 23:16:25 (MDT) Dear Fran, i don't even know how i ended up on this site, but now...3 hrs later...here i am. your son Chris sounded like an amazing person. i lost the closest person to me suddenly on july 30, 2000. even today the hole that remains is engulfing. i feel for u and ur family. Adam, awesome job on setting this up and letting ppl feel like they have a place to come and talk to ur lil bro. i hope u realize how much this helps ppl to remember and feel connected. i wish i would've thought of it back then. Gina - Wednesday, August 04, 2004 at 19:47:52 (MDT) Thank you Chris for protecting me. I was in a horrible hit and run late Sunday night. Livonia cops (big suprise) did nothing. They couldn't have cared less about the car that got away. If you see an 80s Thunderbird either dark blue or brown with a temperary plate in the top left corner of the back window...call the police. It was a younger blone girl.Please look, she could be your friend or neighbor. Cyndi <-> - Wednesday, August 04, 2004 at 13:56:21 (MDT) 8/3/04...Once again, Adam is very busy with work and interviews so he hasn't changed the web site yet. I believe it's repeating last month. The art is a drawing Chris did when he was two! Adam was six and a half and had hand held video games. Chris ALWAYS wanted to be like his brother, so he made his own. The photo was taken June 10, 1986, Chris' second BD. He was a beautiful, beautiful boy. I was talking to a friend Sunday. She told me about her son who was a friend of Chris, had a BAD Chris day two weeks or so ago. She said he called her and cried over the phone, saying how much he missed Chris. I wonder if Mr. Schnires has ANY sense of the hell he caused for numerous people. But given his self proclaimed brain damage, most likely not. I had some GOOD news today for a change. I'm FINISHED with chemo! I saw the Oncologist today. He said my body does not process chemo well. He said I may be lacking an enzyme and the radiation decreased my bone marrow. I told him it was FINE with me but I didn't want to be sitting at Karmanos a year from now, with a Dr. shaking his finger at me and saying, "If only you had had those last three treatments!" He assured me that won't happen....but I have to have NUMEROUS tests. The angel reflection for today: Listen for angel promptings, feel their comfort, sense their love. With quiet mind and peaceful heart know God sends them from above......I will NEVER have a peaceful heart! adam was six Fran Kempa - Tuesday, August 03, 2004 at 21:45:21 (MDT) 8/2/04....Forgot about the photo. It was taken about 4 yrs ago, August 2000. When I look at photos from that time period, I can't help WONDERING what he'd be like today! I bet he'd be as handsome as his brother! Fran Kempa - Monday, August 02, 2004 at 20:03:41 (MDT) 8/2/04....Thr art is a drawing Chris did for a Radio and TV course He took in August, 2000. On the back he explained why he wanted to take the course. Note the left eye, even in this drawing is focused! I wound up in the ER again last night! A low white count coupled by a high fever is not a good thing! Thank God they did not admit me! I've had enough of hospitals to last a lifetime. I mean that about Chris and myself. They sent me home with antibotics at 3:00 AM.....but I was SO glad to go! The angel reflection for today: With God as their employer, no wonder angels are always on their best behavior. Fran Kempa - Monday, August 02, 2004 at 18:02:52 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, August 01, 2004 at 14:55:16 (MDT) 7/31/04....The art is a computer assisted picture of Lauren Rossi.You can see her name and the year 2000 on it but I can't make out the rest on the computer and I don't have time right now to pile through the hundred or so works to find the original. But I think it says something about her being an artist....one he admired very much. The photo was taken in 1993. Chris was in third grade and it was the first year he was on a basketball team. He enjoyed it very much!...But once again, more for the socialization than the sport. Tonight we will dine with friends at a new Italian resturant on our corner. They'll come here first for drinks and appetizers and then we may walk there. It will be a good distraction. I can be distracted from the thoughts of Chris...but only for a LITTLE while. The angel reflection for today: What is an angel but a human who loves enough to put others first? What is an angel but a human who cares enough to give of themselves? Fran Kempa - Saturday, July 31, 2004 at 13:05:06 (MDT) 7/30/04...The art we call KNIGHT. Once again, we didn't see him until after Chris was killed. Chris had him in one of his sketch books. The detail in person is amazing. I think a little bit comes out on the computer. The part in his hair, and the stray hairs on his head.....note the left eye is the only one shown. The photo was taken when Chris was three. He's responding to me saying, "Smile Chris!" And he did big time! This is another photo I love more than some others...Since he was killed I cherish them all. I never really thought about it before. I'm so thankful now that I took so many pictures of the boys when they were young. I just WISH I had kept it up when they grew older. Today was a BAD Chris day. They still happen and from what I understand, they will continue for the rest of my life however long that will be. The angel reflection for today: Guide me perfect angel to the place where my spirit can soar free from all earthly limitations.....Maybe that's why Chris was guided to heaven on 11/20/00. Fran Kempa - Friday, July 30, 2004 at 20:23:05 (MDT) 7/29/04....The art is Chris' altered ID from seventh grade. I guess he thought it was fun to alter it as he did a few other pictures. He made himself have a cigarette in his hand....something he NEVER did. The photo was taken on June 10th 1986...his second birthday. I now see yesterday's photo was when he was one. As I said before, I'm forgetting SO much of his life, but his death is ALWAYS clear in my mind and that makes me VERY sad. My sister in law sent me some pictures from my father's BD party Sunday. They had to be downloaded. I'm so computer illiterate I don't know how to download...I had to wait for Adam to stop by yesterday. When I look in the mirror, luckily I don't see what the camers saw....and they say cameras never lie....I looked horrible! I lost half my hair and it's now growing back in MANY different lengths. I also lost my eyebrows and eyelashes which is hard on the eyes. I now know when people say, "you look SO good!" they're just being polite. The angel reflection for today: I thought I knew that dreams come true, only as storybooks teach them. But I have found that dreams abound, and angels help us reach them....Chris had SO many dreams, and we had the same for him. Fran Kempa - Thursday, July 29, 2004 at 19:25:06 (MDT) I hope all of the Kempa Clan is doing well. You are all in my thoughts. joe.cwik <^i^> - Thursday, July 29, 2004 at 14:13:58 (MDT) Franny...hang in there...the end of the tunnel is right around the corner. We loved seeing you this weekend and are looking forward to more with you healthy and new!! JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Thursday, July 29, 2004 at 04:46:52 (MDT) 7/28/04....The drawing is one Chris did in the summer of 2000. He and Rich Green were talking about doing a comic book. Rich told him to make some drawings and they would get back together on it. If I recall the story correctly, Rich said Chris was back the same evening in a very short time with this drawing! The photo was taken in the fall of 1985. Chris had turned 2 in June. I LOVE this photo. Adam and Adam were in the back yard on Auburndale and he just had to see what they were doing! No chemo again today. We went and my blood counts are STILL very low. I was VERY disappointed!....still three more weeks to go. Instead of finishing on the 4th, I finish on the 18th! I hope Adam's new tracking device will cut down cosiderably on the fools who put crap in the guestbook! : The angel reflection for today: Look into the eyes of a newborn child and you just might see an angel looking back at you. ....I hope if Mr. Schnires ever has a child, or has had one, he sees the face of the angel Chris when he looks into their eyes! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 19:38:02 (MDT) To cut down on the spam, there is now a second step to posting here. After clicking 'done,' you will be directed to a new page, where you will be asked to 'confirm' that the message is legitimate by copying a 6 digit number (This makes it more difficult for advertisers to automate). Simply follow the directions. Thanks! Adam <adam@kempa.com> - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 11:47:24 (MDT) What a CUTE picture!! Annom - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 at 09:12:03 (MDT) 7/27/04...The art is a broken heart that Chris drew on one of his school papers. Unfortunatly, I don't recall the year. The photo was taken June 10th, 1985, Chris' first BD. As you can see, he enjoyed the cupcake! We returned home from Buffalo last night. We got in much later than anticipated after our original flight was cancelled due to engine failure! My sister's shower was beautiful, given in the garden of my parent's condo. My father's 80th BD party was fun. My brother and sister-in law hosted the event. My brother has a HEATED pool so we swam. ALL the grandchildren were there... except Chris! My parents unfortunatly have failed since April. I still don't think they need assisted living, but the confusion is getting worse. My father will NEVER agree to leaving their condo so I'm not sure what to do at this point. The angel reflection for today: Behind every human stands an angel cheering and urging, guiding and encouraging, loving and leading. I found July 23rd's interesting: Footstep for footstep, your way is guarded....I guess the angels didn't anticipate A half blind, self proclaimed brain damaged man either.... Fran Kempa - Tuesday, July 27, 2004 at 17:59:41 (MDT) &/23/04.....Off to Buffalo bearing masks! ~ Fran Kem pa - Friday, July 23, 2004 at 05:58:49 (MDT) Have a lovely trip and time in Buffalo. Just draw a big smile on your mask!! mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, July 21, 2004 at 21:02:55 (MDT) I'll bet if the Schniers Family had suffered such a horrendous tragedy they certainly wouldn't minimize it. They certainly didn't minimize when they were trying to convince all of Us that the Driver was actually the Victim. Interesting eye witness account. Another two strikes against the Driver as if brain damage and blindness wasn't enough. So many people do so many chores these days while trying to drive and pay attention to the road at the same time. Cell phone talking while driving should be a crime! mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, July 21, 2004 at 20:58:24 (MDT) 7/21/04...I'm not sure what we call the art. As I said the other day, I'm forgetting and it makes me SO sad. I think this work is interesting as far as the LEFT eye socket is barren and the eye is displaced....telling? The photo was taken in 1996. We were at a hotel in Orlando, Florida and Chris was in a way expressing his delight! No chemo today. We went to Karmanos but after I had my blood drawn, they found my blood counts way down. The pound I gained last week I lost this week. I was VERY disappointed because this lengthens my chemo! I have to wear a mask on our flight to Buffalo Friday. I told Adam the other passengers will be afraid of me. I feel like wearing a sign, "It's not me it's you." The angel reflection for today: May I learn to love with the perfect love of God and angels. May I recieve this priceless gift from them and pass it on. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, July 21, 2004 at 19:11:10 (MDT) When you look to the twinkling midnight skies, Be reminded of the twinkle in his eyes. When you hear the music of the morning birds, Be reminded of his sweet voice when he spoke his words. When you see the glory of a rose touched by the morning dew, Be reminded of the beauty when he smiled at you. Although he was taken from this world much too soon, Be reminded of him when you gaze upon a soulful moon. When your heart hurts because of your undying love, Be reminded he is still with you, an angel above. When you miss him so much you feel it is tearing you apart, Be reminded he is still with you, in that very special place, In your heart. Be Reminded <Adapted from Kathy Hines> - Wednesday, July 21, 2004 at 09:43:57 (MDT) 7/20/04...The art is one that Chris drew shortly before he was killed. He wasn't anatomicly correct, but he was right on. An eye would eventually take his life. I don't believe it was just an eye. I belive in my opinion, Mr. Schnires was also eating, and on the Nextel address system. We have eye witness testimony that Mr. Schnires entered Merriman Road from Joy Road, which contains a McDonalds and 7 eleven right on the corner. Mr. Schnires claimed in a sworn deposition that he entered Merriman Road from his home... We'll never know because he worked for his father....it was one of his trucks that killed Chris and his family is minimumizing the event. The photo was taken in October 2000 by Chris himself. For some reason, in the last two months before he was killed, Chris took MANY pictures of hinself. The angel reflection for today: I have been on the verge of being an angel all my life, but it's never happened yet.....Mark Twain Fran Kempa - Tuesday, July 20, 2004 at 21:46:52 (MDT) 7/19/04...The art we call EYE HAND. Another we saw after Chris was killed. When we saw it and learned the truth of Mr. Wm. M. Schnier's blindness it was very eerie...like Mr. Schnier's had Chriis' life in his hands. The photo was taken in September,2000 approx. two months before Chris was killed. He was attendig Homecoming at Franklin....I drove him there and I remember it VIVIDLY! The angel reflection for today:Help me seek truth and enlightenment in all I do today. Help me to be more like you. I WISH I knew ALL the truth regarding Chris' death....I still have MANY unanswered questions. Fran Kempa - Monday, July 19, 2004 at 20:22:05 (MDT) 7/18/04...The art is the Einstein Chris drew VERY shortly before he was killed at my request. Note it only shows his LEFT eye. The photo was taken August 26th, 2000 during my parent's 50th wedding anniversary party. Chris is dancing with Aunt Molly....he was the only male dancer in the family. Molly is my sister whose wedding is in October. Less than three months after that photo was taken we buried Chris! I can't explain how Chris is CONSTANTLY on my mind. In the shower, I tink of the LONG showers he took, we go to a store, it triggers a memory, we watch a show,it triggers a memory...and on and on. I fear this is my fate for the rest of my life.. If only Mr. Schnires had been a SAFE driver, Chris would be alive today....I MISS him. The angel reflection for today: There is an angel of serenity who sends peace to those who suffer or mourn- the kind of peace that can only be given by someone who personally knows God. I'm STILL waiting for my angel... Fran Kempa - Sunday, July 18, 2004 at 18:28:45 (MDT) Play Slots Slots <Play Slots> LA, CA US - Sunday, July 18, 2004 at 09:54:13 (MDT) 7/17/04...The art I'm not sure about...I'm forgetting and it makes me SO sad. It's some alien Chris came up with I think. The photo I remember as if were yesterday! It was taken in August, 2000, shortly after Chris returned from his friends' cottage. Note his dress, Kentucky Elliott! I swear, he lived in that shirt! We were in Buffalo for a very HAPPY event. One week later we returned to Buffalo for Adam's mom's funeral and three months later, we attended Chris'. We will leave for Buffalo again Friday for my sister's wedding shower on Sat. and then my dad's actual 80th birthday on Sun. While I'm looking forward to seeing my family....it just won't be the same. I heard John Cougar Mellencamp's Diddy about Jack and Diane on the car radio this afternoon....I forgot about the line.."hang on to 16 as long as you can"...Chris will be 16 forever! The angel reflection for today: If I have freedom in my love, and in my soul am free, angels alone that soar above enjoy such liberty.....Richard Lovelace. Chris was a free soul on earth and I pray he is in heaven. Fran Kempa - Saturday, July 17, 2004 at 19:30:45 (MDT) Chris, you need to continue watching over Mom. She is progressing so nicely and is soooo close to the end of her chemo sessions. I spoke to Fran tonight and BOY does she sound great!! Thank God!!! Looking forward to next weekend with the family for Molly's wedding shower and Dad's 80th surprise party picnic. A fun filled and busy weekend. Let's just pray for good weather. It is nice to finally look forward to an ocassion...and have happiness abound!!! Congrats Adam William on your new house!!! JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Saturday, July 17, 2004 at 18:38:43 (MDT) Mortgage Online mortgage <mortgage> No, AR US - Saturday, July 17, 2004 at 07:14:08 (MDT) 7/16/04...The "art" is a picture of Chris at the end of Sophomore year. He's working hard on his MIRRORS self portrait in the Franklin art room. The photo was taken approx. two months before Chris was killed, August, 2000. He is duck walking on the beach of Lake Superior in his summer uniform of cut off jeans and his Kentucky Elliott sweatshirt...that was his ALL season shirt! I STILL believe it was divine intervention that he had given his FAVORITE shirt to Cori just days before. He didn't have it on 11/20/00 so the parametics couldn't cut it to ribbons and it was given to Adam W. Chris had visited his friend Casey's cottage and his mom Beth was kind enough to share many pictures of the trip during the one year memorial service. I was cleaning my closet this morning. I remembered I had put some of my clothes in Chris' closet the last time my parents visited to create room for their clothes. I hadn't been in his closet in months. We still keep his bedroom door closed after all this time. I thought I was grabbing one of my blouses, but it turned out to be one of his dress shirts...the one he wore to Adam's graduation in 1998. The next thing I saw was his Larry's Foodland sweatshirt...and the tears flowed. The angel reflection for today: Some believe angel wings are made of the prayers of children. Fran Kempa - Friday, July 16, 2004 at 12:41:10 (MDT) Miss you always.. Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, July 16, 2004 at 07:18:07 (MDT) 7/15/04...The art we call DENIRO. Chris drew him as a result of Raging Bull. He never saw the movie but saw a photo in Time or Newsweek and went from there. It's very eerie to me. That's how Chris looked before they cleaned him up at St. Mary's.....only worse. Sometimes I wish they'd waited before they took me to him...I can't get that picture out of my mind. But had they tried to wait, I'd have insisted. The photo was taken on Halloween, 1985. That's Adam as the robot and ironically, Chris as the angel...both FUN to make costumes! Yesterday was a chemo day....three down and only three more to go! I've gained a pound. They are also giving me IV Benadryl before each treatment because I developed a rash some where along the way. The IV form is MUCH stronger than the oral form..it knocks me out. On the way home we were listening to D&D on 97.1 as we usually do. One of their questions for the day was, "Who do you think are the most dangerous drivers in the metro area?" I was very tempted to call and say, "Self proclaimed brain damaged and half blind men like Mr. Wm. M. Schnires." But I didn't...that would be a whole show! The angel reflection for today: It is wonderful that every angel, in whatever direction he turns his body and face, sees the Lord in front of him.....Emanuel Swedenborg. Fran Kempa - Thursday, July 15, 2004 at 10:20:50 (MDT) 7/13/04...The art we call COWS. I'm not sure when Chris drew them...another work we never saw until after Chris was killed. The photo is of Speck the beagle and Charlie the cocker. I'm not exactly sure when it was taken but it had to be before August 9th, last year...the day Charlie died and our 28th wedding anniversary. I have no doubt Charlie is in heaven with Chris! I drove A LOT today...and I noticed some things. Most drivers slow down when approaching a red light...and when it turns green they don't drive through immediatly, they look to the left and right before proceeding......I think that's called SAFE driving. Unlike the driving skills of Mr. Wm. M. Schniers. I was cleaning the window seat in our bedroom today...looking for things for Purple Heart. I found the scrub top Adam F. wore for the birth of Chris...He kept it for a memory. We had NO idea at the time what a bitter sweet memory that was.....it's still stamped, "St. Mary's Hospital." Needless to say it did not get put in the Purple Heart bag. The angel reflection for today: We only live among men, but there are airy hosts, blessed spectators, sympathetic lookers-on, that see and know and appreciate our thoughts and feelings and acts....Henry Ward Beecher. I did NOT appreciate Mr. Wm. M. Schniers acts on 11/20/00 Fran Kempa - Tuesday, July 13, 2004 at 19:52:27 (MDT) 7/12/04.....The "art" is a photo Chris took of himself. I believe it was October, 2000....VERY shortly before he was killed. The photo was taken in 1993. As you can see, the boys were playing volley ball in the side yard with a very large beach ball. That's Chris returning the serve. I saw yet another commercial on TV today that made me think of the boys. I don't even remember what it was for...but a lady had a wish bone and it sent bitter sweet memories through my head. Every time I cooked a turkey, I dried the wish bone and let the boys fight over it. The one who won got to break the wish bone...comical, cherished memories. The angel reflection for today: Divine intervention in the form of angelic encounters can turn even the hardest of hearts into believers. Perhaps nothing warms up a cold heart like being wrapped in a pair of loving wings. Fran Kempa - Monday, July 12, 2004 at 20:20:50 (MDT) 7/11/04...The art we call CIGAR. One of Chris' paintings. That was not his best media but he liked to paint as my mother does. The photo was taken in 1993. Adam and Chris enjoying the pool. Claudia and I spent a very fun night at a friend's house last night. Great friends, great food and hot tubbing! I SO want to rip the pool out and put a hot tub on the deck!....We'll see. The angel reflection for today: With clean hands and a pure heart, may I be worthy to do the work of angels. Chris had the biggest heart of almost anyone I know. Fran Kempa - Sunday, July 11, 2004 at 14:22:25 (MDT) We opened the pool last week, after having it closed for years. Silent echos of laughter and fun. Both Adam and Chris loved the water. Chris would go in even if it very cold... and he would stay in until he was almost blue or his mother made him get out. For this reason we called him our "fish". I really don't expect to get much use out of the pool. I just wanted the pool opened one more time before we took it down... Dad <<<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, July 11, 2004 at 12:55:20 (MDT) Get a fast mortgage quote mortgage <mortgage> NO, al us - Sunday, July 11, 2004 at 09:49:19 (MDT) 7/9/04....The art is a whimsical drawing Chris did of one of his best friends, Caleb Deady. It is another drawing we never saw until way after Chris was killed. Caleb found it about 2 years ago while cleaning his room and he was kind enough to share it with us. I have no idea when Chris drew him. The photo was taken at the cottage in Port Huron in August of 1996, I THINK. I could be wrong. I HATED when Adam and Chris had long hair. I never said anything to them about it when they were young...I felt they were some how expressing themselves...and ANYTHING Adam did, Chris wanted to do. He LOVED his big brother and Adam loved him. Since Adam has gotten older, I ALWAYS tell him if his hair is too long....Chris never had the chance for hair nagging. A very HAPPY birthday to Bill Deady, Caleb's dad. The angel reflection for today: Angels are the symbols of the profound made simple. Angels are the vessels of the divine made human...I KNOW Chris was and is, an angel. Fran Kempa - Friday, July 09, 2004 at 18:45:12 (MDT) 7/8/04...The art is a small drawing Chris did on one of his school papers. It's rather eerie to me...that's exactly what killed him, head and lung injuries after Mr. Wm. M. schnires hit him. From what I understand, he died soon after. The photo was taken in June, 1984. That's Adam W. and me looking through the nursery window at his new brother. I remember asking him at the time, "What do you think?" He replied positively after he saw him...but he wanted a girl! There's another commercial on TV that really hits home. It's for a local attorney and shows a mother who lost a son at age 2. She expresses the EXACT same things I think....What would his prom and graduation have been like? His first girlfriend....what would he be like, what would he be. Questions we'll never have the answer to. The angel reflection for today: With gentle wings embrace me in love; be my protector, o angel above. I've asked Adam to remove the nonsence from the guestbook. Fran Kempa - Thursday, July 08, 2004 at 19:43:06 (MDT) 7/7/04...The art we obviously call BANG. It is yet another drawing we never saw until after Chris was killed. I'm not sure under what circumstances he drew it. The photo was taken in August 2002 at Rob and Jamie Byrd's wedding. It was the first "new" family photo we had taken, with the exception of Brad S. with the dark hair in the front. What you can't see on the computer is a light streak across the entire photo. It's the ONLY one in the whole roll that had that streak. I swear it was Chris, wanting to be in the family photo! That picture was taken when I was POUNDS heavier! Today was my second chemo treatment in my LAST round of six.I CAN'T wait! It would be so nice to eat again! I lost another pound this week. They told me today my taste buds most likely will return to normal in 4-6 weeks after chemo. They put me on an appetite stimulate today which I'm familiar with. I thought it will maybe make me hungary but as long as everything tastes like metal I know I won't eat. We were at Larry's Foodland the other night. It was SO cold I had to go back to the car. The sound of skateboards was in the distance. When I looked over, there was a boy who looked JUST like Chris in the distance...even his clothes reminded me of him..khakis and a red T shirt. I couldn't look long...bitter sweet memories. The angel reflection for today: Around the throne of God a band of glorious angels always stand...James Neale Fran Kempa - Wednesday, July 07, 2004 at 19:06:59 (MDT) Fran - Thursday, July 08, 2004 at 15:26:32 (MDT) You website is very good! mp3 downloads - Thursday, July 08, 2004 at 14:11:34 (MDT) 7/7/04...The art we obviously call BANG. It is yet another drawing we never saw until after Chris was killed. I'm not sure under what circumstances he drew it. The photo was taken in August 2002 at Rob and Jamie Byrd's wedding. It was the first "new" family photo we had taken, with the exception of Brad S. with the dark hair in the front. What you can't see on the computer is a light streak across the entire photo. It's the ONLY one in the whole roll that had that streak. I swear it was Chris, wanting to be in the family photo! That picture was taken when I was POUNDS heavier! Today was my second chemo treatment in my LAST round of six.I CAN'T wait! It would be so nice to eat again! I lost another pound this week. They told me today my taste buds most likely will return to normal in 4-6 weeks after chemo. They put me on an appetite stimulate today which I'm familiar with. I thought it will maybe make me hungary but as long as everything tastes like metal I know I won't eat. We were at Larry's Foodland the other night. It was SO cold I had to go back to the car. The sound of skateboards was in the distance. When I looked over, there was a boy who looked JUST like Chris in the distance...even his clothes reminded me of him..khakis and a red T shirt. I couldn't look long...bitter sweet memories. The angel reflection for today: Around the throne of God a band of glorious angels always stand...James Neale Fran Kempa - Wednesday, July 07, 2004 at 19:06:59 (MDT) 7/6/04....The art is the Abe Lincoln Chris drew in kindergarten. The photo was taken on the first day of kindergarten. Chris is wearing the same outfit Adam W. wore on his first day of kindergarten! There is an ad on TV for I believe Edward Jones Investments. The lyrics of the ad just break my heart. "My life, my world, it all begins with a dream." We had SO many dreams for our kids...Chris had many of his own dreams and they were all dashed. It also makes me wonder, when I see ads for animated movies like Shreck 2 or Father of the Pride. I wonder if maybe by now he might have had an internship at Disney! I MISS HIM!! The angel reflection for today: Grace comes into our lives when we surrender our stubborn wills and allow our angels to do for us what we cannot do for ourselves. If he has one, I HOPE Mr. Wm. Michael Schnires is improving his driving through his angel. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, July 06, 2004 at 20:24:23 (MDT) 7/5/04...The art is a drawing of a Ninja Turtle Chris did in 1987 when he was three. The photo was also taken in 1987 during his baseball craze. We are adjusting to our empty nest situation. I think I was so sad because I was equating Adam's absence with Chris'. I had a horrible feeling as though I'd never see him again. We saw him last night and he said he'd be back Mon., Tues., Wed. and Thurs.! Most of the reason for his attentiveness is all the band equipment is still here and they have two shows coming up! But with each day I'm coming to terms with it....I'll NEVER come to terms with Chris' absence! The angel reflection for today: Be still; there are unseen angels around you each day. Fran Kempa - Monday, July 05, 2004 at 16:33:38 (MDT) 7/4/04...The art is some kind of bird Chris drew in 1987 when he was three. The photo was taken on 6/10/87, his third birthday. He was SO proud of his Superman outfit. Happy Fourth!...not. We used to have such a celebration on this day complete with MANY fireworks...that hasn't happened since the summer of 2000, Chris' last summer. The two of us were sitting around, looking at each other so I decided to do the web page. We went to the cemetary and watered the plant, then went to get Adam some basics for his new home. He should be back sometime tonight for another load...he still has A LOT of things to take! The angel reflection for today: Angels descending, bringing from above, echoes of mercy, whispers of love....Fanny J. Crosby Fran Kempa - Sunday, July 04, 2004 at 15:10:27 (MDT) Giving our children wings is what we must do...it is AWFUL though that Chris has real wings...too darn early. Good luck to Adam W. May he find happiness and excitement in his new adventure. The empty nest is something that will hopefully be a postive experience for you someday Fran and Adam. I know Chris wants you two to rekindle your relationship and rediscover each other. Out prayers are with you always. Much love..and see you soon!! :)) JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 22:10:11 (MDT) Thinking of You Fran. Empty Nest is tough for awhile, doubly tough for You because it should not have been your Empty Nest Syndrome yet. Adam is doing as should be and Mr. Schniers did something that he shouldn't have. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 20:41:58 (MDT) 7/3/04...The web page is replaying last month's front page. Adam has been SO busy with work and moving, he hasn't had time. The drawing Chris did when he was two. He wanted one of Adam W.'s handheld video games so he made one. The photo was taken June 10th 1986, Chris' second birthday. It's very strange to look at my boy's bedrooms now. One is empty ...that belongs to my boy who is ALIVE...and one is full.... That one belongs to my son who is dead. Funny, it seems it should be different. It will CERTAINLY be different around here. The silence was deafening when Chris was killed...He had the most spunk of any of the other three of us....but it will be even worse now. But as I said to Adam F. last night as we were both crying, "That's what kids are for...you raise them right and let them go." I think it will be a huge growing experience for him. I NEVER dreamed Chris would go in the manner he did....I thought we'd have him here for a few more years. The angel reflection for today: When we recognize the spark of the divine within ourselves, we touch the wings of angels and our spirits take flight. Fran Kempa - Saturday, July 03, 2004 at 13:17:00 (MDT) 7/2/04...The art is a drawing ..with a note on the back, Chris did for Ms. Hillman in the early part of Junior year. He had just started her Radio and TV class. The photo was taken June 10th, 1985 Chris' first birthday. We have experienced SO many changes in three and a half years! More than any couple I know. Mr. Schnires changed our lives drasticly! He killed Chris, I have cancer, which the Doctors agreed was most likely related to the stress of losing Chris, I was in a coma for two weeks and now Adam is moving out...as it should be. But Chris would STILL be home if not for Mr. Schnires. I must adjust to empty nesting. The angel reflection for today: Sleep my child, and peace attend thee all through the night; Guardian angels God will send thee all through the night....Sir Harold Boulton Peter, Paul and Mary had a song containing these lines. I used to play it for the boys. Fran Kempa - Friday, July 02, 2004 at 18:26:37 (MDT) I will be walking one day Down a street far away And see a face in the crowd and smile. Knowing how you made me laugh Hearing sweet echoes of you from the past I will remember you. So many years come and gone And yet the memory is strong One word we never could learn Goodbye True love is frozen in time I'll be your champion and you will be mine I will remember you So please remember XOXO <Song by Amy Grant> - Friday, July 02, 2004 at 13:39:06 (MDT) 7/1/04!!.....Thr art is the painting that John Hicks brought to the funeral home. It still resides over the fireplace in the livingroom..I got some mail today from John..Thank you! The photo was taken 6/10/84. Chris wasn't even a day old. He was born at St. Marys. Adam and I are working on the July web page still...I don't think the barn photos will be finished until August. We went to see the house Adam and his friends rented tonight. It's BEAUTIFUL! We told him he could stay here and we'd move but he didn't take us up on it! Adam got some friends together for Sat. We're going to open the pool!...but there will be no one to swim in it...maybe Speck. The angel reflection for today: Numerous are the angels in heaven.....The Koran. Fran Kempa - Thursday, July 01, 2004 at 19:38:05 (MDT) You were not just my brother, but You were my friend as well. You were supposed to be here always Or til the world came to an end. I know that we argued and Seemed to disagree But I could always count on you To be there for me. You may be gone from this world I see But you will always be a part of me. Donna Montville <TCF Gardner, Ma.> - Thursday, July 01, 2004 at 12:58:10 (MDT) 6/30/04...The art is the Lego mosaic Adam W. made from a third grade picture of Chris. It still remains in our livingroom in loving memory. The photo was taken in Freshman year, fall of 1998. The name of the play escapes me now but Chris had a small part. He was never in another play but from then on he videoed them. Ms. Hillman said that's where his talent lied...he was very visual. Today marks one year since I left work early and didn't know what was wrong with me. The next day I was in the Dr.'s office and given a diagnosis of possible appendicitis. Two days later, I had my surgery and diagnosis of colon cancer. I miss working! I'm hoping come fall, after my sister's wedding, I can return two days a week. Today was a chemo day. I feel good. This is the first round of my LAST six treatments! I can't wait! I still can't eat, everything tastes like metal. Adam W. announced last week that he and two friends had rented a brand new house in Ann Arbor..Chris' dream, to move to Ann Arbor. I told Adam as sad as I'll be, I think it's good for him at 24....I just hope I'll see him on a regular basis. I never thought that would bother me but with in a month, we'll be empty nesters... But that has changed since Chris was killed. He'd still have been home for a few more years. The angel reflection for today: The only way to see an angel is to look with the eyes of the heart. The only way to hear an angel is to listen with the ears of the soul. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 at 19:13:00 (MDT) 6/29/04...The art is obviously a painting of Chris but he didn't do it...It was done after he was killed. A professor at Kendal College in Grand Rapids painted him for us...A perfect stranger, but he was very moved by a presentaton one of Chris' friends did in his honor. The photo was taken by Chris himself in Oct. 2000...just one month before he was killed. He took many pictures of himself the last two months before he died. He has his guitar and keyboard ready to go! A black bracelet with white dots was left at the barn and a blue bobby pin was left at our house. If anyone reads this and is the owner or owners of these items you can E mail me @ Aol's Notfranny. I will be happy to return them. The angel reflection for today: Have you ever wished you could be an angel? You can easily do it: just help someone in need and never tell a soul about it. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 17:12:18 (MDT) Thanks to all the bands for playing (and lugging their gear). Thanks to Brad and Claudia for their help... Thanks to Bill for helping move the stage to and from the event. Thanks to Kathy for the supplies... Thanks to everyone who came to the barn show... It was great to see Chris's friends get together once again. In the days before the show we are very busy geting ready for the event. Even after all these years the days after the show are a crash... As good as it is to see everyone and the kindness of all who help is great ... It is very hard for the first days after. We miss you always Chris... Dad <<<<<<<>>>>>>> - Tuesday, June 29, 2004 at 15:00:58 (MDT) 6/28/04...The "art" is one of Chris' computer generated works. It's interesting to me that he made two parents and two children...just like our family used to be. He used Lego people as examples. The photo was taken in October, 1986. Chris was two. It was taken shortly after his first haircut. I neglected to thank all the kids and parents who attended the Barn Show Saturday....If it weren't for them we'd be sad. It was very hard to see many of Chris' friends partying when we know he's gone. I hope Chris was partying in heaven! Adam had a Chris dream last night...I'm jealous. I hope I have one tonight! The angel reflection for today: Help me learn charity, my angel friend. Awake in my heart the desire to give freely, and let me know the joy that comes from serving others. Fran Kempa - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 18:54:28 (MDT) To My Husband Your tears flow from within your heart, Mine flow down my cheeks. Your anger lies with thoughts and movements, Mine gallops forward for all to see. Your despair shows in your now dull eyes. Mine shows in line after written line. You grieve over the death of our son, I grieve over the death of my baby. But we're still the same, still one, Only we grieve at different times, Over different memories and at different lengths. Yet, we both realize...the death of our child. Pam Burden <TCF Augusta, Georgia> - Monday, June 28, 2004 at 11:03:32 (MDT) 6/27/04...The art we call TIGER. We were lucky enough to see Chris working on him at the Career Center shortly before he was killed. The photo was taken in August 1993 at the cottage in Port Huron. Chris LOVED his Sunkist kayak! If he didn't have it in the lake, he had it in the pool! Last evening we had the Barn Show....My prayers were answered! We had a great turn out! The after party was attended by about 100 kids and everybody had a GREAT time! I think Chris was smiling down on all of us. I want to thank all the bands for their time and talent....they don't get paid, they volunteer! We had 6 bands this year...more than every other year! I also want to thank Brad and Claudia Allen, Kathy Beckett and Bill Deady. All of them have been there for us every year, and I THANK them!! I want to make it clear, we've never gone to college with any bellys or any member of that family. The angel reflection fof today: Reach out to people in need, and one daythey might call you "angel." Fran Kempa - Sunday, June 27, 2004 at 20:00:21 (MDT) 6/25/04....The art we call WIND. It is yet ANOTHER work we never saw until after Chris was killed. My sister Kathy swears he drew me but I'm not so sure. The photo was taken in Sept. 1993, his first day of fourth grade. The last entry I can easily relate to. You can't go through such an experience and be unchanged....I hope Mr. Schniers has changed his driving habits! Very busy with Barn Show preps.....it's TOMORROW! I continue to pray for a good crowd. The angel reflection for today: It takes a lot of courage to change life's itinerary. With quiet help from unseen friends, rewrite your plans and create a new map. Choose a destination that is consistent with the true desires of your inner spirit. Fran Kempa - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 19:28:10 (MDT) No Greater Pain I know you mean well But you do not understand There are no words to explain. Although on the surface I appear to be fine, Remember I buried a child of mine And there is no greater pain. Grief is a taboo in our civilized world, I despise this hideous game, I must smile while going insane. For God's sake, a part of me died, You can't imagine how often I've cried, And there is no greater pain. If I look well, Or laugh at a joke, You think I'm my old self again. I'm raw inside, a shell of me, The woman you knew can no longer be, And there is no greater pain. Look deep in my eyes, Acknowledge my loss, As my heart beats it's hollow refrain. I'm caught in a web of infinate whys, I'll mourn for my son until the rest of me dies. And there is NO greater pain. Madeline Perri Kasden <In Loving Memory of Neill> - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 15:51:28 (MDT) Good luck Saturday at the Barn Show...we will be thinking of you all! I am sure the turnout will be great!!! JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Friday, June 25, 2004 at 06:43:13 (MDT) Barn Show 2004 Saturday, June 26th 5pm - 10pm / $5 Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 23:41:30 (MDT) 6/24/04...We call the art obviously, Yo Yo. It's a whimsical drawing Chris did on one of his school papers. The photo was taken on June 10, 1987. It was Chris' third birthday. You can see how excited both Adam and Chris were. It's funny, they were both excited on each other's birthdays! I saw a commercial today for Sunny D. It SO reminded me of Adam and Chris although in the commercial it appears to be a brother and sister. The boy is so like Chris. He has his finger very close to her in different areas but he keeps saying to her, "I'm not touching you." That was Chris and Adam....all in good fun! TWO days until the Barn Show!! Adam W. and I went shopping this afternoon for the show and the after party.....I PRAY for a good turn out, to remember Chris and to have a good time! The angel reflection for today: May you always walk with the morning star to guide you, the summer sun on your back, and an angel by your side. Fran Kempa - Thursday, June 24, 2004 at 16:30:18 (MDT) 6/23/04...The art we call BLUEFACE. It is another work we never saw until after Chris was killed...it's part of a whole drawing book we never saw...it was at school. Cousin Joan requested and received a copy of BLUEFACE for her graduation from high school. The photo was taken at my parent's former home in Buffalo, N.Y. in 1984. Chris is exhibiting some early reflexes and Adam is there as a doting brother. I went to the cemetary today to water the plant. Two graves beyond Chris' they were burying somebody! I couldn't watch Chris go into the ground so this troubled me. They hoisted the coffin on chains! I got out of there VERY quickly....no petunia pinching today! The barn show is upon us. Both bands Adam W. is in, The Recital and Pop Project have been practicing here and tomorrow he and I will buy the beverages for the show and the after party. The angel reflection for today: Angels are everyday wonders. They are reminders to us that life is not just what we see and touch, what we define and explain. Life is also invisible friends and protectors who stand by us to the end. This reflection gives me more hope and faith that Chris is TRULY an angel. Once again, I PRAY his angel protector friend was with him 11/20/00. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 at 18:20:35 (MDT) Dealing with the loss of a loved one, mainly a child doesn't end with a funeral, it goes on and on and on. Anonomys <USA> - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 15:30:34 (MDT) 6/22/04...My "chemo brain" kicked in again and I forgot to mention the photo. It was taken in 1987 when Chris was three at the Buffalo Marina. We were home for a visit...Chris LOVED it! In the photo he's searching for sea shells and I look cold! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 12:10:44 (MDT) 6/22/04....The art we call POP. It is yet another work we never saw completed until after Chris was killed....we saw the beginning of her but not the finished POP. I think it wound up coming to the funeral home via one of Chris' friends...he had given it to him. She now resides on our mantle above the family room fireplace. The barn show is creeping upon us quickly. Everything is arranged, we just have to pick up many things. The sound system is ordered as the food trays for the after party...just a lot to think about and a lot to set up. The angel reflection for today: He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways....psalm 91:11 Fran Kempa - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 12:05:07 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, June 22, 2004 at 07:57:31 (MDT) 6/21/04...The art we call LADY BOWLER. We knew of this work while it was still in production. Chris left her on the edge of the dining room table for about a week. He would breeze through the house, add a little detail then be gone in a flssh. He finished her though, very well. The photo was taken sometime in 1985. Chris was almost one. Yesterday was a rough day but we got through. We were watching a show the other night....I don't remember the exact show but a couple lost a child and the father says, "What are we supposed to do now....walk around for the rest of our lives with a hole in our hearts?" My audible reply was ,"yes that's the way it seems to go." Or as another mother of a lost child, Ashley Easterbrook, expressed, "It's like walking around with two bricks tied to your heart." If anyone was interested, but HOPEFULLY never experiences it, that's how it feels after time. When it first happens you feel like you were gutted. The angel reflection for today: On a warm summer day, you can see angels dancing overhead upon the sun's shimmering rays. On a balmy summer eve, you can hear angels laughing among the wildflowers as they ready themselves for rest. Fran Kempa - Monday, June 21, 2004 at 11:41:54 (MDT) Barn Show 2004 Saturday, June 26th 5pm - 10pm / $5 Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 23:18:41 (MDT) 6/20/04....The art we call BULB. It is another work we never saw until after Chris was killed. Mr. Rheault just kept bringing works to the funeral home....we were awed! The photo was taken Memorial Day, 1985. Chris was almost 1 and Adam was 5. I LOVED being a mother to small children as I still love being a mother today...But it's not the same. I can't scoop Adam ...or Chris and squeeze them and kiss them...it's not the same! Adam is an adult now as Chris would have been had he lived. Happy Father's day to all the fathers of living or dead children...We're still Chris and Adam's parents....only still, very sadened. The angel reflection for today: I thank you God. I do not deserve anything. I am unworthy of the least regard; and yet, I am made to rejoice. I am impure and worthless, and yet my world is gilded for my delight and holidays are prepared for me and my path is strewn with flowers.....Henry David Thoreau. Fran Kempa - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 19:47:17 (MDT) Happy Father's Day from Chris!: My Dad I met him several years ago The first face I ever knew A bond was formed right there and then Our love was new and true He taught me how to ride my bike He taught me how to play But best of all he taught me how To love him every day His face is warm and gentle His eyes are sad and blue His heart is full of kindness One of the kindest man I knew He has his little sayings That make you laugh and smile He picks you up when you are down And makes troubles fade awhile. HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!! I love you! XOXO - Sunday, June 20, 2004 at 12:58:40 (MDT) Father's day both a happy and hard day for me. I'm happy for what I have, a wonder, smart son who has always had his own direction. I'm happy for a wonderful wife, who still puts up with me. All of us are sad and miss Chris on this holiday as we do on all holidays... Dad <<<<<<<>>>>>>> - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 22:25:13 (MDT) 6/19/04.....The art obviously is Captin America. I honestly don't remember if we saw this before Chris was killed or after. I believe he drew him shortly before he was killed. The photo was taken when Chris was 9 months old. I remember my sister and mother were visiting at the time. One week until the Barn Show! I hope we have MANY participants..if not, we'll reconsider next year. The angel reflection for today: Angels fill our days with love and light and watch over us as we sleep at night. Fran Kempa - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 11:24:05 (MDT) i have no comments rosemarie mahilum <maly@yahoo.com> kidapawan city, philippines - Saturday, June 19, 2004 at 02:07:52 (MDT) Barn Show 2004 Saturday, June 26th 5pm - 10pm / $5 Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 22:20:22 (MDT) 6/18/04...The art is the eagle Chris drew for the cover of the program for Emerson's recognition night, 1997. He was in seventh grade. If you look closely, you'll see he signed his work above the eagle. The photo was taken in 1984. That's Chris and cousin Joan napping! They both have their passies. We went to visit my sister and family when they lived in Pennsylvania at that time...They now live in North Carolia. There was another report of a man arrested for driving drunk in the MORNING! Once again, proving the Livonia PD WRONG! I've said it before and I'll say it again, the police NEVER did a blood drug and alcahol test on Mr. Schniers that morning...they didn't so much as smell his breath. I'm not saying he was or wasn't drunk, but considering his health status,in my opinion, I'm sure he was on more perscription meds than he claimed in depositions. My goal is to get healthy then crusade for new laws, regarding that testing in the event of serious injury or death accidents...also driving half blind with no driver retraining. Mr. Schniers may be made an example. The angel reflection for today: There are times when we are sure we are alone, until we feel something warm and tender touch our heart. Then we know an angel is near. Fran Kempa - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 15:34:40 (MDT) The Barn Show is sneaking up on us! Barn Show 2004 Saturday, June 26th 5pm - 10pm / $5 All Ages Welcome Thunderbirds are Now! The Pop Project! The Recital! El Boxeo! Javelins! The Pizazz! Barn Show 2004 Dad <<<<<<<>>>>>>> - Friday, June 18, 2004 at 15:09:27 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 21:49:18 (MDT) One thing I've learned from this job, anything can happen to anybody Anon. <from tv's CSI> - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 19:23:57 (MDT) 6/17/04...I forgot to address the photo. Memory loss in my case is called,"Chemo Brain." It's a true side effect as evidenced by a recent article in R.N. magazine. Chris took his own picture..this one in Sept. 2000. It was taken at his LAST Homecoming just two months before he was killed. He was 16 and that's where Mr. Schnires ended him! Fran Kempa - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 17:15:01 (MDT) 6/17/o4....The art is Edward Scissor hands.....I consider this Chris' masterpiece. Chris drew him shortly before he was killed. He drew him on his bedroom floor in ink. I remember vividly Chris calling me into his room, "Mom, you have to see this!, I made it for Adam!" I said, "Oh my God Chris, he looks real!" He replied, "I know!" He would often call me into his room, or the computer room to see his most recent works.....I MISS that! I remember one day he used the computer to make a butterfly, then used the video camera to record the constructed butterfly landing on his hand! I asdked Adam,"How'd he do that!?" Adam replied he had NO idea! Unfortunatly, Chris either taped over his stuff or deleted them. I was aware of this but I never stopped him. I figured over the years, his works would get better and better...I had NO idea he would meet up with a half blind, self proclaimed brain damaged Mr. Wm. M. Schniers and his truck! Adam W. and I went Father's Day shopping this evening. As I said to him while he was driving, "I miss Chris every day but it's days like holidays or special occasions,that I miss him the most. The angel reflection for today: Help me God to see the way, the way to a better place. And send your angels, when I reach out my hand to lead me there. I'm still waiting for my angel! Fran Kempa - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 17:05:16 (MDT) You can also check the pages in the field of weight loss free online casino game black jack online phentermine cod hotel intercontinental casinos weight loss order viagra online texas holdem strategy texas holdem strategy texas holdem odds canada online pharmacy order phentermine online online poker tournament casino hotels game poker dan gamble rv buy lipitor internet casino playing craps - Tons of interesdting stuff!!! roulette table <azaddin6866@work.com> - Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 15:07:40 (MDT) 6/16/04....The aet is a pencil on paper drawing we simply call BIKE. It's one of Chris' best..that was his BEST format, pencil on paper. The photo was taken at the end of Sophmore year in the Franklin art room. That's Chris working hard on his Weezer self portrait. He was fifteen..a month or so before he began his last year. There's a commercial playing now for Radio Shack. The Radio Shack guy, a former football player answers his phone and says something like,"It's my son." Then he says, "Chris, I can't talk now, I'm busy." I would never say that to either one of my sons. I love them both dearly and would be honored by a call from Adam and in the past, from Chris. The angel reflection for today: The moment we are born, an angel is assigned to walk along life's roads and make sure we never get lost. I pray Chris' angel was walking with him on 11/20/00 and scooped him up to heaven. I PRAY he's with God and the angels now......But he's lost to me! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 at 17:41:10 (MDT) We miss both of you... Dad <<<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 22:45:41 (MDT) I wish we could be with you on June 26th for the barn show again....unfortunately, we will be remembering my wonderful Mother on that day...year one..the anniversary of her death! Chris, please visit her on that day so she is not alone. We will all be together here on earth. Adam, Fran and Adam, good luck with the Barn Show this year...I hope you raise lots of money for the next art scholarship in Chris's name. JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 20:35:09 (MDT) Why that is less than $1.00 per band! What a deal for u. ZeekGeek <Deals.foru.org> - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 16:09:15 (MDT) P.s......Remember The Barn Show, Sat. June 26th @ 5:00, music....SIX bands at 5:30. All procedes go to The Chris Kempa Memorial Art Scholarship at Franklin High. Pop and pizza available for a small price. Band buttons, stickers, and T shirts also available for a small price! Admission price, $5.00. Please come and remember Chris!! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 15:49:30 (MDT) 6/15/04....The art is one of the many hearts Chris drew. I don't know why he drew the broken heart....maybe a girl or an omen. The photo was taken in Oct, 1998. Chris was fourteen and on his way to his first Homecoming with Michele....we were ALL very excited! I saw the Oncologist today. I've gained 1lb during my chemo break! No chemo til the 30th and this is my LAST round, six more treatments...August 4th and I'll be DONE!! Hopefully I'll be able to regain my strength for my sister's wedding! The angel reflection for today: The powerful Archangels watch over the earth, supervising their armies of loving winged soldiers Fran Kempa - Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 15:12:54 (MDT) The Barn Show is sneaking up on us! Barn Show 2004 Saturday, June 26th 5pm - 10pm / $5 All Ages Welcome Thunderbirds are Now! The Pop Project! The Recital! El Boxeo! Javelins! The Pizazz! Barn Show 2004 Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 22:19:04 (MDT) 6/14/04....I forgot to mention the EYE in Chris' drawing. Fran Kempa - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 16:11:21 (MDT) 6/14/04...The art is a snipit of a comic book Chris illustrated and wrote the story. It was called Hmmmm....the story was about an alien type creature who lived on a dollar bill! The photo was taken in October, 1997, Chris was 13. It was taken while we were in Florida. Chris was playing pool with his brother Adam. More evidence of graduation parties from Franklin which equals more depression for me! Some of the graduates were on the front page of Sunday's Observer. The angel reflection for today: Thank Goodness for angels and children; they have SO much in common. Both are pure in heart and have boundless ability to love. I always considered my children angels even when they were devils! Now Chris is a real angel. Fran Kempa - Monday, June 14, 2004 at 16:09:50 (MDT) 6/13/04...The art is a whimsical drawing Chris did but I'm not sure when. The photo was taken in August 1996 at the cottage in Port Huron. Chris was 12. Only four more years....I wish I'd known. Another LAZY day today. The angel reflection for today: Therefore with Angels and Archangels, and with all the company of heaven, we laud and magnify thy glorious Name; evermore praising thee....The Book of Common Prayer Fran Kempa - Sunday, June 13, 2004 at 10:42:34 (MDT) 6/12/04....The art was the cover for a report Chris did the end of fifth grade 1995...he was 11. The photo is from August, 1995 as we were leaving the cottage to go home. I went to Larry's Foodland with Adam F. today for the first time in months. Adam W. and Chris both worked there but not at the same time. Adam had moved on to Barnes and Noble by the time Chris was old enough for a job....it brought back memories. On the way home we saw evidence of a few Franklin graduation parties...something we did for Adam but were robbed of Chris'. The angel reflection for today: Muddy pools start with soft summer showers. Thorns lie hidden among the sweet flowers. If there are stones in your road and raindrops on your parade, hang on and hope- that's why angels were made. I'm hanging on but I'm not sure how much hope I have. Fran Kempa - Saturday, June 12, 2004 at 16:24:02 (MDT) 6/11/04.....The art was done in 1994. Chris was ten, a whimsical drawing of Looney Tunes I think. The photo was taken at St.Mikes I think, Chris was ten. The boys used to go there for skateboarding and basketball...not only for religion! I watched part of the Regan funeral but it was hard....brought back BAD memories of Chris' funeral although I thought Chris' was a beautiful tribute to a fine YOUNG man. He should have been 20 + one day...he'd STILL be reveling in it! Congratulations to the 2004 Franklin grads...Same thing happened in 1998 when Adam graduated, Graduation and Chris' birthday! The angel reflection for today: Angel, guide my heart and hands to reach beyond myself this day. Fran Kempa - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 12:18:02 (MDT) Hey, just stopped by to check out the site. I really look forward to participating this year's barn show. I also am looking forward to seeing The Recital who I am a fan of plus I've heard that the T-Birds are interesting performers as well. Michael Severance <sev12@yahoo.com> - Friday, June 11, 2004 at 00:10:53 (MDT) Happy Birthday Chris... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 22:00:46 (MDT) Well, leave it to you, Chris, to give a gift on your own birthday. Dan and I cannot thank you enough for all the help you've given us with the house !! And today, we found it's passed inspection, and all systems go for our closing !!! I knew when Dan & I looked at it that you & Gramma Ruth were telling us that the house was for us. Thank you, thank you, thank you. What would I ever do without your help ??? Gosh, thank you so much for pointing me in the right direction for all those musical choices for the wedding !!! I'm glad for each and every day when I talk with you !! Most especially, I'm glad that I have the honor of being an Aunt to such a wonderful Nephew. I admit, I'm scared every time I think of walking down that aisle in October. But, I know Bill will be on one side of me & you'll be walking with me on the other, so I'll have you both to lean on !! Don't forget the date !! October 16th !! And, by the way, the next time you're jamming with John & George, tell them your Aunt is having one of their songs at her wedding ceremony & her first dance with your ( soon to be ) Uncle at their reception !!! I hope you had a great time on your birthday today !!! That must have been some party !! I'm wondering ..... did you sit Gramma Ruth next to Elvis again this year ?? Well, give her an extra special hug from me please, and tell her how grateful Dan & I are to her too. Much love & many, many hugs from your kooky Aunt Molly P.S. - Dan & I are planning on getting a puppy when we come back from our honeymoon, so be thinking of what kind we should get ..... any suggestion will be most appreciated !!! Maybe some ideas will come to you when you're walking Charlie, Jiggs & Zena ! Hope their leashes don't get all tangled : ) Aunt Molly <MEVaughan@AOL.com> - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 21:13:19 (MDT) Happy Birthday Chris!! A couple of wonderful people joining you this week in the Heavens. President Reagan and Ray Charles. I know you loved music and Ray Charles surely brought much to the table in that department. Also, a Happy Graduation to all 2004 Franklin Graduates tonight! mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 20:08:41 (MDT) You SHOULD be planning a party today, not a trip yo the cemetary!! Mary Saia <Westland> - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 12:08:41 (MDT) 6/10/04...The art was done in early fourth grade, right before Chris' avid interest in street hockey. Chris was nine. The photo was taken at the end of thirrd grade, right after Chris turned nine. I LOVE this picture, it was taken by his teacher at the time, Ms. Copeland. It's also the photo that inspired Adam W.'s lego mosaic. A VERY Happy Birthday to my angel son Chris!! He SHOULD be 20 today! He'll always be 16 to me, but I can't help wondering what he'd be today. I know he'd be handsome like his brother, more adept at art and computer animation and just finishing his second year at CCS. The summer would be full of Chris inspired ideas. He should have loved Garfield the movie...he loved Garfield. Part of the reason he'd go to see it would have been to check out the animation. Maybe he'd have an internship somewhere like cousin Joan....but we'll NEVER know. I was watching some of the Regan coverage yesterday. You could see the grief on Mrs. Regan's face....still in shock. I was MUCH worse, then Chris was 16, not 93. Later on the noon news, they quoted part of the eulogy for a fallen police officer who was in his 30's......."We'll never understand why you were taken so soon, but you will NEVER be forgotten." That's exactly how I feel about Chris, as long as I live, he'll never be forgotten. One reason for this web site. Today we'll go to the cemetary and the memorial to put out birthday balloons, but no 21 candles this year,.....we always put an extra candle on the cake... "One to grow on." my mother always said. But most unfortunatly, there will be no more growing for Chris on earth. The angel reflection for today: Good night, sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest!.....William Shakespare To me, having this passage on Chris' birthday is very eerie.....When they were closing Chris' coffin, I said, "Goodnight sweet prince, I love you,.... I still do. Happy Birthday again my sweet prince! I know you're doing a wonderful job in heaven and for all of us on earth. Fran Kempa - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 10:32:03 (MDT) Happy Birthday to Christopher from his Aunt, Uncle and cousin. We think of you each and every day Chris!!! Jo, Bill and Billy <xxx> - Thursday, June 10, 2004 at 04:22:55 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 22:57:36 (MDT) 6/8/04.....The art I believe Chris did in Dec.,1992 when he was still seven. The photo was taken at the cottage in August, 1992. Chris turned eight two months prior. The #4 advanced life support truck was in front of our house for about two hours tonight. I told Adam the neighbors most likely figured I'd taken another turn for the worst but it proved to be a power line down. This afternoon I saw a commercial...I can't remember what for but I remember what was said,"The hardest part about growing up is learning how to let go." At almost 50, I guess I haven't grown up yet. The angel reflection for today: Make yourself familiar with the angels, and behold them frequently in spirit; for without being seen, they are present with you......Saint Francis de Sales Fran Kepa - Tuesday, June 08, 2004 at 19:40:33 (MDT) 6/7/04.....The art I'm not sure when it was done but I know it wasn't when Chris was six. I believe it was a whimsical sketch done much later. The photo is of cousin Joan, Aunt Molly, my sister who's getting married this October and Chris when he was six. We were all gathered at my parent's housr to celeberate Bill's 75th BD. A VERY Happy Birthday to my sister Kathy!!...Just three days before Chris SHOULD be 20!! She's enroute to Buffalo from North Carolina right now! They must be near by now. Cousin Joan was granted an internship at The Albright Knox Art Gallery in Buffalo for the summer....I bet Chris is jealous! The angel reflection for today: Through prayer, our heart's desires are made known to the angels, who place our hopes and dreams before our loving and giving Father. Fran Kempa - Monday, June 07, 2004 at 18:49:00 (MDT) 6/6/04...The art is the picture Chris drew for President's Day, February, 1989. He was in kindergarten. I'll never forget how his teacher at the time, Mrs. Stromberg, RAVED about his talent! She came to the funeral home 11/22/00 and told me she STILL has the original! The photo was taken in Sept.,1988. Chris was still four. It was the first day of Kindergarten and he was EXCITED!! I have absolutly NO energy today. I had things to do, but very few will get done. The angel reflection for today: Blessed are the pure in heart for they will see GOD....Matthew 5:8. Chris had one of the biggest hearts of anyone I know...I hope he hangs out with God now! Fran Kempa - Sunday, June 06, 2004 at 12:44:54 (MDT) 6/5/04....The art obviously is a Teenage Mutant Ninga Turtle....I'm not sure which one. It appears as if he's holding a vidoo camera but I'm not sure. Chris drew him when he was four. The photo was taken in 1988. He was very into baseball at the time....I don't know why. Barn Show preparations are moving swiftly along! I HOPE I can make this year' s! Today is The Rosedale Gardens sub annual garage sale. Chris attended every one after he reached about age 10. He and Caleb used to go together on bikes and or skateboards.....He LOVED it! He attended the 2000 sale and purchased an old metal Bazooka bubble gum lunch box...he kept his paints in it....they're still there. The angel reflection for todat: Angels are found....in the stars, sun and moon, in the deep blue sea ,and the wide open plains, in puppies and ponies and kittens and birds, in rainbows and flowers, in soft kisses and comforting hugs.........and at West Chicago and Merriman roads! when he was four. Fran Kempa - Saturday, June 05, 2004 at 11:06:44 (MDT) Another Barn Show! Woo Hoo! =w= <=> - Friday, June 04, 2004 at 22:12:23 (MDT) 6/4/04....The art is either a dog or a duck, drawen by Chris at age three.....I wish he was here today to ask him but I bet even he wouldn't remember! The photo was taken June 10th, 1987, Chris' third birthday. As you can see by his face and hands, he was VERY excited and proud. It was his first official kid BD party! He INSISTED on wearing his Superman outfit! *I'm VERY tired today. The angel reflection for today: A visit from your angel is like a hug from God.......I WISH my angel would visit me. Fran Kempa - Friday, June 04, 2004 at 15:52:20 (MDT) 6/3//04.......Yestreday's art was a whimsical picture Chris drew for Ms. Hillman in I believe November,2000 during the play. He also wrote about what he wanted to be in the future on the back. Yesterday's photo was taken on Chris' first BD, June 10th, 1985. We had SO much fun!! Today's art is a drawing Chris did at two years old! Adam W. was into hand held video games that he wisely did not share with his little brother....so Chris made his own. The photo was taken on Chris' second BD. June 10th, 1986. ....He was such a doll boy! Yesterday was a chemo day so I was wiped out! I only lost 2lbs this time! I thought that was pretty good after a 5 day hospital stay on a liquid diet. Today I'm going to Franklin to drop off fliers to Ms. Hillman and Mr. Rheault for distribution around the school for the Barn Show June 26th. SIX bands this year for $5! This evening I'm going to the bridal store to get my dress for my sister's wedding in Oct. I asked Claudia to accompany me and she agreed....FUN! The angel reflection for today: Every hour of the light and dark is a miracle, every cubic inch of space is a miracle.....Walt Whitman. Fran Kempa - Thursday, June 03, 2004 at 10:06:19 (MDT) 6/1/04...The art is the painting John Hicks did for us and brought to the funeral home 11/23/00. It sat beside Chris' coffin until burial. It lived on to become the icon for Chriskempa.com. It has a permanent home above our fireplace in the livingroom. The photo was taken 6/10/84 shortly after birth. In this month of Chris' birth, we intend to put up a new picture every day to depict Chris life.....from birth to death. Tomorrow is a chemo day. My fatigue level is about a 10. Someone I used to work with pronounced it fatigwa. I always thought that was so funny! The angel reflection for today: Angels speak to all of us; some people are just listening better than others......I guess the nuns were right, I'm a bad listener! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, June 01, 2004 at 19:52:02 (MDT) Phentermine online Phentermine <Phentermine> London, Arkansas Argentina - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 17:18:39 (MDT) 5/31/04......The art is the Lego mosaic Adam made in loving memory of his brother. It still resides in front of our fireplace in the livingroom. It was constructed from a picture taken by Chris' third grade teacher at Greenmead. Hundreds of Legos were used and it's HEAVY! Adam did a BEAUTIFUL job!....He's still working on his bottle cap mosaic. The photo was taken in November, Freshman year, 1998. Chris is the boy in the blue tie gesturing with his left hand. It was taken during the actual play or during rehersals. Memorial Day, the day we remember our dead.....mostly fallen soldiers, but we remember Chris. We went to the cemetary and brought a ONE hook shepherds hook and revived the plant.....No pool opening or family picnic.....they don't happen anymore. The angel reflection for today: We most act like angels when we do unto others, even those who have hurt us, just as Christ taught us. I guess I'm not angelic....I wonder if Mr. Schniers would like us to do unto others...... m Fran Kempa - Monday, May 31, 2004 at 15:57:10 (MDT) 5/30/04....The art and the photo are the same as yesterday. Today was/is a lazy,lazy day. The day we used to open the pool. We WILL open it this year but not for a few weeks. It's too cool and wet! We intended to go to the cemetary and replace the hook and plant that the CEMETARY removed but the rain came so it will have to be tomorrow. We had placed a two prong hook and two plants as we have done for years now...they've changed the rules. One prong and one plant per grave. So rather than making a one minute phone call, they just removed the hook and one plant!....and no one knows where they are. They were kind enough to leave one plant on Chris' grave marker. We discovered this Tues. on our way home from the hospital. Needless to say I was not in a fighting mood that day....but Tues. they WILL get a call or better yet, a personal visit! The angel reflection for today: Life's mortal experience is all about growing- Growing up and growing old. May you age gracefully and mature gratefully. May you grow in ageless wisdom and endless love.......How ironic. Fran Kempa - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 17:04:36 (MDT) We all miss you chris..... always always always ... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, May 30, 2004 at 01:24:35 (MDT) 5/29/04.....The art was done sometime in highschool. Once again, we never saw this piece until long after Chris was killed. It was found in the art room several months later. The photo was taken on Adam's graduation night, June 10th 1998. It was also Chris' 14th birthday! The angel reflection for today: They lead us away from temptation, they shield us from all evils. They hold back the storms that threaten to destroy us. They stand before demons and fight on our behalf. They are spiritual warriors in halos and wings. I wish Chris' guardian angel stood before his demon and fought on his behalf on 11/20/00. Fran Kempa - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 20:15:47 (MDT) Sending continued thoughts and prayers. mcs <mopcopsop@yahoo.com> - Saturday, May 29, 2004 at 07:04:16 (MDT) 5/28/04......The art and photo are the same as yesterday. Next month on the 10th, Chris SHOULD have been 20!! I would have loved to see him, so grown and mature. Daily on the web page.....at least until the 17th, I intend to put up photos from birth to death. I can't believe we both should have been so old! I often wonder where he would be with his art...he should be finishing his second year at CCS. This summer I imagine he'd be taking more classes there or volunteering there....he would have LOVED that!! I met with the Oncologist today. They've decided to lower my dose which I'm thankful for. The angel reflection for today: Because you care for me, you help me to hear and see, not words that are hurtful, nor sights that are harmful; only truths that will set my spirit free. While I DO believe in angels, I question this passage. I saw MANY harmful sights in the ER 11/20/00......sights that STILL and forever will haunt me. Fran Kempa - Friday, May 28, 2004 at 18:58:27 (MDT) 5/27/04.....The art we call LENNON. Chris drew him summer of 2000. His drawing was exhibited at CCS that summer. He and we were all very excited and proud! Adam F. and I went there with him one weekend to see it. I was amazed how comfortable he was on campus and knew his way around. He had taken several summer classes there for a few years. That was one of his MANY dream goals...to go to CCS with John and Lauren. Notice, John's left eye is dark....no brightness like the right one. The photo is another taken just three months almost to the day before Chris was killed. That's Grandma Kempa in front, who died one week after this photo was taken, Adam's sister Mary behind her, and from left, Adam, Adam, me and Chris. I'm holding on to him in this picture as well. Congratulations to Joshua Stump the 2004 recipient of the Chris Kempa Memorial Scholarship!! There were four applicants and ALL were VERY talented! We chose Josh because his style was SO much like Chris'...one of his pencil on paper drawings gave me chills! Happy Birthday to my brother Bill!! I'm not sure how old he is ....once you near 50, it's easy to forget! The Wilson Barn Show plans continue to progress for June 26th at 5:00. Six local bands for $5.00. All proceeds go to the Scholarship fund. The angel reflection for today: Life ceases to be such a struggle when you realize you never have to go it alone, for there is always a heavenly angel at your service to keep you company along the way. Fran Kempa - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 18:29:08 (MDT) Mrs Kempa, my prayers and well-wishes are with you. Get well soon. joe.cwik - Thursday, May 27, 2004 at 13:27:02 (MDT) 5/26/04.......The art we call HOCKEY. Chris drew him sometime in highschool. The photo was taken in 1992, shortly after we moved into our "new" old house. Both Adam and Chris love and loved our house. When Chris was younger he would always say, "I'm ALWAYS going to live here mom." And I would tell him at some point he'd leave or we'd have to sell it. He would reply, "Then I'll buy it from you!" As Chris grew he'd made alternative plans....to live in Ann Arbor with Cori. I wound up back in the hospital Friday....low blood counts and a temp of 101.9. Adam called the Oncologist and I was taken to the nearest ER....St. Mary's. It was very strange to be there...the same ER Chris was pronounced DOA in. I figured they'd do what they've always done...give me a liter of fluid and send me home. WRONG! I was admitted and given IV antibiotics. I was discharged yesterday. The only positive thing to come out of this is chemo was cancelled for today! I had an elderly man and an elderly woman across the hall from me...he was a night SCREAMER. One of the CNA's was named Christina and one night for over an hour he SCREAMED, "Chris, Chris" over and over...that really haunted me. The elderly lady was a day SCREAMER so as a result, I'm tired. The Chris Kempa Memorial Art Scholarship will be given out tonight. This will be the first year I havent attended and I feel badly, but I'm not strong enough yet. Adam F. will represent our family. The angel reflection for today: Angels help lead us out of our own darkness and into God's light. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 16:01:20 (MDT) Godspeed Franny....love you and thinking of you always! JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 at 08:05:24 (MDT) It has been a busy stange few days... Mrs. Kempa was ill... The storms left us without our internet hook up so this is my first chance to update the page. The photo is of the boys, Chris and Adam on our front porch. Happy smiles and better times, both now gone. The art work is of a hocky player. Even here note the left eye is smaller than the right... The stars are God's eyes, all night long they watch... They are there in the daytime too, just obscured by the sunlight... They watch all night and day... They saw what you did... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, May 25, 2004 at 00:04:22 (MDT) 5/20/04.....The art and photo are the same as yesterday. Today marks three and 1/2 years since Chris was killed...to me, Adam and Adam it still seems like three and 1/2 seconds ago. We went to the cemetary and the memorial tonight. I have been good about keeping up on the cemetary but I have to admit, I haven't been to the memorial since before Mother's Day. We cleaned the grass from around the plant and the marker and watered the plant. Soon we'll replace the current plant at the memorial for a more thriving variety. I bought this one the end of April because it was cold tolerent....I hope those days are over for awhile. We received our invitation to Honors Night at Franklin in todays mail. It will be held on the 26th which is a chemo day but I plan to attend no matter what. The angel reflection for today: Angel above, extend your wings and protect me on my journey today. For three and 1/2 years now I not only pray to God but to Chris too. As my mother always says, "You have an angel in heaven now."......Lucky me. Fran Kempa - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 21:43:07 (MDT) Phentermine Phentermine <Phentermine> Honolulu, Hiwaii USA - Thursday, May 20, 2004 at 08:51:01 (MDT) 5/19/04.....The art we call BLACK. I wish I knew the story behind her but we never saw it before Chris was killed. I don't know if it's a portrait someone posed for or if she just came out of his mind. The photo was taken in May, 1985. Chris and Adam playing Patty Cake and me clinging to my boys. Even if Chris was still here I would miss those days...I REALLY do. Today was a chemo day. As most recently, no major side effects....and my weight has stablized! Ensure and Boost are doing good for me. The angel reflection for today: Wrap yourself in your angel's wings and be at peace. I do wrap myself in Chris' wings.....But I'll NEVER be at peace! Fran Kempa - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 21:35:24 (MDT) The only thing you can't replace are your children. Anon. UK - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 15:32:31 (MDT) I too pray Chri's guardian angel was with him that morning. Apparently the drivers angel was NOT! Mary Saia <Westland> - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 at 12:51:05 (MDT) 5/18/04....The art is the same Where's Waldo mimic drawing as yesterday as is the photo from 1986....one of two of the hundreds of photos where Chris is crying. In most all of the other photos he's smiling very brightly. We chose the 2004 recipient of the Chris Kempa Memorial Scholarship this morning! There were four applicants and it was a VERY hard decision....ALL were very talented! It will be awarded May 26th during Franklin's Honors Night. The angel reflection for today: No one is alone as we journey here on earth. Angels are among us from the moment of our birth. That's what I was taught through all 12 years of Catholic school....we all have a guardian angel. I PRAY Chris' was with him 11/20/00. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, May 18, 2004 at 21:13:53 (MDT) 5/17/04.... The art is a mimic of WHERE'S WALDO?. Chris drew this Christmas time, 1991... notice the Santa hats. The photo was taken Memorial Day weekend, 1986. Like so many photos, I remember the day VIVIDLY...but I'm not sure why Chris was crying! I went to the cemetary today. The plants are thriving...but the shepherd hook needs some help. With all the rain the plants got heavy. Adam has a solution in mind. Tomorrow we go to Franklin to select the recipient of The Chris Kempa Memorial Art Scholarship for 2004! This is the fourth year...it's SO hard to believe! Mr. Rheault of the Franklin Art Department said there are four applicants. I'm looking very forward to tomorrow...I'll see the redesigned art room but it won't be through Chris' eyes. The angel reflection for today: For without being seen, angels are present around us....Saint Francis de Sales. I SO much want to believe that. Fran Kempa - Monday, May 17, 2004 at 21:28:30 (MDT) 5/16/04.....The art is the same inside of the Mother's Day card from yesterday as is the photo of Adam and Chris taken in 1984. The angel reflection for today: In the cold and darkness, a wondrous light appears; A promenade of angels to protect us from our fears. That's exactly what I PRAY happened for Chris...it was cold 11/20/00, 37 degrees and no matter what Mr. Schniers says, it wasn't dark, it was dawn. There was light in the sky....as testified in a deposition by the first police officer at the scene. I pray he wasn't scared and felt NO pain. I pray the angels carried him to heaven and he fit right in. Fran Kempa - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 21:45:25 (MDT) hi chris.how are u. u done well.lots of love louise,tanya and marie. louise <crumlish_louise@hotmail.com> - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 01:20:36 (MDT) hi chris.u done very well.good luck in the future.dont be upset.loved ur singing lots of love shauna p.s my sister louise thinks ur cute shauna <crumlish_shauna@hotmail.com> - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 01:18:23 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, May 16, 2004 at 01:05:01 (MDT) 5/15/04.....The art is the inside of the home made Mother's Day card Chris gave to me in 1992. The photo was taken in 1984, shoetly after we brought Chris home. Adam was fascinated by his new brother! They were extremly close for all 16 years. As they grew older they had their fights. As Chris grew, he became fascinated by his older brother...he wanted to be just like Adam.... and he was! I saw a State Farm commercial tonight that brought me back to Chris again...so many things jog my memory. There was a father and a son in the car. The son was driving, the father asked him a question and the boy replied, "In two weeks I'm going to cut you loose dad." He was obviously still learning to drive...Chris had JUST started drivers ed mid November 2000. He had only driven once, one week exactly before he was killed. He had one more session on the Friday before he was killed but that was a classroom only lesson...He had more driving times scheduled but he never lived to complete them. The angel reflection for today: Angels are our direct link to heaven. Fran Kempa - Saturday, May 15, 2004 at 20:24:30 (MDT) 5/14/04...The art is the same Mother's Day card from 1993 as yesterday as is the photo from 1986. I was moved by the entry from Scott. I wonder if Mr. Schniers realizes, he not only broke a family, but MANY friendships. Chris had more friends than I ever knew....including Mr. Schnier's cousin. I had I guess, a flash back this morning. I woke up before 5 A.M. and right away started thinking about 11/20/00. I now remember as Adam W. was driving me to the hospital..In the midst of my hysteria, he turned on his windshield wipers because it was cold and there was mist on the window. The wipers streaked the window and I said, "Adam, you should take care of that....it could be dangerous." Weird memory but a true one. Most unfortunatly, a Bloomfield Township police officer was killed yesterday morning. He had just arrested a drunk driver and put him in his car. As he was turning around, he was T boned by ANOTHER drunk driver....The reason Livonia police gave for not testing Mr. Schnier's blood for drugs or alcahol that morning was that it was "too early in the day for that to be a factor." How wrong some people can be...in my opinion, I think the blood test would have been very telling. The angel reflection for today: It can in no sense be said that heaven is outside of anyone; it is within....Emanuel Swedenborg. Fran Kempa - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 16:08:54 (MDT) 5/14/04...The art is the same Mother's Day card from 1993 as yesterday as is the photo from 1986. I was moved by the entry from Scott. I wonder if Mr. Schniers realizes, he not only broke a family, but MANY friendships. Chris had more friends than I ever knew....including Mr. Schnier's cousin. I had I guess, a flash back this morning. I woke up before 5 A.M. and right away started thinking about 11/20/00. I now remember as Adam W. was driving me to the hospital..In the midst of my hysteria, he turned on his windshield wipers because it was cold and there was mist on the window. The wipers streaked the window and I said, "Adam, you should take care of that....it could be dangerous." Weird memory but a true one. Most unfortunatly, a Bloomfield Township police officer was Fran Kempa - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 16:08:54 (MDT) I can feel you living...and creating. Diana - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 09:42:30 (MDT) Every now and again it hurts bad. This is one of those times. Its so hard to comprehend that you are gone. It's almost like I'm still in shock. But you still live in my heart and I can hear you breathing. I miss you friend. Scott A. - Friday, May 14, 2004 at 08:27:10 (MDT) 5/13/04.....The art is another homemade Mother's Day card from Chris. Once again, I'm guessing but I think it's from 1993. How I WISH I had dated everything...but who knew?? The photo was taken in 1986. We still lived on Auburndale at the time and it was taken at our nextdoor neighbors house. All these kids were together all the time...in one house and out to the others. I enjoyed my kids SO much! From left, that's Alexis Garland, Melissa Wong, Annie Heathcock, Colin Garland, I don't remember the next little girl's name exactly, Chris, Adam and Amanda Wong..Fun, FUN times! The effects of the chemo are really with me tonight. I meant to say a few weeks ago, the crossing signal at that dreadful corner has been fixed!...Four + months and they finally did something! The angel reflection for today: Angels are the magnificent servants of God, given in his perfect wisdom and love to his children here on earth. Fran Kempa - Thursday, May 13, 2004 at 19:43:42 (MDT) 5/12/04....The art is the same drawing from the cottage in 1990 as yesterday as is the photo from 1997 or 98. The 1/2 pound I gained last week was no help...I've lost three more pounds this week...I cannot eat! The chemo nurse was very nice and gave me a card for www.plwc.org. PLWC stands for people living with cancer. Some how the conversation turned to Chris, the nurse was shocked by the details as everyone is...I am still SO haunted by his death and the circumstances and unaswered questions...bad enough a half blind, self proclaimed brain damaged driver but why did it take 34 minutes to get his lifeless body to a hospital less than 10 minutes away?? He was a scoop and run and apparently nobody ran. The angel reflection for today: If God is in the details, then angels are truly divine, for nothing is more exquisite than a robe of silk so fine. If God is in the details, then angels are special things, for nothing is more resplendent than a pair of golden wings. fran Kempa - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 at 18:46:18 (MDT) 5/11/04....The art was drawn by Chris the first year we went to the cottage, 1990. He was between Kindergarten and first grade. I admit, it's not very flattering but everyone was always amazed at his details. If you notice, the ketchup is labeled Heinz and the relish, Vlasic dill relish. As I've said SO many times... I remember that evening! The photo was given to us by Brad and Claudia Memorial Day 2001. Claudia said she had just stumbled upon it! She thinks Chris and Scott were shooting pictures for their first CD! It had to be 7th or 8th grade because he's wearing his old glasses. He got new ones the summer between Freshman and Sophomore years....the ones he was wearing the day he was killed. I had to take Speck to the vet yesterday. I drive the EXACT route to the vet as I drove him to and from school. Franklin had just dismissed and ALL these kids were walking home...bitter sweet memories as they all are. Mr. Rheault called this afternoon about the scholarship! There are four kids interested. We go next Tuesday to determine the recipient. I doubt we know any of the kids this year...I believe ALL of his friends have graduated by now. NICE! to hear from Moriah. I miss her and love her too...just as Chris did. Exciting news abot her sister's baby! The angel reflection for today: Bright angel, spark of divine fire, touch me with the flame of your wisdom, and warm me with the torch of your truth. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 at 19:35:51 (MDT) Hello Mrs. Kempa, I haven't seen you in a long while and I pass your house quite often. I guess I just keep putting off stopping in to say hello in person...though I don't know why. Have I shared with you that my sister had a baby, a little girl...her name is trinity, and she's about 9 months old. I love it, she's so cute, I'll have to send you some pictures on your e-mail. It's wierd, she looks more like me in my baby pictures than she does of my sister. Well, I just wanted to let you know that I've been thinking of you and miss you! Love always, Moriah punk <rocker> - Monday, May 10, 2004 at 22:35:30 (MDT) 5/10/04...The art is the same Mother's Day card from approx. 1992 as is the photo from August, 2000. They were offering free Mother's Day cards on AOL yesterday. I took the opportunity to send the same card to my sister and sister-in law. The card depicted a mother rocking a cradle, then a butter fly flies out the window. The next picture shows three butter flies together. The last picture shows a butter fly flying into the same window as he exited and landing on the mothers hand. The poem as characturised was as follows.. "Where ever I go, whatever I do, I'll always find my way back to you. I could be stupid, but I took it as a sign from Chris or maybe from my sister-in law's mother. Butter flies are the emblem of Compassionare Friends. Unfortunatly, they meet the first week of the month on Wednesday.....Since my chemo is also on Wednesday, I haven't gone for months..I miss it, it helped me. The angel reflection for today: Your suffering may make an angel weep into her wings, but it will never make her walk away. Fran Kempa - Monday, May 10, 2004 at 18:42:59 (MDT) Happy Mother's Day Fran! A Happy and Sad day for sure. I hope that one day it might get a bit easier. mcs <mocopsop@yahoo.com> - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 19:50:53 (MDT) 5/9/o4.....The art is one of the many cards Chris made for me over the years. I don't remember the year, but I would guess around 1992. Unfortunatly, I only saved a few.....but who knew? The photo was taken just three months before Chris was killed, late August,2000. That's Chris on the right in his Kentucky Elliott sweat shirt..That was his uniform all year...obviously, even in summer, for about a year before he was killed. I noticed I have my hand on him..almost like trying to keep him here. We attended a BEAUTIFUL wedding and reception last night. The bride is my dear friend Nancy's daughter Jill. She also babysat for both Adam and Chris...she loved my boys, she was also very amused by Chris. As I've said to Adam and Adam recently, Chris was not only a person, but a personality...like I've rarely seen before. Devilish in his younger years...but I often had to turn my back and smile or laugh in the midst of punishing him for his antics! He grew and matured into a WONDERFUL boy! That's what I miss the most...not only the person, but the personality! A person at Karmanos suggested I talk to a woman who not only lost a child, but her husband as well. She called me yesterday morning. She told me she lost her youngest son 15 years ago. He was 21 and drowned in Cass Lake...she only had two sons too. She told me it took her 10 years before she felt even halfway normal again!...I believe her. She then went on to lose her husband to cancer a few years later. As she told me, the loss of her husband was horrible....but not nearly as horrible as losing her son. Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there. As I told Adam and Sarah this morning, today is half a happy day, and half a sad day....they understood. The angel reflection for today: It is said, and it's true, that just before we are born a cavern angel puts his finger to our lips and says, "Hush, don't tell what you know." This is why we are born with a cleft on our upper lips and remembering nothing of where we came from.......Roderick MacLeish In the years of Chris, it was tradition to clean all the deck and porch funiture and set it up. Both boys helped. For the past four years our new Mother's Day tradition is to put the sheperd hook and two plants on Chris' grave. Fran Kempa - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 17:06:50 (MDT) Thinking of you today Franny..it is a difficult day for many and I wanted you to know that you are in my constant thoughts. Jo <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Sunday, May 09, 2004 at 12:42:39 (MDT) I wanted to wish you a happy mother's day. I know Chris is with you now even if you can't see him. Your heart knows. Keep getting stronger. Cathie Vyse <Wysetalk@aol.com> - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 19:57:36 (MDT) cool page ! very nice design !!! keep up the good work anime sex <anime sex> - Saturday, May 08, 2004 at 05:19:36 (MDT) 5/7/04...The art Adam W. calls CHAZ. Chris painted him in 7th grade, 1997. Charlie was our cocker spaniel who died on August 9th, 2003. He was 13 years old and was very sickly. Two years before Chris was killed..on St. Patrick's day, the vet diagnosed him with cancer and told me to leave him and he would "put him down." I refused, not wanting the boys to have to through that. I told him I would take him home and give him hospice care....He lived for three more years...he out lived Chris. Most unfortunatly, I was trying to guard my boys from any grief, then Adam had to live through the death of his younger brother. The photo was taken in 1996 or 1997. Chris was VERY into street hockey at the time. He decorated his helmet and a white T shirt. Even though I can't remember the year...I remember the day! It wasn't unusual for Chris to have a camera with him and as soon as I came home from work, he was all suited up and kept saying, "Take my picture mom..PLEASE take my picture!" After he had asked MANY times I told him to go in the corner of the dining room and I took his picture....Knowing Chris, I think he intended to make a hockey card of himself...but he never did. The angel reflection for today: Angels speak a language only the soul can decipher. Angels impart a wisdom only the soul can understand. Fran Kempa - Friday, May 07, 2004 at 19:52:51 (MDT) 5/6/04...Thank you Joe Cwik for fixing the red x art. The painting for some reason, we call APE. It was one of Chris' anti smoking works..he did a few about smoking. The photo is the same as yesterday, Scott Allen's BD, 1992 or 1993....they were friends since they were toddlers. I heard on TV tonight, I can't remember where, when you lose a loved one, everyone they knew receives a life sentence without them. That is SO true. I think our family feels it the most but I KNOW other family members, friends, coworkers and Chris' first and last girlfriend MISS him SO much! They used my new port for chemo yesterday...as everyone told me, I love my port! It was one stick...they drew my blood then gave the chemo all in one stick! Before they would draw my blood first, then TRIED to find a vein for the chemo which was at least four more sticks. The angel reflection for today: If you ever feel your arms are too short to reach the heavens, fear not, for there will always be an angel reaching out to meet you halfway. Fran Kempa - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 21:33:39 (MDT) Mrs. Kempa, I fixed the artwork issue for you. I hope you are doing well. joe.cwik - Thursday, May 06, 2004 at 10:04:32 (MDT) 5/5/04....The art didn't turn out very well. It was intended to be Chris' painting we call APE. Instead, it turned out to be a red X...I have no clue how to fix it, I'll have to get Adam W. to do it in his spare time...which is minimal, thank God! The photo was taken at one of Scott Allen's BD parties. I'm unsure of the year, but looking at it, I'd say 1991 or 1992. That's Chris to the right, Danny Sperry, Andrew Shinsky, Scott and I can't remember the name of the last little boy. Today was a chemo day...minimal side effects again. I gained 1/2 pound during my two week break! I NEVER thought I'd rejoice in gaining weight! The angel reflection for today: Angels awaken your mind to possibilities- On earth, in heaven, and in yourself. Chris was very open to all possibilities on earth as I'm sure he is in heaven. I hope he's found a way to make Mr. Wm. Michael Schniers drive safely. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, May 05, 2004 at 19:20:34 (MDT) Good to hear that there will be another Chris fest this summer. I wish we could be there to help out, but that will be the one year anniversary of my dear sweet Mother's passing. We will honor her that day in Buffalo, New York. Please know we will be there in spirit though!! JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 19:18:19 (MDT) 5/4/04...The art is the same APPLE as yesterday. I neglected to comment on the photo yesterday. It was taken for Christmas, 1987. Chris was three and Adam was seven. I very much regret it was the last professional photo taken of them. I was REALLY considering having another taken in 2000....but Chris was killed right before I made the appointment. The 2004 Chris Fest is scheduled for June 26th at Wilson Barn as usual. I don't know all the details yet, as far as bands and times, but I will keep everyone posted. All proceeds will go to The Chris Kempa Memorial Art Scholarship at Franklin High. Today is teachers day. I would like to thank Angie Hillman who inspired both my boys. I would also like to thank Mrs. Welsh, and Jeremy Rheault, both of Chris' art teachers....he LOVED the art room SO much! I would also like to thank Anne Marie Tracy who was Chris' Special Ed teacher. He loved her and was influenced by her and the other teachers mentioned before. The angel reflection for today: Whenever a child dies, an angel comes down from heaven, takes the child in in its arms, and spreading out its large white wings, visits all the places that had been particularly dear to the child. From the best loved place the angel gathers a handful of flowers, flying up again to heaven with them. There they bloom more beautifully than on earth.....Hans Chrittian Anderson. I PRAY that's what Chris experienced. His two most loved places were home and school...I have no idea what were also loved places but I'm sure there were many. I have such bad thoughts that he was SO frightened that morning and I wasn't there. He was SO beautiful on earth, I PRAY he's blooming more beautifully in heaven....if that's possible, just like the flowers. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, May 04, 2004 at 16:02:26 (MDT) 5/3/04....The art we call APPLE..we found him in March of 2001, after we had the strength to go through Chris' room and the garbage bags he filled 11/19/00 when I asked him to clean his room for Thanksgiving company. My parents and sister Molly were coming for Thanksgiving....instead, they attended a wake and a funeral. Channel 4 had a story on the 5 and 6'oclok news about survival flights to U of M hospital....I had my own from St. Mary's in September, but I have very limited memory of it. The only thing I remember, when they were loading me into the helicopter I told the pilot, "With my luck, this helicopter will crash!" The nurses and pilot were VERY reassuring, I believe they helped save my life....That's what I thought was Chris' fate on 11/20/00 as we drove to the hospital....only to find he was DOA! I didn't recognize any of the life flight crew on the news this evening. I believe that's because mine was at night. They all came to visit me in the hospital about three weeks after and I remember their faces. The angel reflection for today: It's not your imagination, sometimes a coincidence comes with a lot of angelic effort. Fran Kempa - Monday, May 03, 2004 at 17:05:01 (MDT) 5/2/04...The art is the same angel as yesterday....Yes Joanne, I remember!! The photo is the same 1985 First Communion pic. There is a car commercial running now that REALLY bothers me and makes me think of Chris. It's three kids talking and the first little girl says something like, "Pretty soon, I'll be walking down the asile." Then a little boy says something like, "Soon I'll be away at college." And the last little boy says something like,"One day I'll take my kids to all the places you took me."...And all I can think about are the times Chris and we were cheated out of...he had just begun. I've seen bumper stickers that say,"My child was killed by a drunk driver." I have a notion to have one made saying, "My son was killed by a BLIND driver." The angel reflection for today: I love to hear the story which angel voices tell.....Emily Miller. I would really like to hear Chris' story....some day I will. Fran Kempa - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 19:23:03 (MDT) I don't know if Franny remembers, but that beautiful angel picture that Chris made is in my son's bedroom. Bill and I had a copy made for one of our son Bill's Christmas gift two years ago. It is priceless! I am an angel collector, and angels are a very important part of my life.I cherish that picture. I am thinking of you daily Franny, and am hoping and praying the remainder of these chemo treatments go well for you. Keep doing what brings you happiness and you will eventually regain your strength. Love you always...stay well!! JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Sunday, May 02, 2004 at 07:41:27 (MDT) 5/1/04.....The angel was drawn by Chris in 1998 or 1999 after he didn't make the play. The spring musical was SOUND OF MUSIC. Underneath the drawing he wrote a poem about not making the play....it was very upbeat and he was chosen for crew...I think he enjoyed that more! The photo was taken in May, 1987..Adam W's First Communion. From left, that's my mom,"Grandma Joan", myself, Adam F. and my dad, "Bill" In front are Chris who was three, and Adam W. I'll never forget that day! The little boy next door, Colin Garland, saw Chris so dressed up and wanted to know if he was getting married! We went to the Mayflower in Plymouth...which doesn't exist anymore... after and Chris acted up BADLY! I just remember pulling him out from under the table. Today is May day HURRAY! I lost the summer and the fall due to my illness but survived the winter. We did a LITTLE gardening this afternoon. I fell once and teetered a lot...my balance is VERY poor. I was out for about an hour and I was exhausted....Not like the old days....I would have been out side all day....except during the small showers that we desperatly need! The 16 year old chris would have been out there too....but I DOUBT the almost 20 year old Chris would be. I watched the neighbor boys for a while...an older brother playing hockey with his little brother in the drive way.....Brought back MANY bitter sweet memories. Adam and Chris were VERY close. The angel reflection for today: Where angels tread upon the earth, miracles spring up from the sun-kissed soil like flowers bursting forth with the joy of being alive. Chris LOVED life! I pray he's much happier now...even though I'm not. Fran Kempa - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 18:49:50 (MDT) If I had a single flower for everytime I think about you, I could walk in my garden forever. A True Friend At Franklin - Saturday, May 01, 2004 at 12:40:47 (MDT) 4/30/04...The art is the same FALLING STAR as yesterday, as is the photo of Chris' first Easter. It was another beautiful day today..no rain as predicted though, we need rain! Everything is blooming...the bleeding hearts, the grape hyacinths, the ferns and hostas....everything but Chris! The angel reflection for today: When we suffer, angels wrap their wings around us to comfort and protect us and give us time to heal. When we are stronger, angels unfold their wings and set us free, ready to experience life again. I'm still wrapped in angel's wings I fear. Fran Kempa - Friday, April 30, 2004 at 19:51:50 (MDT) Hello from Texas ! nice website ! stars nackt <stars nackt> - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 21:30:06 (MDT) 4/29/04...The art we obviously call FALLING STAR. I'm not sure when or why Chris drew it. It was one of many we found after he was killed. The photo is another taken on Chris' first Easter, 1985. He's just discovering candy! Those are Adam's feet in the background. It was another beautiful day today but I didn't get out. A butterfly came to the laundry room window and stayed for a LONG time. I found myself thinking just as last year about the robin, "maybe it's Chris!" but then I realized once again, that's wishful thinking.....I still look for him in all places and at all times....but I never find him. I'm using Adam W's computer for a change tonight and right in front of me is an 8x10 picture of Chris on his desk! May is coming and we still haven't decided on the pool...open it or not. After two years, I think we should open it for sanitary reasons. Someone else will have to maintain it....that always fell on me. But I never minded. I LOVED being outdoors, but unfortunatly, I'm in no condition this year. The angel reflection for today: Earth angels exist, but they don't wear tunics or wings. Earth angels are real, but they don't fly or sing in choirs or float on air. I am blessed to have MANY earth angels! Fran Kempa - Thursday, April 29, 2004 at 19:50:26 (MDT) 4/28/04......The art is the same left eye as yesterday as is the rainforest picture. It was a beautiful day today. I went to the memorial and watered the plant, then went to the cemetary to clean Chris' grave marker...one of the prices you pay for locating it under a big willow tree. When I got home, the neighbors on both sides had their boys out...they only have boys as we did. There was conversation, laughter and much enjoyment. It made me think back to the many years we had that going on in our yard. Chris would be almost 20 now so some of that I'm sure would have died down by now but I can still imagine many games of basketball between brothers that never will happen. I went to the hospital yesterday and had my port checked...good to go on Wednesday for chemo and blood draws! The angel reflection for today: May you have joy after your trials, like a rainbow following a storm. We have brief periods of the clouds parting and a small rainbow coming out...Adam's graduation, my sister's wedding and so on. But then the clouds come back with avengence when we all realize Chris will never be part of any rainbows here on earth any more. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 21:28:00 (MDT) many years ago... The kids were small and Chris has seen something on TV that scared him.... MONSTERS !!! I told him that they were not real.... Later in life I found that they were real and that they drive pickup trucks ... And now I know they also use computers We all miss you Chris...Always DAD <<<<<<>>>>>> - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 at 16:42:42 (MDT) 4/27/04....The art is the left eye Chris drew I believe in Sophomore year. As I've said before, it hangs in our living room as a constant reminder of why Chris was killed. The photo was taken in I believe May of 1993. Chris was in third grade and was in a program about the rain forest. We flew to Buffalo on Friday and returned yesterday.....mostly to check on my parents and to help my sister with the bridesmaid's dresses. We found a very nice one. I found my parents in good health with short periods of confusion. Their condo was as clean as my house, they were clean, they cooked and shopped....I told my sister I didn't think they were ready for assisted living YET...after working with seniors for 21 years, i think I'm a good judge...I think she was mad at me for not going along with her....but oh well... The angel reflection for today: Guardian angel, your gentle ways warm my heart, enrich my days. That's how I always felt about my boys...They warmed my heart and enriched my days! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 at 20:43:54 (MDT) 4/26/04.....The art we call PHONE. It was discovered in the Franklin art room long after Chris was killed....last year about this time. The photo is another of Chris and Adam discovering their Easter baskets. We just flew back from Buffalo this evening and I am EXHAUSTED! Have to go back to the hospital tomorrow to have my port checked. I hope it works well and will be ready for chemo Wednesday. The angel reflection for today: Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God...Chris was a peacemaker. Fran Kempa - Monday, April 26, 2004 at 21:35:03 (MDT) Chris, As I am sure you already know, we spent the evening with Mom and Dad at Molly's. Mom is fighting hard to beat these darn chemo sessions. She needs to regain her strength. Continue to watch over her and guide her to a complete recovery. Watch over Bill and Joan also. Say hi to my Mom Sally also. Thanks Chris! :) Aunt Jo JoAnne <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Saturday, April 24, 2004 at 21:10:12 (MDT) Miss you always... DAD <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, April 23, 2004 at 00:40:20 (MDT) 4/22/04...The art is the same BREAK as the last couple of days. The photo is the same as yesterday. Prego has a new commercial...they say, "Bring your family to the table."...We can't. We have a broken, fractured family. We will never be able to thanks to Mr. Schnires. There are some commercials I can't watch and some shows...like ER which I always watched and MASH...that was the show Chris had on his TV 11/19/00 as he was falling asleep. There are others but I can't think of them now. The angel reflection for today: Who are you my Guardian Angel? I long to see your face. Though I cannot touch you, I can feel your loving grace. That's how I feel about Chris....I WISH I could touch him and see his face, now that he's almost 20! But I do feel his spirit....that will never die! Fran Kempa - Thursday, April 22, 2004 at 19:14:43 (MDT) 4/21/04.....The art is the same BREAK as yesterday, the photo is another taken on Easter morning, 1993. Chris got up so early he didn't even comb his hair! Adam and I will be off to Buffalo soon. My sister is expressing concerns about my parent's cognitive state. They sound fine when I talk to them on the phone. I want to go and observe them in their own enviornment. We'll also do some pre wedding tasks. The angel reflection for today: Some people in our lives are like angels; their very presence makes our world a safer place.....That's how Chris was on earth. Unfortunatly he wasn't able to make his world a safer place. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 at 15:40:52 (MDT) 4/20/04...The art we call BREAK. Chris painted this at the end of his Sophomore year. A 2000 graduate admired it and Chris then gave it to him as a graduation gift...that was Chris. Six months later, the boy who received it as a gift, very kindly returned it to us about a month after Chris was killed. We were VERY happy to have it back...it was another we had never seen. The photo was taken Easter morning, 1993. Chris had just found his big bunny and was very proud! I had my med port inserted yesterday at Harper Hospital. The procedure was not bad but being on a hard, flat table with my left arm extended for an hour and 40 mins. was VERY uncomfortable! I saw my oncologist today. I've lost another 5lbs in a week. I saw the P.A. first and some how the conversation turned to Chris. I told her of all the circumstances and she, like everyone else was shocked. She then shared with me she lost a son 11 years ago. He was 15 and a hemopheliack. He received many blood transfusions...As a result, he contracted Aids and died. She expressed EXACTLY how I feel after 11 years.....his death seems like a minute ago, his life seems like a million years ago...she said it NEVER ends....just as I feared. The angel reflection for today: Angels are the hands of God, the feet of God, the voice of God, the face of God....I've been praying to Chris a LOT lately. He is now my angel in Heaven. Fran Kempa - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 at 20:14:29 (MDT) Chris keep a close watch over your mother... DAD <<<<<<>>>>>> - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 21:32:14 (MDT) 4/18/04...The art is the same eerie sketch as yesterday as is the photo from Chris' first Easter. The front page of the Livonia Observer this morning contained a big article about the skateboarding park at the Rec. Center. Chris would have LOVED that. He would often say to me, "Why don't they just build a place for us to go?" And I always told him they'd NEVER do it because of possible accidents...But they did it ,I was wrong....but they did it AFTER Chris was killed. It's articles and memories like that, that make your heavy heart even heavier...if that's possible. I have NO doubt, Chris would still be skateboarding today. He was quite good and had even mastered some "tricks" as he called them. The angel reflection for today: Lord, help me make my heart a place where angels will feel welcome. My heart is ready....but my mind is not. Fran Kempa - Sunday, April 18, 2004 at 14:56:27 (MDT) 4/17/04....The art is a sketch Chris did in one of his notebooks very shortly before he was killed....which once again is very eerie to me. He almost drew his own death....His glasses were knocked off that morning after impact and flew several yards, and he sustained three skull fractures....had to be hit with great force. The photo was taken in 1985, Chris' first Easter.....Adam is showing Chris his basket. Last night we didn't have an official BD party for Speck. Adam W. had to work and we attended a surprise BD party for one of our friends who turned 50. When we came home about 10:30, we found out Adam was staying in Ann Arbor so we just had a small little celebration...Speck enjoyed it! Monday AM I have my medi port inserted for the chemo. I'm rather nervous about it....I'm just sick of hospitals and procedures! The angel reflection for today: Coincidences are really angels working behind the scenes making miracles and magic out of every day occurrences. Fran Kempa - Saturday, April 17, 2004 at 15:14:54 (MDT) Miss you always... DAD <<<<<<>>>>>> - Friday, April 16, 2004 at 15:35:47 (MDT) 4/15/04...The art we call Blueface. We never saw it before Chris was killed...found it in an art notebook after wards. The photo was Taken Easter morning, 1993. I had to go to work that morning so the boys chose to get up at 5:30 A.M. to find their baskets rather than wait all day...then they went back to bed after I left at 6:00. That's Chris and me. Yesterday was a chemo day, I've lost 4 more lbs. in a week. The big C may be eating me up...but if it is, I am CONFIDENT that Adam or Adam will continue this site for as long as they want and need. The treatment went well, no major side effects....taking my two week break now...and I intend to enjoy it! Tomorrow is Speck's third birthday! I can't believe we've had him that long but he's a great dog and has truly become part of the family. We're thinking of getting another Beagle pup soon. The angel reflection for the day: May you have enough trials to keep you humble and enough faith to keep you happy. When I came out of the two week coma, after the chemo overdose in September, I asked God to please move on ..He has given me enough trials to last a lifetime...however long that will be. Fran Kempa - Thursday, April 15, 2004 at 21:50:57 (MDT) 4/14/04....Correction: I've been driving 27 years without a ticket. Fran Kempa - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 at 06:58:10 (MDT) 4/13/04....The art is a work we call CRY. I'm not sure exactly when Chris did this one but I know it was in highschool. If you notice, the left eye is a bit smaller and the left eyebrow is VERY abnormal....errie. The photo was taken Easter Sunday, 1992. That's Chris and Adam...even though his head doesn't appear..after the hunt! Adam F. in some way..in his opinion, referred to Mr. Schiiers as a monster...I don't consider him that, in my opinion I see him a careless, reckless, DANGEROUS driver. His driving record in my opinion proved that before he killed Chris...and we know of AT LEAST one accident he was inviolved in after Chris. He's so young to have established such a record...but amazingly NOTHING about Chris will be on his record!! I have been driving for 23 years and have never had a ticket...I am a very careful driver...even more so since Chris was killed. The angel reflection for today: Pursue some path, however narrow and crooked, in which you can walk with love and reverence.....Henry David Thoreau I hope and pray Mr. Schniers has pursued a path of safer driving! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at 21:34:13 (MDT) many years ago... The kids were small and Chris has seen something on TV that scared him.... MONSTERS !!! I told him that they were not real.... Later in life I found that they were real and that they drive pickup trucks ... Miss you always Chris... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Tuesday, April 13, 2004 at 03:09:33 (MDT) 4/12/04...The art is the same Daffy as is the photo of Chris' firsr Easter. I happened to have Family Feud on TV this morning. One of the questions was,"What do you look out for while driving?" The #1 answer was...PEDESTRIANS!! Perhaps Mr. Wm. Michael Schnies should watch Family Feud...maybe he'd learn something! I went to the cemetary today to check on the flowers we put out yesterday.....Sometimes they take things away right away...but the flowers were still there. The hydrengia had browned so I took it with me...the rest looked good! I told Adam we best not put the basket at the memorial just yet, maybe this weekend...Sarah just told me its's SNOWING!!... So he agreed. The angel reflection for today: Inspiration comes from tuning your heartstrings to the music of the heavens. Creativity comes from letting the song of the divine play through you. I was truly BLESSED to have two VERY creative children. Chris should still be creating here on earth...I pray he's creating AMAZING works in heaven!! Fran Kempa - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 20:22:16 (MDT) Miss you always... Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Monday, April 12, 2004 at 15:43:33 (MDT) 4/11/04...The art is a drawing I believe Jen Gossett found last year and let us copy it. If I recall correctly, she said Chris drew Daffy for her one day on the school bus. He was in middle school at the time. The photo was taken on Chris' first Easter, 1985. He was SO cute, as was Adam. When the boys were little, we always gave them a basket and a toy. As you can see Chris' toy that first Easter was a simple wood board puzzle. As they got older we switched to a basket and a BIG chocolate bunny. Chris usually ate his bunny in a day or so...Adam always saved his. I hope everyone who could have had a happy Easter. We went to the cemetary and put some flowers on Chris' grave, then went to Frank's and bought a beautiful flowering basket for the memorial. Adam W. went to Sarah's parents for dinner so it was just the two of us for our dinner. I'm glad Adam goes to Sarah's for most holidays...I think they are hard for him too. Having no family here we never have a big crowd for holidays. I think it helps him to be around a lot of people...it's a distraction. The angel reflection for today: If angels had a job description it would only consist of one task: Do the work of love. Fran Kempa - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 20:07:39 (MDT) Thinking of you all today...as always! Holidays are not an easy task after the loss of a loved one. Let us pray for all that have gone before us and hope they are watching over all. Peace to you on this day...I know it is not easy for you..ever!! Much love, Jo xxx <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Sunday, April 11, 2004 at 08:32:02 (MDT) 4/10/04....The "art" is the same photo of Chris and Scott Homecoming Freshman year. The photo is the same as yesterday, Adam's 8th Birthday. We got Adam a basket and bunny this year! Even though he's 24!! now, he's still my child, my only child on this earth. I don't know if we'll make him find them though, too many memories would surface....Adam and Chris every Easter, hunting for their bunnies and baskets. In 2000, Chris' last Easter, my parents and sister were present to witness the hunt. As they grew older, they were much more competative about it! They both wanted to be the first to find theirs! The ache in my stomach and chest is back...it has nothing to do with cancer, it's all about MISSING Chris. I wonder if William Schniers still celebrates his holidays in the same joyous way he did prior to 11/20/00....from what I understand, he was quite joyful Thanksgiving day 2000...just three days after he killed Chris....so I guess he does. The angel reflection for today: Angels make giving unconditional love look easy. Follow their lead, and you too may learn this heavenly gift. Fran Kempa - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 19:44:30 (MDT) Why did you have to leave me? Nothing is the same without you. I miss you SO much. I lost Granny and then you. How will I go on? This is the worst holiday season I can remember. You always made every occasion special. It was you who always kept my spirits up. It was you who always went the extra mile to make things special. I had only one sibling and that was you. I miss you so much. You were so very special to me. In order for me to get through the day I have to believe you are with me every step of the way and watch over me. You are now my angel. Tammy Basballe <TCF Livonia, Mi> - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 17:21:35 (MDT) Thanks Dad <<<<<<>>>>>> - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 11:41:56 (MDT) Happy Easter to the Kempa's, hoping that the Easter Bunny spoils you rotten and brings peace to your heavy hearts on an occasion such as this. All my love from downunder.. Jasmine Clark Jasmine Clark <jasmine_clark22@hotmail.com> - Saturday, April 10, 2004 at 07:33:29 (MDT) 4/9/04...The "art" is a picture of Chris and one of his two best friends, Scott Allen. It was taken on Homecoming day Freshman year....October, 1997. The photo was taken on Adam W.'s eighth birthday, Jan. 5th, 1988. Chris was almost 4....he ALWAYS loved Adam's birthdays almost as much as his own! Once again, Easter has snuck up on me. It's another Holiday I dread because it was Chris' last...I remember it vividly though, 2000....I had to work that Sun. My parents and sister Molly were in town. We all went to mass together, then I went to work. Chris was their tour guide from there as neither Adam was with us. I will NEVER forget my parents telling me how charming Chris was and how he was maturing into a WONDERFUL young man!....and he was. We had NO idea he only had less than a year to live. Yesterday, the Livonia Observer had an article about the Fine Arts Festival at the main library on the front page. Chris' work was exhibited there almost every year since late elementry school. We also received an invitation to The College of Creative Studies exhibit. Chris was one of the contributers the summer before he was killed having taken many summer classes there...He LOVED CCS and that was his dream...I believe, had he lived, he would have, SHOULD have realized it. It's almost time to choose the next recipient of the Chris Kempa memorial art scholarship at Franklin. I hope there are MANY applicants! The angel reflection for today: Archangel Michael, fighter of demons, Heavenly warrior sent from above. Be our redeemer, oh rightous angel. Give us your mercy, forgiveness and love. Fran Kempa - Friday, April 09, 2004 at 14:37:50 (MDT) 4/8/04....The "art" is a picture of Chris and one of his two best friends, Caleb Deady. I'm not sure who took it...I think it was Jen Gossett. It was taken on the school bus in middle school, 7th or 8th grade. The photo was taken in 1987, Chris and his first best friend and nextdoor neighbor, Colin Garland. Colin moved away when they were both in kindergarten. They stayed in touch from time to time but Colin and his family never forgot...they came to Chris' wake. Tragicaly, Monday a 16 yr old boy from another school district, a Junior...just like Chris, was killed. He wasn't a pedestrian, he was a passenger in a car. The girl who was driving was 16 herself. I was very impressed with her parents. They spoke to the media and expressed their sympathy and sorrow about the boy's death. The only member of the Schnier's family to express sorrow about Chris' death was William Michael Schnier's cousin Angie....She was also Chris' friend and classmate. She didn't find out her cousin killed Chris until she read it in the local paper in Feb., 2001. He and his family I guess tried to keep it quiet but the truth always comes out. The only expressions we've had from the rest of them have been hateful E mails and hateful messages here in the guestbook. In my opinion, that speaks to the type of people they are. The angel reflection for today: Grant me strength so I can meet each new challenge this day will bring. PEACE. Fran Kempa - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 18:49:26 (MDT) Your boys are very beautiful Franny. Good memories and good thoughts to hang on to forever!! May the love you have keep you until the end of time!! :)) Stay strong and be healthy. love you always, Jo Jo <jgvpri@adelphia.net> - Thursday, April 08, 2004 at 18:21:23 (MDT) 4/6/04...The "art" is the same as yesterday, my beautiful, beautiful boys. The photo is the same as yesterday, Chris taking spring shots! It was so nice to hear from Chris Masters. I saw him at the talent show Fri. but only said hello, no conversation. I SO agree with the other two last entries. I could have easily written that poem. Those are my thoughts exactly, but I'm not a poet....that was Chris. The other entry I STRONGLY agree with was from something called FreeRepublic. In my opinion, not only was Mr. Schniers driving stupid, he was also physically impaird. We will NEVER know about drugs and alcahol on his part thanks to the Livonia police....they never so much as smelled his breath. He was 26, in my opinion, he could have been up late drinking with his hunting buddies.... And considering his health status, in my opinion as a nurse, could have been on several perscription medications....but we'll never know....one of my MANY unaswered questions. The angel reflection for today: Some angels wear wings of silken white and golden robes so grand. Some walk the earth in blue jeans and lend a helping hand. I know Chris would opt to be walking around on this earth in jeans or dockers to lend a helping hand....that's the type of kid he was......I hope he helps Mr. Schniers drive better and more carefully! Fran Kempa - Tuesday, April 06, 2004 at 17:45:42 (MDT) IMPOSSIBLE WISH I cannot always face the truth Of death's finality, It's easier to just pretend he'll soon come home to me. And yet, my spirit knows the son I loved so much has died; Reality, though harsh and cruel, must never be denied. I want him back, I want my son! I want to see his face! How will my broken heart survive with this hollow, empty space? I must allow the tears to fall, allow my heart to grieve; To close my mind to fact is but to cripple and decieve. With agony and sorrow, this world of mine is rife; My soul is struggling, battling the worst nightmare of my life. In bitterness, I'm much aware of all that I now lack; In utter pain, I can but cry, "Oh God,I want him back!" Peggy Koeciscia <Albuqurerque, NM.> - Tuesday, April 06, 2004 at 11:28:49 (MDT) Just thinking of you. Chris Masters <Chris@PushtoVent.com> - Tuesday, April 06, 2004 at 00:33:00 (MDT) More pedestrians are are killed by drivers driving while stupid than driving under the influence. FreeRepublic.com <4/5/04> - Monday, April 05, 2004 at 21:57:36 (MDT) 4/5/04...The "art" is my two beautiful, beautiful boys. I don't recall exactly how this happened...I think Adam just climbed into Chris' crib....complete with Winnie The Pooh bumper pads and busy box. I believe the year was 1985. The photo was taken in 1996..one of the first spring days. You can see a little snow still in front of the back garage, but that didn't stop Chris from shooting hoops! A VERY Happy Birthday to my dear friend Claudia Allen. She and Brad have REALLY been there for us during these three and almost a half years of horrible times. The ducks were in the pool cover yesterday! Chris always loved that! It is truly a sign spring has sprung. I wonder if we'll open the pool this year...it's been two years but there's no one to use it. Chris was the only one who could stand the cold water..He was our fish. I personally would like to rip it out and fill the hole and plant grass...then get a hot tub. Adam says it would be too big a chore so I guess we'll deal with an unsed pool. We checked out the Livonia Rec center this evening...very crowded. I think I'll go in the day time when everyone else is at work....that has become my work...getting well. I'm not sure if my efforts are effective yet. The angel reflection for today: I am so blessed that you can see, not who I am but who I can be. I not only knew who Chris was but saw who he would be...a VERY kind soul and a VERY accomplished artist in what ever form he chose. I TRULY believe if he had lived he would have made a difference in this world. Fran Kempa - Monday, April 05, 2004 at 20:33:43 (MDT) Be Seeing You Last night in my dream, My son came home again, And I kissed him, And I stroked his cheek, And I called him my Baby Boy. in the old joke between us, For he towered over me many years. And he smiled his beautiful smile, And love flowed like a river between us, Wordless love, sweet as water. Then the dream changed As dreams will do, Shifted to other scenes, other people. ButI awoke, knowing it was true, When the old man at the gate Chided me: Never say "goodbye" Say "Be seeing you."