Evening as Day 46 comes to a close. The fight rages on. Reports from Cedars have the situation very similar to the last update. Dom is still awake & alert, but struggling every day with everything we consider normal & functional. They have been trying to get him to drink Ensure and at times he is able to even keep it down. He sleeps, rests, and endures daily.
The out pour of support continues as guest come to say hello, lend themselves & of course take care of Jane, Dom & Scoob. A little hint – all three love Pink Berry now. The 45 days signifies the days Dom has been in Cedars this go-around, but there is a chance he will need to continue his fight elsewhere. Nothing new on that front for now, but there may be something down the road.
I plead with you not to languish or fatigue in your support & belief in Dominic. I know it’s been a long summer & difficult for you all, but your thoughts, blog messages, love & prayers have gotten to Dominic & that’s why we are here. Some problems are good ones to have & I can tell you, no one, especially the doctors thought we’d be looking at day 45.
Many of you have asked for his address to send gift cards vs. PayPal. I wanted to give thanks for all the funds & gift cards that have already been donated. On behalf of all the Ambriz, thank you very much it is so appreciated and beyond recourse. Thank you.
2121 Pacific Coast Hwy #2
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Good Afternoon on Day 40
Hard to imagine that when Dominic checked into Cedars it was Father’s Day; his Dad (or Mom) hasn’t left him much since then. The news continues to string our emotions along like the dynamic summer movies Dom likes so much. As you know, Dom has awakened from his coma & is fairly alert for someone in his position. The doctors, who continue to be attentive with their care, are bewildered seeing they checked out his blood levels & they are very strong. This led to a recent conversation about adding a feeding tube back into the equation.
Scoob, what a fabulous woman, really wants to do everything possible to increase the quality of life for Dom; whatever & how every long that may be. She rightfully thought if Dom could fight himself out of a coma & the medical sedation he was in, then maybe he was ready for something more too. Now, we’re not talking Del Taco or anything, we’ll need to continue to put those #4 meals down in Dom’s honor, but maybe we could do something. There was a meeting at the hospital with the family, doctors, administrators & some of the fantastic nurses, and in this meeting it was determined a feeding tube maybe too risky. The pros didn’t really out weigh the cons…but Nurse Paul suggested going back to orally giving food. Dom had progressed enough to where he was swallowing again & this seemed like maybe it would bring Dom small pleasures. So this week they have started to give water & some other liquid food supplements orally to see if Dom will be receptive to this. The hope is maybe we can get to Jell-O or ice cream; something that has a flavor.
So, what does this all mean? I know you are asking; hell everyone is asking. 40 days with Dom’s fight, the family & visitors, the entire hospital is asking. Truthfully, no one knows, but let me try to explain it the way its been explained to me. Dom has terminal cancer & there hasn’t been anything thus far to change that cold truth. Just as living 31mns is beating the original odds given back at the beginning of this journey, living 40 days in this condition is beating the odds again. The man is a fighter. And he hasn’t given up that fight. Right now he is better than he was two weeks ago, but he is still a shell of himself; he can’t use his limbs, he is on pain meds, can’t talk & his weight is alarmly low but it is all relative. Sadly, I don’t have, nor do the doctors, any solid answers, which can be frustrating, but as the Bring It Community has all decided to do – we will continue to have faith, look for miracles, live the Bring It lifestyle, celebrate Dom’s life, enjoy the time we do have with him & support each other.
Much love – M
Bring It. Live It.
Scoob, what a fabulous woman, really wants to do everything possible to increase the quality of life for Dom; whatever & how every long that may be. She rightfully thought if Dom could fight himself out of a coma & the medical sedation he was in, then maybe he was ready for something more too. Now, we’re not talking Del Taco or anything, we’ll need to continue to put those #4 meals down in Dom’s honor, but maybe we could do something. There was a meeting at the hospital with the family, doctors, administrators & some of the fantastic nurses, and in this meeting it was determined a feeding tube maybe too risky. The pros didn’t really out weigh the cons…but Nurse Paul suggested going back to orally giving food. Dom had progressed enough to where he was swallowing again & this seemed like maybe it would bring Dom small pleasures. So this week they have started to give water & some other liquid food supplements orally to see if Dom will be receptive to this. The hope is maybe we can get to Jell-O or ice cream; something that has a flavor.
So, what does this all mean? I know you are asking; hell everyone is asking. 40 days with Dom’s fight, the family & visitors, the entire hospital is asking. Truthfully, no one knows, but let me try to explain it the way its been explained to me. Dom has terminal cancer & there hasn’t been anything thus far to change that cold truth. Just as living 31mns is beating the original odds given back at the beginning of this journey, living 40 days in this condition is beating the odds again. The man is a fighter. And he hasn’t given up that fight. Right now he is better than he was two weeks ago, but he is still a shell of himself; he can’t use his limbs, he is on pain meds, can’t talk & his weight is alarmly low but it is all relative. Sadly, I don’t have, nor do the doctors, any solid answers, which can be frustrating, but as the Bring It Community has all decided to do – we will continue to have faith, look for miracles, live the Bring It lifestyle, celebrate Dom’s life, enjoy the time we do have with him & support each other.
Much love – M
Bring It. Live It.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Today Dom is 5'9"
Fight like hell Dom! It's like you're running a marathon and we're all on the sidelines praying in support! I'm very thankful to Palumbo for reading my card to you about a week ago, but I'd like to reiterate how much we've got you covered in prayer! You truly have a remarkable soul that stirs our own awareness to be like you, react with grace like you, have multitudes of friends like you, family that go to no end for you, and have that strength that emulates a survivor, like you. I miss seeing your handsome face around with the crew, not to mention your wit, mostly sarcastic humor, funky dance moves, and carpe diem attitude. Keep on fighting buddy, cuz God's got you in his hands and isn't letting go. I am grateful for this blog, and am inspired by the strength of your friends and family. God is with you and so are we. Much love, Sabrina
I am Kathy Cross Davis, Dom's cousin. It has taken me along time to write, I guess because when a family member or friend is sick it makes you think of your mortality or that of your own children or spouse. I worked for my Aunt Jane when I was 17 years old at my Dad's office, I was so afraid I was going to make a mistake etc. etc. my 1st job and all but it helped get me to Japan with West High Chamber Singers. I felt like such a dork when I was working so I was so thrilled when Aunt Jane called me to watch Dominic when I think he was about 18mos old. He was so cute long golden curls like his Dad(except the golden part)and great big beautiful eyes like his Mom. He was very quiet and observed everything. My oldest son and he are the same age and I had to laugh when many of Dom's friends said he could remember everything about things that had happened in his life. My son Stephen and he must have been conspiring back then because he is the same way. I just want Dom, Amy, Aunt Jane, and Uncle Don to know that our family prays for them daily and I think of them always and feel it was such a blessing that I could watch Dom during that time in his life. What a great blessing that he has woke to spend more time with his family. God Bless, Kathy
Quotes & Poems...
"It is a rare person who can hear the blunt authority of a terminal diagnosis, refuse to accept it, and choose a different path." - The Art of Racing in the Rain.
"Even in our sleep, pain which cannot forget falls drop by drop upon the heart, until, in our own despair, against our will, comes wisdom through the awful grace of God." - Aeschylus
The Moon Wakes
by Garcia Lorca
When the moon sails out
the bells fade into stillness
and there emerge the pathways
that can’t be penetrated.
When the moon sails out
the water hides earth’s surface,
the heart feels like an island
in the infinite silence.
Nobody eats an orange
under the moon’s fullness.
It is correct to eat, then,
green and icy fruit.
When the moon sails out
with a hundred identical faces,
the coins made of silversob in your pocket.
by Garcia Lorca
When the moon sails out
the bells fade into stillness
and there emerge the pathways
that can’t be penetrated.
When the moon sails out
the water hides earth’s surface,
the heart feels like an island
in the infinite silence.
Nobody eats an orange
under the moon’s fullness.
It is correct to eat, then,
green and icy fruit.
When the moon sails out
with a hundred identical faces,
the coins made of silversob in your pocket.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Live Strong...
Today is day number 34 at Cedars; you can look at that like that’s a long 34 days or the way I choose to look at it – that’s a long 34 days Dom continues to fight. Well the boxer, as many of you know, was really on the mat recently. Most of the past two weeks Dom had been in a comatose state, not to mention heavily sedated for pain concerns. For those who visited Dom in the hospital all we could do is hold his hand while he slept, talk to him, not know how much he heard or if he understood us at all. As I’ve tried to relay in my previous messages, the situation was bleak and it seemed the fight was dramatically close to ending.
Now, here is where Dominic refuses to go quietly. Four days ago Dominic woke up…from what I understand he literally was wide awake, responsive through head nodding & hand squeezing. He has even been trying to speak, but he is just unable to. He’s been passing his time with engaged with visitors, and watching TV; the doctors are truly baffled. They care for him without hesitation & have been monitoring him with much zeal since Dom is fully alert now. He is still in a situation that is very day-to-day; please do not misinterpret this information. He cannot use any of his limbs, speak and his tumors are still aggressively present. Yet, there is something in our friend’s soul that refuses to give up. How are you not inspired today? Maybe it’s the blog messages that he hears every day, maybe the prayers or blessings, I don’t know, but somehow Dom is a bit stronger today than the weeks before.
The family felt the supporters of Dom should know all the information that is out there; you are part of this as the Bring It Community and your rally around Dom has helped. The doctors are working to see if there are any measures that could be taken, but at this time its status quo with providing comfort-care, monitoring, and giving LOVE to Dom as his #1 medicine. No one knows if this new development is a step closer or further from the end, but nonetheless our fighter continues to fight on.
Once more information becomes available I will share it with you all. Thanks – M
Bringing It Daily
Now, here is where Dominic refuses to go quietly. Four days ago Dominic woke up…from what I understand he literally was wide awake, responsive through head nodding & hand squeezing. He has even been trying to speak, but he is just unable to. He’s been passing his time with engaged with visitors, and watching TV; the doctors are truly baffled. They care for him without hesitation & have been monitoring him with much zeal since Dom is fully alert now. He is still in a situation that is very day-to-day; please do not misinterpret this information. He cannot use any of his limbs, speak and his tumors are still aggressively present. Yet, there is something in our friend’s soul that refuses to give up. How are you not inspired today? Maybe it’s the blog messages that he hears every day, maybe the prayers or blessings, I don’t know, but somehow Dom is a bit stronger today than the weeks before.
The family felt the supporters of Dom should know all the information that is out there; you are part of this as the Bring It Community and your rally around Dom has helped. The doctors are working to see if there are any measures that could be taken, but at this time its status quo with providing comfort-care, monitoring, and giving LOVE to Dom as his #1 medicine. No one knows if this new development is a step closer or further from the end, but nonetheless our fighter continues to fight on.
Once more information becomes available I will share it with you all. Thanks – M
Bringing It Daily
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Dominator, a.k.a. Dom-the-Bomb:
[My husband, Benji is Dom's best friend (from kindergarten). Believe it or not, I have known Dominic for the same amount of time that I have known Benj. I met them both sophomore year of high school, which was 13 years ago.]
Memories from back in high school have become fuzzy, but always include the infamous OP, big red, and I will never forget going to Rusty's and watching pro-wrestling, and seeing for the first time what it is like when Dom is pumped up, "Give 'em the stunner" and "IT'S OVER! IT'S OVER!" Dom, you are so hilarious when you are "en fuego" (as Benji would put it). How many nights have you had us rolling with laughter?
More memories from sophomore year, like cruisin' in Grendel with Jessica Allred and working on the floats. Getting into lots of trouble (but not too much) with our extended group of friends. If I had a dollar for every time you screamed at the top of your lungs, "Seniors '98". Remember Mr. Burke's class? Days of our Lives and Sammy? Econ, Mr. O'Conner, and the stock exchange? That may have been pre-email; I think those computers were the first PC's we had ever touched. Remember the trip to Rosarita freshman year of college? If I had a memory like you, Dom, I could recall everything in detail.
I want to take this opportunity, also, to honor the friendship that you, Marshall, Benji and Larkin have. It is an amazing one that has transcended miles and years. It seems like every holiday or gathering has involved a Monopooly game that extends late into the night. This, along with traditions like 2 on 2 basketball and 40s of malt liquor (usually not at the same time, but I wouldn't put it past you guys) were always highly anticipated with lots of hype (and a little trash talking). You all are my family; you have always included and welcomed me with a 40 of my own (if I could hang).
Over the years, I also have had the chance to get to know your family as well. I feel so lucky to have spent time with you, Don, Jane, Amy and Maddie in Cambria over the years. I have so many fond memories in Cambria, chatting, taking runs (or walks), and eating great meals together. Benji and I always have joked that we were staying at the Ambriz Bed and Breakfast. We always felt like we were home.
Dominic, Don, Jane, Amy and Madison, I love you all.
From Amy (Thistle) Tackett
Memories from back in high school have become fuzzy, but always include the infamous OP, big red, and I will never forget going to Rusty's and watching pro-wrestling, and seeing for the first time what it is like when Dom is pumped up, "Give 'em the stunner" and "IT'S OVER! IT'S OVER!" Dom, you are so hilarious when you are "en fuego" (as Benji would put it). How many nights have you had us rolling with laughter?
More memories from sophomore year, like cruisin' in Grendel with Jessica Allred and working on the floats. Getting into lots of trouble (but not too much) with our extended group of friends. If I had a dollar for every time you screamed at the top of your lungs, "Seniors '98". Remember Mr. Burke's class? Days of our Lives and Sammy? Econ, Mr. O'Conner, and the stock exchange? That may have been pre-email; I think those computers were the first PC's we had ever touched. Remember the trip to Rosarita freshman year of college? If I had a memory like you, Dom, I could recall everything in detail.
I want to take this opportunity, also, to honor the friendship that you, Marshall, Benji and Larkin have. It is an amazing one that has transcended miles and years. It seems like every holiday or gathering has involved a Monopooly game that extends late into the night. This, along with traditions like 2 on 2 basketball and 40s of malt liquor (usually not at the same time, but I wouldn't put it past you guys) were always highly anticipated with lots of hype (and a little trash talking). You all are my family; you have always included and welcomed me with a 40 of my own (if I could hang).
Over the years, I also have had the chance to get to know your family as well. I feel so lucky to have spent time with you, Don, Jane, Amy and Maddie in Cambria over the years. I have so many fond memories in Cambria, chatting, taking runs (or walks), and eating great meals together. Benji and I always have joked that we were staying at the Ambriz Bed and Breakfast. We always felt like we were home.
Dominic, Don, Jane, Amy and Madison, I love you all.
From Amy (Thistle) Tackett
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Hello Bring It Community
I wonder if you’ve brought it today? I don’t think I have at all & in fact after getting an email from one of my oldest friends I was really hit hard about Dom’s situation. I’m sure many of you have had that when you felt you had everything together & then you were just hit from the blindside with a rush of emotion. I thought the best thing I could do is write a little & share a bit with some loved ones.
Dom had this infectious laughter and joy, it was conditional though, and he had to really be excited about something. Dom didn’t have the “fake-it” gene in him. Recently I spent some time thinking about some of my favorite times with him & one in particular came to mind. It may seem trivial to you but it means something to me.
One year I decided to have a party to kick off the NFL season -- this was like 4mns of Christmas for Dom & myself (like many 20-somethings) – and we decided to do something to honor the first Sunday. I threw a Waffles & Beer party – don’t over think it – we had waffles & beer as the games kicked off. These may be a lethal combination but for a couple guess in their early 20s, this was a matter of putting two delicious treats together & enjoy. A no-brainer. The excitement he had leading up to that Sunday; calling me & asking what he could bring (of note: buffalo wings, Titos Pizza Bites & Poppers all started here), always asking me how many waffles I could finish by half time, actually sending me unsolicited emails about the party. Once the party started Dom was in heavy – all his favorites were there, including Kelly & Will, and they all started to harassing me about my homemade salsa. He decided it was too chucky to be called salsa & too liquidy for guacamole, so he combined the words to “gu-sla.” It still lives on today & just the belly laugh he gave that day in the creation of that word with Kelly & Will will always stay with me.
(Important note – he woke up that night after he left & got sick. Be careful if you want to throw your own Waffles & Beer party. BUT he did have an incredible time & made my day for being such a fun person to chill with)
Thanks for letting me get that out there. – Marshall
Dom had this infectious laughter and joy, it was conditional though, and he had to really be excited about something. Dom didn’t have the “fake-it” gene in him. Recently I spent some time thinking about some of my favorite times with him & one in particular came to mind. It may seem trivial to you but it means something to me.
One year I decided to have a party to kick off the NFL season -- this was like 4mns of Christmas for Dom & myself (like many 20-somethings) – and we decided to do something to honor the first Sunday. I threw a Waffles & Beer party – don’t over think it – we had waffles & beer as the games kicked off. These may be a lethal combination but for a couple guess in their early 20s, this was a matter of putting two delicious treats together & enjoy. A no-brainer. The excitement he had leading up to that Sunday; calling me & asking what he could bring (of note: buffalo wings, Titos Pizza Bites & Poppers all started here), always asking me how many waffles I could finish by half time, actually sending me unsolicited emails about the party. Once the party started Dom was in heavy – all his favorites were there, including Kelly & Will, and they all started to harassing me about my homemade salsa. He decided it was too chucky to be called salsa & too liquidy for guacamole, so he combined the words to “gu-sla.” It still lives on today & just the belly laugh he gave that day in the creation of that word with Kelly & Will will always stay with me.
(Important note – he woke up that night after he left & got sick. Be careful if you want to throw your own Waffles & Beer party. BUT he did have an incredible time & made my day for being such a fun person to chill with)
Thanks for letting me get that out there. – Marshall
Monday, July 14, 2008
A great quote:
From Rochelle:
"If children have the ability to ignore all odds and percentages,then maybe we can all learn from them. When you think about it, whatother choice is there but to hope? We have two options, medicallyand emotionally: give up, or fight like hell." ~Lance Armstrong
"If children have the ability to ignore all odds and percentages,then maybe we can all learn from them. When you think about it, whatother choice is there but to hope? We have two options, medicallyand emotionally: give up, or fight like hell." ~Lance Armstrong
Messags...
From Kacey-
So I have been hesitant to write this because I felt like it would be more about Scoob then Dom, but then I realized learning more about Dom through Scoob is probably the best way to get to know him. Scoob has been one of my best friends for I think about 13 years now. I have also known Dom since this time at BHS. Even though we have never been close we have always hung around in the same large group of friends. When Scoob and Dom rekindled the flame, I was so happy for her and I saw her light up in ways I have never seen before. I was around for part 1 of Dom and Scoob and was happy to welcome part 2. As there relationship grew Matt (my husband) and I also got to spend more time with Dom. I enjoyed Dom's company immensely on Super Bowl because I was not the only one screaming at the TV or showing my dislike of the Manning Brothers. I am a Patriots fan so to say the least the day was not a happy one, but I enjoyed someone being on my side.
I have learned more about Dom over these blogs then I have ever known. His character is lifted to such an inspiring place because of the friendships he has made over the years. Not all people have friends like Dom does. I will say that I know for a fact that Dom must be an amazing person in order to have such an incredible woman like Scoob love him unconditionally. For all of you who have not have the privilege to know Scoob, she is kind, funny, honest and one of the greatest friends a person could have. I may not have known Dom that well but I am learning more and more everyday by the love that Scoob has for him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Dom, Scoob, Don, Jane, Amy and all of the friends and family in this fight together.
All My Love,Kacey (Mitchell) Tatsuno
From Debbie:
Dear Friends,
I feel that we are friends as we have been on this journey together, cheering the “Dom” team to victory! Yesterday Clinton and I got to visit Dom, Jane and Don and had the pleasure of meeting Justin and Tommy. Before we prayed for Dom, Jane said that someone connected to Scoob had flown from Northern California that morning to anoint Dom with oil representing the Holy Spirit and pray the prayer of faith for his healing. How awesome! Seeing Dom in the bed, he appeared to be taking a little nap. In this coma-state, Jane said that he hadn’t moved hands or feet for a few days. God says in His Word that we have not because we ask not and we ask amiss. So, there are specific things I noted yesterday that would be important points to come into agreement about. Won’t you please join me in prayer?
1) Pray that the tumor would dry up and shrink and that it would leave no residual effects from the depression on his brain. Pray that all the ganglia roots would die. Pray that great mental activity would be restored and cognitive and physical skills would return.
2) Pray that his organs would work the way they were made to work. God says Dominic is “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Pray for his digestive, respiratory tracts. Decree his organs…kidneys, liver, pancreas, lungs and heart would work in perfect alignment with each other and that no undue stress would remain.
3) Pray for his blood cells to come into balance and for the oxygen to be at healthy strong levels in his blood. Pray for his strong immune system.
4) Pray for his brain to send stimulus to his arms, hands, legs and feet to move and receive signals again. Pray for complete restoration according to Jeremiah 30:17 and that Dom’s future according to Jeremiah 29:11 would come to pass.
5) Lastly, pray for Jane and Don. They sleep on one small cot at night and fill the room 24/7 with their love for Dom. Their wells have not run dry. They are deep. Pray for their continued favor with hospital staff and for restoration to overcome them. Let the joy of the Lord be their strength, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Debbie Shick
A poem written by our daughter Debbie, who battles her own illness daily, to remind us what our noble nephew Dominic moves toward. With everlasting love, Uncle Dave, Aunt Jeanne, Jennifer, Debbie & Grant Cross
Exodus
Chasing the mirage
I know it is not real
But that does not matter
I like looking toward
The lushness
My thirst has conjured
Step after step
Sand sifts through my toes
The milk of coconuts
And the sounds of trickling waters
Beckon me onward
Smiling through parched lips
I know the illusion is not a trick
But a gift of the imagination
I close my eyes
The perfumes of exotic flowers
Come to me on the breeze
I kneel and gaze out to the glimmering distance
Palm trees and waterfalls sing out their welcome
And there YOU are, waving to me
And I realize this is not as oasis of fantasy
I journey toward...
This is Heaven
Deborah Cross
2007
Good evening....
I've been thinking all week of how no one really knows the impact each of us has on each other. Once I saw Mike Willis' post, it reminded me that I don't think I ever heard Dominic say anything in the 25 years I've known Don and Jane -- yet -- Dom and his family have had great influence on my family.
All through the years I've listened to the activities of Dominic and Amy growing up. Whenever I would visit Don to help me with my latest work project, we would always talk about our kids first. Heck -- he even designed my girls' birth announcements! Anyway, sometimes I would be so frustrated with the stages my girls would be going through (they are younger than Dom and Amy). Don would listen and then give me counsel on what he and Jane went through and how I should just chill out a little...many times I have thought back over Don's advice and it really did help.
When Dominic went off to Otis, I remember many stories that Don shared with me -- quite proudly, I might add! A few years rolled by and then I was agonizing over what to do with my oldest daughter Erika and college. Don used to let her pick up scraps of foam core board when she was little. We talked about her artistic bent and Don would always go back to examples he and Jane had with Dominic and Otis. My husband was in Iraq at the time, and I was tearing my hair out, so the counsel I received was invaluable at a time when I really needed it.
The silent thread that ran through all of this as an example of success was Dominic. Erika is now about ready to enter her senior year at Otis. I know there were times she was ready to give up, but I know the words of Don and Jane, and Dom's continued success have helped her more than any of them will ever know.
Much love to you all.....
Maureen Buscher-Dang
So I have been hesitant to write this because I felt like it would be more about Scoob then Dom, but then I realized learning more about Dom through Scoob is probably the best way to get to know him. Scoob has been one of my best friends for I think about 13 years now. I have also known Dom since this time at BHS. Even though we have never been close we have always hung around in the same large group of friends. When Scoob and Dom rekindled the flame, I was so happy for her and I saw her light up in ways I have never seen before. I was around for part 1 of Dom and Scoob and was happy to welcome part 2. As there relationship grew Matt (my husband) and I also got to spend more time with Dom. I enjoyed Dom's company immensely on Super Bowl because I was not the only one screaming at the TV or showing my dislike of the Manning Brothers. I am a Patriots fan so to say the least the day was not a happy one, but I enjoyed someone being on my side.
I have learned more about Dom over these blogs then I have ever known. His character is lifted to such an inspiring place because of the friendships he has made over the years. Not all people have friends like Dom does. I will say that I know for a fact that Dom must be an amazing person in order to have such an incredible woman like Scoob love him unconditionally. For all of you who have not have the privilege to know Scoob, she is kind, funny, honest and one of the greatest friends a person could have. I may not have known Dom that well but I am learning more and more everyday by the love that Scoob has for him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Dom, Scoob, Don, Jane, Amy and all of the friends and family in this fight together.
All My Love,Kacey (Mitchell) Tatsuno
From Debbie:
Dear Friends,
I feel that we are friends as we have been on this journey together, cheering the “Dom” team to victory! Yesterday Clinton and I got to visit Dom, Jane and Don and had the pleasure of meeting Justin and Tommy. Before we prayed for Dom, Jane said that someone connected to Scoob had flown from Northern California that morning to anoint Dom with oil representing the Holy Spirit and pray the prayer of faith for his healing. How awesome! Seeing Dom in the bed, he appeared to be taking a little nap. In this coma-state, Jane said that he hadn’t moved hands or feet for a few days. God says in His Word that we have not because we ask not and we ask amiss. So, there are specific things I noted yesterday that would be important points to come into agreement about. Won’t you please join me in prayer?
1) Pray that the tumor would dry up and shrink and that it would leave no residual effects from the depression on his brain. Pray that all the ganglia roots would die. Pray that great mental activity would be restored and cognitive and physical skills would return.
2) Pray that his organs would work the way they were made to work. God says Dominic is “fearfully and wonderfully made.” Pray for his digestive, respiratory tracts. Decree his organs…kidneys, liver, pancreas, lungs and heart would work in perfect alignment with each other and that no undue stress would remain.
3) Pray for his blood cells to come into balance and for the oxygen to be at healthy strong levels in his blood. Pray for his strong immune system.
4) Pray for his brain to send stimulus to his arms, hands, legs and feet to move and receive signals again. Pray for complete restoration according to Jeremiah 30:17 and that Dom’s future according to Jeremiah 29:11 would come to pass.
5) Lastly, pray for Jane and Don. They sleep on one small cot at night and fill the room 24/7 with their love for Dom. Their wells have not run dry. They are deep. Pray for their continued favor with hospital staff and for restoration to overcome them. Let the joy of the Lord be their strength, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Debbie Shick
A poem written by our daughter Debbie, who battles her own illness daily, to remind us what our noble nephew Dominic moves toward. With everlasting love, Uncle Dave, Aunt Jeanne, Jennifer, Debbie & Grant Cross
Exodus
Chasing the mirage
I know it is not real
But that does not matter
I like looking toward
The lushness
My thirst has conjured
Step after step
Sand sifts through my toes
The milk of coconuts
And the sounds of trickling waters
Beckon me onward
Smiling through parched lips
I know the illusion is not a trick
But a gift of the imagination
I close my eyes
The perfumes of exotic flowers
Come to me on the breeze
I kneel and gaze out to the glimmering distance
Palm trees and waterfalls sing out their welcome
And there YOU are, waving to me
And I realize this is not as oasis of fantasy
I journey toward...
This is Heaven
Deborah Cross
2007
Good evening....
I've been thinking all week of how no one really knows the impact each of us has on each other. Once I saw Mike Willis' post, it reminded me that I don't think I ever heard Dominic say anything in the 25 years I've known Don and Jane -- yet -- Dom and his family have had great influence on my family.
All through the years I've listened to the activities of Dominic and Amy growing up. Whenever I would visit Don to help me with my latest work project, we would always talk about our kids first. Heck -- he even designed my girls' birth announcements! Anyway, sometimes I would be so frustrated with the stages my girls would be going through (they are younger than Dom and Amy). Don would listen and then give me counsel on what he and Jane went through and how I should just chill out a little...many times I have thought back over Don's advice and it really did help.
When Dominic went off to Otis, I remember many stories that Don shared with me -- quite proudly, I might add! A few years rolled by and then I was agonizing over what to do with my oldest daughter Erika and college. Don used to let her pick up scraps of foam core board when she was little. We talked about her artistic bent and Don would always go back to examples he and Jane had with Dominic and Otis. My husband was in Iraq at the time, and I was tearing my hair out, so the counsel I received was invaluable at a time when I really needed it.
The silent thread that ran through all of this as an example of success was Dominic. Erika is now about ready to enter her senior year at Otis. I know there were times she was ready to give up, but I know the words of Don and Jane, and Dom's continued success have helped her more than any of them will ever know.
Much love to you all.....
Maureen Buscher-Dang
Friday, July 11, 2008
Latest Update...
Good morning everyone –
Today is my third stint from Texas here with Dom (JV compared to Don & Jane & Sccob & Matt) but it still nice to be able to walk in and say hi to my friend. I wanted to send out a quick update on his status.
Today, is much like the past several, he is resting in room #4811. The hospital at one point looked to have him finish out his time elsewhere, but Don was strong enough to insist he stay @ Cedars, and then once his doctor heard this news, wrote, “I’m Dominic’s ride, and I’m not driving anywhere.” So he will be at Cedars for the remainder of this journey. He’s lost much of that sculptured body, but you can still see the frame that made him so intimidating at the pool. In a bit of irony, Dom has a very full & dark goatee that Benji fashioned for him. Sadly he isn’t responding any more, but that doesn’t stop any visitors sharing their favorite memories with him.
We all love him so much. More to come when more happens. Thank you.
Bringing It daily.
Today is my third stint from Texas here with Dom (JV compared to Don & Jane & Sccob & Matt) but it still nice to be able to walk in and say hi to my friend. I wanted to send out a quick update on his status.
Today, is much like the past several, he is resting in room #4811. The hospital at one point looked to have him finish out his time elsewhere, but Don was strong enough to insist he stay @ Cedars, and then once his doctor heard this news, wrote, “I’m Dominic’s ride, and I’m not driving anywhere.” So he will be at Cedars for the remainder of this journey. He’s lost much of that sculptured body, but you can still see the frame that made him so intimidating at the pool. In a bit of irony, Dom has a very full & dark goatee that Benji fashioned for him. Sadly he isn’t responding any more, but that doesn’t stop any visitors sharing their favorite memories with him.
We all love him so much. More to come when more happens. Thank you.
Bringing It daily.
Morning...
From Julie (Davis) Hansen:
Please excuse my grammar. I haven't written anything in a long time. I just heard an update about Dom on Tuesday from Wendy Wayne. My thoughts and prayers are with you Dom, and your family. The last time I spoke with Dom was a few years ago at Jastro Park. It was just like old times. Just to list a few fun memories: Emerson Eagles, Best dressed, Fighting in English class, Miniature golfing, Watching the Godfather with Sonia, Kissing in the back room while watching the Godfather with Sonia! Talking on the phone until we fell asleep. My mom taking us on dates, This one is funny, Dom and I got into a fight in English Class, we were sent to Mr. Brothers office. You know when kids fight it really means they love each other. That's when I knew I loved Dom. I loved him for his huge heart and his amazing artistic abilities. We were, (I guess you could say) boyfriend and girlfriend. Puppy love at 14. Dom and I were close through High school, sharing all the drama of each other's relationships. Occasionally writing love letters back and forth to each other. We lost touch when Dom went to Otis. I miss you. I would like to express my appreciation to Marshall for your endless support. You are an amazing friend. Thank you for allowing everyone who loves Dominic to share there heartfelt thoughts and memories. Love, Julie (Davis) Hansen
From Evelyn (Dom's Boss):
Hi Don, Jane, family and friends,
I am here to talk about Dom, the professional.
The incredibly talented Creative that he is.
I met Dom in 2003, when he was a student at Otis. Mattel Girls was sponsoring the Senior class project, and I had the honor of sitting in on all critiques.
Typically what happened with these Girls toy assignments was that the girls in the class were totally into the project, and the boys rolled their eyes, whined throughout the entire process, and then ended up showing us a vehicle line or action figures for girls.
Not Dom... he was more than comfortable with the project, and gave it his all.( and I am sure he got teased for it too) .
I remember how impressed I was with his incredible drawing skills, as well as his great ideas, and thought process. Wow, I thought…now he has the "it" factor.
Lucky for us at Mattel, he agreed to join the Girls design team as a full time employee when he graduated. (guessing he got teased again)
How in awe you would all be to have my perspective of Dominic at work for the past 6 years. To see this talented designer in action; thinking, creating, innovating, learning, and growing.
There would be no Pixel Chix if it wasn't for Dom. He was the force behind it all.....creating hundreds of sketches for our Pixel girl. For those of you who don't know ... this brand was huge, not only in the US but around the world . This is just one example... through the years he worked on "everything Girl" from Plush toys to small dolls.
More importantly, behind the raw talent there is the soul; his passion, incredible drive, and true love for the craft.
As you can see, Dominic lived up to my first impression of him, and actually surpassed it tenfold.
Please know that he is not only loved by his incredible family and network of close friends...but also by his Mattel family.
There is only one Dom for me.
Love, Ev BTW...his OTIS project was a Plush Puppy that a girl nurtures. I remember it to this day.
From Karen:
Well, I have been reading all of the wonderful entries from everyone and finally decided to write something of my own. I don't know Dom very well; in fact he may not even know who I am. My name is Karen Davies (Smith). My parents are Susan Reep and Mark Smith. Amy was my sister, Jennifer's, nanny when she had her twins about 11 years ago. Also, we were living in Westchester and were part of the Westchester
Work Group along with the Ambrizes, the Behnams, the Twacketts and others. Dom is about 8 years younger than me. I remember him being around, but never talked to him too much.
Anyway, having said all that, I have thoroughly enjoyed all the memories that people have been sharing. I can tell that Dom is well-loved. He is an amazing person, according to all his friends and family - and I'll believe that.
My stories involve Del Taco. We have all learned now that Dom loves Del Taco. Well, I do too. We moved to Colorado 2 years ago and they don't have them there. Almost enough reason to leave. But seriously, Del Taco saved me twice. Once was when I was a freshman or sophomore at BHS. It was 1986 or 1987 and BHS had NO restaurants near it that you could walk to and from in 34 minutes. (Oops, I wasn't allowed to go off campus). Finally a Del Taco opened on the corner of California and Chester. We could walk there, get our tacos, and get back to school right after the tardy bell. Perfect. Before the tardy bell if you were quick.
The 2nd time was in college. It was 1990 and I was going to UCI in Irvine. Again, no restaurants near the campus. I didn't have a car. Thank goodness Del Taco was within walking distance and open 24 hours. We used to go get the Del Beef burritos at midnight. The good old days.
Just thought I'd share what I could. Prayers to Dom, Amy, Don and Jane. - Karen
Please excuse my grammar. I haven't written anything in a long time. I just heard an update about Dom on Tuesday from Wendy Wayne. My thoughts and prayers are with you Dom, and your family. The last time I spoke with Dom was a few years ago at Jastro Park. It was just like old times. Just to list a few fun memories: Emerson Eagles, Best dressed, Fighting in English class, Miniature golfing, Watching the Godfather with Sonia, Kissing in the back room while watching the Godfather with Sonia! Talking on the phone until we fell asleep. My mom taking us on dates, This one is funny, Dom and I got into a fight in English Class, we were sent to Mr. Brothers office. You know when kids fight it really means they love each other. That's when I knew I loved Dom. I loved him for his huge heart and his amazing artistic abilities. We were, (I guess you could say) boyfriend and girlfriend. Puppy love at 14. Dom and I were close through High school, sharing all the drama of each other's relationships. Occasionally writing love letters back and forth to each other. We lost touch when Dom went to Otis. I miss you. I would like to express my appreciation to Marshall for your endless support. You are an amazing friend. Thank you for allowing everyone who loves Dominic to share there heartfelt thoughts and memories. Love, Julie (Davis) Hansen
From Evelyn (Dom's Boss):
Hi Don, Jane, family and friends,
I am here to talk about Dom, the professional.
The incredibly talented Creative that he is.
I met Dom in 2003, when he was a student at Otis. Mattel Girls was sponsoring the Senior class project, and I had the honor of sitting in on all critiques.
Typically what happened with these Girls toy assignments was that the girls in the class were totally into the project, and the boys rolled their eyes, whined throughout the entire process, and then ended up showing us a vehicle line or action figures for girls.
Not Dom... he was more than comfortable with the project, and gave it his all.( and I am sure he got teased for it too) .
I remember how impressed I was with his incredible drawing skills, as well as his great ideas, and thought process. Wow, I thought…now he has the "it" factor.
Lucky for us at Mattel, he agreed to join the Girls design team as a full time employee when he graduated. (guessing he got teased again)
How in awe you would all be to have my perspective of Dominic at work for the past 6 years. To see this talented designer in action; thinking, creating, innovating, learning, and growing.
There would be no Pixel Chix if it wasn't for Dom. He was the force behind it all.....creating hundreds of sketches for our Pixel girl. For those of you who don't know ... this brand was huge, not only in the US but around the world . This is just one example... through the years he worked on "everything Girl" from Plush toys to small dolls.
More importantly, behind the raw talent there is the soul; his passion, incredible drive, and true love for the craft.
As you can see, Dominic lived up to my first impression of him, and actually surpassed it tenfold.
Please know that he is not only loved by his incredible family and network of close friends...but also by his Mattel family.
There is only one Dom for me.
Love, Ev BTW...his OTIS project was a Plush Puppy that a girl nurtures. I remember it to this day.
From Karen:
Well, I have been reading all of the wonderful entries from everyone and finally decided to write something of my own. I don't know Dom very well; in fact he may not even know who I am. My name is Karen Davies (Smith). My parents are Susan Reep and Mark Smith. Amy was my sister, Jennifer's, nanny when she had her twins about 11 years ago. Also, we were living in Westchester and were part of the Westchester
Work Group along with the Ambrizes, the Behnams, the Twacketts and others. Dom is about 8 years younger than me. I remember him being around, but never talked to him too much.
Anyway, having said all that, I have thoroughly enjoyed all the memories that people have been sharing. I can tell that Dom is well-loved. He is an amazing person, according to all his friends and family - and I'll believe that.
My stories involve Del Taco. We have all learned now that Dom loves Del Taco. Well, I do too. We moved to Colorado 2 years ago and they don't have them there. Almost enough reason to leave. But seriously, Del Taco saved me twice. Once was when I was a freshman or sophomore at BHS. It was 1986 or 1987 and BHS had NO restaurants near it that you could walk to and from in 34 minutes. (Oops, I wasn't allowed to go off campus). Finally a Del Taco opened on the corner of California and Chester. We could walk there, get our tacos, and get back to school right after the tardy bell. Perfect. Before the tardy bell if you were quick.
The 2nd time was in college. It was 1990 and I was going to UCI in Irvine. Again, no restaurants near the campus. I didn't have a car. Thank goodness Del Taco was within walking distance and open 24 hours. We used to go get the Del Beef burritos at midnight. The good old days.
Just thought I'd share what I could. Prayers to Dom, Amy, Don and Jane. - Karen
Beautiful Poetry from Leela
From Leela:
Hi Dom, Janie, Don, Amy--
I thought of you all today when my friend Charlene reminded me, "God's invincible power sweeps everything before it and I ride the wave to my perfect reality." She says that every time she uses this phrase she sees the sea sweeping the sand free of debris leaving it pristine. I like that. Here is another poem from Rilke:
I love the dark hours of my being.
My mind deepens into them.
There I can find, as in old letters,
the days of my life, already lived,
and held like a legend, and understood.
Then the knowing comes: I can open
to another life that's wide and timeless.
So I am sometimes like a tree
rustling over a gravesite
and making real the dream
of the one its living roots
embrace:
a dream once lost
among sorrows and songs.
-Rainer Maria Rilke
to Bring:
Infinite Spirit opens the way
for great abundance, aliveness,
and joy for Dom Ambriz.
He is an irresistible magnet
for all that belongs
to him by divine right.
Thinking of you - Leela
A Table in the Wilderness
by Li-Young Lee
I draw a window
and a man sitting inside it.
I draw a bird in flight above the lintel.
That's my picture of thinking.
If I put a woman there instead
of the man, it's a picture of speaking.
If I draw a second bird
in the woman's lap, it’s ministering.
A third flying below her feet.
Now it's singing.
Or erase the birds
make ivy branching
around the woman's ankles, clinging
to her knees, and it becomes remembering.
You'll have to find your own
pictures, whoever you are,
whatever your need.
As for me, many small hands
issuing from a waterfall
means silence
mothered me.
The hours hung like fruit in night's tree
means when I close my eyes
and look inside me,
a thousand open eyes
span the moment of my waking.
Meanwhile, the clock
adding a grain to a grain
and not getting bigger,
subtracting a day from a day
and never having less, means the honey
lies awake all night
inside the honeycomb
wondering who its parents are.
And even my death isn't my death
unless it's the unfathomed brow
of a nameless face.
Even my name isn't my name
except the bees assemble
a table to grant a stranger
light and moment in a wilderness
of Who? Where?
From Book of My Nights (BOA, 2001) by Li-Young Lee. Copyright © 2001.
Hi Dom, Janie, Don, Amy--
I thought of you all today when my friend Charlene reminded me, "God's invincible power sweeps everything before it and I ride the wave to my perfect reality." She says that every time she uses this phrase she sees the sea sweeping the sand free of debris leaving it pristine. I like that. Here is another poem from Rilke:
I love the dark hours of my being.
My mind deepens into them.
There I can find, as in old letters,
the days of my life, already lived,
and held like a legend, and understood.
Then the knowing comes: I can open
to another life that's wide and timeless.
So I am sometimes like a tree
rustling over a gravesite
and making real the dream
of the one its living roots
embrace:
a dream once lost
among sorrows and songs.
-Rainer Maria Rilke
to Bring:
Infinite Spirit opens the way
for great abundance, aliveness,
and joy for Dom Ambriz.
He is an irresistible magnet
for all that belongs
to him by divine right.
Thinking of you - Leela
A Table in the Wilderness
by Li-Young Lee
I draw a window
and a man sitting inside it.
I draw a bird in flight above the lintel.
That's my picture of thinking.
If I put a woman there instead
of the man, it's a picture of speaking.
If I draw a second bird
in the woman's lap, it’s ministering.
A third flying below her feet.
Now it's singing.
Or erase the birds
make ivy branching
around the woman's ankles, clinging
to her knees, and it becomes remembering.
You'll have to find your own
pictures, whoever you are,
whatever your need.
As for me, many small hands
issuing from a waterfall
means silence
mothered me.
The hours hung like fruit in night's tree
means when I close my eyes
and look inside me,
a thousand open eyes
span the moment of my waking.
Meanwhile, the clock
adding a grain to a grain
and not getting bigger,
subtracting a day from a day
and never having less, means the honey
lies awake all night
inside the honeycomb
wondering who its parents are.
And even my death isn't my death
unless it's the unfathomed brow
of a nameless face.
Even my name isn't my name
except the bees assemble
a table to grant a stranger
light and moment in a wilderness
of Who? Where?
From Book of My Nights (BOA, 2001) by Li-Young Lee. Copyright © 2001.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Bring It...
From Carrie Buse:
Dom's team at work is called GIRLtronics. We're a motley crew of creative goofballs, so needless to say Dom fits in well. A couple months ago we all agreed to a 30 day fitness challenge. For a $20 entry fee, we each agreed to try to get in shape by losing pounds and body fat and tracking how many steps we walk a day with pedometers. Potential winnings were just under $200, so the motivation was certainly there. On our first day we all had to weigh in and have our body fat tested at the Mattel Fitness Center. For many of us, this was a less than enjoyable experience. But Dom, aka Mr. Marky Mark-body, basically started the fitness test with a perfect score. In fact, I think he was like 1% away from pure godliness. The word "jealousy" doesn't come close! But we're a nice bunch, so the rest of us fatties and slackers managed to keep the envy in check and not doctor his scores. ;)Well, due to many delays and distractions, our 30 day challenge dragged out into something closer to 60 days. In that time, Dom has gotten sicker, but we want him to know he's still very much a part of our challenge. We finally called the winner last week, and we want to share the results with Dom. Here's the email that went out:
Kim Matilla!!!
That's right, Kim lost 1.8 lbs, 0.7% body fat, and took 349,114 steps, bringing her to a total of 365,114 points!!! Yay Kim!!!
Second place goes to yours truly, Carrie Buse, who managed to GAIN 1.1 lbs, lose 2.6% body fat, and walk 303,796 steps for a total of 324,296 points. It should also be noted that I somehow managed to shrink 1.5" in height. Make of that what you will.
Third place is Natalie Repp with a loss of 2.3 lbs, 0.4% body fat, and 278,365 steps. Her point total comes to 293,865. Nat also lost .5" in height. We're all turning into shorties!
Extra Special Consideration goes to Joy Burns who blew us all away on the weight loss by losing 5.1 lbs and on body fat by losing a whopping 7.0%! Holy Mogimbo! I'll have what she's having!
"Special" Consideration (note the quotation marks for emphasis on the word "special") goes to Erich Weidetz who vowed to gain weight, tried getting extra steps by walking to bars, lost his pedometer during a drunken haze, never turned in his weigh-in sheet, and didn't show up for the final weigh-in. Dude, you are my hero.
I hope this has been an inspirational (if dragged out) experience for everyone. Paul and I have discussed hosting a surprise weigh-in sometime in the future, so keep getting fit. You could still win! We'll also set aside some time to discuss toy ideas that came from this exercise.
Yay to everyone and thanks for participating!
From The Bonch Man:
My name is Jesse Easley and I have been friends with Dominic since 1995. We initially met in Mr. Wages Algebra class during our Freshman year at BHS, but were not fast friends, mainly because I was intimidated by Doms long blond hair and giant gold watch, but probably more so because he sat in the corner and didn't say much. He certainly had an intense presence even back then, while I was an awkward, dorky theatre kid from Frazier Park with a fondness for quirky hats. Truthfully, we probably didn't say one word to each other that year. That changed when I joined Mrs. Hanley's Biology class sophomore year. The class was a full blown assortment of comedians, hooligans, and rabble-rousers that would later make up most of the core membership of The OP KFC Mob. For those of you who keep asking yourself "What the hell is this OP that these kids keep mentioning?" All I can say is, if you don't know, you probably won't understand. I will say that we were the single most badass gang of friends to ever grace the halls of Warren or terrorize the park of Kroll, and Dominic was without question our de-facto leader. In Mrs. Hanley's Biology class, I was welcomed with open arms into this very tight clique and Dom and I began our friendship. I was subsequently "jumped in" to the OP, welcomed as a weekly overnight visitor to the Wayne/Tackett house where we would stay up all night partying in "The Phat Cave" and I started being referred to as "The Bonch." Joining this fraternity meant the world to me and my friendship with Dom, The Tacketts, Marshall and everyone in the extended family has been strong ever since. In the 12 years since that time I have considered Dom one of my closest friends, not because we hang out every weekend, or because we have lots of the same interests, truthfully we're as different as two friends could be, but because when we see each other its as if nothing has changed and we're still 17, out to score 40's and girls. One thing that I love most about Dom is his sense of humor. Many of you might not know Dom as a funny person, but he is actually one of the funniest people I have ever met. For my 21st birthday, my parents put together a Vegas trip for me and 3 friends. I invited my two best friends/brothers Dave and Nick, and threw Dom in the mix because he had recently turned 21 as well, and I knew he would make the trip memorable. As we passed through Baker Dom started counting down every mile by saying "One more mile...down the tubes!!!" and kept it up all the way to Vegas. This hilarious quote, which has been repeated countless times over the years, gets no justice in print, I assure you. That first night in Vegas we all learned to play Roulette, partied as hard as could be expected, and kept it going until sunrise when we stepped out onto the strip to discover throngs of Joggers welcoming the nevada morning. Dom forced us to jog back to The Excalibur and as we passed a billboard of Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance, Dom drunkenly pondered "Who the fuck is Michael Flannigan?" which of course received hours of laughter and was added to the all-time favorite list of Dom quotes. There are hundreds of stories like this that I have collected over the years that I couldn't possibly recount here. From stealing beers at Marshall's frat party at Loyola, to taking on 'roiders from Centenial, or filling up the two liter bottles from the keg, to the Carmex story, Dominic Ambriz is and always will be legendary to me!
From the Guiltinans:
Our thoughts and spirit are with you --so much so--that I am typing this a second time because I screwed it up the first time -- blogs -- modern marvels of technology -- well can't complain - it is what has us so updated on Dominic's progress.
We love you and wish you, Mattie, Don, Jane and of course Dom and Scoob all the best in his recovery. If anyone can beat something like this -- it is him. If there is anything we can do for any of you, do not hesitate to let us know.
Everyone who has been blessed with knowing Dominic is a better person for it and this world is a much better place with his influence in it. His great talent and pleasant disposition is second to none and we are all routing for his speedy recovery.
The Guiltinan's
Dom's team at work is called GIRLtronics. We're a motley crew of creative goofballs, so needless to say Dom fits in well. A couple months ago we all agreed to a 30 day fitness challenge. For a $20 entry fee, we each agreed to try to get in shape by losing pounds and body fat and tracking how many steps we walk a day with pedometers. Potential winnings were just under $200, so the motivation was certainly there. On our first day we all had to weigh in and have our body fat tested at the Mattel Fitness Center. For many of us, this was a less than enjoyable experience. But Dom, aka Mr. Marky Mark-body, basically started the fitness test with a perfect score. In fact, I think he was like 1% away from pure godliness. The word "jealousy" doesn't come close! But we're a nice bunch, so the rest of us fatties and slackers managed to keep the envy in check and not doctor his scores. ;)Well, due to many delays and distractions, our 30 day challenge dragged out into something closer to 60 days. In that time, Dom has gotten sicker, but we want him to know he's still very much a part of our challenge. We finally called the winner last week, and we want to share the results with Dom. Here's the email that went out:
Kim Matilla!!!
That's right, Kim lost 1.8 lbs, 0.7% body fat, and took 349,114 steps, bringing her to a total of 365,114 points!!! Yay Kim!!!
Second place goes to yours truly, Carrie Buse, who managed to GAIN 1.1 lbs, lose 2.6% body fat, and walk 303,796 steps for a total of 324,296 points. It should also be noted that I somehow managed to shrink 1.5" in height. Make of that what you will.
Third place is Natalie Repp with a loss of 2.3 lbs, 0.4% body fat, and 278,365 steps. Her point total comes to 293,865. Nat also lost .5" in height. We're all turning into shorties!
Extra Special Consideration goes to Joy Burns who blew us all away on the weight loss by losing 5.1 lbs and on body fat by losing a whopping 7.0%! Holy Mogimbo! I'll have what she's having!
"Special" Consideration (note the quotation marks for emphasis on the word "special") goes to Erich Weidetz who vowed to gain weight, tried getting extra steps by walking to bars, lost his pedometer during a drunken haze, never turned in his weigh-in sheet, and didn't show up for the final weigh-in. Dude, you are my hero.
I hope this has been an inspirational (if dragged out) experience for everyone. Paul and I have discussed hosting a surprise weigh-in sometime in the future, so keep getting fit. You could still win! We'll also set aside some time to discuss toy ideas that came from this exercise.
Yay to everyone and thanks for participating!
From The Bonch Man:
My name is Jesse Easley and I have been friends with Dominic since 1995. We initially met in Mr. Wages Algebra class during our Freshman year at BHS, but were not fast friends, mainly because I was intimidated by Doms long blond hair and giant gold watch, but probably more so because he sat in the corner and didn't say much. He certainly had an intense presence even back then, while I was an awkward, dorky theatre kid from Frazier Park with a fondness for quirky hats. Truthfully, we probably didn't say one word to each other that year. That changed when I joined Mrs. Hanley's Biology class sophomore year. The class was a full blown assortment of comedians, hooligans, and rabble-rousers that would later make up most of the core membership of The OP KFC Mob. For those of you who keep asking yourself "What the hell is this OP that these kids keep mentioning?" All I can say is, if you don't know, you probably won't understand. I will say that we were the single most badass gang of friends to ever grace the halls of Warren or terrorize the park of Kroll, and Dominic was without question our de-facto leader. In Mrs. Hanley's Biology class, I was welcomed with open arms into this very tight clique and Dom and I began our friendship. I was subsequently "jumped in" to the OP, welcomed as a weekly overnight visitor to the Wayne/Tackett house where we would stay up all night partying in "The Phat Cave" and I started being referred to as "The Bonch." Joining this fraternity meant the world to me and my friendship with Dom, The Tacketts, Marshall and everyone in the extended family has been strong ever since. In the 12 years since that time I have considered Dom one of my closest friends, not because we hang out every weekend, or because we have lots of the same interests, truthfully we're as different as two friends could be, but because when we see each other its as if nothing has changed and we're still 17, out to score 40's and girls. One thing that I love most about Dom is his sense of humor. Many of you might not know Dom as a funny person, but he is actually one of the funniest people I have ever met. For my 21st birthday, my parents put together a Vegas trip for me and 3 friends. I invited my two best friends/brothers Dave and Nick, and threw Dom in the mix because he had recently turned 21 as well, and I knew he would make the trip memorable. As we passed through Baker Dom started counting down every mile by saying "One more mile...down the tubes!!!" and kept it up all the way to Vegas. This hilarious quote, which has been repeated countless times over the years, gets no justice in print, I assure you. That first night in Vegas we all learned to play Roulette, partied as hard as could be expected, and kept it going until sunrise when we stepped out onto the strip to discover throngs of Joggers welcoming the nevada morning. Dom forced us to jog back to The Excalibur and as we passed a billboard of Michael Flatley's Lord of the Dance, Dom drunkenly pondered "Who the fuck is Michael Flannigan?" which of course received hours of laughter and was added to the all-time favorite list of Dom quotes. There are hundreds of stories like this that I have collected over the years that I couldn't possibly recount here. From stealing beers at Marshall's frat party at Loyola, to taking on 'roiders from Centenial, or filling up the two liter bottles from the keg, to the Carmex story, Dominic Ambriz is and always will be legendary to me!
From the Guiltinans:
Our thoughts and spirit are with you --so much so--that I am typing this a second time because I screwed it up the first time -- blogs -- modern marvels of technology -- well can't complain - it is what has us so updated on Dominic's progress.
We love you and wish you, Mattie, Don, Jane and of course Dom and Scoob all the best in his recovery. If anyone can beat something like this -- it is him. If there is anything we can do for any of you, do not hesitate to let us know.
Everyone who has been blessed with knowing Dominic is a better person for it and this world is a much better place with his influence in it. His great talent and pleasant disposition is second to none and we are all routing for his speedy recovery.
The Guiltinan's
The Dominator
From Valerie:
I have sat down to write something a few times now, but every time my mind fills with too many memories (I am sure I do not have to tell any of you about that). He was my first love, but he is so much more than that. He is an amazing friend.
Long after we broke up (for the last time), we ran into each other at the famed
Sharkeez. We chatted, exchanged numbers, and both went on with our night. In the weeks that followed, we talked a few times and he even gave me some advice about a guy I liked. I think Dom called him a “chump” when I told him that the guy in question didn’t even know I was alive. We both laughed and started to reminisce about things like these:
I am not sure if there is a soul on this Earth (other than maybe the people responsible for making these movies) that has seen all of the Rocky films or the Godfather movies more times. I sat through countless hours as we watched these moves over and over and over again. I think he could have put them on mute and said most of the lines himself. Then there was his art; even at 16 Dom was so talented. He would draw, sculpt, and create all of his masterpieces while Janis Joplin blared on the stereo. I will forever link Me And Bobby McGee with Dom.
Dinner at the Ambriz house was my favorite time! Don and Jane we like second parents and Amy was like the sister I already had, but so much cooler. My sister had left for college when I was 14, so, at 16, having Amy do my hair, give me advice, and treat me like family was a gift. Jane’s Christmas cookies are still the greatest things I have ever tasted (I can taste the peppermint candy cane ones now). Even when Dom obsessed about what he ate and measured his food, he could put away more of those cookies than anyone. I am so blessed to have had the entire Ambriz family in my life, even if it was for a short time.
There are so many more memories: formals and proms, our first date when he picked me up in his big red beast of a car and my dad have me the “ watch out for this guy” look, nights out with his friends who graciously became my friends, Halloween (need I say more?), sitting at Earthworm Studios watching Dom work with his dad, helping him do his Spanish home work for his 2nd or 3rd try at Spanish 1, Dom helping me move into my freshman dorm room at LMU, holding my hand and hugging me as a I cried when my parents said good bye and drove away. He was my rock for so many years (when you are 19, 3 years is a long time) and I am so grateful.
When my grandmother lost her 10-year battle with Cancer, I was 18 and a mess. Don and Jane sent me following hand written poem to help ease my pain. It is now stained with tears and worn at the edges. It hung in all of my dorm rooms, in my all of my college houses, and now hangs in my home office next to the computer. I now send it back to the amazing family that sent it to me. I love you Ambriz Family and you are all in my prayers. BRING IT!!!
Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed a dream.
I was walking along the beach with my Lord. Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand, one belonging to me and one to my Lord.
When the last scene of my life shot before me I looked back at the footprints in the sand. There was only one set of footprints. I realized that this was at the lowest and saddest times of my life. This always bothered me and I questioned the Lord about my dilemma.
"Lord, You told me when I decided to follow You, You would walk and talk with me all the way. But I'm aware that during the most troublesome times of my life there is only one set of footprints. I just don't understand why, when I need You most, You leave me."
He whispered, "My precious child, I love you and will never leave you, never, ever, during your trials and testings. When you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you."
Valerie (Crawford) Thomas
My name is Jeff, and I am the boyfriend of Amy Madrid, Dominic's sister.
Since first meeting Amy, I have heard wonderful stories and glowing memories of her younger brother. Listening to Amy go on about Dom made me envious that she had a brother, because I do not.. Once in a while Amy said I reminded her of her brother, which I now consider to have been the highest possible compliment.
From the few encounters I had with Dominic, I am now more convinced than ever that Amy's recollections of her younger brother were not exaggerated. He is a bright, strong-willed individual who would be a asset to any company, and a good friend to anybody who needed one.
I had heard about the incredible creative achievements: the Pixel Chicks, the Book for Mattie (his niece), and of course, the Masks. But when I walked into his apartment for the first time, nothing could have prepared me for the reaction I had at seeing the art on his walls. Some was macabre, others were super-heroish, but all the items on display gave me an insight into the abilities of this talented man. I was continually reminded of the skill that was needed to produce this work, as I am anything but an artist!
Sitting on the floor in Dom's apartment, right next to some of these amazing works of art, are barbells and weights. After seeing this, I realized the versatility that Dominic must possess. In my mind, I saw an artist who could work tirelessly on artistic projects, and I imagined Dominic putting down his materials and lifting weights to train for a triathlon. How impressive, I thought, was the balance between the mind and the body...
In the brief time I have spent with Dom, I have come to the conclusion that he is a person of high integrity, courage, and discipline. He is engaging without talking very much, and his energy is felt all around him. I really have enjoyed the times that Amy and I have spent with Dominic and his Great Girlfriend, Scoob.
It has been said, by people I respect, that a person makes a statement by the way he lives his life. Dominic has been an inspiration to me in the way he never gives up, and his love of family and friends will remain with me for the rest of my days.
Jeff Lavin, A New Friend Of Dominic Ambriz
The Dominator
DOM- Thinking back on when I first met you at Emerson Jr. High I remember sharing a class... You sat by me most of the year but we didn’t talk much until I heard you talking about a documentary about “white ganstas” in Little Rock Arkansas. It’s funny because I had watched the same documentary. We both thought it was the dorkiest thing we had seen...white guys pretending to be ganstas? (especially when we were surrounded by real ganstas at Emerson) until we decided to be the first original white ganstas in Bako.
It may have been your gansta ways or that perfect mushroom haircut...whatever it was, I knew we would be friends for a very long time and it was just about time to bust down the doors at BHS...
Dom was that guy in high school. The guy that most guys want to be like. I think back to summers at the Ambriz’s house- swimming (red & white striped or blue & white striped shorts for the guests) and watching Dom make masks. I say watching because when I tried to pitch in and make a mold for a mask, Dom wouldn’t let me use the latex (he didn’t want to waste it). When Amy got her new gold Honda Accord she would give us rides to the Valley Plaza with E40's Sprinkle Me blasting in the background so loud you couldn’t hear yourself think. Watching Mike Tyson’s first fight since being in jail...we were all excited, gathered around in the den. We couldn’t get enough of Coolio’s Dangerous Minds soundtrack. Spring Break in San Diego when you introduced me to Blink 182. Boxing in your backyard and watching you take on newcomers at Kroll Park. Then we decided to become pros and join Strong Bo’s... Remember Chuck the boxing coach- the only thing he was good at was killing a bucket of KFC!!!
After graduation you went to art school, and then a job at Mattel. I always brag about you saying, “My friend Dominic is such a talented artist...he designs toys for a living.” (That is the coolest thing I have ever heard of!) I am so glad you and Scoob got together...it brought you back to Bakersfield so often- almost like you lived here again. I was always bummed when I had to work but it’s a good thing the Tackets live so close to 3-way, I could sneak over and catch a little football with you on Sundays. We share a love for working out, the UFC, Kimbo Slice, white t’s, family, friends, and a good laugh. YOU ARE THE STRONGEST GUY I KNOW...BRING IT.
Justin “Peto” Hallgren
From Kathleen Faulkner:
Dom, We had the privilege of having you and your family as our neighbors on B St. several years when you were a baby. I didn't get to see you much after you moved but we have been friends with your extended family for many years (since 1964). Obviously in the years that passed, you have made an indelible mark in the world that will be an inspiration for all of us and to the others whose lives you have touched. Know that all our hearts are fervent with love and concern for you and your family in your struggle. God be with you and your family always. Your friends, the Kathleen and the rest of the Faulkner Family.
From Megan Simon:
Dom-the-bomb, we all love you and it is very evident. How heartwarming it is for me to read each message; i can only imagine how amazing it feels for you to grasp the love encompassing you. Even a complete stranger would be certain of how great you are just by seeing the wonderful and loyal people that you have chosen to be your friends and by the strong family you have come from. Their character is a reflection of yours.
(Thank you so much to everyone involved in creating this blog so that we all can stay informed and also share our feelings- you have done a wonderful job)
I have been a quiet spectator until now, but i must say that i commend your friends and family members for their unwaivering support and strength they have lent to you. What an impact they have made and what an example they have set. There is no one more worthy of so much affection.
Lots of love to you Dom, and big HUGS to everyone.
Megan Simon
I have sat down to write something a few times now, but every time my mind fills with too many memories (I am sure I do not have to tell any of you about that). He was my first love, but he is so much more than that. He is an amazing friend.
Long after we broke up (for the last time), we ran into each other at the famed
Sharkeez. We chatted, exchanged numbers, and both went on with our night. In the weeks that followed, we talked a few times and he even gave me some advice about a guy I liked. I think Dom called him a “chump” when I told him that the guy in question didn’t even know I was alive. We both laughed and started to reminisce about things like these:
I am not sure if there is a soul on this Earth (other than maybe the people responsible for making these movies) that has seen all of the Rocky films or the Godfather movies more times. I sat through countless hours as we watched these moves over and over and over again. I think he could have put them on mute and said most of the lines himself. Then there was his art; even at 16 Dom was so talented. He would draw, sculpt, and create all of his masterpieces while Janis Joplin blared on the stereo. I will forever link Me And Bobby McGee with Dom.
Dinner at the Ambriz house was my favorite time! Don and Jane we like second parents and Amy was like the sister I already had, but so much cooler. My sister had left for college when I was 14, so, at 16, having Amy do my hair, give me advice, and treat me like family was a gift. Jane’s Christmas cookies are still the greatest things I have ever tasted (I can taste the peppermint candy cane ones now). Even when Dom obsessed about what he ate and measured his food, he could put away more of those cookies than anyone. I am so blessed to have had the entire Ambriz family in my life, even if it was for a short time.
There are so many more memories: formals and proms, our first date when he picked me up in his big red beast of a car and my dad have me the “ watch out for this guy” look, nights out with his friends who graciously became my friends, Halloween (need I say more?), sitting at Earthworm Studios watching Dom work with his dad, helping him do his Spanish home work for his 2nd or 3rd try at Spanish 1, Dom helping me move into my freshman dorm room at LMU, holding my hand and hugging me as a I cried when my parents said good bye and drove away. He was my rock for so many years (when you are 19, 3 years is a long time) and I am so grateful.
When my grandmother lost her 10-year battle with Cancer, I was 18 and a mess. Don and Jane sent me following hand written poem to help ease my pain. It is now stained with tears and worn at the edges. It hung in all of my dorm rooms, in my all of my college houses, and now hangs in my home office next to the computer. I now send it back to the amazing family that sent it to me. I love you Ambriz Family and you are all in my prayers. BRING IT!!!
Footprints in the Sand
One night I dreamed a dream.
I was walking along the beach with my Lord. Across the dark sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand, one belonging to me and one to my Lord.
When the last scene of my life shot before me I looked back at the footprints in the sand. There was only one set of footprints. I realized that this was at the lowest and saddest times of my life. This always bothered me and I questioned the Lord about my dilemma.
"Lord, You told me when I decided to follow You, You would walk and talk with me all the way. But I'm aware that during the most troublesome times of my life there is only one set of footprints. I just don't understand why, when I need You most, You leave me."
He whispered, "My precious child, I love you and will never leave you, never, ever, during your trials and testings. When you saw only one set of footprints,
It was then that I carried you."
Valerie (Crawford) Thomas
My name is Jeff, and I am the boyfriend of Amy Madrid, Dominic's sister.
Since first meeting Amy, I have heard wonderful stories and glowing memories of her younger brother. Listening to Amy go on about Dom made me envious that she had a brother, because I do not.. Once in a while Amy said I reminded her of her brother, which I now consider to have been the highest possible compliment.
From the few encounters I had with Dominic, I am now more convinced than ever that Amy's recollections of her younger brother were not exaggerated. He is a bright, strong-willed individual who would be a asset to any company, and a good friend to anybody who needed one.
I had heard about the incredible creative achievements: the Pixel Chicks, the Book for Mattie (his niece), and of course, the Masks. But when I walked into his apartment for the first time, nothing could have prepared me for the reaction I had at seeing the art on his walls. Some was macabre, others were super-heroish, but all the items on display gave me an insight into the abilities of this talented man. I was continually reminded of the skill that was needed to produce this work, as I am anything but an artist!
Sitting on the floor in Dom's apartment, right next to some of these amazing works of art, are barbells and weights. After seeing this, I realized the versatility that Dominic must possess. In my mind, I saw an artist who could work tirelessly on artistic projects, and I imagined Dominic putting down his materials and lifting weights to train for a triathlon. How impressive, I thought, was the balance between the mind and the body...
In the brief time I have spent with Dom, I have come to the conclusion that he is a person of high integrity, courage, and discipline. He is engaging without talking very much, and his energy is felt all around him. I really have enjoyed the times that Amy and I have spent with Dominic and his Great Girlfriend, Scoob.
It has been said, by people I respect, that a person makes a statement by the way he lives his life. Dominic has been an inspiration to me in the way he never gives up, and his love of family and friends will remain with me for the rest of my days.
Jeff Lavin, A New Friend Of Dominic Ambriz
The Dominator
DOM- Thinking back on when I first met you at Emerson Jr. High I remember sharing a class... You sat by me most of the year but we didn’t talk much until I heard you talking about a documentary about “white ganstas” in Little Rock Arkansas. It’s funny because I had watched the same documentary. We both thought it was the dorkiest thing we had seen...white guys pretending to be ganstas? (especially when we were surrounded by real ganstas at Emerson) until we decided to be the first original white ganstas in Bako.
It may have been your gansta ways or that perfect mushroom haircut...whatever it was, I knew we would be friends for a very long time and it was just about time to bust down the doors at BHS...
Dom was that guy in high school. The guy that most guys want to be like. I think back to summers at the Ambriz’s house- swimming (red & white striped or blue & white striped shorts for the guests) and watching Dom make masks. I say watching because when I tried to pitch in and make a mold for a mask, Dom wouldn’t let me use the latex (he didn’t want to waste it). When Amy got her new gold Honda Accord she would give us rides to the Valley Plaza with E40's Sprinkle Me blasting in the background so loud you couldn’t hear yourself think. Watching Mike Tyson’s first fight since being in jail...we were all excited, gathered around in the den. We couldn’t get enough of Coolio’s Dangerous Minds soundtrack. Spring Break in San Diego when you introduced me to Blink 182. Boxing in your backyard and watching you take on newcomers at Kroll Park. Then we decided to become pros and join Strong Bo’s... Remember Chuck the boxing coach- the only thing he was good at was killing a bucket of KFC!!!
After graduation you went to art school, and then a job at Mattel. I always brag about you saying, “My friend Dominic is such a talented artist...he designs toys for a living.” (That is the coolest thing I have ever heard of!) I am so glad you and Scoob got together...it brought you back to Bakersfield so often- almost like you lived here again. I was always bummed when I had to work but it’s a good thing the Tackets live so close to 3-way, I could sneak over and catch a little football with you on Sundays. We share a love for working out, the UFC, Kimbo Slice, white t’s, family, friends, and a good laugh. YOU ARE THE STRONGEST GUY I KNOW...BRING IT.
Justin “Peto” Hallgren
From Kathleen Faulkner:
Dom, We had the privilege of having you and your family as our neighbors on B St. several years when you were a baby. I didn't get to see you much after you moved but we have been friends with your extended family for many years (since 1964). Obviously in the years that passed, you have made an indelible mark in the world that will be an inspiration for all of us and to the others whose lives you have touched. Know that all our hearts are fervent with love and concern for you and your family in your struggle. God be with you and your family always. Your friends, the Kathleen and the rest of the Faulkner Family.
From Megan Simon:
Dom-the-bomb, we all love you and it is very evident. How heartwarming it is for me to read each message; i can only imagine how amazing it feels for you to grasp the love encompassing you. Even a complete stranger would be certain of how great you are just by seeing the wonderful and loyal people that you have chosen to be your friends and by the strong family you have come from. Their character is a reflection of yours.
(Thank you so much to everyone involved in creating this blog so that we all can stay informed and also share our feelings- you have done a wonderful job)
I have been a quiet spectator until now, but i must say that i commend your friends and family members for their unwaivering support and strength they have lent to you. What an impact they have made and what an example they have set. There is no one more worthy of so much affection.
Lots of love to you Dom, and big HUGS to everyone.
Megan Simon
Day 25...
From Mike Willis:
Dom - I've known you forever- and I really don't know you at all. I've been reading all these blog entries filling up my email box and I kinda regret not knowing you better. I say "kinda" because regret is
something I don't spend too much time thinking about. I suspect you feel the same way.
Having said that- I do have a few thoughts I'd like to share. I'm sure you heard the story about Don and I met. However you probably never heard my version. (Don't worry, we come to you in a minute). In and
around 1979 I was a long haired wanna be graphic artist. I had little or no training. Four or five Graphic arts classes at BC. I was a half assed air brush artist too. So at some point I set out to try and get a job as a graphic artist. I look back at my portfolio and laugh. I shlepped around this gold framed airbrush art picture (glass and everything), and a couple of other "paintings" and a business card I
did for Rick Mears after he won his first Indy race. If someone came in to my office today with this portfolio- I'd think he was retarded.
In any case I went to Jill Thayer's office first. The name of her company back then (I believe) was "Expressions". She had this cool studio,and she was all bubbly and perky, I showed her my stuff and I
could tell she wasn't real impressed. Understandable- but I was a bit crushed. She showed me her painted rocks- and I was doing a mental head slap, thinking "why didn't I think of that!?" OK. Strike out.
Just down the street was an oddly named studio called Earthworm. In "The Old House", which was sort of a spooky looking place. So I stopped by and ran into a young man with a real high voice, washing
out screens or something. He said his name was Vincent and he worked for Don. I asked if Don was hiring. Sadly he wasn't... and I might as well just run along. I'm a little foggy as to how I finally had the
courage to walk up the stairs and meet the legend, but I did. Don was larger than life. His studio was so fricken cool. The big Sutherland masterpieces. The untidy mishmash of oddball signs and shit. I knew
this was it. This is what I wanted. He didn't hire me- so I went out on it alone. Rainbow Graphics was born. Which didn't sound gay at the time. Anyway, I started going there- seems like, everyday. Don didn't seem to mind me sitting on the other side of his desk. He reveled in being the master. He taught me calligraphy, one shot sign painting, silk screening. He was my mentor in every way. Not just art either.
He taught me the value of "always keeping a C note in your wallet". Actually I didn't have any C notes. But Don loved flashing one around. Probably his only one. And his ankle holster with the Beretta. And
his caricatures. No one has said this to this day- but if you really look at his cartoons- they all look the same AND AT THE SAME TIME look just like who they're supposed to be. I, to this day, have not been able
to recreate that. How hard can it be? Round head, big shoes, four fingers-- George Bush- next drawing- round head, big shoes, four fingers, this time , add some glasses, mustache, I'll be damned- it's Groucho! But his advice was golden. And I've been using his wisdom and his example to this very day.
OK- enough of that. Now to my fond memories of you. Blank. I got nuthin. OH WAIT- first time I met you and Amy at Don's house on Chester Lane. You looked just like a cartoon Don drew of you. You didn't say much. I thought you were a mute. Kinda just stared at me- like "who's this homeless guy"? Probably didn't say anything because your sister didn't let you get a word in edge wise. OK- then really nothing for awhile until the B street house. Yard sale, I stopped by and most of the stuff was like star wars action figures. I was thinking- dude don't sell this shit- you'll regret it later in life... like when you see vintage GI Joe's going for $200 on eBay... like I did... shit. I had a BLACK GI Joe with fuzzy hair. Probably the only
one made, and just like you, I sold it for a buck. But you were a hustler. Don told me how there was some stupid-ass fad at your school where you'd break your pencil by throwing it at the wall (or
something equally lame). Typical 8th grade genius. But you were the one who cashed in by loading up on pencils and selling them to other retards at your school... so they could break them... again.
OK- that was it for awhile. You had a bitchen' first car. Never saw you drive it. It was kind of weird - It was like I saw all the stuff you did, the car, the weights, masks, but you were never around. It was just the timing I guess. I knew you were creative and stuff, but never really saw any drawings per se. Then one day out of the blue or so it seemed) you were going to go to art school. And you guys were off with a handful of monster masks and some drawings to try and get into some major art schools. I never voiced this before, but I was thinking "no fricken way". Then I flashed back to me with my lame airbrush paintings trying to get a job, and thought, maybe, just maybe.
But it wasn't maybe. It was HELL YEAH! Don showed me the stuff you were doing. The drawings, marker work, figure drawing. And I'm thinking to myself- "Is this the same Dominic that's your son?" or
has someone else taken over his body? But I guess it was like the first time I saw you- there was a whole lot going on beneath the silent stare. Stuff that would surprise some, like me. But to the people you were with all the time- it was no surprise. It was like- I'm thinking
"Where'd that little mute kid hide all this talent!?" And other people are thinking- "Dom? Oh yeah, he's like, going to be the next CEO of Mattel. Oh yeah, for sure, right after he wins the Hawaiian marathon."
OK- so now the third memory, at least I think it's three. At the park for the Cancer get together, fund raiser. And to the best of my recollection, this is about the third time I've seen you in my life.
Right after the yard sale. Except now you're not 3 feet tall with a bowl haircut. You're this ripped he-man with gnarly stitches going around your head. And instead of a Luke Skywalker doll clutched in
your hand, it's a beer. We did the man hug, exchanged a few words. But the thing was- it was like I'd known you my whole life... like real close ya know? And in that man hug- you conveyed that emotion or vibe right back to me.
The vibe was: It is what it is. No regrets. No apologies. Thanks for coming. Thanks for being my dad's friend... thanks for being my friend. See ya.
And that's it. I'm not sure how I should close this letter. So to use my earlier analogy. I'll just shake it twice and zip.
Love, Mike
From Leela:
Hello Everyone,
It is an honor and pleasure to feel the tremendous out pour of love,respect, and admiration expressed here for my cousin. While he and Ihave only had brief encounters at family gatherings, Dom's creativefocus and determination is always palpable.
Dom, please, know that you and your family are in my thoughts daily. Iknow that Divine Right Action manifests in your mind, heart, and bodyimmediately. I'm sending an abundance of love, strength, and poetry insupport of your fondest desires.
Hailing your mission, Leela
Moving Forward
The deep parts of my life pour onward,as if the river shores were opening out.It seems that things are more like me now,that I can see farther into paintings.I feel closer to what language can't reach.With my senses, as with birds, I climbinto the windy heaven, out of the oak,in the ponds broken off from the skymy feeling sinks, as if standing on fishes.
Rainer Maria Rilke
Translated by Robert Bly
From Toni:
My dearest friends, family, and all who love Dom... I have a correction to make on my last blog. It was not the foot race of "Thanksgiving" 2007, but "Christmas" of 2007. Thank you so much for setting me straight Scoob. Not that one holiday is less unique or important than the other...I just happen to spend almost every holiday at the Wayne/Tackett household, with the rest of our extended phamily, and I got confused.
I had the chance to sit with Dom yesterday, and hold his hand and reflect on his strength. We were talking about how Dom doesn't care much for name brand clothing, how he isn't afraid to go against the grain, and how he doesn't appreciate complaining or feeling sorry for yourself. How Scoob had a sinus infection, and was bummed about it (we all know how uncomfortable and painful those are!). Suddenly, in the presence of Dom, you feel like an ass complaining. I have been training for this marathon coming up in October and I wanted so badly to talk to Dom about how I irritated my toe nail. I was messing around and ended up catching it on something and ripping it off...lots of blood and throbbing and pain was involved. I was sharing how I understand why ripping nails off is a form of torture, and Don very gracefully reminded me that Dom, would probably say it is just a toe nail. He's right...thanks Don for reminding me.
I am so grateful for all of the reminders that Dom has given me over the last couple years. For me, Dom lives the way we all should be living. Some words that come to mind are simplify, laugh, cherish, love, and LIVE. Thinking of him leaves me inspired and a bit angry at the same time. I want so badly to help fight the fight, too. I figured one way is to raise money for the families who are going through fights of their own with cancer. I am also running the Nike Women's Marathon in S.F. in October. It is my first time running and I am so excited. So far, my fundraising is not going too hot. Like Hope, I too, need to raise $2800. I need $700 by July 22nd, in order to "recommit". I wasn't going to post this, but I figure I need all the help I can get...so do the families that Team in Training supports.
Please visit my link, and forward it to anyone you know that may help out. http://pages.teamintraining.org/cca/nikesf08/tbouck
Let's Bring It to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in the name of Dom and everyone else in our lives who is or has been touched by this disease! With all of my love...Toni Bouck
Dom - I've known you forever- and I really don't know you at all. I've been reading all these blog entries filling up my email box and I kinda regret not knowing you better. I say "kinda" because regret is
something I don't spend too much time thinking about. I suspect you feel the same way.
Having said that- I do have a few thoughts I'd like to share. I'm sure you heard the story about Don and I met. However you probably never heard my version. (Don't worry, we come to you in a minute). In and
around 1979 I was a long haired wanna be graphic artist. I had little or no training. Four or five Graphic arts classes at BC. I was a half assed air brush artist too. So at some point I set out to try and get a job as a graphic artist. I look back at my portfolio and laugh. I shlepped around this gold framed airbrush art picture (glass and everything), and a couple of other "paintings" and a business card I
did for Rick Mears after he won his first Indy race. If someone came in to my office today with this portfolio- I'd think he was retarded.
In any case I went to Jill Thayer's office first. The name of her company back then (I believe) was "Expressions". She had this cool studio,and she was all bubbly and perky, I showed her my stuff and I
could tell she wasn't real impressed. Understandable- but I was a bit crushed. She showed me her painted rocks- and I was doing a mental head slap, thinking "why didn't I think of that!?" OK. Strike out.
Just down the street was an oddly named studio called Earthworm. In "The Old House", which was sort of a spooky looking place. So I stopped by and ran into a young man with a real high voice, washing
out screens or something. He said his name was Vincent and he worked for Don. I asked if Don was hiring. Sadly he wasn't... and I might as well just run along. I'm a little foggy as to how I finally had the
courage to walk up the stairs and meet the legend, but I did. Don was larger than life. His studio was so fricken cool. The big Sutherland masterpieces. The untidy mishmash of oddball signs and shit. I knew
this was it. This is what I wanted. He didn't hire me- so I went out on it alone. Rainbow Graphics was born. Which didn't sound gay at the time. Anyway, I started going there- seems like, everyday. Don didn't seem to mind me sitting on the other side of his desk. He reveled in being the master. He taught me calligraphy, one shot sign painting, silk screening. He was my mentor in every way. Not just art either.
He taught me the value of "always keeping a C note in your wallet". Actually I didn't have any C notes. But Don loved flashing one around. Probably his only one. And his ankle holster with the Beretta. And
his caricatures. No one has said this to this day- but if you really look at his cartoons- they all look the same AND AT THE SAME TIME look just like who they're supposed to be. I, to this day, have not been able
to recreate that. How hard can it be? Round head, big shoes, four fingers-- George Bush- next drawing- round head, big shoes, four fingers, this time , add some glasses, mustache, I'll be damned- it's Groucho! But his advice was golden. And I've been using his wisdom and his example to this very day.
OK- enough of that. Now to my fond memories of you. Blank. I got nuthin. OH WAIT- first time I met you and Amy at Don's house on Chester Lane. You looked just like a cartoon Don drew of you. You didn't say much. I thought you were a mute. Kinda just stared at me- like "who's this homeless guy"? Probably didn't say anything because your sister didn't let you get a word in edge wise. OK- then really nothing for awhile until the B street house. Yard sale, I stopped by and most of the stuff was like star wars action figures. I was thinking- dude don't sell this shit- you'll regret it later in life... like when you see vintage GI Joe's going for $200 on eBay... like I did... shit. I had a BLACK GI Joe with fuzzy hair. Probably the only
one made, and just like you, I sold it for a buck. But you were a hustler. Don told me how there was some stupid-ass fad at your school where you'd break your pencil by throwing it at the wall (or
something equally lame). Typical 8th grade genius. But you were the one who cashed in by loading up on pencils and selling them to other retards at your school... so they could break them... again.
OK- that was it for awhile. You had a bitchen' first car. Never saw you drive it. It was kind of weird - It was like I saw all the stuff you did, the car, the weights, masks, but you were never around. It was just the timing I guess. I knew you were creative and stuff, but never really saw any drawings per se. Then one day out of the blue or so it seemed) you were going to go to art school. And you guys were off with a handful of monster masks and some drawings to try and get into some major art schools. I never voiced this before, but I was thinking "no fricken way". Then I flashed back to me with my lame airbrush paintings trying to get a job, and thought, maybe, just maybe.
But it wasn't maybe. It was HELL YEAH! Don showed me the stuff you were doing. The drawings, marker work, figure drawing. And I'm thinking to myself- "Is this the same Dominic that's your son?" or
has someone else taken over his body? But I guess it was like the first time I saw you- there was a whole lot going on beneath the silent stare. Stuff that would surprise some, like me. But to the people you were with all the time- it was no surprise. It was like- I'm thinking
"Where'd that little mute kid hide all this talent!?" And other people are thinking- "Dom? Oh yeah, he's like, going to be the next CEO of Mattel. Oh yeah, for sure, right after he wins the Hawaiian marathon."
OK- so now the third memory, at least I think it's three. At the park for the Cancer get together, fund raiser. And to the best of my recollection, this is about the third time I've seen you in my life.
Right after the yard sale. Except now you're not 3 feet tall with a bowl haircut. You're this ripped he-man with gnarly stitches going around your head. And instead of a Luke Skywalker doll clutched in
your hand, it's a beer. We did the man hug, exchanged a few words. But the thing was- it was like I'd known you my whole life... like real close ya know? And in that man hug- you conveyed that emotion or vibe right back to me.
The vibe was: It is what it is. No regrets. No apologies. Thanks for coming. Thanks for being my dad's friend... thanks for being my friend. See ya.
And that's it. I'm not sure how I should close this letter. So to use my earlier analogy. I'll just shake it twice and zip.
Love, Mike
From Leela:
Hello Everyone,
It is an honor and pleasure to feel the tremendous out pour of love,respect, and admiration expressed here for my cousin. While he and Ihave only had brief encounters at family gatherings, Dom's creativefocus and determination is always palpable.
Dom, please, know that you and your family are in my thoughts daily. Iknow that Divine Right Action manifests in your mind, heart, and bodyimmediately. I'm sending an abundance of love, strength, and poetry insupport of your fondest desires.
Hailing your mission, Leela
Moving Forward
The deep parts of my life pour onward,as if the river shores were opening out.It seems that things are more like me now,that I can see farther into paintings.I feel closer to what language can't reach.With my senses, as with birds, I climbinto the windy heaven, out of the oak,in the ponds broken off from the skymy feeling sinks, as if standing on fishes.
Rainer Maria Rilke
Translated by Robert Bly
From Toni:
My dearest friends, family, and all who love Dom... I have a correction to make on my last blog. It was not the foot race of "Thanksgiving" 2007, but "Christmas" of 2007. Thank you so much for setting me straight Scoob. Not that one holiday is less unique or important than the other...I just happen to spend almost every holiday at the Wayne/Tackett household, with the rest of our extended phamily, and I got confused.
I had the chance to sit with Dom yesterday, and hold his hand and reflect on his strength. We were talking about how Dom doesn't care much for name brand clothing, how he isn't afraid to go against the grain, and how he doesn't appreciate complaining or feeling sorry for yourself. How Scoob had a sinus infection, and was bummed about it (we all know how uncomfortable and painful those are!). Suddenly, in the presence of Dom, you feel like an ass complaining. I have been training for this marathon coming up in October and I wanted so badly to talk to Dom about how I irritated my toe nail. I was messing around and ended up catching it on something and ripping it off...lots of blood and throbbing and pain was involved. I was sharing how I understand why ripping nails off is a form of torture, and Don very gracefully reminded me that Dom, would probably say it is just a toe nail. He's right...thanks Don for reminding me.
I am so grateful for all of the reminders that Dom has given me over the last couple years. For me, Dom lives the way we all should be living. Some words that come to mind are simplify, laugh, cherish, love, and LIVE. Thinking of him leaves me inspired and a bit angry at the same time. I want so badly to help fight the fight, too. I figured one way is to raise money for the families who are going through fights of their own with cancer. I am also running the Nike Women's Marathon in S.F. in October. It is my first time running and I am so excited. So far, my fundraising is not going too hot. Like Hope, I too, need to raise $2800. I need $700 by July 22nd, in order to "recommit". I wasn't going to post this, but I figure I need all the help I can get...so do the families that Team in Training supports.
Please visit my link, and forward it to anyone you know that may help out. http://pages.teamintraining.org/cca/nikesf08/tbouck
Let's Bring It to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in the name of Dom and everyone else in our lives who is or has been touched by this disease! With all of my love...Toni Bouck
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Nana speaks...
Dear Dom,
I knew that I would have to deal with the aging and loss of my parents and most likely out live my husband. When the time comes its still very difficult and painful but my faith and love from family helps me through. But to witness grandchild go through a catastrophic illness is something you never expect you'll go through. As a grandmother I have the cherished memories of birthdays, graduations, holidays even the simple joy of making my grandson his favorite bean and cheese burritos. But Dom you have
given so much more and you are truly the icing on my cake. The sorrow I feel to witness your ordeal is only tempered by the joy and pride I feel to be fortunate enough to have you for my grandson. My thoughts, prayers and love are with you always.
God Bless you always, Nana
I knew that I would have to deal with the aging and loss of my parents and most likely out live my husband. When the time comes its still very difficult and painful but my faith and love from family helps me through. But to witness grandchild go through a catastrophic illness is something you never expect you'll go through. As a grandmother I have the cherished memories of birthdays, graduations, holidays even the simple joy of making my grandson his favorite bean and cheese burritos. But Dom you have
given so much more and you are truly the icing on my cake. The sorrow I feel to witness your ordeal is only tempered by the joy and pride I feel to be fortunate enough to have you for my grandson. My thoughts, prayers and love are with you always.
God Bless you always, Nana
Couple Family Hellos...
Hi Dom,
Its your cousin Rochelle the only girl in the cousins that didn't like dress up or makeup but liked hanging out with someone who liked star wars and bugs and other scary stuff. I remember when we were driving to Nana's and instead of dreading getting kisses and pinches I was excited because I didn't have to hang out with the girls I got to hang out with a cousin who always had cooler toys then me because he was a boy and I wasn't. I know my favorite was to go to uncle Don's and aunt Jane's house and go into your room and see your new mask that you created and play with your toys and remember that one
time my birthday landed on Easter and you made me the jello cake at the new house I remember we all had a piece and I remember we were all there happy and you were smiling that big smile because everyone liked your cake. I am hoping WHEN you pull out of this you and Uncle Don ,Aunt Jane Amy and
Mattie will come down to Bakersfield and we can have dinner like Megan mentioned at Nana's there are a few new additions to the family There is Tony(Dido's grandson)and Ethan(mine) Scott and Anthony (Megan) Pat and Elena and Jordan(Kimberly),that all of you need to meet. Dom I don't care if we haven’t talked for awhile I will always think of you as my cousin and I will always love you like you were a brother( Hello I have two girly sisters.) Hang in there you have so many people praying and thinking of you.
And geez you are a Ambriz I know we don't back down FROM anything that gets in our way!
P.S. 4TH of July we were talking about you and everyone and I had to swear to Kimberly and Megan I would not write about what they remembered but I will tell you a little bit, remember when I was tricked into drinking a warm glass of homemade apple Juice ;) that you served me (sorry Uncle
Don and Aunt Jane) I have always had a different sense of humor from my sisters. I thought that might make you laugh. Love you and may the force be with you :) ( sorry had to say it)
Love Rochelle
From Megan Ambriz:
Ugh … I know that I have had more than my say on this blog, but I have known these people my whole life and just one or two postings will not due. I must first start with my Uncle Don and Aunt Jane. What great people they are, eh? I can still see a vivid picture of Earth Worm Studios in my mind. I can remember walking up to the dark brown building and opening the front door that always greeted everyone with the ring of a bell. I can remember Aunt Jane’s desk to the left of the entrance and a counter to the right. Behind the counter was a wall with several different examples of frames for customers to choose from. I can also recall the smell of coffee … Uncle Don always had a pot-a-brewin (by the way, now I know who I inherited the coffee addiction from). Oh yes, and who can forget Vincent, the nicest person anyone would ever meet, always working in the back. Or the huge pencil, paint brush, etc. that Uncle Don had on display on top of a file cabinet … or the bathroom with all of the faces of famous people on the wall. I can remember it all: the smell, the friendly greetings, and the visually appealing surroundings. What a place for a kid to grow up.
Another thing that I can remember is stopping by Uncle Don and Aunt Jane’s house when Dom was trying to gain weight to play football. I remember standing in the kitchen with Aunt Jane, my favorite place to be when I went over, and Dom barging in with his friends looking for some more food to eat. Aunt Jane did what any good mother would do; she offered to make him homemade macaroni and cheese. I will never forget that day because this was the day that Aunt Jane taught me how to make a roux (by the way Aunt Jane, I am still making macaroni and cheese, but for my son … thank you).
This brings me to the whole purpose of this blog. Dom and Amy have been so fortunate to have such great people as parents and I just wanted everyone else to see what I saw growing up … the coolest parents ever!!!!!!!!!!!
My Big Cousin Part two
Over the past several days I have been sitting and thinking about my big cousin and the accomplishments that he has made over his short lifetime. Wow … someone that young and so talented! I remember going over to Uncle Don and Aunt Jane’s house many times and looking at the latest Halloween masks that Dom created. I remember thinking to myself, “he made that?” I can also recall a time when Dom had a body that he was constructing in the back yard. Anyone that didn’t know Dom and his fantastic talents would probably think that it was weird for a teenager to have such a fascination with gruesome and gory objects, but we all knew better. What we also knew is that Dom had an artistic talent to be reckoned with. We knew that all of the practice that he was getting at home would come in handy some day, which it did when he began working for Mattel. I can only hope that my son, who has also inherited the artistic Ambriz gene, grows up to aspire to such greatness and perseverance as my big cousin Dom.
Dom … no matter what happens, you will always live in our heats, thoughts, and through the art that you have created and left behind.
Love,
Megan Ambriz
Its your cousin Rochelle the only girl in the cousins that didn't like dress up or makeup but liked hanging out with someone who liked star wars and bugs and other scary stuff. I remember when we were driving to Nana's and instead of dreading getting kisses and pinches I was excited because I didn't have to hang out with the girls I got to hang out with a cousin who always had cooler toys then me because he was a boy and I wasn't. I know my favorite was to go to uncle Don's and aunt Jane's house and go into your room and see your new mask that you created and play with your toys and remember that one
time my birthday landed on Easter and you made me the jello cake at the new house I remember we all had a piece and I remember we were all there happy and you were smiling that big smile because everyone liked your cake. I am hoping WHEN you pull out of this you and Uncle Don ,Aunt Jane Amy and
Mattie will come down to Bakersfield and we can have dinner like Megan mentioned at Nana's there are a few new additions to the family There is Tony(Dido's grandson)and Ethan(mine) Scott and Anthony (Megan) Pat and Elena and Jordan(Kimberly),that all of you need to meet. Dom I don't care if we haven’t talked for awhile I will always think of you as my cousin and I will always love you like you were a brother( Hello I have two girly sisters.) Hang in there you have so many people praying and thinking of you.
And geez you are a Ambriz I know we don't back down FROM anything that gets in our way!
P.S. 4TH of July we were talking about you and everyone and I had to swear to Kimberly and Megan I would not write about what they remembered but I will tell you a little bit, remember when I was tricked into drinking a warm glass of homemade apple Juice ;) that you served me (sorry Uncle
Don and Aunt Jane) I have always had a different sense of humor from my sisters. I thought that might make you laugh. Love you and may the force be with you :) ( sorry had to say it)
Love Rochelle
From Megan Ambriz:
Ugh … I know that I have had more than my say on this blog, but I have known these people my whole life and just one or two postings will not due. I must first start with my Uncle Don and Aunt Jane. What great people they are, eh? I can still see a vivid picture of Earth Worm Studios in my mind. I can remember walking up to the dark brown building and opening the front door that always greeted everyone with the ring of a bell. I can remember Aunt Jane’s desk to the left of the entrance and a counter to the right. Behind the counter was a wall with several different examples of frames for customers to choose from. I can also recall the smell of coffee … Uncle Don always had a pot-a-brewin (by the way, now I know who I inherited the coffee addiction from). Oh yes, and who can forget Vincent, the nicest person anyone would ever meet, always working in the back. Or the huge pencil, paint brush, etc. that Uncle Don had on display on top of a file cabinet … or the bathroom with all of the faces of famous people on the wall. I can remember it all: the smell, the friendly greetings, and the visually appealing surroundings. What a place for a kid to grow up.
Another thing that I can remember is stopping by Uncle Don and Aunt Jane’s house when Dom was trying to gain weight to play football. I remember standing in the kitchen with Aunt Jane, my favorite place to be when I went over, and Dom barging in with his friends looking for some more food to eat. Aunt Jane did what any good mother would do; she offered to make him homemade macaroni and cheese. I will never forget that day because this was the day that Aunt Jane taught me how to make a roux (by the way Aunt Jane, I am still making macaroni and cheese, but for my son … thank you).
This brings me to the whole purpose of this blog. Dom and Amy have been so fortunate to have such great people as parents and I just wanted everyone else to see what I saw growing up … the coolest parents ever!!!!!!!!!!!
My Big Cousin Part two
Over the past several days I have been sitting and thinking about my big cousin and the accomplishments that he has made over his short lifetime. Wow … someone that young and so talented! I remember going over to Uncle Don and Aunt Jane’s house many times and looking at the latest Halloween masks that Dom created. I remember thinking to myself, “he made that?” I can also recall a time when Dom had a body that he was constructing in the back yard. Anyone that didn’t know Dom and his fantastic talents would probably think that it was weird for a teenager to have such a fascination with gruesome and gory objects, but we all knew better. What we also knew is that Dom had an artistic talent to be reckoned with. We knew that all of the practice that he was getting at home would come in handy some day, which it did when he began working for Mattel. I can only hope that my son, who has also inherited the artistic Ambriz gene, grows up to aspire to such greatness and perseverance as my big cousin Dom.
Dom … no matter what happens, you will always live in our heats, thoughts, and through the art that you have created and left behind.
Love,
Megan Ambriz
Monday, July 7, 2008
Dom the Superman Designer...
Dominic is the king of the amazing and impossible - I have always been in awe of his talent and dedication. I got to know Dom about 3 years ago when I became his manager at Mattel. He started our electronics group at Mattel by creating the Pixel Chix line. He then went on to create a whole new process for brainstorming and creating storyboards and animation. When we thought that we could never possibly meet a deadline, Dom would bring it, and it would happen. He has passion that is unbelievable and takes so much pride in all that he creates. Even in his spare time, Dom works on his personal artwork, designs artwork for Mattel's Halloween Happenings, or does caricatures of his colleagues. I have the greatest respect for Dominic because he can pull a group of designers together. He teased and used his humor to lighten the mood - and even when I got too serious, he would jab me back to reality.
We has a brainstorm last year. To kick off the morning, every table was given a box of craft supplies and was told to create a disco ball. The tables had 20 mins and then would be judged on their use of materials and overall creativity. I've never laughed so hard as when I saw Dom's table's submission. Dom (primarily his big dome) was the disco ball! His head had a mirrored ball on it and he was covered in glitter, foil and pipe cleaners. He then put on his best Saturday Night Fever moves and, of course, was the walk off winner! Talk about bust a move!
Dom, you've taught me so much. Thank you.
Love, Tracy Thurman
From Bradley:
The kids of South Redondo learned how artistic talent and passion can become a career, even though my students are only in their pre-teen years. Parras Middle School hosted Dom in our annual Career Day. His enthusiasm and love for what he does touched all of those that listened with fascination that day. Because of his love for kids and understanding this age group, he encouraged kids to seek their God-given abilities in the arts and directed them how they can get there through basic subjects in school, to finding out what it is they are good at! For his effort that day, I want to publicly thank him on behalf of Parras Middle School for reaching out to many kids. Many times the average worker in America just goes about their business without giving thought to the next generation of workers. It takes a special individual to understand the importance of passing on what one knows, and directing them to seek out their dreams which most of the time seem impossible. Dom, thanks for the encouraging words of wisdom and for just being yourself in doing so!
Bradey Thurman - Parras Middle School - Redondo Beach, CA
From Kavi (Honeyman):
I have been wanting to write something for the last week, but I was desperately trying to find a way to get the pictures that would go along with these stories. No luck—they are in albums in storage in a different state. Sadly, Dominic and I have only been in touch a handful of times since highschool, but still, I have the most wonderful memories of Dominic and still hold him in a special place.
I met Dominic through Benji in Junior High at the melodrama plays. We immediately became very good friends- in fact, I considered him one of my best friends for many years. We could talk about anything, have fun doing anything and we even had a few slumber parties. I will share my favorite 2 memories of Dominic. First, was at my freshman year birthday party (Dominic was in 8th)- we went camping and Dominic came with us. We all piled in my mom’s minivan and Dominic agreed to let me braid his hair and put makeup on him. When we were all finished, we were dying to take pictures. Dominic finally agreed, but under one condition…we would pretend that he was asleep during the whole makeup process and didn’t know anything about it. This to me gives such a wonderful picture of Dominic’s character and personality. He is obviously such a strong manly guy, but yet he is confident enough in himself to allow fun events like this to occurJ I wish I could find these pictures!
Second memory- Dominic was now a freshman and I was a sophomore. We both were now busy with other friends and didn’t talk quite as much as we used to. However, we really missed hanging out and so we scheduled a sleepover after one of the football games. I remember all the strange looks and questions that we received from our friends- who didn’t realize that we were just really good friends and nothing more. I slept in the living room at his parents and we stayed up super late watching the movie RAD and eating junk food. I absolutely LOVE that Dominic has the rare ability to truly be such a great and wonderful friend to both girls and guys. He is fun, loving, faithful and strong. I am glad that I have had the opportunity to know and love Dominic and I am grateful that I am able to hear all the great stories of Dominic’s touch in his friend’s lives!!!
I have a whole series of gangster photos of Dominic in the 7th grade that I will try to find.
Love, Kavi Honeyman Simpson
We has a brainstorm last year. To kick off the morning, every table was given a box of craft supplies and was told to create a disco ball. The tables had 20 mins and then would be judged on their use of materials and overall creativity. I've never laughed so hard as when I saw Dom's table's submission. Dom (primarily his big dome) was the disco ball! His head had a mirrored ball on it and he was covered in glitter, foil and pipe cleaners. He then put on his best Saturday Night Fever moves and, of course, was the walk off winner! Talk about bust a move!
Dom, you've taught me so much. Thank you.
Love, Tracy Thurman
From Bradley:
The kids of South Redondo learned how artistic talent and passion can become a career, even though my students are only in their pre-teen years. Parras Middle School hosted Dom in our annual Career Day. His enthusiasm and love for what he does touched all of those that listened with fascination that day. Because of his love for kids and understanding this age group, he encouraged kids to seek their God-given abilities in the arts and directed them how they can get there through basic subjects in school, to finding out what it is they are good at! For his effort that day, I want to publicly thank him on behalf of Parras Middle School for reaching out to many kids. Many times the average worker in America just goes about their business without giving thought to the next generation of workers. It takes a special individual to understand the importance of passing on what one knows, and directing them to seek out their dreams which most of the time seem impossible. Dom, thanks for the encouraging words of wisdom and for just being yourself in doing so!
Bradey Thurman - Parras Middle School - Redondo Beach, CA
From Kavi (Honeyman):
I have been wanting to write something for the last week, but I was desperately trying to find a way to get the pictures that would go along with these stories. No luck—they are in albums in storage in a different state. Sadly, Dominic and I have only been in touch a handful of times since highschool, but still, I have the most wonderful memories of Dominic and still hold him in a special place.
I met Dominic through Benji in Junior High at the melodrama plays. We immediately became very good friends- in fact, I considered him one of my best friends for many years. We could talk about anything, have fun doing anything and we even had a few slumber parties. I will share my favorite 2 memories of Dominic. First, was at my freshman year birthday party (Dominic was in 8th)- we went camping and Dominic came with us. We all piled in my mom’s minivan and Dominic agreed to let me braid his hair and put makeup on him. When we were all finished, we were dying to take pictures. Dominic finally agreed, but under one condition…we would pretend that he was asleep during the whole makeup process and didn’t know anything about it. This to me gives such a wonderful picture of Dominic’s character and personality. He is obviously such a strong manly guy, but yet he is confident enough in himself to allow fun events like this to occurJ I wish I could find these pictures!
Second memory- Dominic was now a freshman and I was a sophomore. We both were now busy with other friends and didn’t talk quite as much as we used to. However, we really missed hanging out and so we scheduled a sleepover after one of the football games. I remember all the strange looks and questions that we received from our friends- who didn’t realize that we were just really good friends and nothing more. I slept in the living room at his parents and we stayed up super late watching the movie RAD and eating junk food. I absolutely LOVE that Dominic has the rare ability to truly be such a great and wonderful friend to both girls and guys. He is fun, loving, faithful and strong. I am glad that I have had the opportunity to know and love Dominic and I am grateful that I am able to hear all the great stories of Dominic’s touch in his friend’s lives!!!
I have a whole series of gangster photos of Dominic in the 7th grade that I will try to find.
Love, Kavi Honeyman Simpson
Start your week with messages for Dom...
From Cousin Nick:
hey this is your lil cousin nick i'm over here in NY im in the army idont know if you know that. im doing pretty good i miss you big guyand i love you and you are going to make it i was thinking the otherday about me and you when we were at nana's house and we were playingcatch you always to take care of me when we had family gatherings. Doyou remember when me and you spent the night at nana's house and westayed up all night playing nintendo we were playing that boxing gamewe were up all night then uncle don came over and you guys wereworking on some poster for school you where doing for a rally i kindof help or even when i was doing a project for school and you let mehave some of your comic books so i could do my project i got an A onthat to thanks to you we have lots of good memories together dom wehave a saying over here in our unit "fight to win" you are going towin this because you are strong and you never give up thats what youtold me once when i was younger never give up and i haven't i'mpraying for you dom i love you with all my heart keep pushing on youwill get better i know you
love all of the Ambriz familykeep pushing dom love you
p.s zephyr life is tattoo on my arm the meaning of it is lt greek god's of the west wind's so let the wind's take your lifewhere destiny may go you make you'r destiny no one else does it foryou push on and fight hard love every one that is helping my cousin
From Katie Tackett:
I've spent a lot of time lately up at 3 am thinking about Dom (I'vegot a 4 week old). While being up at 3 am is far from my favoritething, it has allowed me to think about how lucky we have all been forhaving Dom in our lives. I have spent many middle of the nightfeedings trying to figure out where and when I first met Dom. Inormally can remember just about everything (much to Larkin's chagrin)but I can't remember the first time I met Dom. And late last night/early this morning, it hit me that it is very appropriate that I can'tremember when and where I met Dom - he has just always been there. Idon't think there has been a trip that I have made to eitherBakersfield or LA that in some way didn't involve spending time withDom. Whether it was in his, Marshall, and (for a short time) Larkin'sapartment in LA, at Marshall's apartment/house in Dallas, GrandmaTackett's house for Sunday breakfast, or the Wayne/Tackett house inBakersfield, Dom was always there. .Dom's presence meant that storieswere going to be told, which typically involved Dom starting thestory, Marshall picking up and finishing it, Larkin laughing so hardhe could hardly speak, and Benji mumbling something none of us couldunderstand, which would then invariably send all of us into new fitsof laughter. When I married into the Wayne/Tackett family, I gained anamazing extended family - of which Dom is, and always will be, anintegral part. Scoob, thank you so much for making Dom so happy theselast six months. I think I can speak for all of us when I say howgreat it is to know that Dom is happy and in love. You compliment eachother so well. I think back often to the afternoon we all got to spendtogether before the Lakers game in March - the memories from that dayalways bring a smile to my face as I am glad that the last day I spentwith Dom, he was going big in terms of how many hot dogs he could eatand had challenged Marshall to do the same.
Marsh, thank you fororganizing this blog and for keeping up up-to-date on the latestregarding Dom's status. I wish there was something that I could say ordo that would make this all easier. I think of you often and am soglad that Ruthie is there to hold your hand. You are an amazingfriend.
Katie Tackett
Creative Powerhouse & Brother
I am one of the fortunate few to proudly call Dominic Ambriz a friend, a brother, and above all…a kindred “Creative” spirit”!
We both live to “create” and he understood that. He was a stand out from the moment he walked into my studio (& my life…). He was hand picked and sent to me along with 5 other interns from the Otis Design & Toy School. It was going to be a true “tryout & audition” with the winner being awarded a paid internship to help me develop Toy Inventions & Halloween product. Yes the “H” word…In fact, when he found out about my pre-toy career as a “Monster Maker & FX guy in Hollywood”, he practically blew a gasket… he was so excited & could barely contain himself…He had a million questions from “silicone mold making” to the “best gelatin for fresh burn wounds” We instantly clicked and bam!… You can probably guess what happened next…Dom slayed the Beast (me), set his eyes on the prize & got the gig…but not for the obvious reasons.
Sure…his artistic talents were above average, clean and detailed. And yes… he is the worlds #1 Halloween fanatic!! But hands down from day one…it was his heart, conviction & passion for “the art“ that got me. You could see right thru him, he was the real deal and his eyes were the give away. In fact, one of my very favorite “Dom-isms” always occurred like clock work…Just as we would start discussing a new project and the various details & art direction that I wanted to see in his drawings, he would split off, slip into a mild haze and almost go cross-eyed? Wow, what’s up with that? A bad case of ADD? Does my concept suck? What?...As it turns out it was none of the above! For this is Dom’s method, his way of pre-visualizing an artistic starting point. From there, he was off to the races & usually blew me away with the results…From that day forward, if he did not slip into that “Creative Daze”…I knew my idea was either flat and/or he just wasn’t feeling it...
It was such a blast to create with him…so easy & free with “no ego or head trips”. I miss it and will from now on…He always came off as both “older than his years” and yet so child-like at the same time. Our “creative chemistry” was compatible and productive. He could always be counted on to deliver on time & with his own brand of quality and personal flair. To this day, I can still pick his work out of a large pile of drawings…
As an artist, he went onto find his voice, his unique style and a happy home over at the Big M…Mattel…where he is well loved & creatively respected (which he earned one drawing at a time…!). “Artistically” speaking, he made “the Bigs”… he played for “Numero Uno” and went on to became a “Creative Powerhouse”.
As I look back on my time with Dom & the positive impact he’s had on so many of us, I can honestly say that in my mind & memories, Dominic Ambriz is & will always be a creative legend & inspiration to me… legends live forever, and so will the big “D”!
So proud to know & love him-
Robert J. Marino
hey this is your lil cousin nick i'm over here in NY im in the army idont know if you know that. im doing pretty good i miss you big guyand i love you and you are going to make it i was thinking the otherday about me and you when we were at nana's house and we were playingcatch you always to take care of me when we had family gatherings. Doyou remember when me and you spent the night at nana's house and westayed up all night playing nintendo we were playing that boxing gamewe were up all night then uncle don came over and you guys wereworking on some poster for school you where doing for a rally i kindof help or even when i was doing a project for school and you let mehave some of your comic books so i could do my project i got an A onthat to thanks to you we have lots of good memories together dom wehave a saying over here in our unit "fight to win" you are going towin this because you are strong and you never give up thats what youtold me once when i was younger never give up and i haven't i'mpraying for you dom i love you with all my heart keep pushing on youwill get better i know you
love all of the Ambriz familykeep pushing dom love you
p.s zephyr life is tattoo on my arm the meaning of it is lt greek god's of the west wind's so let the wind's take your lifewhere destiny may go you make you'r destiny no one else does it foryou push on and fight hard love every one that is helping my cousin
From Katie Tackett:
I've spent a lot of time lately up at 3 am thinking about Dom (I'vegot a 4 week old). While being up at 3 am is far from my favoritething, it has allowed me to think about how lucky we have all been forhaving Dom in our lives. I have spent many middle of the nightfeedings trying to figure out where and when I first met Dom. Inormally can remember just about everything (much to Larkin's chagrin)but I can't remember the first time I met Dom. And late last night/early this morning, it hit me that it is very appropriate that I can'tremember when and where I met Dom - he has just always been there. Idon't think there has been a trip that I have made to eitherBakersfield or LA that in some way didn't involve spending time withDom. Whether it was in his, Marshall, and (for a short time) Larkin'sapartment in LA, at Marshall's apartment/house in Dallas, GrandmaTackett's house for Sunday breakfast, or the Wayne/Tackett house inBakersfield, Dom was always there. .Dom's presence meant that storieswere going to be told, which typically involved Dom starting thestory, Marshall picking up and finishing it, Larkin laughing so hardhe could hardly speak, and Benji mumbling something none of us couldunderstand, which would then invariably send all of us into new fitsof laughter. When I married into the Wayne/Tackett family, I gained anamazing extended family - of which Dom is, and always will be, anintegral part. Scoob, thank you so much for making Dom so happy theselast six months. I think I can speak for all of us when I say howgreat it is to know that Dom is happy and in love. You compliment eachother so well. I think back often to the afternoon we all got to spendtogether before the Lakers game in March - the memories from that dayalways bring a smile to my face as I am glad that the last day I spentwith Dom, he was going big in terms of how many hot dogs he could eatand had challenged Marshall to do the same.
Marsh, thank you fororganizing this blog and for keeping up up-to-date on the latestregarding Dom's status. I wish there was something that I could say ordo that would make this all easier. I think of you often and am soglad that Ruthie is there to hold your hand. You are an amazingfriend.
Katie Tackett
Creative Powerhouse & Brother
I am one of the fortunate few to proudly call Dominic Ambriz a friend, a brother, and above all…a kindred “Creative” spirit”!
We both live to “create” and he understood that. He was a stand out from the moment he walked into my studio (& my life…). He was hand picked and sent to me along with 5 other interns from the Otis Design & Toy School. It was going to be a true “tryout & audition” with the winner being awarded a paid internship to help me develop Toy Inventions & Halloween product. Yes the “H” word…In fact, when he found out about my pre-toy career as a “Monster Maker & FX guy in Hollywood”, he practically blew a gasket… he was so excited & could barely contain himself…He had a million questions from “silicone mold making” to the “best gelatin for fresh burn wounds” We instantly clicked and bam!… You can probably guess what happened next…Dom slayed the Beast (me), set his eyes on the prize & got the gig…but not for the obvious reasons.
Sure…his artistic talents were above average, clean and detailed. And yes… he is the worlds #1 Halloween fanatic!! But hands down from day one…it was his heart, conviction & passion for “the art“ that got me. You could see right thru him, he was the real deal and his eyes were the give away. In fact, one of my very favorite “Dom-isms” always occurred like clock work…Just as we would start discussing a new project and the various details & art direction that I wanted to see in his drawings, he would split off, slip into a mild haze and almost go cross-eyed? Wow, what’s up with that? A bad case of ADD? Does my concept suck? What?...As it turns out it was none of the above! For this is Dom’s method, his way of pre-visualizing an artistic starting point. From there, he was off to the races & usually blew me away with the results…From that day forward, if he did not slip into that “Creative Daze”…I knew my idea was either flat and/or he just wasn’t feeling it...
It was such a blast to create with him…so easy & free with “no ego or head trips”. I miss it and will from now on…He always came off as both “older than his years” and yet so child-like at the same time. Our “creative chemistry” was compatible and productive. He could always be counted on to deliver on time & with his own brand of quality and personal flair. To this day, I can still pick his work out of a large pile of drawings…
As an artist, he went onto find his voice, his unique style and a happy home over at the Big M…Mattel…where he is well loved & creatively respected (which he earned one drawing at a time…!). “Artistically” speaking, he made “the Bigs”… he played for “Numero Uno” and went on to became a “Creative Powerhouse”.
As I look back on my time with Dom & the positive impact he’s had on so many of us, I can honestly say that in my mind & memories, Dominic Ambriz is & will always be a creative legend & inspiration to me… legends live forever, and so will the big “D”!
So proud to know & love him-
Robert J. Marino
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Last of the Weekend
I was fortunate enough to spend the last few days with Dominic & his family. On one hand it was so touching & fabulous to all be there together but on the other, the graveness of the situation was so pliable it was difficult at times. The days were spent with lifelong friends coming in sharing stories and memories, holding Dom's hands and expressing their deepest love for him. The nights were times that Don & Jane were able to be alone with their son, expressing their love, and watching him as he rested. In talking with them both in great length these past few weeks, they continue to be rocks, appreciative of the network that Dom's accumulated, and show their personal love for their son daily; it is beautiful to watch.
The doctors have no answers as you know. They are making him comfortable, caring for him as best as they can, and praying for him too. We are at the tail end of this journey - its a day to day experience we are living with now. I am proud of the fight that Dom continues to show, it is the only way he knows how to be; soon the fight will end but we will always remember the effort he gave.
I will let you know more when information becomes available. Much love to you all. - M
The doctors have no answers as you know. They are making him comfortable, caring for him as best as they can, and praying for him too. We are at the tail end of this journey - its a day to day experience we are living with now. I am proud of the fight that Dom continues to show, it is the only way he knows how to be; soon the fight will end but we will always remember the effort he gave.
I will let you know more when information becomes available. Much love to you all. - M
Pictures...
We are trying to collect as many pictures as we can of Dominic; from his childhood days, JV basketball fame, Halloweens, nights out & days being active. Anything you have, please email them to Benji and/or Matt. If you'd like any posted on the blog, just email me too.
Thank you all very much.
benjitackett@gmail.com
mdeville77@gmail.com
coyle.marshall@gmail.com
Thank you all very much.
benjitackett@gmail.com
mdeville77@gmail.com
coyle.marshall@gmail.com
Wonderful...
These memories are from your Aunt Iva.
Some of the fun times and important events bring to mind the family gatherings. (These would be your mom's side of the family.) One event being, Dominic and Amy, at about age 4 and 6, sitting on the rug at Grandma's Vina's home (Chester Ln.) playing Chinese Checkers. I am not sure if Amy was letting you win or you were stomping her.
One of the photos shows your home on "B" street. Remember the great play structure Ray built for you, Amy and all the neighbor friends? I am sure they remember a lot of fun times with you, letting the imagination go wild, pretending all sorts of adventures. The photo is of you sharing the fun with many cousins.
Another photo shows Dominic not so sure about the photo time with the relatives, perhaps he is thinking, "If I put my hands in my pocket and close my eyes, perhaps this will pass quickly", were you ten or so then. Having us drop by Christmas Eve for another photo op and food gift exchange was to find you all ready to smile, now you were getting the hang of photo time. Seeing the many photos with friends in more recent time, I can see you did not remain camera shy. That smile of yours could light up a room.Fast forward a few years, (Elm Street home) and we have Dom in his favorite place (on the couch) to watch a ball game with relatives and friends during a Easter family gathering Within 30 minutes, Dom was out on the patio, coloring Easter eaggs, adults and kids joining in. Guess who won the first place for the best, most creative egg? Dom of course. This was a preview of years to come, when Dom would win the Mattel contest for best button for Halloween
When Amy and Dominic were in their teens, Jane and Amy took a self defense class. One day Amy came home from a session and informed Dom that she had learned how to throw a person. Dom said," I bet you can't throw me." Before the words were out of his mouth, he was on his back. I am sorry to say I was not there, but Jane was, and she told me the story. And the stories go on. All the sharing from so many people is wonderful, building a strong connection between us all and passing that on where needed.
We are sending our strength, love and prayers to you, Jane, Don, Dominic, Amy, and Maddy.Love Aunt Iva and Uncle Randy
From Merrilee:
I am a friend of Marshall's and I have heard about Dominic for the past 8 years that I have known Marshall. To know Marshall is to know those that are important and loved by Marshall. He is such a loyal friend and I have been so honored to have been added to this blog and had the privilege to read the letters from all of Dominic's friends and family. Everyday I sit and laugh and cry as I read the postings. I have been deeply affected by Dominic and he has blessed me through his life and all of the many people who love and adore him. He truly is an inspiration to me and he is in my prayers daily!
Some of the fun times and important events bring to mind the family gatherings. (These would be your mom's side of the family.) One event being, Dominic and Amy, at about age 4 and 6, sitting on the rug at Grandma's Vina's home (Chester Ln.) playing Chinese Checkers. I am not sure if Amy was letting you win or you were stomping her.
One of the photos shows your home on "B" street. Remember the great play structure Ray built for you, Amy and all the neighbor friends? I am sure they remember a lot of fun times with you, letting the imagination go wild, pretending all sorts of adventures. The photo is of you sharing the fun with many cousins.
Another photo shows Dominic not so sure about the photo time with the relatives, perhaps he is thinking, "If I put my hands in my pocket and close my eyes, perhaps this will pass quickly", were you ten or so then. Having us drop by Christmas Eve for another photo op and food gift exchange was to find you all ready to smile, now you were getting the hang of photo time. Seeing the many photos with friends in more recent time, I can see you did not remain camera shy. That smile of yours could light up a room.Fast forward a few years, (Elm Street home) and we have Dom in his favorite place (on the couch) to watch a ball game with relatives and friends during a Easter family gathering Within 30 minutes, Dom was out on the patio, coloring Easter eaggs, adults and kids joining in. Guess who won the first place for the best, most creative egg? Dom of course. This was a preview of years to come, when Dom would win the Mattel contest for best button for Halloween
When Amy and Dominic were in their teens, Jane and Amy took a self defense class. One day Amy came home from a session and informed Dom that she had learned how to throw a person. Dom said," I bet you can't throw me." Before the words were out of his mouth, he was on his back. I am sorry to say I was not there, but Jane was, and she told me the story. And the stories go on. All the sharing from so many people is wonderful, building a strong connection between us all and passing that on where needed.
We are sending our strength, love and prayers to you, Jane, Don, Dominic, Amy, and Maddy.Love Aunt Iva and Uncle Randy
From Merrilee:
I am a friend of Marshall's and I have heard about Dominic for the past 8 years that I have known Marshall. To know Marshall is to know those that are important and loved by Marshall. He is such a loyal friend and I have been so honored to have been added to this blog and had the privilege to read the letters from all of Dominic's friends and family. Everyday I sit and laugh and cry as I read the postings. I have been deeply affected by Dominic and he has blessed me through his life and all of the many people who love and adore him. He truly is an inspiration to me and he is in my prayers daily!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
One more for the night...
From Sam Benham...
I am so happy that I was able to grow up with a guy like Dominic to look up to. He always seemed bigger then life and over the past years I've realized that he is. Whether it was Dominic getting the haunted house ready for my parents Halloween party or going over to the Wayne/Tacketts to have a few beers with the older guys. I have the fondest memories of the time I spent with Dom. His toughness is unmatched and he has shown all of us something remarkable with his battle against cancer. Dom, I'll always remember to BRING IT thanks to the badass that you are!Love, Sam Benham
I am so happy that I was able to grow up with a guy like Dominic to look up to. He always seemed bigger then life and over the past years I've realized that he is. Whether it was Dominic getting the haunted house ready for my parents Halloween party or going over to the Wayne/Tacketts to have a few beers with the older guys. I have the fondest memories of the time I spent with Dom. His toughness is unmatched and he has shown all of us something remarkable with his battle against cancer. Dom, I'll always remember to BRING IT thanks to the badass that you are!Love, Sam Benham
From Scoob's Parents...
We've known Dom for quite some time--or more precisely, about him--since the very first day of freshman year at Bakersfield High School. When the Quailwood Krew convened to discuss their new 1998 classmates, Dominic Ambriz was a big winner! Not only was he "hot" and a superb athlete, he was as nice as he was artistic, and when your minds are already thinking about the Homecoming float you have to build, Dom was definitely a standout amongst their new classmates! Of course he came through for the float building that first year and the following three, but he also became a friend and more over the next few years for many of his previously unknown classmates. Even though we "knew" Dominic, we never really got to know him then.
When Scoob and Dom began seeing each other some months ago, we began to hear tales of a high school relationship and discovered they had left "unfinshed business" on the table (Yes, it's true, sometimes parents are the last to know). Both kids had left for college, careers, and others, yet, after ten years, a fire still smoldered, and all it took was Maitia's and the Internet to fan the flames! Dom and Benji showed up at our house for our annual Christmas party last December, and even Scoob's brother parading around in Depends (a White Elephant gift thing) couldn't stop the Dom and Scoob Show.
Very soon after Dom and Scoob began dating, he told Scoob he wanted to be formally introduced to us (Who does that?), so we did the hand-shaking thing just like he wanted, then went to BJ's for dinner. While waiting in the bar for our table, the kids ran into Jason Stewart and they all exchanged phone numbers without saying a word (How do they do that?), and Jason asked them if they were a couple [early days here folks, early days!]. Dom agreed that they were--my husband and I looked at each other, nodded at each other, gave each other the "sign" and were smugly satisfied. Excellent choice, Dom, and excellent choice, Scoob! But, what kind of guy wants to "meet" parents that he has known for years? Dom--a very classy guy, that's who.
Although they haven't been fortunate enough to have that much time together, they have had more fun together than many other couples ever do. They have been devoted to each other from the start--neither were game players--and friends who know them rejoiced, even though it took ten years to finally get together. Dom knew how special Bass Lake is to Scoob. In June, even though he wasn't feeling well (the chemo, the flu), they traveled five hours to spend the weekend at the cabin so that he could see her "happy place" with his own eyes. He took boat rides (sometimes a little green around the gills afterwards), viewed family-favorite movies, consumed lots of food which he promptly lost, and (Bless his Heart) watched NASCAR racing. Gotta love the guy! Even though he felt like crap, he hugged me when he was leaving and ever polite, said, "Thanks for having me." We didn't take any photos that weekend knowing that Dom would hate the way he looked, so I passed on the camera for next time when he felt more like himself. If I had the opportunity to replay that weekend, the video camera would have been rolling 24/7.
Thank you Jane, Don, Amy, and Mattie for your wholehearted and gracious acceptance of our daughter into your family. And thank you Marshall, Matt, Benji, etc. and wives/girlfriends for your welcoming embrace into Dom's circle. She wouldn't have missed this time with Dom and each of you for the world, and neither would we. God bless you, Dom. We believe in miracles.
With love,Gerri and Bud Bonner
When Scoob and Dom began seeing each other some months ago, we began to hear tales of a high school relationship and discovered they had left "unfinshed business" on the table (Yes, it's true, sometimes parents are the last to know). Both kids had left for college, careers, and others, yet, after ten years, a fire still smoldered, and all it took was Maitia's and the Internet to fan the flames! Dom and Benji showed up at our house for our annual Christmas party last December, and even Scoob's brother parading around in Depends (a White Elephant gift thing) couldn't stop the Dom and Scoob Show.
Very soon after Dom and Scoob began dating, he told Scoob he wanted to be formally introduced to us (Who does that?), so we did the hand-shaking thing just like he wanted, then went to BJ's for dinner. While waiting in the bar for our table, the kids ran into Jason Stewart and they all exchanged phone numbers without saying a word (How do they do that?), and Jason asked them if they were a couple [early days here folks, early days!]. Dom agreed that they were--my husband and I looked at each other, nodded at each other, gave each other the "sign" and were smugly satisfied. Excellent choice, Dom, and excellent choice, Scoob! But, what kind of guy wants to "meet" parents that he has known for years? Dom--a very classy guy, that's who.
Although they haven't been fortunate enough to have that much time together, they have had more fun together than many other couples ever do. They have been devoted to each other from the start--neither were game players--and friends who know them rejoiced, even though it took ten years to finally get together. Dom knew how special Bass Lake is to Scoob. In June, even though he wasn't feeling well (the chemo, the flu), they traveled five hours to spend the weekend at the cabin so that he could see her "happy place" with his own eyes. He took boat rides (sometimes a little green around the gills afterwards), viewed family-favorite movies, consumed lots of food which he promptly lost, and (Bless his Heart) watched NASCAR racing. Gotta love the guy! Even though he felt like crap, he hugged me when he was leaving and ever polite, said, "Thanks for having me." We didn't take any photos that weekend knowing that Dom would hate the way he looked, so I passed on the camera for next time when he felt more like himself. If I had the opportunity to replay that weekend, the video camera would have been rolling 24/7.
Thank you Jane, Don, Amy, and Mattie for your wholehearted and gracious acceptance of our daughter into your family. And thank you Marshall, Matt, Benji, etc. and wives/girlfriends for your welcoming embrace into Dom's circle. She wouldn't have missed this time with Dom and each of you for the world, and neither would we. God bless you, Dom. We believe in miracles.
With love,Gerri and Bud Bonner
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