A Few of FR's Finest...Every Day...03-12-03...FR's Sweetheart...azGOPgal

Dutchess and Billie

[dutchess]

A Few of FR's Finest.....
......Every Day

FR is a Treasure Trove of talented, compassionate, patriotic, wonderful people who gather every day to discuss the latest news and issues; salute and support our military and our leaders;  tell a few jokes;  learn a new word;  write poetry;  pray for those in need;  and congratulate those who are deserving. Thank you, Jim Robinson, for giving us the vehicle in which we can express ourselves.

Free Republic made its debut in September, 1996, and the forum was added in early 1997.   I can remember lurking when there were only a few regulars who posted, and now there are over 60,000 who have registered for posting privileges. The forum is read daily by tens of thousands of concerned citizens and patriots from all around the country and the world.

A Few of FR's Finest November 11, 2001

So many people have written me since my original Veteran's Day Tribute, asking how they, or a loved one, could be included in that tribute. Since I can no longer add the photos to the body of the thread, I've been including them in additional posts as I received enough to make another collage.

Still that doesn't seem to be enough. I think there's never been a better nor more appropriate time to keep the faces of our own Veterans and Active Military in front of FReepers--every day! That's why I wanted to do yet another Daily Thread .....ABOUT FReepers .....and FOR FReepers. But not only about our Military FReepers; for all FReepers! Wouldn't it be nice to get to know a few of the other FReepers as well? That's why, in addition to seeing FR's Finest Military Personnel every day, I thought it might be fun to feature a different FReeper (or FReepers) each day. If you would like to be pictured, or know someone who would, please FReepmail me and we'll turn the spotlight - on YOU - for the day!

And do let me know if you'd like your picture added to the groups of Veterans/Active Military below. I will keep this page updated, and continue to add them to the comment section of the original Veteran's Day thread as well.

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TOP: Q6-God, Scan59, Mama Bear and JKPhoto's son, ofMagog.
MIDDLE:  Big'ol_freeper, JustAmy's great uncle, Prodigal Son.
BOTTOM:  JustAmy's husband, JustAmy's brother-in-law, JustAmy's brother.

TOP: dakine's wife, MeeknMing's dad, Auntbee's nephew, MilitiaMan7, AlasBabylon.
BOTTOM:  Joe Brower, Temple Owl, Temple Owl's wife, dutchess' dad, Aomagrat.

TOP: ladtx #2 son; DiverDave's twin Don; petuniasevan and husband
poorman; Mustard; ladtx #1 son;
BOTTOM: AlamoGirl's brother Floyd; AG's dad; AG's brother Jim (inset);
WVNan's husband; ladtx Aunt Eva.

We now have eleven groups of veterans/active military; we will post each group of three or four twice a week, with thumbnail/links of the remaining seven or eight groups on each thread. Click on any of the thumbnails below to see the group full-size.

         

GROUP 1A: TOP: Logos, SwedeGirl's hubby, Neil E Wright, FallGuy, 1John, Sneakypete MIDDLE:  T'wit, COB1, LadyX, Dick Bachert, 68-69TonkinGulfYatchClub BOTTOM:  YankeeinSC, Delta21, JoeSixPack1

GROUP 2A: TOP:  Bosniajmc, AFVetGal, Archy, A Navy Vet MIDDLE:  4TheFlag, Aeronaut, 68Grunt, Xinga BOTTOM:  Codger, AAABest, Clinton's A Liar, Duke809, dcwusmc

GROUP 3A: TOP:  mc5cents, Norb2569, LBGA's son, VanJenerette MIDDLE:  Jim Robinson, KJenerette, davidosborne, KG9Kid BOTTOM:  gwmoore, Equality7-2521, SAMWolf

GROUP 4A: TOP:  porgygirl, Phil V., MudPuppy, NorCoGOP MIDDLE:  RaceBannon, OneidaM, rdb3, jwTexian BOTTOM:  USMC Vet, TheMayor, Vineyard, rhododogma

         

GROUP 5A: TOP:  spectr17, RightOnline, SERE_Doc, Tet68. MIDDLE:  FutureSnakeEater, RightOnline's wife, CIApilot, Clamper1797. BOTTOM:  usmcobra, onedoug, DiverDave, Joe6-pack.

GROUP 6A: TOP:  g'nad, AgThorn's son Justin, SLB, AgThorn's son Brett. MIDDLE:  fish70, razorback-bert, CheneyChick, Leroy S Mort, Mark17. BOTTOM:  Terry's Take, Taxman, DinkyDau.

GROUP 7A: TOP:  ValerieUSA's son Grant, SK1Thurman, kd5cts, RangerVetNam, dansangel and .45man's son-in-law Tony.BOTTOM:  rangerX, Old China Hand, Trish, Howlin's dad, Mustang.

GROUP 8A: TOP: ohioWfan's son, MamaBear's father-in-law, MamaBear's dad, ladtx. MIDDLE:  The Mayor's niece, M.Kehoe, Beach_Babe's son-in-law. BOTTOM:  deadhead's dad, HiJinx, Severa's hubby, viligantcitizen's granddad.

                     

I actually remember when AzGOPgal first posted on "The Dose". She was young, positive, energetic….and was immediately embraced…. She openly speaks of how FR has helped her grow politically and spiritually ...has touched the lives of many of us…as many on FR have also touched her life. I ask you to join us in spotlighting our own our very special…..

azGOPgal....A Finest Sweetheart

azGOPgal and Dittomom at a Support our Military Rally last weekend

The Beginnings

Contrary to some on the "other side" we all know that it takes loving parents, not a village, to raise a child… AzGOPgal was blessed with loving parents. She was raised in sunny Arizona and describes her childhood and upbringing as "awesome".

I lived on a street with a bunch of kids my age, and everyday we got ourselves into some type of mischief. We played baseball, football, hockey, broke a few windows (complete accidents), and built forts and race tracks for our bikes. There wasn't a sunny day that my brother and I spent inside.

She was raised in a happy and loving atmosphere. She and her brother never went to bed until they got their "goodnight kiss".

My parents, especially my mom, encouraged us to try new and different things, and they were very supportive of what we did. We have lived a fairly privileged life, often traveling to Mexico for summer vacations or taking our motorcycles to the California sand dunes, but we were taught to appreciate what we had.

Az was very active as a child and lived to play soccer. Her mom signed her up when she was in kindergarten, and she played all through high school.

A Freeper Pet Story

As with many freepers, Az grew up with cats and dogs. Right now they have a lapso named Sophie and a Himalayan named Fluffy.

Fluffy is such a character. He can open doors, and he comes when you call his name. He is such a great comfort to me and will lay right next to me and start purring like crazy.

AZ didn't grow up in a political household. Her mom and dad never talked politics with or around she and her brother. Her dad is a life-long Republican, and always voted, but never got involved beyond that. Her mom was a registered Democrat until Clinton became President, and then she switched to the Republican Party.

My political interests and views were deeply influenced by my grandmother. She is a staunch Republican, very outspoken, and not afraid to say so. Recently, I have had great political conversations with her, and she helps to reaffirm my beliefs and make them even stronger.

The High School Years

Az did not become involved in school activities until her sophmore year in high school when she ran and was elected Student Council Treasurer.

Student Council opened my eyes to so many different experiences. I learned leadership skills, became more outspoken, and formed a desire to help out my classmates and make high school a more enjoyable time for them. It was such an awesome time in my life, and I felt that my life was enriched because of Student Council. A lot of what I do now is influenced by my experiences of my three years in the council.

A Political Awakening

Az first became aware of politics during Clinton's Presidency (pre Monica)

I can remember watching his speeches from the Oval Office and thinking to myself that I hated Bill Clinton and that I never wanted to have anything in common with him besides being left handed-that was bad enough. I absolutely despised Clinton and thought he was a complete phony

When George W. Bush came around in 2000, she was ecstatic. And actually had the opportunity to go to the Inauguration in 2001.

Az and friends touring DC the day after the first liar in chief was evicted!

I can remember that for the entire time I was completely awestruck and speechless. I came back from Washington with a deep interest in politics and everything George W. Bush. I was so relieved that a man of honor, dignity, and respect was going to be restored in the White House.

On September 11th

AZ says she tries to keep an optimistic view on life and deal with things with a sense of humor. She turned 18 on September 11, 2001 and cried for almost two days straight.

I got through the tears by joking and laughing with my friends. I always said that I would sue Osama bin Laden for emotional damage for ruining my birthday. Sharing my birthday with the tragic attack has put a lot of things in perspective that has made me appreciate life more. So many people lost their lives that day in an instant, and it just shows how some things are so unexpected.

AzGOPgal….Member Since 11/14/2002

Az found FR during the 2002 elections stumbling on OhioWFan's and rintense's 25th Wedding Anniversary Tribute to the Bushes through a google search. (thank you OhioWFan and Rintense for bringing us this breath of fresh air!)

I read it and was amazed at how many other people admired and respected the First Couple. I lurked on the Dose for about two to three weeks afterwards until I finally signed up. When I first posted, I got this amazing welcome from everyone and was blown away by the caring and kindness of all the posters. The warmth and kindness got me hooked instantly, and I have been addicted to FR and the Dose ever since.

On Religion and Prayer

Az says she was not a very religious person growing up, although she has always believed in God. Her family was not actively involved in an organized religion and she only occasionally attended services with her grandmother and friends.

Being at the Dose and witnessing the power of prayer has made me look at the relationship I have with God, and completely change it. So many people have asked for prayers and then come back to say that they felt all the prayers that were sent their way. I found that to be so amazing and so powerful. I attribute the people at the Dose the reason why I have turned to God. It's a great feeling to know that SOMEONE is up above is always watching out and protecting me.

AzGOPgal…now….the College Student and Activist

AZ is in her second semester at a college in Arizona, majoring in Political Science. Although she says Arizona is a fairly conservative state, she finds the liberalism of the young students and the old professors to be very visible.

I am very strong in my beliefs, so I don't have to worry about them tainting my young mind, but it's sometimes dispiriting to not have somebody who agrees with you. I do a lot of listening and a lot of reading to try and expand my knowledge and understanding of different things. And if I feel that I have enough knowledge on a subject, I do my best to inform others, and hopefully I can make a liberal look like an idiot in the process.

Az does take time out from her school and "freeping" to take in the beauty of the land God has created. She has taken up snowboarding and says it's the most fun that she has had in a long time.

When I first started, I fell down the mountain more than I actually snowboarded down. But with the class I am taking, I have gotten so much better. It has provided me with a way to just forget about everything that's going on around me and let go of all the stress that builds up through the week. Every time I get to the top of the mountain, sometimes I just sit at the top and look down at the wonderful and amazing view.

I think Maigrey, one Az considers her "big sister" says it best when describing our special young lady….

….Az is by far a beacon of enthusiasm in the growth of the new generation of conservatism. But the best thing about her is her growth: right before my eyes, she has come to appreciate the better things in life. For that (being able to see someone grow emotionally and spiritually) I am grateful to call her my "little sister."

Thank you Chelsea's parents for helping mold her into the beautiful young lady she is... and thank you special freepers who have embraced her….Above all else THANK YOU Az…for being who you are. Your are INDEED one of our FR'S FINEST!!

THIS WEEK'S THREADS 03-10-03 Dog Gone 03-11-03 AuntB

Opinions by our own 'King of Ping' The guy's good, folks!

Thanks, Mixer!

1) Click on the graphic to open the Calendar.
2) Once there you can click on any month and even click to the right to go into next year. Once you are in the month that you joined FR you will need to click on the number in the calendar and then an add item screen will come up.
3) In the next box enter your name in the "Calendar Text" field and then click on submit.
4) If any of the screens fail to load simply click on refresh in your browser and that will usually fix it.
5) If all else fails or simply if you want me to do this for you send me an FReepmail and I will gladly do it for you. ~Mixer

[Inspectorette]

dutchess, what a beautiful tribute to AzGOPgal. Now I like the name "Chelsea" again ;-)

[azGOPgal]

dutchess, you did an awesome job.

Thank you everyone for your kind words. I have to go to class and fight the liberal propaganda now.

[goodnesswins]

CONGRATULATIONS, sweetie, you are a delight....I love listening to you because it gives me hope. And, because you are sooo smart for a young lass your age! Make it a great day!

[jwfiv]

Good morning to our Finest Hostesses...thank you, dutchess...)

Good morning to our guest of honor, azGOPgal...I've seen your name, and now am glad to know you a little better...you have an uncommon abundance of common sense for one so young, and are to be congratulated.

I spent many years in AZ, family still there...reading your profile makes me a wee bit homesick.

I'm sure you'll really enjoy your day in the spotlight...it's a warm and loving light...lotsa good folks will be stopping by to say Hello. Blessings on you...semper fi, Zonie!

[MeekOneGOP]

Howdy ! I just talked to Miss SpookBrat. She's at her Mom's house just down the road a ways. She asked me to tell ya'll hello for her. "Hello !"

We are going to meet at a Black-Eyed Pea restaurant in a little bit for a bite of lunch. I'll get to meet her Mom and son Jonah . . .

Ya'll have a lovely day . . .

[dutchess]

Ah...coffee....I NEED coffee...laid back down for a wee bit this morning....and the wee bit was a little more than a wee.... LOL! Time to get moving!

[dutchess]

Goodmorning before...good to see you here....when does your son leave for bootcamp?

[dutchess]

God Bless Our Military
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Below are names of some of our FReepers' loved ones who are serving our country. If you have someone you would like to add, please address a post to Billie; Daisyscarlett; Dansangel; Dutchess; Mama_Bear; and we will add their name to this list. As we pray for them, we pray also for all our nation’s leaders, and military personnel, and their families and friends. May God hold them close to His heart.

~~~~~~~~~~   ~~~~~~~~~~

We ask Lord, that You guide the leaders of our great country in their hour of decision. The burden that has been placed on their shoulders is overwhelming. We ask that with Your infinite wisdom You guide them gently to the right decisions.

Please give us the strength, Lord, to get through each difficult and devastating day that faces each of us and our country. Protect and guide our Military that are now being called to duty, strengthen them in their trials and temptations; give them courage to face the perils which beset them; and grant them a sense of your abiding presence wherever they may be; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

OhioWfan .... son mystery-ak ... son, husband Gogrammy ..... grandson Inspectorette ..... son Blessed American .... nephew Slip18 ..... nephew anniegetyourgun ..... nephew Pippin .. niece,nephew,loved one Doug from Upland ... son-in-law weldgophardline .. brotherinlaw Future Snake Eater ... cousin MozartLover ... nephew severa .... husband G'nad .... active duty LongCut .... active duty Trish .... active duty Spookbrat ... nephew Armymarinemom ... 3 sons WaterDragon . son-in-law, grandson

Maigrey ... cousin ladtx .... 2 sons Mama_Bear .... nephew gator girl .... husband LBGA ..... son Warrior Nurse ... active duty Himyar ..... son SK1 Thurman .... active duty David Osborne .. active duty boxerblues' .... 2 sons the piper .... son sheeza .... husband kemathen7 .... husband Diver Dave .... niece deadhead .... cousin JimRobinson ..2 nephews consort ... 2 daughters

[dutchess]

We are going to meet at a Black-Eyed Pea restaurant in a little bit for a bite of lunch

Oh...how fun! You give SpookBrat of FR hug from all of us!

[Bahbah]

Hey there. Great picture of you and Dittomom. You are both adorable.

[Aquamarine]

Tell Spookie I said "Hey"!

[LadyX]

What a wonderful presentation of you, az. and it's heartening to learn about the walk that led you to Free Republic!

So glad we each turned the corner from Drudge or wherever to find a welcoming place to vent and speak and share....the DOSE and The Finest are especially family-oriented.

Many of us on FR can attest to the awesome power of prayer and being supported in a loving way!

We are pleased to honor and welcome you this day - -

[The Mayor]

I snuck home just to post this Great cup of Coffee

[firewalk]

Hi, you've got mail (-:

[dutchess]

I do my best to inform others, and hopefully I can make a liberal look like an idiot in the process.

My vote for "quote of the day"!!!

I couldn't agree more! Would love to see her taking on the lib professors one on one!

[Wphile]

Hey AZ! Congrats on being FR's finest!

We love you on the Dose. Always very enthusiastic, funny, and heartwarming. So glad you found us so we could get to know you!

Love the cat! Meow...

[dutchess]

You've got my vote in 2030!

...originally had it as 2040 but Billie reminded me we might not be around then to vote LOL!

[dutchess]

Oh yes...great cup of coffee Russ....keep up posted on your webpage!

[The Mayor]

I will be posting new pics of the Log tonight, I'm putting in the windows today. It's looking good.

Have a Great day

[homeschool mama]

Thanks for the ping, M. :o)

Chelsea...you're such a sweetheart! I'm so very thankful you found FR and kindred spirits. You add to the enjoyment of visiting this website.

(((hugs)))