kellirocha.com

Category: Family

Updates on Leroy and Kelli’s family

  • Mr. Optimistic:

    Mr. Optimistic:

    Jameson Earns a Seemingly Unlikely Award

    My grandchildren have thrived at the elementary school they attend. They have been successful at learning, developing relationships and making friends. Chatom Elementary School has been good to them and for them, just like it was to me and their father. So when Sierra and Joey were notified that Jameson would receive an award at an upcoming school assembly, no one was surprised.

    Jameson and Classmate

    There were only two options for that particular month: Student of the Month or the monthly Character Trait of the Month Award. Since the “Character Trait of the Month” was Optimism, we all assumed Jameson would be the student of the month. We believed that optimism was not one of Jameson’s gifts.

    We were wrong.

    When Sierra explained her shock to Jameson’s teacher, Mrs. Redman, she was surprised. She told Sierra that Jameson was the most optimistic student in her class. She indicated that he expresses positive thinking consistently and couldn’t believe Sierra thought otherwise.

    Although Mrs. Redman didn’t initially name the recipient in her presentation, the girl seated next to Jameson pointed to him before the winner was revealed. We listened with pride in our hearts and huge lumps in our throats as Mrs. Redman presented the award. When announced, Jameson walked over to his mother for a big hug before walking down the red carpet to claim his prize.

    Mrs. Redman presents the Optimistic Character Award to Jameson Oliveira

    Jameson’s teacher from last year was moved to tears. She knew, more than most, how far he’d come, and we knew she had a significant influence on his growth and development.

    Jameson’s award was more than just a recognition—it was a powerful lesson for all of us. It reminded us that people, especially children, are constantly growing, evolving, and surprising us in the best ways. Sometimes, the qualities we assume are missing are actually the ones shining the brightest.

    Mr. Optimistic Award

    This experience reinforced the importance of looking beyond our expectations and allowing space for growth. Jameson’s optimism may have been unexpected, but it was always there—waiting for the right moment to be seen. We all witnessed something truly special, thanks to teachers who recognized his potential.

  • Charlotte at Five

    Charlotte at Five

    It’s hard to believe our little spitfire Charlotte turns five years old this week. She is a bright light in our family and always keeps us smiling. Charlotte lives every minute of her life with an unmatched intentionality. She is focused, determined and confident. All of the traits you hope to see in a granddaughter.

    Charlotte loves school and is at the top of her class academically. During a recent project, Charlotte was asked what she would do with $100. She said she would give it away and keep one dollar for herself.

    She loves making arts and crafts and has mastered the use of scissors. She makes little pictures and gifts for us all the time. The most recent ones were heart-shaped Valentines with jewels and stickers. She recently celebrated 100 days at school by dressing up as a 100-year-old woman. (I love the hunch!)

    Charlotte still loves her baby Tootsie, Princess Tiana and Queen Elsa. She is equally satisfied dressing up in the house or digging for worms outside. She wants to try golfing and thinks watching Jameson’s flag football games is boring.

    Charlotte recently memorized The Lord’s Prayer, but she added another line. Just before “Give us this day our daily bread,” she pauses and says, “This is my favorite part.” (It’s mine, too.)

    We love this girl and are fascinated by how she learns to navigate the world. I have no doubt she will accomplish anything she sets her mind to. I hope she never loses this fire.

  • Typewriter Lost and Found

    Typewriter Lost and Found

    NOTE: In February, Leroy and I will go on a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City with Fr. Tom, Deacon Eric and other All Saints University Parish parishioners. We are truly grateful for the opportunity and look forward to the experience. Please keep us in your prayers, as you will be in ours. If you have any particular prayer intentions, message us, and we’ll carry them with us on this journey.

    If you’ve known me for a while, you know we moved quite a bit after leaving the dairy in 2010. At one point, we had moved five times in six years. Fortunately, we have settled and have been in the same house for the last nine years. One of the side effects of moving so frequently was the dramatic decrease in possessions. This was probably the best part of the experience for me, but there is one possession I gave away that I have always regretted: my typewriter.

    The typewriter and I spent hours and hours together, and it became a trusted friend to a nerdy girl like me. However, typewriters were no longer necessary with the more common use of computers and word processors. I had not used mine for several years, so I gave it away.

    For the last several years, I have lamented that I don’t have (or have access to) a typewriter. Last spring, I purchased an antique manual typewriter. It’s awesome and functions well, but it is not practical for a lot of typing. It’s more of an art piece in my office. I wanted an electric typewriter, preferably with auto-correct.

    This past Christmas, I was discussing “stuff” with my brother. I am not very sentimental, and certainly not about possessions, but I did state that I regretted giving my typewriter away. My niece was nearby, heard our conversation, and asked if I wanted it back. She remembered that I gave her a typewriter several years ago. It was currently stored in a closet in her classroom. I’m pretty sure I squealed in delight. Was it too good to be true?

    I had to wait a few weeks, as my niece was on Christmas break and would not return to her classroom until after the first of the year. I counted the days and finally heard from her. She brought it home for me. I asked for a photo and initially didn’t recognize it. Leroy didn’t either until he picked it up and remembered the machine. As soon as I saw it in person, I knew it was the one!

    I actually cried. And then I thought of this scriptural passage:

    “What woman with ten coins would not, if she lost one, light a lamp and sweep out the house and search thoroughly till she found it? And then, when she had found it, call together her friends and neighbors, saying to them, “Rejoice with me; I have found the coin I lost.” In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing among the angels of God.” — Luke 15:8-10

    Don’t get your panties in a bunch. I am not comparing a typewriter to the Kingdom of God, but I can relate to the rejoicing and wanting to share the joy with everyone around me. (I could also use the story of The Prodigal Son. If I had access to a fatted calf, we would have slaughtered it that night.)

    After I collected myself, I inserted a piece of paper and began to type. Initially, it didn’t work, but once the ribbon advanced, the letters appeared on the page. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. First, I typed a thank you to my kind niece for her generosity. (I have named the machine Bethany in her honor.) Next, I hopped on the internet and ordered replacement ribbons.

    This would not be a big deal for many people, but it was the answer to a (simple) prayer for me. Considering the circumstances of the typewriter’s return, God obviously wanted me to have it back. It was not a coincidence that the discussion came up at Christmas and that my niece remembered having the machine. Now we know she was storing it for me for the last thirteen years. I won’t forget the lesson of this experience; the things that are meant to be in our lives will come to us. (Or, in my case, return to us.)

  • 1968

    1968

    NOTE

    In February, Leroy and I will go on a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City with Fr. Tom, Deacon Eric and other All Saints University Parish parishioners. We are truly grateful for the opportunity and look forward to the experience. Please keep us in your prayers, as you will be in ours. If you have any particular prayer intentions, message us, and we’ll carry them with us on this journey.

    Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, died recently at the age of 100. Since his passing, there have been several public and private events preceding his funeral and burial in Georgia. I was recently watching the procession of his casket, arriving from Joint Base Andrews and then being transferred to a horse-drawn caisson for the procession to the US Capitol, which also includes a riderless horse. This is the same route he and his family traveled on the day of his Inauguration almost 48 years before. These events always impress me and fill my heart with gratitude to live in this great nation. It also reminded me of many other images of similar processions and timing of these historical events. Then my birth year came to mind: 1968.

    I was born fifty-seven years ago, in the tumultuous year 1968. For those who were alive (and aware), stating the date will bring back memories. It’s become one of those historical years that only needs to be said to make one pause and remember—e.g., “Back in ’45.” With the help of ChatGPT, here’s a list of some of the things that occurred in this transformative year.

    Politics was the topic of the day back in ’68.

    • Tet Offensive (January 30–March 28) – A significant escalation in the Vietnam War as the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese launched surprise attacks across South Vietnam.
    • My Lai Massacre (March 16) – American soldiers killed hundreds of unarmed Vietnamese civilians in the village of My Lai.
    • Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. (April 4) – Civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, leading to nationwide riots and mourning.
    • Assassination of Robert F. Kennedy (June 5) – Senator Robert F. Kennedy, a presidential candidate, was fatally shot in Los Angeles after delivering a campaign speech.
    • Prague Spring (January–August) – A period of political liberalization in Czechoslovakia was crushed by Soviet-led Warsaw Pact troops in August.
    • Democratic National Convention Protests (August 26–29) – Anti-Vietnam War protests turned violent in Chicago, resulting in clashes between demonstrators and police.
    • Mexico City Massacre (October 2) – Mexican government forces killed hundreds of student protesters in Tlatelolco Square just before the Olympics.

    But some good things happened in 1968, too.

    • Apollo 7 Mission (October 11–22) – The first successful manned mission in NASA’s Apollo program, paving the way for future lunar landings.
    • Earthrise Photo (December 24) – Astronaut William Anders captured the iconic “Earthrise” photo during the Apollo 8 mission, the first manned spacecraft to orbit the Moon.
    • Release of The Beatles’ White Album (November 22) – A landmark music album showcasing the band’s creative range.
    • Civil Rights Act of 1968 (April 11) – President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law, prohibiting housing discrimination.
    • Boeing 747 Production Begins – The “Jumbo Jet” development revolutionized air travel.

    And, of course, the highlight of the year. (At least in my family.)

    • Kelli Jean Faulkner was born to Charles and Vilate Faulkner in Montpelier, Idaho
  • 2024 in Review

    2024 in Review

    For many reasons, 2024 was a remarkable year in our family, but the highlight was Steel and Taylor’s wedding in August. We are so grateful for Taylor and her family, who have become dear friends.

    Mr. and Mrs. Steel Rocha
    Wedding Day 2024

    Leroy and I were fortunate to travel extensively this year, including checking off a few Bucket List items. In April, we traveled on a pilgrimage to Poland, Prague, and Germany, highlighted by a visit to Auschwitz. This trip was a dream come true and much better than I anticipated. We traveled with my brother Curtis and his wife, Linda. We also met new (and forever) friends, Stuart and Deb, from the UK.

    In July, we attended the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, Indiana. We attended daily Mass and heard some of our favorite speakers there, including Fr. Mike Schmitz, Jonathan Roomie, Bishop Robert Barron and Cardinal Timothy Dolan. We were also inspired by speakers who were new to us, including Msgr. James Shea and many others.

    We also had our annual Granny and Grandpa Get-A-Way with the kids. We returned to Angels Camp and spent most of our time in the pool or playing games in the room, which was always their favorite part.

    In 2024, we traveled (together) to Pacific Grove, Europe, Santa Barbara, Klamath Falls, Indianapolis, San Francisco, Angels Camp (with grandkids) and Folsom. Leroy also traveled to Wisconsin, Texas, Seattle, and South Carolina for work, Portland, Oregon, with the football team and still made two hunting trips to Montana for the Elk and Deer hunts.

    My time of watching the grandkids ended in August when Charlotte started school. We still see them regularly, but not on scheduled days. When saying goodbye each time, Jameson wants to know when we’ll see him again.

    Everyone who knows me will say that I love a schedule. My days are filled with daily trips to the gym, weekly lunches with Joan and other friends, monthly Book Club gatherings and Moms’ Dinners (for the last 28 years.) I have been teaching a bit at All Saints University Parish in Turlock (our home parish) with the OCIA and Family Catechesis. I didn’t realize how much I missed doing this over the years, and it’s been nice to do it again with a limited commitment.

    Leroy celebrated fourteen years at Rico, Pfitzer, Pires and Associates and was the “Producer of the Year.” He was also named “Best of 209 for Insurance Agents.” He keeps busy with work and visiting clients but finds time to continue coaching high school football (19 years,) golf and the annual Elk and Deer Hunt trips to Montana.

    We look forward to new adventures and experiences in 2025 and wish you health and happiness in the New Year!

    Checkpoint Charlie
    Deb, Stuart, Kelli and Leroy at Checkpoint Charlie – Berlin, Germany
    Wedding Guests
    Wedding Guests – Santa Barbara, CA
    Charlotte's Dance Recital
    Charlotte’s Dance Recital
    The Oliveira Family
    Joey, Sierra, Charlotte and Jameson
    Calaveras Big Trees
    Matching PJs!
  • Merry Christmas from Leroy and Kelli

    Merry Christmas from Leroy and Kelli

    We wish you a Merry Christmas with peace and prosperity in 2025!

  • The Power of Traditions and Rituals in Strengthening Family Bonds

    The Power of Traditions and Rituals in Strengthening Family Bonds

    In today’s busy world, traditions and rituals help families stay connected. They give us time to be together, share values, and create memories. From monthly family dinners to religious events, these habits make families stronger and closer.

    Why Traditions and Rituals Matter

    Traditions and rituals make family life better by:

    1. Bringing People Together: Sharing activities strengthens relationships.
    2. Teaching Values: Traditions pass down important lessons and heritage.
    3. Creating Memories: Repeating special moments builds happy memories to cherish.

    The Roots of Common Traditions

    Many of today’s common traditions begin in historical Roman Catholic practices and rituals. Often passed down through centuries, these traditions have shaped how families celebrate holidays and milestones. For example:

    • Advent Calendars and Wreaths: Originating from the Roman Catholic observance of Advent, these tools help families prepare spiritually for Christmas.

    Feasts and Festivals: Many cultural holidays, like Mardi Gras, began as Catholic feasts tied to the liturgical calendar, such as the celebration before Lent.

    Easter Eggs: Decorating eggs is rooted in the Catholic tradition of celebrating new life at Easter.

    All Saints’ Day and Halloween: Halloween, or All Hallows’ Eve, was originally a Catholic vigil before All Saints’ Day.

    These practices have evolved but still carry the spirit of their origins, reminding families of their shared history and values.

    Christmas: A Time Full of Traditions

    Christmas is a holiday rich in traditions that bring families together. For Roman Catholics, Advent is the start of the season, marked by lighting candles on an Advent wreath and attending church services. These rituals help families focus on the meaning of Christmas: the birth of Jesus.

    Other favorite Christmas traditions include:

    • Nativity Scenes: Setting up a Nativity scene reminds us of the Holy Family and the true meaning of Christmas.
    • Midnight Mass: Attending this special service brings families together in faith and celebration.
    • Acts of Giving: Many families give back during Christmas, teaching kindness and generosity.
    • Decorating Together: Trimming the tree or baking cookies create joyful shared moments.
    • Rocha Family Traditions: We have created our own special traditions that make the season even more memorable. The importance of these traditions has become even more evident since my daughter-in-law Taylor joined the family. She loves the traditions we’ve developed and cherishes the joy they bring. These include sending Christmas cards to loved ones, building gingerbread houses together, enjoying Eggs Benedict on Christmas morning, and unwrapping pajamas from Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. These simple yet meaningful activities bring joy and strengthen our family bond.

    Starting Your Own Family Traditions

    While old traditions are important, you can also create new ones that fit your family. Over time, a weekly movie night, an annual vacation, or writing thank-you notes during the holidays can become meaningful.

    The key is to keep it simple and consistent. Even small acts, like eating together or celebrating little milestones, can bring families closer and build lasting memories.

    The Gift of Traditions

    Traditions and rituals are gifts that help families stay connected and create lasting joy. Based on faith, culture, or shared interests, these practices build love and unity for generations. By cherishing these moments, families can strengthen their bonds and create memories to treasure forever.

    OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT Large language model. https://chatgpt.com

  • Thirty Seven Years of Love

    Thirty Seven Years of Love

    I tell everyone that being a grandparent is the greatest thing that ever happened to me, but that’s not entirely true. The greatest thing is being loved by Leroy. Walking through these life journeys at his side makes all the difference. Nothing would be possible or the same without him.

    I wish I had known what I was doing when I married Leroy. The truth is that I had no idea what I was getting myself into—I guess no one does. But God knew I needed a stable, kind, and loving man if this would work, and he gave me the best. It took me a while to realize it, but I’ve been counting my blessings for many years.

    We have enjoyed a tremendous year. We accomplished some significant goals and fulfilled lifelong dreams. We’ve traveled together more than ever and loved every minute of it. Leroy has also done quite a bit of solo travel for both work and hunting. He loves these trips, too, and I love that he has the opportunity to go, but I don’t like being home without him. The fact is, I don’t like being anywhere without him.

    We will celebrate our Thirty-Seventh Wedding Anniversary this week. I suppose this post is my annual love letter to my husband. I appreciate him more than ever. In the last few months, I have required more care, and he has risen to the challenge as I knew he would. Marriage can be complicated, but Leroy makes it look effortless and feel easy. I feel loved and cherished. What more could a girl ask for?

  • Not Just Anybody

    Not Just Anybody

    I have required some assistance with my daily life recently, which has allowed me to reflect with gratitude on my friends and family. It has reminded me of the Beatles’ song, Help.

    I need somebody

    (Help) not just anybody

    (Help) you know I need someone

    (Help)

    Accepting help is not easy, but sometimes, there isn’t another option. It is humbling but in the best possible way.

    While preparing for this season, I knew I would (and could) rely primarily on Leroy and Sierra. They didn’t have a choice, but they were willing participants. However, we have a new family member now, so I also asked Taylor for help too. She didn’t even hesitate. She jumped in with both feet, and I am forever grateful. It has only been a year since I met this girl, and I am continually shocked at how well she fits into our family.

    When Taylor took care of me one day, I paused and asked her, “Did you ever think you’d be doing this for me a year ago when we met in the Dutch Bros drive-thru?” She laughed and said no. Neither did I. But what surprised me the most at that moment was that I was willing to be so vulnerable and dependent on this girl. Don’t get me wrong, she makes it easy. Her kind heart is filled with love and service. I have the barriers, but she’s torn down the wall.

    I did not have the best example of mother-in-law/daughter-in-law relationships when I was growing up, for no fault of my sisters-in-law. My mom was often challenging to get along with. I am so thankful those experiences have not influenced my relationship with Taylor. (Maybe it has, but in the opposite way.) I can’t believe how much I like this girl.

    This interaction got me thinking. What other limiting beliefs keep me from experiencing the best part of life and the people around me? I’ve certainly learned that I should “never say never.” And I am improving at not jumping to judgmental conclusions about another’s actions. (Although this area still needs some work.) I will use this experience as a template for further interactions. I will remember that an anybody can become a somebody when you let them in and let them help.