History

Monday, October 5, 2009 6:53 AM CDT

Jake,

It's been 3 years today since you earned your angel wings. I think about you every minute of every day. I miss you so much. I Love You!!

Heart broken but still believing,
Daddy

Monday, June 8 , 2009 11:11 AM CDT

3rd Annual Shake 4 Jake Weekend Extravaganza -- June 19th & 20th
The Jake Owen Raborn Foundation is a Pediatric Cancer Support Foundation. The Foundation assists families battling Pediatric Cancer. The Shake 4 Jake is the Foundation’s primary fundraiser. The weekend will be filled with many great activities, see below for times, dates, & locations.

Hope to see you there.

Believe,
Baby Jake’s Uncle Eddie

Teed Off at Cancer –
June 19th 1:00PM Shotgun Start
3-Man Scramble
Southern Pines Golf Club – Calvert Course

Jogging for Jake –
June 20th 8:00AM Start Time
5K Run/Fun Walk Sponsored by Anytime Fitness
Anytime Fitness – 2419 North 7th Street, West Monroe
to sign up for "Jogging 4 Jake" go to any "Anytime Fitness" or go to http://believeteamjake.com/default.aspx

Jake’s Jamboree
June 20th 9:00AM – 1:00PM
Kids Carnival
West Monroe Convention Center

Blood Drive & Bone Marrow Drive
June 20th 10:00AM – 3:00PM
West Monroe Convention Center

Shake 4 Jake Telethon
June 20th 9:00AM – 2:00PM
KARD – FOX14
West Monroe Convention Center

The “Shake”
June 20th 6:00PM – Midnight
Silent Auction, Live Auction, Buffet, Spirits, and
Live Music – “Fly by Radio”
West Monroe Convention Center

Tickets for sell at www.jakesfoundation.org

Tuesday, March 31, 2009 11:11 AM CDT

Just wanting to hop on here and wish my wife Happy Anniversary today. She is an amzing mother whose has given me 4 wonderful children.

Staci - thank you so much for taking care of me and the kids.

BELIEVE,
Don

Thursday, March 12, 2009 10:18 PM CDT

Hey everybody! We're still here and we're glad that you're still checking in to see how things are. Due to some issues Staci and Mo decided to put their blogs in private for a little while. When you put your life out there in public for the last few years like we have then certain people try to tear you down. These are the same people that will never sign their complete name or leave an e-mail address.

I believe Staci has her blog back up and running. I'm sure Mo will decide in her own time. Please continue to check on us. We still love to read your comments whether it is here on Jake's site or on the blog.

Thanks for believing in Jake,

Don - Jake's Dad

Wednesday, December 31, 2008 8:25 PM CST

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, YA LITTLE GEEK!!!

We are celebrating the new year and remembering our favorite warrior all at the same time. Masie made you the coolest M&M cake...we sang to you...Maggie blew out the candles...then all of our friends went outside where it is very COLD and sent you green balloons. Maggie sent you the big one with SpongeBob on it. Your leaving has left a hole in our heart that can only be filled with the wonderful, funny memories of you. Please give Nana a kiss at midnight and blow us one too.

We Love YOU,
Aunt Bonnie

Sunday, October 5, 2008 4:24 PM CDT

Dear Jake,

2 years later and I still have no words to desrcibe the pain I feel.

Just know that you are missed more and more each day.

I Love You.

Always Believing,
Daddy

Monday, September 29, 2008 11:49 PM CDT

Wow...this week has been a little harder than I thought. My heart has been torn in different directions and I'm trying to hold on. Last week ended with the anniversary of my mom and dad's first date that my daddy still holds dear to his heart. Well, that got me thinking about my mom a little more than ususal. Not always a good thing for me. Then I'm out shopping with my daughters on Saturday (when my husband left me behind for the LSU game), I saw a piece of clothing and said "Who does this remind you of..." They both said "Nana"...we had a good laugh that we all three said it at the same time. It makes me soooo happy that my girls still remember little things about my mom.

Tonight was St. Jude night at Chili's. I could feel Jake everywhere. As we came in, Eddie and his family were just finishing up. As we finished up, Don and Staci w/crew came in. We had it covered. We were able to do a "Pay it Forward" for another table. Our waitress loved it. She got just as much fun out of it as we did. Corbin Gulde (St. Jude survivor/same age as Jake)and his family came in to eat. There were "peppers" decorated with Jake's name and I really started to lose it but, then comes Miss Madison Hope to remind me of the good that has come to our family.

Then, I read Dawn Pierce's word "Angelversary". Isn't that a cool word? Jake's is coming up this weekend. Two years since that precious one took flight. You know Cancer REALLY sucks!!
But, then I see Don & Staci with the boys Hunter and Hayden(so grown and handsome) and Madison Hope...the families that the foundation has helped...the two new Groves babies..my "senior" Madison, my gorgeous Jordan, and mustang Tucker...my junior high "baby" and my own baby about to have her seventh birthday. She stills checks for new freckles...those show up when Jake or Nana kiss her at night. I still feel very selfish in the fact that I want Jake to be there at her party but ooohhhh the celebration he's already having is so much more

I am sitting here thanking God for the amazing gifts that He has bestowed on our family even though some of them came with unbearable pain. HE has been there every step of the way, holding us together. I've played a song over and over by the Judds..River of Time.

I'm holding back a flood of tears
Just thinking bout those happy years
Like all the good times that are no more
That time is gone, gone forever more

Silence so deep only my soul can hear
Says now the past is what I fear
The future isn't what it used to be
Only today Is all that promised me

Flow on River of Time
Wash away the pain and heal my mind
Flow on River of Time
Carry me away and leave it all far behind
Flow on River of Time

We all driven by the winds of change
Seems like nothing ever stays the same
It's faith that guides me around the bend
Life's forever beginning, beginning again

Here's to taking that big deep breath and letting go of a little more of the pain to make room for more of the blessings that are waiting.

Happy Anniversary Mama & Daddy
Happy Birthday Maggie Lee
Happy ANGELVERSARY Jake Owen (ya little geek)

Aunt Bonnie

Wednesday, August 27, 2008 6:03 PM CDT

There's so many things to talk about...

The Battle of the Badges was fantastic!!! Dennis Wall, the Monroe Police Officer that organized the event, must not realize what an angel he is to kids with cancer and those going to MedCamps in our area. The fighters, sponsors, volunteers and fans were so enthusiastic in their support for these two charities. We (JORF) had many coaches from Ouachita Jr. High and High School, men from North Monroe Baptist Church and family/friends help with our part...BIG thank you from the foundation.

Hunter and Hayden have gone back to school and started football. Hunter had a little injury last night but I haven't heard all the details. I'll let Don or Staci fill you in on that one.

Maddi is growing more beautiful and sassy each day. She does the best patty-cake I've seen in a long time.

Last but not least.....

Hunter, Hayden and Maddi HAVE A NEW COUSIN!!!
ELLIE SUE HAS A LITTLE SISTER!!!

Healthy little sister arrived yesterday morning. Last I checked, no name was chosen so we'll just call her little sis! Go to www.mojoy.blogspot.com to congratulate Mel and Todd!!

More updates on Foundation activities soon....

Keep Believing,
Jake's Aunt Bonnie

Friday, July 18, 2008 10:41 PM CDT

Wednesday, July 30

JUST WANTED TO WISH DON A FANTASTIC AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY...
and a Heavenly Birthday to Nana!!!

Just wanted to update a little going on with the foundation. I don't have exact figures but as far as Jake's Jamboree and Shake for Jake went, it looks a little like this...

Jake's Jamboree--WOW
This whole thing was new and it was great...Angie, you rock!! There were so many kids in this area that were a part of Jake's world and you helped involve them in helping other kids with cancer. Go on, girl!

The TELETHON--TERRIFIC
This was something new also and Gene Ponti really took it and ran with it!! My husband, Chris, a coach at OJHS, called some of our local high school coaches and they came out to support the JORF as hard as we cheer for them on Friday nights!! Mickey McCarty from Neville, Paul McComas from Ouachita, Paul Guerriro from St. Frederick's, Warren Trimble from Richwood(he coached Don at OPHS), Coach Fitzhugh from Ouachita Christian, Coach Hannah from River Oaks, John Causey from West Ouachita and Coach Hunt from West Monroe. Rarely will you find these men rooting for the same team but they rocked those phones. Along with some family, friends and last but never least, OPSB Supt. Dr. Bob Webber.....we raised around $12,000 in TWO HOURS.

Whoa..just take a second and let that one sink in....

On to the evening...SHAKE FOR JAKE 08
Chris and I were in charge of the front table and at last count...around 600 attended the event that night.
I'm telling you...my nephew left an impression didn't he?

There was lots of good food, laughter,dancing, a few tears shed and a lot of money raised to help children fighting this beast.

After all the months of planning, calling, visiting, decorating, and everything else that goes into an event of this size..(Thanks, Veronicia)

JORF raised around $85,000.00
JORF collected 37..that's right 37 pints of blood
and
JORF helped many more than that put their name on the Bone Marrow National Registry

I think Jake was pretty proud of his mama and daddy that night.

I know I was...

Jake's Aunt Bonnie

UPCOMING EVENTS
RAFFLE FOR AUTOGRAPHED NEXTEL CUP DRIVER TONY STEWART'S DRIVING SUIT
If you live in the Monroe area, we are at the Monroe Motor Speedway every Saturday night selling tickets. $5.00/ticket If not in our area, send a check to the JORF mailbox before Aug. 20 with the number of tickets you want and we will fill them out and return your stubs. The suit will be drawn for at the Monroe Motor Speedway on Sat. Aug. 30.

BATTLE OF THE BADGES
The fire and police depts. in our area hold an annual boxing event with the proceeds going to local charities. The Police Assoc. has chosen the JORF for the second year in a row and we are pumped. Not only do these guys lay it on the line for us on a daily basis but they are going in to the ring for our JORF kids too. Thanks a million times!! We love you guys for EVERYTHING you do!!
(I know of a kid that could have knocked them out with one punch a couple of years ago. Right, Jake?)

TEED OFF AT CANCER GOLF TOURNEY
Check back in soon as Uncle Todd gets the final touches on the golf tournament.

Sunday, June 29, 2008 10:14 PM CDT

Alrighty.... there is NO WAY to adequately describe the excitement and impact of this year's Shake 4 Jake! The only way I can express it is through pictures! I am quite sure Jessi will be putting together a new slide show for this site, but in the meanwhile, check out details on my blog,

www.mojoy.blogspot.com

and you will have all the news and pictures you can stand!

Thank you for continuing to check in on our sweet boy!
Melanie, aka Aunt Mo

Monday, June 9, 2008 2:41 PM CDT

Greetings from the Beach Club in Fort Morgan, Alabama! It's Veronicia, Staci's friend, updating for the very first time!

We are all here (Staci, Don, Hunter, Hayden, Maddi, Aunt Mo, Uncle Todd, Ellie, the entire Ford clan, the Rosses, the Richardsons, 4 awesome babysitters,Keelan Hanks,and me) enjoying the beautiful days at the beach. The two girls absolutely love it, and it is a major undertaking to get them out of the pool! I think Maddi and Ellie would actually take up residency there if they could! As much fun as it is, I can't help but stop at every turn and think about Jake. As much joy as these two beautiful baby girls bring watching them discover so much, it doesn't stop the pain of knowing he's not here with us. We often talk about him, and it just makes him seem a little closer.

We still have plans to do some shopping, hanging out at the local waterpark, and racing a few laps in the go-karts! The big boys seem to hit the ground running and don't stop until it's time to go to bed. They swim, play wiffle ball, swim, play football, swim, eat, congregate at the swings, eat, etc. I think you get the idea! All the men spent the morning golfing while the rest of us either spent the morning on the beach or lazily lounging around the condo! Well, we weren't too lazy; Staci and I sent the morning working on "Shake '4' Jake". Mo just stopped by to say "Hi" and check out the condo...her real reason was a moment of cool air! It's bright and hot today, and there isn't as much breeze as yesterday!

Right now our super baby sitters, Courtney Cousans and Katelyn Caldwell, are letting the girls enjoy an ice cream cone! Ellie Bellie is being so patient, but Miss Maddi is a little tempermental...she wants it two minutes ago! She'll be okay once Courtney gets her to the pool! Katelyn and Ellie are going to join them. Did I mention we have the best babysitters on the beach? Be sure and check out Staci's and Mo's blogs at www.maddiboo.blogspot.com and www.mojoy.blogspot.com for beach pics!

Now it's time for me to slip on my other hat as the chairperson of "Shake '4' Jake". We still need sponsors and auction items, so please email Don or me, vwood@jakesfoundation.org if you can help us! Also, tickets are on sale on-line at the JOR website. You can order them, and we'll get them out to you in the mail! The Wingate Inn in West Monroe is giving us a great deal if you're coming from out of town; just be sure to ask for the "Shake '4' Jake" rate. Don't wait around and miss out on this great deal!

Jake's Jamboree is a new addition this year! We'll have jumpers, slides, games, prizes, face painting, crafts, and snow cones on Saturday, June 28, from 10AM until 2PM in the parking lot of the West Monroe Convention Center. The best part is it's all for FREE!!!! While there parents and other grown-ups can see the amazing auction items, donate blood, and/or sign up for the bone marrow registry. PUT THIS ENTIRE DAY ON YOU CALENDAR IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY DONE SO!!!! It's too much fun to miss!

Thank you to everyone who has already bought tickets and made plans to attend. To those of you who won't be able to make, I know from your words of encouragement and loving thoughts that you'll be at "Shake '4' Jake in spirit!! Also, thank you to those of you who have helped us through donations of auction items or sponsorships. It is such an honor for me not only to be a close family friend but also a part of this wonderful foundation! I feel truly blessed to be able to help carry on Jake's amazing legacy!

Always believing,
Veronicia Wood

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 9:58 PM CDT

Well, anyone still out there?! I am checking in tonight since I saw where Jessi so graciously updated our slideshow of that crazy kid, Jake! He was so funny, and such a ham! Some of those wiht the pants on his head was when he was in the midst of a bone marrow transplant! How bout that? I havent' been as consistent with the updates here, because, well, quite frankly, I want to talk about happy times and in my life that includes my new baby girl, Ellie Sue, and my sweet new niece, Maddi. I don't really think Jake's site is the place for that, but if you are interested, and if you want to see constantly updated pictures of these beauties, check out mojoy.blogspot.com .

The most recent blog is from the ballpark, but if you will check out yesterday's, you will see that both of these girls were dedicated to the LORD on Mother's Day which just happened to be the 11th! Yep, you JUST KNOW that I think it was totally planned by God with a little baldy by his side to have this special day have Mother's Day, dedication to the church, and a big family portrait with all the Raborn clan, all fall on a Jake Day!

Ok, so you all need to know that we are gearing up for the 2nd annual Shake 4 Jake! We are a little behind on getting sponsors and donations for our silent auction. If you have something you would like ot donate, please contact us and send your goodies. Also, it wouldn't be complete if I didn't mention that we are also taking donations if you would like to send them. Don't forget what the foundation was founded for. IT is entirely to help other families who are going through the same battle that Don and Staci did. After tomorrow night's meeting, I will have more specifics on how many families have been helped and how much money has been sent out to families around the country with kids with cancer. So, all donations are welcome! New Shake tee shirts will also be sold this year as a fundraiser. Be on the lookout.

Go check out the most recent pics, and stay tuned for more info on the big event. Save the date for June 28th. It will be a SHINDIG! Missing our sweet boy and remembering him the best way we know how! Mo

Saturday, April 12, 2008 9:27 PM CDT

Well, it's been a long time since I have had the honor of updating Jake's site. I must say that it's bittersweet. By the way, it's Dawn Pierce.

Don, Staci, and sweet Maddi are here at our house right now. They came in town for the Day of Remembrance at St. Jude this weekend. We enjoyed a nice dinner with them and are now enjoying some precious catching up time. We sure have missed them. And we miss Jake too. Speaking of Jake, his little sister looks just like him. She's so cute and has that precious "Jake" smile that will melt your heart.

If you haven't already heard or read, Shake for Jake is Saturday, June 28th. Mark your calendars NOW for this event. Last year was a blast and I know that this year will be even better. Book your hotel room soon, so you can support Jake's foundation. Please keep checking the site for updates. Tickets will be available soon online.

I must go so I can love on sweet Maddi.

Always Believing,
Dawn

Monday, March 31, 2008 9:55 PM CDT

I know it's late but I wanted to hop on here and wish my wife a Happy Anniversary.

She is an amazing wife, mother and friend. The way she took care of Jake still blows me away to this day. Her love and dedication to all of her children is amazing.

Thanks Staci for 7 great years.

I LOVE YOU.

Don

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 1:11AM CDT

Believers,

Just dropping in to let you know about a few things going on in our world. We made it back from Colorado safe and sound. We had a great time and look forward to going back next year.

For those of you in the Monroe/West Monroe area please take a look at the following press release about a dance this weekend to benefit St. Jude. Staci and I went last year and had a great time.

The Alpha Gamma Chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha will hold their annual dance to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, on Saturday, March 29th, 2008, at the Barak Shrine Temple, 6620 Frontage Road, Monroe, La. The dance will begin at 7:00 p.m. and end at 12 midnight. The Mike McKenzie Band will provide the music. This is a BYOB event, all set-ups will be available. No ice chests/coolers will be allowed. Tickets are on sale now for 10.00 and will also be available the night of the dance. Tickets can be purchased by an ESA member or by calling Candi McVay at 318-381-4564 or Mandy Wade at 318-237-2858. This year’s theme is “Lost in the 50’s Tonight”.

Please try to attend if you can.

SHAKE 4 JAKE UPDATE:

Shake 4 Jake is Saturday June 28th from 6PM to midnight.

If you would like to donate an auction item or know a business that would like to sponsor our event then shoot me an e-mail at don@jakesfoundation.org and I handle the rest

HOTEL INFO - If you're coming from out of town and need a room then here is some info.

Wingate Inn is the offical hotel of Shake 4 JAke 2008. Please give them a call at 318-387-7395 and book a room. Make sure you ask for the "SHAKE 4 JAKE" rate. This is a great hotel in the middle of town and only a couple of miles away from the event.

Tickets will be available to purchase soon. Keep checking. We expect another big crowd and tickets will go fast.

Thanks for always checking in on us. Staci and I check the website everyday. We miss Jake so much. He was simply the coolest little boy.

Missing my son,
Don

Sunday, wee hours of the morning!

Peeps, I just can't make this stuff up! We are safe and sound in Breckenridge, CO, and no doubt, Jake joined us! Everyone knows how much I feel connected to him, usually through a number. Well,now the whole family looks for it, and Jake never lets us down.

We get off the connection in Memphis, and we are all saying, "This is Jake's airport." I am telling Hayden that we needed to swing by Memphis and pick up Jake. He looked confused, so I told him we could have connected in so many places, but by coming here, we can feel especially close to Jake and take a fresh memory of him with us to Colorado. As I am saying this, Don says, "Did you see the serial number of our plane?" I said "No". He told me it was 5042-J. OK, you do the math... and then you add the "J"! Love it! I know, I know could be crazy. But let me take you back to 2006 when a 4 million dollar jackpot was won on a dollar slot machine with the two serial numbers adding up to 11. Then, to March 11 of 2007 when JinJin wins a convertible! Need I go on?!

Ok, so to continue my story...
We get on the plane and both me and Staci have babies in our laps. I am telling Todd I hope we sit with someone understanding. There is a youth group going to Breckenridge on our flight from Jackson, MS. We had talked to a few of them at the airport. So, I was relieved when a skinny little young un' comes to take the window seat, leaving me and Ellie in the middle and Todd on the aisle. He sits down and I ask him if he thinks he will be ok with a baby. He tells me that is no problem because he has three siblings himself... by the way, there are 3 boys and a girl (I just thought that was interesting!!). Then, I am asking him about sports he plays, where he goes to school, etc. when I decide to ask him his name.

SIT DOWN!!

He says, "I am Jake". It takes me a split second to process, then I just turn around and look at Todd open mouthed. He is doing the same weird look at me (and he thinks my number/superstition/connection theory is crazy), and I immediately stand up and look back at Staci and Don and say, "Hey, guess who I am sitting with. I am traveling with Jake." How cool is that?! He DID make the trip after all!

Soooo, yes there is more...
We get to the condo and we can't stay in the actual condo we are scheduled for for the entire week. They have to put us in a temp for the night. Don is checking us in and he yells to me, "Guess what room!" Yep, we are in room 11! Building 5, floor 1, room 11. 5111. I will be putting a picture of that on my blog (www.mojoy.blogspot.com), because anyone who has been visiting my blog knows, I can add pics there by myself, but never mastered the caringbridge way! Anyway, so here we are, nestled in room 11 after a ride on number 11 airplane and sitting with a kid named Jake. Call me crazy... but I LOVE how it makes me feel connected. And I truly believe, now, that there are ways for our loved ones in Heaven to communicate with us if we open our little minds and hearts to it. Do you know how good that makes me feel?

Gotta go now.. I will keep my eyes open for any signs again today. Thanks for checking in. Hope you all go to church today. It makes for a gooooood week! Melanie, aka MO

Friday, March 14
Well, Helllloooooooooo...
Missed me?
I know, I know... I have been quite busy with my own little world, but there is a little Jake on my mind tonight. The family is heading out in the morning for Breckenridge, Colorado. It will be the first big vacation for the girls, therefore the first with the "whole" family (when I say that I mean of mine and Staci's family, as I understand that Jake had lots more family on the Raborn side... cleared up!) including two new baby girls. Jake would have LOVED to go skiing. He was such a daredevil and a free spirit and would have just tried anything. I can see him snowboarding! What has my mind on him the most is that tomorrow morning when we fly out, we will go straight from Monroe to Memphis, as I did many, many times to go visit Jake at St. Jude. The Memphis Airport holds many memories for all of us. Jake loved to go sit and watch the Hairplanes take off and land. In the midst of chemo, Staci and Don could feel safe taking him there and letting him watch from the car. I think it is fitting that we will be stopping there first, to pick up Jake, I suppose, before going on to Colorado. Of course, we will just have to pick his memory up and carry him in our hearts! I know he would also love those girls!

I don't exactly know why, but my life has been RULED by 11's lately. I mean I wake up on the 11, and go to sleep on the 11. I shut my computer and look at the clock at night, and it is an 11, then all day long... same thing... 11's! I always think there is a reason for it, but don't always knwo what it is! I told JinJin that maybe he was wishing us a fun trip. Just letting us know he is with us in spirit; or maybe watching us and travelling with us in a way. Then, if anyone has been following my blog, you know that Todd and i have the opportunity to adopt another baby. I have struggled with this decision. So, then I think, "Is Jake trying to tell me that 1, 1 is all the children I need?" or is it "1 and 1 = 2, so I need two kids?" I overanalyze! But, I was asking for a burning bush of sorts! So anyway, why the 11's? I don't really know. I just know it makes me feel close to Jake, and that is all I need to know!

I will fill you in on any fun-ness that happens in the SNOW! And be checking mojoy.blogspot.com for daily pics of the vacation. I know how to load pictures over there by myself. I never did learn how to do it on Caringbridge. (Good ol' Jessi!)

Love to all... thanks if you are still checking in. We miss our sweet boy. I can still see him in a big, tall green Dr. Seuss style hat with a green shirt for his last St. Patrick's Day on earth. Hopefully, they celebrate in silly ways in Heaven too.

Mo

Sunday, February 24, 2008 7:16 PM CST

UPDATE Tuesday 2-26-08 3:00PM

Click on this link Staci Raborn - Mega Jackpots to watch a little video about our story. Our story starts about 2 minutes into the feature.

BELIEVE,
Don

Hello everyone.

Love seeing there are still those Believers checking in. We are so thankful for the support!

Hmmmm... what is up? Well, my mind goes immediately to babies! Miss Maddi is enjoying all of her older cousins, Ellie's, toys. Staci realized tonight that Maddi can get in teh Excersaucer and play and play. She also like the activity table and baby laptop. So, now Staci is going to be at "Toystoria", I am quite sure. It is so funny to see the two girls together. The reaction is always the same! Ellie is so pumped to see Maddi and starts leaning in as if to bite her face off. Maddi initially thinks Ellie is interesting, but quickly realizes that this could be very dangerous! I have lots of pics to share and will try to put some on soon. Again, you know that it all depends on my bud, Jessi, as I never learned to load pics on Caringbridge. However, if you can't wait, check out my blog, www.mojoy.blogspot.com , where I DO know how to upload pics! There is some more exciting baby news over there too!

Hunter is looking at 14 in a few motnhs. And he is so cool! He is playing baseball at the junior high level. Not playing a lot, but is the only 7th grader on the 8th grade team. So, I remind him that is an honor in itself. He finds out this week if he made the middle school golf team. When I asked him what I should share that he has been doing, he said, "I don't know. Just hanging out with friends, I guess."

Hayden is finishing up basketball season. He has been pretty aggressive this season and is lucky if he gets to finish a whole game wihtout fouling out! He wants me to say that they have only lost two games. Gooooo Green Sports. He is all about the texting! He is never one to go without a girlfriend, and now is no different! I think the lucky girl is Sydney. I can't keep up!

Don is still shift working, and is at work now, as we all sit around and wait for the Oscars to start! He and Staci are pretty busy with the new house. It is so fun to watch it come along. It is really exciting right now because when you walk around "inside", you can actually feel what the rooms will be like and how high the ceiling is, and such. The house is going to be beautiful. Now if Todd and I would get some fire under our behinds, maybe they could actually have neighbors!

Staci and Don are looking forward to getting the final drawing of Jake's headstone this week. It is just one of those things that had to come along in their own time. I have seen a preliminary and it is going to be perfect. We miss him terribly, and I just wish the family of 6 still had 6 people under roof! I miss that boy. He was such a hoot. So much spirit and just made everyone around him happy.

The fundraiser went well. I was not able to make it, but Staci, Don and Jin were there, as well as Eddie and Veronicia. Thanks to all that were there to support this event. We are in deep preparation for SHake for Jake (or maybe "Jake in 08"! We look forward to all of you who are coming in from out of town. It is fun to meet Believers from all around the country. If you have a friend or someone who you would feel comfortable asking, ask for a donation that can be used in the silent auction. The more goodies we have to auction off, the more "packages" we can put together for really good gifts that will bring in lots of money for those children and their families who need it most. I find it easiest to ask people at places that I frequent their business. I don't know how they can deny me. I spend lots there all year long, then ask for a simple little donation for somehting important to me. Surely they can do that. If you are willing, get to collecting. We would appreciate the help.

Oh, yea, a biggie in our family today.... Masie got baptized! The whole Raborn crew were at the church this morning to support her in this really special event! We are proud of you, Masie.

One of Jake's good buddies, Bro. Steve Lawson, our choir director, passed away unexpectedly this weekend. I realized it was exactly two years prior that he and Bubba Greg went to Memphis to visit Jake for his bone marrow transplant. Every Sunday, Bro. Steve would open his wallet and show Staci the picture of Jake that we gave him. He would say, "I still carry him with me." I would bet he had that picture on him when he died. Now, he is playing beautiful music on a heavenly piano for all the kids to gather 'round and sing! How special is that?!

Allllllllllrighty then... just to keep you posted. As always, we miss our boy! Things are great, but can never be the same without JAKE! He made life very special.

Love to all... MO

Monday, February 18, 2008 8:25 AM CST

Quick update to let you know about a fundariser for the JOR Foundation this Thursday(21st) here in Monroe.

Go to Get Fit Monroe to get more info and to regsiter for this great event. Several medical and health professionals have partnered up to put on this event and they have chosen our Foundation as the recipient. PLEASE come out and join us on Thrusday night. It starts at 5:30PM and will be at Kings Palace in Monroe.

SEE YOU THERE!

Believe,
Don

P.S.
Maddi & Ellie Sue are both doing great. They are so much fun. Jake blessed us again with 2 little perfect angels he sent down from Heaven.

Thursday, February 14, 2008 10:11 AM CST

This Is PawPaw Raborn again,
Happy Valentines Day ya'll.
I want to thank all 238 (as of 10:05 AM 2-14-08) of you wonderful BELIEVERS that have requested my little "God-Wink" thingy.
I have just replied to the latest request, so if for some reason you haven't received yours by now, please e-mail me at: draborn96@yahoo.com and I will attach it to my reply. I have had some reported failures, so please ask again and we'll try again.
Thanks again so much,

Keep on BELIEVING,
PawPaw Raborn

Now you can read Mo's entry below, sorry for the interruption again.

This Is where Mo starts:

Yep, life is bizzzzzy! An almost 7 month old and a 4 1/2 month old new to the family will keep you running! Maddi has chicken hair... you know those babies whose hair chooses to grow STRAIGHT up on their heads? Well, that is little Maddi. Jin Jin said she saw her the other day and apparently Staci had moussed (?!) it and it was lying over to the side. SHe likes to put big ol' bows in it when she comes to visit us just to spite my poor little bald Ellie Sue! That is ok. When they are old enough, my little Sumo wrestler will take her scrawny little petite behind DOWN!

Well, since everyone is asking, let me tell you where we are all at in our lives. Staci and Don are fast and furiously constructing their dream home. I walked through the frame of it this past weekend and it is so cool. There are a couple of places that I could just SEE pictures of Jake and his brothers and sister plastered on the wall! They took full advantage of a gorgeous view of a pond and the boys have their own gameroom... on the other side of the house! Hayden in playing basketball, and I have been hearing he is quite the "tricky" little passer. He has fouled out on more than one occasion, but I tell him it is ok to be aggressive! Hunter is playing ball with a team chosen from his middle school. He is a first baseman, but they just started and I haven't made a game, so I don't know if he is starting or not. He is just glad to be on the team with all his buds. Maddi is starting to talk all the time and smile a lot. I think 4 months is a fun age because so they really start showing their little personalities! Staci is also busy with the Foundation and we are gearing up for the 2008 Shake! It is the last weekend of June, I think! If you have an idea for an auction item, let Don or Eddie know. sraborn@comcast.net We appreciate all of you who contributed last year. And, we hope to hear from some of you again this year!

Jake's cousins on the Raborn side are doing well. Madison is buff as ever, Jordan just turned 14 and was chosen as WHo's WHo at her Middle School, Masie is a budding photographer and jsut started doing a little babysitting for our girls, and the little squirts (Tucker and Maggie) are just trucking on through kindergarten. I sure wish Jake was here to enjoy that!

Todd and I are DRAGGING our feet on our house plans, but someday..... As for now, we just LOVE being mom and dad! That girl is a hoot! She just laughs and smiles ALL the time! If you can believe this, JinJin and I are in Tucson (as of 1:00ish am this morning)for the bead show that I try and go to every year. She was a true sport seeing as how she doesnt' even know HOW to string a bead. She knew it meant a lot to me, so she said she would come along. Todd refused me the baby, so he is home alone with her. Never fear, I have daytime sitters set up for the rest of the week and for Saturday as I suppose there may be a little golf in his forecast. We will be home Sunday.

I plan to call Jessi Mae tomorrow from here and ask her to post another little slideshow of our boy and some of the fam as of late. HOpe you are enjoying the pics.

If you can, go give condolences to Madelyn Beamon's family, at www.caringbridge.org/tn/madelyn . She is running and playing with Jake in Heaven. She fought hard and had a whole lot of life in her years! Can you say that about your life? Better get to livin'!

Love to all...
Mo

P.S. PawPaw, I am sorry I bumped off your God Winks. I didn't realize it until I was almost done with the update. Mo

P.P.S. Is there such a thing as P.P.S? Anyway... thanks to all of you who have vistited my blog. That ROCKS! I promise to keep it a little more updated as well. Keep visiting. www.mojoy.blogspot.com

Thursday, January 31, 2008 10:39 PM CST

Hi BELIEVERS,

This is PawPaw Raborn and I just wanted to add a little something here on top of Mo's entry.

I have written something I call "God-Winks". It is too long to put on the journal page. It is a little collection of stories about me and my family and Jake and his family and some of the things that have happened in our lives that most people would call coincidences....but I believe they are "God-Winks". I think most of you BELIEVERS know a lot of these but you may not know, as Paul Harvey calls it, the rest of the story.

If you would like to read these ramblings, please e-mail me at: draborn96@yahoo.com and I will attach a copy to my reply. Just give me a day or two to reply.

But I think you may find these "God-Winks" and how they came about interesting. And some you don't know about.

Thanks,
PawPaw Raborn

Sorry for the interruption Mo.....

Ok, well a couple of people, for sure, are still checking in on us, so I suppose I need to let you know what has been going on down here in West Monroe, LA! Staci had a little surgical procedure today, and when she says it is ok, I will give you more details. She is out now and doing el-fine-o! Don had a speaking engagement(one of about 6 or so) for LifeShare Blood Centers. I hear there were about 200 people at the West Monroe meeting today, and I hear Don (or we said JAKE) got a standing ovation. Uncle Todd, Aunt Bonnie, PawPaw Raborn, Crawford,and Uncle Eddie were there for moral support. If I left someone out, sorry! Uncle Eddie is in charge of the blood drive at his work, and the number of people who donated this time around was more than triple the number prior. Way to go, Uncle Eddie! That blood will help lots and lots of people! Veronicia, who is on our board and was in CHARGE of Shake 4 Jake 2007, was also there because she represented her school. She is a 4th grade teacher and was in charge of her school's blood drive. SHe got an award today for recruiting lots and lots of blood donors at her school. I am amazed how the people who were in Jake's life were obviously impacted by him and continue to do things that honor him and bring awareness to causes that benefit other kids/people with cancer and who are suffering. Man, that is a pretty intense thought if you really stop to think about it. Jake has been in heaven for over a year, and there are still folks checking in on the family every day. I got a request TODAY from a person in Arkansas for Believe stickers and Don is still telling Jake's story to crowds of people. Pretty cool, huh? Speaking of remembering Jake, don't forget that the second annual Shake will be June 28, 2008. I think it may be called Shake in 08. But that hasn't been officially decided upon yet. Be sure to make plans to be there, and we are also trying to get AHEAD of the game this year by securing silent auction items early. If you know of somone who owns a business or a complany which may want to have a corporate sponsorship, let us know. We hope for an even bigger year. The JOR Board of Directors are actually having discussions surrounding stricter guidelines regarding the criteria for financial assistance. Actually, it will be more on the shoulders of the social workers in the hospital to help detrmine the "neediest"! This is due to our budget. With more fund raising comes more help for more kids! Seriously, that is just how simple it is! So, help if you can.

Hunter and Hayden are as busy as ever. Hayden got braces this week. He is so cute! And might I add... cool! He is quite the ladies' man! He is probably going to need to bandaid the tips of his fingers to prevent texting blisters! Hunter is at the age where the kids all hang out at one kids house on the weekend, or meet up at the movies as a big group. He thinks he is just so "grown-y". They just hardly ever seem to be around the house anymore. Hayden is playing basketball, and Hunter has made a travelling baseball squad. Maddi is cute as ever. She has hair that stands straight up on top of her head. Hunter had that same kind of hair as a baby.... looked like a baby chick! She is a little colicky, but this too shall pass. The baby girls are starting to appreciate each other a little more. Hopefully, Jessi can put up some pics for your admiration!

Alrighty, I will try to post a new slideshow this week. Check back in. Also, since I have a strong desire to put lots of pics of my beautiful child on here each week, and this just isn't the place, let me share with you my BLOG! www.mojoy.blogspot.com I havent' had any comments, so see if you can figure out how, and keep in touch.

Cyndi E., tell Chrissy's teacher that I am getting together a whole box full of Louisiana goodies so they can learn more about our state. It will be in the mail by week's end. Oh, if you are reading this... send me the address.

Well, there you have it... an update! Please let us know you are still checking in. The counter looks like people are, unless that is Zohnn and Dawn checking in hundreds of times every day! Ha.

Missing Jake, but knowing he is whole, healthy, and happy!
Mo

Tuesday, January 15, 2008 11:44 PM CST

Eat at Fox's Pizza Den, located at 4015 Highway 165 North, in Monroe this Thursday 1-17 from 5-9PM.

You can dine-in, carry-out, or call-in (325-9253) and pick-up at the drive thru.

NOTE: When ordering your meal just make sure you tell them it is for the Jake Owen Raborn Foundation. Fox's Pizza will donate some proceeds to the Foundation.

FOX’s Pizza Den

Thursday Night, January 17th

5:00 – 9:00 PM

Update coming soon.

BELIEVE,
Don

Wednesday, January 9, 2008 4:26 PM CST

IMPORTANT

Just received a phone call from Lifeshare and it seems like there is a platelet shortage.

PLEASE go donate if you're able to. Contact your local blood center in your area and make an appointment. It takes about 2 hours to donate.

Please go donate blood or platelets.

Thanks so much.

BELIEVE,
Don

Tuesday, January 8, 2008 2:31 PM CST

Hey! This is Jessi. I just got a phone call from Mel & Staci, they are in Baton Rouge (Geaux Tigers!!) and wanted me to add a new slideshow. They will be posting an update later tonight. The pictures in the slideshow are from Jake's birthday celebration on New Year's Eve. Hope you all enjoy!

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