UPDATE: 9/30/08 RYBA FIELD NAMING UPDATE

Chuck Slate is will be addressing the RYBA board on Wednesday to make a formal request that field 12 be named in Jeff's honor. Field 12 is where Jeff won is championship game and the last game of the season. His team were the ones to tell Jeff not to fear and from that DNF was coined.

For those of you who support what Chuck is trying to do, please place a comment of support on this post. I talked to Chuck on Saturday and told him that a lot of us won't be able to make it Wednesday, but would like for him to be able to have our comments to show the support that is behind this request. Include your name and email address, please. He will be printing the comments out and taking them with him on Wednesday.

UPDATE: This is looking good, but I need more comments from those who support this proposal! Thanks for the comments that have already been posted. I have other news to post this week, but want this at the forefront right now!

DO NOT FEAR POEM BY KENT MILLER

"Do not fear" for me my wife, because I am not alone.

I've gone to be with the lord, at a place I now call home.

"Do not fear" for me my sister, my pain is gone at last.

God took me up to heaven and put it in the past.

"Do not fear" for me my mother and father, to you both I will always be bound.

Just know that it is God's love that keeps me safe and sound.

"Do not fear" for me my children, because I can't be there to watch you go through life.

Just know that I was there the day you took your husband and wife.

"Do not fear" for me my loved ones, because we are apart.

If you want to have me near you, all just look inside your heart.

by Kent Miller

Tina loves this poem and asked that I post it again for everyone to read.

UPDATE THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 25, 2008

Chuck Slate, a RYBA umpire, has been around Legion Field long enough to know what a great asset Jeff was to the youth baseball program. It's kind of funny because even when Jeff wasn't playing or practicing, he was scouting- little league! Chuck is interested in assembling a couple of people who would be interested in helping him pursue having a field at Legion named after Jeff. I would love nothing more than to walk by a field bearing Jeff's name and be reminded of what baseball is about! Chuck needs support from parents & other coaches before moving forward. Please contact him at CCAFAM@AOL.COM 404 641-7855 if you can help him on this.

Memorial Video: I purposely put the video's on motionbox because once all the video's are loaded, those who wanted to order a dvd of the service - can. Please wait until I give the okay - I have to reload the 2nd video to hopefully fix the audio issue and then you can order away.

Salem Football plays at Salem on Friday night at 7:30pm vs. Madison. I am certain Tina and the kids will be there supporting the Seminoles. Look for her in the stands if you are there.

THE UNOFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT... JBMF

It's not official, yet, but hopefully in the near future, I will be able to announce the formal organization of the Jeff Blount Memorial Foundation. Dean Hayes organized a meeting this evening and pitched this idea to a dozen friends, family and co-workers/coaches. As Tina held Jeff's wedding band that dangles from her necklace, she gave Dean her blessing!

As the details become available, they will be posted. There are three events in 2009 that are close to being finalized. There will be a golf tournament in April, youth baseball camp in June and a motorcycle ride in later summer, early fall.

If you subscribe to the posts on this blog, updates will come up on your home page. (look to the right of this post- subscribe)

Links to the video's of the memorial service in the right hand column. There are 7 video's- all should be completely loaded by tomorrow.

RECAP

The long overdue picture of DNF at SeaWorld Orland Sept 2008!

Return the Blessing- this is being sponsored by Tina & Jeff's Sunday School Class. Donate $5 and a story to be included in a book that will be published for the kids. http://jeffblount.blogspot.com/2008/09/return-blessing.html

Wachovia wants to know WHO WOULD YOU THANK? The receipt gets $10,000.00. Your entry has to be 250 words or less- easy to do. Maybe if we passed the word around enough people could send in essays that show how Jeff inspired a whole community.

http://www.wachovia.com/misc/0,,1617,00.html

If anyone has anything they would like for me to post, a story about Jeff, pictures, etc... please email me at brandiwatson@yahoo.com.

I do have a small secret- there is some momentum in the background right now and some ideas for how to keep Jeff's spirit alive in this community. The individuals who are driving this are ones that make things happen. I think I was told not to say anything, but who really reads this blog anyway?! Perhaps, I will know more soon!

DNF AND JB AT RYBA SATURDAY 9/20/08

The 7/8 Diamond Backs honor Jeff with JB on the sleeve of their shirt. Drew was present for the game against the Cardinals. Drew did not have a JB on his shirt, so he borrowed a JB wrist band that was made by Nolan Woodward for this picture.

Cherie, Mike and Timmy before a game. Both Cherie and her sister were wearing their DNF shirts.

Woody, Nolan and a Salem HS student. I plucked him out of the stands for this picture.

Sam Allen's 5/6 Red Soxs are wearing JB. Pictured above is Landon Connor.

A MESSAGE FROM TINA

Dear friends & family-

Words cannot express how much Jeff, the kids & I appreciate the outpouring of love, prayers, and acts of kindness given to us over the last 5 months. Jeff & I often talked about how incredible this whole community has been & how we could be so fortunate to have such support.

The blogs, the benefits, the suppers, the cards & gifts, the visits and calls, and prayers have been such blessings during this difficult time. Jeff was deeply touched & overwhelmed by the demonstrations of love; those 5 months he truly realized how much he was loved and the positive impact he had on those around him.

Jeff loved life to the fullest. Please use his life as an example to embrace your passions, your friends, and those you love as he did. Know that he was grateful that each of you were part of his life.

Please continue to pray for our family. We can feel the strength of the prayers and need that comfort now more than ever. Our family sincerely believes that Jeff is in a better place & that God is watching over each of us.

Jeff was a great man & loved the people in his life. I wish “thank you” could convey the depth of the sentiments I feel. As Drew would say, here’s an air hug to each of you reading this. Thank you for everything. You have touched our hearts and lives forever.

Love,
Tina, Matt, Drew & Megan

YOUTH BASEBALL TEAMS HONOR JEFF

Tony Wilson and the 10U Rhino's have a moment of silence for Jeff on Sunday Sept 14.

A 5/6 RYBA coach has come up with an idea that is gaining momentum around Legion Field. Some of the teams will be playing with the initials JB on their uniforms in honor of Jeff.

WHO WOULD YOU THANK? - FROM BRONWYN JENNINGS

I've received an email from Wachovia that is promoting a contest to thank someone special who is making a difference in someone's life. That nominee could be rewarded up to $10,000. What a difference it would make for Jeff's family. I sent my essay in and I am encouraging Dylan to send one also. Maybe if we passed the word around enough people could send in essays that show how Jeff inspired a whole community.

http://www.wachovia.com/misc/0,,1617,00.html

COACH JEFF, NICHOLAS AND THE WORD 'CRAP'

Cody Lewis and Jeff Blount at the Whistle Post Tavern St. Patrick's Day 2008

I forgot about this story until this past weekend. Again, Nicholas was 4 years old when he played for Jeff. I am very liberal when it comes to Nicholas spreading his wings, but extremely conservative about his vocabulary.

He consistently hit up the middle or to the right side of the field. There are a couple of coaches who have been on the receiving end of one of his line drives up the middle, including myself. So, when he hit one back at Jeff, Jeff's response was 'Nicholas, that scared the crap out of me.'. My 4 year old thought this was the greatest thing he had ever heard- Coach Jeff said crap!

From that day forward, anytime Nicholas could use the word 'crap' in the context of scaring it out of Jeff, he would. He knew I didn't like it, but insisted it was acceptable because that is what Coach Jeff said. I am now learning that the word 'crap' is the least of my worries!

SIGNS FROM HEAVEN

Jeff is letting Tina know he's there. I was a total skeptic about signs from heaven, but my father changed all of that after he passed in October 2006. Nicholas was only 5 years old, but the bond between the two was undeniable. My dad was my 'right hand man' and he and Nicholas were 'best buddies'. That is what they called themselves.

-

After he passed, I told Nicholas that we could send Gumps messages by writing them on little pieces of paper, putting them in helium balloons and sending them up to heaven. The very first time we did this, there was not a star in the sky and as I looked up and we released the balloons, I saw a shooting star. This is the only shooting star I've ever seen my entire life. I knew immediately that was my dad.

-

For Tina, it's been the rain drops Friday and Saturday despite blue skies. I was with her on Saturday when this happened and someone said 'those are Jeff's tear's', but Tracy quickly corrected and said 'those aren't tears, Jeff's sweating on us!'. Yesterday, it was the 2008 brand new, shinny penny that Tina found in the middle of a parking lot - faced heads up. She said that before Jeff passed, she told him that he needed to stay close and now she feels like he's trying to let her know that he heard her and is doing just that.

-

The kids went back to school on Monday. While everything else is getting worked out, this is at least one thing Tina can count on to keep things consistent and structured. I would like to give her another week or two before we start up Blount Dinner Drive again. The structure may be a little different than before where, for those who want to participate, we can bring our dinner over, but also stay for dinner. This will probably be limited this to once, maybe twice a week. If you're interested, email me at brandiwatson@yahoo.com. If I already have you on my list, I am going to leave you there unless you tell me otherwise. (Danny Quach, you need to be on this list)

-

Still working on getting footage from the memorial posted online. I have to say Mike Pheil was the big surprise. He had me worried when he opened by stating that he wasn't as polished a speaker as the one's previous. Perhaps he didn't know what he was capable of, but he took over the entire stage and worked it like a veteran. The stories are so funny. I could have sat and listened to stories about Jeff all day.

-

Kent Miller: Can we get some of the JB Football Video online too? brandiwatson@yahoo.com

TUES 9/16/08 11:45AM DNF AT MAD CACTUS

Unless Salem has an open campus, I think I just saw DNF skipping school! I didn't have my camera nor the desire to chase after her, but DNF was at Mad Cactus today.

A WORD FROM DANNY QUACH ABOUT COACH BLIZZY

Hey guys, I just thought this would be a great way for me to let you guys into a part of my life that only my football team knew about me. And even some of my teammates didn't know, but for sure my Offensive Line knew. This is just a way for me to get some of that grief and stuff off of my chest, and get some ideas onto some paper. Sorry if this is going to seem like a book, I have a lot to say and some things to post. If you guys don't wanna read the meat of it all, it's not going to hurt my feelings, again, this is just a way to get stuff off of my chest and help me cope with the loss of my Coach.It started pretty much eighth grade year when we would go up for morning workouts with the highschool kids. It would always be Coach Caputo and Bubba shuttling us there and back. I remember the first few workouts being some of the most intimidating moments in my life. Of course, I had my buddies backing me up, but it was all too much. We were running drills upstairs, I was still listed under defensive tackle, but Coach Caputo had us play both sides. So, during the offensive period, I remember Coach Blount pointed out me and Brandon Sheppard randomly and was just like you two, copy what you see and downblock the yellow dummy. At this point me and Shep weren't even acquaintances, but as a duo at Offensve Guard, it was the start of something beautiful. Anyways, after that practice, Coach brought me and Shep aside, and said "You two are going to be my starting guards". Me and Shep kind of looked at each other, with a slight smirk, and exchanged a handshake, and that was that.
As the pre-season workouts and many summer sessions passed, we ended up with what we considered our own all-star team. Haha-- our own 9th grade, all-star team. We were destined to do great, great things, lead by Coach Blount. He took so much pride in coaching us and making sure we were going to be set for our first highschool game. He took it seriously, he had scouting reports made out with playbooks and inspirational quotes and even sometimes even his own drawings, haha. He made us arrive early, stay late, and basically become a unit. He knew that we weren't the biggest, fastest, or strongest group of kids he had seen, but he saw something in us. Him and Coach Top believed in something more. They believed that we were going to be the future reloading stage of Salem. We were the kids that were going to pick up after our 13-1 team went to the dome and had moved along. I remember back then, only a select group of Freshman got to dress out for the Varsity game. Just out of memory, these kids were as followed: Quach, Shep, A.Wil, Baby Vick, JaJuan, Z-Rodd, Chops, Caleb, Koy, Sammy, Miller, Jake and a handful more I can't pick out of my memory.So fast foward, past our first, sloppy, ugly game, but win, against Leulla, and past our first win against our forever biggest bragging right game versus Heritage's 9th grade team, in which they thought we played Varsity kids because we whooped them so bad, and past our first and only loss against Rockdale, which we won't ever speak of again, to the 9th Grade Championship game. It was a Thursday afternoon and a beautiful day. Temperature was just right for us fat offensive lineman, and we were so stoked to play our first ever opponent, Luella Highschool. We step onto the field and you can just hear Coach Blount say "Are you kidding me?" The field at Evans was just watered, for the following Varsity game on Friday. Apparently no one got the memo that the biggest game of our budding football career was being played in the next hour on this damp, muddy field. But that didn't stop Coach from getting us all fired up and ready to play. Now at the first snap of the ball, this team was totally different: Luella dropped a few players from their JV and Varsity Squads to play this game. Not saying they were older, because Luella was a small school so some of their 9th graders played up a level, but this wasn't the same team we clobbered the first game of our 9th grade season. This team was so much better, and I don't think we were too ready for that. But a quick recap of the game: We warmed up, Captains were I think Me, A. Wil, Zach, and Terrance, but it really didn't matter who they were because we all walked up to the center when determining kick off. Back on track: The field was crap, everyone was slipping and sliding, it was a mud and blood bath. We were giving it our all, and Remierez Gray had returned a kick off for a TD, making it 7-0. Luella ended up scoring a touchdown, and for whatever the reason, I'm guessing to for the win, because no one was making too much advancement in the offensive side of the ball, went for 2, trying to give them the lead making it 7-8. I remember Coach telling us, do EVERYTHING you can to penetrate and do NOT let that big number 48 to get into that end zone. I remember the snap of the ball, I shot straight through the center and guard (I was at an off-set nose) and making it into the back field but over pursuing, and missing the tackle, but I tripped him up. He bubbled outside and I scrambled to get up onto my feet and hoping someone would get him, but I thought it was going to be a 2 point conversion. Zachary was a bit too far inside to reach him, but what I didn't see was Alex Wilson was unblocked. Out of the blue, A. Wil laid the smack down on the fullback, stopping him in his tracks. The rest of our Defense swarmed around and that was the end of the play. They didn't convert! Coach was ecstatic... He was gleaming with how we were playing and all riled up, jumping all up and down the sideline. Something happened during early third quarter that was epic, to say the least. I remember, there was a stupid penalty for whatever reason it was, taking one of our big plays on offense back, and Coach Blount said "You're cheating the kids, ref.." The Referee flipped out and they got into a verbal arguement and Coach Blount got EJECTED from our CHAMPIONSHIP GAME. It was rediculous. So Coach (I swear, this should have been a movie or something.. haha) got us all into a big huddle, and said something along the lines "You guys, I know you're playing your hearts out, and it's more than I can ask for, the way you're going full force out there. They're kicking me out, but that gives you all the more reason to beat them. Play the rest of the game guys, play the rest of the game just how we practice and how we prepare. Don't make stupid mistakes, play the rest of this game for me." We were pumped with adrenaline, teary eyed and everything. We all got into a big huddle and broke it down on Coach and he was ejected from the game. Coach Phiell had to come fill in for him. In the end, it was a beautiful thing. The clocked ticked down to zero on the score board in the fourth quarter, and it was brightly lit up "HOME: 7 AWAY:6". We were all celebrating and Coach was let back in and we all sprinted to him and cheered and hugged and celebrated our biggest accomplishment so far in our football career as a team.

oh, and just a side note for all of my brothers on the 9th grade team, just a few simple words that will bring back one of the funniest moments probably in the history of Salem football: TRIPPLE. REVERSE. PASS.So, that was basically the beginning of our first life changing experience with Coach Blount. I can't speak for all of my teammates, but I can speak for myself. And without him, I wouldn't be the same technician I am on the field. I wouldn't be as strong as I am without him. I wouldn't have been as fast off the ball without him. More importantly, I wouldn't have been as close to some of my best friends right now without him. Most importantly, I wouldn't have gotten to build a relationship with a man that seriously influenced my academics, athletics, and my character.And this is pretty indirect, but I kept my best friends, and made even more best friends that I know for a fact that I can keep at heart, even though we are all at different schools now. I love all my brothers from Salem and won't forget you guys: Chops, Shep, Terrance, Cory, Sammy, Zachary, JP, A.Wil, Miller, Blake. And anyone else I forgot. I love you guys like brothers and you know I'm here if you need me and I know I can call you up whenever and you guys would be there for me.I would go into more games and practices and memories, but I'll just give a few short blurbs that will captivate the essence of how Coach impacted me.Coach would always tell me to use my size to advantage. Of course I'm short, probably the shortest offensive lineman to earn region and all-area honors. I saw it as a disadvantage, but he pulled me aside and said: "Quach-Kwan-Do (Yep, he gave me that nick name, haha). You're a smart Asian right? What's the main thing I want you guys to do when you block? Stay low. You're short right? So there should be NO excuse of you ever being too high because even if you stand up, you're still low!"Coach would always tell me that he would never get into the weight room with me. He always told me I had a passion in the weightroom, but if he were to step in there, he would embarrass me. I told him, since I was a freshman, that I would hit 300 bench and 400 squat at least, before the end of my senior year. And him being Coach, always hounded me about it. He was in disbelief when I hit 305 and 405, and said prove it to him. I said I had already maxed out with Bubba and its on paper. Coach said that it was ONLY on paper and he wasn't going to believe it until he saw it. So one day after school, I told him to come to the weightroom and that was the FIRST and ONLY time me he would lift with me, because he would embarrass me-- hah. But when it all came down to it, I couldn't press 305 that afternoon, and he said "I told you it was only on paper." He knew I could do it, and he made positive he asked bubba himself, but he was just giving me a hard time, like always. hah.Coach one day pulled me aside my during a class change and we were just talking about what I was doing after highschool, if I wanted to play football, where I'm going... etc. He never doubted what I could do with my ability, whether it be in the weight room, on the field, or in the class room. He said to me, which I will never forget. He told me that day: "You know why I know you're going to make it far Danny? Because you have this uncanny ability to make people like you for who you are. You are just yourself and people gravitate towards you. You don't socialize with one group particular group. You don't discriminate between skin color or anything like that. You can see the good in people and people can feel the good in you. So whatever you choose to do, you'll be fine, Danny. You'll be more than fine."After Coach Dafny, OD, passed away, I wrote something for the my team at the beginning of my Senior season. The first person I sent it to was Coach Blount, expressing to him that he has affected me, and I told him how this piece of work, which I'll leave at the bottom of this note, was influenced by him and O.D. and how it was basically everything he had taught me. I told him I felt that even though he was my Coach, he was my basically my mentor. I told him I saw him and Ms. Tina as family. I told him that I care so much about Megan and Drew. He responded back and said how touched he was that he influenced what I wrote. He said he didn't know he had such an impact on my life and he was honored. He said that he saw me as family as well, like a uncle-nephew relationship and that if I ever needed anything just come on over. He was always there for me to just talk to, joke around, grab a some lunch, be my adult advice, but be my realistic advice.I would go into the Spaghetti dinners and how amazingly amazing they are and how many memories were made around that round table, how many jokes were made, how many bonds were tightened, an infinite amount of laughter was shared, and how much we just learned about one another and how we just cherished each other's company, BUT that would be another 6 pages in and of itself. So I'll just leave it at: Thank you SO much Ms. Tina, for all the pounds and pounds and pounds and pounds of spaghetti and sauce and meatballs and brownies and lemonade and sweet tea that us fat men demolished every Wednesday night. Thank you for providing us your time and love and your house to come fool around and watch film. Thank you so much. And Thank you, Megan and Drew, for providing us with entertainment throughout each night, one in particular, Drew and his size-too-small spidey suit. hahaha.Back to the actual Football field. Coach would tell me before every game, after we met in our offensive meetings after pregame meal, he would pull me aside and he would always ask: "Are you ready?" Of course I would always answer "Always Coach, Always." He would always stare daggars into my eyes for at least 5 seconds, and then shake my hand. He then would say "Is your line ready?" Again, I answered "Always, Coach." and he would always, always respond "You better hope so, because if they mess up, I'm holding it accountable for you." He'd give a smirk, a pat on the back, and I would go get suited up.My senior season of football was probably one of the best years of my life. There were ups and downs and fights and struggles and triumphant moments and all that. Fastfoward to the St. Pius X game, past the loss and all that. It was after the game where Coach pulled me aside. I was crying bullets, sobbing like a mad man, everyone tried to comfort me, but I was completely devastated. That game was THE LAST game I would ever play. Everything thing, the time, the sacrifice, the blood, the sweat, the tears, the time spent in the weight room, the time spent running, the passion and emotion I put in, all over. He picked me up, Drew by his side, now by mine. He said: "Danny, look at me". I look up, eyes red, dirt covered, sweaty, hand wraps tearing at the tape seams. And he says: "You played with all you had and all your heart, I saw that. You came in walking onto this field with your head held high, let's walk off the same way, with your head held high." And at that moment, I took a glance around, the friday night lights brighter than ever, the grass ever greener, the field looking as perfect as it could have been, Drew grabbed my hand, Coach put his hand around my pads, and we walked off together. I will NEVER forget that feeling. It was encompassed with love, and passion, and compassion, and strength, and everything all intertwined. It was amazing.I walked onto that field with my head held high, and through all the turmoil and defeat, we walked off together with my head held high. Fastfoward to the opening game of the salem. The last time I saw Coach was Friday September 5th, 2008. He was in the press box, as happy as he was during my last season. He was calling plays and watching his team and players and just having a blast. I went up into the box and gave him a hug. I could tell it was taking him so much just to be there. It took so much out of him just to give me a smile and have a conversation with me. Even with his weak exterior, he was the prime example of strength within. He would risk it all, just to be at the opening game in our brand new stadium, and to see his team play, even through all of the chemo and struggle and all of that. We were talking and he asked me how I was and I asked how he was. He said he's fairing well, but there's a lot of ups and downs and he's in a down moment, but he's gonna stay low and push through. I told him that he better hurry up and get better so he and the family could come tailgating with us at the UGA games and he said he's going to try his hardest. He then told me he was going to have to talk to me during half time, because he had to get back to Salem's game, so he told me to come find him during halftime. Halftime rolled around and he wasn't feeling too well, and at the beginning of the third, he had to go home. I went back to Athens not getting to see and talk to Coach again. And that was the last time I would ever see him.Now that I put all that out there, I just wanted to thank everyone, new friends, old friends, teammates, everyone who gave me their time of day to make sure I'm ok and how I was doing. I apologize if I was brief or short-worded, it's just how I kinda deal with it all. I'm not used to receiving sympathy and all that jazz, but I really do appreciate it and it means more to me than you guys know, just knowing you guys care. So thank you guys so much for every text, message, hug, everything to let me know you guys care about me. But I ask that you guys keep the Blounts in your thoughts, because it's still a long road for Ms. Tina and Megan and Drew and Matt.I'll miss Coach, without a doubt. I'll miss his humor and his laugh and just, I'll miss him, simply. It's all still a shock to me, and I'll probably look back on this and bawl my eyes out just re-reading, but for now, I'm good. Coach told me to walk off the field the same way I walked on, with my head held high. I know Coach went the same way he started off, Fighting like heck. He will always be with me and I'll always have him in mind in everything I do. So here's to you, Coach: I will not fear.

Below are just a few things I wrote that was inspired by Coach, just incase you guys are bored or interested enough to read. I love you guys.Here's a piece I call "An Ode to Offensive Lineman", it's kinda cliche, but I really like how I structured the whole piece, and it's a metaphor to living life at times. try to pick it apart. haha--anyways:

1st and Ten-Confidence graced with arrogance on the field... Not full of himself, in particular, but full of pride for his teammates, his brothers....Down, Set....First contact, fastest off the ball. Low dog wins, stay with it. Trust your team around you. Believe in yourself, and believe in your team.[6 yard gain]2nd and Four-A set tone under the lights. Too much thinking about what if's and how to's rather than just playing good old fashioned football offsets his standards....Down, Set...Nerves get the best of him, concentrated intensity was wasted on doubt. But he's always forgiven and always given a second chance.[5 yard loss]3rd and Nine-Think about the next play and forget the last. No mistakes. Focus on the task at hands. No room for mistakes. Use what your strengths to your advantage....Down, Set...Perfect steps, perfect feet, perfect hands, perfect technique. Pass block, nice pocket. Ball is thrown and received.[8 yard gain]4th and One-Coach thinks we have enough heart, we have to prove it. Execute. Heart is racing, while sweat drips off his face mask, blood and dirt stain the uniform....Down, Set...Stay low and drive. Drive. Body aches and is about to break; it's all a mental game now. Stay on your man, stay at his hip. Trust your technique, Trust your coaches, and Trust each other. Trust yourself.[Touchdown]There isn't a title for this, it was more of I guess something I wanted the team to follow. An inspirational speech or something. But yeah, it was inspired by Coach Blount, so I thought you guys want to read it to see how he inspired it.Give it your all, no matter what it takes; Fight through the threshold and find a new level, a new limit. Never be satisfied. It's bound to happen-- It will happen. Whatever you want, as long as you push, shove, fight for what you want. A victory, a stance. Pain is weakness... Pain is... Temporary. Pride. Be the epitomy of pride. Walk around with your chest out and head up. Walk around with a certain swagger, a taste of superiority, but not much more. Allow yourself to be arrogant. Allow yourself to boast. But with that, allow yourself to be modest. Allow yourself to receive compliments. But, never allow yourself to take the compliments to your head. Use them as a compass, not a map. Allow yourself to exude confidence, but let it always be graced with humbleness. Be who you are, but do not be cocky. It's a state of body, a state of mind, a state of heart. Strive for better and be the best. Allow yourself to quit, but only as a last resort, and try again. Respect yourself. Only quit when you are completely drained, physically and mentally, but never be drained emotionally. Emotionally, you'll always tell yourself you're going to do, and will do your best. Give it effort after effort, attempt after attempt, until the task is accomplished. Allow yourself to cry, but not because of anguish. Allow yourself to cry when you've discovered the definition of enough. Allow yourself to cry when you think you've done the task at hand to the best of your ability. But never allow yourself to complain or mourn. Don't live in the past, remember it. Learn from it. Live in the present and dream for the future. Allow your actions to benefit you in the long run. Allow your body to break and bleed. But never ever allow your heart to do so. Know your limit, but set a higher goal. Respect your body and mind. Allow for breaks, bruises, and blood to mend, but do not allow yourself to use these as an excuse, only as a reminder. Allow yourself to step out of your comfort zone. Allow yourself to taste the intolerable. Allow your body to overcome physical boundaries. And your mind, mental boundaries. But do not allow yourself to dwell in this area; Do not allow yourself to be self absorbed. Allow yourself to observe others and listen. Allow yourself to get encouragement from your team mates, and return the favor. Allow yourself to see life in all angles, but keep your perspective at heart. Never think negatively, Always know there's a way to success. Allow yourself to imagine, but always pursue. Always ask questions, but never allow yourself to be ignorant. Dream, but do not fantasize. Run the sprints as if you were carrying the ball on the last play. Drive the sled until you are sure you can defeat the opponent. Struggle, but do not give up. Push the weight; control it. Become better with each set. Get bigger with each lift. Get faster with every carolina and gasture. Get stronger with every rep. Never allow room for excuses, but listen to your body. Be stern and serious, but also knowledgeable and smart. Be dedicated to both the weight room and class room, and most of all, the field. Be inspired, but strive to inspire. Be a rolemodel, a leader. Be a winner. If you are to fail, lose, or under-achieve, know how to handle the situation and benefit from it from whatever you can. Do not put others down, nor blame them. Hold your head high, but know at the particular situation, you could have done something different, something better. Do not keep your mindset in the mistake. Allow for repercussions, but see that you are not content with your performance. Never be content. The satisfaction that comes with hard work and true ethics will be so much sweeter in the end. Be strong through out any situation. Be strong for yourself. Be strong for your family, your parents. Be strong for your team, your brothers and coaches. But most importantly, be strong for yourself. And success is bound to come. Remember: Pain is weakness. Be strong for yourself and success will come.

DNF FEATURED & DADDY'S LITTLE PRINCESS

I do not think it is the least bit too soon to start thinking about who is going to be sitting in the recliner, cleaning the shot gun, when Megan's 'first date' shows up to pick her up.

MEMORIAL SERVICE INSPIRATION

For those who were unable to attend, Jeff's service was what you would have expected! There were over 1300 individuals who attended, filling the sanctuary and the basement below. I planned ahead, thanks to the advice of Darlene Evans, and showed up at 1:45pm. I had a good seat and it was worth the wait. At 2:30pm, a slide show of pictures were displayed on several overhead projector screens. We got to see pictures of Jeff from birth to Labor Day Weekend 2008. Music was playing in the background, including some of Jeff's favorite songs.

I'm very emotional so I cried the entire time, but really got choked up when the pictures of Jeff, Tina, Matt, Drew and Megan came up. That is when I felt like my heart was being squeezed.

The actual service was beautiful. It included Tina and Jeff's Pastor, Jeff's uncle, Dean Hayes, Todd & Jessica B's father, Mike Pheil and Kenneth aka KJ. One of Jeff's church friends sang to start the service off and his aunt finished by singing the Lord's Prayer. The entire service lasted 2 hours and there were several people video taping. I will try to get my hands on the video because I would like to post some of the footage.

I will post more details about the service through out the week. It was such an inspirational memorial and I imagine everyone walked away wondering how they could live their life a little better- more like Jeff. I think Mike Pheil put it best when he said that if he can be half the husband, father, coach & teacher as Jeff, he would be a success.

As I try to understand the 'why', I keep thinking how much of an impact Jeff had on this community in such a short amount of time. It can be said that he left us having done more in 41 years that some of us won't even do in a lifetime.

JEFF'S VOLUNTEERS & DINNER DRIVE/ DREW'S PLAYING FOR JEFF TODAY/ SALEM WINS!

To everyone who has emailed me about helping and 'what can we do'?,
I talked to Tina this morning and she has a lot of family who are taking care of things right now. She is in great hands. I told her that there are so many people who want to 'do something' and she knows how helpless so many of us feel right now. Our chance will come soon. Food for the family after the memorial is being arranged by her family and church. Tina's going to need the rest of us once the dust settles to which she agreed. If anyone has any suggestions other than food, please let me know. BW

Drew has a football game today at 12pm at Earl O'Neal Park. Drew knows if he's on the field today, his dad's going to be right there with him!

Anonymous Comment: Salem dedicated tonight's game to Coach. There was not a dry eye in the stadium as Bob Cole remembered Jeff. Bob choked up and so did we. Salem Won!!! 10 to 7 over Loganville. Those boys played for their Coach Blount and we felt his presence everywhere tonight. At the end of the game the student section chanted "Coach Blount" to honor him over and over. The whole Salem side chanted for him. I know he was watching over his boys tonight. It was a sad, sad day but those boys were not going to let their Coach down. Salem Pride in 09!!! Go Noles!

MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR JEFF BLOUNT

Memorial Service for Jeff Blount

Prospect Methodist Church

6752 Hwy 212 Covington, GA 30016

Phone: 770.786.6303Fax: 770-786-0341

Sunday September 14, 2008

3pm

There will be no viewing prior. Tina is asking that in lieu of flowers donations be made to the Jeff Blount Benefit Fund. This account is set up at the Bank of North Ga, Conyers near Lowe's and Zaxby's. I will post other ways to make a donation later today.

Directions and other information will be posted this afternoon.

RETURN THE BLESSING

The Enclave Sunday School class of Prospect UMC is sponsoring a book (or books) to be made for Tina and the kids. We want your stories about Jeff, how Jeff has blessed your life etc. Things that Drew, Megan and Matt might not remember later in life. We would like your blessing to be typed but please hand sign it and include a picture of you with Jeff or of you wearing the "Blount" shirt. The cost is $5.00 per blessing and all the proceeds will go to Tina and the kids. You can drop your blessing and the $5.00 off at Gold's Gym (attn: Kellie Rainwater), at Serendipity (Darlene Evans), at Prospect UMC or (if Salem front office doesn't mind) - at the office of Salem High School (we will pick them up from there) or mail them to Nicole Norman 115 Lark Road, Covington, GA 30016.

This is something we all need to participate in- friends, students, athletes, cousins, uncles etc... Think about what this is going to mean to Jeff's babies (yes, Matt's his baby too- the big one!).

JEFFREY SCOTT BLOUNT

12:15am I woke up, looked at the clock, closed my eyes and that is when my cell phone rang. It was from one of Tina's friends, who was at Emory with her, saying that our friend, coach, mentor, father, son, cousin, nephew, teacher, husband and inspiration has passed. Jeff's gone.

As more information becomes available, I will post it. Please keep praying for the Blount family. We're going to grieve, but then we need to regroup and give back to this family what Jeff gave all of us- unconditional support. He prepared us for this without even knowing that was what he was doing.

If anyone needs to get in contact with me, you can email me at brandiwatson@yahoo.com or call me at 770-652-5774.

To all of Jeff's students & athletes, please go talk to your parents, teachers or counselors if you feel weird or overwhelmed with this situation.

*** Arrangements are being made. I will post them as soon as they are finalized. The service for Jeff could be as early a Sunday afternoon, but that is not confirmed.

Sympathy cards can be mailed to the Blount Family at 3525 Tiffany Drive, SE, Conyers, GA 30013. ***

WE NEED A SMALL MIRACLE

Jeff became unresponsive early this morning. Tina is having him move to ICU and he will be on life support while the doctors test for brain activity. It's a huge kick in the stomach, I know, but everyone needs to be praying for Jeff right now. Tina's amazing. This is the strongest I've heard her in a long time, please keep her in your prayers as well.

THANK GOD!!!!!!!!!!

The MRI results were good! Things look good upstairs. Jeff had the doctors very worried this morning, but started to get a little better this afternoon, which pleased everyone! Jeff's put Tina through a lot these last couple of days, but he made up for it late afternoon when he asked Tina to marry him.

He had just come out of a procedure to remove one of the pick line in his chest. When Tina turned the corner to see him, he was more alert than he had been all day. Just like the first time he asked, he said 'Christina Maria, will you marry me?'. Keep praying!

WEDNESDAY 9/10/08 UPDATE

We need a big hit today! Jeff finally cooperated, with the help of his cousin Allen, and had an MRI this morning of his head. He started experiencing 'brain fog' over the weekend which is exacerbated by all of the medications, so the doctors are anxious to see if there is anything going on upstairs that needs to be addressed. There's also a possibility that the pneumonia is the culprit. We need this test to come back clean today so everyone, please keep praying!


Tina's exhausted. It's always a long night if Jeff isn't sleeping soundly and last night was one of those nights. Tina stayed in the room with Jeff and Allen slept on the couch in the waiting room. I'm going to believe that 3 years from now, over Mexican at Frontera, Allen and Jeff are going to laugh about the time Allen slept in the waiting room at Emory and held his hand during his MRI.

Keep praying and as soon as we get some news, it will be posted!

PUBLISHED IN THE SALEM FOOTBALL PROGRAM 2008

Dear Coach Blount,

As we begin our inaugural season at Seminole Stadium, we want you to be assured that we take the field heeding the lessons you have taught us on the field of play, and more importantly, the ones you have taught us through your faith and courage these last months.

When we face the unexpected, we will remember how you urged us to prepare for all contingencies- to know our blocking rules and prepare for whatever the opponent may try; then we will note how you have faced a variety of unexpected complications with grace and optimism.

When we face a shift in momentum, we will remember how you compelled us to hold nothing back- to give everything we have; then we will recall how you shared everything with us, including your family- whether it be Drew serving as ball boy or Miss Tina serving spaghetti to the line each Wednesday night.

When we look for motivation, we will remember “Pat Murphy’s pig” and the many other sayings that lifted our spirits; then we will look not to the sideline or the press box for you, but know that you are there in the huddle with us.

When we find ourselves having to reach down and find a little extra, we will remember how you admonished us to play every play and to leave no regrets on the field; then we will rejoice in how you continue to overcome each and every obstacle.

Coach, we wanted you to know that we have been watching and listening; even though you cannot be with us each day, you continue to teach us. And we wanted you to understand what you mean to this football program. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family daily. We wish you a complete recovery and look forward to having you back on the sideline next season.

And remember Coach- play every play!

With all of our love,

The Salem Seminole Football Coaches, Players and Managers

TUESDAY 9/9/08 UPDATE 'HELLO THIS IS JEFF BLOUNT'

Yes, Jeff has pneumonia. They doctor is not sure what kind it is without getting a sample from his lungs, so they are treating all and pulling out the big antibiotics. Todd and Allen (Jeff's cousin) spent some time at Emory today helping Tina with Jeff. She is functioning on little sleep so the help was welcome and appreciated.

So, who arranged the phone call today with Vince Dooley? Yes, Vince Dooley called Jeff at home and when he couldn't reach him, he called Tina's cell phone. Of all the days for Jeff to have the honor, this wouldn't have been the first choice, but despite the fog that he's been in, the fact that he was talking to Vince Dooley brought the UGA football loving fan out! The reality is, Jeff may not remember the conversation the had, but Tina made arrangements for them to speak again soon. Rumor is, Todd and Allen were 'gitty school girls' over the call and let everyone on the floor know that Jeff and Vince were talking.

Vince said that several people have asked him to call Jeff and wanted to knowing what an incredible person Jeff is in our community. Thank you to everyone who helped arrange this!

TUESDAY 9/9/08 UPDATE

Based on the CT Scan of Jeff's chest, he may have pneumonia and is being treated as such. The stem cell procedure is not going to start today. Depending on how he responds to the antibiotics, he may start tomorrow, if not, it will be next week.

He's a little out of it right now because of all of the medications that are being administered. Tina is trying to allow him as much rest as possible and is asking that visitors are limited to only immediate family members. The rest of us can post our comments and she said that she will continue to read them to him when he's alert. Keep praying!

MONDAY 9/8/08 UPDATE

Jeff was admitted to Emory last night. He is on the transplant floor until a room on the cancer floor becomes available. He may have been dehydrated when he arrived last night, but he is also in pain from the spot under his arm, he's confused some of the time and just in a 'fog'. Tina is hopeful that one of Jeff's doctors will be in their room early this morning. Keep praying!

SUNDAY 9/7/08 UPDATE

This weekend's been rough for Jeff. He is extremely tired, fatigued, wiped out, exhausted etc... Fatigue and confusion are side affects of radiation, but the situation escalated to a point that made Tina uncomfortable today so she headed up to Emory Emergency around 5pm. She's been in constant communication with Jeff's doctors and as a precaution, they asked to see him today. Keep Praying!

On a food update, Debbi Chapman provided a bbq dinner with lemon bars last Thursday. Tina and Jeff enjoy he time they spend with the Chapman's especially when things are uncertain. I've heard that Doug has a way of making Jeff feel at ease.

Amy Harper volunteered for Saturday's dinner. She made a chicken pot pie that the kids loved, cole slaw and banana pudding. She showed up at the right time and was able to visit with Jeff! Thank you, Amy.

Finally, Vikki, Jeff's step-mother, put her cooking mitts on this weekend and made an Asian meal from scratch. She made spring roles, fried rice and shrimp. Tina said that it was as good as any restaurant she's ever eaten at.

WHERE'S DREW? DNF AT FRONTERA

Where's Drew? (like Where's Waldo?)

This picture was on the front page of the Rockdale Citizen.
Jeff's cousin Gary and Ashley were at Frontera on Saturday night.

THURSDAY 9/4/08 STEM CELL PROCEDURE UPDATE

The stem cell procedure starts Tuesday. Jeff will go in to the hospital for 3 days of total body radiation (Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday). On Friday & Saturday, he will have a large dose of chemotherapy with Sunday as his day of rest. On Monday, September 15th, the healthy stem cells will be thawed out, hung up and slowly dripped back into his body. On the bright side, Jeff is using his own stem cells for this procedure, but the rate of success is less than 50%. This news took the wind out of Jeff's sails today. There are other options if this procedure is not successful. Jeff can receive stem cells from a healthy donor. Tina isn't even considering this option right now. She is focusing on Tuesday and encouraging Jeff to do the same. Please, keep praying and sending Jeff the encouragement he needs to keep his head in this game.

This song was just released on September 2nd for download on iTunes to benefit the Stand Up for Cancer initiative. Every time I listen to it, I feel like it is talking to Jeff. There isn't an official video for the song, but I did find this on youtube- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_5lHnN6eRmo

The lyrics:

The heart is stronger than you think It’s like it can go through anything And even when you think it can’t it finds a way to still push on, though Sometimes you want to run away Ain’t got the patience for the pain And if you don’t believe it look into your heart the beat goes on I’m tellin’ you that Things get better Through whatever If you fall, dust it off, don’t let up Don’t you know you can go be your own miracle You need to know If the mind keeps thinking you’ve had enough But the heart keeps telling you don’t give up Who are we to be questioning, wondering what is what Don’t give up THROUGH IT ALL, JUST STAND UP! It’s like we all have better days Problems getting all up in your face Just because you go through it Don’t mean it got to take control, no You ain’t gotta find no hiding place Because the heart can beat the hate Don’t wanna let your mind keep playin’ you And sayin’ you can’t go on I’m tellin’ you that Things get better Through whatever If you fall Dust if off, don’t let up Don’t you know you Can go Be your own Miracle You need to know You don’t gotta be a prisoner in your mind If you fall, dust it off You can live your life Let your heart be your guide And you will know that you’re good if you trust in the good Everything will be alright, yeah Light up the dark, if you follow your heart And it will get better Through whatever You got it in you, find it within You got in now, find it within now You got in you, find it within You got in now, find it within now You got in you, find it within Find it within you, find it within THROUGH IT ALL, JUST STAND UP!

THURSDAY 9/4/08 I'M A LAB RAT

Darrell Huckaby wrote an article for the Rockdale Citizen partly about Jeff and it is definitely worth reading http://www.rockdalecitizen.com/main.asp?SectionID=8&SubSectionID=8&ArticleID=4144&TM=31422.12.

Jeff's gone from a fixture on the cancer floor to a self proclaimed Emory Lab Rat! The tumor under Jeff's arm is big and painful right now. Jeff's radiologist claims that the tumor is probably swollen and inflamed due to radiation. Regardless, this has the hair on the back of Tina's neck standing up right now. Other than the pain the tumor causes, Jeff is exhausted! Fatigue is a side effect of radiation so this is expected, but imagine wanting to only sleep- this is Jeff.

Worth mentioning, Jeff and Tina are signing the consent form for the stem cell procedure today. Jeff will go in Emory on the 9th to start total body radiation 2 times daily for 3 days and then it's full force ahead! Next week is a big week for Jeff- keep praying!

Salem takes on Rockdale at Salem tomorrow night at 7:30pm. DNF.

TUESDAY UPDATE 9/2/08 FAMILY WEEKEND

Aside from fatigue, Jeff is doing well. He spent the long weekend with his family! One day was spent at Matt's. Jeff slept while Matt and the kids went swimming and 4 wheeling. Drew says to forget Disney World, riding 4 wheelers is the most fun.

Somehow Megan was able to talk Jeff into being her make-up model.

Jeff & Matt in Matt's office!

Jeff and Allen.

Saturday night, the Blount's were treated to delicious chicken and sausage jambalaya from Melanie White. Tina is getting the recipe from Melanie for those who want to try something new at home. Melanie also brought brownies, salad and bread.

Lacey prepared the Labor Day feast for dinner last night- all of Jeff's favorites! Our dinner volunteers are doing their best to keep Jeff healthy. Tracy's mother-in-law, Carolyn Kitchens, made Jeff a homemade strawberry cake that was waiting for him Friday when he got home from the game. She visited him at Emory a couple of weeks ago and asked him if there was anything she could do for him and making a strawberry cake was Jeff's request.

Tonight, it's a boneless honey baked ham from Sharon Robuck. She volunteered for dinner tonight and delivered it early.

TODAY: Jeff had an appointment with the oncologist today at 11:30am. The lump below Jeff's arm appears to be growing again and before today's dose of radiation, Tina wanted to find out what is going on. It's starting to cause Jeff pain, too. Seems simple- cut it out, but according to Tina, it's not possible. The stem cell procedure is still moving forward. Jeff is going to be measured and prepared for the total body radiation that will happen next week.

DNF was at SeaWorld this past weekend. I will the pictures soon.