Patti's Peace of Life

Made by Me!!

2011-02-06T15:35:00.001-08:00

I have seen everyone create wonderful things on their blogs. It's my turn. I made this garland using and old book, chipboard and some old Christmas ribbon. I learned how to make "lollys" and burned the hell out of my fingers with the glue gun. Am I proud? Dam right! Time to watch the Superbowl. For today - Life is good.

Happy Birthday Andy & The Blizzard of 2011

2011-02-02T13:32:00.001-08:00

Well, it hit; the blizzard to end all in Chicago. Last night we had snow thunder, lightning and winds the likes I have never seen before. We are literally snowed in today. At about 2 they managed to plow our street. Our work has no power and we decided to walk there to check on the building. Unbelievably a man on a snow mobile picked us up. He was going at least 35 mph and going right through red lights since we were the only vehicle on the road. His name was Daryl, I told him he was my angel - the Lord does work in strange ways. Anyway, Andy is a year older, we are all safe and warm, and this will be a birthday he will never ever forget!

Happy Birthday Sherri & Andy

2011-01-30T15:43:00.001-08:00

Well, another year has come & gone for Andy & Sherri. Mom had us over as she does every year and I must say that my husband is still recovering. I am thankful for family and for the moments that stay in our memories, but; when all is said & done I am thankful for my small family of three (Andy, me & Nic)- and the memories that we make ourselves day by day.

A Good Day

2011-01-25T16:21:00.000-08:00

Overall today was a good day. Yes, my sales are down, but; given that it is January and the end of the month and the fact that last week was great for me - it stands to reason. I remember when Dave told me there are peaks and valleys in this business - I am in the low part of the peak.

Aside from work - today was good. I got these sweet bowl fillers in the mail - they are scotties and I love them. Nic got an application to be put into the National Honors Society and his rock club was featured on the Channel Five News. Andy and I are good, the family is healthy, and; all things considered today was a good day.

Things are Changing Around Here

2011-01-23T15:25:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Andy my wallpaper is changed next my heading - I chose my favorite picture just for my heading. It takes me back to my Aunties house and how happy I always there.

Why buy a VW?

2011-01-16T12:26:00.001-08:00

I jut need to ask - why buy a VW when you can buy a Cadillac? Well, here it is the Cadillac of all mixers the Kitchen Aid Pro I think it is 600. Absolutely beautiful. The sky is the limit - watch out here I come!!!!!

Happy 2011

2011-01-15T12:29:00.001-08:00

Feels good to be back. We had wonderful holidays, and; all in all it was a wonderful year. I am hoping - and praying that I can say the same this time next year.

Happy Easter

2010-04-05T17:23:00.000-07:00

Easter, different this year, but; at times still the same. Missing Dad, and going to the Easter Vigil instead of Easter Sunday Mass. The Vigil was wonderful. And, although my son did not have our annual pound cake decorating contest with me - he still did receive an Easter basket. No, we did not color eggs, but; we did have a wonderful lobster dinner - Every payday I would buy one lobster and freeze it for Easter weekend. It was delicious, and Andy made lobster rolls with the leftover.

Happy Easter - he has risen!!!!

I'm Trying

2010-03-29T06:50:00.000-07:00

I am trying to keep up with my blog everyday. It is still early and I do not know what the day will bring. Mondays are difficult here at work- never know how the wind will blow. Read my bible today and hope that the good word will bring me a good day......

Happy New Year - In March!

2010-03-28T16:07:00.000-07:00

I am back

2009-12-09T09:05:00.000-08:00

I thought I would feel better if I blogged. Since Dad passed - our financial situation has taken a dive - not to mention that it is Christmas - everyone smiling - shopping - and here I am - no money to shop - and no joy inside me to smile. To say it has been tough is the understatement of the year. I have no sadness - yet I have no grief as well. I was told that the sadness chokes out the joy. I guess that is true. I don't even think I will send out Christmas cards this year - my heart is totally not in it - only put up the tree for Nic. I am waiting patiently for a glimmer of hope - to bring back the joy - it is taking way too long. Where are you Christmas??

Goodbye Dad

2009-11-08T17:30:00.001-08:00

I knew in my heart sometime, perhaps this year; I would be writing this. My father is gone. He left this earth and us on October 29 at 5:30 pm. It was a Thursday afternoon. It all went so fast. You turn around and he is gone. He died in Loyola hospital with my Mom, and sister and I with him. I question if it made it easier being with him when he died. I know being there made his death understandable. Seeing his labored breathing - and the way he did not look at us let us know that he is in a better place.

This picture is the last one of my Father. I took it on Sunday when I had Mom, Dad, Gerry and Bob over for dinner. We were so happy, but; I at the same time was scared. We had a very hard time taking Dad to our house and back and I knew in my heart a problem was coming - and it would be sooner other than later.

The problem is I can't cry. I long to cry. I even feel I am doing Dad a disservice by not crying. I know that the time will come - just in it's own space and time.

Goodbye Daddy. I know you are in good hands in Heaven. God is holding you in the palm of his hand.

Great Day

2009-09-20T19:28:00.000-07:00

I will post more pictures tomorrow. But, let me say that I had a wonderful weekend. I am so grateful to be alive. I was lucky last weekend, and this weekend was pure bliss. This just shows that no matter grim today is - and at times it gets very very grim - there is always tomorrow. Thank you God I will never let go of this second chance.......

Change of Life

2009-09-16T14:57:00.000-07:00

This Saturday Andy & I drove to Indiana to cut the grass. Neither one of us wanted to go.... I was mowing - as I got up to the birdbath - I hit a nest of yellow jackets. Needless to say they swarmed me and stung me over 15 times. Well, I found out that I am allergic to something and that something is yellow jackets. I ended up in the ER swollen tongue and all. To make a long story short I am ok - but life for me has changed. Many people told me I could have died that day and now I carry an EPI pen with me. I am still at the point of disbelief, but; what I do know for sure is at that point all the little things in my life that seemed so big, work, etc., seemed so very very small, and that lesson is what I want to carry with me throughout my life - that family, friends, love and trust are the only sure things in this world, the rest are clutter that get in the way of what really counts. I thank God for these things, and hope that I will always remember to learn from this experience.

Frustration!!!!!!

2009-09-05T08:47:00.000-07:00

I am so totally frustrated today.

Andy & I have had two days off already - little bit left of vacation time. Since Nic is in school we are staying home. Thursday was ok - got our garage door totally up and running - put up my fall stuff-not too bad. Yesterday was awesome - we saw the Julie Child movie - loved it - we went out to lunch - went to Nic's football game (they won & Nic played the whole game) then, we watched a movie, had manhattans, and some great brie cheese. How good was that? Today we were supposed to drive to Indiana but; Dad fell - Mom thought it was a bad idea to go - so we stayed home. I am house cleaning - and it basically is sucking. I am longing for something fun to do. All we ever do is work at work, work and home, and I basically drive everyone around. I want so badly to do something different.....Just have to find out what that different is.....

Garage Door

2009-08-29T13:54:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally had to replace our garage door. The spring on the other one broke and there was a big hole in it. Nic's room got very cold in the winter, and then; there was the mouse issue. Well, quite a lot of money later - it is fixed. Here are the before and after shots. Major curb appeal.

Nic's First Day

2009-08-26T14:38:00.001-07:00

Nic's first day was last Thursday - here is a photo of how excited he was to be picked up by his bus at 6:15 am. Welcome back Nic!!!!!

Football Season

2009-08-24T16:02:00.000-07:00

Click clack.........Here it is - that season that we parents love to hate. Nic has already survived through shin splints (still), and a full blown asthma attack on the field. One can only ask what's next? And sure enough tomorrow you will find out........ Here I sit laptop - and football field - welcome fall!

Amish Country

2009-08-23T11:23:00.000-07:00

This year is our hardest financial year, in a long time. So, Andy & I had a garage sale. We used the money we made to have an overnite stay on our own. First time in 15 years. We went to Amish country. It hasn't rained here in a very very long time - it rained the whole day - but, it was worth it.

Mom's Birthday

2009-07-18T09:00:00.001-07:00

Mom's birthday was a couple of weeks ago, but the memories live on and on. Sherri & I took her to see the Jersey Boys. It was a wonderful time! The show was awesome. Afterward, we went to Italian Village. It seems Mom used to go there when she was young. We had a wonderful time, and it would be terrible of me not to include this picture and a toast to my Mom, the best role model that a person could have. Love you Mom.

Happy Birthday ----To Me!

2009-07-06T18:31:00.001-07:00

I think it's been 10 years since I wanted one. Yeah, I wanted one alright - just not the price. Well, Andy saved up and got me one for my 45 birthday!!! It actually smells like a new car! I love it so much - just terrified to use it - don't want to get it dirty!!!! I don't know when or where it will make it's appearance - I just know that it is all mine, and somehow turning 45 doesn't feel quite so bad, especially since I am still 44 for a couple hours.......

Day Two

2009-07-05T07:38:00.000-07:00

Still out of it. I have no idea how I got sick. I think it is because I so very run down. Since my trip I have never had the opportunity to be actually home. All I do is run around pleasing everyone except me. That has to stop. I included some pictures from Dad's 84 Birthday. We are so lucky to still have him around. Happy belated birthday Dad - many, many more.....

July Fourth

2009-07-04T13:06:00.000-07:00

Well here I sit. Sick..... My favorite holiday - and I am sick in bed with a high fever and a very very sick stomach. Not a total bust though - I have finally found time to put up some vacation pictures. We went to St. Augustine Florida. Wonderful! Nice break - although because of a day delayed flight I must quote Dorothy Gale - there is really no place like home.....

I'm Back

2009-06-25T06:53:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile. Time has passed, for vacations, birthdays, and anniversary's. I will update photos this afternoon. I feel so neglectful, and after all this has been very very good for my soul....

Indiana

2009-05-25T18:16:00.000-07:00

This time of year my heart leans towards Indiana. I guess I am not the only one. My Mother, brother and I all yearn for the times in our lives when things were much simpler. A time where there were no bills to be payed, and no 8 am job to go to. A time quite simply put - where time stood still. Thanks to pictures time can stand still again - as I show this picture of my Grandmother, at home; in Indiana......

Memorial Day

2009-05-25T16:50:00.000-07:00

I type this in honor of all that sacrificed their lives so that we all could be free. My father is a World War II vet, as were all his brother as well. God bless them all, and thank you all for letting us put our heads down peacefully tonight and every night. We are so blessed.

Happy Birthday Nic!

2009-05-10T08:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know it's Mother's Day, but; what is a mother without a child. So, here are some of Nic's 15th birthday pictures. It was very quiet. Since it was a Monday, and Dad is not very well, we took a cake over to him. Who says you need a big crow to have a party?

Dad & Rudy

2009-05-03T16:03:00.000-07:00

Today I stopped by Mom's house - and encountered Dad and Rudy. He is so very sweet, he thinks he is a real person. His favorite seat is always the one at the kitchen table. Sometimes, I wonder; as my Dad says if he could only talk! Oh the stories that boy could tell!

Easter Memories

2009-04-18T17:11:00.001-07:00

Our Easter this year was wonderful and blessed. After a full Holy Week and a wonderful and traditional Good Friday it was on to David's house for Easter Dinner. The perfect end to our blessed 40 days of Lent. Even when times get their toughest I must remember how truly blessed we are just to be together and in this moment.

Easter Pictures

2009-04-18T17:08:00.001-07:00

HAPPY EASTER

2009-04-12T08:25:00.000-07:00

Three very powerful words!

What a Surprise!!

2009-04-05T11:56:00.001-07:00

Here we are at the beginning of April in Illinois, and we spot a turkey in a person's front yard! Imagine our surprise! Now, I have seen turkeys in Indiana before but never, ever, in Hinsdale Illinois. The question remains is this a pet or Easter Dinner???? I hope to never find out.

Back --- So Soon!

2009-03-29T16:02:00.001-07:00

Easter Decorating

I am back

2009-03-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

I know it's been awhile.

Our house was a total disaster! One thing broke down after another. Andy & I were in a deep depression. But, today; I thought of all the good things in the world, all our blessings - puts the world into perspective. And, even though it is almost Easter and there is snow on the ground it does not matter when you have God and religion you have it all - truly.

I promise to blog often and to include pictures - because; that is what life is all about, in this; my online diary..

Snap out of it!!!!!

2009-03-10T06:12:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile. Haven't felt like blogging lately - don't know why, it is what usually gets me through. Nic was sick for the past two weeks, and the weather is really lousy. Just in a bad funk that is all.

It may sound silly, but I have become closer to God. I read the scriptures every day - and, they really become a part of my every day life. During Lent the passages ring so true to life, the economy today. It is amazing really, how something so ancient can apply itself to life today.

Oh well, I am just working through one day at a time. Trying to send off the depression before it consumes me. I do really need to snap out of it. I am winning small battles and am sure I will overcome the war........ I just need to remember that there is good in everyone and everything - it is up to us to find it.

Fat Tuesday

2009-02-24T07:06:00.000-08:00

Happy Fat Tuesday! First time ever that I thought we would celebrate Fat Tuesday with a trip to Chucks for some Cajun food. I could just taste the gumbo, and then; Nic gets the flu. I mean the total upper respiratory flu! Poor kid can't breathe. I am not driving out to Burbank for gumbo - so; that idea is out. Besides that for me it is a total bloated out Fat Tuesday! And tomorrow, Lent begins. Where did the time go? As soon as I find out I will let everyone know. Enjoy the King Cake and let the day begin!

Happy Valentines

2009-02-13T11:46:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know I am a day early - but, just in case I miss it - Happy Valentine's Day everyone! When I was single I really dreaded Valentine's Day. My sister and brother always had dates. I always ended up home alone - with my parents and an old movie. I would give alot for those times now.

Have a wonderful day!

A New Day

2009-02-08T16:06:00.001-08:00

This picture was taken at Thanksgiving. Dad is looking pretty good. Since then, he has received Communion at home. Today for the first day since then - he went to Church. Our weather is now in the 50's so; most of the snow and the ice is behind us.... for now.... This only tells me one thing - that no matter how bad today is tomorrow is a new day - and life can change in an instant. I do not know why I did not go to that dance last night - I only know that my son and my husband are a little kinder since then. And, if that lasts only for a day I guess the heartache was worth it. And so, to quote Scarlet O'Hara - Tomorrow is another Day!!

Mother Son Dance

2009-02-07T15:30:00.001-08:00

It never happened! I waited for this dance. Mother's told me it was wonderful. And, so; tonight was the night. At first I did not want to go. Then, it felt right. It felt nice to get dressed up, and to go out, and to be with my friends. I can honestly say that I was excited. I was ready, everything was perfect except for Nic. The dry cleaner - shrunk his cloths. They were the only dress cloths he had. I felt like Esther in "Meet me in St. Louis" on the night of the Christmas dance, when her date could not get his tuxedo out of the cleaners. Grandpa showed up and saved the day. Unfortunately for me there is no one to "save the day". The day is ruined. I can't honestly remember the last time I got dressed up to go somewhere. It was either to meet a client or to go to a wake - Honestly! For that matter I can't remember the last time that I was treated like a lady. Living with two men - they make you feel like one of them. What is most saddening about tonight is that Andy never said that I looked nice - OR that maybe he should take me out. I am so low. Think I will move to Saint Louis!

Long Weekend

2009-02-03T16:59:00.000-08:00

There are long weekends, and then there are LONG weekends. It started with a trip on Friday to Bass Pro, to get Andy's birthday presents. A cast iron skillet was the big gift. He loves to cook and this was perfect - since receiving it Sunday he has used it twice and today is only Tuesday. Saturday was the celebration of his and Sherri's birthday at my Mom & Dad's house. I took pictures - and they did not turn out! Disappointing! Sunday we went out to eat with Andy's Mom & her friend. Lithuanian food - never my first choice - but always good and very FILLING! Later, came the Superbowl - exciting - and more eating!!!

On to yesterday and today - yesterday uneventful - just Monday never great but always there. And, then on to today. I feel a sense of sadness in me today. A friend of mine lost her Dad. She called during Christmas to tell me - but I was so caught up in myself and my own depression that I could not see to call her back. I spoke to her today - sick and tired of it all being about me and my menopause. I used to be a friend - for that matter I used to have friends! It is time to reconnect with me again. I used to be creative - I want it back! I want desperately to be a stay at home mom. But, our lives such as they are, could never survive without my income, they can barely survive now. So, I need to look inside - find myself again and start to be the creative caring person that I once was - it is never too late.................................

By the way that was not Andy's cake - that picture turned out bad too!!

The Eucarist & My Visit with St. Therese

2009-01-27T06:25:00.000-08:00

This Saturday I completed my goal to become an Eucharistic minister to the Church. Yes, I have graduated. It was wonderful and I felt truly transformed. I also gave my first Eucharist. What a feeling! I only hope that I can live up to the ground work put down by Sr. Jane. She was wonderful and I will miss her inspiration this Saturday morning.

After I graduated I took a look in the book store. This was in the Carmelite National Shrine to St. Therese. Here relics were inspiring and her chapel gave me a feeling of utter tranquility. It was truly a gift of a day. St. Therese was a girl from a family of I think 9 children - I believe 5 of them died. Her mother died when she was very young - at 15 she wanted to be a nun - they petitioned the Pope, and here dream was realized. She became ill in her 20's with TB and died at 24 years young. She is called the "little flower". When she was sick she wrote a book about her sickness, The Story of a Soul, can't wait to read it.

I believe this is the year of giving back - it is the only way to feel truly transformed - and to leave a purpose on this earth - because that is really what we are all here for - a purpose...

Change has Come

2009-01-20T10:43:00.001-08:00

And so, it has come. Unbelievable that a black man is the President of the United States. When I think of all the history that my 14 year old son has seen already, it makes me stop and pause, and wonder - just what is ahead for this county? I pray that this man will indeed change the United States. Change has come!

Peace

2009-01-11T08:07:00.000-08:00

I am truly amazed. The holidays went by so very quickly. I am looking through New Year's pictures, and wondering what this year will bring. We were so very blessed last year. No, not financially; in fact that went the opposite way. We were blessed by way of our family, and; the day to day experiences of life. This weekend I will start my classes to become a Eucharistic minister to the sick. I am both excited and apprehensive about this endeavor. Where will it lead me, and am I ready to meet people who I might never see again. I think life is all about giving back, and if you do that God will reward you in small ways. Although we will never ever be rich in the wallet - we will become rich in the spirit. Nic started this by working in a soup kitchen on Friday. He said it felt good, and maybe in someway that is what this year should truly be about.

Christmas Pictures

2009-01-08T08:48:00.000-08:00

Enjoy!

New Year

2009-01-06T09:09:00.000-08:00

And so, as quickly as the holidays came, they left. Poor Newman was very sad to loose his Christmas tree. I, on the other hand; was at peace to see it go. We had wonderful holidays. Starting from Thanksgiving on to New Year's day. I am tired and happy to put the house back in order, and enjoy the peace - if just for awhile. I am a little apprehensive about what this year will bring. With faith in the good Lord we can handle anything.

Happy New Year, Happy New You.

They tell me attitude is everything.....

The Year in Review

2008-12-30T13:26:00.001-08:00

Another year is almost gone. When I look back at this year we generally had a good one. Dad is still with us, and in relatively good health. Nic graduated from Junior High and is doing great in high school. Andy & I had all the blood work done and are in good health. My dog is still with us, and the cat continues to wreck havoc. And my mom, God bless her is taking good care of Dad, my only wish is that we help her take good care of herself. My Angel, Aunt Gerry is doing well, & I think is hopeful for the New Year.

And, so; Happy New Year everyone. I only hope when I look back on 2009 at this time I am repeating what I have written here. We are truly blessed.

Happy Birthday Jesus!

2008-12-25T11:36:00.001-08:00

Christmas is finally here.
I can reveal my Christmas card. Yes, I did snatch this idea from a friend - best form of flattery. We had a wonderful Christmas Eve. We are truly blessed that we are all together on these most sacred of holidays. This morning Nic served mass. It really put into perspective what this season is truly about. Peace on Earth and good will to all. But, bigger than that; being the birth of Jesus Christ. The belief in him and my Catholicism is what brings me through my lowest lows. Happy Birthday Jesus. We are all better for you.

One Day Left!!!

2008-12-23T09:04:00.001-08:00

I can't believe it - tomorrow is Christmas Eve! Where did the time go? I look at Nic and think that every day. It seems as we grow up the time goes by quicker than it did when we were young. As kids it seemed as if Christmas would never come, now it comes too fast. Today we are in the midst of a snow storm and tomorrow is not looking too much better either. Good for Santa, bad for Patti and the car.

Tonight it is all about cupcakes! On with the apron and out with the frosting!

Snow!!!!

2008-12-16T11:35:00.001-08:00

Here it comes. The white stuff. Never was too fond of snow. But, I must say, here from my office window, it does look beautiful. I finally am feeling slightly Christmassy - and thank God a lot better. That being said, I do not think that I will be meeting up with Frosty anytime soon. Love this picutre. It reminds me of a Frosty book that I had as a child. I remember when Frosty came to life, one of the first places he visited was the bakery - my kind of guy..........

Where are you Christmas?

2008-12-14T17:27:00.000-08:00

Where are you Christmas? Why can't I find you? That's basically how I am feeling lately. Still sick, and so much to do. Why can't I find Christmas? I have so much to be thankful for. My 83 year old father is still with us - God willing - for another Christmas. I have a wonderful Mother, who even drove me to the doctor, a handsome son, and a husband - who has one hell of a hard time showing compassion, yet; is always by my side. Yesterday, however; when I was at my lowest, my cousin Bob, came and surprised me with a gift from my Aunt. So, I guess when I read all my blessings I never lost Christmas to begin with. Just my spirit. On the bright side there is still one week left, and I am becoming stronger. Amen to that.

I guess I should feel like someone who is on the verge of getting their life back, and appreciating every moment. Now, I just need to click my heels together, and repeat " there's no place like home".

Saint Nick's Day

2008-12-12T12:46:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday was Saint Nicholas Day.

One of my favorite days. On my blog it passed me by. Not in my house though. It is such a prelude to Christmas. As long as I have a Nicholas, there will always be Saint Nicholas Day in my house. My fondest memories of the day, are of my Grandparents. They always had a stocking ready for each of us at their house. Although I do not remember what they were filled with - I can remember the joy and anticipation of receiving them.

I have been very sick lately, and my blogging has reached a stand still. I will remedy that; as this is my virtual memory book. Here's to many more posts! Enjoy the day!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T17:27:00.000-08:00

The pictures below are of my Thanksgiving. I am frustrated with this blog - can't get rid of the big spaces between pictures! Anyway, all went well. I brined the turkey for forty eight hours, they I made a mixture of butter and Chardonnay wine - I put a cheese cloth in it, and brought it to a boil - covered the turkey with it and - perfection. I must remember next year that a brined bird will cook quicker than an unbrined one.

As an extra touch I made everyone a little name card (Chinese take-out box) filled with goodies, a little something extra to take home.

I am truly Thankful for all the people who shared this holiday in my home. Although it was a lot of work, there is nothing better than family getting together. I wouldn't change a thing.

I made it!!!!!!

2008-12-01T17:17:00.001-08:00

Countdown Day 2

2008-11-21T10:50:00.000-08:00

Today is Friday, really five days left until the official Turkey Day. Tonight is shopping night. Between that, and buying the turkey, etc., this Thanksgiving stuff is taking up all my time. Andy is finally better, so; we can get our acts together and get the show on the road. My Menu keeps getting longer - as I have forgotten to include a green vegetable! Who said the meal had to be well balanced? I don't think the pilgrims were concerned with their nutrition! And, by the way darn that Norman Rockwell and his perfect Thanksgiving picture! You know he never cooked a meal! Oh well, Happy Weekend!!!

The Count Down Begins.......

2008-11-19T06:57:00.000-08:00

I have Thanksgiving this year. It is now officially my holiday! So, on to place cards, house cleaning, food ordering, etc. It is a big undertaking. I am sure everything will be fine, it's just family; and the spirit of getting together that counts. I must remind myself of this on Wednesday - when I am in the middle of my major melt down........

Goodbye Little Europe

2008-11-17T18:34:00.001-08:00

Here I sit.

In pain.

Toothache.

It's either blog or pace.

I choose to blog.

On Sunday we went to say goodbye to our favorite local restaurant Little Europe. It is closing after 40 some years. My Mom remembers that it was actually a French Restaurant, The Blue Bonnet, before it became our Little Europe. It was our mainstay, from everything to birthday parties to funerals. Food was always good, pork tenderloin, liver dumpling soup, roast pork, roast duck, rye bread, Andy's salad bar, and Nic's favorite homemade desserts. We had a wonderful time. I am so blessed to have this family. No matter what hardships I have in my life, they always show me the rainbow.

Veteran's Day

2008-11-11T13:39:00.000-08:00

Well, update. Obama won the election - and we are very happy. Change has come and we can't wait. That being said, today is Veteran's Day. I honor my favorite veterans. My Dad, his brothers, and my Uncle Rudy. He just passed away this weekend. My Mom took him to the wake. Funny when you get old you seem to accept death. Maybe you are making peace with it, I don't know. Kinda sad today, but; always thankful for those men and women who have defended our rights and our country.

2008 Election - In This Moment

2008-11-04T16:14:00.000-08:00

This is history in the making. We are very very lucky to be alive during this historic time. I heard something on TV today - that struck me. It said this is the moment - before it appears in the textbooks, before it appears on the mid-terms, before it appears in the papers, this is the moment that will make history. We should dwell in and live in this moment- for it will live forever, and will never come to us again. Tonight I, and my family will live in, and dwell in this historic moment, proud to be alive, and proud to be an American.

Indiana Pictures

2008-11-02T15:43:00.000-08:00

Nature's artwork here is Indiana. Beautiful. I saw God today.....

Indiana

2008-11-02T15:32:00.001-08:00

I walked in the house today to close I could still hear my Uncle Bob telling me how to shut everything down, and my father walking behind him trying to remember exactally what to do. My Uncle has since gone, and my father; even though he is still here physically he is rapidly leaving us mentally. Whats left of our family is kind of what is left of this house. Broken. Some of us are trying to fix what is broken while others of us do not care at all. The overwhelming sadness of this day has taken me back, while the memories and nature's awesome painting keeps me here...

Halloween Eve

2008-10-30T19:05:00.001-07:00

Tonight is All Hallows Eve. We carved this pumpkin. It would not make Martha Stewart proud. But, we did it anyway. And, although it had no seeds it turned out wonderful. We broke 2 pumpkin carving knives in the process - I have absolutely no idea what types of pumpkins they are growing now a days, but I think they should stick to the carvable ones.

Great Pumpkin

2008-10-29T06:24:00.000-07:00

Last night the great Pumpkin was on. Leading me to believe that Halloween is right around the corner, Friday; to be exact. It is a little different now with Nic being in High School. For the first time in 14 years we will be home on Halloween night. We used to go to Mom & Dad's for pizza and trick or treating, but; they are getting older, and so too; are the kids. Time marches on, and so too do we...........

A Good Night's Sleep

2008-10-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

And so it is;

that as fast as football season comes - it ends. But this year, was a little different. Friday night was about as cold and rainy as it could get. The boys played until the halftime. ..... Then, the lightning came. And, the game was put on hold for thirty minuets, which became fifty minuets, which then; postponed the game until tomorrow at 4:30. Nic is disgusted. He is not happy to go against a 250 pound kid - again. But, such is life, as quickly as the walls in front of us come up - they go down. All in all for Nic it was a fantastic season. He always started and played the entire game. He has finally progressed to the little athlete that we hoped he could be. He loves his school and is achieving an A average. We couldn't be prouder. By the way; he is number 60.

On the home front, things are difficult.
I had an argument with my sister; that I truly feel bad about. Truth be told I am feeling maxed out in so many ways and I do not know how to keep up. So; I vent. My sister did make one statement to me that I will never forget she said you should not care about what other people do - as long as you can put your head down on the pillow at night and sleep you should only care about yourself. I disagree, how are we to get ahead without any form of competition? And, if we only think of ourselves and what we are doing how can we ever better ourselves or get ahead. I do agree with one comment though I am able to lay down my head at night with a clean conscience. I give all of myself in every aspect of my life, from wife, to mother, to daughter, niece, employee, sister, friend. I love my family - I am just at a cross roads. I do know one thing however, that; no matter what anyone else does I will always be myself, and I will always be able to sleep with a clean conscience knowing that I gave it my all. We feel the same way about Mom & Dad and where they are in their life. We just express it differently, not making either of us wrong. I love you Sherri, I just do not agree with you all the time.

Creativity

2008-10-20T17:43:00.000-07:00

Today, I received my two most favorite magazines, Country Home, and Country Living. Through these magazines I receive my inspiration for my home. Halloween is my most favorite time of the year. I just love to decorate for it. These pictures are of the back part of my kitchen. My next challenge is going to be Thanksgiving - it is my holiday this year, and I have to do Martha Stewart proud. Stay Tuned!

Homecoming

2008-10-19T19:04:00.000-07:00

Well, I have made it through, Nic's first date; and his official highschool homecoming. I couldn't asked for more. He took a girl that he has known since grammer school, Tiffany. Her mother and I were best friends through out Nic's grammer school years. Then her mother became sick. Anna has since passed away, and I miss her very much. We always laughed at how we would like to become in-laws since; we got along so well. I remember seeing her in the hospital a couple of weeks before she died, she said "we better get these two together soon Patti, I am running out of time". Well, although they went to this dance as friends, I am sure that Anna was smiling down from above that night, and sending her blessing.

To Anna, I miss you my dear friend. You would have been proud. God bless you.

Rainy Days & Wednesdays always get me Down..

2008-10-15T11:08:00.000-07:00

Very dark, dreary and grim. Typical mid-October day..... On the bright side this is Nic's homecoming weekend - and his first dance - ever..... Yes, the panic is starting to set in. I so envy Nic. Having never gone to a dance myself - this is me knowing that I raised a confident young man. Now, if I could just cut that cord that ties us so very strong - I think I could be alright.

The Weekend

2008-10-10T07:44:00.001-07:00

I can't believe that is finally here. It comes out of nowhere like an old friend. My weekend is filled with things to do, football games to attend, housework, Church, cooking, and of course Chocolate Pumpkin Marble Pound Cake, which I hope to make this weekend. With the weather being in the 70's this is the best time of the year.

Just Another Day

2008-10-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

Today day was just an average day. Hurry up to get up, get Nic off to school, and of course get off to work. The only thing that makes this day palatable are the beautiful colors that are coming with the change of the season. I am totally missing last fall when I was able to go on a short trip with my parents to Amish country. God certainly paints magical pictures this time of year.

Peace

2008-10-02T17:31:00.000-07:00

Today was truly a crazy day. In order to end it on a good note, I am drawn to this picture I took this year in Maine.

It was taken of a far island that the woman, Margaret Hamilton; the wicked witch from the wizard of oz had lived for many years. She has since passed, but the island, like herself remains alone.

On to tomorrow, and; even though I am tired the joy of being able to put my feet on the ground and prepare for the day.

I Have Arrived

2008-09-28T18:25:00.000-07:00

This marks my first post on my blog. This blog is dedicated to my son, and my family. I hope this will be a way of expressing myself, and sharing my pictures and life with my family and friends.

Welcome to my "virtual" scrapbook.