My Angels

Merry Christmas, Ally (nearly 7) and Ava (2 1/2)

Yuletide Recap

Happy to say, Christmas Day was wonderful. For all you who may have doubted me, I DID get it all done!! AND I went to 10pm Mass on Christmas Eve - SO THERE!!

Christmas is different now that our children have grown. We did not rush to open gifts in the morning. I did not stress that their clothes were perfect as company started to arrive. I did not worry that they would be cranky as they did not get enough sleep.

We thoroughly enjoyed the whole day. We ate, drank, and laughed (sounds like a typical Sunday!) After the 'guests' went home, Mr.W. and I gathered with the kids and opened our gifts. This was the first Christmas our oldest son has been home in 6 years. This was a special Christmas for us.

I am glad that Mr. Wonderful and I still have the ability to continue to make Christmas magical for our kids....

One week to go

So:
the tree is up
the stockings are hung
the menu is planned
the cookies are scheduled

All that's left is the shopping for gifts!

The Ladies Club

I hosted a cocktail party last Sunday afternoon. JUST WOMEN. It started with just the Mah Jong girls but quickly grew to a group of 12. I decided we would have our "First Annual Holiday Party" just for the girls.

We had appetizers and desserts. Adult libations were available for all who desired them. We did a Grab Bag Swap and traded 'war' stories.

Something magical happened when this bunch of women got together. Some people knew everybody - some knew just a few. It didn't matter. We were all together for a purpose. We were doing something JUST FOR US. Our age range spanned over 30 years, but there were no age barriers. It didn't matter. Some were still working, some were retired. It didn't matter. Some celebrate Christmas, some celebrate Hanukkah. It didn't matter.

There will be lots of Christmas gatherings this season. I will always treasure the moments shared by this group of women.

The Mom Song

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMhuAtyFCrw

This sounds like every mom I know (including me!)

Mr. Postman, leave me a letter

Two of my granddaughter (not mentioning any names) will be receiving a letter from Santa telling them how proud he is of them for thinking about Guga and Papa all year long! The letter goes on and on telling them how they are getting nice gifts for Christmas and ends up with "Guga and Papa miss you and love you both so very much!"

I just wish I could see their faces when they get it!

Doggie Luvin'

It has taken a while - but it looks like Louie and Sammy have finally come to terms with one another. Sammy finally understands WHO is the Alpha Dog!

Bliss

Yesterday was our Wedding Anniversary. Mr. Wonderful and I have been married for 31 years. (Do the Math, I was a child bride by today's standards!)

He surprised me with some gifts - a towel warmer, so I can always have a hot towel when I get out of the shower, a toothbrush sanitizer for travel (I am a bit of a germ-a-phobe) and an infrared pain reliever for my sore neck. There was a time when I would have been expecting jewelry, but, seriously, after 30+ years - WHAT THE HELL IS LEFT FOR HIM TO BUY ME?? I think he was very thoughtful and sweet, as I proclaimed for the last 2 weeks that I did not want anything.

I bought him some chocolates.... (and a VERY expensive lens for his camera).

There is much to be said about growing old together. He is truly my best friend.

"Happy Anniversay, Honey. Love you always..."

Recipe

Thanksgiving Butternut Squash

So easy, but has a huge WOW factor:

Cube butternut squash (1" pieces). Toss in a bowl with some olive oil, salt and pepper.

Roast in a high oven (450) for about 25 minutes - you want the squash cooked through and have some carmelized edges.

Place roasted squash on a flat platter. Sprinkle crumbled blue cheese on top. Then scatter coarsely chopped honey glazed pecans on top of the cheese.

TA DA! - Nice combination of sweet, salty and crunch!

Thanksgiving Feast

I decided to print up a menu - (instead of scribbling a list on the back of a supermarket receipt) - it looks so elegant and it will help me not to forget anything.

Roast Turkey (entirely deboned and stuffed with cornbread dressing)
Spiral Sliced Smoked Ham
Grandma's Italian Stuffing
Yukon Gold Potatoes with Carmelized Leeks
Sweet Potato Casserole with mini Marshmallows
Spinach Pancakes
Cranberry Sauce
Broccoli Casserole
Roasted Butternut Squash w/ Crumbled Blue Cheese & Candied Pecans
Stuffed Artichokes

Hoping for some leftovers!!

I have many blessings to be thankful for. Happy Thanksgiving.

Doggie Implants?

Ok, we were having a lovely day. Everyone circling the kitchen while I prepare dinner - the boys chiding each other, etc.

A stray cat suddenly appeared at my kitchen sliding doors. Louie decides he will be the protector of all and makes a mad dash for the cat. He BOUNCED off the glass door with such a thud!!

Poor Louie lost 2 bottom teeth and the rest are still loose.

He was protecting me, right??

Guga's Blackberry

Little Michael must move out soon. He is the KING of Electronic Gadgets. Did I tell you he installed a theater surround-sound speaker system in my livingroom?? Now he is telling me I NEED a blue-ray DVD player!!

First he suggested I get an iPod, now a Blackberry! So, I can listen to books (music) anywhere and everywhere - that was my solitude, my peace - Now I have a Blackberry so they can FIND ME ANYWHERE AND EVERYWHERE!!

...and this is a good idea because????

3 Bones

Just finished Reba McEntire's "Comfort From a Country Quilt". The one thing I take with me from that book is:

You need 3 bones to get you through life: a backbone, a wishbone and a funny bone.

Nicely put, don't ya' think?

The Drapes

We have lived in this house for 4 years. For 4 years, I have been trying to find the time to make drapes for the sliding doors downstairs. I even bought the material!

This past Saturday, I gave in to retail and BOUGHT the drapes. The price was right - 5 panels - 84" long. I took out one panel and the guys measured where to install the rod (that had been purchased 4 years ago.) I then went upstairs to diligently iron all those panels - BLAH!!

All 5 panels are ready to go and I carry them downstairs to install - when I realize that 2 of the panels are 63" long!! PANIC!! QUICKLY, we fold up and repackage the 2 short panels and head back to the store (35 minutes away).

After fighting through the traffic and crowd (big sale going on) - I go through all the packages of drapes to FINALLY find the last 2 panels of the correct color. I make the even exchange and smile all the way home.

Back to the ironing board - ONLY TO FIND THAT THESE DRAPES ARE A DIFFERENT STYLE (tab top). - Needless to say, I was ridiculously angry!

Mr. W. then took me to a local store, where I bought all new drapes (at almost twice the price, but only needed 4 panels). The new drapes are all ironed and hung. The sale drapes are all folded and repackaged waiting to be returned. Wanna guess how long it takes for them to go back to the store???

Thought for the day

You don't become your own person until you stop blaming your parents for the person you are.

Guga's iPod

I have an iPod. No, it is not filled with 10,000 songs, although it has that capability. I do have some of my favorites on it(Phantom of the Opera, The Carpenters, Rod Stewart, Josh Grobin, Bette Midler, etc.) - and NO, I can't believe I actually admitted to owning these CD's!

I download books on my iPod and listen to them at the gym and in the car. This is the BEST toy I ever had. I love the anonymity it affords me at the gym. I am there to keep a healthy heart - not to make small talk with retired school teachers. I pop in my ear buds and continue on my merry way, sweating and listening to books.

When I have the actual time to place a book in my hands and read, I AM THERE. Whereas this does not take the place of my reading in any way, it does allow me to enjoy many authors as my actual reading time is so limited that I only read my favorite authors.

This was one of the nicest presents I ever bought for myself!

Fall Weekends

This truly in the nicest time of the year- no holidays, no birthdays - Sunday dinners with the kids because they WANT to be there.

On Saturday, everyone disappeared in different directions. Mr. W and I did dinner and a play (La Cage). We had a great time. #1 son did the Oyster Bay Festival with friends. #2 son did dinner and a movie.

On Sunday, Mr. W made a fire and I cooked all day and watched football with the gang. Seriously now, does that not sound like a perfect Sunday??

I am trying to make these easy weekends last.... All the stores are trying to remind me that the crazy Hoidays are approaching.... I am keeping serenity for as long as possible this year.

Another Chickie Packing

Number One Son is making plans to move out. Lock, stock and barrel, I hope!

Seriously, I know it is time for him to move back out, but I will miss him. It is different when they move BACK home. They are so grateful for the small things - a home cooked meal every night, a well stocked fridge, an available laundry room, playmates for his dog, etc. It was nice to be appreciated for a while.

When is he moving? Well, they are making PLANS for December 1. It could happen. It will be much quieter when they are gone...

We will miss them... at first...

Triple Filter

The Triple Filter Test
In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem. One day an acquaintance met the great philosopher and said, 'Socrates, do you know what I just heard about your friend?'
'Hold on a minute,' Socrates replied. 'Before telling me anything I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Triple Filter Test.'
'Triple filter?'
'That's right,' Socrates continued, '...before you talk to me about my friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and filter what you're going to say.
The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?'
'No,' the man said, 'actually I just heard about it and ..'
'All right,' said Socrates. 'So you don't really know if it's true or not. Now let's try the second filter, the filter of Goodness.
Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?'
'No, on the contrary ...'
'So,' Socrates continued, 'you want to tell me something bad about him, but you're not certain it's true. You may still pass the test though, because there's one filter left: the filter of Usefulness.
Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me?'
'No, not really...'
'Well,' concluded Socrates, 'if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?'
This is why Socrates was a great philosopher and held in such high esteem.

King Louie

I am devoting this entry to Louie. King Louie, as he has been known. Whereas we always had a dog (or two), they were always Mr. W.'s pets. Louie is MY dog. He lives for me! He patiently waits at the top of the steps for me to come home each day (he has fallen down the steps so many times that he does not attempt to go down anymore). He sleeps in our bed, usually under the covers. He is only 4 1/2 lbs. and he does not shed, therefore, he is even allowed to sit on my lap while I am in the living room on the new furniture!

He was the Alpha-Dog, the ruler of the roost UNTIL my rotten kids upset his apple cart. Oldest son comes home with Emma, a little pug. Emma is quite smart and full of energy (and can go up and down the stairs). She takes pleasure in torturing Louie all day long. She steals his toys then takes them half way down the steps and just sits there. She truly understands the spoken word (Louie, although a genius in my eyes, is really not the sharpest knife in the cutlery block!) Louie and Emma finally had come to terms with each other - Emma accepting Louie as the Alpha (and spoiled brat, at that!)

Then Number Two son purchases his English Bulldog (45 pounds and still counting). Sammy makes Louie seem like a Rhodes Scholar! Sammy and Emma can play all day long, fighting over toys, chasing each other. Louie just watches - FROM ATOP OF THE RECLINER! Occasionally, Louie gets on the floor and runs around the two of them and barks out orders - that neither pay attention to.

Poor Louie needs therapy now. He was once KING - he is now just a yapping pain in the ass - UNTIL I COME HOME.

He will always be King Louie to me!

How come?

I am struggling terribly to lose some weight. I watch what I eat and I have joined the gym. I even GO to the gym a couple times a week - and THAT hasn't helped the situation!! I have done Weight Watcher's in the past and while it DOES work for me, I cook for WAY TOO MANY people everynight to start preparing special meals for me.

Am I doomed to this "apple-shape" for the seond half of my life? When I pass a mirrror, I hardly recognize myself!

Any suggestions???

Perfect Sunday

Recipe for a perfect Sunday:

Church in the morning.

Followed by food shopping.

Come home to find helping hands to empty the car AND a fresh brewed pot of coffee.

Dinner up by 11:00am.

All the kids home to eat, watch football and laugh.

Mr. W. and I in bed by 9:00pm


Really now, does it get any better than that???

The Year so Far

Let's run down my year so far:
Begin the year with a wonderful vacation in Punta Cana with kids (down hill from here)
Mr. Wonderul gets pneumonia, is hospitalized and has surgery to remove part of his lung.
My Mother winds up in the hospital for 3 weeks in a catatonic state - the doctors can find no reason for it.
Mr. W. has shingles on his right side.
Mother comes to my house to recuperate for 7 weeks.
My Father passes away (in Florida).
Our Son(et.al.) moves back from Florida and moves in.
Our Daughter gets married (HIGH POINT!).
Bride breaks arm is out of work for 6 weeks!
Memorial Service for my Dad.
Annual Key West Trip (another High!)
Mr. W. has another case of pneumonia.
Mr. W. gets shingles on his left side.
Mother back in the hospital (blood pressure issues).

I can only wonder what God has in store for the last quarter of this year!

Key West Re-Cap

We were 10 people, different ages, different personalities - IT WAS GREAT!! There was some rain one night (when everyone else was having a hurricane scare) - but other than that - the weather was just perfect. It was like one long pajama party (with an occasional venture to the outside world). There were 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 3 kitchens, 2 pools - and PLENTY of adult libations to go around!

A relaxing plane ride to get there:



A typical morning:


Allison can make anyone laugh:



No trip is complete without seeing a Drag Show - Can you tell the boys from the girls?


Applications are being accepted for next year's trip - we are thinking about an all-inclusive, perhaps Cancun.

I can see clearly now...

Just a little tid bit - Guga does not wear glasses anymore. No, I did not succumb to lasik - I am wearing contacts!!

It took me a while to get used to NOT having something rest on the bridge of my nose. AND, it was so exciting to be able to read in the shower (which bottle is shampoo and which is conditioner).

The doctor is still experimenting with different prescriptions - but one thing is for sure - Guga ain't wearing glasses ever again!!

Update

To my faithful readers - sorry it has been so long...

I came home from Key West to find Mr. Wonderful with yet another case of pneumonia AND a SEVERE case of shingles. Needless to say, these situations occupied many of my waking hours.

Thankfully, his pneumonia seems to be gone and he is tolerating the pain from the shingles.

HOW MUCH CAN THIS MAN TAKE??? Please keep him in your prayers....

(Key West update coming soon)

Key West

Our annual trip to Key West is this Friday. There have been so many twists and turns in planning this trip!

Now that the drama is over - I can tell you the story. First of all, where we stayed last year (and subsequently booked for this year) had a fire and became unavailable to us (in July). This news had Allison going crazy until she could find something else in our price range - she found us a mansion about an hour away from Key West Airport. It was on the water, with a swimming pool and a guest house. We thought it was perfect - we would work out the logistics of getting there AFTER the contract was signed, sealed and delivered!

When the owner of the mansion finally sent me the contracts - I faxed them back ASAP and awaited further instructions. I finally got a phone call on Wed. 8/20 saying that he had rented it out to someone else - YIKES!!!

Allison and I scoured the Internet and poured our hearts out to anyone who would listen. We finally got an owner to take pity on us and rent us the "Grand Marshall" and after a little haggling (begging),he offered us the place at a MUCH reduced rate. This place has 6 bedrooms, and 2 pools. It is ONE mile from the airport and 2 blocks off Duval Street.

I guess it is true - God never closes a door without opening a window!

I wonder how many bathing suits and PJ's I can pack in a backpack??

Grandma's Birthday

My mom lives about an hour away. In an emergency, there is no thinking - I get in the car and go. Sad to say, but in normal times, that hour can seem like forever.

My mom's birthday was this past Saturday. We all took a trip to celebrate Grandma's birthday. We brought all the food and were prepared to have a nice lunch together.
There were 6 of us going - and with the ridiculous price of gas - we decided to go in one vehicle - so we proceeded to load up the Pathfinder.

Just as we were finished packing the car, Allison picks up a large insulated jug -"I have a surprise for you all!! I made an 'adult beverage' for us to have at lunch!" - (YOU GO, GIRL!!!)

Mr. Wonderful, hearing the squeals from the rest of us declared, "As I am the designated driver, why don't all of you pour yourselves "one for the road" and let's get moving! I have very obedient children - they all lined up and Allison poured them each a nice tall glass of Sangria! HERE WE COME, GRANDMA!!

Everyone was in a great mood by the time we got to Grandma's house. We had a nice lunch and the boys trimmed Grandma's hedges. We sat for a while and just visited - then we headed home - WITH THE INSULATED JUG!

Happy Birthday, Grandma. We had a wonderful time and made another great memory.

Full House

Allison came for a visit. Yes, the 'tornado' is in town! She finally left her impossibly long hour-ed job in the Keys and has decided to move on to a normal work environment (whatever that means). While we were in A.C., her brothers convinced her to take a trip up now, before she found a job. She was supposed to go home today, but we changed her ticket and she goes back next week.

It is nice having Allison around. She did all the laundry while I was at work. She does all the prep work for dinner. She makes special order cocktails at a moment's notice. AND she plays with Mr. W. while we are all at work. All in all, a wonderful thing! Too bad she has to go back to reality and start earning a living!

It has been MANY years since I've had 3 of my kids living under the same roof. I would be fibbing if I said I did not enjoy having them there. It is nicer having them here as adults than it was when they were teenagers!!

I know that they will eventually all move out, and move on. Until then, I will just continue to savor the moments...

AC Wrap-Up

We had a ball in AC. It was nice, just the two of us. We've been together for so many years, but we were only alone for the first couple minutes of our relationship! It is so nice to know that when (or should I say "IF") empty nest syndrome rolls around, we will be just fine!

The first night, we went to Morton's for a top-notch steak dinner. Boy, was that good! The food and the service were superlative! (not to mention ridiculously pricey!) Afterwards, we walked along the Boardwalk prior to proceeding to the casino. When I could not keep my eyes open any longer, I retired to the room and left Mr. Wonderful to do the magic that he does. After some time, he emerged in our room, waking me up while waving his voucher. We decided to pack it away and cash it just before leaving to go home, thus assuring we would go home with money in our pockets!

The next two days, we ate, slept, shopped, gambled, etc. On the last day, we finally cashed that voucher and headed on home. Mr. W. was thrilled to be driving his new vehicle (which arrived just one day before we left home). His new Ford Edge Ltd. (with the panoramic roof) proved to be a comfortable ride.

I think I know what the secret of longevity in a relationship is - ALWAYS be considerate of each other and NEVER take each other for granted. Consideration and appreciation go a LONG way in sustaining happiness!

The Longest Celebration

We started celebrating Mr. Wonderful's birthday very early this year. Michelle invited us over for a Sunday BBQ. I offered to bring homemade cole slaw and a chopped salad. I went to the store on Saturday in seach of a nice bowl to present my salad and later give to Michelle as a gift.

Saturday night and Sunday morning were filled with terrible thunder storms. Michelle called early Sunday to say she had no electricity. No problem, MOVE THE PARTY TO OUR HOUSE!

We had the best day. Michelle brought her goodies, I made some extra goodies and we ate, drank and laughed all afternoon - (Notice a pattern emerging whenever we are all together?) The two sons were up to their usual antics... those boys never cease to make me laugh. Those kids tease each other mercilessly, but the bond between them is so strong, so evident... Everyone pitched in to make the day go smoothly.

I told Michelle I bought the salad bowl for her - but she suggeseted I keep it until the next time we all gather at her house - then I can bring it to her!! [I REALLY like the bowl, she may NEVER get it now!!]

When we sang to Mr. Wonderful and waited for him to blow out the candles I was carefully studying his face. I know his wish had nothing to do with himself - it was all about his family. He is not a great conversationalist, he is quiet in a crowd - but when we are alone, I hear his heart speak in LOUD tones when it concerns our kids... I am blessed to have this man at my side.

Mr. W.'s birthday is next week. I am taking him on a short get-away to Atlantic City. He deserves it. He so enjoys having his kids around, but it will be nice to spend some time alone together.

Imagine the conversation...

This is one of my most favorite pictures from Michelle's wedding...

Papa and Ally.... I can almost hear their voices...

The Memorial

This weekend we had a Memorial Service for my Dad. He lived most of his life in NY and only moved to Florida for the last 17 years. Although he is laid to rest in Florida - this is his real home.

There were over 40 people who came to honor my Dad; long lost relatives and new close friends. The services were held at my parish Church. Although I have been living here for 4 years and attending this church, I never 'registered' with the parish until now. The priest did an extraordinary job of eulogizing my father during his homily. He called me several times prior to the service to discuss my dad's life, as he wanted to try to get to know him before speaking about him. Two of the grandsons did readings in Church and my brother, sister and I presented the gifts. At that time, the priest invited the 3 of us on to the altar for a special blessing -it was all so moving...

After Church we all went to a local restaurant where we sat for 5 hours - eating, sipping wine and reminiscing about my Dad. My nephew, Adam, gave a short speech about my Dad exemplifying the humor in my Dad's life - that man was funny up until the end! Adele (Wendy's mom)read something from the Old Testament stating "Life is a journey, death a destination". We passed around a picture album of my Dad with pictures of him throughout the years. My brother remembered to bring a copy of my Dad's patent - YES, he was awarded a patent - MY DAD WAS AN INVENTOR!! - only a handful of people knew that about him. It was great to share that about him. After the restaurant, the immediate family (about 15) came back to my house and continued to "embrace the moment" until the wee hours.

My children are a great example of what my Dad stood for. He embraced life and family - I saw that in my children this weekend more than ever. They embraced each other - they catered to their Dad and I. I was so proud of them.... My Dad was so proud of them...

They Never Grow Up

I recently took a ride with my 2 sons (age: 23 and 25). BEFORE we left the house, the following conversation took place:

"SHOTGUN!"

"You can't call 'shotgun' until the car is in view!"

"What are you talking about - you can call 'shotgun' with a text message if you want to!"

...and I thought to myself... this is going to be a long ride!...

Newest Family Member

My youngest son has chosen to add a member to our family. I guess he thought that Louie needed a playmate - as if Blind Cat and Emma (other son's dog) were not enough! We now welcome "Sammy"

Father's Day Gift

This is the fountain that the men in the house bought and installed for me for Father's Day!

Yes, those are lights in there.

Yes, it does look strangely like a bunch of bowls to feed stray cats!!

Father's Day

This Sunday is Father's Day. With the loss of both our Fathers, Mr. Wonderful is the star attraction. Being the humble man he is, he said, "Let's not make a big deal out of Father's Day this year." Yeah, ok, like THAT's going to happen!

I am hosting a BBQ with extended family. Mr. Wonderful will make sure the yard is presentable and follow me around the kitchen the previous day to help clean up after me while I cook. He will do all the cooking on the BBQ and make sure everyone is comfortable. He will put very little on his plate - making sure that everyone else has enough food (and there is always tons of leftovers!) He will quietly open his cards and shyly open his gifts. He is not a "Father's Day" kind of person.

Last Sunday, I made dinner for the kids. There were just 8 of us (it was ridiculously hot so I cooked indoors). We laughed and ate and talked. The kids teased each other relentlessly. All the boys cleaned the kitchen after dinner so I could relax with Michelle. We gathered around the table once again for dessert and we just enjoyed each other's company once more. THIS was Father's Day for Mr. Wonderful. No gifts, no fanfare - just sitting with his kids and laughing.

He is a special man. I am glad he is all mine.

Aging, happily

sent to me in an email... edited to pertain to me

I am now, probably for the first time in my life, the person I have always wanted to be. Oh, not my body! I sometime despair over my body, the expanding middle, the baggy eyes, and the sagging chest. And often I am taken aback by that old person that lives in my mirror (who looks like my grandmother!), but I don't agonize over those things for long.

I would never trade my Mr. Wonderful, crazy kids, amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly. As I've aged, I've become more kind and less critical of myself. I've become my own friend.

I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly plastic gnome that I didn't need, but looks so avante garde in my front garden. I am entitled to a treat, to be messy, to be extravagant.

I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.

Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 AM and sleep until noon?

I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60&70's. I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set .
They, too, will get old.

I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I eventually remember the important things.

Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.

I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face. So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver.

As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've even earned the right to be wrong.

So, to answer your question, I like growing old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day. (If I feel like it)

Priorities

We are in the process of making preparations for my Dad's Memorial Service. He was laid to rest in Florida, but he lived MOST of his life in New York. We have notified family and friends of the date and are awaiting responses.

I believe that attending a person's wake/funeral is the greatest favor you can do for that person because it is the only favor that can never be re-paid. I always go out of my way to attend the wakes and funerals of loved ones and their families. I am a busy person, there is always something that I have to do - BUT, some things can wait, some things cannot.

You only have one chance to pay your last respects - most other things can wait...

Romancing the Stone

This past weekend was a blur as I was host to a kidney stone taking a trip through my urinary tract. I am hoping it had a one-way ticket!!! I swear I could track its movement all weekend - right up to the last leg. I am not sure if it is gone, or it has merely taken up residence in a comfortable retreat only to start a new trek at another time.... such drama...

The Summer can now begin

We went to the outlets last weekend. My previous experience has taught me that there is no better time to shop there than on a Holiday weekend. While everyone was out at the Hamptons, etc. we were scooping up all the bargains the outlets had to offer.

I have come to realize that the older I get, the more frivolous my purchases become. I actually went to the outlets for the sole purpose of buying a "Summer" Coach pocketbook! When the hell did I get so "label" conscious??? I had a hard time deciding which to buy - the smaller bag to use on weekends, or the large one that I would use on workdays. Thank goodness Mr. Wonderful was there to help me decide. He decided that the 40% discount (OFF the reduced ticketed price) was reason enough to buy both if them! You gotta love the way that guy thinks!

I wonder where we can shop this weekend??

The Girl's Weekend

We have booked our annual Labor Day Weekend Trek to Key West. There are 9 of us "definite" - and 1 "maybe". We have rented 2 cottages, side by side. I have a feeling this is going to be the best year ever!

I think it should be mandatory that women get away once a year - ONLY WITH OTHER WOMEN! No stress, no worries...

I, for one, am only packing PJ's and bathing suits!

The Bride is Broken

Got a call from Michelle yesterday afternoon. I knew from her tone that the news was not good. She tripped UP the stairs (she is definitely my kid) while doing laundry and she was in the Emergency Room. She broke her arm in 2 places. She will be in a cast for 6-8 weeks - DID I MENTION SHE IS A HAIRDRESSER????

We have certainly had our share of medical mishaps this year. I am hoping we are done for a while.

Some Wedding Pix

This was the BEST Mother's Day EVER!! It was good to have all my kids together for a happy occasion.

The Beaming Bride and Groom


The Proud Parents

Vet, part 2A

We decided to wait before beginning the rabies series. Animal Control has picked up the "biter" and will advise if he shows any signs of rabies. Mr. Wonderful got his tetanus shot and a prescription of antibiotics. I hope his shenanigans is over - ALLISON ARRIVES TODAY and it is her turn in the spotlight!

A Vet, He's Not, part 2

Mr. Wonderful is a kind soul who is a lover of all animals. He feeds the birds, the squirrels and any stray cat that happens to visit our yard (along with the raccoons and possums!). After being berated by our beloved neighbors (and me) he has finally taken the steps necessary to neuter the aforementioned cats.

One cat was successfully caught and neutered last week. Easy. Yesterday he caught 2 more and took them to the vet this morning. He set the trap again today in the hopes of catching 2 more for tomorrow. He caught one, who was not too happy. She proceeded to put a bite on Mr. Wonderful's hand! His first thought was to take the cat to the vet to see if it had rabies - I INSTRUCTED him to call our doctor immediately.

Per the doctor's orders, he is now on his way to the emergency room...

Did I mention our daughter is getting married on Sunday?????

Tradition

Michelle's wedding is next Sunday. I am so grateful that my sweet daughter has kept me in the dark about all the "bumps" in the road that she encountered while planning this event. She has only shared with me the GOOD things.

I have her dress hanging in my house - the something "new". I am lending her the bracelet her father bought me this past Christmas - the something "borrowed". All that was left was the "old" and the "blue". Being the crafty genius that I am, I came up with the perfect solution. I took out my wedding gown which has been carefully preserved all these years (HA HA!) - unzipped the garment bag and cut off a piece of the dress. I wrote just a couple words to Michelle on it and signed my name. Out came the trusty sewing kit and there I was embroidering all the script with light blue thread. Today, I will sew this to the inside lining of her wedding dress - the something "old" and the something "blue". - I think I may have come up with a new family tradition.....

The Final Good-Bye

We laid my Dad to rest this week. There was a sweet sorrow in the air. My Dad is now free from his demons (Alzheimer's) - he is whole once again. My Dad had been deteriorating for years. That which made him "Louie" was long gone - both mentally and physically. I think I mourned him years ago when the sparkle had left his eye - but this was different.

We instructed the Funeral Director to make sure he was fully shaven (he had been sporting a goatee for a couple years - DEFINITELY out of character for him), and my Dad had filled up with fluid just prior to his death. Seeing him for the final time, he looked like the "Old Louie" - his face was nicely plump, he had a little "Louie" smirk and he was impeccably dressed. Seeing him like that made it very difficult to say the final good-bye. He looked so good, so whole. God is good - He made sure we all had a pleasant last memory of my Dad.

The night before Dad's funeral, we (the whole family) were all together at my sister's house. The Grandchildren eulogized him in a way that only they could - with happy memories and funny stories. We laughed and cried and huddled together 'til the wee hours. I am sure my father was there, listening and laughing with us. To all who knew him, the man was QUITE the character.

The weather was absolutely perfect for his funeral. My Dad could not tolerate the cold weather for years - which is why we made the decision to leave him in Florida. His grandsons were proud pallbearers, and their hands were the last ones to touch his casket as he was laid to rest. [My Number One son was a perfect fit for my Dad's clothes (5' 11", 125 lbs) - he was dressed head to toe in his grandfather's attire.] My daughter never left my side (Mr. Wonderful was not allowed to fly per doctor's orders - too soon after his lung surgery). I am sure my Dad was looking down, so proud to see what fine adults his grandchildren had become.

My brother, sister and I gave careful thought as to what we would put on his headstone. It didn't take us too long to come up with, "Beloved Father and Grandfather" - but we wanted to add something else, something that was unique to my Dad. My Dad LIVED life, he was happy, he was always whistling and smiling. The final line on his headstone is the phrase that he repeated so often to us all... "Life Is Good".

Good-bye, Daddy. I will miss you more than you will ever know...

Act II

It has been over 5 weeks since my mother came to our house to recuperate. She has made the decision to go home this Saturday. I never thought I would say this out loud, but I think we are going to miss her. Louie has found a lap that is willing to accept him all day long. Mr. W. has someone around to offer him coffee and something to eat all day long. Bobby has someone who is willing to make him an afternoon snack when he returns from work - and I have a built in answering service.

She is clearly ready to go home and give it a go - but we let her know that "the door DOES swing both ways" at our home. I have seen my mother in a different light these past couple months. She is not the strong willed, independent person she used to be. She has developed into a somewhat frail, insecure senior citizen. I guess we all have come to realize that Grandma ain't getting any younger -

I have promised to drive out to Guam (my pet-name for her residence that is 70 miles away) at least once each weekend. I think she will be fine at her home at least until the Winter sets in - that's when all the snow-birds retreat to Florida. I assured her she can come and spend the dreary months of Winter with us.

I guess I am truly a member of the "sandwich" generation. Just my luck: too young to be a baby boomer and too old to be a yuppy!

Oops, did I forget to mention that #1 son is moving back from Florida next week.... and staying with us until he and his significant other can find suitable jobs and a residence???

No Fashion Police Necessary

After being berated and belittled for going to the boutique too close to the wedding date, the nice saleslady took pity on me when she found out I had to wear pink! She then led me into the 'special room' (i.e. dresses cost twice as much here) and proceeded to pull out every pink dress in the room and push me into a dressing room with a pile of dresses like you wouldn't believe!

I stood for a while staring at the walls just covered with every shade of pink imaginable. Some were covered in lace, some looked like coffin lining. Some were just awful shades of pink. BUT, hidden behind all the hideous dresses was the perfect dress. It is the perfect color - not too pink, not too mauve, not too anything. Of course, they only carry one size and I must bring it back in 2 weeks to pay an exorbitant amount for alterations - BUT WHO CARES! I WILL NOT LOOK LIKE A GIANT BALOGNA WALKING DOWN THE AISLE!!

The vacation photos

This is what we loook like when we pose for a picture:



This is what we look like AFTER the picture is taken!

Gotta find a dress!!!

Michelle's wedding is just 9 weeks away and I have not been to one store to find a dress!! She came by last night to update us on all the plans and when I told her I would start looking soon she looked at me and said, "YOU'RE KILLING ME, YA KNOW??" I promised to hit the boutiques this weekend. Did I mention it has to be pink? Can you picture a giant baloney walking down the aisle? a wad of cotton candy?

I have done lots of penance this year. I am hoping that the gods of fashion will smile down upon me and let me find someting that makes me look 6 feet tall and 120lbs! (I'd settle for 5' 10" and 130 lbs!)

Everybody's Knight

To my faithful readers who do not know, my mom was recently released from the hospital too weak to be sent home. Her choices were rehab or my house. I chose my house. True, I work full time. But, in my heart, I knew she would get better care at my house than in the best of rehabs anywhere.

This is where the Knight comes in. Mr. Wonderful, still recuperating from his disasterous illness, has the responsibility of overseeing his mother-in-law's care while I am at work. Granted, they are both late sleepers (could easily sleep 'til 11 or 12) and I do get home by 4:15 - but none the less - he is in charge until I get home. I don't know too many men who would take on this responsibility when they are feeling 100% - my Mr. Wonderful did not bat an eye when the question came up as she was to be released. "Of course she will come here."

My only fear... he will make it too comfortable and she will never want to leave!

Date Night

I remember when Date Night was actually held after dark! Mr. Wonderful and I ventured out to Broadway on Sunday to see the matinee performance of Jersey Boys. The 4 Seasons was my favorite group from the 60's - I even had an 8-track with their hits. The show was fabulous, the theater was great - not too big and the acoustics were wonderful. I happily sang along to all the songs -

After the show, we couldn't drive fast enough out of the city to the comforts of Long Island. Mr. W. was just not up to fighting the theater crowd to venture into a restaurant without having reservations. Hey, I was glad he felt strong enough just to go to the show. We ate at a restaurant close to home and hurried home to put on our pajamas - all in all, a perfect date for an old married couple!

Different Drug Problem

I just loved this article...

Why He's Mr. Wonderful

Not exactly sure how he pulled it off - but my Valentine's gift was 2 tickets to Jersey Boys (on Broadway) for Sunday, March 9. (He and Allison worked it out while he was in the hospital.) - I gave him a REALLY nice card - that's about even, right?

I will give him lots of TLC to make sure he is ready for our big date!

Punta Cana 08

Here are just a couple pix for now. Hoping to retrieve some others from my kids' cameras.

On the Road

It has been a nightmare, but at least we woke up and it is nearly over. I came home from work 2 weeks ago and Mr. W. was incoherent. He was sitting on the edge of the bed and he could not answer my questions. I dressed him and took him to the emergency room (thank goodness we live on Long Island, the Land of Nail Salons and Hospitals). We went to a different hospital this time.

After pulling some strings (thank you dear friend and neighbor), we were seen by the head of the Emergency Room immediately. Mr. W. was diagnosed with severe pneumonia, complete pleural effusion and a collapsed lung. He was not getting any oxygen to his brain! The surgeon inserted a chest tube that night and the next morning he was rushed into surgery to clean out the inside of his lung and his whole chest cavity. They also had to remove a portion of his lung that was infiltrated with dead tissue. He came out of surgery on a respirator and with 2 chest tubes. The surgeon told me he would be in the hospital for 3 weeks.

3 WEEKS??? NO WAY! I stayed by his side, day and night. I was his caretaker, his advocate and his mouthpiece. I am happy to say we were out of the hopital in 8 days. He still has a lot of pain and he is still very weak, but he will definitely recuperate better at home.

Thank you for all your prayers. Thank you to my kids who pulled together in a way I never thought imaginable. Thank you, God, for a wonderful outcome.

I'm Worried

I know it has been a long time since I posted. Mr. Wonderful is sick and I seem to move at a different speed when he is ill. He went on vacation not feeling well complaining of a severe pain on his right side (in the rib cage area). He was miserable while we were away and when we came home, he wound up in the hospital for a couple days. After a Chest X-Ray, CT Scan, MRI, and tons of blood work, they released him saying it was pneumonia.

It has been 3 weeks since this pain started and he is getting worse. We are going back to the Pulmonologist today. His chest is starting to rattle when he breathes. I thought medicine made huge advances. Why is it that Mr. W. has to be in such pain and they can't fix it?? They have told us all the things that he does NOT have!

Time to ask for prayers. I have little faith in doctors (they are just regular people who wracked up lots of student loans with the thought of being rich one day). I have lots of faith in prayer.

He's Still Packing

We leave Friday morning. I packed on Sunday - after the Giants game. It took a total of 15 minutes. Mr. Wonderful has been gathering items for a week and he still has not put one item in his suitcase. We do, however, have one of every OTC medication that CVS sells ready to go!!

Wendy (SIL) picked up Louie this evening. He was so happy to get into her car, until he realized that I was not getting in with him. He looked so sad as he leaned up against the passenger window looking at me as she drove away. I am sure he will have a good time. I packed his bed, his leash, 2 sweaters, his food, his dish, his favorite toys and a T-shirt of mine (that I slept in for a week) in order for him to be comfortable while he is away. It will be like sleep-away camp! .... Who's kidding who? ... HE'S GONNA BE MISERABLE! I am grateful that Wendy took him, as I did not want to board him in a kennel somewhere. We have had animals our entire married life - this is the first time I have ever had to "send one away for a week."

Back to Mr. Wonderful. I see he also has a supply of midnight snacks (3 musketeers and such). I am thinking that he will be foregoing some sleep on Thursday night in order to figure out how to fit some clothes in his suitcase after he puts in all the other crap! I love this guy, he is all mine... Airport transportation will be picking us all up Friday at 5:30am. I figure he should finish packing by 5:31!

Sharing Good News

Upon hearing of a new pregnancy, I was brought back to the day Ally told us about Ava. We, of course, already knew of the upcoming arrival, but Ally was accompanying her parents to a sonogram appointment where they would tell Ally that her mom was having a baby and also find out the sex.

Afterwards, she came to our house and said, "Guga, Papa, I have wonderful news." She then sat us on the couch and made us hold hands. She stood before us and announced, "Mommy is having a baby and it is going to be a girl!!" We hugged and kissed and danced around like a bunch of nuts.

What a wonderful moment for all of us....

Keeping my fingers crossed and the prayer beads busy for all the moms-to-be out there....

but who's counting?

All the annual Christmas decorations have been whisked away. Everything is stored neatly in the attic awaiting next year's command performance.

Why the rush, you may ask. We are leaving in 9 days for a MUCH anticipated trip to Punta Cana with family and friends. This year, as sad as it seems, we were rushing through Christmas just to get to this vacation! We did it last year with 8 and this year we attempted to double that number - I wonder what next year will bring? - BUT I AM NOT RUSHING THINGS...

I am starting to prep myself for 'vacation mode'. Slow, easy days. No alarm clock, no cell phone. I am bringing 2 novels (Patteron's newest).

9 more days... Mah Jong tonight, dinner at Michelle's tomorrow, before you know it the weekend will be here...

9 more days... Have to start packing - stop the mail, stop the newspapers

9 more days... MUST GET RID OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE THAT IS STILL IN THE MIDDLE OF THE LIVINGROOM!

9 more days...