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.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Imagine the conversation...
This is one of my most favorite pictures from Michelle's wedding...
Papa and Ally.... I can almost hear their voices...
Papa and Ally.... I can almost hear their voices...
Monday, July 14, 2008
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...
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...
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