This post is for April 21, 2011
MEMORY -
At the time of Pete's passing ..... so much was happening. Spiritually, mentally, emotionally .... all spectrum's were being tested. Although death sat upon our door step waiting ever so quietly .... life sat around us, on us and through us. In fact, I don't recall a time in my life where I felt so alive. So present, so "in the moment" than I did that evening. To feel the essence of life in the presence of death ..... how blessed we all were to share that feeling. I remember agreeing with my mom when she said "It's weird, I feel like a baby is about to be born" I then replied with "I know, I feel like there are two waiting rooms. One on this side with loved ones saying their goodbyes and then another group of loved ones on the "other side" waiting for him with open arms" The one time in my life, just for a moment did I want to be on the other side.
APPLICATION -
Sitting with a girlfriend on the beach, the day can't get anymore beautiful. The wind is softly blowing, the sun is brightly shining and the waves are calmly dancing. It really was the perfect day. I didn't think it could get much more perfect until we struck a topic in conversation that lit my heart.
We had landed on the subject of "life". I usually can't reflect upon life without reflecting upon death. Through death, I found a new side of life ..... thanks to Pete. I began to tell my friend about my last night with Uncle Pete. As the words eased off my tongue, I began to tear a bit in the eyes. Reliving that memory with Pete ..... it oddly felt comforting. Reliving such a god sent opportunity sparked a feeling within my heart that I unfortunately can't even put into words.
REFLECTION -
My urge to work with Hospice is growing stronger. Hopefully Mom and I will get our appointment to visit the Hospice House soon and receive a tour. I feel Pete has opened up a new door in my life and a new calling for sure.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Learning Italian - Day 207 of 365
This post is for April 21, 2011
REFLECTION -
It wasn't abnormal to catch Peter speaking bits of Italian throughout his day. He would make us all laugh, not by what he said, but by the conviction in his voice that was behind each word. He kept "Italian For Dummys" on his book shelf and listened to Italian tapes in the car. He was the most Italian member of our family. The language, the cooking, the love for Italy ....... no doubt, this man was proud of his heritage!
APPLICATION -
During a lengthy drive to South Florida, Erik and I decided to pop in a tape and learn some Italian. We have a family trip planned at the end of the year to visit Italy, so we thought it would be a good idea to learn what we can now! As the words poured from the tape onto our tongues, Pete came to mind. Memories of Pete walking around the house shouting Italian phrases formed a smile upon my heart.
REFLECTION -
I hope to learn what I can in Italian before our trip, keeping Pete in my heart every word of the way!
REFLECTION -
It wasn't abnormal to catch Peter speaking bits of Italian throughout his day. He would make us all laugh, not by what he said, but by the conviction in his voice that was behind each word. He kept "Italian For Dummys" on his book shelf and listened to Italian tapes in the car. He was the most Italian member of our family. The language, the cooking, the love for Italy ....... no doubt, this man was proud of his heritage!
APPLICATION -
During a lengthy drive to South Florida, Erik and I decided to pop in a tape and learn some Italian. We have a family trip planned at the end of the year to visit Italy, so we thought it would be a good idea to learn what we can now! As the words poured from the tape onto our tongues, Pete came to mind. Memories of Pete walking around the house shouting Italian phrases formed a smile upon my heart.
REFLECTION -
I hope to learn what I can in Italian before our trip, keeping Pete in my heart every word of the way!
"Uncle" - Day 206 of 365
This post is for April 20th, 2011
MEMORY -
Everyone has someone in their life that they will listen to and learn from. Sometimes we call them "teacher" or sometime we call them "friend". I called him "Uncle". He listened with an open heart and spoke with a loving tone. His words were honest and he was more "present" than most people I know. I miss him so much.
APPLICATION -
After teaching a day of lessons, it felt good to give back to others what Peter had given me so many times before. A good ear and an honest word.
REFLECTION -
Hard to believe Pete is gone. Hard to believe with all the people I speak to, he is the only one who fits the bill.
MEMORY -
Everyone has someone in their life that they will listen to and learn from. Sometimes we call them "teacher" or sometime we call them "friend". I called him "Uncle". He listened with an open heart and spoke with a loving tone. His words were honest and he was more "present" than most people I know. I miss him so much.
APPLICATION -
After teaching a day of lessons, it felt good to give back to others what Peter had given me so many times before. A good ear and an honest word.
REFLECTION -
Hard to believe Pete is gone. Hard to believe with all the people I speak to, he is the only one who fits the bill.
Back Injury ;-( Day 201 - Day 205 of 365
Sorry, no posts for April 15th-19th - Had a back injury that kept me on muscle relaxers for a few days. Sadly to say, I was sleeping most of the time ;-(
A Spirit Is Heard - Day 200 of 365
This post is fro April 14th, 2011
MEMORY -
Pete's voice …. It was a loving, happy-go-lucky kind of voice. One that was friendly and inviting. It varied in pitch with emotion and grew in volume with laughter.
APPLICATION -
As Dad and I sit together, waiting for Lucy's doctor to arrive with her yearly round of shots, he brought out his phone. He began to flip through old photos of Pete. He brought up the sound clip of Peter's voicemail. I've listened to this voicemail before, as it's surreal every time it's heard, however today ……. I felt something new.
It was a feeling I haven't felt before. I wasn't saddened, yet I was the complete opposite. I felt happy and blessed to know that we live in a world where technology can assist in the grieving process. The very technology that Pete was so fond of, was the same technology that we use to recall a memory of him, one I am so thankful to have recorded.
After the recording was played, I felt a burst of joy come alive in my heart. I knew it was Pete, speaking with the voice of his spirit. It
REFLECTION -
Although his voice is no longer spoken, much of his spirit is heard.
A Misplaced Heart - Day 199 of 365
This post is for April 13th, 2011 "A Misplaced Heart"
MEMORY -
I remember the day Mom and Dad presented me with my golden heart necklace. The heart that held my Uncle's ashes, the heart that held so much meaning.
APPLICATION -
As I rushed out the house today, I realized I wasn't wearing my gold heart. I walked into the bathroom where I normally keep it, and it wasn't there. My heart felt heavy as I began to panic. I have NEVER misplaced something that means so much to me. I began to pray. Within seconds I found the heart sitting on a dresser in my closet. I had taken it off the day before and placed it momentarily on the dresser. Shocked at myself that I would forget such a thing, I took the necklace and put it lovingly around my neck.
REFLECTION -
Sometimes, when life gets a little crazy, we forget the things that really mean something. Today, remember to slow down and appreciate the things in your life that have special meaning, Something as special as my necklace, doesn't deserve to be left forgotten upon a dresser.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
"60 and Sexy" - Day 198 of 365
This post is for April 12th, 2011
HAPPY BIRTHDAY UNCLE PETE!!!!!!!!!
MEMORY -
Upon many family celebrations, there was one that will forever go down in the books as the best party EVER! It was Pete's "60 and Sexy" SURPRISE Birthday Party. Mom and Dad had planned the biggest, most detailed event of all time! The theme of the day was Hollywood. We all played a part in the fun, Pete playing the most important ..... the sexy, rich and successful movie star, just one thing .... he didn't know it! LOL!!!
HIS ARRIVAL -
At the time Peter lived a few block away from us. Mom planned for a limo driver to pick him up at his house. Little did Pete know, he would only be riding in luxury for about 3 blocks! The Limo driver pulls up to a house with a red carpet in the drive way and tons of people standing around it! On a normal day, the people in the driveway were labeled as friends, but today they were paparazzi, groupies and media! Before Pete could get out of the car, the most "Pete obsessed" fan runs up to his side. He stands up out of the car with the most clueless of smiles upon his face. In a flattering manner, he signs his autograph for the fan (Jane, a good friend of the family) and continues his way to the red carpet. Amidst the camera flashes, and greedy fans wanting autographs, his body guard ( My husband dressed in a black suit and dark glasses) blocks the cameras and begins to guide him through the crowd. I remember hearing Pete in a playful tone asks my hubby " Okay, Erik what the hell is going on here? " Without leaving character, Erik responds with " Sir, we need to get you inside. NO PICTURES PLEASE!" Pete followed his way through the front door under a huge sign that says "60 and Sexy". The sound of classic movie tunes blast from the house. The smell of popcorn floats thru the kitchen. This was more than a birthday party, this was an event!!!!!!!
THE PICTURE SPOT -
As Pete took his seat in a borrowed directors chair, he noticed the people around him. Erik (his body guard) behind him, hands behind back holding a complete stoic facial expression the ENTIRE TIME. Jane ( the obsessed fan) sitting right next to him wearing a shirt with his picture on the front, trying to get his attention THE ENTIRE TIME. Me ( his personal waitress for the evening) asking him constantly "Anything I can get you Mr. DeLuca?" THE ENTIRE TIME Everyone wanted time with Pete. This was hilarious. Mom prepped everyone prior to the party with "act completely over the top, as if this was really a famous person!" Pete couldn't get a word out. After a good while of Pete posing for pictures, it came time for him to watch an important video
HAPPY BIRTHDAY VIDEO -
Mom and Dad arranged a video with all of Pete's friends who couldn't make the party, sending their Birthday wishes. It was a joy to watch Peters reaction to this, he was quite touched.
PRESENTATION OF AWARD -
My parents continued to go above and beyond for the party by paying a nice dollar to have a huge "academy award"inspired trophy made for Pete. They titled it "The Lifetime Achievement Award". Pete couldn't believe the extent everyone went to make him feel like a star. The award was totally over the top but worth every dollar.
PETE'S SPEECH -
Then it came time for the star's speech, acceptance speech I guess you could call it. Pete began to ease into his role by giving a short but sweet speech thanking everyone for coming to his debut party. He even graced us with live performances of his famous songs " Rip Your Face To shreds","Proper Operation", "Pralines" and "Im a Fiji Islander"
This was by far the most memorable birthday I had ever been apart of!
APPLICATION -
I took some time today to look at Pete's Lifetime Achievement Award. It stands tall next to his couch upstairs in my loft. Next to it is a picture of me and him from that day at the party. We are both holding up MY autographed copy of his picture. One of my happiest memories with him.
REFLECTION -
April 12th will forever be the day a star was born .... Happy Birthday Uncle Pete!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY UNCLE PETE!!!!!!!!!
MEMORY -
Upon many family celebrations, there was one that will forever go down in the books as the best party EVER! It was Pete's "60 and Sexy" SURPRISE Birthday Party. Mom and Dad had planned the biggest, most detailed event of all time! The theme of the day was Hollywood. We all played a part in the fun, Pete playing the most important ..... the sexy, rich and successful movie star, just one thing .... he didn't know it! LOL!!!
HIS ARRIVAL -
At the time Peter lived a few block away from us. Mom planned for a limo driver to pick him up at his house. Little did Pete know, he would only be riding in luxury for about 3 blocks! The Limo driver pulls up to a house with a red carpet in the drive way and tons of people standing around it! On a normal day, the people in the driveway were labeled as friends, but today they were paparazzi, groupies and media! Before Pete could get out of the car, the most "Pete obsessed" fan runs up to his side. He stands up out of the car with the most clueless of smiles upon his face. In a flattering manner, he signs his autograph for the fan (Jane, a good friend of the family) and continues his way to the red carpet. Amidst the camera flashes, and greedy fans wanting autographs, his body guard ( My husband dressed in a black suit and dark glasses) blocks the cameras and begins to guide him through the crowd. I remember hearing Pete in a playful tone asks my hubby " Okay, Erik what the hell is going on here? " Without leaving character, Erik responds with " Sir, we need to get you inside. NO PICTURES PLEASE!" Pete followed his way through the front door under a huge sign that says "60 and Sexy". The sound of classic movie tunes blast from the house. The smell of popcorn floats thru the kitchen. This was more than a birthday party, this was an event!!!!!!!
THE PICTURE SPOT -
As Pete took his seat in a borrowed directors chair, he noticed the people around him. Erik (his body guard) behind him, hands behind back holding a complete stoic facial expression the ENTIRE TIME. Jane ( the obsessed fan) sitting right next to him wearing a shirt with his picture on the front, trying to get his attention THE ENTIRE TIME. Me ( his personal waitress for the evening) asking him constantly "Anything I can get you Mr. DeLuca?" THE ENTIRE TIME Everyone wanted time with Pete. This was hilarious. Mom prepped everyone prior to the party with "act completely over the top, as if this was really a famous person!" Pete couldn't get a word out. After a good while of Pete posing for pictures, it came time for him to watch an important video
HAPPY BIRTHDAY VIDEO -
Mom and Dad arranged a video with all of Pete's friends who couldn't make the party, sending their Birthday wishes. It was a joy to watch Peters reaction to this, he was quite touched.
PRESENTATION OF AWARD -
My parents continued to go above and beyond for the party by paying a nice dollar to have a huge "academy award"inspired trophy made for Pete. They titled it "The Lifetime Achievement Award". Pete couldn't believe the extent everyone went to make him feel like a star. The award was totally over the top but worth every dollar.
PETE'S SPEECH -
Then it came time for the star's speech, acceptance speech I guess you could call it. Pete began to ease into his role by giving a short but sweet speech thanking everyone for coming to his debut party. He even graced us with live performances of his famous songs " Rip Your Face To shreds","Proper Operation", "Pralines" and "Im a Fiji Islander"
This was by far the most memorable birthday I had ever been apart of!
APPLICATION -
I took some time today to look at Pete's Lifetime Achievement Award. It stands tall next to his couch upstairs in my loft. Next to it is a picture of me and him from that day at the party. We are both holding up MY autographed copy of his picture. One of my happiest memories with him.
REFLECTION -
April 12th will forever be the day a star was born .... Happy Birthday Uncle Pete!
A Place Of Peace - Day 197 of 365
This post is for April 11th, 2011
MEMORY -
Moms scrapbook room. It had more meaning than any other place in the house. It was were memories were captured, cut, glued and preserved. Special moments had been reflected upon in this room, but one moment holds most special.
APPLICATION -
Leaving moms house tonight from a quick pit stop, I noticed she had hung Pete's collage on the wall next to the front door. I stood for a few moments enjoying the frame as if I had never seen it before. Each sticker bringing to thought a vivid memory of Pete. To my left was the scrapbook room. I flashed back to September of 2009, the month we said our goodbyes. Yes, the scrapbook room was the place where Pete left earth and joined the heavens above. Mom and I often say to each other while standing in the room " It all felt like a dream, you would have never known someone actually passed away here" The room never held that "weird" feeling we all thought it would have afterwards. The room actually held a new energy now. A loving warmth that it didn't seem to have before. I love being in that room now more than ever before. It was only appropriate to place Pete's picture on the wall that was connected to that room.
REFLECTION -
The scrapbook room will forever be a place of new life, both on paper and off.
MEMORY -
Moms scrapbook room. It had more meaning than any other place in the house. It was were memories were captured, cut, glued and preserved. Special moments had been reflected upon in this room, but one moment holds most special.
APPLICATION -
Leaving moms house tonight from a quick pit stop, I noticed she had hung Pete's collage on the wall next to the front door. I stood for a few moments enjoying the frame as if I had never seen it before. Each sticker bringing to thought a vivid memory of Pete. To my left was the scrapbook room. I flashed back to September of 2009, the month we said our goodbyes. Yes, the scrapbook room was the place where Pete left earth and joined the heavens above. Mom and I often say to each other while standing in the room " It all felt like a dream, you would have never known someone actually passed away here" The room never held that "weird" feeling we all thought it would have afterwards. The room actually held a new energy now. A loving warmth that it didn't seem to have before. I love being in that room now more than ever before. It was only appropriate to place Pete's picture on the wall that was connected to that room.
REFLECTION -
The scrapbook room will forever be a place of new life, both on paper and off.
One Up On Pete - Day 196 of 365
This post is for April 10th, 2011
MEMORY -
This is a funny one! Dad and Pete had a lifelong game of "Got Ya Back Last" It all began in their early years. One would smack the other then run the other direction yelling "Got Ya Back Last!!!!" This game of brotherly torment continued throughout the years, but there was one occasion that was most memorable.
Back in the day, airlines allowed friends and family to board the plane to say their goodbyes. Well, Pete was headed off to the Air Force and was one up on Dad in their game of "Got Ya Back Last". As Pete was getting comfortable in his row and belted into his seat, Dad comes running on board to the back of the plane. Before Pete could even see Dad, he gave a good slap and yelled "Got Ya Back Last". Before Pete could find his way out of his seat belt, Dad was gone off the plane and one up on Pete!!!!
APPLICATION -
Tonight, Dad introduced the game to my husband. As they began to slap each other silly, one trying to be faster than the other, Dad mentioned the airplane story. He also mentioned that Pete had to wait 6 months before he was able to get Dad back! It drove Pete crazy that he had to wait that long being the loser of the two!
REFLECTION -
Interesting how the elder of the family was the one to bring youthful energy to the household. Goes to show, age really is just a number. It was nice to hear Dad tell the story. It felt like Pete was there with us, delighting in the memory himself.
MEMORY -
This is a funny one! Dad and Pete had a lifelong game of "Got Ya Back Last" It all began in their early years. One would smack the other then run the other direction yelling "Got Ya Back Last!!!!" This game of brotherly torment continued throughout the years, but there was one occasion that was most memorable.
Back in the day, airlines allowed friends and family to board the plane to say their goodbyes. Well, Pete was headed off to the Air Force and was one up on Dad in their game of "Got Ya Back Last". As Pete was getting comfortable in his row and belted into his seat, Dad comes running on board to the back of the plane. Before Pete could even see Dad, he gave a good slap and yelled "Got Ya Back Last". Before Pete could find his way out of his seat belt, Dad was gone off the plane and one up on Pete!!!!
APPLICATION -
Tonight, Dad introduced the game to my husband. As they began to slap each other silly, one trying to be faster than the other, Dad mentioned the airplane story. He also mentioned that Pete had to wait 6 months before he was able to get Dad back! It drove Pete crazy that he had to wait that long being the loser of the two!
REFLECTION -
Interesting how the elder of the family was the one to bring youthful energy to the household. Goes to show, age really is just a number. It was nice to hear Dad tell the story. It felt like Pete was there with us, delighting in the memory himself.
New Idea - Pete Inspired - Day 195 of 365
This post is for April 9th, 2011
MEMORY -
Today, I reflect back on the many memories of Pete. What he liked, vacations we took, places he visited. Each detail being vivid and holding special meaning.
APPLICATION -
As mom and I finished our soup and salad at The Olive Garden, we began to collect new crafting ideas. Blessing Bouquets were fun to create but we wanted to go bigger, we wanted to create something of more value and meaning to the client. I glanced at a boring photo on the wall and our new product came into clear focus. A framed pictured surrounded by a mat, collaged with stickers and pictures of all the things that were meaningful to the client or the clients loved one. One glance at this frame and you knew everything there was to know about the person!
We paid for our check, and went straight to Joanne Fabrics. I purchased a matted frame and headed home. Originally I had bought a ton of high quality 3d stickers to create a scrapbook in tribute of Peter, but just never got around to it. I found my batch of stickers and got to work. Within no time I had created the perfect tribute to Pete all under one glassed frame.
I brought the frame over to my Dad, and he LOVED IT!!!! Each sticker represented something special about Pete's life, and his picture in the middle tied all of them together.
REFLECTION -
So happy it touched Dad, so happy I found a new venture .... I am sure Pete has something to do with this ;)
MEMORY -
Today, I reflect back on the many memories of Pete. What he liked, vacations we took, places he visited. Each detail being vivid and holding special meaning.
APPLICATION -
As mom and I finished our soup and salad at The Olive Garden, we began to collect new crafting ideas. Blessing Bouquets were fun to create but we wanted to go bigger, we wanted to create something of more value and meaning to the client. I glanced at a boring photo on the wall and our new product came into clear focus. A framed pictured surrounded by a mat, collaged with stickers and pictures of all the things that were meaningful to the client or the clients loved one. One glance at this frame and you knew everything there was to know about the person!
We paid for our check, and went straight to Joanne Fabrics. I purchased a matted frame and headed home. Originally I had bought a ton of high quality 3d stickers to create a scrapbook in tribute of Peter, but just never got around to it. I found my batch of stickers and got to work. Within no time I had created the perfect tribute to Pete all under one glassed frame.
I brought the frame over to my Dad, and he LOVED IT!!!! Each sticker represented something special about Pete's life, and his picture in the middle tied all of them together.
REFLECTION -
So happy it touched Dad, so happy I found a new venture .... I am sure Pete has something to do with this ;)
Monday, April 11, 2011
Under The Weather - Day 194 of 365
This post is for April 8th, 2011
MEMORY -
Being sick. When it came to having a cold, Pete was pretty dramatic. He would sneeze out loud, one that sounded throughout the house. After his "sneezing production" he would let out a sigh of relief, lay his head back and moan some more. If he was asked how he was doing "I no feely to good" was his answer.
APPLICATION -
Yup, you guessed it! Caught a nasty bug. Upon my mom checking up on me, I thought of Pete's 5 word answer. "I NO FEELY TO GOOD!"
REFLECTION -
Time to get meds!
MEMORY -
Being sick. When it came to having a cold, Pete was pretty dramatic. He would sneeze out loud, one that sounded throughout the house. After his "sneezing production" he would let out a sigh of relief, lay his head back and moan some more. If he was asked how he was doing "I no feely to good" was his answer.
APPLICATION -
Yup, you guessed it! Caught a nasty bug. Upon my mom checking up on me, I thought of Pete's 5 word answer. "I NO FEELY TO GOOD!"
REFLECTION -
Time to get meds!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Timeless Jokes - 193 of 365
This post is for April 7th, 2011
MEMORY -
Pete and his jokes. They were classic, yet not the classic ones you would normally hear. They were different and totally absurd. I almost want to think he made some of them up. He would get the biggest kick out of them afterwards. Almost convincing the person they were funny by laughing aloud and demonstrating how funny they really were. He was so silly
APPLICATION -
After one of my lessons, my student told a pretty "adult" joke. It brought me to tears it was so funny! I knew Pete would have just loved the play on words.
REFLECTION -
Jokes are timeless. Old or new .... they bring smiles to peoples faces and get the job done!
MEMORY -
Pete and his jokes. They were classic, yet not the classic ones you would normally hear. They were different and totally absurd. I almost want to think he made some of them up. He would get the biggest kick out of them afterwards. Almost convincing the person they were funny by laughing aloud and demonstrating how funny they really were. He was so silly
APPLICATION -
After one of my lessons, my student told a pretty "adult" joke. It brought me to tears it was so funny! I knew Pete would have just loved the play on words.
REFLECTION -
Jokes are timeless. Old or new .... they bring smiles to peoples faces and get the job done!
Wow - Day 192 of 365
This post if for April 6th, 2011
MEMORY -
Pete in my company.
APPLICATION -
Today, in between dance lessons ... I found Pete in my company
REFLECTION -
Out of THIS world, yet in MY company ..... wow...... amazing how he still finds his way into my heart!
MEMORY -
Pete in my company.
APPLICATION -
Today, in between dance lessons ... I found Pete in my company
REFLECTION -
Out of THIS world, yet in MY company ..... wow...... amazing how he still finds his way into my heart!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Nicknack Pete - Day 191 of 365
This post is for April 5th, 2011
MEMORY -
I can honestly say that Peter owned some cool little nicknacks. He collected a bunch of them throughout his travels. He had a collection of figurines, unique boxes and books. I remember as a child, I would play with the figurines and build my own little fantasy world. My favorite were the buffalo, the robot and the "thinking man"statue. As I grew older, the nicknacks received less and less attention. They collected dust and sat un moved for many years to come. I might have outgrown them, but each one still held great meaning to my Pete. I am sure my titling of "nicknacks" is an understatement, as for Peter they were tangible memories that did more than just collect dust, but they told stories.
APPLICATION-
Today was spent practicing at a student's house. I caught sight of a shelving unit that held a bunch of little clocks, each one different from the other. It made me think of Pete's collection of nicknacks.
REFLECTION-
It's not what the nicknacks do, it's the story behind them that matters. If you are in a special place and purchase a nicknack, don't hide it away. Leave it out to be seen. Good memories are most enjoyed when thought about often.
MEMORY -
I can honestly say that Peter owned some cool little nicknacks. He collected a bunch of them throughout his travels. He had a collection of figurines, unique boxes and books. I remember as a child, I would play with the figurines and build my own little fantasy world. My favorite were the buffalo, the robot and the "thinking man"statue. As I grew older, the nicknacks received less and less attention. They collected dust and sat un moved for many years to come. I might have outgrown them, but each one still held great meaning to my Pete. I am sure my titling of "nicknacks" is an understatement, as for Peter they were tangible memories that did more than just collect dust, but they told stories.
APPLICATION-
Today was spent practicing at a student's house. I caught sight of a shelving unit that held a bunch of little clocks, each one different from the other. It made me think of Pete's collection of nicknacks.
REFLECTION-
It's not what the nicknacks do, it's the story behind them that matters. If you are in a special place and purchase a nicknack, don't hide it away. Leave it out to be seen. Good memories are most enjoyed when thought about often.
Lazy Day - Day 190 of 365
This post is for April 4th, 2011
MEMORY -
Lazy days at Pete's house. A childhood memory, that stays alive in my heart today. Most of my summers were spent with Peter and Grandma. T.V all day and video games all night, all with my two favorite people!
APPLICATION -
Recovering from the hard weekend of work, I decided to take a "lazy day". I watched lots of television and caught up on some reading. When the clock hit 4:00pm, I felt a rush of guilt invade me. I thought to myself " I feel guilty to have waisted a day doing NOTHING!" My mind wandered for a moment as I got up from the couch. I walked over to the mirror and saw how peaceful my face looked. My skin look revived and my hair had unusual shine to it. My eyes were "dark circle" free and my spirit seemed to radiate from within them. I went back to the couch, picked up my book and began to read again. There was no reason to feel guilty, I had deserved a day off to let my body, mind and soul relax. Thinking I did nothing, I was totally wrong! I did so much good for my body and it all happened just by relaxing!
REFLECTION -
Life is only as demanding or relaxing as we make it.
MEMORY -
Lazy days at Pete's house. A childhood memory, that stays alive in my heart today. Most of my summers were spent with Peter and Grandma. T.V all day and video games all night, all with my two favorite people!
APPLICATION -
Recovering from the hard weekend of work, I decided to take a "lazy day". I watched lots of television and caught up on some reading. When the clock hit 4:00pm, I felt a rush of guilt invade me. I thought to myself " I feel guilty to have waisted a day doing NOTHING!" My mind wandered for a moment as I got up from the couch. I walked over to the mirror and saw how peaceful my face looked. My skin look revived and my hair had unusual shine to it. My eyes were "dark circle" free and my spirit seemed to radiate from within them. I went back to the couch, picked up my book and began to read again. There was no reason to feel guilty, I had deserved a day off to let my body, mind and soul relax. Thinking I did nothing, I was totally wrong! I did so much good for my body and it all happened just by relaxing!
REFLECTION -
Life is only as demanding or relaxing as we make it.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Sunday, Day Of Rest - Day 189 of 365
This post is for April 3rd, 2011
MEMORY -
Remembering Pete's amazing Sunday hospitality. They always say " Sunday is a day of rest". Sunday's with Peter were just that! He fed us, he entertained us ..... he took care of us. Then the food coma afterwards .... that was a total guilty pleasure. After cleaning up the table, I would get some shut eye on the couch among the full fed family.
APPLICATION -
Came home from a VERY busy weekend of work. I would do anything to come home to Uncle Peter's smile and his home cooked pasta dinner.
REFLECTION -
I don't think I've rested on a Sunday quite like I did when he was alive.
MEMORY -
Remembering Pete's amazing Sunday hospitality. They always say " Sunday is a day of rest". Sunday's with Peter were just that! He fed us, he entertained us ..... he took care of us. Then the food coma afterwards .... that was a total guilty pleasure. After cleaning up the table, I would get some shut eye on the couch among the full fed family.
APPLICATION -
Came home from a VERY busy weekend of work. I would do anything to come home to Uncle Peter's smile and his home cooked pasta dinner.
REFLECTION -
I don't think I've rested on a Sunday quite like I did when he was alive.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Anxiety - Day 188 of 365
This post is for April 2nd, 2011
MEMORY -
I remember the anxiety I experienced when Pete's death was nearing. I was out of town at a dance event and felt completely "out of the loop". I remember a conversation I had with mom about Pete's new Hospice arrangements at the house. I wanted to know everything that had to do with his last days. Since my anxiety was coming from fear of the unknown, I thought "being in the know" would help. After all .... knowledge is power, the more that I knew, the less I would fear. I was loaded with questions. Mom answered every one as best as she could, but I still felt a hole of emptiness fill my heart. I knew that my anxiety was coming NOT from the unknown, but the known. I knew he didn't have much longer and I knew I wasn't with him.
Mom called me the next day to tell me that Peter was showing signs of both weakness and restlessness. She then explained to me that he was waiting. Waiting for me to arrive home so he could let go.
I immediately called for an early flight back home. He passed not much longer after I landed and said goodbye. Anxiety of the mind seemed to be flushed away by the soul.
APPLICATION -
Today I experienced some "stage fright" anxiety. I usually perform on a leveled dance floor NOT a stage. I couldn't quite wrap my mind about being "on stage" which is funny considering it's where I grew up. It had been at least 10 years since I had performed on stage. Again, fear of the unknown was taking over. I took a deep breath and thought about my last moments with Pete. I realized my anxiety of stage fright was quite minor to what I had experienced in the past. I then felt a wave of peacefulness come over me, thankful for the opportunity to do what I love on stage.
REFLECTION -
Anxiety is a natural act of the mind, ease it with the natural light of the soul.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Life Of MY Party - Day 187 of 365
This post is for Friday, April 1st, 2011
MEMORY -
Peter was the life of HIS party. Pete seemed quiet and to himself when in a "party" atmosphere, but that was only to a spectators eye. When sitting next to him in conversation, you could sense he was having a party of his own. I remember hosting my first Christmas party in our apartment. While running around making sure everyone was having a good time, Pete motioned to me to sit beside him. I plopped down next to him and took a breath. He complimented me on the decorations and thanked me for inviting him. He even humored me and wore the reindeer antlers I gave him. He was perfectly happy sitting quietly with a beer on one side and me on the other. It was nice to leave my party for a while and join his.
APPLICATION -
I was able to seek out some down time at a local dance event this weekend to visit with some good friends. We went to the pool bar and toasted to us, the life of OUR party!
REFLECTION -
While waiting for the bill, a picture of Pete in his reindeer antlers popped into focus. I made a silent toast in my heart "Cheers to you Uncle Pete, the Life of MY party" took a sip and made my way to the pool.
MEMORY -
Peter was the life of HIS party. Pete seemed quiet and to himself when in a "party" atmosphere, but that was only to a spectators eye. When sitting next to him in conversation, you could sense he was having a party of his own. I remember hosting my first Christmas party in our apartment. While running around making sure everyone was having a good time, Pete motioned to me to sit beside him. I plopped down next to him and took a breath. He complimented me on the decorations and thanked me for inviting him. He even humored me and wore the reindeer antlers I gave him. He was perfectly happy sitting quietly with a beer on one side and me on the other. It was nice to leave my party for a while and join his.
APPLICATION -
I was able to seek out some down time at a local dance event this weekend to visit with some good friends. We went to the pool bar and toasted to us, the life of OUR party!
REFLECTION -
While waiting for the bill, a picture of Pete in his reindeer antlers popped into focus. I made a silent toast in my heart "Cheers to you Uncle Pete, the Life of MY party" took a sip and made my way to the pool.
"Checking In" - Day 186 of 365
This post is for March 31, 2011
MEMORY -
It wasn't out of the ordinary to get a "check in" phone call from Pete. He would say " My Dinkle Darling, I miss you! where are you? when will I see you?" ALWAYS in a funny dramatic voice of desperation. At the time I would just giggle it off, but today I would do anything to hear him say those words again.
APPLICATION -
A day of challenges and a day of questions. A day that I wish Pete could have made his usual "check in" phone call, a day I would have loved to hear that I was missed.
REFLECTION -
In my heart, I feel that Pete is still "checking in on me" just in a different light. It's probably more than I realize too.
MEMORY -
It wasn't out of the ordinary to get a "check in" phone call from Pete. He would say " My Dinkle Darling, I miss you! where are you? when will I see you?" ALWAYS in a funny dramatic voice of desperation. At the time I would just giggle it off, but today I would do anything to hear him say those words again.
APPLICATION -
A day of challenges and a day of questions. A day that I wish Pete could have made his usual "check in" phone call, a day I would have loved to hear that I was missed.
REFLECTION -
In my heart, I feel that Pete is still "checking in on me" just in a different light. It's probably more than I realize too.
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