My Life . . .

fam·i·ly [fam-uh-lee, fam-lee]

2011-06-06T14:06:00.013-04:00

(noun) a basic social unit consisting of parents and their children, considered as a group, whether dwelling together or not: the traditional family.

We all take family for granted. We've all been guilty of "Ugh! I've got to spend Sunday with my family, can't wait to get it over with!" We'd rather be with friends doing something; or going on vacation; etc. Well, I think as we get older, we realize, we should cherish every moment we have, before it's all gone.

Our family are the only people that we can really depend on. They were there while growing up. They were the ones that went right through that awkward stage with us! They are the ones that we have laughed the most with and the ones that we have cried the most with. They are the ones we have the inside jokes with. Our families are the ones that are in most of our life memories and if one of them passes, it is these memories that we try so hard to refresh, to hold onto!

Our parents, all though we don't want to think about it, in the back of our minds, we always know, they won't be around forever. It's still hard losing a parent. I can honestly say, I believe it took me 10 years to get over my Mother's passing. By "getting over" I mean being able to function as a complete human again. There was a big gnawing hole in the pit of my stomach that took a long time to heal to the point it was bearable. Again, though, our parents we (sort of) expect.

The passing of my sister Francine has hit us all hard. She's one of "us". We're supposed to live for many, many more years. There was always the "three" of us . . . the three girls. I have a hard time accepting that isn't the case anymore, I can't wrap my mind around the fact that my older sister is no longer around. She was the "older" sister. She was the one that was born "old". She was the one that paved the way with the parents and grandparents that made it much easier for those that followed.

We recently gathered for Francine's 40 Day Memorial, even that seemed surreal . . . how are we having a 40 Day Memorial for my older sister Francine? All my cousins (except Phillip) came to VA. It took a terrible tragedy like this to bring us all together again. There we were, cousins, back being kids again enjoying just being together. The laughs were a plenty that weekend. The whole time, I kept seeing the twinkle of my sister's eye; I kept thinking how much she would have enjoyed the time we were having. I, also, kept thinking how proud she would have been of the beautiful spread Stefanie, Maria, and Eddie had all worked so hard on, and, especially, how proud she would have been of Maria's Koliva (no koliva for you!!). Francine was SO proud of her "girls", Maria and Stefanie. She was even more proud of her grandchildren, Jimmy and Zoe . . . the room lit up when they entered, according to Francine (and rightfully so!!).

So, I know this is the evolution of man; the evolution of family . . . but it doesn't mean I have to like it!!!

I miss my older sister; I miss the fact that I can't just talk to her whenever I want. We shouldn't take family for granted. They may be pains in the butts (at times), but they are our pains in the butt!! We need to cherish them always, for we never know when they will be taken away.

Beauty School Drop-out . . .

2011-05-25T15:59:00.009-04:00

OK, it's been awhile . . . . a l-o-n-g while since I have posted anything. My niece Alexis puts us all to shame, but we love keeping up with the Dilullo gang and being updated while we wait for the "big arrival"! Can't make any promises, other than to say, I'll see how it goes in the future upcoming months . . . maybe Alexis will inspire me as she did in the beginning.

Well, for now, I have something to share, it will probably make most of you laugh, but I think it's neat . . .

I enjoy getting pedicures, actually I enjoy the result . . . much better looking feet! I have never been a real foot fan, the least of all my own!! I "lovingly" refer to my feet at "shoe box" feet. They are rectangles of foot and squared off toes. I have never had the prettiest of feet. Never the "dainty", pretty, perfectly shaped feet of a model, or even a girl, as far as I'm concerned!! YUP, just squared off rectangles!! And, as those of us who are aging have realized, they don't get better with age!!! Ergo, the pedicures!! At least some regular maintenance and polish make the whole foot thing easier to swallow (or at least look at!).

Now, like most of us, I gave in and was frequenting one of the "Asian" owned nail salons. Let's face it, who's got the time or the money to "pamper" themselves with an American owned actual salon pedicure? So, I became a regular of the "Asian" owned salon. You know what it's like . . . you walk in, the place stinks of chemicals, they're all wearing masks, but we just breathe! Dusty cluttered nail stations and the pedicure stations with the "massage" chairs, that the remote is always set on some kidney busting "pulsating" action. You walk in and you are told right away "pic cola" "pic cola" as you are directed to sit in a chair. Now the direction is all in some universal "nail salon" sign language, because they don't speak English and Vietnamese wasn't one of the language choices to learn when we went to school. Now you've "picd yo cola" and you are sitting in the massage (?) chair. All through the pedicure you are being gently nudged on your legs and feet to move here or there, in and out of the water. The whole time, as you notice how dainty there bodies and feet are, you are thinking of the Seinfeld episode where the Asian nail techs sit there talking about Elaine as the "big hoofed American"!

OK, so, getting more and more displeased with the experience, I decided to try a whole new experience . . . a beauty school pedicure!!! There are two beauty schools close here. One is only available 8:30 to 2:30 m-f, so that one was out for working people! The other is right around the corner from the place where I get my hair cut, they have evening hours, AND take appointments . . . I'm there! So, I call and make an appointment for a pedicure. I must admit, I was a little apprehensive as I walked in . . . but the place is decorated like a first rate salon, you know, those dark wood cabinets, dark tanish, grayish painted walls, leather furniture in the reception area. I am quickly greeted by a young woman who is very nicely groomed and speaks English!!! She greets me and takes me back to the "pedicure" room. We are in a back area of the salon, secluded from the rest of the clients and noise. OK, there was no massage chair, but there was a nice black leather chair and foot stool. My "student" proceeded to give me my pedicure. She explained, they are graduating students that need a "certain" number of manicures, pedicures, etc to graduate. She needed 14 more pedicures, after me, 13!

All in all, it was a very relaxing experience, no yelling "pic cola! pic cola!"; no incessant chatter in Vietnamese; no hitting the leg or foot to motion that you need to put it in or out of the water; just, simple directions in English, simple conversation in English, and in the end it was $15!

I will be returning, for sure . . . matter of fact, my student needs just 4 more facials, I've booked one in June for $20!

It sucks getting older!

2011-02-27T07:56:00.005-05:00

It sucks getting older! Main reason is because all our elders that we hold near and dear get older, too, and then as laws of nature go, pass on.

Yesterday God took a wonderful person back home, Thea Zoe. I do not think I can ever remember seeing her without a HUGE smile on her face (except, of course, when she and Aunt Lula would sit and something would happen and they would get those "Mom" scowls! Even then, though, the twinkle was still in her eye♥). She had a personality that she just didn't smile, her whole body smiled. Whenever I would see her, from as far back as I can remember, she would exclaim "HRISE!", with her Greek accent. I would be very proud of my name when she said it. It would reinforce my Greek heritage and the fact I was named after my Grandmother, Hrise. Most people don't realize that I was named after my Yai Yai Hrise but my mother put a "C" in front to make it easier for the Americans to spell and pronounce . . . WOW! if she only knew how that backfired!!! Anyway, Thea Zoe would always exclaim "HRISE"! and give me a big hug. Perhaps she was channeling my Yai Yai through me, I don't know. Thea Zoe was an amazing woman and she will be missed tremendously by all. She led a good, long life, but that's why it sucks getting older . . . for those of us left behind, it wasn't long enough!

Thea Zoe may be physically gone, but she will always live in our hearts and memories. She will especially live on in her daughter "Noula". It is so hard to lose your Mom, but theirs was a special bond. There will be an emptiness in Joanne's life, those of us that have lost parent's know that pain, but Joanne's will be even larger. It will be up to us, her family and friends, to help her through this. So, even though we are hurting, ourselves, we need be there for Joanne, even if she thinks we don't need to be. We will get through this the Greek way, together!

I'm telling you, it sucks getting older!!

2010-04-12T17:53:00.002-04:00

FAMILY GATHERINGS (Laura Eggebrecht)

Family Gatherings - they bring happiness and cheer . . . moments of precious memory's to hold within and remember the following year, and years to come.
Family Gatherings - are for those who live at a distance . . . to bring that closeness, and warmth contentment.
Family Gatherings - have many smiling faces.
Playful children dancing all around . . . as if an outside play ground. Family gatherings - brings forth that social communication. Updating to present life situations.
Family gatherings - for those precious moments being shared - making beautiful memories of reminiscing being shared.
Family gatherings . . . pus forth that smile and song in heart . . . bring us together, not so far apart.
Family Gatherings.

Easter was WONDERFUL!!! It was emotional, but great at the same time. I'm glad I got to spend time with everyone.

LOVE TO MY FAMILY, CLOSE AND FAR

♥♥♥♥♥♥

FRIENDS

2010-03-06T07:04:00.002-05:00

Everyone hears what you say. Friends listen to what you don't say.

A good friend is the kind you can sit on a porch swing with, never say a word, and walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.

We all take different paths in life but no matter where we go, we take a little of each other everywhere .

True friendship isn't being inseparable, it's being separated & nothing changes.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Deborah (Pearsall) Marino and her husband Joe took some "me" time and took a trip to Florida. I got a call yesterday morning, early . . .when you think only bad news comes, WHY do we think that?!? Anyway, it wasn't bad news, it was good news, Deborah and Joe where "driving through" Cape Coral that day, and wanted to see me. What a fantastic phone call!!! We made arrangements, and I was able to take a real long lunch, and we got together. They got to meet Kenny, which I never realized, they never had. We, of course, went to a great local Greek restaurant, and ate and ate and ate, OPA!!! As anyone who knows Joe and Deborah, knows they will adapt right in to the situation! We spent a great time eating and talking and visiting. They had to move on to getting over to her family on the east coast, so we soon had to part. It was, however, a wonderful visit!!! Chronologically, it only lasted 3 hours, but in our hearts I know it will last forever.

Most all my true friends are still my friends from high school, and there have been many miles and years between our get togethers, but that doesn't matter with us, our friendships are still, even not even more, strong.

I want to thank Deborah and Joe for that great diversion, and just let all that call me friend, how happy I am that you do.

Chrise's Christmas Vacation!

2010-01-07T17:55:00.007-05:00

I was so fortunate to be able to travel to see all my family over the holidays! I flew into VA where Stefanie and Christopher picked me up from the airport, and we (Stef) drove to PA. Poor thing, she was driving in terrible driving rain or thick fog . . . she's a trooper!! We got to PA in time for this awesome pizza Pete and Alexis had ordered (only in Philly!!). The real prize of the trip was seeing Samantha, she's such a sweetheart. By the end of the evening, Nicole and Justin were there, and even my cousin Evelyn and her GEM of a husband Gerry had come in from NY. It was just a nice night filled with family, love and LOTS of laughter!!

Next day was Samantha's 1st Birthday!!! What a loved child! The house was full of people; Pete's family, us, even my other cousin from NY with my Aunt and more second cousins! It was such a great day of love and laughter!!

Next day, with much better weather, we (Stef, Christopher, and I) drove back down to VA. We no sooner got into town, the rest of the VA BCH family came over Stef's house. Again, great to see everyone and spend another evening full of love, joy, and, yeah . . . more laughter!!

I get very sad being so far away, but I am SO grateful that I get the chance to spend such quality time with everyone.

Love you all!!!

2009-12-12T10:49:00.002-05:00

Ok, here in Florida, we don't get the cold weather, or we can wish all we want, we are NOT going to have a White Christmas, but don't let that fool you . . . we still do Christmas!! Right now our end of our street looks like the Griswold family has all come to town. We've got our neighbors across the street that actually start decorating for Christmas before the Thanksgiving dishes are cleared from the table! We also have the poor guy next to them that just keeps hanging up lights and Christmas decorations, daily (we believe just to escape from what's going on inside his house)!! Next to him, with the utmost of dignity, we have the couple that strategically hangs a very nice thought out, tasteful, display each year. Across from them, we have the new neighbors, who (my kind of people) decorate for every holiday!! They've got pink flamingos with Santa hats on, flashing lights, a whole array of decorations. Then we have the poor recently married fireman across the street that had the fortune(?) to marry a girl with a young daughter. This year, not only does he have Frosty, spiral trees, and lights on the palm trees (we do that here), he's added icicle lights to the entire house and flashing snowflakes in the front window, all to the young girls delight!! He and Kenny "Bah Hum Bug" together when they know people are watching. However, secretly, we KNOW they are loving it!!

Then there is the Felton house, which in recent years gets decorated due the shame the neighbors used to put us through, and the fact that Kenny installed outside electric! Through the years, between discards from the condo where we work, Dollar General, and Walgreen's (we are high-end, aren't we?) we accumulated quite a stash. Now, the weekend after Thanksgiving, Kenny goes out and turns into Clark Griswold. The lights get strung on the bushes, the spiral trees go up, the lighted angel gets plugged in, and the reindeer get placed (this year, with one facing his butt to the street, but that's another blog, I guess). Now the crowning glory is not any pink flamingos, we are not allowed to have them (too tacky), no, instead, our crowning glory is a MERRY CHRISTMAS sign that lights up and hangs in our middle front window!!

HO! HO! HO!

A LOT OF THANKS TO GIVE

2009-11-22T05:06:00.009-05:00

I give THANKS for my beautiful family.

I give THANKS for my wonderful, life-long friends.

I give thanks that the sun comes up every morning.

I give thanks, that especially in today's times, we have jobs that we can go to every day (OK, I don't always feel that way while I'm there, BUT, you know what I mean!).

I give thanks that, although, I may have some aches and pains, I can get up every morning and use my own two legs and arms to do whatever I want to do.

This year, I give thanks that "my baby" will be with me on Thanksgiving!

I give thanks that we live in this GREAT country of ours. This country, with all it's flaws and blemishes, I would NOT want to trade to live in any other country. We all need to give thanks for the freedoms that we have to live the lives that we choose to live, and not have to live the lives we are told to live. We, the Kevatos/Mantis', are here because our grandparents could NOT live the lives they wanted to live. So, instead, they sacrificed all that they had to come to a land that they believed would make it better for them and their future families.

Lastly, whether you think it is right or wrong why they are there, we need to give thanks for the men and women overseas putting their life in harms way every day.

I give thanks for all of you!

BJ and his Bride!

2009-09-29T18:40:00.009-04:00

Brian (BJ to everyone but us) came to visit us in Florida, on his way to his new 3 year home, Monterrey, Mexico. We were so excited to see Brian, because we hadn't seen him since he had gone to Bolivia. Even more so, though, Brian was now married, and we were going to get to meet his bride Cynthia. Now please understand, Brian has lived many a years as a carefree bachelor. I couldn't wait to meet the girl that wooed him into walking down the aisle!!

Well, they arrived, and we were instantly enamored with Cynthia. It was so obvious to see how this charming, full of life, woman and won his bachelor heart. After very much catching up, we went out to dinner to one of Cape Coral's best hidden treasures, Ariani's Restaurant. It was a week night, so just the right amount of people were there, not too crowded. It gave us an opportunity to catch up even more. We were there for a couple of hours enjoying fantastic food, great wine, and excellent company! We didn't want the night to end, it was so good spending time with them, but they had a long drive ahead of them the next day, as they continued onto Monterrey.

It was a lovely evening, although not a long visit, it was a GREAT visit! All the luck and good wishes in the world to BJ and his Bride!

The Simple Things in Life

2009-09-10T17:10:00.004-04:00

Men really don't understand how it is the simple things in life that we woman enjoy the most. At least, it is for me! For example, a clean house! As with everyone lately, the Felton's have been looking at ways to cut down on expenses. So, against my better judgement, we signed up with the cable company for their "Triple Play". This is broadband cable (yes we were working off DSL (UGH!)), telephone (local & LD), and Digital TV Cable. I must say, the best has been the TV. We've had a HD tv for awhile now, but never realized how good the picture could be! I digress . . . anyway, the "Triple Play" package is a flat amount for 24 months, and it will be $50 less per month than what we were paying!!

In addition, I looked on Craigslist, got some estimates, and we now have a new lawn guy for a savings of $15 per month!

Ok, now the other area my husband thought we could save money in is housecleaning. For years, I and, we have had someone clean the house. Well, in the interest of saving money, my husband decided WE should clean the house ourselves. Now, I know what you're thinking, "Sure, right, "we"?!" Well, "yes" he does mean "we". Because of my back, he would actually end up doing most of it. Now . . . anyone who knows him is already asking "when?"! When would he find the time? We still have remodeling to do, walls to paint, nails to hammer! WELL, he decided, he would find the time "to save the money".

OK, that was a month ago. The house has been cleaned once. I've tried to keep up here and there, but when your taking Vicodins and Flexirils for your back, it's hard to keep up with the housework. SO, the little dust bunnies became rabbits! We were able to save paper and write things down on the dust on the table . . . it was time for an intervention! So thank goodness for a little angel named Angela. Angela is a girl (woman) that we had clean for us before the whole remodel started. During the remodel, we couldn't have her come. Meanwhile, I felt bad taking that income away from her. So, at the condo where I work (and I met Angela) whenever an owner needed someone to clean, I gave them Angela's name. By the time our remodel was done, Angela had picked up so much extra work, she had NO room for me! So, to Craigslist I went, and got someone else to clean. However, my husband now wanted to save money, and I really didn't like the people that were cleaning. . . so we cancelled the new cleaning crew.

BUT NOW . . . WE HAVE ANGELA BACK!!! After many Vicodins, Flexirils, Chiropractor visits, and dust rabbits I pleaded with my husband for the return of a cleaning crew. Meanwhile, some owners have moved away, and Angela now had room in her schedule again!! So, this afternoon, we came home to a clean smelling, shiny, fantastically clean house (and at less money than the crew we didn't like)!!!!!

Life is good.

This is why I love my "baby"!

2009-09-05T19:23:00.004-04:00

The following is a "comment" from Christopher's Facebook page. I hope he doesn't mind, but I copied it here, because I haven't been able to comprehend what I have been hearing this week. I couldn't comprehend what all the hoopla was about. I thought for sure I had missed the main point . . . but, NO, I hadn't!

I couldn't have said it better myself!!

From Christopher:

"I couldn't resist, I can't take all of these people arguing over President Obama speaking to the children/students of America. What is the problem? I REALLY can not figure out what is wrong with this. Is the President not the leader of the Free World, is he not the holder of the highest office in the land, is he not the Commander in Chief of our Armed Forces, is he not the leader of his political party (which at the moment holds a majority in the Congress and White House)? As an educator I find it very confusing and unsettling that people have a problem with the President of the United States saying "Good Luck" and "Stick with It" message to the children of America. I also can not comprehend the pure hatred and disrespect people have for not only the man himself, but the Office of the President. I will be quite honest, I have not very often agreed with the views of some of our Presidents or leaders in this country, but I have always made it a point to respect the honor of the Office itself. The amount of work, blood, sweat, and tears it takes to just want the position, not even have it, takes courage; and I respect every single one of those men for it. The bottom line is: What are these parents and others out there teaching their children? I, in essence, asked the same question when all these people stood up and screamed and shouted at our Congressmen and Senators this summer over health care. WHAT IS WRONG WITH ALL OF YOU!!! As educators, at least this is the point of view of this educator, our job is to teach children how to formulate their own opinions, how to speak their minds and opinions in a respectful, assertive way. Conversations are good! Disagreements are good! It is what our country was founded on, but we must be willing to listen to different opinions and thoughts and work through issues, we can not be so close minded and disrespectful. In my classroom (and again some might totally hate me because in their eyes I am brainwashing our children) open discussion, thinking outside the box, and debate and discussion are welcomed - EVERY DAY! I want my students to be able to formulate educated sentences that make sense and can CHANGE others opinions, if it means we all benefit from it and become better, more educated because of it. I don't want students that can only fill in a bubble with a #2 pencil and can only recite what I tell them or their parents tell them. Am I saying I want our future leaders and adults to argue with everything and constantly think everything needs to be changed - NO! I just think that communication - positive, assertive, and educated communication can solve problems and make a HUGE difference in the world. That is the lesson I want taught to my students and my kids when they come along. I got an A in Government in high school and graduated college with a minor in Political Science and not once in any of those classes were differences frowned upon (even the one taught by a former United States Congressmen) and in each of them, when the structure of our government came up, I strongly remember that our National Government was set-up so that one branch doesn't have more power than another - the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial Branches are all equal and create a Checks and Balance System (and in actuality, the Executive Branch is the weakest). So, how can one 15-20 minute speech (if that) by our President to the students of America change the direction of our country and brainwash every future voter into breaking down 233 years of freedom and democracy. I thought we had Freedom of Speech and Freedom of Education. I thought that as an educator I can take a topic in my classroom and make an incredible lesson out of it, one that my students will remember for the rest of their lives - I thought that is why I went to college, earned my degree, and bust my ass for my little 1 cent per hour paycheck. I thought it was to make sure my students get the best education possible and that they have every opportunity, if not more than I had growing up. Some might be mad at me over this, some might have stopped reading along time ago, and some might do the usual and just yell out, "That damn liberal doesn't know what the hell he is talking about!" But, my point of view is, that instead of criticizing everyone elses point of view - create your own and communicate it. With all of the screaming, name-calling, and insults aside, I am proud of what President Obama is doing, he simply puts the issue out on the table and starts the conversation - that is what America was founded on - conversation. And to all of you upset out there, don't act like you didn't see it coming, the man told you he was all about CHANGE, so here you go. At the same time, why must you continue to beat the man down, especially over something as simple as an address to school children that every other President before him has done? Well, my mind is a little lighter now. Needless to say Tuesday is the first day of classes for us and there is plenty of bureaucracy items and paperwork that "No Child Left Behind" gave us that needs to be tended to that we are most likely not going to have time to see the speech live and at the same time I don't have a class at 12noon to show it to. I am going to go back to preparing for my first day of classes and educating the children of America with my liberal, brainwashing views of the World. "

My baby's Birthday!

2009-08-28T17:17:00.005-04:00

Went to VA for Christopher's (gulp) 33rd Birthday. Don't know how I managed these travel plans, but I flew in the day of the party (that I was giving)!! Thank God for my sister Stefanie. She had her daughter Alexis there all week, with her (gorgous) little baby, Samantha, plus Stefanie was working on and off, plus, all the family coming over to see Alexis & Samantha, then her son-in-law Pete came in, AND her daughter Nicole surprised everyone by coming down from NY!! With all this going on, Stefanie, with Alexs' help, managed to plan a party for Christopher and about 25 people! As I said, I showed up around 12:30 that day.

All in all, we had a great weekend, Alexis & family had to leave in the morning Sunday, but it was so good to see cute little Samantha (and, yeah, Alexis & Pete), if at least for that one day, and the best surprise was having Nicole there, too!

Of course, the highlight was seeing MY BABY, Christopher!!!! Although a short visit, it was great to spend time with him. Monday was a good day, all the family got together at Stefanie's house (while she was working) and got to quietly visit, while we finished up all the leftovers out of Stefanie's frig. She was excited to come home and see all the food gone, and just her normal yogurt and salad fixings in the frig! What was really nice was getting to visit with Steffie & Eddie and Maria on a quiet, relaxing basis. We usually only get to see them while they are hectically working.

I brought my camera, and I thought there were pictures being taken everywhere, but there are only a couple(?!), BUT, the memories will last longer.

Love to all my family, and I'm glad I got to see you all . . .

SUNFLOWERS

2009-08-14T09:54:00.026-04:00

Jeanne, Robin, Me, and Diane

Well, Jimmy & Jeanne have been visiting for the past week from NY. Jeanne worked for a Chevy dealership for years, and recently went through the agonizing "death" of that dealership. So, she needed a little R&R! First they spent four days in Puerto Rico, and then flew into Ft Lauderdale (Jetblue doesn't fly PR to Ft Myers), and spent the past week with us. We all had a great time. We picked them up in Ft Lauderdale, spent the day in Miami, took the DUCK TOUR , laughed and quacked our heads off!! Ate at a Cuban restaurant (yum), then trolled Ocean Blvd, South Beach. Returned to Ft Myers that night, next day took a boat ride to Cabbage Key where we had beautiful weather for the boat ride and a very relaxing lunch. Later Jimmy & Jeanne wanted to "experience" the Auction, which can be quite a people watching encounter! Sunday we went to the Cape Coral Cultural Theater for a hysterical rendition of Niel Simon's "The Odd Couple", the female version! As expected, the play was very funny, acting superb. From there dinner at Cantino Laredo, the most awesome Mexican Restaurant ever! Unfortunately, Kenny and I had to go back to work Monday, but the vacation continued for Jimmy & Jeanne; Sanibel, Ft Myers Beach, Seminole Casino, and much more!!

However, the highlight of the whole week was Girls Night Out! Previously I've told you about my wonderful rebirth of passion for painting. It has been unleashed by Annette Watkins and her wonderful program of "Brushes & Bottles". Well, there was an event coming up that Thursday Jeanne was here, and we decided to make a Girls Night Out of it! Me, Jeanne, Robin, and Diane all decided to go for the Wine Tasting & Painting . . . Robin and Jeanne for the Wine Tasting, and me for the painting, and Diane for both! Well, Jeanne said she had never painted in her life, except as a little girl. So this was really a learning experience for her. Robin hasn't really painted either. Well, we went for the wine tasting first, to a great wine shop called "Time to Make Wine" (I brought my bottle of water this time.). The girls decided they loved the Coco Vino the best! I believe there were a couple of people that night that bought a couple of bottles.

Then, it was on to the painting!! Well, Jeanne was overwhelmed at first. I don't know if it was the wine or what, but her and Robin were giggling an awful lot. We all didn't get to finish, but all in all, it was a great evening, a lot of fun and laughs, and as you can see from the pictures, yourself, a wonderful way to spend the night together. Jeanne said now she has a new hobby!

This is Jeanne's picture on the left and the teacher's on the right . . . not bad for a beginner, huh!?!

Happy Birthday Alexis!!

2009-07-30T11:51:00.007-04:00

Today is Alexis' birthday!! Alexis is the eldest child of my baby sister, Stefanie. I'll never forget how excited the family was when Stefanie was pregnant with Alexis. It had been awhile since we had a little baby in the family! Alexis was born with quite a head of hair . . . her Mom had quite a head of hair as a baby, also.

She was so cute!! She grew from the little baby into the toddler, but at all times, we knew Alexis would always be that little "girly, girl"! Ballet leotards, tu-tu's, the works! She would prance around, and always give that big "model" smile!! Cheerleader in HS, good looking boyfriends, always, but a surprise to those that didn't really know the "Becker Women", quite a smart head on her shoulders!

Naturally, Alexis went into the fashion field. Alexis always had fashion in the forefront, always looked put together and beautiful! Had some wonderful jobs, Calvin Klein, GUESS. Then came, THE HUSBAND . . . PETE! Again, that "toothy" good looking couple turning heads everywhere they went. Their wedding picture could be featured in Bride's Magazine! The typical young married, professional couple. Calvin Klein shirts, little black dresses, cocktail party after cocktail party on the weekends. Alexis was living the life we all knew she would live. Working and living in the fashion world, with a good looking man at her side.

THEN came "the pregnancy". . . a new Alexis emerged. She talked of "having the baby" and going back to work. They'd probably try to get someone to come in, rather than a daycare. As the pregnancy reached into it's 9th month, Alexis gave up on the fashion . . . she was just trying to walk from point A to point B!

Then Samantha was born. The fashion is still there. The "toothy" good looking couple is still there. There's a cocktail party, once in a while(?)! If there's a camera pulled out, Alexis will still flash that big "model" smile, but somethings different. Alexis is now a beautiful young mother and wife. Even though she may not have the occasion to wear the stiletto heels and little black dress much anymore, she's more beautiful than she's ever been. It was always there, but her inner beauty shines even more now. I guess that's what happens with a wonderful husband and an amazing little baby.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALEXIS!!

Support Community Theater

2009-07-28T08:52:00.006-04:00

Even while I lived in VA BCH, I often went to the Virginia Beach Little Theater. It was a very inexpensive way that Christopher and I could enjoy a live play in the theater (remember I was a struggling single Mom).

Well, Kenny and I have lived in FL for quite a while now, but, for some reason, we have never experienced a performance in the Cape Coral Cultural Park Theater. Robin and I went to the Ft Myers Repertory Theater once, and thoroughly enjoyed it! Even then though, we went because I got free tickets!! A couple of weeks ago I saw advertised, for the Cape Coral Cultural Park Theater "Walking After Midnight, a night with Patsy Cline". Well, I have to admit to you, I have always loved Patsy Cline's voice. It's a shame, she is one of many artists that tragically died way too young at that time. Anyway, the production sounded interesting, tickets were only $15, and it was right in Cape Coral . . . how could you beat it!?!

Last Friday evening, Kenny and I and Robin and John went to Ruby Tuesday's for dinner (we had 2 for 1 coupons . . . yes, I know we are WILD ones down here!!) and then went to the Cape Coral Cultural Park Theater for the Patsy Cline production. The theater was great, lovely old time lobby, red velvet, etc. We went in to our seats, the the total theater holds about 218. The seats were nice, wide and comfortable. You weren't squished in like sardines. There was great leg room. I got Kenny an aisle seat, because he usually has to stretch his legs into the aisle. He had room to have his legs anywhere he wanted!! We got tickets in the 2nd to the last row, but there were only 12 rows! We could see and hear everything, it really was a wonderful venue for a show. Afterwards, we all kept wondering, why it has taken us so long to go there and see a play?

Well, before it gets too late, I encourage all who read this to search out your small community theaters, and buy some tickets for a great inexpensive, wonderful evening out! Most of these people are volunteers that work and run these theaters. We need to show our support and thank them for what they bring us!!

"Bottles & Brushes"

2009-07-25T10:58:00.008-04:00

Well, I know it's been awhile (I did promise Alexis I would be better at this), but honestly, I really didn't have anything interesting to report on. Since the last blog posting, I've had a series of "goo" shots in my knees to help build up "cushioning". I had the FLU, dead to the world for a good week (and, NO, it was not the swine Flu . . . I did ask!). The past two weeks, I've basically still been building up my strength, still, from having the Flu. So, nothing interesting . . . until NOW!

I saw an ad in the Newspaper for a painting workshop, called "Bottles & Brushes". Basically it's a two and a half hour workshop, held at a wine shop, where you paint in acrylics. So, for $35 you get to go to a wine tasting, eat hors d'ouvres, get a $10 gift card towards purchases at the wine shop, and, plus, the instructor provides everything needed for you to go home at the end of the two and a half hour session with a completed 16x20 painting! I figured, how can you lose?!?!

So, I signed up, and Thursday I went to my 1st "Bottles & Brushes". In the back room of the wine shop, there were tables set up with easels, canvases, paints, and brushes. There were about 8 women, a good number, nice and intimate for good hands on instruction. The teacher is a young ex HS Art Teacher. She paints a picture, and we, the students, with her direction, proceed to paint that picture. It was funny, here you have 8 women, all painting the same picture, but in the end, there were 8 totally different paintings!

I've been wanting to get back into painting for the longest time, and acrylic is my favorite medium. However, I haven't really painted since college! I wanted some "instruction", some "guidance", to get me going again. Well, this was the perfect venue for that!!! I came home that night feeling so calm. The creative juices were once more flowing. I can't wait to pick up a brush again. I may even paint this afternoon!!

So, now to this posting. My family has always been so kind and supportive, but a Picasso or Leoma Lovegrove, I'm NOT! However, I am posting the picture we painted, and I would love some honest feedback. Now, before I get attacked, please keep in mind, the picture was what we were given, and I haven't picked up a brush since college . . . but, go ahead, post away!

BUMMER BACK!

2009-06-13T13:52:00.005-04:00

When I was in about the 7th or 8th grade, a note came home to my parents, and the next thing I knew we were visiting my uncle, the Chiropractor, in the city. He took alot of x-rays, and then the adults "talked". After that, I wasn't allowed to take gym anymore. The diagnosis? I had SCOLIOSIS . . .oooooohh. I felt fine. Nothing really changed much at home, but now my Grandmother did believe me when I said that I was crooked, and she would need to pin both sides of a skirt or dress when she hemmed, or else one side would hang longer that the other! I still walked barefoot whenever I could, did all the things I always did. Every now and then, we went to my uncles house in Valley Stream. He had a home office there. After everyone had coffee, I would go into his office, and get an 'adjustment". That was about the care I got for my scoliosis.

After college, and after childbirth, that's when the pain really started setting in. I started wearing a "lift" in my shoe . . .to straighten out my crookedness. By the time I got to Florida, I was under regular Chiropractic care. The size of the lift increased, so much so, I can not walk barefoot any longer. I really feel the difference if I'm without the lift. It's gotten to the point, I don't wear a lift, I actually have to take my shoes to the shoemaker and have the heel raised on my left shoe.

I'm telling you all this to lead up to the most recent "incident" with my back. Last Saturday, got up as usual, took a shower, and BAM!! This lightening bolt from God came down and struck me in the back. It was BAD. I couldn't sit, stand, bendover, lie down, NOTHING made the pain ease up. I spent the rest of the day trying to find some way to be comfortable. Some way to ease the up to the point it was bearable. NOW, I do have prescription medication for these "incidents". I started a little at a time, because I would like to remain fairly coherent! Well, the pain was so bad, I started slowly, but by the time nighttime came, I was drooling out of the side of my mouth from the doped stupor I was in . . .BUT, the pain was still so bad, I was walking with a walker!! (And, yes, I am sad to admit, we do have spare walkers "just in case".)

By Sunday, the pain localized itself (thank God!), and although it was very painful, it was much more bearable. I was waiting for Monday to go to the Chiropractor. Now Monday morning I had to do Payroll at work. No problem, Kenny and I work together, so he drove me to work, and, yes, I DID take the walker! I went to work, figured I'd do Payroll, then I would have either one of my two friends, that are always available during the day, take me to the DR, and then home. NO ONE WAS AVAILABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!! I finally got a hold of someone around two o'clock in the afternoon. I was in so much pain, I can't even remember the afternoon. I know she took me to the DR, and I felt so much less pain when he was done. My hips were close to 2" off kilter!! Does that tell you the type of pain I was in? I made an appointment for WED, and went home, took drugs, and went to bed. Got up Tuesday morning with the alarm, grabbed the walker, and proceeded to the shower. Got as far as the kitchen, and decided "this is ridiculous!". Got back into bed and told Kenny I was not going in today. I spent Tuesday on much less drugs, but putting a lot of ice on my back, and just taking it very easy. By WED, I was without the walker, and feeling more human. Another DR appointment WED afternoon, and I was on my way back to my "normal" self!

Today being SAT, I had visions of a lot of things I need to do. Well, I tried. Went to a swap meet, then to Pier One and another store, because Robin is looking for some chairs. By the time we were in Pier One, I was taking little "sit down" breaks, throughout the store. My back is better, but very weak. June 26th I am scheduled for a L umbar Epidural . I get them, every so often. As I get older, more often than before. They may sound creepy, but they really help!

So, there is the whole boring story of my "Bummer Back".

RUBY

2009-06-04T19:49:00.003-04:00

Ok, this is the reason I started this blog, to keep my sanity and, also, with this blog, maybe more people will understand why sometimes I'm just a little cranky!!

Today at work, an owner came into the office, she's been meaning to ask a question . . . she wanted to know when we would be getting STYLE back on the cable line up. I explained "we're not". With the switch to digital tv (which already took place down here), we lost the condo's Lobby Channel. We have a secured lobby, where people need to call for an elevator for access to the building. The Lobby channel allows the resident (or office) to see who is in the lobby, calling for access. When the switch to digital tv happened, we lost the lobby channel. We had the cable company out repeatedly, over a week and half, trying to see how this could be fixed. Finally, it was explained, the Lobby channel is an analog channel. The only channel that is left analog is CH 95, because it is left for community access stations. (Now don't get bored yet, I promise, it'll be worth reading!)

Well, our hi-rise condo is part of a master gated community. Their community channel is, yes, CH95. So, we can't switch to that channel. At this point, I tell the cable guy, I need to get other people involved. I call in the Manager and the VP of the Board. It is decided, the cable company can put some equipment on the feed, and use CH96 as our Lobby channel. CH96 was the STYLE network. The Manager, VP, and, now on the phone, President of the Board decide that's the way to go. We lose STYLE, but regain the Lobby channel!! Within 45 minutes, the Lobby channel is back!!

THIS WAS IN APRIL!!!! So the owner today (June) comes to ask when we're getting STYLE back. I explain we're not, why it was taken, etc. At this point she is getting more and more animated. She needs STYLE!! RUBY will be starting now in June!!! Who decided this!? Why can't we use some of the other stations that just have static!? I have to see RUBY!

(Still calm) I explain "I understand", but this needed to be done to have the Lobby channel. "WELL WHO WATCHES THE LOBBY CHANNEL BESIDES YOU!!??!! RUBY is starting in June. I have to watch RUBY! Who do I need to talk to? I'm going to start a petition! Why do we need the Landings channel (CH95)!?! Take that channel! I have to see RUBY!!!

(Still calm) I explain, again, "I understand", but we will not be getting STYLE back. "WELL, I'M CALLING PEOPLE!! I'M STARTING A PETITION!! We need to get this back . . . I can't miss RUBY!!!!"

At that point she left the office. Now, the bookkeeper was in her office, Kenny was running cable in there, they both come out and asked "So, when we will have STYLE back?"

I'M SITTING THERE TRYING TO UNDERSTAND WHO THE HELL IS RUBY!!!!

Meanwhile, these are my days. I get irrational people who have no one else but me to complain or vent to. At this point, the bookkeeper and Kenny are laughing so hard, there are tears coming down their faces! That's how my life goes. All these wacko people come in, vent, yell, who knows what else, and "they" all hide in their offices and let me take the brunt of it all!! Who is "they" you ask? "They" are all the people that actually make these decisions that rile up the owners!!

So, next time I may seem a little cranky . . . just keep in mind, someone could have reamed me out because they can't see RUBY!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEFANIE!

2009-06-02T19:48:00.005-04:00

Well, today is my "little' sisters birthday! You see, I've a got a "little" sister and a "big' sister. Where does that leave me? Well, I'm the "well adjusted" middle child, but, that's a whole other conversation!

So, as I said, today is Stef's birthday. Francine may remember more the day Stefanie came home from the hospital. I don't really have much of a memory of the presence of my "little" sister, until we shared a room together. It's from that memory on I was cognizant of this annoying other person in my space!

We literally had an imaginary line down the middle of the room. Actually, it was quite visible. My side was very neat and organized, and then there was Stefanie's! One thing that was fun about sharing a room with her, she was sooooooo gullible!!! I would always be playing tricks on her, or getting her in trouble with my parents. It took everything in my Mother not to laugh when she would see it was all just a joke, and, again, Stefanie fell for it!

Well, unfortunately, as time has with everyone, we don't get to share too many birthdays together, but I wanted to wish my "little" sister a happy one!!

Inside voice?

2009-06-01T17:30:00.002-04:00

Those that know the background to my work environment will appreciate this much more, but I think everyone will appreciate the utlimate humor in this.

The other day at work one of the owners came in and we were "talking". As usual, the "talking" got into kidding around. All of a sudden, I hear my intercom ring (it's my Manager). I answer, and I hear him say "inside voice". I said "what?". He said, "use your inside voice".

Ok, even though we never heard that growing up, I have seen on tv, and heard elsewhere, people saying "use your inside voice". The owner looked at me and asked what did he say? I told them, he said to use my "inside voice". I told them, I'm Greek! We don't have inside voices!!! (When my family gets together, my husband would definately agree that there are NO Greek inside voices!!)

What?!?

2009-05-30T12:46:00.000-04:00

OK, I've been looking for a smaller pair of silver hooped earrings. I wanted an elongated hoop, not a rounded one. So, I happened to be in TJ Maxx and looked at their jewelry. They had loads of hoops, even elongated, quite a choice. A nice young girl helped me, I picked out a pair, paid, and went about my business.

Yesterday I was cleaning up some, and I had the receipt in my purse still, because when I bought them, I put the earrings right on. I went to throw the receipt away, and something made me look at it. I looked, and there it was, right on the receipt! That nice young girl gave me an automatic "55+" discount!!!!!

There had been no conversation about this. There had been no inquiry. That nice young girl just assumed and gave me THE SENIOR DISCOUNT!!!!

How can that be? I'm still 25!