Still

Still here on earth in case you wondering. Lots to do and no time to blog... Everyone at the Island is good and wondering where the time has gone with Thanksgiving next week. Big crowds expected here at the Island between 18 and 20. Ordered Mr. Bird today which I woke up thinking about at 5:00 am. don't you love it when some dumb thought wakes you up from a nice warm cozy deep sleep. So I got up early went to Gelsons and ordered my turkey. Now it will have to be some other dumb thought that wakes me up tomorrow. Anyway don't know if I will get back to this before the bird goes in the oven in a WEEK... so happy turkey day to all my friends out there love you all. .... God Bless and may your T-day leave you feeling blessed and bursting like you ate to much.. which we probably will.

KAUAIIAN'S

I started writing this post weeks ago and never hit the publish button because life got a lot more complicated when my niece Cassie decided to runaway and is still missing! 11 days.. she told her mom in a three way conversation with her boyfriends mom (Cynthia - whom she called first) that she was happy and being taken care of and she was fine. We are off today to hand out more posters and I am going to be with my mom whom is so beside her self I fear for her well being and health. Anyway if you want to read a couple of items from our trip here they are... REALLY PICTURES to follow..

It has been almost a month since last I posted. Another month has slipped away - September! Since two weeks of the month were spent in Kauai and one of those weeks we spent with Jeff and Michael... well let's just say it was truly paradise and a healing opportunity for this family of 4. We have not spent 7 days together as a family since Michael went off to college (just some weekends here and there)! An amazing time with sightseeing, driving, adventures, eating and yes just a couple of Mia tai's. A couple of stories for you.

One night having dinner and after dad (Rich) says hey how about a helicopter ride... sure, I am thinking to myself this is the beer talking. Rich and I both swore this is one event that is not in our top 100 or 1,000,000 for that matter of things to DO. Seems several times over the past years we have been to Kauai one of these man made flying birds runs into some type of flying problem and they don't swim well in the ocean either and the people end up that nights, nightly news headlines (not for me). The next day Rich has the 4 Hylands booked on a helicopter flight - Wednesday 8:00 am. Which nightmare did I just wake up in? Jeff and Michael are thrilled and well I just don't want to do this entire fly thing, I am scared but I don't want to be left out and not have the experience of sharing the memories with my family gathered around the dinner table sometime in the future. Then I think of Meghan and all she went through and if she was on this trip with us she would be on that bird in the sky without hesitation. Okay I will do it. No Yes No... what am I thinking.

Wednesday am (7:30) show up at the airstrip in Port Allen - weigh in (for weight distribution on the copter) thank goodness the reader was behind the counter and I did not have to share that information with the hubby, Mike and Jeff. Sign waivers, strap on some flotation device around our waist, receive further instruction ... and wait and wait and wait. No helicopter.... This must be a sign from God ... not met to be .... CANCELLED. Dodged a bullet. Oh wait the lady is rescheduling us for tomorrow... Really - now I have to think about it some more and stress and miss more sleep? This can not be good. Tomorrow in Lihue at 4:00 pm... don't you know the trade winds blow even harder in the afternoons and it rains. Surely I will be meeting with Jesus tomorrow.

Thursday 5:oo pm... we did it tour of the Kauai from the air over - done. I am- getting off the helicopter and breaking down in tears. All I can say is sometimes God just knows more about what you need than you know yourself. Jeff laughing at me for crying and video tapping it at the same time. A GIANT family hug, lots of emotion and memories to last a lifetime. Conclusion - you only get one chance at a 1st time for everything in your life. Maybe someday I would do this again but chances are it won't be with Mike, Jeff and Rich and it would not be the 1st time. One word summary - Beautiful.

Flying home on the plane on Friday - Hawaiian airlines and I have heard of this happening but never experienced it first hand.... Lady behind me leans forward and says " can you get a flight attendant QUICK".

Rich who is plugged into his head phones gives me the what do you want now look when I tap him on the shoulder (he is on the isle).... The women behind just asked for a flight attendant QUICK. He bounces up gets help and the women says my husband was just breathing fun and the flight attendant is trying to wake up HANK.... Long story short Hank died - EXPIRED on the flight. We left our seats and we were asked to go stand up front. The got Hank out of his seat, found medical people on board the flight and started the process of reviving and defibrillating this gentlemen. They worked on him along time. Very sad! Hank was 65 a diabetic and had heart problems according to his wife who remained very calm while all this was happening to her hubby. Hank ended up in the galley for the rest of the flight and when we arrived at LAX the paramedics had to come on and pronounce Hank. So it was a smooth but stressful flight for all the passengers. While we were standing in first class this irate foreigner jumps out of his seat charges us standing in the galley of first class and tells us to go back to our seats ,quit looking down the row and we are interfering with his move. God always leaves the means ones here longer on earth. OH he was ugly yelling at us. He should have just put his headphones on and watched the stupid movie. The plane was FULL were we supposed to sit on the WING. DUMB BASTARD... just thinking about it now makes me so angry. End of story. Land LAX and LAPD thinks it is a crime scene and no one can leave...! CRIME SCENE??? about 12 LAPD officers are standing around arguing about what to do... Don't they know everything about me from when I booked the flight and a manifest that shows where everyone was sitting..... Finally the captain of the plane and the paramedic who pronounced Hank, said let these people go have they not been through enough - he passed of natural causes. Oh let me tell you I have never looked so forward to a super shuttle ride home....

Much Better Week

It has been a much better week since my last rant and spew session. At least it feels better. Hope everyone had a great Labor day weekend and did something enjoyable. Rich and I went to the beach today.... A beach in Southern California. Seems like the only time we go to the beach anymore is when we are in New Jersey or Hawaii. We have beeeaaautiful beaches here in the O.C. Califia in San Clemente, easy parking if you are early, narrow beach but a FAMILY beach. I didn't have to put blinders on my hubby when the ladies (if you can call some of them ladies) have all their cheeks showing while running down the beach like Bo Derek in 10.

Michael, finally called seems he is a little short in the wallet from not working full time when he was visiting Meghan three times a day or more in the hospital and he did not pay his phone bill. We finally heard from him and it was such a big relief. And yes, I want to go into Mom mood and send him a check.... but he is going to Hawaii with us in two weeks and it will be all expenses paid by Dad. His metal state would best be described as "adjusting". We are hoping a trip to the Islands will be good for his spirit.

Jeff is happy in his new pad in Long Beach. He stopped by tonight and it was good to see him.

Last Wednesday was a good day here on the Island... I had three friends from High School here for Lunch. Nancy, whom lived across the street from me on Garlingford in Costa Mesa. I think I was in the third grade when we moved in across the street from each other. Diane, whom I have known since my first day of middle school and Donna, who went to school with Nancy and I at Killybrook Elementary. I will get the camera card out and put up some pictures in the next day or two. Sometimes it just feel good to catch up. It has been along time since our Annie Green Springs Boons Farm days... Love you ladies we have a history!

Some things just continue to be the way they were and the way they will be. My mom and the mess at her house can still only be described as a big MESS. Is it bad when your own mom thinks of her oldest daughter the way she would think of an x- husband? She does not want to hear what I have to say when it comes to Cassie. She does not want to be accountable or held to any standards and she does not want to be questioned on her crazy ass parenting skills and mental well being of teenagers. And to boot her health stinks but she ignores it.

The scrapbook ladies last Wednesday and Thursday had me rolling in the isles with laughter - which is so good for the body and mind. Julie V, wants to start a magazine called Tired Old Hags. We sit and come up with articles that we think would be beneficial to women, moms, wives. Someone starts with a funny line or article and before long everyone is jumping in and we are laughing at ourselves.... Here is one such article we plan to write immediately and need some extra help - if you think of anything let me know by email or a comment....

FOODS THAT LIE

Smart Water drinking it does not make you smarter

Wheat Thins eating these crackers will not make you thin

Slim Fast the only thing Fast here is how fast your hunger returns after you drink or eat their food

Skinny Cow this is ICE CREAM Skinny NOT

the above funnies were provided by my own observations on the first two.. Julie C, on Slim Fast and Lia on the Skinny Cow. We feel it is our right as consumers to no longer mislead the eating public with these misleading food titles... Be on the look out in your market and if you find any others let us know and we will get the food police and the FDA right on it.

Like a virtual game on the computer right now the TOH magazine is only in theory and the talking stages. Sure is some darn funny stuff.

We are thinking of some possibilities for good t-shirts and bumper slogans as well.

Today sitting on the beach I said to Rich - I feel like I am living a Jimmy Buffett song. If you know his music you know I mean. This happens to be my favorite Jimmy song right now.

Trip Around The Sun

Jimmy Buffett

Trip Around The Sun
By Al Anderson/Steve Bruton/Sharon Vaughn
(with Martina McBride)

Here I’m singin’ happy birthday
Better think about the about the wish I make
This year gone by ain’t been a piece of cake
Everyday’s a revolution
Pull it together and it comes undone
Just one more candle and a trip around the sun

CHORUS

I’m just hangin’ on while this old world keeps spinning
And it’s good to know it’s out of my control
If there’s one thing that I’ve learned from all this livin’
Is that it wouldn’t change a thing if I let go

No you never see it comin’
Always wind up wonderin’ where it went
Only time will tell if it was time well spent
It’s another revelation
Celebrating what I should have done
With these souvenirs of my trip around the sun

CHORUS

I’m just hangin’ on while this old world keeps spinning
And it’s good to know it’s out of my control
If there’s one thing that I’ve learned from all this livin’
Is that it wouldn’t change a thing if I let go

INSTRUMENTAL

Yes I’ll make a resolution
That I’ll never make another one
Just enjoy this ride on my trip around the sun
Just enjoy this ride

Revolution, Revelation and my favorite above. RESOLUTION... that I'll never make another one.... Get it my Resolution is not to make a resolution but to just enjoy the trip around the sun. Which I am thinking means you make a trip around the sun everyday as the WORLD turns.... Oh my time for bed this is all getting way to profound for me... Remember to live your dash.

Life goes on...

Yep, it seems to be going on all around me. July was a difficult month and August - did August even happen? It went by so very fast. Have not felt much like blogging, or sharing. Sad mostly I feel sad. Sad that people have to be selfish and self centered. That as a society most people just don't care about you, your life or much else. Just another dumb human taking up my space. My space at the market, on the freeway, at a restaurant. EXCUSE ME! and accidents are a thing of the past. You just know the person did whatever the offense was on purpose. Don't even try and explain anything to anyone you don't know personally or they look at you like you have antennas' and a third eye in the middle of your forehead. I don't want to be a whiner right now... but then again I want to whine so much and scream at what I feel are little injustices in my life and those around me. We all have them. Truly, I want to bury my head under my pillows and come up for air sometime next year.

Why... Jeff had a little (very little) not even what I would call a fender bender the other day and within 5 days his insurance adjuster calls says the lady (which is really just a whore in another way) is suing you. Here are the facts as I know them. Jeff looked down at the GPS to see what off ramp he needed to get off at, traffic on the 91 by the 605 was stopped. He rolled into the car in front of him breaking a piece of plastic off of his Scion (as you know these Scions are like air and will dent in heavy dew) and her car had no damage..... OH BUT she was Asian with an accent - told Jeff she was FINE, in broken english as she here's the ring of a slot machine paying off in her ears.. (money money money JACKPOT). NOW tells the insurance company Jeff was going 60 MPH when he plowed into her.... UGH.. all the ugly nerve of people like her, it is a good thing I don't know who she is or I would trim her bushes... REALLY... does she not believe in science YOU CAN NOT BE GOING 60 MPH hit a stopped object and not have DAMAGE to the vehicles... where did she go to high school

- YOUNG DUMB DANG!

Maybe I should not be spewing but today is my day to COMPLAIN and SPEW hoping this will all make me feel better.... ! not working yet. Then there is this little issue with my niece CASSIE. The one who stole money from my mom is having sex with a boy who has a man penis and no brain to back it up, killed the cat and basically at 15 does what ever she wants and my mom lets her because she is FRAGILE.... Today I was informed she is cutting her self... SELFISH... of course my mom will not call me back. Oh and next Cassie will be putting my mom in her grave. GOD WHY? I say intervention NOW... I guess this is my way of telling my mom and the world these people need HELP...! Mom call me you are 73 and doing the best any senior citizen can do with teenagers and 5 to 7 other people living in your house. This is what happens when there are no boundaries. Guess who gets to clean up the mess if my mom has a stroke and dies... ME.... is that not selfish my mom would expect me to clean up her mess when she dies but she won't do it herself NOW.

Then there is our Michael Paul.. the kid at 28 has been through so much and grieving. Tomorrow is Meghans 28th birthday. Going to be a very hard day. We must have 6 to 8 calls into the guy - we just want to hear his voice talk to him and see where is head and heart are at this week. SELFISH! Instead we just get to worry more and wait short of getting in the car and driving up to Ben Lomond.

I keep looking for the silver or bronze (I will even take gray) lining and I am not seeing it right now. Laughing feels wrong when something is funny - watch out here comes another doozie. I can't be creative because it just feels wrong to do something you might enjoy. Thank goodness for Wednesday nights and friends who validate you.

Jeff moved out this past weekend... that is good I guess except he is broke and being sued... No surprise there. I am dog sitting for a friend and the dog soaked the carpet with the biggest doggy pee pee every. Why she didn't use the dog door that she always uses is a mystery to me. And she has a sore doggy paw from skidding on the cement in the backyard while swimming and chasing her tennis ball. Then there is this entire Tennis thing where I was surprised fired my tennis team..... It is just tennis and I keep meaning to post my email response just for entertainment purposes. The worst part is you find out what you thought was friendship after 10 years is not friendship.

I don't believe things come in threes (3). I have heard it said that these trails build characters, that God does not give you more than you can handle. Maybe that is true for God but what if the devil gets in there? He sure seems to be dishing out a lot of UGLY.

as the quiet music plays in the background and we have a happy ending.... NOT... Now you know why I have not been blogging. If you don't have anything positive to say than don't say it. I kept waiting for some really good stuff and I know it is there. I need Dr. Phil or Oprah or just to get it out there... No matter what for anyone who reads these ramblings. Don't be sad, mad or glad for these things. Just be aware - be happy and do the right darn thing. Don't lie, Don't think you can handle it on your own, pick up the phone call your parents, let the dog out at 5 am to go pee pee when she whines, be a true friend.. and just do your best to do the right thing. I know I/we are all works in progress.

Feeling it

yep, sad, blue a little depressed. As a friend of mine said about Meghan's OB in the paper - 27 years and you get a couple of paragraphs written about you at the end of the day. I guess that is true about all of us no matter when we die. Then it is up to your family to write those couple of paragraphs about you and your life, if they choose to, then again maybe there is no family left. Maybe we should all write our own before we go.

Leaving for Santa Cruz and Ben Lomond EARLY on Thursday. Jeff, is driving up on his own (Mr. environmental) seems he does not want to spend 8 hours in the car with his parents - prefers his own company. Of course I am the DRAMA QUEEN around her since I suggested that we stay the extra day in Ben Lomond to celebrate his 32nd birthday on Saturday. But after living at home for the past 3 years (now there is a big hurry) it seems this weekend is the only weekend left to go look for an apartment and move out by September 1. I am the mama, I gave birth to him, I have the stretch marks to show what 9lbs 6 oz will do to you and I brought him into this world naturally (what in hell was I thinking)! Even Michael, said it would be nice to have Jeff's birthday the next day. I think so too. Let this family spend some time together, make some new memories and start some healing. What do I know? I think even at this age you can go into MOM MODE and the last thing they want is a mom!

Yep, just feeling it. Maybe I will get 2 and 1/2 paragraphs in the end....s

To Be Continued....

Makes you wonder what is next, how the plot will change if the hero and heroine make it out alive, if everyone lives happily ever after. Life is NOT a 30 or 120 minute TV show or something you see on the big screen, not everyone lives happily ever after and for sure it takes more than TV or the length of a move to figure out life and what is next. AHHHH! Reality bites and hurts. after 2 days at home it feels like New Jersey was a life time ago. The best invention ever made the camera. Memories captured on film or a tiny card saved on a cd.... these are a few of my Jersey Shore memories...

New Jersey Shore

We are back safe and sound from a great trip to the Jersey Shore - Seaside Park. Home for a few days in my own bed with Gracie by my side. Great pictures to share and stories too. But for now all that has to wait while the laundry gets done and a trip to the market for a little food. Packing our bags again to head up North for Meghan's Celebration of Life this Thursday.

Meghan and Michael Oahu May 2007

Meghan Long Beach Aquarium January 2008.

Back on the Bucket List

Road Trip we leave this afternoon to go see our Michael in Ben Lomond. I don't know if we need to see him more than he needs to see us... but we are going. We just need to all be together for awhile. Jeff, drove up last night about 10 p.m. (another mom worry -driving 8 hours that late at night) but he wanted to be with his brother and didn't want to wait and drive up with us. Niagara Falls has been cancelled and put back on the bucket list for another day and time. We are still going to do the New Jersey week at the shore and leave next Saturday. Continental really gigged us on the pricing to change flights what was reasonable is now OUTRAGEOUS. But the house at the shore was already paid for and Rich really feels he needs the time away - So off we go to TROPICAL New Jersey... it does say that in their state travel brochure right? Right now the thought is that Meghans celebration will be August 14.

Off to pack some clean ones... and prepare for a looonnnnnggg (long) car ride. Love the spousal bonding time...

NOT. Am I to old for car games to keep me occupied? Love - God Bless

Meghan

For the friends and family that read this blog and send us all the hope, prayers and good wishes for Meghan, our Michael and her family. Our Michael called this morning in gut wrenching tears and repeating over and over how sorry he was.... Meghan took her last breath early this morning July 27th at about 1:30 am. He told me she was no longer in pain and he and her family were with her and that they got to say good bye. Meghan was 27.

At the fair on Saturday I did something I have never done before. I had a henna tattoo of an octopus put on my left ankle to wear to represent Meghan. When Michael and Meghan went to Oahu a few years ago they purchased an amazing little octopus necklace for her. It looks more like a piece of art than jewelry. That octopus had become my symbol for Meghan and Michael to as a couple. Art, Love, Memories, Vacation, Ocean, Fighters

Strength and so much more...

Continued prayers. Thank you to everyone - we know you will carry Meghan, Michael and her family in your hearts today. Hug someone today and do it more than once and let someone hug you too.

Last Week and VBS

Sawdust Festival Laguna Beach

...

VBS- Kelly and Cassie with Kelly's group. One set of twins and one set of triplets in her group.

Kelly's handprint t-shirt... So CUTE!

Wow, what a week! It was fun, busy, memorable and GONE... yep, another week of this year, of this month, in the books. Another chapter of life complete. Last Sunday we said good bye to Kevin, Danni and Michael, after visting Crystal Cove and the Sawdust Festival and celebrating those July birthdays. Then it was off to Toms Farms to pick up Kelly and get ready for VBS- Vacation Bible School (Cassie joined us at VBS on Tuesday). It is probably best to put the week in pictures rather than words. So here are a few.

Because Blogger/Apple is so PICKY I am going to do this in stages it won't let me move the pictures around in the proper order once I upload them.

JULY

July... I wonder if anyone ever named their baby JULY... I have heard of SUMMER but you don't hear JULY to often as some one's name.... I have heard of June and August for girls. July could be male or female!

I have nothing new to report on Meghan since someone and some bodies including our Michael don't feel the need to keep us as informed as we would like to be kept. We don't know but assume she is still in the hospital and it feels awkward calling her family. Michael went to the hospital to see her on Sunday - last report we had. Ended up talking to her parents in the parking lot and never went up to see Meghan. This leaves me baffled since he has never not gone up to see her after her countless treatments and surgeries. Continued Prayers for her parents, and for Meghan's spirit and light, her wisdom, understanding, love, that she be free pain that the medications work. And for her medical team.

Numerous messages have been left for Michael on Meghan's phone and his new phone (we think he got his replacement phone in the mail after the old one was stolen). AHHHH! what is a mom to do I just want to know that he is coping and to hear his voice is always reassuring. Don't they understand MOM thinking?

GOOD NEWS - Rich went for his CT scans last week to the City of Hope and all is good. THANK GOD. As he says he has a pass till late October before he has to go check in with the COH doctors again.

The rest of July looks to be busy! Kevin and the kids come this weekend to celebrate July and August birthdays. They will be here through Sunday. Kelly and Cassie come on Sunday for Vacation Bible School all next week. Saturday July 25th is the HYLANDS ISLAND MILLION DOLLAR DINNER EXPERIENCE. Then it is time for vacation on that tropical moist island of New Jersey.

Stay Cool out there...! Thanks for your continued prayers...

ENJOY.

Hylands Island July

I have always loved the month of July. Michael's Birthday, Rich's Birthday, his brother Kevin's Birthday, Summer time, the 4th of July. July 2009 is showing itself to be very unsettling and messing with my personal security and freedom (no pun intended). Our Michael had his car broken into up in Santa Cruz, they broke a window stole his wallet with ATM card and drivers license and managed to charge and drain his account of $800.00 before he even knew his truck had been broken into. They also took his cell phone, extra keys for the truck (don't we all leave our extras locked inside the car) and his clothes. Poor guy had to drive home in his wet suit. This is all done days before his birthday. Which brings me to the next update.... Meghan goes into the hospital the same day for pain management and to be drained from her ascites (fluid retention from the liver not working). Meghan remains in the hospital and there is no good news. Her mother is on 24 hour vigil at the hospital and our Michael goes there 3 or more times a day while working to stop in and say hi and give her a kiss and he mostly finds her resting or sleeping. She has been so sick and throwing up constantly that they put some type of pump in her stomach. They have stopped giving her fluids..... July July July! Prayers for peace and that understanding that surpasses all others. I don't understand - I can't give Michael, Meghan's family or myself the words to help us cope. I know many of you continue to pray and we thank you. I need to go now and write a letter to Meghan which I am not sure she will ever read. One thing the Hyland's are absorbing from all this is you have to do WHAT IS IN AND ON YOUR HEART. Love to all, thanks to everyone for their love, support and caring.

Don't cry because it is over - smile because it happened... Dr. Seuss

A mothers/Friend letter to her son

June 17, 2009

Dearest Son:

From the moment you were born it has always been our desire that you know happiness and love. As a child we did our best to keep you from harm and hurt. We would do anything within our power to keep you from suffering the grief and loss you are undoubtedly about to go through with Meghan. Although Michael, this will be a difficult time I just want to share with you a little advise, consider it not from your mom but from an older wiser friend who loves and cares for you very much (as does your mother). We just want to help you through this time and it is very important for you to let us help you. Not only Dad, Jeff and myself, but your friends too.

Meghan has a profound and far reaching effect on us, our family and most certainly our friends. When I see the Bunco ladies the first thing they ask is “how is Meghan –how is Michael”. You both have been in the hearts and countless prayers of our friends both new and old. She has made a difference in there life in more ways than either one of you will ever know. Once she passes and goes to heaven both of you will continue to touch lives by example. WOW! What I am trying to say Michael is you have us, Meghan’s family, and countless people that need to know you are coping and dealing.

We are so proud of the man you are. With the prayers and help of God you will help Meghan in these final days. I know how weak and incapable you must feel and that you don’t want to be strong but you are strong and capable – you know what you are made of and you know what is inside of you. Mike, you need to tell this beautiful soul that you will live the rest of your life to honor her, her love, courage and bravery. She knows in the depth of her being what is happening and yet she probably feels like she is letting everyone who loves her down. It is so important to her and to you that you have all the love and memories locked away in your mind and heart or written down. You will need these last days and conversations to last a lifetime here on earth for you.

There is no right way to go down the road you know you will go down with someone who is dying. In my attempts to be sure you know that although this is tragic, it is also an honor. That at the end of the day, you got everything out of this journey. I have enclosed a couple of pages from a few books. The experts can express themselves much better than your mom/friend.

Quote from the book Final Gifts- Though it can be grief- and stress laden, death can occur in a context of completion and closure. After going through a death this way, many people say This may have been the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but I’m so glad I did it or The only thing that really helps me now that she’s gone is that she knew, as I do, that I did everything I could for her”

You need to reassure her that you Michael will be all right. Share with her what you maybe thinking and planning, reassure her you will be okay. Part of the process of getting to the next part of the journey for Meghan is the anxiety for those she is leaving behind, their sadness and grief and that she wants to be remembered. I know people remembering her is very important to her.

We will probably never talk to Meghan again – although we would like nothing more than to see her or talk to her again to tell her thank you… Sincerely thanks…. Thanks for loving you our son, the memories and the life lessons she has taught and shared with you. To thank her for growing up with you these last 9 years. Tell her thanks for your favorite “couple” song that 20 years from now when your driving in the car and you hear YOUR song on the radio you will still stop and think of her. Ask her Mike how she wants you to celebrate her birthday this year, so when that day comes you will feel like she is with you – where would she go if she could go anywhere in the world and tell her you will live your life trying to get there.

I am sending this book with Jeff, for you. I am not recommending you read the entire book, but I am recommending that you thumb through the contents and read what applies now. Michael what I have read so far is very powerful that helps some of those questions and curiosities in our mind take on answers and give us reason and purpose of understanding into these final days. Michael, a little information will go along way in insuring that you are listening, enjoying and understanding Meghan these next couple of days or months. Yes, asking God for his spirit, wisdom and endurance will also give you great strength and guidance. Just ask him and you will be amazed.

Dad and I our here to talk with you, listen to you, here your fears and offer whatever wisdom we may have. Michael, when you need us we will be there in a heart beat. Please keep us informed! Again we love you, we love Meghan!

In our prayers and we continue to pray for that miracle – in whatever form that miracle is going to take.

Aloha

Mom

Central Coast weekend

Wanted to share some pictures from the weekend and say hello to everyone. If weekends had ratings - our weekend at the Central Coast and our niece Danielle's graduation had to be an 8! We saw family enjoyed time with Dani and her brother the other Michael Hyland (we have Michael Paul and he is Michael William, and younger), saw amazing nature acts, went wine tasting and enjoyed time with our MICHAEL.

We felt no relief about Meghan's health after talking to Michael, but it was so good to see him, feel him (hugs) and share tears with him. He told us he has been crying for three years. Meghan was diagnosed three years ago and they have been on a roller coaster ride ever since. Michael only spent about 30 hours with us since he was very anxious to get back to Ben Lomond and be with Meghan. She continues to be such a fighter although the doctors have told her according to Michael there is no more treatment available. How do you prepare for this at 27? I could pour out my heart, soul and thoughts here but everyone in our family is at such a loss as to what to do. We know when we were in Ben Lomond in March we probably saw and spoke to Meghan for the last time. We had the florist send her a big tropical bouquet of flowers on Thursday to brighten her day. Michael said she received them they were fabulous and the best she had ever seen (bright spot). Continued prayers welcomed.

One quote that stuck with all of us at the graduation was from Dr. Seuss - Don't cry because it's over - smile because it happened.

UPDATE: I finally got my love ticket in the mail from DWOPing.... (driving while on phone) I thought maybe $50.00 and I would just pay it... NO!!!! $132.00. UGH... I am thinking I am going to fight it. I have some time and if I can make $132.00 in two days of time... well it would be better than officer motorcycle "good sport " winning. Of course hubby says I AM GUILTY and just pay it... Do hubby's ever think your not guilty.... I call it a love ticket since it still makes me boil when I think about it. I have seen officer motorcycle giving another ticket recently.... To an older WOMEN. He does not stop MEN or TEENS. I would like to see his ticket book and see why he is so biased. He is not out there when it is really busy and people are blowing through the stop sign. No he is there when about 4 cars go bye every couple of minutes. I want a full Katie Couric investigation.

Supposedly it is not a moving violation and the ticket said I can $214.00 up front and go to traffic school. Traffic School I was told was for moving violations only.

Time to get on with the day. Waiting for the sun to come out so I can give Gracie a bath. Her staples are out and her medication is finished and she is pretty much back to her self and she needs a bath. Love to all.... and thank you.

Two Weeks or Two Months

Two weeks or Two months? IF offered a choice which one would you take? What kind of a choice is that two weeks 14 days or two months 60 days? I decided to delete the rest of this post after giving it more thought. Those of you who know - you know and your words and prayers are so deeply appreciated. I will update once I talk to those that are dealing with these issues. But just give everyone in your life more respect, time and LOVE.

Jimmy Buffett Review

June is almost here.  I thought May was a little busy.  However, June is shaping up to be even busier with a few long weekends for business meetings and niece Danielle's high school graduation - which will find us in the central coast.  Last week was Jimmy Buffett and my feathers were not flying but they were in a happy spot.  Just want to share a couple of photos of the absolute childish times that are had and seen at  the parking lot tail gate parties. The top photo with the man (I think it is a man - the beard might be real) in decorated coconuts - I have no clue who this guy is or his name - NOTHING.  I was just fascinated by his coconuts and just wanted to take his picture - and now here he is getting blog love on the Hyland's Island Blog.  Hubby was also fascinated by many coconuts but they were usually on the women.  #2 Old neighborhood friend Bob Render, me drinking tea (sure) and Rich having some fun and the bottom picture is me and our friend of a very long time Betsy.  

DISCLAIMER... If some of you have an odd phone message from last Thursday (Julie C) and a few others... it was Jimmy calling you and leaving a message of music that you could barely understand not ME. Not sure who else Rich and I dialed while swaying in the isles and listening to music.   

A few Lyrics to one of my favorite profound songs.  See if you can find it and actually here Jimmy singing it.  

Breathe In, Breathe Out, Move On

TAKE THE WEATHER WITH YOU Breathe In, Breathe Out, Move On
(Jimmy Buffett/Matt Betton)

I bought a cheap watch from the crazy man
Floating down Canal
It doesn’t use numbers or moving hands
It always just says now
Now you may be thinking that I was had
But this watch is never wrong
And if I have trouble the warranty said
Breathe in breathe out move on

And it rained
It was nothing really new
And it blew
We’ve seen all that before
And it poured
The earth began to strain
Pontchartrain 
Leaking through the door
Tides at war

If a hurricane doesn’t leave you dead
It will make you strong
Don’t try to explain just nod your head
Breathe in breathe out move on

And it rained
It was nothing really new
And it blew
We’ve seen all that before
And it poured
The earth began to strain
Ponchartrain 
Buried the Ninth Ward 
To the second floor

According to my watch the time is now
The past is dead and gone
Don’t try to shake it just nod your head
Breathe in breathe out move on
Don’t try to explain it just bow your head
Breathe in breathe out move on

He didn't sing this at the concert but it a personal favorite... Have a great day and just breath in breath out move on.

Is this in some way WRONG

Tell me is this in some way just the wrong thing to say at the wrong time.... 

At Trader Joe's today - - you know how they always have some little sample for you to taste in the back. Today's sample was their HOT DOG with 2 mustard's... So I pick up my little sample plate take a bite and one Traders clerk says something to the other Trader clerk who is serving up the Hot Dog sample.... "ewe  that makes me want to vomit in my mouth",  she says very loudly you guessed it right when I am ready to swallow my HOT DOG sample... Do you think maybe if you are serving food samples you shouldn't be talking about VOMIT out loud for all the customers to here!  I must have been 30 feet away from her.  How do you teach someone timing?  

I am actually laughing about it. A SNL writer could not have scripted the timing any better.  I was looking for the camera...

Off to dinner with friends tonight at Newport Landing in Newport Beach.  The weather is here and it is beautiful. Had a delightful morning with Cheryl at GlitterFest and seeing my friend Robin.  She just gets more talented with each day.

Mail is here better go see if my Lottery check came today.  Now that is funny!  Aloha God Bless and have a good weekend.

PROMOTED

I got promoted.   This is the front of the card I got from Meghan for Mothers Day.  FOR MY MOTHER IN LAW. Yes, I cried.  If she were healthy we'd be planning a wedding - maybe I would already be her mother in law.  The other card is a card from my Michael.  He finally called me to. It had been a month.   Thank goodness for mothers day or I would still be waiting for a call. 

Like a cock roach my cell phone came back to life except it has no display.  Very scary that I could throw it so hard have it make a terrible noise and a few days later it is breathing again.  No ticket in the mail yet but, I keep running to the mail box anxiously waiting.  Maybe I will chop down the mail box! 

We had a good week here at the Island and I am still recovering from that FABULOUS scrapbook weekend last weekend .... REFLECTIONS.  Now I have 6 projects to complete.  I hope I get to do it again next year.  

Mothers day was very low key and besides being MD... It was GRACIE'S 5th birthday.  She got extra lovin, and chicken in her food a swim in the spa and a car ride.  Oh to be 5!  One of the projects at Reflections was to make this really embellished Birthday Party Hat (mine is 10% done) and my scrappy friends and I joke about it and I keep threatening my friend Lia that I am going to finish the hat and she MUST wear it for her birthday in June! Of course this is no way on Gods little green earth going to happen!  So Lia this picture is for you.  Even Gracie had issues with the hat....
Love to all... See you over on FACE BOOK. 

I killed the Cell phone

Okay I am some what calming down but not much.  I am still 5 hours later -  so mad at that Irvine motorcycle cop that gave me a cell phone TICKET. He called me a good sport.  What the blazes does that mean. Does he call his wife a good sport too - is that some sort of endearment? You know I could have been putting on makeup, shaving my arm pits and hanging my bra out the window to dry and I would not have gotten a ticket.   But answer the phone while stopped at my home stop sign where the cop is hiding in the shade and let him see you answer the phone - make your left hand turn and it is a red and blue light show in your rear view mirror.  I am frosted and MAD... he did not have to give me a ticket... But being the good sport that I am I guess he figured what the heck - she looks like a good sport and  now I can go eat lunch.   I pulled 30 seconds later into my garage and felt so much frustration that I threw my cell phone on the ground and needless to say it is not working.  So I killed the cell phone.  The fact is, I still have a nice pink ticket in my purse which is going to cost some money.  

If your asking why does she not have a blue tooth... I do.  Since I was 3 blocks and about 1 minute from home I had just finished walking Grace down by the freeway and I did not turn all my equipment (bluetooth) on to go the  3 blocks.  The phone rings it is Rich, he has a report from his doctor visit .... went like this pull up to stop sign - STOP - ring - pick up phone - make turn ... light show and a pink slip!  Oh happy Day...

Charmed for Reflections

 I am really going all in for a giant Scrapbook Hangover.  Reflections this weekend. Busy charging camera batteries, gathering tools, pictures, adhesive.  I am going to participate in a charm swap and this is what I came up. I like them and they are TROPICAL a pineapple stamped shrinky dinky with a hawaiian hula dancer and a little orange ribbon.  The month of May is shaping up to be a BUSY one.  Starting tomorrow night and ending on Sunday about 3:00 on May 3rd, 7 scrap classes and cropping.    I just hope my -  to many women in the same hotel -  hormone meter does not go NUTS and I get OVER LOADED.  What is it about a room full of women that all want to talk at once.  GUILTY (I am) it is like being in a large overcrowded Aviary and everyone squawks at once.  

I will just take the time now to say HAPPY MAY everyone. 

Meghan, update.  I talked to her recently and there is really not much of a change in her health.  She is still in pain and is only leaving the house for doctors appointments or chemo treatments.  I have heard from so many of you that told me you have taken time out of your schedule to drop her a note or send her a card.  THANK YOU so much.  It really has touched her and her family and every time I think about all the lives she has touched and effected even though so many of you have never met her it brings tears to my eyes and I just say thank you and thank you GOD for such incredible friends.

HAD IT!

Have you ever had enough of people being down right DUMB?  Today was one of those days.  There was the lady at the 4 way stop who was in such a hurry she would rather run over the pedestrians and baby strollers, then let me go on my TURN. The man who was backing his car out at COSTCO and hit his shopping cart with his car into the side of my car.  I looked and pointed at him, at the cart and he was just looking at me like what is the big deal. Good thing it did not leave any scratches.  THEN there is this chewing gum in the heat issue.  For the last two days I have managed to put my foot in so much hot sticky gum.  I was walking today and my shoe stuck to the pavement so hard I walked right out of my sandal onto the hot asphalt.  Hot, sticky gum is such a joy to clean off too.  I kept looking around for the cameras that were making people laugh and the guy to come and tell me SMILE your on chewing gum in 102 degree heat cam. Let's face it I will do almost anything to bring humor and laughter to someone's day but this is getting ridiculous.  Moral of the story put your darn chewed gum in the trash can, don't run your shopping cart into another persons car and Pedestrians do not make good hood ornaments. I am going to bed I have HAD IT.   

SPRING BREAK

Our Sun City nieces are here and we are doing some fun stuff.  Shopping, photo day at Balboa Island, a ride on the ferry, Corn Dogs, Pizza, Frozen Bananas and Balboa Bars. It was a little cold but the sand was warm.  Of course the girls could not walk past sunglasses without trying out and trying on about 100 different pairs.  While shopping the other day we stopped for FUN in Jessica McClintock's and this was the first time they ever tried on Prom dresses.  Oh my they were stunning in RED! A little celebration for Cassie's birthday tonight and tomorrow I have to return them back to their homeland. Oh well one more day to enjoy them and have some more FUN.

Ben Lomond - Mike - Meghan

Following is the email I sent last week to friends and family.  In case I missed you and anyone who is following this blog- I thought I would post it.  If I missed someone and you need Meghan's address please contact me.  Sometimes going through that address book on the computer my eyes cross up and I hit wrong buttons - so I apologize.  Thank you to everyone who said no problem we will send a note or a card - some form of distraction and to show how someone you don't even know can touch you life just by being themselves and so brave in their battles.  My heart is truly humbled.  I may be raising my fists and angry at God and questioning "life" on earth... but then I see and hear from people and they say yes, we will drop her a note and I can only say thank you God!  Here it is:

If personal WILL were a pill then Meghan would be
 Merck or Pfizer.  Just want to ask a favor - a moment if I
 could!  As many of you know our Michael's girlfriend,
 Meghan has been battling colon cancer for over 3 years, she
 has had two liver resections and recently was in the
 hospital for a week with severe complications.  She was
 jaundice, dehydrated and had intolerable pain and her cancer
 numbers were again off the charts.  She is extremely weak
 and unable to do much that a 27 year old should be doing. 
 She looks amazingly beautiful in spite of all these
 complications.

 Rich and I travelled to Northern California this past
 week to spend time with Michael, Meghan's wonderful
 family and Meghan -  if she had the energy to spend time
 with us.  We spent some quality beach and tourist time with
 Michael, had some fun times with Meghan's Mom (Beverly)
 and Dad (Brian) and we were blessed to spend some time with
 Meghan.  On Friday we shared a cup of tea with some laughs,
 memories and big tears.  All she could tell me was she was
 very very sick .  She lasted about 2 hours but she gave me
 an amazing gift of just her and time.  Saturday we spent
 time at her parents home for a Bar-B-Q and we all shared
 some stories and fun times we have had.  There were even a
 few tales from Meghan about her and Michael's college
 days... She did her best to rally while we were there but
 you could see her own private battles with so many side
 effects and the pain, that we were glad for anytime spent in
 her presences.

 Meghan adds so much color and vibrancy to our lives. 
 Words fail me when I think about the battle she wages
 hourly.   In her own words (from her pamphlet, last June)
 she says "Truthfully, Meghan grows cancer naturally, so
 remission in not a very reasonable goal".  Many of you
 keep this family and our Michael in your prayers and
 thoughts daily for which we can never give enough Thanks
 (her mother told me she feels the prayers).  My feelings are
 with these extreme set backs Meghan needs some distraction. 
 If you could take a moment from your own impossibly busy
 lives -  would you drop her a note of encouragement  a
 prayer, something funny, a card (one request please no get
 well cards), a picture, a drawing?  It does not have to be
 fancy use the back of a napkin or your business card, photo
 copy paper.  I just want her and her family to feel the
 love, support and kindness and the DISTRACTION that so many
 love her and her family, even if you don't know them
 personally.  If you can do this it will be greatly
 appreciated. She does not use a cell phone or do email so
 here's the address.  Meghan K  (please email me if you would like to have her address if you have seen this information here on the blog.

 Please continue to keep them in your thoughts and
 prayers... Aloha to everyone and their families who receives
 this email...
In his Love Pray for a miracle.

 Aloha

 Jackie

I am anxious to call her or Michael next week and see what she has to say about all her new found family and friends.  God Bless everyone. and Happy Easter - He has risen, he has risen indeed.  

May all your eggs be chocolate, or chubby hubby flavored, or whatever your favorite in this life maybe at the moment.  

Car Miles

Not exactly frequent flyer miles but CAR MILES.  After a long 7 hour slow drive home from Vegas  a week ago and lots of miles in the car we have decided to do another car trip.  Thursday we are off to the central coast and Ben Lomond to see Michael, Meghan and her family.  Mike called last week and Meghan had to be admitted to the hospital since she was in horrific pain (and she has been for sometime now) and needed stronger medical relief.  We have not seen this beautiful courageous  young women in 9 months and look forward to some small visits.  Her colon cancer most likely will never be in remission and what is left of her liver from the various surgeries still has cancer.  Rich talked to Meghan's mom last week and she told us what a supporter and how dependable our Michael has been.  And she said Mike and Meghan are more in love than ever.... (oh this just twist my heart into knots).  I must say for the past several years I have loved seeing them in love - they get that twinkle in their eye when they look at each other and they probably have no idea what they have done for each other in this life. I am going to say it- or write it. God I don't get it- I don't understand it and WHY? These two deserve so much to be in love and do the things young people in love do and to have those life experiences and joys and memories.  WE have joy that they found each other but great sorrow too that this "CANCER" has to be part of their relationship. We love Meghan so much and want a miracle.   Prayers lots of Prayers for healing, health and love! 

Sherry Sherry Baby.....

You know the Vegas Saying... What happens...

Spa Day

Oasis On Wednesday and the happy hour Ladies from Tuesday

Seeing the Jersey  Boys in Vegas had to be the highlight of #54! I am still singing the songs of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons... SHERRY BAAABBBYYYY. It was a great week with a  Happy Hour birthday celebration, Rich having the guys from CDM water polo (1971-1972) and the 80 plus year old coach Hooper, here at the Island (this is an amazing group of guys) the same day - Tuesday.  Wednesday scrapping with friends and a chocolate cake at the Oasis, Thursday off to Vegas. Massage with Donna on Friday, spending time with Susan and Deborah, seeing the Jersey Boys and finally Sunday seeing Barry and the girls. Our only complaint 7 hours to get home from VEGAS... UGH.  Here is the week in pictures.  Love to everyone who gave or sent me a card or called and sang to me on the PHONE... I love those messages - corny but great!

Vegas Baby

Vegas tomorrow for my birthday.  They might let me in the city since I had my eyebrows waxed, and a pedi and a mani... Oh the details of growing older and the MAINTENANCE.  Time to pack.  You know it takes me forever to pack all the Gucci gowns and tiffany diamonds.  There are just so many choices in my diamond collection to wear. STOP Laughing everyone who knows me knows this is not true.  This year is good since hubby-bubby will be enjoying the fun with me. Last year he was still recovering! New Year - New Day... Can't wait to get there and win the BIG MONEY Jackpot!  Actually looking forward to time by the pool and seeing the JERSEY BOYS.  Oh what fun it is to play.  

Started the birthday celebration last night with the Happy Hour ladies.  Tonight more celebration with the Scrappy ladies at the Oasis...  I will need to be careful since I don't want to start the day tomorrow with a scrap hangover and have to spend 4 to 5 hours in the car recovering.  Kidding  -  I hope  my tummy hurts tomorrow from laughing so hard, like it some times does after a rip roaring time at the Oasis.  Not a lot of scrapping gets done  but we make the walls shake with all the laughter.  

Happy day everyone...

Hibernation

Out of hibernation. After 5 months of sound (and we will assume) restful sleep. The tortoises have come out of hibernation. Can  you imagine sleeping for 5 months?  You would have missed so much good and bad and just life in general. You wouldn't know we have a new president or about Octo Mom or stimulus and bailout. Yes, this is a sign at the Island that SPRING has really sprung when Auggie and Baby come out of hibernation.  Actually, Baby just came out today and these pic's are of Auggie yesterday.  This guy is between 25 and 30 years old and we have owned him for about 8 years. Baby, we have had since she was a hatchling (baby, thus the name- took us 7 years to come up with a name) and we estimate she is about 15 years old now.   I guess you could say we have another teenager in the house.  How do they measure tortoise years?  After a long winter nap (they sleep in a cat igloo house in the backyard during hibernation), they get a good soaking since they have had no water this entire time, a spin around the back yard to get the kinks out, a food offering and a good sniff from Gracie.  As you can see from the above leg picture - hibernation does wonders for the skin.  They are either endangered or protected and we have a license for them issued by Fish and Game.   Oh the pleasures of tortoise ownership. 

Yes, it is officially spring time!  Wake up and eat the broccoli.  

So

So hello.  Interesting times we are living in but yet, they are thankful times.  I keep reminding myself how much better this year is so far compared to last.  Not that great things didn't happen last year because they did everyday.  It was just a very stressful time!  Let's see what is new at the island.  We celebrated Kelly's 16th birthday here on Sunday with a nice brunch.  Just a couple of pictures to share. We also celebrated Ronny's birthday.  Kelly had the cupcakes and Ron got the RUM CAKE.   The other picture is Kelly and her beau Andrew.  

Question - in the picture of Rich with the girls you see Cassie on the left she is 14 and will be 15 in April... (still she is 14).  She came to my house with those large pokey things that are about 3 inches long sticking out of her ears down the back of her neck.  I guess these are used to enlarge your ear lobe... WHY does anyone want to do this to their body.  TO have ear lobes like some tribal person.  What next a saucer in her mouth!  I just don't get it! My thoughts are when your 18 and no longer on the payroll of grandma or someone else do what you want to your body.  I am just ponding my head against the computer when it comes to this beautiful girl.  This is the least of the problems. The biggest would be LOVE... she thinks she is in LOVE.... Oh I wish someone would have told me when I thought I was in love years ago that it is so much more than your body and sex, possible unwanted pregnancy and sexual diseases.  It is about your head, heart, soul and very being....  Praying and Praying... I keep praying for wisdom and guidance to interfere more and make the gap between my mother and I larger or let it go and trust.  You see my mom supports 5 grandchildren and 2 adult children on a fixed income and she hardly has time to go to the bathroom let alone parent two teenage girls.  Rich may have had his bone marrow transplant last year - there was a plan a goal!  Things at my mom's just seem a drift with no plan, no goal.  FRUSTRATING.. 

So how is everyone doing out there in cyber land? How has your mood been? I wish I could put a finger on my latest mood.  I seem to be living in worryville and not getting much done - SO here I sit thinking this blogging will work like a therapists and help me to get it out there and DEAL with it.  

Only 9 days to go and the calendar will officially add another year to my age.  We are going to use some of those Marriott points and head off to the JW in Las Vegas. We rolled the loose coin last night and had over $400.00 in change (I now have gambling money).  Susan (the other sista) will be meeting up with us there and we (drum roll) are going to see the JERSEY BOYS.  Susan and I went to LV last year and stayed with Aunt Liz and had a wonderful fun time filled with laughter.  She will be there in spirit with us this year and she will be missed - you can be sure we will be raising more than one glass of spirits to her and enjoying her town.  

SO have a good one!

Pisces

Seems like good advise for the day.Horescope

Anything that you dream up you can make happen -- if you perservere and stay positive! Banish those clouds of doubt that you feel edging towards your brain right now. Yes, there is uncertainty ahead -- but there always will be. Why not choose to think the best and just keep moving forward? Stick with the people who always see the bright side of life and stay away from those who tell you that the things you want you can't have. That's nonsense, and you know it. Now you have to prove it to them.

SPRING IS IN THE AIR

Welcome March.  Recovering from another Scrapbook hangover.  WOW how does 16 hours plus go by so fast. Had a great time at Scrapbook Oasis at their CHA crop yesterday.  The dumb laughs about nothing - where your sides hurt the next day, prizes, giveaways and CUPCAKES, from SPRINKLES.  Oh what fun.  Rich just called and he is on his way home from a men's retreat with the guys from Church.  Can not wait to see hear the stories and find out if he was inspired and moved by the spirit. This week will be spent preparing for Kelly's 16th Birthday Brunch here on Sunday.  It will be our family and her beau's family we are (on her request) keeping it small.  She did Disneyland on her actual birthday Friday, with Andrew and Grandma and apparently had a great time.  Cheers here is to a wonderful week filled with SPRING coming.  I actual heard A (just one) bird singing through the closed window the other day.  I love to wake up with the windows open and birds singing in the morning, instead of the closed windows with the heater on.  Just makes me feel closer to God - fresh air.  This is the part on my blog where I leave you with some great quote or words or wisdom .......   BLANK! anybody got anything? 

ICK I am scared

Do you feel safer, better, healthier, richer, wiser and all around down right fuzzy listening to President "O"?  I don't! I can't wait to have a GITMO released terrorist living in my hood. Polosi makes me want to PUKE... is there a throw up tax? Is this America?  Does money grow on trees?  Do you remember when you were young or when you read to your children the CHICKEN LITTLE fairy tale, fable? It feels like our government has a very BAD case of CHICKEN LITTLE.  The sky is falling the sky is falling.  NO ear marks in this weeks spending program... WRONG look it up - over 9,000 ear marks and that is this weeks plan... I will now step down from my political soap box before they decide to tax opinions.  Prayers for our nation and its leaders and its people ... God Bless us all.  

Really

Really I do want to blog and say how wonderful life is and how much fun I have had in the past two weeks.. But really I am dealing with some anger and emotional issues involving a family member or two and STUPID decisions they are making and I can't seem to get pass it for right now.  My head hurts just thinking about it and so does my heart.  I am going back to my knees for now and ask the Lord for guidance.  Maybe once I give it all to him and give up the control I  really can try to blog some good stuff.  Aloha

Party Pics

Party Star.... Yes, Rich was the PARTY STAR.... It was a good time, with food, friends and wine. We had beautiful warm weather in which to eat our soups and deer valley chili.  Corn Bread, homemade crackers.... Brownies, German Chocolate Cake, Cookies, Lemon Bunt Cake... It was a FOODIE FESTIVAL.  Thank you to everyone who came and celebrated with us.  We are truly blessed in so many ways...AMEN. More pics of the guests and party star to follow.