Dear John letter

I think I wrote a 'Dear John' letter last night. One hitch, I don't have a 'Dear John!'

I am all about new beginnings. I thrive on being given another chance or starting over.

There are 4 seasons yet I have my life broken down into even more segments during the year.

New Year's Day is my first beginning to clear the slate, rejuvenate, and work hard at new visions or at rebuilding old visions which went awry.

My next 'starting point' is Lent where we are given a chance to repent and ask forgiveness.

Spring training and Opening Day are usually not far behind.

Advent is a welcome sight after going for months without recharging my system.

And that brings us back to Happy New Year!


I have been a push over for years....at least 11 years if not more (possibly my whole life).

When someone asks me to do something, I usually acquiesce whether I have the time, the interest, or the money (depending on the request).

That will change in 2009.

Hence the 'Dear John' letter.

A very dear friend of mine called to thank me for his Christmas present which I sent through the mail. Not necessary but very nice. In his next breath, he asked me to look something up for him. I said I'd do it even though I knew if he was near a computer, he could very well do it himself! I figured they had computers, even where he lives!

That moment passed. Once I get into work, for the most part, everything outside of work is a blur on a back burner until closing time.

Near the end of my shift, I remembered his request. I looked it up and immediately sent him an email with the information he requested. I sent the email from my work address in business-like fashion.

And then I just went off. I reminded him of my passion for New Year's Resolutions...getting back on track....taking much better care of me (last 5 years has been harsh taking care of Mom and I have neglected myself)...and told him that things WILL change.

I informed him that he could have just as easily looked up his information. I refuse to do his dirty work anymore. I've been doing it for the last 11 years and as of December 31, 2008, it's halted.

I also shared that my tirade is not directed solely at him. Pretty much everyone in my life bosses me around at one point or another--from Mom on down the line to family, friends....even fellow church/choir members which is a scream --come on, we're in Church for goodness sake!! I find laying low is the best remedy (especially at work, church, choir or wherever we have an able bodied 'leader' (like my boss/choir director/pastor--you get the idea)......'bossiness' crawls all the way down the chain.

The tides will change.....across the board....overflowing into the workplace. Everyone needs to do more work, pick up the slack, and be a team player in the workplace. We have so much added responsibility at work, I am finally putting my foot down and holding my fellow co-workers accountable for their actions in 2009. They WILL work as hard as I bust my butt in the workplace.

Anyway, I was pretty harsh in my sort of 'dear John letter' and to the point with my directives for 2009.

And, I WILL keep them. I have to. It is really a matter of life and death. I need to take much better care of me or else something detrimental will happen. I don't really care about hurting other people's feelings or satisfying everyone else's needs (I do, but you know what I mean)UNTIL mine get fulfilled at this point and time in my life.

When I hit 'send' I realized, 'I think I just sent my first Dear John letter,' and boy did it feel good!

Being on vacation is E-X-H-A-U-S-T-I-N-G!

I normally lead a fast-paced lifestyle on the go from dusk til dusk...and dawn to dawn!

Who am I kidding when I get a day off and think I'll actually accomplish much and move mountains?

Well, I usually DO accomplish a boatload but the 'to do' list always towers above the 'done' list.

I had a break around Christmas and a few days around New Year's. I can honestly say I have been and still am exhausted.

To the point where I have had to take a nap some nights. My line is "I need to take a nap before I head off to bed."

It's true.

I am at the point where walking along I feel as if I will collapse johnny on the spot. That's not good.

Eating cookies, candy and heavy holiday meals has not helped out.

I'm gonna clog my system once more before I turn over a new leaf. I must indulge on our annual dumplings, home made sauerkraut, and pork which will put me over the edge. I'll be lucky if I don't just fall asleep right at the dinner table New Year's night!!

It's all I can take to actually f i n i s h t h i s e n t r y...

G o o d N i g h t ! ! !

S w e e t d r e a m zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Thank you for the birthday memories!

From famine to feast! After last year's birthday experience, I swore off celebrating my birthday. I love celebrating others' birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, ANYTHING! But usually my birthday celebrations fall short of my high expectations and 'wants.'

I'd like to thank everyone who made this year's birthday experience quite fun, memorable, and special.

The day actually began more frazzling than most. What would a birthday be for me without shedding a tear or two or three...

I received a number of birthday calls, which were very nice. Unexpected but nice. I think the 'Mom' fairy contacted her deputy fairies asking them to pay a bit more attention to me this year! Just a hunch.

At Cantor rehearsal, hugs around the room, homemade peanut butter and hershey kiss cookies and happy wishes galore!

But I still felt like I had a gun to my head with everything expected of me that day. Quite overwhelmed. I literally had no wiggle room, no free second to spare this birthday. As the day progressed, the day calmed down and was actually bearable.

Upon entering work, gifts and a freshly brewed cup of coffee awaited me at my desk.

Everyone at work wished me a happy birthday. Quite a turn around from last year when no one acknowledged the big day at all and my relief never showed up so I wound up working late to cover her faux pas!

Facebook fever spread throughout the day with message after message popping up sending me well wishes....from family to close friends, acquaintances and business contacts. I have to say those greetings really helped get me through this challenging day.

The news does not care whether it's someone's birthday or not. In fact, I guess my gift from Mr. News was making my day so busy I did not have time to dwell on how uncomfortable and overwhelmed I felt at times. A fatal plane crash, bomb scare, homicide, and massive power outage will do that!

The day ended very nicely sharing a few cocktails and many laughs with friends at a neighborhood joint...

Overall, a much better day than years gone by.

I was lucky. Having my birthday on a Friday, we celebrated ALL weekend long.

Saturday, my family was able to clear their calendars and share in the annual birthday dinner feast at Maggianos with a special guest appearance from a dear friend of mine, Lydia. Afterward, the tradition continued going over to Auntie and Uncle Bill's unveiling the DQ ice cream cake --especially since Uncle Bill is nursing an ankle injury and really can not get around these days.

It was great spending family time together, laughing as we always do when we gather and tell outrageous stories and just relax!

But wait, there's more.

Monday, my best friend's package FINALLY arrived in the mail, much to his chagrin being late. It's the thought that counts, isn't it!

And another dear friend of mine and I 'let it ride' on a day trip to Windsor, Canada away from work, family, responsibilities, and worries. We were armed with our cell phones should something have happened but we were four hours away. Unfortunately, the minute I walked back into the house, and had to deal with a few pressing and urgent issues, not only did my relaxing day in another country end but my long birthday extravaganza came to a screeching halt!

Happy Birthday, me...I think I am actually looking forward to next year!

G.A. strikes again

More and more I have the feeling that God has assigned a specific guardian angel to watch over me (just like 'It's a Wonderful Life') because I'm such a handful! A misfit!

I can not believe what happened Tuesday. Yet, it all worked out (sort of). It usually does.

Running later than usual for work. I grab my 5 bags and pack the trunk. Off for a jam-packed day of merriment and mayhem.

Fast forward 9 and 1/2 hours.

Where are my house keys?

Nowhere to be found. My first clue was when they were not in the normal hiding place in my car. Re-thinking my every step. I had an idea of what happened which egged me on even more.

They were not in the door so I had them when I left.

I was locked out. Thank goodness Mom was feeling well enough to open the front door.

Once inside, every bag, every nook, every cranny and pocket examined inside and out.

Nothing.

I venture back outside to look through the car again with a fine tooth comb.

Nothing.

My theory: while I was placing the 'bag lady's' bags inside the trunk, I left the house keys on the ledge by my back license plate. You know what that means?! They flew off in transit.

I walk the length of my driveway and am going to cover every inch of the street in front of my home.

Voila! They ARE in the street just outside my driveway apron --snow covered and unfortunately, a bit mangled. My favorite purple, dog print a bit twisted. But, I've found my keys! Absolutely NOT a chance of recovering them without a guardian angel watching over me...by my side constantly....keeping me out of trouble!

Never again will I doubt Mom, myself, Jesus, and his choice for my Guardian Angel (G.A.)--who picked the short straw!!!!

Talk to my guardian angel

I don't know how I do it.

My Mom tells me on a regular basis, 'you are perfect.' Well, she's got a slightly skewed vision. First being my Mom. Second, well, being my Mom!

But, if I were 'perfect,'

• my house would be clean and organized with a library, game room, workout room, photograph room, Christmas room, guest bedroom, craft room, etc., etc.
• the excess clutter would be gone or organized
• I'd keep in touch with those I care for, those I consider friends
• My house would be decorated from head to toe
• Holiday shopping would be complete
• Our family Christmas letter would be signed, sealed and delivered
• I'd really weigh the blatant lie depicted on my driver's license
• My singing resume tape (which does not exist yet) would be reeling in requests to do weddings, funerals, parties, singing the National Anthem at any sporting event, especially the Cleveland Indians' Games
• My Facebook requests would not tower above 30
• Workouts would be a daily occurrence
• 8 rolls of undeveloped film would not be gathering dust on the buffet
• My cell phone would not be taking backward /inverted pictures AGAIN!!!!!!!

Oh, the list is endless bringing the sad and true realization to life that I am not perfect.

Getting back to my initial premise. I don't know how I do it. This leads me to believe that I AM doing something right! I manage to keep my head above water, take care of Mom, and arrive at work every day clothed (don't laugh!).

All credit goes to my Guardian Angel.

Mom told me today to speak with and thank my Guardian Angel everyday. Well, I DO believe in angels and my Guardian Angel. But I was toying with Mom. I said, "Mom how can I talk to her and thank her if I don't even know WHO she is!" She got a bit miffed! In reality, I know and have always known that I could never get through a day without the good Lord above, Mary, and all the Saints and Angels watching over me.

Thank you, dear Guardian Angel, for keeping this misfit on track as best as you can and giving me a pretty darn good life!

I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas

With each passing day this week has come my diminishing tolerance level for stupidity, carelessness, and laziness, especially among healthcare professionals 'supposedly' taking care of my Mother.

I refuse to drone on....

I did hear this song today--which immediately brought a smile to my face!

So, no matter how your week has been, hopefully this song will take us out grinning from cheek to cheek!

Happy Friday!

Nickelback - Gotta Be Somebody (Best Quality) + Lyrics!

It's been quite the week swirling with bubbling over emotions.

Mom winding up in ICU twice with so many unknown variables...leaving me feeling helpless, overwhelmed, and pondering my future.

2 female friends, both with child, having complications with their pregnancies--one outcome tragic, the other a false alarm scare still on course.

Intense conversations with close friends into the wee hours of the morning--comforting at times...yet on the other hand, exasperating and futile in some instances.

Thanksgiving arriving in the midst of this chaos. Wonderful seeing friends and family and thankful for so many blessings bestowed on me, yet our Matriarch missing from this year's festivities.

Thanksgiving ushers in the 'official' start of the holiday season, which is my favorite time of the year.

This weekend we lit the first candle in our Advent journey toward Christ's birth.

And whichever channel you tune into, either a hopeful holiday movie or romantic tug of war between boy vs girl.

I love this time of year, tho my stress level skyrockets with added duties as I kick into high on my 'over achiever' quest.

Yet I did find solace in the likes of 'White Christmas,' 'Notting Hill,' 'Must Love Dogs,' 'Miracle on 34th Street,' and 'Two Weeks Notice.' Just a hopeless romantic at heart.

I saw my niece interacting with her new boyfriend. I miss those days when I would meet someone new that I thought I could like (not the crazies on the bar scene). Like characteristics would bring us together and we'd make up the rest as we went along, finding out something new in each adventure. Those days have been gone for a while.

Right now, I have friends who I love dearly. We can finish each others' sentences because we know each other so well. Not much mystery remains. We would die for each other and watch each others' backs.

Yet, this emotional week has made me realize, I DO want to meet someone eventually. Mom said, 'some people were not meant to be married...were meant to be alone.' Was she saying that because she does not want me to meet anyone? She does need me very much right now. Or because she does not want me to feel badly about being alone. I told her I hope God has a plan for me and my Mr. Right, because I DO want Mr. Right one day.

Being shy, I was never really into the dating scene--though I have ALWAYS been a huge fan of great looking, chivalrous members of the opposite sex (still am!).

Seeing these romantic movies has given me a new glimmer of hope. The protagonist in each movie held back, and oftentimes did not share what was in his or her heart. Eventually, being a movie, the guy usually got the girl and everything worked out perfectly.


I do believe God has a plan for me, even if negative vibes creep in occasionally.

God WILL be there for me during illness, loneliness, when I feel I have the world on my shoulders, during unsettling economic times, when I've given up hope, and when I get freaked out by fear of the unknown future at hand....and when I least expect it yet most need it, HE will send in Mr. Right.

Truly blessed

Happy Thanksgiving!

It should not take a specially named day for us to realize day in and day out how truly blessed and thankful we are....but I suppose everyone could use a nudging now and then.

I am grateful that I was raised and instilled with the teaching to thank God every day for what he has done for us and the gifts he has given us (spiritually, emotionally, and tangibly).

I've had a good life. I still do. I would not trade it for anything. I've been surrounded by loving family and friends my entire life in a laughter-filled world. I still have a mother to guide me through life's mazes, when I need her, and who shares my daily occurrences.

This holiday ushers us into one of the most holiest seasons for me. I only hope I can live up to your expectations, utilize my gifts wisely and to the fullest extent, and be the person You made me to be.

Thank you.

(P.S. Thank you, God for the gift of wreath making! The picture is a wreath I made for Mom's dialysis center.)

I wanna be as cool as my Mom when I grow up!

I've got very big shoes to fill but I'm gonna try.

I want to be as cool as my Mom when I grow up.

She has this charm which immediately draws folks to her and they are hooked for life.

At the end of their conversation, she knows almost everything about them --and vice versa --and remembers it! Heck, I can not even remember a person's name when I first meet them! Let alone anything that transpired in that conversation...

I could drone on and on and on and on..snap out of it....but I really realized how cool my Mom was when we watched the American Music Awards the other night.

Not only did she know who the Pussycat Dolls were, the Jonas Brothers, Jimmy Kimmel...but got extremely excited to see The New Kids on the Block perform live (as did I)!

Amazingly enough, she's got a keen sense for music, similar to mine. I can honestly say I do know a little something about music and about writing lyrics. Though I do like much of the music today, it does not hold a candle to the likes of Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, then add to the list Chicago, Seals and Crofts, The Supremes, Steely Dan, The Beatles, Elvis, America, and so many other musicians who actually wrote their own lyrics, musical scores, and had impeccable performance skills, not to mention their sweet harmonization.

We both balk at those artists who scream at the top of their lungs thinking they are creating music...who repeat the same line over and over and over and over again....and those who claim they 'want to be The Beatles or Elvis' (though, at times, 'he' does have a good singing voice, if he would just focus on a better choice of lyrics)...


I thank my Mom for her influence....for opening my eyes, ears, and mind to a wide range and variety of movies, authors, musicians, delicacies, and pretty much living the great dream in this life! I'm a much better person for it (especially with my love of baseball and scrabble!!!!).


Thanks Mom!

O.A.R. 'Shattered'

It's funny yet at the same time wonderful at how, in this great country, everyone can express their own opinion.

When it comes to music, I've found each song may have a completely different meaning and interpretation for each soul who listens.

This song, for me alone, has many different meanings within depending on how I feel and what conditions exist.

When I have been pushed to the brink and almost shattered (whether by work, overwhelming responsibility, exhaustion, betrayal, disappointment, rejection, what have you) something always brings me back. First, it is my faith...but not far behind, usually music (such as this song) that picks up my soul. And then I start thinking of the great people in my life...my experiences....hobbies such as baseball that keep me going....

A totally different interpretation from the same person, me, is how I gravitate to certain people in my life. I can honestly say I have good friends. Upstanding, salt of the earth people. There are those one or two folks who are good friends but get you in trouble. Well, I find that there is one in particular who I can not break free from and 'always turn the car around!' God must have it that way for a reason!

Man of unshakable faith

Mom and I were blessed and honored to be able to attend the funeral Mass for Mr. Herb Score.

The rain showers came down in droves as church-goers side-stepped puddles forming on the outside of St. Christopher's Catholic Church in Rocky River while emotions were overflowing inside before the service even began.

Not only have we been admiring fans of his on-field notoriety our entire lives, but his broadcasting prowess shines like no other star. No one will ever emulate Herb's broadcasting finesse. If that was not enough, Herb's off-the-field and out-of-the-broadcast booth accolades shone even brighter. Fortunate to have made his (and Nancy's) acquaintance a number of times, Herb Score's faith and devotion to his God and his family was priority number one. This unshakable faith dictated who Herb Score was and how he lived.

All who knew him or knew of him came to the same conclusion: Herb WAS a man of unshakable faith....who always put God, family, and everyone else first....never spoke a terse word....and never felt sorry for himself.

Not only am I proud of my Catholic upbringing but truly enjoy being an Italian Catholic in Cleveland, Ohio.

Growing up, family, religion, wakes and funerals were all part of my moral fabric. To this day, I check the obituaries each day to see if a friend or distant relative has passed. When in college, there were classmates of mine who had never set foot inside of a funeral home. I was raised that death is not and should not be a sad occurrence. When someone dies, we may mourn their exit from this earth but in the next heartbeat, we celebrate because we believe that they are in their final resting place possessing eternal life with the Creator.

I am one-hundred percent certain that Mr. Score entered Heaven being greeted by his God, St. Jude, his Mother and Father, his daughter, other family members, and the best dog-gone baseball team EVER!

Score's funeral brought its share of tears. But there was so much more laughter in this celebration of a great life, a stellar man.

St. Christopher's was overflowing with family, friends, fans decked out in Cleveland Indians' garb, former colleagues and teammates. The altar was full of priests including St. Christopher's Father John Clebo, Bishop Roger Gries, and homilist Father Gary Chmura of Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church (Father Gary's complete Homily is at the bottom of this entry).

The funeral was perfect. Being a devout Catholic, he had the traditional Catholic Mass at the Church he loved. His closest friends and family members ushered Mr. Score's casket into the celebration and out to his final resting place. A dear friend of the Score family, Father Gary Chmura, was asked to give the homily. At the end of the celebration, how fitting to have 3 men who knew Herb best eulogize this disciple. During the three eulogies, some tears were shed, but so much more laughter rang out as each reflected on personal memories and some wonderfully, funny stories about this legend. Each man recollected Herb's faith, passion for his Catholic religion, love of his family and profession --all of the attributes that shaped Herb Score.

Bishop Roger Gries spoke a few words on Herb's love of the Catholic Church. His most memorable award was not an honor bestowed on him as a ballplayer or broadcaster, but when he was chosen Catholic Man of the Year.

Cleveland Indians' broadcaster Tom Hamilton eloquently gave insight into his friendship as well as broadcasting relationship with Herb for so many years. Hamilton shared the story of his first game as Herb's partner....as they drove to and from the ballpark listening to Frank Sinatra ....and after his first game when Herb offered to buy him a beer, he knew they'd be surefire friends! Hamilton said he was new, it was his first game, he did not know Herb or know if he even liked beer, but after his very first game, he sure could use a beer (being from Wisconsin and all!). Miraculously, Herb offered to take him out for a beer. Hamilton said he already felt at ease! Herb went to get a few beers and came back empty handed. Hamilton asked if they were out of beer....and Herb said 'yea, they only have Miller light!' From that moment on, Tom Hamilton knew they would have a long-lasting friendship.

Hamilton also commented on Herb's wardrobe. He said day in and day out Herb wore the best of the best wardrobe. When asked what he was wearing or where he got it, Herb shrugged and commented he did not know....Nancy picked them out ....Nancy layed them out....and it was his job to put them on! Hamilton teared up a bit as he spoke of Score being the only man, besides his father, who gave him the best advice...

Rocky Colavito 'stole the show' so to speak. Rocky gave the first eulogy (which is why Bishop Gries' remarks were short and sweet!). Mr. Colavito was Herb Score's very best friend, they were like brothers. They were roomies in the minors, the majors, traded a day apart (Rocky to Detroit while Herb went to Chicago), kept absolutely no secrets from each other. After they each went their separate ways geographically, they still stayed life-long friends.

Rocky looked back on Herb's career with rave reviews. Both he and Herb did not believe Herb's career was over after he was struck in the eye. And they were right. Herb continued to play into the 60's.

Rocky shared so many delightful stories. I must share one about Rocky. During the course of his eulogy inside St. Christopher's Church, he inadvertently used the word 'hell.' The first time it came out of his mouth, he turned to the priests and the congregation and apologized. No worries! Toward the end of his story-telling, sharing yet another fantastic memory, the word 'hell' came out yet again. He whipped around to the row of priests apologizing profusely. Father John turned to Rocky and said 'Rocky, that's two strikes, one more and you are out!' Everyone laughed and knew that Herb was listening and laughing right along...

One other story I'd like to share from Rocky is the night of Herb's eye injury, May 7, 1957, against the New York Yankees. Rocky said he saw Gil McDougald hit the ball and was looking into the outfield to see where it would land. Nothing. No ball. He got this awful feeling in the pit of his stomach. He looked into the infield and saw his best friend laying on the pitcher's mound. He sprinted as fast as he could from the outfield, put his glove under Herb's head and was by his friend's side. They took Herb off the mound. The inning was not over. They were still in the middle of play. Rocky could not wait for the 3rd out. At the end of the inning, Rocky again sprinted from the outfield down the long tunnel into the clubhouse to see how his friend was doing. When he arrived inside, trainers and doctors were tending to Score. He asked his buddy how he was doing. Herb did not complain, did not dwell on the pain, did not even feel sorry for himself. Rather, he said to Rocky --'what are you doing here? We're in the middle of a game. Get back out there!'

Herb Score's funeral Mass lasted over 2 and 1/2 hours. It did not feel that long. It truly was a celebration of a wonderful man's life on this earth. Herb's physical body may be in absentia, but his spirit and the memories we have will live forever inside each and every one of us--until we all meet again!

Below is the complete transcript from Father Gary Chmura's Homily for Herb Score's Funeral Mass.

Herbert Jude Score: 11/15/08: St. Christopher's Catholic Church

"The man who should be standing here today is Father Thomas Kelly. Father Kelly, part of Herb’s life and the life of his family for sixty years, is unable to travel because of age and illness. For the next few minutes I am honored and humbled to stand in his shoes.

Sometimes the true greatness of a man is only recognized in his dying - only revealed in his death. It’s not that suffering reveals anything new about a man’s character – it’s just that, for some reason, what has always been there becomes visible to us.

Think about Pope John Paul II, an author, linguist, athlete, AND THE pastor who traveled the world to meet his flock. It was only when we watched his body surrender the strength we were so accustomed to over to parkinsons – that we realized how much he merited the title that some have already tagged onto his name, John Paul the great.

Even Jesus – after all the healings, the miracles, the preaching – ended up with a tiny handful of followers and believers. It was only on the cross, in his final words, that we realized the greatness of his heart and the depth of his mercy – “Father, forgive them.” “Woman behold your Son – Son behold your Mother.” And to a man suffering alongside him – “today, you will be with me in paradise.” On that Friday afternoon when his eyes had already closed in death, it was only then that a centurion, a pagan, looked up and said – truly this was the son of God.

There are many here today who can and should speak about the greatness of Herb as a ball player, an announcer, a husband, father and grandfather. I’d like to talk to you about the greatness of Herb that I witnessed – Herb after the accident, Herb in his physical decline, Herb in his dying and in his death, because no matter how famous he was or could have been, no matter how well known he became, his true greatness, his character, was best revealed in his last years, days, and hours.

I want to talk to you about Herb who could have become a bitter and angry man, but would not dream of receiving communion without confessing his sinfulness and first being absolved. I want to tell you how he struggled to make the sign of the cross when I blessed him in the hospital – and was only able to complete it with the assistance of his helpmate and life partner, Nancy, who had been at his side for more than fifty years and who for the last years had been his hands, his legs, and his voice.

Like Christ on the cross, he didn’t complain. Like Jesus in his last moments Herb’s concern was not centered on himself it was for those gathered around his hospice bed. During the last mass Herb attended on Sunday – his eyes sought out the face of every person gathered in his room. Maybe it was only after seeing that gathering of family and friends, realizing Nancy would be cared for and that his family would be there for each other that he received viaticum and commended his spirit to God.

But just so this doesn’t sound like a canonization I also want to tell you about the Herb who had more than a little of the devil left in him. Nancy, this story is new – even to you - and up front I want to apologize for being Herb’s accomplice. We were at Bill and Kathleen’s in Florida seated around a coffee table covered with before dinner snacks. Because you were watching his diet when you decided he had more than enough you pulled his wheelchair a little away from the table and made him promise not to move it back. When you went to the kitchen to help with dinner Herb thought it over and came up with a brilliant solution – a way to keep his promise to the woman he loved and get some more cheese at the same time. He didn’t move his chair – he promised you he wouldn’t – instead he asked me to push the table closer to him so he could reach it without moving his chair. Then when you were coming back he had me pull it away again – and, until today, he got away with it.

Sometimes a person's greatness is only recognized in their dying and their death – but we are not witnessing anything new – Pope John Paul died – exactly as he lived – with courage and complete confidence in GOD. Jesus died exactly as he lived – with mercy, forgiveness, and selfless love.

SO... was Herb’s death impressive – yes, but only because he died the way that he lived - As a man of unshakable faith in the good lord – a man who loved his family more than his own life – a man of unspoken charity and virtue.


His death was holy, because he was holy.
He died like Christ, because he lived like Jesus.
He died as a believer, because his life was guided by his faith.

Is it any wonder that we have gathered here to mourn in the way St Paul tells us -- to grieve with hope.

Many of you know that Herb had a great devotion to St. Jude – the patron of lost causes. St. Jude’s day is celebrated on October 28th. I thought that would be a great day for Herb to die – to celebrate the feast with his friend in heaven, but Herb and Jude had other plans. Evidently, for Jude this time of suffering represented no lost cause – but a hope filled preparation for their meeting in heaven.

I’ve got to end with just a little baseball. Toward the end of his career hall of fame pitcher, Hal Newhouser, saw Herb pitching as a young rookie and remarked that he "would trade all of his past for Herb Score's future." and right now I would do the same …….. for today I am willing to bet everything I have and everything I own that Herb’s future began on November 11 when he stood tall and strong again before the God he served all his life and heard the words promised, by the almighty, to those loyal to him. Well done good and faithful servant. Come now and share your masters joy."

Herb Jude Score

Cleveland Indians' pitching legend and long-time broadcaster, Herb Score, passed away at his home in Rocky River Tuesday morning with his wife and family at his side.

He was 75-years-old and had been ill for sometime.

In my line of work, I had been alerted a few weeks ago that he was not doing well, and unfortunately, may not have much time left.

We had a tribute story ready to go when he passed.

I wrote a personalized remembrance on my work blog.

It's been interesting and so moving reading the various newspaper articles, web stories, and viewing television reports on Mr. Score's passing.

Each story has the basic information about his baseball career, his tragic accident, how he catapulted into a tremendous broadcasting career, retired and then how the last years of his life had been plagued with tragedy after tragedy.

Every single story also contained personalized remembrances from every single writer or broadcaster. Herb Score affected every person he touched in so many ways.

His rich tones, so soothing. I could listen to Herb call a game all day long! In fact, I used to sit on the porch alcove at our old house with my homemade score card and chart the entire Indians' Game from pre-game to post-game. I'm sure I still have those score cards up in our attic somewhere!

Most of the articles touched on his 'Herbisms' as well as the classic way he'd call a game. Every once in a blue moon he would make a blunder, but for some reason, with Herb, it did not matter. He was such a class act, so unassuming, not taking himself too seriously, that he would correct the mistake with his own special flare! One of the greats! A brilliant broadcaster. They really do not make them like Herb anymore. The mold has been broken.

More important to me than any of the baseball jive was his faith and love of his God, of his religion. I truly believe that his rich, faith-filled life made him the person he was and gave him the strength to endure and survive every cross he had to bear.

From his pitching days, especially on the day of his injury, you could see how much faith he possessed. When he was laying on the pitcher's mound bleeding and in pain, he prayed to his favorite saint, St. Jude, to spare his sight. Ultimately his sight was spared. Though he did not continue with his pitching career, St. Jude and God allowed him to stay in the business he loved so much.

He named one of his daughters after St. Jude.

He was very involved with his church.

And, what inspired me most, was when my family and I would go on our baseball jaunts to watch the Tribe in various cities. We'd wind up being on the road on a Sunday. We'd find the closest Roman Catholic Church and attend Mass before heading to the game. You'd always see the Catholic ballplayers at Mass, including Mr. Herb Score, giving thanks to God for their gifts and their talents bestowed on them by God. It was quite moving.

God rewards good people. God truly rewarded Herb with his wonderful wife, Nancy. Nancy and Herb were the perfect couple, the epitome of love and happiness. Their faith helped them survive this long and weather the storms tossed in their direction. And they did!

I have no doubt that Herb Score is front and center on the 'pitching mound in the sky' blowing away the likes of Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle, Shoeless Joe Jackson, Roger Maris, and THE BEST baseball team ever assembled!

Herb, you will truly be missed.

And you are one of the 1st people I'd love to bump into and play catch with when God opens the pearly gates for me.

The road most traveled

I should have known better.

I did know better.

I've experienced this Sunday after Sunday.

I've dealt with this day in, day out after Cleveland Indians' Games.

I've lived through it during Cleveland's worst snow storms.

However, I just figured 'it would be ok.'

And though it took me over an hour to get home from work, it was ok.

I tried leaving work to downtown traffic gridlock. I waited. And waited.

Why did not I stay late for unfinished business like I've done so many times before?

I tried going 'the other' way in order to maneuver around the town. Bad move.

Though I was not at this game, I was in the midst of the flavor of the game.

That was kinda cool.

I saw downtown spots I have not been able to see in a while.

And for whatever reason, the long commute home was bearable. It did not fluster me.

I cranked my car radio, took some cell phone pics of the scene, and enjoyed the moment!

New life

I am truly blessed. I've always felt this way and know what a wonderful life I have.

However, there are many in this world who are in the midst of chaos, despair, sadness and a feeling of hopelessness.

Well, today is a new day.

Today is the beginning of what could be the turnaround for a better life for all of us in the world and in the United States of America.

Do not give up.

Do not despair.

There is new life.

Hours away from freedom

Anticipation on many fronts.

Who will be the next president of the United States? We all have our choice but who will it really be?

Election days for me are always crazy due to my craft and career choice.

Will casinos in Ohio become a reality?

The list is endless.

But most importantly, the disturbing 'blame game' commercials which air around the clock will come to an end and go dark in just 6 and 1/2 short hours.

The phone calls at every hour of every day hopefully will stop.

I can not understand the phone calls. The phone rings and you pick it up yet there is no one else on the other end of the phone? Or the phone rings and you don't pick it up yet they don't leave a message on your answering machine? What is the point of the phone call if the person on the other end is mute? And by the off chance a message is left, it is so long, it usually cuts off before the message has actually ended?!?!?! (Same thing with telemarketers, which unfortunately will probably not end after this election)...

I look forward to no more calls from Minnesota and Maryland and all over this great land:
506.227.3529
952.400.1110
240.696.7345
877.565.0143
866.346.2708
877.622.6264


Good riddance!

Macy's: 150 Years

I love this commercial! I get all choked up everytime I see it and I'm sure we'll see it often through the holiday season!

Youngest choir member

We have a new addition to our church choir--he's young, handsome, hip, and has one strong set of pipes!

Baby Jack!

Kay and Tyson have become a welcome addition to our Choir over the last few years.

They brought Jack into the world. He was baptized this morning at Mass.

What a doll. His presence alone makes you realize the greatness yet gentleness of Jesus Christ.

Jack was a dream this morning! All dolled up in his all white suit and tie. Never made a peep! Tyson says after the first week or two of his birth, he became very observant watching everyone and everything, following movement and attentive to everything in his sight line!

Our choir director, David, already has great plans for young Jack!

Congratulations again to Tyson, Kay, and Jack! May you make beautiful music together and live in harmony for many many years to come!

Fall back

I've been anticipating this moment for the last 9 days!

I know, it's silly.

You say, 'Danielle, just go to bed an hour earlier and you will get an extra hour of sleep.'

I feel like a kid at Christmas opening a gift. The gift of one more hour to do whatever I'd like--and right now, I'd love to utilize that hour to sleep.

When I was younger, I'd get an extra hour to drink. Well, if I were hanging around with my best friend, that would be my wish again! I still have it. 3 weeks ago, I don't think there was a day I went to bed before 5am. It was great! So I know I still have it! For now, my wish is to sleep.

The downside is that this momentous occasion occurs Saturday to Sunday. I can't sleep in on Sundays. I must be up early to Cantor Mass. But at least I do get that extra hour before duty calls.

Starting around 8pm, I keep saying "it's really 7pm" and so on and so on.....

Well, right now it is really 1145pm and believe it or not, I can not wait to finish watching my episode of Law and Order...maybe another one...and then off to dream land with this magnificent gift we've been given tonight...

Sweet Dreams!

Hole in one

Contractors, you can't live without 'em but have trouble living with them in your house!

When it comes to builders, contractors, and construction workers (though many of them are dreamy and hunky), I am a skeptic.

It's the nature of their business. They say they are going to build something but once they dig in and tear down and find out what is under or below or on the other side of that monstrosity, the job has just escalated a few notches (as well as the price!).

Not to mention the time frame. We've never had a contractor stick on their timetable. They say they will be over one day and never show. Then they say they will be over at such and such a time and .....and most certainly, the job is never complete when they say it will be done. Again, nature of the biz. When they find added bumps in the road, it's bound to take longer. That's why no contractor should EVER promise, guarantee, or even mention dates, times, or the length of a job.

For the most part (up until now), we've had bad luck with contractors. The guys who waterproofed our basement--well based on a recent blog entry, they did not waterproof our basement!!

Then you have the guy who renovated our upstairs bathroom. The cabinet was put in backwards...the light above the shower could have ZAPPED any one of us at any time....that same guy left a huge hole in the utility room....and the list goes on and on...

Now, we have guys who belong to our church, Joe & Tommy. Very nice people. They do a very solid job. Honestly, we could keep them in business year round if we had the money because we do have a bunch of jobs worth doing in our home.

They are great guys. They strive to do the best job and take great pride in their work. Contractors have to factor in if it's a 'need' or a 'want.' I'd LOVE the best, the top of the line. However, with 'blank' amount of money to work with, gotta go for the 'need' and not the 'want.'

I get that contractors are 'laboring,' hence the astronomical 'labor charges.' However, I guess I am not like that. If I like doing something, I'll do it for next to nothing. If these guys get their supplies at cost or for cheapo, and they absolutely love what they are doing, why charge an arm and a leg for the labor??? Same as a car mechanic. I can buy a part for my car for 59 cents, yet to fix the problem, it winds up being 599 dollars because of the labor charges. You have got to be kidding me!!!!!

What started out as replacing our garbage disposal, yep, that's right, our garbage disposal, has turned into --well just look at the above pictures! I'm sure it will be lovely and is very necessary. The guys wanted to do so much more but the landlord is on a budget. I'd love to have them re-do the entire kitchen. It needs it, and frankly when would I have the time?? I barely make it through the day with everything on my plate. Again, the landlord and the tenants are all on a budget.

One day, maybe..............................

Magical memories

I am determined to hold onto those magical moments from last week!

It's very easy to have a few days off or enjoy a great party, concert, celebration...and once you get back to work or the grind of the routine, poof --everything goes out the window!

Not this time. We had a wonderful week! Jam packed as usual. But what else is new?! Every day in our lives is like being on the freeway at rush hour in LA, Orlando or New York!!!!!

Last week consisted of basking in the beautiful weather....family celebrations....new restaurants never sampled...good friends revisited from the past and the present...exotic places never traveled....making apple cider from scratch....singing, dancing and music....

Mix in the fact that baseball season is still alive! And the Cleveland Browns had an UN-BELIEVABLE MNF game. What more can you ask?!?

It truly was a dream week.

Toward the end, little things started happening as signs that the dream week was about to end. Not gonna let it happen!

Life is too short. Remember the good times to get through the bad times. Keep a sweet memory in your pocket when times get tough as a stepping stone to the next magical week.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

What a wonderful gift I've been given to be able to celebrate Mom's 79th birthday with her (all of us really)! She looks great! We've been through so much. And I guess that is what makes it sweeter! That's what makes it memorable!

Even though it is Mom's birthday, I've been given the greatest gift of all!

Thank you, dear Jesus.

Coming up for air

Finally, after a week of cleaning up part of the basement (still so much more to do) and doling out bags and bags of clothes and blankets....I've managed to come up for air!

It has not been a hard week. It's been a 'typical' week in the life of Danielle. On the go from Dawn to Dusk and back.

There is so much more to do in the basement, but we have a great start. After last week's unfortunate water leakage, we had to toss 13 bags and boxes of 'stuff.' Fortunately, none of the 'stuff' was too substantial.

Once we were on the purge kick, we managed to get rid of 13 other bags of clothes, blankets, sheets, and the like.

Fit into there a trip to the hairdresser, major league baseball playoff games, singing all the Masses, dialysis, and a few other Mom Doctor's appts and VOILA, welcome to my world!

Honestly, this has been nothing compared to the next 12 days ahead.

Buckle yourself in because we are in for one of the wildest rides of your life!

WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

I thought our basement was water-proofed?

I have to be honest. Listening to the radio and watching the first 15 minutes of the news, you'd never know parts of Cleveland were hit with a torrential downpour--for most of the day!

I know we were because I am still recovering from it. We had three separate hits today.

I know I am not crazy and did not imagine this water logged episode. Our Pastor was driving west toward Vermilion and told us he saw multiple cars floating in water, covered in water, flipped over in the water.

It all started very early this morning. I finished at the dentist and ran into the post office. Upon my exit from the post office, the torrential rains and monsoon began. Near impossible driving conditions. I had 2 more stops to make. Each time I became a bit more soaked no matter how hard I tried to stay dry.

And then the moment of truth. Pulling into my driveway--well, I almost could not pull into my driveway because it was flooded upwards above my ankle toward my calf muscle. I knew it was going to be a bad one because the garage was beginning to flood. I did not even want to think about what may be happening in the basement.

When this happens, I get my squeegee and begin clearing the drain hole in the backyard hoping that something is covering it......I get totally soaked in the effort. I did grab my raincoat today and hike up my sweats but by the end of my drill, I abandoned the hood, let the raincoat swing open, and let my sweats just wade in the water, for they were soaked anyway!

I actually efforted pictures but it was raining so hard, I could not afford to ruin my fancy, new camera. All I could get were camera shots inside of the rains' aftermath. AND I did take 2 video movies of the debaucle inside. Of course I can not transfer the video to my blog OR to Facebook. Fits right in with the day I have been having. Well, if you actually could see the motion picture.....

Our supposedly water proofed basement is NOT water proof. There is a room beneath our sun room which leaks. However, the problem continues getting worse. Today, the water (and I still can not figure out just exactly where it is coming from) was pouring into our basement....making a clear stream from the sun room down the slope toward our wash basin.

Times 3.

Each time it would rain and pour, which happened three times today, the water would enter our home. At least it waited for me to get everything cleaned up and dry before it rained and started again!

At last count, we have 10 garbage bags and boxes of ruined items out on the front lawn as a nice little gift for our waste management friends!

Old home week

What a week! It seemed like 'old home week' for me. It began last weekend when we had a wedding at my church and one of the families I'd known since I was a tot. It was great visiting with them, if only for a few minutes!

Then, within a few days I've gotten Facebook friend requests from a college buddy, a high school classmate, and a grade school friend. Though time is of the essence these days and free moments are rare, I do enjoy keeping in touch with old friends, if only through Facebook!

My Mother almost went through the roof when we drove by Jamie's house (which I might add is directly across from my high school). She could not believe one of my dear college friends lives 5 minutes from us and we never get together. She is absolutely on the money! Hopefully I will be seeing him soon at his Cider Press party!!

But the big reunion was mid week. I was able to sneak toward work a little early because I actually wanted to spend some money at the Indians' gift shop. Their loss. They had the entire area blocked off and no where to park. Their loss was definitely my gain. I buzzed my dear friend, Monina...told her I was outside of her station and begged her to let me in! Fortunately she WAS there and had a few free moments.

You have to understand, Monina IS probably my dearest friend. However, I still had her Christmas gift in my trunk. I had been carrying it around since December!!!!!

We were able to catch up since our last chat....I handed over her gifts....and asked her to be the 'deliver-er' of 3 other gifts I had been carrying around for a few weeks.

I also was able to visit with a handful of former co-workers. What a serendipity! I have such fond memories of my last workplace. Salt of the earth people. Many of them are still on sight, which is rare. It was a different time 20+ years ago. Many people are still the same tho the physical plant has certainly changed.

And the greatest visit this week was when Mom and I took our annual trip to the Notre Dame Chicken Dinner.....where we caught up with Sister St. Jude. Sister was the best friend of our cousin, Sister Callista, who has since passed. Sister St. Jude is truly a remarkable woman. Though hampered with physical ailments of late, her sense of humor, kindness, and memory are as sharp as a tack! Mom and I were hoping to zip in and out of the dinner and be home to watch the Browns and the Tribe. When we found out Sister was on site, we had to make a visit. Our journey took us on the road less traveled and what an enriching journey we met. We had an absolutely memorable visit with our friend, one we shall never forget!

End to my emotional weekend

The lump in my throat is back.

It's the end of an era at Yankee Stadium.

Mom and I are so lucky and blessed that we had the opportunity to go this year before they begin tearing it down.

Sunday night, the final game to be held at the house that Ruth built. It's these type of games where the actual 'game' is secondary to the event itself.

Pre-game pomp and circumstance came on, and it was just riveting! What an emotional roller coaster ride. I would not have missed this for the world.

There were so many older players who came back, and of course, remembering those players who already passed.

Family members of deceased players stood in for them including, Mickey Mantle's son, Elston Howard's daughter, Billy Martin's son, Bobby Mercer's family, Thurman Munson's family member. I know I am forgetting a few folks and I apologize.

You could tell that many of the former and current players were visibly shaken.

Bernie Williams came back for the first time since his retirement and got THE biggest and longest ovation. Williams, a very humble man, was overtaken with emotion.

Don Larsen began scooping up soil from the mound he pitched his perfect game atop...

Since Babe Ruth hit the first home run at Yankee Stadium, his daughter was asked to toss out the ceremonial first pitch to Jorge Posada. She rocked! Just like her father!

Bob Shepard, who has been ill and has not been at the stadium all season, recorded a greeting so he could be part of this ceremony. Shepard has been the Yankees public address announcer for over 50 years. In fact, Derek Jeter asked him to record for posterity what he says when Jeter comes up to bat so they can play it each time he comes up to the plate until the end of time!

The game began and how fitting that Andy Pettitte took the mound.

The game itself was actually very exciting, while the announcers intermixed video vignettes, interviews, live guests and trivia throughout the game.

Though the players of today may appear to be legends, the old timers will always be my heroes. Whitey Ford was signed out of high school for peanuts. He went on to be one of the best Yankee pitchers of all time with 120 wins, 2.57 ERA, and 748 strikeouts. He is a humble man to this day. No current player can hold a candle to Whitey, Yogi, Feller, Doby, and all of the old timers who made this great game what it is today!

During the 7th inning stretch, hearing Ronan Tynen sing 'God Bless America' for the last time at Yankee Stadium brought back the huge lump in the throat.

Robinson Cano hit a sac fly to score a run and then tossed his batting gloves into a little boy sitting in the first row. To see the little boy's face brought tears to my eyes.

Babe Ruth made a comment after his 1st home run at Yankee Stadium wondering 'who will hit the last?' Well, for all you trivia lovers, it was Jose Molina!

A perfect ending to a perfect game, bringing Mariano Rivera in to close the game out as he has done so many times before. Chills went up and down my spine.

At the end, while The Chairman, Frank Sinatra belted out 'New York, New York,' Derek Jeter made a short speech and then the team took a lap around thanking their fans for their support.


I must interject that I believe the Indians' have the best fans. 455 sold out games in a row. 105,000+ filling the stadium this weekend alone for a team that is NOT going to the playoffs (but should be!!).

And then so many wonder why I love this game!!!!!!

Emotional weekend

Probably not particularly healthy but when I get very emotional and do not allow myself to cry, I get a huge lump in my throat that feels like it is going to just bust!

This weekend was chock full of those moments!

It began Friday morning (a vacation day) at 530am heading off to the hospital for Mom's procedure. I don't think I will ever feel what it's like to sleep in on a vacation day!

Things went moderately smooth today at the hospital except Mom was in even more pain than usual. It was awful. I'm not even going to go into any further detail or that lump in my throat will flare up. The good thing, all the nurses were extremely nice and Mom actually bumped into just about every one of her doctors! The nurses are quite caring and actually remember not only Mom but me too!

I must share this story--there is a little foreign 'house doctor' who is a trip. I'm not sure what he does, why they retain him, or what purpose he fulfills, but he brings comic relief. Right after the foreign doctor who speaks no English vacated our room, the nurse came over to assure us he had NOTHING to do with Mom's procedure!

Then off to dialysis. I have no idea how Mom does this?

You would think Mom would be exhausted and spent after dialysis, but she wanted to go to the Indians' game, being the final home stand, so off we went.

We did have a few scary moments. Mom had one of her post-dialysis episodes. We had to steal away to the Terrace Club bathroom couch for about 20 or so minutes while Mom recovered.

I'm very fortunate that I know what to look for and how to remedy the problem. Within 1/2 hour, Mom was good as new!

The game itself quite emotional with the big Fausto-Sheffield fight breaking out in the 7th inning. With this turning point, you just knew we were going to win the game!


Saturday: Do you ever feel totally out of control of a situation and a missed opportunity? Well, that is how I felt today. Mom and I went to Mass. Upon entering, we saw the wrap up of a bride and groom finishing their wedding pictures, family saying their goodbyes and parishioners entering for Mass.

We knew many of the wedding goers! I grew up with them. I felt as if I had missed out on a wonderful opportunity to sing this Mass while seeing some long lost friends! My best friend from grade school had been at the wedding but had already retreated back to her hotel. I have not seen Joan in years.

She's a wonderful girl who has had, at times a very sad life. Yet she has a tremendous core group of family and friends who have helped her get through all of her trials. Her mother passed away when we were in the 4th grade. Her brother passed away a few years later on New Year's Day. She lost a very close uncle and her Father, just to name a few awful moments. Though she still had a lot of family up here, she opted to go live in the same area as her sister and brother-in-law and nephews.

I miss her. I can not believe she was in town and I could not even say hello. I felt handcuffed and a missed opportunity that I will never get back. These feelings do not happen that often, but today was one of them.


Sunday: The final game of the season at Progressive Field. To us, this is a huge deal. Baseball is part of our life. It's part of the many fibers that make us who we are, give us strength at times, entertain us, yet saddens our spirit.

Overall, a festive day with us sweeping the Detroit Tigers. After all the celebrating ended, we realized that we will not be back at Progressive Field until April 10, 2009.

Why?

Every day I run across dozens if not hundreds of items and issues where I just shake my head and say 'WHY?'

Today is no different.

I'm off so why do I have to get up at 545am?

Why, oh why does Mom have to endure such pain and sorrow and have the doctor do the same procedure he did less than two months ago? I hate to see Mom in pain and crying. She is very fragile, a great lady who should not have to be subjected to these awful things. Right?

Why, when we have been to this hospital literally HUNDREDS of times, does the girl ask 'do you know where you are going?'

Why does the doctor tell you what time to be there, what time he wants to do the procedure and then no fail, everything is running 2 hours late?

Why does every tech, who remembers Mom, forget that IV's and Mom don't mix?

Ditto last question, up to 'forget that Mom has low BP?'

Why does the doctor come out of this procedure saying 'I don't know why I had to go in, it looked ok to me?'

Why does my cell phone take pictures that are inverted and backwards, including the writing?

Why does the CDC keep running out of wheelchairs?

Why, when Mom's doctor said he was going to raise her dry weight, do the techs keep going off of the old dry weight? Does no one communicate???????

Why is it always so cold at the dialysis center?

AND WHY DID SOME JACKAL HIT MY CAR WHILE IT WAS SITTING AT THE DIALYSIS CENTER CAUSING A 36 INCH SCRATCH AND NOT LEAVE A NOTE??????

I can't believe he took him out?!?!??!

This is my blog, so I am going to say it. Why did Eric Wedge take Cliff Lee out of the game?? I know that every single person has their own spin. And the sports writers and baseball people will have the normal generic pad answers they always pontificate. I also know that during the Manager's press conference, there are certain questions the media is not allowed to ask Wedge. There are certain topics the media can not second guess the manager or his staff about.....or even bring up. Just listen to some of the Manager's press conferences after each game. There is dead silence at times with absolutely no one asking the hard questions that should be asked. It's very awkward to listen to and embarrassing at times.

Bottom line, even if Minnesota scores a run or two, the Indians might come back?

It's not like we are in first place (even though I STILL believe if we win and Chicago has a total melt down, we can come back). But, it's not like we are in first place battling to stay atop the division...

There were still 4 innings to go. Keep Cliff in. Let him win or lose this game. If the Indians come back, as they did, he wins. If he loses, he loses the game and not some weak bullpen job.

I am a true Indians fan and go to every single game that I am not working. I think of myself as well versed in baseball and the talent on this Cleveland Indians' team. Sometimes you have to throw about the rule book. Sometimes you have to throw away the strategy and just play hard with a lot of heart!

I am not impressed with a lot of the decisions Eric Wedge has made this year. The guys must play well. If the ball goes through Peralta's legs, it's not Wedge's fault. But so many of the plays and strategies put into play are directives from Wedge, and frankly, this year, he's not cutting it!

Come to think of it, I have not been impressed with any of our Major League Teams' coaches --sorry Romeo and Mike....

We have the talent (on most fronts)! Maybe our owners need to open the pocket books, and hire high class, big name coaches and managers to take us to the BIG SHOW!

It's nice to be honored by your peers

I won! I won my 7th Emmy Award!

Every once in a blue moon I guess I do need to pat myself on the back, but it is very uncomfortable. Really!

I walk a fine line. I like sharing my accomplishments (not in a boastful way) yet I don't want to be the one to share them!??! My head is spinning!

The morning after I found out I won, many people at Church asked me 'what's new?' For the life of me I could not bring myself to say "I won an Emmy last night." I said something bogus like, "oh, things are busier than ever" or something absolutely ridiculous!

At the Indians Game that day up in the Terrace Club, I saw one of my best friends from College who I had not seen in years. He said 'how have you been, what's new?' Same thing. My Mother and the woman we were with were chomping at the bit and finally said 'last night she won her 7th Emmy!!' I know, I have issues!

It is nice to be honored by your peers, especially for something you believe in or something you worked really hard at accomplishing!

I was actually nominated for 3 Emmy Awards and wound up winning 1 with a group of my peers in the Breaking News Category for our coverage of The Shooting at SuccessTech.

I congratulate all of the winners. And the phrase "it was just an honor being nominated" is not a load of "do-do." To be nominated for an Emmy Award is just as sweet! Really! I think I have been nominated 15 times or so and have won 7. Actually, not a bad batting average. But those years I lost, it truly WAS a great honor just being nominated, especially if I was in the company of folks I deemed my heroes or mentors!

I could not accomplish a single thing in this life without the good Lord above. Thank you, Jesus for making me who I am, giving me the gifts I possess, and walking through this life with me every step of the way!

For a complete list of all the winners, please CLICK THE ATTACHED LINK!!!

Remembering 9/11

Quite the surreal day. It seems like forever since the Twin Towers went down yet it seems like it was only yesterday.

A day that should be remembered, if only to prove that Americans and the United States are strong and will not let a catastrophic event such as that defeat us.

Yet, a day that should not have a lot of fanfare, which connotes 'celebration.'

I was away from the television this September 11th and besides the flags at half staff and the date on the calendar, I did not see much to remind me of that fated day.

I guess each September 11th, each of us should reflect in our own way on what happened back in 2001 and strive to be stronger and united while we cherish our freedoms and families. Ultimately in the end, hopefully the righteous will triumph and defeat evil.

God is good

Mom has this saying she uses often, but does not overuse. When times are tough yet situations seem to work out, she says 'God is good.'

When a friend or stranger goes above and beyond, she says 'God is good.'

When parishioners come up to her amazed at how far she has come back, she says 'God is good.'

This weekend our church held their annual Chinese auction and picnic.....this year's festivities echoed the Olympic theme in honor of the recent Beijing Olympics because it was a 'Chinese' auction. Parishioners were urged to wear garb from their country or 'olympics-oriented' attire as well as bring a dish from around the world! There were games for the children....a fun time for all involved!

Parishioners and businesses donated some wonderful auction gifts. We bought a number of tickets for the auction, not necessarily to get a gift, but to support the church we love!

On a whim, we put a ticket in almost every little auction baggie and more than one in those that we actually would not mind winning!

When they got to one of the auction items and called Mom's name, I realized that God IS good and he has total control over what we do down here.

I also realized that God knows, at times, I need a 'sign' in this crazy world that he is still there.

Mom won 2 hats which say 'God is good all the time.' She also won a t-shirt which tells you who to call when you get into the top 10 binds and trouble spots --like Matthew, Mark, Jude, etc....just one of the most imaginative shirts I've seen!

God IS good!

Don't stop believin'

Music keeps me young and energized! I don't know where I would be without it!

I'm the best person to go to a concert with and the worst!

I live in the moment at each concert I attend...take it all in.....enjoy it to the fullest. My short term memory, on the other hand, hinders my concert experience.

We can be on the 3rd song and though I danced and sang to the opening song, for the life of me, I can't remember its name! Doesn't mean I am not enjoying myself, just means my memory is shot!

I take pride in knowing a little bit about music and when I go to a concert, I am immediately drawn to one of the band members and watch them all night. I close my eyes and see if the group sounds just as good live as on their recordings. And, I just love listening to the harmonizing and backup singing. A good group has perfect harmonies, complementary back up music.

Enter: Heart and Journey! Cheap Trick was pretty darn good too...but Ann and Nancy Wilson are always spot on. God gave Ann a strong set of pipes! Journey is one of the tightest groups around. Neal Schon is a genius and a crazy guitarist! Jonathan Cain is my man in this band. He's part of a great collaborative team, keyboards, guitar, harmonica and vocalist. When I think of Journey, I think of phenomenal keyboards and Jonathan Cain never lets us down!

(Cheap Trick)

The night was great (except for the little usher man that would not let us take any pictures! The website said cameras ARE welcome --small, disposable and digital but he reprimanded me and from there I just acquiesced and enjoyed the sweet sounds!).....

I could not ask for anything more! A great friend....beautiful weather....and supreme music to sing and dance to all night long!




Just 5 guys --2 guitarists, keyboards, drummer and vocalist --that really pack a powerful punch! They rocked. They were on the money and never let up. Their new stuff is tremendous. Can't wait to get 'Revelation' and jam to 'After all these years!'

There is absolutely nothing like listening to your favorite songs performed LIVE by the original band mates (most of them) under a beautiful starlit night! Pinch me!!!!

Flat as a pancake

I just love my little car. It's old. But over the years I've become even more attached to it making it harder and harder to part with it.

I know one day I will get a new fangled car with satellite radio, a camera to view the scenery when backing up, and so much more....one day...

After stressing over the periodic problems I have when starting my car, I totally missed the tell-tale signs of a 'flat as a pancake' rear tire.

I did hear something flapping in the wind as I left for work. I just thought it was yet another creak.

It drove fine. Never even felt like I had a flat tire until a good samaritan woman honked and told me my tire was flat.

I still could not believe it. My baby was driving perfectly!

I only had a few more blocks to go for work. I arrived at work in hopes of finding someone to help me. George helped me put air in the tire to see if there was a slow leak or if a nail was visible.

I fear coming down at the end of my shift having yet another flat tire. My boss and the girl I relieve are gems! Rita said I could go up the street to get my tire fixed and Lisa said she would set on the desk until I got back.

Now, the stress is gradually leaving my system. And when I came across the little Amish woman sitting in the waiting room with me, it totally left.

There is always someone worse off. This little Amish woman was in town with her son, who recently had a kidney transplant. He must come into Cleveland each month for his checkups and tests. They had a three hour drive back to Sugar Grove PA. I felt awful. My 'inconveniences' are REAL hardships for so many others.

And the kicker--they finished with my car first but I'm fairly sure she got there before me. Just doesn't seem fair.

Unassuming hero makes history

It was electric! Exciting! You just knew something special was about to happen!

And it did.

Cliff Lee, one of the most unassuming individuals around, made history by just doing his job, what he loves!

Lee became the 1st MLB pitcher to reach 20 wins this season.

Lee is the 1st Indians pitcher to win 20 games since Gaylord Perry achieved that milestone back in 1974.

Cliff Lee said it himself, all cylinders were working. He was on his game and his fellow teammates did their job behind him in the field and with their big bats!

What a magical night for everyone in the stands.

Cliff Lee was just named the American League Pitcher of the Month for August '08 after going 5-0 with a 1.86 ERA, tossing a complete game during that span.

It was a treat to experience this historical night with Mom. She was tired from dialysis but was determined to go to the game. All cylinders were working on our end too! I was lucky enough to have the night off or we would not have been able to witness history together!

Thank you, Jesus! We are truly blessed! Life is good! God is good! We are not gonna ever let anyone tell us differently!

(last photo courtesy: Chris Kunz)

I will continue wearing white shoes!

I know Labor Day has passed, but I will continue wearing white shoes!

First of all, I am a rebel at times (ok, stop laughing those of you who call me miss goody two shoes!)....

I have a very cool pair of white flip flops with some bling that have a few more fancy steps in them!

And most importantly, on a day when it hits 92 degrees, anything goes! I certainly hope we continue having these balmy temps deep into September, October, and further!

Ahhh, Cleveland will soon sprout palm trees everywhere, and oh, how I would love that!!!!!