Such a blessed young girl

Yes everyone! I still think of myself as a young girl. [Cease snickering here]

This past weekend can be summed up in one word: Satisfying.

It was a completely satisfying weekend surrounded by very good friends and family all weekend long.

It began Friday as I met someone I consider to be near and dear to my heart for a delicious lunch at Mama Santa's in Little Italy. I had not seen this friend in at least a month.

I knew it would be a great afternoon as I got a parking spot right in front of Mama Santa's --in Little Italy --at 1230pm --on a Friday. Are you kidding me???????

You know you have those friends you may not speak with or even see but when you finally get together it's like you were never apart. I can go so far as to say sometimes I get those butterflies in my stomach with this friend. It's nice.

Saturday was my oldest niece's birthday party surrounded by our closest family members at her beautiful home. Of course, there was delicious food --more than enough to keep us all happy as we spent the entire evening together watching the Browns, playing scrabble, laughing, joking, listening to great music and just 'hanging out.' I understand that phrase now as we literally just sat on her new deck and gazed up at the planets & stars by the fire pit making smores 'hanging out.'

And Sunday, I saw a wonderful friend I had not seen since he left my church as Choir Director and Organist. We all gathered for little Jack's 2nd birthday party at a west side metro park. I was honored that Kay and Tyson invited me! We have all seen little Jack grow since he was born.

I'm telling you --the way to go! Enjoying the outdoors with good friends on a beautiful Cleveland summer night. Perfect ending to a perfect weekend!

Sharing meals is fun!

I've been so blessed this week to be able to see people I've not seen in years and share a meal with those who are important to me.

It's been awesome, surreal, yet exhausting.

I brought it on myself because I wanted to spend quality time with so many folks.

The spinning wheel began with my Aunt and I skipping out to dinner at Maggianos. What a great deal. You buy a meal and get a 2nd one for free to take home for the next day. Well my Aunt, who eats like a bird, pretty much had her meals lined up for the rest of the week. Me, not so much but I did ok!

I saw my nephew and his roommate, even though for a fleeting moment! It made my night!

I shared a cocktail with one of my dearest friends who I don't see as much as I'd like but I hope she certainly knows she is near and dear to my heart. Honestly, Monina is now one of our medical contacts so I do see her more than I'm used to as she brings guests into the station for various shows!

I also met in my neck of the woods with another contact of mine who I speak with on the phone but have not seen in eons. Susan and I really had a wonderful evening catching up, just sharing information, and exchanging thoughts away from beepers or cell phones, if only for a little while!

I actually met one of my facebook friends for the first time, though we've spoken on the phone and in message form. Alexis and one of her friends met me at the Indians' game. Honestly, it was like we'd known each other all of our lives. What a nice treat to make a few new friends!


And the grand finale puts a huge smile on my face. I met an old friend of mine for dinner and then a movie. Kathy and I were interns at WEWS 25 years ago. I can not believe we have maintained our friendship, but we have! And, again, it was like we picked up where we left off without skipping a beat! What a fantastic evening catching up, sharing very deep thoughts & life experiences.

We talked all night long. Even after the movie, we stood in the parking lot still yakking!


I am very lucky and blessed to be surrounded by friends.

At times I don't believe I have a bf or even a bff, but maybe one day that will come.

For now, I just thank God for the memories and the people he has put into my life over the years. I'm one lucky girl.

The Feast of Little Italy thru new eyes & old friends

When I embarked on my annual visit to Little Italy during the Feast of the Assumption, never did I envision the time I would have!

First and foremost, I was touring Murray Hill and its ancillary streets with two very good friends who frequent Little Italy but never have been to The Feast.

What a privilege that they chose me for this honor.

Lisa and Bob were just a joy to watch, like wide-eyed kids seeing something for the first time!

We went through ever nook and cranny including our tour of the new playground, ate pretty much one of everything and went back to what we really loved, and of course, carried out the annual tradition of lighting candles at Church.

I'm so glad I could experience this fun time with friends rather than alone.

It's hard. Last year Mom and I went to the Feast and shared so many memories. This year, I know Mom is looking down on us but she's not physically with us.

When Lisa and Bob left, I lingered and am sooooo glad I did!

I saw Mary Jo from the Terrace Club. Mary Jo Mont manages the Terrace Club at 'Jacob's Field.' She's like family, loved Mom, and will always have a special place in my heart.

Then I ran into my old pal, Tom Stacho, of the Cleveland Police Department. I used to work with him more closely through my job but he is now a bigwig with the force .....fortunately, I know exactly where to find him during the Feast!

I decided to stay for the closing procession, service, and fireworks. In recent years past, we've been unable to enjoy this tradition.

And finally, I revisited the fried dough stand of a childhood friend, Michael Rapposelli. By the time I went back, Michael had returned and for the next hour we walked down memory lane talking about the neighborhood, childhood funnies, old friends, how we were raised, what he'd like his children to get out of life, and reconnecting.

I met his lovely family. I saw his Mom, who I'd just put on tv a few nights earlier. I had always thought Mrs. R was so beautiful --and she still is! I saw one of his sister's, Michelle, and just had the most amazing experience.

I was in awe of the wonderful things he kept repeating about Mom and how he just adored her.

I know she's a saint. I know I love her more than life and always will. Over the years I've seen how others adore her. And through her death and the months that followed I have seen how people miss her. I guess I will never really comprehend the scope of all the lives she's touched. She IS my hero and my inspiration.

I can only strive to be 1/2 the person that Mom was...and that will be a major accomplishment in my book!

All in all, Mom IS with me every single day. I feel her, I speak like she spoke, I solve problems out of the blue, I hear how others miss and love her...I am reminded by my childhood friends the great things they remember about Mom, the good things about life when we were all young, and what we should keep alive from our history. I am reminded how Mom influenced others' lives. I pray that I am or one day will eventually evolve into becoming a shining example as Mom was to all.

And I am so blessed that I have friends--whether newer friends such as Lisa and Bob or older friends such as Michael --to keep me grounded, focused and in possession of what is really important in this life we are so fortunate to live.

XO

Shoeless was NOT going to stop me

You'd never know I was as old as my birth certificate says.

I don't feel that age.

I hang with younger kids.

I'm told I don't look that #.

And I've been carded at least 4 times over the summer. Whew hoo!

Thank you, Mom. That is one of many attributes and gifts you have given me and I so love you for it.

I had the honor of attending the Indians' game with 2 co-workers who realistically could be my daughters. But, I just have the best time whenever we go out.

I hope they have the same fun times.

Carrie and Caitlin are a hoot and we had just a crazy time.


Again, the folks in front of us totally eavesdropping on all of our conversations.



And they were enamored with the blond girls in my company. I am not blond. I'm ok with that fact! I kinda like my dark, Italian hair with my light blue eyes.

I must admit, I can not believe how I can still partake of the adult beverages.

After the game and great fireworks show put to music (where we screamed the lyrics at the top of our lungs), we met up with Bethany and her friends. Yet, more laughs and memory-making.


Now, in the midst of the fun and frivolity, my flip flop began giving way.


Those who wear flip flops regularly know what I am talking about. It starts feeling looser. You glance down and see that sure enough, it is getting looser and the spot between your toe is even giving way and may bust open at any moment.


You have to clench your foot and consciously lift your foot every time you take a step.


I could not have that happen.

The night was still young. I had at least 3 or 4 hours still ahead of me!

So, in fashion of my younger days --at college, or when we'd go to Browns' games at old Municipal Stadium, I yanked off the shoes and walked barefoot through the streets of Cleveland.

I did not care.

Threw caution to the wind and loved it actually.

From Progressive Field to Harry Buffalo.....through East 4th (which is AMAZING these days--love it!) down Euclid Avenue through Public Square....over to West 6th and the Warehouse District!


An amazing feat that my feet did not get sliced up or worse.


Each establishment we entered, I'd put on my shoes for a fleeting moment until we got in and then poof --slipped them off because with each step, the plastic support was loosening.


Quite a liberating feeling to dance on the dance floor at Dive Bar barefoot and play Foosball barefoot! Just like I was back at college roaming around campus at 2:00 a.m.


Into the Rooftop Bar. The shoes immediately came off as I was required to walk at least 36 steps to get to the rooftop, and once up there, up and down a few platforms.


No way Jose.


Once up there, what a beautiful sight of my fair city. The music blasting, pounding through your whole body, the drinks freely flowing, and a breeze that made it all worth it as you glance out at the city skyline.


Finally, the night had to come to some sort of conclusion.


I had been up since 5:00 a.m. My other friend actually had to go INTO work. She was a trooper drinking water all night.


We decided to head back together --walking.


Never once felt afraid or unsafe to navigate the streets of Cleveland in the wee hours of the morning --shoeless!


And once we left the Rooftop Bar, I was required to be shoeless for the rest of our trek as my flip flip busted into 2 pieces before our very eyes. Caitlin was nice enough to ask if I wanted to get a taxi.


Heck no, this was the perfect ending to our daylong adventure.


We walked back to our cars, having a wonderful conversation, I feeling as if I was a kid again.


And deep down inside, I think I still am!

Burning the candle with great friends

An amazing week to say the least.

I have been filling in on vacation relief at work, therefore I've been able to do things and see people I ordinarily would not see.

Needless to say I've been burning the candle at both ends, but it has not affected me.

I normally do not need a lot of sleep.

Thank goodness.

My goal this week is to attend 8 Indians' games in a row. I know I will accomplish that feat.

But more importantly than that stat, it's the quality of life--the great friends & family I've been able to re-acquaint myself with and just enjoying each day to the fullest.

I know, I know, I should never lecture anyone. But one of my new pet peeves is when I see people buzz through the day working toward something happening next week, next month, or further down the road. Or when I hear people talk about their really long range plans like retirement.

Let me tell you my friends, those days may never come. We must live in the here and now.

I've always believed that life IS the daily journey we take getting to the finish line, NOT the finish line.

I must only ponder my own life, but I really wish some of my closest friends whom I love dearly would hop on my band wagon, if only for a selfish reason, that they spend quality time with me, gush over me, pamper me while I am still here. YOU know who you are!!!!

So this week, besides my Tribe games, I have enjoyed seeing Mike, Jim, Monique, Karen, Maureen, Chuck, Diana, and Kim. I also chatted for the longest time with a dear, dear friend, Jimmie.

Spending the night at the game with Diana and Kim made me feel like I was back in college because we DID go to college together. Honestly, it seemed like none of us really changed our looks and we all had that same vibrant zest for life. I am so blessed to have surrounded myself with friends who truly LOVE life. Thank you God!

At the game, just starting to realize that the folks sitting around you do have a tendency to eavesdrop on your conversations. WHOA! Diana, Kim, and I were discussing some pretty heavy duty 'girl' stuff.....relationships, and such. Half way through the conversation, we realized the guys sitting in front of us were listening the whole time. When we made a joke, they laughed. When we quieted, they leaned closer. What a hoot. As we spoke of boys, men, sexting, love, travel, etc., the chocolate covered banana vendor came around. One of the guys in front whipped around and said "Now that seems like it would be your kind of treat ladies" and burst into laughter. Not quite sure what he meant by that correlation (snicker snicker) but we all broke into laughter at that point!

All and all, a wonderful week with some pretty fantastic friends.

Can't ask for a better life.

Oh Mom, how I miss you

The next few weeks surely will knock my socks off or kick my butt.

I'm embracing the change, the opportunities sent my way, and plan on savoring every single moment.

My work schedule has been changed for a few weeks while we cover vacations.

I greet the chance with open arms.

I used to fill in on this shift a million years ago....and because of the fortunate shake up I get to see my boys 8 games in a row.

My week with the Tribe kicked off with the Indians Hall of Fame Induction weekend, and Kenny Lofton coming back to town.

Mom should have been here. I'm sure she was. But, it was definitely not the same. I could not contain myself --sobbing, smiling, asthma attack or hyperventilating. Quite emotional for many in the stands, but definitely for me.

I can't describe and put into words my love of the game of baseball....my interest in the Cleveland Indians....and the memories my Mother and I (and my whole family really) have shared over the years with our Cleveland Indians.

Memories that will get me through the next 1/2 of my life.

Kenny Lofton always soft spoken and humble. He got fired up when he spoke of his love for Cleveland and the fans...and when he proclaimed that Cleveland WILL have a championship in the near future!

The 1st night of my stretch ended abruptly as my friend became sick and we had to leave the event early. Maybe for the better. I was quite emotional and needed some time to decompress. Though I always say I don't like going places alone, I do like traveling alone so as not to be pulled away from an event prematurely.

Sunday, more of the same. Cleveland Indians and then at 530pm a reception with dozens of Cleveland Indians greats.

Unfortunately, my friend was still sick and called me a bit too late for me to get another traveling partner. I was beside myself. I really wanted to take my friend Marc but it was too late. I should have just invited him initially. Live and learn.

However, I truly believe everything happens for a reason.

I mustered up the courage to attend this event alone and had an absolutely amazing time, even by myself.

I got dozens of autographs from the greats.....had a nice conversation with Dave Burba (who is a HUNK and 1/2, holy hell!).....told Mudcat Grant how I met him at 16 and he told me, "honey, if you still want to be a ballplayer at 18, come back and see me." Well, I outgrew my goal of being a major league ballplayer. I don't believe women and men should play together. Leave it to the boys. So I never went back to see him until tonight!

I saw the woman who threw Mom's 80th birthday party.

I was fortunate to sit in the audience for a special STO alumni round table taping.

And again, I cried.

Watching the interactions of Kenny Lofton and his best friend Sandy Alomar, Jr made me laugh so hard I cried. Seeing the interactions of Mike Hargrove, Sam McDowell, Sandy, and Kenny was the best, just the best. They are truly great people and I am a better person for choosing this as my hobby rather than some other pointless endeavor.

I did not want to be alone, yet cherished the opportunity to experience this memory-making evening and embraced the moment.

At the end of the night, I so desperately wanted to talk to Mom but knew she had been there with me the whole time and that is why I had the courage to face this experience solo. Next, I wanted to call an in-town friend of mine though he's been too busy to have anything to do with me. So, I can always count on my friend Craig and I talked off his ear until I arrived home.

As I drove off, there was the most beautiful sunset I had ever seen.....I did drive off into the sunset on a magical evening.

Top o' the town!

This weekend has been just tip-top!

Probably should not admit this, but Saturday night I had absolutely no plans.

You could look at that as 'what a loser.' You could say, 'finally!' You could say, 'Why didn't you do something constructive and begin cleaning the tip of the iceberg?'

Yes, I wanted to be out with friends but got no invites.

Yes, I wanted to stop by and see my friend who deejays but figured he'd be too busy for me and yes, I did not wanna be a wallflower.

So, I relaxed! I watched the New York Yankee -Tampa Bay Ray Game to see if A-ROD reached his quest for 600.

I chatted with my best friend Craig for a little while as he drove over to 'his' best friend's house in TPA...

Quite bittersweet. Nice not to have to do or go anywhere but.....

Sunday quite the adventure. My usual singing at Mass.....then straight to the Terminal Tower for the final day folks can pop up on the observation deck and see the great city which we live.

Rude awakening as the wait was at least 2 hours. Ya know, I have nothing until 4 so I waited. When dealt lemons, make lemonade. A wonderful opportunity for me to go through all of my prayers which I had gotten away from saying as I enjoyed the sights and sounds of downtown Cleveland.

It was an amazing afternoon waiting with hundreds of others, see how we all passed the time, and get so excited as we entered the elevator to go up, up, and away!

And when I got to the top, the elevator doors opened and there he was--a former co-worker of mine. Jeremy!

And then the view from the top--took my breath away. Cleveland is truly a beautiful city regardless of what some nay-sayers squawk.

Definitely worth the 2 hour plus wait.

Now off to my next adventure --my sister's open house with family and friends.....quite a great night spending quality time with so many special people.

One of the highlights --the kids (not really kids anymore) tossing the basketball around in the backyard. Doesn't take much to make me happy. I'm just sooooo ecstatic that we were all together.

I just LOVE my life!