This time of year, here in New England at least, people are in the midst of their winter blues.
It's freezing outside, & every few days there's a threat, if not an actual, snow storm.
The "indoors" hasn't had a breath of fresh air since late October ... the air is so stale!
The furnace grumbles from the basement as it runs nonstop.
Woolly sweaters, warm boots, cocoa's & coffee's, rental movies & good books carry us through.
Everybody dreads February!!
Not me, I happen to like February.
Don't get me wrong, I am definitely a funshine gal ... July & August are my 1st choice, it doesn't get any better than parking myself at the beach but... February, for personal reasons, gives me a real warm & fuzzy feeling.
February is when Dan and I first started dating... 14 years ago!
It's crazy how much time has flown by. I was just reflecting the other day and looked at the facts.
Jarrod was 4, he'll be 19 in April. I was 28 years old & Dan had just turned 43. This year, I will be turning 43 as Dan slowly creeps closer to 60. WOW!
Are we old yet? Sometimes I think so ... but more often than not it feels like only yesterday!!
I remember first meeting Danny ... he was a loan originator for a mortgage co. and I was a loan processor for another mortgage co. ... occasionally both companies worked together. The very first time he walked into my office, my heart skipped a beat, I know that sounds so cliche' but hey ... if your hearts skips a beat theres just no other way of describing that...
IT SKIPPED A BEAT ... maybe even two!!
He rarely came into our office, but when he did.... he looked good, I mean really good.
Damn Good!
Back then he had longer hair, I hate to even say the word, but a "mullet" is what it was, it was longer in the back and curled at the base of his neck into these ringlets that made you wanna run your fingers through them.
He looked so absolutely fabulous in a suit & even better in a pair of jeans.
{I say this "past tense" and shouldn't ... because he still looks so unbelievably fabulous in anything and everything!!}
The long and short of it is... I ended up leaving the company I was with and joined his.
It took no time at all to realize there was a pretty intense attraction between us.
Mr. Casual, Mr. Play it cool, asked me if I felt like having a drink after work one night in February. (Did he think I would say no?) Uhmmm yea?????? Helloooo????
One drink led to an entire evening of sharing our life stories. Before we knew it; it was last call.
As we stepped out into the night we discovered 6 inches of snow had fallen and was still coming down to beat the band. I am no fan of snow but this snow was so beautiful & sparkly... maybe I was so sparkley... who knows?
Anyhow... We started our cars and while they warmed up we cleaned them off... this was it, the night was over. I feared I'd never see him again, I did not want the night to end!
He was sitting in his drivers seat with his door open as we said our good-byes.
Only God knows what came over me next...but I leaned in for the kill!
ME!!
Where were my manners?
I kissed him like tomorrow would never come... I knew right then... Danny was the one...and to hell with manners!!
So needless to say, even in the middle of the winter blues & a blustery snowstorm... February still gives me a real warm & fuzzy feeling!!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
WHO IN THE NAME OF GOD??
More time with Uncle Bud... Please remember something everyone... I am laughing with... not at!!!
Friday morning Uncle Bud told me that he dreamt about me the night before. He dreamt back to when I was a little girl and I was waving to him from a parade float... in Buzzards Bay of all places????
{Now I must tell you this; Uncle Bud is Tony's Uncle, Tony is my Step Father so technically Uncle Bud is really no blood relative of mine, in addition to that, My Mom & Tony Married when I was 20 years old.... Uncle Bud never even knew me as a little girl. Nor was I ever in a parade in Buzzards Bay... So I have no idea what he is recalling, perhaps the hidden meaning behind all this is that I remind him of a parade float??? That would be more realistic. hahahahhahaha}
Saturday morning things only got more interesting...{I may have to call Ripley's believe it or not on this one!}
Per Uncle Bud, I may have discovered the oldest woman on earth , she'd be close to 130 years old now... and GET THIS... she still works!!!
It's Uncle Buds Grandmother... she supposedly works at Stagg Chevrolet in Harwich where Uncle Bud has been a loyal customer of his auto purchases and vehicle service for many many years. At the present time he is thinking of selling his car to Stagg as he no longer drives and feels they will give him a good deal for both the reasons I previously mentioned; his loyalty to their company, and the fact that his Grandmother works there certainly will help. {How can he go wrong? She must have the most seniority in the company? Yes?}
Later that day....Of all the houses on the block it had to be his... knock knock knock, I look out through the breezeway and see two young, clean cut men standing there, rain coats and a briefcase....
{OH GOD! FBI was the first thing I thought of as Uncle Bud has near convinced me there is a conspiracy against us all, particularly him and the way that they dictate him having round the clock care. Then I shook it off in an instant and thought....Jehovah Witnesses. I was close.}
I went out to greet the young men and they were with The Church of the Latter Day Saints, very sweet and very pleasant... but I politely explained that I was there caring for the homeowner, the patient. They respectfully withdrew but in parting asked if I would take a card explaining how to obtain a free CD about the word of Christ. Of course I accepted and we said our goodbyes. Back into the house I go with this pretty little prayer card, one side has an area to fill in name address etc... and the flip side is just a simple picture of our Lord. Upon demand, I handed the card over to Uncle Bud and I explained who the young men were and what they wanted.
Shockingly I got..."What did that little son of a "B" want?"
I explained again... but, it was if he wasn't hearing me... he flipped the card over and asked...
"Is this him? (referring to the picture of Christ...) the one at the door?"
I was barely able to utter the word "No", as I was so stunned that he did not recognize the picture being Jesus Christ, he actually thought that the picture of our Lord was a photo of the young man at the door.
With my hesitation, he flew off the handle and said "You mean to tell me , that he's going door to door selling pictures of himself?" ( referring to the young man in the rain coat)
"WHO IN GOD'S NAME DOES HE THINK HE IS?" LOL
{Well boy oh boy... the nail couldn't have been hit harder on the head.... he certainly was there in Gods name, thats for sure hahahahaha and if Uncle Bud was right and that was Christ at the door ... well then my guess is the day would have been pretty much over at that point huh? hahahahaha.}
He obviously did not recognize the picture was of Jesus as he then instructed me to go throw it in the trash.... {Oh yea right? And have the house burn down or get struck by lightening??... I don't think so...}
So I said, "Nawww I'm gonna keep it and use it as a book marker."
"Suit yourself" was all I got in a grunted response and a wave off with his hand.
{Even God must have chuckled over that one!}
Friday morning Uncle Bud told me that he dreamt about me the night before. He dreamt back to when I was a little girl and I was waving to him from a parade float... in Buzzards Bay of all places????
{Now I must tell you this; Uncle Bud is Tony's Uncle, Tony is my Step Father so technically Uncle Bud is really no blood relative of mine, in addition to that, My Mom & Tony Married when I was 20 years old.... Uncle Bud never even knew me as a little girl. Nor was I ever in a parade in Buzzards Bay... So I have no idea what he is recalling, perhaps the hidden meaning behind all this is that I remind him of a parade float??? That would be more realistic. hahahahhahaha}
Saturday morning things only got more interesting...{I may have to call Ripley's believe it or not on this one!}
Per Uncle Bud, I may have discovered the oldest woman on earth , she'd be close to 130 years old now... and GET THIS... she still works!!!
It's Uncle Buds Grandmother... she supposedly works at Stagg Chevrolet in Harwich where Uncle Bud has been a loyal customer of his auto purchases and vehicle service for many many years. At the present time he is thinking of selling his car to Stagg as he no longer drives and feels they will give him a good deal for both the reasons I previously mentioned; his loyalty to their company, and the fact that his Grandmother works there certainly will help. {How can he go wrong? She must have the most seniority in the company? Yes?}
Later that day....Of all the houses on the block it had to be his... knock knock knock, I look out through the breezeway and see two young, clean cut men standing there, rain coats and a briefcase....
{OH GOD! FBI was the first thing I thought of as Uncle Bud has near convinced me there is a conspiracy against us all, particularly him and the way that they dictate him having round the clock care. Then I shook it off in an instant and thought....Jehovah Witnesses. I was close.}
I went out to greet the young men and they were with The Church of the Latter Day Saints, very sweet and very pleasant... but I politely explained that I was there caring for the homeowner, the patient. They respectfully withdrew but in parting asked if I would take a card explaining how to obtain a free CD about the word of Christ. Of course I accepted and we said our goodbyes. Back into the house I go with this pretty little prayer card, one side has an area to fill in name address etc... and the flip side is just a simple picture of our Lord. Upon demand, I handed the card over to Uncle Bud and I explained who the young men were and what they wanted.
Shockingly I got..."What did that little son of a "B" want?"
I explained again... but, it was if he wasn't hearing me... he flipped the card over and asked...
"Is this him? (referring to the picture of Christ...) the one at the door?"
I was barely able to utter the word "No", as I was so stunned that he did not recognize the picture being Jesus Christ, he actually thought that the picture of our Lord was a photo of the young man at the door.
With my hesitation, he flew off the handle and said "You mean to tell me , that he's going door to door selling pictures of himself?" ( referring to the young man in the rain coat)
"WHO IN GOD'S NAME DOES HE THINK HE IS?" LOL
{Well boy oh boy... the nail couldn't have been hit harder on the head.... he certainly was there in Gods name, thats for sure hahahahaha and if Uncle Bud was right and that was Christ at the door ... well then my guess is the day would have been pretty much over at that point huh? hahahahaha.}
He obviously did not recognize the picture was of Jesus as he then instructed me to go throw it in the trash.... {Oh yea right? And have the house burn down or get struck by lightening??... I don't think so...}
So I said, "Nawww I'm gonna keep it and use it as a book marker."
"Suit yourself" was all I got in a grunted response and a wave off with his hand.
{Even God must have chuckled over that one!}
Thursday, January 17, 2008
BAMBOOZLED!!!
In the last month I have been spending a considerable amount of time with my Great-Uncle, keeping him company. He has been telling me stories about his past... I sit in awe at the tales he shares.
His job, back in the day, had him traveling the worldwide for many years. He's been just about everywhere and done almost everything. {come to find out...after speaking to my Stepfather, he traveled yes, but only in the US, he doesn't even have a passport!! It never happened!! How shocked was I?}
Out of all of his worldly travels he found the Japanese to be the most accommodating and welcoming culture. They, the Japanese rulers at that time, had some sort of celebratory buffet for him upon his arrival. {The closest he's ever been to Japan is probably The Tiki-Port Restaurant in Hyannis, they have great Japanese cuisine hahaahaha, perhaps it was even buffet style hahhahaha}
He was lucky enough to safari more than once throughout the African countryside and has seen almost every one of Gods creatures.
{"Lions and tigers and bears oh my!" ... sound familiar? It's a famous line from The Wizard Of Oz... I think if you asked him ... he'd probably tell you he's been to OZ to meet the Wonderful Wizard himself hahahahha}
He spent a great deal of time in Turkey and in Greece which he found absolutely breathtaking ... and while dining in Greece in the early 70's, in a small private cafe, VIP's only, he met Aristotle & Jacquelyn Kennedy-Onassis. She was quiet but very pleasant, unfortunately he found her Husband, "Ari" too uppity for his liking. Uncle Bud believed Ari thought he was the only one in the world with money!!
{Let me just say this..." IF "and I do mean IF...he was ever in the company of Jackie Kennedy, it may have been at Four-seas ice cream in Centerville, where the Kennedy's frequented in the summer from their Hyannisport compound, by the way, Peach was TRULY her favorite flavor!!}
London he could give or take, meant nothing to him.
{Means nothing to me either, can't argue with him there!! hahhhaha}
He has met Many famous people, Many Many years ago he met Tiger woods & his lovely wife, he even went on a date with Vanna White, but didn't care for her very much.
{I assume the Vanna thing comes into play as he watches Wheel of fortune ever single day of the week!! As far as meeting Tiger and his lovely wife many many years ago... didn't Tiger just recently get married in the last few years?}
Here's a biggie for ya!!
He was the driving force behind Tom Brady's football career, as Tom had been present for one of Uncle Buds motivational speeches and this speech encouraged Tom to pursue his football dreams where Tom's parents were very discouraging of Toms pursuit. Tom has since sent Uncle Bud a letter crediting him for his career and thanking him for where he is today in life. Tom has made it very clear to The NE Patriots that Uncle Bud has lifetime access to each and every game, home or away ... sideline access folks ... not just a seat in the stadium... sidelines, where he is greeted with a giant hug from Tom each time.
{He is a football fanatic and believes this story, just like the rest of what he tells, as if they really did happen.}
Saving the best for last...
He seems to have forgotten that I am his niece and has fallen madly in love with me and proposed marriage over dinner Saturday night. I almost choked!!! The poor thing... I am sure this stems from my care and compassion for him.
{I have had a few people tell me to go for it... Marry the old fella and have everything put in my name ... the next Anna Nicole!! hahahahaha, I actually gave it a fleeting thought but dismissed it just as quickly because what if he ever wanted to make out out or something ewwwwwww!!!! Even worse what if he wanted to consummate the marriage YIKES!!! } LOL
Danny's theory is; that particular Saturday I assisted Uncle Bud with his shower which is normally done by his day nurses...something I have never done, Now Dan swears the shower is what did the trick hahahahhaha. {Very funny Danny!}
Alzheimer's ... it's a mystery. He had me Bamboozled!
His job, back in the day, had him traveling the worldwide for many years. He's been just about everywhere and done almost everything. {come to find out...after speaking to my Stepfather, he traveled yes, but only in the US, he doesn't even have a passport!! It never happened!! How shocked was I?}
Out of all of his worldly travels he found the Japanese to be the most accommodating and welcoming culture. They, the Japanese rulers at that time, had some sort of celebratory buffet for him upon his arrival. {The closest he's ever been to Japan is probably The Tiki-Port Restaurant in Hyannis, they have great Japanese cuisine hahaahaha, perhaps it was even buffet style hahhahaha}
He was lucky enough to safari more than once throughout the African countryside and has seen almost every one of Gods creatures.
{"Lions and tigers and bears oh my!" ... sound familiar? It's a famous line from The Wizard Of Oz... I think if you asked him ... he'd probably tell you he's been to OZ to meet the Wonderful Wizard himself hahahahha}
He spent a great deal of time in Turkey and in Greece which he found absolutely breathtaking ... and while dining in Greece in the early 70's, in a small private cafe, VIP's only, he met Aristotle & Jacquelyn Kennedy-Onassis. She was quiet but very pleasant, unfortunately he found her Husband, "Ari" too uppity for his liking. Uncle Bud believed Ari thought he was the only one in the world with money!!
{Let me just say this..." IF "and I do mean IF...he was ever in the company of Jackie Kennedy, it may have been at Four-seas ice cream in Centerville, where the Kennedy's frequented in the summer from their Hyannisport compound, by the way, Peach was TRULY her favorite flavor!!}
London he could give or take, meant nothing to him.
{Means nothing to me either, can't argue with him there!! hahhhaha}
He has met Many famous people, Many Many years ago he met Tiger woods & his lovely wife, he even went on a date with Vanna White, but didn't care for her very much.
{I assume the Vanna thing comes into play as he watches Wheel of fortune ever single day of the week!! As far as meeting Tiger and his lovely wife many many years ago... didn't Tiger just recently get married in the last few years?}
Here's a biggie for ya!!
He was the driving force behind Tom Brady's football career, as Tom had been present for one of Uncle Buds motivational speeches and this speech encouraged Tom to pursue his football dreams where Tom's parents were very discouraging of Toms pursuit. Tom has since sent Uncle Bud a letter crediting him for his career and thanking him for where he is today in life. Tom has made it very clear to The NE Patriots that Uncle Bud has lifetime access to each and every game, home or away ... sideline access folks ... not just a seat in the stadium... sidelines, where he is greeted with a giant hug from Tom each time.
{He is a football fanatic and believes this story, just like the rest of what he tells, as if they really did happen.}
Saving the best for last...
He seems to have forgotten that I am his niece and has fallen madly in love with me and proposed marriage over dinner Saturday night. I almost choked!!! The poor thing... I am sure this stems from my care and compassion for him.
{I have had a few people tell me to go for it... Marry the old fella and have everything put in my name ... the next Anna Nicole!! hahahahaha, I actually gave it a fleeting thought but dismissed it just as quickly because what if he ever wanted to make out out or something ewwwwwww!!!! Even worse what if he wanted to consummate the marriage YIKES!!! } LOL
Danny's theory is; that particular Saturday I assisted Uncle Bud with his shower which is normally done by his day nurses...something I have never done, Now Dan swears the shower is what did the trick hahahahhaha. {Very funny Danny!}
Alzheimer's ... it's a mystery. He had me Bamboozled!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
101
101 , just like the Dalmatians ... there are 101. Reasons, that is.
One of my very best friends, I'll call her "KP". She is a married woman, with a full time career, has three kids; 2 sons and a daughter and a boxer named Roxy. She has been blessed with a great hardworking Husband who I have watched grow into that man he is today (they were young when they married)... as we all know... Husbands are not "exactly" what we bargained for in the beginning. But hers has proven himself to be worth his weight in gold. I just love him to pieces!
They own a beautiful home; in fact they have owned many in their almost 13 year marriage. This girl simply does not get attached to a house ... no sooner do they get themselves into what appears to be "The One" and she calls to say she's "Just looking," she drives me crazy. I will probably die in my house, I get so attached.
Point of the story is, KP has always struggled with the decision making process involved with having all but one of her children.
Her "baby clock" reminds me of a Timex watch ... takes a licking and keep on ticking or the energizer bunny..."keeps on going".
She no sooner has her last baby and starts thinking ... "Maybe I should have another?"
We get together for these dinner and drink discussions and without fail she presents me with 101 reasons on why not to have another ... life's timing, work schedules for both she and her husband, the kids have certain sports that would involve dragging a newborn to, another mouth to feed is always a good one, the spaces between the kids ages is always a factor, Bedrooms, who will share , who won't... the list can go on and on.
I love her to pieces and hate to see her struggle so ... but the ultimate answer is deep within her heart and each time we sit I already know the answer; she will no doubt have another, but at the time of our get together, she just hasn't figured that out yet.
So as we sip our cocktails and enjoy a nice meal, I listen intently and completely validate all of her feelings because they all make perfect sense, and the truly do, she makes excellent points ... but once she's through with her "101's" (on reasons not to) she begins to vacillate and she begins this cute little rendition on why she thinks she should ... Now remember: I have sat across the table from her many a night over this very matter ... so I certainly know enough when to signal to the waitress to bring another round, as we are gonna be here for a bit!! (Tee Hee)
Back in the early fall we met and she was in the 101 stage AGAIN ... but as suspected, she went off the pill and tossed all caution to the wind and put it in Gods hands. This time ...Nothing!
Holidays approached & over the Christmas vacation their wonderful family of 5 family takes a fantastic ski trip together ... here is where she had some nice alone time, time to think and focus on KP and what she really wanted.
Surprisingly enough, this time she actually had resigned herself to the fact that the family as it stood now was perfect and she decided once and for all to let go of the idea of any future babies.
She was truly content with her decision and felt comfortable about moving on.
Well, ... my friends, she must have felt just a little too comfortable ... because she is now carrying baby # 4 and believe it or not ... get this one...now she is struggling with the fact that she had already resigned herself to life as it was!
hahahahaha~~ I always say ... be careful what you wish for. God is always watching.
I know her well, it will take all but a few soul searching days and she will be elated for the 4th time around!!
Best of Luck my friend, you are a fabulous Mom and have a terrific family...this precious baby will only enhance life as you all know it now.
One of my very best friends, I'll call her "KP". She is a married woman, with a full time career, has three kids; 2 sons and a daughter and a boxer named Roxy. She has been blessed with a great hardworking Husband who I have watched grow into that man he is today (they were young when they married)... as we all know... Husbands are not "exactly" what we bargained for in the beginning. But hers has proven himself to be worth his weight in gold. I just love him to pieces!
They own a beautiful home; in fact they have owned many in their almost 13 year marriage. This girl simply does not get attached to a house ... no sooner do they get themselves into what appears to be "The One" and she calls to say she's "Just looking," she drives me crazy. I will probably die in my house, I get so attached.
Point of the story is, KP has always struggled with the decision making process involved with having all but one of her children.
Her "baby clock" reminds me of a Timex watch ... takes a licking and keep on ticking or the energizer bunny..."keeps on going".
She no sooner has her last baby and starts thinking ... "Maybe I should have another?"
We get together for these dinner and drink discussions and without fail she presents me with 101 reasons on why not to have another ... life's timing, work schedules for both she and her husband, the kids have certain sports that would involve dragging a newborn to, another mouth to feed is always a good one, the spaces between the kids ages is always a factor, Bedrooms, who will share , who won't... the list can go on and on.
I love her to pieces and hate to see her struggle so ... but the ultimate answer is deep within her heart and each time we sit I already know the answer; she will no doubt have another, but at the time of our get together, she just hasn't figured that out yet.
So as we sip our cocktails and enjoy a nice meal, I listen intently and completely validate all of her feelings because they all make perfect sense, and the truly do, she makes excellent points ... but once she's through with her "101's" (on reasons not to) she begins to vacillate and she begins this cute little rendition on why she thinks she should ... Now remember: I have sat across the table from her many a night over this very matter ... so I certainly know enough when to signal to the waitress to bring another round, as we are gonna be here for a bit!! (Tee Hee)
Back in the early fall we met and she was in the 101 stage AGAIN ... but as suspected, she went off the pill and tossed all caution to the wind and put it in Gods hands. This time ...Nothing!
Holidays approached & over the Christmas vacation their wonderful family of 5 family takes a fantastic ski trip together ... here is where she had some nice alone time, time to think and focus on KP and what she really wanted.
Surprisingly enough, this time she actually had resigned herself to the fact that the family as it stood now was perfect and she decided once and for all to let go of the idea of any future babies.
She was truly content with her decision and felt comfortable about moving on.
Well, ... my friends, she must have felt just a little too comfortable ... because she is now carrying baby # 4 and believe it or not ... get this one...now she is struggling with the fact that she had already resigned herself to life as it was!
hahahahaha~~ I always say ... be careful what you wish for. God is always watching.
I know her well, it will take all but a few soul searching days and she will be elated for the 4th time around!!
Best of Luck my friend, you are a fabulous Mom and have a terrific family...this precious baby will only enhance life as you all know it now.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Time To Rest!
Just an ordinary day.
In the getting ready process the phone rang, I missed the call...oh well~ if it's important they'll call back.
While applying my mascara the voice mail message signaled;
"Oh, for pete's sake ...I'll get to it in a sec."
When my face was "as good as it was gonna get," bronzer, highlights, mascara, liners and shadows, I scooped up the phone. My hand began to tremble at the sight of the missed call; it was from Drew, Jarrod's Attorney. My stomach began to churn.
The first thing that ran through my mind was "Oh Dear God, now what?"
I played the voice mail.
"Heidi, it's Drew.... GRRREAATTT NEWS... IT'S ALL OVER...I tried and tried and tried again to pull Jarrod's record and guess what? THERE ISN'T ONE!!!!!!! Time to celebrate!!! His record has been expunged! Call me when you get this message!"
My hands were shaking uncontrollably...thank God for speed dial...ringing, connection, automated extension #15, & BINGO... A LIVE VOICE.... "Drew Segadelli here!"
With the simple sound of his voice I started to cry, that silent painful deep within your chest type of cry, my throat closed and I was unable to speak, I was barely able to draw a breath.
Again I heard his voice somehow trying to penetrate the fog I was being smothered by.
He repeated himself... "Drew Segadelli?"...at this point, I am sure he was wondering if his caller would respond.
I was frozen, like a deer caught in the headlights...overwhelmed was an understatement at best.
I somehow managed with every ounce of my might to squeak but out one single, high pitched word; his name, "Drew....?"
He knew it was me ... he started to laugh...and the flood gates opened, I babbled on and on between my gasps & tears about how happy I was ... & I just could not thank him enough.
He was so gracious and thanked me for all of my hard work as well. He then told me that my testimony brought forth before the senate on Beacon Hill was very much instrumental in making all this happen.
Through my hysteria, I asked him if he could spare me a moment as I had something that I wanted to share with him.
For those who don't know him (and I hope you never have to, for obvious reasons... he is a high profile Criminal Defense Attorney)... Drew is not a real "Feelings" type of guy ... he's all business!
So...I really went out on a limb as I began to tell him about my Thanksgiving morning and how most Thanksgivings year after year seem to just wrap us all up in all of the hoopla, but this year it was all different for me.
{I have to laugh now as I think about myself telling him all this ... he probably was sitting there with his chin at his knees thinking "Oh my God this chick is a whacko"}
Meanwhile my story is being told to him through my incoherent ramblings, my sobs and a runny snot nose streaming down my face. (Oh what a site!!)
I explained how I woke up Thanksgiving morning and that while I laid on my pillow brushing the sleep from my eyes getting ready to start my day, a series of things came to mind.
First, I thanked God for blessing us all... Then I shared with Drew how thankful I was that my child lay in the very next room fast asleep in his own bed ... when the harsh reality that had faced us all earlier this year could have had Jarrod sleeping in some unimaginable hell hole.
** (Drew interrupted me there and told me he never would have let that happen, but believe me when I tell you....while your living the nightmare you just don't know that for sure!)
I continued on by telling him , "As weird as this may sound and as inappropriate and unprofessional as this may be... I thought of "you" next ... and I thanked God for YOU, Drew ... if not for you, well...without rehashing it all... I thanked God for you too."
He was truly touched, at least he appeared to be quite moved and thanked me very much for sharing those sentiments and that they meant a great deal to him. He told me to raise my glass tonight~ for tonight is the night and that he will give me a great big hug and kiss when he sees us!
We said our good byes and I cried and I cried ...relief was taking hold... it's over ... it's finally over!
The ending all seems so surreal.
My very first call was to Jarrod... ELATION is what describes his reaction best. My son can finally rest and proceed through his life with no extra baggage. Carrying with him only peace!
Anyone who knows me, whether you have read those initial posts or not, knows me and knows that I would not rest until this travesty of justice was addressed in it's entirety!
I made a vow to myself and to God when this whole debacle began, And I quote:
"What's right is right!" "And I intend on seeing this through!"
I swore to my child "I WILL NOT REST!"
Well, it appears as if my job here is done.
I love you Jarrod, Carry on!
xo Mum
P.S.
Not just an ordinary day after all, huh?
I think I'll go rest now.
In the getting ready process the phone rang, I missed the call...oh well~ if it's important they'll call back.
While applying my mascara the voice mail message signaled;
"Oh, for pete's sake ...I'll get to it in a sec."
When my face was "as good as it was gonna get," bronzer, highlights, mascara, liners and shadows, I scooped up the phone. My hand began to tremble at the sight of the missed call; it was from Drew, Jarrod's Attorney. My stomach began to churn.
The first thing that ran through my mind was "Oh Dear God, now what?"
I played the voice mail.
"Heidi, it's Drew.... GRRREAATTT NEWS... IT'S ALL OVER...I tried and tried and tried again to pull Jarrod's record and guess what? THERE ISN'T ONE!!!!!!! Time to celebrate!!! His record has been expunged! Call me when you get this message!"
My hands were shaking uncontrollably...thank God for speed dial...ringing, connection, automated extension #15, & BINGO... A LIVE VOICE.... "Drew Segadelli here!"
With the simple sound of his voice I started to cry, that silent painful deep within your chest type of cry, my throat closed and I was unable to speak, I was barely able to draw a breath.
Again I heard his voice somehow trying to penetrate the fog I was being smothered by.
He repeated himself... "Drew Segadelli?"...at this point, I am sure he was wondering if his caller would respond.
I was frozen, like a deer caught in the headlights...overwhelmed was an understatement at best.
I somehow managed with every ounce of my might to squeak but out one single, high pitched word; his name, "Drew....?"
He knew it was me ... he started to laugh...and the flood gates opened, I babbled on and on between my gasps & tears about how happy I was ... & I just could not thank him enough.
He was so gracious and thanked me for all of my hard work as well. He then told me that my testimony brought forth before the senate on Beacon Hill was very much instrumental in making all this happen.
Through my hysteria, I asked him if he could spare me a moment as I had something that I wanted to share with him.
For those who don't know him (and I hope you never have to, for obvious reasons... he is a high profile Criminal Defense Attorney)... Drew is not a real "Feelings" type of guy ... he's all business!
So...I really went out on a limb as I began to tell him about my Thanksgiving morning and how most Thanksgivings year after year seem to just wrap us all up in all of the hoopla, but this year it was all different for me.
{I have to laugh now as I think about myself telling him all this ... he probably was sitting there with his chin at his knees thinking "Oh my God this chick is a whacko"}
Meanwhile my story is being told to him through my incoherent ramblings, my sobs and a runny snot nose streaming down my face. (Oh what a site!!)
I explained how I woke up Thanksgiving morning and that while I laid on my pillow brushing the sleep from my eyes getting ready to start my day, a series of things came to mind.
First, I thanked God for blessing us all... Then I shared with Drew how thankful I was that my child lay in the very next room fast asleep in his own bed ... when the harsh reality that had faced us all earlier this year could have had Jarrod sleeping in some unimaginable hell hole.
** (Drew interrupted me there and told me he never would have let that happen, but believe me when I tell you....while your living the nightmare you just don't know that for sure!)
I continued on by telling him , "As weird as this may sound and as inappropriate and unprofessional as this may be... I thought of "you" next ... and I thanked God for YOU, Drew ... if not for you, well...without rehashing it all... I thanked God for you too."
He was truly touched, at least he appeared to be quite moved and thanked me very much for sharing those sentiments and that they meant a great deal to him. He told me to raise my glass tonight~ for tonight is the night and that he will give me a great big hug and kiss when he sees us!
We said our good byes and I cried and I cried ...relief was taking hold... it's over ... it's finally over!
The ending all seems so surreal.
My very first call was to Jarrod... ELATION is what describes his reaction best. My son can finally rest and proceed through his life with no extra baggage. Carrying with him only peace!
Anyone who knows me, whether you have read those initial posts or not, knows me and knows that I would not rest until this travesty of justice was addressed in it's entirety!
I made a vow to myself and to God when this whole debacle began, And I quote:
"What's right is right!" "And I intend on seeing this through!"
I swore to my child "I WILL NOT REST!"
Well, it appears as if my job here is done.
I love you Jarrod, Carry on!
xo Mum
P.S.
Not just an ordinary day after all, huh?
I think I'll go rest now.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Dream A Secret Dream
There is a wooded path, lined & shaded with a canopy of ivy entwined trees.
The bending and swaying white birch are strewed throughout.
There's a mystical drape that sweeps me forward across the forest floor, leading me to a clearing.
A sunny filled field of grass, hay-like tall blades shimmer with a golden hue.
The clearing is a calling, a welcoming of sorts, a "greeter" of the tiny white chapel that sits here tucked away from the world.
A priceless secret, shared only by woodland fairies, forest creatures and those of us who have been blessed with it's magical discovery.
A place that moves the soul, a place that draws me back time after time, a place that whispers in my head, warning me "not to tell" ... for if I do, it's beauty will be lost forever.
I cherish this secret... and dream a secret dream; where a bride in her simple gauze gown, waisted with white satin ribbons, beneath it, only bare feet... and a crown of daisies upon her head, comes traipsing from the chapel.
She stood in this chapel before God and man and committed her life to his, her partner, her lover, her world.
They are surrounded by those they truly love, the fairies and forest creatures look on from afar.
There are picnic-like blankets for relaxing.
Atop a turned over whiskey barrel are baguettes and hard cheeses and in everyone's hand, a bottomless glass of wine.
The soft sounds of the Irish whistles and a renaissance cherrywood fife emit from the innards of the tiny white chapel whose doors are swung open wide.
There is happiness and harmony and a feeling that time has stood still.
The bending and swaying white birch are strewed throughout.
There's a mystical drape that sweeps me forward across the forest floor, leading me to a clearing.
A sunny filled field of grass, hay-like tall blades shimmer with a golden hue.
The clearing is a calling, a welcoming of sorts, a "greeter" of the tiny white chapel that sits here tucked away from the world.
A priceless secret, shared only by woodland fairies, forest creatures and those of us who have been blessed with it's magical discovery.
A place that moves the soul, a place that draws me back time after time, a place that whispers in my head, warning me "not to tell" ... for if I do, it's beauty will be lost forever.
I cherish this secret... and dream a secret dream; where a bride in her simple gauze gown, waisted with white satin ribbons, beneath it, only bare feet... and a crown of daisies upon her head, comes traipsing from the chapel.
She stood in this chapel before God and man and committed her life to his, her partner, her lover, her world.
They are surrounded by those they truly love, the fairies and forest creatures look on from afar.
There are picnic-like blankets for relaxing.
Atop a turned over whiskey barrel are baguettes and hard cheeses and in everyone's hand, a bottomless glass of wine.
The soft sounds of the Irish whistles and a renaissance cherrywood fife emit from the innards of the tiny white chapel whose doors are swung open wide.
There is happiness and harmony and a feeling that time has stood still.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
And For That... I Thank You!
It's morning Danny, just before dawn, the light of a new day is just beginning to seep through the window blinds.
I lay so still and I listen, the quiet is like a drug... I'm high off of your rhythmic breathing.
I roll to my side just to watch ... my heart flutters to the familiar rise and fall of your bare, broad chest. Like a child, it takes all of my might not to wake you, Oh... I will, but for now; the watching and the waiting is just so intoxicating.
You seem at such peace, and unknowingly you share that peace with each and every exhale, and for that I thank you.
Effortlessly, you have filled my body with such serenity before our world even awakens, you have shaped my day; you have shaped my being.
Now, no matter what the day brings forth, I can close my eyes... and with a deep cleansing breath, I can revisit my morning, just before dawn... and find peace.
And For That... I thank You!
I lay so still and I listen, the quiet is like a drug... I'm high off of your rhythmic breathing.
I roll to my side just to watch ... my heart flutters to the familiar rise and fall of your bare, broad chest. Like a child, it takes all of my might not to wake you, Oh... I will, but for now; the watching and the waiting is just so intoxicating.
You seem at such peace, and unknowingly you share that peace with each and every exhale, and for that I thank you.
Effortlessly, you have filled my body with such serenity before our world even awakens, you have shaped my day; you have shaped my being.
Now, no matter what the day brings forth, I can close my eyes... and with a deep cleansing breath, I can revisit my morning, just before dawn... and find peace.
And For That... I thank You!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)