It was January of 1980 when my friend Joyce and I decided to take a self-defense class at the YMCA in Kalamazoo. I was a single Mom working nights at a trucking company, so taking a Judo class sounded like a good idea. Barney Fife came to my mind from the old Andy Griffith Show, … Continue reading Excuse Me Ma’am, Do You Have A Permit For That?

It seems that over the last five years, I have wanted nothing more than to move back home. Knowing that probably won't happen, I would settle for moving closer, like Chicago, perhaps. Almost made it a year ago.My husband's Company was transferring us to their Bensenville office (that's near Chicago) so we put our house … Continue reading Sometimes God Says No

In an attempt to save money I have been examining our monthly outlay for bills and trying to find ways we can cut expenses.We have all but given up eating out. Now eating out consists of stopping at Subway and getting $5.00 Foot-longs on Friday night. When the lease expired on my BMW, I bought … Continue reading Trying To Keep It Simple

The Lenten season is a time for reflection and sacrifice on our part in preparation for the celebration of Easter. Some people give up their favorite foods, or activities for the forty-some days.I myself gave up ice cream. I love ice cream. I scream for ice cream. Normally it isn't a problem, I just don't … Continue reading Ashes to Ashes

Back in the day when we were growing up, I remember meal times in particular. Maybe because it was the time we were all together with Dad and Mom or maybe it was something else.Our parents grew up during the depression and always were mindful of not having enough to eat. We weren't poor, but … Continue reading Drop That Chicken Leg

I have been going back and forth about writing this article for several weeks and finally decided to go ahead and do it. So here goes.A few weeks ago I was reading the New York Times when I came across an article about how the Catholic Church is re-emphasizing Indulgences among its members. In an … Continue reading Get Your Indulgences Here

Back in a former life, I used to sell Real Estate. I spent my last nine years in Kalamazoo, MI selling homes, but as most Realtors know, writing up the sale is the easy part. Before and after present most of the problems and I might add fun.When I first decided to try real estate, … Continue reading "Let’s Write It Up On The Hood"

The first time I held you in my arms was a magical moment. Only about five minutes old, freshly bathed and wrapped tightly in a receiving blanket and hand knit stocking cap. There wasn't a peep out of you. I think you were happy in my arms. Could you feel the love in my arms … Continue reading Love You to the Max (A letter to my first Grandchild)

Addie, can you see me?I'm here next to your Mom in the birthing room watching youcome into the world.Addie, can you hear me?I am rocking you, singing to you, and telling you howmuch I love you already.Addie, can you feel me?I am holding you snug in my arms as you feed from yourbottle.Addie, can you … Continue reading Time Gone By

As some of you may know, I am working on a book about my Dad. After he passed I felt it was something I needed to do. I have several chapters done, but have not let my Brothers see them yet. Part of me wants to show them, but then part of me is afraid … Continue reading Thanks For The Memories