Dear Mom, 

Has it really been 3 years since your eternal life began? At times it seems longer and at other times it seems just like yesterday. I just made mention to Carri the other day  that my peace lily that was given me at the time of your passing is still growing and blooming and full of life. It's a constant reminder of you and it brings me great joy in knowing it lives on as do you in my heart and thoughts. I miss and love you so very much mom and I wish you were still here with me, with all of us.

I trust that with eternal life we are spared any negativity and sadness so I will only speak of good things. Me and mine are doing well and enjoying life as it comes. The grandkids are continuing to grow and find their way in life. Lil Jacob did get his drivers permit and is excited to drive at a moments notice. He starts football this week and is excited to get back into it.  Adrianna is preparing her lamb for competition at the County Fair next week. Dennis and I plan to attend and be supportive from the stands. Tatum is... well lets just say Tatum is Tatum. She's still trying to find her way in adult life and taking it slowly one day at a time. Megan is preparing for a 3 month trip to Florida, where she will be attending Polygraph School starting on May 6th. It's going to be lonesome for them all while she's gone but thankfully between the phone and the computer they will not miss much. Big Jacob just started a new job and is doing great. He's moving up in the world of business and is testing the waters of being a white collar worker. So far so good. Carri and Tyler are doing awesome as well. Their jobs are status quo, however Tyler is always looking for Professional Growth Opportunities.

Dennis and I are planning a Laughlin Trip this month with Carri and Tyler, wish us all luck at the casino's. And yes..... Dennis is doing better since his hip surgery. He's actually excited about taking this trip and is encouraged to go. I'm hanging in there. Attended your church for Easter Service this past Sunday. A gentleman came up to me after the service and asked me if my mother went to this church. When I told him yes and gave him your name he identified himself. He said that he knew you and shared that he was the person who placed your ashes. He thought I looked familiar and he wanted to say hello and welcome me to the church. I was touched that he remembered you and me. 

Not much else to share at this time mom. I do hope and pray you are well as is all the family and friends that have gone before me. You are loved and missed greatly and thought of always. Take good care and please send my hello's and well wishes to everyone with you. 

God Bless you always mom and remember...

"We'll always have Paris"
LuvuL8r, Cathy

    

   

 

Dear Mom, 

Let me begin this month with saying I Love and Miss You, more than words can express. Some months, some weeks, some days are easier than others but bottom line, there's nothing or no one to fill your void. I wish you were here in person! Death brings with it such a deep sense of absence that nothing can replace it. It's hard to put in words but I know you know what I'm feeling. 

The family for the most part is status quo. February was a quiet month. Not a whole lot new on this end. Dennis is finally on the mend from his hip replacement, thank the Good Lord.  It's really been a slow process. Me and mine are otherwise fine. Jacob may be starting a new job soon. Lil Jacob is getting his drivers permit on the 16th. Adrianna is prepping her lamb to be shown at the county fair next month. Both Jacobs took a trip together to Durango, Colorado with a father/son friends. Actually they were invited to an all expense paid trip to Purgatory to snow ski for an extended weekend. Great fun! They will be back late on Sunday.  

Don't know if you know but Aunt Alice is going to be a first time great grandma next month. Her granddaughter Kaylee is going to have a son. He's actually due on your birthday mom. Angie gave her a baby shower last week and it was a great success. She had about 18 in attendance, including many family members. Lesley and Hilary made the trip over as did Aunt Connie, cousins Robin, Rory and one of Robin's daughters. Anne's daughters Jackie and Susie also came. Angie did an elephant themed shower and it was real cute. I had gone to the cake decorating store here in Phoenix and happened upon a small toy elephant cake topper along with a few other props for the cake/table and sent them on to her. It turned out real cute.

Well mom I'm going to close for now. I have time to wash my car so while I still have daylight I'd better get going. I love you mom. I think of you often and miss you so very, very much. You take good care and say hi and extend my love to Walt and all those who've gone before me. God Bless you all and remember always mom....

"We'll always have Paris"
LuvuL8r, Cathy


  

Dear Mom, 

Hoping this month finds you well and enjoying all heaven has to offer. I love and miss you more than I can say.

By now you know that our dear friend Dawn from England passed away on January 8th. I hope you were among those to receive her along with the Good Lord above. I know her passing came so quick and out of the blue considering she just got an all clear of cancer in October. Diane is devastated and her friend Tracy said she's just lost! I wish I were there to help comfort her but my thoughts and prayers will have to do. In leu of sending a plant or flowers I made a donation in Dawns name to the Pilgrims Hospice, they took care of her in the end. 

On January 15th Dennis had his hip replacement surgery. The operation was a success. The first week of recovery really knocked him down, I've never seen him so helpless, vulnerable, in alot of pain and very weak. The 2nd week was much better that is until he took a spill. He awoke at 4:30 in the morning and on his way to the bathroom fell on his bad side. Long story short we spent the next 4 hours in emergency. Thank the Good Lord he didn't break anything, just added to the bruising and pain. Set him back about a week in his recovery. Hopefully by the next time I write he will be 6-7 weeks out and more fully recovered. 

On the 25th of January, Megan was given a retirement party by the Queen Creek Police Department.  It was very nice, with about 75 people in attendance. With the 9 of us plus Megan's Mom, Stepdad, Dad, Brother and Sister and many officers and police personnel from both Tempe and Queen Creek she was honored in great style. We were all so proud of her and her accomplishments. Her last official day was January 31st. She is now going into business for herself and will subcontract out as a civilian with the Queen Creek Police Department to start. She will be doing background checks and once trained, she'll do polygraph testing. That same week Jacob got his CDL (Commercial Drivers License) and is now seeking state, county or city work. He's got about 15-20 years to work for a pension municipality and that's his goal. He'll also carry the medical insurance for him and the family once he gets employed. Until such time Megan has a pocket of funds to cover them. They are really on the ball and are both goal driven. They compliment each other in all that they do. They just celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary.

So much for January. Everyone else is doing well with school, jobs and living the good life. Not just me but all of us miss and love you and all those who've gone before us. The best of both worlds is being all together and while that day will eventually come again, we miss the now time. Take good care mom, give our best to Walt and the rest of the family and friends, God Bless you all and always remember mom ....

"We'll always have Paris"   

LuvuL8r, Cathy
 

Dear Mom, 

Happy New Year 2024'. I can't believe how fast the years seem to past by. The days and months all roll into one from time to time and before I know it, another year passes. I miss you terribly and love you dearly. Holiday times are especially hard when you're not here in person to share in them.  

December came and went with the blink of an eye and a whole lot happening within. Early in the month we lost Aunt Jean McDonald. She suffered from Alzheimer's and was placed in Hospice around Thanksgiving. Her daughter Connie was able to bring her to her home for the day of Thanksgiving where she enjoyed her last holiday with her family.  Connie shared it was a very nice day, but also bitter sweet. Aunt Jean had just turned 94 years of age.

As I shared with you last month Dennis has been having health issues. Along with the spine issues we have also discovered Dennis is going to need a hip replacement. He can hardly walk or get around. The hip issues are taking president as he's seen a surgeon and is scheduled for surgery on Monday, January 15th. He can't wait as the pain has been excruciating at times.

The week before Christmas we were treated to a bell ringing concert a couple of doors down from Carri and Tyler' home. A large Mormon family entertain the neighbors with a free bell ringing concert, it was most delightful. This is the 3rd year I've attended. Megan and Tatum also joined us this year along with Carri and Tyler. 

Christmas Eve Day/Night was celebrated at Jacob and Megan's and was wonderful as usual. Great food, fun games, special gifts and just all being together (including the dogs) made it very special. 

Christmas Day I along with Carri, Tyler and Tylers brother, sister-in-law and niece went to the casino in late afternoon and played BINGO and the slots. No big winner this time but a whole lotta fun. Dennis stayed home and Jacobs family spent the day with Megan's extended family. Before I went to the casino I called England to talk to Diane and Dawn and to wish them a very Merry Christmas, only to find out that Dawn had gone by ambulance to the hospital. She was in pain and having a hard time breathing. Diane told me that the cancer was back full blown throughout her body and that she would not be coming home from the hospital. It was attacking her body with a vengeance. I've since learned that she was transported to a Hospice facility on December 30th. How very sad. At this time she is still with us but will soon be gone from this earth and joining you in everlasting life. Not a great start to this New Year, that's for sure.    

The day after Christmas we learned that Uncle Kenny Schindel passed away on Christmas Day. He was in the Randolph nursing home. He had a great Christmas lunch and was then made comfortable in a reclining chair in his room where he would have an afternoon nap. When a nurse came in to wake him she found that he had died in his sleep. We should all feel blessed to pass so peacefully. He was 89 years old, would have been 90 this month on the 19th.  His son Todd lives in Yuma, AZ during the winter months and drove back to take care of things. He is going to have a service for both his parents in the spring when he goes back to Beaver Dam to sell the family home. 

On December 28th we had a very nice visit with my cousins Lisa and Daryl Tessman. Lisa is daughter to Uncle Ed and Aunt Carol Nelson. They had spent Christmas this year with their family and Daryl's dad, brother and sister-in-law who live in Prescott, AZ. Lisa and her grown children and spouses all live in Texas. Before Lisa and Daryl went back on the 31st they joined us for lunch and we had a very nice visit. 

On December 30th our family of 9 joined Dennis's Aunt Dede for brunch out near where Teri and Wayne live in the Estrella Park area. It was a very nice restaurant, one we had never been to.  We brought gifts and treats to Dede in celebration of Christmas and spent a very leisure time together. Something different. 

I guess that brings you up to date on our December highlights. Me and mine are well and with the Good Lords Blessings we will stay that way. Not sure how the rest of the family is doing as I haven't really talked to anyone of late. Guess everyone is busy with their own families, I know I have been with mine. Hopefully no news is good news.  

January/February brings with it alot of doctor visits (annual mammogram, labs, eye doctor, dentist ...) and Dennis's surgery so it will make for a busy time. Please say a little prayer for Dennis for me, that he comes through his operation and recovery with flying colors. We really like his surgeon and he seems to think all will go off like clock work. Praying that is so. 

Anyway mom, I'm closing for now. You take good care and remember always that I love and miss you. I think of you often and pray that you are watching over us all. Happy New Year, God Bless you and remember.....

"We'll always have Paris"
LuvuL8r, Cathy    

Dear Mom, .

I love and miss you so much, and I wish you were here with us in person.

What a roller coaster ride last month was. So much happening and sadly not all good. The ups were great but the downs were as low as one can get.  I won't elaborate as nothing can change all that has happened but I will say its been life altering. Moving forward!

December came in like a whirl wind and today is only the 2nd. My tree is up, decorating almost done, shopping online, wrapping as I go, working on my Christmas cards, I send out over 125 (it's a lost art), and next week I start my holiday baking. Can you say "busy"? It's all good! 

Dennis and I are looking forward to spending Christmas Eve at Jacob and Megan's as they are hosting this year. With both of them, Carri and Tyler and the grandkids it should be fun as usual. I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas Mom and please extend that sentiment on to family and friends who you will share the day with. I often wonder what Christmas in heaven with sweet Jesus is like, it must be glorious. Christmas is my favorite time of year and I reflect back on the many happy years we spent them together. Oh what fun we all had, complete at times with Santa and Mrs. Claus, singing, gift exchanging, church services, yummy food, and just all of us being together. Such wonderful memories.  

With the New Year 2024',  fast approaching I look forward to many upcoming celebrations. Next year Dennis and I will celebrate our 50th anniversary after this years 49th on December 21st. Next year I will be attending my 50th class reunion with Dennis and my BFF Karen. In September lil Jacob turns 16 and in December Adrianna turns 18. In October the AZ  Assoc. for Pupil Transportation (AAPT) celebrates their 75th anniversary. That's just what I have calendared to date.  Next year lil Jacob also moves up to JV Football, we love attending his games. Lots to look forward to in 2024'.  Praying and wishing you a very Happy New Year Mom .  

Dennis has been a lil under the weather, lots of back and leg pain. He just had an MRI and was diagnosed with Spinal Stenosis in the lumbar region. Its extremely uncomfortable for him to stand and walk so needless to say he is doing a lot of sitting. He has an appointment next week with a specialist and hopefully he will get some relief.  It really sucks to get older, especially when the mind says go and the body says "hell no".  This has really knocked Dennis down alot and he's aging right before my eyes and I don't like it one bit. His inability to do much of anything is very discouraging and sad for both of us. This is not how I pictured our retirement and I'm sure not how he pictured it either. Anyway I hope he will soon recover and get back to being his old self soon. If you can put in a good word with the Lord above, we'd really appreciate it. 

Well mom, I'm going to close for this month. Again, I miss you more than words can say and I love you with my whole being. Please join us in spirit if you can during this holiday season and know it just isn't the same without you in person but we'll take what we can. And remember.... 

"We'll always have Paris" 

LuvuL8r, Cathy



   

Hi Mom, 

Can you believe it, it's November 2nd? Wow, where does the time go? October was a busy busy month for me. While I like to be busy it was way over the top. I played BINGO at the casino 7 different days, times and casino's ( a couple of those with Cindy) and Kim joined us for one time as well. Four of those times were for free as Cindy and I both had free birthday BINGO games at matinees and at evening times. We didn't win at BINGO but I cleaned house a couple of times at the slots, one time winning over $1400.00. I even birthday gifted both Cindy and Kim with a $100 each. Kim said it wasn't her birthday but I told her it was that day! It was all good. Dennis and I made a trip up to Flagstaff one Monday for the day, we met with friends at the casino up there and had lunch (Indian Fry bread, yummy) and spent the day playing slots.

In August, September and October I drove into Chandler each week on Wednesday afternoons for Lil Jacobs Freshman football games, OMG it took me close to 2 hours each time just to get across town to their house from mine. From there I rode with Big Jacob over to the games. Dennis only joined me a couple of times as he's been having some health issues and it was just to uncomfortable for him. I also drove in on a couple of Thursdays to watch Jacob play in the JV games as well. The coach asked Jacob if he could help with being a kicker on the JV team as their kicker was out with a groin injury. It was a great compliment to be asked and of course Jacob said yes.

The 2nd weekend in October I went down to Florence for the weekend. I am the Historian for the AZ Assoc. for Pupil Transportation and they had a conference that I participated in. That was 2 nights in a hotel as well. It was fun renewing old work acquaintances and seeing past work colleagues.

In October I also had a class reunion meeting as I am one of 10 on a committee putting together our 50th class reunion for next year on November 2nd. Can you believe it, 50 years? 

Then there was my birthday, Dennis treated me to the Angry Crab for dinner and it was awesome. I had birthday greetings from just about everybody (family/friends). Between the phone calls, the texts, FB wishes, cards, gifts, etc.. it too was awesome. 

Then finally ending the month with Halloween at Carri's which is a family annual event. Carri treats us to dinner and then we all hang out in the driveway with tables and chairs set up. The neighborhood kids hit the mother load at her house as Dennis and I give out capri suns, Carri/Tyler had candy bags to give out, Megan/Jacob gave out candy as did Tyler's mom Gloria. The capri sun drinks are always a big hit. The most original costume was a 5 year old boy who came as a tree! He was dressed in brown for the trunk and then had a wreath of leaves surrounding his head, he was so cute. His mom said he wanted to be that or a rock, go figure! Truly original. 

Anyway that brings us to November and I can now slow down a bit, maybe! Jacob played his last game of the season on Wednesday, November 1st. I received 3 BINGO games as birthday gifts so I suspect I will go once or twice this month to play. On November 12th we will be celebrating Big Jacobs birthday (which is on the 8th). Megan has a surprise afternoon event planned with dinner to follow. Oh and then there's Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Christmas shopping. Well I thought I might slow down a bit but when I put it on paper it looks a little daunting. 

Dennis is having trouble with his sciatica and it's hard to get around. It's hard to walk, it's hard to go from sitting to standing and vise versa, it's hard to drive long distances, etc. He finally went to the doctor and they are starting him on physical therapy and some drug therapy and hopefully he'll be feeling better soon.  It really sucks to get old, the mind still wants to but the body says, screw that, LOL!!! 

Everyone else seems to be doing fine. At least those that I know of are and those that I don't, I figure no news is good news. 

I miss you mom and love you more than you can possibly know. With the holiday season upon us I am reminded of our family gatherings over the years and smile in remembrance. But sometimes I also tear up knowing your no longer with us in person to share in the days. I hope you know you're in my heart, in my thoughts and in my prayers and your spirit is always with me. Please give our love to Walt and the rest of the family and wish them all seasons greetings. Take good care mom and God Bless you. And don't ever forget

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy



 

Hi Mom, 

Let me begin with I love and miss you so very much.

It's hard to believe it's already October, this year has flown by. I know the older I get the faster the years seem to come and go. By the end of this month I will be 68 years old, wow now that's a mouth full. Planning to treat myself several times over the month to BINGO at 2 casino's with Cindy and maybe Kim at one and Carri at another. Free birthday BINGO for both Cindy and I at Ve Quiva and AZ Casino for matinee's and early evening BINGO. Wish us $$$ LUCK $$$$!

Me and mine are doing well. We go into Chandler every Wednesday afternoon to watch Jacobs Freshman football games. So far they are 5 wins and 0 losses. Last week Jacob was asked to fill in on the JV Team that plays on Thursdays as their Kicker is out with a groin injury and he did. Should their Kicker be out for the season Jacob may move up to the Junior Varsity Team, time will tell. It's a major coo that he was asked at all. The JV Team won their game as well and they too are 5 wins 0 losses. This week they're going up against one of the tougher teams, we'll have to see how they do. I told Jacob that his team is a tough team to be reckoned with as well and just keep doing what you're doing as its working. 

Adrianna started her first paying job, she assists in the making of meals and serves dinner to seniors at a center 3-4 days a week. So far she seems to like it. She will be getting her lamb in another week and the training will begin for it. Tatum's job at Frys isn't working out so she is looking for something else. Jacob, Megan and the kids are leaving on vacation on Thursday, heading over to San Diego during the kids Fall Break for a few days. They have rented a 5 bedroom AIR BNB with some friends close to the beach. They will return on Monday as Jacob has to be back for football. 

Carri and Tyler are doing well as is Dennis and I. I've got a state conference to go to on the 13-14 in Florence for the Arizona Association for Pupil Transportation. I am a lifetime member of the AAPT and their Historian. I'm also a member of my Class Reunion Committee as we prepare for our 50th Reunion next year. OMG, now I know I'm getting old! Getting HELL, I am old! Planning on sharing Halloween with Carri and Tyler at their place, we've done that now for the past 4 years. Its great fun handing out candy and checking out all the different costumes. It's going to be a busy month. 

Extended family I guess is ok. No news is good news, I guess.
Not sure what's going on in Guy and Maria's life as they have fallen off the face of the earth for now. They no longer post on FB, they don't take calls/texts or any kind of communication. Maria has texted to say they are not ill and for all the family to respect their privacy and basically leave them alone. What privacy? When you post almost on a daily basis what is there to be private about? It's when you go cold turkey and talk to no one, that there's something wrong. Mind you if there having marital issues that's their business and no one wants to pry but to cut us all off without any kind of word is just not right. Tonya and Josh aren't even taking calls cause they don't know what to say according to Maria. I just hate these unnecessary head games. 

No one has talked to Guy in over a month, not sure if he's even among the living. I don't know how long we wait before we consider him a missing person. We could play HARD BALL if we have too (call the police to do a welfare check, call the base where Josh lives and have them do a home welfare check on Guy, call the police by Tonya's to have them do a welfare check on Guy, put it out all over FB that he's missing, etc...). We really don't want to do any of this but he better make contact with someone pretty soon. He only needs to call one sibling and make voice contact and we can all go on not worrying about his welfare. I can't believe he is purposely/ conscientiously keeping us all in the dark! I would hate for something bad to happen to family and we can't reach him in any way. Anyway mom if there's anything you can do on your end it would be greatly appreciated.  

Meanwhile I am going to close for now. Know you're in my thoughts and prayers always and remember I love you. Take good care and never forget

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy 



  

Dear Mom, 

Happy September, Happy Labor Day Weekend and Happy Heavenly Day. Thinking of you often and wishing you were still here on earth with me and everyone, words can't express how much you're missed. I love you so much mom. 

Can you believe it? Twelve years ago we were in Perugia, Italy at Tonya and Drews wedding, remember? The wedding was awesome! So was the castle and all that came with staying there. It was such a wonderful trip and we did so much on it. Megan and I flew out together to Rome and we joined you, Guy, Maria, Josh, etc. a few days later in Perugia. Megan and I spent one day taking the train to Pisa and a few days after the wedding you, Megan and I went on our Mediterranean Cruise where we met Diane and Dawn our just like family friends from England. It was truly one of three trips of my lifetime all to Europe that will go down in my book of life as the most wonderful of all time. Don't get me wrong many of my cruise trips (Mexico, Alaska, and the Caribbean) and even some of my road trips have been awesome but Europe was just that much more special. I never thought it would get better than our first trip together in 2009 but then the trip in 2011 was just as fun if not more and then Megan and I went again in 2019 and it too was so wonderful. Each trip was special in its own right as they each offered something exciting and new. I guess just being in a foreign country, seeing and doing all that we did, there are just no words to explain the feelings. Trips of a lifetime says it all.

Speaking of Europe, Maria and Guy just spent 2 weeks at Tonya and Drews in N. C. along with Maria's sisters and spouses from England. Even Jordana came, remember her, she was the flower girl at the wedding, daughter to one of Maria's sisters? The whole clan stayed at Tonya and Drew's as they have a huge home and so much room. I heard they had just the best of times. Guy and Maria are back at Josh and Ashley's now for sometime. Josh is going to be deployed in a couple of weeks and will be gone for about 6 months. Praying that he has safe travels and comes home safe and sound. 

My family is doing well. Dennis and I are same o same o. Don't go anywhere or do a whole lot. I go to the casino a couple of times a month but that's about it for now. I also just volunteered to sit on my 50th Class Reunion Committee which is slated for the fall of 2024. Our first meeting is on the 23rd, should be interesting.  

ERWIN'S - Tatum has gotten her first job working for Frys Grocery. She takes orders from folks on the computer, gathers the groceries and delivers them to the customer when they drive up at the store. So far so good, she seems to like it, it's part time about 25 hours a week. Adrianna also got her first job serving meals at a senior center a few days a week. She hopes to start in a week or so. She has to get a food handlers card, get finger printed, a TB skin test, etc. before she can start. She's driving now so she's on the go alot. Lil Jacob just played his first freshman football game and did wonderful. The team won 56 to 0. Jacob is a kicker and was responsible for 5 of the field goals. He seems to like it alot. Megan has decided to retire from the police department come the first of the year. She has 22 years in and is ready to do something else. She will receive half her pay in a pension (about $50,000 plus a year). She is planning to learn how to do polygraph testing as a civilian and start her own business doing that. She can make her own schedule and work when she wants. As a polygrapher she will still work for the police department but as a civilian and not as an officer. I personally couldn't be happier as I can't wait to get her off the streets. Police lately are just not getting the respect that comes with the uniform and its a scary world right now that we live in.  Big Jacob is also looking to try something new in the work field. He wants to get a state or county job, one that also offers a pension. Looking to the future and retirement.

DOVE'S - Carri and Tyler are great. Tyler just got another promotion at his job and is now for the first time making more money than Carri. Financially they are both set, making great wages. Carri has now been at her job for a little over 20 years and some days she'd like to switch jobs. Somedays just suck! That comes with any job I think. However, finding another job that pays $35 and hour or better plus all the perks she gets at work will be hard to replace. She's not actively seeking but if something comes her way she will go in a heart beat. Carri would also like to find a new home as she wants a house with a bigger living room for entertaining. Its one thing to sell but its another thing to buy. Again she's not actively looking but maybe this fall they will start. 

EXTENDED FAMILY - I guess all is fine with everyone. I seldom hear from anyone unless I call. It's sad! Before you passed it was that way so nothing has really changed there. I talk to Dar about once a week, she's doing ok. Got a call from Angie Binder the other day to say she was going to be a grandma. Kaylee is pregnant and due about your birthday. Angie and Kaylee are both very excited. Talked to Dawn and Diane in England a few weeks ago. Dawns chemo treatments will be over come the end of September, so happy for her. She says the doctors tell her the chemo is working so that is good news. 

Well mom I guess that brings you up to date on my end. I really hope that you get to read these letters as its my way of keeping your spirit alive and sharing my feelings with you. I find comfort in my feelings of loss when I know I can write to you, even if I don't hear back from you, its ok. Please say hello to family and friends their in heaven for me and let everyone know that I remember them in prayer. Gone but never forgotten. I pray that you all know that you're thought of often, that you're missed greatly and loved always. I love you mom, take good care and remember....

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy


 

    

Dear Mom, 

I hope this greeting finds you well and enjoying all Gods blessings. I sure miss you and think of you often. I love you dearly.

I'm having a busy week, this first one in August. Heading up to Williams this morning for a day trip to visit some friends, Bill and Sherry Stinson. Hopefully it will be a little cooler than here in the valley. We just finished a record breaking month of 110+ degree weather only to be broken on Monday with 108 and now were back up over the 110 again. We've been up as high as 119 degrees so far this year. Can you say HOT!

Thursday I have a lunch date with a girlfriend and this weekend I am spending a couple of days at the We Ko Pa Casino (the old Fort McDowell Casino) compliments of the casino. I also have free play money on two days, $125 on Friday and $100 on Saturday, and food discounts as well, too good an offer I couldn't turn it down. Wish me luck! I love it when the machines will play with me and they don't rob me blind. Hoping for a big hand payout this time or just to be on a winning streak. 

Kids and Grands are doing well. Adrianna and Jacob are back in school and Tatum is looking for a job. Everyone else is working and Dennis and I are well. Not a whole lotta new news so I am going to make this a short visit this month. 

You take good care. Remember your loved and missed always. Give my love to all and remember.....

"We'll always have Paris"
LuvuL8r, Cathy 

Hi Mom,

A little late in the month but I finally remembered to drop a few lines. Several times I meant to write and got side tracked, sorry! Please know I think of you often and miss and love you greatly.

July has been hotter than hot with record heat of 110+ for a record of 19 days and counting. My pool is now at 90 degrees and almost not fun to even get into. The monsoon season complete with dust and rain is running a little behind time as we just had our first taste of it on Monday the 17th. I look forward to the rain to cool things down a bit. 

Speaking of the 17th, it was Carri's birthday and Dennis and I shared the day with her at the casino. She took a weeks vacation and was off work so we bought her BINGO for both the matinee and the evening session and played slots in-between games. Tyler, Jacob and Megan joined us for the evening session. Carri won a jackpot at BINGO, the second to the last game of the evening and Dennis won his first slot machine jackpot - all too cool! It makes playing fun when we win and makes it inviting to come again. 

This past weekend Carri, Tyler and I spent a few days Staycation at the Wild Horse Pass Casino/Resort. We had 4 free nights, free food and each day free money to play all compliments of the casino. Dennis didn't want to go so he stayed home with the dog. We enjoyed their pool and had a wonderful, leisure time. Got into playing the tables at 3 card poker and played for hours, it was so much fun. It was nice to enjoy the amenities of a local casino/resort without having to drive all the way to Laughlin or Vegas.  

Grandkids started the 2023-24 school year today with Jacob as a freshman and Adrianna as a junior. Jacob is playing freshman football and Adrianna is still in FFA and going to raise another lamb. Tatum, now a high school graduate has interviewed for 2 different jobs and is hoping to find employment soon. 

Talked to Maria the other day, she and Guy were in D.C. and heading for Niagara Falls. Afterwards she posted a few pics and a video, looks like they had a blast. She is now truly enjoying the traveling and site seeing. Her sisters and spouses are coming to Tonya's next month and they will be joining them for a couple of weeks. Tonya and Drew have room for them all to stay at their home, there will be 11 of them. Sounds wonderful! Flo was just here and she got to spend a couple of weeks at Tonya's and Guy and Maria visited their with her as well. Maria said they all had a wonderful visit. Josh and his family are getting ready to move on base in the town they live in. I think because Josh is going to be deployed soon and it will be easier for Ashley. Their kiddos are growing like weeds. 

Cindy and Kyree just got back from a road trip to Disneyland and the California Beaches, compliments of the Girl Scouts. Cindy said they had a ball. Kyree just had what is hoped to be her last surgery on her arm. Poor kid has really been through a lot with that arm. Cindy is scheduled for cataract eye surgery soon.

Stopped by Teri and Wayne's early in the month and dropped off a few bags of clothes, cleaning out my closet again. Had a short visit and all is well with them and theirs's. Kristina's stepson started school today, he is growing up fast.  Natalie has a new man in her life (new to me) and the relationship looks to be serious. She's known him for many years, started as friends and things have progressed from there. So happy for her.   

I talk to Dar from time to time and her family is doing well. Dennis and I invited her to join us for dinner over at Mercer's for fish a couple of weeks ago and we had a nice visit. 

Not much more I can tell you mom at this time other than to repeat my early words, I love and miss you so much. I pray all is well with you and the rest of our family and friends in heaven. I'd like to think you know all that I write before I write it but it's comforting to me to put the words on paper. It helps me to cope with your absence in my daily life, somedays it's really hard. 

Anyway mom, I'm going to close for now. I love you and remember.....
"We'll always have Paris" 

LuvuL8r, Cathy

Dear Mom,
 
I can't believe we're 6 months into 2023', time really does fly the older I get. I hope this letter finds you well and enjoying all heaven has to offer. I love and miss you very much. There's still times I can't believe you're really gone. We knew life would change with your absence but it's still hard to comprehend just how much.  

My oldest grandchild Tatum just graduated high school a week ago and tomorrow we will be attending a party honoring her accomplishments. It seems like only yesterday I was attending Jacob and Carri's graduation and having a party for them and now it's the next generation. I was so proud of Tatum at graduation as it was a real task for her to walk. She was scared and nervous and her "special needs" really kicked in but she hung tough and did well to make it through. She has come a long way and yet still has a long way to go. Not sure if she will be able to hold down a job or if she'll ever move away from home but she'll take it one day at a time and I have every confidence she'll do fine.

Lil Jacob just got approved to attend a school (Hamilton) outside of his attendance area on open enrollment which affords him the opportunity to play football for a very prestigious school. He hopes to be good enough to someday play in the NFL. During football season the Freshman play games every Wednesday and as of now I am planning to attend all his games. I really hope he stays focused and his dreams come true. It's all up to him. The rest of the family is doing well.

Just talked to Kennidee the other day and she got her marching orders. When she finishes military school in Texas she will be moving to Japan where she will be stationed for the next 3 years. She sounds real excited about the move. After that she will be at sea for 3 years. She has her future mapped out pretty well and she's going places, literally. We are all so proud of her. I hope to see her before she goes abroad but it not I will stay in touch with her through snail mail. 

Have a couple of short trips planned this month. Going to Pinetop on the 9th for a couple of days and then to to Flagstaff on the 21st for an over nighter. It's for the Arizona Association for Pupil Transportation (AAPT). Going to Pinetop for their summer retreat and Flagstaff for a vendor show. While I am retired, I am a lifetime member of the association and their Historian. It gets me out of the house and gives me something to do as well as it allows me to stay in touch with alot of my work friends.

Well mom, I'm going to close for now, not much else to share at this time. You take good care of yourself and give my best to everyone there for me. I love you and remember....

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy
  

Hi Mom, 

Happy Mother's Day to you. Reminiscing in my mind of past Mother's Days and the gatherings we shared over the years. There were many, always filled with laughter and fun and family galore. I miss those times more than I can say. I hope you can feel the love of your children there in heaven and know in your heart you are with all of us here on earth, always. We may not get to see, feel or hear you in person but non the less mom, we know you are with us. As you celebrate Mothers Day with your mom and hers and the rest of the family their in heaven may your heart be overflowing with love and joy.  

I miss you mom and I love you with every breath of my being. Happy Mothers Day and God Bless you always. Remember....

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r,
Cathy

  

Dear Mom, 

It's been 760 days, 25 months, 108+ weeks since the Good Lord took you home to heaven to begin your eternal life. WOW! Where does the time go? I can't tell you how much I love and miss you mom and wish you were here in person. I think of you often and while I know someday we will be united again its' the time in between that's hardest. Your absence is felt greatly and while I cherish my memories with you, nothing can fill the void. I love you. 

Just a few things happening in my life. I bought a new laptop computer and Tyler got me all hooked up and transferred my data from my old hard drive to the new one. It's like starting over to learn how this all works and he also has put all my info in the Cloud which frees up my hard drive. Its all good, there's just a bit of a learning curve that I have to master to reach my true potential.

We just had our pool drained, and refilled. We are suppose to change out the water ever 3-5 years. It's an expense but thankfully it's not every year. I have just hired a pool man who will begin coming out once a week starting in June. We've had the pool now 10 years and it's becoming a lot of work for Dennis, so I know he is happy to be relieved of this hunny do.

Granddaughter Tatum graduates on the 25th of May, coincidentally that's her Papa Dennis's 73rd birthday as well. Talk about time flying by! Adrianna showed 2 lambs last month at the County Fair and did excellent. She took 1st Place with her Ewe (female) and she took 2nd Place with her Wether (male). In the overall competition she placed Reserve Grand Champion (which is 2nd Place) among all the lambs competing. Lil Jacob Placed 3rd in his carcass competition. We're so proud of them all. Adrianna's going to continue to show lambs for the next 2 years however Jacob has decided this really isn't his cup of tea and has decided to concentrate on football instead. He has aspirations of playing as a Kicker for the NFL someday. He's really good as a Kicker and is being trained twice a week with a coach. He's also a real computer geek and will go far in IT. 

Carri and Tyler went on a cruise with Tyler's side of the family and they had a blast. They did the Mexican Riviera this time. The rest of us are doing well. Jacob and Megan are working hard and Dennis and I hardly working, LOL! 

I pray all is well with you and all our heavenly family and friends. Please say hi from me and let them know I'm sending my love to them as well. Well mom I'm going to close for now. Take good care, I love, love, love you and never forget.....

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r
Cathy

P.S. The picture is of Adrianna holding her lamb along with the judge holding her banner and Adrianna's best friend Reece holding her belt buckle that she won. 

Hi Mom, Happy Heavenly 85th Birthday,

This is yet another milestone birthday for you, the big 85. I wonder what we would have done to share in this day if you were still with us?  I hope all the family and friends in heaven are joining you in celebration along with Grandma Linke, whose birthday it is today as well.

In honor of your birthday I am going to the casino and enjoy spending some time at the slots. I know you and Walt always liked going to Laughlin and playing the slots so I will be your proxy today here at home, and play for us both at the local casino. Wish me/us luck. 

I love and miss you so very much mom. Take good care of yourself and give our best to family and friends there with you celebrating your day. Happy, Happy, Happy, Birthday Mom. 

Until next month mom remember I love you and  "We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r,
Cathy 

  

Dear Mom,

It’s hard to believe it’s been two years since you left us for eternal life, where does the time go? Words can’t begin to express my feelings of loss and not sharing in day to day existence with you here on earth. I hope and pray you have a ring side seat looking in on all of us from time to time and sharing in our lives. You are truly missed and loved greatly. I find myself thinking of you at different times and wondering what you would do or how you would handle something that I might be going through. I draw on my life experiences with and without you and I gain great courage and confidence in remembering and in knowing how you did things and knowing you have my back and you are with me, always. I know if there's anyway possible for you to be here and near you are.

Easter is just a week away and it’s reminiscent of some fun times our family has shared and some wonderful memories. As a kid I don’t remember egg hunts, but our baskets were full and we’d have fun hunting them down. I remember going to church, Easter bonnets and white gloves were a part of our attire. When my kids were growing up it was the sand dunes every year and we had a ball. It was the one vacation a year I could count on, if we did no other. We were always surrounded by family and friends. Easter was the last holiday we spent with Dennis’s sister Pam as she died just a couple of months later, on July the 5th. I remember picnics at the park, my stuffed rabbits as part of the ambiance, kite flying and egg hunts for the little ones. There was also the occasional Dirty Clubs and Poker Card Games. This year Carri and Tyler will be cruising to Mexico and Jacob, Megan and the kids are spending the day with Megan’s family. Not sure what Dennis and I are doing if anything, it’s all good!

Got a call the other day from England, Diane called to tell me that Dawn has stomach cancer and it’s bad. Please ask sweet Jesus and the Father above in person if you can, to make her journey over the next months bearable. Diane is so worried about being left alone and not knowing how she will get through things without Dawn should the inevitable happen. We all face those challenges and while it’s hard we somehow seem to carry on in spite of everything. My thoughts and prayers are with them both. Oh while I’m thinking of it, FYI, I hear your brother Jeff came through his surgery fine and is on the road to a full recovery.

Well mom I’m going to close for now. Say hello to all our family and friends who’ve gone before me and give them my best. Let them know they’re all thought of often, their missed greatly and loved always. Mom I miss and love you more than words can say and remember…

“We’ll always have Paris”
LuvuL8r, Cathy

P.S. Mom you should see my peace lily that I got when you passed away 2 years ago. It's bigger and better than ever and blooming beautiful. It's a daily and constant reminder of you and in a way it brings me comfort as if you're here with me. With my eyes filled with tears mom as I write this and in your remembrance, know my heart is filled with love. God Bless you always.    

Dear Mom,
 
Tried several times yesterday to get on the computer and send this but got side tracked more than once. Anyway here I is, better late than never. LOL!!!

Have I told you lately that I love and miss you? Well I do more than you'll ever know. I think about you often and wish you were here to talk on the phone, play cards or just visit, you know that mother daughter thing!  Anyway just know in your heart you're in mine 24 - 7 and I love and miss you more that you can imagine.  

All is well here with me and mine. Dennis and I got our taxes done today and I'm really glad that's over. We had to get a new guy so we went to Buckeye to the guy Dennis's Aunt Dede goes to, he was a pleasant enough man and we got right in and in an hour we were done.

These past few months we have had a pretty wet winter and yesterday and the day before we even got snow. Actually north Scottsdale even got snow. It was a pretty sight to behold. 

I talked with Kennidee the other day and she finished her Navy boot camp in the Chicago area and is now in Texas for her basic training. I heard that Kris, Kreig and Barbie flew up to see her graduate, so glad some of her family could go. We're all so proud of her and I know you are too. Anxious to hear where she will finally lite after basic training. She's hoping stateside someplace as she will see enough of the world when she is deployed. At least that's what she shared with me. Talked with Tonya and Maria a few days ago and their families are doing well. Tonya, Drew and the girls drove done to Josh and Ashleys for Coltons 1 year birthday. Guy and Maria were there too so it was a great family affair. I saw that Kim had posted on FB that she worked the Super Bowl and had a great time. She seems to really like her security position. Cindy and Kyree are selling GS cookies galore and doing well, its keeping them busy. I guess everyone else is doing fine. . 

Oh I did see on Facebook that your brother Jeff is going in for heart surgery on Monday. Someone in his family started a Go Fund me account in hopes of securing monies to help cover his living expenses as he has been out of work for a while and even after the surgery wont get to go back to work for a few months. I find it really sad that he finds himself in this state of affairs. I hope his surgery is a success and that he gets the financial help he needs. Sadly we don't communicate and haven't sense you passed away. We never have been close but more importantly I get tired of always giving and never getting back. He and Darlene really hurt my feelings when they didn't come to your service but I wouldn't say shit if I had a mouth full. I have extended myself on more than one occasion where Jeff and his wife are concerned and it never seems to be appreciated, so it is what it is.  I do sincerely hope his surgery is successful however his financial problems  are just that, there his. Karma can be a bitch. 

My family all seem to be doing well. Adrianna and Jacob are showing lambs again next month at the County Fair, I hope they do well. Tatum and the rest of the adults are all well. Had the whole family out for brunch on Sunday and had a real nice visit. Carri and Tyler are looking forward to a Mexican Riviera Cruise next month. Tyler's mom Gloria and a girlfriend of hers and Tyler's brother and his wife and her parents are all going. Carri and Tyler got a balcony room real cheap and can't wait to go, it should be loads of fun for all 8 of them. 

Well mom I guess I will call it a night and close this letter out. Please extend my well wishes to family and friends there with you and give them my best. Let them know they are all loved and missed greatly. Life here is changing every day, nothing seems to be the same anymore. It's a different world and I'm still adjusting. The jury is still out whether I can accept the changes and find a new normal or not. Don't know what other choice I have.  Meanwhile, always know you are loved and missed greatly, 

Remember we'll always have Paris. 

LuvuL8r, Cathy

Dear Mom, 

I can't believe it's already the 2nd month of 2023', time really does fly, the older I get. All is well here on earth with me and mine and with our extended family as I hope it is with you and all our family and friends that share heaven with you. Please extend my love and well wishes to all for me. Dennis's Uncle Gary just celebrated his first year in heaven, while Dennis' mom Wanda just celebrated her 26th year.  

Today is  Aunt Teddys earth birthday, what wonderful memories I have of celebrating her day with her and you and Aunt Darlene. For many years it was just Dar, Teddy and me when you lived in Alaska, but no matter who was there we always had a good time. I miss those days. 

Yesterday was Jacob and Megan's 20th wedding anniversary, 20 years mom can you believe that? In looking at pictures from the wedding there is a group shot of Jacobs side of the family and of the people in the photo 5 have already gone to heaven, they include you, Walt, Gary, Larry and Bud. On Megan's side she has lost both her grandmothers as well. So happy to have the beautiful photo's and video from their special day to look back upon. I am so proud of Jacob and Megan and the life they have made for themselves and for their children. Speaking of which the kids are all growing up so fast. Adrianna got her drivers license and has since hit the road enjoying her independence often. Megan is taking Tatum for a photo shoot this coming weekend for her Senior Class Pictures, hoping to get some great shots. Lil Jacob is playing football and training twice a week with a local high school coach. Jacob is a "Kicker" position and does very well. He has aspirations of playing in the NFL someday. We'll have to wait and see how that pans out for him. 

Carri and Tyler are doing great. Their both workaholics and making great monies. Tyler's mom Gloria just got back from a cruise to the Caribbean where she went with 2 girlfriends. Her twin sons bought her the trip for Christmas. While on the ship Gloria engaged in a game on board and won herself a free cruise anywhere Celebrity goes. It has to be used within a year. She is hoping that Carri and Tyler along with her son Richard and his family will go with her. Nothing definite yet. Gloria wants to go to Alaska however Carri doesn't and neither does Richards wife Karen as they have both been before. Carri and Karen want to go to the Mexican Rivera. We'll have to see what comes of it. Carri still plays her BINGO just about every week. I've been joining her a couple of times a month.  Hoping to win tomorrow when we go. 

Dennis and I are fine however, retirement is not turning out the way I had planned. Dennis doesn't want to go anywhere or do much of anything. He says his body hurts from all those years driving heavy equipment and its too hard on him to travel much. So.... here I am with all this time on my hands, money to go places and my health is ok for the time being and I don't get to do anything.  I am having to rethink what I can do to make me happy. I can and will go places without Dennis but it just wont be the same as I had looked forward to this time in our lives to be together exploring our golden years with travel and each other. He tells me to go without him but what fun is that!  I'll get back with you on how this is all going to play out.   

I guess the extended family is doing ok, no news is good news I guess. I just wish I was as important to them as they are to me or at least that's how I feel since I don't hear from anyone unless I do the calling. When you were still alive we had this conversation on more than one occasion and let me just tell you nothing has changed since your passing other then maybe things are a  little worse. No worries, I try not to dwell because it just hurts too much. Anyway, enough of woe is me!

Mom, I think of you often and I miss you so much. I wonder what heaven is like and how heavenly life is. I wonder if you get to see us, check in on us and see what we're all doing. I hope you can and do. I feel you with me from time to time and you're always in my prayers. I love you mom. Please send love and well wishes to everyone there for me and especially to sweet Jesus and our Father above. Take good care and we'll visit again soon. Always remember:

"We'll always have Paris"
LuvuL8r, Cathy 

Dear Mom, 

Happy New Year 2023!

Another year has begun and I can't help but wonder what this year has in store for us all. I have a few irons in the fire as far as a few plans that I hope will pan out over the year, short of that its a day to day, month to month adventure. I love you mom and I miss you more than I can say. I wish you were still with us in person. I pray that you're able to look in on us from time to time and pass along yours and the Good Lords Blessings to us all. 

We stayed home for New Years Eve this year. Dennis was in bed and I was up watching the ball drop in New York, Chicago and Phoenix at the stroke of midnight while listening to all the fireworks going off in our neighborhood.  

I thought back to 2014' (8 years ago) when Dennis and I celebrated our wedding anniversary with a 40th Ruby Anniversary/New Years Eve Party. We held it in Dennis's shop and outside by the fire pit. We had about 85 people (family, friends and neighbors) in attendance. It rained early on but then it turned very cold and before we knew it, it was snowing. It was so pretty. We had hired a DJ, a magician and a photo booth, and along with that we had plenty of food and drink for everyone. We were surrounded by family and friends and our hearts were full with love, it was awesome. I remember at midnight we set off helium balloons with white lights in them, we had a huge fire in the pit and the snow was floating down like feathers from heavens angels. White was everywhere and it was so breath taking beautiful. Remember?

There was another New Years Eve Party out at our house in New River, in 2008'. That was 14 years ago, WOW!. Most of our family was in attendance and a bunch of our neighbors and friends. Rebecka was down from Alaska for the holidays and was able to join in the fun. That was a year with many highs and lows as well. To name a few highs, we took our first cruise to Cabo San Lucas that year and I became a grandma for the 3rd time. Mom we celebrated your 70th birthday (This is your life) and Walt's 80th birthday that year. OMG what wonderful memories! The lows included that year  the loss of Uncle Bob, Uncle Allen and Walt by the years end. Again, WOW! Where does the time go?  The night ended with lots of fireworks and aerials, lots of laughter and even some tears. 

I have such wonderful memories of time spent with you mom and with all our family and friends. I draw on them when I feel sad or when I'm missing you like crazy. I have some wonderful memory books and video's that captured those moments in time and I look at them often. Nothing will ever be the same but then again its ok because those times were one of a kind times, and very special.

I love you mom and I will always remember .....

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy

Merry Christmas Mom, I love and miss you so very much.

I hope this Christmas Day finds you enjoying the holiday with Sweet Jesus himself along with family and friends. Throughout the day I thought of you and Christmas Pasts and smiled with thought of so many good times we have had. Here are a few of those times.

I remember as a kid we would always go to church on Christmas Eve and before hand we got to open 1 Christmas present which you picked out and it was usually something to wear to church, ie: a new dress, or shoes, etc. After church us kids would always receive a brown paper bag and inside was an apple, an orange, a popcorn ball, a candy cane, hard candy and peanuts. Our Sunday School teacher would give us a small holiday gift ie:  religious coloring book/colors, or pencils, a book mark, etc..  Some years after church we would come home only to find that Santa had already been there (we were told we were his first stop on the way) and we would stay up late opening presents. Other years we would open Christmas morning. 

I remember after you and my dad divorced in 1961 that Grandpa Nelson and Aunt Vi and Uncle Mike and Uncle Gib and Aunt Joan would always come by Grandma Winchells, dropping off gifts for us kids (usually toys/games) and either a turkey and/or a ham. 

I remember in 1965' we moved into a brand new house, bag and baggage, on Christmas Eve day in Paradise Valley, AZ. When we went to bed there was no Christmas tree, no sign of Christmas anywhere, but when we awoke the next morning there was a fully decorated tree, tons of gifts and the smell of a big breakfast being cooked in the kitchen. I was so amazed by the transformation that happened while we kids slept. Mom made us all get dressed and eat breakfast that morning before we could open gifts. As a kid that was cruel.    

The following year in 1966' our family had moved back to Wisconsin in late October from Arizona. Uncle Allen had been in a really bad car accident and had broken his neck and mom was scared he wouldn't make it. We were living (our family) with Grandma Winchell, Jeff and Mary at Christmas time. Us girls (Cindy, Kim and me) got granny gowns and night hats (like those worn on Little House on the Prairie by the Ingalls girls) along with ankle white go go boots for Christmas. It was just days after Christmas that Grandma's house caught fire and our go go boots melted like marshmallows. This would be our last Christmas with Grandma Winchell as she passed just weeks later in early February of 1967'. 

One Christmas when we lived in the Harvard House in Phoenix, Guy, Maria and kids were visiting from Texas and they along with Jerry and Robyn and you and Walt joined us for Christmas. It was the year you gave me a gold nugget ring. That year Santa popped in for a quick visit and when he left Joshua was convinced he saw him leave on his sleigh while watching out the window. Josh was about 4 at the time, remember? The innocents of a child. It was so fun! That was the same year that Guy had a surprise wedding for Maria out at the base a few days after Christmas. 

In 1999' after some 27 years or so you had all your children under one roof for Christmas again, it was a glorious time. We celebrated that Christmas Eve at Teri and Wayne's house. Santa and Mrs. Clause even paid us a visit. It was the year brother Jerry got a fake winning lottery ticket and it took forever to get him and Robyn convinced that it was a fake. It was the last year we'd all be together as a family for Christmas as our lives would be forever changed the following year. 

We have enjoyed many a big Christmas out at our house in New River with alot of the family in attendance, complete with a wonderful meal and a gift exchange, lots of love and laughter. 

It's these memoires mom and more that bring a smile to my face and warmth to my heart and joy to my being when sadness tries to creep in knowing you're no longer here to join in the day. My new normal is to be happy in your absence by remembering happy times and know how much love we have for one another. Grief is always here but it doesn't over shadow everything else, it can't. It's how I cope and for me it works. 

Take good care mom, say hi to everyone for me and give my best to sweet Jesus if you can. I know his plate is full, I don't know how he does what he does but I am so grateful for all his blessings. Praying for continued good health for me and mine and all our family and a safe and prosperous New Year. 

May God Bless us all, always. Until my next visit remember, 

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy

  


 

Dear Mom, 

December is here, where has the year gone? The days turn into weeks and the weeks into months faster than I can keep up.. Maybe it's just me getting older and slowing down a bit, whatever it is I don't like it. Have I told you lately that I love you and miss you? Well I do. Also, holidays are just not the same with you gone. Actually they haven't been the same in years, your absence just makes it that much worse. I miss the fun years we had together and try to focus on them. I think the holidays started to change with Walt's passing and we've just never been able to get back to there. Looking for a new normal and the spirit of the occasion to find true happiness again. I will tell you my Christmas Eve's are still wonderful with my family and the year we rented a cabin up north for Christmas week was awesome. I want to do that again. It's the extended family time that I miss and my extended family. We have all gone in separate directions and I don't see us ever getting that back. Too much water under the bridge and too much family baggage to deal with I guess. Like I said finding that new normal!    
 
November was a pretty good month. I won big enough at the casino that I have to pay taxes but it is what it is and I'm ok with that. Free money is always a good thing. It was my turn as I haven't won in a long while. Thanksgiving was wonderful, great company and food. I was trying to remember celebrating Thanksgiving as a kid but for whatever reason I can't recall any. I'm sure we had a turkey every year and all the fixins I just don't remember any one of them standing out as memorable. As an adult I've had a few memorable ones like the time I was suppose to bring deviled eggs to Dennis's folks and thought I'd put them together when I got to their house. Well I went off and left the devil at home. I brought the whites but oops! Needless to say we were too far to go home and get it so we went without at Thanksgiving but we ate egg salad that whole next week. Dennis's sister Pam lovingly razzed me about that for years after. All good!  

This year we will be celebrating Christmas Eve at Jacob and Megan's as they will be hosting. I put up my pencil Christmas Tree and put out a few decorations but I'm not going hog wild. Today I worked on Christmas cards, sending out about 110. It's a ritual that I like to do and even tho everyone seems to be going viral I will continue to do snail mail. Hope to get them done over the weekend and mail them out on Monday. I'm posting my Christmas photo here so you can see it. My shopping is done mostly on line but I am going to take the grandkids shopping for their gifts. They just won't get the stuff until Christmas, that seems to work out well for them and me.  

Dennis and I will be celebrating our 48th wedding anniversary on the 21st, wow just 2 more years until the big 5 - 0 . I am hoping to do something special for the 50th, not sure what but something. 

Well mom I'm going to close for now, its getting late and I want this to post today. Again I love you and miss you so very much. I wish you a very Merry Christmas with sweet Jesus and our Father above and with all our heavenly family. .God Bless you and God Bless all of us. You're in my thoughts often and in my heart always. Take good care and we'll visit again soon, next year 2023, LOL! Until then remember...

"We'll always have Paris" 

LuvuL8r, Cathy 

Dear Mom, 

I can't believe November is here and another year is coming to an end very soon. Time really does fly the older I get. I can't tell you how much I love and miss you and wish you were here sharing in the days with me and the family.

October was a busy month with some highs and many lows along the way. My losses were great in October. A friend of mine lost her "special needs" son named Dennis due to negligence on the part of his care takers, he was only 46 years young. Special needs or normal, no parent should have to bury their child and my heart goes out to her and her family. Another gal I know, lost her partner named Willie a week ago, he was 88 years old and they have been together for a very long time. I can't imagine how she will go on as her life was all about him. I also lost one of my colleagues from my bus driving days, his name was Scott, don't have the particulars just that he passed away. I  wrote last month that my Aunt Merry Ann Schindel wasn't doing very well and she too passed in October. The circle of life is happening all around me and I know the older I get the more its happening, but this really sucks. 

Maria and Guy began their retirement travels in mid October and seemed to be having a wonderful time when Maria suffered a mini stroke while they were at a stopping point in Alabama. Scared the hell out of them as Maria had to be air lifted to Mobile which was an hour and three quarters away from where they were. Long story short they don't know why it happened but she got put on some meds, told to rest and told to follow up in a few weeks with the doctor. I hope they get a handle on things as she could be a candidate for it happening again. Cindy's Willie was back in the hospital again for his diabetes. I'm so afraid we're going to lose him sooner than later. I wish he wanted to live as much as those of us who love him want him to. His body is wearing out and I'm afraid his chances of living long are not in his favor. Praying for him. 

On the plus side, I had a good birthday, played bingo at the casino. No big win but always a lot of fun. My girlfriend Karen treated me to lunch at Olive Garden the day before and gifted me with some yard art and casino money. Dennis and the kids all gave me money to buy a new office chair for the computer room.

My Granddaughter Adrianna (15 years old) went on a trip with her FFA group from school in October, flying to Indiana and being gone a whole week from the family.. It was a National Conference and she had a ball and learned a lot. Granddaughter Tatum stayed with us for a few days in October and she and I went shopping for her class ring. It was going to be a Christmas present but is now both Christmas and a graduation present as the cost was double what I had planned to pay. The ring is beautiful and very feminine. It doesn't look like the old class rings use to, it's very pretty and one she can wear all the time even after she's out of school. I had my every 5 year colonoscopy and they found 4 very small polyps, all benign. Two of them were more like skin tags and the other two were very small. Good to go for another 5 years, thank you God. 

Handed out candy and capri suns at Carri's and Tylers for Halloween. There was a group of us. Carri, Tyler, Tyler's brother Richard and wife Karen, his mom Gloria, Jacob, Megan, Tatum, Dennis and I and all three dogs. Carri bought a couple of Mexican food trays filled with a variety of stuff to pick from for dinner and we all sat out in her driveway visiting between Trick or Treaters. It was delightful. 

Not a whole lot planned for November except for Thanksgiving. I'm hosting my immediate family and Dennis's aunt Dede is coming in as well as Tyler's mom Gloria may also join us. Jacob turns 45 on the 8th and I bought him a new flag pole/flag for his RV. Our dog Bullet turns 6 next week, that's 42 in human years. He is really Dennis's best buddy and goes everywhere he can with him. 

Well mom I guess that wraps up this letter for now on what's happening here. I hope and pray heaven is wonderful and you're surrounded by family and friends and enjoying eternal life. I miss you more than words can say and I love you even more. I think of you often and pray that you feel my love. Until next month remember .........

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy
 

Dear Mom, 

I have this wonderful glass prism that I received as a keepsake with a memory medallion (in your honor) that hangs from it and it hangs in my front window. At times when the light hits it just right it casts rainbows on the walls of my great room. Each time I see the rainbows I say "hi mom" as I believe its you popping in to say hi, how are you.  This last month you popped in many times and I loved it. There were also several real rainbows outside this past month as we had a lot of rain and beautiful skies and I thought of you and wished you were here. I can't tell you how much your missed, there aren't words that can explain but I bet you feel the same way on your end regarding all of us. Life on earth  goes on as does your eternal life and I draw comfort in knowing that we will be together again, someday. Meanwhile I think of all the wonderful times we have shared throughout our lives and I concentrate on those to get me through the sad and empty feeling times. 

All is well here with me and mine. Going to spend the day and some quality time on Tuesday with my grandkids, lunch and bowling at Dave and Busters as they are all out of school and on Fall Break. Next Monday Jacob's family is going to California for a weeks vacation. For now and subject to change Tatum has decided she'd rather not go and will spend the week with Dennis and I instead. If that pans out we will do some special things with her. One thing I'm going to do is, with her input, design her class ring (a Christmas Gift) from Dennis and I. Adrianna recently went to her homecoming dance and was all dolled up, see attached photo. Lil Jacob is playing football, he is the designated kicker and loving it. He and Adrianna are also raising lambs again for the County Fair.  All us grownups are well and hanging in there. I go in for a colonoscopy on the 13th, (routine checkup) say a little prayer for me that all is fine.

The rest of the family seem to be doing fine. Jerry just went to working 3, 12 hour days at work a week and loves it. He just turned 65 and plans to work another year and a half or so before he retires. Then he still plans to work part time I think.

Tonya and Drew and the girls moved back to the states and just bought a new home in North Carolina, its big and beautiful. The girls have never been in a house before and they love it. Joshua and Ashley and kids moved from Texas to Florida. They now live close to Ashley's family which is a good thing as Josh will be deployed for months at a time. Guy and Maria have retired. They sold their home and bought an RV and are going to travel the USA for awhile. Maria is not a happy camper (no pun intended) or overly enthused about the whole situation. It all happened to fast for her and she's having a hard time adjusting to in her words "being homeless". You no Guy, mom when he gets an idea he goes with it and let the chips fall where they may. I told Maria to just hang in there, it won't last forever and I will bet in less than a year to a year and a half from now they will be buying a house and setting down roots again. Then they can buy a place on the east coast, close to their kids and grandkids. It's all going to work out. I think she will come around eventually, especially once she gets to see the family and spend time with all of them.

Kennidee has joined the Navy and is looking forward to all that comes with that. She is going places, not just by being in the Navy but she has a great head on her shoulders and wants things out of life and is going to get them. She's a wonderful role model. Guess everyone else is pretty status quo. 

Oh before I forget, I got a call from my cousin Ruthie (Uncle Gib's daughter) and she tells me that Aunt Merry Ann is not doing well. She is in a nursing care facility and they have called in Hospice and its just a matter of time before she passes over. It's so sad. There won't be a funeral and she will be cremated. She and her family all have plots in Beaver Dam complete with headstones. The circle of life continues on.....

Well mom I'm going to close for now. Please say hi to Walt and all the family and friends that have gone before me. You're all missed and loved greatly. Take good care and remember,

"We'll always have Paris" 

LuvuL8r, Cathy 

Dear Mom, 

It's hard to believe its September and the last quarter of the year is upon us. Time just flies. The holidays will be here before I know it and another New Year will avail itself. I can't help but wonder what the future has in store for me and mine and the extended family. 

My granddaughter Tatum just turned 18 years of age. Mom, can you believe it, 18? OMG!!! Lil Jacob turns 14 this month and Adrianna turns 16 in December. Tatum just had her Senior class pictures taken as she graduates high school in May. So much goings on. I am buying Tatum her Senior class ring for Christmas, its not going to be a surprise as I am going to have her design it. I want it to be what she wants it to be. Tatum only goes to school half days this year and she is working/volunteering at the day care center at her high school in the afternoons. Once they have a position open she hopes to get hired on (actually making a paycheck). The staff love her and say she does real well with the children. Adrianna and Lil Jacob are raising lambs again this school year and will show in March at the County Fair again. That keeps them pretty busy.. Jacob is also playing tackle football as well. Adrianna is getting alot of driving in as she hopes to get her license in December when she turns 16. For now Tatum is happy just having her permit and may or may not work on getting her license in the future. Jacob and Megan are great as is Carri and Tyler. Both of their families just spent 4 days together in southern California at a very fancy beach front resort in celebration of Tatum's 18th birthday. Dennis and I dog sat for them both while they were gone. They all had a blast. Dennis and Jacob spent last weekend (actually 4 days) up north deer hunting but didn't get one. They did have quality father son time and enjoyed the cooler weather as well.  

Dennis and I are well, we just got our last Covid Booster shots. I am going in for a routine  colonoscopy sometime later in the month, scheduled after my doctor visit next Wednesday. Praying all will be fine. Just had my annual pulmonary check up and got excellent reviews and my A1c is finally in a good range - 6.6. The doc says my meds are controlling my diabetes well. I wish I could loose some weight, I just have no will power and I know that's no excuse, but it is the truth. God help me, please!

Haven't heard much on the extended family front, haven't talked to anyone much which is sad. I do know that Tonya and her family just moved back to the states last month and are now living in North Carolina. Josh and Ashley and kids moved last month as well as they now live in Florida. So happy for them all. Kyree had her 4th surgery on her arm and seems to be doing well. Teri made a trip to Florida for her work and Natalie joined her. They took in the sights during Teri's off time from her conference. Robyn called yesterday just to check in and she and Jerry are well. Jerry is changing his work schedule and will now be working 3 twelves. I think she said he was working Sunday, Monday and Tuesday 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. He may also work overtime on Wednesdays. Robyn had fallen awhile back and broke her wrist, it was in a cast when I saw her on her birthday but she said the cast is off now and she's on the mend. I got a call from Rebecka the other day, she was just calling to say hi. She and husband Preston are well as are Doug and his boys and their extended family. Short of that, this is what I know. I'm sure if the Good Lord allows it you're more up to date than me on everything. We all travel in such diverse circles and on occasion we do talk to one another but its not very often. It's sad that folks can't pick up the phone and call just to say hello. Oh well, it is what it is. 

Mom, I can't tell you how much I miss you, words just can't convey. I love you dearly and I pray all is well with you and Walt and all the family and friends who have gone before me.

My new favorite saying is: “AS LONG AS THERE’S ONE PERSON ON EARTH WHO REMEMBERS YOU, IT ISN’T OVER!”. It's from Oscar Hammerstein/Musical -  Carousel.
I will always remember you mom and so many others and as long as I live it will never be over!

Take good care and never forget,

We'll always have Paris.

LuvuL8r, Cathy. 

Dear Mom, 

I can't believe it's the 2nd of August 2022, where does the time go? All is well here with me and mine as is the rest of the family as far as I know.

What I know is, Cindy and Kyree took a trip to Kentucky for a couple of weeks, Teri, Wayne and Natalie went on vacation to see Old Faithful Nat'l Park, Jacob, Megan and the kids went to Colorado- white river rafting down the Colorado River, and I saw Kim, Guy and Maria, Jerry and Robyn at Jerry and Robyn's for a BBQ on the 3rd of July. Tonya, Drew and the girls just moved from Switzerland back to the states last week. They are now living in North Carolina. So glad we got to visit them in Europe the times we went over. Joshua and Ashley  and children have moved to Florida from Texas. They bought a house close to Ashley's family. Only an hour or two away. Guess I'll be making a drive out there for a visit sometime in the future. Maybe next year some time I will make a drive back. Never been to Florida and only a pitstop in N.C. when Dennis and I went back to D.C. I'm sure both Maria and Guy are happy to have their family back in America. They have a wonderful opportunity to now spend some quality time with their grandkids and to see them grow up without breaking the bank to fly over seas to do so. 

Lots of happenings all around me from politics, to the economy, to kids/grandkids, etc. Today is election day, we're getting a person from both the Republicans and Democrats who will run for Governor in November and I'm anxious to see who it is. The price of gas is coming down a little. It was almost $6 a gallon. It's now about $5.10 a gallon.  

Grandkids just started school a couple of weeks ago. Tatum is a Senior this year and turns 18 in a couple of weeks. She and her family are going to celebrate her BIG 18th in Imperial, California over a long weekend in mid August at a real fancy resort.. Megan's pulling all the kids out of school to be able to go. All three of the grandkids are raising lambs to show at the County Fair next spring. They're all growing up way too fast. Carri and Tyler are doing great. Carri loves her Friday afternoon BINGO, she win's pretty often. Carri and Tyler are going to surprise Tatum for her birthday by joining them in California. Dennis and I will be dog sitting for both families. I know Bullet loves it when Dixie and Shadow come for a visit. 

Dennis is staying busy tinkering in his shop and keeping up with the yard work. He drives out to Buckeye every Thursday to visit his Aunt Dede and helps her out with any honey do things she needs done. Since Uncle Gary has passed he's been a real blessing for her and really helps her out a lot. Me, well I'm just hanging out. Retirement isn't exactly how I imagined but it will do. I'm on the computer a lot, in the pool often and doing family tree stuff. I keep busy. Popped in on Dar last week for an afternoon visit, she's doing well. I just learned that Tara has moved to Palm Springs, CA for her job. She's only about 3-4  hours away, not too far. Dar's granddaughter Kourtne and her family have moved to Okinawa, Japan for the next 3 years. 

Anyway life is what it is! I can't tell you how much I miss and love you, there are no words. You're in my thoughts often and I pray heaven and eternity is what we envision. For if it is, then I know your fine and that brings me great comfort. Take good care, say hello to everyone there from me and remember .....

"We'll always have Paris" 

LuvuL8r, Cathy 

Dear Mom, 

It's the 4th of July weekend and as usual it's hot, hot, hot. We are staying home and avoiding the traffic and road back ups that come with holiday travel. I'm having the kids/grandkids over on the 4th for a BBQ and swimming, it should be lots of fun. Two days later Jacob, Megan and the kids go on vacation and we will be dog sitting Dixie in their absence. Bullet won't know what to do with her being here for a whole week. It will prove to be very interesting.

After my last writing, mid month of June both Tatum and Adrianna got their driver permits. Jacob and Megan bought the girls a truck to share and once they get their licenses they will be driving it back and forth to school. Tatum missed the most she could on the written test to still pass, Adrianna aced hers. When it comes to the driving part of the test I'm not sure how Tatum will do but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. Meanwhile Jacob and Megan let them drive around home, to and from the store, etc. Jacob actually took Adrianna on the freeway already. I guess she did ok for her first time. The girls are going to try for their licenses in December. Here's wishing them good luck.

I forgot to tell you last month when I wrote that while I was in Wisconsin I acquired some photo's I have never seen before. Some from yours and my dads wedding along with some baby photo's of me and some pictures of my dad while in the army.. They were Aunt Millie's photos and her daughter-in-law Jacki and husband Dave gave them to me. They actually gave me 3 large scrapbooks and said I could have them. I took from the books the pictures I wanted and left the albums for my cousins to go through and take what they want from them. Oh mom, how I wish you were here to see the pictures. I'm guessing you never saw them as they were Aunt Millie's. I think you would have enjoyed seeing them. I'm going to post them here on this web site, who knows maybe you can see them. I can't tell you how much it meant to me to get those photo's, I really felt like I was a Nelson and belonged. While I was only 6 when you and my dad divorced we (us kids) missed out on a lot of the Nelson family gatherings as kids and sometimes I feel at a loss because of that. I know you can't really miss what you never had but I do, for whatever the reason it's how I feel. Anyway, it's all good. I now have a couple of pictures as a kid, as wonderful reminders that I am a part of this wonderful Nelson family. Anyway I wanted to share that with you. 

I also want to share with you my new favorite quote. I heard it on a TV show about genealogy.. It comes from the musical Carousel by Oscar Hammerstein, it says:
“AS LONG AS THERE’S ONE PERSON ON EARTH WHO REMEMBERS YOU, IT ISN’T OVER!”. 
OMG that is so true. I think the quote gives purpose and meaning to me that all of you are with me, it isn't over just because you're not here.  I don't know if I ever told you this before or not but I pray regularly and once a month, usually the first of the month during my prayers I do a roll call and say hello to all my family and friends that have gone before me. I call them all by name and try not to forget anyone, the list is very long. That along with doing the family genealogy and researching all the family that I have and looking up so many different peoples names makes this quote so meaningful to me. I'm keeping you and all these people alive within my heart and being, it isn't over! I love the quote and as long as I'm alive so are all of you. It's a legacy I want to leave my family and friends and one that I hope to pass on to anyone who welcomes it. Maybe someday someone will include me in their prayers and/or think of me often and keep me alive for many years to come, after I have passed. "It isn't over" as long as there's at least one person on earth who remembers me. I think sometimes my biggest fear in passing is being forgotten and while I don't want that to seem vain I just want to know my life had purpose and I made a difference. I guess we all want to feel that. 

Anyway on that note mom I'm going to close for now. Have I told you lately I love you and miss you? Well I do, more than you'll ever know. Wishing you and all my family and friends all Gods Blessings. Until next month, remember....

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy    

Dear Mom, 

I was gone last month on the anniversary of your passing but you were in my thoughts and prayers as you always are. Mother's Day came and went as well since last I wrote, I hope your day was special as you are to me and the rest of the family. Happy belated Mother's Day! 

My road trip to Wisconsin was wonderful and I often thought of you in my solace as I drove the highway roads. I thought of the couple of times you drove back and forth from Wisconsin to AZ as well as your road trips from AZ to Alaska and thought what courage you had to do that. With or without kids, to strike out on your own leaving the comfort of family behind to start anew. I know I get my courage and strength of being from you. Courage to take this trip alone, courage to go to Europe without Dennis or the kids, courage to take the kids when they were younger and go on road trips, I get it from you. You led by example and you afforded me the opportunity and one of comfort to know I can do whatever I set my mind too. You showed me the way and I hope I make you proud.

Everything in Wisconsin went off without a hitch. Mary's graveside funeral was beautiful. Uncle Rod and I made a great team and together we gave her a nice send off. Alice's girls were there (Angie, Deanne, Cathy, Chris) along with her granddaughter Kayle, Lesley, Russell, Rhonda Sue, Tom Linke and Dennis Linke and Deannes partner Steve. The weather held and while very humid, the wind didn't blow and it wasn't freezing cold or rainy like just the day before. The Good Lord was watching over as I'd like to think you and everyone there was too. Uncle Jerry also got a nice send off. Jud and Lesley did a nice service for him and followed that up with taking his and Teddys ashes up to Door County, mixing them together and scattering them at a favorite vacation spot of theirs. Closure for Mary, Teddy and Jerry was long over due and I'm so glad I was there for them.  

I got to see so many family members (some I never met before) and do so much while in Wisconsin, it was so awesome. I even attended church service at the Randolph Lutheran Church where you married my dad at and where I was baptized at. It was very special. I really wish I lived their a few months out of the year but its just not in the cards. However, I will be visiting as often as I can. It will always be home to me. 

My family here are well as is Dennis and I. Dennis just celebrated his 72nd birthday, hard to believe. The grandkids are out of school for the summer. Jacob and Megan are taking them on a trip next month to Colorado. They plan to go white river rafting down the Colorado River among a few other exciting things. I can't believe that Tatum turns 18 this year and will be a Senior in high school. Adrianna turns 16 in December and gets her drivers permit next month. Lil Jacob is starting football season and is the designated kicker on the team and he's really good. Carri and Tyler are well, working hard as usual. Carri loves her BINGO games on Fridays and is doing well with that. She's way ahead of the game, winning more often than not. Tyler is enjoying his new job as is Megan as a police sergeant.

I haven't talked to any of my siblings since I've returned except for Teri for just a minute or two. I guess they're all doing ok. I heard that Kreig and Michelle just had another son a week or two ago. So your legacy lives on once again in the hearts and souls of yet another family member. I know Cindy has a new grandson as well. Funny how life goes on! 

Anyway mom its almost 2:30 in the morning, I guess I should call it a night and go to bed. I love you and miss you mom so very, very much. Remember until we meet again....

"We'll always have Paris" 

LuvuL8r, Cathy

. 

Dear Mom, 

Happy, Happy, Happy, Birthday. Not sure how these days are celebrated in heaven but one things for sure we definitely now how to celebrate birthdays here on earth. Your milestone birthdays (50, 60, 70, 75, 80) and a few in between along with some of the kids 50th have truly been memorable and oh so much fun. I've attached a "Mom's Favorite" photo with you and each of your kiddo's from your 60th Birthday Party at the bar in this photo gallery to see and remember. Remember " M  A  R  YYYYYY" ? That truly was alot of fun. I hope you're surrounded by family and friends and enjoying your heavenly birthday. I can't tell you how much your missed and loved,  just know you are so very much. 

All is well here with me and mine. We just spent 4 days of this last week at the County Fair supporting both Adrianna and Lil Jacob in showing the lambs they raised over the last 9 months. Both kids did very well. Jacob raised a lamb just for the caucus and he came in 2nd in his division. He received a belt buckle and a banner commemorating his win. Adrianna also came in 2nd in her competition, competing against over 100 other children and their lambs.  She also placed 3rd in the overall division.  In the novice showmanship Adrianna placed 7th. Her competition was totally different than Jacobs and alot more extensive.  For being a first timer both of the kids did excellent and we are so proud of them. 

Now I will begin to focus on my upcoming road trip to Wisconsin at the end of the month. I'm really getting excited about seeing everyone in Wisconsin. It should be wonderful. 

Well mom I'm going to close for now. Know that I love you dearly, I think of you often and on days like your birthday, Mother's Day, Christmas, etc. it's bitter sweet. Remembering the happy and fun times together do help to get me through the days but nothing can replace having you here in person. I love you mom, always and forever and always remember until we meet again,

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy  

 

    

Dear Mom,

It was Good Friday 2021' when we last spoke and your last words to me were "I Love You Too". It was about 4:00 in the afternoon when I decided to make my exit for the day, I had been with you since 7:00 that morning. You had been asleep just prior to my leaving and was just beginning to stir. I stroked your arm and said "hi mom, do you know who I am" and with your eyes closed you said "Catherine Pauline Erwin".  I said "yup I am". I told you I was going to go home, that you had a houseful of people all around and that I would return on Easter Sunday to visit. I then leaned over you and whispered that if God called you home before I got back it was ok for you to go. I didn't need to be there for that to happen. As I left with tears in my eyes I said "I love you mom" and you said "I love you too". What wonderful last words to remember you by, thank you for that. 

I miss you mom, more than words can say and I love you with all my being. Life isn't the same without you but we knew that would be the case. I do find happiness in my memories of all our adventures and time spent together. Our one on one time in Paris will always be my favorite. In a family of 8 children that gift of time was just ours and was truly the highlight of our lives together. That whole trip was so exciting and fun and when I think of you I think of then. I love you mom, until we meet again for all eternity remember

"We'll always have Paris"

LuvuL8r, Cathy

Dear Mom, 

Here it is another 2nd of the month, marking now 11 months that you have been gone. OMG in another month it will be a full year, where has the time gone? I still can't believe you're not with us anymore, at least not in person. I've really come to depend on these monthly visits to just share with you all that is going on in my life and all around. It brings me some comfort and peace in hoping that you're reading and or hearing the words I write. It makes me feel close to you. Gone but never forgotten. 

Well mom, February brought with it the birth of a new great grandson for you, Josh and Ashley's baby boy. His name is Colton Crew and he's a cutie pie. He was born on February 14th, Valentines Day. Can't wait to meet him sometime in the future when he and his family come to visit. 

The month also brought with it a new Grandson, and yes I delivered your card and gift. Rebecka was truly touched that you were apart of her special day. She would have loved for you to have been there in person but just knowing that in your final days she was on your mind meant so much to her. No words can express her love and appreciation for you. You're still making a difference mom, I love it!    

February also brought with it Janza's Celebration of Life and balloon release. It was attended by many family and friends and was a beautiful tribute. Christyon had called me awhile back and asked if I would write one of my personalized poems about his mom and I told him absolutely. I wrote the poem and at the service got up and read it aloud. I have to tell you mom it was one of the hardest poems I've written to date. I wanted it to be a true accounting of Janza's life and still be done with grace and dignity. I wanted Janza's children to know their mother loved them as well as Cindy and Willie and family and friends and I think the poem captured all of that. Anyway it's done and while Janza's absence will always be felt by those closest to her until their reunited in heaven, closure and the next chapter in life, "learning to live without her" can truly begin.

It's what all of us have been doing sense you passed away mom and while it's not easy, life does go on. Do we still hurt? OMG, we hurt. Do we cry? Do we ache for your presence? Do we miss you terribly? Yes is an understatement. But.... because of you we carry on, we have to. We know that's what you would want and your strength will carry us through. That and sweet Jesus and our Father above. I love you mom.

All is well with me and mine mom and for today that's good enough. Say hi to everyone there for me. Happy March Mom and God Bless you always. Don't ever forget.... 

We'll always have Paris. 

LuvuL8r, Cathy 

Dear Mom, 

It's just after midnight and its turned over to the 2nd of yet another month, 10 to be exact that you've been gone. I can't believe how fast time is passing by. Yesterday was Jacob and Megan's 19th wedding anniversary and that truly boggles my mind. Seems not that long ago we were planning that big event. Oh and while I'm thinking of it please wish Aunt Teddy a Happy Birthday for me this Groundhog Day. Hers and Darlene's birthdays were always easy to remember as they are holidays of sorts, Dars is Valentines Day, just a couple of weeks away. 

I've been staying busy, changing the computer and the guest rooms around. Been in this house 18 years already and I want a change.  The computer room is a daunting task, there is so much stuff to go through, mainly photo's, video's and tons of paper work and crafts supplies to organize. I work on the room a few hours each day as I get bored with it fast and sometimes I get an overwhelming feeling as there is so much to do.  I have set myself a goal of having it done by the end of February. Been on the computer a lot lately, especially on the "If you grew up in Fox Lake Wisconsin" website. I've been posting lots of family photo's and pics of postcards and getting a lot of positive feedback from those who visit the site. It brings me great joy and satisfaction to share our family history with others. I feel I have something to offer and its been well received and greatly appreciated.

I've been feeling a little down lately, a little bored and loneliness is setting in. I really thought retirement was going to be different then what it is turning out to be and that brings me great sadness. Hoping the feelings are short lived and I get past this soon.  I'm planning a trip to Wisconsin in late April, going to spend a couple of weeks in Fox Lake. Going to take Mary's ashes back to bury, organizing and attending a Nelson reunion while there and going to do a lot of visiting. May be making the road trip alone as Dennis isn't sure he wants to go, no reason imparticular just isn't sure about going. I can make the trip alone, and I will if I have to. I think this Covid thing and all the deaths that have happened this past year are finally taking its toll on me and I need a break. I'm really looking forward to the trip.

My family is doing well, and the extended family I guess are fine too. Talked to most everyone on New Years and all was well then. Hopefully no news is good news. Cindy's family are doing a celebration of life for Janza this month which will help to bring closure for all of them. They'll never fully heal from her loss but they have to say goodbye to even begin. You've been gone 10 months already mom and I still find myself out of no where begin to cry thinking of you and wishing you were still here in person with me. You're never very far, I know that but sometimes it's just not enough. I miss you, my heart aches for your presence. Anyway it's ok because it has to be. 

Had my annual mammogram and all came back fine, good for another year. My diabetes is getting a little better with meds and the doc just started me on some meds for weight reduction, we'll see how that goes. Side effects may cause depression and anxiety but hoping that doesn't hit me. Hoping for just the opposite with a drop in weight. I will be keeping a close eye on things. 

Our family tree will be growing this month and with that comes excitement for the circle of life to happen in a more positive way. We need some good things to happen for a change. Going to close for now mom. I love you, take good care and say hi to everyone there for me. God Bless you mom and don't forget .....

"We'll always have Paris" 

LuvuL8r
Cathy
    

   

Dear Mom,

Happy New Year! Its so hard to believe you've been gone 9 months already, time is flying by. Our Christmas holidays were sad but lovely too as I surrounded myself with you throughout my house. The tree ornaments and the Christmas Village, the glass lighted block and the Christmas plate you made. I felt your presence and your love all around.

Nephew Josh and his family drove over from Texas to spend Christmas with Guy and Maria. Their little girl, Braelyn is so pretty and she's a smart cookie. They are all looking forward to the birth of Colton (son, brother and grandson) who is due in mid February. Got to visit a little with them all and played a little Dirty Clubs with Josh, Guy and Jerry, it was much fun. Reminded me of when you, Guy, Josh and I played cards at the castle in Perugia, Italy. Such fun and wonderful memories.   

Didn't know it until a few days ago that Uncle Jerry Slusser joined you for Christmas this year, passing from earth to heaven on Christmas Eve day. I'm sure Aunt Teddy was excited to have him with her again and now united for all eternity. We also said goodbye in December to our cousin Dick Linke, the youngest of Uncle Bill and Aunt Laverne's children. Covid took him at only 66 years of age, so sad! I don't know how many more this virus will take but hope and pray everyday for it to go away or at least find a cure for it. 

Your sister Darlene suffered a mild stroke weeks ago and has since had an operation to have a stent put in her neck to allow better blood flow to her brain. She is doing well and we pray that this will keep her from anymore strokes.

Just before Christmas nephew, Willie underwent surgery on his right foot losing 2 toes to gangrene from an injury and complications of his diabetes. I pray that he is able to get a handle on his life, control his diabetes and turn things around. He has so much to live for and many more years to give to his children and to Cindy. If you can do anything on your end to assist him in this endeavor, that would be great. I worry about Cindy and I don't want her to suffer any more loss. 

Me and mine are doing well. We all have our health and we have the love of each other. I pray that alone will take us far and for many, many years to come.

I miss you mom, more than words can say. From time to time out of nowhere I just start crying and I know its because I'm missing you. I told you before you passed away that I was strong and that I would be ok, and I am, really I am. Its just sometimes I get overwhelmed with my thoughts, of how things were and how things are now. It just takes my breath away in sadness and in longing for you. I told you I would miss you and I do but what I didn't know was just how much I would miss you. I love you mom.

Take good care, God Bless you, Happy New Year and always remember ....

"We'll always have Paris " 
LuvuL8r
Cathy

Dear Mom, 

It's just after midnight on December 2nd and I find myself sitting at the computer checking my email and just messing around. It's then when I realize it's the 2nd of the month and its been 8 months since you passed. It still seems so surreal. I find myself wanting to call you on the phone, text you or stop by to visit and then it hits me that I can't, you're not there and then the tears start running down my face. Sometimes its a quiet sobbing and other times I just bawl like a baby. I love you mom and I miss you so very much. I pray that you're watching over all of us and that you're still a part of our lives even if it's just in spirit. You will always be in my life both here on earth and in heaven for all eternity.

Christmas is fast approaching I am on a fast track to get everything done that I want to in time for the big day as we are hosting this years family get together on Christmas Eve. The Christmas Village is up and tomorrow or should I say later today I plan to put up the tree. Please join me in spirit as I decorate it with the ornaments you gave me. I'm sure its going to look beautiful when it's up. My Christmas cards are labeled and stamped and just waiting for me to write a few lines in them before they are mailed, its very time consuming but I love doing them. For some folks its a once a year visit. I also include a Christmas letter in the out of state cards. I am sending out about 125 this year.

Sunday I'm spending the better part of the day with granddaughter Tatum, taking her Christmas shopping for her gifts from Papa and me. I took Adrianna last week and we had a blast. Got a start on my baking. Made chocolate chip and Snickerdoodle cookies today. I also made the dough for cut out cookies as I will be making them in a day or two. Going to make a bunch of banana bread as well, I gift the neighbors with a loaf and cookies along with their Christmas card. Lots to do but I'm sure I will get it all done, I always do. 

As we look towards our first Christmas without you, you're getting ready to share the day with sweet Jesus himself and our Father above, how exciting! It's the only good thing about your absence, knowing you're among family and friends that have gone before and since you and you're with Jesus and our Father. I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas mom and please extend holiday greetings to the rest of the family for me.  May you all, always feel my love. Take good care mom, sending you warm hugz and sweet kisses. I love, love, love you. Remember....

"We'll always have Paris",
LuvuL8r
Cathy

Dear Mom, 

Our first Thanksgiving without you mom, you are missed greatly and loved always. Wishing you and all those who've gone before us a very Happy Heavenly Thanksgiving. We love you all. 

For the first time in my married life I am hosting Thanksgiving Dinner on Thanksgiving at my house. In all my years we either celebrated with you or my side of the family, or with Dennis's side of the family, or on the days after, or in the dunes, or camping or deer hunting or even a couple of years at a restaurant. A happy holiday made bitter sweet without you to share in it this year. 

Thanksgiving brings with it several wonderful memories of past Thanksgivings. The first one that comes to mind goes back to the mid 80's when we went to Dennis's moms for Thanksgiving and I was to bring deviled eggs. So I boiled the eggs and prepared the filling and thought I'd wait to get to Wanda and Chucks to fill them. That was my intention. Well after driving 45 minutes to get to their house and getting ready to fill the eggs I realized I had the eggs but I left the filling (the devil) back at home. Needless to say we were too far to go home and get it so we scratched that idea. Later taking the eggs home with us, we ate alot of egg salad that next week.. Over the next few years I was the holiday joke as my sister-in-law Pam always gave me a hard time about forgetting "the devil". It was all in fun, and we still talk about it today. I can still hear Pam's voice today saying "and Cathy forgot the devil". It brings a smile to my face every time I think of it.  The second one that comes to mind mom is the one where you hosted Thanksgiving and invited Dennis's folks to share in the day with us. Dinner was almost over and Teri who was seated next to Dennis's dad Chuck had a deviled egg still on her plate. Chuck asked her if she was going to eat it and when she said no he scarfed it right off her plate. We all got so tickled over it and laughed like there was no tomorrow. The third one that comes to mind was in 2004' when Kim and Larry hosted Thanksgiving. Kim got very tipsilly and added hard boiled eggs to the turkey gravy. She professed that mom did it all the time and it was customary, NOT! Mom never did that and she let Kim know she never did that. Kim will never live that one down. Larry was so protective of Kim's feelings that he went on line to find recipes for turkey gravy that include putting hard boiled eggs in them to help her to save face with the family. It was a very nice gesture but Kim owns that one forever, LOL! Isn't it funny that all my memories have something to do with eggs.    

As you celebrate your first Heavenly Thanksgiving Mom, please remember how much your missed and loved here on earth and that we are all so thankful for you. God Bless you always and remember, 

We'll always have Paris, 
LuvuL8r,
Cathy

Dear Mom, 

It's hard to believe November is here and the holidays are right around the corner. It will be our first without you and without Dennis's Uncle Gary, without Wayne's dad Larry and now without Janza as well. Janza passed on October 12th (as I'm sure you know) and is now with you and the rest of our family whose eternal address is heaven. It's been a rough 12 months when you add in losing Cousin, Jane Mulligan, Kim's husband Larry and my BFF Karen's mom Betty.  While I know that death is a part of the "Circle of Life" and we're born to die, when one gets hit by such a large loss in a such a short amount of time it really knocks you for a loop. I also know the older I get the more this will happen. Even now as I write this I know of several ill relatives that may pass in the very near future. I pray to God for courage and for strength to get me though these very sad times and to help me, help those around me to find comfort in our heavenly Father and sweet Jesus above. You all may be gone in person but you're never forgotten and you're loved always.   

October brought with it a trip to Laughlin where I almost broke even, tackle football games with grandson Jacob playing, granddaughter Adrianna's first prom, Bingo at the casino for my birthday and a Halloween gathering with my whole family at Carri and Tyler's. Now gearing up for Thanksgiving and Christmas which Dennis and I are hosting for our family this year. I've already got a head start on Christmas by putting up the Christmas Village, it only took 3 weeks as I took my time. There's so much to it but it looks wonderful and every time I look at it I am reminded of you mom and the joy you had when it was housed at your place. The rest of the Christmas decorations will go up right after Thanksgiving, granddaughter Tatum has promised to come and help me with that. Looking forward to seeing my tree all decorated this year as well as the rest of the house. I only go all out when I host which is about every 3 or 4 years.

I am having a tooth pulled under sedation on Thursday the 4th. It's a back molar and hopefully it will be a walk in the park. It's beyond repair and must come out, but because the decay is at the root and under a crown it's going to come out in pieces. The sedation will help me to get through the extraction with limited pain and discomfort. Asking the Good Lord to watch over me and to make this go quick and easy. 

All else is status quo and everyone is doing ok. Oh I finally got Mary's ashes and have a trip to Wisconsin planned for the end of April. Looking forward to seeing the family there and to burying Mary's ashes at your moms grave site. It's been along time coming, 2 years come Christmas and it's time. 

Wishing you and all the family God's Blessings. I miss you a lot mom, my memories of our times together help but nothing can replace your loving touch or the sound of your voice. Sending my love always and never forget...

"We'll always have Paris" 
LuvuL8r,
Cathy        

Dear Mom, 

I miss you and I love you and I wish you were here. While life has gone on in your absence, things are not the same, and we all knew it wouldn't be. We're coping, we're moving forward, we're doing the best we can without your being here, it isn't easy. It is what it is! 

Cindy's daughter, Janza is in crisis and is extremely ill. Hopes of her recovering don't look good. The situation is so sad and extremely troubling for all concerned. For Janza, only 39 years old, has her whole life in front of her, yet it may end soon. For Kyree and Christyon her children may have to experience life and a future without their mother and if so it will be very hard for them and very sad. For Cindy, no parent should lose a child, even if that child is an adult, yet here she is, here we all are. Faced with such sadness and uncertainties.

I pray for understanding and I pray for acceptance to that which we have no control of. I pray that if God is going to take Janza, he does so quickly and painlessly, no one should suffer in pain. And mom.... know that if God does take her I know you'll be there with open arms to greet her and be there for her. She won't be alone and that is so very comforting to me and for all of us.

I know you probably already know all of this but I find comfort and joy in sharing my thoughts with you. It reminds me that you may be gone in person but your spirit is here always. 

On a happier note, the circle of life continues to happen. Josh and Ashley recently found out they are having a son in February, a Nelson to carry on the family name. I think they're naming him Colton with a middle name after Ashley's dad. The whole family is very excited.

I'm going to Laughlin with Carri and Tyler next week for a few days in celebration of their 8th anniversary, Tyler's niece and sister-in-laws birthday and my birthday. Free rooms/meals and concert tickets at the Riverside. Dennis is not a gambler and has decided to not go, which is ok, I don't want him to be bored with nothing to do. October is the start of the holiday season and I will soon be decorating for Christmas. I'm hosting my family this year so out come all the decorations including your Christmas Village and Tree Decorations. Your presence will be felt all around us. Lots of work setting things up but it will be worth the effort. 

Closing for now mom. Take good care and remember;

"We'll always have Paris"  
LuvuL8r
Cathy 

Dear Mom, 

Thinking of you today, as I so often do and looking for the rainbow between the stormy clouds we've had of late to know your close by. I have this crystal that hangs in my front window and when the sun hits it just right it casts a rainbow in the house and I've come to believe its you popping in to say hi and check on me and mine. I now look for you in every rainbow, both inside and out. You're my pot of gold at the end of it. Miss you mom and love you always. 

The ladies in London called the other day to just check in. They are so very sweet and I've grown to love them as family. You know it's 10 years ago this week that we met them on our cruise and developed a loving bond with them. Dawns birthday is next week and she turns 80, remember when she turned 70 on the ship and we surprised her with a cake and gathering in hers and Diane's room? It was the beginning of something very special. Both Dawn and Diane are doing great and hope to come to our house sometime in the future, can't wait. 

We are doing ok, my family and I. Jacob and Tatum are recovering from a bout of Covid 19.  Adrianna, Lil Jacob and Megan have not gotten it and hopefully they won't. All the kids have been out of school as everyone has been exposed. Their whole family is currently testing negative and providing they continue to do so the kids will go back to school next week. Big Jacob is back at work (his job is not around anyone as he works alone) and he's doing much better. Megan is also working.

Carri and Tyler are doing well. Tyler just today sold his truck and looking to buy a new one. He and Carri are thrilled about the prospect of a new vehicle. 

Dennis and I just had our master bath tub/shower changed out to a walk in shower stall. Can't believe the costs of remodeling, whoa! It only took 2 days and looks beautiful. 

Received a note from Lesley saying that her dad (Uncle Jerry Slusser) has been moved to an assisted living facility, near by where she lives. He needs more round the clock care than living by himself. Sounds like his life is steadily slowing down. For now this is working out ok. 

The rest of the family I guess are doing ok. Don't really hear from them very often. Guessing no news is good news. Had flowers put on the alter at your church this past Sunday, in honor of Walt's birthday from all us kids. We'll be honoring you both on Thanksgiving and again at Christmas with alter flowers as well. 

Guess that's the latest on my end. Going to close for now as its getting late. I love and miss you and think of you often. Please visit anytime, I will look for you in rainbows always, and remember....

"We'll always have Paris"
LuvuL8r
Cathy 

Dear Mom, 

I can't get past the 2nd of any month without reliving the 2nd of April, your last day with us. It will be with me forever. While life does go on in your absence it really sucks! I'm missing you more than words can say and I pray that heaven life is all we think it is. I hope you're reunited with family and friends and that you get to pop in on us all from time to time. 

For me and mine we're doing ok, taking things day to day. I get a little lonely from time to time, missing our phone and in person visits but writing to you on this site offers me a small outlet, even if it is one sided. Maybe its even a little therapeutic. When feeling down I think of our 1st trip to Europe and all that we did and smile with thought. It brings such joy to my aching heart. We really challenged ourselves both personally and together and had so dam much fun doing it. That whole trip still amazes me. We made such a great team, we were definitely a Dynamic Duo. The one on one time was very special and I'll treasure it forever. I love you mom, take good care of yourself and I'll be writing again, soon. Until then remember....

"We'll always have Paris"  
LuvuL8r
Cathy

Hi Mom, 

Happy 4th of July, the day after. We celebrated the 4th this year with having the kids, grandkids and dogs over for a day of fun in the pool, playing dominos and eating all American ie: fried chicken, potato salad, macaroni salad, pork n beans, pickles, olives, apple pie and ice cream. Followed by fireworks in the backyard. It was a great day of family, fun and for making lifetime memories. I wish you could have been here in person to share in the day. Maybe you were here in spirit, that's a nice thought. 

This morning I got a call from our dear friends Diane and Dawn from across the pond in England. They call from time to time to say hi and to check on me and our family. They are the best! The years have brought us close as family and we've kind of adopted one another. I am so happy to have them in my life, meeting them back in 2011' was truly a gift that keeps on giving, they are pretty special. I know you and Megan and now Carri fell in love with them like I did and they will always be a part of our lives. 

Today is the anniversary of Dennis's sister Pam's passing, its been 33 years. WOW! I can't believe so many years have passed since that day. I can still remember coming home for lunch from work that day and getting a call from Fred (Pam's significant other) telling me she had passed and the details surrounding her death. It was now up to me to pass the word. I didn't know how I was going to tell Dennis's mom Wanda or Dennis what had happened. I remember calling you mom, I was crying and asking you how I was going to do this. You were very calm, comforting and encouraging and told me it would be alright, that I would find the words. You told me whatever I said would be the right thing and to not worry, the words would come. 

Well, I first called Wanda at work (which was only 10 minutes away) and asked her to drop everything and come over to our house, it was an emergency. She said she'd come right away, never asking for details and she did. When she arrived I told her of my phone call from Fred. I stumbled a bit with my words, after all how do you tell a mother that their child has passed (even if that child is 40 years old) but I got it out. 

Then I had to tell Dennis. I had called his work and told his boss to send him right home. I told his boss why but asked him not to tell Dennis. When Dennis arrived home his mom and I were sitting together on the couch crying. He walked in and said "this doesn't look good" and then walked to the kitchen to put his lunch pail down. I followed him into the kitchen, put my arms around him and told him that it was his sister Pam, she had passed away. He was in shock. He thought it was his grandmother that had passed, not his sister. Afterwards we then had to go and tell Pam's girls, Teri who was 21 and Jimi who was 16. It was my first encounter with death as an adult and if I never had to walk that walk again, it would be too soon.

I credit you mom, for being there for me, you gave me the courage to do that which I needed to do that day. Your voice of comfort and the words of guidance allowed me to say the saddest words I've ever had to say in my life, "Pam has passed away". I don't think I ever told you "thank you" for being there that day for me, for without you I don't know what I would have done - Thank You Mom! Should you run in to Pam in heaven and/or Wanda and Dennis's Grandma Godfrey, please give them our best and we send our love. They like you are all so very much missed and loved greatly. 

I must run for now, you take good care mom, God Bless you and don't forget....

We'll always have Paris
LuvuL8r
Cathy

Hi Mom, 

Can't believe it's been 3 months ago today that you went to heaven, where does the time go? Today we received the last of our inheritance from you and I just want to say "THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! Your monetary gift to us "your children" was very generous and is greatly appreciated. I wish I could give it back for more time with you but I know that's just wishful thinking on my part. If I could, I would, in a heartbeat! 

You should feel very proud of yourself and of the life you made for your family, for you were the epitome of what hard work will get you when you put your mind to it. What a great example you were for all your children and grandchildren. I know I got my work ethics and my love of family from you and for that I am eternally grateful. My kids bring forth a 3rd generation of those same traits and they have us both to thank for that. You are and always will be admired for your courage, generosity, tenacity and perseverance. I should be so lucky to follow in your footsteps. May you always know how much I love you and how much I appreciate all you did in your life. I miss you more than words can say but I know your with me when you can be. Hoping heaven is all we thought it was and then some. Take good care, say hi to everyone for me and don't forget...

We'll always have Paris
LuvuL8r
Cathy

On a side note, Larry Gonzales (Wayne's dad)  went to heaven on Wednesday. I can only hope you both met up and are sharing wonderful memories of time spent together. He too will be missed greatly.   

Hi Mom, 

Father's Day was yesterday and I thought of you and the role of both mother and father you were to me and most my siblings growing up. While we all have a birth father, ours were not a part of our lives, at least not for the most part. In their absence you were both mom and dad and I am forever grateful to you for that. I know at times it must have been very challenging and hard for you, I can't even imagine. I once wrote you a poem called "Father's Day Mother" that celebrated you on Father's Day. I know I have a copy of it somewhere and when I find it I will re-share it here with you. 

I am so happy that Teri and Barbie growing up had Walt, a man they loved and respected as their father and a man that the rest of us came to love and respect as a father figure. He offered you and the girls love and stability and the rest of us love and comfort in knowing he was a good provider and a keeper of the family. Like with any family there were ups and downs, good times and bad/sad but in the end we were a family. I miss that, oh do I miss that!

The memories are all we have now, and they are precious and cherished. We love and miss you both, more than words can say. and wish you both a very "Happy Father's Day".  Don't forget... 

We'll always have Paris,
LuvuL8r, Cathy

Hi Mom, 

Today I stopped by your church and got to see your plaque on the memory wall. It looks nice now that they got the right date on it. One less thing to be concerned about as your affairs are almost in order. Paying your last few medical bills I think is all that's left to do. 

Just a heads up, we (your kids) will be celebrating yours and Walt's birthdays, Mother/Fathers Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas with flowers donated to your church for those Sunday services, in your honor. It's our way of remembering you and Walt on those special days and our way of saying we love you always. Thinking of you all the time. Miss you more than words can say. Hi to everyone for me and God Bless you all. I love you mom and remember, "we'll always have Paris".

Hi Mom, 

It's Memorial Day weekend and how appropriate I find myself sitting here thinking of you and dropping you a few lines. While Memorial Day is dedicated to remembering those that served in the armed forces it's also become a time to remember those that are no longer here with us. While I've lost a lot of loved ones over the years you are by far the most important one in my life that I've lost to date. I love you and miss you terribly and I think of you every day. I hope heaven is as wonderful as we think it is here on earth and in our minds.

My friend/neighbor Joyce gave me a beautiful personalized small crystal window hanging, in memory of you. It has a small verse on it and at the bottom of it, it says "we'll always have Paris".  It hangs in the window by the front door and everyday when I open the shutters and see it I say "hi mom, I miss you, I love you". At times the crystal casts a rainbow of color when the light hits it just right. The rainbow prism has appeared in my bedroom, the living room and in the kitchen, just depends on how the light hits it.  When I see it I feel like you're here popping in to say hi and I love you. Might sound a little corny but I like feeling you're close by and this works for me. 

All is well here with everyone. The pandemic is almost over and life as we know it while changed a little, its getting back to normal/new normal. Masks are optional and no more runs on toilet paper, paper towels, etc. Family gatherings are ok again and restaurants are all opening back up. Praying this never happens again. Maybe you could put in a good word with sweet Jesus and the Father above.  

Carri and I just returned from a short mother/daughter trip to Laughlin where we had a great time together. Didn't win big money wise, but we won big with quality time spent together. Like the mother/daughter times we shared, especially those trips to Europe, always hold a special place in my heart and memories. I am so glad we had those times, just you and me. One on one times with those we love are so important. 

Well, I'm going to close for now. I'll keep in touch both with these messages from time to time and in my prayers. Say hi to all the family there for me. God Bless you all and remember I love you mom and "we'll always have Paris".  

Hi Mom, 

I can't believe you've been gone a month already. So many times I went to the phone to call you and in that split second remembered you weren't there, how sad I was! I can't tell you how much you're missed and loved but just know it's more than words can express. My heart hurts!

I call Darrald once a week to check in on him and he seems to be doing ok. Stopped by last Thursday for a visit and dropped him off some fish for dinner. He joined some of us kids at the church that day as your ashes were given to those that wanted some, including him. He said he was going to take some to Laughlin and scatter them in your favorite places you'd visit and maybe even scatter some in the back yard at your house, to be close by. At that same time I dropped off donations made to the church in your name and I got to talk with your pastor for a few minutes and he is recouping well from his recent surgery. HIs daughter on the other hand is not doing as well as had hoped. If you get a chance put in a good word for her. Your pastor commented how touched he was that in your time of crisis you took the time to reach out to him and his daughter in their hour of need and sent a get well card. That meant so...... much to him. You made a difference!

Us kids are going to purchase flowers throughout the year in memory of both you and Walt for your church. Just a small gift to you both that says "We're thinking of you on this special day as we celebrate the memories we all have of our times together". We love you  

Kristina is now married and I'm sure you were at the wedding in spirit. I know it wasn't the same as being there in person but just knowing that you were there is all that matters. Just an fyi Rodney Binder lost his baby sister Donna on April 29th due to cancer. She lived just below Rod in his apartment building. April was not a good month for any of us this year. 

Going to close for now. You take good care of yourself and say hello to everyone for me. I love and miss you mom. I know you're with me, with us all in spirit and with that I gain strength to carry on without you. God Bless you and all of us. 

We'll always have Paris,
LuvuL8r, Cathy 
   


    

Barbara Ann Goodman (nee Winchell), 82 passed away on April 2, 2021 at her home in Sun City, Arizona. She was surrounded by the love of her 8 children, extended family and her companion Darrald Feaker.

Barbara was born on April 10, 1938 in Waupun, Wisconsin to Martha and Cecil Winchell and was raised in Fox Lake, Wisconsin. Barbara was one of 8 children, the third oldest. She attended Fox Lake School and was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church, in Fox Lake, Wisconsin. Throughout Barbara’s life she lived in Wisconsin, Arizona, Alaska and Washington. She loved life and lived it to the fullest. She was an independent, strong, adventurous, courageous woman as well as a world traveler and a Christian of faith. Her claim to fame has always been her 8 children. They were the wind beneath her wings and she was and always will be, their “HERO”.

Barbara is survived by her 8 children; Cathy Erwin (Dennis) from New River, AZ, Cindy Warner (Earl) from Phoenix, AZ, Jerry Nelson (Robyn) from Surprise, AZ, Doug from Sun City, AZ, Kim Lufsey from Sun City West, AZ, Guy Nelson (Maria) from Litchfield Park, AZ, Teri Winburn (Wayne) from Goodyear, AZ and Barbie Pruitt from Phoenix, AZ.  Barbara also has 19 grand children, 26 great grand children and 3 great, great grandchildren. Barbara is also survived by her sister, Darlene Miller from Peoria, AZ  a brother, Jeff Winchell (Sharleen) from Chandler, AZ, a brother-in-law, Jerry Slusser from Stoughton, WI,  a sister-in-law, Connie Winchell from Cambria, WI, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and her companion of 7 years, Darrald Feaker from Sun City, AZ .

Barbara is preceded in death by her husband, Walter Goodman, her parents Martha and Cecil Winchell, 3 sisters; Teddy Slusser, Alice Binder and Mary Counsell and 2 brothers; Bob and Allen Winchell, a sister-in-law (Pat Winchell), two brothers-in-law (Bud Miller and Charlie Counsell), a son-in-law (Larry Lufsey), grandparents and aunts, uncles and cousins too numerous to count.

Due to Covid and limited seating, there will be a private family service at Our Savior Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sun City, AZ. Barbara has been a member of this church for over 15 years. Her ashes will be interned at the church Memorial Garden. The date and time of the service is yet to be determined.

Memorial donations may be made to Barbara’s church, Our Savior Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sun City, AZ (Specifically their Missionary Work) in the name of Barbara Goodman and her family.