As Tears Go By...

I have not a molecule of frivolity or whimsy in me tonight.  The state of our world has me in knots.  I have never felt so much fear and uncertainty for the future of our world.  And I’m scared.  And sad.

It is with a heavy heart that I plead all of you to pray for the family’s of our thirteen fallen soldiers as well as those still trapped in Kabul.  I am sickened by the grief  they must be experiencing knowing that their brave child died so heroically-and unnecessarily.   It’s a tragedy beyond compare.  

For the victims of hurricane Ida,  please pray for safety and comfort for those suffering yet another disaster.  I can’t imagine the fear and uncertainty of their situation.  

It’s all I’ve got tonight.  I count my blessings and am grateful but I implore you to keep those suffering in mind and please offer all the support and prayers you can.  ❤️

After the Lovin..

 On Saturday we went to our first ever 'fun-eral.'

Our friend Bill Hunsanger lived a full and joyous life.  Bill came from a large, close and loving family. He adored his wife, Renee.  He was an athlete and singer as well as a die hard Lions fan.  Bill embraced all things outdoors and was happiest at his 'up north' property where we had the pleasure of meeting him and receiving his warm hugs.  I would nag Bill to sing Engelbert Humperdinck and he would sweetly oblige and croon out the song.  The whole bar would sing along and cheer on his prefect rendition.  Nobody did it better.

Bill requested that there be a party to celebrate-a true party that embodied his lust for life, fun and family.  So we joined in the fun(eral).  On his property, there were numerous tents and campers.  Kid and dogs romped about.   A favorite band of Bill's, played every song you can think of and the dance floor was full.  A buffet of luscious, Italian food was available and of course, the outdoor bar was open.  

Thru laughter and tears, we ate, drank and danced as we remembered Bill in the way that he wished.  The party was one the Bill would have loved.  It was our honor to know and celebrate him. 

 Rest in peace friend, and prayers to Renee as she moves thru life in this new way.  XOXO

Essence...

 Just when you thought you’d seen it all...

My ocean side travels have exposed me to every possible variety of ‘mermaid art’-from cute to kitschy.   Or so I thought.  On Saturday, I was gifted this incredible piece that was handmade by Rick from Atlas Jewelers.  He calls his work “Timeless Art” and my mermaid is made up of antique watch parts.  The incredible attention to detail is stunning and meticulously fashioned.  In addition, she sports real shells, a diamond and a pearl.  She holds in her hand a charm off a one hundred year old piece that Rick engraved my name on and her fish friend is suffused with so much personality!  

My piece is signed and numbered 1 of 1 and Rick has expressed that the detail was very tedious and time consuming and it will be a one of a kind!  (He also designed and created my pirate necklace from vintage jewelry years ago and I get compliments on it constantly!)  For a look at his other art pieces, check out his Instagram page at mauirick or stop in at the fabulous Atlas Jewelers.

Thank you again Rick-I adore her!  And Tom, Kara, Vivi and Bash for the perfect day to celebrate two of the best things in life-art and friends.  (Oh, and wine...there was definitely wine.)  XOXO

Transparent Soul...

 On Saturday, July 30, the world bottomed out for good friends of ours.

On his fourteenth birthday, Travis Milosevic was on his four wheeler when he was struck by a truck while crossing M25, not a mile from our beachhouse.  His injury(s) were life threatening and Travis was airlifted to one hospital and then again moved to U of M.  His family were absolutely devastated and frantic with worry.  As friends we were sickened and helpless to do anything but try to offer love and prayers.

Travis is the sweetest kid you ever want to meet.  He willingly offers a helping hand to anyone who needs it.  At 6'2 and 245 pounds, he is a natural and gifted athlete, hunter and fisherman.  He always has a smile on his face and a respectful attitude.  Travis is a gentle and caring Uncle to niece, Mila, and a happy Dog Dad to his two dogs.  And I love it when he calls me Miss Jodi.  Needless to say, he is loving and loved.

After numerous surgeries, his condition is stable but still very serious.  He is expected to be hospitalized for another month and then enduring extensive physical therapy.  This will be a long and tough road but I am sure Travis will handle it with determination and style.  And with his big smile.

We are thinking of you, Ben and the rest of the family and praying for your recovery.      

In addition to prayers, the family would be grateful for any financial help in the way of gas cards, meal cards, etc.  There is also a go fund me page in the name of Travis Milosevic.  A card or note would probably put that smile on Travis's face too!  His address is:

U of M 

1540 Medical Hospital Drive

Attn:  PICU

Ann Arbor, Mi  48109  Attn: Travis Milosevic

My House...

 I had a great weekend.   It was 3 days that were therapeutic, fun and satisfying.  So,  did I sleep till noon?  Eat lobster with good wine?  Did I jet off to Paris on the Concorde?  Nope, nope, and nope-something even better.  I painted my niece’s house.  

Mic drop.

Yes, you heard me right.  I come from a long line of nutballs who simply love to paint!   Nicole got the keys to her new house on Thursday afternoon and early Friday morning we found ourselves poring over color samples and drop cloths.  We hauled five gallons of paint and supplies out of that hardware and got busy-real busy.  For three days, we patched, primed, sanded and painted our little hearts out- and bought even more paint.  The rest of the crew (family!) showed up and joined in the action.  Lights were hung, cabinets cleaned and lined, and windows washed.   Between crazy dancing and snatches of pizza and more than a few beers, we spit shined that house to pristine, move-in condition.  Things progressed with mostly laser focus with only one unfortunate event where Nicole stepped in a full paint pan.  A minor setback that took a roll of paper towels and a bath (Nicole!) to remedy.  The inside report being that somehow there was paint where there should NEVER be paint!     

And I loved every minute of it.  Champagne was popped and toasts were made.   And with a flourish, the final touch was added.  Nicole shook out her new doormat-WELCOME TO THE SHITSHOW.

Congrats on your dollhouse, Nicole!