Camp David

January 31, 2012 and it's 57 degrees?

2012-01-31T20:10:00.000-05:00

Snow on Sunday, cold Monday morning and now a high of 57 today in the Midwest. What a crazy winter! We'll see how much I need my new down coat....???? I went to dinner at Tosi's with the Other Maki's and the DeLisle's last night. GREAT FOOD!! I just love to go there.

I'm still working on getting X-mas stuff put away, but at least I've started. And I'm getting some more things together for goodwill. I've found more of Dave's old shirts in the basement which is kinda amazing. I thought I took most of his clothes in already.

I haven't had much time to read the last few days. I think I'll go to bed soon and try to get some done.

peace, love, groove

Another Group at Lori's Place

2012-01-26T22:47:00.000-05:00

So I went to my second support group meeting. It was a little easier and I talked. Someone brought up dreams and dreaming about their departed spouse. I was reminded of the death of a close friend when I was in my early 20s. She was killed in a car accident, hit by a drunk driver. We had an argument and had not spoken for months. It was sooooooooo hard. I remember I went to the funeral with her x-boyfriend. I struggled with guilt for a few months and would have nightmares that I couldn't find her. Finally one night I dreamt that she was driving a van and picked me up. We were driving along and she told me she was okay and I should be okay. I never had another dream or nightmare involving her. I don't know if my mind was just working it all out, or if she really spoke to me through my dream and made it okay. I told this story at the support group this week. I also talked about the weekend Dave died. The party and visitors on Saturday night and Sunday. When I said Dave and I were married for 24 years and I've been with him for 27 (counting now 'cuz I'm still with him) an older gentleman said " you must have been 12 when you got married". Hehe...that was very nice.

It is good to start some friendships with people who really understand the loss and loneliness the death of a partner brings. I will keep going. It's time for bed.

peace, love, groove

I've been reading

2012-01-23T20:53:00.000-05:00

Well, I've been reading books about "moving forward". First was a Venus and Mars book, "Starting Over". There were some interesting comments about how women are always the caregiver and men need to have a partner. Glad I read it (most of it), but I really don't think the sexes are as stereotypical as they may have been in the past. Mostly I learned how we get ready to start living again and still love our spouse. Now I'm reading "Getting Naked Again". I probably shouldn't write that here, yet I want to be honest about what helps me and how I'm getting through it all. This book is wonderful so far. Some of the things I can really relate to and miss are: being touched, talking about your day, the little complements, flirting, sitting in the same room or the car and not having to talk. So, the only way I'll get to share those things again is to get out into the world. UGH! (I've been in a relationship with Dave Maki for 28 years) and yet it's kinda exciting. My hope is my emotional self will be able to keep up with the intellectual side. I have some work to do.........baby steps.

peace, love, groove

What will 2012 bring?

2012-01-20T23:41:00.001-05:00

Pictures: YaYa's together at Julie Lester's - Liz, Catherine, Lee, Joni, Sue and Julie in front of the Cocktail Tree

Another week has gone by. The dogs are doing so much better. Ruthie is even kissing Nikki and Nikki is being so good at doggie day care that they compliment her when I pick her up. Tonight we met at Julie's house and just talked. It was so good to be together and share. What a gift it is to have YaYa sisters! And we have SNOW! I think it stopped snowing, but we had gentle snowfall most of the day and the roads are somewhat slippery. It's hard not to think about spring coming and getting ready for summer. I think I should get the X-mas decorations away and organized first.

peace, love, groove

Prospective

2012-01-10T21:08:00.001-05:00

2010- We went to Avatar 3D and had a camp fire on January 17..it was 40 degrees. I was heading up to Traverse City and Dave had a practice with Bryan Lubeck (he was driving then). He was only taking the study drug.

2011- I went to The King's Speech with the other Makis, the Kings and Lesters. Some of us got together and went through old pictures talking about Dave's Spectrum band days. I went to Czars with friends and saw one of Dave's favorite groups. And the dogs and I had a campfire in the snow.

Tonight I went to Lori's Place to a grief support group meeting. I mostly listened. There were people in all stages of grieving. I just thought it would be good to know more people that really understand losing a spouse. I think I'll keep going and I'm sure it will help me. One woman talked about how she doesn't go out with any friends. So I realize, again, that I have so many wonderful friends who listen and remember Dave with me. Love you all and time for bed.

peace, love, groove

And it's 2012!

2012-01-04T19:47:00.000-05:00

2010- Dave was cooking and feeling better. We went to see Sherlock Holmes (the first one was out!)

2011- I was starting to feel more acclimated to work back at Lakeland.

2012- The dogs are doing so much better and getting along. I went to Florida for New Year's...GREAT TIME and good experience. It was nice to just sit by the pool and read in the sun. I've been reading about starting over again and think joining a support group would be a good idea. Mostly I've learned and realized that this roller coaster is normal and I'm heading in the right direction. I will always love Dave Maki....my best friend, but as John as been writing life keeps going and Dave does want us all to keep living. I have said many times that 2011 was the "year of me", 2012 is the year to live.

peace, love, groove

The Old Year And The New One

2011-12-26T19:08:00.001-05:00

So looking back at 2009: Dave was cooking a lot but still tired. He would make soup and wonderful dinners. We spent New Year's Eve and Day at home and were watching movies in bed.

2010: It was 52 degrees New Year's Eve. I stopped by the Lester's and then had a camp fire with the neighbors...including some fireworks.

It's all right to cry, to question, to be weak. Beware of allowing yourself to be "put on a pedestal" by others who tell you what an inspiration you are because of your strength and your ability to cope so well. If they only knew! (On Dealing With Death by Father Kenneth Czillinger)

I've been saying all year that 2010 is/was the year for me. It was just the beginning, this is the year I move forward and begin my new life. Above is a quote from a post from Lory's Place. This is a local grief counseling place. I think what it means is we're all just getting through and coping the best we can. There have been many ups and downs since 101010 and they are all normal for me as well as you. It doesn't mean I'm slipping back, it means I'm moving forward. I just have to remember to follow my heart...there's still a calm, Dave's still there if I listen and will be always.

peace, love, groove

12/21/11

2011-12-21T22:56:00.000-05:00

Today would have been Dave's 54th birthday. There have been dozens of great comments on his facebook page, which I've kept open. Although there have been many tears today, I see a glimmer of the old Lee coming back. The journey back from this "nightmare" that was also a blessing....an opportunity we would have missed. To really understand friendship and love. To make the most of the time we had. This may sound sorta cliche, but I feel comforted by it as well as all of the comments made to Dave on facebook. I hope with all of my heart that he's aware of the love coming his way. I hope I know the answer to that someday.

peace, love, groove

The Week Before Christmas

2011-12-18T23:40:00.000-05:00

Looking back over the last two years:

2009 Dave was eating well and had great test results with many of the tumors missing in action...for awhile. It was mostly a normal Christmas and Dave made a Crown Roast on Christmas day.

2010 I'm still tired, I had pizza on Dave's birthday. It felt like Dave was with me but somehow like a fog.

Now- Wednesday is Dave's Birthday. He would have been 53. I'm going to Team Trivia with friends and family. I can't think of anything better to do.....beer and questions. The fog has been lifting slowly and I know I need to nourish my soul and get back to being just Lee. Still, I miss him everyday.

peace, love, groove

The Holiday Season Continues- reading past years

2011-12-10T23:22:00.000-05:00

I continue reading past years....
12/09 - Dave was getting blood and platelets and there was a Mister Edd gig at the Box Factory around this time in 2009. No matter how tired he was, playing music was the best for Dave. I was always "on duty" when he played....watching every move in case he needed something. He knew I was there for him. I'm not sure right now when his last paid gig was. I'll find out as I'm reading. The last time he played was the 70's party.
12/10- party season about a year ago. Cookie party, ET nurse party, book club party. Glad I was busy then.

The dogs seem to be doing better between day care and lessons. Tim came by Friday to help me put stakes in front of the fences. When he left the house, Nikki just sat there....no chasing. I also caught Nikki kissing Ruthie and she was okay with that. I'm very hopeful.

I still have decorating to finish up before Christmas Eve, but I got a lot done today. We have a dusting of snow, well maybe 1/4 of an inch. The sun melted the snow this afternoon over the new driveway and walkway. That's pretty cool and there wasn't mud. Yeah! Time for bed.

peace, love, groove

Another Christmas Cookie weekend

2011-12-06T01:22:00.000-05:00

Pictures: Byran Lubeck and me Saturday night; Cookie party girls looking for the pickle ornament; a couple cookie displays; Julie and me Sunday at the cookie party.

What a great weekend filled with friends and music and family and cookies. I recorded Byran Lubecks intro and performance of a Dave Maki song Saturday night. I went with the Lesters, Schimans and Catherine T. It was great to see many other friends there including Jeri and Ed, most of the band members and Dave Carlock. I got to meet in person the friend from Chicago who really helped me arrange Dave meeting Chick Corea. Then the cookie party on Sunday. From 1989 to 2011....wow! It was a wonderful night with great cookies.

I've mentioned that this is a hard holiday season for me. It just seems that I cry a little more often. Hearing Dave's music just hits me right in the heart. Although I've shared a lot, I've kept some things in I guess. A good friend says I need to work this to move ahead and I guess that's right. Now how to do that? Well, I'm going to go back and start reading posts from years past about the same time of year....see if I can remember what I forgot or left out. Here we go....

December 2009- We were getting ready for the cookie party and Dave had just had his last chemo. The night of the cookie party Dave attended the second annual "anti- cookie party party". He was not feeling well. I remember wondering if I should cancel the party and having a couple people to offer to have it at their house....stubborn me. I just wanted the holiday season to feel "normal". Dave didn't do well at the party. I was so sad he couldn't enjoy himself, he just wanted to be with his friends.

December 2010- Thinking a lot about Dave and how the holiday's would never feel normal again...just going through the steps.

2011- Thankful for family and friends, I'm trying to figure out the next steps. How do I move forward, my best friend is gone. Just what do single adults do now a days???? Not that I'm jumping out there, just sayin' it's been 27+ years.

peace, love, groove

Dave's Music Plays On

2011-12-01T20:02:00.001-05:00

Bryan Lubeck is performing this Saturday in St Joe. He'll be playing one of Dave's songs he recorded. It is so amazing for me every time I hear Dave's music, he really does live on through his music If you're free and around town, come join me.

peace, love, groove

Time for the Holidays and things are clicking

2011-11-27T17:18:00.001-05:00

Pictures: a new kind of X-mas tree..and Dave is in there!

Thanksgiving was such a great day. Dinner at the other Maki's with family. We were just missing dear Jennie. About 6 pm family and friends stopped by here for a campfire by the back door. It was a little chilly, but what a great night. Oberon bottles are sold out at all of my secret places...bummer. There's still a few mini kegs though.

Next weekend is our annual Christmas Cookie Exchange party. Last weekend I got up three trees. Tim and Joni helped with the big one. Dang pre-lit trees...about 1/4 of the lights are out. We decided to just add another 300 lights this year. I'll probably cut them off when it's time to take it down. The "crystal" tree was decorated last weekend - thanks for Joni helping with that. Yesterday I decorated the kitchen tree and started on the big tree. It was 60 degrees out so I felt I had to get to the leaves in the front bushes and get flower pots put away. I even put lights on two of the tree trunks. One is really close to the driveway, so I thought that might help when backing out at night.

Today I cleaned the bathroom closet. It's been an embarrassing about of time since it was gone through. There just wasn't time when Dave was sick. Well not time that wasn't more importantly spent with him, friends and family. There's enough time left today to work on more tree decorating too. And I started brushing the dog's teeth! I think it's time after two teeth cleaning bills this summer. Sitting here it seems like things are starting to fall in place. Always tons more to do but still...it feels pretty good. I think I should have a dinner and/or party every weekend of December.

peace, love, groove

Writings

2011-11-19T00:12:00.001-05:00

I had a wonderful evening with the "other Maki's" tonight..a birthday celebration. What is a celebration? I think it's sharing your ideals with those who agree with or "like/love" you. I've been looking through Dave's facebook pages and reading things he wrote. When I read these, I hear his voice. I remember his quiet yet opinionated views. I see these pieces of him as gifts. I miss him....

peace, love, groove

Today I'm older and other stuff

2011-11-17T22:12:00.000-05:00

Pictures: Nancy in a box; most of the moving team- Tim, Mom, Julie, Uncle Mike, Ruthie, me and Joni; a welcome sign; Ruthie outside mom's new apartment; Ruthie riding in the van; leaving Benton Harbor- mom, Ruthie and Tim.

Wow- it's been awhile since I've written and I am now older than Dave. Bummer, I've always been younger. It's time to catch up with some pictures of Mom's move. The move to Chesaning went well. The leaves coming down and it's time to get ready for the cookie party. Oh well, the work is never done. Dog school started yesterday. Kevin filled in with Ruthie and both dogs seemed to have some fun. I continue to take one of the dogs to "doggie" daycare during the day. It's still a good thing for them....and me.

Holiday season is here! I've always liked that more than Dave.

peace, love, groove

Get The Word Out

2011-11-07T19:44:00.000-05:00

Don't forget to purchase Dave's last recording. I'm sorry to be a pest and know some of you own it already.....but all proceeds will go to the Southwest Michigan Humane Society. Please share the iTunes page with others. Thanks and bow wow!

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/have-yourself-a-merry-little/id415084469?i=415084477

peace, love, groove

Time changes

2011-11-06T19:34:00.000-05:00

So it is the time of year we "fall back" and there's a time change. It's been a busy week. I was in North Carolina, took the dogs to daycare, moved Mom to Chesaning MI (where my dad grew up) and picked up a lot of leaves. Pictures to come. Pretty tired with all of the happenings.

Nikki is finally learning how to act at day care. It's good to hear this is working and she's socializing better. I've decided to go to Florida over New Year's. It's about time for a vacation, don't you think?

peace, love, groove

26 years ago + one day

2011-10-27T20:33:00.000-04:00

Dave and me July 2010

Yesterday would have been our 26th wedding anniversary and I can say I have no regrets. It was a great journey. Love you Dave!

peace, love, groove

Puppies adjusting and getting back on track

2011-10-24T19:57:00.000-04:00

I've been taking one dog each day to "dogie day care" during the week. I know...it sounds kinda strange, but there are some real benefits. The dogs get socialized with other dogs and Nikki is learning how to play better. Nikki goes there M-W-F and Ruthie goes T-Th. I probably should have done this a long time ago. It's a step in the right direction.

This weekend I'm going to North Carolina for another WOCNCB committee meeting. I went there back in April and it's time again. I just have a little free time Friday night, the rest of the time if full of meetings. It seems to be good timing for a little get away.

peace, love, groove

The Misconception of strength

2011-10-21T21:32:00.000-04:00

What does it mean to be strong? Many are left alone through similar or different circumstances than mine, but what happens then? How does someone "recover" from loosing a spouse and best friend?

Following the one year mark, this issue becomes more apparent to me. How do I replace my best friend in the whole world? The person I could complain to about stuff. He would just listened...no judgements... no repercussions...he was just were there for me. He was my biggest cheerleader. That person is gone. When someone disappointments or lets me down, what is there to do? It's not always that "they" were wrong, just that it hurt me. We all have that happen to us.

It has been of the most important for me to support our friends and family through loosing Dave. In the end, who supports me....

It isn't that no one loves or supports me. It's the realization that life is going forward for us all and my life isn't, and shouldn't be, the center of every one's life. It's the realization that I can forever count on my two dogs, cat and me. I told Dave..."don't worry about me, I'll be okay". I may have lied. I didn't mean to.

And we gathered 10-10-11

2011-10-17T20:53:00.000-04:00

Catherine and Julie arriving

Phils' new car arrives

Phil is helping Ev (mom Maki)

The gentleman

Roses and home grown flowers brought by Catherine T. and Kay

A toast and no glass for Loni

The group hanging out with Dave

Dave's niche

Julie with Dave

Kay, Kristin, Piot and Catherine T

Tim, Cookie, Chuck and Phil...who's helping Ev get back in the car?

Lindsey, Sue and Joni

Finally...the pictures from 10-10-11. We had 2 toasts to Dave and just kinda hung out by his niche before pizza. Thanks for sharing this day with me, our friends and family. Love you from the bottom of my heart....

peace, love, groove

Last day for the Tribute video

2011-10-16T20:16:00.000-04:00

I'm pretty sure this is the last day for the Tribute to be viewed. I did buy a copy of it. I've been trying to get some pictures up from Monday 10-10-11. Several of us went to Riverview and had a couple toasts for Dave. Then we went to Silverbeach pizza. The Lesters, Kings, Catherine Thomas and John Payne came over after for a camp fire and ....can you guess???? Yes, Tales of Topographic Oceans. I had the week off and listened to "Tales" two more times. It was good to hear it twice with others around. These were the first times I have listened to it since the Friday before Dave died. We hear it together.

I'll get the pictures up soon. Thanks to all who remember us. Love you all.

peace, love, groove

It's Breat Cancer Awareness Month

2011-10-15T18:29:00.000-04:00

Thought I'd share a few pictures I didn't earlier. First the beach last Saturday. YAYAs did another Komen walk and this one was right along Lake Michigan in St Joe.

Here's a couple YAYAs walking.This is the back of my shirt. Sandi was a friend from Bill Knapp's days who just died. I hope she meets Dave. She'll like him

peace, love, groove

Pictures from 10/9/11

2011-10-13T20:03:00.009-04:00

Tim, Cookie and Chuck...ending the night

John, Kay, Buddy and Tim

Joni and John by the fire

Sue, Terry, Scott and Cookie

Listening to music

Noah with his hat

Chuck, Tim, John and Lindsey

Done with songs...next is YES

Al, Phil and Mark

Joni and Liz

Enjoying the day- Kevin

Family meeting

Sue, Loni, Julie; Kay and others

Liz, Mark, Dan and Mark

2011-10-12T18:26:00.000-04:00

Link to video from 10/9/11. Pictures to come. We had great weather in the back yard and great food. We listened to Claire Fisher (a instructor from Dick Grove days), Chick Corea and of coarse YES. Thanks to all who came over, your continued support and love is very important to me. And thanks to those who listened to music Dave liked or performed in his honor.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SAzEPrKq3KM

peace, love, groove

10-10-10

2011-10-10T14:04:00.003-04:00

Dave's favorite Chick Corea song....or at least the one that brought tears to his eyes with it's beautiful melody and harmonies: Armando's Rhumba. Please watch this live version with Chick and his piano in honor of Dave today.

peace, love, groove

10-9-11

2011-10-09T07:49:00.003-04:00

Today will be a day of smiles, laughter and tears. I miss Dave's voice, his laughter, his smile......I'm happy to be sharing a campfire with friends and family who love Dave too. I can never thank you enough for the love and support you gave and continue to give us. If your not in town, just listen to some music Dave loved.....Chick Corea, Yellowjackets, Yes, Tower of Power, Frank Zappa, Todd Rundgren, Steeley Dan (to name a few)...or Dave himself.

Then I remember that life does go on. There's new music to love and new adventures to come.

Until me meet again.....peace, love, groove

Don't Worry.....Be Happy

2011-10-04T22:07:00.003-04:00

We're going to be okay. I started the dogs in day care. They both are doing well there, even Nikki. Her and I will be starting obedience school mid-November. Trainers feel we'll be okay. Just need to let the dogs know...I'm the alpha! I love to learn new languages....hehehe.

Plans for Sunday....a big ass campfire and music (live and recorded) in honor of Dave, loved by Dave or performed by Dave.

Plans for Monday- toast at the cemetery, pizza (one of Dave's favs) and another campfire for the big weights (or those who don't have to work in the morning).

My- how the year flew by. Now, to move forward. Miss and love you always Dave!

peace, love, groove

A great weekend in Kentucky

2011-10-03T19:34:00.003-04:00

Pictures: new license plate, Catherine talking to Dr. Black; ex KCI co-workers- Susan, Elaine, me, LouAnn; Sue and Denise at dinner; Shrimp and grits; beer; Beth shows off a horse; Alice Cooper guitar at Hard Rock Cafe.

Great but busy weekend in Louisville for WOCN regional conference. Good food, good friends and lots of info. Next year we are helping put this yearly event on in Grand Rapids. Left hand from dog bite is healing...oh I may not have put this on the blog. I broke up a fight between Ruthie and Nikki last Monday after work. Ended up in the ER with 3 bites in my left hand (2 teeth each) and 1 on my leg. I got a Tetanus shot and antibiotics....thankfully pain pills which I've used at night. I can't believe how much it hurt. The swelling was finally down today and minimal bruising left. Glad to be on the mend. I'm going to go back to dog school with Nikki and taking the dogs to day care for awhile. What a year for them...Dave gone, Audrey gone, alone in the day. We'll regroup and make it. Thanks to a wonderful brother in law, good neighbors and my ER friends (well, really just Catherine) we did okay.

peace, love, groove

Dave's Tribute Link

2011-09-25T14:37:00.001-04:00

The Tribute should be available until 10/16/11.... then it will be off. Please watch before then if you missed it. :)

peace, love, groove.

2011-09-25T14:17:00.003-04:00

Pictures: Me and Loni at Artoberfest last weekend; Duck Nachos and watermelon salad at Brewery Vivant; parking sign by the brewery; Stacey and me at the "walk"; Linder and me; Catherine's sign; Julie's mom and Joni- SURVIVORS!

Last weekend Loni Maki and I went to the Benton Harbor Artoberfest. Smoked baloney was the food of conversation.... There were artist tents and bands. Dave Carlock played and 3 of the member of Maxon Struwin were in the headliner. It was so great to see Mike, Josh and Tom! Great guys and great musicians that Dave was so proud to play with and call friends.

This weekend was the Komen Race for the Cure in the GR area. The YaYas have gone sine about 2002 (right Joni?), maybe about a year after Joni was diagnosed and went through treatment.... I missed the last 2 years. Tradition has been as many of us as can go into GR the night before and send the night at the Residence room, sharing 1 or 2 rooms. It's a sleep over! This year Catherine and Julie and I went in Friday night. Unfortunately, Catherine got a migraine. Julie and I ventured out to Brewery Vivant and had some amazing food. The beer wasn't bad either. Joni and Sue met us in the morning and we headed over to the race. I was so happy to see 2 co-workers from my KCI days- Linda and Stacey.

All in all, great events the last two weekends. I continue hearing from friends and family about 10-10-11 and will post our plans when finalized.

peave, love, groove

An Anniversary for One and All

2011-09-14T08:49:00.003-04:00

So I've been thinking about the upcoming year since Dave's death. 10-10-11. It seems like we should all be together. It seems like we should laugh and cry. It....is hard to imagine the music, his music, has stopped.

Let me know your thoughts.... let's plan something.

peace, love, groove

July 3rd party and fall begins....

2011-09-14T08:34:00.004-04:00

Pictures: Pam, Ruthie and Cookie; Live Music- Tim, Elliot, Lindsey, Edd and Tom; Eric and Loni; Liz and Dan; Chuckeeee; There's brats!; Elisa serving brats; the day after x3; morning glories; Canada geese; fall flowers.

Summer's End

2011-09-10T18:38:00.004-04:00

Pictures: Neighbor burns a chair; Nikki on a walk; Ruthie's turn; Lee's feet by Lake Michigan; a moon.

Summer's done...gone...finished. Where did it go? Lots of great memories. Thanks Friends.

peace, love, groove

Audrey's first day in the Maki house

2011-08-30T19:48:00.005-04:00

Picture: Dave and Audrey sleeping probably spring of 2010.
I told a friend this story and thought it was pretty dang cute. So I saw Audrey 3 days in a row hanging out by the old Mercy hospital in Benton Harbor. I was a homecare nurse and had a rule that I had to see a dog 3 times before I'd bring it home. We had our first dog, Sadie, at home. Sadie was a Human Society puppy. So Beckie and I "trapped" Audrey and got her in my van and I brought her home. She was so dirty because she'd been hanging out under a car. So I left her by the back door (inside) and yelled up to Dave who was upstairs in his studio..."Dave I have someone here to meet you, come on down". His answer was "Lee, I'm in my underwear..." My reply... "Dave, it doesn't matter. " Audrey was so scared she didn't sleep for more than 5 minutes at a time, she was a different dog in a couple months.

Thanks again for being part of our family for so long Audie!

It Should be said here too.....

2011-08-30T07:28:00.003-04:00

Audrey "Za" Maki, 16 year old friend and wonder dog died Sunday. She had Cushings disease for 4 years. We went to Michigan State for ultrasounds to get the diagnosis. Hers was due to a pituitary tumor and she was having neurological symptoms at the end- couldn't walk, I don't think she could see, and she may have been having seizures. She was very, very pale. I was with her to the end and hope she has found Dave.

love you Audrey.

peace, love, groove.

I haven't posted for how many days???.........

2011-08-29T19:49:00.002-04:00

Pictures: The new fire in the back yard; last fire in the old "pit"; an "All In Love" reminder in my car; storm coming in a couple week ago.

Lots of camp fires and yard work. Getting ready for a Labor Day Weekend Fling.

Dave, not David

2011-08-17T22:41:00.002-04:00

So looking over the "Overture" stuff I remember a story I probably told before, but it's a good one. When Dave and I started dating I called him David. It think it's such a beautiful name. I noticed others calling him Dave and that may have slipped out of my mouth occasionally...but he was David to me. My David. One day, we'd been married at least 10 years, Dave said to me "I really prefer the name Dave". Really? I said. Dave it is.

love you Dave

peace, love, groove

"Overture to St Joseph"

2011-08-16T19:40:00.003-04:00

Well, Tim recorded both performances Sunday. We have 4 videos of the 3:30 and 3 of the 7:30. The best from me was the 7:30. Tim's recording should be much better than my camera. Here's is the intro Phil Maki wrote:

“Overture to St. Joseph”

David K. Maki

In 1984, David Maki was selected by the City of St. Joseph to compose a piece in honor of the City’s sesquicentennial, its 150^th birthday.

The name of the piece that David wrote is the “Overture to St. Joseph”. Before today, the piece has been played only one time by the St. Joseph Municipal Band in 1984 conducted by Mr. John E. N. Howard.

David Maki was a well-known local musician and sound recording engineer. His formal musical training was received at Western Michigan University, the University of Michigan and the Grove School of Music in Los Angeles. David began his musical career at the age of 6 and he continued to play a wide variety of musical styles until his death in October 2010 at the age of 52.

David’s wife LeeAnn, his many friends and family hope you enjoy “Overture to St. Joseph”.

Here's is the link to my best video: Overture to St. Joseph

peace, love, groove

Sunday

2011-08-15T21:17:00.004-04:00

Pictures: Band shell 3:30 performance, 7:30 performance; Katie drinking a Coke; Al, Joni, Tim and Wayne after the concert; All In Love plaque.

2011-08-15T20:09:00.002-04:00

Pictures: Team Trivia- waiting for food with # on their heads: Kay and Catherine; another pictures of "Dave's mural".

I can't believe how much was packed into the last 3 weeks. The high school reunion was great fun, All In Love week was amazing and this weekend the St Joseph Municipal Band repeated their performance of Dave's composition "Overture to St Joseph". This was the first performance since 1984. I'll share pictures and video soon. We didn't know that the performance would happen until Thursday evening, so many didn't know in time. There have been a lot of comments like "band music?" "you can tell Dave was a percussisonist" I think everyone who attended felt moved by Dave's spirit and musical talent. This piece brings out his personality...rhythm with a beautiful melody. He is/was so talented and left so much of "him" here with us. It's time for me to start going through all of the music and get it out there...and I need some help. It WILL happen.

peace, love, groove

Time flew by...

2011-08-07T21:36:00.002-04:00

Wow- what an awesome week. Last weekend was our high school reunion. Friday night at Babes, Saturday the reunion and Sunday breakfast to Big Boy! Tuesday I took my mom to my aunt's house in Chesaning, MI to prep for a family reunion. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and today I got to spend time with the All In Love gang. Great fun. Friday and Saturday night - All In Love at Czar's. Saturday morning drove back up to Chesaning for the reunion and then to Czar's by 8:30 pm. We sold peace, love, groove bracelets at the benefit (All In Love) and made about $500 to 600 for the animal charities. BONUS! I'm really pooped! I think I need a week off to recover from my vacation.

It was so good to meet up with friends of Dave's and other friends who watched the blog and followed Dave's story. Reconnecting with high school friends and being around the All In Love family has made this a very meaningful 10 days. Thanks for including me and honoring my Davie. Love you all!

peace, love, groove

Catch up

2011-07-24T20:43:00.009-04:00

Pictures: Tom and Kim sing at Loni and Phil's party; Loni dancing the night away; Four Spacious guys with a couple different faces and out of order (: ; Lee and Dave C.; Bryan and Lee x2.

Can't believe it's almost the end of July. Posted pictures from Phil and Loni's birthday party duo from Saturday night and from Bryan Lubeck. I've been a little more teary eyed, thinking how bitter sweet my reunion this weekend and All In Love next week will be. Can't stop myself from thinking Dave would want me to keep it together and support his friends, our friends. I'm tryin' for that. I think he's okay with a few tears too....

peace, love, groove

Glass class anyone?

2011-07-21T19:27:00.009-04:00

Pictures: Mickey and Catherine Thomas; mother and daughter's projects; mine- a blue bird.

I took a stained glass night light class with Catherine Thomas Tuesday night. Her nephew and mom were there too. I, of course, made the blue bird. We had six in the class and didn't get totally done. I have some touch up to do and then attach the light...oh and the eye. I don't think mine is very good. But for a first in glass cutting, grinding and matching it all up (that was hard!), I'm okay with the result. We go back next Tuesday night to finish.

I am soooooooooo looking forward to the next three weekends.

peace, love, groove

Get ready

2011-07-17T09:49:00.003-04:00

Pictures: a new blue bird on the deck (from Sue); Nikki and Ruthie like the new cushions; an evening in the back yard.

Biggest weekends of the summer coming up. Next weekend Phil and Loni have a birthday party, then comes the reunion weekend and last (but not least) All in Love. I've resigned myself to have most of the back, back yard garden beds and projects done by the end of fall. Yesterday and today I'm working on flea eradication. Nikki is allergic to flea bites....had to start giving her Predisone Friday, poor girl. She's still a happy dog. Tuesday I'm taking another glass class at Water Street Glassworks. This time it's a stained glass class. I watching for the fall class schedule in anticipation to join some bead making classes. Wednesday is book club, it's my month and I chose "The Grapes of Wrath".

Most of all, I look forward to seeing friends, new and old, over the next few weekends.

peace, love, groove

A concert for the future

2011-07-09T23:24:00.004-04:00

Pictures: Cardinal bathing in the sprinkler; my art fair purchase- a fairy house; the front deck and back gate; Nikki barking at the birds in the tree; Dave Carlock riding "Free Willey".

Went to hear Bryan Lubeck at Smooth Jazz at Sunset last night after spending the afternoon at the Art Fair. First big gig for him without Dave. He did a short tribute to my music man and played one of his songs. Julie and Joni went with me which was great. Bryan talked on stage about Dave being there...I felt it. His spirit was very strong. Saw Tom Jennings, my friend Denise and some other friends too. Talked with Bryan... hoping to do some more of Dave's songs with him in the future.

I'm amazed at all Dave really left me. His life's work. Now to catalog it and make sure everyone hears...

peace, love, groove

Back yard

2011-07-08T17:28:00.002-04:00

So, we are in the back yard. Nikki, Ruthie and me. I'm having a beer and enjoying the great Southwestern Michigan evening. It's about ....oh let's say 72 and there's a light (or lite) breeze from the northeast. Okay, I'm guessing about the last part. Just a beautiful day. The beer is wonderful and we're listening to Sly and the Family Stone. The cardinals having been in the trees and flying over the yard teasing Nikki. We're all feeling good.

Byran Lubeck is playing at Smooth Jazz at Sunset tomorrow night in St Joe. I think the last time he played there was two years ago, with Dave. He let me know today he's playing a song of Dave's and will be doing a small tribute. This is his first big gig without Dave. How that tugs at my heart..... I think this is going to be an emotional month for me. So bitter sweet. Come support live music if you can. Here's the link. I'll be there, the one with bells.

peace, love, groove

Bird families

2011-07-07T21:36:00.002-04:00

So the "ex" bluebird house, aka the sparrows' crib, has babies. Haven't seen them but hear them a lot and mama was feeding them Tuesday evening. Today I saw a juvenile Morning Dove with his/her family waiting for more bird food. I ran out and filled the feeder. Two of the bird houses in the back back yard have families. Two appear to still be empty. A good start on the "bird haven".

Just thought I'd mention that thanks to Phil Maki I got an extension on some IRS forms that needed to be submitted within 9 months of Dave's death, which is July 10. First, who'd have known I had to fill anything out let alone when? Second, I can hardly believe it's going to be 10 months.

peace, love, groove

Thinking it through

2011-07-06T19:29:00.002-04:00

So I'm thinking about how approximately 2 years ago we were in the ED (also known as ER) finding out that Dave had cancer. It seems like it's time to talk about what I was thinking and, unfortunately, knew because of my medical background. When they presented us with the picture of Dave's 2 lung tumors, it was obvious how close one was to his aorta. I immediately went into survival mode. There's no way I could share my real thoughts with Dave. I knew it was stage 3 to 4 and there's was a time line put in front of us. We sat on the cancer diagnosis for 2 or 3 days before I said we had to let our family and friends know. I remember thinking that I was going to be a widow. Please don't think I was giving up on him....I just realized the inevitable while never (never ever) giving up hope that I was wrong. It was the deep secret I held so close to my heart. Every night when we went to sleep I held his hand and looked at every finger thinking how much I loved him. I tried to embrace every second I could... I think I did that okay, but now it's time to talk about it and probably move on. Dave still is my favorite person in the whole world. I'm so proud of how brave and loving he was until the end. I'm so thankful for all of our family and friends. Sometimes I just can't believe he's gone......

peace, love, groove

Camp David- Fireworks and Campfire

2011-07-04T19:20:00.003-04:00

Pictures: Sunglasses and chairs left in the backyard; Cool PLG artwork ala Sue M.; new kitty and fish lawn art.

Great weather for a campfire and fireworks last night. We just about finished a pony keg of Oberon. Great food and company. I let off the fireworks around 10...it was a little light out but we could see them just fine. I think they went higher up than the ones last year. The last one broke the table..hmm. Bonus- no police visit! We had a special performance by Psycho Uke before the fireworks and then Lindsey played guitar by the fire while we sang along. Yes...everyone was gone about 12:30. This morning Joni and Lisa came by to help pick up. I have 2 sunglasses, a guitar thingee and several chairs in the back yard that aren't mine. Come get 'em!

I'm looking forward to many more CampDavid fires this summer. We remember how much you love them Dave.

peace, love, groove

Hot, Hot, Hot

2011-07-02T15:13:00.003-04:00

Very warm today. I got out early this morning and managed to get a big jump on the yard work. Tomorrow we're having a cook out here....yes- there will be a couple fireworks too. Hope it cools down a little so I can get back out. Yard work is never really done. More tomorrow.

peace, love, groove

Here's some pics

2011-06-27T20:24:00.004-04:00

Pictures: My inspiration; the projects ready to get "hot"; the work area; Ruthie enjoying the backyard yesterday.

So I knew I needed an idea for the fused glass class and thought of the sunflowers Dave and I love. Took a quick picture to take with me on my phone...instant idea. The YaYa's had a great time and some wonderful ideas. From top left in a circle: Joni, Catherine, Sue, me, Liz and Julie. Plus it was FUN! Saturday afternoon and Sunday I got the vege garden planted, although there are some herbs too. Next weekend I have to finish the back back yard. All in time to enjoy my highschool reunion and All in Love!

peace, love, groove

Another fused glass day

2011-06-25T07:19:00.002-04:00

Going this morning to another fused glass class at the Waterstreet Glassworks. This time it's with the YaYas. I don't have any ideas for a design yet. Maybe some birds...a sunset.... a sunflower.... not much time to decide.

Then I hope to finally get the vege garden together. I'm planning on putting more herbs in. Have a few plants- cucumbers, peppers..... of course a couple tomato plants have been planted for a couple weeks. There's at least 1 small tomato. Looking back at garden videos while copying this last week, I realize how overgrown most of the garden beds are. That will probably be the outdoor project for the rest of the summer- getting them back in shape.

peace, love, groove

Found a tape

2011-06-21T07:08:00.002-04:00

So I'm still working on videos. I took a look through all of them on Saturday. I found a couple that I have no idea who the people are and put them aside for now. I found most with nothing on them had something and started 3 piles noting how many where in each. Pile 1- recorded to DVD format; Pile 2- 2 tapes of "I don't know"; Pile 3- to record, had 4 tapes and all were labeled. I continued and double checked the number Sunday night. Yesterday I got started when I got home from work and there was an extra tape next to the camera. No writing on it. It's Mister Edd working on their second album (I think). So where did that come from? It's interesting that I took such care to separate and count them, only to find this mystery tape. hmmmmm

peace, love, groove

The week goes by

2011-06-19T21:42:00.003-04:00

Another busy week. Thanks to Tim and Joni (loaning me equipment), I've been taking old video and putting them on DVDs this weekend. Memories of our dogs Sadie and Barbie, gardens, my graduation with my BS (including Dave singing along with the Star Spangled Banner) and Mister Edd. There's Mister Edd performances and the making of Jump in the Pool. Dave videoed my return from Cleveland for the weekend when I was half way through my ET nurse training (2 months). I didn't remember he had taped that. To hear the excitement in his voice and the dogs jumping all over me. What a gift to see his smile again and hear his voice. This morning I made one more trip to Ikea with Morelba Zimmerman. We stopped for lunch at PF Chang's and this was my fortune....the one you love is closer than you think. I feel you Dave and love you forever. Your music is here and will live on too.

peace, love, groove

Weeeeek ennnnd

2011-06-10T23:18:00.002-04:00

TGIF. I'm having mulch delivered tomorrow morning, only 3 yards. That'll take a day or two. We went from the 90s to 50s and 60s in 2 days. What a strange summer so far.

Earlier tonight I re-read Dave's letter to the editor following the Benefit. It brought many tears. He was such a good writer. You'd never know it from his songs....Neon or no words at all, but he could write. Lately I think about the weekend Dave died a lot. Also how scared I was when he was first diagnosed. The main lung tumor was very close to his aorta. I never made a big deal about it around him....well to anyone (I think). It just sorta feels like my brain needs to decompress. Well, I just miss my Dave.

peace, love, groove

A week went by .........like that

2011-06-06T19:15:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it's been 7 days. Wow! I've been finishing up planting flower pots, watering, driving back to Ikea to pick up some missing pieces (my fault), finishing putting up the window treatments (with Tim's help), oh and watering. One more weekend of getting projects done and then SUMMER fun! Well, hopefully one more week. I'm working on getting a spare bedroom upstairs. Also hope to repaint part of the basement and get the Wii set up down there.

Next month it's my choice for book club and I've picked "Grapes of Wrath". I never read it, but saw the movie. How do I read over 400 pages in 5 weeks? Start reading!

peace, love, groove

Memorial Weekend

2011-05-31T07:27:00.002-04:00

What a busy weekend finishing some of the outdoor work. Three trips to Meijer's for edging brick and a couple trips to Crystal Springs. I still have a couple garden beds to finish and vege planting, but it's a good start. Yesterday, the dogs came outside in the afternoon with me. The heat index must have been pretty high because they didn't bark much and stayed pretty still. I only let them stay out for about an hour and made them go in.

Lots of thoughts and memories of Dave this weekend. I remembered that he asked me to get the flag last year as I put it up Friday night (of course I took it in when it rained). I guess I'll describe our house as "still". There's still a sense of peace, but it's not quiet. Still .....I miss him everyday.

peace, love, groove

Bowls and a view

2011-05-26T20:43:00.003-04:00

Pictures: Lee's 6 inch bowl; a bowl of peppers and sausage in Chi-town; my view at TOP

So I thought I'd get at least one picture of my bowl. First try at this. I have another fused glass class with the YaYas June 25th. Then I noticed the peppers and sausage from Harry Caray's were pretty colorful too. That's what Mark Maki had for dinner before the TOP concert. It was standing only at the House of Blues, which meant for a few minutes I stood behind this guy. Great View! He did move and I got a short video. I'll show you soon.

It's cool and rainy here today. Should warm up for the weekend. I'm happy about that since I have tons of yard work to catch up on. I thought about Dave a lot today. Sometimes I can't focus on any of the memories from last year, which makes me sad. Sometimes I remember one after another with a chuckle and a smile. I had a dream recently and Dave was in it. I said to him " Dave, do I have the right song name for your favorite Chick Corea song?" Now I have time to think about the things I could have asked one more time. Well, in the dream he didn't answer either.

peace, love, groove

Soooo busy

2011-05-23T21:31:00.003-04:00

I'm trying to get things completed to make room for fun this summer. I have a high school class reunion in July, a family reunion and the bi-annual All in Love fundraiser. I went to see Tower of Power in Chicago last Tuesday, back on Sunday to get new window treatments with the other Makis. I have pictures and video...just waiting for it to load in. I'll get it on in the next couple days.

I didn't get to bed until 1 am last night, worked on getting 2 of the new window treatments up with the Kings. Thanks Tim and Joni. I better get going to bed. BUT, I just have to say I have the best friends in the world...Dave and I have the best friends and family in the whole world. Thanks to you all.

peace, love, groove

Announcing........

2011-05-15T09:10:00.003-04:00

If you haven't been to Czar's 505 in downtown St Joe recently, you've missed the new mural in the entrance. Dave Maki is featured with his peace, love, groove mantra along with many music greats. Tom Jennings really had a great idea for the space and I think Dave would approve. I stopped by yesterday during the day and could easily view it through the door. It took my breath away. Got this picture last night when I stopped by and met a few friends. Dave did sound at Czar's for 8 years. He loved his Czar's family and friends, he also enjoyed all the talented musicians that he got to know through the years. Thanks for honoring him Tom! peace, love, groove

Birds, birds, birds

2011-05-09T21:07:00.002-04:00

Pictures: Robin in the bird bath; blue bird on my table.

Last Friday, I think, I had been home from work for about 15 minutes...the dogs were barking (normal) and I went to see what was up after a couple minutes. No one was there except this cute BIG blue bird and a note on the porch steps. The note said "Happy May....love ?????" My first blue bird. To whomever dropped "her" off....thanks for helping me get my personal bluebird.

peace, love, groove

Time.......

2011-05-09T06:59:00.002-04:00

I can't believe how busy the new driveway has made me. I spent most of the weekend working on the front yard and planting grass. The fence is up next to the driveway but only tied to the posts. We will have to make some adjustments to the gate area before nailing it in place. At least Ruthie can't get out anymore. The dogs spent most of the days outside, except for when it rained on Saturday. I got some more of the summer things out in the yard. Also saw a couple of woodpeckers mating, or trying to.

Yesterday, in between the yard work, I took my mom to breakfast and then went to the Other Maki's for dinner. Busy week too: dinners, yard work and planning. More to come....

peace, love, groove

iTunes is there....pictures?

2011-05-05T06:57:00.006-04:00

Pictures: Cement truck in the drive; Ruthie- the escape artist; new driveway

The links to iTunes are up. Thanks Tim King for helping with that. And if you call Silver Beach Carousel this summer, you'll hear some Mister Edd music if you happen to be put on hold.

It's pretty cold here. 32 degrees this am, but it should be in the 70's by the weekend. I'm ready to get working on the yard now that the three major projects are mostly done. It will be a few more days before I can use the driveway and we get the back fence back up. I have to keep an eye on Ruthie...the escape artist.

peace, love, groove

Music and a drive way

2011-05-03T19:41:00.003-04:00

I've just added a section on the left that will supply links to Dave's music on-line. I don't know how to include the iTunes "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas".... but that's now on Amazon as is the first Mister Edd CD "Jump in the Pool!". We are ordering some more CDs too. Plus there is some Mister Edd and Dave Maki music that may get "released" in the future, we'll see. It's almost surreal to hear him now. What a gift to me and I hope to others.

I finally got a new driveway yesterday. Lived with dirt for over a week. They did such a great job. Bad thing....no fence yet. I thought I had foiled Ruthie by placing pots and bricks along the bottom of the fence so she couldn't slide under the temporary fencing. A few minutes ago the neighbor, Kris, called and said the fence was down and Ruthie had been in the front yard. Kris had just got home and saw Ruthie in the front yard running back inside the fence and sitting there like "what? I didn't do anything". So Ruthie was the first family member to walk, or run, on the new driveway. I can't wait until the fence can go back up.

peace, love, groove

PLG gift

2011-04-28T20:59:00.003-04:00

YaYa Sue made this glass plaque for me. PLG, peace sign, keyboard and campfire. It's just perfect.

peace, love, groove

Birds do it, let's fall in love...

2011-04-24T21:35:00.002-04:00

Looking out the dining room window, we can watch the new bird couple in their new house. This afternoon...they were "mating" on top of their house. Not sure if it was successful, it was very short and brief... oh I could get in a lot of trouble here...we'll see if there's a baby bird on the way. I really like the new neighbors. They sing a little, but otherwise they are very quiet.

peace, love, groove

The House- new neighbors

2011-04-24T08:39:00.005-04:00

Pictures: Kris and Paul watching the driveway work; almost done with the driveway prep; getting a good started- about 10:00am; Mrs. Bird and her new home.

At first this appears to be about the new driveway. It has been quite a week around here. It started with the windows and then, yesterday, they prepped the driveway. The dogs haven't been able to get outside much....they will be so glad when this is done. The "driveway guys" got here at 7:30 yesterday am and left after 8 pm. Ruthie and I went over to the neighbors and watched them work for a while early evening. All the rain we've had is making cement work hard, they had to cancel work on Friday. When the fence came down, since the driveway will go up right next to it, I thought "what did I get us into?" The neighbors helped me put up some temporary fencing so the dogs can go outside (but not alone since they could get out). It will all be good when it's done. Now we have to hope for a change in the weather. Monday through Wednesday = rain, rain, rain, rain, rain, rain, rain....

Now to the real subject, the bird house. A bird couple has moved in. They are NOT bluebirds. I think they are field sparrows. My mom watched them building their nest all last week. Well, although that's not really who I got the bird house for, it's fun to watch them closer up. They weren't bothered by all of the noise and equipment yesterday. What kinda house warming gift should I get them?

peace, love, groove

Sharing PLG

2011-04-21T18:48:00.002-04:00

It isn't often I share stories of patients. Today I had an experience that won't break HIPPA (link for those of you who haven't heard of that before) and was so random... it kinda took my breath away and I admit I cried a little bit when it was over. Here's how it went:

I was walking down a hospital hallway not far from the CCU and an older man was standing there. I made eye contact and said good morning...he said good morning back.

I said how are you.

He looked like he wanted to talk....he said "have you ever been at a crossroads in your life"

yes I have

" I am right now, my wife wants to quit, she wants me to pull the vent"

that must be hard

"She's asking me to stop it, she's in a lot of pain"

maybe it's okay to stop, sometimes it is time

"I can't do that"

do you have someone here to support you

"my sister just left and my son is on his way"

good, I have kind of a challenge for you to think about

"okay"

What does your wife love, what is the most important thing in her life? Talk about that, surround her with that

"that's a really good idea, I never thought of that"

Focus on her and that and what will be will be

"thank you"

I have paraphrased here and there. There was a little more we said....BUT it felt so good to let him know how I kept things in perspective. To offer another way to think of it. He is not ready to hear that his wife may die. I don't think that matters. I think feeling better about his time with her will lead to a better outcome...life or death isn't always what it's about, it's quality and celebration. Well, that's my view. I don't know if I'll ever see that man again. I hope his family will celebrate.

peace, love, groove

Got a link

2011-04-19T22:43:00.000-04:00

Here's the link to iTunes and Dave.

Dave's on iTunes!

2011-04-19T21:37:00.004-04:00

Tim agreed to help me get Dave's version of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas on iTunes a little before Christmas. We knew it wouldn't get on by the holiday and never received any confirmation. Tim looked today and it's on there. So, I'll remind you closer to the holidays and/or you may have been sent a copy by Dave or me in the past....but, consider buying it. I'm giving any profit to the Humane Society of Southwestern Michigan.

I can't put up a link...that I can figure out, so just go to iTunes and search for Dave Maki! Enjoy.

peace, love, groove

Here's the back back yard

2011-04-17T18:03:00.004-04:00

Pictures: last years view... even without leaves you couldn't see much; now it's all opened up so the electric company can get to the pole past the garage.

So it's out. The electric company has had tree trimmers around the last few weeks and they totally wiped out the brush and trees that provided shelter for the birds and a lot of privacy at the back of our property. The plan is to put up a couple lengths of fence....4 or 6 feet, to break up the view at least until things start to grow back in. We've never been able to see the neighbors garage the whole time we've lived here. No trees making beer, just no trees at all.

peace, love, groove

More Pictures

2011-04-17T09:15:00.003-04:00

I've been working on scanning pictures- Dave's from before we started dating and some high school/Spectrum pictures from Kay Stickney-Dine. I'll start putting them in a folder available at the bottom of the blog.

Rain, cold and snow....yes I said snow, kept us from working on the secret project yesterday afternoon. Well, it's really not a secret or surprise, it's just a change. I'll put some pre-pictures up this afternoon and you'll understand. Last night I went to dinner with the Lesters and the Schimans and then we went to see the Ed Bagatini Swing Orchestra at The Box Factory. Dave didn't play often with Ed, but he did fill in now and then. It was a couple hours of really good jazz.

Tomorrow afternoon the new windows start going in. It's going to take 2 1/2 days I've been told. I plan to stop by through the day but mom will be here with the dogs. Then I decided on a driveway- cement won and that will start later in the week. No more stones all over the yard......YEAH!

peace, love, groove

PLG girls

2011-04-13T22:47:00.002-04:00

Soooo a group of us have been doing Team Trivia night at The Livery every couple weeks...tonight is our third time....we came in 3rd place and there were more then 3 teams! How fun. Loni, Joni, Lisa, Elisa, Kay, Catherine T and me. Great time! We'll be back there in 2 weeks.

New windows next week and pictures of the back yard mystery to come soon.

peace, love, groove

6 months and catch-up

2011-04-10T09:30:00.006-04:00

Pictures: Ev and me; Phil and his camera; Kris and Mark.

Wow! What a week. I'll now confess I was very busy preparing for a performance with one of Tim King's bands, Friends Jazz Trio. They needed a vocalist for a "prohibition themed" fund raiser the LMC Hospitality program puts on yearly. This was a first for me in a number of years. Something Dave and I talked about doing, never got to it. Boy, I could have used some arrangements from him. We got it together with Tim's help. It was pretty laid back and great fun. Thanks again Tim for thinking of me and giving me the chance. I really hope to do it again.

So, that all took a bit of my time up last week. I also took my old laptop to the Humane Society and updated programs on both (also gave them Dave's old laptop) for them. Last night Tim and Joni came over and we had the first campfire in the back back yard this spring. Lots of work back there for me to start on today. I'll explain later.

Catch-up done- the singing thing and Kris', Dave's sister, b-day lunch (pictures above). Today marks 6 months since Dave's death. I can't believe it's been that long. You're still my favorite person in the whole world Dave.

peace, love, groove

Oberon Time

2011-03-31T19:44:00.002-04:00

This week Bell's Oberon came out for the season. I'm sure some of you haven't heard of Oberon, although it is becoming available nationally. Bell's Brewery is in Kalamazoo Michigan. The owner went to Kalamazoo College and would brew beer in his dorm room. Oberon is my favorite beer ever. It's only available April to October (or so). Every year Dave would talk to me sometime during the first week it was out and say "got you a 6 pack of Oberon baby!" He would be so proud he knew before me. We always went outside and worked in the yard while drinking a beer or two. Oh shit, I'm a wreak. Another first. Let's change subjects.....

So today Tim and Edd came over and cleaned up the upstairs so there's room for window work. They even vacuumed. Thanks Tim and Edd. That's just the way life is.... something ends and something begins.

peace, love, groove

It's cold

2011-03-28T20:57:00.003-04:00

It's cold, really really cold. How come the birds don't freeze? Oh, you don't really have to answer that. I remember last March being warmer. Maybe I was just busier. Its coming up on 6 months since we lost Dave. Hope I can have a campfire and wish I had a couple fireworks. We had a fire last night by the back door. The dogs always have so much fun.

Saturday I went to South Bend with the other Makis and Ev to meet with Al, Mark and Kris for Kris' birthday celebration. We commented on the way home how much we all missed Dave. There are holes that only he would fill. He would always make us all laugh. I find myself more teary these days and reliving those last hours and minutes over and over again. It's like I'm squeezing every memory (happy and sad) out I can. Thanks for the memories Dave- all of them.

peace, love, groove

A week went by....

2011-03-24T17:31:00.002-04:00

So, 3 window estimates and a driveway estimate.... I'm pooped! These were things Dave and I were going to look at doing and then we found out he had cancer. Cancel all projects that aren't necessary. Now they are back on my radar. I should get them completed in the next 3 to 5 weeks. OR I could listen to more estimates and even be paid $100 just to listen. NEVER EVER! First I think 3 window estimates are enough. Second it's exhausting. Put the dogs up, listen to them bark the whole time the salesman is here (mostly Ruthie), try to understand the differences. I feel pretty dang good about my choices. Time to move on. Oh, except now I have to look at window treatments for 5 windows....ugh!

Spring is in the air. The birds are everywhere. The dogs want to play, play, play. I'm taking off the first week of April. It will be good to finish things up and spend some time in the yard. I hope it's warm enough. If it's pleasant...CAMP FIRE!

peace, love, groove

Another anniversary

2011-03-17T21:47:00.002-04:00

Last year Dave made corned beef, cabbage and potatoes on the fire. First thing this means to me...it was fairly warm last year at this time too. Second, we had a camp fire. Third, he was one hell of a cook. Miss him a lot today.

peace, love, groove.

Still more pictures

2011-03-13T13:41:00.003-04:00

This week went fast! No bluebirds yet, but seeing robins around the yard. I think I just finished scanning all of the pictures from the Tribute. There maybe a couple more things. Posting more now. I'm going to play Carcassonne this afternoon. I've also been getting estimates on windows...wow...this is gonna be hard.

peace, love, groove

And the Tribute is almost documented

2011-03-07T20:07:00.003-05:00

I've gotten many of the pictures from posters and the photo video in an album. Take a look. I'm still looking, 'cuz it seems like there were more pictures on the posters. At least it's started. Been on my "list" (to do) for some months now. There are lots of band pictures and memories.

peace, love, groove

Spring is really coming...really

2011-03-06T18:26:00.003-05:00

Pictures: the bluebird house is up; dinner with most of the committee in North Carolina.

Tim and Joni helped a lot this week. First they came over Friday night and Joni and I put up the Bluebird house...I'm a little afraid to look inside...don't think anyone moved in yet. There have been a lot of birds stopping by, I need to learn all of their names. My favs are the cardinals and they come around often. And, I have to admit, we got the X-mas tree in the basement. Tim helped with some computer stuff. Then he came over Saturday and helped me replace the kitchen faucet and finished preparing the old laptops for new homes. I took 2 old printers and Dave's old laptop to the Humane Society. They said their computers are so old and slow and ready to die. Wish I had another one to give them. I'll stop by next week to make sure they got stuff set up.

The new faucet is soooooo great. A little change and I feel like being in the kitchen, so I made a chicken casserole this afternoon. Dave was always a good little marter, he always said the old faucet was okay and didn't need to be replaced.... he "could work with it". The new printer is finally set up for wireless printing and now there's still time to start scanning. First stuff from Dave's Tribute. I'm getting some of the list done and that feels great. Thanks for the continued support. I have to be patient with myself and that is the hardest thing of all (next to missing Dave).

peace, love, groove

Sunny and cold

2011-03-02T19:20:00.003-05:00

Great sun so far this week... and I need to get the Bluebird house out there. At least the birds are really liking the 2 new feeders I got. It's almost spring and I'm looking forward to a little more energy. I get home, check emails and facebook, eat dinner and most nights go to the bedroom to watch TV and read. I have several delusions of grandeur during the day. .... ... i'll get pictures scanned from Dave's tribute, i'll clean the basement, i'll sort through clothes for goodwill...... nada gets done. Well, maybe this weekend. Just happy spring is getting closer and hopefully everything will get completed....some day.

It will be 5 months since Dave died next week. Wow, FIVE MONTHS. Wow.

peace, love, groove

Back to Michigan

2011-02-28T19:05:00.005-05:00

Pictures: Flowers at the hotel; Duke's Chapel; view inside; chapel's organ pipes; seafood dinner; finally got my diet Pepsi; Lee and Jennie at dinner (a little dark)

Home sweet home! I didn't realize how much I needed some sun and warm weather...wow! My biggest issue in North Carolina..the hotel didn't have diet Pepsi. I finally got some Friday night. I was excited to see my niece Jennie, who is learning how to be an organic farmer in North Carolina. We went to dinner Saturday night. Still it was so great to get home Sunday, even with the snow on the ground. I missed my dogs. They are really my heart and soul these days.

Off to North Carolina

2011-02-23T17:34:00.003-05:00

I'm leaving tomorrow am for a WOCN committee meeting in Durham. Reminds me of the song "leaving on a jet plane" but I know I'll be back Sunday afternoon. I don't love to fly. My mom is coming to stay with the dogs and cat. I've never been there and have a niece and some friends that live near. Hope to take lots of pictures and have some fun between our day long meetings. I started a will (just in case). If I forgot you and you want something, just let my mom or Phil know. Isn't that kinda funny? Dave and I never made wills. Now that it's just me I want to make sure the dogs and cat are taken care of. I decided I'd like a small ceremony by the niche with live music when I die. And it would be cool if friends and family wanted to have a fund raiser for the humane society in my name.

I'm still trying to sell my old spinet piano. It was a gift to me when I moved to St Joe in 1973 or so. Dave thought we should take the sound board (is that the correct term?) out and hang it on the wall as art. I don't think my walls would hold it....anyone interested if I don't sell it? Maybe I can find an artist.

I have to finish packing. Thanks to all who follow. It's comforting to know you are all out there.

peace, love, groove

Things that need to stay the same

2011-02-20T13:19:00.003-05:00

Pictures: Last weekend Audrey on the deck; 4 bags of poop and a fire; Nikki enjoying the afternoon.

Lots of sunshine the last 2 weekends. Only 1/2 of the snow melted last weekend, there's very little left now. Friday night I went to shopping with Catherine and got some things I need for my committee meeting next week. I'll be flying to Raleigh, North Carolina Thursday and returning on Sunday. Yesterday I finished up some shopping, cleaning and filling the bird feeders. I got all the x-mas decorations down in front of the house and worked on a Bluebird house. I'm trying to attract Bluebirds.....we'll see. The bad thing about spring coming is all of the winter dog poop. There's no other way to say it, it must be picked up. I also did an hour or so on that with a small fire going. Today I'm going to see the play Anne Frank by the Twin City Players with most of the YaYas, boyfriends and my mom.

Catherine and I talked about some of the things I have to leave in place. Like our phone message, I just can't take Dave's name off. There's things I have to keep.....his cane, some clothing, medicine bag to name a few. I guess I still need them. Lately I've been smelling toasted Cardamom bread in the house. Not sure if its Dave. His mother makes us some every Christmas.

peace, love, groove

Another hump day

2011-02-16T18:22:00.002-05:00

And a book club meeting. This month we read the 2nd book in the Stieg Larsson series. I see why a lot of friends have told me this was there favorite. For you that don't know..I lost my phone Monday. Sue helped after work and finally found it about 20 feet from the back door in the snow. I was inside calling it over and over again... a dog got it, probably Nikki. It works and all is well.

Spring is in the air here. I can't wait to get in the yard and get a couple projects done. It was a good day today. I felt full of love. Thanks Dave.....I just keep thinking it's you.

Valentine's Day

2011-02-13T09:07:00.004-05:00

Pictures: Linda and Mike's rescue- Suky (okay, I don't know how to spell her name, but she's a sweet heart...and she's a relative of Ruthie's)

Another first- Valentine's Day without Dave. Hmmmmmm, well I don't have to get a gift, but I also won't get one. It's not that big of a deal really. Valentine's Day really wasn't a huge thing for Dave and I, although he did give me flowers through the years....mostly roses. I always dried them out and I have them in 2 glass containers which includes the flowers from my wedding bouquet ( or they dried themselves out). Tim came over yesterday and we got Dave's car going again... got it out of the snow, oil change and a new battery. I went through the "junk" Tim took out and found 2 pair of Dave's gloves, some cassette tapes and cigarettes. That made me cry. Isn't that kinda strange? The holiday doesn't bother me, but some of Dave's things .... oh well, it has to be done. Now I have to get a detailing on the car and it's up for sale. It's in the 40s today with occasional wind, I plan to have small fire tonight for Dave.

I went to GR Friday night to see Linda. We made margaritas and ate lots of good food. Just hanging out with her and her three dogs was great fun. It seems sorta strange when I drive to GR now, not long ago I use to be there 2 to 3 times a week.

I made a big pot of chili a couple hours ago and its simmering. Next I'll finish laundry and some cleaning, get the recycling and trash out and then it's chili and a fire for me and the dogs.

peace, love, groove

Wednesday..there's still snow

2011-02-09T17:48:00.002-05:00

I walked in the back back yard Sunday to feed the birds, the snow went easily up to my knees in some areas. We've had sun the last couple days and the roads are melting, but there is still a lot of snow in our yards. I guess it will be a little while before we can have a campfire.

I saw a friend of Dave's today. He has small cell lung cancer..a different kind then Dave had. It was great to see him, however it seems that the fight is never ending. I hope we find more cures soon. I should say- I know we will. I think often of all our friends and hope that everyone is coping, hope they're not keeping it from me if they are sad. Dave was always most worried about his friends and leaving them. I love that about him. He would want me to check on everyone. Maybe I should start doing that.

This weekend I'm going to GR with Beckie to stay with our KCI friend Linda. My mom will come stay with the dogs and cat. Then I need to get serious about watching the rest of the Oscar nominations I haven't seen yet. I think only 2 or 3 major movies are left. Time for dinner.

peace, love, groove

2011-02-07T17:11:00.004-05:00

Pictures: Joni checking her phone; Loni takes a turn with the cheese hat; Tim getting some snacks; Ready for the game- Lester's brought over some Green Bay stuff; Tim's the cheese head; Nancy-Boy eating dog food....again.

So we're showing we were good Green Bay fans. Mark Lester brought us each a shirt or sweatshirt to wear...Tim thought his would be to hot so went for the GQ look.

It's snowing... big fluffy flakes. I'm going over to the neighbors for dinner.

peace, love, groove

A Cat, 4 Guys and the Packers

2011-02-07T07:16:00.002-05:00

Nancy- boy has decided to eat dog food. He's had some now and then, but over the last couple weeks he's eating it more. First, I think he hates the low-cal cat food I bought (he's fat per the Vet). Second, I think it's a territorial thing. It's taken him 2 years to go from the basement, to the back hallway, to the up upstairs, to the bathroom and now the kitchen. The dogs will eat and drink with him and then they'll chase each other to the basement door. The vet says he has to have some cat food because there's an important enzyme in it. We'll have work on that.

We went to see Four Spacious Guys Saturday night. For those of you who don't know, this is part of Mister Edd. Edd, Tim, Mark and Lindsey play more of an unplugged feel. Great to see them all playing. And of course last night was the SUPER BOWL. I'm sure I wrote about this last year, but I'll repeat. We've gone to the other Maki's for Super Bowl Sunday for years... we eat a lot of food and watch the commercials...and a little or a lot of the game. Truly, most of us don't care too much who wins. Last year I was in Florida for a work meeting and missed it (Dave was there). This year we cheered and cheered for Green Bay since they are the Lester's team. It was Super fun and we liked a lot of the commercials too.

I should get going to work. I have pictures that I'll have to post later. Happy Monday!

peace, love, groove

Here's the proof.

2011-02-03T21:08:00.003-05:00

SNOW, SNOW, SNOW!!!!!

Snow...but worse in Chicago and Indiana

2011-02-02T18:46:00.003-05:00

I can't get pictures to post... we had a lot of snow but its okay. Will post pictures tomorrow. I got to work.... very few cars on the road this morning. Our friend Catherine Thomas leaves for Africa tomorrow. Hope she travels safe and has our love surrounding her the whole time. From a snow warning to a very hot climate.....what a journey.

love, peave, groove

Here comes the snow......

2011-02-01T20:21:00.003-05:00

The storm of the decade...or more? Really? Wow. I was in GR today talking about wounds with the nursing students at GVSU. It's my last time. I need to find a replacement. Sunday I went to the Princess Di exhibit. Her crown was AMAZING in person. That and her wedding dress were worth the $. We couldn't take pictures. But, I learned a tip from her. She had weights in her hemlines so they wouldn't blow up too much...I bet someone else thought of that first.

We're snug in bed with a heater keeping us extra toasty. Everyone be safe.

Peace, love, groove

Snow can be fun

2011-01-30T08:49:00.004-05:00

Pictures: hanging out around the table; Ruthie wouldn't mind a drink; snow and more snow; keeping beer cold.

Yesterday was house cleaning day. It was overcast and 36 degrees. Late afternoon I went out in the back back yard with the dogs. Had to shovel some snow away from the back of the gate to get it opened. The dogs had fun running around in the fresh snow. If we had some wood I could have had a small fire. Maybe next weekend.

peace, love, groove

Last weekend in January

2011-01-28T18:50:00.002-05:00

And the sun was out....big time. Last night I went to Papa Vino's with some nursing/Lakeland friends. Tonight I came home from work and enjoyed a little sun. I cleaned the snow off the front porch. Felt good to get some sunlight. The dogs enjoyed it too. I'll probably clean this weekend and hopefully get the Christmas tree in the basement. Sunday I'm going to go see the Princess Di exhibit in GR. I hear I can't take pictures....so you'll have to imagine it.

Moments to remember:

1- Last weekend I was asked what inspired Dave to play music. Tearfully I recalled the day I came home to find Dave listening to his favorite Chick Corea song crying. He told me he was picking out music for his funeral. I think what moved him most was the music itself. A good melody and performance would bring him to tears....tears of joy and respect. The same tears I try to have for him now.

2- Last night my friend Julie got teared up remembering Dave's last days and how she got to know our friend Catherine Thomas. We talked about his last car ride which was with Catherine. How lucky we've been to know and love so many wonderful friends. Thank you.

peace, love, groove

Camp Fire #2- Wed. night with the dogs and the birds

2011-01-28T07:13:00.004-05:00

Pictures: Ice cycle; keeping a beer cold by the fire; Ruthie watching; Ruthie thinks it's still to cold; it's a fire night!

Wednesday after work it was time to feed the birds. I had to walk through some snow to get to all of the bird feeders. It was a clear quiet night, so why not start a fire too! Toward the end of the fire, a fine light snow started falling. The peacefulness of a winter's night.

peace, love, groove

Beauty comes from the outside too

2011-01-24T19:05:00.003-05:00

Pictures: the groomers van; Audrey is beautiful; so is Nikki; Dave wrote on the basement wall almost 14 years ago.

So the sump pump also got fixed this weekend and the dogs got pretty. Tim fixed the sump pump Friday afternoon. I think he needs to write on the wall next to Dave. The groomer came by Sunday morning. Audrey probably lost about 5 lbs of hair. She is so pretty now, they all are. I got my hair cut today, so we're all feeling chipper. Back to work tomorrow. I'm starting to get caught up on a lot of messages and stuff...feels good.

I went by Dave's niche today. It was very peaceful. Just wanted to say hi.

peace, love, groove.

Weekend fun?

2011-01-23T10:11:00.006-05:00

Pictures: Carcassonne Friday night at the Mierau's house; Lindsey and Sue; there's a dragon out there; Joni; Lucas and Lindsey; Tim, Joni and Kay looking through pictures and memories; Tim thinks he knows about this one; Dinner at Ban Thai- Dave, Tim, Joni, Elisa, Catherine, and Kay; more fun at the Pump House- Lee, Dave, Catherine, Kay and Elisa; Tom says hi; Lee and PK; Pink Freud; Pink Freud; Elisa and Kay; Julie and Lee.

Friday night we (Tim, Joni, Lindsey, Sue and me) played Carcassonne and had homemade pizza at the Mierau's. Their son Lucas joined us, great to have a young man hang out with a older generation. Saturday afternoon we got together and went through pictures of Dave on the road with Spectrum. It was very fun to talk about old memories. Dinner at Ban Thai- one of Dave's favorites. They don't serve alcohol, so we went downtown to the Pump House for a couple cocktails.... well I had beer. The owner, Tom, sat and talked with us for a few minutes. I haven't seen him since Dave's Tribute. It was nice to visit. The next idea was to step down to Czar's 505. I don't remember for sure the last time I was there but I think it was last summer with Dave. Pink Freud, from Chicago, was playing and they were good friends of Dave's. It was nice to see some other friends there too- PK, Julie and more. The band was happy I said hi, bought me a shot and we talked about Dave for a little while. Dave thought they were stopping the band. They added a girl singer and have kept it going. Fun band. If you didn't guess, they play all Pink Floyd music.

Audrey is getting her bath right now. I'll take a picture of the van, it's very cool. More later.

peace, love, groove

Last Thursday night

2011-01-21T08:00:00.002-05:00

Pictures: Lace Reader book and lace iced cake; Jazz at the Bistro

Busy week for me. Book club on Wednesday night. We read "The Lace Reader" this month. I liked it and bought the author's next book. I'm using the iPad to read as much as possible now, but need to figure out if I can add some notes. Last night Joni, the other Makis, the Lesters and Liz went to hear Tim's jazz trio at The Bistro downtown St. Joe. It's really Ed Bagitinni's trio. Anyway, they've played there Thursday nights for quite awhile. This was the last one. The music will now be on Friday nights and jazz will only be once a month. Bummer. I took a long weekend with today and Monday off. The main projects are: getting the X-mas stuff put away and organized and getting pictures and memories of Dave organized. I'm just a little organizer this weekend!

There was a house mystery this week. I thought I could smell burning rubber or something in the back hallway since last weekend. I was feeling the walls, afraid that some electrical wires were too hot...okay that was probably silly. Then yesterday I thought maybe Nancy-Boy was trying to tell me something. He's been very vocal (compared to normal) and wanting me to come downstairs in the basement. Then he would just meow at me. So I realized the smell was from the basement. It was.........................the sump pump. I guess the motor burned out. Unplugged it and Tim will help me replace it this weekend. I told him...Dave put in the last one, our second since we've lived here, and it wasn't really done right. I kinda coerced him into it. Dave could fix things around the house, but not always perfectly. It worked for at least 3 years...good enough for me.

It's snowing here and very cold. Our house is warm and so are our hearts. Hope you all stay warm too.

peace, love, groove