I really don’t want summer to end bc I truly savor the outdoor swims, the sunsets, the ice cream, the adventures and comfy sandals. I’m also so well aware that everything is temporary, our time here is finite and a new season is another year in the books. I made this little movie so that I can play it in January – lol. Presenting the movie -The Summer of 2018- It was a hot one.

It was one of those summers that you needed to water the annual flowers almost daily. It was one for having AC. But it was also one filled with gifts of love and experiences. It was a big High School reunion for us. I certainly enjoyed reliving the glory days of running for Homecoming Queen. Oh how I enjoyed connecting with my high school buddies. So much to be grateful for.

Traveling to Montreal and Quebec (even though we were there two years ago) always makes you appreciate the area. Founded by the Catholic French Canadians, the Basilicas and Churches are out of this world. Isn’t that the purpose of a church to take us to another world called eternity?

Our daughter Caroline bought a new puppy she named Winnie (After Natalie’s love of Winnie The Pooh.) She is adorable -part Standard Poodle and part Wheaton Terrier. Dog gone it, we are dog crazy.

Our appreciation to the Buffalo PAL continues and the legacy of our daughter Natalie continues through others in the program. When you live selflessly, truly do for others – set examples – your kindness endures forever.

The trip to NYC and DC was deeply emotional. We really walked the grounds of the brave, courageous ones before us. Just visiting the Great Hall at Ellis Island where our ancestors arrived tired, unemployed, broke and hungry but willing to risk it all for the promise of a better future made us pause to give thanks.

The tour of 9/11 museum and memorial is such an extraordinary exhibit. It can happen to any of us on any given day rang through to us all.

We visited California for a family wedding and being together with my 3 sisters was a special time. The two California sisters always like to come back here to visit so to see them on their turf gave a peak into their lives. I realized I had not been out there in nine years. Weddings are such wonderful times to connect.

My greatest gift this summer was a song my cousin Joe Mattimore wrote the lyrics and music to ..the Kindness Song.

I can’t wait to get it out there. We all need constant reminders.

Sincerely, Trish