Signposts Along the Way: Signpost 5 – Jim, Dad & The Boss: Part 2 of 3

14 Mar

Dad’s father disapproved of the marriage. He thought that if anything happened to my father during the war that his military death benefit would go to my mom instead of him. He was so against their marriage that he banned … Continue Reading

Signposts Along the Way: Signpost 5 – Jim, Dad & The Boss: Part 1 of 3

7 Mar

My father, Jim, was the black sheep of eight kids. Raised in the Bronx, NY, shortly after the Great Depression, dad had to make his own way in life. His father’s strict and dominating nature had a profound impact on … Continue Reading

Signposts Along the Way: Signpost 4 – The End of an Era: Part 2 of 2

22 Feb

While at home the following Sunday afternoon, just as the raviolis were boiling, Mr. Dodgie called me. He tried to compose himself, but had a hard time completing his sentences without stammering. “I don’t know what to say” he began. … Continue Reading

Signposts Along the Way: Signpost 4 – The End of an Era: Part 1 of 2

15 Feb

The next pool season, our 7th, was on the horizon, but not without troubles. This time it was with the property where the store was located. Due to some tax issues, we were being forced to move our business. This … Continue Reading

Signposts Along the Way: Signpost 3 – Arnie’s Hat

8 Feb

Our pool business constantly received deliveries to sustain inventories and the repair needs of our customers. The influx of new buyers caused us to be busier than ever. As our business grew so did our deliveries. One of our regular … Continue Reading

Signposts Along the Way: Signpost 2 – Grandma’s Blessing

18 Jan

A few weeks later, I had the sudden urge to visit to my 80 year old, Italian grandmother. Grandma, who lived with my mom, was from the old country and loved to have visits. She would formally receive us at … Continue Reading

Signposts Along the Way: Signpost 1 – “Expect A Miracle!”

11 Jan

Life became more hectic as our family went into the 6th season of our pool company. Although a successful business, we were being taxed in every way possible. Some recent property and sales decisions had left us cash poor. We … Continue Reading

Signposts Along The Way – How It All Began

4 Jan

Over thirty years have passed since No Hungry Hearts For Christmas took place during that miraculous Christmas of 1977. While helping those kids, I realized that something wonderful flowed through me. Full of life and unspeakable joy, I knew it … Continue Reading

No Hungry Hearts For Christmas – Part 4 of 4

24 Dec

Part 4

The countdown had begun.

Only two days until Christmas and there were still miracles taking place. That morning, while opening my mail, the phone rang.  I answered and was quickly greeted by Sister Marta’s excited voice.

“You’ll … Continue Reading

No Hungry Hearts For Christmas – Part 3 of 4

23 Dec

Part 3…

What was Christmas without the traditional cookies?

I remember my mom and grandma pouring over recipes that they only pulled out during this time of year.

We all had favorites, especially the Italian Biscotti and Sesame cookies.  Special … Continue Reading