As Funk promised as mayor, he took up the large majority of the street plates that were lining Kansas City’s roads. And this, because it’s what citizens stated they wanted. Well, it seems they’re back! ( http://kcmo.gov/news/2015/city-auditors-office-makes-recommendations-to-improve-compliance-with-street-plate-requirements/ ) But here’s a pretty picture of a rose that I saw on my walk the other day, just to keep things balanced!

At the airport. Exactly one month from today, I am side-stepping my fear of flying and getting on an airplane. This is me preparing for the journey. (The reason, to keep a sibling company as they receive holistic medical treatment.)

Christmas in my childhood town of Bethpage, New York. I forgot why I used to be so excited by the holidays, but then I went back the other night to meet up with friend and remembered why. The town and the homeowners make everything so festive! My childhood self didn’t know she had an “It’s A Wonderful Life” setting in her own backyard.

The Ceil Place Girls. It’s comforting and fun to have long a long history with friends. Starting from the left is Donna, who I’ve known since we went to catechism together; Alice and her twin Angela on the far right, since 7th grade; and sweet Marie, part of a threesome (with Laurie Rooney) in 6th grade. We girls chatted non-stop for 5 hours, immersed in the beautiful Bethpage holiday decorations coming in through the window, reviving long-forgotten memories.

The Three Brothers, at the Acoma Roofing Christmas Party – the business my father started back in the 50’s. Oh, and BTW, those are my reading glasses on the top of my baby brother’s head. He had to borrow them to see the names of the bonuses he was about to give out. But since he can’t see, he doesn’t realize they’re decorated with rhinestones, and of course, I didn’t tell him. (Robert-67, Steven-64, and Santis-double nickels, Squitiro).

My mother’s 90th birthday cake at her big 90th birthday shindig bash! Such an accomplishment!! She shouldn’t even be here – she had colon cancer when I was pregnant with the Princess (Tara)!!!