Sunday Chat...Self Reflection...

 

Time: 8:20 AM

Scene: 40* and sunny.

Drinking: 2nd cup of coffee with Italian Creamer.

Reflecting on...

--35 years ago today, Dec. 31, 1988, I married my best friend. All these years and he has stuck it out with me, knowing I am the most difficult person in the world to live with. Financial hardships, Cancer, Stroke, multiple health issues/surgeries and even the passing of our son, he has remained the foundation to which our relationship stands on. Not many people may understand that/this, but he truly is wonderful person who loves me unconditionally and I him. It sure doesn't feel like 35 years...

--The Pandora box that was sitting on my makeup table...

or what was in it...

couldn't quite capture it.

Mickey Mouse ears-a charm for my Pandora bracelet.

not my photo, off of Disney's Pandora site.

Disney is retiring this charm, so says the husband, He said he was torn by so many beautiful charms but since I am an 'unusual person' he chose this one...his words not mind.

--My 2023 Word of the Year...

Ah, yes...Persistence...the word sure fit me. It's funny how words seem to pick the people, or the words are entrusted to us. I take it/ this very seriously...No sooner than I think the word fits me, but then another word comes along. I have changed my 2024 word 2 times...actually, the previous 2 times, it was not speaking to me, weird, I know. The 3rd time, I heard it loud and clear. Stay tuned folks...tomorrow is the big reveal.

--thinking...about that reflection in the mirror. I might see something totally different than what others see. Well, ain't that truth, right? Referring back to the anniversary thing; I am no longer that carefree beautiful girl with hair down to my rear that I was. But my husband, bless him, he still sees that beautiful girl. And on that reflecting, that is why I don't like my photo taken, it's hard to see the hardships that I have endured thru the 56 years of being on this Earth and to which I am reminded from family that I am no longer that 'beautiful girl'...oh yes friends, body image has always been an issue. I struggle with it every day.  Just.Keeping.It.Real.

However, it is a slow process to learn to love oneself...so, here is a start to a brand-new year. Wishing you a very Happy New Year. Stay safe my friends.

P.S. Yep, still dragging from our adventure on Friday...I might have even taken a 3-hour nap yesterday, lol. I ain't saying nothing, because the husband did too. lol

Currently...dragging

 

Currently...

The weather has been darn right cold here. It is currently 43* and sunny. Gonna warm up to a balmy 60*. 

Yesterday...we went to Epcot with our friends and their daughter (our Goddaughter). She works for Disney and gets passes (actually she can get passes at any time). It was bitter cold and very windy. Not complaining, but by afternoon I was personally ready to go. We didn't leave until closing; 9:30. I am not much of a crowd person. Honestly, I realized I was not that young anymore to be doing all that walking etc.

Moracco

We had breakfast in France, lunch in Moracco, dinner in America (blackened catfish, rice and greens), late evening snack in Italy (pizza) among other places. I haven't a clue on what we had in Moracco, but it was good-I do know the dishes consisted of lamb. I also had some amazing hot tea there. Of course, we had dinner and snacks all through the day from other countries. Our passes included meals. Did you know Disney employs people from around the world to come work at Epcot? Yep.  All the countries had people from the respectful countries. I have to tell you; Japan & China had the yummiest of smells. I wanted noodles (or whatever it's called) but I was overruled. We did have Violet Sake in Japan though

 I highly recommend that. I sort of kind of like forgot to take photos throughout the day. Ok, I did forget to take photos. I do believe my husband did, but I haven't looked on his phone etc. I did buy some fresh ground coffee from France; Maison Taillefer. It is very good, made a pot this morning.

I am relieved...to be home. Every bone in my body hurts, hubby said the same thing. The swelling has gone in my foot...I did wear a soft cast yesterday, which made it difficult to keep up with others...Hubby is wanting me to get a second opinion...

Thinking Random Thoughts:

--I saw my husband in the Pandora store in France or was it Norway? Hmm...It is rumored he bought a charm for my bracelet. We shall see, our 35th anniversary is tomorrow.

-- We went to a perfume store in France & Italy; oolalalala---and a sticker shock, to my husband from me: You pay how much for my perfume? Yeah...I know how much, but it was still a shock, LOL.

--We need to get around. We have to get haircuts today and head over to Walmart. But do you see either of moving at 9 am? NOPE. ((Grin))

---I am looking forward to: I have my eye exam Wed. I am looking forward to getting new glasses.

---I don't go back to work until Wednesday. Thinking the Christmas stuff will come down in the next day or two, so hubby said.

---Thinking we never made it over to Disney yesterday, no worries our passes are good until Dec. 29, 2024.

Random Smile/Thought:

It's a little too cold (at least for Florida standards, lol) for the beach right now. Have a beautiful day all.

Tuesday Meme...

 Good morning from a soggy humid Florida. It rained pretty much all day...I did not have a great hair day yesterday---sigh...nonetheless, Pamela and John welcomed us into their home and hearts. smiles---we will actually see them again in a couple of weeks. shh...it's a secret on why. grin

Hello Friends and Happy Holidays to you all.   

1. What are you doing New Years Eve and New Year's Day?

New Years Eve is our 35th wedding anniversary. Usually, we go out to lunch. But since we are heading to Epcot on Friday, we prob. won't do anything.

2. Do you have any New Year traditions? Rose Parade? Mummers? Football games or parties?

Nope. I think hubby said he was going to make some collard greens and bacon...so prob. that.

P.S. What's Mummers?

3. Is the day after Christmas a bit of a letdown or do you continue to be merry and bright?

I am trying to be merry and brights, but it is sort of a letdown...no reason etc... we had a fabulous time with Pamela and John and their family. But I am just ready to put all the decorations away, clean the house and start fresh. Which got a harsh NO from hubby. So, yeah. No it is.

4.  Do you have anything in mind for the new year and do you start off the new year with high hopes and expectations?

I always have high hopes and expectations, But I also live by this adage, want to make God laugh tell Him YOUR plans.

will be upon us soon and so will my 2024 Word for the year. It's back to work tomorrow for 2 days and then Friday we are off to Epcot and another 5 days off. Wishing you all a beautiful day.

P.S. I really need more coffee, grin.

Day 24...

 

TIME: 7:40 AM

SCENE: All is quiet on the southern front; 56* and cloudy. Rain moving in later today and 100% for tomorrow. 

Drinking: My first cup of Maxwell Coffee with Italian Sweet Creamer.

What's on Tap for the Day?

I have to get the lasagna going for tomorrow. The sauce needs to cook for a few hours.

Homemade Pepperoni, sausage, mushroom Pizza for tonight.

Thinking:

---what is going on this region of the world. Our local mall had a shooting yesterday; 1 person killed multiple people shot. In little old Ocala, Florida. It made Fox News, of course it did, slow news day.

---I still got it (surprise!)...Friday we went down to our favorite secondhand store Bargains and Treasures in Oxford/The Villages. My hubby has been wanting a bar to keep all his bottles and glassware's in etc. It' s really nice piece, the drawer slides in and out etc. Plenty of room for bottles etc. Merry Christmas. Him, "I got an alert for your credit card, you never use it. I wondered what you bought for a $100 because I didn't see you leave with anything."

---Thinking how is it Christmas already? Didn't we just have Halloween? Gosh, I'm getting old.

---it sure felt good not to do a darn thing yesterday, I might have even taken a nap. grin.

---thinking how we have come a long way from when we first moved back here; most of our furniture is from secondhand stores etc. Blessed is the word/feeling.

---looking forward to fellowshipping with friends tomorrow for Christmas (grin).

Currently...

 

Currently...

It's *56 and sunny. Suppose to be 75*. Rain will be moving in on Monday.

Thinking...I forgot a few things from the grocery store yesterday and need to head back out today. Not really wanting too...We also decided to make our own pizza tomorrow. Also thinking, the Ortho Institute here in Ocala doesn't know what they are talking about, my husband thinks they have missed something regarding my right foot he thinks its broken not arthritis. I told him I saw the x-rays, he said, an expletive (BS). LOL---So maybe I ought to get a second opinion. The pain is unbearable. I got those x-rays months ago and the dr. said to just live with it etc, pretty much.

Reading...still

Looking forward to...heading over to Pamela & John's house Monday.

Still waiting...for a package to arrive...let's just say the postal service is working overtime or is it notworking at all? lol--my husband said he wanted Lume for Men, which is called Mando. That was 2 weeks ago I ordered it and was shipped. 

Disappointed in my family, there I said it. It is bordering probably on anger which so far, I managed to control.

Some funnies for you...

Have beautiful day all. Going to make sloppy joes for dinner tonight. I forgot the buns, lol.

P.S. On second thought, hubby said we are staying in...we will eat sloppy joes with bread. lol---he's not liking the swelling in my foot.

Day 22...Meme's

 I have a glorious 5 days off...so how about some Meme's for Day

Christmas is next week...Let's talk a bit about it, okay?

1. Are you excited for Christmas to come?

Sure...not as excited as for when our son was still here...but still excited.

2. What do you look forward to on Christmas?

Well, this year we are spending our Christmas Day with our sweet friends Pamela and John and their family. So, fellowship, smiles...my husband and John get along really well and enjoy each other's company...and we get along with their son and daughter in love...and I am hoping to meet their other son, Scott and their friend Pamela who is also coming for dinner/lunch.

3. What will Christmas Eve find you doing?

Nothing...going to get pizza, hopefully. I have to make some calls to see if this particular place is open.

4. What will be on the menu for Christmas?  

Well, since I already mentioned we are going to Pam and John's, Lasagna. It seems we both our making it, LOL. 

Since Christmas will come before the next Tuesday 4, I wish you a blessed and very merry Christmas. 

1. Did you do more talking or more listening yesterday? Was it by choice or by necessity?

My grandpa taught me to people watch...so listening. I rather be a wallflower than be the social butterfly--and if I am the social butterfly, which is rare, I have to know you and rarely allow people in.  (did I answer that question?) 

2. Are you a tea drinker? Yes.

Hot, cold, or both? Both Flavored? I like Earl or Lady Grey, English Morning...although my husband did buy Pumpkin Spice and it's really good.  What do you like in your tea? A bit of sugar and cream. Do you make Christmas tea this time of year? No What time of day do you like to sip your tea? morning or midafternoon.

3. What's an activity you won't try, an event you won't attend, or an athletic challenge you won't take part in not even for 'all the tea in China'? 

Nothing too strenuous or athletic because of these arthritic bones...the last couple of days have been miserable due to the sudden temp change to bitter cold here in Florida. Miserable. My poor feet have had enough. 

4. What's something most people seem to love but is not 'your cup of tea'? 

The Bachelor

5. How does your family celebrate New Year's Eve? 

That is our wedding anniversary. So, usually we get lunch and then come home. Next Friday the 29th, we are going to Epcot (oy my feet).

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

The workplace Christmas party / gift exchange was yesterday, and it was nice. More on that later, I haven't taken the photos of what my Secret Santa got me. I was pleasantly surprised on who my Secret Santa was, she and I get along etc. sharing a milestone; both of us have sons who passed. She and I have become fast friends these last several months. ANYWAYS, another touching moment when a fellow coworker who is leaving to go to another institution, came clean on the fact he was putting things in my mailbox/slot. Mr. Ray is from Cambodia (or is it the Philippines? can't rightly remember), anyways, he was our IT Tech. Not many people get along with him, apparently, I am pretty much the only one. ANYWAYS, he said, and I quote in a very thick accent I might add, "Ms. Conley I want to thank you for the kindness you have shown me since you started here. You have managed to make me laugh and I just wanted to show you how much you are thought of and loved. My apologies if that sounds odd, please don't think anything personal of that comment. And remember, it's always pilot error!" He always claims pilot error when I have computer issues LOLOL--so, it was not my Secret Santa that was leaving things, he actually told her not too. lolol--so she has been as sneaky as he. I shall miss Ray...he was the best IT guy I know. Alot of folks did not get along with him, he can be very abrupt and rude, but that man works sometimes 20 hrs a day to ensure our computers are up and running. I never ever allowed him to be rude to me etc...and actually, one day when he was --I blurted out, something along the lines, "What's got your panties in a twist?" LOLOL---and a nearly 2 yr friendship developed. Plus, he would take my lunch (always replacing it with something else, lol). Whenever I saw him, I would yell "RAY!!! WHAT'S UP!!" He would just roll his eyes and say, "Ms. Conley you're not right." LOLOLOLOL

A bit of kindness can go a long way, just saying...speaking of kindness, I received a card with a gift card, quite caught off guard by it. my Secret Santa said this person wanted this card in my basket (my Secret Santa made a beautiful gift basket for my gift-- filled of things)...it seems I have touched many folks...I am flabbergasted...not that I am tooting my own horn...but I am just flabbergasted. I have been training the asst. wardens former secretary who has been with the institution for over 30 years. Ms. O moved into our department (she is on the downside of retirement and wanted a less stressful job). More on these gifts later...so that is my thought for the day...one just never knows about kindness and how it touches people's lives. Can I get an 

But, in reality, I am the one who is touched by all this...my husband, "How's come you're not this nice at home?" LOLOLOLOL--

Day 17-Sunday Stealing...

 

Joining in on the Sunday Stealing; stolen from Annie because she was the first updated post to show up on my list.

What's the best Christmas gift you ever received? I have loved all my Christmas gifts. I think though the most special one was 2 yrs ago, Liam had passed away on Dec. 11, and he had left Christmas presents under the tree (prob saying all this backwards). I was not in a good place then/for that Christmas season...but that kid, he sure knew how to make people smile. I will also add, I am constantly hurt by family who never really appreciated the gifts that were given. Which in turn, made me a different person -mom.

What is the worst Christmas present you ever received? I don't think I have ever received a bad present. I have loved and cherished everything.

Do you have a favorite Christmas song? Little Drummer Boy.

Does your family have any favorite holiday traditions? Growing up, my mom and grandparents used to have parties...anyways, when I got married and moved away, we accidently started our own. I have told this before; we had been driving back to our apartment on Christmas Eve and were hit broadsided by the Hudson, NY police chief's girlfriend who didn't stop at a stop sigh...the roads were wet and snowy. ANYWAYS, nothing was open and so while waiting for the cops etc. to get there, we simply walked over to a pizza place that was open (kismet) and got pizza. So, that started a new tradition, pizza on Christmas Eve. It's been that way since 1988. It has always just been just us and when we had Liam, it became 3. Now we are back to 2.

Christmas Day has always been Lasagna. This year, we are joining dear friends for lunch at their home. A new thing, we never travel on Christmas. 

What is your favorite Christmas snack? Cookies. I love cookies.

Did you believe in Santa growing up? Wait, there isn't?

How early do you start decorating? Hubby did most of it, and he started like a few days after Thanksgiving. That's his thing, he likes doing it. So, I gladly handed it over.

Are you an early or last-minute shopper? It always depended on when we got paid etc. I finished up yesterday, so late.

Would you rather give or receive gifts? I rather give. I went over the $25 budget for the secret Santa at work. Not that I am tooting my own horn, but we have mailboxes and I have been leaving little things in her box. I don't like constraints on me, if I see or think of something, I just do it. I also believe in the adage, what goes around, comes around...

What is your favorite Christmas movie?

Do you open any Christmas presents on Christmas Eve? No...but hubby said he was going to this year. 

I am afraid, after visiting my folks yesterday, my Christmas spirit is now near empty. They actually made it perfectly clear on where I stood on the proverbial totem pole (not repeating what was said). Thank you very much for the 56 years of being on this Earthly plain, that will be all. I was dismissed.

Remembering whose true daughter, I am...as for the radio issue, I have no issue with turning it down etc. actually, you really can't hear it if one steps away from my desk...the funny thing is, the person who is causing issues, is also playing Christmas music, yep. And very loudly. But I do not complain, it doesn't bother me...this person is rather loud/boisterous anyways. As for the in-law situation, sigh, that will be another discussion for another day. The realtor never showed up Friday, so we both agree, if it's in God's plan, it's in his plan, my husband's favorite saying is, "You want to make God laugh? Tell him your plan(s)." They simply cannot afford to live up there anymore due to the high taxes, and both of them need care and better doctors (he/mil's husband has been in and out of the hospital for various reasons these past 2 weeks, 2 of those reasons, he fell) to which Florida can provide all of that. Not one single family member is offering to help etc...and since we the court approved caregiver etc, we have to make those tough calls.

I am close to choosing a 2024 word...actually, I believe it's being chosen for me.

Day 16...

 Zipping right along thru the week...mean to post every morning, but I am afraid I didn't for whatever reason.

Linking back to Stacy for the Currently Meme...

The Weather...apparently Florida is under some sort of tropical low that is coming in from the Gulf. Expecting 3-6 inches of rainfall the next 24 hrs. It's currently 61* and not supposed to get above 69* today. Suppose to start raining soon.

Reading...nothing at the moment. I do have a book in waiting.

Watching...nothing right now but we did watch a funny movie last night (that turned serious) "Girlfriends of Christmas Past."

Thinking...something my boss/supervisor told me

we are having issues in our office with a bully who keeps walking up and turning the station on my radio that sits on my desk. Just because she doesn't like Christmas music. Ooooo look at all those "my's"...anyways, I came up with a solution, the mornings shall play Christmas and the afternoons (after lunch) it will be other music. ANYWAYS, my supervisor told me to put on my crown because being a child of God, and don't let anyone steal my joy, period. 1 week to Christmas folks. Deal with it.

...we have to get out and about today and do some Christmas shopping. Our Secret Santa party is Thursday at work. So, regardless of the weather we gotta get out and about.

...surprise...we are putting my mil's house up for sale, as they are now in the need of 24/7 care. they will be moved down here and put into a apt. SHE IS BEING QUITE DIFFICULT. Zip it, Linda.

Looking forward to... 4 days off soon and then again for New Years.

Just being silly...

I might be doing this, lol. But to no avail, they don't send me home lol. I am that annoying person.

ok, ok...I better leave you now. Have beautiful day all.

Day 12...Tuesday Meme...

 Good morning from a chilly Florida and thank you for the lovely comments yesterday.

It's the giving season and people are shopping for presents for people they love.  Can we talk a bit about it?

1. Do you enjoy shopping for gifts at the holidays? Why or why not?

I use too...but now, gift cards are what I do. But we are doing a Secret Santa at work, and I am having fun doing that.

2. Is the price of things putting a damper on buying this year?

Yes and no...my list is way down from who/m I use to shop for. Not really the Grinch, but close. lol

3. Do you shop online or in stores and why do you choose that way to shop?

I do both...but like I said, I think gift cards are the way to go.

4. Which people do you find hard to select gifts for and what do you do when you just have no clue!

Again, gift cards...and that would be my husband. He has not told me what he wants and it's frustrating me.

I got to get going...I know my answers are short, lol. Gotta' scoot to work. Have a beautiful day all.

Day 11...brings sorrow

 

will always bring sorrow to our hearts. 2 years today our 24-year-old son suddenly passed away.

He was such joy to us. Smart, funny, loving, strong, loved God and his Son etc...if I could only hear "Hey Mom"...one more time. Looking back at this photo, now his one uncle is gone too (my husband's brother on the left). In memoriam to my baby boy blue...

No matter how sad we are, It brings much comfort to know where he is...safely in our Lord's arms.

Day 10 Sunday Chat...

TIME: Nearly 8 am

SCENE: 62*, Humidity is 100%, dewpoint is 62*. 100% chance of rain today, fine by me, we need.

DRINKING: fixin' to get a second cup of Maxwell House Coffee with Peppermint Bark Creamer.

WHAT'S ON TAP FOR THE DAY?

--prob. laundry.

--I had planned chicken and rice yesterday but didn't get to it, we were out and about and had a hamburger from the Metro Diner. So, chicken and rice for dinner tonight (since the chicken is thawed out).

--Sort through my closet and unopened boxes from when we moved...yeah, still haven't done that. Need to find certain things and get a bag or two going to Goodwill.

THINKING:

--my dad is sick with the new Resp. virus. Been sick for 2 weeks now. Not doing good. So, that is on my mind. No visitors allowed etc. mom is keeping a tight ship on that front. She doesn't sound so good herself. Hard to realize we are all getting up in age...

--about the next few weeks...my eye appt. got moved to Jan. 3. They were overbooked and honestly, I didn't feel like waiting...

--how busy work is going to be until Jan. 

--one more day of this blasted humidity. Then the temps drop with highs in the 60's and lows in the 40's.

can't stress that enough...we were in Marshalls and a few other places yesterday and the folks in general were just plain mean and this "me" attitude. Pushing, shoving, cart hitting...I told hubby enough was enough...folks, slow down and take in the season...giving isn't about (or shouldn't be) about the "Have To's". I used to enjoy being in the shops/stores, not anymore. Horrible...and what is with folks not smiling anymore? Oh, and the music is so loud, Hobby Lobby was the worse, I think. Sensory overload really.

Day 9 Meme Filled...

 Good morning from Florida where our central ac blew up (heard that right) Thursday. I don't want to talk about it---things will have to get financially moved around etc. for a new unit come spring. Right now, no ac and no heat. Moving along...

Welcome, welcome to Toni Taddeo's Tuesday 4 where we sometimes like to be very silly. December is a fun month filled with expectation and hope. We should be lighthearted and thankful as the month progresses. What do you think?

Let's be lighthearted today and ask some not so serious questions, shall we?

1. What is the dumbest rule you've ever had to follow?

Hmm...have to think on this one...I follow rules every day, but none are dumb.

2. What is the weirdest or funniest thing a guest ever did/said in your home?

I wouldn't say funny or weird, but my brother and his friends came up to Alabama (where we were living at the time) for a football game, and we had those magnetic letters on the fridge, and they (my brother) spelled out bad words. My husband was NOT amused. 

3. If you had a warning label what would it say?

and

4. What is the first thing you must do in case of a Snoopy/Charlie Brown Apocalypse?  Who is the first person you call for advice when that happens? (Imagine that the characters of Charlie Brown series take over the world! What do you do as your first move? Who would you call for advice on how to live in that world?)

Umm...Snoopy of course, don't you know he is a famous WW2 bomber pilot. LOLOLOL

1. What's one fun thing on your December calendar? 

I was going to say Epcot...but with the AC going kaput, I just don't know. At this point, I am just in survival mode.

2. Sherwin William's Color of the Year for 2024 is Upward, described as 'a hint of silver lining', 'a breezy blissful blue' (see sample here). Benjamin Moore's Color of the Year for 2024 is Blue Nova, where 'violet and blue come together in a sumptuous hue'. (see sample here) Valspar's Color of the Year for 2024 is Renew Blue, a balanced blue with a touch of grayed sea -green' (see sample here). 

Seems like the design world is keen on the color blue for the new year. Do you have a lot of blue in your home decor currently? Nope. Sure don't.

What shade? Of the three colors listed which one's your favorite? I like all of them and refuse to choose. 

Do you need to paint? How likely is it you'd select one of these shades for your home? Which one? I like Upward.

3. Do you struggle with 'the seasonal blues'? What are some things you do to try to beat the blues? 

We live in Florida so I would say it's sunny most of the time. But I do like change of seasons, and cooler weather. It's not so much seasonal blues, it's more like melancholy.

4. Blue jeans...love 'em or no? How many pair do you own? Are you married to a particular brand? 

I have several pairs of brands. My current favorite ones are by Lincoln Outfitter straight leg, I get them from Rural King. I have them in black, white and the normal blue jean. I can get away with wearing the black and white for work.

5. In terms of holiday preparation (baking, shopping, wrapping, mailing, meal planning, etc) how far along are you? 1=haven't given it a second thought, 10=nothing left to do but wait. 

Umm...1. Since the mash up with the ac--yeah...zip. (***I AM OK FOLKS, JUST BUMMED. IT WILL BE OK. It will just take a couple of months of saving and scrimping) I get paid next week, so I will do some shopping then. AND NO, I will not contribute this pay period to the ac fund. 

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

The powers that be have decided to do a Secret Santa this year at work/in our department-there is 26 of us...last year was a White Elephant. I gather folks weren't happy about that--I thought it was fun. ANYWAYS...we drew names...I don't know much about the person I picked...although we all did fill out info sheets. Look what my Secret Santa left in my mailbox at work:

1/2 Moon Angel. Cute. I also have been getting office items: erasers, white out etc. LOL---Our $25 limit gift exchange is on Dec. 21. But we are allowed to leave little things in our mailboxes. I have been leaving mine Keurig Pods and chocolate. There are 4 of us with Keurig's and majority of us have candy on our desks...trying to be sneaky is proving to be hard. As cameras are everywhere and certain things one cannot bring in. Anyway, it has been fun. We also have new bosses; a new asst. warden and a new supervisor where I work...but nice ladies...tough and all business...and that is what we need. Had a nice conversation with the asst. warden yesterday. I like her. Changes are a coming people, hang on tight...

I have to go get my eyes checked and new glasses ordered today. Gotta use my benefit(s) before the first of the year. I am also taking Monday off, which is our sons 2nd anniversary of his passing.