Autumn Reflections

To everything there is a season
And a time for every purpose under Heaven…
I find myself transfixed in time and space



Having slipped from the summer of adulthood
That long, seemingly endless chasm of time
Busy days filled with energy and sunlight


Stretching late into warm, sultry evenings
Always active…
Always vibrant…
Always healthy…
Never peering into the distance
Building my life, my family, cherished memories
Until one day the sunlit days of summer
Begin to shorten


Progress seems slow at first, changes barely perceivable
Green leaves begin slipping into garments of
Brilliant yellows, burnt oranges, fiery reds…
Preparing for the morning chill that a new day brings
How did I find myself here so quickly?
The passage of time slipping away
Like the grains of sand in an hour glass
Until the sand begins sifting through the
Narrow glass opening
At a faster rate…
Quicker now…
Less remaining than before
I begin to notice the passage of time
The changing seasons
Before winter brings darkness and cold

And the blood in my veins thickens with icy crystals
The season of my parents’ abode
That soon will be mine
When they move on
My heart already cries out for them
In my aloneness and solitude
Winter will soon be mine
But for now I notice the autumn changes
I pay closer attention
My vitality…
My vibrancy…
My life…
All slowly prepares for hibernation
I sense the impending chill
For myself and others around me
Do others sense it too?


Only fading photographs tell the story
Of what once was
During the spring and summers of my life
Now gone…
As I prepare to walk into my autumn season



I watch as the leaves begin to slowly…
One by one…
Drop from their sturdy branches

Slowly drifting…
Swirling…
Spiraling downward…
Sometimes caught dancing on the wind
Sometimes landing gently on the ground
But always detaching…
Separating…
Always falling…
In their season
The world prepares for winter
My soul prepares for winter
May I find myself in readiness
When my winter season finally arrives


Ready for dormancy…
Rest from my labor…
Following the examples of my loved ones
Who have gone before me
With courage…
Who have faced the icy breath of winter




And who hope for the return of spring
And resurrection to new life
I, too, will wait and hope
To everything there is a season
And a time for every purpose under Heaven.



Dorothy Lund
written Autumn 2004

Flight

Above the Azores I flew as a goshawk flies

Stopping here and after there.

On the Azorean sea I sailed

And like the small sea-fish,

I entered here and there.

Upon the Azores I walked by road,

By path, by track,

And lost myself,

In love with this unknown

Paradise - the Azores!

By Diogenia De Bettencourt Lima


Dorothy
Praia da Vitoria, Terceira, Azores

Ruas das Memorias

I woke up about half an hour ago, disoriented, and not quite sure where I was. It took me a moment or two to get my bearings. My feet won't be touching the polished marble floors at Elmiro and Alice's home in Porto Martins. I won't hear the lively conversation at the kitchen table as my family begins the day with cafe, pao, queijo, and various fruits. Instead, I'm back home in the Pacific Northwest. It is overcast outside and I hear the rain beating against the windows. Although I have numerous errands to accomplish, it is a good day for working on my final thoughts and reflections. It won't take much effort for my mind to wander along "ruas das memorias".... or streets of memories .... all I need to do is close my eyes and I am there, back enjoying our final days in Terceira.

The streets were lively for the final days of the festas. I especially enjoyed the "old time" parade from the early agricultural days of the island. Decorated carts pulled by cows and horses clicked against the cobblestone streets. Men, women, and children dressed in native costumes and carrying baskets of grain, bread, chickens, and other goods paraded down the streets while musicians played lively tunes.

Another entertaining event during the final day of the festas was the bullfight on the beach. My dad used to tell us the story of how he was chased into the water and lost his camera during one of these events many years ago. I thought about Dad as we watched the four bulls, one at a time, loosened on the beach. Today they are held tethered by a rope to keep them from causing too much trouble. Still, you need youth and exuberance to outrun the bulls on the beach. We chose to watch from a distance, a safe location near the marina. We had a great view and plenty of good conversation and laughs!

The final night of the festas was a grand celebration. Twenty minutes of the most gorgeous fireworks exploded over the marina/harbor of the praia. The fireworks were choreographed to music, and you could feel the vibrations throughout your entire body. My aunts and uncles thought it would be nice to say good-bye to the praia on the last night by driving up to the town's outlook point -- Serra do Facho. From the beach you can look up at the high ridge and see the glowing statue watching over the praia. From the top, you can look down and see the lights of Praia twinkling and feel the evening breeze caress your face. We sat on the overlook's stone fence and took in the sights and sounds of the praia below, each quiet with our own private thoughts and reflections on this final evening. Each of us wanting to say good-bye in our own way. We blew one last kiss to the praia before departing.

The festas over, we spent one final afternoon in town saying our good-byes to shopkeepers and friends. We set about packing our suitcases and wrapping our "treasures" carefully. Included in my treasures is a small gold charm from my Tio Armando with the Portuguese inscription: Remember your tio. How could I ever forget you tio! The drive to the airport was a difficult one. Looking out the car window I tried to memorize every little detail....knowing that soon I would only be able to rely on my memory. Hugs, kisses, tears, and "I love you's" flowed, along with promises to return one day soon. Then before we knew it, we were sailing skyward on SATA Airlines headed for the east coast and family I have not seen in over thirty years!

The three days in Connecticut with the De Castro family were a joy! I remember my older cousins well, despite the passage of time. The younger cousins were all grown up with spouses and children of their own. We all gathered together for main meals and stories about growing up in the Azores abounded. My older cousins remembered me as a baby before leaving Terceira. They were between 5 and 9 years of age at the time. We got to hear funny stories about my mom as a young girl too. There were many laughs to go around. My brother James took cousin Durval to see a Red Sox baseball game at Fenway Park while we girls drove with Maria Bela about an hour to Fall River, Massachusetts. There we shopped in Portuguese groceries and markets for products to take home. Lisa has been the "keeper" of the family Portuguese recipes, quizzing our aunts and cousins about "how much of this" and "how much of that" to use. She also purchased a Portuguese cookbook. I'm expecting to have an occasional sampling whenever I'm out visiting Mom in Seabeck. Thank you to our cousins for a wonderful time on the east coast. I hope and pray it won't be as long before I see you all again. I'm thinking of you all .... Durval and Maria (Paul, Steven, Mark, and Karen), Maria Bela and Tia Conceicao, Balbino and Clotilde (Philip), David and Nelia (David, Christina), Herminio and Linda (Michelle), Manny and Kim (Adriano, Christian), your wonderful spouses and all the littlest cousins too! We will never forget our tias Inez and Leontina.... we miss you and will see you in God's Kingdom one day.

We all experienced mixed feelings about our return trip. It was wonderful to come home to the beauty of Washington State and to all that we know as "home". Yesterday we called Tia Alice and found out, that while it's overcast and rainy here, it's sunny and beautiful in Terceira. It rained for us the day we left and we've come home to rain. The rain is calming....cleansing....
soothing....comforting. It reminds us of home. But down the streets of our memories, there is another place we call home and it beckons to us too. If you catch me with a faraway look in my eyes, it just may be that I'm thinking of my island home, my Terceira. It may be that I'm thinking of the cheers of the Portuguese people as the plane touches down on the runway and hoping that one day soon, I'll be cheering again too.

Dorothy

aka: Maria Uma da Silva

Adeus Ilha Terceira

By the time this is posted to my blog site, we will be nearing the end of our stay on Terceira Island. This thought leaves me with a heavy heart, as I know I will be leaving a part of myself behind. There will always be a tug on my heart to return, and God willing, maybe I will be able to one day. In the meantime, I’m planning to spend my last couple of days soaking in the sights, sounds, and scents of our beloved island…memories to tuck into the recesses of my mind when I need a special “treasure” to gladden my heart.

I want to thank Captain Tim Stoner for the memories of Lajes Air Force Base. Because of his generosity, we were able to tour the base and see where my father worked many years ago when he was stationed at Lajes. Just a block or two off base, we saw the small little home (#10) where my mother and father lived after they were married and where I spent the first few months of my life. I also saw the chapel where I was baptized as an infant on base.

I also want to thank Senhor e Senhora Henrique Mauricio for making me feel so welcomed at church services today in Praia. I first made contact with Senhor Mauricio through email. He explained to the congregation today (about 25 members) the story of how we first communicated after I found his name and email address during an internet search. At first he thought my letter was junk mail and he almost deleted my message. After opening it, he discovered that I was visiting relatives on Terceira and wanted to find a church family I could worship together with on the Sabbath. It amazed him to have someone write him from so far away and he eagerly shared the story with everyone.

Because they had recently moved their services to another location, I didn’t have the new address. So after calling and making contact, he met me at a known location and drove me to the church. This was an interesting story too. He told everyone that he was expecting a blond American woman to get out of a car with an American license plate. Instead, I hop out of my uncle’s rental car from Terceira, and behold….I’m Portuguese!!

I had a wonderful Sabbath with the brethren here in Praia. It’s so amazing to me that no matter where you may roam on this earth, you can find brothers and sisters who love the Lord and welcome you into their fold. God’s spirit binds you together is such a special way. The church provided me with a translator who sat next to me and translated the sermon. It surprised me that I could understand a good deal of the sermon and I was even able to sing praise songs in Portuguese. I loved that I was greeted by everyone with a kiss on each cheek. Tears welled up in my eyes when Senhor Mauricio prayed for me and for safe travels for my family. What a blessing today was! I’m thankful to God for helping me to locate my Portuguese brothers and sisters in Christ. I told them that I would keep in touch when I returned home. I will never forget this day!

This evening we attended the “running of the bulls” at the Praia festas. We sat up on a high stone fence and watched as the bulls were led through the streets, one at a time, tethered on a long rope. Vendors walked up and down the streets selling treats and balloons and musicians played their instruments between bull runs. Tomorrow (Sunday) is the final day of the festas and they will conclude tomorrow evening with the bulls on the praia (beach). We will be there!

If it’s sunny, I want to spend the morning hours walking along the waterfront and going for a swim either here in Porto Martins or on the praia. I want to spend some time alone reflecting on all this trip has meant to me. I want to capture as much of it as I can in my memory. The next time I write, we will probably be on the east coast with our cousins in Connecticut. I know the tears will flow as we say good-bye to our loved ones here. My Tio Armando worries. His diabetes is difficult to manage and he has other health concerns. My Tio Elmiro has had a kidney transplant and will be undergoing a biopsy for prostate cancer. We don’t know what tomorrow will bring and it saddens us to part. The good-byes are always hard, but I’m thankful for this time I’ve had. I will treasure the memories forever, until the day we are together again.

O meu coracao sempre esta em Terceira!

Dorothy

Azores Adventures

We’ve finally found some time to chronicle our latest adventures with Tio Armando. He’s been so wonderful driving us all around the island. He calls us his “Tres Marias.”
We are Maria Uma, Maria Duas, and Maria Tres. I think he enjoys our company and I know we enjoy his. He’s always teasing us and we’re always laughing and teasing back!

The last several days have been packed with touring the island. As I mentioned in my last blog entry, much has changed since I visited the summer after the 1980 earthquake. The buildings damaged at that time have been restored and everything is looking beautiful on the island once again. We visited the Matriz Church where my mother and father were married in 1956. The church was built in 1456 and my mother remembers the 500th anniversary celebration. Today the inside has been beautifully restored. We were all quite in awe to stand near the altar where my mother and father said their vows to one another over 50 years ago.

Yesterday we hiked down a volcanic tunnel (Algar do Carvao) that is situated near the center of Terceira Island. It was formed after eruptions 3,000 and 2,000 years ago. The Azores Archipelago was formed as a result of these volcanic eruptions and walking down the cavernous tunnel felt like we were hiking down to the center of the earth. It was quite amazing! Last evening we spent at the Praca De Toiros in Angra do Heroismo watching the bullfight. The cavaleiro on horseback was very skilled. Six bulls were used during the performances. People showed their pleasure by throwing flowers to the cavaleiro. I tried to talk my sister Lisa into throwing her bra into the ring, but she hadn’t had enough Sagres yet! Sagres is the most popular cerveja on the island.

Today we went to the Museu Do Vinho in Biscoitos. Armando told us that the best wines of the Azores are made in Biscoitos. The winery looked very old and the museum exhibited antique wine presses. Grapes were growing on the vines as we walked through the arbors. It was quite beautiful. We sipped on some of the local wines and enjoyed the beauty of the area. Nobody has been able to tell me why the town is called Biscoitos…which means “biscuits” in Portuguese.

Speaking of biscuits, dinner tonight at Elmiro and Alice’s home was “muito bom”. All of the vegetables in our meals have been grown in Elmiro’s garden. The tomatoes are so red and full of flavor! He even makes his own tomato paste at home. It was very interesting watching him cut up live “lapas” or sea limpets. He cuts off their heads and eats them raw….yuck! Even Elmiro has to eat a small clove of garlic as a chaser!

Tomorrow I am looking forward to touring Lajes Air Force Base where my dad was stationed. Mom is planning to show us the small house where she and Dad lived off base with me when I was a baby. I am also looking forward to meeting my Tia Ana and her husband tomorrow night for the first time. They are flying out from Cambridge, Ontario.
The next few days hold some final adventures for us….a running of the bulls in town (tourada a corda) and on the beach included! I know I will have memories to last me the rest of my life. I know I will be leaving a piece of my heart behind!

Boa Noite,
Dorothy

Terceira Past and Present

Boa tarde a minha familia e amigos!

Although seven hours separate us, you are never far from our thoughts. I have my watch set on Seattle time and we often laugh when we realize that as we are preparing for our dinner meal, many of you are just getting up! We are having such a good time and hope that through our blog sites we can bring some of our experiences to life for you. Please be sure to check out my sisters’ blogs entitled “Azores Island Girl” and “Mosaic Memories” in My Favorite Links. We are trying to write about different “adventures” and select different photos in order to share varied perspectives about our trip.

Nothing remains the same….all things change and undergo the passage of time. The same is true for my beautiful Terceira. Yesterday I stood below the apartment homes of my Tias Leontina and Inez, where I stayed twenty-seven years ago during my last visit. I can close my eyes and still remember lying in bed each morning and listening to the sound of the wooden wagon wheels of the donkey carts traveling by. The fishmonger would call out as he passed by….”peixe”. Fresh pao (bread) and leite (milk) were also delivered to the door each morning. We would also awaken to the sound of a multitude of birds chirping! The cobblestone street in front of my Tias’ place in Praia has now been paved over for passing cars and a hotel has been built across the street. I almost didn’t recognize where I was….but was finally able to get my bearings. The side roads are still the same, and hopefully will remain so for some time to come. It is the quaintness of the island that makes it so special and although progress can be welcome, my hope is that Praia will keep its unique flavor for many years to come.

We have done quite a bit of walking around town. My sisters did a good job of explaining the decorations around Praia for the “festas”. The festival extends from August 3 to August 12th. It began with an evening parade down the main street of Praia. Decorations included colorful hanging quilts from each window and bright lights along the beach boardwalk and up and down the streets of town. Bands played musica through the evening, a hot air balloon was set up on the beach and restaurants set up full-service dining tents all along the marina….much like the “Bite of Seattle” but with a complete dining experience rather than just a single “bite”. We stay out late and walk up and down the beach. Last night we met a serviceman from Minnesota stationed at Lajes Air Force Base, where my dad had been stationed many years ago. This young serviceman, Tim, gave us his work number and may be able to get us on the base later this week. It’s been fun to walk the beach and listen to the Portuguese families – we’re starting to pick up on more and more words each day! The festas end on August 12th with a “bull run” on the beach!

During the past couple of days I’ve visited the church where my parents were married. It is hundreds of years old (1456) and a landmark in town. We drove to the top of Monte Brasil yesterday afternoon. It is an old fortress and overlook. At the top you can see around the island for miles. We drove to the island municipality of Angra Do Heroismo (Heroism Bay) yesterday and walked around the beautiful and lush “Jardim” park. Angra is where the main bullring is located and we’re hoping to acquire tickets to the bullfight (tourada) event this Tuesday. The bull is not killed in Portugal, but we will still be ready with our best “Ole’s” as the handsome cavaleiro demonstrates his skill against the toro bravo!


We’ll be sure to keep you posted! Ate Logo!

Dorothy

Let the Festas Begin!

We finally arrived on Sao Miguel after numerous hours of flight and crossing several time zones. The flights were fairly smooth and uneventful, which was a good thing! We spent an entire day just traveling and so we were very tired upon our arrival. Because our inter-island flight was busier than expected, SATA airlines needed to leave some baggage behind. We didn't find out until we arrived at Lajes on Terceira that Teresa and I had suitcases left behind. Yikes! They were finally delivered later that evening by taxi service and we were greatly relieved to have our clothes and other essentials! It was wonderful meeting tios Elmiro and Armando, and tia Alice. We had "abracos" (hugs) all around! They have a beautiful home and we were made to feel most welcome!

After some sleep on Wednesday we finally made our way down to the town of Praia today. It has changed some since I was last here 27 years ago! The town has grown and there are many new and quaint homes that were built after the earthquake. We walked the cobbled streets and did some shopping today. We took pictures by the church where my parents were married, the home where my mother lived with her "tias", Mom's grade school, and the little sewing/alteration shop she worked in when she first caught my dad's eye! I can just imagine him peeking through the door and flirting with my cute mama!

Tomorrow Praia begins to gear up for the festas....which last from August 3-12. Workers are stringing lights up all over town. Many events will be taking place after the light ceremony tomorrow evening. There will be art events, dancing, food, and of course....bulls running on the beach! We'll have to see if my brothers can outrun them!

It's been more difficult finding internet service than we thought, but we finally found a wireless connection out by the marina. We hope to download more photos this evening and share them with you sometime during the next couple of days. So, stay tuned...more to come!

Adeus,

Dorothy

Happy Feet

Not too long ago the film "Happy Feet" won an Academy Award for best animated feature....It's my opinion, however, that Silverdale's "The" Tony Milan II deserves an award for creating the very happiest feet of all!

When informed that my mom, sisters and I would be having pedicures for our trip at Lisa's salon, Renaldo & Company, I was somewhat skeptical. Never having had a pedicure before, I wasn't sure what to expect. Two hours of pampering later, I'm sold! Our feet will be the softest and the prettiest in the Azores thanks to Tony!


My sisters and I ended our day of pampering at The Bistro in Silverdale where we sipped on peach martinis and toasted to our upcoming trip.

Two days and counting! My bag is packed, my toenails are painted, and I'm ready to take off skyward....anticipating the happy reunion that awaits us on our beautiful Terceira.

Adeus,
Dorothy

Voce fala portugues?

Do I speak Portuguese? Once upon a time when I was a little girl, I loved repeating phrases my mother tried to teach me in Portuguese. When I listen now to my childlike voice on those early cassette recordings I wish my parents had continued to teach me--all of us--the language of our "roots". Unfortunately, my mother was focused on learning the language of her new home in the United States and without family here to converse with, her native tongue was all but silenced in our home. Having taken Spanish classes in school, the rare times Mom did speak Portuguese with Dad or friends, I was able to pick up on some of the subtle similarities to the Spanish language. It was much easier to understand the words than to speak them myself. So in preparation for our big upcoming trip to the Azores I made a purchase online this afternoon; a small, compact book of practical phrases with pronunciation transcriptions and a bilingual glossary. I'm hoping that with my knowledge of Spanish and the pronunciation key contained in this travel book, I'll be able to study up and converse when we are shopping, dining out, or meeting new people. I'm excited for the book to arrive next week so I can begin to try out my rusty linguistic skills. Four weeks and counting....yikes! Maybe with a little practice I'll be able to say, "falo um pouquinho," I speak a little Portuguese!

Adeus,
Dorothy

Azores Bound

Two days ago, on my father's May 31st birthday, my passport finally arrived in the mail. Over the past two months I have thought about my passport application on occasion....wondering how long it would take to arrive. But I had other things on my mind last week when I noticed the cardboard mailer on the kitchen counter. Thinking that something had come in the mail I hadn't ordered, I opened the mailer only to see the passport fall out -- much to my surprise and delight! Yipppeeee! It's now a reality, and only two short months away to the time my mother and siblings will be flying off on our "roots" trip to the Azores....to explore our cultural heritage and all the important places central to the beginnings of our family. My sisters and I have created blog sites to keep our friends and family informed of our daily
"adventures". We will be taking you on a tour of our Island.... Terceira. We are looking forward to becoming Azores Island Girls! So....stay tuned! Our adventures are soon to begin!

Adeus,
Dorothy

* Mother's Day Musings *

Mother's Day 2007

Dear Sons,

It's hard for me to fathom at times that the three of you are now in your twenties. It doesn't seem all that long ago that I was twenty-something myself, with a life full of promise and adventure waiting ahead. Those early years were busy and full....with all the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of young motherhood.

Although there were challenging days, it was always a joy to be your mother! Watching you achieve the milestones of taking your first steps or saying your first words....those were the priceless moments that remain embedded in my mind and heart. It was my constant and fervent prayer that God would keep me healthy until each of you had safely reached adulthood, and God has been faithful to answer the prayer of a mother's heart.

I discovered a poem when you were little boys that seemed to be especially written for me.

To the Mother of a Young Son

Hold your breath but not his hand
When he climbs to the top of the tree.
You can't go too -- the journey's his
There's a lot of world to see.

He found a haven in your arms
But now he's on his own.
The track is there and he must run
And he must run alone.

The cord was cut when you gave him birth
They placed him near your heart.
Yours to guide, yours to love
And yours to watch depart.

-Shirley Taylor Lambert-

I have been blessed with the opportunity to love and guide you over the years. I ask your forgiveness for the many times I did not live up to all I should have been, for the times I've failed you, and for the mistakes I have made. Now it is now time for you to discover your own strengths, gifts, and talents and use them to make the world a better place. Trust in God and He will direct your paths.

I am so proud of each of you and so blessed to be your mother.

Love Always,

Mom

* Felisbela, Our Bela Flor *

Our family beginnings - Terceira, Azores

Dearest Mother,

You were, and still are.... the most beautiful of flowers, plucked from an island of fragrant lilacs and hydrangeas....our own Terceira. I have often wondered over the years whether I could have done as you did....leaving my family and native country behind to begin anew in a strange and foreign land. I don't think I would have had your courage, nor would I have been able to survive had I been uprooted from my homeland. My soul would have withered and died. But as hard as this must have been for you at the tender age of nineteen, your decision to marry the handsome young Staff Sergeant stationed at Lajes Air Force Base and fly across the ocean -- blessed us with life, family, and opportunity. My heart will always be grateful.

Growing up, children do not often think of their parents as people with hopes and dreams of their own. It's not until I became a parent myself that I understood your many sacrifices over the years. Your life did not begin as an easy one; losing your own dear mama when you were but a young child. Inadequate medical care left your beautiful eyes scarred and your body a carrier of tuberculosis. An inadequate school system left you with a grade school education. Your father remarried and began a new family....you lost your younger brother Joao to a landmine in Angola while serving in the Portuguese Army....no, life wasn't always easy for you. But God is gracious! Your three maternal aunts (tias) Lydia, Leontina, and Inez took you under protective "wings" and raised you to young womanhood. Under their care and direction you worked in the little sewing/alteration shop in the town of Praia. Under their watchful eyes and disapproving frowns many "suitors" who came to the shop to vie for your attention were discouraged. That is, until Dad won your heart and the hearts of your "tias" as well. It is with great love that your tias hand-fashioned the wedding dress you would wear on that April day, when you and Dad walked arm in arm to the altar of Matriz Church....to begin your new life together.

The photographs of your wedding day show a happy bride and groom; barely 19 and 22 years of age. You were so young with so much of life ahead. Nine months later, almost to the day....I was born! Then three months after my arrival, you were preparing to fly to America....never to see your own father again. It would be many years before you saw your tias or set foot on your beloved Terceira Island again. I often wonder how you felt that day. Were you excited about the new adventures that were ahead of you? Did your heart ache for what you were leaving behind? I'm sure you must have been feeling an assortment of mixed emotions. You must have known that your life would never be the same.

Although coming to America must have been an exciting adventure, it would also bring challenges. I know that when Dad drove cross country and stopped to show you his birthplace in Norma, North Dakota, you were ever grateful when it was time to continue driving west towards Washington State! I know its beauty and greenery must have been much more appealing to you than the dry wheat fields of North Dakota! At least the green and beauty of this area would ease the homesickness of leaving your island behind.

You began your new life with Dad living in the home of your in-laws, while Dad went to the University of Washington to obtain his Bachelor's Degree and teaching certification. Dad spoke fluent Portuguese, but during those days and times it was imperative for you to learn English and to fit in with our culture and society here. It couldn't have been easy with a new husband, new baby daughter, and a new language and culture -- all the while living under someone else's roof. I know you were glad when you and Dad were able to get your own apartment; even if it was student housing in the poor section of town. Even if it meant eating oatmeal for dinner on many occasions! At least this would be your own "casita".... no matter how humble!

While Dad went to college and worked to become a teacher, you kept our hearth and home a happy one. Children were born during these ensuing years and although I know you love each and every one of us and would never change a thing, I can't help but feel compassion for the young mother you once were and how you must have struggled. Six children were born during those early years....Dorothy, James, Thomas, Edward, Teresa, and Lisa. Your third child, Thomas, died during infancy and Edward and Teresa were barely eleven months apart. Although Dad was an attentive father, I know that the majority of our care fell on your shoulders over the years.

Without your family or support system close by, it's no wonder you got sick. When I think back to my childhood I remember the times when you "went away" to the hospital and how much I missed you. I didn't understand it at the time, or why other extended family members had to take care of us. I understand it better now. I think you gave so much of yourself to us over the years, you somehow lost the pieces of your own identity. I wonder if that would have happened if you'd made other choices in your life. I can't say for sure, but I know you sacrificed so much of your own life for us. Whereas Dad always provided what we needed, you always scrimped and saved to fulfill the "desires of our hearts". Sometimes you worked and sacrificed too hard. I'm sorry for the years I did not appreciate those sacrifices. I appreciate so much more now.

Your children grew up and moved on with their lives. I know that for someone who spent her entire life caring for her family, this was not an easy time for you. With encouragement, you used this time to spread your wings and become your own person. You studied for your citizenship exam, learned to drive a car, got a part-time job, and became more independent. You and Dad were finally able to make a couple of trips back to the Azores. During these trips you were able to see how your life had changed for the better and I think this confirmed for you that your decision had been the right one.

The years have flown by so quickly. You and Dad retired to Seabeck and built a new life on Hood Canal. There on Misery Point Road you have had your share of joys as well as your share of sorrows. The community rallied around you and Dad after your house fire. Through a miracle, we found some of your photo albums with the edges of photographs only slightly burned. Your wedding photos, one of a kind, were among these. You were able to rebuild from the ashes as well as experience the love and support of your community. With your home in Seabeck and your "casita" in Tucson, life has been good. The hardest part of all for you was having to be brave during Dad's illness. I admired your strength and courage even though there were many times I'm sure you needed to cry. When I held you in my arms the day Dad's body was removed from the house I realized how strong, and yet how vulnerable you are. I hope you know that although you built your life on being Dad's wife and our mother.... you are a special person in your own right. You are a person to be admired for your own unique strengths and abilities.

Before Dad passed away he penned a poem in Portuguese and English dedicated to you. I know he must have realized you gave up a life for him and appreciated your decision to walk by his side. The words of his poem express what you have meant in all of our lives:

* Bela Flor *

Contigo, canta o meu coracao
E de maos dadas, andamos
Pelas ruas de memoria
Onde inverno parece verao

Ainda es uma bela flor
Por agora e sempre
Tu es a minha vida
Tu es o meu amor

* Beautiful Flower *

With you my heart sings
And with hands held we walk
Through the streets of our memories
The winter seems like spring

You are a beautiful flower
For now and always
You are my life
You are my love

Mom,

I'm writing these words to share with you just after our recent milestone "zero" birthday celebrations -- turning "70 in 07" as you've said in good humor. The experiences of my childhood are tucked in the recesses of my mind; quickly retrieved as if only yesterday. I know the years have flown by for you, too. Mother's Day is a week away and I hope you know how proud we are of you and how grateful and thankful we are that God has blessed us with you.

In a few short months you will be traveling with your children back to Terceira....the island of your youth; the island of our Portuguese heritage. It will be a time for all of us to connect with our "roots" and to see where our lives began -- in the mind, in the heart, and in the dreams of our beloved mother.... our bela flor!

Your loving daughter,

Dorothy


Mom with her favorite baseball player - Seattle Mariner Edgar Martinez - Walk for Autism 2007

* Remembering Cole *

Cole wearing a favorite red cap

March 31, 1994 - March 13, 2007

Every once in awhile a flame goes out too quickly. On March 13th just such a brilliant, glowing light flickered out -- making our world a little darker with its absence. This flame represented the life of Cole Baldwin. What can I say about this young man? What words can I share with you to help you understand the illumination that was his life?

I first met Cole in November. He was assigned to attend my reading group with several of his sixth grade classmates. It was my job to hold them accountable for the "conventions" of writing and the self-editing process. These particular students were selected to get a "boost" in preparation for junior high writing assessments next year. Having worked mainly with primary students, I was somewhat apprehensive about what to expect with this sixth grade group. My apprehension was short-lived, however. These students set to work and were diligent with every task assigned to them. They were proud of their accomplishments and expressed these sentiments to their sixth grade teacher. I am glad I had the honor and privilege of working with them....especially because of Cole.

Cole didn't just walk into a room....he made a grand entrance. He was a confident young man, comfortable in his own skin. Cole "marched to his own drummer." He had a wide selection of hats in his hat collection and would wear them to school with pride. He also liked to express himself with new and surprising changes to his appearance....such as the times when he shaved his head or sported a mohawk. He was just being Cole! At his recent memorial service, I discovered that Cole liked to run faster, climb higher, dive deeper. He was a kid who enjoyed living each day with zest and gusto; a kid who truly appreciated life. The church was filled with photos of Cole in action. Cole playing sports with his friends; Cole playing drums with his friends. Cole had a lot of friends! He was highly respected by his peers and was a friend to all.

Our school community was in a state of shock and grief as a result of this unexpected loss. When a student is alive and vibrant one day and suddenly gone the next, it comes as a devastating shock. We have been trying to find constructive ways to grieve and support one another, as well as Cole's family. We have been discussing ways to honor and remember Cole in the future.

We were told you slipped peacefully from this world, Cole. You had been quietly studying and getting ready for a new school day when the aneurysm occurred. Emergency surgery was performed, but you never regained consciousness....never awoke. Your family signed you up as an organ donor and because you lived, others will now live. This doesn't answer all the questions or lessen the pain of losing you, but it gives us some comfort knowing your flame will burn on and brighten the lives of others.

March 31st would have been Cole's 13th birthday. Thank you Cole, for the inspiration your young and short life was to me. As so often happens, the student often teaches the teacher. You taught me what it means to dare....dare to try....dare to live.... dare to be yourself; without reservation! As I live out my life I will try to remember the lesson you taught me.

Cole....Your light shines on. You are in my heart. I will always remember you! Godspeed!

* My Spiritual Birthday *March 28, 1999

My spiritual journey began as a very young girl; with my daddy at my bedside listening to my nighttime prayers. A treasured black and white photograph shows me kneeling beside the bed, my hands clasped in prayer to my Heavenly Father. My Daddy Don was a photography student at the time and captured that moment forever. I was only about three years old, but tender feelings of love for God began sprouting in my young heart at that time. I always knew God existed and was with me. I never doubted. Most young children come to God with a pure and unquestioning spirit. Maybe that is one reason God's word says we should come to Him "as a little child." Little children are accepting, innocent, trusting, loving, and seeking that same love in return. My love for God began here, but grew and matured over the course of my lifetime.

During my childhood I went to church regularly with my family. I always sought opportunities to draw closer to God. I went through my first communion and confirmation classes, attended neighborhood Bible studies, visited various churches at the invitation of school friends, and attended youth group activities. These events were all important in shaping me as a young person, but somehow I felt there was something missing in my relationship with God.

As an adult, I continued my search. I changed churches and started an intensive five-year Bible study program. I began to understand that to have a personal relationship with God the Father meant I needed a better understanding of his son, Jesus. God's word was opened up to me in a new way as I began to read about the life of Jesus with new "spiritual eyes"....I became a broken and contrite person. Something happened to my heart when I realized the price Jesus paid for the failings and sins of my own life; how He suffered and died because of His great love for me so that I would no longer have to pay that penalty myself. In love and gratitude and with flowing tears, I gave my heart and life to Him forever. I believe this was the defining moment in my spiritual journey. I now had a relationship with God through His Son, Jesus. From this moment on, I would allow Him to lead me into His truth.

From that moment He has always been with me. He leads me, protects me, encourages me, inspires me, and because He loves me, sometimes has to chastise me. He has also brought people into my life to challenge and teach me. For the past ten years God has been chiseling away at my life; like a fine piece of marble. He has been shaping and molding me into a woman who can better serve Him. I am ever thankful to those "brothers and sisters" who have walked alongside me on life's path....to teach me....guide me....walk with me....be my friend. You know who you are. You know what you have meant to me. We have studied together, researched together, fellowshipped together, cried together, and laughed together. We are connected in a bond that can never be severed. We are part of God's own family! We are "forever friends."



As a result of this continuous journey, and the encouragement of my spiritual family, on March 28, 1999 I was lowered into that "watery grave" of baptism and rose a new woman in Christ.... Does this mean that I am perfect and no longer make mistakes? No. Does this mean that I have an advocate before the throne of Almighty God? Yes! Hallelujah....Praise God! I have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, Jesus. He reigns today at God's right hand....and will come again....VERY SOON! The bride says, "Come Lord Jesus, Come!" Are you ready to meet the bridegroom? If you are not sure.... with the heart of a little child....ask Jesus to come into your life to forgive you and lead you into His Truth. He will! He promises! And His promises are true!

"Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart..." Jer. 29:12-13



May God bless you, protect you, and guide you as you continue your own spiritual journey!

Dorothy

A special "Happy Spiritual Birthday" to Eli J. Earl....March 26, 1988. Your journey has been a difficult one. Keep the faith! Jesus loves you! Thank you for being my forever friend!