The Adventures of Angie Zafereo

New Pictures of Riley

2012-02-09T19:31:00.001-07:00

I would like to thank my brother Tony for sending me these amazing pictures he took of my sister Megan and my adorable niece Riley Grace at Christmas that I have to show off. I'm hoping that 2012 is the year that I actually get to meet my niece in person. She's an angel baby.

My goals for 2012

2012-01-22T13:20:00.001-07:00

The last few weeks I have been deeply soul searching on what my goals should be for 2012. Here is what I have come up with. I am going to volunteer at Project Angel Heart and The Arapahoe House. I want to use the special gifts that I have been blessed with from God, both of these charities allow me to do that. I happen to be a great cook and why not share that gift to make meals for people who are very ill and make them a meal that makes them feel better. The Arapahoe house helps at risk young women overcome drug, alcohol, and mental health issues, and helping them become productive members of society. So many of these girls lack good role models in their lives. I know first hand, how important having a good role model is. I had so many in my life that helped me stay away from drugs and alcohol which would have made my issues with Post Traumatic Stress worse than it has been. This is why I want to be a mentor to these girls. This is how I can serve God. My other goals are to get my health back on track, improving my grades, learning how to plant a garden, and canning what I grow. I believe these goals will help to make 2012 an awesome year.

Colorado Christmas Blizzard

2011-12-22T13:02:00.000-07:00

Today, I have received an early Christmas gift, snow. I have been wanting a white Christmas and I will have one this year. This is the first blizzard, we've had so close to Christmas in many years. We've had a foot of snow where I live in Denver and it's still snowing. It's about 20 degrees right now and it will fall to 2 below zero. I was brave enough to go outside and take a few pictures to share with all of you.

Summer of 2011 Musings

2011-08-31T20:13:00.001-06:00

Colorado summer flowers 2011

It's hard to believe how fast this year is going, tomorrow we'll officially start September and Fall which is my favorite time of the year. It's been a very hot August in Colorado, one that will break records. Despite the hot weather, we've had some beautiful summer flowers. My brother Tony, on the other hand, gets to travel to exciting places all over the world with his job. Most recently to Greenland and Iceland and took the most amazing pictures of glaciers and icebergs that I have to share. Tony goes to places with his job that I will never see so I get to live through his travels. I have just started my first semester at the University of Colorado Denver and I love university life, much more than community college. Both of mt professors are named Sara and are new teachers and have such excitement about teaching that is infectious. I love my classes that I am taking especially my first Public Health Class, Introduction to Population Studies. What I love about this class, is that we are studying in depth how good and bad policies by governments can effect a population. I am excited that after many years, I now know what I want to do in life, help people by educating them about health. I'm enjoying being a non-traditional student along with the kids that are just starting out in life. We can learn from each other and support each other in our classes.
Tony's amazing pictures of Glaciers and Icebergs in Greenland

My Trip to Colorado Springs

2011-07-19T18:22:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, I made my first trip back to my hometown of Colorado Springs, Colorado after 18 years. It was a beautiful day to go up and Colorado Springs it was so green because of all the summer rain Colorado has been having this summer. My Aunt Lee, my godmother and the Aunt I am named after, was just been placed in an Assisted Living facility. Aunt Lee is doing well despite her challenging health issues. I got to meet the wonderful staff who help take good care take care of her. We had fun looking at some Zafereo family pictures old and new and talking about family memories. I also found a picture of my dad as a baby that I have been looking for many years. I also got to see my cousin Marjorie after to 20 years. Here are some pictures I took of family and the physical beauty of Colorado Springs.

Pikes Peak Mountain Range in the Background

Cheyenne Mountain Range in the background

Aunt Lee and Marjorie

Paul Aunt Lee and Marjorie

Angie Aunt Lee and Marjorie

In Loving Memory of My Aunt Catherine on her 100th Birthday

2011-07-02T13:42:00.001-06:00

My favorite picture of Aunt Catherine and I when I was 16 yrs old

I dedicate this post to the memory of my late Aunt Catherine who would have turned 100 years old today. Aunt Catherine was my favorite aunt and who I considered my other grandma. Aunt Catherine died 11 years ago at the age of 89. Aunt Catherine and Uncle Harry shared quite a love story that I am so honored to be a part of. They were together for 61 years, 51 in marriage. They dated 10 years before getting married because they were both supporting their respective families during the Great Depression. Aunt Catherine would always say to me that she was grateful for World War II because it made it possible for her and Uncle Harry to finally marry. Aunt Catherine is a pioneer to women in the military because she was among the first WACS, which was women serving in the military during World War II. Without my Aunt Catherine and her fellow WACS, women would have not been able to advance as well as they have in the military today. She wrote a book about that experience called my war where she talked about facing discrimination among women and minorities, and how she managed it. This book really serves as a love story to her marriage to my Uncle Harry who also served in the army during World War II. for she also shares some of the experiences Uncle Harry went through during the war. Aunt Catherine was an anchor in my life when I always needed it and I learned so many things from her like being independent, outspoken, and standing up for what you believe in. I;m proud to be her niece She loved history, all kinds of history and it's where my love of history comes from. My mom is named for Aunt Catherine who did not have any children of her own but she loved my mom like a daughter, and by extension my brother Tony and I as her grandchildren. We would always have the most amazing talks about history, books and about family history. Everyone should be as lucky and blessed as I was to have such an amazing women as my aunt. I love and miss you so much Aunt Catherine. Here are some of my favorite photos of Aunt Catherine.

Aunt Catherine's Book

A favorite picture of Aunt Catherine and Uncle Harry

More Old Family Pictures

2011-06-17T13:36:00.000-06:00

After sharing some old precious family photos from the Zafereo side of my family, I thought I would share some from the Bell side of my family. I love looking at old photos because they are memories of loved ones who have passed on, you can see what kind of fashion styles were like during those days. Hope you'll enjoy these photos.

The first photo was taken in 1917, with my great gram Delyra holding my Aunt Catherine and standing next to them was my Aunt Bernice. This photo was taken 2 years before my gram was born.
The 2nd picture was taken in 1921, with my great grandpa Ralph holding my gram, and next to them was gram Delyra, Aunt Catherine and Aunt Bernice. The last picture was also taken in 1921 with my great great Aunt Lucille holding my gram. Aunt Lucille is the one who published all of the Bell-Conlee family history going back to 1771. She's the same Aunt Lucille who made the best lemon cake ever which I have shared with others.

Precious Zafereo Family Photos

2011-05-28T19:16:00.000-06:00

I would like to personally thank my cousin Debbie Zafereo for sending me these precious photos of my beloved late father Art Zafereo from the 1950's when he was so young. These are photos that my brother Tony and I have never seen of daddy since he died in 1972 when were were 6 and 3. It's great to see my other Zafereo relatives that I never had the chance to know like my Uncle Paul, Uncle Pat, and my Aunts Gail and Melba. Daddy was one of 13 children 8 boys and 5 girls so the Zafereo side of the family is one fat Greek family, It's amazing how photos can connect you to your loved ones who have passed on and helps me with the void if having lost daddy at such a young age. Photos really add depth to our collective family history. I also can see how much my brother Tony looks like daddy even though he does not have Daddy's dark brown hair and eyes.

Daddy is in the plaid shirt and behind him in the print shirt his my uncle Pat

Daddy is in the middle between 2 of his baby sisters my aunts Melba and Gail

Uncle Paul is to the left of Daddy

Colorado Spring 2011

2011-05-27T12:18:00.000-06:00

I'm happy that Spring has finally come to Colorado after 3 weeks of non-stop rain, it's green luscious and the flowers are blooming. To celebrate spring, I took some pictures around near my house and a cute picture of my neighbors dog Bo whose my buddy. Enjoy the pictures and happy spring to everyone.

R.E.A.L. Women Devotional - The Royal Wedding by Jayme Jones Hamilton

2011-04-29T20:05:00.000-06:00

I would like to share this beautiful devotional written by my friend Jayme

At 3:00 am, Jordanne, my daughter and I watched with anticipation as we waited to see the bride arrive at the entrance of Westminster Abbey. The groom looked quite handsome in his military uniform. Truly a prince. As the bride stepped out of the car, she looked just like a princess-to-be should look, elegant and happy.

As Kate proceeded down the aisle with a four minute walk, the Holy Spirit spoke something to me. He said that this was a picture of salvation. The reporters kept referring to Kate as a "commoner." The dictionary definition says it is "any person ranking below a peer; a person without a title or nobility." Before we come to Jesus, we are "commoners" or as the Bible says, "sinners." This was history making for England because there has not been a marriage between a Royal and a commoner since the 17th century.
The reporters said that it has taken her 8 years to prepare for this moment as she entered into the Royal family. It was 8 years of learning royal etiquette and even learning how to live with and resist the negative press. Revelation 19:7 says "Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. " When we become followers of Jesus, we prepare for that Wedding day by getting to know Him and who are are now in Christ. We too are faced with a new way of doing things and even how to resist the Enemy.

As the bride made her way down the long aisle, the camera showed the view from above. I noticed that the abbey is in the form of a cross, as most cathedrals are. It made me wonder if the red runner carpet represents the blood of Jesus. It was Jesus death on the cross and his blood that was shed that made a way for us commoners to become royalty. Ephesians 2:12 says, "But now in Christ Jesus you who were once far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ." Second Corinthians 5:17 says, "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" (NLT). Kate went in as "Kate Middleton" and came out as Her Royal Highness, which she will now be called. When we come to Jesus, Revelation 5:9 &10 says, “ You are worthy to take the scroll, And to open its seals; For You were slain, And have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, ¹⁰ And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth.”

The wedding of Prince William and Kate was seen around the entire world. Whether one of the 1,900 invited guests, a spectator who lined the streets of London or watched it via television, this wedding was seen by the majority of the world. It made me think of the day when the King of Kings will ride in on his white horse to receive his Bride (the Church) who has made herself ready. Ephesians 5:17 says, "that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish." We as the Bride need to be preparing ourselves for that glorious day when the whole world will be watching as it says in in the Bible. "Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him..." (Revelation 1:7). Bride, make yourself ready, holy and pure as we await the arrival of the Bridegroom to come for his Bride and we celebrate THE Royal Wedding of all time.

My Field trip to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

2011-04-03T23:29:00.000-06:00

One of the best things I love about my Geology class is the awesome field trips we get to go on like this weekend to the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. It's been 15 years since I had last visited the museum and it's even better than I remember. My class got to see several permanent exhibits at the museum including one on minerals and minerals found in Colorado, paintings that illustrate what Colorado looked like during each period. I am really enjoying this class more than I expected too. This class is really teaching me the history of the earth and how we need to take care of earth one of God's greatest creations. I took almost 50 pictures but I'm only going to post a few here that I think you'll find interesting.

Fossil of a Pre-historic Shark

Painting of what CO looked like during the Jurassic Period

Gypsum Mining Cave CO

CO during the Ice Age Period

Sculpture of a Pre-Historic Alligator

When CO was covered with water

Wacky Springtime in the Rockies

2011-04-03T18:50:00.000-06:00

It's always an adventure to live in Colorado because you never know what kind of weather you will experience especially this winter and now spring. It was 83 degrees in Denver yesterday and today it's rain mixed with snow, the high being only 30 degrees. However, wacky I am grateful for the moisture because we had every little snow in the lower elevations which is abnormal this time of year. Here are a few shots outside of my apartment.

I'm hoping for lots of April showers to bring May flowers so that I can have lots of beautiful pictures to take.

Books Recommendations-Go Green, Save Green

2011-03-21T20:14:00.002-06:00

I just finished this wonderful book Go Green,Save Green by Nancy Sleeth. This is book is written from a Christian perspective on how to love and respect God's creation, the earth by living green and saving money. Lots of these tips can help save hundred's of dollars,time, and energy. Nancy also lists websites and other wonderful resources on how to live green without being overly preachy. The other great thing about this book, is that Nancy shares her own personal journey of why and how she started to live green, how it has deepened her faith in God. I've used some of her tips and suggestions, they really save money. This book is going to be my guide on how to live green which is one of my goals this year.

My trip to the Denver Dinosaur Tracks Museum

2011-03-18T22:09:00.000-06:00

I am really enjoying my geology class this semester. It's so interesting to learn about the history of the earth and how it plays in today's world like the Tsunami that hit Japan last week. One of the coolest things I'm learning about is dinosaurs and a recent discovery that birds are new considered a living dinosaurs. The Denver Dinosaur Museum is located right on my college campus and they have dinosaur fossils and foot prints from around the world. Here are some of the amazing pictures I got from the museum today.

Congrats to Matt and Jessica on Their Hawaiian Wedding

2011-03-11T20:05:00.000-07:00

I would like to congratulate my god son Matt on his marriage to Jessica today in Hawaii. They flew to Hawaii to get married on Wednesday, was evacuated this morning and got married this afternoon. What way to start of your new life together by living through a Tsunami. If you can get through a Tsunami, then you can deal with all the challenges that marriage brings. I am so happy for them. It's hard to believe that Matt is 25 years old and now married. Where does the time go. It's been a pleasure and a honor to watch Matt grow up and be a part of his life. I have his mom Dawn to thank for that. It's been great to watch Matt fall in love with Jessica who is the best thing to happen to Matt. I am now excited I can officially call Jessica my God Daughter in Law. Matt and Jessica, I am so happy for your new life together, and your journey with Med school later this year. Enjoy the rest of your honeymoon in Hawaii with no more Tsunami scares. Love you both.

In Loving Memory of Daddy on his 82nd Birthday

2011-03-08T09:46:00.000-07:00

Today would have been Daddy's 82nd birthday. It's sometime hard to believe that he's been gone almost 39 years.I'm now 44 years old and have outlived Daddy who was 43 when he died., too young to die. It's very hard to put into words how much I miss Daddy. It always warms my heart whenever a family friend or a family member tells me how wonderful Daddy was and how proud he was of my brother Tony and I. He would be so proud of Tony and all that he's accomplished in his life including his dream job with Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute. Daddy would also be proud that I'm back in school pursuing my college degree which was his dream for me. He would also be proud of how I am re-building my life after my breakdown and roots me on from heaven when I falter or have a set back. One of the happiest memories of Daddy and I are eating cream of rice cereal for breakfast and watching and smelling the smoke come out of our smokehouse in the back yard.There's nothing like the aroma of meat being smoked in a smokehouse. I hope one day to live in a place where I can have a smokehouse. Daddy used to make his own sausage and smoke it in the smokehouse. I can remember the long lines going down our block of people waiting in line to buy Daddy's sausage. I would be his little helper and hand the sausage to the customers in line. I was about 5 years old when Daddy started to teach me about the value of hard work. I only wish someone had daddy's recipe for his homemade sausage so I can make it and post it on my cooking blog. I love and miss you Daddy and wish you could see me in my cap and gown when I graduate in May.

Colorado Gem and Mineral Show

2011-02-26T16:49:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank my friend Heather for going with me on my field trip to the Colorado Gem and Mineral Show in Golden. This was my first time going mainly because it's a required field trip for my Geology class. One of the really cool things I am learning in my Geology class is how many beautiful minerals that are in CO. The other really cool thing, I'm learning in my Geology class is how many fossil remains of Dinosours there are in CO. This was a beautiful day to have the show with it being almost 60 degrees outside. Here are some of the amazing pictures of the mineral show.

In Loving Memory of Hokum Jeebs

2011-02-21T20:19:00.000-07:00

Hokum is on the left

This post is in honor of my brother Tony's beloved friend Hokum Jeebs who was murdered last week in Seattle inside his home. I met Hokum about 10 years ago when I was in Seattle visiting Tony. Hokum was a Vaudeville performer who had his own place Hokum Hall where he performed and had visiting talent perform. He had a passion for music and food. He was one of the most interesting people I have ever met and one of the kindest. Hokum gave me some wonderful cooking tips that I use to this day. I was back in Seattle 2 years ago and did not have a chance to visit Hokum, something I really regret now in light of his murder. I also appreciate what a wonderful friend and influence he's been for Tony who is reeling from his lost as is everyone who knew and loved Hokum. It's hard to make sense when something senseless happens like murder to a wonderful person. My heartfelt wishes go out to his soul mate Anita, family, and friends. I can see Hokum in heaven performing vaudeville on one of his many pianos and making a great meal for all of his new fans and friends in heaven. God Bless you Hokum, Rest in Peace.

Believe Who God Says you are, A Purpose Driven Life Devotional

2011-02-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

I've had a rough week with having very vivid flashbacks that turned into nightmares as a result of living with Post Traumatic Stress which causes lots of torment for me. I'm feeling a little better today knowing that I need to have my medication reconfigured and thinking of ways that help me deal with these episodes better. I've been a long time admirer of Pastor Rick Warren since he wrote his amazing book, A Purpose Drive Life, he writes a daily devotional that really spoke to me, that a friend sent to me that was so comforting to me and I wanted to post here.

And we … are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV)

"God is asking you to believe he is who he says he is, believe you are who he says you are, and then live like you believe those things."

This week’s devotionals are by Buddy Owens, teaching pastor at Saddleback Church and author of ‘The Way of a Worshiper’.
I want to help you learn to confess your faith, and then let that confession lead to life change so that it demolishes your old way of thinking and gives you a new way of thinking about life, God, yourself, hardship, your family and your world.
And here’s how to do it: Stop confessing lies. Confess your faith! Say the same thing God says about you. Let it change the way you think . . . and it will change the way you live.
Here are some things the Bible says about you that need to become things you say about yourself. Start every day by confessing these truths --

My Faith Confessions

I am crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. (Galatians 2:20)
The Son has set me free. I am free indeed! (John 8:36)
My body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. (1 Corinthians 6:19)
I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:13)
He who began a good work in me will be faithful to complete it. (Philippians 1:6)
There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:1)
Nothing can ever separate me from the love of God in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:38-39)
In all things God works for the good of those who love him. (Romans 8:28)
God is faithful. He will not let me be tempted beyond what I can bear. (1 Corinthians 10:13)
God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7)
My light and momentary troubles are achieving for me an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. (2 Corinthians 4:17)
He is able to do immeasurably more than all I ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within me. (Ephesians 3:20)
God is for me! Who can be against me? (Romans 8:31)

When you say what God says (confession), you begin to think what God thinks (repentance). So let this be your confession of faith. And let it be the foundation on which you build your new life.
This is not the power of positive thinking. It’s not your good thoughts that will turn your life around. God’s power will turn your life around. He’s just asking you to believe he is who he says he is, believe you are who he says you are, and then live like you believe those things.
Does that mean bad things will stop happening? No. But it does mean you will experience many more victories than losses because the Word of God is at work in you.

This devotional reminded me that I need to show more faith and trust in God which I think all people of faith struggle with. I have printed my faith confessions and will keep it close to me so when I start to falter, I will be reminded of what really matters.

Colorado Winter 2011

2011-02-08T17:38:00.000-07:00

This has been the coldest craziest winter I've seen in Colorado in a long time. We are in our 2nd week of below zero temperature with last week getting to 15 below zero. I've never been so cold in my life. One of the things that I love most about living in Colorado is out change of seasons and a winter that is mild compared to Minnesota and New York, but I'm not loving this weather. I hope the ground hog was correct and there will only be 6 more weeks of winter. I am so ready for Spring this year. Here are some pictures taken the last week for the snow. The cold temperature has been worse than the amount of snow. The good thing about the snow is that it;s moisture and hope another sign that we'll have lots of rain this spring and summer. So I say to my friends who live in AZ, NV, and CA, please enjoy your warm weather for me since I can't enjoy it

My New Year's Resoultions for 2011

2011-01-10T17:02:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year where we always make a list of goals to complete for the new year. I'm not going to mention losing weight and getting into shape because being healthy should be a part of our everyday life. My main goal for this year is to use my spiritual gifts to serve God and to help others. You can find many spiritual gifts assessments online that can help determine your spiritual gifts. It's really a fun thing to do. My number one spiritual gift is mercy which is showing compassion for people which I tend to do with my work with habitat for humanity and some other charitable activities. My second goal is to read the whole bible in 2011. There are many parts of the bible I'm not familiar with and would like to learn. Thirdly, I'm am tired of the extremes of both political parties that are so into their own agenda that nothing gets accomplished, not to mention the lack of civility in politics and in everyday life. This is why I have joined no labels which is founded by prominent Democrat and Republican who are tired of the labels and incivility in politics and are working to help public servants of both parities to work together not against each other. Here is a link to no labels if you want more information http://www.nolabels.org

I hope to be successful in accomplishing these goals in 2011

New Years 2011

2011-01-01T21:30:00.001-07:00

It's finally a new year and Denver started 2011 with a bang, our first major snowstorm of the season on New Years Eve. We've had some snow in late fall but it was warm, the snow didn't stick. This season has been a little unusual. I was happy to see snow but I don't like when we lows like minus 8 degrees last night. I took some pictures of the snow outside my apartment. I'm also excited to start the first day of the new year with new pictures of my adorable niece Riley Grace who just gets cuter and cuter. I' m hoping that 2011 is the year that I will actually get to officially meet Riley Grace and have made up with her mom and my sister Megan. Happy 2011 everyone

Reflections of 2010

2010-12-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that 2010 is almost over. It seems as you get older time just flies by. 2010 has been a very interesting, productive year for me. I survived and thrived my first full year back in college after a 14 year absence. Academically, I did well enough to be included on the Dean's List 2 semesters in a row. The job situation has been up and down in 2010 but will get better when 2011 arrives. I've grown leaps and bounds in 2010 in terms of managing and living with Post Traumatic Stress, forgiving my mother for past transgressions, slowly inching my way to reconcile with my sister and my mom. In 2011, I already have some awesome things to look forward to, a visit from my brother Tony, graduating in May with my AA degree in Liberal Arts, bike riding, and decorating my apartment. I like to also end the year by thanking my amazing group of friends, Mary, Dawn, Allan, Karen, Nancy, Julie, and my brother Tony for all of their love, and support. Thanks to Facebook, I've been back with some old friends and schoolmates Kelly, Lena, Becky, Bonnie, Jose, and so on. I want to extend everyone a very prosperous and joyous 2011.

Colorado Christmas 2010 and Other Reflections

2010-12-07T19:12:00.001-07:00

I am really enjoying the Christmas season this year because I have discovered what is truly important in life, serving others, living simply, and realizing that everything flows from God. To me that is worth much more than money. It is also want Christmas season should really be about. I'm looking forward to serving Christmas dinner to the homeless on Christmas eve where I can live the true Christmas spirit, and also not be alone on a holiday. Denver is really beautiful this time of year and I've taken some pictures of some of the Christmas decorations in the downtown Denver area. I also went to an Advent Organ recital today at Trinity United Methodist Church which was founded in 1859, is the oldest church in Denver and the church building was built in 1888 and still have the original furniture and seats, it's simply gorgeous. I got a tour after the recital. I love old buildings because they are a living history of how things were during a certain period of time. The organist was young man named Brian whose in High School and is very talented playing the pipe organ which Trinity has had since 1888. The music really put me in the holiday spirit and I was able to write a recital report for my music appreciation class. I'm also appreciative that this semester is almost over and will be able to start breathing again on the 14th when finals are over. I'm doing very well academically and look forward to my graduation from the Community College of Denver May 2011. I'm also excited that education wise, I'm going down the right path and have found the best degree for me Public Health and Psychology. This is the path to my future, where I will be more financially stable, and feel more fulfilled in a career where I can help people with their health and health information. I also want to extend a heartfelt Christmas wishes to all my friends, family, blog visitors, Merry Christmas and an awesome 2011.

Bryan, the amazing organist at today's Advent recital standing next to The 1888 Roosevelt Pipe Oregon

The Roosevelt Pipe Oregon inside Trinity United Methodist Church

part of the original stained glass windows installed in 1888

Trinity United Methodist Church, the outside built in 1888

Thanksigving 2010

2010-11-26T18:12:00.000-07:00

Angie and Cameron

Heather, Kendra, Angie, and Cameron

Playing Ms Pacman

I had a wonderful Thanksgiving day with my friend Heather Chase. Her boyfriend Kevin brought over the original version of Ms Pacman which was my junior high school obsession. It was a blast to play Ms Pacman for the first time in 28 years. It was nice to enjoy lots of yummy food, have good company and relax for a change. I also got encouraging news that my sister accepted and like the birthday outfit I got my niece Riley Grace for her first birthday. I was worried that Megan might not accept the gift since we have been estranged for the last 2 years. Hopefully this is the first small step for Megan and I to re-connect as sisters again. I sure hope so. Here are some photos from Thanksgiving.

New Pictures of Riley Grace

2010-11-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

I have new photos of my adorable niece Riley Grace that I have to show off. Riley is now a year old so she'll be able to enjoy the holidays this year.

Blessings on Thanksgiving week

2010-11-22T05:17:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is upon us again. This year has gone by so quickly as it does every year. I have so many things to be thankful for this year. I'm in good health, learning to manage my Post Traumatic Stress really well now that I have a better understanding of it. I'm grateful to Facebook because I've been able to re-connect with so many friends from grade school, Jr. high, and high school, and long lost Zafereo cousins. I also have some amazing friends who are like family to me, Dawn, Mary, Nancy, Heather, and Karen who are always there for me. God has blessed me with the greatest brother ever, Tony who call me from Lisbon at 3.00 a minute to wish me happy birthday which is among the many kind things he does for me. College has been awesome this year despite frustrations with my music appreciation class which is improving. I will be graduating with AA Liberal Arts May,2011. I've also changed my major for my four year to degree from Nutrition to Public Health which is a broader degree and more up my alley. I also want to thank our service men and women who are fighting in Afganistan, including my cousin James Zafereo. It's hard to be away from family during the Holidays. Despite all the problems facing America, I'm grateful to live in the greatest country in the world and we as citizens need to remember that. I'm also grateful that I have a personal relationship with God who makes every one of our blessings flow. I want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Veteran's Day 2010

2010-11-11T10:38:00.000-07:00

My cousin James Zafereo

Afganistan

the jets that James flies

James Zafereo
This post is in honor of all our service men and women who have served in the military past and present. America would not be the greatest country in the world without our freedom and rights that have been preserved by our military. Today I would like to salute some the veterans in my family, starting with my great aunt Catherine who was the first group of women to be in the Army during World War II, they were called the Women WACS. Aunt Catherine wrote about her experience in her book My War which was taken from letters, and journals she kept during that time. Aunt Catherine would often tell me how much her army service meant to her and was proud of her service. Aunt Catherine and the other women who served are pioneers for women to serve in the military. They opened the doors for women who today in the military are officers and fight in combat. In 1995, a statue of the first Women WACS was dedicated in Washington DC, Aunt Catherine attended the dedication and spoke at the luncheon because of the book she had written about their common experience. I bought her a new pantsuit for the occasion as a way for me to honor her. I consider my aunt Catherine my role model of the kind of woman I want to be. I now want salute my late father Art Zafereo who served in the Marine Corps during World War II and Korea. Daddy was born in 1929 so he had to have been 15 or 16 when he enlisted in the Marine Corps. You could lie about your age to get in the military during that time. Daddy fought in the pacific part of the World War II. I am very proud of his military service. Daddy would also be very proud of my brother Tony's service in the Navy during the first Gulf War. I am also proud of my brother's service and that he helped to evacuate the Kurds from Iraq which was a very dangerous mission. Lastly, I would like to salute my cousin James Zafereo, Captain, fighter pilot in the Marine Corps. I am so proud of my cousin James. James has fought both in Iraq and in Afganistan where he is still serving. James could have done anything he wanted after he graduated college;However, 9/11 changed everything for him and he wanted to serve his country. Here are some photos of James with the plane he flies and other shots of Afganistan. Whether you agree with war or not, we should always find a way to support our veterans and their families. It's the least we can do to thank them for putting their lives on the line. Happy Veteran's Day to our troops and thanks for all that you do for us.

Election Day 2010

2010-11-01T07:40:00.000-06:00

I am very happy that tomorrow is election day so I can no longer have to hear annoying, negative political ads from both parities. I am disgusted with both political parties who are responsible for the mess this country is in. They have forgotten who they are really representing. None of the candiates are talking about solutions to fix our problems, just telling the voters want they want to hear,not being honest and doing hatchet jobs on their opponents. As annoyed as I am with our current political process, I have proud and grateful to live in America where women can vote. Not all countries allow women to vote. The women in America were not given the right to vote until the 1920's. I know this because my Great Great Grandma Maude was part of the movement to give women the right to vote. I always vote not just because it's my duty as a citizen, but to honor Grandma Maude and her sacrifice.

Fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity Denver Chapter

2010-10-30T21:33:00.001-06:00

Today, I had a wonderful opportunity to volunteer at a pumpkin patch for the Denver Interfaith Habitat for Humanity with a dear friend of mine who is on the committee. What is so great is that this interfaith committee consists of 12 churches from all different faiths that come together and raise money for Habitat for Humanity. I worked with a lady named Sherry who is from one of the Jewish churches and told me some basics of the Jewish faith. I learned some very interesting things from her today. The pumpkin patch is the first fundraiser for 2011. The goal is to raise $85,000 to build a home for a family. We were quite busy and so many of the buyers donated extra money on top of what they paid for the pumpkins. We even had kids helping us out today. My friend who is on this committee has asked me to become more involved. I'm excited because it feels so good to give back to the community and help others. I have such respect for Habitat for Humanity and all they do to help people have a home that they could not otherwise do. I am looking for some new ideas for raising money, so if any of my fellow readers have any ideas, please share them. Here are some pictures I took of our customers with their pumpkins and the pumpkin patch. Happy Halloween to everyone!!

Riley Grace's 1st Birthday Pictures

2010-10-27T22:20:00.001-06:00

I want to wish my niece Riley Grace Happy 1st Birthday. My sister Megan celebrated Riley's birthday by having a birthday party for her on Oct 24th. Here are some of the pictures.

A Good Book to Read-The Lost Trails of the Cimarron by Harry E. Chrisman

2010-10-17T17:59:00.000-06:00

Uncle Harry and Angie

I just finished the book The Lost Trails of the Cimarron written by uncle Harry E. Chrisman. I had not read this book since I was a child. This was the first of 12 books that Uncle Harry wrote. I found this book online for out of print books. This books tells the true story of the Lost Trails of the Cimmarron. What is amazing about this book is how much research Uncle Harry did on this subject and his passion for the American West. My love of reading good books comes from him . One of my goals for 2010 is to re-read all of Uncle Harry's books. If you like reading non-fiction books and have a passion for the American West, you will love this book. After Uncle Harry died, he donated most of books and writings to the Liberal Memorial Library in Liberal Kansas where he had lived for many years.

A Good Book to Read-My War by Catherine Chrisman

2010-10-17T17:54:00.000-06:00

I proudly share this book because it was written my my beloved Aunt Catherine who was a role model in my life. My War is about Aunt Catherine's experience as part of the Women WACS who where the first women to serve in the Army. This book is based on the journals she kept during her service in the war. Aunt Catherine really captures what World War II was like from a women's perspective and the important role women played in the war effort that does not get much mention in most history textbooks. I remember how hard she worked in getting this book published after so many years of re-writes and nerves. Aunt Catherine was 78 years old when this book was originally published in 1989. Many women of Aunt Catherine's generation loved this book because it was the same experience they had during that time. If you like to celebrate the accomplishment of women, you will love this book. You can find My War at Amazon. My mom is also mentioned in this book so this book is very much family history.. I wish Aunt Catherine had written other books because she was a natural writer. I recently found a signed copy of My War on E-bay that I have bought so that I can pass this book down to my niece Riley when she gets older. I want Riley to know about how amazing Aunt Catherine was.

Colorado Autumn 2010

2010-10-15T10:14:00.001-06:00

One of the best things about living in Colorado is our fall because it's spectacular. Fall is my favorite time of year partly because I have an October birthday and the colors of fall. Not to mention all of the wonder fall dishes you can make, chili, stews, pumpkin desserts, etc. When I lived in Reno for 3 years, one of things I missed was the Colorado Fall, and trees. Here are some amazing fall colors near my house in Denver. Enjoy.

Reflections on my 44th Birthday

2010-10-13T09:52:00.000-06:00

It's hard to believe that today I turn 44 years young or how I now refer to my birthdays, the 15th anniversary of my 29th birthday. I can remember when I was younger I thought being in your forties was being old. I no longer think that. To me age is an attitude. I'm 44 but I still am the biggest kid in the world, love to watch Disney movies, riding bikes, and other things I did when I was younger. I'm now enjoying my forties much more than I did my twenties, mainly because I have more experience and wisdom with living life. I also am much more grateful for the things I do have than when I was younger. I've had quite the struggle the last few years recovering from my breakdown, learning to manage Post Traumatic Stress and come out of that journey with so much wisdom, faith and appreciation. Today, I am so grateful to have the best brother on the planet, Tony, being back in touch with some long lost Zafereo cousins and an abundance of amazing wonderful friends Nancy, Mary, Dawn, Heather, Karen, Kelly, Julie, Judy, just to name a few. So today I'm making my pumpkin cake with walnuts, studying for my music appreciation test and will go out and take more pictures of the amazing fall weather here in Colorado. I'll post those pictures in another post.

In Loving Memory of My Gram on her 91st Birthday

2010-10-04T13:41:00.005-06:00

This post is in honor of my late Gram Margaret Bell who would have turned 91 years old today. It's been 19 years since Gram died. I miss her a great deal. Gram's birthday was 9 days before mine so we sometimes would celebrate our birthdays together. Gram would be proud on how I've been able to overcome my breakdown and that I;m back in college. Gram thought obtaining an education was important thing to achieve. The older I get, the more I see her impact on my life. My gram was a gourmet cook who had her own cooking show on television in Los Angeles during the mid 1970's. I can't think of the name of her show but my brother and I got to see a taping of one of her shows. I learned how to cook from Gram starting around the age of 8. She bought me my very first cookbook Holly Hobbie Cookbook. In fact, most of my most memorable memories of Gram are always about food. Whenever I would go to Gram's house it was to see what yummy things was on the menu for that day. . Food was a passion and a hobby to Gram and that is a passion I get from her. One of the greatest things Gram did was to publish the Bell-Conlee Family cookbook because there are so many of her recipes in there that I make. to this day. It was a project, I helped her with when I was 10 years old. Gram also let my generation submit recipes to the cookbook. My Gram would love my cooking blog The Busy Women's Recipe Guide which is she's the inspiration for. Gram loved sharing recipes, advice, crafting, needlework ideas with other women. I sometimes wish I could have Gram contribute to my cooking blog. She would have wonderful things to share. Gram was someone I could always depend on about anything. She always encouraged me to live life with integrity. I also can remember a time when I got into her expensive makeup and ruined it. I thought Gram was a good sport about it and didn't get too upset with me. What Gram did do was buy me my own make up that I could play with along her all the dress up clothes she would keep for me in a trunk. I did the same thing with my sister Megan, when she was little, I bought her a set of her own make up that she could play with so she would not get into my make up. Gram also thought learning about culture was important so she took me to see a Russian Ballet, a symphony concert etc. Another thing, I will always treasure is that before Gram died, she asked me what possession of her's would I want. The only thing, I wanted was Gram's Red Italian china that she would always use for her holiday table. When I told her this, she smiled and said I knew you would pick that. I'm grateful to have that china and that my brother Tony has been taking good care of it for me. Tony uses Gram's china for special ocassions too. I sometimes think we don't appreciate and treasure the times we spend with our loved ones until they have passed on. I love and miss you Gram

Book Recommendation-The Love Comes Softly Series Books

2010-10-03T18:18:00.001-06:00

I just finished my last installment of the Love Comes Softly Series by Janet Oke. These are very well written books that illustrates how living with a faith in God can help generations of a family get through challenges of life. I first got hooked on the movie version of Love Comes Softly which was produced by the Hallmark Channel. I watched all the movie versions of each book and decided I needed to read the books. These books are for grown women and young women alike. I would have loved to have read this series when I was growing up. It's the perfect companion to the Little House Books by Laura Ingalls Wilder. This series of books have started an interest in reading books written with a Christian perspective. I also highly recommend by the DVD version of this series to add your movie library because this is a movie that the whole family can enjoy. Here's a link to Janet's website if you want more information about her and her other books as well. http://www.janetteoke.com

Accomplishing Goals

2010-09-30T20:06:00.000-06:00

I am excited to announce that I have accomplished another goal, buying a bike. I've been wanting to buy a bike for the last couple of years but could not afford to buy one until now. I would also like to thank The Carters for their advice on what kind of bike I should buy when I was in Reno a few months ago. My goal with this bike is to be one with nature, and lose some weight. I've been out on the bike once this week and I hope to be out on it this weekend. My goal is to ride my bike 3 times a week for about 30 to 45 minutes and build up from that. I chose this particular bike because it reminds me of a bike that I had as a kid. My helmet really goes with my bike. I also have an awesome place to ride my bike, The Cherry Creek Bike Path which is walking distance from my house and takes me all over the Denver area. I plan on posting my progress with my bike riding and share lots of pictures of the beautiful fall weather here in Denver

An Appreciation For My Brother Tony

2010-09-28T10:10:00.001-06:00

This post is dedicated to the best brother on the planet. I don't think I ever tell Tony enough how much I love and appreciate him. Tony was so supportive during my breakdown and now recovery. I could have not gone through it without him. When I go visit him in Seattle, he always treats me to things even though he should save his money. He will also eat my homemade pasta sauce even though I put mushrooms in it which he hates. He always calls me when he's in town or when he's traveling overseas. I live through his travels when he sends me awesome pictures like the ones from Greenland where he is currently working on a project for Woodshole Oceanographic Institute. Here are some amazing pictures of Greenland. The only thing I complain about is we don't get to see each other enough. Love you lots Tony!!!

New Pictures of Riley Grace

2010-09-26T21:15:00.001-06:00

I just got new photos of my adorable niece Riley Grace who turns 11 months old tomorrow. On October 26th, Riley will turn 1 year old. I would like to thank Dawn for sending me these pictures that I would not otherwise receive since my sister and I are estranged at the moment. Hopefully that day will come when Megan and I can find our way back as sisters and I actually have a chance to meet Riley and be a part of her life.

Welcome to my new blog

2010-09-25T18:56:00.000-06:00

I'm happy to announce that I have added a second blog devoted to my personal life. I still have the busy women's recipe guide but that is devoted to all women and how we can make our lives better with recipes, parenting advice, good books, health, etc. I also wanted to have a separate blog where I can keep in touch with family and friends who are not on Facebook.

Reunion Lunch with Heather Chase and Karen Simon

2010-09-25T14:33:00.001-06:00

Heather Chase and I had our reunion lunch at Claim Jumper with our friend Karen Simon. Heather and I had not seen Karen since we graduated from Crescenta Valley High School in 1985. We had grown up in La Crescenta California. It's really nice to have Karen and Heather living in the Denver area. We plan on getting together on a regular basis. We pigged out on the mother lode chocolate cake at Claim Jumper. Heather and I also got to met Karen's husband Ken and her 2 kids Sarah and Eric. We had our waiter take a couple of pictures.

Karen, Angie and Heather

Erin Nightingale

2010-09-25T14:31:00.001-06:00

Shannon and Erin outside the Cheers bar in Boston

This post is dedicated to a very special young woman that I am very honored to know Erin Nightingale. I first met Erin and her family 3 years ago where we attended the same church. What makes Erin so special is that she does not allow her blindness to hold her back from living life. Erin composes and plays her own songs, among her many talents. Erin has inspired me not to hide behind my disability and live life to its fullest. I would like to thank her mom Shannon for sending me her You Tube performance of one of her songs in Boston this past April.
Here is the link to Erin's performance http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sX8jYIugBg

2010 Denver Greek Festival

2010-09-25T14:29:00.000-06:00

Greek children performing a traditional Greek Dance.

The Assumption of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Metropolis Cathedral of Denver Dome

The Assumption of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Metropolis Cathedral of Denver puts on the festival every year in Denver. All the money that is earned from the festival is donated to 3 Denver area charities. In fact, all Greek Festivals donate the proceeds to charity in your local area. for that reason alone, I encourage to you attend, enjoy great food, music, learn about the Greek culture and give to charity.  I go to the Greek festival because it helps me understand and honor my Greek heritage that I do not know too much about. The food is amazing and I love to watch the Greek dancing especially the kids. I hope to learn some of the traditional Greek dances some day. I also enjoy learning about the Greek Orthodox Church since it was my Grandpa Zafereo's faith. The church is beautiful inside and out. They have a awesome gold dome for the church and some beautiful art work inside. The other interesting thing I have learned about the Greek Orthodox faith is their women;s group which is called The Ladies Philoptochos Society. I have attached their mission statement because it;s so similar to other Christian women's organizations.

The Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, Inc is the duly accredited women’s philanthropic society of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. The mission of the Society shall be:

·        To aid the poor, the destitute, the hungry, the aged, the sick, the unemployed, the orphaned, the imprisoned, the widowed, the handicapped, the victims of disasters, to undertake the burial of impoverished persons and to offer assistance to anyone who may need the help of the Church through fund raising efforts: and

·        To promote the charitable, benevolent, and philanthropic purposes of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, through instructional programs, presentations, lectures, seminars and other educational resources;

·        To preserve and perpetuate Orthodox Christian concepts and the Orthodox Christian Family, and through them, to promote the Greek Orthodox Faith and traditions, in accordance with its doctrines, canons, discipline, divine worship, usages and customs;

·        To promote participation in the activities of the Greek Orthodox community, with the cooperation of the Parish Priest and the Parish Council.
The charitable work of the Society shall be performed with discretion, courtesy and kindness.

The Assumption of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Metropolis Cathedral of Denver also has a Greek school and I am considering attending to learn more about my Greek heritage.

Riley Grace and other blessings in my life

2010-09-25T14:26:00.001-06:00

Today I've been thinking about all the wonderful blessings in my life starting with my adorable niece Riley Grace. Riley is adorable and the start of a new generation in my family. My greatest hope is Megan and I will mend fences and forgive each other for what happened in the past and that I will be able to be a part of Riley's life and spoil her rotten. Here are some adorable pictures of Riley I have to show off. Today is also the 3rd anniversary of my breakdown which has really become my breakthrough. It's a breakthrough because I learned that I've had Post Traumatic Stress since I was a child, have learned to manage it, and re-building my life. I could have not been able to re-build my life without God, my brother Tony, Aunt Val, my Reno 2nd Ward Family who have been with me every step of the way, Dawn, my best friend of 30 years ,and so many other amazing friends who have also been so supportive. My life is so much better now and I'm grateful that I have made it through the last 3 years. It's amazing to see how far I've come the last 3 years. I will always treasure my last year I spent in Reno and know that I was meant to live there even though I struggled so much but grew in so many other ways. I'm also grateful to be back in college and that in May 2011, I will finally be a college graduate, a life long dream of mine and a dream that my late father wanted me to accomplish. I've also learned to appreciate the simple things in life which mean so much more than material things.