Last time I checked in with VJ readers I was taking you through memory lane with my BFF, Stacey Hatzis. That was then, this is now. Stacey is no longer with us.
Once she ceased verbal communication I knew it was time. Ironically, when I left her that night in Hospice I told my family that I wanted to go back. I told her I loved her and that I'd be there the next da. I brushed her hair, put on her makeup and doused her with perfume. She loved perfume.
Stacey died shortly thereafter and crazy as it sounds, you know your best friend...she felt pretty enough to leave.
A nice memorial was held for her at our buddy Jimmy's house in Jersey and yes, they call him "Jimmy Bacon" but I did mention we were in New Jersey!
Laughter...so much laughter and great shared memories! Sometimes one too many! I didn't really want my husband knowing about my "Spin the Bottle" days and my kids had never heard of it! That's Jersey! Sitting in Jimmy's backyard with his wife Maureen has given me a new perspective on life. I don't know if the LA scene is for me as it's too much drama to figure people out. Do they want you at a party for entertainment or do they want to entertain you?
Once we were at a Beverly Hills BBQ (which is SO not like a Jersey party as you have to wear make up and heels!) and the host asked me to tell some jokes. Aviva interrupted the host and said: "Today she's just my mom, she's not telling jokes." I applaud her action and would hire her as my manager!
And so my crazy week closed with my BFF dying and then two days later Aviva had hernia surgery. I had no idea she HAD a hernia! Neither did her doctors in LA although I kept pointing out the protrusion. The surgery went well, thank G-d. I was so petrified when they asked me not to go into the Operating Room. She was brave. Had I gone in, I would have fainted.
I'll close with this comedic scene: Having a kid come off anesthesia shows you what you'll be dealing with in college!
Aviva demanded to "see" her hernia, advising this poor nurse that her hernia could cure cancer! This kind nurse at NYU calmly explained that Aviva was coming "off" the anesthesia but I was thinking that this kid went under with her Aunt Stacey on her mind and came out of anesthesia looking for a cure for cancer!
Who knows? Maybe one day she'll find one. I'd like to thank all of my VJ readers who sent me e-mails about my BFF! Truly appreciated. Donations may be made in her name to Gilda's Club of Northern NJ www.Gildasclubnnj.org
Time for a "Sunda Break!" Let's see if the Jersey Shore is ready for 'Hoodzpah! Stay tuned and I'll keep you posted...telling you like it is and like it was!
