A Timeline of Past Events

This blog will continue to serve a purpose, but will no longer contain my wild thoughts on things from 20 years ago. It will always be a place to remember Lt. Charles "Chuck" Margiotta and to keep his memory alive. I had the opportunity to speak with his brother, Mike, over the weekend and what an honor it was. Thank you for your time and your willingness to speak with me and share things about Chuck and life. I'm forever grateful for his service. In lieu of my annual September 11th post, I would like to talk a little about how this all came to be. 

September 11, 2001 

I was a 17-year-old high school senior walking down the hall. One of the teachers stopped me in the hallway to ask if I had seen anything about the attacks yet. I hadn't, primarily because I was an office aid for first period and we didn't have a tv to watch on. The bell rang, and off to second period I went. The tv was on and everyone's eyes were glued to it. We watched in horror as the second plane struck the WTC. Then we found out about the Pentagon. I had family working there at the time so I ran to my mom's office in tears. To say the day was a wash is an understatement. Nothing productive in class happened that day. No one could speak, we were all terrified because no one knew what was going on. We came together as a class, a school, and a community. It was a time where the country was united. 

2005 

A friend of mine told me about a website where you could sign up to remember one of the 2,996 lives lost on September 11th. I was honored to do so, and was awarded Lt. Charles Margiotta. 

2006 

I wrote my very first blog post about Chuck. It was hard to find information about him at the time, but the internet has changed that tremendously. 

2025 

This will be my 19th year honoring him and to say that I'm a different person than I was in 2006 would be an understatement. As I shared with Mike, I told him that when I signed up I was given a name. At that time Charles was just a name, as crazy as that sounds, but today he is an old friend. Someone I've had the pleasure to get to know and remember year after year. I'm so thankful that I could get to know him through the use of technology. He was a fantastic man and I'm honored that he is a part of my life. When I was 21, and signing up for this, I never imagined what this experience would do to me. Who knew that I would connect with Mike, and have the honor of speaking with him? My 21-year-old self could never comprehend what is happening today. This blog isn't just about Charles, and keeping his memory alive, it's about reminding people of a time when our country was under attack, and remembering those who were lost. Today, when I think about 9/11, Chuck always comes to mind. It's no longer about being 17 and in a school building, it's about remembering him, and countless others. I'm no longer 17, or 21, thank goodness, but I have grown in that time. As we head into the 24th Anniversary, please keep the memory of 9/11 in your hearts and the thousands of families that have been affected.

Lt. Charles Margiotta, 23 Years later

 Lt. Charles "Chuck" Margiotta was born January 15, 1957. He led a life of fun, excitement and love. His fun and excitement included being a stuntman, substituting, being a private investigator, and coaching his kids in sports. He loved his family, neighbors, community, and his job.  He was a firefighter for the NYFD for 20 years until his life was cut short being a hero.

When I read stories of Chuck, I am amazed at the love he had for those around him, and cherishing the small things. He loved to garden and had a garden at the fire station that he loved to tend to, mainly his tomatoes. He loved to help his neighbors and once ran out into the street to help an elderly neighbor who had fallen. According to his friends, he was the nicest tough guy they'd ever met.

The morning of September 11th, he was driving home after being on shift all night long, when he heard over the radio that the Twin Towers had been struck. He turned around and headed back to see how he could help. He phoned his parents to tell them that something big had happened, and that he loved them. He didn't know that he would soon be part of American history. 

This historic day is bigger than Chuck, and all of us. It's a defining moment in American history. A day many of us will never forget, but we must keep that memory alive so that we do not have a repeat of that day. Heroes were born that day and courage was found among many. 

For Chuck, he wanted to help the people of New York by getting many to safety. He wanted to save lives, as he was called to do. I hope that we call all find a little Chuck in ourselves. His death may have been tragic, but his life lives on in the people who remember him. 

He was not someone who would call themselves a hero, as he was merely doing his job. He would probably shrug his shoulders and be humble about it. 

September 11, 2001 is a day that will live in infamy. So many of us will never forget where we were or what we were doing when the news of the attacks hit.  It is our duty, and our responsibility to remember the lives who were lost in the attacks. They all matter, from the janitor, to the executive, firefighters, police officers, and all of those affected. We must remember this day, because by doing so we remember those who were lost. 

Chuck, so long as I'm alive, and my fingers still work, I will always remember you here on this blog, and everyday in my heart. As this date gets closer every year, I struggle to find the words to say, as so many have already been said. I try to honor you in a way that the future generations would be proud of. 

I think back to that day, and my 17 year old self, and I can't fathom not understanding what was happening and how generations of American's would be affected. We knew the impact at that time, but we didn't realize how it would impact us years down the road.  I still tear up when I think about those moments in time, they are forever ingrained in my mind. The clothes I wore, the teacher that stopped me, my eyes on the tv, me running down the hall, and the aftermath in the coming days. 

As I homeschool our son, I always make this day about learning more about the events of September 11th. It's important that the future generations understand how life changing those moments in time were. They will never truly grasp the feelings as it was all happening, but hopefully they can get a sense of pride in what the country did in the days after. 

Chuck, we will never forget.

Click here to donate to Chuck's Scholarship fund

The Story of 9/11 Belongs to All of Us

 Today marks the 22nd anniversary of 9/11. Many of us look back and remember the events of that day. A day filled with fear, terror, tears, camaraderie, and heroism. While people were running from the terror, heroes were running towards it. Many heroes of this story have perished, and those that survived are passing as the years go by, some from the sickness of the toxins that filled the air, and some of age. We still remember the living and the dead of that day. 

As a Social Studies lesson today we watched the 9/11 Anniversary Digital Learning Experience with survivors, first responders, and school teachers. I try to find something new every year for our little guy to watch. He's only 11, but we try to teach him the history of this day and the days following. Reminding him that we should never forget, even if we weren't alive to have a first hand account of 9/11.  It's important to keep the memory alive of all who were lost during this tragedy on American soil. 

I was 17 years old in 2001, and a senior in high school. I remember the day like it was yesterday. We were scared as a class, but we came together as one as well. Nothing was learned that day in any class as we stared at the tv's and talked about how we felt. It was a terrifying, yet somber day. We worried about loved ones, people we knew, and all of the families out there that were suffering a great loss. In the film it featured, Ada Dolch, principal of the High School for Leadership and Public Service in lower Manhattan, and she said "We were hungry for anything that would bring us joy, and lift our spirits." I believe that to be true, because in the days following 9/11 I felt the exact same way. The thought of "how do we forge ahead?" was a burning question in many minds. 

We have forged ahead, but we will never forget because the story of 9/11 belongs to ALL of us.

Tracking down a lead as a private investigator

 There is one man that I will continue to honor, Lt. Charles Margiotta, a firefighter for the FDNY, Battalion 22. He had just finished a 24-hour shift and was heading home when he heard the call over the radio. He turned around to go back to ground zero. Little did he know that he would become a hero that we remember today. 

He was an all around great guy, friend, husband, son, brother, and gardener. The stories that I have found tell the tale of a man who was a helper, a friend, a caregiver, and a hero. I don't believe that he would consider himself a hero though, as he loved doing his job and helping people. 

"He was like a renaissance man,'' said Charlie Margiotta, Chuck's father. "He did everything. He was a hunter, he was a fisherman, he was a part-time actor. He did stunts for the movies, about 10 Hollywood movies.'' 

According to his brother, Mike, he was a larger than life character. He said he was into everything and wondered when he had time to sleep. He was a stuntman, firefighter, private investigator, substitute teacher, and a soccer coach. 

Remembering him has been a great honor throughout the years, and this year I'm at a loss for words. I'm lost today, and a feeling of sadness has washed over me. I have suffered my own loss in the last couple of weeks that has left me without words to convey the memory of Lt. Charles Margiotta properly. While my loved one was not lost in a tragedy that millions will remember, she was lost to health issues. It's hard to imagine what his family felt at that time as I deal with my own loss. 

Chuck, you are remembered and never forgotten. I try to keep your memory alive by teaching my little guy all about the events of that tragic day. While millions of people may not know your name, they remember all who have been lost. Thank you for your service, your bravery, and your heroism. 

To read last years blog 21 Years Later, We will Remember Lt. Charles Margiotta 

To donate to the Chuch Margiotta Scholarship Fund.

*all pictures used with permission

21 Years Later, We Still Remember Lt. Charles Margiotta

 

This year, like many others, I struggle to find the words to convey the heartache I feel each year on September 11th.  I dread this day, but find solace in remembering someone that gave his life to save others. It's been 21 years, but I think we can all remember exactly what we were doing on this very day in 2001.

Lt. Charles Margiotta, Chuck as he was lovingly referred to, was described as the "toughest nice guy around." He helped neighbors, gardened at the fire station, his favorite being the tomatoes, was a stunt man, a private investigator, and a friend.  He leaves behind a wife, son and daughter, as well as many friends and family.  He was a 1979 graduate of Brown University, with two degrees in English and Sociology, and was a member of their 1976 Ivy League champion football team where he was posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame.  

Chuck leaves behind a great legacy, one of friendship, caring for his neighbors, helping the elderly, substituting on his time off, and loving people. He was an amazing man, according to many articles written about him.  It's unfortunate that I, as well as many others, have to learn about his extraordinary life via the internet.  I think we would all be better people if we had gotten to meet him in person.  I don't think he met many strangers, I think they were all friends upon meeting. 

I read in an article that his parents lived next door to him and he would check on them everyday. The last phone call he would make would be to his mom saying "Ma, it's bad, I love you. I'll call you later." His dad missed the trips to the mountains, watching sports on tv, and tailgating at the Giants games. His mom missed the pretzel crumbs he would often leave behind. He had a great relationship with his community and his neighbors, as well as his family.  

I have had the great privilege to communicate with his brother Mike on a few occasions. My goal in this life is to gather more stories about Chuck over coffee with Mike and to be able to continue to share his legacy. Chuck was courageous, as he heard the call over the radio on his way home from a 24-hour shift at a Brooklyn fire station, where he was filling in for someone else.  He turned around and found himself staring evil in the face.  He helped save many lives while losing his.  I see his face when I think about September 11th. 

Several years ago, as I have written before, my husband and I were watching a 9/11 special and at the end they showed pictures of all of the service men and women who lost their lives that day.  As Chucks picture popped up on the screen I shouted "That's him. That's the guy I honor every year.  That's Lt. Charles Margiotta." I'm so thankful that many years ago I signed up to honor someone who gave their last breath so that others could continue to take theirs. I get to know more about Chuck every year and that's what I'm most thankful for. I get to share with others what Chuck was all about, funny stories, and memories from family and friends. 

Every year I donate to the Chuck Margiotta Scholarship Fund and this year was no exception.  As I told my husband, it brought me to tears. I look at my son eating his dino nuggets and he has no idea the impact that September 11th has had on our generation. He'll never understand how hard it is for me to memorialize someone in words. He'll never know the impact it had on our country, but tomorrow our Social Studies and Science lessons will be all about September 11th because it's important that he understand. We don't hide things from him or keep him from understanding how horrible this day was for many American's.  When we talk about it each year, he's angry, and he doesn't understand what could drive people to do this kind of harm to one another.  I will tell him about Chuck so that he remains alive, if only in our hearts and in this blog. 

Chuck led a life worth remembering. 

I have linked the scholarship fund above if you care to donate.  Last years blog isn't hard to find as I really only use this blog anymore to honor him, but it can be read here.

*all pictures have been used with permission

2001-2021 9/11 Lt. Charles Margiotta

 Where do I begin? 20 years ago today we witnessed a terrible tragedy on our own soil, an attack like no other. Many lives were lost that day and many were just beginning. The toll it took our on Nation was great, but seeing our country come together was greater. 

I was a measly 17 year old starting my senior year in high school. We watched on tv all day long and none of us got anything accomplished. Our hearts were torn, and we learned to value life and friendships then. We understood, even at a young age, that life was precious and that at any moment it could be taken from any one of us. What we didn’t understand is the impact it would have on our lives later.

A few years later my friend told me about signing up to blog about someone who had lost their life to 9/11, a first responder, a hero, friend, father, brother, and son. That’s exactly what I did. Today we honor him and all of the men and women who lost their lives that day.

Today I honor Lt. Charles (Chuck) Margiotta, a brother, friend, son, husband, and father.  His memory will, and should, live on. Lt. Margiotta, as long as I live you will never be forgotten, for the things I have learned about you in the many years after 9/11 will always be with me. You were a force in your community and you loved fiercely. You gave your life 20 years ago so that others could go home to their families.  I know you wouldn’t want to be called a hero, but that’s exactly what you are. According to Merriam-Webster a hero is “a person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities.” You possessed all of those things. You helped people when you weren’t called, and you gave your very last breath being brave for others. 

Last night in football stands all across America you were remembered.  My daughter is in the band and the tribute to first responders and the fallen was incredible.  I felt it in my soul and I saw your face when I closed my eyes to remember all who were lost. While many people remember seeing things on the news and not knowing a face attached to it, I’m fortunate enough to have gotten to know you through countless articles, and conversations with your brother, Michael.  He’s been a huge support in helping me to keep your memory alive and he’s doing a wonderful job of it himself.  You live on in the hearts of many today, even if they never had the pleasure of getting to know you. I know that your family is proud of you and I vow to meet them someday and share a coffee in your honor.  I know you loved tending to the tomatoes, so today I pick them with great pride from my garden in memory of you.

I’m reminded every year of your bravery, sacrifice, humility and heroism to our country. A country you gave your last breath to.  Thank you so much for your service Chuck, you will never be forgotten.  God Bless America. 

If you’d like to donate to his scholarship fund you can do so here.

To learn more about Chuck please check out his Memorial Website. 

Check out last years blog post.  

19 Years Lt. Charles Joseph Margiotta

It’s been 19 years since you left us in one of the worst attacks on US soil. 19 years since you died trying to save the people of the country you loved and called home. I sit here today dumbfounded on what to actually write.  Every year I struggle to find the words, struggle to put them all together, and struggle with my emotions. I was just a young 17 year old high schooler trying to find my way in the world, when it all happened.  

As a country we came together in unity. We supported and looked out for one another. We helped our neighbors, we talked to everyone like they were our best friend, and we loved fiercely.  At 17 I saw and felt the effects of this.  I watched classmates cry, scream, and worry.  I watched the planes hit the WTC, and I cried for the loss of our country.  I watched a nation vow to help their fellow man and in the years following that it all fell apart. 

Chuck your service may not be remembered by all, and I didn’t even know you, but it has impacted me since that fateful day in 2001.  Your work will be revered by all in the following years, I will make sure you are never forgotten. 

I vowed many years ago to learn something new about Chuck and to let all of the world know just what kind of person he was and how he will always be remembered. According to a Staten Island Advanced article Chuck was always looking out for his neighbors. He was always helping people and looking out for the underdog.  You would often find him helping his neighbors by helping the elderly that had fallen in the street.  He was also an avid gardener who took care of the tomato plants at Ladder Co. 85 in New Dorp.  He was an avid lover of the outdoors as well, and once he had kids he just rearranged his schedule so that he could enjoy the things he loved. 

In college he would bring home classmates who didn’t have a place to go for Thanksgiving. He would plow every sidewalk on the block when it snowed. He was helping to save lives in the outdoors as well  as he once gave mouth-to-straw-to-beak resuscitation to a bird that had fallen from a tree.  He was always giving himself to others. 

On his way to the WTC he called his mom, Molly, told her it was bad and that he loved her.  He couldn’t get ahold of his wife because she was working. Those would be the last words his family heard from him. 

Today we remember the sacrifices you gave for this great nation in which you and I call home.  I hope you know the impact you’ve had on me since I’ve been privileged enough to write about you.  I know you would never consider yourself a hero, but you’re one to me and your family.  

This year I donated to his scholarship fund, you can do so here. 

To read my first blog post about Lt. Charles Margiotta and last years blog post. 

If you want to learn more about this wonderful hero, please visit his families memorial website. 

*photos used with permission

18 Years Lt. Charles Joseph Margiotta

18 years ago the tragedy of 9/11 shook our very nation to its core. We saw a nation come together and help their neighbors and others they didn’t even know.  We hugged people we’d never met and offered them peace. We simply came together. What a shame that it takes tragedy to bring others together in a time of need. We should always be a good neighbor, a thoughtful stranger, a Good Samaritan, and a great friend.

Every year I honor a man, a hero, firefighter, brother, son, husband, and father.  I think of him often even though I’d never met him.  Back in 2006 I put myself down to honor a hero every year on 9/11 and I will continue to do so as long as I’m able.

Lt. Charles (Chuck) Margiotta ran into the twin towers not knowing if he’d ever see his family again. He was doing his job, the very job he had signed up for, and dedicated his life to.  He was a 20 year FDNY veteran. According to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation he had a degree from Brown University and often spent his off time doubling as a stuntman in several films, one of those being Hannibal. He also spent his time being a private investigator, soccer coach, and a substitute teacher. When Chuck heard about the World Trade Center being hit, he hopped in his truck and raced to the nearest fire station on Staten Island.

What is a hero? According to Mirriam-Webster a hero is defined as a person admired for achievements and noble qualities and someone who shows great courage.  It takes great courage to be a First Responder.  He had noble qualities according to friends and family, but Chuck would never consider himself a hero.

This year I struggle to find the words to say about Chuck, many of the words I can say have already been spoken by his loved ones. I did vow to his brother, Mike, to learn something new about him every year.

To you Chuck, I raise my glass of Texas sweet tea and say thank you. Thank you for serving and giving your life for others so that they may live. Thank you for being selfless, caring, and funny.

If you’d like to read my first blog post about Lt. Margiotta you can do so here.
Last years post: Lt. Charles Margiotta
If you’d like to learn more about Chuck you may do so at his families memorial website, you may also donate to his scholarship fund there as well.

Until we meet Lt. Charles Margiotta I will leave you with this old Irish Blessing:
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

One Week and One Day

It’s been one week and one day since the tragic shooting in Odessa, Texas on Saturday, August 31, 2019. It’s been a week of many emotions and sadness for a community in which I once called home. When I met Colby back in 2007 he had just moved back to Odessa, I was still living with my parents in Greenwood.  Our love was strong and so I moved in with him in 2008. We started a family unit, Colby, myself, and my four year old daughter.  We lived many places within the city and found ourselves settled in a nice little apartment behind the mall.  We lived there for 5 years until we moved to a rental house only blocks away. We brought Stephen home to that little apartment we called home in 2011.

In December 2014 and January 2015, we had the great ice storm, which made many of us homebound, and without power. Broken tree limbs littered yards. Neighbors came together to offer assistance in whatever way possible. Our neighbors offered us a place to stay, freezers to store our food in, and a place to do our laundry. We got a generator so we wouldn’t have to vacate our home and worry about our precious belongings. It was enough to power the heater, the fridge and a few lights. We had gas, so we could still use our gas cook top to provide food for ourselves. Our neighbors were kind, helpful, and they loved on us. For a week a community came together to help their neighbors.

In March 2015, we moved to a whole new town, the crime was getting bad in Odessa and no matter which side of town you lived on, it wasn’t good. During the two years we lived in our rental house Colby’s truck was broken into twice and stolen once. That sealed the deal.  When we got the offer to move closer to Colby’s job, we took it. We have now lived in our new town for four and a half years.

Fast forward to August 31, 2019.  That morning I went to a clothing party for my friend, I bought some stuff, we took some pictures, and we just enjoyed ourselves. That afternoon a friend of ours came over and brought Colby some Ham radio things he found in a house they purchased a few months ago. We visited for a while and talked about life, kids, family, our spouses, and everything else under the sun. I came back in the house, tried to relax, but then the news alerts started happening.   Our friend was headed back to Odessa.

A gunman was on the loose in Odessa, driving around shooting innocent people and wreaking havoc and terror all over. He shot three law enforcement officers, killed seven people and wounded countless others. In the end he was also taken out.  Innocent people were out that day as there’s plenty of shopping to do there. People were in car dealerships, driving down the road, investigating gun shots, and delivering the mail.

We lost someone we knew.  He was someone that ran cameras at church when Colby and I attended a certain church in Odessa. He was a former math teacher and overall a great guy.  He and his family were driving to have some family portraits done when the gunman pulled up next to them and shot him in front of his family. Colby asked me “I wonder how his wife is feeling.” At that time my only response was “Lost. She feels lost.” Today as I’m washing dishes it hits me. She not only feels lost. She wonders how she’s going to raise their kids alone. She’s scared herself because they were all in the car together when he was shot. She worries about what the death of their dad will do to them over time and how it will affect them. She worries she’ll never find love like she had before, even though she’s not looking. She worries about their finances and if they’ll make it without the help of family and friends. She wonders if she should move somewhere else so that they don’t have to pass that ugly place when they go somewhere, and she’ll do everything in her power to take the long way around just so they don’t have to pass it. She wonders when the right time is to take her kids to counseling and herself. She worries she won’t stay strong for her kids. She just worries. She doesn’t know when to pick up the pieces and move on or if she should just leave the pieces on the floor until she’s ready. She’s also worried about the loneliness that is to come when all of the people that have filled their home for the last week finally leave. And she prays.

She prays that her kids know how much their dad loved them.  She prays that somehow they can find comfort and peace in this tragedy.  She prays for a community in which she lives and other victims families. She prays for understanding. She prays for the men and women of law enforcement and fire department for the things they had to witness that day. She just prays. She posts the day after about how everyone needs prayers, and she wants everyone to go to church. She is selfless. 

Last Tuesday we had to go to Midland for a Dr.’s appointment. I travelled down that very interstate where the shootings started. My heart was very heavy as I imagined the chaos and fear that those people experienced. I saw skid marks all over the place where people were trying to get off the roads. I saw pools of blood marked by orange paint, and the outlines of vehicles marked by the same paint. My heart hurts for those people. I didn’t have to go into that town, thankfully, but just imagining the chaos on the interstate was enough for me. Enough that each time I passed those orange markings, I cried out to God for those people to be ok. Yes, I could’ve taken a different route that would’ve taken me 30 minutes out of my way, to go and to get home, but I will not let fear overcome me. My God is greater than that fear.  I told Colby that while I love Odessa and all it has to offer, I’m not ready to go back there and drive those very streets.  My heart hurts for a community in which I was once a part of. 

I also saw my dad on Tuesday where he begged me not to drive home on the interstate, I assured him we would be ok. He hugged me tightly several times and we parted ways.  Hug your loved ones, tell them how much they mean to you, reconcile after a fight, tell them you love them, and never take for granted that they’ll be here tomorrow.  Keep the Permian Basin in your prayers. They will overcome this in time, but for now your prayers are greatly appreciated. Remember that behind every victim in a crime lies a family that is hurting. They need your prayers too.

#WestTexasStrong #BasinStrong

Lt. Charles Joseph Margiotta

Since 2006, I have had the honor and pleasure of honoring a hero that lost his life in the tragic attacks of September 11, 2001.  It’s been 17 years since the attacks that struck our nation, but you will forever be in my heart.  I had the pleasure of speaking with your brother Mike last year and he was grateful that you will forever been honored by someone who didn’t know you.  It is my honor to be your voice.

Every year I have so much to say, but this year I am at a loss about what to write. I vowed to your brother to learn something new about you every year.  I’ve read the many funny stories off of the website that was created in your honor, and they all said the same thing, you had a huge heart.  One story spoke of the pit bull that you would dress up in a NYFD jersey and let run loose on the field, it said that the NYFD always beat the NYPD with you on their team.  According to your friends the word “hero” is not what you would associate yourself with, you would just be doing your job. You, Chuck, are a hero in the lives of many.

17 years ago, you ran into a building not knowing what would happen next, but you saved many lives, while losing your own.  Those people whose lives you saved would say you are their hero.  You are a hero to me for giving up something so precious so that others could be saved.  We remember you always, may we never forget your sacrifices.

Today, and everyday, I work to honor the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11.  I will continue to teach my kids about this day, because it can’t just be history.  The need to know how this affected us as a nation, and each of us individually.  I was just a 17 year old girl, roaming the halls of my high school that day. Little did I know the impact it would have on me at the age of 34.  At 17, I watched a nation come together, people become better people, and friends forever changed.  I watched people mourn and grieve, even though we had no answers as to why.  I watched 132 high school seniors band together and vow to never forget.  I saw America become patriotic again.


Today, and everyday, we not only honor Lt. Charles Margiotta, but the 2,996 that lost their lives that fateful day.  We honor the many men and women who have died or are suffering from an illness that was caused on that day.

To all of the first responders and their families, thank you for your unwavering sacrifice to keeping us safe.  To the men and women that fight for our freedom everyday, thank you! To those who have lost their lives during 9/11, I keep your family in my prayers always.




If you’d like to read my first blog post about Chuck you may do so here.  The link to last years blog post.  I encourage you to go read the many stories posted about Chuck on his families memorial website, and if you’d like to donate to his scholarship fund, I know they would appreciate that.

*all photos have been used with permission

Three Long Weeks

It’s been three of the longest weeks of my life. Cowgirl passed three weeks ago. It’s been hard for us girl. I wish I could convey how much you are missed around here. Dad and I cry at least a couple of times a week.

The other night we were laying in bed and I started to cry. Dad asked me what was wrong.  I was going to tell you goodnight but the reality hit that you were no longer with us. I told you goodnight and I loved you. I hope you heard me. Dad said it was ok to still say those things because you live in our hearts. I didn’t know it would be this hard, no one prepared me for this.  There is nothing that anyone can say to prepare us for this. You were here one day, and gone the next.  I asked dad when this nightmare would end.  They say you learn to cope, and things get easier, but I want to know when. Will our hearts be broken forever?

We went out of town a couple of weekends ago, and when we came home that was so hard. You weren’t here to greet us at the front door.  The house was so empty and quiet.  While we were driving to Houston, Dad said, “What if we come home with a new blue puppy?” My heart broke, and I responded that I wasn’t ready yet.  There are not any blue puppies in this world that are just like you, sweet, beautiful, loyal, calm, loving, and precious.  There are plenty of blue puppies out there, but none like you.  You were truly one of a kind.  For now, we will love Sheriff Ringo and Ruby, they deserve just as much love as we gave you.

Rufus Kitty still lays in your bed, and he still leaves room for you. He’s become the most snuggly thing ever since you passed.  He has now started to play with the puppies, but they don’t play with him like you did. In fact, they don’t really know what to do. He misses you so much, just like the rest of us.

We’ve talked about leaving the puppies out over night to roam the house, but Sheriff can’t behave.  He comes in the house and ten minutes later we find shredded things in your bed.  He digs stuff out of any trashcan he can find.  He even ate some crayons the other day, what a crazy dog!

I posted on Chewy about how you have passed.  Their response was beautiful. Did you know they sent us a dozen roses and a candle?  How cool is that?! It’s not cool that we have to go through this, but its cool that they honor each of their customers fur babies.

I’ll leave you with this. I honestly didn’t know that my heart could shatter into a million pieces.  I never knew that when you passed, a part of me would go with you.  We miss you with all that we have.  Watch over Daddy please. He misses you greatly.

Cowgirl

Cowgirl’s 1st Birthday.

On Memorial Day, 2009, we brought home the sweetest girl ever. A bright and beautiful Blue Heeler named Cowgirl.  I remember the long drive to Coleman, TX to pick her up. We got to the guys house, and we instantly fell in love with her. She was beautiful! We made the long journey home with her. I remember her soaking a towel with her slobber as she laid her head in Colby’s lap. She also pooped in the truck as well. Poor girl was a nervous wreck. She always loved the idea of car rides, but in actuality they made her nervous.

We had many good years with our girl. She was kind, protective, loving, and sweet. We saw her through many things, often babying her with all we had. She loved to steal bread off of the counter, no matter how far back you put it, she would get it. I remember one time she stole the bread while Colby and I were out at dinner.  When we got home I noticed it was gone, she was hiding in her room, and we couldn’t find the bag.  We got to looking and called her out of her room, she had been smart enough to take the bag and lay on it.  That crazy girl was hiding the evidence.  She also stole food off the table a few times, and would eat something of yours if you walked away for only a minute.  She was sneaky, but we just laughed.

She watched that fish tank for a good five minutes that day!

In 2011, I got pregnant with Stephen, and I worried about what kind of dog she would become once we brought him home.  My fears were unwarranted. She was absolutely amazing with Stephen.  She would lay in the doorway of his bedroom while I rocked and fed him.  She always wanted to be close by him to make sure he was ok.  When he would do tummy time, she needed to be right at his side.  If he was on the floor, she was always right there with him.  She had become his great protector.  He loved her so much and she tolerated his shenanigans well.  She never nipped at him when he would lay on her or accidentally pull her ear.  She loved him so much.

Always watching her Buddy, and her baby was never far away. 

The years went by, and we moved twice before landing in our permanent home.  Of course she was always willing to go where we were.  She was such a resilient girl.  She befriended a tiny little kitten and they became best friends.  She had numerous surgeries for infected teeth, ripping open her belly on the baby gate, her toenail getting caught in the door, and so much more.  She was so awesome during it all. What a trooper that girl was, and she always recovered much better than they said she would.  She stayed by her daddy’s side while he was so incredibly sick in 2016. She comforted him everyday.

Fast forward to 2017, we noticed she was bleeding from her nipple one evening, and we knew that couldn’t be good. We took her to the vet and told us she needed surgery to remove the mammary tumors.  After her surgery he told us that he could tell they were malignant and would indeed spread so we needed to keep an eye out. They got worse, and they spread like wild fire.  She didn’t seem to be in pain and we put it off taking her in again.  In our eyes she was doing well, I often think that God was making us enjoy those last months with her.  We did enjoy them, that’s for sure.

Cowgirl and Buddy waiting for Daddy to come home. 

Last week she began struggling to breath, we had noticed it, but didn’t do anything about it, we were too scared to face the harsh reality of it all.  I took her into the vet last Wednesday, inquiring about if there was anything we could do, or was it time to say goodbye.  He informed me she probably had one week of life left before she crossed the rainbow bridge.  I’m glad we didn’t take that for granted or we would have been so disappointed. We scheduled a time and a day to end her suffering, but she decided that wasn’t good enough.  We enjoyed her on Wednesday, I took her for a long car ride, took her outside many times, and we just hung out.

Wednesday evening we noticed she would head to the bedroom, and then come back to the living room.  I took her back to her bed a couple of times until we figured out that she wanted us to come to bed.  Colby and I got a little bit of sleep on Wednesday, and Thursday morning about 4:30 we both woke up.  Her breathing was terrible.  She was really struggling.  Colby laid in the floor with her for a while before telling me he didn’t think she would make it. My heart was hurting because I knew she wouldn’t either.  She finally came to the living room, I followed her and came to check on her many times.  Then, I suddenly didn’t hear her tags clinking together anymore so I came back to the living room to check again.  She had passed.

We miss her so incredibly much, but we know that she’s with Jesus.  We also find comfort in the fact that she is healed.  She can run without struggling for the next breath, she can walk without a limp, and she is cured of cancer.  We tried to bury her, but our soil is a combination of dirt and caliche.  Caliche becomes hard like concrete once it’s rained a few times and becomes really packed.  It’s hard to dig in that.  We opted for cremation.

Today, I brought our girl back home.  We know she is at peace.  She gave us the best 9 years of her life, and we enjoyed every moment of them.  She was our first dog that we got as a family, she was with Colby through some of the roughest times as well.

Cowgirl, we miss you so much, and our hearts break without you here.  We love you. Be a good girl.

Lt. Charles Joseph Margiotta

Today marks 16 years since that fateful day that would change the course of our history as we know it.  I struggle today with the words to say here.  I can recount numerous times where I was and what I was doing when terror struck our country.  Today I get to teach my precious little 5 year old boy all about this day, Patriot Day.  It's not a good thing to do but it's time he start learning.  I was a 17 year old girl in high school when this happened.  Neither one of my kids were even thought about at this time.  Their innocence is something to be admired, but today I live with grief in my heart.

Many many years ago I chose to honor a first responder, a hero, every year on this very day.  I watched a documentary several months ago and when I saw his picture flash across the screen I exclaimed to my husband "that is the hero I honor every year."  It's not just about honoring him every year, but it's about honoring everyone that lost their lives to this tragic event. This year is no different.  He was an honorable man, who chose to go to the Twin Towers that morning because it was his duty. He lost his life that morning but no telling how many lives he really saved that day.  He will always remain in my heart.

Today I honor him.  Everyday we honor those that lost their lives to this tragic event on US soil.  Today our hearts are filled with grief and sadness for those lives that were lost today.  May we remember them everyday and may we never forget.  I'm at a loss today with words, I've written the same story every year, a story about a courageous man, and yet I have no words today.  Here are a few links so you can learn more about this man I honor every year.

Here is a link to my blog post about Lt. Charles Joseph Margiotta.  Here is last years blog post.
If you would like to donate to the scholarship fund or read stories about Lt. Margiotta, you can do so here.

May we always remember the 2,996 people killed that day and all of those suffering from various illnesses brought on by this day.  You see the people killed that day weren't the only one's who had lives affected, many people are battling different illnesses and diseases from the many chemicals flying through the air that day.  Let us never forget this day.  God bless America!

Lt. Charles Margiotta, thank you for your unwavering service.  Every year I will continue to honor you and learn more about you.

Update: Today we talked to Stephen (5) about what happened on this day 16 years ago and showed him pictures.  We explained it in a way that he could understand.  Having to teach your kids about this is not fun, but we made a craft to honor this day with.  It tore his Daddy up having to tell him that the "tower building men" couldn't put the towers back together.  Ever year we will get to teach him more as this day is an important part of our history.  This is not something we keep quiet about in our household.  Today is about those lives lost, and by remembering this day we keep those people in our hearts.  This is for you Lt. Charles Margiotta, I will teach our son of your heroic acts, and about your life, you will be remembered for many generations to come.  

Lt. Charles Joseph Margiotta

Today is September 11, 2011 and today is remembered in the hearts of many Americans. As those planes crashed into many remembered building that one faitful day, I was at school. I was a senior in high school at Greenwood High School, and I can remember passing by one of the classrooms where one of our teachers stopped me and asked if I had heard. I obviously had not heard because I didn’t have a clue as to what was going on. He told me and that’s the moment it hit. Our country was under attack and who knew that it would continue for a long time. No one even saw it coming. We had a new President who was doing his best to run the country he believed in so much. The country that had offered him so much without expecting much in return. But more importantly, many of our freedoms were taken that day. I remember going to second period and sitting in there when someone mentioned that the pentagon had been hit. It sank in, “the Pentagon” I screamed, my cousin worked in there on the very side that was hit. He had just walked out of the building when the plane hit, and he went back in to assist where he could. I worried for him for the day and I was sad until we heard he was okay. My cousin is a JAG Lawyer and it could be him that we’re remembering this day.



Today is the day when we remember those who were lost, either by doing their jobs, or others trying to escape. It was a devastating blow to America as a whole and to the Americans that call this place home. America lost some of its finest, Police Officers, Firefighters, and other rescue workers. Those people gave their lives for others, which they were called to duty to do.

I hope that we can instill this kind of thing into our young children, Brooke was not yet even thought about when this horrific event occured so she will never fully understand how it has impacted ourselves, the people around us, our neighbors, friends, and family, nor how it has impacted our lives and our Country. When I think about these things and the innocence that those children bring I also remember the innocence of our country that day as there was really nothing we could do at that very moment. How vulnerable and unprepared we were that day. That day has changed our lives forever.

On this day I’m called to remember everyone, but someone I was chosen to remember. I can not find much on this fine man, but I’m sure he was married to a lovely lady who loved him very much as well, as he probably had children who loved him very much. His name is Lt. Charles Joseph Margiotta. He was 44, from New York, NY and he died trying to assist in the tragic event at the World Trade Center. Today we honor him for giving his life for others and doing it without even second guessing or hesitating. For this we honor you Lt. Margiotta. I’m sure you were New York’s finest, just out there doing your job. You probably impacted many lives and those people will be forever grateful.


I pray that on your journey home you were able to stand at the Pearly Gates of God’s Kingdom. Welcome home Lt.

Lt. Margiotta, I remember you in my heart everyday for your selfless act of courage for our country.  You did what had to be done and put your own safety behind.  What an amazing man you must have been.  I hope that we as American's continue to remember you everyday. I chose to honor you in this blog once a year and I hope that I never become to busy to ever forget. 

Today it is the greatest honor to remember such a brave and loved man.


Here is the Eulogy written for him by his brother Mike Margiotta:


According to Webster, "bravery" is defined as combining confidence with firm resolution in the presence of danger. "Courageous" however is more than brave! It adds a moral element. The courageous man steadily encounters perils to which he may be keenly sensitive at the call of duty. At no time do either of these definitions mention being fearless. Fearless is just the inability to recognize danger.


On September 11th, Chuck had fears…recognized them…called home…and then performed his job with Bravery and Courage; as did all our firefighters and police officers. We thank them all and love them all for being heroes every day.

I thought Chuck was a workaholic. If I told him I had 2 jobs…he would say, “What do you do with the rest of your time?” Chuck didn’t have a career…he had many careers. Along with the FDNY, private investigation and others, Chuck was also a substitute teacher working in the NYC Board of Ed. for 20 years.


They say you can’t mix business with pleasure. Chuck always found a way.


When Chuck was only 12 years old, I watched with amazement at his ability to juggle both. He went to Latourette golf course to fish for carp in one of the ponds. And I mean, literally standing in the pond. The pond was between a Tee off and a green. He would stand in the water fishing and then sell golfballs back to the golfers that didn’t clear the pond. Making money and fishing…Chuck’s perfect world.


Later in life, perhaps even surprising himself, Chuck turned into the perfect dad. His hobbies were planned around his family schedule. Soccer, softball, basketball, baseball…all came first. And not just seeing the games…oh no…Chuck coached his daughter and son in all the sports. Eventually Chuck took over as Director of basketball in this parish, St. Rita’s. His weekends were consumed with scheduling practices, games and tournaments. Through it all, Chuck still managed to plan family vacations, hunting and fishing trips with his buddies and lots of activities that would fulfill all his needs.


Chuck’s plate still wasn’t full. He lived one house away from his parents. He was a great son to his mother and father. He was the mule. Anything that involved a ladder or back breaking work was Chuck’s. Cleaning the gutters and plowing the neighborhood was his specialty. When the first snowflake fell, you knew it wouldn’t be long before you heard Chuck fire up the Toro snowplow! Then like kids looking for Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve, neighbors would run to their windows and throw up the sash. And what to their wondering eyes should appear but, Chuck with an orange hunting jump suit, smiling ear to ear.


Chuck was like a superhero to his kids. He was like a superhero to all of his family and friends. One can only imagine what he looked like through the eyes of his children, Norma Jean and Charlie. Chuck was larger than life. He was only 5’ 11”. He was not the 6 feet that he claimed he was. But when you met him, even if you looked down to him physically…you looked up to him in ways that you could not put your finger on. You left Chuck with a feeling that he was much bigger than he really was.


As tough as Chuck looked, and with as gruff a voice as he had, children always knew that he loved them. They instinctively knew he was their ally. And they were right. If he yelled at them for letting a game get a little out of hand, the children usually smiled or laughed. Then Chuck would laugh too, seeing himself in the kids.


Chuck's light shines in the eyes of his children, Norma Jean and Charlie, who look around in admiration at all the people here who loved their father. That light will shine brighter every day until it bursts like a super nova when we join him in heaven.


Chuck is up there now with all the other firefighters lost on September 11th, giving a lesson on how to grow tomatoes and zucchini. He knows he can’t be wrong because he is with Nani and Papa who taught him all about it.


He is up there having a pick up game of basketball against Jesus and the Apostles. Chuck calls his team the Underdogs. I’d like to introduce them to you now:


Starting at Forward…everyone who was too little to fight for themselves. At the other forward… everyone who in the latter years of life were stripped of their dignity and were unable to perform tasks we take for granted. At Right Guard…everyone Chuck loved that left this world before him. At left guard…everyone who ever misjudged Chuck's loyalty while on earth. And STARTING AT CENTER…a man who at only 5’11”, now stands taller than everyone because of the life he led, the traditions he held on to, the compassion he showed and the memories he left...Chuck Margiotta


I continue to research this Hero and upon doing so I found this:



When he left Staten Island to attend Brown University, Chuck Margiotta told classmates that he would return to New York to become a fireman. He did just that, serving 15 years in Harlem and then the last 4 with Ladder 85 in Staten Island.


He also became a substitute teacher. A private investigator. A coach of his children's soccer and basketball teams. And he was a member of the Screen Actors Guild, winning small roles in the movies "Frequency" and "Hannibal."


"He was usually the guy who got shot," said Steve Gallira, a friend since childhood. "Nobody knows when the guy slept. We don't think he did."


Early on Sept. 11, Mr. Margiotta, 44, was returning to Staten Island after filling in for another firefighter in Brooklyn. Once he heard the news of the attacks, he turned around, caught a ride with Rescue 5 near the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and headed for the towers.

That was Chuck: all drive. Always doing the unexpected. Like becoming tight end for his high school football team when he could hardly catch a pass. Like saying unabashedly in the company of other men how he had done the right thing by marrying his wife, Norma. Mr. Gallira said, "I felt all this work he did, Chuck believed it was his obligation to life, to fill it up."

Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on November 14, 2001.


 

To honor someone next year you can go to http://www.dcroe.com/2996 and sign up.



His family has also dedicated a website to him also that you can go check out pictures and other things on: http://chuckmargiotta.com/index.html




God Bless America!!! Stand Tall & Proud!!!!

Lt. Charles Joseph Margiotta

Today is September 11, 2010 and today is remembered in the hearts of many Americans. It's hard to believe that this attack on American soil happened nine years ago. It's amazing that for many of us where we were, who we were with, what we were doing, and what we may have been wearing is forever etched in our minds as we think about that day. As those planes crashed into many remembered building that one faitful day, I was at school. I was a senior in high school at Greenwood High School, and I can remember passing by one of the classrooms where one of our teachers stopped me and asked if I had heard. I obviously had not heard because I didn’t have a clue as to what was going on. He told me and that’s the moment it hit. Our country was under attack and who knew that it would continue for a long time. No one even saw it coming. We had a new President who was doing his best to run the country he believed in so much. The country that had offered him so much without expecting much in return. But more importantly, many of our freedoms were taken that day. I remember going to second period and sitting in there when someone mentioned that the Pentagon had been hit. It sank in, “the Pentagon” I screamed, my cousin worked in there on the very side that was hit. He had just walked out of the building when the plane hit, and he went back in to assist where he could. I worried for him for the day and I was sad until we heard he was okay. All of us had a family member that was affected by the attack this day.  It's all hit to close to home. 

Today is the day when we remember those who were lost, either by doing their jobs, or others trying to escape. It was a devastating blow to America as a whole and to the Americans that call this place home. America lost some of its finest, Police Officers, Firefighters, and other rescue workers. Those people gave their lives for others, which they were called to duty to do.


On this day I’m called to remember everyone, but someone I was chosen to remember. I can not find much on this fine man, but I’m sure he was married to a lovely lady who loved him very much as well, as he probably had children who loved him very much. His name is Lt. Charles Joseph Margiotta. He was 44, from New York, NY and he died trying to assist in the tragic event at the World Trade Center. Today we honor him for giving his life for others and doing it without even second guessing or hesitating. For this we honor you Lt. Margiotta. I’m sure you were New York’s finest, just out there doing your job. You probably impacted many lives and those people will be forever grateful.

I pray that on your journey home you were able to stand at the Pearly Gates of God’s Kingdom. Welcome home Lt.

Here is the Eulogy written for him by his brother Mike Margiotta:

According to Webster, "bravery" is defined as combining confidence with firm resolution in the presence of danger. "Courageous" however is more than brave! It adds a moral element. The courageous man steadily encounters perils to which he may be keenly sensitive at the call of duty. At no time do either of these definitions mention being fearless. Fearless is just the inability to recognize danger.

On September 11th, Chuck had fears…recognized them…called home…and then performed his job with Bravery and Courage; as did all our firefighters and police officers. We thank them all and love them all for being heroes every day.

I thought Chuck was a workaholic. If I told him I had 2 jobs…he would say, “What do you do with the rest of your time?” Chuck didn’t have a career…he had many careers. Along with the FDNY, private investigation and others, Chuck was also a substitute teacher working in the NYC Board of Ed. for 20 years.

They say you can’t mix business with pleasure. Chuck always found a way.

When Chuck was only 12 years old, I watched with amazement at his ability to juggle both. He went to Latourette golf course to fish for carp in one of the ponds. And I mean, literally standing in the pond. The pond was between a Tee off and a green. He would stand in the water fishing and then sell golfballs back to the golfers that didn’t clear the pond. Making money and fishing…Chuck’s perfect world.

Later in life, perhaps even surprising himself, Chuck turned into the perfect dad. His hobbies were planned around his family schedule. Soccer, softball, basketball, baseball…all came first. And not just seeing the games…oh no…Chuck coached his daughter and son in all the sports. Eventually Chuck took over as Director of basketball in this parish, St. Rita’s. His weekends were consumed with scheduling practices, games and tournaments. Through it all, Chuck still managed to plan family vacations, hunting and fishing trips with his buddies and lots of activities that would fulfill all his needs.

Chuck’s plate still wasn’t full. He lived one house away from his parents. He was a great son to his mother and father. He was the mule. Anything that involved a ladder or back breaking work was Chuck’s. Cleaning the gutters and plowing the neighborhood was his specialty. When the first snowflake fell, you knew it wouldn’t be long before you heard Chuck fire up the Toro snowplow! Then like kids looking for Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve, neighbors would run to their windows and throw up the sash. And what to their wondering eyes should appear but, Chuck with an orange hunting jump suit, smiling ear to ear.

Chuck was like a superhero to his kids. He was like a superhero to all of his family and friends. One can only imagine what he looked like through the eyes of his children, Norma Jean and Charlie. Chuck was larger than life. He was only 5’ 11”. He was not the 6 feet that he claimed he was. But when you met him, even if you looked down to him physically…you looked up to him in ways that you could not put your finger on. You left Chuck with a feeling that he was much bigger than he really was.

As tough as Chuck looked, and with as gruff a voice as he had, children always knew that he loved them. They instinctively knew he was their ally. And they were right. If he yelled at them for letting a game get a little out of hand, the children usually smiled or laughed. Then Chuck would laugh too, seeing himself in the kids.

Chuck's light shines in the eyes of his children, Norma Jean and Charlie, who look around in admiration at all the people here who loved their father. That light will shine brighter every day until it bursts like a super nova when we join him in heaven.

Chuck is up there now with all the other firefighters lost on September 11th, giving a lesson on how to grow tomatoes and zucchini. He knows he can’t be wrong because he is with Nani and Papa who taught him all about it.

He is up there having a pick up game of basketball against Jesus and the Apostles. Chuck calls his team the Underdogs. I’d like to introduce them to you now:

Starting at Forward…everyone who was too little to fight for themselves. At the other forward… everyone who in the latter years of life were stripped of their dignity and were unable to perform tasks we take for granted. At Right Guard…everyone Chuck loved that left this world before him. At left guard…everyone who ever misjudged Chuck's loyalty while on earth. And STARTING AT CENTER…a man who at only 5’11”, now stands taller than everyone because of the life he led, the traditions he held on to, the compassion he showed and the memories he left...Chuck Margiotta

I continue to research this Hero and upon doing so I found this:

When he left Staten Island to attend Brown University, Chuck Margiotta told classmates that he would return to New York to become a fireman. He did just that, serving 15 years in Harlem and then the last 4 with Ladder 85 in Staten Island.



He also became a substitute teacher. A private investigator. A coach of his children's soccer and basketball teams. And he was a member of the Screen Actors Guild, winning small roles in the movies "Frequency" and "Hannibal."

"He was usually the guy who got shot," said Steve Gallira, a friend since childhood. "Nobody knows when the guy slept. We don't think he did."

Early on Sept. 11, Mr. Margiotta, 44, was returning to Staten Island after filling in for another firefighter in Brooklyn. Once he heard the news of the attacks, he turned around, caught a ride with Rescue 5 near the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge and headed for the towers.

That was Chuck: all drive. Always doing the unexpected. Like becoming tight end for his high school football team when he could hardly catch a pass. Like saying unabashedly in the company of other men how he had done the right thing by marrying his wife, Norma. Mr. Gallira said, "I felt all this work he did, Chuck believed it was his obligation to life, to fill it up."

Profile published in THE NEW YORK TIMES on November 14, 2001.

To honor someone next year you can go to http://www.dcroe.com/2996 and sign up.

His family has also dedicateda website to him also that you can go check out pictures and other things on: http://chuckmargiotta.com/index.html

God Bless America!!! Stand Tall & Proud!!!!