Steven Velásquez - Granting "Sirenity"

by Steven P. Velasquez June 14, 2014 My family, over the recent past, has been encountering (sometimes enduring) what seems to be an unprecedented amount of change, of transitions . From anticipated change like the long-awaited arrival of Spring, to special occasions that no matter how well documented, highlighted or punctuated they are on one's calendar, always feel like a surprise! Nazareth Area H.S. Class of 2014 A few weeks ago, we finally began to encounter temps over 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The days are longer and one's warm-weather wardrobe re-emerges from storage boxes beneath their beds. This week, my first born daughter Nicolette , graduated high school (so proud). Next week, she will blow out 18 candles, be eligible to vote, to serve in the military, to make her own decisions (I pray she makes good ones). A month from today, she'll leave her mother's nest, spread her wings and begin attending Liberty University in Virginia , about half-way between...

My childhood home on Mountain Way in Rutherford, NJ My Japanese Friend     April 27, 2013 by Steven P. Velasquez   Once I was young, As you were once too, Turned many a page, You too, now have aged   When I ran, skipped and played, My face feeling hot, You offered me shade, home base, a cool spot   As my roots grew deep, Long, strong and wide Yours did so too, Mine from within, yours outside Oh beautiful friend, we've endured much together, Watched changing seasons, Harsh and warm weather Protect the next family, Watch over their lot, Offer them shade - home base - a cool spot

by Steven P. Velasquez November 22, 2012 Nicolette, my first born (now 16) When she was a little girl, every holiday was celebrated at her grandparent s' house.  Whether we were up in the Pocono's with Pop Pop and Grandmom or in Rutherford at Abuela and Abuelo's house.  Regardless,  the food was always delicious, the house warm and the family -- beloved. Abuela's Thanksgiving ham When she was a little girl, I used to hold her little hand and cros s her across this street.  Today, for the first time,  I watched her park her mother's car in front of Abuela's house. When she was a little girl, I used to pick her up out of her child se at from my vehicle and throw her over my shoulder with a blank ie. I'd hold her close and li sten to her breathe while protecting her from the col d.  Today, she lets herself in and out of the car on her own, and from the driver's seat (no more booster).