I met Paula at an outdoor concert in the summer of 1985. When the concert ended, Roseann said to Paula “hey Paula, this is Matt“. In a low toned, shy voice Paula says “Hi Matt“. Roseann said to her “you can give him a hug Paula, it’s OK“ and so it began.. I have never had a hug like that in my whole life. But luckily for me it continued for decades to come.
As the years went on, bonds were formed; not only Palma and myself, but our families as well. Oh my mom loved State Fair and so did Paula and Roseann and their mom, Rose. Many concerts attended, and many quarters for the Footsie Woodson machines (which were loaded with quarters as Paula and my mom were on them for extended amount of time).
Shortly after that concert in 1985, I starting working with Rob (who eventually became Paula’s brother-in-law as he married Roseann). So anything organized by Roseann and Rob such as anniversary parties or birthday parties or a just plain get together, we were there. The best part about it, is that I had more chances to see Paula: who was the biggest ray of sunshine that was ever put on this earth.
My mom attended Paula and Roseann‘s parents, Rose and Stan’s, anniversary party. My sister and brother-in-law attended Roseann and Rob’s wedding reception and still talk about how great it was.
It’s fantastic to look back to see how our families intertwined for monumental moments, both good and bad. Simply said, I am honored that I became a part of the Ukranec/Robbins family unit through love and friendship. And in the middle of this unit was Paula…arms extended…and ready to give one of those same hugs I received back in 1985…followed by a full recap of today’s General Hospital episode.
I will miss you Paula. The Valentine cards, Easter cards, birthday cards, Halloween cards, Thanksgiving cards, and the Christmas cards. Until we meet again Paula. You just make sure you have those arms extended for my big hug.