Stories That Shape My Days

Finding comfort, connection, and lifelong joy in the pages of a good book

My Hobbies: Reading and Sleeping

My hobbies are reading and sleeping — probably in that order, though not always. I’ve loved reading for as long as I can remember. My father read every single day, and I followed right in his footsteps.

I read as often as I can — usually in the afternoon before my nap, again before dinner, and one more time before bed. And if I wake up in the middle of the night, I’ll read a few more pages. It relaxes me and helps me drift peacefully back to sleep.

My favorite genre is historical fiction. I’ve read many — probably hundreds — of books in that category. I especially enjoy stories set during the Civil War era, but I truly love all kinds of historical fiction. You can learn so much from those pages.

They say historical fiction writers must have every paperclip in place — every detail just right — and I believe it. I’ve learned a surprising amount of true history from the historical fiction novels I’ve read.

Reading, for me, is both a comfort and a lifelong companion.

I also belong to the California State Society Daughters of the American Revolution Book Club, and I’ve been a member for several years now. We meet every other month, and I truly look forward to each gathering. Our most recent book was absolutely fantastic — one of those reads that stays with you long after the last page. Every meeting brings thoughtful conversation, shared insights, and a deep appreciation for the stories that connect us.

Books have always been part of my rhythm — steady, soothing, and ever faithful. They remind me that every story, like every day, holds something worth discovering.

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING — ONE PAGE AT A TIME.

Week 13: The 20-Miler: October 19, 2025

This week marked one of the biggest milestones in my training for the Every Woman’s Marathon — the 20-mile run. Nine half-marathons in nine weeks. It was challenging, both mentally and physically. I didn’t finish within the time I hoped for; in fact, it took me an hour longer than planned. But I finished — and that’s what matters most.

Somewhere after the halfway point, that familiar runner’s lean appeared again, this time pulling me to the right. It’s frustrating, especially when it grows stronger by mile 18. Still, I kept moving forward, one step at a time, determined to complete the distance.

Every long run teaches me something new about endurance, patience, and persistence. I may not know exactly how 26.2 miles will unfold, but I do know this: I’ve come too far to give up now. Every mile is part of the journey — a testament to courage, resilience, and the quiet strength it takes to keep going when the road gets tough.

Here’s to showing up, giving your all, and believing in the strength that carries you forward — one mile at a time.

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!

Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861–1865

We had a wonderful meeting of the Daughters of Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861–1865, on Saturday, October 18th. The Hannah Anderson Ropes Tent No. 86, Department of California/Nevada, gathered for a great afternoon of fellowship and planning.

It was such a joy spending time with these dedicated ladies as we look ahead to our Christmas brunch in December!

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!

🌞 Beautiful morning in the Upper Arroyo Seco!

Had a wonderful walk on Saturday, October 18, 2025, with 261 Fearless Club Los Angeles. The weather was absolutely beautiful, and the friendship and camaraderie were truly special. 💜

Come join us!

We meet on Saturdays at 9 a.m. at the Pasadena Senior Center, 85 East Holly Street, Pasadena, CA 91103.

— 261 Certified Fearless Coach, Club Los Angeles 💪👟

 261 Fearless Club Los Angeles

PatQuests.com @261fearlessclublosangeles @261fearless @pasadenaseniorcenter @pasadena_chamberofcommerce

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JOURNEY ON! KEEP QUESTING!

A Little Detour on the Way to the Battleship Iowa: October 16, 2025

On my way to the Battleship Iowa, something unexpected happened. As I approached the on-ramp to the 105 Freeway at Garfield, a little dog darted onto the ramp — alone and in danger.

I pulled over, got out of the car, and was able to rescue him. He was such a sweet, calm little soul. I took him to a nearby shelter, hoping they could help him find a safe and loving home.

It wasn’t part of the day’s plan, but it was a small reminder that kindness and care can change the course of someone’s day — or even a life. I wish this little guy all the best on his journey.

Afterward, I continued on to the Battleship Iowa, where a very different kind of adventure awaited — learning to operate the ham radio aboard a historic ship, surrounded by generous and knowledgeable people. It turned out to be a day full of unexpected connections, compassion, and discovery.

In both moments — rescuing a small dog and sharing time with fellow radio operators — I was reminded how deeply rewarding it is to reach out, lend a hand, and be part of something larger than myself.

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!

RUN READ WRITE RESCUE!

PatQuests.com

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!

On the Air from the Battleship Iowa

The ship’s call sign, November India 6 Bravo Bravo (NI6BB), carries the weight of history — a vessel that once crossed vast oceans now connects voices across the airwaves.

Sitting at that radio, surrounded by dials, meters, and the quiet hum of transmission, I felt both the legacy of the past and the excitement of the present.

As Alpha Golf 6 Oscar Echo (AG6OE), I made contact with Japan, Argentina, Hawaii, Chili, Mexico, Canada, Alaska, and several other states across the U.S.

Each connection felt like a spark — a reminder of how communication can bridge distance, culture, and time.
It was an incredible learning experience, shared with other passionate operators who were generous with their knowledge and welcoming camaraderie.

For me, it echoed what I’ve always loved most — discovery, curiosity, and the power of learning something new.

I plan to return and volunteer regularly — perhaps once a week or every few weeks — because opportunities like this remind me that learning never stops, no matter where we are or how many stories we’ve already lived.

Signing out — 73, Alpha Golf 6 Oscar Echo (AG6OE).

Pat Winiecki
District XIII Assistant Director / America 250! Chair
CSSDAR
Western Shores Chapter Chaplain
NSDAR

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!

8 Half-Marathons in 8 Weeks

Week 12 of training for the Every Woman’s Marathon — 14 miles completed today. It went pretty well overall. I hit a dark spot between miles 7 and 10, but found my rhythm again and finished strong. Felt great at the 14-mile mark.

Next week will be the big one — the 20-miler. Looking forward to it and hoping it goes off well. Each week brings me closer to the start line, one step at a time.

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!

An unusual and beautiful Saturday morning — warm, bright, and full of smiles! ☀️

Started off with a bit of hip pain and stiffness, but right away everything felt so much better seeing these beautiful ladies, and chatting and moving  in the bright, warm sunshine.

So grateful for these beautiful women of 261 Fearless Club Los Angeles — such energy and encouragement every week. 💜

Congratulations to Jeanne for your amazing performance at the Huntsman World Games!🎉 Go, Jeanne, go! 👏🏅

We meet every Saturday at 9 a.m. at the Pasadena Senior Center, 85 East Holly Street, Pasadena, CA.

Come out, enjoy the weather while we still have it, and share a smile with us. 💪😊

Coach Pat

#261Fearless #261FearlessClubLosAngeles #WomenSupportingWomen #PasadenaSeniorCenter #SaturdayRun #StayFearless #GoJeanneGo

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!

Harbor Chapter Dinner Meeting — A Wonderful Evening

I brought greetings from District XIII to the Harbor Chapter Dinner Meeting of the Sons of the American Revolution.

It was a delightful evening from start to finish. 

They enjoyed hearing that our District Director, Diana Arnold, will present her story, “My Mother Wears Combat Boots; The Unlikely Tale of a DAR Sister Who Joined the Army at Age 46!” 

We enjoyed a fascinating presentation on Freewaytopia — an engaging look at how Southern California’s freeway system shaped our communities.

The food was delicious, the company was wonderful, and the conversation flowed easily. It was a joy to see five DAR chapters represented: Cerritos, Point Vicente, El Redondo, Butterfield Trails, and Western Shores.

Thank you to the Harbor Chapter SAR for hosting such a welcoming and enjoyable evening. I’m already looking forward to next month’s meeting.

I am grateful for these connections through history and friendship.

Patricia C. Winiecki

District XIII Assistant Director / America 250! Chair

CSSDAR

Western Shores Chapter Chaplain

NSDAR

A quiet, cool morning at Paramount Park with the Paramount Roadrunners Senior Walking Club 🌳❄️💚

Come join us for another peaceful stroll in our beautiful park!

📅 Tuesdays at 9 a.m.
📍 Paramount Park – 14400 Paramount Blvd, Paramount, CA 90723 

Paramount Park

👟 Led by RRCA Certified Coaches Ken & Pat
PatQuests.com | @WeAreParamount

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JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!