@nsdar – Journey On!

January 5, 2026

Honoring the Past, Rolling Into the Future: The America 250 Float

We had the absolute pleasure of attending FloatFest on January 2, 2026. We were able to walk alongside all of the incredible floats the day after the parade. Each one was beautiful and thoughtfully created—but the America 250 float truly stood apart 🇺🇸✨

Seeing it on television was powerful, but experiencing it in person was something altogether different. The float actually shoots fireworks 🎆 and plays the moving “Fanfare for the Common Man,” filling the air with pride, gratitude, and reflection 🎶❤️

A television news commentator described it as feeling like being in church and shared that it was her favorite float—and I couldn’t agree more. It was deeply inspiring, emotional, and a beautiful reminder of our shared history, spirit, and the promise of what’s ahead as we approach America’s 250th anniversary 🇺🇸🙏✨

Moments like this remind us how meaningful it is to pause, reflect, and celebrate the enduring values that unite us—faith, freedom, community, and hope for generations to come ❤️🤍💙

Pat Winiecki

District XIII Assistant Director / America 250! Chair

CSSDAR

Western Shores Chapter

Hon. Chapter Regent

Chaplain

NSDAR

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A post shared by Patricia Winiecki (@patquests)

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!

January 4, 2026January 4, 2026

A Reflection on 2025: A Year of Gratitude, Growth, and Community

As 2025 comes to a close, I find myself filled with deep gratitude and quiet pride. This year was one of steady growth, meaningful connection, and moments—both large and small—that reminded me why service, community, and lifelong learning matter so much to me.

Throughout 2025, I was blessed with the opportunity to stay active and engaged—physically, intellectually, and socially. From leading and supporting our walking communities, to welcoming new faces and strengthening long-standing friendships, each gathering reinforced the power of showing up for one another. Movement was more than exercise this year; it was a shared commitment to health, resilience, and joy.

I was also honored to continue serving in civic and heritage-focused organizations, contributing my time and energy in ways that felt both purposeful and deeply personal. Whether assisting at events, supporting committees, or celebrating our shared history, these experiences reminded me how important it is to give back and preserve what connects us.

Creatively and personally, 2025 allowed space for reflection and expression. Through writing, storytelling, and documenting milestones, I was able to look back on how far the journey has come—from my lifelong love of reading to my professional path and community leadership. Each chapter continues to build on the last.

Most of all, 2025 reaffirmed something I hold close: gratitude transforms effort into meaning. I am thankful for the people who walked beside me, encouraged me, inspired me, and trusted me to lead and serve.

Here’s to honoring the past year—and embracing all that lies ahead.

As I step into 2026, I do so with optimism, purpose, and an open heart. I look forward to new opportunities, continued growth, and more moments that remind us how powerful community, kindness, and commitment truly are.

“Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and hope turns each new year into possibility.”

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING IN 2026!

December 14, 2025

Victorian Christmas Tea in Glendora

I had a wonderful time at the Victorian Christmas Tea at our California DAR House Beautiful in Glendora, California. The California Daughters, the SAR, and the CAR came together to celebrate Christmas in true holiday spirit.

I was very happy and honored to serve at the registration table and be part of such a lovely gathering. Heartfelt thanks to Debbie Foley-King for all the work and care you put into making this event so special.

Wishing everyone a very happy holiday season and a Merry Christmas! 🎄✨

District XIII Assistant Director / America 250! Chair

CSSDAR

Western Shores Chapter

Hon. Chapter Regent

Chaplain

NSDAR

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A post shared by Patricia Winiecki (@patquests)

JOURNEY ON! KEEP ON QUESTING!

September 16, 2025

Two Beautiful Lineage Societies I Am Honored to Join

I am deeply honored and happy to share my membership in two remarkable lineage societies that preserve and celebrate the history of our nation.

On August 5, 2018, I became an approved member of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) by virtue of my descent from my patriot ancestor, John Wall of Pennsylvania, who with unfailing loyalty served as a soldier in the cause of American independence during the Revolutionary War.

On January 7, 2025, I became an approved member of the Daughters of the Union Veterans of the Civil War, 1861–1865 (DUVCW) as a lineal descendant of my second great-grandfather, Private Joseph C. Wildt, Company C-1st, West Virginia Light Artillery, who with unfailing loyalty rendered invaluable service to the United States of America during the Civil War.

These memberships are not just certificates or titles — they are a living connection to the courage, sacrifice, and service of my ancestors. I am grateful to honor their memory and to continue preserving the history they helped to shape.

Being part of these societies reminds me that history is not only found in books and archives but also in our very own family stories. Each meeting, project, and ceremony is a chance to keep their spirit alive, to share their legacy with others, and to inspire future generations to remember that freedom, unity, and service are values worth protecting.

If you have ever been curious about your own family’s past, I encourage you to explore the possibility of lineage society membership. The journey of discovery can be deeply rewarding, and you may find—just as I did—that your ancestors’ stories continue to guide and inspire you today.