Pat Blymyer, a one of a kind man

It's National Kazoo Day Pat!

2012-01-28T08:35:00.000-08:00

Check this out Pat -

Time for us all to pull our kazoos out and play a tune today.

xxoo

National Kazoo Day

January 28, 2012

National Kazoo Week - January 23-29, 2012

The State of the Kazoo 2012
by
Rick Hubbard

National Kazoo Day 2012 may be celebrated on Thursday, Jan. 26th which is the fourth Thursday of January or it may be celebrated on January 28, or any other day during that period deemed convenient by kazooists. In fact, many kazoo players celebrate the kazoo for the entire last week of January each year.

May you all enjoy a HAPPY NEW KAZOO YEAR!

This year we commemorate the 162nd birthday of the Kazoo --
an American instrument invented in the 1840s in Macon, GA. Legend tell us the kazoo was invented by collaboration of Alabama Vest (American black) and Thaddeus Von Clegg (German-American clockmaker).

Keep Me In Your Heart for a While - New Year's 2012

2011-12-30T20:08:00.000-08:00

Dear Pat,

I was walking this afternoon past a store and a lady about my age came out holding hands with a man about 80 years old...as they walked in front of me, he turned, smiled broadly and let me walk past. As I did she seemed to need to explain (Dad may be fading) and said "Dad is still a gentleman, he likes to let the ladies go first and I turned to look and smile at him once again and he still had the biggest grin on his face and they continued to hold hands as they walked along. It was perfect to see them.

I was listening to a song today that made me think of you and our time together. It's called "Keep me in your heart for a while". It's both a sad and happy song and for certain, I've kept you in my heart as I hope you have me.

It's been almost three years since I talked to you and saw you and I miss you just as much on days like today. But I know I had what these two today have. As I looked through my pictures, I'm reminded.

Here's the words to the song "Keep me in your heart for awhile"

Shadows are falling and I'm running out of breath
Keep me in your heart for awhile

If I leave you it doesn't mean I love you any less
Keep me in your heart for awhile

When you get up in the morning and you see that crazy sun
Keep me in your heart for while

There's a train leaving nightly called when all is said and done
Keep me in your heart for while

Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-li-li-lo
Keep me in your heart for while

Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-li-li-lo
Keep me in your heart for while

Sometimes when you're doing simple things around the house
Maybe you'll think of me and smile

You know I'm tied to you like the buttons on your blouse
Keep me in your heart for while

Hold me in your thoughts, take me to your dreams
Touch me as I fall into view
When the winter comes keep the fires lit
And I will be right next to you

Engine driver's headed north to Pleasant Stream
Keep me in your heart for while

These wheels keep turning but they're running out of steam
Keep me in your heart for while

Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-li-li-lo
Keep me in your heart for while

Sha-la-la-la-la-la-la-li-li-lo
Keep me in your heart for while

Keep me in your heart for while

I tip my hat to you my very best friend and father. Love to you as 2012 begins.

Miss you,

Xochi

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-26T09:31:00.001-08:00

Hi Pat,

Thanksgiving this year was a gathering of the Blymyer, Bates, Rinck, Baggerly and Zuckerman clans...from Waltham, Tucson, Hermosa Beach, Venice, Hollywood, Ojai and North Hollywood (I lucked out cause we met in Sherman Oaks). We had a great dinner, some laughs and some reflecting on years gone by.

As always, when bringing up Thanksgivings from the past, the ole tofurkey story was told, one of our favorite tortured Thanksgiving afternoons. It all started when Laurie's friend invited you, me, Laurie and Patrick to dinner. We arrived in time to visit and share a drink and a few snacks but were looking forward to our meal. You, Pat, being the vegetarian had requested to try the Tofurkey, the rest of us thought that would be disgusting and would be having the regular turkey. Well, many hours later...I'm talking many hours later...Laurie's friend was drunk, our turkey was still raw and you were happily eating your Tofurkey with it's little cut out leg. It was a very long afternoon. There's a lot more to the story but Patrick and I especially remember the three of us planning our escape unsuccessfully.

You were missed here at the table. I'd love to be sharing a Tofurkey with you right now, even if it is gross.

Lots of love,

Xochi

Gaffer in his chair.

2011-10-26T06:55:00.001-07:00

Hello Pat!

How are you? I got a reminder last night when I met with an old friend of yours, Anthony. He truly admired you and your encouraging ways. He said you had a way to talk to others that always helped them over the bump in their path without making a big deal about it. He reminded me how you were so smart but in the disguise of someone who was silly and kind - but always encouraging to those who could use an extra hand. A word that made life just a little better for that moment.

As I was talking about what my future might be, to get it moving forward, he was mentioning that I certainly had a wonderful pied piper to follow...and that is you.

I don't know, maybe that why I'm able to be awake at 6A this morning without feeling tired?

Mom and I are moving forward, rewriting "The Inn" and "A Disturbing Presence" - I read the other day a poster that you'd like. It says "If you don't go after what you want, you'll never have it. If you don't ask, the answer is always no. If you don't step forward, you're always in the same place." Learning to ask. It ain't easy! And just plain trying to learn new things, like writing, producing! Gotta Grin Pictures...what do you think?

Let's see...my show I was on was cancelled but was fun while it lasted...you would have loved Gio, the DP. He was a gaffer...every once in a while when something was done that was not even close to what he wanted, he would look over to me and say "Your dad would be horrified right now". It was pretty funny. I'll look forward to working with him on another show.

Mom is great up in Ojai...she had a surprise visit by Norman Lang the other day who now also lives in Ojai...the laughed and laughed as you can imagine.

Moving forward, asking, going after it...following the pied piper who is you, Pat.

Love,
Xochi

By the way, this picture was on the back patio in Ajijic, Mexico - Mom editing her book and Pat I think you were telling us what the birds were talking about...some gossip probably.

Thank for the Birthday gifts Pat. xxoo

2011-08-16T23:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Pat,

I received in the mail today this letter you once wrote to Prish and Russ. I can read your writing but if others cannot, here’s what you wrote so long ago, it’s the perfect birthday gift:

“Howdy you all,

Here’s the dealee bob – Hope all is well. It is sure good to get a little work, this has been about the slowest year work that I can remember. Hopefully I can work from now till the end of the year and then some to make up for it. For now, it’s one day at a time. In fact, that’s all we ever have anyway and if we learn to live that way we are much better off. I’ll talk 2U or CU soon. Duutz.” (One of Pat’s many alias’)

Wow…if that wasn’t signed Duutz, that letter could have been written by me BECAUSE Here’s the dealee bob…

I did finally land a show last month as a 1^st AD called Free Agents (after about the slowest year of work I can remember, except for the year before), it’s a comedy, I think you’d have fun on this set…and you know what, it has not only been exactly what I needed, it’s been such a pleasure meeting more people with more stories for me. When they learn I am a Blymyer, they smile and welcome me with open arms. How great is that to be greeted by strangers as though they’ve known me all my life? And you know what? They have known of me all my life because of you.

The gifts of memories keep on coming.

First my producer…he made the connection in my interview and he smiled and said something like “Wow, so you’re a Blymyer, Pat was one of the best”. He calls me “Blymyer” every once in a while.

Then there is Austin, our Transportation Coordinator. He said “Let me tell you a little story…we were shooting in Lake Piru and one day at lunch, Pat came out of a local bar…and he said ‘I just bought this bar!’ So Austin, knowing Pat had had quite a few drinks, found the location manager and explained what had transpired…apparently, with a little investigation, he found out that Pat had written a $25,000.00 check to the bar owner as a down payment on the bar! We let Pat sweat it out for a couple days and then the location manager gave him back his check and said they deal had been called off!” He wasn’t sure if Mom ever knew and Austin says he has more stories. I’ll have to get from him sometime.

And then there is Joy, the hairdresser…her face also lit up when she found out that I was Ginger and Pat’s daughter. She’s was so happy! She immediately started to describe this invention that you had shown her one day on the set. She said there was this box and it was something you screamed into and she almost remembered the name of it, she was describing it to all the people around us and telling them about you…it was the ITR she was describing, the Inaudible Tension Reliever!

And then I received this email just the other day from Robert, a 1^st AD that I finally met last year and got to work for a few weeks with…he talked fondly of you and said one day he’d write me a story about you for me. Little did I know, his story was about you talking about me to him too. Here it is:

“I had the pleasure of working with Pat a few years ago. Though his weathered visage gave the impression of the usual hardened and jaded crew member, Pat never ceased to surprise and amaze me with his sensitivity and insight.

He mentioned he had a daughter who was an A.D. I braced myself for a gratuitous solicitation but it never came. He said she was really one of the best and that I should meet her. Then he paused, as if reflecting on how proud he was of her and how much he cared for her. I remember him in that moment of reflection. Then he looked up and said, "Yeah, she's great." and carried on with his work.

Since then I've followed Xochi's career trying several times to hire her but it seems the best are never available. I finally succeeded and we worked together briefly on an ill-fated project. In that short time I came to appreciate her calm, thoughtful and cheerful demeanor. Pat was right. She's the best. She's a Blymyer. I look forward to working with her again.

Robert “

Wow…I know you loved me but to hear someone else tell me how much he knew you cared for me, who remembers from so many years ago how you described me, it’s a true gift you left for me, really.

I’m proud to be a Blymyer.

You know, it’s my birthday or birth week as you thought we should have more than a day and I think this new year is going to be a truly amazing one.

I’ve thought about you more than ever these past few weeks, how could I not, you are everywhere! How lucky am I to always cross paths with those who have crossed yours?

Of course, that’s not the end of today’s note…a couple more tidbits.

I spent time with one of your best pals last weekend, Warren…and the Bateman family, yet more of our extended family.

And Mom is almost ready to run her marathon (okay, maybe just ready to take a nice long walk with Ramsey) after her knee surgery! I can hear you say “Bubbs, you are amazing”. You’d be very proud of how well she’s doing.

Love you Pat. And thank you. One day at a time.

Xochi

8/17/11

Happy Father's Day Pat. 2011

2011-06-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Pat and Happy Father's Day.

Just recently we got to watch a DVD of Tom and Tanya's wedding (Danielle found it in a box full of memories). It was just their anniversary the other day. The wedding DVD was filled with not only some great 80's outfits and hairdos but with so many Father moments. You walked Tanya down the aisle and gave her away, you danced the father/daughter dance, subjected yourself to many, many photos and looked very handsome in your tuxedo - even with your sneakers on... of course you were really the most practical shoe wise as the ground was damp and we all had mud on our dress shoes!

As we watched, we remembered. Thank you for all the father moments. There are far too many to ever list.

Love you and miss you. Happy Father's Day.

Love,

Xochi

Happy Birthday Pat, May 20th, 2011

2011-05-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Pat,

Happy Birthday to you. It's going to be a beautiful day here, perfect for a birthday walk. Thinking about you today as I do each day and hoping you're laughing.

Never short on stories about you but seem to be short on words today.

"Be brief", as you might say if I were on the phone with you.

Happy Birthday, love you lots.

Xochi

Fax & Note Man

2011-05-01T12:58:00.000-07:00

So, I was going through a box in the attic and came across a stack of faxes & notes from Pat. Funny. There's a reason I saved many of his notes. Mostly, they made me smile and still do. His handwriting was one of a kind. When we both had fax machines, he loved to fax jokes, notes, sometimes it was truly just to say "I love you" and send me a quote to remember. As you can see here, this was one of his original aliases, Otto. If he stopped by my house, he'd always leave a note. He made endless lists and then loved scratching out things he had accomplished...and then he'd make another list. ha.

So Pat, thanks for all the notes. Love you lots.

Xochi

Happy St. Patrick's Day 2011

2011-03-17T15:56:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day, Pat.
Missing you on this beautiful spring day.
Love, Xochi

Happy Valentine's Day Mom and Pat

2011-02-14T15:45:00.000-08:00

Hi Pat,

Happy Valentine's Day. I love this Skype picture of you and Mom. You two were always so silly trying to fit in to the picture when we talked. Fun to catch a few of those moments!

As I've written before, you always did cute special things, it didn't have to be Valentine's day. Mom will have her walk-in bathtub ready at her house in a few days - imagine Mom without a hot bath for almost two years! Often there were the evenings that you would run the bath for her and sometimes you would add rose petals to float or bubbles and that glass of wine. Just because. Pretty neat. You may not be here for the christening of this bathtub but Mom will surely think of you when she's soaking in the bubbles.

So, here's wishing you many rose petals on your walking path today. Don't slip.

Love,

Xochi

Two Years Ago - January 5, 2009

2011-01-04T20:42:00.000-08:00

Hi Pat,

It's hard to believe it's been two years since we spoke. Although I've had conversations with you in my head many times. You've been missed. I can hear you deny that but it's true.

You'll be happy to know that Mom is doing amazing. Despite her aches and pains and eye problems, she has learned her new Mac computer, been writing away on a script for The Inn, been blogging, facebooking, keeping up her place in Ojai and hanging out with Ramsey. She gets on the road when she needs to, would love to have you here to cook for again as you appreciated those meals the most but all in all, it's good.

This is what Mom/Bubbs/Ging wrote for you today:

"You have always been, are now, and always will be. There has never been a time when you were not - nor will there ever be such a time. Thinking about Pat yesterday and today. It is a mystery isn't it? When I think, I shed a few tears and that feels okay. Even though time has passed there are also times when we all miss Pat. It is nice that he left so much love of himself behind. Love Mom"

I'm not sure what you'd think of where I am in life right now. Limbo it seems. Each time an opportunity has come along this past year, it has evaporated. I try to come up with advice that you might tell me but haven't yet figured it out what you'd say. I do know you'd tell me to walk on it and then we'd talk it out. Perhaps it's time for a long walk in honor of you.

With the new year, we'll continue to tell stories that make us laugh and remember you, you're never far no matter where you are.

Love you.

Xochi

Today's the Day - Birthday of Another Kind

2010-12-21T16:38:00.000-08:00

Hi Pat,

Today's your birthday. Your other birthday, that is. I think. Funny, I always thought of this day but I'd either be a day late or a day early calling. But you did not ever forget. It was huge. This was the day that you decided to stop drinking. This could mark 25 years ago?

It was a proud day. To know that you accomplished something so difficult and you stuck by your decision for the rest of your life. Now, you did have other addictions...like walking every day...and reading books...and drinking water...and whistling...and laughing. Just awful stuff. Oh, and chopping up your salads.

I miss your calls to remind me. Even if I don't need reminding.

I just plain miss you.

Love,
Xochi

Happy Thanksgiving, 2010

2010-11-24T20:14:00.001-08:00

Dear Pat,

Look, your pal Colleen decorated your bench for the holidays. Thanksgiving is tomorrow and everyone is giving thanks to those people in our lives and all the good things we have. I remember most holidays we had a family dinner one of the questions you would ask is "Does anyone remember where we were last year? Or the year before?" Funny how you could always remember going back for years.

I've only worked a handful of days this year, I'm sorry to say, but the good news is, each of those days have been on different shows and each new show there is always, always someone who remembers you. The thing is, these folks don't Just remember you, they always have a great story. And they smile, and they laugh and sometimes they say you changed their life or helped them out of a confusing time in their life or were the person who was wise and gave them just what they needed. Or they just learned from watching you be so full of life.

These people remember you as someone they are thankful for knowing. They have made a point of finding me and introducing themselves when they realize I am a Blymyer to tell me about you. Some have not heard your name for years, but their stories they tell are as though it was just the other day. You made a lasting imprint on their memories. I am thankful for meeting them every time I go to a day of work because I keep meeting new people and hear their memories.

And that's what I love about show biz. That we were in it together.

Thanks Pat. We'll be giving thanks for having you in our lives.

Love,

Xochi

Pat, you are Memorable

2010-10-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

Hi Pat,

My friend Teri sent me her son's essay that he wrote last year. Joey's assignment was to write about an event that has influenced his life. He was 15 when he went to your Hollywood Memorial last spring. He hadn't ever met you but my friend Teri, his mom, and the whole family attended. He wrote this in December 2009.

"My Personal Experience" by Joey Prata

My life is full of experiences that have both influenced me and made who I am today. Most of them being good, some of them not so much. But there is one that stands out among the rest of the events and that one would have to be a memorial service I went to over the 2009 spring break. As grim as it may sound, it was actually one of the most joyful mornings I have ever been to. It was the memorial service of a man named Pat Blighmer (ha).

Pat died an old retired light technician for the movie industry. He was married and had lived a long happy life with his friends and family. Some people could say Pat was never ungrateful for the things he did in his day to day life. In fact, Pat was probably the happiest man to walk on this planet. He was known for his silly ways and creative thinking by all who knew him. He played the kazoo and had a favorite top hat that he wore whenever he felt like acting fancy or when he wanted to make someone smile. He came up with ingenious ideas, such as the frustration box. The frustration box was a simple wooden box with a hole drilled into one side. You could scream into it and let frustration die inside. Pat was always the one with the laughs.

Personally, I never actually met this man. I was only brought to the memorial service for him after he had died. My parents told me to dress in shorts and a Hawaiian shirt because we were going to mourn a dead guy and I was struck confused at such a situation. But when I arrived at the service, I saw at least seventy people, all working in some form of the movie industry, dressed in shorts with tall socks and Hawaiian shirts. No one was dressed in dark colors, everyone dressed in bright colors, smiling and having a good time. The only people crying were Pat's wife and 2 daughters. Besides them everyone had dry eyes and gleaming faces. It was as if he was there with them talking about all the fun they had way back when.

The memorial itself was a party to be had. It took place outside in the sun underneath the shady trees on a slightly cloudy day. Exactly what he asked for. The people were all sad but showed only happiness in their faces and hearts.

The memorial began with a video collage of pictures of Pat throughout his life and stopped and started every time people came up to talk. The pictures showed Pat doing crazy things like plowing the snow in shorts and posing with Arnold Schwarzenegger on set and Pat just being Pat.
It was uplifting and almost inspirational to watch. Such a life lived. When people went up to speak, they shared funny stories of Pat and crazy experiences they had with him and how much a difference he made to their lives and how they would keep them in their hearts forever and ever. They told everyone how amazing of a man Pat was and how great of a memory we will have of him.

Sitting there watching all of this, I was almost jealous that I never got a chance to meet this man. But in the end, I got to live his life for an hour or two and saw how great life can be. Pat was an alcoholic for a little time in his life but got over that and lived a happy life. Even through all the crap of life, where it is hard to find the light of joy with all the day to day battles we face, this man discovered the joy and never lost it. he treated each day like a great one, I was told, and after hearing that, that was exactly how I wanted to live my life.

Each day a new page in a blank book which is mine to fill with whatever I want. To be myself and be happy with what I can do. To say "I want to live a life like Pat Blighmer and enjoy life to the fullest". That man is the most influential part of my life.

-----

Pretty Cool, right?

Love,
Xochi

Pat, what it be?

2010-09-12T20:29:00.000-07:00

Hello Pat,

We've been putting together a show called "The Inn". As Mom, Patrick and I come up with ideas, we don't have to actually make anything up! There are so many, many incidents, stories, moments that we have remembered. They make us laugh. Although I'm not so sure that the folks who see our show will believe the stories are true. We'll have to add that to the end...all events are true!

Patrick and I and a couple friends are going to shoot up in Eaton next weekend...we thought why not go up and film and have a quick visit too. It'll be fun and we hope to put together a cool preview of what we'd like to create.

Anyhoo...love you, will love being up in Snowville...and I know will be thinking of you more than ever.

Lots of love,
Xochi

Sunday Afternoon Skype to Pat

2010-07-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

Nothing Like a nice long Skype chat.

Happy Father's Day - 2010

2010-06-18T18:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Pat,
It's been a long time since we spent a Father's Day together but I don't think the one day covered all the thanks I have for you being my dad. Every day deserved a thanks. Sure would be nice to have you here, I could use your help reasoning as to why life is like it is right now and to go over the pros and cons. But I still try to think of what you might say to me. Feel free to try to get your point across from where you are now.

I spoke to a friend of mine the other day who recently lost a loved one, she was worried that he would be forgotten. I've had that same thought but realize that it's not possible, not ever. Besides my own memories, there are so many other people who pop in with a crystal clear moment in time that you put there for them being you.

I think I've posted some of the pictures of our Digby, Nova Scotia family vacation before, but I was looking through some pictures, we had so many family moments that week. I looked through the pictures and laughed at what fun we all had. We didn't do anything big or expensive, we just walked here and there, played games, took pictures, sat and had many meals of course. You bought us all ice cream and baseball hats, we investigated why things were the way they were, pondered the mysteries of life in Digby. That was just a small representation of the times we had together, quality moments.

You listened, you really listened. You didn't put forth your opinions to me until you had the facts and then asked permission to tell me what you thought. You were so smart about the movie business too. I could really use your help to figure out what is going on now, where did I make the wrong turn and how do I get back.

Thanks Pat for being my dad, my friend, my whateveritisineededatthetime.

We all miss you and wish you a happy father's day. I'm having an ice cream in your honor and will probably say "mmm, mmm, mmm, how do they make that taste soooo good".

Love you lots,

Xochi

Happy Father's Day 2010

Happy Birthday Pat! 2010

2010-05-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Pat!

Thinking of you today and always. I wonder what you're doing today. Perhaps sitting on a cloud, having a big bowl of your favorite ice cream, Ollie sitting by your side. Maybe a great new book to start.

Can you believe that Patrick is now 28? it's fun to look back on the pictures of the days in New Hampshire. Being at Snowvillage Inn was a whole different world, wasn't it? It's been closed down for now, the new owners would like to sell. Mom has a great idea to come up with a show to film up there, the perfect setting. Patrick and I have our thinking caps on now. You'd have some ideas for us, I'm sure and know what we needed to get it done. We were going to have that studio in Ajijic, how about summertime studio in Snowville?

Well, love you Pat, miss you and wishing you the happiest of day.

Love,
Xochi

Oh, Pat, I found your nose warmer

2010-04-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

I just had a hunch and sure enough, found this hanging in my coat closet. Where else would it be? Ready for that cold day. Not 100% it's THE one but it's similar. So, imagine Pat's nose in this warmer. Makes me giggle. I still have to find the picture of Pat in it but for now this picture is worth 100 words don't you think?

:)

by the way, it does work. Just trying to take this picture my nose was really warm.

Pat's Half Full Apple Boxes

2010-04-23T18:50:00.000-07:00

Hi Pat!

So I was using one of your apple boxes the other day and a friend asked two questions - one was "Who worked on Along Came a Spider" and the other "What is that?" haha. Not many folks have seen a half full apple box. They're used to the half apples, full apples and so on. So I explained about your collection. I'm not sure when you started it but I know that I have here quite a few of them. Not all have show names but I'll bet you could probably name the shows you had someone make them for you on! One has astro turf glued to it probably for no skidding. I've got to say they come in quite handy for most everything as I suspect you knew.

Asking about "Along Came A Spider" made me remember your story of breaking Morgan Freeman...I think that was it. I passed it on. It was cold up in Vancouver so of course you had your nosewarmer handy (yours has the silly pom pom on the end...what am I saying, just the nosewarmer itself is silly...making it doubly silly with the multi colored pom pom). Anyway, I believe the story goes that Morgan claimed that being the actor he was, with great concentration and focus, he couldn't be broken, the whole eye line thing wasn't a problem for him...so you put him to the test...you dragged over your chair near camera and his eye line...you put on your nosewarmer and sat there...sure enough, you caught his eye...and sure enough, you broke him...I'm sure you guys had quite a laugh. How could you not laugh?

I'll have to dig up a picture of you in it. I know I have one somewhere on my computer.

Anyhow, that's the latest of stories I've been telling about you. Funny and memorable as always.

Mom is all settled in Ojai and loving it up there. She was on the search for Carnation Malt...hmmm, do you suppose she's drinking chocolate malts with Ramsey?

Love,
Xochi

PS for those of you wondering about the nose warmers...I crocheted them for the family and friends for Xmas one year - fit over your nose with strings to tie behind your ears...one day they'll catch on. :)

St Patrick's Day 2010

2010-03-17T09:26:00.001-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day Pat!

Wonder if you're all dressed in green? Think of you all the time, usually laughing about some silly moment. Ted Marshall just wrote a new post of a story from "Day of the Dolphin" and one from "Strange Days". It never stops.

Besides St. Patrick's Day, on the first day of spring your little granddaughter turns 25 years old!! Can you believe that, Brittany here on your back is a beautiful young lady living in New York, working as a nurse. Where have all the years gone, right?

Mom is moving to Ojai next month, she found a little house to rent, yard for Ramsey to run around, library down the street, lots of trees.

Happy Spring, you'd love all the ranunculus blooming here, they make me think of you too.

Love you lots,

Xochi

Happy Valentine's Day Pat

2010-02-15T09:51:00.000-08:00

It didn't always have to be February 14th for Pat to celebrate Valentine's Day! Anytime, anywhere.

Love,
Xochi

Pat, you always made us laugh

2010-02-05T19:40:00.000-08:00

Here's a mini story about a day in the life of Pat:

Back in the early 70's we all went off to the Bahamas because Pat was working on "The Day of the Dolphin"...Mom has recently been seeing the commercial saying "It's Better in the Bahamas"...and so she flashed back to those days:

"And it reminded me about Pat one day taking one of those sun ray little boats out to a sand bar, or was it a little island.
It was low tide. He could walk back, but the tide came in and a couple of his crew members had to go out and rescue him. It was very funny. It makes me laugh when I think about it. He always made me laugh. Love Mom"

Amazing way to spend a few months of my childhood on a small island in the Bahamas...so many funny stories, so many characters Pat had working with him too.

:)

Xochi

Pat! It's National Kazoo Day!

2010-01-28T20:21:00.001-08:00

Hi Pat,

Guess what? Today is National Kazoo Day. You probably knew that. I saw today that the kazoo was invented in America and it was suggested that it becomes the official national musical instrument of the United States. I'll bet you'd vote for that since you are the ultimate kazoo player!

Your pal Danny del Rossi has named you the unofficial King of the Kazoo. :) I don't think anyone would think differently.

You know Pat, no matter how much time goes by, the stories about you from people who have crossed your paths still keep coming...and I'm always amazed how clear the memories are...like they just saw you, and that particular moment just happened. Crystal Clear.

Here's one from my Kazoo post today:

Jack Cummings - "Great.. I read up on some of the tribute postings you had of your dad after I wrote you to say I remember him from the "Monkees" credits.. He seemed like a great guy.. a real character, which i mean as a compliment.
I'm 54.. and seem to run into very few really colorful people these days.. Everyone's nice... but somewhat ordinary." (Jack lives near the last kazoo factory in Buffalo, NY, the metal ones of course)

We saw Gary Busey last week - he remembered you as the most positive person, arriving on the set of Grasslands (Hex) making some comment of how great it was to be alive. He had a great imitation of you with your arms flung out, bigger than life, it was perfect!

I had an email that I just found from a friend of yours, Suzi, your classmate from high school, 1956! She said she spent time with you because her husband roomed with you in Washington, DC 1956-57. I'm waiting for some more stories from her but here's one she told, as she described you as my hilarious and crazy dad.

She said "You are fortunate to have a Dad that lied to get his first gaffer job in Hollywood. He said he did this type of work in Beckley, West Virginia. We all laughed as this type of work was NEVER in West Virginia! Your father came from a funny Mom & Pop too"

I saw Brian Frankish at the DGA a couple weeks ago...he saw me, reintroduced himself and started in on stories of the Matt and Pat team and all the fun and crazy things you did way back when commercials and features.

So you see...you made your mark, wonder if you knew.

Love you lots,

Xochi

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T17:35:00.000-08:00

Hi Pat,

It seems that many people are happy that 2009 is over. I don't know that it was really a bad year. You left us at the very beginning, so living the year without you was really hard but you kind of made some good things happen. We all met up with some long time friends that we wouldn't normally have spoken to or seen. More family time, more friend time, more opportunities taken that would have otherwise been delayed or overlooked. I would have liked to be sitting with you on the back porch of the house in Ajijic, Mexico if that had been an option but I remember it. Happy times.

January 5th will be a year. I often wonder what you'd be doing, where you are, hoping you're smiling down on us. Skype me.

Love you.

Happy New Year.

Xochi

Merry Christmas to you, Pat

2009-12-24T21:10:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Pat!

Miss you. Christmas wasn't exactly your favorite holiday with all the craziness of the day. But the thing is, before you and Mom headed to Mexico, we had a tradition. I would fly to Boston and stay with Tanya and family, you and Mom would arrive Christmas Eve day...we would play games, eat snacks, see friends and get scattered around the house for sleeping, the last few years you pulled out those Christmas pajamas I made back in 2002 (even those your pants were 5x too big for you)...Christmas morning was eggs benedict, visiting Tom's family and having a great dinner with more games and laughs. The day after you and Mom and me and the kids all got packed in the car and headed to Snowville, NH for a few days. The 3 hour ride we'd sing, tell jokes, you'd make us enjoy the view. New Hampshire, up on the hill, you'd build us a fire, we'd just have a great time together. How many years did we have that tradition? I'll never forget.

Well, this year is a time for change. No snow here in California! Mom and Ramsey are here. We're having very, very quiet Christmas Eve. You'd be happy! Tomorrow will be dinner at my house with Laurie, Patrick, Fortune and Kenny...and all the dogs. Mom's planning pumpkin pancakes in the morning. It's going to be a nice day but we'll miss you a lot.

Thinking of you.

Love,
Xochi

Pat gets a Christmas Tree

2009-12-09T18:25:00.000-08:00

Pat's bench has a new little Christmas tree thanks to Colleen. She thought he'd like it. She says that now that there's snow, the tree looks even more festive. Yes, it's snowing in Snowville, NH. I can't say that Pat ever missed the snow, but he did like to sit in his shorts in Ajijic and look at the weather reports from Snowville! Especially when it was cold and snowing and he was out in the garden sunning himself. But he'd like the tree, just the kind of thing I could see him doing for someone. Mom and Pat's bench will be inscribed eventually. It may be in the spring now that winter is settling in, but the local friends there know that it is where to say hello to Pat so that's great.

Love,
Xochi

Thanksgiving Thoughts

2009-11-26T10:17:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

On Thanksgiving everyone starts thinking about what they may be thankful for in life. Today, I was, on the other hand thinking, I'm not looking forward to Thanksgiving because of that same reason. But it's true, there are many of the basics to be thankful for that so many others don't have this year or may have never had and I do quietly thank my lucky stars I have what I have. But this year in particular some new things have stood out brighter.

I've realized that although this year began with Pat's leaving us, the saddest time, this year seems to have brought out the most amazing group of supporters to get this far past that day. Mixed with family, I had my oldest, truest friends being by my side, thank you for that, people that I didn't even know that well going above and beyond just because and continuing to do so, thank you for that. New friends bringing me energy and fun, helping me start new relationships and getting out when I'd rather stay in. The memorials and graduations and weddings have all brought about family and friends gathering and celebrations to keep me connected.

Here's a little story Alice Burns sent me about a walk with her son, from Snowville, NH:

Guillermo and I were making our rounds across the street and I said "ok, let's
go visit Pat" -- he looked at me and tapped his head!!! " yes it rhymes with Hat
- you are so good little boy" -- he looked at me and kept hititng his head -- it
then dawned on me -- he was trying to say "yes, let's visit Pat -- he is the man
who likes hats" -- who knows, but that was my interpretation -- all good. Love
to you both this Thanksgiving!!!! G Man often does a dance for Pat by the bench
- it really is fun!!!"

So, thanks, it's just what I've needed and am grateful for this year and for all of you.

Love,
Xochi

Remember New Orleans?

2009-11-11T19:05:00.000-08:00

I was in New Orleans this weekend for a wedding. It was a beautiful weekend and as I walked and bicycled around the town I remembered a few things from the last time I was there, 20 years ago.

I was here was on a movie called "Johnny Handsome", it was my 2nd movie as a PA and Pat was the gaffer. Thanks to Walter Hill, the director, it was the same great crew members that had been with him many shows before. Not only were we in a great location, we had a great group of people to enjoy it.

As i walked through the French Quarter this time, some places looked familiar. There was a corner bar that we ate Muffaletta sandwiches, ate at many of the other places and we worked in apartments and places there. We shot on the river, worked on a boat as it traveled down river and more. This picture is us hanging out by the river, you can see the movie trucks behind us.

One funny story I remember. I found this button shop. Pat had an idea for a button, it was "The F Word" with the red line through it. The buttons were made and when the man who owned the shop delivered them to the set, he was wearing a very large button that said "Xochi Blymyer Fan Club". Why he made it, I don't know but Pat put it on. Others on the crew asked where they could get one, so the button man made more. The next morning, I went to get breakfast at the caterer and the caterer at the window was wearing one! It was quite funny, even Walter was wearing one. But to top it off, we were working in the courthouse not long after that and as I was walking up the stairs to the set, I see this man in a suit with a button sticking out (being so big) and I stopped him and asked about it. It was the "Xochi Blymyer Fan Club" button. I asked him if he knew who that was, he said no but that he had liked the button and asked someone for it. I introduced myself and it ends up he's one of the Assistant District Attorneys! You can guess who gave him that button, right?

Mom reminded me of the time she worked on "Mandingo" and we went to visit her that summer. Even farther back in time.

Anyway, this weekend brought back some of those fond memories and another moment reminding me of unique, memorable Pat.

Halloween Dance

2009-10-31T19:51:00.001-07:00

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I was trying to think of something to write on this Halloween night and I suddenly got this video from Danny Del Rossi...oh, wouldn't it have been fun if we all really had come up with a dance routine like this? Ha ha. Pat takes the lead quite well. He and Mom were quite a dance team out on the floor. Enjoy and Happy Halloween.

Love,
Xochi

Pat, my person I think of often

2009-10-05T18:22:00.001-07:00

Dear Pat,

I can hardly believe I haven't seen you for 9 months. The days are rolling by quickly. There are times that you flash into my mind and I see you rubbing your eyes, rubbing them so hard they may come right out, I'd have to look away. I can hear you chopping up fruit for your breakfast just before you pop your head around the corner to ask if I'd like to have a little bowl too. Or it might be the faster chopping of the pampered chef chopper in the afternoon that you're making a green salad for your dinner. You might be tying up one of your tarps explaining the reason why it's going to work so perfectly.

It could be that laugh that starts with an "Ahhh" and continues with a "Hahaha" - probably some bad joke or someone did something dumb or silly. I just heard a bad joke the other night and immediately thought I wanted to tell you. The guy said "Hey, did you hear that Willie Nelson died?" and of course we all were totally surprised...but then he said "Yeah, he was On the road again". I know, so bad, yet I wanted to tell you to hear you laugh.

I needed a new lightbulb in the garage the other day and reached up to the big bag you gave me so long ago when you cleared out your shed - it's still labeled with tape for me. Looking around the garage, I see your hammer with the "728" tape on it. Diagrams you made for projects - you did use the "picture is worth a thousand words" wisely and creatively.

I had forgotten a sign you sent me, it's up high on my ceiling in the garage, it bent over now so I can see both sides - it says FROST HEAVES on the front and on the back you wrote - From the highways of Eaton, NH - winter of 2004-2005 - we would always laugh when we passed those signs, first shivering and then gagging to act out the sign. Silly but we always did it.

So that's what I'm thinking of today and everyday Pat, my dad, my friend. See you around, like a donut.

Love you lots.

Xochi

Pat, I miss our moments

2009-09-13T22:21:00.000-07:00

It's Sunday night and as all Sunday nights this year, Pat, you come to mind. We had so many moments together, a laugh, a special event, a dinner and all over the world...so many that sometimes when I try to think of just one to write about I can't just pick it out of the crowd.

I talked with someone last weekend whom I don't really know, but she said she has been following my stories about you since I began and she too has become the "historian" for her family. How wonderful to know that my notes about my dad are read and enjoyed, right?

You know, you have made it easy to write and keep our memories alive because there are so many lively stories. So many that even those who didn't get a chance to meet you feel like they are getting to know you now. And why not!

So, this particular entry is just a hello and know that you are being thought of tonight.

Love,
Xochi

ps This photo is in Ajijic, Mexico - dinner at Roberto's last October 2008, mmm, mmm.

Pat Blymyer's New Hampshire Celebration, August 23, 2009

2009-08-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

Sunday was a beautiful day. It may have been raining but it was beautiful inside the little white church and quite bright and happy despite the dark skies. So many memories in that Little White Church, so many friends, some we met the first summer we arrived in Snowville, New Hampshire. The feeling as I looked across those in the church was one of being home. Some of the faces I may not recognize immediately but it didn't matter because they were those that came together with our family to celebrate Pat and being together and I think bringing happy memories up for them too.

There were many laughs and tears. Wonderful stories or moments of how Pat crossed paths and made a permanent impression on so many.

There was a potluck dinner afterwards with so many delicious dishes, Pat would have been in heaven...or perhaps that's where he was watching us enjoy the food from, I hope so.

Thank you to those who were able to attend, to those who were thinking of us that day and to anyone who smiles thinking of Pat.

Love,
Xochi

Pat's Celebration is Today

2009-08-23T05:10:00.000-07:00

Hello All -

Today is the day we hold up our glasses to Pat here in Snowville, New Hampshire. It's been a rainy few days so we may not be on the beach of Crystal Lake but just across the lake through the fog is the Little White Church...Pat spent many days trying to figure out how he could fly the angels across the church on the Christmas Eve Pageants! He also wanted to light it up movie style. And so if we end up inside, that is the place to be.

On the lake, one of Pat's wishes was to have lots of lightning machines at work across the lake on this day. Well, he may get his wish if the rain storm today is anything like it has been the last couple of days! But as an alternate, the local fire department is going to create a big fountain in the middle of the lake for us to see! Yes, just as Pat would have been, the people here are figuring out creative ways to celebrate him!

Love to all. Pat's celebration is at 3P here in New Hampshire so the toast would be around 3:46P! Raise a glass, an ice cream, anything at all that you love and toast to Pat. We'll be having shots of Johnnie Walker Red Label Scotch as he requested (Blech).

Love,
Xochi

Snowville, NH, here we come to Celebrate Pat

2009-08-16T18:26:00.000-07:00

This time next Sunday we will be sitting with all our friends and family on Crystal Lake celebrating Pat...oh, so much to celebrate...30 years of memories there, it'll be like going home, kind of a milestone from the beginning of this year when Pat went off to his next adventure or next location.

We'll see you there Pat. I think you'll like what we have planned, it's a surprise.

I love you,

Xochi

Hello Pat

2009-08-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

Hello there Pat,

I was just sitting here eating a huge cup of cut up fruit I got from the guy down the street, he chops it up, puts on chili powder and lime (not sure you'd be into the chili powder) and crams it all in a big plastic cup...mmmm, mmmm...reminds me of visits with you, you never failed to offer and include us in your morning bowl of fruit even if we declined for something less healthy.

Mom is heading back to New Hampshire at the end of the week. She'll be going to New Hampshire to visit with all the old friends there. Of course, it got me to thinking what it will be like to make that final turn on the road as Crystal Lake comes into view. I'll know that you won't be waiting up on the hill for me.

Remember way back in June of 1978? Tanya and I and the dogs I think, flew in to Portland, Maine airport at night, it was foggy and we had this long drive to the Inn. When we pulled up to the back door, there was only one light on, it was before you put up the twinkly lights along the driveway. We were hustled up the back stairs to the room above the kitchen and so began our time in Snowville, New Hampshire. I don't know about Tanya but I know I was wondering where in the world you and Mom had taken us! Waking up the next morning to a beautiful day and seeing where we really were was amazing.

And here it is 31 years later. Each and every visit, my favorite part of the drive up was the final mile around the lake and up the hill to the house.

I think of you all the time but more laughs than tears these days. I look forward to celebrating you on the lake with all those friends and family. We'll say hello from you.

Love,
Xochi

Pat's New Hampshire Celebration - August 23rd, 2009

2009-07-17T19:03:00.000-07:00

Pat Blymyer’s Memorial Celebration
We gather today to honor and celebrate Pat’s life

Sunday, August 23, 2009 – 3PM

Crystal Lake Beach
Corner of Route 153 & Brownfield Road
Snowville/Eaton, NH 03832
(If Rain, look across the lake, you’ll see the Little White Church is where we’ll be, come on over)

What to wear? One of Pat's requests whenever this day would come was that everyone wear shorts and/or bright colors so whatever you like as long as it's not black! Think happy. Dress for sun. we hope there will finally be sun!

What to Bring? Pat loved the potluck dinners in town so that’s what would be great. If you have a favorite dish, please bring it to Pat’s Celebration!

How you all spread the word about Pat was fantastic and appreciated. If you would be so kind as to once again let anyone know Pat's Memorial details, we would appreciate it. Post at the Eaton Village Store, in Conway, forward this email, whatever you’d like, the Conway Daily Sun. I would love to add anyone who would like to know about Pat's Memorial to my list of calls or emails, no problem. All family & friends are invited to celebrate.

I have dedicated a blog to Pat for stories, pictures and post any updates I have. Feel free to add your own memories, silly or serious, a word, a thought, a moment and/or bring one with you to share.
Pat Memories - http://todaysthedaytogetupthenerve.blogspot.com

Xochi Blymyer: (818) 765-6782, (818) 652-0381, Email is xbnh@aol.com

Directions from the South:

I-95North comes from parts beyond (like NY & Boston and all) and crosses into New Hampshire. Take the Spaulding Turnpike/US-4/Route 16 (exit 4) on the left toward NH Lakes/White Mts. Merge onto NH-16 North. Exit Taking the Route 25 E ramp toward Center Ossipee/Portland, Maine. Turn right onto NH-25/Ossipee Trail. Turn left onto NH-153/Eaton Road. Continue to follow NH-153. Wind your way past some lakes until you get to Eaton Center, you’ll pass a little white church, the Eaton Village Store and the next street on the right will be Brownfield Road. Crystal Lake beach is at the intersection of Route 153 & Brownfield Road.

PARKING IS all Around the Lake.

Look forward to seeing you there.

-----------------------------------

Pat loved his dogs, truly Pat’s best friends for him. Pat would not have asked for flowers or donations but there is a non-profit animal shelter near the home they lived in New Hampshire that shelters many dogs. If you’d feel you’d like to donate in Pat’s name it is harvesthills.org or the address is Harvest Hills Animal Shelter, Inc., 1389 Bridgton Rd, Fryeburg, ME 04037.
Or adopt a dog. ☺

Pat Made Others Colorful too

2009-07-11T22:59:00.000-07:00

Hello...just a few more pictures...Pat had a way of getting others to do things they might not normally do...his memorial was the most colorful day of all time.

:)

Colorful, Colorful, Memorable Pat

2009-07-11T22:09:00.000-07:00

So, I certainly think of Pat every day, many times a day and I sometimes wonder what it's like for others. Life has to go on but how often does he come up in your mind or in conversation. Well, I've found out first hand. On the show I'm working on, we needed a cameraman to fill in for a couple of weeks. What a great coincidence that John Leonetti was asked to be that person (In these picture, he's the one in the pretty yellow shirt on stage). He's known Pat for almost as long as I have and often this week has made passing comments about something Pat might have done or said and not just to me, to other crew...and so I realize that Pat really is a part of all of us who knew him, not fading but a bright colorful memory right up close. And he makes us laugh all the time.

Mom emailed me a story that Sally, Pat's son's wife wrote to her about Trinity, their little daughter (Known as T3 to Pat, the little girl in the photo). Here's what she wrote:

Trinity seems to bring up her Gramps often. She always points him out on the computer and has asked when she is going to get to see her Gramps. I told her when she goes to heaven but that probably won't be for a long time. She asked which heaven is he at, the one with our tortoise? I said yes, that's the only one. She asked, "Are they sitting down?" I said I wasn't sure but I bet Gramps was petting Hercules (our tortoise that went to heaven). I told her he was probably enjoying the balloon she lost in the sky the other day too!

My Aunt Fortune sent a note too:

Our lives are like poems.
Some are as short as haiku, others as long as epics filling many
volumes. Each is complete in ways we may not understand. That is a
comforting thought and I think it is a true one. Yet when we lose one
of our own, whether young or old, at the beginning of a career or at
the peak, we falter. It takes a while to see the poem when your eyes
are filled with tears.

Mom saw Pat's favorite Red Shirt in a store the other day. She said she would have gotten it for him had he still been here to wear it even if he said his was still in great shape. I suppose he will always be everywhere we go, something will always make us think of him and smile, remember.

Happy Sunday.

Love you Pat.

Xochi

Pat loved Summertime anytime!

2009-07-06T20:14:00.000-07:00

Hi Pat. Where you are. As you looked down at us this holiday weekend what did you see?

Rincks all went to Disneyworld as a huge family trip.

West coast folks. Those at the beach stayed close to home. Not worth losing parking! But beautiful there I hear.

I spent quiet days by myself. Not sure I actually spoke to anyone I wasn't doing business with. But it was great. Your breezeway was spiffied up. Garage organized and cleaned. Pool. Looks pretty good. I had a delay on summer but I feel it now. I miss you and your ideas. Love your thoughts. We'll meet again one day. You better be waiting is all I gotta say. I love you just as much today as I have ever loved you in case you wonder. Love love love Pat !

Xoch

"Yeah, summer was Pat's time. I am sure he is in eternal summer now if he has
had a choice. Somehow in a way I think we all live some things for him. Me, I
am living his dream at the beach in Hermosa Beach where everyone wears shorts,
where there are wonderful places to take long walks,where he could stop for a
cup a coffee, where the men his age have their own apartments and come out when
they want to have company and have privacy when they need it. And now with
Laurie working at Salad Creations, Pat would have been in heaven (oh I guess he
is anyway) with being able to order any mixture each night and not have to cut
everything up but already chopped. Summer Time and the Living is Easy would
have been his song.

I too miss him very much but also I feel he is at peace and there is no longer a need for him to make us happy or to make people laugh. I am sure it just happens to him all the time and he has met up with someone who has all the best jokes ever."

Love, Ginger

Happy Father's Day Pat.

2009-06-20T17:01:00.000-07:00

I was going to write something about Pat for Father's Day but just a few days ago I received this email from a lady I met a couple months ago. I thought it was a coincidence that we sat next to each other at the Director's Guild Annual Meeting but later when she told me part of this story, I realized it must have been meant to be. How else would we have ever heard her thoughts on Pat?

And after reading her story, I realized again how Pat found his way into so many people's lives, whether a father or a friend, he is remembered by such simple yet amazing moments. It's hard not to miss Pat every day but these stories keep his memory alive. This seems to be a perfect Father's day memory. Here's the story, enjoy. And Happy Father's Day.

Thanks Vicki. Thanks a lot.

Love,
Xochi

Dear Xochi,

Here's my story about Pat, as promised.

I was excited and nervous, I had finally moved up to Key 2nd with a First AD, David Sosna, who was at the top of his game, on a major motion picture at Universal. "Dragnet" with it's all-star cast was a daunting project and I hoped I was up to the task. In prep I met a tall, sandy haired man who seemed to have just wandered in from the beach, Hawaiian shirt, shorts and all. You could tell from the way he took things in that he was sizing up just how to approach each person in the room and put them totally at ease. But there was a twinkle in his eye that was unmistakable, hidden inside this frame was a mischievious imp. He introduced himself, Pat Blymyer, and he was the Gaffer. The Gaffer? But most of the Gaffers I'd worked with were a little more tightly wound than Pat so this was going to be an adventure.

One day we were using a large room at Inglewood Park Cemetery for the studio of Rev. Whirley, played by Christopher Plummer, for his televangical show. As we were getting close to shooting, I noticed a faint lighting effect on the back wall of the set. I found the source and the electrician carefully adjusting the cross cut-out on the light and adding a golden gel. I asked what it was for, but he wouldn't say, just nodded over to Pat. I sidled up to him and said that I loved the subtle touch of the effect and he quickly took me aside and said not to say anything. This was his little project and he was going to put little lighting "effects" in where ever he could. If attention was paid to them, he'd have to stop and he wanted something for his own private amusement.

Game on! I was now on duty to find the next lighting effect and if I found it, Pat got the extra benefit of having a private joke that could be appreciated even before the movie came out. He may have even put more in than he originally planned just to keep me amused. He put a little red heart in the window of The Virgin Connie Swail's house. A brown derby in front of The Brown Derby Restaurant. Silver handcuffs in the police station. I can't remember them all but I thought they were fantastic and showed such a great sense of wonder and fun. They're like the Easter Eggs we have on video games now, but originating with Pat in 1986. I love when people can do their jobs well and also be able to have a good time doing what we do. It's not ever easy, but as the saying goes, it's not brain surgery either.

When my birthday rolled around in 1987 and we were winding down on the show, the crew surprised me with a round of "Happy Birthday" and a cake. A great day, or night if I remember correctly. Then Pat pulled me aside and said he had something for me. He gave me a yukata from a little inn he owned. He told me that he went to Japan and they all had these robes you could wear when you were sitting around and he thought that was the best thing ever and had them made up for his inn. He said he rarely gave them away but he wanted me to have it because I was special.

I have treasured those memories of Pat, working with him day in and day out on an enormous production and never seeing him get angry. I remember him introducing you to everyone when you came to visit one day, as proud a papa as there could be, as if you were standing there with a Nobel Prize hanging around your neck. I remember Pat as someone who took each day and said "What fun are we gonna have now?". I truly wish I had worked with him again, and that I had had the opportunity to know him even better, but he will always be a shining light in my life.

I know this is too long to include on your blog, you can cut it down as you see fit, but I wanted you to know the whole story. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to tell it.

Sincerely,
Vicki Rhodes

Dear Pat - A rundown of recent events...

2009-06-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

Dear Pat,

I thought I'd catch you up on all the milestones that are all happening these last couple months...I know you're probably sitting up there saying "Ahhh, I can watch them but not have to go to all those parties and celebrations..."

Back in New England...

Brittany graduated from Northeastern, passed her boards and just got her first nursing job at Maimondides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York working in Pediatrics ICU. She'll move there next month.

Tyler just graduated from High School and will be going to Wentworth Institute of Technology in Construction Management.

Connor just turned 16 and is learning how to drive. And he got confirmed.

Tanya and Tom are proud parents.

Meanwhile, on the west coast...

Laurie got a new job at a restaurant and is kicking it into order.

I'm working on "Raising the Bar", starts on TNT tonight...but you probably will already be in bed, doesn't start til 10P.

Patrick has been getting Mom and Laurie in order either with shelf building or computer help. Rachel's been making lots of good meals where ever she goes.

And Mom has planned a great Lunch/Dinner...would that be Linner? At Lawry's in Hollywood for her 75th birthday...we'll celebrate on Sunday afternoon. Big steak, creamed spinach, mashed potatoes? I just know Mom's been making it sound delicious for weeks so can't wait!

Miss you lots, wish you could see it all happening up close but you're always present anyway through a story, a memory, a picture.

Love,
Xochi

Just Being Happy Cause we're friends

2009-05-29T21:22:00.001-07:00

I'm kinda of straying from my usual but this still reminded me of Pat, at least the way he was with me.

Mom gave me the book "The Shack" to read and she was given the book by Sally, Tim's wife (Pat's daughter-in-law). This was just one page that I had to read over a few times cause it seemed such a perfect thing to remember.

Mom and Pat never expected us to do anything. We didn't have to call, we didn't have to visit but when we did there was always joy in their voices or a big hug waiting for you if you did call or visit. No requirements really. Oh, and to hang out was the best, no need to really plan anything, just hanging together was where it was at, laughing and talking, to just be friends. Not everyone's like that, are they?

Here's how it reads

Papa says: from “The Shack” page 206

I will take a verb over a noun any day.

Huh? (Mack says)

Papa says:

I am a verb. I am that I am. I will be who I will be. I am a verb! I am alive, dynamic, ever active, and moving. I am a being verb. And as my very essence is a verb, I am more attuned to verbs than nouns. Verbs such as confessing, repenting, living, loving, responding, growing, reaping, changing, sowing, running, dancing, singing and on and on.

Humans, on the other hand, have a knack for taking a verb that is alive and full of grace and turning it into a dead noun or principle that reeks of rules – then something growing and alive dies. Nouns exist because there is a created universe and physical reality, but if the universe is only a mass of nouns, it is dead. Unless “I am”, there are no verbs and verbs are what makes the universe alive.

Let’s use the example of friendship and how removing the element of life from a noun can drastically alter a relationship. If you and I are friends, there is an expectancy that exists within our relationship. When we see each other or are apart, there is an expectancy of being together, of laughing and talking. That expectancy has no concrete definition; it is alive and dynamic and everything that emerges from our being together is a unique gift shared by no one else. But what happens if I change that expectancy to an expectation – spoken or unspoken? Suddenly, law has entered into our relationship. You are now expected to perform in a way that meets my expectations. Our living friendship rapidly deteriorates into a dead thing with rules and requirements. It is no longer about you and me, but about what friends are supposed to do, or the responsibilities of a good friend.

Makes me think. I am.

The rest of the book is great too. :)

So are you a verb or a noun?

Love,

Xochi

Another Birthday Note for Pat

2009-05-25T11:51:00.000-07:00

Funny, I had this in my memories of our family. It is the bill from the hospital in Beckley, West Virginia from Pat's birth.

Check out the final total. $ 123.30 !

Oh, those were the days, eh? And they were in the hospital for 12 days.

Anyhoo, thought this was fun to see.

Love,

Xochi

Happy Birthday Pat - May 20th

2009-05-19T17:06:00.000-07:00

On May 20th, In 1938 Patrick Ross Blymyer was born in Beckley, West Virginia...yep, that's when it all started...

Today would have been Pat's 71st birthday but I have to say, I think he packed quite a lot into his first 70 1/2, don't you? I'll bet as a kid in West Virginia, he may have imagined traveling around the world but perhaps not realizing that it was all going to happen and in the end, the adventures of his lifetime were more than most people could even imagine, much less make a reality.

Quietly celebrating today, do something Pat would have done. If you're working, change your shoes at lunchtime. If you're able to take a walk and enjoy what's going on around you, do that. Say hello to everyone you cross paths with...or "Hola". If you can have a great big chopped salad or fruit salad that would be cool. Give someone a compliment just because and really mean it. Amazing how that works. Amazing how simple these things are but Pat did it with such grace and style. He always wanted you to be able to be the best you can be and would help you if you wanted him to help. He could make your day in just seconds of time in his presence.

So drink your water, listen to some classical or jazz..whistle, sing enough to make you happy.

And sing a Happy Birthday to Pat, Duutz, Zirt, Danforth III...

Love to you Pat where ever you are. Miss you. Miss you a lot but not forgetting you at all.

Los Angeles Tribute to Patrick R. Blymyer

2009-05-15T16:11:00.000-07:00

Upon mentioning Pat's name to his brother, Tom LaBonge, Council Member, and telling his brother a bit about Pat and what he meant to him, Mark LaBonge then received this document from Tom. To have all the members of the Los Angeles Council stand in tribute and reverence as they adjourned at their meeting was quite something.

Pretty cool I'd say for a very cool guy, Pat. Thanks so much. I sure hope Pat's checking his email. :)

Advice from Gramps (Pat Blymyer)

2009-05-13T10:19:00.000-07:00

Just returned from Boston and was reminiscing the grandson's experiences with Gramps.

Now 15 and 18, they remember coming up to New Hampshire and spending weeks with us during the summer. Gramps taught them many things. He let them work in his garage and build what ever they wanted, he let them eat ice cream when they wanted, he loved to spoiled them and send them back home for their parents to deal with. :)

What made us laugh so much was Pat's advice about toilet paper folding. We had a septic system and the boys tended to use so much toilet paper that it would clog the system. I remember him sitting the boys down and giving them advice. He pulled a few sheets of toilet paper off the roll and began to fold it in squares. Carefully he instructed them how to do that. It works much better and won't clog the toilet. I laughed and laughed at the seriousness of his instructions. They always remember that. One of Gramps useful hints. They still remember and laugh about that time.
I always wanted to have a place where the kids could come and chill out and just enjoy in the summer. It gave us a connection to them that is still strong and so important.

Gramma/Mom/Ginger

Pat & Ron (Tickle) Fraternity Brother Duties

2009-05-12T18:29:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun memory for you:

I had a great talk with Tickle, lots of memories.

My favorite was about when the fraternity had to decorate for the cannibals ball.

Pat and Tickle had to do the table decorations. They also had to dress in costume.
So Pat and Tickle went down to the local slaughter house and talked the guy into giving them some big bones. They were dirty and the guy suggested going to the museum but they just washed the bones down and placed one on each table as decoration. I think that was pretty smart. Tickle wore black pants and painted his upper body black. Pat was very inovative and went to a rummage sale place and bought an old fur coat for a dollar and cut it up. He made a thong, wrist bands and a furry cape. Looked quite good until he was dancing and the thong slipped. What a character.

Love Mom (Ginger)

PS Wish I had a picture of that! :) Xochi

Pat & His Mom (Mammy)

2009-05-12T17:40:00.000-07:00

Just thinking of Mother's Day and a previous post of the changing of the guard...

I love these pictures of Pat and his mom, Mammy.

Pat loved his mom, called her every day if only for a minute...she wasn't much for talking on the telephone. When he could, he'd see her and visit or take her to the set or to lunch or just sit and play cards. Mammy was a card shark as Pat was too...rummy, dummy.

Pat the "Make it Work with What you Have" Man

2009-05-07T21:47:00.000-07:00

So, notice, between Pat and I, the "cane" Mom is holding...

Well, here's the story.

On the first trip down to Ajijic, Mexico, we all discovered that all the sidewalks and roads are cobblestone. Because Mom being a bit unsteady on her feet with the uneven walking terrain, we searched around town for a cane or walking stick...but no go...

So, first the broom was found that you could screw off the brush part, then the neighbor in the hotel happened to have a cane rubber tip (not sure how he had that) but the cane tip was too big...Pat thought for a few minutes, went to his room and TaDa...he put one of his athletic socks on the end to hold the rubber tip...course the sock was a bit droopy so we added one of my hair rubber bands to keep the sock up.

It worked! Perfectly. Once again, Pat made it work with what he had and we all had some great laughs (and some unusual looks on the street) that week.

Changing of the Guard

2009-04-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

I hope Pat sees this from where he is...

I was looking at these pictures and realized that although it made me sad for a moment, this is how life is supposed to be, right? The next generation taking care of their elders and watching over them as they were taken care of when young.

Patrick helping his Gramma up, Tyler and Connor looking as though posted as guards to watch over Gramma. Big Pat would be happy.

These three grown boys spent so many days up on the hill in New Hampshire with Gramma letting them do whatever they wanted and Gramps being a little more strict - you must drink 8 glasses of water a day and listen to one hour of jazz or classical music a day - ha, yep, that's what it was like being there. Nothing like cuddling up to Gramma or watching Gramps fiddling around with something or other. Ice cream, spitballs, dancing, adventures...

But now they are grown and seems as though it's all going according to plan if there is a plan.

Just a thought I had.

Pat Blymyer and "The Wig"

2009-04-24T21:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I may not have this completely correct but first off, you gotta laugh. What's up with the wig?

Mom, of course, was a hairdresser, and had many wigs in her kit for various movies and such.

Somehow, Pat became attached to this one. It might be that his head was cold or he was driving down the road and felt like putting it on to be silly. Whatever it was, it sure made us laugh when we turned around and he had it on. Then he'd speak to you seriously and once again wonder why you couldn't really concentrate on what he was telling you.

Oddly, It was one of his favorite things. Just because. I mean look at the big smile on his face! And so, that doesn't really explain why he had the wig but does that really matter?

Once again, Pat being Pat.

Celebration of Pat Blymyer continues...August 23rd

2009-04-19T21:13:00.000-07:00

Save the date - On August 23, 2009 (tentative) - we will celebrate with the friends and family of the East coast in Snowville/Eaton, New Hampshire.

The folks in Eaton gave Mom and Pat the key to the town before they left for Mexico in case they ever wanted to come back, so here we come. Not as planned necessarily, but none the less, a celebration of being together again.

Mark the date if you will be on the east coast...the plans are in the makings. As always, pass on the date to those who may not see this posting.

Summer in New Hampshire, one of Pat's favorite times to walk in the woods, visit the lake, take a drive in Tulip with Ramsey.

If you've never been...go for it. If you have, come again.

Love,

Xochi

What did Pat say to you that you remember most?

2009-04-18T12:22:00.001-07:00

Think back, what are the most memorable things Pat said to you? Memorable as in, he's the only one that always said it...

Kind of like when he'd answer the phone and say "What it Be?"

or "Read any good books?"

Or "I've got a great book for you."

or 'Got any gossip?"

His favorite quote on his business card "The bitterness of poor quality lingers long after the sweetness of a low price is forgotten"

When you're finishing something that tastes really good..."Are you gonna eat that last bite?"

Oh, and something that will hold up as a true Patism 100 years from now. :)

Looking for help here...write!!

Love,
Xochi

Easter in Ajijic, Mexico - The Scout - April 2007

2009-04-11T21:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

Just 2 years ago, Mom and Pat scouted Ajijic...a place they had been researching and talking about for a while...2 days into their trip, they made their decision...this was the place for them, no doubt in their minds...a couple days later, Laurie and I joined them on the scout and this was the first of many perfect visits to Ajijic.

And so I figure that when you know it's right, it doesn't take but a moment to take action as they did that trip. Or give a big "Why not?"

Felices Pascuas! Tome ese salto de fe.

Pat Blymyer - Part 4 - I hadn't realized

2009-04-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

I hadn't realized that Part 4 included Snowville to Ajijic...and so includes Mom and Pat packing up in New Hampshire and preparing to move to Ajijic, Mexico.

A place that on their one year anniversary there, Pat said it had been the happiest year of his life. The pictures show the colorful, beautiful place they called home. It was easily a place that any of us on a visit to Mom and Pat could call it the most peaceful, relaxing place we had been in a long, long time. Their house in Snowville, NH, on top of a mountain surrounded by trees was a close second.

Perhaps it was really the company?

Adios Pat! Te amo.

These are a few of my favorite things...

2009-04-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

Pat's Favorite Things.

Funny as we look back and remember what Pat's favorite things were. Those things you can touch and see were these simple items. A couple kazoos, the "tax shelter", a magnifying glass, the extendable stick with magnet at the end, a mirror with the same extendable stick, a bird made of feathers, a maestro's wand, a crystal to hang in the sunlight, a grip clip, pinwheels, Pat's Top Hat & Cane, his favorite wig (that's another story) and we added a hat from Bob's, the bar in Ajijic he planned on going to one day just to hang out. Oh, and his favorite sign he always hung that says "Good Morning, Pat. This is God. I will take care of all your troubles today and no, I really won't be needing your help. Have a swell day."

The other favorites only take time and some thought. Simple yet sometimes difficult to accomplish, but Pat managed quite well.

Laugh today, sit and take a few minutes, listen.

Love,

Xochi

Pat Blymyer - Part 4

2009-04-05T10:37:00.000-07:00

Friends, friends, friends...How lucky to be Pat's friend.

For all his shorts wearing, Pat still loved to put on his Top Hat and Tails when he felt it was the right time to add a little something extra, and he always did - add a little something extra.

He deserves nothing but blue skies from now on...

Pat's Slideshow - Part 3

2009-04-03T10:35:00.001-07:00

Talk about family man. And his Amazing Grace despite all his silliness. He had probably 200 members of his kazoo band playing "Amazing Grace" in his honor, some singing, all together.

Pat Blymyer - Part 2

2009-03-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

Pat should have been a movie star, right?

Pat's lighting up Hollywood.

Pat Blymyer Slideshow - Part 1

2009-03-31T18:06:00.000-07:00

Pat begins his life in West Virginia and makes his way West to Hollywood where he lights it up!

Pat & Ginger in pictures.

Enjoy. More to come.

A Toast to Pat Blymyer

2009-03-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

A Toast of Johnnie Walker Red to the Rainbow Man. And a toast to all who met him, we are the lucky ones and he is too to have so many love back.

Yesterday I remembered something Pat told me on one of my first days on a movie...he said "Xochi, start making a list, write down each person you've worked with whom you respect and care about and would like to work with again. One day when you get to choose your crew, you will remember who these people are and will have the best and most loyal at your side."

And Pat was right. Here it was, my first producing job and you were all there. Those of you who couldn't be there, I know you were with us in spirit. Once again, Pat knew what he was talking about, didn't he?

Cheers.

Love,

Xochi

Imagine the Perfect Day

2009-03-29T22:09:00.000-07:00

Today was perfect. Imagine a beautiful, shady patio, looking somewhat like a movie set with the stage and backdrop but also with a very colorful group of people (and by colorful I mean inside and out). All of us today here for one purpose, to celebrate what Pat meant to each of us individually and what he meant to us all together. Pat brought us all together. Today his memories got more laughs than tears or tears with laughter, either way being together made it all the more a day that we'll never forget.

Pat, I hope that you saw the light and love coming your way today. Yes, you can expect visitors, lots and lots of visitors - perhaps not sitting on your bench in Snowville, but definitely we will always have a moment where ever we are to pause and say "Pat, I'm thinking of you" or "That's what Pat Blymyer would have done" and the list goes on and on. Or you'll just hear a giggle, a laugh, that will be one of us remembering a Patism (as John Leonetti said).

Love to all,
Xochi

Pat and his Little Buddy

2009-03-20T22:13:00.000-07:00

Pat always had a dog for as long as I can remember.

This Little Buddy is Ramsey...isn't this a great photo of a man and his best friend? Any dog was truly lucky to have Pat in his life. Despite dogs liking to walk, even Pat was sometimes too fast for them. :) (He was definitely too fast of a walker for most of us humans!) Unless it was a stroll.

This was a beach near Digby, Nova Scotia.

Blymyer's do a Jig

2009-03-18T08:48:00.001-07:00

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St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

I didn't really have anything to say today but just remembered it is St. Patrick's Day. What would Pat's title be? To me he's always been just Pat but those three letters mean more to me than I could ever say.

So where ever you are Pat, Happy St. Patrick's Day.

A Old Fashioned Family Vacation

2009-03-13T22:51:00.001-07:00

Off we went to Digby, Nova Scotia to watch the tides...go up and down...who would have known it would be one of the most memorable family vacations of our lives. It was. The only thing we had to worry about all week was what time the tide was. Or we had to worry if the ice cream shop was still open...or we had to worry about what we should eat next...or we had to worry about whether your croquet ball went into the bushes again since we were playing on a hill...or we had to worry whether our bocce ball was the closest. Or who was having more fun that we were just being together?
In this particular picture, I believe the others
were probably having a little nap up at the house.

Or were they having more fun than we were?

Naw, probably not cause we had the ice cream and Pat had just bought us all matching hats.

Memories and feelings, how great, right?

Pat and his Grapes

2009-03-10T18:15:00.000-07:00

Pat figured out that you really don't have to do things the way everyone else does.

One example: he would wash his grapes and hang them up with the pots to dry. Up and out of the way, looking pretty. Why not? The funny thing is, one time we looked up and tried to figure out what it was that was hanging. It was a very dried out bunch of grapes that had been forgotten. He had unintentionally made raisins. :)

Anyway, one more reason to love him. He could make anything work and make the most of what he had to do it.

A Note for Pat

2009-03-07T23:12:00.000-08:00

Hi Pat, where you are, I will always remember your resourcefulness, with getting things done, you know like the time when your and Ginger's refrigerator went south and you needed one . So off to Sears in Conway we went and they only had one, the size you needed, with one objection on your part -- the freezer was on the bottom. You took it anyway, for your resource wheels were already busy as we drove to your house. You set it on a wooden plate form that brought the freezer to a height that was comfortable to use!!!

You know, we never did develop a automatic toilet seat that would go up when approached and down when done !!! Maybe when I check out I will bring the plans with me!!!!

Oh yes, I loved watching some of your wiring projects. I expected to see movie stars moving about the house, for all I could think of was that you were doing things like when setting up the lighting for a movie set, but you know, it always worked!!!!

One of my fondest memories Pat is that we were able to share our Children and Grandchildren. I know they always enjoyed your presence -- as you theirs and we all of you. So with much Appreciation and Love, until another time, Phil & Jane

An Angel in the Outfield - Pat Blymyer

2009-03-06T14:06:00.000-08:00

Pat was working on the movie "Angels in the Outfield"
and looks like he blended pretty well with his halo shining as he lit up the field. I'm sure the guys took him just as seriously as always. It was normal for Pat to wear what other's may not dare or wouldn't look right wearing. :)

If anyone at all has a Pat moment/memory, post it here or I'd love to put it here if you can't figure it out, email me. I certainly have an endless supply of memories but would love to hear everyone else's too, really!

Love,
Xochi

Where the weather suits my clothes

2009-03-03T19:14:00.000-08:00

Shorts, shorts, shorts...does it really matter that there's a couple feet of snow?

All Pat would do is add gloves and boots, ta da, a winter outfit!

He would rather be in the warm weather but he'd make it work no matter what the case.

As Willie Nelson sings "I'm going where the sun keeps shining, through the pouring rain, where the weather suits my clothes..."

Pat, we are listening, really we are

2009-03-02T00:09:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while, Pat would feel as though he wasn't being heard. Could be all the ladies he hung out with had so much to say that he sometimes felt he couldn't get a word in at all. This particular moment though, they were all ears, literally.

Of course the laughter that went along with the all ears probably was so loud what he wanted to say still couldn't be heard.

I silently took the picture. :) Xochi

PS That's Mom, Brittany and Tanya.

Mortal Kombat 2 - Up on the Roof

2009-02-28T18:36:00.000-08:00

It happened that their room at the hotel in Ayutthaya, Thailand had a lovely rooftop patio...well, they made it so when they added a few pots of flowers and couple lounges chairs, what more can you ask for to relax on an afternoon.

Pat was working, Mom was getting to know Thailand, I was taking the picture, visiting.

Show Biz, look where it takes you, right?

Pat Prepared for Anything...all on one chair

2009-02-27T08:31:00.000-08:00

When Pat was on the set, we all know he had his director's chair. Sometimes it said Patrick Blymyer on the back, sometimes it said Rip Torn or The New Rip Torn.

It always had a pocket for very important documents - could be the callsheet, could be the Enquirer, could be fruit or snacks. At one point I gave him a Hand which he screwed onto the chair that could hold a drink. This particular picture he seems to be prepared for everything, rain, dark, confederates, etc.

Can you figure out what some of those other things are on his chair? I've been trying .

Love,

Xochi

Incredible Shrinking Mom

2009-02-25T17:16:00.000-08:00

So, you hit the green call button on your skype choosing Mom and Pat and the computer starts to ring...Pat answers, sitting up nice and tall, says 'What it be?' or "Hola" or something like that...

Then in walks Mom...and she sits down...and you wonder, "Mom, are you shrinking?" What's up?

Now, they can see themselves just like you can see yourself in a little picture on screen. Next thing you know all we're doing is laughing, no talking just laughing and Mom is sliding down her chair, which was lower yet somehow she'd continue to shrink throughout the call. Yep, easy laughs about little things. Not sure we actually talked about anything on those calls but they sure were fun sometimes laughing to tears. Love, Xochi

A Spring Brunch in Ajijic

2009-02-24T23:22:00.000-08:00

I just received this photo from Mom and Pat's friends, Sascha and Steve, who live in Ajijic too. They all had brunch together last spring one day.

Pat all dressed in his pretty blue suit and Mom in her flowers. Quite the dashing pair out on a lovely afternoon.

I'm just assuming Pat had the matching blue pants on...could have been shorts?

How cool can you be?

2009-02-24T19:27:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure how this wasn't Pat's director's chair all these years, he looks so comfortable in it don't you think?

I believe this was from a movie called "Gaily, Gaily". How you dressed behind the scenes has changed a little since those day.

But I thought a neat picture.

Xochi

Kazoo Pat

2009-02-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

Did you know that Pat could play the kazoo? Did you know that he had a few kazoo bands in his day?He loved the kazoo. It's easy to play and you can play any song.

Seventy Six Trombones was a favorite from "The Music Man".

There was a time when Pat wanted to learn how to play the violin, I still have the violin, none of us learned but it was good idea at the time.

So all you have to do is hummmmmmm.

Sunday, Sunday

2009-02-22T12:30:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe the last time I spoke to Pat was 7 weeks ago, the last time I saw him. It seems like it could have been yesterday. Sundays are the harder days for me knowing what comes on Monday morning.

All I know is thank goodness for skype.com. Since Mom and Pat moved to Mexico, I saw them more than ever, at least once a week it was as though they were in my living room having a visit. If you've got anyone out there you need or want to see more than you do, get it together and set up each other, it's easy, free and like I said, I was lucky to spend time with my mom and dad more than ever. We're all busy but no buts and no regrets. I have these memories. Love, Xochi

Top Hat Pat

2009-02-20T19:46:00.000-08:00

I don't think most people know that a top hat can really be worn pretty much anytime, you just gotta have the right attitude.

Pat might add his white scarf and cane as well if it was a night out on the town, special occasion or he just got the urge. That was another Patism. :)

One of My Favorite Pat Pictures

2009-02-20T15:24:00.000-08:00

I can't be sure but I think when I met Pat (I was 5 years old) he looked something like this...casual, handsome, cool, coulda been a movie star.

Mom, when was this taken?

I think this was South Dakota about 1970. Love, Mom

Scooters are good for Everything Pat thought.

2009-02-18T17:55:00.000-08:00

Out on a long stretch of highway for Another 48Hrs. work had to be done. When possible Pat would put his scooter to use. The scooter was also used to get to the caterer fast, race to the truck at wrap, endless benefits to having it on the set. I even saw him let the Grips use it to carry C-Stands...yes, even the grips. :)

Can you believe our Hollywood Legend of a Gaffer?

2009-02-18T17:51:00.000-08:00

Yes, a long time ago in Beckley, West Virginia this cute young boy kicked up his heels on Westwood Drive, I'm sure lighting up the neighborhood with his antics...

Many years later, he was lighting up Hollywood and our lives.

A ride in Zippy

2009-02-16T19:56:00.000-08:00

For Pat's 70th birthday, he treated himself to Zippy, a beautiful royal blue golf cart with all the bells and whistles he wanted...

On the narrow cobblestone streets of Ajijic, it was the perfect vehicle to cruise and do errands.

Of course to make it even more a Pat vehicle he added a couple pinwheels at the perfect wind direction, one small rubber chicken, an Ooooga horn, a rope for Mom to hang on to just in case, a basket for Ramsey to sit and a handheld mirror to use to see behind him. Oh, and clipped on the steering wheel he kept his GPS of Ajijic (a simply drawn paper map folded in half) just in case he needed directions). The flowered floor mats helped keep the dirt down and added that extra flair. :)

Pat's Memorial Celebration - March 29, 2009 - 1P

2009-02-15T20:27:00.000-08:00

PAT BLYMYER'S

MEMORIAL CELEBRATION

We gather today to honor and celebrate Pat's life

Sunday, March 29, 2009 - 1P

Los Angeles River Center and Gardens

570 West Avenue 26

Los Angeles, CA 90065

One of Pat's requests whenever this day came along was that

we all wear colorful clothes, shorts and no black!

A Valentine Anytime is okay

2009-02-14T21:12:00.000-08:00

For Pat, it didn't have to be Valentine's Day to tell Mom he loved her. When they packed up for Mexico we found many memories tucked in all over the house. This was one of my favorite things I brought home for safe keeping. I'll have to check and see if this was a "just because I love you I'm going to cut a piece of wood into a heart for you"? 7/14/83 - that would have been the middle of a busy summer at the Snowvillage Inn. Oh, Pat...

Did you ever realize how artistic Pat was?

2009-02-13T19:43:00.000-08:00

One day long ago, Pat decided to try his hand at decorating Mom's sun hat for her. One hat turned into many creations, depended on his flowers, butterflies, and other ideas he had for the next artistic moment. Each one is different from the other but always bring a smile to peoples faces as Mom walks down the street or drives by, especially the children who never judge but appreciate the fun with which they were created. Spreading happiness in so many ways, out of the borders of what is considered normal or safe or acceptable.

Grilled Cheeses and Chocolate Malts

2009-02-09T21:52:00.000-08:00

Mmm, mmm...we had grilled cheese sandwiches and Chocolate malts one night in Ajijic...Pat's the master on that meal. He even scouted out the stores and found the Carnation Malt we needed.

Pat's Pinwheels Spinning

2009-02-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

Colorful pinwheels spin in the breeze, pause for a moment and then spin again. Like colorful Pat always moving.

Pat, friend man and pig.

2009-02-08T02:04:00.000-08:00

One-of-a-kind. Right. What's that mean?
All the one-of-a-kind people (isn't that an oxymoron) (I can hear Pat now having something to say about the "moron" part) ... that I know ...have something in common. They seem, the sane ones, of course, to have a gift. They distribute the gift equally and specifically. They seem to have enough sense of security in their own worth and value to want others to have that, too. The opposite of squeaker-wheelers, similar in some deep part of their spirit to contented four-hundred pound pigs, contradictory to the self-righteous, self-pitying and self-centered-fearful. Captains of fairness. Leaders who stand at your side, not in the back lines or high on some distant hill with condescending binoculars and vague destructive directions for the loyal but ignorant. They want people to grow, not wither. They are healthy, their immune systems fend off indulgent negativity, they are here to educate others in the ways of happiness and constructiveness, perkiness and jokery; they generate and tolerate over negating and berating.
In Pat's case, his nuclear strength spirit was not even overcome by alcohol; when he'd had enough, he'd had enough and that was it. So let's raise a toast of carrot juice to the rainbow man. The man of colors and shorts, not jetblack, starched, arched pretensions. The man who left joy in his Will and life where someone might easily have ended up bleak and lost. These are the undying suns of the universe, these one-of-a-kinders. They just get kinder and kinder.
love to Pat,
William

Last Days in Ajijic

2009-02-07T17:03:00.000-08:00

Well, today has been our final day (for now) in Ajijic. Old friends have visited, we had lunch at a new favorite place, one that Pat didn't have a chance to eat since it has recently opened but I'll bet he would have thought the food there quite tasty. A stroll down the streets, in and out of some favorite shops. I took a walk at sunset to the lake to see the progress made since the park there was flooded. The walk along the water is now lined with palm trees, it's going to be beautiful again when they are finished. And yet another beatiful sunset off the lake, you can see it from the end of the garden at the house too. The house was a special place, the garden unbelievable, life is changing but there was at least this moment in paradise. I was lucky enough to have Mom and Pat here so that I too could be part of it and being with the two of them made it even more special.

Tomorrow, I fly home and Mom, Laurie and Ramsey begin their drive to California with visits to friends and family along the way. And Mom begins Act III as she is calling it. Love, Xochi

Rainbow Pat

2009-02-01T18:57:00.000-08:00

We were trying to get the rainbow on Pat's face, see the left side of his face...the prism is outside with the sun shining through it. He loved hanging the crystals and seeing the light play. The only reason he looks serious is cause we were trying to catch the rainbow. This was an afternoon project. Things to do on a beautiful day in Ajijic. :)

Look at those blue eyes

2009-01-29T21:27:00.000-08:00

Pat's Memorial service will be a happy celebration.

It will be on a Sunday afternoon, March 29th in Los Angeles.

I'll have all the details posted as soon as I can.

A couple things I do know it already...

Pat wanted everyone to wear shorts. Bright colors. If not a shorts person, happy colors.

The memorial will be outside at a lovely place called Los Angeles River Center and Garden.

More to come soon.

Love,

Xochi

Ajijic, Mexico Celebration of Pat's life

2009-01-25T19:34:00.000-08:00

On February 5th, 2009 in the garden of Independencia #10, Ajijic, Jalisco, Mexico there will be a service to celebrate Pat's life for those friends and family in Mexico. Of course, anyone is welcome to attend, all are welcome.

Pat said that his year in Ajijic was the best year of his life. Pretty cool that he was so happy here.

Pat being Pat

2009-01-25T19:02:00.000-08:00

did you know Pat could dance? and wiggle?

Pat Blymyer's Memorial Celebration

2009-01-25T18:47:00.000-08:00

I wanted to keep you updated on what the plans are to celebrate Pat's life.

We are planning a memorial on Sunday, March 29th. The details are not set but please mark your calendar with this date, more details will come soon.

Thanks a lot,

Xochi

Patrick R. Blymyer, my Dad

2009-01-25T18:17:00.000-08:00

Patrick Blymyer

May 20, 1938 - January 5, 2009

Pat was one of a kind. People say that about lots of folks but if you knew Pat, you'd agree that he beat any of those others on that phrase.

Pat loved life, he loved food, he loved to walk, he loved having a list, he loved to read, he loved to sit and watch the sunset, he loved his quiet times, he loved to help us see how happy life could be, help you to laugh at yourself, he loved to laugh. He took care of people, especially the love of his life, Ginger. he applauded all of our successes no matter how big or small, he was proud of his kids. He knew how to make an entrance, he loved show biz, his stories were endless and always made you laugh. He loved to dance, whistle and sing, sometimes the same tune over and over but it still made you smile. He loved to wear shorts, winter, summer, anytime. Making a meal was an event. He taught us to make a sandwich the right way, he taught us how to iron, he taught us how to enjoy a walk, a piece of fruit, everything. If you met him for only a moment or for a lifetime, you would remember him forever.

Pat was not someone you ever forgot. He will be missed.

I will miss him. He was my dad and my best friend.

Xochi

Happy New Year, Inspire Yourself, Inspire Others

2009-01-03T08:47:00.000-08:00

2009 has begun and with it brings new hope & dreams. Inspiration comes in many ways, many times through other people. I've heard other people's resolutions for the new year, adding some to my own list. My own favorite quote "Today's the day to get up the nerve" is one I will need to keep in mind too, to keep those resolutions or begin new adventures. Keep moving forward!

Happiest of new years to you all!

Xochi

XB's Inspirational T's

Today's the day to get up the nerve

2008-09-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

I wear this t-shirt and get the most wide range of comments. But the best part is that I get comments. People will say out loud as a questions "Today's the day?" and I spin around to show them the other side "to get up the nerve". I get anything from a big smile and they have the realization on their face of "yes, today is the day". Others say "for what, to get up the nerve to do what?" I say "for anything, for everything, for that one little thing you're waiting to do."

Really, Today's the day to get up the nerve to just Be.

Have an inspired day!

Pat Blymyer, a one of a kind man

It's National Kazoo Day Pat!

Check this out Pat -

Time for us all to pull our kazoos out and play a tune today.

xxoo

National Kazoo Day

January 28, 2012

The State of the Kazoo 2012byRick Hubbard

Keep Me In Your Heart for a While - New Year's 2012

Thanksgiving 2011

Gaffer in his chair.

Thank for the Birthday gifts Pat. xxoo

Happy Father's Day Pat. 2011

Happy Birthday Pat, May 20th, 2011

Fax & Note Man

Happy St. Patrick's Day 2011

Happy Valentine's Day Mom and Pat

Two Years Ago - January 5, 2009

Today's the Day - Birthday of Another Kind

Happy Thanksgiving, 2010

Pat, you are Memorable

Pat, what it be?

Sunday Afternoon Skype to Pat

Happy Father's Day - 2010

Happy Birthday Pat! 2010

Oh, Pat, I found your nose warmer

Pat's Half Full Apple Boxes

St Patrick's Day 2010

Happy Valentine's Day Pat

Pat, you always made us laugh

Pat! It's National Kazoo Day!

Happy New Year

Merry Christmas to you, Pat

Pat gets a Christmas Tree

Thanksgiving Thoughts

Remember New Orleans?

Halloween Dance

Pat, my person I think of often

Pat, I miss our moments

Pat Blymyer's New Hampshire Celebration, August 23, 2009

Pat's Celebration is Today

Snowville, NH, here we come to Celebrate Pat

Hello Pat

Pat's New Hampshire Celebration - August 23rd, 2009

Pat Made Others Colorful too

Colorful, Colorful, Memorable Pat

Pat loved Summertime anytime!

Happy Father's Day Pat.

Dear Pat - A rundown of recent events...

Just Being Happy Cause we're friends

Another Birthday Note for Pat

Happy Birthday Pat - May 20th

Los Angeles Tribute to Patrick R. Blymyer

Advice from Gramps (Pat Blymyer)

Pat & Ron (Tickle) Fraternity Brother Duties

Pat & His Mom (Mammy)

Pat the "Make it Work with What you Have" Man

Changing of the Guard

Pat Blymyer and "The Wig"

Celebration of Pat Blymyer continues...August 23rd

What did Pat say to you that you remember most?

Easter in Ajijic, Mexico - The Scout - April 2007

Pat Blymyer - Part 4 - I hadn't realized

These are a few of my favorite things...

Pat Blymyer - Part 4

Pat's Slideshow - Part 3

Pat Blymyer - Part 2

Pat Blymyer Slideshow - Part 1

A Toast to Pat Blymyer

Imagine the Perfect Day

Pat and his Little Buddy

Blymyer's do a Jig

St. Patrick's Day

A Old Fashioned Family Vacation

Pat and his Grapes

A Note for Pat

An Angel in the Outfield - Pat Blymyer

Where the weather suits my clothes

Pat, we are listening, really we are

Mortal Kombat 2 - Up on the Roof

The State of the Kazoo 2012
by
Rick Hubbard