Photographs and memories bring us back to a better time, a wonderful place and special people remembered through laughter and tears, friendship and love. As Eileen Pettit, assistant director of North Haven’s recreation department, looks at the various photographs in picture frames that are neatly displayed throughout her office, she is reminded that each one tells a wonderful story and triggers cherished memories of family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, former employees and their families. This is her story:

“I grew up in an Irish family deep-rooted in tradition, faith, teamwork, support and lots of love. I am one of five children,” recalled Pettit. “My parents, Ray and Peggy (Murphy), are true believers that family is everything and good morals and a good work ethic are essential for success in life. When you are fortunate, you should give back because there is no better gift than one from the heart.”

Pettit admits that she was very fortunate growing up, because she had a father who worked tirelessly while working his way up in the corporate world making many sacrifices to provide a wonderful life for his family. Her mother was a full-time stay-at-home mom like June Cleaver who ran the household, cooked, cleaned, helped with homework, carpooled her children to school and athletic events, played nurse when her children were sick, a good listener with great advice like Dear Abby, and she always found time to help others by volunteering in the community.

“I was born in New York and when I was in the sixth grade we moved to Weston, Connecticut, where I spent the rest of my younger years,” recalled Pettit. “My father worked at General Electric and started at the entry level and through hard work and determination worked his way up the corporate ladder, becoming a successful businessman. My father never forgot where he came from and was always willing to work with his employees and coworkers as a team.”

“Since my father had to travel a lot due to his job, my mother was in charge of the household and her five children. My brother Stephen, my sisters Linda, Susan, Kathy, and I got along and looked out for one another. We enjoyed playing sports and team work was very popular in our house,” she added. “We would argue and fight like all siblings do but we never went to bed mad.”

Eileen and her family were pet lovers. When she was in first grade the family got a dog — a Border Collie named Lucky. Lucky became the sixth child of the Pettit family. Among her photographs, there are pictures of Pettit with her dogs past and present including, one photo with her and her dog Charlie, who she named after the nickname her father gave her when she was a little girl.

“When we were kids, we would dress up Lucky and she would play with us. We played basketball and we put her in a playpen so she could stay with us and watch us play. Sometimes she would bark as a way to cheer us on and other times she would curl up and go to sleep,” recalled a smiling Pettit. “Lucky died when I was a junior at Southern CT State University and it was like losing a member of the family. Animals are precious creatures who give unconditional love and loyalty, which they should receive in return.”

Since she always had a dog growing up, some years later Eileen got a dog. Charlie has brought happiness and love into her life and is a warm welcome when she arrives at home.

Among the other photographs, there are snapshots of friends, relatives, neighbors, coworkers, former employees and their families, and children from the camps and programs offered at the recreation center. There are so many smiling faces and each one tells of a special time with fond memories including those who have moved away or are no longer with her. In the corner, there is a picture that serves as a memorial to Pettit’s brother Stephen who died in February 2004 from cancer.

“My brother Stephen was my inspiration. He was the best big brother any sister could have. He was filled with spirit, courage, and focused on the good in people and life. During his battle with cancer, he showed great courage and was a fighter,” said a tearful Pettit. “Stephen taught me how to stand up for myself, don’t be afraid, and do my best. His words of encouragement stay with me every day.”

There are travel pictures in the collection. Pettit enjoys traveling with Anne Marie and Charlie. They have been to many places including Mexico, Jamaica, and Florida where Ray and Peggy now call home.

“As much as I love my job, it’s nice to get away,” Pettit added. “Traveling helps to broaden the mind and expose us to new people, cultures, and new places.”

“When looking back, I feel blessed to have known so many wonderful people who have influenced and inspired me, and I hope I have done the same. These pictures are the reasons I’m still here 20 years later. My experiences working for this town and with my staff who I consider my second family, have been immeasurable, educational and inspiring,” said a sincere Pettit. “People are what make up the photographs in my picture gallery, and they create the memories that last a lifetime.”

Life will fade, people will come and go, good times will not last forever and hard times will try our spirits, but the memories will remain. For Eileen Pettit, her picture gallery defines who she is, where she comes from, where she has been, and who has touched her life, but most of all the photographs are a lasting tribute and remainder of fond and precious memories of cherished individuals who will always have a special place in her heart and mind for a lifetime. Let your heart, as well as your mind, cherish memories of yesterday for they teach lessons and symbolize journeys through time reflecting the days gone by while bringing comfort and hope for today and tomorrow, so while we can, we should remember when.

Paul Colella is a published author and North Haven resident. His novels “Patriots and Scoundrels: Charity's First Adventure” and “The Undefeated” are available online at Amazon.com and BarnesAndNoble.com