Dimes from Heaven

February 19th marked 13 years since my brother Vinnie died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 35. I was 23, just out of college. He is never far from my thoughts and know he is watching over our entire family. Most people have heard of “pennies from heaven”, but for me and my family, it has always been, “dimes from heaven.”

I find dimes in places, that dimes should just not be and there is no explanation for: Someone asks me to hand them a book, and there underneath, is a dime. When I go to the store, my cashier seems to have the need to ask for a roll of dimes for their register. Vending machines will give my change back in all dimes. Most recently while fishing with the kids, Phil asked me to switch seats with me so he could fix my line, and there in his chair was a dime.

Why dimes and not pennies? I think it goes back to when he came back to live at home after he was diagnosed with cancer. In his room was a nightstand and the top drawer was loaded with spare change—mostly dimes. Vinnie would call me at work and ask me to bring him a candy bar or some other snack he had a craving for. When I’d give it to him, he’d tell me to go in the drawer and get my money back. I’d tell him “You’re not paying me in dimes” – I got it.” He always told me he would find a way to come back—mess with the lights, etc. So I believe he leaving dimes to let us know he is watching us. Funny how if I'm having a really bad day and think no one cares—I find a dime, and I remember. Since my daughter Jadelyn died, it is not uncommon to find 2 dimes together. I think Uncle Vinnie has taught is niece how to throw dimes from heaven too—so we he is taking care of her for us.