A wintry evening last week found Addie and me at the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory, together with over thirty other supporters and members of the Vermont Council of the Blind. This is the time of year when orders are flying out of the factory with help needed to make sure those deliveries are on time. The Teddy Bear Factory invites volunteer groups to help with packing orders, then donates a generous amount of funding to the groups. We were a hard-working crew with even a few guide dogs in tow.
Our assignment was the Pajama-grams, to pull boxes off the assembly line, take pajamas out of packages, check the orders and to repack for shipping. I was amazed at the wide variety of pajamas, the quality, and the personalized way they are folded into “hatboxes” and totes. Personal gift cards were included with many orders – we had a fun time reading them as we packed. I just know that each person who receives one of these gifts will be very happy and very cozy this holiday season. I had so much fun, I know I’ll want to do this again.
Okay, VCB, how about the Valentine’s Day rush? We’ve done it once, and we can do it again!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Toots
A & J keep introducing me to new music, new sounds.
J seems to like the reggae beat and lyrics. I’ve been a James Brown fan, and so I’m recently drawn to reggae Toots and the Maytals – and where it all began in the 60’s – a great mix of Jamaican soul, rock and gospel. Toots “invented” the genre and gave it its name.
What I appreciate is that an artist of another generation is current, like Tony Bennett and Paul McCartney. I’m not familiar with much reggae, but this is one artist I want to be hearing more of.
For the official check it out here: http://www.tootsandthemaytals.com/
J seems to like the reggae beat and lyrics. I’ve been a James Brown fan, and so I’m recently drawn to reggae Toots and the Maytals – and where it all began in the 60’s – a great mix of Jamaican soul, rock and gospel. Toots “invented” the genre and gave it its name.
What I appreciate is that an artist of another generation is current, like Tony Bennett and Paul McCartney. I’m not familiar with much reggae, but this is one artist I want to be hearing more of.
For the official check it out here: http://www.tootsandthemaytals.com/
Monday, November 12, 2007
Mini-vacation
Ok, it wasn’t an official day off, but Saturday evening was Pinochle night at the Richmans’. Partner Michael and I took all three games - a first for me.
Sunday eve Geo, Addie and I drove to The Black Sheep for dinner - another first - and it was excellent.
Monday was spent up at the Kamp on the Lake where Geo and I finished closing for the season. First time I can recall closing when the weather was mild enough to pull up a beach chair to the shore, stay awhile and enjoy the wave action and the late afternoon sun. Peace.
Geo gave a talk on Tuesday at the Community College of VT, so Tuesday was a day for me to amble around Burlington. I didn’t shop for anything, but it was nice being downtown without needing to rush around, and that does not happen too often.
On Wednesday Geo and I took in an event at UVM on health issues of Vermont farmers. Very informative. Many of the talks touched on farmworker disabilities and on the unique problems of migrant farmers. I learned a lot, and Geo did some networking, especially with a contact who could speak at the Gov’s Committee on the Employment of People with Disabilities.
Best of all, I've got lots of vacation hours left. Am looking ahead to much more time off and many more firsts.
Sunday eve Geo, Addie and I drove to The Black Sheep for dinner - another first - and it was excellent.
Monday was spent up at the Kamp on the Lake where Geo and I finished closing for the season. First time I can recall closing when the weather was mild enough to pull up a beach chair to the shore, stay awhile and enjoy the wave action and the late afternoon sun. Peace.
Geo gave a talk on Tuesday at the Community College of VT, so Tuesday was a day for me to amble around Burlington. I didn’t shop for anything, but it was nice being downtown without needing to rush around, and that does not happen too often.
On Wednesday Geo and I took in an event at UVM on health issues of Vermont farmers. Very informative. Many of the talks touched on farmworker disabilities and on the unique problems of migrant farmers. I learned a lot, and Geo did some networking, especially with a contact who could speak at the Gov’s Committee on the Employment of People with Disabilities.
Best of all, I've got lots of vacation hours left. Am looking ahead to much more time off and many more firsts.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
What I’ve Seen the Past Few Days
A red fox - Yes! Directly in front of our Kamp on the Lake.
A coconut curry potato crepe at the Skinny Pancake, not only seen, but
savored.
A Dunder Miflin bright blue t-shirt. A & J, you know I’d like one.
Archer Mayor AND Joyce Carole Oates, in person - what a literary treat!
My checkbook and a load of laundry at 4AM. (Me, needing to catch up on
household chores.)
A Bit of Trivia
Question: How did the Skinny Pancake get it’s name?
Answer: Seems that the restaurant was originally a Church St. pushcart business selling crepes. This was around the time of the start of the war in Iraq when the French were not very popular with Americans. French fries became the politically correct “freedom fries,” and the French crepe became the “skinny pancake.” When the restaurant opened at College and Lake, it was named the Skinny Pancake. And now you know...
A coconut curry potato crepe at the Skinny Pancake, not only seen, but
savored.
A Dunder Miflin bright blue t-shirt. A & J, you know I’d like one.
Archer Mayor AND Joyce Carole Oates, in person - what a literary treat!
My checkbook and a load of laundry at 4AM. (Me, needing to catch up on
household chores.)
A Bit of Trivia
Question: How did the Skinny Pancake get it’s name?
Answer: Seems that the restaurant was originally a Church St. pushcart business selling crepes. This was around the time of the start of the war in Iraq when the French were not very popular with Americans. French fries became the politically correct “freedom fries,” and the French crepe became the “skinny pancake.” When the restaurant opened at College and Lake, it was named the Skinny Pancake. And now you know...
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Vacation Days
Nice having time off. Tues, however, Geo needed oral surgery - he is recovering slowly and hopefully he'll be back to his ol’ self by next week.
I've been driving Addie back and forth from work - good spending time together that we would not otherwise have.
Yesterday was Kamp time. Phil came up for the day and put wheels on our foot valve (all you lake campers know what that means). Also did some painting (where are ya, Jenn, when I need ya?) and Phil rebuilt the pump cover. Super improvements. After driving him home, I returned to Kamp for an overnite.
Swimming was the best, water like velvet. After sundown I spent time with Benedict XVI’s book on Jesus. More about that later.
On Saturday the hours went by so quickly. I was determined to finish the book (I did), and delighted in the warm breeze off the Lake while relaxing on the deck. I still believe that Sept is the best laketime. As Mrs. Murphy would say, “The tourists are gone.”
I've been driving Addie back and forth from work - good spending time together that we would not otherwise have.
Yesterday was Kamp time. Phil came up for the day and put wheels on our foot valve (all you lake campers know what that means). Also did some painting (where are ya, Jenn, when I need ya?) and Phil rebuilt the pump cover. Super improvements. After driving him home, I returned to Kamp for an overnite.
Swimming was the best, water like velvet. After sundown I spent time with Benedict XVI’s book on Jesus. More about that later.
On Saturday the hours went by so quickly. I was determined to finish the book (I did), and delighted in the warm breeze off the Lake while relaxing on the deck. I still believe that Sept is the best laketime. As Mrs. Murphy would say, “The tourists are gone.”
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Labor Day at the Museum
Addie has a new job at the Shelburne Museum, and she loves it. One of the perks with her first paycheck was the benefit of free passes to the museum for her guests. So she invited the ‘rents. Very generous of her to spend her first day off at her place of work.
It was an absolutely delightful day. The weather was sunny, in the 70's and low 80's, with a light breeze. It had been some time since we had enjoyed the museum, but today it was even better, because we could see it with her enthusiasm. She planned an easy pace for us with her favorite highlights.
I was blown away with the colorful chandelier exhibit along with quilts in the main entrance. Next was the Shaker furniture exhibit. We not only viewed the furniture, but we also learned more of Shaker culture. (Inspired me to pare down and clear out the clutter!) Apparently their furniture was of very high quality and made to last, because eternity is forever, and the Shakers wished to express that during their lifetime. I loved the intricate Shaker “gift” drawings based on Scriptural prophecy; “Every good gift and every perfect gift comes from above...” Just to see this alone would have been more than enough, but there was more...
We went on to see the period houses, the Monets and Degas paintings, the dolls and miniature doll houses, and - of course - the 50's house. Not only were the exhibits so wonderfully presented, but we enjoyed the gardens, the views, and the hospitality of the staff. Addie truly has a fabulous place to work with many areas and collections to explore, to research, and to share with all the Museum visitors. Thank you, Addie!
It was an absolutely delightful day. The weather was sunny, in the 70's and low 80's, with a light breeze. It had been some time since we had enjoyed the museum, but today it was even better, because we could see it with her enthusiasm. She planned an easy pace for us with her favorite highlights.
I was blown away with the colorful chandelier exhibit along with quilts in the main entrance. Next was the Shaker furniture exhibit. We not only viewed the furniture, but we also learned more of Shaker culture. (Inspired me to pare down and clear out the clutter!) Apparently their furniture was of very high quality and made to last, because eternity is forever, and the Shakers wished to express that during their lifetime. I loved the intricate Shaker “gift” drawings based on Scriptural prophecy; “Every good gift and every perfect gift comes from above...” Just to see this alone would have been more than enough, but there was more...
We went on to see the period houses, the Monets and Degas paintings, the dolls and miniature doll houses, and - of course - the 50's house. Not only were the exhibits so wonderfully presented, but we enjoyed the gardens, the views, and the hospitality of the staff. Addie truly has a fabulous place to work with many areas and collections to explore, to research, and to share with all the Museum visitors. Thank you, Addie!
In the Puddle
Mom called the other nite. She had a great story. Seems she went grocery shopping with $26 in her purse. She had planned to stop at Wendy’s for a $1 shake on the way home. However, when she was at the check-out, she was disappointed to discover that her groceries came to just over $25, not enough money left over for that shake. She went to her car to load the groceries. She noticed that in front of her car was a puddle. Floating in the puddle was what looked like a dollar bill. Must be play money, she thought. She bent over to pick it up, but - sure enough - it was a real dollar bill. She looked across the parking lot and saw that there were no other puddles anywhere. The one puddle was directly in front of her car, and this was the puddle with the dollar bill. “It was a miracle,” she said. She now had enough cash to enjoy that shake before she returned home. I love this story because it tells me what a joyful woman of faith my mother is. Miracles can be found even in the nearest rain puddle.
Monday, August 13, 2007
It's August
Well, the raspberries that were in full bloom produced NO fruit, and the rabbits ate all the beans. At least the geraniums are blossoming nicely on the deck, along with marjoram and parsley and basil. We’re even getting a few tomatoes to add to our salad.
Jenn is juggling 2 jobs with catering and working in teen residential homes, sometimes back to back shifts. Addie landed a job as docent/researcher/interpreter at a museum, and is also helping out at the local library - Bookmobile duty is a favorite; you may also find her stacking books at one of the colleges in town when she is not caring for a developmentally challenged child.
Thanks to Phil, our Kamp on the Lake is in good working order. Yes, we even have hot and cold running water. A few dead and overgrown tress have come down, opening up the lake view and getting more sunshine into the backyard. Now for the time to be up there to enjoy it while Kamp-enjoying weather is at its peak.
Less than 2 weeks, and Jenn is back for senior yr. We will miss her, and the family dynamics will change once again. She’s been frustrated with knee problems, unable to run and hike in her free time. We hope and pray that her knee problem is resolved soon. She’s been getting great care from professionals who happen to be our neighbors, and we are grateful for that.
Geo and I have taken in a few plays and musical productions. Last week it was Suds, and before that, Brighton Beach Memoirs #3, and Into the Woods. We’ve been helping out with audio-described productions for the blind and visually impaired, taking our turn assigning seats and distributing the receiver headsets. The plays are described in detail for those who are unable to see the stage and actors, so the visually impaired are able to enjoy the productions. Some of our local theaters also have audio description with state of the art transmitters and receivers for anyone requesting them. So nice to take part in this.
Geo spent a week on vacation in Maine. Unfortunately, it rained most every day. I was able to join him for 1 weekend. We dined at a German restaurant, heard a Dixie jazz band, and savored gourmet gelato for dessert one evening. While he was there, he met up with a Belgian Shepherd - and was quite impressed. So...
we’re beginning to think about getting a partner for our Beagle-Shep Lucy. The new dog would have to be just the right match for sweet mellow Lucy. Lucy is a “pack dog,” and would benefit from another pal. And we need a dog with a little more energy to keep us moving. Let’s face it, Lucy is a couch potato and does not seem to require quite as much exercise as we need. She let’s us know in her little Beagle way when she’s had enough. But she is Lucy, the sweetest dog on the planet, and we love her to bits.
Jenn is juggling 2 jobs with catering and working in teen residential homes, sometimes back to back shifts. Addie landed a job as docent/researcher/interpreter at a museum, and is also helping out at the local library - Bookmobile duty is a favorite; you may also find her stacking books at one of the colleges in town when she is not caring for a developmentally challenged child.
Thanks to Phil, our Kamp on the Lake is in good working order. Yes, we even have hot and cold running water. A few dead and overgrown tress have come down, opening up the lake view and getting more sunshine into the backyard. Now for the time to be up there to enjoy it while Kamp-enjoying weather is at its peak.
Less than 2 weeks, and Jenn is back for senior yr. We will miss her, and the family dynamics will change once again. She’s been frustrated with knee problems, unable to run and hike in her free time. We hope and pray that her knee problem is resolved soon. She’s been getting great care from professionals who happen to be our neighbors, and we are grateful for that.
Geo and I have taken in a few plays and musical productions. Last week it was Suds, and before that, Brighton Beach Memoirs #3, and Into the Woods. We’ve been helping out with audio-described productions for the blind and visually impaired, taking our turn assigning seats and distributing the receiver headsets. The plays are described in detail for those who are unable to see the stage and actors, so the visually impaired are able to enjoy the productions. Some of our local theaters also have audio description with state of the art transmitters and receivers for anyone requesting them. So nice to take part in this.
Geo spent a week on vacation in Maine. Unfortunately, it rained most every day. I was able to join him for 1 weekend. We dined at a German restaurant, heard a Dixie jazz band, and savored gourmet gelato for dessert one evening. While he was there, he met up with a Belgian Shepherd - and was quite impressed. So...
we’re beginning to think about getting a partner for our Beagle-Shep Lucy. The new dog would have to be just the right match for sweet mellow Lucy. Lucy is a “pack dog,” and would benefit from another pal. And we need a dog with a little more energy to keep us moving. Let’s face it, Lucy is a couch potato and does not seem to require quite as much exercise as we need. She let’s us know in her little Beagle way when she’s had enough. But she is Lucy, the sweetest dog on the planet, and we love her to bits.
Sunday, June 03, 2007
Looking Forward...
to Addie returning home, and the four of us together for the whole summer the first time in four years;
to our work conference this week in MA, and planning for the upcoming year. Geo is coming along with me for some R&R at a very fine New England inn.
to the ordination to priesthood and the first Mass of a young man we know (Addie’s confirmation sponsor). It will be quite the celebration and a privilege to witness.
to fresh flowing lake water at our Kamp on the Lake. Phil has the expertise and an amazing plan for a new pump system. I will be ecstatic to see it in full operation.
to wild raspberries in our yard, and vine-ripened tomatoes and beans from my garden.
to our work conference this week in MA, and planning for the upcoming year. Geo is coming along with me for some R&R at a very fine New England inn.
to the ordination to priesthood and the first Mass of a young man we know (Addie’s confirmation sponsor). It will be quite the celebration and a privilege to witness.
to fresh flowing lake water at our Kamp on the Lake. Phil has the expertise and an amazing plan for a new pump system. I will be ecstatic to see it in full operation.
to wild raspberries in our yard, and vine-ripened tomatoes and beans from my garden.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
More News
Addie emailed from London. Something I would never have expected to hear: she's finishing up her aesthetics paper, due May 14, while traveling in a coach between London and Leeds. She has planned this UK trip well and has already purchased tickets for traveling to Leeds, York and back to Leeds and London. I'm eager to hear more about the art internship. She is winding up senior year in high style.
Jenn is completing finals this week. She's already landed two part-time summer jobs - one on staff working with teens at risk, and the other catering with a culinary school.
Knowing Jenn, she no doubt has a few more adventures in the works...
Jenn is completing finals this week. She's already landed two part-time summer jobs - one on staff working with teens at risk, and the other catering with a culinary school.
Knowing Jenn, she no doubt has a few more adventures in the works...
The Accident
Mom had an accident – while helping a friend from church; carrying a package to be mailed, she slipped from a steep step. She went in an ambulance to the hospital and she is now in a nursing home. Her pelvis is fractured in 2 places. We understand that they are “hairline” fractures. The good news is that she did not damage her knee replacements, and she did not hit her head. We hope and pray she heals quickly and completely. Please join us in prayer for her.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Addie, This One's For You
It’s a gray day today, but the rain is holding off, and that’s good news. Our lake level has reached over 100.7 ft, and is leveling off and beginning to go down. What a relief. I think the water is running under the camp, but may not be inside saturating everything. Next week I plan to drive up to check it out. Can’t wait for quality time up there!
Geo and I had a relaxing Saturday. We had lunch at our fav Thai restaurant - the Massaman was really good. We ran some errands. I bought a rake and pushbroom for spring cleaning and yardwork, and also a cedar planter for my summer tomatoes. Geo bought a fresh loaf of bakery bread. After that, we went to a coffee shop where I had decaf Guatemalan Antigua and creme brulee, and Geo had decaf tea with a bowl of fresh fruit. Addie would like this place. It’s new, hip, and has wifi.
I hope and pray Addie is having the best of final days, well - almost final days - on campus. She knows how to plan well, so her UK holiday should be fine. We will look forward to her email updates everyday. It will be soooo good to see her again when she returns, AND to see her accept that diploma! She has so much going for her, and we are proud. Her thesis is so totally original. The pics she gets in London will add the finishing touch...I do hope she considers presenting her topic with pics, not only at the college, but also here in our home state...
Jenn is planning a celebration for the big 2-1. Hard to believe the BIG DAY will be here soon!
Geo and I had a relaxing Saturday. We had lunch at our fav Thai restaurant - the Massaman was really good. We ran some errands. I bought a rake and pushbroom for spring cleaning and yardwork, and also a cedar planter for my summer tomatoes. Geo bought a fresh loaf of bakery bread. After that, we went to a coffee shop where I had decaf Guatemalan Antigua and creme brulee, and Geo had decaf tea with a bowl of fresh fruit. Addie would like this place. It’s new, hip, and has wifi.
I hope and pray Addie is having the best of final days, well - almost final days - on campus. She knows how to plan well, so her UK holiday should be fine. We will look forward to her email updates everyday. It will be soooo good to see her again when she returns, AND to see her accept that diploma! She has so much going for her, and we are proud. Her thesis is so totally original. The pics she gets in London will add the finishing touch...I do hope she considers presenting her topic with pics, not only at the college, but also here in our home state...
Jenn is planning a celebration for the big 2-1. Hard to believe the BIG DAY will be here soon!
Thursday, April 26, 2007
They're Off and Running
We're moderate political junkies. Like some people are sports enthusiasts, we follow politics. It's not the political race itself, but it's ABOUT the political race that interests us - the personalities, the strategies, the rhetoric and counter-rhetoric, the drama, the commentary, the historical significance, etc.
Geo and I are among the few who intently watched the first Democrat debate. The only "fireworks" I could see was between Rep. Dennis Kucinich and Sen.Barack Obama who took him on. Sen. Obama "scored points" on that exchange.
The whole debate was overall boring except for the entertaining former Senator from Alaska, Mike Gravel. He is turning out to be the "Al Sharpton" of this crew. Sen. Clinton certainly presented herself well, looking most comfortable of everyone on stage. Sen. Edwards surprised me with his philosophical clarity on the US being viewed once again as a force for good in the world, including some practical applications, but he appears a little too blow-dried, too "packaged" with his $400 haircut, for widespread appeal to the electorate. Governor Richardson was sweating so profusely, I couldn't help but wonder what he'd do in the Oval Office when he'd really be under pressure. And Sen. Dodd and Sen. Biden? What else is new...
Chris Matthews was certainly gushing over Sen.Obama over and again, post debate. He's becoming Sen. Obama's number one cheerleader. On the other hand, Matthews usually brings up "Hillary's unfavorability rating." Seems Matthews wants to take her down a peg to see a real battle ensue between Clinton and Obama. Eventually, a Clinton/Obama ticket could be powerful. Obviously, the country is looking for change, big-time. A Presidential candidate of the female persuasion with a running mate who identifies as an African American would be defining change for our country.
And Keith Olbermann? I do like his new glasses.
Geo and I are among the few who intently watched the first Democrat debate. The only "fireworks" I could see was between Rep. Dennis Kucinich and Sen.Barack Obama who took him on. Sen. Obama "scored points" on that exchange.
The whole debate was overall boring except for the entertaining former Senator from Alaska, Mike Gravel. He is turning out to be the "Al Sharpton" of this crew. Sen. Clinton certainly presented herself well, looking most comfortable of everyone on stage. Sen. Edwards surprised me with his philosophical clarity on the US being viewed once again as a force for good in the world, including some practical applications, but he appears a little too blow-dried, too "packaged" with his $400 haircut, for widespread appeal to the electorate. Governor Richardson was sweating so profusely, I couldn't help but wonder what he'd do in the Oval Office when he'd really be under pressure. And Sen. Dodd and Sen. Biden? What else is new...
Chris Matthews was certainly gushing over Sen.Obama over and again, post debate. He's becoming Sen. Obama's number one cheerleader. On the other hand, Matthews usually brings up "Hillary's unfavorability rating." Seems Matthews wants to take her down a peg to see a real battle ensue between Clinton and Obama. Eventually, a Clinton/Obama ticket could be powerful. Obviously, the country is looking for change, big-time. A Presidential candidate of the female persuasion with a running mate who identifies as an African American would be defining change for our country.
And Keith Olbermann? I do like his new glasses.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Anticipation
It's quite sad hearing the alarming weather reports from across the nation. A Nor'easter is heading our direction with the major impact expected to occur after midnight on Sunday. Monday will be messy with wet heavy snow. And this is mid April.
This time of year I am concerned about late snow accumulations, April showers, rapid snow melt due to rapidly rising temps, and rising lake levels that may cause flooding. Our little Kamp on the Lake can be very vulnerable. Water came up and into the Kamp fourteen years ago, and it seemed like forever before the waters receded. So every year at this time I get a little nervous. It would be so nice to open Kamp early this year.
Mother Nature is very powerful and all we can do is deal with whatever she brings our way, whether that means more shoveling or bailing out, or repairing damage. Makes me think about and appreciate all the more our fair weather days, and those breathtaking sunsets on the West Shore.
Looks like Monday may be a "snow day" work- at- home day. Keep safe, everyone!
This time of year I am concerned about late snow accumulations, April showers, rapid snow melt due to rapidly rising temps, and rising lake levels that may cause flooding. Our little Kamp on the Lake can be very vulnerable. Water came up and into the Kamp fourteen years ago, and it seemed like forever before the waters receded. So every year at this time I get a little nervous. It would be so nice to open Kamp early this year.
Mother Nature is very powerful and all we can do is deal with whatever she brings our way, whether that means more shoveling or bailing out, or repairing damage. Makes me think about and appreciate all the more our fair weather days, and those breathtaking sunsets on the West Shore.
Looks like Monday may be a "snow day" work- at- home day. Keep safe, everyone!
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Proud Parent Report
Jenn just called to say she was elected President of Psy Chi at her college. What a wonderful honor. And one of her photos from Thailand took a first place award in a travel abroad college photo contest. Congrats, Jenn!
Addie blew us away with her email to say she is completing her senior thesis with a 2 week trip to London BEFORE graduation in May. She saved money for her trip by working extra hours and using borrowed (not purchased) textbooks for the semester. She has arranged to stay with friends. It has taken a lot of juggling for her to schedule her class time and thesis presentation to her profs, especially since her thesis is interdisciplinary and she attends classes at 2 different campuses.
You two never cease to amaze me. Thank you for making us proud!
Addie blew us away with her email to say she is completing her senior thesis with a 2 week trip to London BEFORE graduation in May. She saved money for her trip by working extra hours and using borrowed (not purchased) textbooks for the semester. She has arranged to stay with friends. It has taken a lot of juggling for her to schedule her class time and thesis presentation to her profs, especially since her thesis is interdisciplinary and she attends classes at 2 different campuses.
You two never cease to amaze me. Thank you for making us proud!
Friday, March 30, 2007
Decisions
Addie has been accepted at 4 grad schools in the UK; she seems most excited about York and her study of Aesthetics. HOW will this come to be, and WHEN? Stay tuned. She is pursuing this with focused determination.
Geo and I have quite a weekend ahead of us. We’re going to a student play at Jenn’s college, then tomorrow nite it’s the Dean’s List celebration and dinner with Jenn afterwards. Our place to dine? Yet to be determined...On Sunday Geo and I will be getting ready for a work trip to Boston – 2 jobs, 1 trip, very convenient.
As for Lucy? We decided to give her a short vacation... at the Crate Escape.
Monday, March 26, 2007
It’s My Birthday, and …
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Peach Pecan Coffee Cake
By request, here it is, so EZ to do...
Mix together:
2 beaten eggs
1 cup sugar
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 - 15 oz can sliced peaches with juice
generous 1/2 cup pecan pieces
Pour into 13x9x2 inch baking pan.
Top with 1/4 cup brown sugar.
Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes.
For dessert, serve with whipped cream.
And now you have it...
Mix together:
2 beaten eggs
1 cup sugar
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 - 15 oz can sliced peaches with juice
generous 1/2 cup pecan pieces
Pour into 13x9x2 inch baking pan.
Top with 1/4 cup brown sugar.
Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes.
For dessert, serve with whipped cream.
And now you have it...
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
23 on the 25th
Our 23rd Wedding anniversary. Geo got reservations at an upscale local restaurant. We had the choice table near the fireplace. When the manager learned it was a special day for us, just as we were seated we were served champagne - on the house. The meal was excellent, the service could not have been better. It was a perfect dining experience, but best of all, our meal extended for three hours. It was just the two of us, no distractions, relaxing ambiance with candlelight, and a delightful way to spend an anniversary evening. I was reminded of leisure time in Hawaii 23 years ago, before kids (We love you!) and the hectic pace of life that has somehow overtaken us. #23 is a memorable one for me. Thank you, Geo!
Saturday, February 10, 2007
The Future Has Just Begun
Nothing major happening.
I took off from work for our trip to visit Jim and Kay, but Geo’s work took priority, something we could not predict...so a vacation for us will need to happen at a future date.
I’ve been asked to mentor 3 new team leaders at work. Training is what I like best about my job.
Addie is pursuing her dream of graduate work in Great Britain. An expensive route, especially with the exchange rate, but if anyone can make it happen, it’s Addie. She reaches high and learns so much in the process. If, however, she ends up at grad school a little closer to home, that would be A-OK with us.
Jenn just became “van-certified” at her college. That means she can take her turn driving students to the homeless shelter for meal prep. She’s also acing her psych classes. She enjoyed Thailand so much. Would be neat for her to do grad work/service over there.
What did I hear this morning? “The future has just begun....,” meaning, take that step forward from where you are now.
Geo and I are looking at a Steubenville conference on Scripture this summer. I’ve been in need of a good conference to keep myself directed in the right way. All the better to share with Geo.
He and some of his guy friends are beginning a new exploration of the Book of Revelations. I pointed him toward Scott Hahn’s book for some background from the Catholic perspective.
Tonight we are invited to Mike and Carol’s for pinochle and dessert. Geo doesn’t play pinochle, but he really likes dessert. I’ve offered to teach him, and he says, “In time, not yet...” Geo, the future begins now!
I took off from work for our trip to visit Jim and Kay, but Geo’s work took priority, something we could not predict...so a vacation for us will need to happen at a future date.
I’ve been asked to mentor 3 new team leaders at work. Training is what I like best about my job.
Addie is pursuing her dream of graduate work in Great Britain. An expensive route, especially with the exchange rate, but if anyone can make it happen, it’s Addie. She reaches high and learns so much in the process. If, however, she ends up at grad school a little closer to home, that would be A-OK with us.
Jenn just became “van-certified” at her college. That means she can take her turn driving students to the homeless shelter for meal prep. She’s also acing her psych classes. She enjoyed Thailand so much. Would be neat for her to do grad work/service over there.
What did I hear this morning? “The future has just begun....,” meaning, take that step forward from where you are now.
Geo and I are looking at a Steubenville conference on Scripture this summer. I’ve been in need of a good conference to keep myself directed in the right way. All the better to share with Geo.
He and some of his guy friends are beginning a new exploration of the Book of Revelations. I pointed him toward Scott Hahn’s book for some background from the Catholic perspective.
Tonight we are invited to Mike and Carol’s for pinochle and dessert. Geo doesn’t play pinochle, but he really likes dessert. I’ve offered to teach him, and he says, “In time, not yet...” Geo, the future begins now!
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Bye-Bye, Jenn
It’s been a fabulous holiday season. My Mom made the trip from Wisconsin and both girls arrived home from college. The household grew from 2 to 5 with all the commotion of three generations and one sweet dog under one roof, with holidays and a birthday in the mix.
Jenn survived re-entry from Thailand, and a break-up with her guy (or are they just “taking a break?”). Addie - always the independent one - is still on an alternative time schedule; i.e., she wakes up about 3PM for breakfast. That leaves lots of quiet time for her research of grad schools, application prep, and thesis writing.
Jenn is officially back at school today, yes - in the suites and settling in for the semester. I was happy to see her on campus again, but with mixed feelings. It’s like letting go all over again each time we see her off....Once a Mom, always a Mom. She is a treasure and deserves all the best.
Now we have some one-on-one time with our Addie. I promised her a shopping trip with dessert.
The good times continue.
Jenn survived re-entry from Thailand, and a break-up with her guy (or are they just “taking a break?”). Addie - always the independent one - is still on an alternative time schedule; i.e., she wakes up about 3PM for breakfast. That leaves lots of quiet time for her research of grad schools, application prep, and thesis writing.
Jenn is officially back at school today, yes - in the suites and settling in for the semester. I was happy to see her on campus again, but with mixed feelings. It’s like letting go all over again each time we see her off....Once a Mom, always a Mom. She is a treasure and deserves all the best.
Now we have some one-on-one time with our Addie. I promised her a shopping trip with dessert.
The good times continue.
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