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!
Saturday, April 28, 2007
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.
Friday, September 22, 2006
The Hustle Award
Addie emailed last night. Our field hockey playing daughter Addie, after the muddiest game ever, had just received her college's very first "Hustle Award." It was for the player with the best team spirit who played the hardest and fielded the most balls.
What's that saying, "It's not whether you win, but how you play the game." Addie's team may not have won yesterday, but we are so proud to know that she is being recognized for leading in team spirit and playing her best with all her talent and skills. To be awarded for being the hardest playing member of this team is quite an achievement.
When Addie puts her mind to something, she also puts her heart and all her energy to the task. Her Hustle Award is an inspiration for all of us. Way to go!
What's that saying, "It's not whether you win, but how you play the game." Addie's team may not have won yesterday, but we are so proud to know that she is being recognized for leading in team spirit and playing her best with all her talent and skills. To be awarded for being the hardest playing member of this team is quite an achievement.
When Addie puts her mind to something, she also puts her heart and all her energy to the task. Her Hustle Award is an inspiration for all of us. Way to go!
Thursday, September 21, 2006
79,999 More To Go
One of Jenn's service projects in Thailand is to help build dams. This morning, at the local Rotary meeting, a portion of Jenn's journal about this project was read aloud, and pictures of Jenna in Thailand were passed around. From the It's a Small World! Dept, we learned that one of the Rotary's projects is to help build dams to provide clean water for people in various parts of the world, and one of our local leaders had just returned from Chiang Mai where Jenn has been working!
Jenn, I know you won't mind, so here is a portion of your journal that was read this morning:
"...today I had quite the satisfying day. Most of my class decided they wanted to head to the hot springs and get spa treatment massages (it’s all incredibly cheap here- 80 baht an hour for a massage- no kidding). I decided to jump on board with another service trip instead so I hopped on the back of a truck and headed with just a few other people (the real troopers of the group) to help build a dam with the thai international Rotary (you can tell that one to Ed, pa) who plan on building 80,000 dams all over Thailand. We started off the morning by making cement blocks out of these really old school molds. It was a real art. The sweetest old man was instructing me what to do, but I could only follow along. It was just like icing a cake… mmm cake… Anyway, after spending the morning building the blocks, we learned what they were for. We got to meet the monk who would be walking on this 12foot walkway every night under the stars just chanting a few words under his breath as he walked back and forth, back and forth for the next couple of years. He even invited us to stay over one night if we wanted, since there were only a few of us so it would be possible. I might take him up on that next weekend… we shall see. In the afternoon, we actually got to start working on the dam project, which really just involved hiking up a mountain many times with sand, cement, and rocks over and over again. It was incredibly tiring but also so worth it. I feel like I was a part of something important and making that difference I always feel so called to do. It was cool to be able to construct a dam out of water from the stream, some random bamboo sticks from the forest, and stray dirt piles. Usually when I think of service I think exclusively of helping people, but to focus on nature and the environment will also help me to appreciate what I love most even more."
Thanks, Jenn, for your good work and for making us proud!
Jenn, I know you won't mind, so here is a portion of your journal that was read this morning:
"...today I had quite the satisfying day. Most of my class decided they wanted to head to the hot springs and get spa treatment massages (it’s all incredibly cheap here- 80 baht an hour for a massage- no kidding). I decided to jump on board with another service trip instead so I hopped on the back of a truck and headed with just a few other people (the real troopers of the group) to help build a dam with the thai international Rotary (you can tell that one to Ed, pa) who plan on building 80,000 dams all over Thailand. We started off the morning by making cement blocks out of these really old school molds. It was a real art. The sweetest old man was instructing me what to do, but I could only follow along. It was just like icing a cake… mmm cake… Anyway, after spending the morning building the blocks, we learned what they were for. We got to meet the monk who would be walking on this 12foot walkway every night under the stars just chanting a few words under his breath as he walked back and forth, back and forth for the next couple of years. He even invited us to stay over one night if we wanted, since there were only a few of us so it would be possible. I might take him up on that next weekend… we shall see. In the afternoon, we actually got to start working on the dam project, which really just involved hiking up a mountain many times with sand, cement, and rocks over and over again. It was incredibly tiring but also so worth it. I feel like I was a part of something important and making that difference I always feel so called to do. It was cool to be able to construct a dam out of water from the stream, some random bamboo sticks from the forest, and stray dirt piles. Usually when I think of service I think exclusively of helping people, but to focus on nature and the environment will also help me to appreciate what I love most even more."
Thanks, Jenn, for your good work and for making us proud!
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