I was gone yesterday so I taped the funeral of Senator Kennedy - it was a great tribute. No matter what your politics - to see his children give such testimony to his love and devotion as a father was so moving. The President's eulogy was so good that I wanted to post it:
Mrs. Kennedy, Kara, Edward, Patrick, Curran, Caroline, members of the Kennedy family, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens:
Today we say goodbye to the youngest child of Rose and Joseph Kennedy. The world will long remember their son Edward as the heir to a weighty legacy; a champion for those who had none; the soul of the Democratic Party; and the lion of the U.S. Senate — a man whose name graces nearly one thousand laws, and who penned more than three hundred himself.
But those of us who loved him, and ache with his passing, know Ted Kennedy by the other titles he held: Father. Brother. Husband. Uncle Teddy, or as he was often known to his younger nieces and nephews, "The Grand Fromage," or "The Big Cheese." I, like so many others in the city where he worked for nearly half a century, knew him as a colleague, a mentor, and above all, a friend.
Ted Kennedy was the baby of the family who became its patriarch; the restless dreamer who became its rock. He was the sunny, joyful child, who bore the brunt of his brothers' teasing, but learned quickly how to brush it off. When they tossed him off a boat because he didn't know what a jib was, six-year-old Teddy got back in and learned to sail. When a photographer asked the newly elected Bobby to step back at a press conference because he was casting a shadow on his younger brother, Teddy quipped, "It'll be the same in Washington."
This spirit of resilience and good humor would see Ted Kennedy through more pain and tragedy than most of us will ever know. He lost two siblings by the age of sixteen. He saw two more taken violently from the country that loved them. He said goodbye to his beloved sister, Eunice, in the final days of his own life. He narrowly survived a plane crash, watched two children struggle with cancer, buried three nephews, and experienced personal failings and setbacks in the most public way possible.
It is a string of events that would have broken a lesser man. And it would have been easy for Teddy to let himself become bitter and hardened; to surrender to self-pity and regret; to retreat from public life and live out his years in peaceful quiet. No one would have blamed him for that.
But that was not Ted Kennedy. As he told us, "Individual faults and frailties are no excuse to give in — and no exemption from the common obligation to give of ourselves." Indeed, Ted was the "Happy Warrior" that the poet William Wordsworth spoke of when he wrote:
As tempted more; more able to endure,
As more exposed to suffering and distress;
Thence, also, more alive to tenderness.
Through his own suffering, Ted Kennedy became more alive to the plight and suffering of others — the sick child who could not see a doctor; the young soldier sent to battle without armor; the citizen denied her rights because of what she looks like or who she loves or where she comes from. The landmark laws that he championed — the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, immigration reform, children's health care, the Family and Medical Leave Act — all have a running thread. Ted Kennedy's life's work was not to champion those with wealth or power or special connections. It was to give a voice to those who were not heard; to add a rung to the ladder of opportunity; to make real the dream of our founding. He was given the gift of time that his brothers were not, and he used that gift to touch as many lives and right as many wrongs as the years would allow.
We can still hear his voice bellowing through the Senate chamber, face reddened, fist pounding the podium, a veritable force of nature, in support of health care or workers' rights or civil rights. And yet, while his causes became deeply personal, his disagreements never did. While he was seen by his fiercest critics as a partisan lightning rod, that is not the prism through which Ted Kennedy saw the world, nor was it the prism through which his colleagues saw him. He was a product of an age when the joy and nobility of politics prevented differences of party and philosophy from becoming barriers to cooperation and mutual respect — a time when adversaries still saw each other as patriots.
And that's how Ted Kennedy became the greatest legislator of our time. He did it by hewing to principle, but also by seeking compromise and common cause — not through dealmaking and horse-trading alone, but through friendship, and kindness, and humor. There was the time he courted Orrin Hatch's support for the Children's Health Insurance Program by having his chief of staff serenade the senator with a song Orrin had written himself; the time he delivered shamrock cookies on a china plate to sweeten up a crusty Republican colleague; and the famous story of how he won the support of a Texas committee chairman on an immigration bill. Teddy walked into a meeting with a plain manila envelope, and showed only the chairman that it was filled with the Texan's favorite cigars. When the negotiations were going well, he would inch the envelope closer to the chairman. When they weren't, he would pull it back. Before long, the deal was done.
It was only a few years ago, on St. Patrick's Day, when Teddy buttonholed me on the floor of the Senate for my support on a certain piece of legislation that was coming up for vote. I gave him my pledge, but expressed my skepticism that it would pass. But when the roll call was over, the bill garnered the votes it needed, and then some. I looked at Teddy with astonishment and asked how he had pulled it off. He just patted me on the back, and said "Luck of the Irish!"
Of course, luck had little to do with Ted Kennedy's legislative success, and he knew that. A few years ago, his father-in-law told him that he and Daniel Webster just might be the two greatest senators of all time. Without missing a beat, Teddy replied, "What did Webster do?"
But though it is Ted Kennedy's historic body of achievements we will remember, it is his giving heart that we will miss. It was the friend and colleague who was always the first to pick up the phone and say, "I'm sorry for your loss," or "I hope you feel better," or "What can I do to help?" It was the boss who was so adored by his staff that over five hundred spanning five decades showed up for his 75th birthday party. It was the man who sent birthday wishes and thank you notes and even his own paintings to so many who never imagined that a U.S. senator would take the time to think about someone like them. I have one of those paintings in my private study — a Cape Cod seascape that was a gift to a freshman legislator who happened to admire it when Ted Kennedy welcomed him into his office the first week he arrived in Washington; by the way, that's my second favorite gift from Teddy and Vicki after our dog Bo. And it seems like everyone has one of those stories — the ones that often start with "You wouldn't believe who called me today."
Ted Kennedy was the father who looked after not only his own three children, but John's and Bobby's as well. He took them camping and taught them to sail. He laughed and danced with them at birthdays and weddings; cried and mourned with them through hardship and tragedy; and passed on that same sense of service and selflessness that his parents had instilled in him. Shortly after Ted walked Caroline down the aisle and gave her away at the altar, he received a note from Jackie that read, "On you the carefree youngest brother fell a burden a hero would have begged to be spared. We are all going to make it because you were always there with your love."
Not only did the Kennedy family make it because of Ted's love — he made it because of theirs; and especially because of the love and the life he found in Vicki. After so much loss and so much sorrow, it could not have been easy for Ted Kennedy to risk his heart again. That he did is a testament to how deeply he loved this remarkable woman from Louisiana. And she didn't just love him back. As Ted would often acknowledge, Vicki saved him. She gave him strength and purpose; joy and friendship; and stood by him always, especially in those last, hardest days.
We cannot know for certain how long we have here. We cannot foresee the trials or misfortunes that will test us along the way. We cannot know God's plan for us.
What we can do is to live out our lives as best we can with purpose, and love, and joy. We can use each day to show those who are closest to us how much we care about them, and treat others with the kindness and respect that we wish for ourselves. We can learn from our mistakes and grow from our failures. And we can strive at all costs to make a better world, so that someday, if we are blessed with the chance to look back on our time here, we can know that we spent it well; that we made a difference; that our fleeting presence had a lasting impact on the lives of other human beings.
This is how Ted Kennedy lived. This is his legacy. He once said of his brother Bobby that he need not be idealized or enlarged in death beyond what he was in life, and I imagine he would say the same about himself. The greatest expectations were placed upon Ted Kennedy's shoulders because of who he was, but he surpassed them all because of who he became. We do not weep for him today because of the prestige attached to his name or his office. We weep because we loved this kind and tender hero who persevered through pain and tragedy — not for the sake of ambition or vanity; not for wealth or power; but only for the people and the country he loved.
In the days after September 11th, Teddy made it a point to personally call each one of the 177 families of this state who lost a loved one in the attack. But he didn't stop there. He kept calling and checking up on them. He fought through red tape to get them assistance and grief counseling. He invited them sailing, played with their children, and would write each family a letter whenever the anniversary of that terrible day came along. To one widow, he wrote the following:
"As you know so well, the passage of time never really heals the tragic memory of such a great loss, but we carry on, because we have to, because our loved one would want us to, and because there is still light to guide us in the world from the love they gave us."
We carry on.
Ted Kennedy has gone home now, guided by his faith and by the light of those he has loved and lost. At last he is with them once more, leaving those of us who grieve his passing with the memories he gave, the good he did, the dream he kept alive, and a single, enduring image — the image of a man on a boat; white mane tousled; smiling broadly as he sails into the wind, ready for what storms may come, carrying on toward some new and wondrous place just beyond the horizon. May God Bless Ted Kennedy, and may he rest in eternal peace.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Thursday, August 27, 2009
The e's have it
That would be: Eagles, Egrets and Equestrians – in the heart of the City. Pat and I love to go to Wickes Park on the banks of the Saginaw River in the early evening hours. On a recent quiet Monday night there were three eagles sitting atop electrical towers, elegant white egrets and a couple of friends, in their cowboy hats, out riding their horses. It is such a treat to see this in the cool of the evening.
There are huge beautiful old willow trees, tall pines and oaks, lots of green grass and such a quiet and peacefulness in the park. Many people shy away from this park, however, we enjoy seeing the families fishing, people jogging, boaters boating and many people driving through the park. Maybe the wildlife comes there because there are not a lot of people – so go ahead and stay away – we love the peace and quiet and abundance of nature.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Great Weekend
We had such a fun weekend. On Friday Pat and I went to Harrisville to camp. On Saturday Jesse, Caroline, Javier, Ava and the dog came to camp for one night. Jesse wasn't too sure about wanting to camp for his first time but I think he had a great time.
Javier was so excited - he loved the three room tent - jumping in, running out, laughing and giggling. Ava loved being outside. But - she doesn't like to touch the grass with her feet so we put a blanket down so she could walk around the picnic table and to each of our chairs. She had a blast.
There was a stream running behind our campsite - it took Javier a little bit of time to get the courage up to get down to the stream but once he did he was so proud.
Even though the weather wasn't real warm we had a fabulous time. I even made a Power Ranger pancake for Javier for breakfast. (Of course you had to really use your imagination to see that Power Ranger!)
Then we trouped back to Midland for Pat's family reunion - that was fun too - everyone looks forward to the ball playing. You just get several pitches and see if you can hit the ball. Here is a great picture of Papa, Grandpa and Javier hitting the ball.
And then finally on Monday night we went to the Loons game. Jesse got the tickets and we love sitting on the lawn. Javier and Grandpa both had on their matching shorts and their Ordonez 30 jerseys.
I bet Javier was wondering what he would get to do today! So much to do in so little time!
Javier was so excited - he loved the three room tent - jumping in, running out, laughing and giggling. Ava loved being outside. But - she doesn't like to touch the grass with her feet so we put a blanket down so she could walk around the picnic table and to each of our chairs. She had a blast.
There was a stream running behind our campsite - it took Javier a little bit of time to get the courage up to get down to the stream but once he did he was so proud.
Even though the weather wasn't real warm we had a fabulous time. I even made a Power Ranger pancake for Javier for breakfast. (Of course you had to really use your imagination to see that Power Ranger!)
Then we trouped back to Midland for Pat's family reunion - that was fun too - everyone looks forward to the ball playing. You just get several pitches and see if you can hit the ball. Here is a great picture of Papa, Grandpa and Javier hitting the ball.
And then finally on Monday night we went to the Loons game. Jesse got the tickets and we love sitting on the lawn. Javier and Grandpa both had on their matching shorts and their Ordonez 30 jerseys.
I bet Javier was wondering what he would get to do today! So much to do in so little time!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Get Posting
OK – OK – you little lurker, Peggy. Here is an update for today.
We had such a nice day on Saturday. We went to Ann Arbor for the afternoon. We went shopping at all my favorite spots –
The Scrapbox
The Reuse Center
PTO Thrift Shop
Salvation Army.
Then we decided to splurge and stopped at Paesano’s for lunch.
(As we were actually on our way to the Tiger’s game we knew we would spend about the same amount of money at the stadium for hot dogs!) Pat had salmon wrapped in prosciutto and cheese with green beans on the side and a salad. I had a cup of bean and chorizo soup – yummo – and - “The sandwich the chef has for lunch” which was chicken and caramelized onions with a chipolte marmalade. On the side was a delicious medley of carrots, celery, peas, artichokes and I think just a little mint. Everything tasted delicious.
Then off to the Tiger’s game. It was so much fun – they won 10-3. We had great seats in 137 row 15 – I was close enough to Brandon Inge to have him hear me yell at him. (Only good things of course) It was terribly hot but thankfully the game was at 7:00 pm and the sun went below the stadium. They scored at least one run in every inning except the 2nd. The people behind us were a hoot. A whole family was celebrating someone’s birthday. The youngest son asked his mother if she wanted something to drink and when his mom said that no, she didn’t need anything the older brothers started harassing her to go ahead and get something because the youngest brother always forgets his wallet and his older brothers have to buy for him at the bars and it would be a nice change to see him actually spend money on something.
We took Caroline and Jesse out for dinner for Caroline’s birthday meal on Monday. Jesse was telling stories and he had us laughing so hard I was coughing and almost choking. We had a really good time with them. They are even thinking of coming up for one night when we are camping in Harrisville (Jesse doesn’t really think that camping is a vacation – he’d rather go to Holiday Inn I think.)
Joanna and Robin and the kids went for a trip to Florida to visit Joanna’s best friend and her family. I’m thinking they should be home today – I did call her once to ask if they were getting any of the residual bad weather from the hurricanes but she said that it was beautiful weather and that it wasn’t even too hot. Robin must have given her a rolled eye look or something because she told me he thought it was way too hot. I told her to tell him I love him very much because that means he will keep all of them in Michigan for several years to come.
We had such a nice day on Saturday. We went to Ann Arbor for the afternoon. We went shopping at all my favorite spots –
The Scrapbox
The Reuse Center
PTO Thrift Shop
Salvation Army.
Then we decided to splurge and stopped at Paesano’s for lunch.
(As we were actually on our way to the Tiger’s game we knew we would spend about the same amount of money at the stadium for hot dogs!) Pat had salmon wrapped in prosciutto and cheese with green beans on the side and a salad. I had a cup of bean and chorizo soup – yummo – and - “The sandwich the chef has for lunch” which was chicken and caramelized onions with a chipolte marmalade. On the side was a delicious medley of carrots, celery, peas, artichokes and I think just a little mint. Everything tasted delicious.
Then off to the Tiger’s game. It was so much fun – they won 10-3. We had great seats in 137 row 15 – I was close enough to Brandon Inge to have him hear me yell at him. (Only good things of course) It was terribly hot but thankfully the game was at 7:00 pm and the sun went below the stadium. They scored at least one run in every inning except the 2nd. The people behind us were a hoot. A whole family was celebrating someone’s birthday. The youngest son asked his mother if she wanted something to drink and when his mom said that no, she didn’t need anything the older brothers started harassing her to go ahead and get something because the youngest brother always forgets his wallet and his older brothers have to buy for him at the bars and it would be a nice change to see him actually spend money on something.
We took Caroline and Jesse out for dinner for Caroline’s birthday meal on Monday. Jesse was telling stories and he had us laughing so hard I was coughing and almost choking. We had a really good time with them. They are even thinking of coming up for one night when we are camping in Harrisville (Jesse doesn’t really think that camping is a vacation – he’d rather go to Holiday Inn I think.)
Joanna and Robin and the kids went for a trip to Florida to visit Joanna’s best friend and her family. I’m thinking they should be home today – I did call her once to ask if they were getting any of the residual bad weather from the hurricanes but she said that it was beautiful weather and that it wasn’t even too hot. Robin must have given her a rolled eye look or something because she told me he thought it was way too hot. I told her to tell him I love him very much because that means he will keep all of them in Michigan for several years to come.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Julie and Julia
This was a great movie. Click here to see a Julie and Julia Trailer. I don't know if it is because Pat and I used to watch her on Friday nights when we lived on Ashman in Midland and we both love Julia Child - or if it really a great movie. Meryl Streep was fabulous. The critics said they didn't like the two husbands in the movie - both of us liked them a lot. The movie was over 2 hours long and I wished it would go on. When Julia meets her sister at the train - priceless. We went right after church this morning - only about 6 other couples were in the theater so we practically had it to ourselves.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY FAVORITE OLDEST DAUGHTER
Happy birthday, sweetie. Just a few thoughts about when you were born.
I so couldn't wait to be your Mother! I loved playing with babies my whole life - everytime we went anywhere I would hold any baby available. The whole time I was pregnant I just wanted it to be over so I could hold you. I was so happy the day you came home with us - I used to sit all day long playing with you and then quick around 4:00 I would be like a whirlwind trying to get the house in order and dinner on so it would look like I had done something around the house besides playing Eensy Weensy Spider with you!
Happy Happy Happy Birthday Joanna Balana Roseanna Danna
I so couldn't wait to be your Mother! I loved playing with babies my whole life - everytime we went anywhere I would hold any baby available. The whole time I was pregnant I just wanted it to be over so I could hold you. I was so happy the day you came home with us - I used to sit all day long playing with you and then quick around 4:00 I would be like a whirlwind trying to get the house in order and dinner on so it would look like I had done something around the house besides playing Eensy Weensy Spider with you!
Happy Happy Happy Birthday Joanna Balana Roseanna Danna
Rainy Weekend
Well - Pat is working on our friend's home again today. He hasn't had as much time to work on it as he wanted because we keep doing stuff that interfere (like going to another Tiger game on Thursday!) So he felt he better get something done there today. I picked up my friend, Robyn, and we went to some estate sales this morning. One was supposed to have Waterford but they must have sold it on the first day. But I bought a few dishes and we had a great time.
It is pouring rain out - I know we need rain for gardens and such but can't it rain on a Monday?
I've been swamped at work. I probably shouldn't have taken Thursday off for the Tiger's game but we bought the tickets months ago and I'm glad we went. It was a great game - Aliva played his first major league game and it was fun being there to see him hit a double.
We went to friends for dinner last evening - we had a nice time visiting with them - we don't see each other enough. And the food was great - we sat on the deck enjoying the birds and flowers and lightening bugs.
It is pouring rain out - I know we need rain for gardens and such but can't it rain on a Monday?
I've been swamped at work. I probably shouldn't have taken Thursday off for the Tiger's game but we bought the tickets months ago and I'm glad we went. It was a great game - Aliva played his first major league game and it was fun being there to see him hit a double.
We went to friends for dinner last evening - we had a nice time visiting with them - we don't see each other enough. And the food was great - we sat on the deck enjoying the birds and flowers and lightening bugs.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Aunts and Uncles
Well - my friend at work just lost her uncle. She has been watching over him since her aunt died and was watching over both of them before that. It reminds me of when Mary Lynn and I were taking care of Dorothy and Bernice. So I thought in tribute to all our aunts and uncles who we have loved and cared for I would write about my aunts Dorothy and Bernice.
Even though it was a very long time and it was a very difficult time we were the ones filled with blessings when we cared for the two aunts. My cousin, Mary Lynn took care of the bills and the caregivers (thank God - because she had to fire one of them - I told her I got the calls at 2 am to go to the hospital and she just had to be the one to fire the one we didn't want!)
When I would get a call at 2 am from the hospital because Aunt Bernice was being very difficult I would laugh at the nurse that was calling and tell her I would come right away but I may not be much help! And sure enough I would make the matter worse. My aunt used to hallucinate sometimes from her drugs and I also think because her electrolytes were so off - this time she was seeing her beloved dead sisters, my Mom and my Aunt Dorothy at the end of the hall - pointing at her and laughing. I bent down to look at her and lovingly told her they would not do that, they both loved her, well she was not happy with me telling her she wasn't seeing something and she kicked me out of the room. I apologized to the nurse, told her to give her a sleeping pill and went home. The next morning when I went in she was nice as pie.
All through our lives, our two aunts always were there for us. They lived with and cared for our Grandma Brandi all through her life. We would visit every holiday - and Aunt Dorothy would take our pictures - When Aunt Dorothy died every family had a picture of every single year.
When my Mom was sick, my aunts who lived across the hall from her, stopped in every day to see if everything was okay. When I was all consumed with the care of my Mom, they thought about me. It was very touching and much needed to a weary soul.
After my Mom died and before they both needed my care, I went over to their house once a week for tea. They would ask about my job, my family, and they truly cared about my life. They would tell such delicious stories of world travel and being in charge of an office and all about living through difficult times and wars where their brothers were fighting - they loved that I was a secretary and would want to hear about all the new technology in the office. It was such a blessing to have those two aunts in our family.
Now - not to leave out my uncles - they also lived across and down the hall from my Mom - I loved seeing them too. They both had families of their own. I would love to have them stop by to see me and to catch me up on their families. Uncle Lawrence was always reserved and sweet and such a snazzy dresser. Every pleat was ironed on his pants and he loved to help Aunt Dorothy with hems on dresses and pants (his father was a tailor and Uncle Lawrence took such pride in his clothes). Uncle Jerry reminded me of my Dad and I loved having him tell me about my cousins. He was always going on a walk or stopping by on his way out. One time we were having a luncheon over at the aunties before anyone got sick and they all told wonderful stories. I remember Uncle Lawrence saying, "Really, I don't remember that!" to many of the stories and Uncle Jerry laughing so hard he was shaking at some of the stories. It was an afternoon I would treasure.
I love being an aunt. I always say it is my favorite job. As a mother and grandmother - you still have to do some discipline - but as an aunt - well - all you do is LOVE them - we have great nieces and nephews on both sides of our family and we feel so blessed to be part of their lives. One of the reasons I love blogging is that many of them have blogs and we stay close to their lives by reading their blogs. Wherever they are in the world, we get a chance to hear what they are doing and be a part of it. The ones that have married have married wonderful spouses and we gained more nieces and nephews through those marriages - It's fun.
So, here's to you, my aunts and uncles, much love and good thoughts sent on their way to Heaven to all of you.
Even though it was a very long time and it was a very difficult time we were the ones filled with blessings when we cared for the two aunts. My cousin, Mary Lynn took care of the bills and the caregivers (thank God - because she had to fire one of them - I told her I got the calls at 2 am to go to the hospital and she just had to be the one to fire the one we didn't want!)
When I would get a call at 2 am from the hospital because Aunt Bernice was being very difficult I would laugh at the nurse that was calling and tell her I would come right away but I may not be much help! And sure enough I would make the matter worse. My aunt used to hallucinate sometimes from her drugs and I also think because her electrolytes were so off - this time she was seeing her beloved dead sisters, my Mom and my Aunt Dorothy at the end of the hall - pointing at her and laughing. I bent down to look at her and lovingly told her they would not do that, they both loved her, well she was not happy with me telling her she wasn't seeing something and she kicked me out of the room. I apologized to the nurse, told her to give her a sleeping pill and went home. The next morning when I went in she was nice as pie.
All through our lives, our two aunts always were there for us. They lived with and cared for our Grandma Brandi all through her life. We would visit every holiday - and Aunt Dorothy would take our pictures - When Aunt Dorothy died every family had a picture of every single year.
When my Mom was sick, my aunts who lived across the hall from her, stopped in every day to see if everything was okay. When I was all consumed with the care of my Mom, they thought about me. It was very touching and much needed to a weary soul.
After my Mom died and before they both needed my care, I went over to their house once a week for tea. They would ask about my job, my family, and they truly cared about my life. They would tell such delicious stories of world travel and being in charge of an office and all about living through difficult times and wars where their brothers were fighting - they loved that I was a secretary and would want to hear about all the new technology in the office. It was such a blessing to have those two aunts in our family.
Now - not to leave out my uncles - they also lived across and down the hall from my Mom - I loved seeing them too. They both had families of their own. I would love to have them stop by to see me and to catch me up on their families. Uncle Lawrence was always reserved and sweet and such a snazzy dresser. Every pleat was ironed on his pants and he loved to help Aunt Dorothy with hems on dresses and pants (his father was a tailor and Uncle Lawrence took such pride in his clothes). Uncle Jerry reminded me of my Dad and I loved having him tell me about my cousins. He was always going on a walk or stopping by on his way out. One time we were having a luncheon over at the aunties before anyone got sick and they all told wonderful stories. I remember Uncle Lawrence saying, "Really, I don't remember that!" to many of the stories and Uncle Jerry laughing so hard he was shaking at some of the stories. It was an afternoon I would treasure.
I love being an aunt. I always say it is my favorite job. As a mother and grandmother - you still have to do some discipline - but as an aunt - well - all you do is LOVE them - we have great nieces and nephews on both sides of our family and we feel so blessed to be part of their lives. One of the reasons I love blogging is that many of them have blogs and we stay close to their lives by reading their blogs. Wherever they are in the world, we get a chance to hear what they are doing and be a part of it. The ones that have married have married wonderful spouses and we gained more nieces and nephews through those marriages - It's fun.
So, here's to you, my aunts and uncles, much love and good thoughts sent on their way to Heaven to all of you.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
I love this
My friend Greg sent this to me - his Mom sent it to him. This was a show in 1957 - I was six years old - It is TIMELESS!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Rain, Rain, Go Away?
I gotta say - the deluge of rain yesterday in Midland was unbelievable - I have never seen so much rain in such a short time. I had to keep pushing on the canvas of my awning over my dishes so it wouldn't burst! I was sopping wet - head to foot.
However - if this sounds like a bad thing it wasn't. I had two women stuck under my cover with me - they just kept buying! Then right after the rain I looked like a drowned rat and I think this one family felt sorry for me because they just kept buying, too. I would wrap something and the daughter would ask if she could exchange it for something else - then her father would buy it for her and then she would exchange that again. In the meantime her mother kept buying gifts for Christmas. It was the most fun. I like it when someone loves each piece they find more than the one they thought they wanted to purchase.
I do hope for sunshine today - big crowds - and that Paula does great today. She actually is having a table 50% off - and her antiques are so great - so if you are in the area come on over to the fairgrounds in Midland today and say hi and buy, buy buy!
However - if this sounds like a bad thing it wasn't. I had two women stuck under my cover with me - they just kept buying! Then right after the rain I looked like a drowned rat and I think this one family felt sorry for me because they just kept buying, too. I would wrap something and the daughter would ask if she could exchange it for something else - then her father would buy it for her and then she would exchange that again. In the meantime her mother kept buying gifts for Christmas. It was the most fun. I like it when someone loves each piece they find more than the one they thought they wanted to purchase.
I do hope for sunshine today - big crowds - and that Paula does great today. She actually is having a table 50% off - and her antiques are so great - so if you are in the area come on over to the fairgrounds in Midland today and say hi and buy, buy buy!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
A Reason to CELEBRATE!
Sheala got her Stage One License - she completed the classes and the driving time - we are so proud of her. They all came over for ribs and beans for dinner last night to celebrate! I can't wait until I can have her come pick me up to go for a ride. One of her rides in the classes took her over THE NASTY ZILWAUKEE BRIDGE during a terrific rain storm - she couldn't see at all. You know from a previous post that I would have been screaming!!!!
Good Job Sheala
Good Job Sheala
Another Tiger Game
Thank goodness we went to the game they won! Jesse and Caroline called to ask if we wanted to go with them - you don't have to ask us twice!
Jesse was SSSSSSOOOOO happy that Magglio hit a GRAND SLAM! It was hot in the sun so we kept moving all around to stay in the shade - except for Jesse - he needed to sit right at the end of the row in case he could catch a ball!
We had a great time.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Car Show
We went to the car show with my brother Jim this afternoon. We had a great time. Beautiful old cars - lots of them - we reminisced about different cars in our lives. Jim sold his corvette and I think he was in the mood to buy one today - but nothing really jumped out at us.
The car show was on Hamilton Street - ten of the pubs and restaurants in the area had a "grilling war" - we bought a ticket for $10 and then at each of the restaurants we could get a small serving of BBQ food. We ate at 5 of the restaurants - but were too full to eat at the rest. So when we were leaving I gave our three tickets to a family walking in with three kids. Hope they enjoyed it as much as we did!
It was good to see so many people enjoying themselves in the sunshine - we saw lots of people we knew - we had a great time. Then we came home and Pat and I watched Mission Impossible III and Bourne Incident - I liked MI but I read through most of the BI.
I just finished Maeve Binchy's book "Scarlet Feather" - I really liked it.
The car show was on Hamilton Street - ten of the pubs and restaurants in the area had a "grilling war" - we bought a ticket for $10 and then at each of the restaurants we could get a small serving of BBQ food. We ate at 5 of the restaurants - but were too full to eat at the rest. So when we were leaving I gave our three tickets to a family walking in with three kids. Hope they enjoyed it as much as we did!
It was good to see so many people enjoying themselves in the sunshine - we saw lots of people we knew - we had a great time. Then we came home and Pat and I watched Mission Impossible III and Bourne Incident - I liked MI but I read through most of the BI.
I just finished Maeve Binchy's book "Scarlet Feather" - I really liked it.
Visit with Friends
Pat and I drove up to Ossineke to visit Kay and Jerry while they were camping on Saturday. We had a nice time visiting with them. The weather was fabulous - we drove through some rain storms on the way there but the campground was sunny, windy and warm.
I made some rolls before we left and took Italian sausages and green and red peppers and onions to make lunch. While I was waiting for the dough to rise we went to an estate sale that we had checked out on Friday afternoon and I knew there were a few things I wanted half off on Saturday. The two dish sets I bought were cut glass - really beautiful plates. Then we went home, baked the rolls, and took off for the State Forest Campground.
When we got there we had a very nice afternoon - I cooked - we all ate - and then we sat by the campfire to talk. It was good to catch up on our families.
I made some rolls before we left and took Italian sausages and green and red peppers and onions to make lunch. While I was waiting for the dough to rise we went to an estate sale that we had checked out on Friday afternoon and I knew there were a few things I wanted half off on Saturday. The two dish sets I bought were cut glass - really beautiful plates. Then we went home, baked the rolls, and took off for the State Forest Campground.
When we got there we had a very nice afternoon - I cooked - we all ate - and then we sat by the campfire to talk. It was good to catch up on our families.
Goodbye to Friends
Our friends, Mike and Kathy, have moved to California - we went out to dinner with their family on Friday night to say goodbye. I remember when I was in grade school and Kathy's family lived across the street from us on Hoyt Street. The family went to California for six months I think - every single day I looked for them when I came home from school. One day - I was so happy to see their car back in their driveway. It was good to have them home.
Kathy and Mike went to California to care for her sister while she was recuperating from surgery - they were there for a few months and decided they wanted to move there - they came home, sold their house in 2 weeks and moved Saturday! Wow! It all happened so fast.
We haven't seen them too much these past couple of years - certainly not as much as when we moved back to Saginaw when Mike talked me into applying for a job with the City. He was sure that I could walk right in and do a good job - his confidence in me was WAY more confidence than I had about it - I never would have dreamed of applying for that job without his encouragement and support.
I hope their journey is a good one - perhaps they will come back to visit.
Kathy and Mike went to California to care for her sister while she was recuperating from surgery - they were there for a few months and decided they wanted to move there - they came home, sold their house in 2 weeks and moved Saturday! Wow! It all happened so fast.
We haven't seen them too much these past couple of years - certainly not as much as when we moved back to Saginaw when Mike talked me into applying for a job with the City. He was sure that I could walk right in and do a good job - his confidence in me was WAY more confidence than I had about it - I never would have dreamed of applying for that job without his encouragement and support.
I hope their journey is a good one - perhaps they will come back to visit.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
GGGRRRR....
I ended up coming home feeling sick to my stomach today - considering I have only left work 3 times in 20+ years you know it was a doozy. I came home took a nap - Pat came home and said I needed a Great Lake - so off to Pier 23 for dinner after a long ride to Tawas,lunch on the deck overlooking Lake Huron and then back home. I'm feeling better - I'll go back to work tomorrow and life will go on. What in the world would I do without Patrick - I never want to find out.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Expecting Adam
I read Expecting Adam by Martha Beck this weekend. It was a very good book. Every once in awhile I would stop and have to read a passage to Pat. I would like to read another one to follow up on this true story.
When I did a search to get a picture for this blog I found out she is a columnist for the Oprah magazine and that she does have a couple other books. It was fun to go through her scrapbook pictures of Adam and his sisters.
Camping with Patrick
We had a great time in Atlanta (Michigan) camping at Clear Lake State Park. We went on lots of drives looking for elk (they were hiding this trip). But we saw deer and turkeys and lots of beautiful flowers. We stopped at Bear Den Lake - but no Loons were there - we had to go to Seney Wildlife Refuge to see the one above. I cooked on the fire for most of the trip - we had great breakfasts but we have learned to have Pat cook the eggs inside the trailer while I cook everything else outside. The best thing I did to prepare for the trip was make rolls - we used them for toast in the morning and for the buns to our Italian sausages with peppers and onions.
Then on Saturday we took a day trip from there to Grand Marais to see Mr. Lepeak. That was a nice trip. We first stopped in Seney to drive through the trails - we saw loons and swans.
After sitting for an hour in the backyard with the sun, the wind, and feeling as if we were in heaven, we went to church with Mr. Lepeak. That was fun - as only Grand Marais church can be - then we went back to the house for a pizza and the best raspberry wine anywhere - mmmmmm. Then back to Atlanta - we got back just as it turned dark around 10 pm and we camped one more night and then home.
We took Pat's parents out for dinner to celebrate his Mom's birthday - we had a nice visit with them. And now - back to work in a couple of hours.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
4th Picnic
We all met at the Tridge in Midland for a nice afternoon at the park. We had Brats and Salads and Brownies and fruit - everyone bringing something to make it special. Danielle and Tim joined us with their little sweetie and Robbie and Sheala came with their parents. Ava and Javier came with Mom and Melissa even brought a friend with his son to join in the fun. Caroline and Jesse rounded out the day.
Pat and I decided not to go to Ojibway Island for the fireworks - we went to the outside patio at the Junction - we were home in 5 minutes flat. That was a good thing. We saw George and Stella - the Sheltraw women - and we had a nice time. However, I missed seeing the fireworks on the ground and off the bridge.
We had a great day!
Pat and I decided not to go to Ojibway Island for the fireworks - we went to the outside patio at the Junction - we were home in 5 minutes flat. That was a good thing. We saw George and Stella - the Sheltraw women - and we had a nice time. However, I missed seeing the fireworks on the ground and off the bridge.
We had a great day!
Friday, July 3, 2009
A Nice Long Weekend
I love a holiday - but of course - this one is one of the best! My sister, Jane, has the 4th of July birthday and she always thought that everyone in the City celebrated her birthday with her (and of course now that she is older and wiser she thinks the whole damn country celebrates her birthday!)
When we were little we used to have her birthday celebration and someone would follow my Dad down to Hoyt Park to find a good parking place for our car. Then we would either get a ride from a relative to the park or I even remember walking one year. To sit on the gentle slope of the park on a blanket having the fireworks burst just above our heads was such a treat. I still remember hearing the rat-a-tat-tat of the fireworks with my heart beating along in the same rhythm. I still love that feeling.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR LITTLE SISTER!
We're having a picnic in the afternoon - can't wait to see everyone. I'll write about that later.
When we were little we used to have her birthday celebration and someone would follow my Dad down to Hoyt Park to find a good parking place for our car. Then we would either get a ride from a relative to the park or I even remember walking one year. To sit on the gentle slope of the park on a blanket having the fireworks burst just above our heads was such a treat. I still remember hearing the rat-a-tat-tat of the fireworks with my heart beating along in the same rhythm. I still love that feeling.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR LITTLE SISTER!
We're having a picnic in the afternoon - can't wait to see everyone. I'll write about that later.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
River Roar
We went to the Bay City River Roar on Sunday - we stopped at the Dockside in Bay City just in time to see the very last race. It was really fun. We sat on the steps of the dock and watched the fastest boats I have ever seen.
The day was absolutely beautiful - very windy, lots of sunshine, tons of people, loud motors, spraying water, and very very very fast boats. I think we will try to make it for more than one race next year!
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Summer Fun
Last night we went to the parish picnic - it was very nice. I'm looking forward to the Liturgy tomorrow in the tent at church - they do the whole weekend with Golf and a Euchre tournament. We even went over to help on Thursday to prepare for the Friday evening dinner - we wrapped potatoes for baking. It was nice to be asked to help. When we decided to leave later on after the dinner(the music was very loud) we went to Jim and Jan's to sit on their deck in the quiet of the evening. It was a nice ending to a good day.
Early this morning we found a 70's Dick Cavett show on TMC that had him interviewing Alfred Hitchcock - it was great. We laughed through the whole hour. Then I watched Suspicion - there was a whole day of Hitchcock movies but we were too busy to watch them all - I told Pat we should start renting them and try to watch every one.
Today, Pat went over to help Jim put his air conditioner in and Jan and and I went to estate sales. I found a beautiful pair of tea light candle holders and decided to wrap those up for the the wedding gift we were giving that afternoon. I hate to just give a check and this made the gift special. I am sure I have purchased this same pair for $40 each for a previous wedding gift and I got them for $5.00. What fun. I found several dishes - then Pat and I went back to one that was 1/2 off after 2:00 and I bought quite a few more Christmas dishes. Jan - I looked for the red and blue striped bowl - but it was gone.
Then we went to the wedding picnic. They had one of those destination weddings and not many people could attend - so they had a picnic today in Clio - the yard was fabulous. Enough room for everyone to park, a double huge tent, badminton net, horseshoes, swings, and lots of room leftover. They had Famous Daves cater - so mmm...mmm... ribs. We got to talk to friends we haven't seen in a long while - so we caught up on what our families are doing.
We do live a good life - we enjoy so much time spent with friends. Then Pat and I went for a ride and then came home to watch the Tigers - turned that off and went to bed! But I couldn't sleep - hence the blog.
Early this morning we found a 70's Dick Cavett show on TMC that had him interviewing Alfred Hitchcock - it was great. We laughed through the whole hour. Then I watched Suspicion - there was a whole day of Hitchcock movies but we were too busy to watch them all - I told Pat we should start renting them and try to watch every one.
Today, Pat went over to help Jim put his air conditioner in and Jan and and I went to estate sales. I found a beautiful pair of tea light candle holders and decided to wrap those up for the the wedding gift we were giving that afternoon. I hate to just give a check and this made the gift special. I am sure I have purchased this same pair for $40 each for a previous wedding gift and I got them for $5.00. What fun. I found several dishes - then Pat and I went back to one that was 1/2 off after 2:00 and I bought quite a few more Christmas dishes. Jan - I looked for the red and blue striped bowl - but it was gone.
Then we went to the wedding picnic. They had one of those destination weddings and not many people could attend - so they had a picnic today in Clio - the yard was fabulous. Enough room for everyone to park, a double huge tent, badminton net, horseshoes, swings, and lots of room leftover. They had Famous Daves cater - so mmm...mmm... ribs. We got to talk to friends we haven't seen in a long while - so we caught up on what our families are doing.
We do live a good life - we enjoy so much time spent with friends. Then Pat and I went for a ride and then came home to watch the Tigers - turned that off and went to bed! But I couldn't sleep - hence the blog.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Great Weekend
We started out with a fabulous evening at Lori and Tim's. They hosted a party while the Greek Festival was going on in Saginaw. They live close to the festival and it was a really nice evening at their home. Most people started out at the festival to eat the yummy Greek food and then stopped over for good company and drinks at the house. While we were there we found out that Lori and Tim bought a home in the Cathedral District and Lori is in the midst of bringing it back to life. So....
On Saturday we stopped by - it is a home from my old neighborhood - just around the block from our Jefferson home on Millard. It used to have a doctor's office in one section of the home - and I even remember a sign back in the 60's that said "Laboratory" that used to hang on the porch. They have already made a dent in the trash that was left inside the home - it really will take years to be done. Pat is so happy to be able to help Lori with the plumbing. With so many of the walls opened up he will have an easier time putting in the pipes. While he was talking plumbing, I walked over to the Jefferson home - well - it's a mess. And Steve - the guy who is helping Lori get the house done said the roof is going and within a year if it isn't fixed the plaster in the home will rot. That is really sad. The backyard is full of weeds. The Lepeak (Leiberman) home is looking better. Flowers planted all around, cute wicker chairs in the backyard. Mrs. Odor's home looks very nice. The houses on Owen need lots of work and then back to Lori's home.
Then we decided to take flowers to our friend Barb - she just had surgery a few weeks ago and we just wanted to say hi and let her know we are thinking of her. We stopped at one place to buy flowers and I couldn't see inside the case because of moisture - the person working there said, it was too bad we couldn't see but that was how it was and she walked away! What is it with my florist problems in life? Then we stopped at Petal Pusher and bought the cutest little bucket filled with daisies. So then on to Tawas for a short visit - thankfully - Barb looks great and well onto her recovery.
We stopped at the St. Vincent de Paul, the Treasure Barn, and then on to Oscoda Flea Market - only found a few things. But it was a fun drive.
Today we will have some of Pat's family over for a cookout for Father's Day - how lucky we are to have such great fathers in this family.
On Saturday we stopped by - it is a home from my old neighborhood - just around the block from our Jefferson home on Millard. It used to have a doctor's office in one section of the home - and I even remember a sign back in the 60's that said "Laboratory" that used to hang on the porch. They have already made a dent in the trash that was left inside the home - it really will take years to be done. Pat is so happy to be able to help Lori with the plumbing. With so many of the walls opened up he will have an easier time putting in the pipes. While he was talking plumbing, I walked over to the Jefferson home - well - it's a mess. And Steve - the guy who is helping Lori get the house done said the roof is going and within a year if it isn't fixed the plaster in the home will rot. That is really sad. The backyard is full of weeds. The Lepeak (Leiberman) home is looking better. Flowers planted all around, cute wicker chairs in the backyard. Mrs. Odor's home looks very nice. The houses on Owen need lots of work and then back to Lori's home.
Then we decided to take flowers to our friend Barb - she just had surgery a few weeks ago and we just wanted to say hi and let her know we are thinking of her. We stopped at one place to buy flowers and I couldn't see inside the case because of moisture - the person working there said, it was too bad we couldn't see but that was how it was and she walked away! What is it with my florist problems in life? Then we stopped at Petal Pusher and bought the cutest little bucket filled with daisies. So then on to Tawas for a short visit - thankfully - Barb looks great and well onto her recovery.
We stopped at the St. Vincent de Paul, the Treasure Barn, and then on to Oscoda Flea Market - only found a few things. But it was a fun drive.
Today we will have some of Pat's family over for a cookout for Father's Day - how lucky we are to have such great fathers in this family.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Plant a Tree in Michigan!
From Michigan DNR.... and my friend, Amy
Odwalla is re-running its successful Plant a Tree promotion for 2009, and has DOUBLED the funding they will put towards the trees from $50,000 in 2008 to $100,000 in 2009. Only 11 State Park systems will be eligible for the funding, based on the states that participate in the Park Visitor Welcome Kit program.
How it works:
Each time someone goes to www.parkvisitor.com/odwalla and chooses Michigan, $1 will be added to our state's tree fund. Each computer will only be allowed to participate once. The program will remain open until all funds are used, or until Dec. 31, 2009. The state with the most clicks gets the most dollars! To see how you are doing, click on the Number of Trees Planted tab.
Please go on line and click for Michigan State Park Trees. Feel free to pass this info on to your friends and family and ask them to click too! It only takes a moment. One state park that participated last year received over $20,000. Let's start clicking to replace ash trees lost to the Emerald Ash Borer. Virginia is only about 200 ahead of Michigan - GO NOW!
Odwalla is re-running its successful Plant a Tree promotion for 2009, and has DOUBLED the funding they will put towards the trees from $50,000 in 2008 to $100,000 in 2009. Only 11 State Park systems will be eligible for the funding, based on the states that participate in the Park Visitor Welcome Kit program.
How it works:
Each time someone goes to www.parkvisitor.com/odwalla and chooses Michigan, $1 will be added to our state's tree fund. Each computer will only be allowed to participate once. The program will remain open until all funds are used, or until Dec. 31, 2009. The state with the most clicks gets the most dollars! To see how you are doing, click on the Number of Trees Planted tab.
Please go on line and click for Michigan State Park Trees. Feel free to pass this info on to your friends and family and ask them to click too! It only takes a moment. One state park that participated last year received over $20,000. Let's start clicking to replace ash trees lost to the Emerald Ash Borer. Virginia is only about 200 ahead of Michigan - GO NOW!
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Waiting for Pat
Pat, his brother David, Robin and Robbie went on a man weekend. They camped in the Pigeon River Forest. They are coming home this afternoon - and I really missed having Pat around with me over the weekend. I am sure they had fun - Robbie was really looking forward to camping right on the river so he could fish from sunup to sundown.
So after reading, going to estate sales, going to Birch Run and Clio Goodwills - out to dinner with Sheala and Joanna - Church this morning - where I agreed to be on the Environment Committee! Then out to breakfast with Bill and Amy - I'm really looking forward to seeing my honey!
So after reading, going to estate sales, going to Birch Run and Clio Goodwills - out to dinner with Sheala and Joanna - Church this morning - where I agreed to be on the Environment Committee! Then out to breakfast with Bill and Amy - I'm really looking forward to seeing my honey!
AAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!
OK - you are lucky to be reading this message - I very easily could have died yesterday. Joanna and Sheala MADE me drive on the Zilwaukee Bridge in Saginaw and I was almost on it when I realized where I was going (you have to know I usually never know where I am at when I am driving - thank goodness for the Garmin!) I have had a one woman protest about going over it at all - one time I went over it when someone else was driving - but I HATE it.
When it was built I think someone was on drugs because the whole thing had a droop in it. So the whole way over the bridge yesterday I was screaming, "AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!" Sheala, in her second week of drivers training, kept saying when she could drive she would be a better driver going over the bridge. Both Sheala and her mother couldn't stop laughing. It was a trip to say the least.
Anyway we had fun. We stopped at a book sale - buy one get one and they were only .50 or 1.00. It was a church book sale so there were lots of Christian books there - I found the first of the "Left Behind" series and Pat's cousins love the series so I thought I would buy the first one - I read 100 pages last night and I really like it - They had 5 or 6 of the other books in the series but I thought I would read the first one and decide - now I think even if I see number 10 again I won't buy it until I find number 2 and read that one - I like it when I have something specific to look for at garage sales!
Then we went to Goodwill and the books were .39 so Joanna and Sheala found lots to buy there. I got some cute dishes - and a new Calaphon griddle for $6 - so all in all - it was a good buy day.
And we DIDN'T drive back over the stupid bridge to come home.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Excel Fun
My brother, Larry, sent me a great site link for excel shortcuts - I LOVE EXCEL - I am at my happiest at work when I am working on new spreadsheets. My favorite spot where 99.9% of the time when I have needed a formula to do something in excel I have found an answer there that I could tweek to make work on my spreadsheet. It is an amazing help and has a great search capability.
Excel Help
Here is the shortcut that my brother sent - it has some fun mouse shortcuts that I was happy to see - I can't wait to start using them.
Excel Shortcuts
If you have a favorite formula or excel shortcut that you use all the time leave a comment.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Next Weekend
I'm going to spend all next weekend working on crafting! I haven't done anything for so long other than my beads - and I have lots of those done for the next show in July - so - I'm going to indulge!
I have tons of wallpaper books, lots of picture books I bought at the library sale for $5 a bag - oops - all my scrapbooking supplies are at Carolina Moons - I'm stopping there today so I'll pick those up.
Things I have thinking about:
Notecards - cute homemade little cards to have on hand when I want to write something quick to someone special.
I haven't made an altered book in a long time - maybe I'll work on one of those.
Collage of pictues for the wall (I know everyone that knows me will say "What Empty Wall does she have?"
I can't wait to start on a project!
I have tons of wallpaper books, lots of picture books I bought at the library sale for $5 a bag - oops - all my scrapbooking supplies are at Carolina Moons - I'm stopping there today so I'll pick those up.
Things I have thinking about:
Notecards - cute homemade little cards to have on hand when I want to write something quick to someone special.
I haven't made an altered book in a long time - maybe I'll work on one of those.
Collage of pictues for the wall (I know everyone that knows me will say "What Empty Wall does she have?"
I can't wait to start on a project!
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Tigers Game
Well - we went to another Tiger's Game on Thursday. We got to watch Willis lose it in the 3rd inning with all those walks - Leyland getting kicked out after yelling at the umps over walks and strikes - Cabrera limp home after pulling something in his leg - what a game! We had fun though. Even though the temperature was only 67 it felt like 95. We both used sunscreen but we still burned a bit. Tigers need to start HITTING more! We are still in first place by a teensy bit - GO TIGERS!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Computer Problems
I hate computers - no I actually love using them when they work - but oooooohhhhh I'm tired of mine acting so slow. But I don't even have time to take it somewhere - I've been messing with it at 4:00 in the morning but that hasn't helped. And to top it off Charter has been having problems the last couple of days too.
Anyway - that's why I haven't updated. The Antique Festival was fun with Paula and Dave and Pat. However we had some problems with wind. I lost some dishes, my canopy bent and tried to blow us away. Thank goodness the son of the person in charge came by and helped us stake the canopy back down.
So - I sold enough to pay expenses and I am sure I will return. The next one is in July. The new spot right across from Merchant Building 25 was great.
Anyway - that's why I haven't updated. The Antique Festival was fun with Paula and Dave and Pat. However we had some problems with wind. I lost some dishes, my canopy bent and tried to blow us away. Thank goodness the son of the person in charge came by and helped us stake the canopy back down.
So - I sold enough to pay expenses and I am sure I will return. The next one is in July. The new spot right across from Merchant Building 25 was great.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Antique Festival is Today and Tomorrow
I helped Paula unwrap all her treasures - WOW - she has some great ones. Her glassware is beautiful. I can't wait until I setup. I am waiting until 7 am - then I'll set my dishes and serving pieces up. We are at 850B - right across from one of the Merchant Buildings. Hope to see you at the Midland Antique Festival today or tomorrow.
Friday, May 29, 2009
My New Hero!
A mayor with NO DEBT - 11 consecutive terms of office - and - I would love to work for her! My friend Kevin sent this to me awhile ago - it is a bit long - but she is great.
Camping Trip with Friends
Even though the weather was mostly gray and cloudy with lots of rain we still had a good time camping with our friends. We all agreed that Hannah gets the "MOST IMPROVED DOG AWARD!" Last year she jumped up on all of us because she was so excited and every chance she got she tried to dig her way to China - this year - calm and nice to have around.
We saw some beautiful wild flowers, an eagle sitting above the nest, read a lot, sat by the campfire to stay warm (sometimes it worked, sometimes we just got smoked) ate some great food and even went to a few thrift shops.
My knee bothered me the whole time - but - even a bad weather day up north with a bad knee is better than most other days at home!
Now we are getting ready for the Antique Show. Pat is going to help David and Paula load all the antiques and I'm packing up dishes and spoons and knives to take to the show tomorrow morning - hope to see many of you their this weekend.
We saw some beautiful wild flowers, an eagle sitting above the nest, read a lot, sat by the campfire to stay warm (sometimes it worked, sometimes we just got smoked) ate some great food and even went to a few thrift shops.
My knee bothered me the whole time - but - even a bad weather day up north with a bad knee is better than most other days at home!
Now we are getting ready for the Antique Show. Pat is going to help David and Paula load all the antiques and I'm packing up dishes and spoons and knives to take to the show tomorrow morning - hope to see many of you their this weekend.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Fan of the Game
You won't believe this - we sure didn't. Jesse, Caroline, Pat and I went to a Tiger game last night - this is the first Saturday that Jesse and Caroline had off in AGES together. So they bought the tickets and we bought the dinner and gas. They spent more than I thought they should so we ended up with okay seats in section 139 row 34 in the outfield. About five minutes after the National Anthem a young woman from the Tigers came up and asked us if we wanted to be the Fans of the Game and move to a different location! We said YES! So we had to wait a few minutes until they got everything set - They had Paws sit in our new seats and we had to kick him out of it while on the BIG screen! Our new seats were behind home plate in section 126 row 24. They were FABULOUS. We had so much fun. Even though they lost 4-3 - it was a great game and then we stayed for the fireworks - Oh my goodness - the fireworks were great, too. What a nice night to remember.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
New Favorite
Our friends children are graduating - triplets - so I've been trying to figure out how to make each card special. I found the greatest fun spot - it is called Wordle. You type in lots of words and it will create a fun random listing of the words. You can keep looking at different ways it will print. A few tips - words don't stay together so I typed some of them with no spaces. If you type in one word three times it makes that word bigger - so each of the cards features their name. I also saved what I typed so I could go back and just paste the information back in and change the name that I wanted to be larger than the others. Then I saved it as a picture and put it on the front of the cards.
Click here to go to Wordle
Friday, May 22, 2009
Team Hole in the Wall
2nd Update - Bernie is closer to making his goal - YEAH!
UPDATE - thank you Jane for sponsoring Pat's brother, Bernie. You made me feel like this blog can make a difference!
Pat's brother, Bernie, will be running in the Boston Marathon this month. He has chosen Paul Newman's children's camp as his charity to collect donations. His goal is to send one child to camp - $3,000. He is almost there - if anyone would like to help him send a child to the camp you can donate (or just learn more) by clicking on the link and following these directions:
Click on Be a Sponsor button on the left
Select the Boston Marathon
Search for Clifford
Fill in Information
Click Here to Donate
Thank you.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Dreaming of Grand Marais
One day I was talking to an acquaintance about going camping; she was leaving for a camping trip that weekend and insisted she was going to the best spot in the world. I didn’t even ask where she was going because I knew it couldn’t be as wonderful as our favorite spot for camping, a little piece of heaven. We argued back and forth over which spot was better, little did we know that we were talking about the same part of heaven, Grand Marais, Michigan.
I have been going there with my best friend’s family, the Lepeaks, since I was in grade school. We spent the best vacations in Grand Marais. When Mr. Lepeak retired he built a home and they moved there. It is always a place of rest and relaxation, long walks, wild huckleberry picking, sharing news and renewing friendships. Swimming in THE Great Lake, Superior of course, where we would brave the cold at least once every trip no matter what the temperature.
When I was young and foolish it also meant running down Devil’s Slide, where lumberjacks used to slide logs into the lake. It would take five minutes to run down and a tortuous half hour climbing back up. I realized I had reached maturity the first time I refused to go down.
One of my favorite pictures on my living room wall is one where I am walking with my friend, Janet, at East Shore. We have our heads down, looking for agates, while the sunset transforms the sky into lines of hot pink and tangerine ahead of us.
One summer we decided to meet in Grand Marais with a few very good friends from high school. We brought our husbands and our children and they all fell in love with the lighthouse, the waterfalls, devil’s slide, fireworks, campfires and Mrs. Lepeak’s steaming huckleberry pie. Our children became friends with our friend’s children and our families bonded forever.
Mr. Lepeak put up a wire and a pulley where the kids could sail through the air between the trees. There were races pushing peanuts with their noses and Mrs. Lepeak would tell scary stories to the kids by the campfire. When we returned to our trailers in the campground no one wanted to go to sleep because monsters were everywhere!
Our children are grown now, some have gone off to college, some have graduated, and some have started families of their own. But when they see one of their friends from that camping trip the years slip away and you can see their friendship is as solid as if it were just yesterday when they were riding their bikes through the campground.
We really have been blessed with good friends. They taught us the importance of enjoying God’s gift of nature to us. They taught us to slow down and enjoy life and that everything else stops when the sun sets over the lake. There really is nothing better than a trip to Grand Marais to help you reset your priorities. I decided a long time ago that heaven really is where a day in Grand Marais lasts forever.
I have been going there with my best friend’s family, the Lepeaks, since I was in grade school. We spent the best vacations in Grand Marais. When Mr. Lepeak retired he built a home and they moved there. It is always a place of rest and relaxation, long walks, wild huckleberry picking, sharing news and renewing friendships. Swimming in THE Great Lake, Superior of course, where we would brave the cold at least once every trip no matter what the temperature.
When I was young and foolish it also meant running down Devil’s Slide, where lumberjacks used to slide logs into the lake. It would take five minutes to run down and a tortuous half hour climbing back up. I realized I had reached maturity the first time I refused to go down.
One of my favorite pictures on my living room wall is one where I am walking with my friend, Janet, at East Shore. We have our heads down, looking for agates, while the sunset transforms the sky into lines of hot pink and tangerine ahead of us.
One summer we decided to meet in Grand Marais with a few very good friends from high school. We brought our husbands and our children and they all fell in love with the lighthouse, the waterfalls, devil’s slide, fireworks, campfires and Mrs. Lepeak’s steaming huckleberry pie. Our children became friends with our friend’s children and our families bonded forever.
Mr. Lepeak put up a wire and a pulley where the kids could sail through the air between the trees. There were races pushing peanuts with their noses and Mrs. Lepeak would tell scary stories to the kids by the campfire. When we returned to our trailers in the campground no one wanted to go to sleep because monsters were everywhere!
Our children are grown now, some have gone off to college, some have graduated, and some have started families of their own. But when they see one of their friends from that camping trip the years slip away and you can see their friendship is as solid as if it were just yesterday when they were riding their bikes through the campground.
We really have been blessed with good friends. They taught us the importance of enjoying God’s gift of nature to us. They taught us to slow down and enjoy life and that everything else stops when the sun sets over the lake. There really is nothing better than a trip to Grand Marais to help you reset your priorities. I decided a long time ago that heaven really is where a day in Grand Marais lasts forever.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Stealing a Few Days for Fun
The weather was so beautiful on Thursday that I just couldn't sit in my office with no windows wishing to be with Pat - then Greg came in the office and said I should take Friday off too - Yahoo - I did just that!
We had a gift certificate for a free night at Shanty Creek up in Bellaire - we had never been there and we needed to use it Mon-Thur by the end of May - so this was a perfect opportunity to go on a buying trip. I called to see if there was a room available and they answered the phone with "It's another beautiful day at Shanty Creek, how may I help you?"
We drove through Mt. Pleasant, stopping at a few shops that are always closed when we go on Sundays, then stopping at every thrift store we found on the way. When we got to Shanty Creek we checked into a beautiful room - the staff was so nice - a genuine nice - not something you feel as if they are doing because they have to!
Then Pat realized it was Thursday and that we could drive into Traverse City for burger night. So we had a beautiful drive through the blossoming cherry trees. We stopped at Turtle Creek for a few slot machine pulls - the first one was a win of $113 so that was fun.
Then we went back to the motel and watched the Tigers have TWO GRAND SLAMS - what fun that was - Yeah, Brandon Inge and Ryan Rayburn!
On Friday we decided to drive up to the UP - we always go West - so we decided to go to Sault Ste. Marie - it was a nice drive but long. We didn't see any boats in the locks but we saw a fox run right through town.
We spent the night in Mackinaw City and watched another great Tiger game. We like to watch it at the Keyhole bar - but - there was a rain delay so we watched it from our room.
On our way home we drove through Cheboygan, Harrisville, Oscoda and Tawas. It was such a great trip - filled with beautiful spring days. I bought tons of dishes to sell this summer and fall - can't wait to wrap the spoons and knives to match them.
We had a gift certificate for a free night at Shanty Creek up in Bellaire - we had never been there and we needed to use it Mon-Thur by the end of May - so this was a perfect opportunity to go on a buying trip. I called to see if there was a room available and they answered the phone with "It's another beautiful day at Shanty Creek, how may I help you?"
We drove through Mt. Pleasant, stopping at a few shops that are always closed when we go on Sundays, then stopping at every thrift store we found on the way. When we got to Shanty Creek we checked into a beautiful room - the staff was so nice - a genuine nice - not something you feel as if they are doing because they have to!
Then Pat realized it was Thursday and that we could drive into Traverse City for burger night. So we had a beautiful drive through the blossoming cherry trees. We stopped at Turtle Creek for a few slot machine pulls - the first one was a win of $113 so that was fun.
Then we went back to the motel and watched the Tigers have TWO GRAND SLAMS - what fun that was - Yeah, Brandon Inge and Ryan Rayburn!
On Friday we decided to drive up to the UP - we always go West - so we decided to go to Sault Ste. Marie - it was a nice drive but long. We didn't see any boats in the locks but we saw a fox run right through town.
We spent the night in Mackinaw City and watched another great Tiger game. We like to watch it at the Keyhole bar - but - there was a rain delay so we watched it from our room.
On our way home we drove through Cheboygan, Harrisville, Oscoda and Tawas. It was such a great trip - filled with beautiful spring days. I bought tons of dishes to sell this summer and fall - can't wait to wrap the spoons and knives to match them.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Dad - and Pat
Looking back 45 years today, May 4, 1964, the day my Dad died makes me realize how blessed I am to be married to such a wonderful man. I was 12 when my Dad died – I wonder if he was like Pat and that is why I married him. I only knew the Dad part of the equation because I wasn’t old enough to understand marriage commitments and I never asked my Mom. But as I remember the times he read to me on the couch, the times he took us for a root beer at A&W, an ice cream cone at Mooney’s, Swimming at Andersen Pool, going to church with him – sitting in the front pew as he sang at church – I think maybe I did pick someone like my Dad.
I really didn’t want to get married – I even forgot to pick up my wedding dress until my Mom reminded me that the store was closing in a half hour and if I expected to get married that night I may want to pick up the dress! When I saw Pat and his parents preparing to go down the aisle I almost fainted. I had never dated anyone as long as I dated Pat and we had only been dating eight months and here we were getting married.
The first couple of years, we spent a lot of time with good friends and family either playing cards or just visiting. Lots of Sunday dinners at his parents and lots of rides into Saginaw to visit my family. I had a difficult time moving to Midland – every phone call was long distance and of course back then that meant extra money for those phone calls. My friends and family were in Saginaw and I felt very isolated. However, it did help us become closer much quicker because Pat and I had to depend on each other for everything.
We discovered over the years that we loved the same things. Camping, going for a nice ride in the country – or even better in Northern Michigan, watching birds, being near water (whether a river or a lake) and the best – watching a sunrise on Lake Huron or a sunset on Lake Superior.
Pat has always been so easy going. He likes what I cook and even cleans up as I cook. He enjoys spending time with me and he has loved me more than anyone else has ever loved me. It is amazing to me and it took many years to believe that he would always love me – no matter what.
He has been the most wonderful Father to our children. The kids literally walked all over him – he would lie on the floor and they would jump on his stomach! It was fun to watch. He read to them every evening before they went to bed. He prayed with them before they fell asleep. He encouraged and loved them so much that I believe they married the men they did because they wanted someone like their Dad.
This time together since our daughters have moved away has been a wonderful time, too. Pat has retired and so he makes sure that our weekends are a haven for me. He gets the household chores done during the week so we can take off for some of those long rides.
Since I started wrapping spoons with glass beads he has been most supportive of my endeavor. Many of our long rides have included estate sales, garage sales, antique stores, Goodwill, Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul and any thrift or consignment shop in between. He has moved a thousand dishes and knives, storage units purchased at store closings, taken me to set up at shows and he always has a good attitude through it all. I wouldn’t be doing this without him.
When I get up in the morning to go to work, Pat gets up with me. He makes my coffee – he walks me out to my car and when I get home he is usually waiting for me. I am counting the days until I retire so I can be with him all day long. One of my co-workers told me once that I should not be spending all of my time with Patrick. I should have a life of my own in case I have to be alone someday. That was very sad advice from a person who was all alone in life. I never want to be without Patrick – I even made him promise I could die first! But if he were to die before me – I never ever would be sad that I had spent every day wanting to be with him. This has been the most wonderful life. I always tell Pat, “We live a good life!” and he ALWAYS answers, “Yes…… we do!”
I really didn’t want to get married – I even forgot to pick up my wedding dress until my Mom reminded me that the store was closing in a half hour and if I expected to get married that night I may want to pick up the dress! When I saw Pat and his parents preparing to go down the aisle I almost fainted. I had never dated anyone as long as I dated Pat and we had only been dating eight months and here we were getting married.
The first couple of years, we spent a lot of time with good friends and family either playing cards or just visiting. Lots of Sunday dinners at his parents and lots of rides into Saginaw to visit my family. I had a difficult time moving to Midland – every phone call was long distance and of course back then that meant extra money for those phone calls. My friends and family were in Saginaw and I felt very isolated. However, it did help us become closer much quicker because Pat and I had to depend on each other for everything.
We discovered over the years that we loved the same things. Camping, going for a nice ride in the country – or even better in Northern Michigan, watching birds, being near water (whether a river or a lake) and the best – watching a sunrise on Lake Huron or a sunset on Lake Superior.
Pat has always been so easy going. He likes what I cook and even cleans up as I cook. He enjoys spending time with me and he has loved me more than anyone else has ever loved me. It is amazing to me and it took many years to believe that he would always love me – no matter what.
He has been the most wonderful Father to our children. The kids literally walked all over him – he would lie on the floor and they would jump on his stomach! It was fun to watch. He read to them every evening before they went to bed. He prayed with them before they fell asleep. He encouraged and loved them so much that I believe they married the men they did because they wanted someone like their Dad.
This time together since our daughters have moved away has been a wonderful time, too. Pat has retired and so he makes sure that our weekends are a haven for me. He gets the household chores done during the week so we can take off for some of those long rides.
Since I started wrapping spoons with glass beads he has been most supportive of my endeavor. Many of our long rides have included estate sales, garage sales, antique stores, Goodwill, Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul and any thrift or consignment shop in between. He has moved a thousand dishes and knives, storage units purchased at store closings, taken me to set up at shows and he always has a good attitude through it all. I wouldn’t be doing this without him.
When I get up in the morning to go to work, Pat gets up with me. He makes my coffee – he walks me out to my car and when I get home he is usually waiting for me. I am counting the days until I retire so I can be with him all day long. One of my co-workers told me once that I should not be spending all of my time with Patrick. I should have a life of my own in case I have to be alone someday. That was very sad advice from a person who was all alone in life. I never want to be without Patrick – I even made him promise I could die first! But if he were to die before me – I never ever would be sad that I had spent every day wanting to be with him. This has been the most wonderful life. I always tell Pat, “We live a good life!” and he ALWAYS answers, “Yes…… we do!”
Saturday, May 2, 2009
By challenging themselves to train for and complete the oldest marathon in the world, this group of runners chose Hole in the Wall Camps to sponsor. They have helped to change the lives of children and families coping with serious illnesses.
As of Tuesday, April 21, 2009, the Team of 85 runners has raised $216,527. This total translates into sending 86 campers (and counting!) to Hole in the Wall Camps!
Congratulations to Pat's brother, Bernie
Difficult Choices
Let me begin this with this, that I usually do not voice my opinion on the abortion issue - that is because I know that many, many women have made that difficult choice in the past and I know many of them personally. So, I have not talked about this issue much. However, with the President stating he wants to find common ground about the issue both sides can agree upon - I didn't think I could skirt the issue any longer. I don’t think that President Obama is going to change his mind about pro-choice for mothers. With that in mind, what do I want to tell him? First and foremost, consider there are many other choices – other than abortion.
• The first choice: We must be diligent in teaching our children that abstinence is important. Making choices before becoming an adult is very difficult. There is not enough I can say about the many problems of babies having babies - it happens all over America. We see it on a daily basis. Asking our children to wait to have sex – asking them to commit to being true to themselves instead of to pressure is important.
• The second choice if the first choice isn’t going to happen: would be to teach the importance of birth control. It is not only important to use birth control but to use it wisely. Understanding how to use it – not to miss one time in taking the pill, realizing that some medication may interfere with the pill working. Knowing that you still have to say no when it is not safe to have sex. Knowing that there are many complications to saying yes – low self esteem – problems in the relationship and if it doesn’t work (and many times it just doesn’t work – no matter how sure you are that it will) you are now faced with many choices that do not consider your dreams and hopes for your own future.
• If the first two choices do not work: Children raising children is a very difficult choice. One that takes commitment (which by not using the first two choices shows that making good decisions and committing to a choice may be difficult for these parents). Sometimes it works - many times it means grandparents, aunts and uncles taking the responsibility of raising the children. I would say this is a very hard choice to make – one that is difficult to see the outcome – because if I have learned one thing in life – it is that not much turns out the way we expect it to and this is a huge commitment that not many first time parents really understand. I know when I had my first child I didn’t think much past the “I can’t wait to have a baby” – I thought about holding and snuggling with a newborn, playing and laughing with the baby. I didn’t think about ear infections, up all night with teething, babies that don’t like to nap, diapers, laundry, allergies, teenagers – these things never crossed my mind.
• One of my daughters made this choice in her life: she married early right out of high school – had her children right away and has a wonderful husband and family. They are in the minority with this type of marriage working – they were so young – just 18 when they got married. They have worked hard over the years at their marriage and that is why it has worked. I see their daughter in high school deciding her future. My wish for her is that she decides NOT to decide at the moment. Wait to decide until after she graduates – goes out to see the world – whether it is in the service of this country – or going to medical school first – whatever she wants to do – just to WAIT – before making a relationship commitment. She has hopes and dreams and I want her to realize those hopes and dreams. They have a son – my wish for him is exactly the same – to know that it is as much his responsibility to say no as it is for his girlfriend to say no. To WAIT – just as I want his sister to WAIT.
• My other daughter made this choice: she became pregnant in college and knew she was not ready to be a parent. She wanted two loving parents to bring up her baby. Through counseling she found a wonderful couple to adopt her baby. Most of her friends became angry with this decision – did not support her decision and wanted her to get an abortion – for some reason that was okay to them and adoption was not acceptable to them. I have heard this many times over in several different cases – it is totally unbelievable to me that this is actually how many believe today. Adoption then seems to be one of the most difficult choices. One that is filled with love, pride, hurt, loneliness, satisfaction, and longing all wrapped up together. This adoption was an open adoption – which means that we get to see her daughter. With great support from her family – wonderful parents of her child – we have watched our daughter create a family. My daughter is now married to a wonderful man with a great family – and now she is a step-mother to two adult daughters and a grandmother of two adorable children.
So what do I say again to Mr. Obama? When you say you are pro-choice it is with the idea that other choices have been thought about by the parents. That they have considered every single other opportunity available to their baby. I don’t think that is happening. I think abortion is the answer before there is even a thought about anything else in many cases. So I would ask with all my heart that President Obama was pro-choice for the millions of unborn, realizing they too should be able to choose what they want in life – I don’t think of course that the unborn would choose death.
• The first choice: We must be diligent in teaching our children that abstinence is important. Making choices before becoming an adult is very difficult. There is not enough I can say about the many problems of babies having babies - it happens all over America. We see it on a daily basis. Asking our children to wait to have sex – asking them to commit to being true to themselves instead of to pressure is important.
• The second choice if the first choice isn’t going to happen: would be to teach the importance of birth control. It is not only important to use birth control but to use it wisely. Understanding how to use it – not to miss one time in taking the pill, realizing that some medication may interfere with the pill working. Knowing that you still have to say no when it is not safe to have sex. Knowing that there are many complications to saying yes – low self esteem – problems in the relationship and if it doesn’t work (and many times it just doesn’t work – no matter how sure you are that it will) you are now faced with many choices that do not consider your dreams and hopes for your own future.
• If the first two choices do not work: Children raising children is a very difficult choice. One that takes commitment (which by not using the first two choices shows that making good decisions and committing to a choice may be difficult for these parents). Sometimes it works - many times it means grandparents, aunts and uncles taking the responsibility of raising the children. I would say this is a very hard choice to make – one that is difficult to see the outcome – because if I have learned one thing in life – it is that not much turns out the way we expect it to and this is a huge commitment that not many first time parents really understand. I know when I had my first child I didn’t think much past the “I can’t wait to have a baby” – I thought about holding and snuggling with a newborn, playing and laughing with the baby. I didn’t think about ear infections, up all night with teething, babies that don’t like to nap, diapers, laundry, allergies, teenagers – these things never crossed my mind.
• One of my daughters made this choice in her life: she married early right out of high school – had her children right away and has a wonderful husband and family. They are in the minority with this type of marriage working – they were so young – just 18 when they got married. They have worked hard over the years at their marriage and that is why it has worked. I see their daughter in high school deciding her future. My wish for her is that she decides NOT to decide at the moment. Wait to decide until after she graduates – goes out to see the world – whether it is in the service of this country – or going to medical school first – whatever she wants to do – just to WAIT – before making a relationship commitment. She has hopes and dreams and I want her to realize those hopes and dreams. They have a son – my wish for him is exactly the same – to know that it is as much his responsibility to say no as it is for his girlfriend to say no. To WAIT – just as I want his sister to WAIT.
• My other daughter made this choice: she became pregnant in college and knew she was not ready to be a parent. She wanted two loving parents to bring up her baby. Through counseling she found a wonderful couple to adopt her baby. Most of her friends became angry with this decision – did not support her decision and wanted her to get an abortion – for some reason that was okay to them and adoption was not acceptable to them. I have heard this many times over in several different cases – it is totally unbelievable to me that this is actually how many believe today. Adoption then seems to be one of the most difficult choices. One that is filled with love, pride, hurt, loneliness, satisfaction, and longing all wrapped up together. This adoption was an open adoption – which means that we get to see her daughter. With great support from her family – wonderful parents of her child – we have watched our daughter create a family. My daughter is now married to a wonderful man with a great family – and now she is a step-mother to two adult daughters and a grandmother of two adorable children.
So what do I say again to Mr. Obama? When you say you are pro-choice it is with the idea that other choices have been thought about by the parents. That they have considered every single other opportunity available to their baby. I don’t think that is happening. I think abortion is the answer before there is even a thought about anything else in many cases. So I would ask with all my heart that President Obama was pro-choice for the millions of unborn, realizing they too should be able to choose what they want in life – I don’t think of course that the unborn would choose death.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Long Distance Grandparenting
Well - our friends Dave and Barb are new grandparents. CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
They live in Michigan the new cutie pie, Ethan, lives in California. I was telling her about when Sheala was just a few months when she moved to Hawaii with her parents. I talked to them every single day (that was when we had to pay for long distance phone calls, too!)
When they came home for a visit and Sheala was around 9 mos - She heard my voice at the airport and jumped into my arms. I knew right then that long distance grandparenting works.
So - I did a google this afternoon - and found several great ideas - here are just a few - click on the title to go to the site:
20 Activities for Grandparents to do with their Grandchildren
The Chicago Children's Museum: Long Distance Granparenting
Helium Learn what you need, share what you know
Barb and Dave - such a beautiful blessing - we are so happy for you.
They live in Michigan the new cutie pie, Ethan, lives in California. I was telling her about when Sheala was just a few months when she moved to Hawaii with her parents. I talked to them every single day (that was when we had to pay for long distance phone calls, too!)
When they came home for a visit and Sheala was around 9 mos - She heard my voice at the airport and jumped into my arms. I knew right then that long distance grandparenting works.
So - I did a google this afternoon - and found several great ideas - here are just a few - click on the title to go to the site:
20 Activities for Grandparents to do with their Grandchildren
The Chicago Children's Museum: Long Distance Granparenting
Helium Learn what you need, share what you know
Barb and Dave - such a beautiful blessing - we are so happy for you.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Rain Rain Go Away
I love Michigan - but today at Noon - let's say a prayer for NO RAIN - 13 people in the duplex for a picnic? Yikes? But - I think we will enjoy each others company even if it is pouring! I'll blog and let you know how your prayers worked!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Weekend Travels
We went to Ann Arbor on Friday and had a chance to play with the twins again. They are so much fun. Pat did some plumbing with Everett and I got to sing songs, play patty cake, kiss and snuggle with the boys and talk with Ells. It was so nice - I wish they lived closer.
On Saturday we went for a ride to find dishes and I only found one on a very, very long ride. We won't be going on a treasure hunt that way anymore. Most of the shops seemed to be closed - we decided to go to Mt. Pleasant on Sunday. So after church off we went. However, I only found a few to purchase there, too.
Most of the prices have gone up at the antique stores and the thrift stores do not have much to choose from - I'm thinking that nobody is donating anything and the garage sales this summer are going to be where I will have to find dishes. I think we will clean out the basement and make a big donation to Goodwill. Of course we would have to STAY HOME to do that and if you read this blog on a regular basis you know the van calls to us and says "Let's go for a ride!" All the time!
You will see by my next post what I did all weekend in the car - READ BOOKS!
I did find some really great beads at Joanne's this weekend - I am going to wrap knives for an hour before I go to work - so I better get going.
On Saturday we went for a ride to find dishes and I only found one on a very, very long ride. We won't be going on a treasure hunt that way anymore. Most of the shops seemed to be closed - we decided to go to Mt. Pleasant on Sunday. So after church off we went. However, I only found a few to purchase there, too.
Most of the prices have gone up at the antique stores and the thrift stores do not have much to choose from - I'm thinking that nobody is donating anything and the garage sales this summer are going to be where I will have to find dishes. I think we will clean out the basement and make a big donation to Goodwill. Of course we would have to STAY HOME to do that and if you read this blog on a regular basis you know the van calls to us and says "Let's go for a ride!" All the time!
You will see by my next post what I did all weekend in the car - READ BOOKS!
I did find some really great beads at Joanne's this weekend - I am going to wrap knives for an hour before I go to work - so I better get going.
Books, Books, Books
I've read three books in the past few weeks - they are all good.
Cindy gave me "Heaven Has Blue Carpet" by Sharon Niedzinski - a book by a Saginaw woman about her experiences as a sheep farmer. She learned so much about her faith when she became a shepherd and realized how like sheep all of us really are and she shows that the comparison that Jesus uses is so perfect.
The Friday Night Knitting Club was from Jan and it is by Kate Jacobs. This was a very good book about friendships and relationships. A single mom starts a yarn shop and gathers friends as much as wool over the years.
Last but not least, I read a garage sale book, The Chamber by John Grisham. I realized again, just like when I watched Dead Man Walking, that there is such horror on death row. But both the book and the movie bring to mind my reading of The Shack where God uses any situation to bring about change.
Now I am reading one of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency books that Cathy gave me because I love the new HBO series. Amy has been taping it for Jan and Jim and Pat and me to watch - we all love it.
Monday, April 13, 2009
My new favorite blog!
Meredith is a fabulous blogger - she has links to almost anything you can think of - she is a frugal shopper - saves on everything - loves to shop garage sales and thrift shops - her blog is fun.
I love this blog - click here
I love this blog - click here
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Holy Thursday
The service on Holy Thursday was very moving. The music was beautiful, the readings were heartfelt, the foot washing was life changing. This was the first time that I have seen so many women come forward. So many women over the age of 80 which made me think of my Mom and how she never would have come forward for the foot washing - but how I rubbed her feet in the afternoon when she was so ill and how I felt I was part of something much larger than life itself.
To see Fr. Jack on his knees, lovingly washing and serving the parishioners was seeing the Gospel in action. If you know Fr. Jack - you know what I'm saying here - it is amazing how during a service that there is a presence about him. Sometimes the moment is so reverent and holy that I have to catch my breath. I count my blessings that we can be part of this parish at this time in our lives. And then there is the Jack I love to see after liturgy - and usually not much reverence about him then! But he makes me smile.
To see Fr. Jack on his knees, lovingly washing and serving the parishioners was seeing the Gospel in action. If you know Fr. Jack - you know what I'm saying here - it is amazing how during a service that there is a presence about him. Sometimes the moment is so reverent and holy that I have to catch my breath. I count my blessings that we can be part of this parish at this time in our lives. And then there is the Jack I love to see after liturgy - and usually not much reverence about him then! But he makes me smile.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Mary Andrews Chihuly Art Number Two
I have run out of adjectives to say about Mary Lynn's art. This is so amazing.
Joyce Meyer Today
Whenever I have a day off, Pat and I start that day with a cup of coffe and watching Joyce Meyer Enjoying Everyday Life series. Every single time we both look at each other and say "That is EXACTLY what I needed to hear today!" Now, if I watched it every day would I say that? Maybe. Sometimes I am overwhelmed with the message. Today's was unpacking the baggage we have and throwing it away. It was very good.
If you want to see it - go to the website and click on the 3/30/2009 "It's Time to Unpack" and watch the video. It was very good.
Joyce Meyer Link
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Lima Beans
I told my friend, Heather I would write about Lima Beans tonight.
When I was little and we lived on Hoyt Street we had a big old house with two stairways - I think I've written before about the back stairway. On the landing going up that backstairs we used to have can goods. Now I don't remember having lima beans but I knew I didn't like them. So when I saw a can of lima beans one day on my way up those back stairs I thought I would tear the label off the can and that way we wouldn't have to have them. THAT NIGHT - my Mom saw the can with no label and said we were going to have whatever it was for dinner.
Years later, when we lived on Jefferson we had our canned goods in the basement in a little room. My Mom sent me downstairs to find beans - now it may have been kidney beans but I remember telling my Mom there weren't any beans on the shelf. She came down the stairs, picked up the can of beans and told me one of her little spurts of wisdom:
Mary Ellen, you only see what you want to see in life.
I can't tell you how many times I've noticed that in every aspect of my life. From kids to friends, to work, to family - we do only see what we want to see many times.
When I was little and we lived on Hoyt Street we had a big old house with two stairways - I think I've written before about the back stairway. On the landing going up that backstairs we used to have can goods. Now I don't remember having lima beans but I knew I didn't like them. So when I saw a can of lima beans one day on my way up those back stairs I thought I would tear the label off the can and that way we wouldn't have to have them. THAT NIGHT - my Mom saw the can with no label and said we were going to have whatever it was for dinner.
Years later, when we lived on Jefferson we had our canned goods in the basement in a little room. My Mom sent me downstairs to find beans - now it may have been kidney beans but I remember telling my Mom there weren't any beans on the shelf. She came down the stairs, picked up the can of beans and told me one of her little spurts of wisdom:
Mary Ellen, you only see what you want to see in life.
I can't tell you how many times I've noticed that in every aspect of my life. From kids to friends, to work, to family - we do only see what we want to see many times.
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