good stuff!

Today is a good day!  So far today I....

1. dropped Peter off at a pitching camp run by Derek Holland!  Okay as much as I get frustrated with the time and attention sports plays in our world (micro and macro) I can get excited by home town major league player- world series pitcher- interacting with my son and 25 or so more kids.  I loved seeing girls in the gym, I loved seeing the Newark team past and present interacting in this way.  I loved the variety of communities represented.  I loved Derek's opening message - have fun, don't pitch curve balls yet- don't get hurt.

2. Slept in...yes really slept in- got up when I needed and wanted to get up. Joe picked up Griffey and he found me in bed for a good cuddle hug love- twice!

3. I finished my blog book!  Thanks to the encouragement of many of you I found a way to print the blog.  I captured the first 100 blogs, and the photos that went with these and did the self-publish thing! It was super easy!  Fellow Bloggers- I encourage you to do this too!   Blog2Print is the web site!
http://blogger.sharedbook.com/pilot/toNonSecureFrameset.do?actionForward=landingPage&bookId=Blog2Print    I'll let you know how it turns out when I receive it in about 20 days....

So it has been a great day on Newark-Granville Road so far....no doubt it will continue!

Christmas until the 6th....

So another tradition that I've continued from my childhood is not taking the tree down until Epiphany. With Sally's birthday on this day (which was also my grandmother/Ga-Ga/Clara Schnebly Price's birthday) it makes it all the more festive and fun to keep things up.  This year I'm grateful as we need to enjoy this festive beautiful house on Newark-Granville Road a bit longer!!  I'm so glad we went to Maryland and added our fun in Pittsburgh (future blog entry about this great city and the Carnegie Science Center!!)- it was the right thing to do!  However it was time away and we were not in our home, enjoying our tree, relaxing in our way.  I also took the time to not do "tasks" so the reality is there are still some Works holiday - new years!!- cards to deliver and Christmas packages to mail- but it still Christmas in my mind!!

So here I am typing in my nest, happy to be sleeping in my bed- loved the hotel rooms- William Penn in particular!!  Loved being with my parents, but the reality is their house is small and 4 kids and all the extra holiday stuff add to the stress.  My kids are far from perfect and their squabbling gets on nerves.  Kids declared Nana meaner than Mom- mixed feeling about that one- but it is what it is.  We love each other and commit to being together and value the time.  Christmas isn't Christmas until I've had one of my mother's cut out cookies- super thin and crispy with sugar on top! This year she did pink and green - so perfect for this Lilly lover!  Louisa is darling and Sarah and Greg fit us in with family and work juggle....I do wish the world would slow down, but it won't.  We take what we get and enjoy the ride. And when we can we make it last as long as we can like Christmas on Newark-Granville Road! Look for our tree in the window for another week or so and know I'm savoring every minute and thankful to come home to such a special place.

filled with Tradition!

The holidays are filled with traditions for us and we love that the kids drive most of them! Nothing makes me happier than when we hear "we have to- it is a tradition" This year we shifted a few traditions around a bit but kept them going with a new twist!!  Here are some of the highlights:
1. Whit's on the last day and opening day- this year we had some deliveries to make so we managed to enjoy our holiday Whit's in Pataskala this year! Bonus with arrival during the last half hour- an extra quart went home with us and as many freeze pops as we could carry!  Kids were pleased with this and it counted as the last Whit's of the season so we skipped the Granville final day.  But we can't wait to know the opening day in 2013! We'll probably visit Pataska for their February opening day to show our appreciation for the extra treats!
2. Ice Skating- we LOVE that our friends The Prophaters and their friends now ours too- The Jumps- host such a fun energy extracting/ Santa distracting activity in Dublin, Ohio!  The kids adore the opportunity and we do too! Great group gathers and the exercise is a treat!!   The tradition has been declared to include Max and Erma's for lunch and include dear friend Charlotte!
3.  Looking at the lights on Christmas Eve - instead of being in PJS- this year we had a full night of friends and festivity- so the fun included snow ball fights in gorgeous downtown Granville and a quick drive up Bryn Du before falling into bed for sweet dreams.
4. Charm bracelets are beloved in my family and so they've become a standard gift. Sally lost hers at some point and asked Santa to make sure she had one this year!  The picture to the right shows that he delighted her on Christmas morning!  Clare had a new horseshoe charm in her stocking too!
5. Beef Fondue- many times this has been on the Christmas Eve menu- on Newark-Granville Road and Ridge Avenue, Forrest Drive.....childhood homes!  This year it was Christmas Dinner in Hagerstown Maryland.  Not one pot- but three were needed including the children's table having its own!!

I hope you've had your fun with your traditions and they've made your holidays bright!!

Vacation.....

Ahhhhh- vacation has started!  You all know how much I love my job and December has been an amazing month for my role.  I've appreciated each and every gift that has made its way to The Works, fun to see what comes in this month!!  I've loved the chance to say thank you and celebrate all the amazing efforts that allow The Works to achieve its mission in 2012.  Reality is I didn't get to everyone and I'm sorry about that- but I was able to connect with many many and it was a gift in itself. As full and crazy as December is- I LOVE IT! (Please know it isn't too late to make a gift the Works and it is a wonderful cause.  www.attheworks.org- support- mail a check by December 31st to get your tax credit and help us achieve our AF goal or call Jenna next week and she'll take a credit card or stop by- The Works is open next Wed, Thur, Fri and Saturday!)

So today I put on the "out of office" message!  I worked late last night to file and leave the desk tidy and ready for when I return next year- 2013! And tonight I did a few deliveries to bring closure to a good year.  And now I'm on vacation!!!  It is December so there is still a fair amount to do tomorrow but we're close, really close! I made a fun trip to a special store (kids might be reading so I won't say any more) Tomorrow we'll enjoy a morning church service and I'll do a bit more shopping and then some wrapping and holiday party fun.  I just love people's festive hospitality at this time of year.

I also had the chance to connect in my home with friends - sharing our holiday decoration and enjoying some catch-up time.  As much as I love to give fun gifts- I love receiving them too! Some great thigns are coming in and we're having fun with creative presentation of kids school pics!  The kids are LOVING the snow and I feel the same happy spirit they do with the white shimmery scenery!!  Vacation on Newark- Granville Road is a good things and I appreciate your sharing it with me.  I hope you get to relax and enjoy the spirit of the season too!

is in motion!

I wrote this Sunday night to post Monday morning, but just didn't get to it.

Here we go....the last week of the working year.  What could and should be a simple week of tasks to wrap up is feeling very full.  But why am I surprised- the whole year has been like this.  It isn't about simple tasks- it is about being in the moment, recognizing what is important and what needs to be done now and achieves the real goal.  It has been an amazing year and it is paying off. It is real, genuine, hard, beautiful, messy and is what it is. I'm fired up- I'm ready- the journey is a beautiful thing and we're well into it and today it starts again, it continues and it ends- all at once.  Join me in seeing the beauty and thank you for helping me jump right in and embrace this life on Newark-Granville Road.

Now it is Tuesday night and it has been a full day.  The service for Lisa couldn't of been more beautiful. The love was there and her light was indeed shining.  The kids are happy and filled with anticipation and excitement and ready for their break.  As much as basketball preparation stressed me out I'm happy to have them all doing the same sport and there is much to be said for their caring coaches, skill building, active bodies and minds in scheduled indoor places with games that last one hour!! And the bottom line- they're happy.  We hired our new nanny this week too- thanks to the community for helping us with this one and helping us build our team!  The big package to Florida was shipped, wrapping for others is filling the evenings.  The tears flow pretty steadily when I think of CT but I'm able to find my heaven here on earth and count my blessings and hug those I hold dear in person and with cyber hugs from Newark-Granville road.

We need a little Christmas.....

Yesterday for me was a good day.  Sometimes being in a bubble (what we called life in Gville while at Denison) is a good thing.  It was a productive fun friday at work, it was Friday and the kids were feeling much better (influenza A made its way to us...future blog material no doubt!)  I didn't access any sort of news so I had no idea of the tragic events in Connecticut going on until I checked email and WHAM there it was- in my own life.  I'm so sorry for all those directly involved, for our nation but for my own friends who had a close friend killed yesterday.  And on top of that Granville is mourning the loss of a mother, friend, wife, artist who was glowing in new energy (I shook her hand the day before she was at The Works preparing for an upcoming exhibit.)  There is certainly too much sadness all around.  And just what we needed here on Newark-Granville road- Christmas!

Today is Leithauser Christmas which means last night was Leithauser Christmas Eve!  We put lights on the tree, wrapped gifts, ate as a family, cooked for the family feast, sang some carols (thank you  Lawre for emailing this link http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=Vnt7euRF5Pg&vq=medium

The kids all went to bed again at good time- worn out- and Joe and I watched Chevy Chase's Christmas  Vacation. I haven't seen it in years and it was just the kind of silly humor I needed! The dog moving his portable yard to the top of the stairs - so smart- he was planning to escape under with the cage hanging over the steps- had me laughing so hard I almost peed my pants.  We had to run to Walmart for the range of mouse traps to final gifts to lights for the tree (NOT my favorite place) we left Peter in the car to rest.  I went to get him and set the car alarm off- we had locked him in.  His expressions, my annoyance broken by the silly situation was a lovely relief.   Christmas is exactly that a beautiful relief and reminder and we need to embrace it and the preparation for it and this wonderful time of year.

Hug your family- I can't wait for our special day to be united and together. We'll watch our niece and god daughter in the Nutcracker and the beautiful dream.  Life  on Newark-Granville Road is ready for Christmas!

shopping local.....

If I can't buy it here, I'm buying it local somewhere else...or better said- I'm supporting small business this Christmas!  Many of what I will give is from The Works- the glass and wood produced is unique, one of a kind, beautiful and supporting a great cause!! (yes there are still a few things for sale from show art exhibit by Wib Mock!!) The toys in the museum are awesome too- free gift wrap- and are all about fun learning!!

Other gifts are being tracked down in the stores where my family has seen them and shared the interest in an item- instead of buying it on line easily I'm contacting the store directly- it has been fun talking to store owners where my siblings live.

I started this draft earlier in December....we'll see if I can keep up the action as far as reaching out to buy local in other states!! What has been done has been fun.  Regardless I'm enjoying the local shops here- we're lucky to have these creative hardworking folks.

is beginning to look a little bit like Christmas, and we're mixing it up

Ahhhh- putting things in motion is good for my soul!  We've got the Nanny interviews started- thank you Joe!  We've got more than a wreath on the door going- we're changing things up this year! I hadn't thought about how the yellow walls would impact my/our Christmas decorating!!  The new furniture lay outs and such don't just affect where the tree goes but how it all gets displayed.  I'm not a holiday decorator really. I admire and appreciate others that make it all match and look so beautiful.  Our trees growing up were always "toy" trees and it has spilled over to influence the way I don the home.  Tonight I started to reflect on the journey and why things are out that are out....I'll describe for now and you can look for things I share now in future pictures.

I remember pretty well decorating in my first apartment- I used apples cored with plaid bows pinned to the front for candle holders and went from there.  The 2nd year I was able to use lovely Santas that were given to me my the Federal Mogul Omaha Distribution Center on 61st Street team- Gary and Stan- or better yet Colleen- Gary's wife I suspect- helped the guys give me a lovely present.  Please know those Santas still have a special place in the living room!  When we moved to this house we got a bit more involved with actual decorating and brought the fun of a candy theme to the dining room area- I LOVED IT!  I also loved the Nutcrackers that were introduced with a bit more influence when Clare joined the COYB production.  I found a Scottish one and a baker one that fit so well and were used in a variety of places throughout out the years- yes the one in plaid often ended up at the bar!!  Dear friends and Sally's godfamily- godfather and darling family give Sally a snow globe each year  (sally is our snow angel arriving in the ice storm) and pulling them out this year they called to be together in a collection- that is what is on the mantle at this point- nutcrackers and snow globes that are really the childrens' not ours- I'm thrilled they want them this year in family space and not in their rooms! sally went running to her room to bring the nutcracker she was given when attending this year's performance with a friend!!

The dining room is being transformed from sweets to trees.  The beautiful Kathy Anderson painting of Ash Tree grove has its home and is the inspiration. And for the record this is Joe's Christmas gift from us!!  A number of years ago I was lucky enough to purchase an unearthed Jeny Reynolds Jesus birthday piece that I reframed and adore.  It has been in the living room adorned by other christmas trees- initiated by Rowen Sharkey's that I bought at the Festival of Trees!  It is now joined by a metal tree that holds my beloved collection of porcelain ornaments.  Beth Jenkins- my adopted Granvile Granmother from my denison and beyond days gave me exquisite cut outs by Pat Wortham.  I picked up a few in the past years and love them all but the early ones selected by Beth for me during my Denison days and early professional years mean the world to me.  Dear friend Cydmarie (who visited from Nebraska TODAY!!!) also gave me the very special Margaret Furlong shell angels each year and they compliment the PW's so very well.  I'm very happy with their new home in our cozy abode on Newark-Granville Road, with a wreath surrounding them given to me this year by a dear friend!

Another thing you'll find helping set the stage is our Christmas Socks/Stockings.  We have hand-knit ones from Judy Shideler, Tina Angel and fun ones from Rini and Megan- all were wedding gifts! Lucky for us we have two mantles and a stair case that calls for such decoration!

The best and brightest and most sincere and pure tradition comes from Clare and now Sally.  The nativity set with its "choir".  Years ago dear Aunt Ann gave our children the "little people' nativity.  We played with it for ages. Last year we gave it to Louisa who loves it equally- she also have the Nanny Sue Elmo train- I could tell Peter was missing it this year!!  We grew up and found a Schleich (thanks Kim!) set that reflects Clare, Peter and Sally's position in life.  What has remained constant is the various ornaments and little statues that have been assembled to be the choir and join the various nativity players to be present in this miracle.  Clare did it for YEARS. At first it annoyed me that this crowd was taking up space where the nativity should be.  However the innocent and pure love of this activity can't be dismissed.  And last night I came across the repeated activity and I assume Clare was back at it.  Today I found Sally reassembling, moving the choir around and asked if she had done it yesterday- she said- oh yes- it is a happy thing to do Mommy. And she is right- preparing for this blessed and amazing season is a happy thing.  It was just what I needed to do tonight!! I hope you are finding time to soak in all the joys and join me in accepting the changes that are part of this beautiful life and making it work.

all ties together......

Thanks for the feedback on yesterday's tree search called off...no doubt you are anxious to hear the rest of the story!  As promised it will continue to make for blogging material- you may get tired of tree commentary.  You have to know I love trees.  I love Christmas Trees, old trees, new trees, ornamental, classic.  Evergreen and...Okay- you get the drift.....it is no wonder I love this special family tradition.  It is no wonder I love Wib Mock's work- his show is wonderful, please come see it @ The Works!!  I have an important meeting tomorrow so I'll get to the point.

I'm going back to perfection- here I thought I came up with that notion on my own yesterday when reflecting on our tree turned kid hunt. Last week's sermon at FPC Granville was exactly what I needed to hear for so many reasons. My big take aways were engage, don't just be on the sidelines- get involved. It is OK if you aren't perfect-you're there!  Make yourself vulnerable and you'll grow, be brave! And with God all things are possible.  There was so much in the sermon that I had sort of moved the perfect part to the back of my mind- but it made its way out in the blog yesterday.  Today's Sunday School class was what I needed this week! We reflected and shared and talked about many aspects of last week's wonderful sermon (thank you Rev. Karen Chakoian)  I also want to thank my church friends for encouraging me to attend class and commented on my participation- it means a great deal and also thank you to the wonderful Sunday School teachers to get the kids there too!

So guess what - we did indeed go back out today and get a tree!  We went to our favorite place from year's past- Messerall's.  We went after Peter's basketball game in Johnstown (1st one of the season- GREAT game), which was immediately after choir practice, after church, after ss- full morning.  Due to the packed morning were far from prepared- 2 out of 5 of us were- and the mud was thick and deep. I know you are all shocked that I was one of the Leithausers not in boots- I LOVE my rain and snow boots but forgot. Anyway....most of you know we have repainted and executed a fun new color plan for 1142 Newark-Granville Road and totally changed the furniture- which means holiday layout is new too!  We went away from our fat blue spruce last year to the Canaan Fir as felt it was a better fit. Today in the field we were drawn back to the Blue Spruces....but just didn't find one that called to us, and admittedly I was worried about tree's new space with the drapes so we made our way over to the Canaans and found a lovely tree- very tall but we figured we'd trim him down.   We had fun with everyone taking their time with the saw, we loved the tractor rides in the gorgeous country- such beautiful views.  The raining fog reminded Joe of the first time he made it to this farm- the year Peter saved Xmas as family lore refers to it!! Listening to Peter tell the story to the tractor driver was a highlight of my day. I have to say putting that tree on the car was so wonderfully satisfying- if I could drive around with tree on car all season- I would! I love my wreath on my car- that helps but there is something about the tree.  (By the way Messerall's has new barn, new pattern- change was a bit hard- kids missed the tree house big time- but the wreaths, coco, cookies and other goodies were lovely.)   Westerville Leithausers you were very missed. Kids all said it wasn't the same....I hope this will carry over and the lesson from yesterday will be remembered!

The tree is now in the house and guess what- it is far from perfect- it is a bit too petite but it is sweet. The color is gorgeous, but the scent not quite right.  (The boyscout evergreen roping around the doorways has a beautiful scent.)  The tree is here and it makes me happy.  Driving through town everything felt a bit more special and festive.  The tree fun will continue as we decorate- not sure when but we will. The Christmas preparations are moving along- lists are being made and checked twice (another connection to past blog and things that make me happy), change is being embraced and lessons are being learned.  I hope you too are at peace and in a good place, thanks for reading and sharing my life on Newark-Granville Road.

is far from perfect....

So it was one of those days- we knew we were trying to put too much into it! At least we didn't loose a child this time, although we almost did! Sister in law Ann Leithauser dubbed it well- the tree hunt turned into a child hunt instead.  Today was about family tradition and basketball and they just didn't fit together. However the reality is basketball is a family tradition and it was nice to be back in the gym with friends- Granville family- seeing the kids engaged, their progress and the good efforts and team work. And if I do say so myself- they looked really good for picture day!!  We loved our breakfast at the Galena Diner- what a delicious place for breakfast- I hope to try other meals there in the future and go back for bfast for the corned beef hash. The Molly Eggs Benedict was YUMMY! So the lost kids story....admittedly our children- 3 or ours and 2 cousins were not very well behaved during breakfast. We sent them outside to explore while we finished our meal and our dining mates could have some peace and quiet.  When we went to get them - couldn't find them.  We spend probably 10 minutes driving around Galina- a small town to begin with- the good news is they found a park, a Frisbee and were having fun- just not in sight of us.  Yes Life on Newark-Granville Road is far far from perfect but it is pretty darn good. Lets see what the evening holds and when we end up with a Christmas Tree.  It is OK- we love these stories and will remember the year we didn't get the tree.  When we do get a tree will be another blog opportunity!!

takes us down the street.

My morning started at Denison. The Annual Breakfast and Industry Meeting was as always a wonderful opportunity to get updated on life on the hill, see good folks from the community and Denison and visit a building and connect with a place I value so very much.  Today President Dale T. Knobel shared his reflections and they were wonderful. I asked a question about opportunities to partner and work together (also thanking Dale for his leadership in this regard for The Works support from DU)  Dale quickly answered the question by encouraging folks to come to campus.  Attend concerts, sporting events, engage with the students.  I'm blogging about it to encourage you to do so! We stopped by the Denison Women's basketball game one night this week and it was a great treat!

I also love to go to the library- meetings, books, projects- I always leave happy.  This week was no exception! Make sure you get the opportunity to visit The Granville Public Library's Model Railroad Exhibit.  This wonderful show keeps getting better and better. It is more creative and well presented than previous years and it has always been well done! I had the chance to go through alone- I was attending a meeting at the Library and walked through.  So many wonderful childhood memories came rushing back, it was a nice treat! I can't wait to take the kids back and spend a bit more time.  The reality is you should plan to go a few times- it is that good and there is that much to see! I don't think it can be possible to take it all in the first time.  A big thank you to the volunteers that put this on- it must take hours.  Also thanks to the sponsors- great group that also appears to be growing- it is appreciated!!

Another good things about visiting the library- getting the scoop on an upcoming event.  Dec 21 2:30- Arthur Christmas will be shown- bring a pillow to watch!!  Dec 20th- Tween Teen- Grades 4-8 2:30 Hugo the Movie! What a smart time to plan something like this- no school, holiday to-dos- well done!  Life on Newark-Granville road is so much nicer with the GPL and Denison just down the street providing so many wonderful resources for us! Hopefully I'll see you there!

Sneak Peak: Library Train Theme- Grinch!!

cheers!!

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Making Lists....

I always feel better when I make a list.  It is just who I am.  I know this is my "J" in the Myers-Briggs side of things.  In the Strength Indicator I'm not as articulate but I know it is in there......Today's list includes:
-Goodwill Drop
-Post Office, must mail mom's birthday gift
-Make Sally's Dr Apt- schedule extra time for Africa conversation
-Notes
-Calls
-Then of course there is a huge work list and the executing home stuff....

It will be a full day and I'm ready to get started.  Reality is my "J" is a weak J.  I'm somewhat organized and utilize lists and I do like closure, but when multi-tasking like I do I may not get it all done and the lists just grow on Newark-Granville Road. For instance another reason I need to go to the post office is to mail my brother's birthday gift (Nov 15th- eek1) when I mail my mothers.

I wish you all well with your lists- I'll let you know how I do with mine!!

Help Wanted...enjoy the fun of life on Newark-Granville Road

We're looking for a nanny! Our OSU student's transportation costs from Franklin County have her time with us ending at the end of the semester.  This type of childcare has worked very well this year and we ask for your assistance in finding someone that would like to help us stay happy, learning and tidy on Newark-Granville Road!  Here is the description- PLEASE send it to others you know. Help us find a great fit for our family! Thank you!!!

The reality is we'd like to build a team of people to help out- so encourage all ages and situations to apply!! sseleithauser@gmail or look for our posting on Care.com  Right now T and R are covered but we can switch things around based on schedules and interest in hours.

 After School Nanny And House Partner

Primary responsibility is after school care for children. Greeting them when they get off the bus, providing snack, helping them start homework and get ready for activities. Additional responsibilities include arriving in afternoon to help maintain house hold needs- dog walking, laundry, light housekeeping and meal execution-start-up. We're looking for assistance with our full time jobs and active children's lives. Driving children to activities and running errands also part of the position. We are a fun family focused on learning, serving and enjoying our community!

sharing the past....

I shout out to the West Licking Historical Society's Tour today.  I only made it to two stops but I really enjoyed both opportunities to show Sally about what has come before us.  The Mead-Nedham House is beautiful with great exhibits- erector set Ferris wheel, wind-up train (30s era toys!), interesting information on Pataskala area history and then a wind-up Victrola.  Sally hear a record- her first probably- music from a needle and volume control was via opening and shutting the cabinet's doors!  It was a beautiful thing for so many reasons.  The volunteers/docents were just wonderful and it was a pleasure to spend some time with each of them. I love when I learn something and it so beautifully given and shared.  Today was filled with moments like that all in the holiday spirit as we prepare on Newark-Granville Road, the holiday spirit has arrived!

Love and Friends

I believe (x12) in love, love, love, love, love.When you can't see the forest or the trees,for all the colors of your dreams,just turn to friends their help transcends to love, love, love, love, love.I believe (x12) in love, love.I believe (x12) in love, love, love, love, love.
 ALAN MENKEN - I BELIEVE IN LOVE (MIRROR MIRROR MIX) LYRICS 

I love this song! I had completely forgotten about this song until Sally found it on my ipad.  She played it  alot today and it was the perfect back drop to a wonderful day.  I hope you have love in your life, dear friends to help you and share in this journey of life!  I'm very lucky to be surrounded in love and friendship and today was one of those full days with many touch points.  We didn't get to do it all- Newark-Granville Road is overflowing with activity today but what we did do was very rewarding.

Favorites

I was going to save this one for December's attempt at keeping up with daily blogging....however it has been one of those days.  Full of ups and downs and challenges- nothing critical and so I need to play Scarlet "and worry about it tomorrow" and focus on the positive....things that make me smile.  Here are a few from the grocery this week- I LOVE that these are carried in the IGA (Ross Granville Market) And even Griffey decided to help me and choose his favorite scotch (one of Joe's) He's sitting here with me while I blog- looking out on bright lights on Newark-Granville Road.  I hope you have little things like this to make you happy!

For the record I did not purchase all of the featured items and for the record I have more favorite ice creams I photographed but will share at another time....I like to say "why" on this blog.  The Velvet Ice Cream Sandwiches- what isn't to love!! Peppermint Stick ice cream, with chocolate wafers- easy to eat- festive for the season and better priced than the Jeni's!!  LOVE the Jeni's creative, yummy, innovative flavors- can't wait to try the new one dark chocolate with candy cane or peppermint? I also love the Max's dog biscuits- made at the Newark High School- amazing program- LOVE that we sell them in our local store!! And Scotch and Griffey- how cute is he!!! WE learned to love this scotch with John Harrabin and festive fun dinner clubs!!  I feel better already, thanks for reading! Love to hear your thoughts on my favorites and for you to share yours!

Then the first baby laughed for the first time, his laugh broke into a million pieces, and they all went skipping about. That was the beginning of fairies. JM Barrie

This quote is way down on the blog and today I was reminded of it and was able to share with a coworker!! Today the most beautiful child was in the museum today playing and a simple game of peekaboo (actually it was  a game of ringing the door bell and saying-hello) in tyke lab. This simple interaction created the sweet, pure gigle that delight and charms- the world stopped for a moment and all was so perfect.  Thank you to his mom and grandfather for sharing this happiness with us today!

Art, History, Technology, Innovation and Communication

http://www.carettaworkspace.com/

Three great meetings today! Three great meetings that all involved Art, History, Technology, Innovation and Communication.  All three involved talented, passionate people. Seeing connections happen is something I highly value and appreciate and today it happened in three meetings!

I had the pleasure to tour Caretta and see how these AMAZING desks and office (work or home) are designed and manufactured.  I was able to see where these beautiful pieces of functional and artistic art are being shipped- all over the US, yet not so much in Columbus.  I hope all of you reading will consider sending this link to those you know may value such a product- if anyone is interested I HIGHLY recommend this quality product that has been so intelligently designed and beautifully produced.  The tour was also helpful and inspiring as we move forward with exciting projects at The Works involving Invention, Innovation and Communication!!

The other meetings involved grants and project designing for the aforementioned projects- I think it would be fun to win the lottery and in a snap these projects would be funded (yes I'd give a lot of the money I'd win away- after decorating the kids rooms the way they want- their plans if we would win). The reality is the journey is part of the process and the exhibits and their impact grow stronger with each meeting!

Lessons learned or better said- re-iterated in real life examples today for making Innovation and Invention happen. I admire how hard a whole family works to make a go of businesses.  It isn't ever just an inventor but so many people.  The first things the person we met with this afternoon talked about was his great staff and how to engage and keep their loyalty, interest and commitment. He talked about how people work their way up and show their work ethic and learn the business.  His family was on the tour with us sharing the stories that led to the success.  The other key quality is resilience- the ability to welcome failure, the stick-to-it-ness that is required. The creativity, the important of lean work approach, quality work, cross training...I could go on and on- it was a good day for learning and inspiration that will help with planning for life on Newark-Granville Road.

hits 100th Post and therefore has to be about volunteering.

So hear I am in my nest- I have work to do, holiday tasks, email to catch-up on and thinking about what should I blog about today.  I scan my past blogs to see the subject matter thinking I need to do something fresh. And I start looking at the dates on the post- I've done pretty well with the every day posting and what catches my attention- 99.  I have 99 posts logged on this blog so when I hit- publish it will become 100!  This feels like a milestone.  Two people today told me to keep blogging and I really appreciated the support and commentary about this blog!

Both of the people that gave me the boost are volunteers.  They not only volunteer for The Works but many places around town- I admire both of these men a great deal- they not only serve, they lead.  I had the privilege to address The Works Volunteer meeting today- that is always a treat!  Janice LoRaso has brought so much to this part of Museum life.  She honors and respects these incredible people that help make The Works the special place it is.  Frank Logan's presentations teach us so much each month.  Having the opportunity to thank in person these dear friends is always a highlight.  Today's meeting had a great energy.

Today I also was able to share my story as part of orientation for two staff members and our intern. Volunteering has always led to my jobs at Federal-Mogul- extra work with Organization Psychology put me in my Call Center Start Up position.  Efforts to take care of employees, led to my HR position, while in HR- my volunteer to execute trainings gave me the flexibility to work from Columbus and travel when I married Joe.  Meanwhile I always volunteered for Denison and that led to my job there. While living in Newark I found my way to The Works and volunteered there which led to my position there today.  My volunteer work with the Granville Library benefits the job I do now- sitting in a meeting today about a mailing took me right back to the levy effort! I also am able to share that volunteers are some of my dearest friends, my local family.  Working side by side in a volunteer capacity bonds people together in unique ways.  I can't imagine my life without volunteerism.  Both Joe and my parents set the example and I hope we are able to pass this on to our kids.  I also appreciate those that have asked me to volunteer- I remember the day so clearly when I was asked to join Alumni Council at Denison, Session at Church and when Marcia engaged me at The Works.

My life on Newark-Granville road is so much richer thanks to the volunteers who inspire me, help my family (coaches, classroom parents, carpool drivers, troop leaders, etc....) and make the community where we live a very special place! And by the way- if you would like to volunteer at The Works- we'd love to have you.  There are many ways to engage- lets have coffee and talk explore the idea!! There is much more to explore on this topic- why we volunteer where we volunteer, how it ties to "call" vs filling a void.  For now it is time to keep plugging away and even do some volunteer work on Newark-Granville Road!

with a little help from our Friends!

Basketball Season...HELP!  Maybe it shouldn't be an all caps type- it should be more like a- I'm really going to need help this season.....

I started this entry weeks ago when the schedule was just starting to come together, Joe was juggling his team's schedule time and it was oh so apparent that it wasn't going to be easy to have 3 kids playing basketball on 3 different teams this year.  This was the situation last year and I don't remember stressing as much or maybe I'm reacting this year because of what we went through last year?  I know I'm missing having Peter on Guy Michael's team but am thrilled Joe is coaching Peter's team. JOE LOVES TO COACH!  He's coached Clare's team for years and it has been sweet. Peter has learned so much and the program has evolved nicely so Joe is really excited.  Clare is benefiting from going to the boys practices too!

I put the game schedule into outlook- it will be a bit nutty, most of our winter will be all about basketball and there are days I'm already coordinating the "help".  I'm not alone- it was nice to chat with another Mom in harder situation- 3 kids playing and younger siblings to include in the coordination/entertainment!  What is amazing about living on Newark-Granville Road is people do help.  As much as I love to move as a family unit- we'll divide and conquer quite a bit- starting tomorrow night with Clare's 6th Grade String Concert- same night as Sally's first practice.   The better title for the blog might be Driving Burg Street for the next few weeks! Wave if you see us passing and let me know if your child needs a ride- I'm happy to help!!

Slowly but Surely.....

What a wonderful weekend- no wonder I love Thanksgiving so much- it gives us four full days!!  I love that I can feel that I had four days off even with working on Friday!  Friday's event was so special and just part of my usual life here's holiday fun!  It was a quick trip to see Joe's parents but we made the most of every minute with a great hike, relaxing meal of the left overs- I LOVE the left overs- as the cook I really savor the flavors and Joe's parents prepped it all for us!! And the football- we watched 3 games- the rivalries all had connections to us- OSU-MI, Florida-FSU and Notre Dame-USC.....and all very entertaining games!!

So I soaked up all the Thanksgiving Spirit these past few days thanks to friends and family and was able to come back to my life on Newark-Granville Road and start the transition to the Advent Season.  Sally and I collected the Autumn Decor, took the pumpkins out of the window boxes and did a bit of Christmas prep- we have wreathes on the door and the Christmas Card basket started....Nothing puts me in the holiday spirit like Christmas Cards in the mail box and Christmas Trees on cars.  I saw my first one Friday on River Road. I wasn't ready for Christmas at that point but no denying the joy it brings.  The festive windows around town are key too (picture before) and certainly the kids' love of the holiday- it all adds up and carries the day!

I look forward to sharing these and more joys of the season with you.  Lucky for me my joy is year round as Life on Newark-Granville Road gives me so much for which to be grateful

Window Shopping.....

A number of favorite things are part of this photo.....I look forward to sharing more of my favorite holiday things with you on this blog.  We are keeping the Thanksgiving celebration going, time to connect with the Leithauser family!!

A Grateful Sigh.....

Nope- no blog yesterday, not that my head wasnt' filled with catchy titles to describe all the fun and festivity, tradition and family and friend bonding that was happening.  Oh well- I'll do two at some point to keep me on track in my mind for this monthly blogging thing.

Montly blogging also has me pondering the purpose of blogging- should I be doing more than just expressing the comings and goings of my life on beautiful Newark-Granville Road? I want you to enjoy reading, although I have to admit- I enjoy sharing and documenting what I oringally stated I would when I started this blog "FYIs with why.....about life in this fun community and my life!"  So here is my day yesterday - when I shared these hightlights at work, they were amused so I hope you will be as well.  I also was told I look tired and I wanted simply to say- I should look and be tired- it was a full fun day, just as my life is- full and fun!!

Thanksgiving Day- my favorite day of the year....well Christmas Eve Day is a very close 2nd...
Early Prep- I love to cook- I find the Thanksgiving Meal not that hard- my parents love the traditiional things from our family and mom and I can make our way around my kitchen pretty well together.  I love brining the turkey now and enjoyed getting him ready to go in the oven as soon as we returned from....

turkey trot- we all get into this one- as described in an earlier blog! Sally was excited to be with her friends and we had prearranged to meet up to make that happen. I was a bit disappointed I didn't see as many friends as I recall seeing- not because they were not there- just so many people- great success- way to go St. Lukes- wonderful community effort and fundraiser for Food Pantry!!! The highlight was the great run I was happily forced into!!  Sally's friend's darling little sister sprinted ahead of the group and I felt the need to keep an eye on the just turned 5 year old.  It was the best work out I could of asked for- sprint, skips- bit of breath catching walking at the end....she was so happy and I was happy to be with her.  Sally was happy with her pals and it all worked!  Another highlight was the friends along the way cheering us on- bonus this year- Katie and boys used our yards- made yard signs and had our house a happy place for all participants!! Thanks Katie- I always want to be in two places at once and you helped me so much!  Everyone finished the race strong. Joe took a tumble due to Griffey but he seems to be OK- phew!

Our spend the day at home day was nice- so glad my parents were with us.  We had yummy bloody Mary's- Mom brought one from Jim Mattimoe that was awesome! Then we had quiche, cinnamon rolls, fruit salad to get the day going! We put the turkey in and enjoyed hang out time.  My dad earned his keep by helping us hang pictures in the living room.  I like to use the collage style my parents do and if I do say so myself it looks really good!  I love the art Joe and I have collected adn combined and it is fun to see it hanging in new places. It was last year at this time that we made the move to all yellow with white woodwork in the front of the house. Slowly but surely we're progressing and this step was very satisfying.

It took some time for 18lber to roast but he was rich and yummy. Nana's gravy and potatoes were wonderful. Clare was thrilled I remembered the rolls and I love that she likes peas.  Saltines is what we all prefer for the scalloped oysters and Peter delighted me with 2nds.  The sauerkraut that cooked all day and gave me the aroma of turkey day- never made it down to our end of the table- oh well! It will be yummy with the left overs.  Nana's pie with Betsy's cream was heaven and I'm happy the kids were pleased with my 1st attempt at pumpkin cookies- have to have something pumpkin but pumpkin pie is not my favorite.

Unfortunately we broke two favorite glasses (used for scotch) but lessons were learned and new favorites can be found.  (I have my eye on two yellow one's from The Works!!) The dog knocked over the small remains of the Nouveau Beaujolais while we were cleaning up- good news- boiling water with salad will take the stain out!  Lets home we didn't damage the antique linen....The kids went back to Cherry Valley to swim and Joe and I curled up with a movie.

Yes Life on Newark-Granville Road at Thanksgiving was filled with family bonding and connecting, progress and lessons and I was able to sigh with gratitude for many reasons.  Thanks for sharing these with me.

Orginal Blogging?

How cool is this- Tracey Lawson found her great great great grandfather's travel journal from his adventure from a wagon trip going from mt. Pleasant Ohio to New City and back in 1838!  What did she do- she retraced his steps and documented it in this wonderful book! She'll be reading from it at HOLIDAY HOMECOMING at The Works on Friday!! This connects to me and my life on Newark-Granville Road in many ways.

1. The route follows Rt. 40- my own path many many times as a Denison student and over the years with grand kids visiting Grandparents.   Sure enough Hagerstown is mentioned!!
2. Journaling- Blogging has become my journalling.  As much as I value it, appreicate it- I don't keep it up.  I do have a journal I pick up every now and then. However this daily blogging things has been good and I have to wonder if Travel Journals like this one may have been the precursser to Blogs of today?
3. This book and talk (and signing) so well connect to the Aminah exhibit at The Works!  I'm so excited for generations to gather and enjoy the special event at The Works on Friday and take in teh exhibit and hopefully enjoy the experience all the more.  Aminah's is a visual historian- in some ways that is what us bloggers are as well with the use of  photos.  Words and art together are powerful, inspirational things!
4. So on this wonderful Thanksgiving Eve as I pull out grandparent dishes, dust off recipes and traditions passed down and fit to our current needs I am grateful for authors and publishers like Lawson and McDonald and Woodward Publishing for sharing such a piece of work.  I hope you'll join me as we interact and connect across generations and build our communities.

On the Grocery List

Thanksgivig on Newark-Granville Road Shoping List:

I already bought:
Some veggies for the Crudite
Potatoes
Butter- lots
Saltines for the Scalloped oysters
Baby Peas- frozen
Stuffing supplies
Cinnamon Rolls for the morning
V8 for the bloodies
Pumpkin for something pumpkin
Some appetizer stuff
festive napkins
Brussell Sprouts

Organic Free Range Turkey- picked up today- 18 lbs- Going Green Store- LOVE!!!
Cranberries
Potato chips for the left over sandwiches- asked Mom to bring UTZ too

Still to buy:
Oysters
supplies for cranberry sauce- find recipe - Collen Pitt's Cranberry Chutney
Horseradish
Sauerkraut
Lettuce for the sandwiches
More appetizers
supplies to make something pumpkin- cookies? with Clare
Flowers for house- table (glass looks good!!)

Peanut Butter and Jelly- no Jelly

So one of the things about the "blogging everyday" is I'm not taking my blog ideas a bit further.  Often I'll be in the moment of something that makes me think, happy, question- I'll say to myself- I need to blog about this!  And then it is gone.....This month when those things happen I try to text myself, write it down or tell someone- I'm more effective when I extrovert about things.

Another trick has been starting a post entry and leaving it in the draft area- this is one of those topics.  PB and J- who doesn't love one! I really feel for those allergic to peanuts like my brother.  Yes I like peanuts and most nuts and most nut butters- but peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a classic, something that makes my mouth, soul and stomach sign that happy relief.

So on Newark-Granville Road- Sally asks often to have a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwhich- no jelly.  Today I came downstairs and she was making her own...kind of struggling with it a bit and I so loved helping her.  My favorite knife to use is from my grandmother- Ga-Ga.  Clara Schnebly Price is with me so much in my life and that too could be a blog topic!!  There is something about the wide long blade and similar handle that makes spreading the peanut butter easier. 

Later in the day I had skipped lunch and was at work in the downstairs volunteer/event kitchen.  I was just going to get some nuts or fruit but I found pure nourishing comfort instead!! We had an event last week and provided lunch.  I picked up lunch meat with bread but also made sure to have PB and J in case we ran low.  Who knew it would come in handy for my busy week.  Turns out my colleague had also skipped lunch so I made two sandwiches and it just felt good to make the sandwich. I found an old cheese spreader and the bread that was just right softness.  And when you are hungry- the PB and J tastes all the better!

So looking back in my PB and J life...I so fondly remember play dates in Baltimore.  I don't even recall the friend's name- he was a boy, I vaguely remember what he and his mom looked like....but I do recall and can so vividly remember the taste of fluffer nutter!  And to be honest when I make peanut butter with marshmallow fluff- it isn't quite the same.  I also recall the fun at an older time in my life- maybe Altooona days??  I came to know and really enjoy peanut butter and pickle sandwhiches.    So when I hear abut peanut butter burgers (Red Oak Tavern in Newark!!) or Peanut Butter and bacon- I think hmmmm- might need to give that a try! Life on Newark-Granville Road appreciates tasty innovation as well as the classics!

Farmers Market on the Table

I've been hearing about the yummy ways to make and enjoy Kale (beyond window boxes) but I had not taken the plunge yet.  And then I went to the Farmers Market yesterday!
http://www.sunbeamfamilyfarm.com/recipe
I started buying from Sunbeam because it was Mrs.Dilbone- and we love Mrs. Dilbone and her math class. (Clare last year) and then I kept returning as I loved what I purchased- I'm totally addicted to the Baby Argula!!  The vegetables are delicious, colorful, unique ( to me) and well presented.  She has recipes and makes it all seem easy!  Yesterday I ran into my friend who told me how much her family enjoys the Rutabaga Fries- so I bought two rutabagas- one for decor and one to make to chop and bake at 400 with sea salt! (Kids did OK with them- I need to make them crispier I used too much olive oil.  But Joe and I LOVED the flavor.) I also bought the kale and am I glad I did!  I made it two ways- one from a recipe on the sunbeam site- it was OK  http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/melissa-darabian/crispy-kale-chips-recipe/index.html  This is the one I found when I googled Kale Chips and it was even better than I thought- done in the oven- so easy and SOOOO good!  Kids did better with these.  I also served a yummy salad with the best Arugula EVER, great spinach and some other veggies that make us all happy- little cucumbers from giant eagle today hit home as well!  Reality is they preferred the flank steak- Sally helped me prep it with white truffle oil (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Snapshots-lounge/208134212530883  Snapshots lounge woke up that yummy flavor I crave (thank you Ann Leithauser for putting that in my pantry!!) And by the way Snapshots has SunbeamFamilyFarm Argula and the best Chicken Salad I've had since Gordon's Grocery that my mom imports from Hagerstown for me.

Okay- this wasn't what I thought I'd blog about today....so now I have more to put into my drafts area to keep my blogging ideas somewhere easy to grab.....More will be coming to the table  on Newark-Granville Road from the Farmers Market so stay tuned!!

Blogging - Reading Appreciation Award....keeping it going!

:: The Introduction ::  All taken and used from http://naplesgirlblog.com/2012/11/16/the-reader-appreciation-award-meme/

Cheri was given the award from Ally @The Spectacled Bean and then she tagged me, so here I am keeping it going!  The deal is that I answer the following questions.  Then I tag some other bloggers who I appreciate for leaving comments on my blog.  They then answer the questions on their blogs & tag some more bloggers.  And the award goes on ad infinitum…

:: The Questions ::

Where do you do most of your writing/blogging? My grandfather's desk, in my living room facing the hallway that is my happy yellow and green (it was painted a yeat ago and today I put the first nails in the wall- Joe did- I couldn't but I'm thrilled to have two paintings hanging) and I look out on to Newark-Granville Road.  I also sit in this awesome antique needlepoint chair- sort of throne like!!

What books were your childhood favourites? Make Way for Ducklings is my very favorite, but I also loved reading the Bobbsey Twins by the light of the hallway light, my father would read to use from a beautiful anthology- blue linen, gorgeous illustrations- I need to track those down....My mother's reading to us of The Country Bunny is really one of my most treasured.

Who is your favourite fictional character? I have two- but they are connected- Tracy Lord and Lisa Carol Fremont.  They are also from my two favorite movies: High Society and Rear Window!

What is your favourite time of day and why? Cocktail Hour, no this doesn't happen everyday for us.....I love when dinner is almost ready- prepped, we stop what we're doing and gather to relax, nibble, read, chat and be together.  

Who would play me in a movie of my life? Molly Ringlewald probably......

Have you ever Googled yourself and been surprised at what you’ve found? Yes, surprised only in the sense that is mostly running times from races....and I still am in awe of the fact I've run races- not fast but I've done it!

One material possession I could not live without? pillow- I LOVE a good pillow and hate to sleep without one or two is my preference.

Have you ever been naked in public? Hmmmm- yes as I do enjoy a good skinny dip- it started with Naidni fun at Lake Dunmore with the cousins.

What is your dream car? BMW 5 series station wagon, although I do LOVE convertibles so it may be have to switch to something in that catagory- no I take it back- I test drove the BMW station wagon and LOVED it- worried about my led foot though....as much as I LOVE convertibles not an everday car in Ohio.

What/who/where was your first proper kiss?  Not sure I want to type that on a blog- email me at ssleithauser@roadrunner.com and I give you the scoop! It happened at a Bat Mitvah!

:: The Next Step ::

Dear fellow Bloggers- I'd love to read your answers too and I do love your blogs!!

http://maryhelenfernandezstewart.blogspot.com/

http://abroadinsenegal.wordpress.com/

Good things getting Better

Life on Newark-Granville road includes running.  And today I'll talk about the literal kind- jogging, exercise with appropriate clothing and shoes. Joe ran in high school- often for conditioning for other sports- Cross Country for Basketball, Track for Baseball....but the truth is he likes it as he kept running. Senior year of college he ran the Columbus Marathon (one of the things I love about him- what a great thing to do your senior year!!)  He runs as often as he is able at work at lunch time.  When we vacation he always packs his running cloths.  Me- I didn't start running (if you call it that) until after Sally was born and I started exercising with Christy Plaugher and Granville Fitness.  The 5 or was it 6 am group was the perfect fit and just what I needed.  Thanks to the friendship that evolved from that effort I learned to run and really enjoyed it.  Joe and I don't run together, however often we enjoy participating in the same fundraising races including the Fire Cracker Five.  We found friends that would watch our kids for us- often they brought them to the race.  The kids love to see us run, cheer for us and always asked if they too could run.  Occasionally they run in at the end with Joe....fast forward to today's world.  I walk a bit more than I run- hoping to get back in shape to run the full amount.  All 3 kids enjoy a good race and the opportunity to stretch their legs too...and on Newark-Granville Road on Thursday we get our chance!

The Granville Turkey Trot- love it!  We participated in the first one and run whenever we are in town.  We even participate in one in Hagerstown when we ware there!  So why do we love the Turkey Trot, Why should you join us if you are in town, and why am I blogging about it under the title Good things getting Better.

St. Luke's Church does an amazing job putting this great opportunity to get some exercise on a day you'll take in way more calories than you can consume AND it raises money for the Licking County Food Pantry- wahoo!  Lots of great folks come out and it is a day filled with community fun, appreciation and spirit!  It is a great course- down Newark-Granville Road- to the colony and back.  The energy of seeing friends- walking and running, passing one another before and after the turn around- awesome.  It is a Granville top ten event!

And the best thing is we've watched it get better and better.  More efficient, more effective, bigger and SO much fun!  Look at these awesome items they've added for this year.  Knit caps - turkey- roasted turkeys!! for those in strollers and bandannas for the dogs!! See pictures to the right. And yes the proceeds go the Licking County Food Pantry too!  Well done and thank you St. Luke's- it is an amazing effort and all of us Leithausers appreciate the effort.  Join us at the event and after at our house for bloodies to toast the fun of running on NEwark-Granville Road!

This made me smile!  For the record- I LOVE catalogs and this one in particular and the store.  I loved registering here for beautiful things- dishes and pots and pans I use everyday still- 13 years later.  I love innovation and invention and creative approaches.   I love thinking about being in a place where I would have the time and space to cook like this.   I don't have the funds or counter space for what is highlighted here  (I so long for a pantry storage spot) but I do have a few things like this from the past....like an oyster place that simply makes life on Newark-Granville Road delightful!  I hope you giggle like I did!!  Thanks to Marcia for sharing this great break in the action.

http://deadspin.com/5959212/the-haters-guide-to-the-williams+sonoma-catalog?utm_source=gawker.com&utm_medium=recirculation&utm

I could go on and blog about some of the comments at the bottom- but spelling tests call, an important and fun work meeting and for the most part my blogs are extemporaneous and I prefer my political commentary be more prepared.  I hope you have a great day and this helps you relax in the midst of holiday planning- Thanksgiving is MY favorite holiday and today kicks family and friend fun!!

Details like Dakar

http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2862.htm

Dakar in the Republic of Senegal- that is where we are headed for Spring Break!   As soon as our kids heard dear friends were moving there (http://abroadinsenegal.wordpress.com/)  they said- "we want to go visit" and being the person who enjoys travel I said-"maybe."

Joe for some time has said we needed to go, to seize the opportunity to connect with friends and experience something like this with them. So we'd talk a bit about it- figuring out the right time, avoiding standardized test, talking about when it would work for Kristine, etc.....In Disney the kids loved Animal Kingdom but I couldn't help but think- gosh we could take them to see the real Africa this year. And then we went to Cuba.  The Cuba trip opened our eyes and as much as we enjoyed our time alone without the kids, we knew the next trip like this would include them.  One of the things we love to do as parents is expose, show, engage our children in things outside of their comfort zone in safe and protective ways. We want them to know what is possible and outside of their own beautiful world.  We also want to share the experience and know what are friends have been up to over there!! And we miss them and want to have some quality time with them.

So we did it- we booked the flights. Now to finalize the passports, get the yellow fever shots and figure out the other nitty gritty details- March will be here before we know it!  We'll drive to Maryland and my parents will help us get to Dulles. We'll fly direct on South Africa Airlines. We'll go mid week before Spring Break- kids will miss only a few days of school. We'll fly home Good Friday and stay with my parents for Easter weekend to acclimate back- we have basically a red-eye home so we'll need to sleep, catch-up, do laundry, etc....It is about an 8 hour flight- not too bad! Spring clothes.

We'll stay a bit with Kristine and kids, and take a short trip south, we'll do some animal sightings we hope and enjoy the ocean front location.  We'll keep you posted as this evolves and plans are finalized.  Thanks for your interest, support and encouragement!!  Christmas will be a bit easier as this is the real gift- Peter and Simon can celebrate their birthdays just a bit early together!!

Happy Energy

Big news- kids figured it out and are thrilled- Spring Break 2013- Africa!  A visit to Kristine Michael and kids is just something we can't pass up.  I'll share more of the whys and details later but I love to share the reason behind happy energy on our house in Newark-Granville Road!

The other buzz around here- poker chips, cards being dealt- math games!! 21 with friends who came to our bus stop- love the happy dialogue- what a great way to start a day!!

and the center of the small world!

While at Denison I thought our fair college on the hill was the center of the small world.  It seemed EVERYONE had a connection to Denison.  Then when I moved to Granville I swore it was actually Granville that was the energy connecting spot.  After 10 years of research here I can now say I truly believe the exact center of the small world is Licking County!

Here is an example of the small world. There I am waiting in line to meet the future president of Denison, this was yesterday.  I had a great chat with a former colleague.  While waiting I turn to the students and strike up a conversation. I always enjoy the opportunity to hear what is going on with the current group.  And yes I had to answer the usual question about life at denison in the...."eighties".  We're legendary my fellow Denisonians from my '90 era!  Anyway we have a nice conversation about where they are from, majors, etc.... we start talking about their perspective on what Dr. Adam Goldberg will bring Denison.  It turns to global perspectives and travel.  I shared my recent travel ah-has from Cuba.  Turns out the one student will be studying abroad in Havana!  WOW!  It hits me then that Cheri Hottinger will be speaking on Cuba the next day (today) I figure out how to tweat her (not just read from my Twitter account- by the way neither DU student could help me) to confirm.  He jumped at the invitation and I was very happy to connect this student with the Newark Rotary Club and the opportunity to hear our Chamber President's perspective on the trip.  I look forward to seeing this student and watching how our worlds overlap.

I'm a big fan of figure eights and life's repeating- I've blogged about it before.   Life on Newark-Granville Road is best when it connects in a happy balance the exciting and special places, people and happenings in my world.

Happy Phone Calls

http://updateforsarah.blogspot.com/

Here is another blog....actually my first blog....and the good news is this blog doesnt' need daily updating.  I started the "Update for Sarah" blog in Nov 2008 so the fact I was just able to post a title of 8.1 brings me to tears.   Most of you know my sister was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer and is doing so very well!- she remains in remission and her marker number is very low!  I used the blog to help keep folks up on what was going on with her. Sarah doesn't really do social media but we wanted to help connect people and I'm so glad we did. No doubt the prayers and energy helped Sarah find the strength she needed.  I should be keeping the effort up on updates around the general effort to fight and end Ovarian Cancer.  Reality is life has settled to normal. We love supporting all those that are helping with direct fundraising- Pelatonia and so many more.  I believe my work @ The Works is helping educate our future doctors and researcher- STEM education is critical to this work!! And talking and sharing is another way- we all need to be doing our best to stay healthy and get the screens we need- please.

I just took a looking back at the updates I shared that first year...wow....life is soooo good on Newark-Granville Road and in Maryland.  Sarah is doing really well- thank you for the prayers- they were work!!   So I looked at when I started this blog- 2009... time flies...I really thought I had started it before the "Sarah" blog- I was wrong.

 I also was able to talk with my brother tonight- happy news there too- his daughter was elected Student Council Secretary and he is embracing his birthday week- big 43 very soon.....He's catching up to me....I hope a phone call bring you happy news and the comfort it delivered on Newark-Granville Road for me.

New Things

When I was little and we would go shopping, part of the fun was coming home and showing all the purchases to my Dad and others that we're part of the big shop.  We often went to "the city" to do the back to school, Easter/spring shop.  The city was Washington, DC or Baltimore, when we moved to Altoona it was Pittsburgh!  I now realize the "fashion show" or showing was as much for my mother to review what she had purchased and possibly put things together, it was part of the organizing of the shopping.  What I also take away and have applied myself now is the "why did we get this"....we never bought things just because- there was always a reason, occasion, perceived need.  Often they were gifts...if we splurged "it would be part of your Xmas gift" or gifts would be stowed away to be brought out to wear to a holiday party, church service, etc.......I'm the same way- I struggle to shop just for shopping sake.  Joe may disagree- but often things find their way to his closet to be given to me by a child for a holiday/gift giving occasion.

For whatever reason I'm didn't do that today. Some of the purchases at the Holiday Fair may be gifts but I'll bring you in on my "sharing" step of this process.  I love to know the "why" and I love to share the "why" so here is why I bought what I bought today.....

Button Tree- a beautiful tree that will fit so well into our Xmas tree themed living room.  This one is filled with buttons and pearl topped pins to make a winter white tree- it made me think of the Works' Aminah exhibit so it will be a lovely addition.

Tu-Tu- lots of colorful tulle will excite a little 4 year old that I know- she is quite the dancer!!!

Gorgeous pillow- green, zinia flower pattern in fleece- made by Barbara Evens- I saw a photo of it in the advertising so I hit the sale at  9 am not to miss anything!!

Yummy rice krispie treats for the kids to be happy- great price, yummy

Oyster Plate!!!! Oh yes....OKAY- I should put this one Joe's closet and probably will! Ever since I visited my sister for her 40th birthday and met my parents at one of their favorite Baltimore restaurants- some sort of oyster themed place that is adorned with antique china oyster plates on the walls- I've wanted one!  I got up early to get the pillow (see above) and picked up some fun things.  I walked through the one room with antiques but nothing was a "must have".  I went on my way and then returned to work my shift at the Holiday Fair.  As things were winding down I walked back into the "1/2 Price" antique room- and voila- there was the Oyster Plate- waiting for me! THANK YOU to the donor and thank you to all those that went before that left it for me!! I also am pleased about the soup cups that are a great addition to my china- I've wanted something to serve soup in that would match my Spode Floral print china!

So there you have it- a fun day of shopping and a little insight into the new things on Newark-Granville Road.

too much to do....and post about....

So I missed Saturday....Hopefully my two posts today that includes picking up a draft started yesterday will make up for it and keep me in the "blogging everyday" camp!

Some days I feel like there is nothing to post and then weekends like this one- filled with so much to contemplate, share,  extrovert type about slow me down.....analysis paralysis?? Overwhelmed?? And not overwhelmed in a bad or unhealthy way- just the thought that "there is just too much to do and not enough hours in the day" kind of feeling.  I know I'm not alone here and I know many- I bet most of you get it.

So what do you do when you feel like this- the- which way do I  go feeling.  One big thing that helps me is to talk about it with Joe.  Often this is early am or late at night when we've turned out the light or are just waking up.  He gives me a bit of input and often my extroversion helps me determine the next step but his big hug gets me on my way.  Today was no exception and the answer came to me from past Yoga lessons about being in the moment. Today was about work and opportunity to connect with folks helping The Works tell its story in commercial form.  I'm grateful for all the help that was there. I'm grateful for conversations and shared thoughts and input.  I'm grateful for the collaboration with local talent too!  I'm glad I didn't fret about the mistakes and errors of yesterday, the challenges of Monday and 2013.   The energy was in today and it was a lovely place to be on and off Newark-Granville Road.

And I would be remiss not to realize so many veterans that also had/have other things to do- but they lay down their life, leave their family and country and serve and protect and give me the freedom to have too many choices and things to worry about.  Thank you to all our military men and women, thank you. I'm very grateful on Newark-Granville Road thanks to your service.