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Thursday, May 30, 2013


Why- because soft shell crabs are my favorite and Joe likes them to....and based on Facebook post response many of you like them too!  And you too can buy them at the IGA and bring them home to cook. They're so easy....but you have to clean them!  And this video makes is super easy- woo hoo! First time I did this I failed- slaughtered the poor guys...sorry about the pun....actually truth be told first time I did these I forgot to clean them....ugh..... After cleaning them dust with flour, salt, pepper and seasoning to taste, saute in olive oil or butter or combo until light brown- serve asap with fresh lemon and some parsley or ?? Be creative....Of lets plan a soft shell crab night - we can order them and get together to enjoy together- I've cooked for 14 before.... FYI I was born in Virginia and raised in Maryland, my sign is cancer the crab.....lots of whys about this part of my life on Newark-Granville Road. Thanks for reading.

Expectations

Expectations are fascinating things and have such power. I will explore this further at some point but being in the moment of wonderful work for The Works and this crazy time of year called - end of school- pull me from public contemplation.  In the mean time enjoy a wonderful blog Twitter connected me to:

http://culturaloffering.com/     Beyond just great content, Kurt Harden has links to other blogs I look forward to exploring further myself. Thank you Kurt- your blog.  We don't know one another that well but I admire your work with the Licking County Chamber Leadership Class and the respect you have of some dear friends that make my life on Newark-Granville Road all the better.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

isn't always fair but we can strive....

Supreme Court Justice Sharon Kennedy was the speaker at Rotary today. And once again I was reminded of why I benefit from being a Rotarian.  Joe went with me to my father's Rotary Club meeting in March was struck by The Four Way Test. We talk about it with our kids and integrate it into our lives on Newark-Granville Road.  Although the Granville Leithausers know "life isn't always fair" they know things work out and we think before we act and consider bascially these same ideas.

Today Justice Kennedy related her first interaction with this same important instrument for the international service organization and talked about how it relates to our country's rich heritage and alignment to our forefather's plan for our government. Here is the four way test that you too can bring in to your lives.  If your interested in joining me for a Rotary meeting- Tuesdays at noon downtown Newark please let me know- I'd love to share these guiding questions in person with you.

Rotary Four Way Test of the things we think, say or do:
  1. Is it the TRUTH?
  2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
  3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
  4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

And here is also a link to learn more about Justice Sharon Kennedy- she was impressive- if you have the chance to meet her in person and hear her perspectives- please do- this is the 2nd time I've had the privilege and I'm grateful.
http://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/SCO/justices/kennedy/default.aspx

Monday, May 27, 2013

getting away....

Big thank you to the Westerville Leithausers for hosting us at Apple Valley this weekend- what fun! Despite the cold weather the kids swam and Uncle Scott took them tubing! He even skied last night after dinner- smart man as this morning was cooler- way cooler.  But that didn't stop the kids from their tube ride in the rain....very few folks on the lake, wet suits provided for all this year- bonus!  An uncle that will provide that kind of fun- worth his weight in gold- thank you!  And right beside him is Aunt Ann making sure everyone has plenty to eat, warm cozy towels and beds, activities galore...we're indeed fortunate to have such a happy place with traditions and family memories that unite and delight!  Ann and I have our fun with planning and found inspiration for our afternoon snack in a magazine...
another chuckle was Clare's adoption of "drifty" and the conversation and questions about our relationships to a piece of wood from the children. Many relaxing happy moments this weekend...off and on Newark-Granville Road.

The weekend didn't go as we had originally thought but all rolled with things and it all ended up well. Joe and Peter spent all day Sunday at the baseball tournament.  Peter was in heaven. He loves this team and his coach is helping him really progress.  Dinner club didn't work out but a yummy summer dinner was a treat with grilled chicken and delicious salads.  It was during dinner when Sally had just delivered the phone that I answered a call from Peter. I put him on speaker and he shared something like......the game had gone to extra innings, he gave the details how the player ended up on 3rd base, then he was at bat.  He failed his bunt and it had gone to a full count....Peter hit a hard one to the 2nd baseman who dropped the ball so Peter made it to 1st and the person on 3rd scored the winning run....he was so proud and happy and I wanted to freeze time. Our evening fun continued and Joe and Peter moved on to the championship game.  The girls got their samores with a great fire by Scott.  Nadine and Jim returned for a quick hello and scoop on the game- how nice they went to watch and were able to see two wins!  Will helped Ann and I find Saturn and plan to see the other planets out for a few more nights- 3 close together just after sunset. Joe and Peter didn't join the Apple Valley fun until late in the night.  Peter found Ann and I at the campfire.  He gave us the ending to the 3rd game of the day- the B bracket championship- with the same happy lilt just toned down- they had lost but it was close- it was just one of those things...and he was OK with it. I love those moments.  Those moments define my life on Newark-Granville Road...kids doing what they love with our support and their ability to articulate and share it.  We slept well under the blankets and enjoyed a lovely lazy morning with Joe's traditional omelets creative ingredients inspired by the farmers market.  Yes two amazing breakfast this weekend thanks to the Farmers Market!! See why you should join me there!! The highlight this trip to AV was the arugula and pepper bacon with green cherry tomatoes that were indeed sweet like candy- the vendor helped me with my selection he had 3 varieties for sale. The Lucky Cat bread with brie and the whole thing accompanied by Bellini's....yes the day started very well today!

Life on Newark-Granville Road wrapped up with a bike ride to town for Concert on the Green.  We love our time out of town and coming back in....getting away and coming home is always a good thing.

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Mr. Sun! Sun...thank you for shining on me......

ahhhhh- MCC didn't disappoint!  The sun's warm was a great bonus- we've had cold wet holidays there and we've had our fun.  This year we had the sun.  The temps were chilly but the NEW HEATER was working in the pool so the kids could swim.  They each had friends (thank you parents of those friends) to play with too!  Our lunch party on the updated patio was such a peaceful world stopping still moment for me- ahhhhh.  I did get my dip in the pool too....there is something so theraputic about stretching and using muscles in water, submerging the whole body, seeing the view under water.

The day connects to the rest of the weekend making Life on Newark-Granville Road oh so special today!.  At the Granville Farmers Market yesterday - I was able to take my time and really enjoy and see what was offered.  I bought my Farmers Market Salad supplies for dinner at Apple Valley.  I bought a new product- IJ Schwartz and Family - grown and grown with care wholewheat- Buttermilk pancake mix! They have pastry flour and other flours- how cool!  I made waffles today with this product- well packaged and presented at the market- the kids were a bit worried. Joe is the waffle maker but he had other work to do in Newark.  I looked at my batter and realized I was missing my whipped egg whites- Joe swears by that and I agree- love that he knows that!  I used organic eggs from friend's chickens and if I do say- the waffles were amazing!  I only had a taste as I had my own special farmers market bfast waiting.  The bonus was I had to run to get milk and my a few other apple valley supplies...at our wonderful IGA there were local flowers (left over from the farmers market for sale)...I hadn't picked any up yesterday- I had run out of cash- bonus the most beautiful daisies, peonies and Lillis (not yet in bloom in my yard but noticed on the walk last night) are now in vases and made my breakfast oh so special.  The Go Cat bakery's leek scone was my treat.  I bought it yesterday with this morning in mind.  Melissa was right- they'd be incredible with cream chicken on top and I'll find a way to make that happen when entertaining at some point!

Time to get Peter ready for more baseball- North Newark Memorial Day Tourney didn't disappoint- highlight of our life was seeing boys doing what they love in a great setting close to home.  Love how the opening exercise included beautiful tribute and the National Anthem sung so very well by a friend's daughter and Works supporter.  Yes yesterday certainly didn't disappoint and the sun continues to shine and make life on Newark-Granville Road bright and happy.

Friday, May 24, 2013

Pool Pack List

It is the eve of the pool opening and I'm excited!  I'm collecting:
Book- check- book club's EVERYBODY MATTERS
Magazines- have two, will pick up another- might try reading some on my Ipad this year....
Catalogs- a few...friends bring more!
New Bathing Suit- not this year.....maybe later...probably need to.....
Sweat Pants, Jacket, Stadium Blanket- check
Towels- cute new ones from Meier sale...(sniff sniff)
Flip Flops (ones without the toe thing) check- last year picked up DARLING pair end of season....heard same brand is at Green Velvet!!
Board Game for kids...
Portable Ping Pong....
Basketball, Lax stix, tennis stuff.....
Shower stuff.....

How can it be a chilly Memorial Day weekend....oh well....I'm prepared to take a quick dip as I've been waiting a long time for this.....and I only get one real pool day this year- I'm not complaining as my alternate location is pretty nice...family/friend time at Apple Valley...can't say I'll swim in the lake this weekend or water ski....MCC's pool is my home away from home and I can't wait to make it a key part of my life on Newark-Granville Road!

Thursday, May 23, 2013

being prepared!

Joe and I are planners.  When dating we sent a spreadsheet back and forth (this was way before googledocs) to prepare for a camping trip.  So you can imagine my pride with both of my girls last night as they thoughtfully organized their needs for the next day.  I talked about Sally's work on last night's blog, I was remiss not to blog about my happiness in Clare's organization.  Amazing what a trip to an amusement park will do for readiness.....And it paid off Clare had a healthy happy trip with her classmates and was quite the thrill seeker.... those of you interested in Life on Newark-Granville Road today after reading last night's blog....it didn't disappoint!

Back to Sally....what a great day! It was fun to share in her preparation and then see it pay off.  We had a lovely walk to school- it had been ages.  We even had to dig out the wagon- Sally found deep in a corner under a pile....I love that she held my hand and help pulled the wagon (wasn't yesterday she was the baby in the wagon as we walked the big kids to the elementary school, now Clare is off to Middle School next year?) After we crossed the street she quizzed me- as I had packed up the bag of supplies she had put out last night. Did you pack my skirt?  She wore shorts to walk and she didn't want to wear the skirt all day and rip it again.  Did you pack the basket? I love that she was thinking so we wouldn't be disappointed when we arrived without them at school and no time to return home.  We had our fun on the walk.  She raced me through Monkey Brain Land.....what a treat to go back in time with this exercise!  And it was exercise-it felt good to get the heart rate pumping and stretch a bit.  It was also fun to be in the elementary school and be greeted by friends, see the children, parents, teachers and staff.  I have loved this activity since the first day I rode my bike to watch Clare get off the bus on her first day of Kindergarten!

In the classroom Sally handled her presentation like a pro.  She didn't quite know where to stand until her teacher said- "stand where I do Sally"- boom all as fine.  She remembered so much of the trip and shared the stories and accounts of the food and adventure in a way that touched me deeply.  Her classmates asked wonderful questions and I found it fascinating the subject they focused on the most- inoculations/shots and malaria prevention.  She fidgeted a bit no big deal. We did forget to pack the Africa Money but it didn't rattle her.  For a child who can have anxiety at times no hint of it for this task- hip hip hooray!

Of course the other treat for me was revisiting this amazing adventure with our family and seeing one more beautiful outcome from our time off Newark-Granville Road- a true trip of a lifetime.  A big thank you to her teacher- Mrs. Mullins.  Mrs. Mullins has encouraged and supported this parenting decision to travel and engage our children.  She followed up about Sally's sharing with the class and we're so glad she did! Wow Africa Wow....enhancing life on Newark-Granville Road.

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Sharing more @ Africa...

Sally is going to present to her class tomorrow and she acts like this is no big deal! I love it!  Over dinner she selected the order of topics. Once we were home she selected which picture captured that topic and she did it such confidence.  She tore the skirt that was made for her with fabric in Africa at Derby and brought it down to be repaired so she can wear it tomorrow.  (Luckily she did this last night and luckily a friend helped me out!!)  The bonus is Clare helped take the power point to the next place with design and it is good!  We'll see how the actual presentation goes.  A big thank you to her teacher for creating an environment where Sally is this comfortable- I can't wait for Life on Newark-Granville Road tomorrow, I'll share the details soon....

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

cyber street.....

Hmmmm if I created a social media site that is what I would call it...maybe....Today I attended a seminar on the digital media world- fascinating.  I really appreciate the opportunity to attend and hear Gannett update me on what is happening in this world.  Sure I live on Newark-Granville Road, but I work on South 1st Street, I grew up on Forrest Drive, Apple Tree Circle, Greenleaf Road and Ridge Avenue.  I lived on 90th Street, 61st or 59th or was it 49th Street in Omaha....also Lake Pointe Road and Norwood?, 4th Street and Mulford...there are a few others in there too....

Today's world takes us beyond these physical places.  Today thanks to Facebook I saw the special at FHCC is soft shell crabs- that made me sooo happy and prompted me to call my parents and share. I rejoined Four Square and recalled the last time I visited Longaberger Golf Club.  Twitter put me in touch with the breaking news, inspiring survival and heroism in Oklahoma....I even ventured to Tumblr for the first time so I could share a young person's amazing experience in Senegal and was transported back to our spring break.  The youatube video I watched about an extraordinaire positive and happy boy who lost his battle with cancer and the loved ones that surrounded him had me in tears.  All of these things put me in right where I need to be in my life on Newark-Granville Road virtual and real- thanks for being with me.

Monday, May 20, 2013

The sun has set not long ago, now everyone it is time not to throw.
Practices are over, the 5K done over dinner we reflect on the fun.
With soap all over we scrub and scrub, making sure the ticks don't join the tub.
A quick IGA run so we can eat in the mornin, back out for one more errand.
The day is done, the tasks complete the time has come to go to sleep........

Inspired by one of our all time favorite's on Newark-Granville Road- Boyton's Going to Bed book. I also loved the Boyton characters in middle school- I have fond memories of using those notes for notes you passed in the 7th grade.  And a memory of a boy I had a crush on just came flooding back to me....and you know he looked like one of the kids I saw at the ball park the other day and I thought looked familiar....ahh the mind- fascinating isn't it.

.......what a beautiful day in Granville. It is hard to believe it could be so happy and good here and such pain has and is occurring in Oklahoma- breaks my heart.  Embracing each day is so important, working hard to earn the good night's sleep is a good way to live on Newark-Granville Road.

Sunday, May 19, 2013

includes Celebrating Success!

So the volunteer sheet was passed around at the planning part of the season, during sign-ups for Lacrosse.  I always struggle with this as I never know our schedule- 3 active kids 3 different directions. I also work full time and again 3 active kids means not much time for "duties".  I look at the work key leaders on these sports teams play, the coaching commitments- it is hours and dedication!  As a person who works with volunteers I'm in awe of what these non paid people do to make sure our kids get to engage with their sports and all these kids learn on and off the field.  It is hard not to sign up in some way to contribute and help things move forward and do our part.....

So this year I signed up for "End of Season Celebration"... for both teams.. So that was during basketball season and feels like a long time ago...fast forward to MAY- yes the month that is busier than December and comes with the added stress of preparing for the kids to be out of school and requiring sign-ups for camps and activities and.....(this is a whole other blog topic.)
I so lucked out with Clare's team- the amazing parent organizer/coaches spouse- stopped me and said- the blue team's celebration parents want to host a bonfire- you OK combing efforts for the white team? Was I ever!  They even had a date in mind that worked for us!! And then it turns out the blue teams parents couldn't be any easier to work with and host an incredible gathering...bonfire on a perfect night like tonight!  I got lucky lucky lucky! We also really do have great girls, wonderful parents and two teams that work well and support each other- great program and one I'm proud and pleased to have Clare engaged with for many reasons.  Clare has grown and developed into a strong athlete this season and we're grateful for that opportunity. She's worked hard as have all the girls and it was a season that deserved the celebration tonight.  I'm a big believer in "celebrating success"...my parents did it and when I read Built to Last 
 that component of lasting qualities spoke to me: check it out here:
http://www.forbes.com/sites/glennllopis/2012/10/01/6-ways-successful-teams-are-built-to-last/2/  Life on Newark-Granville Road has many celebrations and tonight's was a good one!

One the other side I had forgotten that I had signed up to help Sally's team "celebrate their success" until  Sally crawled into bed with me this am and said...my lax player friend says your planning the party for us...the pit in my stomach- how could I forget this responsibility? What to do...ignore it, call the coach a few hours before playing time, try to do it after the last game when we all get pulled to the next thing and summer scatters us....I do what I love to do- I pushed it aside and went about the need at hand- getting the day started and house cleaned up to prepare us for the week ahead as we'd be out late celebrating Clare's success.  I did email the coach and say I'd bring festive snacks to celebrate the final season.  While driving to drop Sally off for pre-game activities I realized I had time to make it festive and special.  I returned home to get a card table, cups, cooler and the silver champagne holder and a table cloth- nothing says celebrate like white linen and silver- right Kevin!!  I went to the IGA (referred to by those newer to town as "the market" love it!) and found sparkling apple juice, and Velvet Ice Cream Sandwiches and Bomb Pops- voila a celebration.  I set it all up at the beginning of the game to set the tone it was a special game and build the anticipation.  We gathered after the real treat- playing with the high school players- and toasted and thanked our coaches, coordinators, refs and parents and we toasted to Lax in Gville. Sally too has had a wonderful season and so have the girls she's played along side of on this team.  There are certainly a wide range of abilities but they're all in it together and having fun, learning the game and preparing for the future. The couple that makes it work juggle quite a bit and make it look effortless. The constant interaction of older girls setting the example and inspiring the path is darling.  We're all grateful for the lessons and actions of all involved. Cheers to a great season and sport in Granville making our lives on Newark-Granville Road active and fun and a treat to celebrate!

And here's to crossing off two to-dos....as always it doesn't happen withouth amazing support and partnership that what life on Newark-Granville Road has up and down and all around!! Woo Hoo!

Farmers Market Update....

The Farmer's Market didn't disappoint.....we made a record 10 minute run in and:
-were greeted by the most amazing scent- basil and ?? the rain was light- it may have enhance the aroma somehow....
-saw dear vendor friend Sue, from Sue's Kitchen of Pataskala.  Clare befriended her years ago as she fell in love with her chocolate chip cookies.  Sue was back and happy to see us.  We snapped a quick photo and continued on....
-Green drinks were there but we didn't have time...
-Go Cat Bakery....bought the garlic chocolate chip cookies- tired them last night- they are good- intriguing exactly what you'd think they would be...but the find was their Lavender Truffle Fudge- melts in your mouth and is divine- simple and rich...I love lavender baked into things- two years ago there were lavender scones that melted in your mouth...the fudge is another delightful soothing flavor for the taste buds.
-Sunbeam Farms- KALE, Chard, Arugula....are awaiting dinner prep tomorrow- woo hoo! The whole booth was beautiful- the colors and rich abundance of yumminess.  I love the recipes that are there to coach and assist!  Thank you Mrs. Dilbone!

We departed in time to get to the next to-do. I look forward to returning next weekend to savor and engage with additional vendors...and am excited for what the summer brings.....Farmer Market inspired meals!!

Friday, May 17, 2013

Farmers Market Time in Granville

Just down the street, a few blocks beyond where Newark-Granville Road morphs into Broadway is The Farmers Market.  It is where Granville is Granville and this Saturday it is back!  8:30 am the bell will ring. Parking can be a challenge but it is worth it...I hope to make a quick opening day trip tomorrow, but LAX Jam is part of our lives on Newark-Granville Road this weekend- so we'll have to see.

Back to the market...I'm giddy, like Christmas Eve....what and who will be there in the morning. The Vendors are amazing and have become like friends in many ways- who will return, who will be new, who will be the must have/must see person this year.  Last year it was the Dilbone's and their Sunbeam Farm produce- yum- just received the email with the list- can't wait to make my crispy kale!!  I've been hearing about a friend's new venture that will be part of the Farmers Market- Go Cat Bakery....a garlic chocolate chip cookie is intriguing to me! Plus I love the family and can't wait to see and learn more. More to share but it is time to get the day going on Newark-Granville Road....good things await.

I'll give you a full report  about the market on a future blog- would be fun to share this special treat of life on Newark-Granville Road with you!

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Includes.....

A trip to the Capital Building/State House in downtown Columbus yesterday- Joe has never been- who knew?!  I love the building and the antreim space was a great reception location.  A lovely Denison Everywhere Reception for the Central Ohio Club- a Dale and Tina Knobel send-off....boy we're going to miss them.  Dale really does a great job with his comments- updates, shares, instills pride, shares (great introduction of Nan Carney- Debourney alumna and athletic director and Kim Coplin- alumna and the new interim Provost- wonderful women and friends!)  It is always good to connect with Denisonians and we always enjoy new connections/introductions.   Dale wrapped up his comments with the "paid announcement" support the Annual Fund! Good job Dale- I loved your comments-  our alma mater is strong because of its secret weapon- devoted volunteers who support the college. www.denison.edu

A trip to Kendal @ Granville- what fun to see so many friends....and to help Marcia Downes share Reflections with Friends @ The Works.  Thank you Betty for the invitation and thank you Jean Schelhorn and Dutch Glaser for your remarks. We so appreciated everyone that came to learn what is happening at the works these days....just like Denison- volunteers make the place work and we're grateful to all that engage and help us!  attheworks.org  On line giving now available- woo hoo! Just like Denison- what a fun project that was soooo many years ago- on line event registration.....made possible by on-line giving.

And the sweet smell of Lilacs...take a look at the photo- what a greeting on this beautiful evening- the air was thick with the aroma when I arrived home tonight....summer is coming fast.....soak in the spring!!

Nice things happening on Newark-Granville Road!

Sunday, May 12, 2013

Living your Call

I love a good church day!  And my friends this was a good church weekend so I'm in a good place! We started with a beautiful service at St. Pauls' for our niece's 1st Communion.  This was our first time in their new sanctuary and it was lovely.  We were also included in communion.  The We being others that believe in Jesus Christ.  For this service special permission was acquired.  There was lovely commentary about the hope to connect us closer.  The act truly made me feel welcomed and closer to my catholic family than ever before- that is a good day.  Caroline was so sweet and happy. The whole group of children were a beautiful sight.  It always feels good to worship as a family and we enjoyed the time with Joe's parents- it had been too long.

Today's church experience in Granville included the session meeting to vote on new members.  This is more of formality of the Presbyterian governance and creates a nice get-to know opportunity.  It was wonderful to see and know many of the new members. Wonderful to see our church family growing in happy ways.  I have so enjoyed my time as the sponsoring elder to Morgan Baldwin who joined today as well- her confirmation process complete!  I also enjoyed meeting new neighbors in the group and having the opportunity to welcome this group in this way.  The service itself was rich with the new members and also a baptism (new neighbor)- darling family and sweet baby.  Having opportunity to accept additional baptism promises and having others to help with our children's guidance and faith development  was a bonus of the morning.  Clare, Peter and Sally joined their choir in a divine anthem for mother's day.  This choir is a joy of our faith experience for many reasons- many are the voices and faces that so reverent and joyously unite to connect us to God, bring the Spirit and lead us in worship.  I enjoyed participating in worship as the liturgist this morning. The scripture was Ephesians 6 1-4 a lovely section about call and service and living our lives.  I enjoy the opportunity to prepare and Rev. Karen helped me with discussion about this passage during a Nominating Committee meeting on Friday.  Living our call is something Joe and I try to honor.  It isn't easy at times and takes work, companionship, support and the church.  Life on Newark-Granville Road has many calls we're trying hard to live them well.  Clare, Peter and Sally allow me to work on the call of mother. Today is a day I'm grateful for my mother and mother in law that lived and lives their call to nurture, grow and support me and my siblings and her grandchildren.  Happy Mothers Day from Newark-Granville Road.

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Something silly....

So I'm on a silly theme- does two posts talking about smiling, laughing, silly things make a theme?  I was lucky enough to laugh until I cried again last night.  Oh the beauty of friends and stories and being willing to share and be vulnerable...I'm so blessed.  I woke up to the news today that a Denison Classmate- Tiffany Schaefer Schroeder '90- has passed away.  I'm weepy about it for many reasons that I'm not going to elaborate on now. Instead to cope with this crazy life I'm going back to silly.

See the picture to the right- Saltines are now available round....I bought the box because it made me smile. I LOVE SALTINES- love. They are my prefer ed choice for my scalloped oysters and a simple treat. They are the go-to for pregnancy and stomach bug recovery. And now they are available round. Part of me thinks this is just silly.   I love to set a pretty table and present food well and round crackers do look better.  I know a tiny bit about marketing/sales in this world and no doubt this is an opportunity to create more shelf space for this brand. And yes it is the brand I prefer- there are lots of saltines out there.  I do like the heartier forms out there- a bit more upscale- but for the old stand by this one works.  However in the end I think that my blogging about round saltines is silly too.  My life on Newark-Granville Road is filled with so many wonderful things- happy and sad and I'm ready to keep this special day moving forward.  Today we celebrate Caroline Leithauser's 1st Communion and I can't wait!  No doubt some more happy tears will be shed on Newark-Granville Road today.

Thursday, May 9, 2013

When Was the Last Time You Laughed Until You Cried?

For me it was a few hours ago....and oh did it feel good!  When was the last time that happened for you? After gaining composure from snorting, shaking and leaking due to a conversation with a dear co-worker about a scheduling subject that struck me silly I remembered fondly a time in the 9th grade I laughed in this way. It was in Mr. Surken's English Class at Mercersburg we were working on anagrams.  I ended up with "sea snot runs" and he was  "U R Nasal Puke" and it put me into a fit of laughter- wonderful cleansing laughter. Laughter with tears feels good, it is a release.

How appropriate during teacher appreciation week I had this glimpse back in time.  -Mr. Surken was indeed a beloved teacher for so many reasons.  Great conversations, respect, friendship and love of a beautiful place of learning and growth  Mr. Surken set a high bar.  There were a number of other teachers - not all in the classroom- Mrs. Porterfield our choir director is another that I'm grateful for the influence they had in my life.  I also believe I need to thank Paul Surken for my love of discussing books!  Book Club today connects in my mind tonight with those classes in PA so long ago...English Classes at AAHC and even at Denison- history classes discussing Rabbit Run....all go back to the place where we laughed, learned, loved, read and talked with wonderful leadership and teaching.

I'm doing the same thing today in my life on Newark-Granville Road.  At Work, at CVL, in church, at the dinner table and in many other ways...we're reading, learning, laughing and loving and even laughing at times so hard we cry and it feels good.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Blogs and Book Club....

http://maryhelenfernandezstewart.blogspot.com

Ask and ye shall receive....thank you for sharing Derby photos and recaps with me. I had so much fun on Saturday but try as I might I can't be everywhere at that party.  The photos transport me around the event and I'm grateful!! Mary Helen took it a step further with wonderful commentary on her blog...see above...and Mary Helen thanks for being such a loyal reader too!  Nice to see you today.  I love  to watch connections- part of the photos seeing who was meeting and talking with whom!  The next exhibit in the Central Gallery will be very special and today Mary Helen helped with hospitality!!

So little heads up- the ticks have arrived.  I love what I learn at book club and when you have a wonderful vet in your group you learn things like- last Wed was the day.  So check your kids, your pets and your self please- in particular children playing under the big pine tree.....I'm scratching my head as I type.....Griffey is just fine- I rubbed his belly, scratched his back and then he didn't mind my ear inspection that came with some nuzzling.  Life on Newark-Granville road is well documented on the blog above and with the photos you've shared- thank you.

Sunday, May 5, 2013

In the Winner's Circle!

Boy did we get a win with yesterday's weather, friend and family support and being tiny part of the incredible effort to "BRING JANET HOME"!!  Shout out to Lindsey, Jack, Robin and Steve for providing live music- it sets such a tone and you all are sooooo good! Kiwanis's tent service another difference maker for this event we love to host.  But of course what makes it works is all the generations of friends and family that come over and join us for taking a break from being busy to catch-up, celebrate and relax!!  The food was outstanding and some gorgeous presentations- thank you!!!  My Dad is so good to coordinate the wagers and we appreciate the Doug and Amanda partnering with him so he could take in Peter's bball game and then our auditors- Scott and Ann for helping make sure cash was correct- lots of happy winners- love the repeaters- Thomas!  Bartenders/Kid Advisers- huge help too!!Angela, Jay and Ross- Granville Brewing wonderful addition- thanks for hands on approach. Guy, Darren and Craig- I love your for helping Joe and understanding my noon stress....My Mom cleaned like crazy and gets bonus gift next Sunday!  Thanks to Diane, Beth and Anastasia for sharing the success with fundraising for Janet. Yes you can still give- Park National Bank has an account.  I was happy the party helped collect a few day end dollars- yay Amy!   I could go on and on- send me pics, post them facebook- I LOVE to see them!!  If you missed the party this year- we're so so sorry- it was a good one....we hope you can attend next year.  My sister Sarah says she'll be here- woo hoo!  You never know what the year will bring- who would of thought we'd be setting Derby '13 tables with Bright Colored Fabric from Senegal....yay Clare for making sure it stayed on the table.  Life on Newark-Granville Road puts us in the winner's circle that is for sure!

So the wrap up in our house today included:

1. Seven bags/boxes of recyclables.  More wine than ever- we're aging and our taste show this?
2. Loading up the keg to be returned- just one this year- love how green we've grown with all this recycling.
3. Friends stopping by and checking in - love this....tell me your favorite parts of the event, who was happy to see whom...
4 It is a Sunday so we had 3 kids in 3 different cities playing their sports- THANK YOU to the proactive offer of rides- so helpful!!
5. Julep cups washed and packed up for next year...
6. Tent down- sad to see it go....
7.Paper products, Derby props boxed up....
8. Cars retrieved
9.Finding the things we hid at the last minute- most are in a laundry basket in our room....
10. Getting a great night's sleep.....



Friday, May 3, 2013

Why Derby.....

Earlier I explained the Derby party history, tonight I share they why do we have this party.    If we followed the logic this year that we did a few years ago - Susan went to China, so we gave Derby party a rest- we'd not be setting up the tent and procuring the quantities we are.  This year we went to Cuba and Africa yet we're still hosting Derby.  And with the full week of work (Explorer - our database/pos training) and 3 kids activities there are times we do pause and say- why?

So here are the answers:
1. We love the preparation.  It feels great to get the yard ready, to pull out the traditions- I 've talked about this before.  When driving the car tonight I was giddy and deeply happy.  It is the same feeling I had years ago driving a friends truck to pick up tables...that happy feeling is addictive and deserves to be repeated.
2. The kids love it and friends value and enjoy it to- we know this because you tell us- thank you.
3. We want to thank this community.  We're busy engaged people and we need the rides, the extra eyes, voices and love this community gives to each of us- not just the kids.  Tomorrow will be a day of amazing giving and as much as we wish we could actively be engaging with the fundraising efforts in town for Janet Greggory- we will be happy to greet you with - well done, lets toast your effort and success!  You make our lives on Newark-Granville Road what it is and we like to offer you hospitality for just that.

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Are we Ready?

The question is a fun one....the answer is finally- yes...we're getting ready for Derby.  We love the party not only because we see friends and watch the connections and bring out tradition....but it gets things done!  The living room ceiling no longer has a hole but a fan- wahoo.....we're grateful to folks that make it their tradition to help us- the tent arrived and only required one adjustment due to my late arrival....thank you Granville Kiwanis!!  New friends are joining in on the fun too- a lovely banner to set the tone arrived today- what a treat!  The reality is we've never been so not ready at this point- but it will be what it will be....Rotary sang "Que Sera Seara" for a reason recently....it is my mantra this month....So here are the updates as we prepare on Newark-Granville Road for the Running of the Roses....I get excited just typing it!!

1. One of the hosts will be delayed in his arrival- sorry friends of Peter....time with him is best found on the baseball field- his team needs him, duty calls to a make up game.....he'll be hosting the 2nd half of the party- the post race, sun setting time.....I hope we'll see lots of his teammates and their families too!

2. Live Band- thank you Lindsey, Jack, Robin, Steve....for playing this year- new to the LONGR Stage!! They will play 4 to 6ish....

3. Yuengling wil be on tap and we'll be pouring some of Granville Brewing's finest!!  Thanks Jay and Ross for the help there.

4. Africa pictures will be on display in living room....

4. And I think that covers the 2013 updates....little lower key- parking always a challenge, friends and family welcome, often it makes sense to bring an extra soccer ball or lax stick or ?? Dish to share if you can- something easy to eat or festive for the theme!!  And hats always appreciated!! $2 per wager...my Dad is helping out again in that area!!

Take care and we look forward to seeing you- the first Saturday in May is a special on Newark-Granville Road!