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Monday, September 30, 2013

Loves a Birthday.......

I admit it- I love a birthday! I love to celebrate and tonight we did just that....and we'll keep the fun going tomorrow on Clare's real birthday when she turns the official 13!  We're also preparing for friends birthdays...and I called a friend on her birthday today....hmmm probably a reason I like Facebook- nice to share people's birthdays so easily!

So what is going on here for Miss Clare Catherine Leithauser's birthday...which is tomorrow...but due to our schedule we did our family thing tonight.  Clare asked for take-out Chinese, a mint chocolate chip ice cream - Oreo cake just like I made years ago and that is what we had for dinner on Newark-Granville Road tonight- after piano lessons, with the dog barking and math homework waiting.  Clare also opened awesome gifts. One from a dear friend that came to visit, family that sent early-something I rarely do- and a very special gift from her father and me...her first phone.  Times are a changing....we've waited as long as we could but it feels like the time is right.  She was soooo happy when she opened it and rolled with our rules and foolery- it was a lovely night.

Just like it was the night we became parents and I became a mother.  Octoberfest at the Leithausers was wonderful- on Clare's actual due date.  We went home to our darling house on Mulford in Granview and I kept waking up and then it hit me...I'm waking up because I'm in labor.  Eventually I woke up Joe and we called the Dr- he said wait a bit or come in and we'll have you walk and then settle in for the arrival.  I encouraged Joe to go back to sleep (he needed to) and I went downstairs and took care of some to-dos, tidied my desk, prepared for the rest of the week, took a shower and then woke up Joe and said- lets go!  It was a Sunday. We didn't call my family until we were checked in as we didn't want it to be a false alarm...but sure enough by mid morning they started their way west.  We had to call them at noon to say slow down you aren't going to make delivery- this baby is coming faster than anticipated. By 1:15 pm we learned we had a girl!  We went in with three names we both liked- the short list- I took one look and knew she was Clare.  (Yes I named her and Peter...Joe named Sally!!)  Birthdays are great for the birthday person but sooo special for the Moms. I'm sure it is a great day for the Dad's too. Joe was awesome with Clare's gift this year and with is a great Dad.  I remember the first moment I watched Clare react to Joe's voice...I get teary just typing about it.  I love each of my children's birthdays...and my nieces/nephews...and my god-daughters and friends' children....I love birthdays and all involved with them.  And when they're involved with life on Newark-Granville Road they're all the more special!

Sunday, September 29, 2013

BEing in the moment.....

What a great service we had at FPC today...thank you Karen for the sermon, Kate as the liturgist, the music and of course what makes it all the richer - the people-being with our FPC family.

The message I took away was confirming what I know- life is better with Christ with us.  Details today were shared about that in many ways with focus on our tired, over scheduled lives- hymn, scripture and message and the service's prayers and calls spoken united out loud. Karen shared points about accepting that work and to-dos will always be with us.  A wise man told me when I started my job at The Works that that work in progress, that piles up on the desk was job security and to accept it and work with it.  That wisdom is how I embraced "sit loosely in the saddle of life"....I'm not perfect but I try.  Yoga with some great leaders in the past is what also helped me embrace the "be" that Karen talked about this morning.  The verbs in most of our lives, most of the time- want, have, do....and what is good for us is "be"...be with God and life is better.

I know this- FPC and my faith journey these 12 years has helped me realize this.  The closer and more engaged at church or in spiritual work- the better my life is.  It isn't always easy and when it isn't sincere and real- a task- it doesn't work either.  The same with work, same with activities...all back to that be and not want, have, do....Yesterday was a great "be" day for me- embracing the physical where I was- on the campus and could have a run/walk and catch-up with a friend. Watching Peter play baseball, being with him at the break.  Making it to Clare's run, being with her to process after and then my me time being in the kitchen and with Joe for football at the end of the day- a great great day on Newark-Granville Road.

Thanks for reading and sharing this journey and "being" with me.  Often people remark on how busy we are- and we are- but we try to make sure what we do energizes us, works well for our family- not easy, not perfect but we're in the moment not matter what they are- good back or indifferent- we're together and we're never never alone and always supported- it is good to know and good to be reminded about that on a Sunday morning.

**Update from yesterday's blog.....I really appreciate all that read my post last night- I can see the stats and I'm fascinated by the trends of who reads when..page views, which blogs entries get the most hits, etc...last night was a good one.  So the apple dish that was in the oven came out...over cooked...even though I took it out 10 minutes earlier...I think my caramel done in the 1st step was what was really over-done...oh well- not a too expensive lesson in french cooking.  5 eggs and 5 apples....some sugar and spices...I'll try again and let you know the results.  The good news is Clare's cake in the freezer looks pretty good- preparing for our special week with Clare turning 13 on Newark-Granville Road!

Saturday, September 28, 2013

with Julia Child and Jeanne Stoner

I apologize for the delay in posting...it has been a full week.  I helped out one day with a Works Soybean-Farm program- amazing- soy science; hosted a reception for Giving Society Members @ The Works, found the charming town of Fredickburg for Clare's Cross Country Meet, enjoyed time at Columbus Academy for Clare's Field Hockey game and that is why tonight's opportunity to stay home and cook was embraced and well timed!

So what was on the menu on Newark-Granville Road you ask?  Why thank you for asking....the title of this post should give you a hint.  Long time readers of our blog will recall my season of JC a few years ago. The reality is I've always enjoyed french cuisine and was raised by a mother who cooks in her style very well!  I experienced this first hand when I traveled to France my junior year of high school and found the food delicious and very much like my mother's.  A top ten book club book for me was My Life in France and I enjoyed reading the blog about Julia cooking every one of Julia Child's recipes from her first cookbook-Mastering the Art of French Cooking.  I finally received that book for Christmas and it was where I went today for my inspiration.

I knew I was making Beef Bourguinon tonight. I was in the mood for beef and it had been ages since I prepared this Stoner family staple.  Often a go-to for camping trips...easy to freeze and reheat over a fire.  We're camping next weekend and Ann Leithauser reminded me of an adult camping trip with this as the main course.  I looked at two similar but different recipes from Julia Child- one from Mastering, the 2nd from a cook book structured from her Cooking Show years later.  I resorted to Jeanne Stoner's tried and true- dictated to me years ago and recorded in a favorite little book of family favorites. It gives me the basics, some coaching and requires me to channel my Mom and improvise as she taught me.  It turned out just fine....good beef, bouillon, bacon, wine topped off with a roux...how could it not be!  The extra fun was a new dessert with apples- I selected a pomme custard- similar to flan/creme caramel...we'll see it is still in it's steam bath in the oven.....the thing about french cooking- lots of pans and a little longer than I think.  We knew we were in for a late dinner when I picked Sally up at 5:15 from Nutcracker rehearsal.

I love living on Newark-Granville Road and live with people knowing what is going on...we embrace the positive of that as they help when dogs get lost, kids lose their way or don't make the best decisions.  Our dining room activity will draw comments.   We use to put the kids to bed on nights like this and have a late romantic dinner- usually steak au poivre.  So tonight we lit the candles, pulled out the crystal and had a family dinner.  It is important to do for many reasons and it makes Life on Newark-Granville Road exactly what we wanted.  Thank you Jeanne and Julia for the inspiration, coaching and references to make our life (if I do say so myself) pretty yummy too!

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

grateful for family dinner

Tonight the most amazing thing happened!  I turned pizza dinner into an incredible healthy, yummy, nutritious meal!  How did I do this?  I went to church!  Yup- First Presbyterian Church in Granville.  The last Wednesday of the month is family pot luck night- church family. Come one come all....So last month was kind of slim pickings...looked like it was going to be pizza and cookies...it turned out fine.  Tonight it was amazing....the bbq "wings" cauliflower presented with ranch and celery- incredible- something so new, healthy, yummy, creative, well presented! Joe's favorite Asian slaw, homemade chicken pot-pot-pie, to my kids delight KFC, lots and lots of yummy mac n cheese, sloppy joes, a veggie casserole with squash, egg plant that was awesome....and so much more- cookies, buckeyes, muffins and pie....oh yeah!  Actually the really special part of the night is the feeling like your sitting in your dining room during a holiday meal.  You're surrounded by love, your belly is full....a few of us stayed after dried and put away dishes just chatting....lovely night on Newark-Granville Road for The Leithausers.  You too can make this happen....you can join at the next one- I'll let you know out here on the blog and feel free to message me if interested at ssleithauser@gmail.com!  Life on Newark-Granville Road is filled with amazement and this is one that we hold close and love to share!

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

and the characters that keep it entertaining......

So the Blog's title- Life on Newark-Granville Road should include those living energies that keep it fun.  I've had it in my head to document the family, capture the energy that keeps me in motion.  Included in my plans has always been a profile about Griffey- are darling dog.  The arrival of whom we announced on the blog.  And then the dog gives me something to share, something that "keeps us real" as a friend likes to say.....

Behold my one and only Amy Hamilton, Granville Millinery, hat...purchased at The First HATSOFF!...maybe the 2nd.....I've worn it for Derby, weddings, baptisms...and it now it is gone....Griffey.....



You know I blame myself.  Joe and I were just saying we've been pretty lucky with our 19 month old's chewing issues....a pair of Uggs did make us sad at the end of last winter.....he chews a lot but pretty unsubstanstial choices...until yesterday...sigh......

We do love this dog- he's all mutt- he still has one ear up, one down.  He passed obedience school but forgets most of his lessons.  He adores us....after his walk in the morning he loves to greet anyone left in bed with big wake-up licks.  He is a great runner. He isn't as big as we thought (hoped) he'd get but we love him.....He barks a bit too much- sorry Newark-Granville neighbors....but he's protecting us. He is smart and social and loves to play with his pals at McNally's Doggie Daycare.  Yes Life on Newark-Granville road is all the better with Griffey in our lives.

Monday, September 23, 2013

Nuture-Nature at The Middle School.....Join MSP!

Joe Leithauser feels pretty strongly that the impressive schools in our community are largely due to the parents of the students.  Where Joe gives credit to the genes they provide, I give credit to the support and encouragement they provide the full system- not just their own children.  And that is why I'd like to encourage every Middle School Parent to join the organization MSP- Middle School Parents.
http://www.granvilleschools.org/Partnerships1.aspx

When Clare arrived at the Middle School it was a "no brainer to me" to join.  They had me with this one sentence:  "Your $5 membership helps fund arts mania, staff appreciation, scholarship funds for 8th grade Washington DC trip and many other events at GMS."   Granted I've heard nothing but huge praise about arts mania, I LOVE DC and think all students need to experience it and want our staff to be supported. 

Of course we're all asked to join so many things, contribute to ten times more so I can see why people don't quickly sign up.  I ask all middle school parents to rethink that and send the $5 with the completed enrollment form (on line- follow above link) or look for the sheet that came home this week with your middle-schooler!   Another great way to support this group is through Market Days food orders! More on this website link.

Another way to be involved is to volunteer...we can all find a way to engage with our schools and keep the focus on the important GMS mission to create a vibrant learning community of tolerant and compassionate adolescents. 

This mission must be done in partnership with parents and the strong teachers, staff and administrators- the organization is really about supporting and enhancing their efforts and helping all of our students be those tolerant and compassionate learners!
MSO is a great way for us to untie and do just that!

And before I sign-off I'll thank the current and past leaders of GPO that have paved the way making life on Newark-Granville Road a bit easier.  The Middle School transition for us has been nothing short of wonderful.  The staff of this school have created an environment that has welcomed Clare.  She is thriving with the challenges, engagement, encouragement and responsibility of GMS.  Her genes do help her ( he he) but we know she wouldn't be as far without the she's had these past 13 years from our immediate and community family.

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Welcome Fall

Denison classmate, David Howitt, says it best on facebook today:  "Autumnal Equinox is upon is. Time to set new intentions and to reflect on previous intentions. We are part of nature and we can view the change of seasons as a mirror of our own internal processes/seasons. Autumn is a time of harvest, reaping what one has sewn. We can take an opportunity to recognize the efforts we have exerted toward goals and notice where we have produced abundant results. We can also look at those areas that have not flowered or worked out and we can choose to let those go - so that they may be better turned into the compost for next years crops/intentions."

Despite being a color me beautiful fall and loving the real life colors, activities and sports associated with this season I find it hard to say goodbye to summer. I LOVE SUMMER and I soak in every last minute of it until Fall is officially here...and now it is...so welcome fall to my life on Newark-Granville Road!  Dave's comments above do a wonderful job and I'm so pleased to have his facebook posts.  I encourage you to check out his business page: Meriweather Group on Facebook or the website: http://meriwethergroup.com and like it to keep learning and gaining healthy happy perspectives like this one.  Thanks Dave!



Saturday, September 21, 2013

Good Day of Learning....

Yesterday was a lovely day in my life on Newark-Granville Road. Since I didn't blog last night I'm blogging twice today...but I'm going to blog about yesterday so that makes up for not blogging before....confused?  For my blogging record...here are the lessons learned and happy occasions on Sept 20th in my life of Newark-Granville Road:

-It is as much fun to watch your kids watching their friends/family as it is to watch your kids on the field.  My rain boot blog talks about watching my own kids on the field. This blog shares the fun of watching kids watch others.    Last night I had the pleasure of taking in a Granville Middle School Tennis Match in Granville.  We packed the tailgate and enjoyed the end of the afternoon and early evening watching our niece Cate (and my Goddaughter) play tennis.  Wonderful bonus to interact with and see sister in law/friend Ann coach her darling team of new to the sport players.  For a fleeting moment I was sad my own kids haven't embraced this sport Joe and I love.  Other sports have their attention and it is fine- you can't do it all! And how fun we were able to watch Cate and Granville gals do their thing.  Clare and Sally enjoyed the chance to see Cate in action and that made me very happy.  I also loved the chance to engage with the St. Paul team at the end...they all now know who was the first woman to fly around the world!  Peter was a trooper and big helper cheering for Clare today at the Cross Country meet and I remember like yesterday Clare and Peter cheering for Sally in her first season of swim team.

-When business is good for a core business lots of other businesses benefit and flourish too. Yesterday I had the privilege to tour an innovative and skilled work place that has grown in part because of the many successful retail businesses in our community valuing and utilizing quality design and product.  I love the ripple effect of success.  I also was thrilled to see art, history and science at work under one roof in so many obvious ways.  The business I visited was started by the father and the son's growth is impressive.  They both gave the tour and I recognize the gift of their time and my special opportunity.  I also had some memories dusted off as I recall time in my father's architecture offices over the years.  This architectural design company gave me the "how it is made" and "how it has evolved" lessons I crave and treasure.

-Development Time.  I love my job and the role I play at The Works.  I started the position with much needed training needed and am grateful when formal learning is provided.  A great lunch and presentation yesterday about bequests/estate planning put me in such a happy place.  I'm pretty practical about life and death. It doesn't mean I'm not deeply saddened when a life ends but I accept it is part of living. It also means that I recognize this important part of philanthropy.  However it is an area I need to learn more about and become more comfortable helping others utilize as a way of supporting important charitable organizations in their lives.  If you are interested in helping me learn and learning more- lets talk!  It can be about The Works or another non-profit we can all benefit together.

-Life is indeed figure eights and we have so much to learn from one another and with one another. I had a lovely start to my day with coffee outside and a great conversation.  A friend of mine and I will work together to help our church in the future and that will be good. This friend has helped me and connected with me in many learning and supporting ways and I'm grateful.  The figure eight motion is alive and well.

Those were the highlighted lessons as I reflect on the day yesterday....a good one for sure as summer 2013 came to close.....lots of time outdoors added to the happy reflection of lessons learned on Newark-Granville Road.


Back to the Rain Boots.......

I really do love to watch my kids play sports, be part of a performance, or share their singing voices to help with worship.....I don't go to every game, I can't I have three kids, a full time job and I'm committed to the community that provides a healthy happy place for my kids to grow.  I want the experience of playing and watching to be fun and for there to be happy positive learning opportunities.  A silly little favorite thing of mine for the experience of watching sports is rain boots!

I was so pleased when I figured out that rain boots worked well on dewy mornings for soccer. It isn't that I don't like to have my feet wet, it is more about being cold and so often those 9 am fall or spring days when the grass was dewy because of the temp changes- the boots kept me dry and happy. I love my rain boots- those that know me well know I have a pink pair, a black and white pair, and old blue pair too. They represent fun, practical, prepared and I hope that represents me.  I'm sure I've blogged about the boots in the past!  The boots were back out today they were needed for my first, Clare's 4th, Cross Country Meet.

Life on Newark-Granville Road today was a day with pouring down rain, not just some mist or dew....full fledged rain.  I love that this sport carries on in the rain.  Some of my best memories of watching the kids on fields or walking with them to school has rain involved.  Joe and I fell truly in love in the rain- we realized we were right for one another as we found great pleasure on a rainy Muirfield Sunday complete with a puddle jump or two.  So this mornings rain that gave me Peter (baseball was cancelled) to navigate a cross country meet in Lancaster was very special and fun.  I'm learning about this sport- I never participated. I was the one that signed up to be the goalie on the Field Hockey team so I didn't have to do the running- only some sprints.  Joe ran on their CC team for basketball conditioning so we're both proud of Clare's efforts to engage because she likes it.  And boy does she- she's learning and challenging herself and why wouldn't I love to see that live and in person.  The really cool thing is all the kids that are there are doing the same thing. It was very special to watch so many races and athletes, parents and coaches cheering and encouraging and doing their best....on a muddy, wet, rainy day.    It was fun to bring back the rain boots.


Thursday, September 19, 2013

time with friends....

A chat on the phone, a text check-in or photo or best yest a good in person hello and hug!  My Life on Newark-Granville Road is all the sweeter thanks to these interactions and I'm grateful.


A friend may well be reckoned the masterpiece of nature.
Ralph Waldo Emerson 

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

real life, grown up projects......

So we're dealing with a true home owner project.  Neither Joe nor I are engineers- I have and do indirectly work with many though!  Our wonderful old house needs so many things and the older the house gets the more complicated it seems to be.  The location on Newark-Granville Road is challenging.  We're dealing with septic/sewer now and it isn't easy.  It has been a project for a long time and it is challenging in every way shape and form...communication, project management and prioritization.  When I talk to my east coast father about it he is amazed by decisions and planing or lack there of in this area.   It is really amazing how little people talk about it in our community as well.  But the reality is we don't live in a neighborhood and don't have a neighborhood association...but maybe life on Newark-Granville Road needs one...maybe I should be coordinating a get together so we can update and support one another and our collective lives on Newark-Granville Road?

But I digress....back to the project....there is always a bright side and with this project all I can say is that I'm learning about many things.   The reality is I'm learning the basic lesson I already knew- it all comes down to chemistry....we have a pump station across the street and there has been an unpleasant odor.  Today I learned that the addition of a chemical will neutralize that.   The issues with sewer and septic all go back to chemicals (naturally produced chemicals) and where they go.  Chemistry is everything in our attitudes, our make up, our relationships....life on Newark-Granville Road is all about learning.  If someone is reading this and has worked on a project like this or has thoughts I'd love to hear them.

I also know that this is a minor project in comparison to so many other issues and challenges others are handling and I try hard to remember that as I juggle and vent...and I as I go to bed I count my blessings.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

deserves a little Whit's.......

What a lovely evening....by 5:30 we were all home- amazing!  Clare was dressed for the field hockey game, Joe was putting the meal he made from the freezer into the oven and prepping a salad. Family time with the dog was the agenda for the night.  We made our way to Bryn Du and enjoyed being outside watching Clare  and her teammates on the field with a gorgeous sky and sunset at the back drop.

Joe left a tad bit early to get home and finish up dinner while I packed up the kids and waited for Clare. He texted they deserved Whit's and I should include that in the drive home- take out for dessert.  As we arrived in Granvillle Joe called to say the pasta was still cold. We went to plan B- pizza from Crenos- boy they are fast.  I dropped the kids off, they showered, Joe set the table and I returned with pizza.  A lovely family dinner was held and dinner for a future night will quickly be reheated in the microwave.

The day started with family visit to the dentist- 7 am- LOVE that we don't miss much school and get us out the door together with time for a breakfast treat!  Morning came fast and no one wanted to get out of bed but a quick cuddle and back rub and they did as they were told...the day started and ended well....Whit's for all on Newark-Granville Road to celebrate.

Monday, September 16, 2013

One good deed deserves another.....

Yesterdays blog was about giving back....not taking, doing the right thing....and tonight it is the same thing with a different twist and BIG...The BIG GIVE....The Columbus Foundation is all about giving. They are an incredible well run, managed and special organization that helps, supports and encourages philanthropic giving that strengthens the community.  They unite people and celebrate amazing contributions.  Their theme this year is "the Spirit of Columbus" inspired by Jerrie Mock's accomplishment and use of the phrase for her plane.....The Columbus Foundation reached out to The Works this year and supported our connection with Jerrie Mock!  KNOW they've been Works supporters for years having us participate in their philanthropic support efforts and helping connect us to donors.  They also support our development growth and I'm grateful. Community foundations are so critical to communities success.  In Licking County we've lucky to have the Licking County Foundation and all their support and partnership as well!

So back to the good deed....the Columbus Foundation has THE BIG GIVE- Tuesday to Wed for 24 hours...starts at 11 am Tuesday.  You go on line and give and then there is a great match the foundation provides.  A great way to support The Works Annual Fund campaign that makes it all possible....all those school tours, STEM efforts, downtown safe, happy learning and play for ALL ages....I could go on and on....we're grateful the Columbus Foundation recognizes what we offer and supports us and now is encouraging, inspiring and giving you incentive- a match- to support us. Make your dollars go a bit further by giving in this way.....

Our Annual Fund Campaign is on its way- all ages and abilities to give can help.  Visit the gift shop and round up, buy a $1 paper cog, write us a check, visit us on-line, or go to the BIG GIVE website and help us keep the learning in hands on ways happening.....THANK YOU!  Life on Newark-Granville Road is all about what we care about and we all love The Works and what it has and does provides for us and our community!   http://columbusfoundation.org/central-ohio/transformative-grants/the-big-give/



Sunday, September 15, 2013

grateful for honesty/good deeds.

Quick post today to say thank you to the person that returned Joe's wallet dropped at the Giant Eagle in Heath to the service counter.  Joe figured out he had dropped it and started worrying about the work of cancelling cards, getting a new license, etc....He checked in with the service desk and there it was.  He asked who it was and they said- a customer.  Thank you honest person in the world.  Life is good on Newark-Granville Road knowing good deeds like this happen.

Saturday, September 14, 2013

honoring a dream that came true!

It was all that we wanted it to be and so much more!  The dedication of the sculpture went off so very well thanks to sooooo many people.  What a gift to our beautiful community.  I couldn't be more pleased that Jerrie Mock's statue is in the Works courtyard to inspire and encourage all of us, all of our children to follow their dreams.  Jerrie Mock dreamed of flying around the world to have exciting adventures and she did it.

Today's dedication was wonderful.  The speakers all touched us with beautiful remarks- the two young women pilots touched many of us.  The recognition and proclamations Jerrie received were well deserved and will help us to retell her story.  The Works captures history and uses it to inspire the future- that is our mission and today was all about executing our mission. Jerrie' lived a life with STEM skills so it all really does connect so very well to The Works!! We can't harness those lessons from the past without donors like Jerrie's classmate, sister and the artist with their passion, talent and commitment- their dreams are honored today too.

Thank you Jerrie Mock for your dream, strength and courage.  Thank you to all those involved to bring this gorgeous sculpture to our community. Life on Newark-Granville Road is grateful for the inspiration.


Thursday, September 12, 2013

with flowers

the inspiration for this post is thanks to Joe Leithauser's gift of sweet flower delivery yesterday.  I don't get flowers very often- Joe loves me and shows his love in discret, dedicated ways. Every now and then he pulls out a flower delivery or surprise and it means a great deal. He also gets major points for celebrating our anniversary with the flowers from my bouquet! The flowers this week are for a number of reasons that I won't go into but I'm grateful.  They're perfect- they're seasonal and I LOVE the dahlias of this time of year, it is simple, GORGEOUS, the color are very me.  We're so lucky to have amazing floral design in this community- through work I'm lucky to have Linnett's on the Square. We also work with Root and Shoots and of course here in our village- Village Flower Basket!

Walking the dog this morning I caught the scent of Marigolds...I love the scent as it takes me back to my childhood- thank you Bryn Du gardeners that make sure the welcome to your neighborhood is so lovely.  It made me wonder about favorite flowers.  I love Joe's answer to - what is your favorite scotch? The answer is - it depends.  The same with beer...the same with flowers.  It depends what they're being used for, alone or with others,  what is one's mood, what time of year is it....even flowers I don't love- carnations- can be gorgeous- LOVED them planted, in a friend's planter early this year they were wonderful.   Anyway my favorite flowers right now are these- thank you Joe...life on Newark-Granville Road is good today. Joe safely arrived in NYC after weather delays. He called to tell me and I was in a deep sleep but slept all the better the rest of the night.  Everyone went to school happily with most every thing- Peter has his trumpet, Sally's reading book is in Clare's back pack.  Clare's ready for her picture and I've learned to choose my battles- I hope we get a smile with the braces- I snapped one for facebook- hope it's fate is better than Peter's picture yesterday.  Anyway I have a good day ahead with activities I value and look forward to...yes Life on Newark-Granville is good.

None of us will forget 9-11-01 and we shouldn't.  I've appreciated the posts and reflections and what it does to remind me to savor our days and be kind to one another, including myself, and flowers help us do that in so many ways.

Wednesday, September 11, 2013


Pretend I'm writing this last night.......9-10-13....I was so happy to see Miss Sally in this darling dress yesterday.  It was a treat to be wtih Marcia Downes at Sally's Brownie troop meeting this afternoon.  I left for work early (STEM Advisory meeting- awesome stuff) so I didn't see what she had one.  The meeting was fun as we were there thanking the troop for helping raise money for the Jerrie Mock sculpture, making sure the girls know about Jerrie Mock- the first woman to fly around the world and receive a special message from Jerrie herself from Marcia- follow your dreams!  I had to add a bit of science lesson too....lift- how do airplanes actually get off the ground.....

Anyway- Joe gave me the rest of the story with the dress.....Sally had to do a commercial for her Economics Unit today and she was the "mom"....so she wore a Lilly dress....life on Newark-Granville Road makes me smile with little things like this...the little things are soooo important!!

Okay- back to 9-11-13.....somber day...we do remember...picture day....I'll post Peter's picture on facebook...so happy he is still wearing his tie for the picture- he's done it for years and last year he said no more....we think he was teased...yay Peter- his reward Whit's whenever he wants it this week- he he...Life on Newark-Granville Road has it's incentives.  Also Peter just now declaring it is indeed...hhUMppp Daaayy!  

Monday, September 9, 2013

Family Night.....

Tonight was family night....family night at The Works.  Joe and the kids bounded in after our Board Meeting to join a fun board and staff family picnic.  The Works, founded by Howard LeFevre, is quite like a family business.  It was great to be together with our volunteer leaders and their families and our staff and their families.  Just like a real family reunion, not everyone could be there and they were missed.  It is a special place thanks to these special people and it was great to see the positive family dynamics at work in the museum.  Pictures on facebook capture a few special moments showcasing the fun learning that happens in our  life on Newark-Granville Road!

If you are ever interested in getting involved at The Works as a volunteer I'm happy to talk with you.  There are so many ways to join our fun learning oriented family and we need all kinds of help.  One of the things I've enjoyed about volunteering and working at The Works is the opportunity to interact with great people from all over Central Ohio. Joe and I have intentionally provided opportunity for the kids to have friends beyond Newark-Granville Road's neighborhoods.  We LOVE our close by friends and community, however we value connections and friendships in other places.  Joe enjoys seeing the sports kids know one another on the playing field because of camps they've shared over the years.  Clare and now Sally's dance opportunities provide the same thing and we love it.  The same thing happens at The Works and you too can be part of that fun!  And then you too can attend special gatherings- volunteers get special opportunities because they make The Works work.

Sunday, September 8, 2013

History repeats itself.....

Will and Clare - 8 years old above....Picture to the left taken on Saturday!  Fun family moment this weekend for The Leithausers. At least I was touched and excited to blog about it.  I blog to document and save reflections and good times for my family and friend interactions and this is good one.
I learned to run in 2005 or so wtih the help of Christy Plaugher and Kristine Michael. Never did I think I could run a 5K, run Newark-Granville Road and the exciting and special 5 MILE race on the 4th of July in Granville- but I did.  This blog post isn't about my running it is what gives me perspective on Clare's running.  

Joe is a runner, he talks about running as a child for conditioning for other sports- cross country for basketball and such.  He ran the Columbus Marathon our senior year of college- 1990- incredibly impressive to me.  He's always been a runner- going for runs on trips, at work, etc....We never talked about the kids growing up to be runners per se...Joe and I talked about running when I picked it up and he did buy the Jogging Stroller that I didn't do well with but he embraced.

The kids celebrated our running with us in Granville. It became a part of Life on Newark-Granville Road for the kids to cheer for us during races- 5Ks, the Firecracker 5 and such. Joe jokes that it was stay home with the kids or run the race and he chose the race.  We lucked out and found friends that enjoyed being with our kids. Marcia Downes, Shirely Hale- they even made signs and cheered for us. The kids saw us running and thought it would be fun to run too- so Joe let them run in at the end and finish some races..find mommy and run her in..help her- darling- I loved it.  I didn't think about the impact it could have- we just did it.  Somewhere along the way Joe signed Clare up for a race too- the Maple Leaf Run in Granville she was 8.  Joe pushed Sally in the jogging stroller and ran Clare over somewhere midrun, knocking her down.  She got up and finsihed the race no problem. We knew then she had moxy.

As I type this and reflect I shouldn't be surprised that she wanted to run cross country this year.  She's giving this new official sport a try while juggling Field Hockey too- we're pretty proud of her.  Cross Country is turning into a cool sport for her with two meets completed with successful finishes and progress in time reduction. Again as one who runs with effort- I'm impressed.  Clare sets a goal and goes for it  What was so special about Saturday's meet was that her cousin Will was running too- an 8th grader from St. Paul's in Westerville. Joe and his brother, Scott and his mom Nadine met at the race.  And it struck me that history was repeating itself- Joe's Mom had been to many a Cross Country meet with Scott and Joe and now she was there with the next generation of runners- Clare and Will.

I was talking about this with someone this weekend, I was saying we never looked at this baby girl and thought...oh you might be a runner some day...run cross country like your Daddy. Yet it happened.  The person said we probably didn't do that with any sport or activity.  Reality is as parents we do highly influence our children's activities- singing in the choir, swim team, baseball...Peter was born on Opening Day, his first word was "ball" and he could throw from the crib to the hallway before walking. His nursery had baseball card posters....although as much as we love baseball we think Lacrosse might be a better fit some day.....Clare not quite as much of a theme....we've let her try many things to find her thing. Her first word was "dog" by the way and Sally's was "hi".

We don't know what the future holds with sports, what will work out, what will keep their interest and where they'll progress for success. We like is what sports teaches in regard to life lessons and keeping them healthy and happy. This Saturday and this season is making me happy because Clare is happy and that makes life on Newark-Granville Road happy. Saturday's bonus for Nadine to be with her grandchildren and sons in an active healthy way was a  moment that caught me and wanted to share and preserve it on Newark-Granville Road.

Friday, September 6, 2013

Inspiration all around......

http://www.nbc4i.com/category/254555/daytime

Did you catch this fantastic interview on Channel 4 today with Gail Hogan on Daytime Columbus? The Works Craig Montgomery- History Educator- was interviewed about next Saturday's unveiling of the Jerrie Mock Statue/ Sculpture.  There is so much I could blog about with this topic and I will as the excitement for the day builds.  Jerrie Mock's story is inspiring, however so is the work that puts the statue in downtown Newark to encourage our children to follow their dreams and know anything is possible.  I haven't moved the photo of the sculpture in the west end of the Courtyard- one I adore- Flight of Imagination.  Jerrie and our flying boy will compliment one another so very well.  The Licking County Foundation's work with Jerrie's sister and her classmate and all the donors are to be commended for their work. I'm inspired by what their good work has done, is doing and will continue to do as we prepare to install, unveil and celebrate this art, story (great book) and event next week.  Life on Newark-Granville Road finds inspiration in amazing places and The Works courtyard is one of our favorites!  Well done Craig, Gail, Sam and all those that made today's interview go so well so others can be inspired too!

Thursday, September 5, 2013

saying thank you and goodbye to a volunteer.

I'm going to use my blog space to say thank you one more time to this wonderful Works volunteer. Syliva Price passed away this week and we're certainly going to miss her.  She was Janice LoRaso's "go to girl"and what I would call a devoted regular on the Works volunteer team.  The Works can't work without volunteers.  The thousands of youth and adults that visit for programs, tours, camps, classes, experiences, etc...can't happen with 16 full and part time staff- not possible.  The Works volunteers make it all happen and do it because they want to, because they believe in the mission and want to touch lives. Most pick a speciality/favorite area and for Sylvia it was art.

Thank you Sylvia for loving art and wanting to share your creativity with others. Thank you Sylvia for helping keep our youth safe and on task.  Thank you Sylvia for openly and honestly communicating with us.  I can hear your laugh and sigh sometimes with a tsk and head nod....your actions of being so ever present meant the world to us @ The Works and you will be very very missed.

It was an honor to meet your sisters this week and hear more about you.  We'll take some lessons from this experience- you'll continue to teach us.  Tomorrow we'll gain more understanding and continue to honor and thank you at the service for you. My life on Newark-Granville Road is better because you were apart of something so important to this community and to me and I thank you Sylvia.

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newarkadvocate/obituary.aspx?n=sylvia-elizabeth-price&pid=166782867&fhid=8710#fbLoggedOut



Rise and Shine......

Yesterday I didn't want to get out of bed. I was comfy, cozy, content in my bed.  The day ahead had way to many choices, expectations, sadness, challenges and I wanted to just stay in bed.  Today I'm up and ready....."rise and shine and give God the glory glory" comes to mind....a favorite camp song that has been sung over and over....always my fall back when I'm with a bunch of kids in Sunday School/LOGOS settings.....

I'm glad I did get up and get going yesterday....life on Newark-Granville road is about exactly that LIFE! And hallaleuh, praise be I'm alive. And so are the other amazing people that surround me and that went before me....I love that David Schnaid's service was a celebration of his life- he gave so much, touched so many and it was revealed and honored yesterday. I'm a big believer that funerals are for the living. I'm a big believer in closure and like all of us here on earth I'm figuring things out as I go along with God's help and the help of so many friends and family here with me now and those that came before.

Yesterday I went to the calling hours to see the Schnaidt family- to let them know I'm thinking of them. The truth is I couldn't go to the celebration.  I wanted to, I wish I would of after hearing bits and pieces and I wasn't alone- lots of others wanted to go but life kept us away and there was more room for those more closely connected.  I know others wanted to go to the calling hours and will send notes, prayers, messages instead and it all works. It all helps us life up David's beautiful family and friends- that is why we're here together.

So a friend and I have talked for awhile about our preferences and comfort level with saying our last goodbyes, respects and honoring activities.  Calling Hours and Services- which do you prefer? I personally benefit from the funeral/service.  Calling Hours are hard for me- I never say the right thing- never. I've always found comfort in the prayers, scriptures and opportunity to learn more about the person's life at the service.  My friend prefers calling hours and that fits this person. We talk often of our MBTI Extrovert vs Introvert- which is where one gets energy or in this situation where one is renewed and comforted. I'm an extrovert who processes with others, or by saying things out loud to someone- it is the way my brain and spirit work.  I need my introverted time too...that comfy bed time of reading, thinking, processing....(as we age we all become more balanced is Jung's theory and believe it!)

Life calls- time to get the kids to school, me to the work I love....I could go on and on with this topic- a lot going on in my head with this....I'm still extroverting and figuring out some "why"s about my feelings with what is happening this week within my Life on Newark-Granville Road.  Tomorrow we'll attend the service for Sylvia Price and I'll probably blog more about her gifts and life too....another life to celebrate and give thanks for her time here with us.

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

book club night....gets better and better...doesn't disappoint!

I'm tired so this won't be a long post but I have to give credit where credit is due!  I'm part of an amazing book club. We've been doing this for a number of years and have a great process. Tonight we kept the tradition going and it worked. What a wonderful group of female friends gathered in our dining room and kitchen.  We all shared books we'd recommend for the list/for others to read and then we shared our thoughts about what should be on the list.  In no time flat...while I was walking the dog....the books were plugged in to the appropriate months and we have a list!  Read a long with us, join our discussion, email/call me...the extrovert in me loves to process with discussion- it makes a read all the more enjoyable! Our books this year will take us to North Korea, Hawaii, Alaska, New York, Afghanistan, small towns, big cities, fantasy, historic fiction, into the memoirs of a small town book store.....I can't wait! Life on Newark-Granville  Road is rich with literature thanks to these wonderful book club friends! And by the way this group knows how to cook and share food- so many yummies- great to break bread and enjoy one another's company and refreshments!

Discussion Date Book Author
14-Oct Orphan Master's Son Adam Johnson
4-Nov Empire of the Summer Moon SC Gwynne
2-Dec Setting the Table Danny Meyer
6-Jan The Snow Child Eowyn Ivey
3-Feb Brothers Karamazov Fydor Dostoevsky
3-Mar Me Before You JoJo Moyes
7-Apr A Fort of Nine Towers qais akbar omar
5-May Code Name Verity Elizabeth Wein
2-Jun Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes Diane Chamberlin
7-Jul Little Bookstore in Big Stone Gap Wendy Welch
4-Aug Moloka'i Alan Brenert
8-Sep Read from Recommendations Choose Next Year's books

Monday, September 2, 2013

Sneak peak.....

Tomorrow we'll gather on Newark-Granville Road to pick the next year of reading for "Discussing Books at CVL"....this is the book club I've been a part of for well over nine years!!  I value the group, the books, the discussion, each woman that makes us what we are....women who love to read, who help me process and enhance my own reading.

I'm so excited about the book I'll recommend I'm going to blog about it tonight...Setting the Table, The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business by Danny Meyer.  This book is a combination of Kitchen Confidential (a book club top ten) and my favorite business books: Built to Last, Flight of the Buffalo, Maverick....  a big thank you to Janice LoRaso for sharing this book with me and for her leadership and wisdom. To Marcia Downes for creating an environment where these lessons are applied and we grow and work together to offer hospitality- the hospitality of learning, not eating!

I won't go into the details and nuggets from this book...I took notes- always a sign of how much I value a book. I have a whole page with page numbers and topics referenced.  It was a good weekend and following up on the last post about needing a happy place- I found it.  Lots of people helped me be in my happy place and I'm grateful.  Reading is one of those places- I finished " The Paris Wife"...interesting time and characters and spent time within the Danny Meyer Union Square Hospitality Group.  I'm ready to greet tomorrow and learn about book club friends' recommendations! Life on Newark-Granville Road is all the richer thanks to books!

Sunday, September 1, 2013

going to happy place....

We went off the grid for a beautiful work retreat on Friday and I've carried the peace of Camp Falling Rock with me for days.  I wasn't "on line" too much but instead living in the glorious weekend- friend time, hospitality, relaxation, catch-up, thoughtful prayer and discernment all mixed in with the challenges of work and juggling our lives.

This morning the news of David Schnaidt's death has stung me. I'm sad and mad. I'm grateful for the facebook posts that celebrate his and his family's faith and love.  I'm looking for my happy place, my comfort place.  A deep hug form Sally, submersing myself in water, prayer, family time.....I'm going off the Grid as I pursue it.

All those in similar places or will be...my dear friends that grew up with David, all those in closer relationships, close to his beautiful family and his family.  I'm praying and thinking of you. I know David is at peace- I can accept that...I know his wonderful life leaves a legacy of all things he valued - faith, family, service and  that helps me on Newark-Granville Road as I find my happy place.