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Saturday, April 29, 2017

Back in the saddle again, Broken Ankle Diaries approaching final chapter!

Fun thing to say the week of our Derby party! And fun to finally be saying it...the saddle is the bike saddle!  The boot is off and I'm back in the gym building strength.  I'm walking very slowly as my Achilles tendon is very very tight.  I've known this for two weeks and been working it at my weekly PT.  It is time to turn up the effort now that the boot is off.  I wasn't moving those muscles much for 3 months I have to be patient and know it will take time.  Anxious to get back on the yoga mat- that played a big part in my development when I broke the fibula on my left foot.  I actually went back and reread my blog post giving summary of that broken bone- very helpful.  Life on Newark-Granville Road when sharing helps my own recovery- yay!

And as I type I listen to the chainsaw removing the tree from the neighbors- on the north corner of NG Road and Bryn Du Drive.  Sniff sniff- hate to see old trees go down. This beautiful road's canopy will be different.  The good news it appears no one hurt and possibly no wires down. Certainly an inconvenience for drivers as NG Road is closed at that intersection.  Always something happening.
I was notified about this event thanks to texts from friends. I was at Denison ready to wrap up the work-out, first in 3 months- felt soooo good.  I left the building, ready to be done, needing to be done, needing to pace myself, and called Joe.  He gave me the coaching to go around the backed up cars and I did.  Now happy to be home enjoying life on NG Road and counting the blessings that are all around.  Thanks for reading.

Tuesday, April 25, 2017

As promised on Facebook here is the scoop about this photo.  
Selfie on Easter Sunday with my Sal Gal- love her! She is growing up. 
If you look closely you will see things that hold dear memories and make me happy, just as Easter makes me happy.
Beautiful glass rabbit- the Bunny with the Golden Shoes- a wonderful gift that is dear to me.  Jenny Reynolds paper vase- love this, egg cups, monogram derby hat- saw these at Keeneland one year and had to have, and my necklace- honeymoon and 40th birthday memories- Caneel Bay/St. John. 
Behind the scenes and why in my life on Newark-Granville Road.

Sunday, April 23, 2017

Prom Day for young and old.....

Prom day in Granville for the High School and our dinner dance club!  I love seeing all the pics on facebook for friends' gorgeous kids.  We had our own good time and here is why was the Granville Town and Country Spring event so much fun! Top ten reasons....

10.  I was able to relive the fun of proms in Altoona. I found some pics and shared with my friends here.  The Laura Ashley dress for Jr. Prom. The senior prom dress I wore for the Assembly Club event in Hagerstown and the the Class of 1991 Senior Prom.  I remember buying the dress at the Young Men's Shop on sale!

9. A great group of people worked together to plan and execute a fun event.  I love to entertain and serving on the committee allows me to do this- what fun we had. The coordinated work paid off- a great time was had by all.

8. We spend another great evening at Moundbuilders Country Club- bonus, set up allowed us to explore top to bottom!  Decorations committee really did good work putting us in a prom place.

7. Dance party in the bed room- my focus was the DJ.  Super nice and talented guy and the process was to collect songs to offer.  Clare helped us one night with her jams and play lists.

6.  Delicious dinner, Rodney does it well- my salmon was yummy, prime rib was delicious.

5.  I received a corsage- hooray for Joe making the order and Village Flower Basket for a well executed design.  Gardenia- so simple, so pretty.

4.  Little pretty pink action- designed my own prom dress with BIG help from Donna Dean Designs.  Took a Lilly maxi and made it fit me.

3. This meant Joe wore Lilly too! His fantastic dinner jacket - seersucker with seahorses. The perfect blue and white rep bow tie and pink pants..topped it off with white bucs!

2.  Danced the night away- fun music, great dance partners and the boot didn't get in the way too much.  Yes I spent the morning resting/ sleeping after that much exercise and activity- but it was sooo worth it!

1. Went with Joe to the prom, slow danced, fast danced- date night can't be beat with the love of my life.

Bonus- taking Wilbur the convertible to the prom from Newark-Granville Road, life is good!

Monday, April 17, 2017

Holy and Helpful Week

Last week had so much good. I needed that week.  It really started a week ago Saturday with a full day of engaging with a friends and colleagues to engage with amazing Denisonians.  I am blessed to love my job and environment so much.  A day out meeting parents, students, alums, learning about Denison's Homestead that included a great walk, cheering for Denison athletes-great vibes everywhere we went.  Yes it wore me out, but the fresh air and interactions were energizing!  Catching up and celebrating was part of the evening.  It continued into Sunday morning. Palm Sunday's service was a great way to kick off Holy week.

The week has presented many messages- sermons from services, symbolism of the holiday, sisterhood and family time and a work seminar that was a true delight to attend.  Jerry Panas shared stories to cement his teachings that inspired and aspired my work.   My mother came to visit and that was indeed something I've needed. We're never too old to need our mother's care.  It was great for the kids to get Nana time and good for Nana to see the real life happenings with her little leits in our life on Newark-Granville Road.

It was a four day work week, plus the day out of the office so it flew!  On Friday we took a vacation day to embrace the kids no school day and went south. It was just what a I needed, a mini adventure, a day trip out of state. Simple and easy- no packing and a great destination- Keeneland.  We didn't make our regular pilgrimage in the Fall due to the India trip.  Rarely do we take in the Spring meet due to Derby Party prep.  I'm pleased I insisted and we made the time.  It was disappointing not to have Peter with us.  A baseball game was moved (strange for that to happen on a no school day) and he opted to play. We invited friends to take his place and each of girls had a beloved companion. Martha II was tested as a road trip vehicle- I admit the DVD player was nice. I drove down and enjoyed listening to Father of the Bride and inspired conversations from Steve Martin's banter.

It hasn't been the easiest couple of weeks that have turned into months.  Lots of ups and lots of just blah.  Nothing has been horrible and it all could of been worse. I can certainly look to the "blessings of the skinned knee" and find the good.  I really do love having Martha II.  On Saturday we were able to see and say goodbye to the first Martha.  The two inch thick layer of mud was quite something. Fascinating to talk to the person who pulled her out of the creek/river FAR off the road. I like to think she went out having some fun with a four wheeling adventure???

Life on Newark-Granville Road embraces faith.  Faith is key to keeping me grounded with these ups and downs. Faith leads to friendships and love that does conquer all.  My father isn't well and is recovering in the hospital.  I love that Sally learned of this news and went right to prayer to help.  We both want to road trip to see him but will stay put for now.  He's regaining his strength and Mom is in good spirits and handling it well. Family and friends surround them in Maryland.  Holy week gave me a boost and helped lift my spirits.  Now God's love in this Easter season is assuring me all will be alright.  Thanks for those that have added my Dad to your prayers. Thanks to all those that pray for me and my recovery.  I received an actual prayer chain- paper links adorned with prayers and kind messages- how can one not feel loved, content and happy.


Happy Easter f
Easter Bunny-thanks!!
 

Monday, April 10, 2017

Martha Status Update with pictures and my feelings on the matter...

The police officer stopped by the house to give us the news- Martha had been found.  I was out and about on Saturday but returned a call from Joe.  Sally answered and gave me the update- care was found near a river and has water.  When Joe called back he filled in the details- near Dillon, Licking River, up to the doors in water.  They were not sure how and if they could remove it and had brought in a backhoe.   Oh yes, and it was discovered by turkey hunters!

Once removed it would be taken to the impound lot, verification of the VIN would happen and then things would move to the next step.  Insurance had told us if found and drivable avoid the impound lot and and get to an adjuster. Oh well- we'll pick up call in the adjuster as soon as we move further in the process past impound, Martha was not drivable.

Added bonus- colleague saw photos posted and recognized Martha!  I woke up on Sunday am to these photos making it all the more real and helping me to process. I love our community and have to say social media!!  So grateful for the email and pictures.

 


And how do I really feel about it?  As my coworkers who heard my conversation with Joe know I'm annoyed that the process isn't moving faster.  We know it was out, why couldn't we get the call today that the VIN matches and keep things moving.  I get it that sunday was a day off. Plus it is a busy week with Joe travel, my mother visiting, work, kids and a happy escape on Friday, plus the holiday weekend. LOTS going on....I don't have time for this and I could of made time today.  Bahh.

I loved the idea of a wake for Martha. I do want closure.  We may want the CDs if they can be removed from the disk player.  And honestly I'd love to find this location- get a sense for how could she have ended up there?!  Is this a creek, or really part of the river?  I'm so pleased with Martha II, the new Martha and am moving on, ready to be done.

Reality is lots of things continue to annoy me.  Friends say that my ankle is teaching me patience...sometimes I think the opposite.  Because I have to be patient with some things it makes me less so with others.  This isn't fair or right or good for me or those around me.  I'm often said to be positive and upbeat, but these past few months have proven that isn't always the case and more so lately. I am sorry for the short temper and frustrations.  The real me does return- fresh air, friendship, care and kindness, good work all helps.  Life on Newark-Granville Road is full right now- so much goodness that I do need to be patient and embrace the positive, be in the moment and keep my cool. I type it to help make it so.

Sunday, April 9, 2017

Derby Party 2017 Details for May 6, 2017!

Less than a month from yesterday, on the first Saturday in May- this year May 6th, we'll be ready to welcome our friends and family from near and far, our neighbors and teammates, classmates and colleagues, coaches and tutors, teachers and pals. All of you who share the ups and downs, shuttles and projects.  We love to offer a bit of fun and fellowship with a theme to say thank you.  Thank you for all you do to make life on Newark-Granville Road all that it is. We couldn't do it without you and we're grateful.

Here is the scoop for this year at this time, check back for more details as we get closer!

What:  The 143rd Run for the Roses horse race will happen around 6 pm.  Come celebrate with us.

When: Saturday, May 6, 2017 4:30 pm to dusk.

Where: Our house, 1142 Newark-Granville Road- outside and inside, under the tent and in the yard.

How: walk, bike or consider a car pool. Parking is limited and available in the Bryn Du subdivision and other lots along Newark-Granville Road.  Each year the police have to notify someone that they're too far in the road so be careful.

Wear:  Hats are strongly encouraged! Our trip to India this past year will help us make our derby day dress decisions!  Join the fun.

What else:
-Rain or Shine!  Feel free to self-select but know this party goes on no matter the weather. We've had snow flurries, rain and sunshinny days- we make it work!  Rainboots do help ward off the rain...

-India Trip won't take take over but we'll pull out some things for decoration and help us recall and share the wonderful we had exploring this fantastic country.

-bring an appetizer or dessert to share, if you can, no worries if time does not allow.

-beverages will be provided- Mint Juleps are king of the day and soft drinks available as well.  Come early and try a Lime Fizz- non alcoholic drink we loved in India- I like mine salty and sweet! When they are gone, they are gone!

-place your wagers, bring singles for your $2 race day activities, one way to help prepare: https://www.kentuckyderby.com/horses

-invite your friends and family, new neighbors and colleagues, kids are encouraged but not required- your call.

-come when you can- early before another commitment, better late than never or spend the entire party with us!!

-entertainment at 5 pm- Denison's Ladies Night Out!

We're looking forward to sharing a family tradition that goes beyond our lives on Newark-Granville Road.

RSVP- please let us know if you can or can't attend! We're not keeping a hard list but it does help with planning.

Don't look for an elephant to ride....or even a pony this year.  Know we'll have the rocking horses out for the kids!

Saturday, April 1, 2017

And the rest of the story....happy ever after part of a happy birthday day..no foolin!

Serendipity, good fortune, good karma, a change in our luck: call it what you will we'll take it! Todaay was a good day and not just because we celebrated Peter's 15th birthday- but the happy birthday guu-guu may have helped.  The day started with calling Pap for two sided happy birthday greetings. We do love the double birth anniversary.  It seems like yesterday we were all walking all over town for Easter Egg hunts to help bring on labor. He arrived on a Monday, my Dad's 60th birthday, THE Opening Day of Baseball and the NCAA basketball finals!  Being loyal to my sports fan I pushed him out in time to get us to recovery to watch both The Reds and Maryland that year.

Back to the story!  As I mentioned in the last post, we had a strange disappearance of our beloved car Martha- a 2002 Toyota Sequoia.  We set in motion the replacement process.  First we talk- what are we looking for, what do we need?  Match that to what we like and think makes sense based on market prices and availability.  My gut said- keep it the same, go with another Sequoia or upgrade to the Lexus versiou. However if we're looking, why not think about changing things up- the kids are bigger, bucket seats would be nice. Maybe we go with the GMC product?  I do love a wagon and couldn't help but search for dream wagons.  I've always admired the Ford Flex....is now the time?

Joe found a Sequoia that was a good price and had good mileage- however the private seller was out of town.  During my search I found a crossover Mercedes that might of been a fit.  We decided we should take a look and headed to Columbus before picking Clare up at the airport, she spent Spring Break in Maryland, lucky duck!

As we pulled into the lot with used cars only the first thing we saw:  a white Sequoia that looked so much like Martha.  We looked closely- it was not Martha.  Joe found our salesperson and asked for both keys.  Sally and Peter went into immediate high excitement mode. I felt they were overreacting. The Mercedes wasn't going to offer the storage we need and wasn't in the shape where we could even consider it. A great price but not a fit.  The Sequoia looked good, but it felt too good, to surreal.  We took it for a drive and Joe did his math and we couldn't say no.

So now in our drive way we have a 2007 Toyota Sequoia with bucket seats! Yes, bucket seats.  The kids went nuts because it also has a DVD player built in- something I said I'd never have.  Clare reminded me of that...ha ha- never say never.  It is clean and drives like a dream.  Amazing.  How could it be that easy to keep us moving (pun intended). Good fortune, happy karma, a change in our luck, serendipity? Whatever it is - it will be part of the naming of  what we're now calling "Martha II and the new Martha".

Yes, we'll have maintenance - when you buy a used car you always do.  It does have a lot of miles- we buy cars with engines that go long distances.  We're aware of the schedule and what needs to be replaced soon and added that to our negation on the price.  I feel good about our choice, I feel like this was meant to be.  I'm not opposed to change, but as I thought about what this car will do for our family including carrying us on college searches and hopefully delivery to college. What stickers will be added to the back of this SUV?  Our beloved, tried and true make and model is what we were meant to have- no foolin! We get a happy ever after to the stranger things story in our lives on Newark-Granville Road.  April 1st, new quarter, new month, the real arrival of Spring- happy fresh start for 2017, grateful for mobility with a soon to be named, Martha II.

PS-Ankle update too:  one crutch and often none, boot supporting me, physical therapy helping and feeling good. Some aches when I work  too hard or don't do my exercises.  Driving feels great, takes time as I take the boot off to put on a shoe- but it works!


strange things.....

Some one asked if I was blogging about the week's happenings literally on Newark-Granville Road and so here it is...

First- our car was stolen out of our drive way. Facebook friends know this but by blogging I am adding to the record books.  It was unlocked and the key was inside.  The good news- no sports equipment, chairs or valuables were in the car- maybe a blanket?  The bad news- beloved stickers/magnets- Camp Alleghany, Denison, my MD crab, The Works.

This was our beloved Martha.  Martha that has driven countless carpools, made amazing road trips and been the setting for the good, bad and ugly- or stinky.  My fondest memories were post camp pick up road tripping to the beach hearing all about the three week camps.  Last year in particular with all the ups and downs of the flooding in WVA and Peter part of the camp escape.

The police say this happens, people wander neighborhoods opening car doors and when they are open they look for keys.  They take these cars on joy rides or drug runs- nothing good happens after midnight is what I say. The car will most likely be found at some time, some where, in some sort of condition. No word yet.

Joe went to take Sally to camp on Thursday morning. He came back in and said "where is the white car?" I said "Martha?" He said "yes."  We both looked out the window and sure enough there was no white car. At that moment we realized both realized- car stolen.  Joe went to the police department to file the claim after taking Sally to camp in Wilbur the convertible.  I went to physical therapy in the extra car Clare drives- Gretel.

We have been fine as we have three cars and only two drivers this week, Clare went to Maryland to visit my sister and her family for Spring Break.  We are in practice for coordinating rides and driving for me is still slow going so I don't mind a ride.  We've started the search for a new car for us- we'll keep you posted.  We so appreciate the offers to borrow cars, and to shuttle me- so kind!

Another strange thing, on Friday am, on Joe's walk with Griffey- random ducks and a small animal crate were found outside the the neighbor's?  Very bizarre.  Sharing the news with the neighbors was a bizarre email to send. And the response said the same thing, "this may be the strangest email ever received."  Poor ducks- no reason why they were there.  Broken eggs and straw part of the mystery.  They were there yesterday, gone today.  Grateful to neighbors who took care of dear things.  Elegant dark ducks, a mallard like head- but taller, leaner than the mallards we see. Fancy ducks in a strange setting on Newark-Granville Road.

None of this is an April Fool's post...but maybe the car disappearing was an AF joke. I keep thinking Martha will return.  She is quite like a member of the family, similar to a pet in our lives on NG Road  We adopt- we buy used.  We care for cars but don't spend large amounts of money on either.  Both care for us and we care for them.  The ducks arrival may be foreshadowing for March Madness outcome? Hmmmmmm...strange things are a happen.