Summer on Newark-Granville Road

Ahhhhh- all is as well as needs be on Newark-Granville Road tonight!  Kids are home from a grand time in Maryland and happy to be home. They've set out on bike ride to Whit's with Joe walking Griffey. The drizzly day took me right to found memories in Vermont as I sat cozy on the couch finishing a wonderful book.  After that I made a quick batch of gazpacho my only contribution to Joe's wonderful farmers market meal- fajitas with corn on the cob and peaches for dessert for me!!  Hmm- someone asked me for that recipe recently- here it is:

Susan's Gazpacho as observed or remember from her mother:
-fill the blender with fresh veggies- usually 2-3 tomatoes, 1/2 cucumber, 1 pepper, 1/2 an onion- remove skin (if you don't want those bits in there but they do increase vitamin intake) and chop. Then add a bit of this and that to include:  salt, pepper, olive oil, vinegar, worshishire sauce, hot sauce, different peppers, garlics, if you have some fresh herbs around I often through those in- mix and match flavors.  I then top off with a little can or two of V8.  Yummm- chill.  Serve with  finely chopped vegetables that are in the soup, I don't do sour cream but you can.

Anyway- I sit here typing on the sun porch with light on soaking in my contented space in this world.  And now they're home- they all found me and all spoke at once talking about the friends they got to see in town and their yummy new usuals! They ooze happiness.....If I could freeze time I would.

True Vacation All Around

 Icing on the cake does not appropriately describe our trip to the Greenbrier Resort at the end of our vacation week in Avon, NC- OBX with my whole family “under one roof”!   To understand why I am so happily pleased with this overnight stay is to understand when I first wanted to visit The Greenbrier. 

I had the good fortunate to be sent to a 3-½ week camp after the 5^th grade- Camp Allegheny for Girls. My memories of this camp are simple fun – canoeing, hiking, hobo pies, theater was part of the fun for me, dancing, “DOWNTOWN- where all the lights are bright” and then lots of awesome camp songs.   AT some point our tent or group was promised if we did or won X we would be rewarded with ice cream at The Greenbrier.  And do you know I believed them.  So when the payout was delivered reality is we were taken to a cabin reserved for junior counselors and given DQ dilly bars- I think…somehow DQ plays into this memory…they were yummy, I was pleased to see the cabin, pleased to enjoy a cold treat so it wasn’t that I was disappointed.  However that set the desire to someday visit The Greenbrier and that my friends were some 32 years ago…am I that old really to say that?  Also know that I LOVE mountains.  I loved the time spent in the Allegheny Mountains at camp. I love the drive on Route 68 between Ohio and western Maryland

In those 32 years I’ve been to some amazing hotels and resorts.  I have lived well.  And as much as I love elegance, luxury in places like Whistler, BC, Beavercreek Colorado, Sea Island, Georgia, Turnberry, in Scotland, Canal Bay in the USVI I also have loved the simple pleasure a rustic family favorite on Lake Dunmore in Vermont, icy skiing at Blue Knob in Pennsylvania and eco tents of St. John!  However in the back of my mind I’ve always wanted to stay at the Greenbrier. 

Part of the fun of my marriage to Joe has been exploring many of the places mentioned above!  I’m also fortunate to have dear friends that share their travels with me and it is these conversations that nest in head helping me daydream and plan   That is how we ended up in Turnberry thanks to travel miles and many friends sharing their experiences. The past five years we’ve spent summer vacation time in the Outerbanks with my parents.  We’ve all fallen in love this simple seaside landscape and the opportunity for family bonding and relaxation.  We started in Nags Head and have ended up in Avon.  The trip has been coupled with the bonus of our 3 children returning to Maryland for continued grandparent bonding time!  Joe and I leave the beach with the opportunity for alone, project and no sitter during our workweek!  Often we’re so busy with summer juggling and getting to a place to just go on vacation for the week that we don’t plan the return trip stopover.  I can remember the ah-ha moment 3 years ago when we figured out we could stay at the Greenbrier!! Thanks to laptops and wifi at the beach we started looking for places half way home and sure enough the Greenbrier made its way to me.  Unfortunately it was the PGA tournament and no space at the Inn.  That year we found wonderful historic accommodations at the General Lewis Inn in Lewistown and had a WONDERFUL overnight stay.  WE took a great run through town, found a delicious dinner location, and did some shopping.  We drove by Camp Allegheny and happy memories found their way back strengthen my desire to return.  Last summer it was the same weekend with the golf tournament and we felt the need to drive straight home.  However on the way down to the beach we took our kids on a tour of Allegheny giving me a direct path to my childhood time.

So skip to summer 2012- somehow in the midst of mapping out 12 weeks of no school, summer sitters, camps, activities I did mention a great birthday gift could be a new I phone or a trip to the Greenbrier- half kidding.  But much to my delight my darling husband made the reservation and presented to me on my birthday the Greenbrier’s Main Dining Room’s menu sharing with me that I needed to pack dress up clothes for the beach trip as we had reservations for an overnight stay and 8 pm dinner!!!  WOW was I surprised, delighted and pleased!  Yes Yes I know how lucky I am!!!

Not wanting to wish away vacation and quality family time at the beach I sort of moved the trip to back of my mind and tried to keep it there.  Well the time came and we packed for vacation and made our great escape.  The week at the beach deserves its own blog entry and I’m grateful to my parents, siblings and their families as well as Joe and our kids for a great week of amazing family dinners, beloved cocktail hours, quality sun soaked catch-up, awesome swims and side trips.  The Olympics made it all the more exciting and special to share.

No matter what I always cry when I say farewell to my family- it was what I do. We thought this year might be different with another family trip planned for the end of September and the treat of the Greenbrier waiting- but it is what it is and I’m an in the moment kind of girl and a mother and daughter leaving being separated from family. However the aches and pangs of sadness and worry quickly dissipated as I giddily anticipated our check-in at The Greenbrier!

Saturday, August 4 was one of those Susan days.  I’m lucky to have had many in my life- they usually include kid time, Gnu time, work success multiple savoring the moments.  We left the beach early, being the no kids in car group we were the last to leave the house and return the key.  Joe came up with the idea to return to a great breakfast place (a player in one the great Susan days 4 years ago) in Kill Devil Hills-shared with us by a friend!!) The Jolly Roger didn’t disappoint and the country ham eggs Benedict lived up to memory’s expectation. We made one quick stop in Charlottesville to visit a shop I had heard about and wanted to experience as well as pick up a bow tie for Joe- he needed one for the 8 pm dinner reservation! Quick snack, no lunch- wanting to save room for Greenbrier fare!  A bonus as we approached our exit on Rt. 64- there wasn’t much traffic and we noticed some sort of animal crossing the road ahead- tan in color. Joe asked me what it was and I focused in.  I was thinking fox, as its body was longer than what I’d seen in this situation.  What we saw totally shocked us- a young mountain type lion cub meeting its pal in the grass on the other side.  No doubt about it- the face, whiskers and body showed us that it was no fox, kitty cat or dog.

3 pm- we drive through the gate and guard house- we had driven by this point many times but hadn’t had access- woo hoo Joe and his birthday gift!! I had him pause at the entrance and let me soak it in- what a view- as pretty in person as the postcards, websites and my own mind. Joe said and was a bit worried- lots of expectations can be built up over 32 years.  I’m pleased to say my expectations were greatly exceeded!!!

We both noticed and appreciated the warm welcome and use of our name by the valet at the front entrance.  We were quickly checked in and escorted to our room before official check- in time.  The Dorothy Draper COLORFUL, BOLD, STYLISH and at first even overwhelmed me.  I LOVED the color and patterns, florals and stripes, carpet with texture and pattern, furniture and fixtures. But all of it together- by the end I was smitten and totally respect her approach and how well it continues to live on with her protégé!  Our view above the North Entrance Portico was an added bonus! Wanting to make the most of the stay we quickly unpacked- thanks to a fun walk-in closet we hung up the clothes, placed the shoes on the shoe shelf!! And contemplated the next activity.  I casually asked Joe if he wanted to go for a run- thinking that it would be the morning’s activity- he said yes and said lets get dressed! So we changed and headed out to take a fast paced tour to explore, get some exercise and earn dinner! 

The Greenbrier’s charm is not left to the gorgeous setting in the Allegheny mountains- the hospitality is deep and intentional and applies to everything.  There is a 2-mile walkway that takes you on to the golf course- something rarely permitted during golfing hours in other places.  The path includes a trip over the trout filled creek, a mediation area, a glimpse at behind the scene areas of golf tourney prep and branch off mountain paths as well as beautiful homes.  Our run was the ideal way to start our visit.  We took a peak at the pool-, which blew Joe way- and quickly returned to our room to change for a quick dip before the 6 pm closing time.  This meant skipping tea in the lobby but Joe promised we’d save it for another visit!

Ahhhh the pool!  Friends had said it was a must do- mostly in part because of the service.  Anyone who knows me knows I LOVE pool time! Again this ties to a wonderful childhood activity at FHCC but something I savor at MCC and past apartments and vacation trips too!  The Greenbrier pool was indeed a treat!  The view over the gorgeously designed infinity pool to the mountains and golf course immediately keep your thoughts to serenity no one can deny.  We enjoyed a delicious iced team, cooling swim and rest from the run!  The hour passed too quickly but satisfied.  We returned to dress for dinner as we famished and anxious for our 8 pm seating. 

Before dinner I was able to take in a bit of shopping. Another special activity in this small town of West Virginia- again I had heard about the shops – the shoe shop in particular and had my own mind what it would be like.  No disappointments here- everything I had hoped and more.  Shopping in Ohio is limited and my time to shop even more so!  A highlight was finding the Greenbrier fabric and wallpapers available for sale!!  Most of you know I’ve had a wonderful time this year undertaking the redecorating of our home!  For years I’ve wanted to bring color and southern influence to our beloved life on Newark-Granville  Road and was able to do that with the help of many!  Recently the window treatments were placed and I realized how happy I am with the yellow, green, blue and bright white woodwork scheme.  I came to the Greenbrier knowing I would be inspired to keep this exciting project going!!  Every elevator stop, walk to a resort destination had me looking at the décor!  Our drinks in the lobby was no exceptions- I moved room to room to find our spot to sip our scotch and enjoy cocktail time together!  The outdoor beckoned again and we found ourselves in rocking chairs reviewing the floor plan, layout and maps of the grounds and there it was – right in front of us- the bunker!! Our hunger moved us from our gentile perch and we went in search of the dining room.

The Greenbrier provides many extra touches besides gracious greetings and dinner was no exception. I was pleasantly surprised to see live music would be part of our dining experience and our table was in close proximity to the dance floor.  Every part of the meal was outstanding and here are our choices and what was provided that made it something I’ll never forget.

1.     Spring water in green glassware- Joe declared it a Susan set table. White tablecloth, beautiful floral charger, many pieces of silver flatware and a fresh rose in a vase. 

2.     The wine list was presented to Joe and he proclaimed it a novel.  Just reading it was an education and delight.  We shared a lovely California Santa Rosa Pinot Noir

3.     From the chef a starter of zucchini prepared a few ways including chilled to almost frozen in a shot glass size dish with a round cream soup spoon- comic relief as we determined how to consume- I hope we didn’t embarrass our selves.  It was delicious and set the tone for what the rest of the evening’s food.

4.     My first course was a chicken liver parfait and Joe’s a smoked trout.  Both came on plates, small serving full of flavor with lovely accouterments.

5.     Second course for me was cream of 5-onion soup and Joe had his beloved Cesar salad with anchovies.  My soup's presentation was gorgeous (taking me back to a spectacular meal my college roommate's father treated me to at the Four Seasons in Washington, DC in 1987!

6.     Our breadbasket was lovely as well so by this time I’m pretty full.  Sure enough I should of ordered the way my father prefers and I follow- appetizers only and save room for dessert. But no…..

7.     Joe’s lamb 3 ways was creative and yummy and fortunately not a larger serving!  My potato-crusted grouper melted in my mouth- although was indeed a larger serving.  Again I hope we didn’t embarrass ourselves but we’d switch plates so we both could enjoy the other’s selections or in my case good food wouldn’t go to waste.

8.     And the bonus was we danced!  We were entertained by wonderful live music- a jazz trio sharing music that made me smile and wish the rest of the family and friends were with us! We were able to watch generations of fellow guests enjoy their evenings including a wedding party (we’d seen ceremony preparation and end on our run) and large family seated behind us with darling not perfect but good children!!

9.     Unfortunately I had to disappoint my father- he asked me to have the bread pudding- something he remembered from his visit as the best he ever had! I was just too full!  I was torn between the famous Greenbrier Peaches, a selection with Meringue and the bread pudding anyway!!

We then good times continued with a cigar smoke on the veranda, taking in the festivities of the wedding reception in the adjacent ballroom.  Time like this is special- Joe and I love our time with others- kids, family, dear friends but rarely do we get the date nights of dating era!  The night was cool- something unheard of this summer- and delightful.

The evening didn’t end there- oh no at The Greenbrier of today the fun can go into the wee hours with the Casino.  I had heard mixed reviews of the casino and was anxious to judge for myself.  Disclaimer- I’m not a gambler, never been to Vegas but love the fun of gambling in non profit entertainment situations.  Joe on the other hand enjoys the experience.  Lucky for me his enjoyment of teaching, sharing the fun of math, the odds as well as lady luck and chance made the evening all the more of a positive experience.  The casino itself was festive and well presented; having men in jackets doesn’t hurt!  The horse race themed bar met with my approval as well!  Craps is Joe’s game and we had a great time.

However by midnight I was ready to call it a night and the time was right to make our exit.  The lovely evening air called and we slowly wound down the perfect Susan day with a nightcap on the veranda before retiring to the most comfortable and pretty bed ever- the Westin Heavenly bed is the next thing!

Sunday, August 5^th!  My body clock always rings an internal alarm and I awake to worry about the responsibly before me- but not today! Today I woke up happy and relaxed.  I rolled over after a quick peak of the clock and then feel back to a sign filled slumber.  We both woke up and planned our morning before checkout! We dressed and headed down to the lobby for our complimentary coffee and more exploring! The tennis facility and golf club house showcased more style and class.  Our five plus mile hike up the mountain provided exercise, conversation time and wildlife delight- a bear cub!  We heard the crackle of movement in the woods and sure enough paused to see black bear 40 feet up the mountain.  Joe saw him freeze behind a tree and I saw him scurry up the slope.

We returned to the room for quick change, pack-up and checkout by the stroke of noon- right on time!  We put our bags in hold and found our way to the dinning area back on the golf course to enjoy lunch and the view.  One last stop before hitting the highway was railway station and old depot with a Christmas stop. I’m so glad my Dad encouraged me to check-it out- again a reflection of history and childhood pleasures for me.

Farewell dear Greenbrier, thank you for all you offer and represent. We will return and share the joy you provide.

Thinking of Lou Mitchell's Family and Friends

A beautiful service for a beautiful man that made a difference.   Our lives on Newark-Granville road are better because of what Lou Mitchell has given.  It was a lovely and sad service- Lou is going to be very missed.  I'm grateful for the friendship and connections with and around this wonderful person.

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dispatch/obituary.aspx?n=louis-a-mitchell&pid=158225171

Day in the life of Development Director

I love my job. I'm a lucky person to be learning, applying past experience and skill sets, connecting with amazing people-staff and volunteers on behalf of a place and effort I feel passionate about and believe in it's cause- The Works, Ohio Center for History, Art and Technology! I posted on Facebook that I would "blog" about the fun filled development day I had on Tuesday this week so here it is!

A wise woman once told me- the fun of development is you never know exactly how your day is going to go and most often you're pleasantly surprised and rewarded with what is presented. Tuesday proved her point so well.  On Tuesday @ the Works I:

1. attended a volunteer meeting in the Interuban Car- great place for lots of fun things- birthday parties.  Love that my job lets me say "all aboard" "woooo wooooo"......
2. Toured the Heisey Glass Musuem with good folks!  WHAT A GREAT musuem- lots of learning about Newark history, glass history, glass serving and decorative pieces.  The video is so worth watching! Thank you Janice for coordinating!
3. Curious Kids was extra special- we had goats, a darling favorite well behaved dog named Barnbus and cool learning about equine vetiniary science!
4. Wonderful donors came to visit and purchased a paver- new item in our office- looking forward to helping honor the history they want to place on this big brick!
5.Drive Alive is coming along....new exhibit for September- great committee and staff making this a reality- such a treat to connect with smart talented passionate people!
6. Tweat-up! Got to know the names and posts I see on Twitter- good people again connecting in a fun way!  We even played Hide and Go Seek (my children inspired the idea!!)  Nothing like watching and participating in old fashioned fun @ The Works!
7. But the highlight was hearing from some of the staff directly their connection and inspiration to the musuem- very heartfelt stories that I will share in the future some way some how.....

Yes I slept well that night!! My desk was a mess as the piles only grew and the papers became scattered but it was worth it. I love the days when I return to Newark-Granville Road with connection and inspiration about my work and this wonderful community my familty calls home.

Fun Full Week of Life

ahhhhhh- summer vacation is launched.  Life on Newark-Granville Road was particularly full and beautiful this week and we couldn't of done it without friends.  I'm grateful for the friends that helped execute the week, the friends of VBS, Camp Falling Rock, The Works and my own friends who walked along with me (literally too- am exercise was GREAT!)

My dear friend Tina lost her Dad and I'm sorry not to have been back in Altoona to share this farewell. Jerry Wayne was a good man with a beautiful family and he will be missed.  I know others have been in this situation recently and I keep them all in my prayers.

Not only did the kids have amazing weeks with VBS and Cut Scout Camp at Camp Falling Rock- I enjoyed my moments at both of these places.  I was able to share my prayers of thanksgiving and requests for assistance and guidance in beautiful places that were not planned.  If you ever get the chance to engage at this camp off of rt 79- please do so!!  If you can help in any way with Granville Ecumenical VBS- please do so- my life on Newark-Granville road is all the richer because of my fun full week!

And of course there was much much more going on- the 1st swim meet, baseball- big game today- 3:30 shiner tourney- library board meeting, Works board meeting, Giving Society Party at the Works, friend time, my parents came to visit!!! and so much more.....Thursday night was one of those crazy mom times- car sickness, kids reaction to car sickness, broken down cars, late arrivals and drop-offs.....and I was actually able to smile my way through and embrace the crazy life I live.  People ask how I do it and the answer is simple- friends!  And yes Mr. Dewar is a friend that helps too! We are so fortunate to have such friends in this community.

I hope you all find joy and happiness, comfort in this life full of warmth and love and fun!

As Promised- Great Finds!

Thank you to our wonderful neighbors for so much, but most recently a gift to welcome Griffey George to the neighborhood! "MAX'S T-BISCUITS FOR DOGS" are amazing! They are amazing because:
-they taste yummy- Griffey loves them
-you can just tell they're homemade, delicious and cute too!
-they are made the the Special Education students at Newark-High School!!!  Their teacher Walter Gloshinski, is leading them in an amazing delicious entrepreneurial effort that is expanding to include people food! Be on the look out for "THE SMILING WITH HOPE BAKERY" breads, hand made NYC pizzas, cookies, muffins, bagels, soft pretzels at the IGA and other Newark locations.  
As I learn more I'll keep you posted on how to support this great effort!  If you want to help directly- give Walter a call at 740 670 7400.


I should really blog about all the great finds that make their way back to Newark-Granville Road.  The farmers market trips always delight me, must haves recently are:
-Green Fix- LOVE IT!  I get the raw (no apple juice) while I walk around and take home my pint for the week!Katie McKivergin-Organic GreenFix  www.organicgreenfix.com (740) 404-9423
-Mrs. Dilbone's produce- I am still craving the Arugula from her garden. She sets up at the Granville Farmers Market all the way at the "back" near Denison entrance.
-Lucky Cat Bakery- I missed them this week- sniff sniff- the sourdough is like no other!
-Village Meats- eggs and pepper bacon!!
I could go on and on but won't- thank you to all our amazing entrepreneurs, farmers who are truly scientist, business people, hardworking labors, creative marketers- you inspire and delight me each week!


So much more I could blog about including the amazing things happening in my life on Newark-Granville Road! Denison's reunion was awesome and reminded me how lucky I am to live in such a wonderful, inspiring place!! 

I'll Have Another.....

Derby Party on Newark-Granville Road! As 2012's was lovely if I do say so myself.  For one - the preparation was a joy!  I like this party, Joe likes this party, the kids like this party and our friends and family enjoy it and value it too and that sets us up for success.  We've also been doing it for a while now and so it is relatively easy to execute.  The patterns work, the supplies can be re-used and we know what to expect.  Mother nature was particularly kind this year with temperatures, lack of precipitation and ahead of schedule blossoms!

Joe and I are both process and people people- we value how they work together. This party proves that and we have many PEOPLE to thank that executed processes!  I have to thank my parents for all their past care of grandkids so Joe and I could figure out these various processes.  This year the kids stayed in Ohio and my parents came early and worked with us to execute!  Joe and I have a tradition of going out for breakfast on the Friday before, then doing errands like flower purchasing, final errand running, etc....It was delightful to include my parents in that this year. Mom worked hard on the flower boxes so I could cross other things off the list and was great company for the errands while Joe moved on to other tasks!  My Dad and I have the wager process down and a special part of the party for me is when he and I disappear to determine our lucky winners and their winnings!  This year we took it a bit further and enjoyed analyzing the data on Sunday morning!  One third of party goers placed a wager, 12 won, most put money on more than one horse.  (Side note- thanks to my Dad for going with me to work at The Works- he was a big help for my afternoon's project and it was great to have his company and show him the Canal project!)

And then there are our friends and what they do to make Derby work so well on Newark-Granville Road.  Kim's arrival with her own cleaning supplies three hours before party commencement was something I'll never forget. She values the quality time together and has become a consistent supporter of our gathering.  Kelly- thanks for coming over on Sunday- the extrovert in me gains much from processing about the day prior! Otters and Mattimoes- we appreciated your time on Friday!  The hospitality for my sister and brother in law meant a great deal to all of us - 1234 Newark-Granville Road holds a special place in our hearts and now the Christophers too! The texts, exercise, beverages, parking logistics, conversations and assistance with kids are deeply valued and I thank each of you for your support- you know who you are!  

Hugh Price, Kevin Plaugher and Tim Hoffemeister- Common Thread's music touches my sole and makes the event truly beautiful. You are so kind to share your gifts of music, time and friendship with us.  "That Kind of Love" transcends couples and extends to our community gathering in my mind. I heard the song while talking with dear friends and it was the first time in the day I realized my cheeks hurt from smiling.

Gray Griesse and the wonderful gentleman of "The Last Resort” you started the live music component of Derby party and we're so grateful!!  The band sounded fantastic and we're hearing so many positive things- keep us posted on where you are playing- we need to hear you again before the 1st Saturday in May 2013! 

Denise and Walter- what are we going to do without you.... we truly couldn't ask for better neighbors and you are going to be missed. Thanks for bringing the supplies without even asking- knowing what we need and beyond! Your good taste and generosity is deeply valued.  Jack and John were wonderful co-hosts!! All the neighbors that tolerate the parking, noise and who knows what else please know I'm grateful. I'm so glad some of you were able to attend- my kids love your kids and really enjoyed your stopping by!

I must thank Joe Leithauser.  His manual labor to pull the yard together brings a huge smile to my face.  We enjoyed the fruit of his labor last night by dining alfresco on the patio- heaven!  The mulching and weeding that man does in 48 hours is nothing short of miraculous!!  I'm a big fan of the journey- the journey to Derby party is very special.  The RSVPs, assistance and labor provided great joy this year.  The party itself always tickles and inspires.   You all out do yourself with wonderful food and festive attire and spirit of commardarie and old-fashioned fun!  

I continue to be delighted with the follow-up questions and conversations.  The connections we're hearing about are very satisfying and we hope you'll continue to share them with us!  Today's big smile was the Louisville Stoneware julep cup in the mail box- thank you!!!  I also had one for the 1957 cups that were delivered to me at Work on Thursday!!!

I didn't take photos but it doesn't matter- 2012 will be one of those that remain in my memories. And I'm so happy that life on Newark-Granville Road includes this tradition supported by such happiness and love.  There are way more than ten reasons for this party to return in 2013- please remember- once invited, always invites and we hope to see you next year.