Sharing Stories- Beth Jenkins' Inspiration

I shared this at church this morning and thought it would be good to document on the blog too.  Kids told me- we know this story- that made me happy!  They had not seen a picture, fun to get their reactions. We've laughed and smiled and remembered this St. Patrick's Day 2019!

Who has used the elevator in our church?

Who knew people that were only able to worship in the chapel downstairs?  The chapel that is now our coat room? Allow me to have a church building history review. Our church at one time was two buildings, divided by an alley where heritage hall is and there was no elevator.

I am Susan Stoner Leithauser. I've been a member here for 17 years or so and attended church when I was a Denison student in the late 80s.  I serve on the Commitment and Beyond Committee and the Annual Stewardship committee.  And am grateful for the leadership, service, and gifts at First Presbyterian.  Amazing work happened in 2018. Since this is a moment for gratitude, I must say "thank you"!   Our work continues by the way- the Beyond means we keep going, keep talking and that is why I am here! 

Many of you know I work at Denison in the Advancement Office- many would call me a professional fundraiser. My focus at Denison is Family Philanthropy.  Lately, it has been rewarding to share what I am learning at work with our church. The foundation of this work is: I help people feel good about making a difference.  I also enjoy connecting with people in the community and with one another.  In particular, I am grateful to work with people that like to give, and not just money: but time, perspective and connections. This is what philanthropy is and it does tie to church and faith, as God gives to us and we’re called to share and it feels good to share.

During a recent Beyond Committee meeting, I stated how I want to make sure everyone knows Beth Jenkins' name, as she exemplifies what the Commitment Initiative really is.   A key person involved with financials at First Pres/FPC said she didn't know who Beth Jenkins was.  I was surprised.

So here I am- I really want you all to know who Beth Jenkins was to FPC and the impact she had.

I don't have time to tell the full story but here is a quick summary: Beth had no children, never married, was a sweet older member of the community and this church.

I was introduced to her by Shirley Hale, a current FPC member, and our children's Granville Grandma. Shirley was the house mother/director at my sorority while I was at Denison.  Shirley determined I'd be a fit as an adopted granddaughter for Beth. She knew I went to church (I went once that 1^styear, I sang in the Concert Choir and I was a Pi Phi. What a blessing she was in my life.  Beth and I hit it off and enjoyed tea times, toast and coffee at the Aladdin and sitting together in worship. Beth grew up a Quaker in Indiana and shared her faith, she simply believed: Jesus Loves me, this I know for the bible tells me so. She kept it simple.  She was a dear friend to many many and introduced us to one another around the table.  She cared for shut-ins and others needing holy hospitality. She was very active with parish care and I bet we've all tasted her cookies as her recipes are cherished.  She always felt for those who could not make it up the stairs to worship.

Beth saved her pennies and was frugal. She supported the church with time and treasure and looked forward to making a gift that could make a difference. She included FPC in her estate plans with the designation that it be used to install an elevator at our church.  There is a plaque on the 1st floor next to the elevator- telling the story of her gift.

Beth Jenkins and her story is just one example in the life of our church.  I'm grateful to not only know her story but be part of it. Her story has a lesson-love Jesus and share that love in ways that make you happy. I am grateful that I was introduced to Beth by Shirley and was given the gift of friendships and tea times!  I am grateful for Beth's commitment to the church and that elevator.  I've needed it many times and know others do as well.   I'm going to put Beth's picture up by her plaque to help tell her story and make sure we all know Beth Jenkin's name and one of the impacts she had on FPC.   Thank you God for giving us Beth, she was a blessing.

 Hmmm I told folks this was me in college, not true- I bought this outfit for Derby in the early 90s...I was a young 20 something here!  Back in Granville visiting dear Beth.

Night Time Fun with the Arts in College Towns.

Soon Denison will be on spring break, then be prepared for a full and fabulous calendar of events.  Last week in my life on Newark-Granville Road I was blown away, inspired and delighted by happenings on the hill.  http://www.granvilleoh.com/pages/member-newsletters   This is one way to be in the know about happenings- thank you Chamber of Commerce!  Visiting the Denison website is another:  https://denison.edu/events  So many events are open to the public, please let me know if you have questions and do not hesitate to attend, supporting and engaging with talented students.

Last week I had the privilege of having lunch with Min Jin Lee- author of Pachincko, a book I very much enjoyed thanks to the Denison book club I do my best to keep current!! The opportunity to meet her, engage in conversation took the reading/listening experience to a whole experience.  My new understanding of her writing fiction with intent to put race and discrimination in the limelight and approachable makes the read all the more fulfilling and interesting.   So many other important topics are revealed: suicide and immigration to name two.   I was also fascinated by the Caroline Kennedy intro, here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kscMU-W7tKU  it also appears in the paperback edition.  This video also has Min's talk with many points she shared with me at Denison- I continue to value her dry  humor, wit and vulnerability.  Enjoy.  Thank you Beck Series- endowed funds and all the coordinators to make it happen.  Have not read Pachincko?  Add it to your list, for the reasons above, the opportunity to travel to Korea and Japan and embrace the saga of across generations of this family and people, thanks to the time with Min I admire and respect.

It isn't possible to attend everything at Denison.  An embarrassment of riches is the appropriate descriptions.  Between the theater, music, dance, athletic events, talks and festivals you can't be in multiple places.  Information for Foreingers by Griselda Gambaro, translated by Marguerite Feitlowitz was something I'm glad I didn't miss. I've been following director, Elani Papleonardos's facebook post and was completely intrigued with her layout, post-its and once I saw it- choreography!  I was sad to miss Tutti this year, but I could not pass on seeing how Monomoy would work as a set and oh was I impressed.  This was a haunting, serious, concerning topic executed to perfection.  I did not know enough about the Dirty Wars in Argentina during the mid 70s, early eights- thank you Denison for continuing my education and supporting my life long learning on campus.  Thank you cast and crew for your work to deliver that education so effectively.

College towns are special and we know I love Granville.  This weekend I experienced a special side of Mt. Vernon- the town close to Kenyon's small college town of Gambier.  Dear friend told me about the dinner theater happening at the Alcove and am I glad we found our way there. It was meant to be- the show was extended as February provided no free date to enjoy.  The restaurant decor is dreamy, dinner was delicious and the "Savannah Sippin Society" provided a sweet story, performed to well end the week.  Girls Nights Out are special and this one was a perfect match- cheers to life on Newark-Granville road and all that share and provide the learning and fun.

 

Gather at the Table

Beautiful weekend that had us gathering at the table. This focus leads to promoting future community meals uniting us as community:
-Mannechor Spaghetti Dinner- we'll go this week early, as I have to get back to town for the play at Denison at 8 pm.
-Fish Frys at St. Eds.  Lent starts this week, the first is always the one with the long lines, we'll wait, with a beverage.   And now back to the weekend!!

First- Caroline's Confirmation.  Always wonderful to celebrate a loved one's faith.  A weekend filled with hard conversations but we celebrate the good- the faith, the love and commitment to God.  We're our own people with our own convictions. The table allows us to talk, share and be together.  My sister in law pulled together an amazing brunch after the service with dear friends and we're lucky to have family close to make it easy to share these important times.

Second- Dinner Club is back and deserves to be documented for the history books.  The Parson hosted us in their new home- a busy day with family celebrations- plural- they could of said nope, doesn't work- them embraced and welcomed us. The the theme Mardi Gras!  Take a look at each course, the beautiful presentations, colors that executed the theme so well.  Lots of special treats in the evening, laughter and catch-up- so good to be together at the table.

Third was family dinner Friday night at the Broadway Pub.  We toasted Clare's basketball career closing - it started when she was in 1st grade. We're proud of her commitment and valued amazing girls and families to share the time in the stands and on the court.

Life on Newark-Granville Road loves to gather at the table, break bread and share the community of family and friends.

Crawfish Dip- Ann!

Italian New Orleans Salad- Susan

Jambalaya- Angela

CAn't even describe this homemade deliciousness- chocolate mouse, whipped cream, bourbon soaked (blantons!!) rasberries in the most incredible praline basket!! Christina- oh and the fleur de le lis chocolate on top!

Ankle Progress- home stretch

Everyone said the ankle break would be complicated- and it was.  I didn't believe it as the left ankle break was simple and healed.  That was the small bone, this was the big one- Fibula vs Tibia!  Life lessons at 50,  repeated on this blog and in conversations many times:  go to the specialist, get the 2nd opinion, what I knew but didn't head: listen to your gut!  Update- I'm released from doctor's care. I'm going to close the Workers Comp case after I sync up all billing.  I'm doing my exercises at home and wearing sneakers.  I'll work my way back into other shoes, tennis and higher impact exercise.  Here is my look these days- swing dress and sneaks! Adidas and New Balance- Joe helped me find the perfect pair, TJ Maxx the back-up

It is hard for me not to wear professional shoes but I'll be honest- these are comfy.  My ankle does swell when I stand too much. My doctor says we're watching for recovery so I will start attempt flats soon.  I do too much- my body is healing and I'm tired at night. I want to put my feet up- I go to bed early to do that.  The slow down or halt was good for me- trying hard to keep balance and pace in a healthy place.  Why return to the frantic?  Full is relative of course, so is frantic, my approach is being mindful of pace and needs and adding in some meditation and yoga.  I've been back at yoga for some time!!

Many have asked about the ankle and I appreciate the care and interest.   Life on Newark-Granville road is good with two feet and the ability to climb stairs- just doing it in sneakers.

Counting my Blessings, Monday morning

I wanted to post this on Sunday but I just never had the opportunity to sit and share. It was one of "those" weeks in our lives on Newark-Granville Road. In some ways simple as so many of us were gone at some point in the past seven days.  Susan to Naples, FL for work- yes, there are DU parents in 80 degree weather in February to be seen. I added a drive home from Maryland to bring the new to us car- Hansel Winston, I'm back driving a station wagon!!  Joe went to Vegas on a guys trip- love this tradition and time with friends.  Crazy how you have to leave to do so but it works!  Peter went to the swim state meet as an alternative and Sally went to Hocking Hills weekend youth retreat with church.  On top of it all was my big work weekend- I have two a year in the Family Philanthropy world and I'm pleased to say it went really really well.  

The week started with a church meeting that had robust conversation that led to the simplest of answers- count your blessings.  I know we all read this everywhere. And my brain wants to simplify it more- be grateful.  So today's blog post is me reflecting on some of my blessings:
-Sunshine- in Florida and Ohio
-Snow- oh how pretty the contrast- MY mountain drive Friday was different with silhouetted trees.  If it is going to be cold, may we please have snow!
-Safe- those winds were nuts- so far so good, neighbor had big tree uprooted- it fell the right way and the right time.
-Teamwork with YES!  no way, no how could the weekend FLC meeting happened without incredible work by the incredible team that executed, presented. And the team behind the scenes leading up to a weekend like that.
-Philanthropy- parents/donors that care- these FLC members are supporting the college with resources beyond money- thoughts, time, care and perspective.
-Friendship- a special treat in the weekend was an impromptu drink to catch-up and share with a colleague that leads incredibly well.
-Memorials- I attended the service of a 99 year old friend at FPC. Emily was a friend to everyone on so many levels.  She will always be my inspiration from our FLC- Granville time, so much more at the service. Karen you always do a wonderful job with these- such a blessing.  Memorial services are so important- funerals are for the living- the family to grieve but also for the deceased's memory to be strengthened, launched.  Emily was a blessing in this world.  I believe she'll continue to be a blessing- heaven is on earth with the memories we keep alive.
-Friendship- Clare couldn't find her make up for Winter Formal- we were texting during that memorial service (I know bad form) but I wanted to be in two places at once and my phone allowed me to do so.  No biggie- girl group took care of her.  Hair and make up at a friends house, group pictures- a lovely change of pace for me, touch point in my busy work weekend.
-Boys and Mud- Peter and the dog park, Lucy and mud, a tub- enough said.
-Church youth group- this retreat to the hocking hills.  Sally had it on the calendar for weeks- the timing was perfect. I met a nice Mom at pick up- so grateful our church included her son. They go to a smaller church and they appreciated how many kids we had on this trip.  Our church is a blessing.
-Table talk- Logos table time was intentional and how we really connected with Emily and many of our church family.  Constant in our life- not every night as you can tell from above schedule-but enough to be a tradition- family dinner.  Yesterday morning I sat with two dear volunteers-donors-friends and reflected, caught up, shared.  The time went fast and wasn't long enough but it was indeed a blessing to host and be at the table.
-Wins and Loss- we learn through the losses. Life isn't perfect. The celebrations carry us, energizes us.  Lots of these in our lives in various places on and off the athletic field.
-Communication with People is such a blessing! Being able to plan and share.  All the better when you can be honest and real.  I was able to have breakfast with my parents, hug my niece and connect with my sister and brother in law this week in person!! Talking to my brother in the same state- delightful!  Maryland time, not planned. Started with a thoughtful phone call: "hey, you said you got first dibs if we ever sold Greg's wagon?"   Thank you Sarah for the call.  I wanted to return to a wagon when I turned 50 and thanks be to God, the Universe, Kismet (what ever you believe) I believe it is a bit of all these things wrapped up together and tied with Communication.

It was a blessed week in more ways than this. I'm ready to move forward this week on Newark-Granville Road looking and appreciating my blessings.

Celebrating with Truth

Overheard in our life on Newark-Granville Road:  "Oh- that means truth".  Clare's response to the answer I provided to her question: "where are you having dinner to celebrate your anniversary?"  My answer was: Veritas.  https://veritasrestaurant.com

Here is the truth- dinner was fantastic, even for a Valentines set dinner.  Truth- I love a tasting menu when I don't have to make the decision of what to order. Delight me, surprise me, make it easy on you  for a busy night.  Truth- we don't usually go out to dinner on Valentines weekend- kind of like NYE.  Saturday was the one night we could make it work. Our 20th anniversary is on 2/20- fun with math! I'll be in Florida for work.  We often combine it to celebrate Joe's birthday 2/22- he'll be on a guy's trip and I'll be working.  We seized the night.  Truth- I made the reservation frustrated by Joe's lack of planning for the big 20- truth- not warranted, I may have overreacted a bit- good trips coming up this summer.  Truth- he still sends me my bouquet- white roses and I was happy to have them delivered on Friday to the office.  Truth- I'm the planner.  I had always wanted to try Veritas and I it all worked out- the 9 pm reservation was perfect for a busy Denison day- NCAC swim championships, lacrosse, bluegrass, great parents in town and honoring a family.  Truth- ending the day at an intimate table for two with scrumptious small plates paired with wine, an anniversary champagne toast was a lovely way to celebrate 20 years together.  A gift to Joe and a gift to me and a gift for us.  Life on Newark-Granville Road has ups and downs, over reactions and juggling but we know our love is true.

Love for the Blog's Roots and Pancake Time!

Showing some love for the roots of the blog- communication, spreading event news, encouraging folks to share in community gatherings/events!  Mass emails was how I would share info, now I post here. The coffee shop- River Road Granville- had these events posted and inspired today's Life on NG post:

- Granville Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast- this Saturday, February 16th.  We love how this event brings out neighbors and friends.  We are grateful for the Kiwanis and ALL they do, support, execute- we want to help in any way we can.  If eating pancakes and GRANVILLE syrup helps- so be it!  St. Edward's Church 7 am to 2 pm.

-Denison University's Center for Narrative Journalism- TELL BETTER STORIES.  Workshop series free and open to the public on Feb 23, March 23 and April 27  10 am- 12 pm NEWORK SPACE.  Register at lossingb@denison.edu check out the picture and here is a link for the first event- https://denison.edu/events/event/129647  Great topics include: lives with video, truth/memoirs and Listening Well (for Writers).

Valentines Day- tomorrow- isn't just for lovers...it is for people and events I just love in my life on Newark-Granville Road.

Denison BLUEGRASS- a repeat topic for regular readers:  This weekend- some fantastic picking going on up on the hill:  https://denison.edu/series/bluegrass  You won't be sorry if you find yourself in Swasey at 7 pm on Friday or Saturday!!

Denison Lacrosse- here we go, yes in February, and it might snow, it has before:
Men's Season Opener - Saturday 2/16  1 pm vs Washington and Lee.
Women's Season Opener- Saturday 2/23 Noon, then a Sunday 2/24 game!!  Men play at 3 on 2/23!

Vail Series:  https://denison.edu/series/vail  I'm going to be very very sad to miss the event on Tuesday, February 26th, go if you can please!

Happy Valentines Day to all reading and sharing- love life as Benjamin Franklin said:  Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life ismade of.   And take some of that time for you today.