July- Oh Beautiful July, and America, and Granville and Family.....

 July- in life on Newark-Granville Road, July is....

• Fiscal Year Launch (meaning Fiscal Year ended the day before!)  Thank you to all our donors, hosts, volunteers, etc...25-26 was a very good year.
• Birthday- America's- Fourth of July in Granville is special- fireworks from the 18th hole, our parade, the festival is festive and I know so many people love connecting and coming home. It was great to see Sally take it all in. Thank you Kiwanis for being the lead and then Rotary, Granville Foundation and so many more that make it work and happen. Joe and Sally- woo hoo- ran the Firecracker Five (5 miles) and I savored it from the yard with Lucy!
• Birthday- mine and this year all three kids were together,and that was a surprise! It has been great having Peter home a few weeks, Sally is with us all summer, but Clare made a lake detour with dear friend Hannah!! Thanks to all that reached out, gave gifts, dinners, gifts, hugs, text, social media wishes....I loved it all and am grateful. Coffee Cake for Birthday Cake is AWESOME!  I was spoiiled and I loved it.
• Lake Time- thank you Scott and Ann for hosting us, this year the water temp was divine...we did our annual Apple Valley Swim Team swim, were hosted for fireworks by the Parsons, and watched tennis and ate well! 
• Golf/Sports whenever, wherever- Denison, Licking Springs is looking so good...league on Wed, playing 18 is a treat! Date night, time with Peter, Fountainhead, traveling!  Boating, Tennis- watching Wimbleton!! Swimming, lake time, skiiing...SUMMER!

• Summer Foods- veggies, farmers market, chicken salad, iced tea (with tea from England, Sean's favorite) fruit, crabs, seafood, grilling...ahhhh yum! Gazpacho-Farmers Market BLT, ham salad, bbq, beans..I could go on and on...
• Vacation- always a trip somewhere, somehow and some vacation time....the 4th holiday is a delight.
• Summer Reading- what is your recommendation...it is certainly the time I read the most and love it. Reading on the porch, when traveling, by the pool, the beach!
• Swimming- Water Water everywhere- the lake, the pool, the ocea, floating...I just love the water, Cancer Crabby...
•  Summer Welcomes and Summer Events- looking forward to hitting the road soon to welcome            Class of 2030- thank you hosts and all those joining the fun! 
• Flowers- the flowers of July- farmers market bouquets....so fun- the world in bloom is a good thing.

Future blog material with upcoming travel.... will take some time off to enjoy July and report back on this amazing month in August! Thank you for reading and engaging in life on Newark-Granville Road!

Pictures Tell the story of our July Launch and a special Birthday surprise...note Sally and Peter taking in their good work! I just love to smile so much it hurts!!

Porch fun with kids and guests- UK Sean!! Questions, want to know more, just reach out!!  Enjoy your July.

Before

After

A Top Ten Denison Moment: WO Celebration of Life

The Post of November 18, 2025 shares information and links about the lives of Jane Heller and William Osborne- amazing and inspirational Denisonians.  I was sorry to miss the gathering to celebrate Jane, but grateful for the art exhibit that connected and honored a key component/path of her life. I continue to be grateful to those that attended for sharing their time and take-aways.

I was able to attend the Celebration of Life for WO and am grateful I did. At some point in the afternoon it came to me that I was experiencing a top ten Denison moment for me.  Now yes, that means I have started a draft of a Top Ten list...it may take some time.  No doubt, this concert, reflection, memorial, reunion is on the list.  Here are some reasons why and reflections of note:

The music was stunning. Singers give credit to conductor, current Denison faculty member Harris Ipock...but of course it is their commitment, work and talent as well.  The selection of pieces presented told a story and portrayed the sentiments of commitment, love, learning and impact.

Two that touched me:

"Gently"2001- M. Michael Fauss '72- from PIGS, the sad saga of a wolf who was outwitted by his own dinner.   Tree House Pig...oh my goodensss....I found the composer to learn more- proud Denison moment.

"Pianosong"1985 Paul Halley (b. 1952) performed by Meredith Needham '78, pianist, Donald Armitage, organist.

A number of times there was the piano for two hands, and it took my breath way.

Watching the reactions and emotions from the choir provided a poignant part of the afternoon. These Singers were so beautiful in allowing us to join their grief, it elevated the experience.

Each person that spoke and reflected made us laugh and think, remember and delight in how fortunate each of us and Denison was to have William Osborne. Thank you to all presentors. President Adam Weinberg set the stage by explaning WO demonstrated what is to be a faculty mentor, saying he did it best. It is true and these Singers and Sunday was tesitment.  That said Margaret Padelford Karns '65 reminded us of Wally Chesman and others that did the same and I'm so grateful for this time to reflect on these types of Denisonians. I sat with Larry Murdock, another one. I'm inspired by the sentiment of WO- strive for the unattainable to achieve the improbable- we heard it a few times.   The joy of music, learning, sharing, uniting was the energy of the event, weekend and tenure...Sarah Enterline Roch '02- little Sarah-ensured those of us attending felt it too.

Jeffrey Masten '86, Denison Trustee linked the academic prowess of WO, it took me back to WO as my teacher and the the World Music Class. Jeff's thoughts inspired me and I want to read and know more.

Yes, I took notes, I'm trying to read my own writing and recall more of the WOism that made us laugh and cry. The gift and purpose of Choral music- to blend, giving order to chaos.....teamwork, programs, all valuable lessons that inspire.

Link: https://denison.edu/academics/music/feature/162102  Here is the official well done article about the day wtih photos.  More photos of the full weekend here, thanks Brenda!!  https://www.flickr.com/photos/denisonuniversity/with/55359919042

Enjoy and savor.

The reception and after the service was key to rating "top ten", seeing Denisonians I have not seen in probably 35 plus year...hearing the connection Scott and Margararet Kruse '89 '86's family have to WO and having them part of the Singers family- truly heartening.  The hug from dear Jeny Dawes '88 and Sarah Leibowits '89- sigh, the happy, grateful sigh, heart on chest- ahhh. I could go on and on...Lauren Kronish Klayman '89, David Zivan '88, Wanda Wilson with her current student daugther...Cookie Sunkle back in town...Denisonians of all generations and types...happiness is..even in a sad time to say farewell and thank you, but joy filled because of WO and all that give of time and talen...and treasure.

https://alumni.denison.edu/stories/a-standing-o-for-wo/  Another beautiful facet to this story, this life, the impact and inspiration..not only WO's scholarship he created, but this one created by alums in WO's name. THANK YOU to all supporting this. I was a music minor, I know the community the arts provides and each dollar matters and makes a difference.

WO, thank you for being you, for loving Denison, music, learning, students, community in such a liberal arts way. Thank you for your philanthropy and generosity and making Denisonians your family.

The music will play on, we will Sing on....

PS- thanks to the staff that made it all happen too....you all rock..you've been busy this Spring- well done!

Making Memories in Delaware- Stoner Style

Pinch me, was it a dream? I'm sitting here in my life on Newark-Granville Road, tan, rested and thinking maybe the week at the beach was just a dream.  It certainly was dreamy to be in a beautiful home rented by my Mom for us, close to the beach, with family. It was not perfect as we did miss Clare, Sally, Louisa, Emma and Grace...it wasn't all the Stoners under one roof, but for those that could be with us it was a treat!

Rehoboth, DE...last year was a fun visit with a hotel stay...this year longer and the house.  The house is nice as we can linger over coffee and chat, make family dinners and enjoy the screened in porch at cocktail time! The beach time was divine- breezy and warm, cool ocean that was exhilarating with just enough waves. I do love lunch break and making a good sandwich!

Bonus, the week started with a stop in Hagerstown to honor Georgina Bruce, beloved cousin of my mother and her dear family. They had their service and then we gathered for lunch with the Ashville family. We added 18 holes at FHCC, because- why not- it is a beloved course and perfect way to launch vacation time.  We made the drive over the bridge to Sarah and Greg's...ending the day with a cocktail and giggles in their welcoming home, and puppy licks!! Peter met Winnie...and of course we adore Remmie.

Matt and Karen flew in, Mom picked them up at BWI, we all united for move-in to the house with the treat of Mom's sand tarts.  A quick dip to launch the beach trip and Coq au Vin for dinner! Second day was beach time and a crab feast on the porch. Small but tasty, beautiful ritual to introduce and share with Karen.

Sunday more beach time, reading time and dinner out in Rehobeth- lovely lovely lovely.

Monday-more beach time, reading time- I finished four books this week:

The Correspondent- finally- I know everyone has read it and told me how good it was, they were right I LOVED IT!  The Academy- had been had this one for a while- great beach read and Garden and Gun's latest edition- again I put it aside to savor on the beach! Boys, Dogs and other things I've cried over....what a treat NYC living, friends and romance and amazing care for these amazing four legged lovies! HIGHLY recommend, and Claire McCardell, the Designer Who Set Women Free the book I finished on the drive home....fascinating non-fiction about an important Woman of Maryland!

Tuesday- rain day, Nicobolis, shopping and steak night!

Wednesday- YOGA on the boardwalk....back to the beach and taco fun...

Thursday- back to the beach- fried chicken, deviled eggs- we start to work to reduce take home inventory....FUNLAND...Matt, Karen and I on the Sea Dragon (I want to call it the Pirate Ship) and Mom and Peter on the Carousel!

Friday- last day...breakfast on the boardwalk with mom, shop, back to the beach and then dinner out in Lewes, bonus- drinks with Amy and Dave...what a great...

Saturday- 6:15 (shooting for 6) am departure to avoid bridge traffic, it worked...great driving by Joe and home....for dinner with Sally who stayed to work (AEP) and the care for Lucy.

This truly is one of my favorite kind of vacations. I did a bit of work (it is fiscal year end) but because of this wonderful getaway truly relaxed, as did Joe- yay! Family time, reading time, outdoor showers, swimming and floating in saltwater, sand in your toes, the surf, the ice in the glass....little things I'm thinking about as I type. Happy to be home and glad we'll end the fiscal year strong, launch the 4th of July fun in our sweet town and make more memories that matter.

June Thoughts, Happenings and Inspiration

 Congratulations to Newark Rotary Award Winners: Robert McGaughy, Eshol Curl, Doug Stout, Patricia Watkins, Beth Graff. Why do we do awards? To Thank, Celebrate and Inspire. It was a treat to hear nominators share details on the awardees. Rotary is about Service Above Self and all of these Rotarians live this every day. We're lucky to have their care and commitment building community in Licking County.

Awards- Denison- citations: https://alumni.denison.edu/citations/  Read about the most recent class here, they're special and inspiring and so deserving of Denison's highest honor.  The Citation dinner is a new favorite event of mine, lucky me to share the evening!  Reunion Weekend 2026 was another magical time on the hill, thank you to all that were able to attend and all that worked to make it so- it was fun!!

Speaking of being fortunate and lucky..LUCKY'S our new market. So far so good...grateful they are here- the Yunengling is further down- keep going...the paper goods are way north...I'm still going for salad dressing where it use to be...but I love the produce and layout and people!!

Awards and honors- Granville 4th of July Parade Marshalls: The Ross Family...love it! Getting excited for 4th Fun!

Life on Newark-Granville Road is HAPPY- Peter and Sally under one roof with us! Sally's internship going well and what fun it was to celebrate niece Caroline's milestoner birthday. Today we wish neice Emma the same bday greetigs..they're growing up!

That is it for today...just sharing my thoughts and inspiration in my life on Newark-Granville Road!

Milestones in Maryland

Louisa and the Christophers provided a beautiful day in our lives (off) Newark-Granville Road. Joe and I traveled to Maryland to celebrate Louisa's high school graduation. St. Paul's School for Girls provided a lovely ceremony and Sarah and Greg capped it off with a divine luncheon. We're so proud of our niece and goddaughter!  

Family time enhanced by being in Maryland with Mom and Michael, and of course I always love seeing the pups: Remmy, Birdie and Vanna!  The screened in porch the idea location for work and watching Big Red Baseball!

WOWZA to the Third! Three National Championships Now!

I posted about the special day March 23 was, and so it feels appropriate to share June 4th's fun, joy and inspiration! But truly it isn't about a day, or a team or a season, it is about a program.  This is what Coach Deegan says in this article:

Big Red’s golden year continues with baseball’s first NCAA title | Athletics & Recreation

The win was dramatic, the journey to the championship was dramatic and we watched every pitch we turned in for...we loved sharing all games- in Granville and Cleveland- especially that opening day in the outfield with the Craft Beer Society! And this has been the case for years- since Peter's birthday party and those players were so sweet signing the little boy's baseball party favors! Something changed when Nan Carney-DeBord '80 (AD) hired Mike Deegan. And then we blended into the program too. I was able to support in my small way as a colleague, Joe and kids volunteered during playoffs. You will find many blog posts include Big Red Baseball mentions!! We're grateful.

The baseball families are amazing, the coaches, staff, the alums. It is great to see such success happen this year- they deserve this championship and the fans are grateful we're part of the program!

Bright Spot: Cookie Mom - The Reporting Project - Covering Licking County, Ohio  FYI- my last post inspired me to submit a Bright Spot and ta-da- published!

Google, search, follow on social media- so much amazing coverage- including an interview with Cookie Mom Carol Ann! Enjoy  Hat's off to Coach and the whole program:

Good Things Happening on Newark-Granville Road

Delivery....entrepreneurial Denison alum, young alum, re-establisher of the Wine Society- Tatum- launched a business/ a product.  Something fun and needed. She has shared the journey on social media and I'm all-in! Help me spread the word and support this young woman please!

Delivery on Newark-Granville Road!  https://tatumlouise.   Check it out, and yes spoiler alert- this could be your next gift!  Congrats and well done Tatum and crew, thank you! #Denisonproud

Book Club- I so appreciate our "Discussing Books at CVH"group....last night we affirmed why we read, the discussion allowed me to value the read, our classic Änother Country and I just enjoyed the company, time and setting with lovely women. They also allowed me to tune in to Denison Baseball- it was the last few innings of the 2nd Elimination Round for CWS...and we won! They shared the delight- truly a special night.

Yesterday was one of those magical days, simple day really but each component such quality it is blog worthy....Granville Yoga- oh my Monday morning 6 am- best way to start a day or week- Karen was our sub and is an outstanding instructor- such a gift to experience her class.  Denison Retreat at the Columbus Library- this place is so special, beautiful, providing inspiration, access to so many things beyond books, but oh the books, the wonderful books! They even have a shop- I bought cards and new stickers for my computer!! The Topiary Garden - such a treat to walk through there on my way to our post meeting happy hour- Gemut Biergarden. What a treat to sit outside and soak in the great setting, delicous food and bev- Prost!  

Back to Baseball....what a run...Friday night's loss was sad, we tied the NCAA run streak, but we're still dancing! Saturday, Sunday each had a win and yesterday- Monday- two wins- wowza! We're now 49-2...and in the finals of College World Series DIII! The come back in yesterday's 2nd game was something- the energy...I was watching on devices at the retreat and at book club- sometimes you can't be completely in the moment.  (I did shut my lap top, put down my phone for most conversations/presentations).

What a treat to be in Eastlake Friday, Saturday and Sunday! It all worked. The Tailgate for Fridays game was work- the very rewarding work: meeting families, welcoming alums, catching up...not the outcome we wanted, but that is baseball. As metioned before parents of alums, back and connected, is such a treat of my role! I also squeezed in time to see Amanda Love, working in Cleveland on a special residency! Joe drove up and on our way to the hotel took a stop at one of our foundational relationship places: The Tree House in Treemont! Cheers to us and a stop at the place we felt the spark, the energy that led to the question...do you like golf?! Back to baseball....

Saturday was the ideal day for baseball- sunshine, more people including sitting with Joe, energy and obviously a commitment to get a W...well done boys of summer, well done! We drove home happy and hit the golf course. Walking 9 with friends in wonderfully bump-in timed way! LSCC is one of those Good Things too-walking nine wiht Joe is always a treat, playing well makes me happy and then stopping in for a drink- good things indeed. Home to cocktail hour on the porch with CHEESE from Mass...thank you Jill!!!....steak dinner with Sally.

YES SALLY IS HOME- she had an amazing trip to Amsterdam with her team, playing in games and clinics, watching and expereriencing this beautiful place and culture- well done DePauw Field Hockey/Athletics, well done! She started her Summer Internship with AEP yesterday...good things, good things!

Back to Baseball...I could not stay away and Sunday I hitched a ride with the amazing assistant coaches from Swim and Dive and took a day trip wtih them! We laughed, sang, shared and got to know one another. We cheered on a great W and met more amazing Denisonians in Eastlake. We enjoyed Nora's outside patio and yummies for a late lunch in Willobough before making the drive home. THANK YOU drivers and Denison friends, thank you.

Yes, not all days are perfect, not all things are perfect. We're thinking about Nadine and her health and not being at home. We're grateful for great care providers. The ups and downs are certainly better with time, talk, walks and cheers...and maybe a few beers...Life on Newark-Granville Road-Play Ball!

Few pics from the good things above: