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Wednesday, October 30, 2013

pot luck yummies!

A few pot-lucks in my life this week.  Just down the road we had a fun pot-luck at church.  It really was a special evening.  Super nice group of people, happy kids in costumes, some adults in biblical inspirations- the old penguin costume with Harold (my stuffed penguin from my 21st birthday) took a ride.  Joe made a delicious Asian Slaw salad and I took chocolate mint penguins to round out the theme.  I don't think there was much chocolate on the arc.

Tomorrow we pot-luck at work!  I have very fond memories of work pot-lucks from my URPA/Colwell House days...that group could cook!  I picked up some yummy recipes from those days...Lyn's grape jelly/bbq sauce meatballs come to mind.  Janice is keeping us festive- she brought in the Frankin-berry, Boo-Berry cereals to use for inspiration.  I accepted and tonight put together these treats:  shttp://hubpages.com/hub/Boo-Berry-Marshmallow-Treats   They're a little too sweet for me but they're festive.

I'm also taking a salad with roasted pumpkin seeds to balance and offer a healthy contribution.  Speaking of healthy and festive- at church someone did the clementine pumpkins- peeled with a tic-tac as the stem- tooo cute!  I'll remember those for sure!

Pot lucks are something I do love as it is about sharing, and breaking bread together, and being around the table as family.  I'm lucky to have great places this happens in my life on Newark-Granville Road.

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

High 5!

Here is a cyber high 5 to my sister Sarah- 5 years have past since your diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer and your amazing fight!  Sarah met with her Dr this week and is doing great- she is thriving, not just surviving! Woo Hoo!  High Five about posting this happy joyous update on the blog we started five years ago to keep the positive energy and communication going- THANK YOU for the prayers, positive vibes and all the cyber high 5s out there as you read this!  http://updateforsarah.blogspot.com

Peter gave Clare a darling sincere High Five hand slap when learning the news that his big sister made the 7th grade Middle School Basketball tame- woo hoo!

Clare's expression as she walked out the of the school....she tried to act like she was sad...head down...she couldn't do it- she was beaming.  Love that smile...not an everyday occurrence with Clare...real and glowing.

So Life today I say- oh yeah, woo hoo, high five.....life on Newark-Granville Road is in a good place.

Monday, October 28, 2013

celebrate good times....

Tonight the celebration is good grades...woo hooooo! Clare is very pleased with herself and the results of studying, keeping organized and testing well. She asked to go to Josie's and I said yes.  Bonus was Peter remembering that Josie's gives 4 oz free yogurt for 3.0 and above....and guess what- Peter qualified too- woo-hoo!  Sally is progressing- the new rating for elementary school- no more 1-2-3-4s...I think that is what it was...it wasn't A-B-C...now we get P for making progress, N for needs improvement, M for mastering and E for exceeding.  Sally even rated an E in one skill/concept....Economics!  My sister in law asked if Joe has been reading the Economist to her?  Reality is the teacher did an awesome job in using real life lessons- making and selling popcorn and products- and Sally embraced it.   I'm fine with this as it does align with what the kids hear on Newark-Granville Road- make progress.  We're also big on- try your best, work hard.  Clare also is trying out for the Middle School Basketball team.  She had a good day- feeling good about what she was able to do on the court- doesn't get much better than that.  It feels a little like Xmas eve- anticipation.  They're all winners right now- trying out, going for it.  Life on Newark-Granville Road loves to celebrate.

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Hello Blog..It's Me Susan.....

I've not given this blog much attention this week....the reality is I've had a very rich week and there is almost too much to blog about, and then the reality of not taking the time to reflect- too busy being in the moments and resting from and for the moments!!

Highlights since we were last together:
-The Ohio State School for the Blind Marching Band.  WOW! Thursday night was a big rival game- Granville vs Newark-Catholic at Granville.  I don't feel the need to attend the school football games, but my kids like to go. I signed up to work the Levy tent to give the kids the opportunity. The bonus for me was to experience this half time show with these beautiful students on the field and our band students cheering them on....bonus was talking last night with musicians that have worked with this group- amazing for sooo many reasons- too many to explore right now.
-FAMILY MATTERS- the art exhibit at The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art and Technology in downtown Newark.  This is an incredible show for so many reasons- art, history and science all showcased and the collective effort.  PLEASE come see me or someone at The Works and learn more behind the scenes about this show. It started with two artist friends and family photos....if you value family, art, vintage, creativity, the 50s, cool art science you will appreciate this show!  The opening was particularly special for me as we embraced it under Janice's leadership and dressed the part and entertained with 50s inspiration that aligned beautifully with the evening.  Being part of the family celebration for the opening was an honor. This morning a friend noted the memories of her own family that were inspired by the show....me too!
-Celebrating 50th birthday of dear friend:  Kelly Baldwin turned 50 and it is a busy month...the only time I truly had to share her day was the morning and it is appropriate as much of friendship has been spent in the morning running/walking at The Campus or on Newark-Granville Road.  I miss having and attending Saturday morning coffees...going back to my Omaha days and coffee chat. So the fun run/walk-coffee open house was the event to celebrate this special friend and her special birthday.  Other friends embraced too and helped me execute...hence the balloon arch in our front yard!  Life on Newark-Granville is bright and cheery and celebratory- filled with joy!  What a lovely morning we had for many reasons.   I wish I had more time to dig into the details but the kids embracing preparation Friday night and the signs they worked on touched me.  Peter's run with us touched me.
-Earlier in the week many STEM work events- too many to list here but a full worthwhile week producing great pride in the work of The Works under Marcia Downes and Rick Platt's leadership.
-Pearly Vine- Heidi Halliday Ackley- this Denison friend is so talented and fun to be with- loved supporting her.  Wednesday evening was a treat.
-Gatsby Affair- Rotary Auction.  Service Above Self is Rotary's motto.  I've so valued this new outlet for service and admire the local and international accomplishments and impact (NO MORE POLIO).  I've heard about the Newark Rotary Auction for years and this was part of the committee to help.  However my time commitments made it difficult. Lucky for me I paired up with a veteran of the event and I partnered with her on an idea to provide make up for the Gatsby era.   We learned a number of lessons and only had a small impact but it worked beautifully.  The time with these women was very special for me and I'm grateful.  Being out with Joe in his white dinner jacket, supporting and helping in our small way made for another highlight of my week.

Last Sunday I wasn't quite sure how all the important to-dos were going to happen.  Thanks to friends, prayer, Joe and passion I'm able to reflect now on the joy it brought. All of these things and so many more were joyous moments for me.  Today's sermon and theme for our week with everyday faith- joy and rejoicing!  I love the point that joy is beyond happiness- it is hope, optimism- it is living out God's will.    And now we go into this week...ready for the other joy that awaits on Newark-Granville Road.

Friday, October 25, 2013

education, global world, friends......

http://naplesgirlblog.com/2013/10/24/interesting-facts/

Not much time to blog this week- one of those weeks and I love them but it all can't get done and the blog is an easy thing to pass on when I'm tired.  Luckily I find other awesome blogs to share on weeks like this and I encourage you to take a look.  We're very much in a global community and need to be. My work and passion is about preparing my kids and our communities children for this faster, broader world....and my friends...because we can't be successful without our friends.  That is it for today- I hope you'll read blog of interesting facts that connect to my life on Newark-Granville Road!

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

with the return of the crock pot!

Dinner tonight was a whole chicken put into the "slow cooker" as I was rushing out the door- a cup of water, some seasoning....poultry, salt and pepper....I admit it wasn't my best meal. It was all starch- corn, rice and peas were served with it....but at least we sat around the table and had meat and potatoes...well rice- kids like rice better than potatoes.  Last week it was pork in the crock pot and the week before that- Joe found the Italian Beef recipe and got us restarted with the crock pot. We even did a test with the old one- figured out it wasn't getting hot enough.  Joe bought a new one for his dinner.  Yay Joe!

I really do best with routine.  At work I try to give myself the same "to do list" in general terms. Answer email, work on a project, walk to the floor, check in with co-workers, telephone calls, project, repeat.....A saving grace for dinners was at one point- Monday- meat, Tuesday-Tacos or food-fetti or pasta (things that could easily make a mess), Wed was go out- cleaning person on Wednesdays (hence messy food night prior), Thursday casserole, Friday pizza or ?....This really worked and I need to get back to it.  

What I am back to is using the crock pot early in the week.  I love my Sundays when I update "life at the Leithasuers this week" and then meal plan accordingly, make the list, go to the store.  Meat on Mondays provides left overs and base for other meals- like the fajitas with the pork.

Yes exciting life on Newark-Granville Road huh....pot roasts in the slow cooker!  A good friend bought me a crock pot cookbook for Christmas...I need to dig it out- have the kids help me identify and prepare some meals! The reality is we sit down around the dining room table with these meals and that is what really makes me happy on Newark-Granville Road.

Monday, October 21, 2013

what does the...crab..?...say....

Tonight was fun- we started our quest for the Halloween costumes/outfits.  I asked the kids on the way - what do you all remember being for Halloween?  Clare rattled off the most and fond memories came rushing back to me!  We talked a bit about this earlier and Peter said..I guess I was a crab once.  Yes that was my favorite- Clare was the fisher girl with the cutest yellow rain coat and round floppy hat ever- I found it on line and they've all worn that coat for years and years...Peter was in all red and a crab hat in the wood wagon- the crab trap!  Peter remembers being Cookie Monster- we got (or Nana got Clare Cookie) when Peter was Elmo. He was a rock star- kids came at him from all over, jumped up and down, pointed, ooohed and ahhed, pulled at their mother's skirts - so much fun. That was the year it was 90 degrees and the poor kid asked for water instead of Candy or "trick or treat" we kept him going....I laugh out loud remembering that fun evening.  It worked well for Sally and Peter was my favorite when he donned Cookie to match her.  Clare recalled Nerd, Iphone..I remember her first costume as a ladybug- I was so proud of the fact I bought it at the IGA - crossed it off my list and it was sentimental- she arrived in October with the lady bugs.  Sally hmm I'm going to need to go back to my photos...she replied in the car  "witch"...and she is right she's been a witch many times.  We usually just find something fun for her in the costume pile downstairs...I did buy her a new hat and some accessories for the witch one year.  The year we did a fun Charlotte's web with friends was pretty awesome.  We talked Peter into doing something fun that year..need to dig out the pictures.

My usual m.o. is to be practical, get things for the costume we can use again or find at the house.  I LOVE partner and groups.  My own Halloween memories on Forrest drive are good- Sarah was a ghost once and we led her around...it was the year my parent had friends visiting and we went out on our own.  Mom had mouse costumes made so yes one year we were the three blind mice. Later a friend and I were country and city mouse....I got to be city with a cigarette and champagne glass and pearls....hmmm I think I've blogged about this before..oh well....fond memories....We had great success with practical things for Peter's costume and have some ideas for Sally...she is "sleeping" on one...a girl can change her mind for a costume in the next 10 days.  Clare probably won't dress up this year..need to keep it festive for her.

Life on Newark-Granville road- never dull and always filed with stories and things to share- thanks for reading! Blog title tonight- we're singing "what does the fox say" all the time...I begged Peter to be a fox...he was so good as it in the Kindergarten Gingerbread man play....but no- when we finalize their costume's we'll change the words to be "what does the ?" say.....always guessing on Newark-Granville Road!

Sunday, October 20, 2013

pumpkin patches......

This year's window boxes are pumpkin patches...we used the straw that has been in the garage for some time now...left over care for Sparky.  Straw in the window boxes with pumpkins...maybe the mouse that we've yet to catch....ARGH....will move out there- quite a nice nest.  As I was placing, shushing, arranging the straw into the boxes I felt like I was making a nest.

We needed more pumpkins- I LOVE my Devine Farm fun pumpkins but didn't want to put them all in the straw- like having some on the porch steps- so I took the kids to the pumpkin patch to pick their pumpkins.  I have sooo many fond memories of doing this myself, with friends in Omaha, with the kids..in the rain, two days before Halloween...we drove right up...today- all of Central Ohio was there- we crept along like we were in 5 pm Friday traffic.  But we made it...kids really didn't want to be there- they played along so I could then drop them at Denison to kick field goals- a favorite new activity with Joe.  It was the fastest selection of pumpkins ever..of course I equate this to Christmas Tree shopping...I have to hold on to days like today- what a gorgeous beautiful fall day....that December ritual will be here soon!

Anyway....welcome to our pumpkin patch on Newark-Granville Road keeping life here orange and festive! Enjoy it- pumpkins are Thanksgiving decor in my life on Newark-Granville Road!

Thursday, October 17, 2013

welcome guests!

Okay so the guests are my parents..... but still...amazing how quickly we reduce the piles, finish a few to-dos (hanging pictures) and set a table....LOVE when guests arrive!  This is why we do our Derby Party (1st Saturday in May)...we get ready!  Those of you driving by will now notice framed art hanging in the dining room- it has been prompted up for months.  I added a few other new and beloved photos.  Sally is so happy to see these pictures- she didn't know them - they've been down since we painted everything in the front rooms. The pictures of my darling toddlers- each unique- Peter on a swing, Clare in a rocking chair and Sally withe black-eyed Susan's....her pinkie wrapped from our 1st trip to the Emergency Room- she recently had told the story of her sister pulling her finger out of a closed door and now she has the visual documentation!

I also pulled out our fall decorations- Works glass pumpkins, our toilet paper fabric wrapped pumpkins and the beautiful fall things from my "Around the Year" shower in Hagerstown!  Interesting this is the night the windows were officially closed and the heat turned on....kids have asked/begged a few mornings but we've resisted.  Tonight was the night.  Sally has a mind of her own- wow!  She turned the heat all the way up.....glad we caught that.  She also changes clothes on a dime and ends up not in Leithauser sanctioned garb....keep us posted- it will take this village to raise her!  But she is darling- they all are.  You know we have small mice..still working on those...he he...we went out tonight and came home to the 80lb mouse scamper....love the nights with no school in the mornings and mom and dad meet friends.  Life on Newark-Granville Road is ready for our guests and fall!

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

read the signs.....

Signs, signs, everywhere there are signs.......and I'm not just talking about the yard signs advocating you to vote for an issue or person.  I've posted about political signs before...the year I chaired the Library Levy I probably blogged daily about them.  No doubt I've shared Joe desire for there to be no signs in our yard, however we compromised and agreed we'd put only a few.  We have some guidelines- we must know the person and obviously have some respect for their effort.  We appreciate very much those that commit and serve our community by serving in office.  We love our freedom and what it represents and often that means disagreement and challenge.  We're lucky to live in a country founded on just that...we need to use it for good and positive and progress.  I'll refrain from going into thoughts about what is happening in DC right now......back to the signs....

I'd like to call your attention to the "VOTE YES FOR GRANVILLE SCHOOLS" sign in our yard and many many other yards in Granville.  I encourage you to to learn about this levy and join us in voting yes.  Joe and I have three children in three schools.  We experience first hand the quality education they receive.  Is it perfect- no, do I wish there were languages earlier yes, what I do know is what is there is high quality and we're lucky to have the hard working, dedicated staff preparing our future citizens. Education is critical to our communities success on so many levels.  Good things are happening and we need to keep momentum moving forward with a yes vote.

If you are reading this and you don't live in the Granville School District, I ask you to look at your own signs around- do you have a levy or school bond on your ballot?  I learned about the Southwest School District Bond in Pataskala yesterday- everyone needs to vote yes for that one in that community- wow! There is no reason not too facilitate that funding AND there is tremendous need- this knowledge makes me grateful for all the good happening in our community and reinforce the YES vote for Granville Schools.  I learned last week about the school levy in Utica...all my Utica friends- PLEASE support your schools, the children's education and opportunities for hands-on learning, real life preparation-it matters to all of us all over Licking County!!

So those were my signs...when I learned about two other levies I was reminded of the signs in my yard in my life on Newark-Granville Road.  I hope you'll notice the signs in your life and plan to VOTE on Nov. 5th!

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

M-I-C.....K-E-Y...

But this is no Mickey...this is a bat without wings...Okay maybe he is a little sweet...but he is in my house..inside...eating the dogs food like it is a buffet.

yes Life on Newark-Granville Road- real and personal and ICKY- a mouse is in the house.  I have always said I have two brains- I see things two ways..I'm conflicted.  The rational side of me goes back to 3rd Grade and the fun of Ralph and the Motorcycle...Miss Dorsey- later Mrs. Rankin- had the best classroom. It was the mouse house and it was darling.  And I bought into all the fun literature with mice.  And part of me thinks they are sweet. And yes Mickey and Minney are darling...but then reality hits home and Mickey and Minnie look nothing like real mice...and real mice scamper and are germy and bring the outside in....and I think of Ratatouille and rats...and if there is one.......EWWW!

So Joe says he does this every year...the mouse traps come out, it is fall and here they come and thanks to Joe...out they'll go.  Griffey put his nose in a trap- he's learning.  Silly Dog.....no bark no warning no care about the mouse in the house today.

So what brought on this rampage?  I stopped to walk the dog after lunch today- was reading the mail at the counter and heard....scratch, scamper, tititititi and looked around and there was a little brown gray mouse slight as could be quick quickly going by around the corner of the wall to the dogs food bowl, um and in, nibble nibble and back out quick as can be reversing the order....and then he did it again. At least I hope it was him again..not another one coming to the buffet- them taking turns, tag teaming it...I hope he was filling his cheeks like a squirrel and taking the free food back to the nest...oh yes- that is where my brain went - nest- baby mice waiting for their food....My real side will show through- plug the whole, bring out the tramps- get rid of them now.  This house with the kids, the counters, the dropped food is a smorgasbord for them....Life on Newark-Granville Road- never dull!

Sunday, October 13, 2013

sharing my evening......

....with my children.  On Saturday night I repeated a beloved gesture from my childhood.  My parents went out most Saturday nights.  Saturday night was their night- they didn't refer to it as date night- it was just what they did. They went to dances, dinners, bridge club, they hosted dinners, attended plays and musicals.  They dressed up and I enjoyed hanging out on their bed, helping select the shoes, fasten a necklace.  (We also were able to select our TV dinners and had our own fun with babysitters.)  Often my mother would bring home trinkets from her night time fun...I remember masks, beads, cake (from weddings was always a treat to be placed under our pillows to dream of the man we would marry) and we'd hear about their evening the next morning on the way to church.   I have very fond memories of these Saturday nights.

Saturday night of this weekend was a beautiful evening for me.  The "Up on the Rooftop" fundraiser for The James was something to behold.  The mammoth tent, exquisite decorations, delectable food and sensational entertainment accompanied our great company of Cardinal Health friends and philanthropic energy. As Joe held me tight and sashayed me around the dance floor we counted our blessings. It was one of those special events one doesn't forget.  And to keep the evening's beauty going I was inspired by my mother's actions from my past and I brought a token of that beauty home to my children.  They were indeed fast asleep by the time we arrived home.  As I kissed them goodnight, the shoush of my taffeta and click of my heels possibly causing them to stir as I recall happening on Forrest Drive...I placed a flower from our arrangement at our table on their bedside stands.  The photos give you a snapshot of this gesture from my past, my children's Sunday mornings, the incredible beauty of Saturday night and life on Newark-Granville Road.


Peter received a yellow rose....these photos are from the girls' rooms.

Friday, October 11, 2013

busy fun in Granville!

Busy fun weekend....today is Denison President, Adam Weinberg's Inauguration- will be special time for our alma mater.  Tomorrow- Vancake- Pancakes benefit for amazing guy/family in town- St. Eds.  Buy tickets in advance at Ross Market, Granville Inn....signs all over- awesome!  We love events like this.  Granville Inn- Chili Cook Off- always great time, great way to connect to the community- the cooking groups often are groups sharing their message and supporting our community!  And Rummage sale at FPC- brown church on north west corner....great stuff will be there and good things doing good work- supports the youth activities of our church- mission work!

Details in our paper- Granville Sentinel! Have a great day and weekend we will- Life on Newark-Granville Road is busy and full and fun!  Hope to see you at some of these events - reality is we can't do it all- sports in our busy day- so go and tell me all about it!!

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

60 page views and TV time.

Yay- 60 people looked at my blog yesterday..this makes me happy.  Thank you.  I've had a range of up to 132 and as few as 13...I would like to expand my reach. Any help you can provide to forward, like, share...I don't have many people that "subscribe" and get my updates via email- that would be fun to increase as well.  I'd also love to know more of what you like to read about- the kids, the dog, events, life just on the road/in town, off, ideas, work? Or what you'd like to read less about- see above items.  The blog started as a way to share ideas and has become more. I post for myself- the writing is good for me. I respond  and value to your encouragement and perspectives.

So I'm heading off to watch TV...life on Newark-Granville Road doesn't have the TV on too much. We have one TV in the kitchen-mostly used for sports.  We have one in the basement- mostly used for Ducky Dynasty by the kids, Dance Moms, Cup Cake Wars.....I know I know....but we don't let the kids watch much at all if any during the week....and weekends it is rest time...they're active and keeping up with grades and help.  I watch Nashville on Wed, Thursdays- Grey's Anatomy and Scandal, Sundays I watch Revenge- often with friends.  I love movie nights when we curl up downstairs- but they are few and far between lately. So that is life on Newark-Granville Road....screen time does happen with Ipads but I'm pleased to say we read more than we watch around here.

more thoughts from attending talk by Annie Barrows...

I came home from the talk and blogged...then today I was able to talk about the talk....and now I want to blog more....But it is too late. I need to go to sleep- a productive day, cool weather, great company and some delicious food and wine...I'll sleep well.  I'll remind myself here to talk more about story telling and the wisdom life can provide....I also need to blog about the Granville Levy..I've got my sign!

Monday, October 7, 2013

Once Upon a Time.....

in 2009 our book club read a book- a really really good book! The book was highly recommended by a well respected member, maybe two...I struggle to recall the details of selection meetings but am very fond of them.  It was a book that everyone really really enjoyed reading.  The history, connection to a book club and the numerous literary mentions, the characters, the letter format and writing was all really lovely.  The ending was a bit of struggle for some of us I remember the discussion.  For some it felt as if a decision had to be made on how to wrap it all up and so they came up a with a tidy ending. But it didn't change the fact it was a wonderful read.

Some of the readers were quite intrigued with the involvement of two authors.  The story as I recall is that the original author became ill and required help with the finishing the book.  In my mind I blamed the 2nd author- the original author's niece- with the bumpy ending.  However I was pleased the book, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society was published and could be shared and part of our book club's reading history.

The story now jumps to 2013 and selection night for the 2013-14 year.  The dates- always the first Monday of the month are on the poster board waiting their assigned book for discussion.  A number of years ago we dabbled with Tuesdays to try to accommodate full schedules but the standard day, set location made it easier for all and less to remember.  One of the champions of "Guernsey Potato Peel Society Book" as I refer to it had news to share- Annie Barrows- the 2nd author, the niece, would be in Westerville for a Westerville Library Talk on the 1st Monday of October, the 1st Monday of book club....To me it was a no brainer-  we didn't schedule a meeting and we advocated for those that could attend to do so!  I made my reservation that evening.  What I hadn't known was Ms. Barrows is also the author of beloved children's books- the Ivy and Bean series which are wonderful and loved by Sally and her peers!

And now I sit at my writing desk, my great grandfather's desk, with a cup of tea and prepare to reflect and share with you the stories I heard at "An Evening with Annie Barrows", presented by the Westerville Public Library.

I'll share that I enjoyed my evening so very much and am grateful to Robin for encouraging us to attend.  A prior blog shared the advice I value- get tickets- as once you have tickets you are less likely to cancel. Tickets provide time the luxury of a date- even in this case when it was with just myself- a lovely glimpse into my post college years.  I enjoyed the radio talk shows during the car ride and observing my fellow bibliophiles making their way to their seats.  In fact at one point the facilitator approached the microphone early creating a process to assist book clubs in finding their members to sit together.

Ms. Barrows began with a story, a story of an attempt to find a way to connect with her Columbus, Ohio audience.  She became the character of her mother assisting with this challenge by reciting entertaining dialogue that made us all laugh.  It also showcased  this family's passion and love for stories part of the "why" and "how" of the "Guernsey" book.  I love these talks - I love to understand how a book and story come to be- today I now understand and appreciate my yearning a little more.

Ms. Barrows shared the belief that storie compose our communities, that the desire to narrate history is a humanizing impulse we have and it unites us.  Her family's personalities continued to delight us and gave us the birth of the "Guersney" book- a writers group.  A writers group that encouraged and supported and asked for more....Mary Ann Shaffer produced a few pages that started the story that turned into a book, that secured an agent that was sought after by 12 publishers.  A story that was first published in Denmark. A story that was almost was prevented because of an illness, but the author asked the next generation with the gift of writing to carry on and she did.  She did because she knew her aunt's voice and articulation and she took the time to learn the story that became the book. She used her talent and brought it to press.  The ending was theirs and I value this book and story so much more!

Ohhh how fun it was to sit in that auditorium tonight and learn about these women that write, that take an idea, a history, a story and craft it into pages that take us away.  For "Potato Peel (my mother's nickname for it) we went to Guernsey - an island in the English Channel.  I knew the name but didn't know where it was until I read the book.  Annie Barrows told us more about it tonight- her own visits allow her to state that it is very nice- it is warm, it really is more France than English- its Norman not given back- the food is wonderful and they speak English!  Mary Ann's trip was less experiential- upon her arrival by plane a fog descended and for 36 hours she remained in the airport with the company of many many books on WWI and the German occupation of Guernsey.  When Mary Ann returned to the United States the Guernsey setting seed had been planted.

There is so much more I could tell but this is where my story ends.  If you haven't read The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows I encourage you to do so.  I will be reading it again as all the reasons I enjoyed the book were brought to the forefront of my mind- I totally had forgotten about the epistolary style of the book.  I loved the question someone asked: "did the mail really travel as fast as represented in the book?" The answer is "yes" there were two mail deliveries back in the day!

Life on Newark-Granville Road is always the better when I'm enjoying a good book, a book usually recommended via book club.  It is even better with nights like these when I learn the "why" and learn something new about my self and what I hold dear.  Thanks for sharing my story- I look forward to hearing yours related to this author and book!

P.S.  Ms. Barrows did talk a bit about writing children's literature and how she writes.  I admire her abilities and work ethic and find her very inspiring.


Sunday, October 6, 2013

admiration, awe and yum!

I have a friend who loves real life drama - meaning truth, non-fiction- I figured this out when she recommended "Into the Wild" a fascinating read, then movie.  I realized I too like the real life stories- the behind the scenes how do things work, get made, how did some one's path lead them to their current situation.  Of course this is why "reality TV" is so popular- human nature is to relate to the real. I won't go into the psychology of why this is today-  have some theories and would enjoy reading the professionals take too.  Reality for me is I don't love reality TV- I like to escape or take a break from the real world when watching TV.   I do enjoy a good non-fiction, in particular biographies- when I listened to books on tape in the car when traveling for work I LOVED autobiographies....real life drama at its best!!

Anyway I digress....this weekend I experienced a chapter in a real life story I've so enjoyed paying attention to in central Ohio!  AJ Perry is a friend of a friend.  The friend that started sharing AJ's story with me worked with her and raved about her marketing/graphic talent and baking talent.  In fact for my 40th birthday we were fortunate to be treated to AJ's gorgeous cookies and pies.  At some point a number of us took in the incredible Worthington Farmer's market where AJ and her bakery "Sassafrass" delighted the masses.  The bacon apricot scones were a huge hit one summer morning after a camp-out at MBCC and I lived on the kitchen sink granola bars.  Thanks to Facebook AJ and Sassafrass adventure and journey have been easy to watch. I was thrilled when she shared the news she would open a store in Olde Worthington. How impressive her pies are a feature on the Worthington Inn's offerings as her location is right next door and they are indeed that good!

When I figured out that Clare's Cross Country meet was in Worthington Saturday morning I knew I had to visit Sassafrass myself.  The experience exceeded expectation and was a happy component of a wonderful weekend.  The yummies are as yummy and beautiful as ever and the store is charming.  The antique pie plates are the ideal decoration for this bakery!!  All weekend I was in awe and hold so much admiration for those included.  Girl Power for sure- AJ and her entrprenural spirit and talent and Clare and her cross country and field hockey teammates showcased success due to hard work all around.  Life on Newark-Granville road is a bit sweater and more yummy with the treats from the farmers market- go if you can- it is awesome! Raspberries, Califlour and blocks of incredible produce, product and treats...even a few of our own beloved Granville Farmers Market favorites- Lucky Cat Bakery!! Life on Newark-Granville is real life shared- thanks for reading and being with us.


Saturday, October 5, 2013

beautiful tonight

Granville is dressed up and looking good tonight!  What a treat to see photos, hear the behind the scenes stories and even interact with some beautiful Granville Homecoming kids...young adults! It seems hard to believe the kids we met as youngsters are going on dates and in groups for this special rite of passage time....and we love them all the more seeing their growth and maturity and how beautiful it is on Newark-Granville Road.

Friday, October 4, 2013

making piles and files.....

Ohhhh the blog title sounds like a favorite quote......"face piles of trials with smiles....." Moody Blues....that is what I did today- I made piles.  I reduced piles. I crossed things off the list of things to do, I organized and ooooh it felt good.  I made the big list for next week, I sent emails to fill the schedule...and yes this helps deal with the trials of juggling a full full time job.  The Works is amazing and development work is never done and I don't have enough hours in the day but that is a good thing- that is the need for progress.

It was a desk day, but wrapped up with people.  I ended the work day thanking a donor and Works member one last time.  Jerry Reid http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/newarkadvocate/   The calling hours gave me a chance to visit with his family and friends and get to know him better. Funny isn't it- getting to know someone better at their funeral/calling hours but it is the time often reflection to paint a fuller picture.   I'm grateful Jerry knew the Works - after seeing his impressive background and passions, I'm not surprised at all that he supported The Works mission.

Time to chip away at a big pile and prepare for the full weekend in my Life on Newark-Granville Road!

Thursday, October 3, 2013

lots of activities in Granville this weekend....

Newark-Granville Road is Broadway- our quintessential main street.  And it will be the perfect backdrop to celebrate where we live- home coming is this weekend for Denison and Granville!  Okay- not really homecoming for Denison anymore- Big Red Weekend- parents weekend, gatherings of special groups (infinity- teams and such), wonderful special events and people in from out of town that we'll be thrilled to see!  Yes Joe and I are both alums- Class of 1990.  And Granville High School had their parade last night, the week has been filled with spirit, a special game tomorrow evening and and a memory making evening out on Saturday.  GREAT people watching on Newark-Granville Road for sure- making life here so much fun.  And as you know always full...the ironic thing...I'll be in Columbus for most of the weekend.  So each evening when I return I'll be welcomed home.  I have no complaints about this- I love the opportunity to be with Clare and wonderful active teammates/friends for cross country and field hockey on both Saturday and Sunday in Worthington, Dublin and Worthington.  We'll camp out Saturday night at our own home away from home- MCC- to create our family's special memories.  If I were not being the responsible mother, I'd be at my other beloved home away from home- The Works. The Works takes flight again with an outstanding program- YAA- young aviation adventures.  How wonderful that almost 50 students will add STEM learning through flight to their education.....Amazing activities...including a fun antique sale at Robbins Hunger down the street....keeping Life on Newark-Granville Road filled with history and friendship that makes the now all the better!

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

walking in sunshine.....

another "walk" song is in my head...."It's a Sunshine Day" from a Brady Bunch episode..."I think I'll go for a walk outside now...the summer sun's callin my name (I hear ya now) I just can't stay inside all day, I gotta get out get me some of those, everbody's smiln, sunshine day, everybody's laughin, sunshine day, everybody seems so happy today, its a sunshine day"

"I think I'll go for a walk outside now, the summer sun knows me by name (he's callin me) I gotta get out, gotta get out, gotta get out, I gotta get away, get away, geta away, into the sunshine day.

can't you dig the sunshine
Now its all but the same
can't you hear him callin your name?

Oh, I think I'll take a walk everyday now
the summer sun has shown the way
I just can't stay inside all day
I gotta get out get me some of those
everybody's smilin
sunshine day
everybody's laughin
sunshine day
everybody seems so happy today
its a sunshine day

can't you dig the sunshine
Now its sounded the same
can't you hear him callin your name?

I think I'll go for a walk outside now....."

And that is what I did today..I went for a walk on this gorgeous day. I held Joe's hand and soaked in the sunshine. I went for a drive and was happy- so very very happy.  It was a fall day a beautiful fall day in beautiful Ohio. Life on Newark-Granville Road is always good when I go outside.....

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

more nights like these......

Joe said on night early in our marriage...I thought there would be more nights like these. And indeed they are the perfect nights. The nights were we enjoy a gourmet meal I have loved to cook, a night where no one fights, or is late or is shuffled somewhere....where we play cards, dog snores and we look at each other across the room sigh contentedly.    But geez would we appreciate the nights like tonight if there were more of those?

Life on Newark-Granville Road was lovely for soooo many reasons. We'll start with the weather.  We have embraced Fall and it is here.  The evenings are cool and the days warm (really this is Vermont summer and weather I love in summer)....We left the house for our outing in jeans, tshirts but sweaters and sweatshirts in tow.  We shared a warm fire, friends, kids play and birthday joy all wrapped in two and half hours that made for a special night.

Clare is so happy-our confident teen is learning, growing and grateful- can't ask for more than that. Being the first comes with responsibility and reward (I'm a first born) and she is setting a wonderful example and being herself. Fun to listen to her younger siblings digest and admire her accomplishments.  Each of our children- just like yours- our their own individuals and we're in awe. What the future holds no one knows.  What I do know is tonight was very special- nothing I planned a week ago and that is good too.....more nights like these keep us grateful this one was just what it was on Newark-Granville Road. Happy Birthday to all you October 1st Libras!