milestones over the miles.....

A special weekend with Clare...she now has her driver's permit and she joined our church, First Presbyterian Church- Granville.  We took a drive to support friends and as I reflect on baptism down the road in Columbus miles and milestones seamed the right title!

So here she is with the permit! Hip hip hooray for the Marion, BMV (bureau motor vehicles, vs Dept of)  We had a frustrating, lesson (and lecture) first go at trying to get this done, the day after her 15 1/2 birthday. Paperwork didn't work- it wasn't that she failed the test, she just failed to prepare and then government processes failed us.  But the 3rd try was the charm.  We were driving to Toledo for a funeral and found an open location on the way. Toledo was not open- so Marion it was.  Clare passed the test, had appropriate enough paperwork and the lines were just right!  We timed it quite well.
No driving yet- need to move forward with lessons, practise in parking lots, etc...It is a big milestone- hard to believe we're a step closer to sixteen.

Clare gets her permit 4/23/16

And the very next day...another milestone- Confirmation. Clare joins the church- FPC.  I type and look at a LOGOS picture from 09-10 and think about the miles she has covered in her faith development.  Sunday school, road trips, choir and mission- she has done it all.  Those that have walked with her, prepared her- Trip, Karen, Ellen, Thom, volunteers, those LOGOS table parents, little logos care providers, teachers, friends, grown-ups, mentor Laura, who met Clare when she was 18 months old, VBS and so many more.  We've covered the miles back and forth in miles on Newark-Granville Road- bike, walk, car- she and Char often run to choir!! Her answer today- why join this church?  She always has wanted to- she has seen others, she knows FPC as her church home and it feels right.

I also had the honor to join the confirmation group as Charlotte's mentor.  I was able to learn, share and spend time with Charlotte, Clare and the others on this journey and am so grateful.  We covered our own miles, and met our own milestones together with worship, questions, conversation and fun.  I'll give a big Amen to the good work by Charlotte and this very special group of young adults now members of FPC!

Life on Newark-Granville Road - let us rejoice and be glad for the milestones and miles we've covered and may God continue to be with us.

connections to the awards....

Here is the article you need to read for the background... https://news.denison.edu/2016/04/rewarding-awards/ truly one of the best days/events on Denison's campus. The bonus comes with the back drop of fantastic perfect Ohio weather- those deep blue skies, slight breeze, warm temps but not too....those that know, know- you can't help smile and be happy on days like that...Friday was one of those days.  It was a ceremony that made me so very proud to do what I do..and then a presidential medal, our highest achievement, went to a student I've met, parent's I really enjoy...a student from a special colleague's area.  When Patrick's name was announced I gave a whisper squeal, the quick hup of a breath in and then I clapped just  bit harder and faster....congratulations Patrick Keller, well done.

Background of photo....Here is a picture taken not of Patrick but of his team- his coach, his AD, his parents and his president- all 100 percent proud and behind him...as is the person taking the picture- me!  When I wasn't working at Denison but attending Denison Men's Basketball game one day I happened to sit next to Lissa - I could tell she was a player's parent so I asked her "which one"...she told me about Patrick. She had a bit of a southern twang and I inquired...Kentucky, Lexington...we talked about Keeneland. She met our kids, we talked sports.  We always said hello as time passed qne I learned of his path to Denison. This year I went to more games, Peter did as well and we had more opportunities to talk. I met Clarke, Lissa's husband and Patrick's Dad.  I heard more about Patrick's research and service with Hospice and their daughter's trip to Dakar, Senegal!  I met Lisa's sister and received a rally towel- feeling like part of the team at the last game. What a treat to see this fine young man receive his honor and be able to congratulate his parents , his network, role models and support the team that supported him.  Life on Newark-Granville Road is all about teamwork to make the dream work!

Politics and Government- This Week on NG Road!

We talk politics in our house, in my life on Newark-Granville Road.  We value and respect the opportunity to engage, agree to disagree, explore....I am an extrovert and need to do so!  Lots of politics lately in my life on Newark-Granville Road...

Today- we sent Clare and pal Charlotte with other friends to Youth in Government.  A fantastic program that http://www.ohioymcayg.org  A big shout out and thank you to all involved for making this happen- such a great experience.  Clare really doesn't like to miss school and certainly doesn't like missing Lacrosse games...or even practise (you should of seen the reaction when I accidentally scheduled a Dr. appointment interfering with lax- geesch!) so to leave school today, miss the game and be part of YIG- it must be intriguing and fun, interesting and valuable. We think so, but love that she thinks so! Here is a picture I snapped at our breakfast before school. This pic was on Facebook and I agree - so proud of our girls and their bill and all they will learn...and happy for the fun they will have while making memories!

Tonight we'll head to campus and attend the program the college Democrats and college Republicans are hosting together- http://denison.edu/events/event/66402  Former Senator Joe Lieberman.  Last night I had the privilege to hear Senator Richard Lugar '54 and Senator Bob Graham talk about political polarization at the start of the Lugar Symposium.  Inspiring to be in the presence of such leadership.  Denison proud and connected in so many ways to so much good in my life on Newark-Granville Road.

the more as promised on Facebook about my work.

I find I'm still sharing what I do at Denison.  Just like it took years for Joe to get the word about what he does, it may take some time for me as well.  Some times it is easier to say what we don't do- people make assumptions.  Even though worked for a bank, he wasn't in finance- he was a consultant applying IT solutions.  Even though he is in IT he isn't working with software and hardware installs. Even though I work at Denison and talk often to perspective students, I'm not in the Admissions Office. Even though I was a communications major and my parents thought I'd be great in P.R. I'm not in P.R/ Institutional Communications. And when I step back and view their perspective it can be challenging and even this picture may mislead you.

This picture was taken in Washington, DC at an event hosted by a Denison alumnus and his wife. We invited current parents, alumni volunteers and admitted and enrolled students for the Class of 2020 to attend.  The point of the event was for the admitted students to understand this is part of the Denison experience- we engage with one another, we're proud to be Denisonians and we feel strongly that four years of life down Newark-Granville Road attending Denison prepares you well for the rest of your life and happiness.

A bonus for me- in this picture is an admitted student of a friend from college. His daughter is coming to Denison to play lacrosse next year. He played football, as did his brother. His family is friends with my Granville friend- they spent summers together in Michigan. New friends' daughter- we met when this alum volunteer was on campus with his wife and daughter taking a look at the school.  A Sunday overnight program dinner was the launching point!  We connected thanks to Baltimore ties and have seen each other a few times and talked by phone. The best news- he and his wife have already joined the Parent Advancement Council- how fun it will be work together to support Denison in this way.  And I made new friends that evening- I  heard about connections to other parents and then I had bonus time with a very special volunteer who I will miss so very much as she moves from current parent, to parent of an alumnus status.  The great news- she committed to a new volunteer opportunity!  Our hosts we're pretty special- alumnus with many generations of Denisonians and rich legacy and roots to our community.  Hearing him reflect on "why Denison" was inspiring.  His wife is a wonderful Denisonian and quite the hostess- we were so fortunate to have their hospitality and her leadership.   I smiled so much that evening my jaws hurt. I also had quality time and learned about the DC area and the good work of my Admissions colleague. I've been to two other events similar to these, equally special and inspiring. The opportunity to connect current parents with future parents- wow!  Next week I head to Chicago and we'll wrap up this season and look forward to getting news of those who are joining the Class of 2020.

This is the parent engagement side of my job and I like it, it energizes me.  It provides insights and opportunities to support parents, grand parents and family philanthropy to support Denison- a special place with very special people.  I do not love to leave, I do not love being away from my life on Newark-Granville Road. It is hard to leave the Joe and the kids, my own bed and desk and campus time. I miss all of these things when I'm gone.  However the work I'm doing on the road is important and rewarding. I'm setting an example for my kids and grateful for Joe's support and the modeling he does. I'm grateful for technology that allows me to stay in touch- even Snap Chat with the fun city/location.  I'm grateful and proud of the kids' increased responsibility and independence. And those friends and even acquaintances who help my kids and keep an eye out- you are what make it all possible and I'm grateful. It is one of the reasons we like to host the Derby party- please come and enjoy and let us thank you for the help.

More than you wanted maybe, but I wanted to share the rest of the story of the photo.  At these events we all go around and introduce ourselves and say what our passion is...my passion is Denison.

142nd Run for the Roses...KY Derby Time! Party at the Leithausers....

on Newark-Granville Road!  Yes it is that time, time for our annual Derby Party.  Tent will go up in the side yard, with a stage.  The bartender has been coordinated (best juleps ever Emily!) and all we need is friends to join us...with their favorite finger food to share- savory or sweet!

Details:

• Theme this year- Go Big Red! I hope someone puts a horse with that name in the run?  Since I'm now working at Denison that is the them- Denidoo Red- I have my new fascinator!
• 4 pm start, Race is 6ish, we go until dark.
• we'll have wagering- bring singles.
• Once invited always invited, bring friends and family, those new to town, come with your kids or take them home and return- it has been done before!
• bring a dish to share- finger food is best- sweet or savory...but don't have time- that is OK, come anyway!
• We'll have Mint Juleps, a keg of Yuengling and some wine, root beer and lemonade for the kids- working on our microbrew!!!
• Music- 
• update- The Denison Hilltoppes- Men's Acapella Singing Group will join us- we think 5:30!!  Don't miss it!
• if you know a band that wants some stage time put me in touch- this is how live music started at Derby- a friend wanted to play....some things in the works but the more the merrier!
• Parking- always a challenge- feel free to drop and park in Bryn Du, a church parking lot....
• Kids often bring sporting equipment for pick up lax, baseball, etc....
• We really hope you can make it!!!
• Dress- as dressed up as you want..Peter will wear shorts no matter what- we'll embrace the theme- Derby and Denison! Hats are a great touch!!
• History- this party has happened since 1992 for Susan with her Omaha roommate from Louiville- great way to meet guys- roommate married one that attended that 1st party!  Michigan roommate had a horse and liked the party.  Susan moved to Kentucky and attended the Derby- liked her party better. If watching a race go to Keeneland  Joe attended her Triple Crown Party that year....and Susan and Joe have shared juleps on the first Saturday of May with friends ever since...the fun was adding kids to the mix!
• We look forward to seeing you on the First Saturday in May- for 2016 it is Saturday, May 7th! Rain or shine, snow or rainbows- we'll be here with the juleps and drinks for the kids!

New York and Licking County unite..

This very well may be a HTBT- had to be there, however I want to share this New York stop and document the fun I had in the city on Friday night!

1st- it was a great end to a wonderful work week.  Figure eights are all over our lives in fun ways- including Granville connections off of NG Road. Picking up from last week's connection of Granville and Denison- Granville friend Lori Conway and I unveiled the point we'd both be in NYC on Friday. We were indeed able to connect to toast the end of the week.  Then dear young alumna I met while working at Denison my 1st stint and have stayed in touch made her way to the city.  Catching up in person, beyond Facebook- priceless and very meaningful!  And introducing Lindsay to Licking County friends a bonus!  Next up- Baldwin family!   Baldwin family rendezvous was pure bonus! Kelly and I have kept in touch with our travel itineraries hoping for a sync to NYC- this was the weekend!  I love that it included seeing Spencer and Morgan's sibling love, Spencer and Erica's NY/college life and the full family fun! I always laugh and smile with Craig and Kelly and Friday was not a disappointment.  The setting of our fun is worth sharing...it is why the blog started- helpful hints!

2nd- where to go in NYC!  My NYC fun:
-The London Hotel's bar- just a great upscale spot in a great location.
-The Park- LOVED this restaurant with multiple/ various cocktail areas- http://www.theparknyc.com  Three cheers for Spencer and Erica- Kent students for tracking this down, just off the High Line!
-Mumufuku's Milk Bar- oh my gosh!  S and E lit up as it was described, Lindsay verified and it became the perfect end to a great night and good week.  Laughter, smiling so much my cheeks hurt and an uber journey with a favor and education took us to the upper west side's milk bar. I enjoyed it so much I went back to the midtown location for breakfast and to secure treats for the kids!  The name was fun to say, the concept of cereal milk as a flavor is ingenious and the reality that it was really good was all bonus for a memory I'll never soon forget!  Try it yourself if you find yourself in a city with a Mumufuku Milk Bar!  http://milkbarstore.com  My life on Newark-Granville Life was full of fun in NYC!

  

Granville and Denison Together

It was a beautiful day of Denison and Granville, Granville and Denison....the 5K run/walk supporting and honoring important good people who inspire and keep our life in perspective.  And we did it as a family- so proud of my kids and Joe! Then I did change my clothes and shower to take in The Tom Carroll Quartet with Bobby Floyd and Jim Rupp! WOW- ahhhh- music is so powerful. I was relaxed and happy and there because my Denison music friend saw me in the coffee shop and said- really don't miss this! I am so glad I didn't!  Then I was attended an Admissions Dinner- love my job and connecting with alums and parents here with their students looking at Denison. Bonus two alums from my era- love this!  The evening wrapped up hearing Caroline Spence '11 (DU) at Natalie's Coal Fire Pizza. I've been wanting to go and went with Denison and Granville friends. It was a very special  evening. Thanks Steve Crawford for all you've done and your connections.Thank you friends to engage and support and share this special day on Newark-Granville Road. All of the artists mentioned- if you can see them, youtube and enjoy their magic!

getting dressed once for the day and other Momisms and lessons....

....in my life on Newark-Granville Road.  A weekend full of lessons, ah-has and you know me I'll share why right here.

-Why were the Leithauser girls in running gear at church?  Because Mom/Susan "likes to get dressed once for the day".  If you see me at the (insert sporting event) in business wear this is why.  Today we're participating in the 5Knobel run/walk at Denison today- 1 pm, 12 pm registration and I just didn't want to rush home to change and get there.  To be honest I would of taken a nice morning at home but kids wanted to be at Sunday school and I do enjoy the adult Sunday School Class so I went...in running gear.  Looking forward to a family outing like this- it has been awhile and it is a great cause!

-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Momism  EEK- read the definition of Mom-ism- the essay from Phillip Wylie- this ties to Sunday school conversation- the essay was from 1942 about helicopter parents!!  But then there is another definition on Wikipedia: A cliché or proverbial statement deemed typical of what a mother would say to a child; introduced by comedian Anita Renfroe.  This is what I was going for with today's post title!

-DMV lessons.....Clare is in charge of leading us, we'll support, the getting her license process.  This all tied to Sunday school discussion about raising adults.  We set off early yesterday wanting to get an early number at the DMV on the 1st Saturday of the month. Clare felt she was ready for the permit exam.  I watched her doing on-line preparation.  I read about it as well- more to find out the hours- I did give her $22 for the fee. She was surprised there was a fee- this should have been the clue of how things would go.  We had a great breakfast, talk and drive and were indeed one of the first at the DMV.  She was 3rd or 4th in line..then she texted me- "do you proof of my age?"  "Nope- lets go- home to get it" I texted back.  Clare made the mistake of not reading the opening pages of the book, and only taking the tests on line.  This gave me the opportunity to share the importance of "acquiring knowledge"...tests and grades important but really it is the acquisition of knowledge. And then it is how is it applied, how do you work together. I admitted to knowing this was needed but because we didn't discuss it and plan together we both failed. Lesson learned- home we went!

-Back to the DMV with the paperwork we had. Good news- no line or number in the license exam space at the DMV! Phew! Clare approached the officer- "I'm here to get my permit"- he said- "lets see your paperwork"...and because we did not have the actual SS card she was denied.  The document from the SS office we had did not work. It use to work, but no longer does. It says it should work on the first page but not the detailed page listing what you need to do.  Now I felt badly but Clare owned it saying she should of researched further what was needed sooner, while visabliy disapointed- sigh...but I knew this was a good lesson.) The officer has coached us on next steps and we'll move forward.  (Note Clare then witnessed my frustration in government/bureaucracy.  My logic is this- she is getting a permit to learn to drive, not the license.  The paperwork we had should have sufficed for the permit- giving us time to get the necessary paperwork.  But using one of my mother's monisms...too many peope in the world...I get it.

Phew- way too many lessons in two hours....but lessons and hopefully these will help you. They'll help us with Peter next year...maybe Sally!

We're not perfect parents but we love our kids; we're learning lessons together. 

-We watched two movies this weekend - Daddy's Home and Concusion..Joe knew I wouldn't like/approve of Daddy's Home but ....he never said- Told you So..During family dinner on Saturday night we used his review process to choose the movie and it worked!  Concussion was amazing.

Life on Newark-Granville Road...always filled with ah-has and life lessons and I'm sharing the whys.

Happy Birthday Peter

It probably is time to upgrade the blog, move to a new one or research this platform's capabilities beyond a page that just goes on and on...you have to scroll. I do have a search component but that isn't taking me the place I want to go.  I want to see if I've documented, shared Peter's birthday story? I am sure I have - it is a story I adore so of course I have. I've told it whenever possible and appropriate and so yes I'll do it again.  Just like life and my family (Pop-pop and now my Dad and even Joe) we'll retell the stories- the ones we love about the people we love possibly the most.

April 1, 2002- the day after Easter. My Dad's 60h birthday. I was scheduled to be induced however all the walking (to Bryn Du Egg hunt, to the church egg hunt in town, up the hill to neighbors gathering) my labor started on Easter. The Dr said not to worry, keep an eye and he'd see me in the morning if things stayed on course.  It was just some spotting.  We both agreed to enjoy our Easters and we certainly did.  We kept that Easter dinner low key- sandwiches and it was lovely.  I don't remember much- more the weekend activities and fun with friends in town.  My family was here for this delivery- yay! Clare arrived too fast- they didn't make it.

So on that Monday- we left Clare with my parents and we went to Riverside.  Things moved quickly and he arrived just about the same time as Clare just after lunch.  In time to get to recovery and take in the Red's baseball game- Opening Day!  We use to go to Cinci for Opening Day....Clare went as a baby but Peter's arrival moved us to TV celebrators.  So appropriate for us to have a baby on the true Opening Day.  The sports fun continued....it was the finals for the NCAA Div I Men's Basketball Tourney and Maryland won- my home state. (I share MD-lived most of my growing up years there, PA- high school there, and VA- born there)  We celebrated with beer and pizza- our tradition for 1st day after delivery, hospital stay- Romanos and Yuengling!  2nd night is appetizers and scotch with guests.

So back to Peter.  I knew he was a boy upon delivery- the hair and ears- my Dad's ears.  We thought about naming him Michael after my Dad but it was still a very popular name.  The name Peter was beloved by me and my mother and I grew up wanting to name a son Peter.  Joe's family has a Peter in every generation (I didn't know that at the time) so it worked with the last name! We thought about the name George and he would of been a good one. Looking at him via the nursery window I paused but Joe  and I agreed- we never knew a Pete that wasn't a good guy.  Our Peter Michael has a name that fits him well.  What fun it was to have Michael Watson Stoner hold Peter Michael Stoner on his 60th birthday....

So April 1, 2016- happy birthday to my Dad and my son- two very special men in my life.  Happy birthday I'm blessed to have you both and love to tell the story.  Thanks to all the love and support Joe and I have with our children and the stories launched from that care and that should also be retold and celebrated.  Happy Birthday to two darling twins in Pennsylvania and their special parents (birthdays are more mammas in particular but Dad's too), Jeni Miller and Michelle Reese- two beautiful women inside and out....it is a very good day, a beautiful day to celebrate life, my life on Newark-Granville Road is happy.