2021 Happy New Year Card

Update- some of the paper cards arrived to mail/deliver. The box arrived opened, put back together, and missing part of the order.  So enjoy the online post and message below.  Wishing you joy as those of us who celebrate 12 days and welcome the new year!!  The post below is approved by all of us, Clare says she does not greet us from the library.  I might be thinking of last year! Happy New Year!!

Screenshot from a Sunday FaceTime Call, okay being honest, I put out the text to the Granville Leithauser Chat Group, "holiday photo on FaceTime tomorrow at 5", so it was on a Thursday.  And full disclosure we took it at 4:55 pm as I had a 5 pm work call!  Then my colleague Brenda added some magic and below is the official photo of the Granville Leithausers for our HAPPY NEW YEAR 2022 greeting!

Clare calls in from the College of Wooster, "COW" in Wooster, OH. Often she is at the library or in her room. Peter calls from Wabash College in Crawfordsville, IN. He too has shown us the library, most likely he is on his couch with the Delt banner in the background.  Both kids are happy at their schools, Clare a junior and Peter a sophomore. They have great friends and have found their majors! Peter is studying Rhetoric with a minor in religion and Clare is a Political Science major with an Economics minor. Clare is playing field hockey and lacrosse.

What about Sally you say? Sally is a junior at GHS. She drives and enjoys her friends as a great way to take a break from Mom and Dad giving her all the attention. Lucy keeps track of all happenings on Newark-Granville Road and is beloved on Newark-Granville Road.

Joe and Susan enjoy their work at Infoverity and Denison are grateful for continued success and growth. Joe's travel has not picked up, Susan's has resumed and she loves the opportunity to engage with Denisonians. 

2021 brought many joys, gathering with family, the girls spending extended time at beloved Camp Alleghany (turning 100 in 2022), outings with friends, and study time.  Susan needed Joe's tutoring as she took on Economics and Philanthropy in her graduate work.  Search the blog for updates and insights about the graduate certificate in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University's The Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and pursuit of a Master's. 

What we really want you to know is we're happy, healthy, grateful, engaged, and hoping to see you in the new year!  Derby 2022- the first Saturday in May- 5/7/22- is our Annual Run for the Roses Party! The 2021 party was the "happy" party, it was good to reunite.  Details about timing and such on the blog in April, stay tuned to stay up on our lives on Newark-Granville Road.

Merry Christmas and Happy December 23

It is Christmas Eve Eve, the day before the day before!  Christmas Eve is a favorite day for many in my family so it makes sense that this day is good too! Dear friends host an amazing party that sadly is on hold due to blasted COVID, we understand and wish the best to all those infected. We'll embrace the time for wrapping and prep and family dinner.  I'll log off and take the break from work and be deeply in the Newark-Granville Road moments!

Family dinner on Newark-Granville Road is back in the dining room and such a treat with all the kids home! Monday night we had a plus one and just lingered, then moved to the kitchen for jeopardy (recorded) with Clare baking cookies. Yes, life on Newark-Granville Road is special and blessed.  This makes the stress that December brings all okay.

Work is ending strong and I've spent the week in the office while Joe takes on work and a house project: Attic Purge! See photo. I put this on social media to keep things real:

We've had fun looking at old sports shirts, tried to share Granville Music shirts- they switched the color, and even found missing beloved items.  I was worried about shopping for an upcoming trip, but voila the bathing suits were found! It is long overdue and I'm grateful for Joe and the kid's work.

The tree is beautiful and I'll return to sitting there tonight, Joe promised. I'm glad he didn't move to the dining room table for sorting.  Tomorrow we'll ice skate- Easton Chiller 11:30-1 Public Skate- join us, tradition thanks to dear friends!  We'll also participate in two services at church- FPC Granville- join us for one: https://www.granpres.org/calendar or follow us GranPres on social media! 4:30 is the Children's service and 6:30 is the service with Angel Choir - Sally is singing!  It will be a lovely Christmas Eve 2021.  We'll celebrate Christmas with the Leithausers, it will be good to be together.

Leithauser December cards are New Year Cards. That will probably be my next post! This post was just my way of saying THANK YOU, hang in there, embrace the mystery of the season and all the emotions it brings that is what we're doing in our Life on Newark-Granville Road.

Leaving a Legacy, Susan Freeman

 It is important to honor the life of special people in our lives on Newark-Granville Road. Susan Freeman is one of those people.

Her obituary is here:  https://www.mcpeekfuneralhome.com/obituary/Susan-Freeman  The service is today, Saturday at 1 pm, at First Presbyterian Church, Granville.

We enjoyed many engaging and important interactions with Susan thanks primarily being a part of the church family.  The relationship deepened when her daughter Laura entered our lives.  Laura was a key partner when it came to raising our children and my return to work.  So simply put Susan was Laura's mother and that made her so special.

My heart aches for Chip and Laura, for all the Freeman children and grandchildren. Those close to her I hold in prayer as well, friends and family. Susan was an amazing mother and wife, and community member. She always had a smile, always stopped to inquire and hear how things were going and would offer an encouraging comment that made your day better. Susan made such a difference in this world for so many in so many ways. She will be missed, she leaves a legacy, an amazing and important legacy.

Grief is interesting, and everyone processes and lives with it different ways at different times. This holiday season is so hard for so many, yet there is peace, love and hope all around the disbelief, pain, hurt and all those feelings. I'm grateful for my faith and all those that share and help us carry these feelings. 

Denison Holiday Happenings- Food Pantry Support, Jobs and Celebrations- Full Week!

 Dashing through the holidays....Denison Daze....It has been a full fabulous week with so much Denison. And it isn't even Friday..yet, almost!  Here is what I've been up to Denisonwise in my life on Newark-Granville Road:

1. Happy Birthday Denison! Yes, Monday was our 1831 Day, Denison's 190th birthday- pretty cool.  We celebrated with "gift giving", fundraising and my colleagues did a wonderful job. Thanks to all that supported the day (many parents and former parents, extra appreciation to you). It was the success it was thanks to our beloved Denisonians.

2. Elves in Action! On Tuesday I helped spread the word about this event and put a scancode on social medial. Here is the link: https://p2p.charityengine.net/ElvesInAction2021/Home/Index/  to give, help us meet our goal of $5000 for the Food Pantry Network of Licking County. We use to collect change and cash, walk the halls- this year we passed out candy canes and shared the link to give. Help spread the word, it is an important time of year to feed the hungry, fill the pantries! THANK YOU!

3. Party time, we celebrated on Tuesday evening with our team, Wednesday at lunch with the full college, and Thursday the division.  Cheers to great colleagues direct and indirect. It is important to take time at the holidays and catch-up, say thank you and compete! Our division had a really fun door decorating contest.  Thanks to special Richmond families I had a perfect item to use for recycled Denison Spirit...and I won, woo hoo! It was great to see the creative, fun side shining bright in "IA".  It really is a wonderful team and I'm so grateful.  

4. Speaking of the team- we have openings: please spread the word and encourage anyone that has ever thought- I'd like to work at Denison- this can be a great entry: .https://employment.denison.edu/postings/search?&query=&query_v0_posted_at_date=&225=&commit=Search  I'm happy to answer questions, provide insights.

I know we're in count down until Christmas and there is still much to do, but I'm sitting loosely this holiday season. Grateful school is done for me, work is in a happy place and yes, the kids are home! Life on Newark-Granville Road is full and fabulous.

IUPUI Lilly Family School of Philanthropy Ambassador Day!

I remember the day I walked into a trusted colleague's office, "do I need to pursue my Master's?" I asked. After a conversation, she encouraged me to explore IUPUI's offerings and one other school. She also asked me to consult with the VP.  The VP told me I had a great experience and didn't need a master's but certainly, continuing education my education could be a positive. She encouraged me to talk to our trusted consultant.  The consultant said, "consider an MBA or degree to improve your knowledge of the financial vehicles donors use to execute their philanthropy".  What I took away from those conversations was it was my decision and I needed to determine my own path. That path led to the IUPUI Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

I joke with people that I was over fifty when I figured out how to answer the question, what is your major? My major is philanthropy. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to study, explore, experience, and immerse myself in this "world-changing" sector!  If you love learning, if you love philanthropy I encourage you to visit the website:  https://philanthropy.iupui.edu/  If you want to just understand how the world works from a special perspective, through the nonprofit lens then I encourage you to try a class through LFSOF or the Fund Raising School: https://philanthropy.iupui.edu/professional-development/courses-seminars/the-fund-raising-school/index.html

An important lesson for me has been the sector blur, how the Nonprofit, Private, and Public/Government Sectors all work together, impact one another and make our world what it is. Each class I've taken: History of Philanthropy, Ethics of Philanthropy (Philosophy Class), Philanthropy and Economics in addition to the Nonprofit and Voluntary Sector Class, Principal and Practices of Fundraising and the Global Exchange exploring and comparing philanthropy and nonprofit work in Germany and the US showcase this in awesome ways. Yes, awesome is the word, I'm often awe-struck and energized by my studies! What I love the most is how it aligns so beautifully with the liberal arts, how each class builds and connects across disciplines creating this beautiful landscape.

To be honest it isn't easy. What I'm also learning is how to be an online student and just a student. I'm making time I don't really have to read, take quizzes, watch video presentations, dial into office hours, participate in group meetings via Zoom. I'm asking for help from Joe, DU's President, CFO, VP, faculty, and writing coaches.  I'm biting my nails again as I read and prep for quizzes and work on research papers. 

To be honest it is all worth it because I'm learning, discovering, and getting pulled into the library, one of my favorite places.  I'm meeting and engaging with really fascinating and impressive people: fellow students, faculty, and presenters, not to mention those profiled in articles and books and the authors themselves.  I'm exploring not only the world of philanthropy and these disciplines but the real world. Students and faculty are from all over and I value that so very much. The German Global Exchange was a highlight of my studies.

I'm doing this one class at a time.  I'm proud of my Graduate Certificate and working on the M.A. Each class is different, most have been asynchronous, thanks to COVID some synchronized (I carved out Friday mornings 9-11 each week for 12 weeks). IF I can do it anyone can do it. There is more I could say and some I have if you look back at previous blog posts, probably about the challenges of navigating Canvas and technology.  I'm here to answer questions and share insights if you'd like to explore any of these programs or classes!

I'll end this post with a quote:  An investment in knowledge pays the best interest. –  Benjamin Franklin  I'm grateful to all that are helping me with this investment in myself in my life on Newark-Granville Road!

Stoner Family Take On Granville

 Making memories in Granville, it is what we do! Granville is a special place. When we dropped Matt and family at the Inn (early check-in, yay) they said now where do we get this, where do we get that- it was all in Granville. It helps that three of the three Stoner kids are Denison alums and one lives here. Truth is the repeat gatherings have built traditions and strengthened relationships. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday as we count blessings, gather on "the"day, break bread and engage together. This year Clare helped set the tone and suggested most of our activities- she started advocating for our holiday here at Christmas. "You have not been to Gville in years and we can go to Top Golf". It worked!

Clare a key partner, but many more. First Nana, our matriarch, she loves the Inn and is a wonderful host of rooms and a dinner there. She sponsors the turkey, arrives with food including the most amazing and sacred Stoner treat- the sand tart cookie. This year they were pumpkin shaped!! Next, my siblings, they book their travel arrangements, rally the families and make it work with their own special contributions! Clare's dear college buddy Hannah joined us and fit right in, friends peppered the weekend for catch-ups and cocktails.  Special shout out to Louisa for staying in our home with dear Remy. Lucy loved the company and our dogs are part of who we are.  I gave Joe the kudos he deserves on social media but it deserves repeating. None of it would have happened with out him. The planning and procurement, the insta-pot meal, and so much more. He makes it happen and embraces all Stonerness well. Each of the ïn-laws"are amazing, again so many blessings.

The pictures tell the stories, a special Thanksgiving in Granville.

Please know it isn't perfect, there is stress, and frustration, chaos and confusion. Age differences appear and energy lags. I crawled into bed by 10 pm each night..okay maybe not the Cidery night! Each and every member of the Stoner family is unique and special. We unite to remember and connect, catch-up and celebrate and to give Thanks for how lucky we were to win the lottery of this family! Life on Newark-Granville Road, blessed by love.

Thanksgiving, moments of contentment, 2021

Thanksgiving 2021 will have two posts. This first one is about the day. I'm writing it the morning after, from my bed. I woke up and reviewed pictures and posts on social media and am inspired to capture the more. It was a wonderful day. It was a favorite day.  Pictures will come late but now, here is what I didn't snap:

-Clare having green bean casserole (GBC) on a dessert plate as her dessert.  Backstory, I wasn't going to serve the GBC. To me it doesn't go with the meal. I was going to have a "simpler"meal served on Newark-Granvile Road- one green: peas.  When this was discovered Tuesday evening, the reaction from Clare (the oldest home from college) inspired to make a last minute add to the menu.  Seeing her have that additional helping to end her meal made it all worthwhile. Another cute dessert story- Greg (Sarah's husband/Uncle Greg) and Peter were seated next to one another. They both wanted small pieces of pies, both pumpkin and pecan, they ended up sharing instead of dividing pieces in half, it was sweet.

-Grocery store runs. How many did we really do?  Joe did the important ones, while I was picking up the Sunshine Stoners from Florida he picked up the turkey, and oysters! (FYI, communication and planning, if they were out of oysters I would have stopped at Whole Foods on the way home.) On Tuesday while I finished/submitted my Econ of Philanthropy research paper he went to Kroger for the big one. He couldn't find the sauerkraut so he went to Al's Meat Market.  That is dedication right there!  here there were three extra stops: 1. on the way home from airport for the ginger he could not find for my cranberry chutney, I also picked up supplies for above mentioned GBC, I had forgotten to mention those needs to Joe when I left the house that am. 2. 7 am on Thanksgiving- parsley- I never noted that on a list. I was so grateful to those employees at the 21st Kroger for being open.  I was in my PJs and made the dash, also picking up some perfect colored roses to add more color to the table, and sausage to go with the amazing biscuits (thank you RHM).  I forgot the white bread for the turkey sandwiches and the ginger ale.  I think the kids enjoyed the excuse for store run mid day.  Clare also made a run for us that included the onions for on top of GBC, Sarah and I were brainstorming substitutions if we could not find.  My favorite was sour cream and onion potato chips.

I grabbed one selfie while walking during the Turkey Trot, it doesn't do justice to the satisfaction and pride participating. So many memories, truly a place of contentment in motion on NG Road. The reward for participation time with dear friends in their amazing home, with incredible refreshments. The parade and dog show its own entertainment and company.

Prepping the meal, setting table, playing games- Mexican Train- is the 2021 Stoner game, thanks to Michael 2.0 and Westerville Leithausers.

It really was a wonderful Thanksgiving on Newark-Granville Road. A day of gratitude and family time, love of the village and our home. There was a bit of stress when getting the meal all on the table, as hot as it could be, but that that was fleeting. I crawled into bed happily tired and pleased. Ready for the rest of the Stoner holiday fun.

Figure Eighting with my new Work Space

Yes, in my life on Newark-Granville Road figure-eighting is a verb! What does this mean? First, the location of my new office is Burton Music.  I've been telling anyone that wants to know I was a music minor at Denison. I spent a lot of time in Burton Music!  Frequent readers know I believe life's movement is in the figure-eight shape.  We come and go from places and people and here is an example. I returned to Burton Music about thirteen years ago when Peter started Suzuki - always enjoying the opportunity to return to such a special space.   Hard to believe I have not posted a picture on the blog of Peter with his violin, no time like the present:  

Robin Brown- Peter's first teacher - office 3rd floor Burton Music.

Now I've returned to Burton Music, office 107. The Institutional Development Division is in Monomoy, Monomoy Annex, and Burton Music.  I'm thrilled to be here and hope you will stop by to say hello:

I still have to unpack, figure out additional furniture. I'm excited to introduce my books and Denison things as well as art for the walls!  I will try to recycle and use less paper. I'm only going to keep one file cabinet drawer for paper files.  The desks don't have space for pens, although I secured drawers today! 

I thought I'd share some campus pics, these are from my walk up the hill and

Lucky me to be working in a happy place. A place that makes a difference and supports the lifelong learning I'm engaged in on Newark-Granville Road!

Sunday Shares on November 7

Sharing on a Sunday feels right for the blog.

Sunday is the day in our life on Newark-Granville Road that we reflect, plan, catch-up. 

Sundays can be stressful, the plans for the upcoming week loom, how will it all get done in my head. I've heard "it is Sunday" when someone says "what is wrong with Mom?"

Sundays can be the bestest, happiest days the ahhhh days.

Sundays are for worship and today's worship was buzzing with energy, activity and the Spirit! Sally served communion, we rang the bell and giggled when it about took Sally on a ride

Sundays are for family talks on Facetime, believe it or not it is often Peter that starts..."what time are we talking, I'm free at X". 

Sundays are for studying.  Today was no different, I spent a chunk of the day with my research and brain trying to create a draft for my Economics of Philanthropy graduate class. Anyone want to weigh in on competition between the nonprofit and for profit higher education sector? Please?

Sundays lately have involved travel to see our college kids, it was good to be home today.

Sundays are for shopping, Joe goes to the grocery.

Sundays are important. Thanks for sharing a bit of my Sunday.

Check back for a picture...I'll post on Social media...

Talking about Voting- Granville's Ballot and our Endorsement of Thomas Miller for School Board

Joe and I are taking time to have conversations about the upcoming election.  It just makes to blog about it!

First, resources we encourage you to review:

https://www.vote411.org/personalized-voting-info  This is a great location to gain perspectives from those running for office!

https://www.facebook.com/events/402270804829208/?ref=newsfeed  This link is for the Candidate Forums- Village Council and Township Trustee, one follows the other.  This one is the school board candidate forum:  https://www.facebook.com/granvillechamber/videos/560440571840044  Both are worth watching and thanks to the Granville Chamber in partnership with the League of Women Voters

We continue to have important conversations with the candidates, friends, and community members and hope you are as well.  Many subjects, like economic development, school finances, and taxes are not easy to discuss. In our lives on Newark-Granville Road, we recognize through conflict comes clarity.  We value and appreciate all those running for office and the engagement our country and community provide through our elections.  Life on Newark-Granville Road is special and those that serve and engage make it so, thank you.

We do call attention to one candidate in particular- Thomas Miller, Granville Exempted School Board Member.

Dear Granville School District Residents,

The Granville community needs to re-elect Thomas Miller to the Granville School District School Board. Not only does Thomas have experience and understanding of the complexities of school finance, he is a fiscal conservative and will balance this critical responsibility with a focus on sustainability and care for the students. Thomas is a dedicated leader with a proven record of thoughtful, balanced discussion serving the Granville Schools and our community well.

Thomas has over ten years of experience on the school board with fifteen years serving on the finance and operations committee.s His long legacy in Granville has been formed by contributions as a teacher, coach, and volunteer. He engages often with Granville community members and collaborates with community partners to find innovative solutions for our schools and their students.

The Granville School District is a point of pride for our community and a contributor to the home values we enjoy. Thomas will ensure our children are supported as they navigate this formative time in their lives and are prepared for their futures. Thomas’ re-election will ensure continued success for all our children and our community. Join us in re-electing Thomas Miller to the Granville School Board.

Sincerely,

Joe and Susan Leithauser
Granville, Ohio
Parents of Clare, Peter, and Sally
Granville Schools alumni and current student

For more information on voting visit: https://www.boe.ohio.gov/licking/

October 2021 is Extra Special

October is always special, but 2021 is extra special. The month started with Clare turning 21! Twenty-one, how is our firstborn, our baby girl, twenty-one?  This year more than ever I was reliving that wonderful year when we became parents, when our family became three.  I had just taken my first role at Denison as a professional. I was to work the 10th reunion (and the 5th and Homecoming) but instead, I was a guest with my parents and this little bundle. Fast forward, that bundle is on her own campus loving her experience at Wooster adding field hockey this season. I'm loving my role second professional role at Denison with parent and family philanthropy.  Oct 1 was the return of an in-person FLC meeting and it was wonderful!

21 roses for the 21 year old

Speaking of BRW, FLC- ahhhh, thank you Mother Nature! What beautiful weather for a backdrop to all our outdoor events. It really could not have been a more fabulous gathering.  It is the people that make it so- the Denisonians that travel and traverse and those that welcome and work- each step led to another conversation with a deep appreciation for the opportunity to unite and catch up.  A highlight for me was time with our FLC Co-Chairs Heather and Dave Ewing P'25 with their daughter Olivia '25! We had a fantastic dinner at the Granville Inn on Thursday evening. Such a nice way to start the weekend.  Thank you to all those that attended, email if you couldn't, and worked to make it happen.  Brenda, an extra thank you to you for all your work and energy.

All good things happen on the same weekend, so HATSOFF! 2021 naturally was the first Saturday in October. Another very special one after time away due to COVID but most importantly the one to honor Marcia Downes.  Search HATSOFF on this blog and you will see it appears just a few times. HATSOFF - History, Art, Technology, & some Other Fine Fare- Danielle, thank you for that and our connection! Thank you neighbor Virginia for inviting us to that first one, thank you Marcia for engaging me that first night, and thank you Janice for taking the helm of the important Works. I know Howard was smiling as Joe and I quickly donned the formal attire in our lives on Newark-Granville Road to partake in this important shindig!

Please join Joe and I in honoring Marica, make a gift to the Marcia W. Downes Future Exhibits Fund! Those that already did at the event on Handbid, thank you! Others,  mail a check to the Works making note to the memo line or call with your credit card! https://attheworks.org/donate/ Saturday's event to honor Marcia and connect with her family and so many dear Works friends was an special and important way to launch October in our lives on Newark-Granville Road.

Update- here is the Work's information on this wonderful fund:

The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology

In honor of the retirement of our Executive Director, Marcia Downes, and her more than 20 years of service at The Works, we are pleased to announce the establishment of the Marcia W. Downes Future Exhibits Fund.

This fund will be used to further The Works' vision to serve as:

· a center of inspiration and creativity

· an energetic educational and cultural resource

· a catalyst for connection and positive change in our community

If you are interested in donating to the Marcia W. Downes Future Exhibit Fund, please visit the link below. Thank you.

https://buff.ly/3AaYnoo

October will be about my research paper for my Economics of Philathropy class, visiting our college kids and reaping the rewards of a beautiful weekend to launch the month! I hope to see and connect with you this month. Thanks for sharing life on Newark-Granville Road.

Sweet Tea Sundays

Recently we've hosted a Denison alum on our porch for an old fashioned catch-up over a glass of tea. I have deep gratitude for these friends for reaching out and making time to sit and chat.

I've also found myself making sweet tea as a reward for class time.  Before I can launch the on-line lectures I want to stomp the lemons to make the sugar roux producing a fabulous afternoon treat.  Today in my life on Newark-Granville Road the tea accompanied both- Economics and Conversation!

What else to share on today's blog?  Yard signs- yep they are back! Regular readers know Joe and I have a casual policy about only putting signs out if we know the person running and or if we are working on an issue. We're not big on too many signs.  We know a number of the people running this year and we're grateful to all willing to serve.  At one point we said, maybe we should take a year off from signs. Over a beer we went the opposite way. We agreed that those that we know and ask us will receive a positive response. It may confuse some people, and if it does, ask us.  We'll tell you why we put a sign in our yard. The easy answer, we are grateful people will serve, will run. We may not agree with everything someone running believes, but if the sign is in the yard we know we can talk. In fact, I'll even stir up some sweet tea and we can talk about it on a Sunday.

Sharing and Caring in our Life on NG Road!

 So much to share, but duty calls. So much has happened since I last posted. Things for the future included today as well!  I'll keep with the bullet list format and post:

-HERTZ Rental Car rocks! In Chicago, I was going to miss a flight, but the return staffer put me back in my car and drove me to drop off. No shuttle stress for me, just a quick dash through the airport. It was for naught as the flight ended up being canceled. Sigh.  Joe enjoyed the Grateful Dead and Co concert without me. I cried and then accepted it. I worked from home the next day instead of hiking with Joe. This is life.

-Taj Mahal in Granville and Newark! This concert, outdoors, downtown Granville after an incredible day taking in DU athletics, made up for the earlier in the week disappointment. Thank you to all that made that concert happen and the whole Bluesfest!

-Clare takes to the field, Wooster Field Hockey! The first game was a W on the road, second game coming up this week: https://portal.stretchinternet.com/wooster/  Follow along here!

-Hockey for Homes- the GHS Field Hockey Team Philanthropy Game. Supporting the Licking County Coalition for Housing efforts.  Monday, Sept 20th- come to the 5:30 JV and 7 pm Varsity Games, buy baked goods, donate items and need AND

-Join Joe and Sally as the Home Run, https://www.facebook.com/events/856815668299708/?ref=newsfeed 5K on Saturday, Oct 2 to help homelessness!

Do you know someone looking for a job? The Granville Inn is a great place to work and under new management so a great time to join.  I think of this place as a home away from home and value the role each employee plays in my life on Newark-Granville Road. Personally and Professionally the Inn is important to me.  I know everyone is looking for employees, help us spread the word and increase staffing at the Inn. I'm ready for the return of lunch on the patio, breakfast for guests and excited about new menu items in the works!

We've been grateful for amazing nights at MCC, Apple Valley, and along Newark-Granville Road. FPC continues to delight and support us. Sunday's Youth Service was very moving. Thanks for reading and sharing your lives with ours on NG Road.

I just love this pic of Joe! I posted in Instagram with the quote "hang it up and see what tomorrow brings." GD

August Moves Fast on NG Road!

 Where did August go? I know where August went, it went to preparation and execution of:

• Clare back to Wooster for Field Hockey Pre-Season and then we took her! She loaded up Birdie and off she went.  We followed with the big stuff and somehow more came back than went north? Hmmmm We enjoyed a team family picnic that included an hour to kill at JAFB!

• Peter back to Wabash. Same plan, Peter driving Gretel and Martha to follow with a driver for the trunk and other belongings.  A week before departure, Peter greeted me with puppy-like enthusiasm "Mom-Mom, I can move in two days early, can-I, can-I, can-I?" My reply- yes! Joe's reply, but wait, I'm going to and made plans to see a friend.  I explained that Peter could go two days earlier and Joe could follow at the regularly scheduled time. Amazing by the time Peter had the car loaded, he made everything fit in Getel. There was no longer a need for Joe to visit with Martha.

• Susan reaching out to welcome and recruit Family Leadership Council members for Denison. A highlight of my year. The Class of 2025 is very special and these parents are ready to engage!

• Sally, you ask about Sally. Our dear third child was owning her own preparation. Lucky for me an evening meeting was canceled and I joined for an evening of back-to-school shopping at Easton in late August.
• Susan back to school- Economics of Philanthropy, first quiz- check!
• FPC Faith Formation! The church opened its doors again for worship in the Sanctuary The CEFF committee has met weekly with scripture and meditation at the base of our time together. The Spirit leading our faith formation works as we look to our year of learning. Interested in being more involved, let me know!

We still managed to enjoy great summer outings in August! Days and evenings at MCC are a favorite- golf, swimming, a canon-ball contest and dinners with friends.  We've had some date nights and enjoyed the Granville Inn porch. The Inn was the location of the last Granville meal for a party of 5 this year. The kids walked home together.  Meal planning was fun in my life on Newark-Granville Road these last few weeks. Each child has their favorite and it was my pleasure to delight.  I love that Peter asked for Clare's Pasta- an Insta Pot creation as one of his going away meals.  Sally had to wait until the others were gone for her Stuffed Peppers. Farmer's Market meals have been a treat and this is a favorite for the end of August and into September.

I'm pleased with our work, the preparation and team work paid off. Clare and Peter called in with good reports of the start-up of their school years. Things are not perfect but they are rolling with what is before them.  Prayers for the families and loved ones that passed away too early. The lesson of loving each day starts now for our young adults.  Enjoy the transitions and fading days of summer.

 

Summer Lovin

 I love summer, yes I do, I love summer, how about you!!  How is it August 15? Eek! Summer happenings since the last time I posted:

Work travel returned in August- hooray!

Girls home from camp- delivered an award! YAY! YAY! YAY!

FPC is open, sanctuary is beautiful and safe, we're gathering and celebrating!

Hosts with the most, lake time dinner club!

Pelatonia 2021- Betsy and Susan ring the bells!

And this shows you one of my happy places. Golfing with Peter and Joe at MCC. 3 points- 3 balls on the Fairway!

July's Gift of a Day

It is the last day of July and it was a very good day. There are "these days", the days that just do not disappoint. Days that feel good. Momma said- bottle that feeling, tuck that away for the days that do not feel like this.  Today I savor and share and post to the blog.

The day was launched yesterday- a full work day, wrapped up with a lovely dinner with friends, Joe and Peter at MCC and then watching Ted Lasso, season 2!  A day with a call from Clare (camp counselor), a very happy letter from Sally (in week 5 at camp as LIT) and a posted picture capturing Sally and the LITs in camp contentedness. 

I woke up early ready to go and grateful for the energy to start the final draft of my exit essay for my graduate school class. It has been an amazing summer session. The Global Exchange has provided an important perspective and many ah-has. I have enjoyed working on the final paper reflecting and connecting. Connecting not just the course work modules but the program's studies. I'd like to take my first class over again with this group of classmates from the US and Hamburg, Germany.  It really is pleasing to have school work flow and for me it does happen on weekends in the mornings.

I took a break and went to the Granville Chamber of Commerce's Farmer's Market.  Markets at this time of year are pretty spectacular.  I bought corn, peaches, flowers, rhubarb, tomatoes, beans, bread, bagels, pizza crust and a chocolate chip cookie for breakfast! A Seaworthy salted chocolate chip cookie with an Iced Coffee. I also went to town to finish a few errands, sending a gift and pictures to Sally. She reminded me of this to-do in yesterday's letter. I returned to work and wrapped up the draft with 20 minutes to spare. I squeezed in a bit more shopping. We really have sweet shops.

Joe had lunch ready, the BBQ we picked up on Thursday to support Newark Rotary- thank you City BBQ. A quick change and we were headed west to golf with a special couple at Muirfield Country Club.  It was the perfect day with no humidity and I played just fine.  A treat to catch-up and enjoy the links. Dinner on the patio was such a treat.  

We're home sitting on the porch, reflecting on this beautiful day, month, life. Life on Newark-Granville Road is very special. Thanks to all that make days like this possible.

Summer Jobs, the lessons they provide!

My original intent for this post was to shine some light on Peter. My most recent posts have not had much to share about dear Peter, my 2nd child, the middle kid and only boy. Peter is the one living at home this summer and one might think there would be much to report about his various activities. The reality is he has been working. Peter arrived home from Wabash in Crawfordsville, Indiana and went right to work and has not stopped.

The first part of his summer was umpiring at Racoon Valley Park for the Granville Rec. This is his third summer and he obviously loves it. Thanks to all the friends that snapped pics and shared texts. We're proud of his long days (3 games at a time), engagement with all generations, and the ability to do this hard work. He is making quick decisions often questioned. The life lessons are immense and most important is the self awareness provided.   He didn't like me to attend games and I get that. I did enjoy the walk down memory lane when I'd make a pit stop on my way home from the Farmers Market.

The second part of his summer employment is at Lowes. He was clear in a goal for the summer, make money. He listened to advice from friends and family that led to the box store experience. Cashier is his title, often spending time in the outdoor garden area. He enjoys working in the lumber section and now knows what a 2 by 4 is, although Joe is quick to say the actual dimensions are 1 1/2 by 3 1/2 inches. I've been thrilled with the approach to customer service he recites and is rewarded. He was happy to receive this red vest, with a badge for assisting a customer. He would not let me take a photo. Thanks again to friends sharing their interactions with him. He does the same, each evening reporting on his engagement, sometimes saying- I'm not sure who it was but they say hi.  Probably the most impressive component of this commission are the hours. Peter's usual shift is 6 am to 3 pm. I've heard him rise at 5 to shower and make breakfast before heading to Heath.  Many many people do this, very successful people do this, we're glad to know Peter can do this.

What was your favorite summer job and least favorite summer job? I've used this as ice breakers for meetings and find it quite revealing.  I'm fortunate to have so many fond memories of my summer employment: FHCC lifeguarding with rainy day bonding in that long gone under the patio space; Lake Raystown Resort with a long drive over two mountains (no doubt a contributor to my confidence for travel) and bevy of special relationships; and the summer at the beach- LBI- with 3 jobs. I learned then retail was not for me and cherish the time in a commercial kitchen.  If you know Joe well you know his time with a Frank-A-Matic or how he learned to drive shift!  

Life on Newark-Granville Road has many lessons, tales and reflections many taking places in this fabulous season called Summer!

July means New Year!

I do not recall the feeling of a true ending and beginning at my birthday as I do this year. Fiscal year end has always been an important milestone, a bit more so with the pandemic effect. It was quite the year. I am grateful for the amazing Denison families supporting our beloved college on the hill. I'm proud of my work requiring pivots, adaptability and the embrace of technology. None of it could have happened without the incredible partners and teammates at Denison. Joe deserves credit as well, being the in-house IT staffer. I'm proud of our ability to professionally co-exist in our lives on Newark-Granville Road. Yes, the birthday and personal new year deserved some celebration for 20-21's end and 21-22's beginning. It was a wonderful week of festivities, thank you to my hosts and coordinators! Swims, cakes, candles and ciders made it all special. The gifts, cards, texts, calls and social media posts were absolutely delightful! The return to traditions: spending the night with the Westerville Leithausers, traversing the lake and watching the fireworks with the Parsons memories like no other. Granville's 4th of July returned in all its glory: ferris wheel, the village on the horizon backlit by booms, a true hometown parade all while socializing together! Uniting with pals by the pool and on the golf course provided the extra touches to dub it a perfect long long weekend and birthday for the record books. 53 isn't overly special, until it is spent with my friends and family. Cheers to all that helped make it so, I'm grateful. And now the new year, a resolution for balance. My studies at IUPUI, Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is teaching me everything is on a continuum. This feels a bit like my father's reminder from Oscar Wilde, everything in moderation, even moderation! I move forward into my new year grateful for time off, vacation time to use. I'm cleaning my closet and taking things from the attic to Sophie's Thrift Store, benefiting the Licking County Humane Society:

Guest Blogger- Joe Leithauser: Lesson's from the Appalachian Trail

 Lessons from the Appalachian Trail by Joe Leithauser, June 2021

If you know my history hiking the Appalachian Trail, it has always been challenging for me. My first time was a 7-day backpacking trip with some college friends right after Denison's graduation. It ended after only 1 day due to a virus that nearly cost me the sight in my left eye. The second time was with Peter and Clare 7 years ago. We hiked 23 miles in very cold weather, it was never above 20 degrees and below zero overnight. Clare and Peter showed their grit…Although this year we had different challenges, blisters, heat, humidity, elevation changes, and 35ish miles over three days, one thing stayed the same, Izzi Fuller and Sally were gritty. Proud of both girls – and the dads as well. Maybe our kids can handle more adversity than we think if we don’t jump in and protect them from it.

Lesson 1 – Resilience - I was listening to a podcast recently and the podcaster Jocko described a Marine unit that had a low turnover, high reenlistment, great morale, and incredible resilience through stressful situations. The commanding officer credits communicating all aspects of the plan to his entire unit as the reason for this resilience. I downloaded Guthook's Guide and printed out our trek mile by mile including landmarks, water, campsites, and elevation changes. This worked great as Sally remarked to me on the first day that she was comfortable leading us on the trail because she knew the plan. I have started adopting this more intentionally at work as well. If everyone knows the plan, everyone can lead and adjust when needed. We called an audible the first day and camped at Pogo instead of hiking all the way to Annapolis Cliffs.  

Lesson 2 – Practice – My first two backpacking trips on the trail I didn’t really practice using the equipment that was going to support me on the hike. This time Sally and I hiked through the Denison Biological Reserve for a total of 10 miles before we started our hike. For the first two days, wearing the clothes I practiced I was fairly comfortable, my feet survived without blisters and no chafing. On the third day, I used different equipment that I had not practiced in – and was significantly less comfortable. I had a decent-sized blister on my foot and more chafing than I had the previous days. I should have taken one more hike and maybe made a different decision on my clothes.

Lesson 3 – Awareness – I learned much from the hike with Peter and Clare about their personalities. If you want to learn who your kids really are, put them under stress to see how they act. Sally is a good mix of her siblings – she has Clare’s determination and drive and Peter’s compassion. I was quite a bit slower on the trail than Sally, but she would wait and sometimes come back to make sure I was ok. This trait will serve her well I believe.

Lesson 4 – Listen to your Body – We met a thorough hiker who told us a story about having to leave the trail due to a knee injury caused by overuse. She knew it was a problem but didn’t stop even though her body was telling her to stop. Our last day was very hot and humid we had about 11 miles, mostly over rocky terrain and climbing down South Mountain. I’m not sure I have ever sweated that much in a single day. I started to feel a little nauseous once we hit the C&O towpath so I just laid down sipping water for about 10 minutes before we continued. My body told me to take a rest even though we were close to the end. 

Lesson 5 – Know the Way – We started our hike on the first day at High Rock in Maryland. I thought it would be easy to find the path back to the Appalachian Trail. We did find the trail, but not at the spot where we should have started – this cost us an hour of hiking and a pretty steep elevation change over rocks. Our first day would have ended better (and an hour earlier) if I had just taken the time to check the guide and find the right path. I let the excitement of getting our hike underway get in the way of knowing the way.

All in all, it was a great trip with incredible memories. Susan’s support and help along the way made this trip successful for each one of us. We couldn’t have completed our hikes without her. So I guess that is Lesson 6 – Ask for and accept help when you recognize you need it. Thank you to my mother-in-law Jeanne for her hospitality, it made a difference too!

 Happy Trails to You!

Father Daughter Hike

off to find the trail