2023- To Blog or Not to Blog, What is Going on there?

 That is the question, do I keep this blog going? Is it time to stop? I created my Blog2Print book for 2022- will anyone read those? Will I, do I? Occasionally and when I want it I'm glad I have it.  I firmly stand with one foot in each world- virtual/digital and analog.  Well, the fact that I'm typing here answers the question, I'm blogging in 2023.

Why- it feels like there is another year here. Sally's commencement and Derby party, based on data I know this is a spike for the blog- people do tune in to get the details.  I want to celebrate Sally's high school and now that I think about it- Clare's senior year. Oh the "fair" work of a parent, there is no catching that dog's tail!

I think the simple answer is, I like to share. Like today, I sat down with the Cardthartic Catalog and thought, this is something that should be on my blog.  https://cardthartic.com/  If you are looking for a great card, this is the place!  Great lessons in just reading the messages.

Not everyone is on social media and we certainly don't all see the same things - including my Mom- darn Facebook took her off?  So this is a nesting place for important messages and milestones, things I want to share.

Great Article/Wisdom/Advice from Denison's President Adam Weinberg on the College Search:

https://www.the74million.org/article/focusing-on-the-right-fit-makes-the-college-search-easier-and-more-fun/?utm_source=LIVE%20-%20Denison%20-%20MASTER&utm_campaign=94d5f72b07-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2023_01_09_07_55&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-94d5f72b07-[LIST_EMAIL_ID]&fbclid=IwAR2jRzuUdyy5Dezbj3t9YVjU52JL2VuULmHSM7sekWeRxzUk1ReCiSpWp6I

That is enough for today- two links and why/what I'm thinking in my life on Newark-Granville Road!

Well then I did a drive by my house and this is what I see, the blog helps keep people updated! The port-a-potty and dumpster are for bathroom renovations- woo hoo! When someone asks I can now say- read the blog!

Vacation Time to Welcome 2023-Puerto Rico!

 What a wonderful way to welcome the new year, get up early, and go on vacation! Okay, getting up early, not so great, we're not morning people in our lives on Newark-Granville Road.  Keeping it real, some of us are not the best travelers, but we did it!  We departed at 3:30 am, parked at the awesome The Parking Spot, and had plenty of time to board the 5:30 am departure for BWI.  At BWI we found an awesome breakfast, had our mimosa/champagne toast, got in some steps, and left on time, thank you Southwest, for San Juan, Puerto Rico.  We were on the beach and in the Atlantic Ocean by 4!

We needed this vacation. As a family of five, we had not taken a just-us trip in years, not counting trips to see family.  As a family of five, we had not sat on the beach, toes in the sand, jumping waves in years- it was time.  And the best time for us- the first week in January- so we needed warm.  Joe and I considered many destinations and I'm grateful we went with "easy" meaning no passports and something that would allow us to explore and experience a new culture, Puerto Rico was that more!

Pictures below and a few highlights to share, I'm getting this up and may add to it, asking the kids to weigh in:

1. Soaking it in:

Beach- the ocean water was the perfect temp, had really great waves, and it was so clean. There were also rocks around the hotel that provided a beautiful landscape and backgrounds to truly relax.

Rain Forest- https://www.spotintours.com/tour/rainforest-yunque-tour  LOVED this- hiking up, once we got to the rock part so we could do the rock/waterfall slide/cliff jump- it was challenging. Kids scampered up, Joe did great, the guide coached me and I did it. Sally asked- did you know it would be this challenging? I don't love heights and don't trust my balance- the guide kept saying- you've got this and I did.  I love being in the water and it was a treat to share that adventure with the family. Lots of little takeaways- embrace the mud- the wetter the better, step on the flat. Adventures provide important life lessons. Also learning about the flora and fauna, the big moss, the colors, the impact, and the adaptation nature has- all beautiful.

2. Home Away from Home:

Place: we were able to secure a suite and that made a difference- everyone had their space and some privacy.  I highly recommend The Condado Vanderbilt, a mix of old and new, beautiful pools and beach access, as well as great restaurants within walking distance.  We did rent a car so we could support our adventures! Joe did great as our driver! I called it my Greenbrier South- casinos nearby - the boys made it an evening adventure!

Table Time:- Cheers to the drinking age, the first thing the kids looked up when we shared our destination. It was fun to be with the kids in a legal way- Sally at 18- had her birthday there- and we were able to sit at the bar and enjoy.  The food was delicious and we soaked in small restaurants, island time delivery providing extended family time around the table!

3. Learning Along the Way:

History- Joe listened to the history of San Juan and updated us all with interesting facts. Spending a day in old San Juan was lovely- walled cities provide a special experience.

Culture- Pork Highway- you must go- and go hungry!  This was the first place we were directed to visit when telling a frequent visitor to this Island Territory:  https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/rutas-del-lechon-puerto-rico  We agree it was worth the drive south of San Juan, we stood in line, talked and ate mouth-watering roasted pork.  This is where I learned how much I love Yuca!  Experiencing the culture is important to us and the Rutas-del-lechon is quite something!

So much more I could say or type, the kids have all said thank you multiple times. Joe and I talk about returning and highly recommend this destination. We're lucky to have this access and opportunity.  I'm grateful for vacation time, me time, do nothing, but relax time.  I don't post much on social media when traveling. I don't check and reply to emails, but once, maybe twice. I leave my phone and spend lots of time reading and walking and being with those I love dearly.  I share for the record books and to encourage you to do the same. I share and post to remind myself of this special way to launch 2023! Happy New Year to all.  I look forward to what 2023 brings!

Kids are in there swimming- furtherest out

Savoring the Sweet to Balance the Blah

The hiccups of the holidays in 2022: the need to drop everything and travel to Maryland a day early due to Mother Nature; the power going out at Mom's new home; the call about Lucy tearing a back leg muscle on the 23rd in the midst of terrible weather for the dog sitter; my poor brother's all day flying adventure...all that negative and blah...but the sweet gifts of the season and time together made it all Okay....Life On Newark-Granville Stoner Christmas 2022 TakeAways:

1. Hooray for Granville Pet Sitting- Jenny Rose- is a saint and took such good care of Lucy. More info on the blog as we navigate this journey.   A surgery consult is scheduled. Lucy is managing on her own and we're teaching her to walk on a leash to prepare.  Mother Nature made Jenny Rose's work extra hard, her devotion to our pup is extraordinary!  Thanks to friends for the assistance so we could continue with important family time.

2. Generators- Mom's partner Michael is a gem.  As if the Stoner get-together wasn't enough to endure- we're a spirited bunch that likes to stay active- the man had to feed the generator gasoline in the wee hours. The power outage gave us time to sit in the dark and watch the sunset, find the local bar (with fabulous seafood food and a free round of drinks?!), and recognize what a hard-working, warm,th and light provider we have in Michael.  Having a generator at home was peace of mind for Lucy and Jenny!

3. Travel plans- oh my goodness- dear Southwest!?!  Matthew spent all day hoping to get on his flight, 3 am arrival was the sweet success- we recognize so many didn't have the same result. The universe knew my Mom needed to hug her doobie, and our family time was long overdue.

Stoner Christmas 2022- Maryland Style- so many sweet moments to savor:

1. Meeting Betty Cooke!  Betty Cooke is a Baltimore Artist. Her Jewelry has been treasured by our family forever.  Last year I had the delight to see the BC Exhibit at the Walters Museum. https://thewalters.org/exhibitions/betty-cooke/  Then this year, while visiting Store Limited, I met her!  Yes, it was a brush-with-greatness moment for me. We had a nice talk and then she said- have you seen our socks? I said, no, and she took me to the sock department. Now background- this was the Christmas of the sock. I bought socks for each family member but did not buy socks for myself.  Betty showed me these delightful socks with her image and I had to give myself a gift- it was meant to be!

2. Longwood Garden Trip- as beautiful as everyone said it would be and so much more! It was the day to be outside, stretch our legs, and explore with delight.  I'll post a bunch of pics on my social media- they don't do any of it justice but what a treat!  The icing on the cake- dinner out and having dear long-time friend Tina Berman with her guys join us, and then Denison pal Paul- such a joy to mix family and friend time at the holidays!  I know so many others I should of reached out to that live in the area..I'm sorry...juggling family time. I hope to return.

3. Time to just be: in the back seat of a car, at the kitchen window watching the amazing birds, sitting by the fire, cocktail hours, and Top Golf- we managed through that hiccup too- fire alarms are not relaxing!  Louisa is really growing up and the cousin time is something we all savor.

4. Sharing a service that truly delights. We missed being at dear Granville FPC, what a treat to return to Redeemer with Sarah and the family. Mom and Michael didn't make it but did make it to their church's 9 pm service.  

We really rolled and flexed, pivoted as needed this trip- lessons of the ice storm or covid, Sara? Life on Newark-Granville Road is full of them. My faith helps me in this life and Christmas is about spreading joy, and sharing the message of comfort and peace...this life isn't easy and has its challenges but oh the sweetness love provides is everlasting and a true treat to be savored.

Cheers to the Holidays, 2022 Holiday Card Post

Themes work in our lives on Newark-Granville Road! It provides direction and facilitates focus. This year's holiday card is an example- the Cheer- is cheering for our kids, the kids on the field! The photos located are all connected to us in that activity, and this cheer is sports related.  Thank you for finding your way to the blog to learn more about how we put cheer in our year!  Cheers to:

Clare: Senior at College of Wooster (COW) Yes, a senior. 

• Summer Internship- DC, Mayor's Office. Navigated the city like a pro!
• If you know COW you know every student completes IS- Independent Study. Clare started her junior year and is progressing now. When you see Clare with a Tootsie Roll on Social Media or later in the blog- you'll know why! It will be a reason to cheer! If you see her ask her about her work- Olympics, political regime, economics, political science- liberal arts proud!
• Lacrosse and Field Hockey- she has an impact on the field and we're very proud of her accomplishments and how she balances and grows.
• What is next- the job hunt is on- exciting year!

Peter, Junior at Wabash

• Sunday updates are always fun with Peter, from the Delt fraternity house
• Great visit this year, one photo is with Scott and Ann- for Family weekend in the fall.
• Peter joined the Sphinx Club, he is always cheering for the Little Giants so it made sense. It is an honor and we're proud to see him in his "pot" (hat) and stripes (overalls).
• Peter works hard, last summer umpiring and taking an early shift at Home Depot. He seems to be doing the same in the classroom: Rhetoric major and Religion minor.

Sally, Senior- Granville High School

• How can this be our last year in the stands at Hodge Stadium? 
• Field Hockey and Lacrosse delight us, 
• Her hard work pays off, Early Decision to DePauw University, Indiana!
• Denison lifeguard, she has a Denison email, careful you might send an email to Susan or vice versa!
• Camp Alleghany- Counselor- J.C. last year, and returning in 2023 Summer.  Love that her happy place is one of our happy places- West Virginia.

Lucy- LOVES the care and friendships on Newark-Granville Road. Some extra special friends, you know who you are thank you for the care for our pup!

Joe  (Infoverity) and Susan-(Denison) continue to find work rewarding and cheers to Susan's school work at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IUPUI  The in-person classs over the summer really deepened the experience and 2023 will lead to a degree! 

Wishing you and yours a special holiday season making memories.

Continue cheers to lifting a glass to the past, the present, and the future.  There are setbacks and challenges, this life can't be perfect. Faith, family, friends, the love of a sweet pet, a walk in the great outdoors,  Life is truly good on Newark-Granville Road.

Let us know if you are visiting Granville, we'd love to see you! Plan for Derby 2023- Saturday, May 6, 2023!

Thankful for Leithauser Thanksgiving 2022

 It was exactly what I needed, what I think we all needed- family time, traditions, time away from work, and soaking in what life on Newark-Granville provides.  I like to chronicle our life for history's sake, I'll print the year's posts and maybe my family will enjoy it one day. Just as we loved looking at a photo album created by family members for Fannie/ Grandma-Great's birthday. So here was our 2022 Thanksgiving:

It really started with Matthew's visit from Saturday to Monday- he thanked me saying he needed the change of scenery and time together.  I thanked him for giving me one-on-one time.  We talked, reflected, and made plans and memories.  We soaked in Granville and Columbus- so much good here.

Peter arrived home on Sunday- we're always grateful when Gretel makes the trip. On Wednesday Sally was off and with the DU pool closed had more time to be home. I love the day to take the back roads to pick up the fresh turkey and other provisions, adding in some of my favorites along the way. Clare arrived in time for the one family-of-five dinner. The kids chose spicy noodles,  from Joe's repertoire. The evening launched with proper cocktails that included Shelborne Farm cheddar cheese. We ventured to Amanda and Brian's for a nightcap in front of the fire- long overdue!

Thursday's big day was a good one. I woke early to make stuffing and prep the turkey.  The schedule set by me this year was no rush, lots of savor. We walked to town for the Turkey Trot- thank you St. Luke's for this important philanthropic and community activity! I walked, enjoying the sites, conversations, and hugs, stopping to pull the turkey out for the get to room temp step.  The annual neighbor get-together to cheer passers-by and catch up over a beive and homemade scone was heaven!  It really is a perfect morning.

The afternoon allowed me to relish in meal prep, setting the table, and taking in being home with a full house! I watched the recorded parade and dog show. Joe's brother Scott and Ann arrived with their three kids, we're so fortunate to count them as friends and a rich tradition of holiday time. They rounded out the meal with contributed items so everyone would be pleased with the meal. Our menu:

Turkey (15 lb fresh and home made brine) with stuffing inside and separate (made with Granville Bread ciabatta)

Gravy

Cranberry Chutney- Colleen Pitt's recipe or as close to it as I can find

Mashed Potatoes

Sauerkraut

Scalloped Oysters

Peas

Green Bean Casserole (Ann)

A green salad- kale and squash (Cate)

Macaroni and Cheese (Caroline)

Cruiditare and Fruit Kabobs (creative offering as turkey from pumpkin)

Apple Crostini (Ann)

Pumpkin Pie (Cosco)

Chocolates- Goumas and Trader Joe

We hang out well, dinner was ready 4:30 ish, Ann offered a lovely prayer and we enjoyed the meal at the "new" bigger table. It was my great great grandmothers and my mom was right- it does look great in our dining room. We played games- kids before dinner-, mixed group, after. Joe broke a goblet and we are a competitive group so some voices were raised or not the most bucolic of tones maintained but it was all wonderful. Ann and I value our family times and I'm grateful for her partnership and how the kids and brothers embrace it.

The night ended with family movie night, an anticipated Disney film, not as good as I'd hoped but still an enjoyable wrap to a special day.

Friday we headed west to see Nadine and Jim's new place with the kids and then USA World Cup Soccer/Football game with Joe's extended family, a meal for 44- uniting cousins and aunts/uncles for the first time in 10 years- long overdue.  We opted to spend the night at the lovely Sauder Inn and enjoyed sipping and sharing for hours.

Saturday - home for OSU/Michigan tame- Peter downstairs and us in the living room. I am happy when my son is happy.  Joe takes the - he is happy when OSU fans are happy. We enjoyed turkey sandwiches with Utz chips. Dinner out with Hannah (Clare's dear friend from Wooster) before sending them back to Wooster. The slow reversing of family time.  Another Movie- this one met expectations and a good night's sleep.  

Sunday time to wrap up Thanksgiving and embrace the transition to the Christmas/December season, the Grater's peppermint stick ice cream helps!  Peter left early leaving me a bit blue, but church and turkey noodle soup address the melancholy. The afternoon was for school time in my office, also a queit prep time for what will be a robust end to 2023.

Life on Newark-Granville Road- I'm filled with gratitude and grateful for a weekend that is all about family, friends, good food, traditions, and being together. I know how lucky and fortunate I am.

Family Time on Newark-Granville Road

 My director asked me how I was going to relax this weekend?  My answer was, "my brother is coming to visit!"  It was a lovely weekend and one to blog to chronicle the sweet engagement and family time.  A few bonus things like Peter's arrival home and sharing Sally's good news. Life on Newark-Granville Road has family at its core.

the Tree Time subjects

Dawes- cold climb

Tree Time at the Granville Library

Sally's Big News- Early D!

FPC with Grandma Shirley

November- Time to Vote- My Musings

Maybe you already voted early- good for you, thank you. In my life on Newark-Granville Road I like to vote on election day, I value the conversations Joe and I have leading up to the day, I value the conversation our book club (Discussing Books at CVH)  has the eve of the election. Joe and I don't always vote the same way - that is ok. Friends can disagree and discuss, I am thankful that I have friends that think differently and we can discuss without judgement, okay maybe with judgement but we remain friends and maintain respect. I am proud of our college kids voting absentee this year and probably differently. Bottom line- PLEASE VOTE and I encourage you to be a thoughtful, informed voter.

Some thoughts and resources I want to promote and have you consider:

https://www.vote411.org/ 

https://ballotpedia.org/Ohio_elections,_2022                      

 

https://www.judicialvotescount.org/

Issue number one on our ballot in Ohio is important. I had the good fortunate to hear Justice Sharon Kennedy (also on the ballot and receiving my vote, call me and I'll tell you more or why) She explained how serious this issue is. Public safety is on the ballot.  We are voting Yes for the Amendment.

We live in complicated times, being informed, thoughtful voters isn't easy The extremisms is of great concern to me, I'm a moderate. I see both sides. I process by asking questions hearing insights and talking.  I miss Sunday dinners where my grandmother (gaga) and father disagreed and shared their passion but loved one another deeply, supported and respected one another.  One of the reasons I liked it when the party wasn't connected to the Judges- we voted for the person not the party.

Craig Baldwin also receives my vote, Craig welcomed us to the community and I've seen how much he cares for all he serves in all the counties, in his district. His commitment to the appeal process and the law is needed on the bench.  I'd like to discuss this election with you, again give me a call, send me an email or stop me.  

Granville School Levy- the other sign in our yard- we limit how many we will put there and we have to know the person well and be involved with the organization/issue. Joe chaired the levy last election and I'm proud of that work.  The Granville Schools are excellent, our children are prepared for life and their next steps because of our school district. The Ohio school funding model is what it is and additional funding streams are critical beyond state dollars.  Explaining taxes to our children is interesting and I'm very focused on fiscal responsibility. Again, it isn't simple. Taxes are part of the fabric of our society and how we support our communities.  This tax matters and makes a difference.  The  opposition in Granville is telling us not to vote for it because it is a permanent tax.  My gut says they wouldn't vote for it and don't want you to vote for it no matter what it is.  Operating a school or any entity takes money. Teachers and personnel and their benefits are the highest cost, our tax dollars ensure we have good teachers and staff and they stay here continuing to make a difference for our students in Granville.  

That said, we do need additional commercial tax income in our area and I hope you'll talk to me about how to make that happen and what role you can play- join the Granville chamber of Commerce to assist!

Okay- way more to discuss but I'll sign off for now, call me, stop me when you see me and let's discuss this ballot, issues and more and we should do this beyond the week of the elections.  I'd appreciate hearing how you are casting your vote and why.  Thank you for reading and sharing in my life on Newark-Granville Road.