Summer's Light, Summer People

Summer 2024, it isn't over but it is entering the closing chapter. Summer 2024 is this for many things in our lives on Newark-Granville Road.

We've tried to soak in every moment we can at beloved Moundbuilders Country Club.  The "club" will continue as it acquires the Trout Club in Newark, Ohio and moves operations there. The Trout Club is historic, picturesque with much to offer, it will be a good era and Joe and I will be supportive. We'll look forward to it, but now we're here embracing, honoring, remembering and being with the mounds and the trees and the people. Moundbuilders has been our happy place, our escape, our home base to make friends, be with our family, take time for us, grow and learn, compete and be us. Yesterday I golfed with friends, new and old, relaxed by the pool and floated on a hot day- it was a very good day.  Today I may work on my game at the driving range and plan to hang with friends pool side for as much of the day as I can.  Next weekend we'll say our final goodbye to the pool. Club time- meals on the patio, drinks in the 19th hole, celebrations and golf time- we'll savor that into the fall and winter.

Joe's parents are closing a chapter in their lives of independent living, a reality that means they are alive and engaging, meeting great great grandchildren (baby Alden was born in June). Joe was there last week supporting the process so many friends have been and are navigating- it isn't simple or easy- and is prompting more serious conversation between Joe and me. Scott took over and delivered Jim to a 2nd place for recovery and Nadine so we know they are safe and have care. Further transitions coming later as summer comes to a close.

Summer's light is magical and beautiful.  Summer 2024 has taken me all over this incredible country:

Chicago, Boston, DC/Maryland (twice) Jackson Hole, WY, and NY (twice)! 

Joe is in Spain as I type- all of these locations are work travel and because it is summer we've added a day or two for R&R!  I'm still having challenges making photo additions in Blogger, photos coming soon. But highlights to chronicle, images I'll want to share but for now capture here:

1. Chicago- an outdoor/indoor space a lovely location to welcome the Class of 2028 and a launch relationships by region.  Popping in at a new art gallery and seeing Amanda Love's beautiful work as well as other artist on exhbit- pieces that stay with you- ceramics and fabric and Amanda's medium- paper/book/thread!

2. Boston- the happiest doggy host- seeing a student in action being the perfect co-host with his mother. Being welcomed into these homes is such a treat! These two trips were back to back and didn't allow for much time to see friends (in new places Charlotte- but I'll be back) but were special as I do value traveling with co-workers and enjoyed the time doing our work- new work, renewed work- summer welcomes!

3. NY- Ithaca- Cornell- Parent Fundraising Conference- what a privilege to attend, present and be with my people- the people that do what I do and inspire and teach, support and engage in important ways.  The host committee takes on this extra work in service to our industry and one another. What a delight to visit this special community, historic and evolving. College towns are a favorite place and this one did not disapoint- the dairy being a highlight! The drive to MD was bonus time- seeing the PA scary bringing back high school memories of my college tours and summer jobs.

4.DC/Maryland time- work but family time too! We golfed FHCC, we ate crabs twice, we sat on Michael and Mom's porch and at the white table, we took in a Nats game that included a concert- nothing like singing a long with family and friends with thousands of others. Seeing Clare's new home with Caroline a highlight. Again a creative work event to welcome the new families to Denison, a literal ice cream treat at this one!!

5. Jackson Hole, WY and Idaho- we drove the pass, bought Scotch- and checked a state off the list! This trip deserves its own post. Social media photos don't do justice but enough friends have commented about what I shared that it did a bit. The Tetons are magnificent, the grandeur- all with a National Park at its core. Of course what made it special- the trip was stewarded by Denisonians- Lauren and Blair Haarlow's home and hospitality- wow, wow, wow- hiking, paddle boarding, just being in that beauty with the pups, and electrolytes, delictable meals and time together- a summer highlight for sure! The Gunsulus embraced the idea of a Denison event last fall and made sure every detail was attended to- including what side of the plane to secure for landing. Oh my I do love to fly and this was something like no other the approach into the National Park- oooo- ahhhhh- every minute of time in this area is just a gift. Forty-One Denisionians united to catch-up, connect and meet, hearing from Adam Weinberg just how special Denison is now and what makes it so- philanthropy and understanding who we are what we can be. As Adam says so well- there is a DNA in Denisonians- always has been, currently is Oh Class of 2028 you are special. I'm so fortunate to share the transition and launch with you as families. 

6. Back to NY for the last of the welcome parties. I went solo for this from a staffing point of view, providing bonding time with volunteers- student and alumni- the backbone of the college. Again seeing new places always something I value, Bronxville and Yonkers- that Hudson River is something that always gives me pause. Extra special is being invited into a home and a family ritual shared- for us it was watching the olympics- summer 2024 what a delight! This Denison/Denison host couple shared some pretty special Denison items - again an honor to be in their home- and experience the legacy.

7. Back to DC for a personal trip- just over 24 hours to celebrate dear Louisa and her sweet 16! How is our baby at this milestone! We explored new parts of DC- Georgetown and Foggy Bottom the destination. Call it a summer fling- I loved reading, walking and being together to honor our dear girl! Insert perfect picture or even video of the surprise reveal- aunt Susan is here! Family time is always a priority on Newark-Granville Road!

There was also time in Columbus with Denison Welcome and great colleagues. A treat was time with Terry and Mark Morowski- Denison alum alum couple and parents- one grad and one current- their messaging to the new families was spot on and worthy of repeating- oh that is too bad, what are you going to do? The reminder to me and all of us to listen, we're here, we're listening.  Joe was with me on so many of these trips and I'm lucky to have his light and ear, hand to hold.

Yes 2024 was a summer of travel and coming home the best part! Coming up is Portland, Oregon to watch the Big Red take on Linfield in Football! Chicago and Michigan will round out the season in special ways. The pull of wanting to be home and away a constant in this life on Newark-Granville Road. The transition time- back to school and fall sports, vs summer's pace and call- the fuller house and the empty one. I type with Lucy snoozing in the morning sun, the windows and porch all open with cool air and bird chatter- this is summer and it is wonderful on Newark-Granville Road.

I added people into the title of this post, summer provides much light and energy, opportunity and place but it is the people that make it special. The people that host, open homes, welcome, share, reflect and care. It is the people I've spent time with on Newark-Granville Road in July and August that I say thank you for making the light all the brighter.

Continuum of Feelings Today- Peter Launched

 August 3, 2024- historic day- the day Peter left home for his full time work.  Peter is driving to Indy to see friends and then tomorrow checks-in for a year long commitment to work in Sports Information at Central College in Pella, IA.  We're proud of him for discovering the role, being hired and navigating this exciting time.  He will be compensated with a stipend, free housing and meal swipes - it feels like a great way to tranison into the "real world"!  One might say he is "adulting" however I don't really like that term- the activities associated wtih this term are just responsiblities we all must accept as we age.

And age we all do, or hope to do as this is living and life is full of beautiful wonderful things that improve as we age!  As sad as I am to say farewell to Peter, I had a good cry on the evening of our last golf game at Mounduilders together, I am also thrilled for him, and excited for these new stages for all of us. The power of And in play, the continuum in action- happy and sad at the same time- but the overall feeling is great peace knowing we're where we are all suppose to be.

Typing this entry helps me process. Sally's arrival home from camp is a happy cure for the glumness connected to sharing goodbye.  I'll be motivated to plan the trip to see Peter in his new surroundings.  Visiting college towns is always a delight and 'Pella feels like a great destination.

**Sally is indeed home safely and had a wonderful summer at Camp. I'm proud of her too- good day to be a mamma on Newark-Granville Road. Pictures on social media- having some tech issues with Blogger.

Election Season is Here! Friday August 16-Bryn Bird Fundraiser

August 24 Update:

Keep spreading the word- election day is November and early voting starts in October- details here:

https://lifeonnewark-granvilleroad.blogspot.com/

Thank you to everyone that attended, donated and is indeed spending the word! My biggest take away from helping Bryn is the need for everyone to understand this is a county election, this is about the office that impacts how our larger community will develop the timpacts are own smaller community.  Many people do not understand the role of the County Commissioner, even i know only the minimum. What I do know is we need leaders like Bryn- committed, smart, involved, knowledgeable, engaged and ready to serve us, represent us and help us evolve in a healthy way.

July Post:

Let's talk- truly, I hope you will read this blog and:

• Sign up immediately- you want to attend and learn more!
• Recognize you need to know more, why are Susan and Joe hosting an event? So you give me a text or call, or stop me at work or in the IGA (Ross Market)- and simply say- tell me more
• BrynBird.com to learn more, register for the event, make a donation, help in other ways. While considering the donation I hope you'll talk to me or Bryn or the other hosts.

Campaigns are expensive. We're raising money to make sure we reach all 120,000 registered voters in Licking County. 

And some may say, Bryn Bird, the Granville Trustee- is this a re-election? The answer is no, our dedicated, smart, committed, thoughtful public servant is running for  Licking Country Commissioner, the election is in November. This is the most important role in our local government, the way Ohio is structured, commissioners have more impact as we navigate the changing landscape in our community.  Bryn is the right person to have at in place at this time.

Joe and I are both involved  (Granville Chamber of Commerce & Granville Village Council) and seeing first hand impact on zoning, development, growth, policy and funding and so much more- it is our quality of life that we love living on Newark-Granville Road in Licking County. Framework put a spotlight on need to collaborate, support, and address the partnerships across jurisdictions and the requirement of strong leadership at the county commissioner level. 

Bryn has been with us every step of the way- educating, caring, challenging, advocating- she knows her stuff and wants what is best.  Her roots and current work with the family farm provide an important perspective and network to get things done. Her professional work with government, nonprofits and businesses interacting provide the experience we need in our county commissioner.  I'll stop there- let's talk, read her website and make a commitment to learn more about Bryn as we prepare for the November election. I'll post more here as we progress, in the meantime:

• Elections are expensive- sponsorships matter- help Spread the Word Bryn Bird!
• Plan to attend Augusts 16- Friday night 5:30-8:30
• https://www.brynbird.com   to donate and register 

Questions about this exciting happening on Newark-Granville Road, let me know- I look forward to talking to you, seeing you around town or chatting by phone!

Let us Eat Cake!

 Happy New Year to Me! Birthdays- how do you celebrate, honor, recognize the milestone? In Life on Newark-Granville the answer is...it depends! Cake is important- regular readers will find many an ice cream cake as part of a birthday capture.  This year I was honored with a few special cakes!

1st- Blueberry with peach buckle by Ann Leithauser as part of our Apple Valley gathering. It is always a wonderful treat to spend part of the holiday and often my birthday with Westerville Leithauser's. We've created some amazing traditions and have so many fond memories.

2nd- one of those traditions is our swim across the lake, again captured a few times here, and grateful to include it in this post. Merilee Wagner you are something else! The spread you put out for our turn-around break is aways appreciated. This year you out did yourself with the china, coffee and coffee cake that was warm and delicious!

3rd-Boston Cream Pie- on my actual birthday for my birthday dinner at beloved MCC- baked by Brian Fuller. Brian's culinary contributions are becoming epic in my mind.  I always enjoy hearing the behind the scenes process that produce the cake and how fortunate to be a benefactor!

4th- MCC pals had delicious cupcakes on Sunday to honor Debbie and me for our weekend holiday birthdays- what a happy surprise "meeting".

2024's birthday for me was quite lovely- it started with the swim- always a treat. The photos captured are included and beautiful- we have before, during and after to share the energy and tradition! The day continued with delicious meals and time on the golf course, and a few toasts!

The whole weekend has really been lovely- the 4th in Granville is produced by so many- Kiwanis take the lead and are the work horses, Rotary, village, townships, police and fire all deserve kudos and gratitude. The day started cheering runners on the alternative path for the Firecracker Five on NG Road. We walked to town to embrace a new role- Joe as dignitary, breakfast reception at the Inn and walking with Village Council in the parade- he loved it, just as he is loving the role and opportunity to serve at this important time in Granville's history.  I watched from the beautiful porch of dear friends and took in the moment to watch our town in all its glory.  We then made the walk home and prepared to escape the heat for a cool dip and dinner at Apple Valley.

Granville's Fourth of July is such a touch base time with so many people. The hellos around the parade festivals, the music and activitivies at Fair- what isn't to love! Speaking of Love....

Love was in the air for 2024! We kicked off the special week with Will and Caitlyn's wedding in Charleston (Sunday)- pure magic- what a treat to be away and celebrate their love.  Last night (Saturday) was a figure eight moment watching Simon and Kristen unite in matrimony in true beauty. We were honored to witness both and had so much fun dancing, toasting and taking in the multidimensional love.

I've had a lot of cake in my life on Newark-Granville Road this year and I've loved every bit!

Books, Reading and Meeting Authors- Lucky Me!

Some of life on Newark-Granville Road's greatest joys and purpose is to enjoy and share a good book! Today I have two!

Independence Day What I Learned About Retirement From Some Who've Done It and Some Who Never Will.  In my last post, I blogged about meeting and listening to Steve Lopez P'25, the LA Times Columnist and author of several books https://www.latimes.com/people/steve-lopez. I wrote there that I was looking forward to the read, it did not disappoint!  It feels appropriate to start this blog post on Father's Day!

This book's lessons are for all ages and phases! I found the messages about life in general, not just for those contemplating retirement. The book is a treat for me as I valued reading about his journey, which includes his daughter as she decided to attend Denison! He began his talk last week letting the audience know what a fit Denison is and has been for his daughter. This was a special bonus for me with this read!

Anne Lamont, Somehow, Thoughts on Love  I always value the opportunity to hear an author share insights on a book! There is something about real life meeting the world of reading. Introducing mind and thought to voice and sight. The sweet spot of this experience was being the friend who gifted me prior books by Anne!  This was my situation a few months ago in Columbus when Gramercy Books did their usual fantastic work with an event. The communications, the set-up, the locations- they never disappoint. Anne did not disappoint either! Bonus- we received this book as part of the event.  I took my time reading it and savored it.  I'm a page turner- I fold the pages where I find quotables or phrases and concepts I want to discuss or revisit. Here is one:

"They will offer you the sacrament of welcome. But to keep it, you must give it away. Giving and receiving is the economy of our souls. This will fill you, and if you are not careful it will radicalize you" (Lamont, p. 121).  They are people you engage with doing good work, showing love).

This is why I buy books, I would not do this to a library book.  I also enjoy sharing books and sending them out into the world to be enjoyed. This isn't a sweet read about love, it is a real book about love. It is a beautiful part of Anne's journey and we're fortunate she uses her gift of writing relating and being real to share love in these words.

Life on Newark-Granville Road loves to read and values you reading this blog!  Let me know your thoughts on these books, and other recommendations!

Reunion Proved Why I Have the Best Job on Campus!

I'm enjoying every minute of Denison Reunion Reflection! The posts from the alums, the conversations with colleagues, and the over-heards in town...all positive and appreciative.  I echo this- way to go my AFE Colleagues with the charge to reunite and have alumni return to our fair college on the hill in fresh new ways!  Events happened in new and exciting places for reunion including the East Quad for a cook-out, the Academic Quad with food trucks! Ya'll adjusted approaches, the Citation Dinner was a top tier experienced Denison event for me.

Citations you say- what are those:  https://alumni.denison.edu/citations/ https://alumni.denison.edu/citations/  Check it out- click on folks to read why they received this honor! https://denison.edu/news-events/featured/152970   This article calls attention to this year's winners. Some dear friends in here- so deserving- but some of these Densionians are new to me! What fun to ask a classmate who works at the FCC if she knew Beverly Baker '64- the answer was no- we both learned something!

A bonus of this event was, recognizing how many Denison parents are within this esteemed group: Amy Lovett P'18, Rex Elliott P'23, Scott Trumbull to name a few, then a past recipient, Grant Jones was there and is an incoming Parent - class of 2028!  I had fun saying I was playing- count the parents- and then there would be another parent of a Densionian arrive, Charlie and Emily Ingram were right on cue! Knowing the children and multiple generations of Denisonians is quite rewarding to my life on Newark-Granville Road and why I do have the best job on campus.

Speaking of parents, this year the 50th Reunion invited a Denison parent to present their KeyNote! Steve Lopez is an LA Times Columnist and author of several books. https://www.latimes.com/people/steve-lopez  He was asked to present on retirement, a subject of one of his books: Independence Day. I look forward to the read! The audience was treated to more than just the lessons of his research, which aligns with my "it depends" lesson from grad school. We were fascinated by his relationship with an unhomed person that led to the book and movie- The Soloist, as well as, his perspective on access to education and his daughter's engagement at Dension with pre-Os!  He offered advice for all ages, understanding our identity, relationships we have with structure, and reflection on our time with our family! So much more to say, I have a feeling my engagement with his work will resurface on the blog!  I'm grateful the opportunity to say hello and thank you and connect with special Denisonians, Steve and his wife!

Denison parents are impressive and we have a number of authors, two I've been fortunate to engage with:

Mike Trigg -https://www.miketrigg.com/  Both of his books are great reads, it is summer reading time: Burner is the latest, Bit Flip still has me thinking- I'd love to discuss both with you!

Amor Towles- https://www.amortowles.com/ I mentioned top events at Denison above, last year having Amor on campus present at BRW was another highlight and special evening. Gentleman in Moscow is a family favorite, engaging inspired me to read more and I found Rules of Civility to be even better!

So all in all a long way of sharing why I love my job and that Denison parents are the best and therefore I have the best job on Campus!

Way to Go Wabash- Way to go Peter-Commencement 2024

Wabash College held the One Hundred Eighty-Sixth Commencement exercises on Saturday, May 11, 2024. Peter Michael Leithauser officially joined the ranks of Wabash alumni. Wabash has been a fantastic fit for Peter and we had a wonderful weekend celebrating the experience with him! Wabash College's approach worked well for our family.  Chronicling it for the history books, below are some photos with captions to showcase Peter's accomplishment and our pride in our lives on Newark-Granville Road!  We recognize he didn't do this alone and are grateful to the faculty, staff, leaders, friends, advisors, family, and donors from the past four years and well before! The social media love and kind words have been wonderful, thank you, thank you, thank you!!

What is next for Peter? He is headed to Central College in Pella, IA for a year-long Sports Information internship with room and board. He is thrilled to continue to explore this career, his work last summer at Denison was formative. Wabash says they know how to educate the boy's brain and do they! We applaud Peter for recognizing this and embracing what they offered with brotherhood and commitment to a special and unique liberal arts environment.  These four years started in "uncertain COVID times" and provided an important stage for your development, growth, and maturity.  Thank you, Peter, thank you Wabash!

Dinner at Crawfordsville CC

Cocktail hour at the Air BnB

Nana- arrive early for Baccalaurate

Peter Processes from Baccalaureate

The Delts- love these brothers

Saturday night dinner- thanks Nana

Not bad for the last day and little sleep!

Vince and Peter- roommates 1st year, dear friends and brothers the 4th.

https://www.wabash.edu/live/  Here is the link from our very special day not only for Peter, but our family and dear Wabash family!  The music, and remarks from all speakers are worthy of your time, Peter's shining moment is at 1:24!