A beautiful fall day

Today was such a gorgeous day.  It was almost 70 degrees, and bright and sunny.  A cold front is coming through and the wind picked up, so the leaves were gliding.  It was truly a lovely day.  Work has settled and I'm able to get things accomplished in a more timely manner.  And of course, it is a lovely time of year when I currently have only 25 work days remaining in the year.  Ahhhh.

Since the time change on Sunday, the days feel even cozier as the darkness settles in earlier.  It makes me incredibly ready for the holiday season.  Although I still miss the big family meals at my aunt & uncle's house, and I miss the gatherings at Christmas, I'm still looking forward to family time.  We have some fun things planned, and my mother-in-law will be here for the entire week of Thanksgiving.  I am so grateful and so excited.

One down thing to today is that my mother had to say good-bye to her dog, Peach.  She had begun to suffer, and that is just not okay.  I know how much my mom must be hurting today.

 

This is one of my favorite days

 Today will be one of my favorite days.  First of all, we had that extra hour of sleep last night.  That is always spectacular.  Secondly, other than altar prep this morning at church and a meeting after, we had nothing on our calendar for today.  It was chilly and overcast, and that made for a fabulous day of being home and cozy.  Andrew made a huge crockpot of chili for dinner.  The house is fairly picked up and other than the fact that I have to work tomorrow, it was nearly an ideal day.

Yesterday was busy as I made my weekly trip to my mom's house and then we were invited to the state parking to visit with some people we knew who were camping there.  It was really a lovely evening.  The weather was nice, the food was delicious, and the company was very pleasant. 

Friday was a really lovely way to end the month of October.  Andrew attended the first home playoff football game in decades (possibly ever) and it was a victory!  He's really enjoyed the season.  I was all set to be home and pass out a few pieces of candy...very few.  However,  Thomas and Lyndi wanted to come down.  When I realized there wouldn't be much trick-or-treating happening, I asked if they still wanted to come.  They said they would come down and watch Hallmark Christmas movies with me.  I wasn't overly enthused, but it ended up being a wonderful evening.  In fact, they slept over because we just kept watching!  I'm so grateful they still want to hang out with us.  I'm definitely starting this month of gratitude with a lot of gratefulness!

I feel like we've turned a corner

I woke up this morning, realized it was November 1, and I was instantly excited.  It's a Saturday, which is always a good thing!  A new month always feels fresh, and the beginning of November really feels like the unofficial beginning of the holidays (since I'm not a huge fan of Halloween, it doesn't count for me 😂), and the beginning of November is still very lovely around here since our fall really came later than normal.  And I can't help but feel we might have really turned a corner at work.  We had another incident at work this week, but it was so much more minor compared to other things.  I'd like to think the drama of our school year is over.  And regardless, November and December each only have 14 work days for me, so only 28 work days left for me this year!

The last weekend in October was full

It was a busy weekend, but I wouldn't trade it!  The weather was absolutely ideal.  It was the perfect temp, there was sunshine, and I was able to drive among the gorgeous scenery.  It even started an hour earlier than normal because we had conferences on Friday which meant no students, and I usually take advantage of some extra time off.

Yesterday I made my (pretty much weekly) trip north to work at my mom's house.  My sister and I have been working on things since August.  The goal is for Mom to be able to host a Christmas meal.  I'm beginning to wonder if this is possible, but I think if Catherine spends some days up there before Thanksgiving we can pull this off.  While it is a major time commitment, I'm appreciative of the beautiful leaves changing and how peaceful the drive is.

We then had dinner with our good friends.  It had literally been months since we had seem them.  We had a drink at a winery and then Mexican for dinner.    We were home by 9:30, which used to never happen.  It was the best we could do though!

Today was church and then all the kids were here for dinner.  I got the house cleaned up and it's so nice to be able to start the week feeling "ahead".  It's not a crazy week, and it sure is nice to be able to say that.  Last week was emotionally excruciating and completely exhausting.  I know it was the best thing both for our family and for that sweet dog.  And I am thankful that I no longer have to worry about being bit or what the snarling and growling might lead to.  And I can know that in long run, he is a good dog and I'm sure he'll find a right home where he is the only pet.  But none of that changes the fact that I absolute hate that it was for the best and it makes me sad.  So I'm looking forward to a quieter week, and with November just a few days away, I can get excited about the holidays.  Dinner with the kids was a lovely preview to that as well!

This day sucked

I don't normally use such language, but today was awful.  We had to say goodbye to the pup we adopted this summer.  Bettis had become aggressive to Andrew and myself, and was constantly lunging at and aggressive towards the cats.  It had become dangerous, and it wasn't fair to the animals who were here first.  The hard part is that 75% of the time Bettis was a sweet lover, and we are going to miss that so, so much.  But last night, I was literally afraid to get into bed because of his growling and snarling.  We can't live like that, and the anxiety that the cats were causing him wasn't fair to him either.  I cried during the entire drive, and I cried when we took him in.  They assured us we had done the right thing, and they felt confident they could find him a good home that would work better for him.  Knowing how much he hated being there, taking him back felt absolutely awful.  We NEVER thought we would be the people to return or surrender a pet.  But we know this was what had to be done.  We are so, so sad about this, but are cuddling our cats to love on them.

I really love this time of year

We've made it to another Friday.  Although last weekend was a three-day weekend, there is something about this weekend that feels even better.  After tomorrow, it is going to get much cooler.  Holiday activities are beginning to pop up.  The leaves should really start changing soon, and things seem to be getting cozy.  I'm so grateful for these days, and I'm especially grateful we are at the weekend!

Today was a good day

I have to be honest, today was one of the calmest work days I've had all year.  In fact, probably THE calmest of this school year.  I was able to get things done that not only did I not have time to handle, I hadn't had the "bandwidth" to handle.  The temps are perfect and even though I was the only admin working, it was really just a lovely day at work.

It was also a great day for Thomas.  He had an issue that was resolved with the almost the best possible solution.  He also started a new job last week that he really enjoys, and Lyndi starts a new job next week.  And in other fabulous news, his car has been repaired and they get it back tomorrow and we get Andrew's car back.

Life certainly isn't perfect, but I will happily take the good days when they happen!

A gift full of so many memories

When Andrew was in Vermont in June visiting his aunt before she passed, he fell in love with her digital photo frame.  His mom commented on how much she would enjoy having one.  We bought her one during Prime Days and were able to add 500 photos for it before we gave it to her when she was here in September.  It is super easy to add photos, and I told Andrew it was exactly what I wanted for my birthday as well.  He agreed and was excited to get me one.  So excited in fact, he got confused and thought my birthday was September 27 instead of October 27!  He was so panicked about it that he ordered on my account, which meant not only did I know when it was arriving, but I knew what it was.  It was a bit comical.  I was excited to get the photos added, and got right to it.  Not only do I love seeing the pictures come up on the frame, but just going through the photos to pick ones has been a joy.  I've added some pictures from my childhood, and Andrew has a few from his.  I even have pictures from my Dad's childhood and there are extended family.  There are a ton of photos from during the pandemic, and I remember how much wonderful time we had together.  The pictures of our sweet Abby pull at my heart a bit, as she will be forever missed.  I love photos of big family groups, and of course there are lots of photos of friends, especially those who are truly like family.  I am also so truly enjoying the photos of the many, many trips we have taken.  Those photos make my heart so very full.  We have been so blessed.  There have been amazing family vacations and fabulous trips with friends.  I'm so grateful for the opportunities and for all the memories made, and I'm so grateful to have the phots displayed on the screen!

This is not the day off I had envisioned

Today is our "fall break", which means there is no school today.   The public schools are still in session so I'm the only one off today.  It was WONDERFUL to sleep in, although I awoke with a migraine.  I never love that.  Two migraine pills later and it still isn't completely gone.  

At the beginning of the week, the only thing on my calendar today was a haircut this afternoon.  Then, Thomas mentioned he was going to need a ride home from work.  I have some errands I can run in the Dayton area, so I agreed to go get him.  That is 2+ hours there and back, plus the time in Dayton.  No biggie.  At least the errands will be done.  Then last evening, I remembered that my vehicle is past due for an oil change.  Wouldn't be a huge deal, except Andrew needs to take my vehicle to his mom's this weekend, so we can't wait another 600+ miles.  So that happened this morning.

This is definitely not the day off I had originally envisioned, but it is still very lovely.  Because the university also is on break, it is quiet in town, and even driving through campus is relatively peaceful.  I'm still waiting on leaves to change as everything is very, very green still.  I hope Andrew will have a lovely drive over to see his mom.  It's just me and the dog this weekend, and I'm looking forward to the quiet.

It's darker in the mornings

We are a full week into October.  This was supposed to be the return to "normal" at school, but that sure isn't the case.  We don't have school Friday though, and I'm so grateful for that.

This morning as I was driving to work, I couldn't help but notice it was still dark.  The days are definitely getting shorter.  It rained all day today.  I was absolutely soaked by the time dismissal was finished today.  I was thrilled to be able to come home and change into pajama bottoms.  This rain is a cold front too, and that should be the end of the 80's for this year.  There might still be some 70's, but the fall weather is definitely arriving.  It's awesome!

It sure doesn't feel like the first weekend of October

The weather here is ridiculous.  I'm sweating.  Thankfully, the sun is going down and it is beginning to get cooler.  I"m hoping our new mums make it.  Andrew had to work at a cross county meet this morning and it was beginning to get a little miserable.  I've got a few fall decorations out, but honestly, it just seems ridiculous to decorate when it feels more like July.  Thankfully, the humidity isn't awful.  I"m looking forward to cozy weather, but not sure when that will happen.  Even when the cold front comes through this week, it will lower the highs to 70's.  I"m ready for long sleeves!

Our week at work is actually beginning to settle.  We are hopeful we can begin to focus on things that really matter rather than people who are just being difficult.  This is also the last week Andrew will have any events until around Thanksgiving, so we are very grateful for that break.  I'm definitely looking forward to life slowing down a bit!

I'm so happy to see October arrive

August and September were rough, rough months.  The beginning of our school year was beyond draining.  Andrew had a crazy evening work schedule with athletics.  He has also joined a community group to address homelessness, and Thomas, in addition to his wedding reception, had a fairly tumultuous month.  Wowza.

But I'm always so happy to see the month turn to October.  We've had basically no fall weather yet.  Not a single day where I could wear any kind of long-sleeves.  Our forecast is 80's, even as high as 86!!!!, until next week when a front comes through.  At least the overnight lows are in the 50's so we don't have to have the a/c on the entire time.  It is definitely getting darker earlier in the evening and staying darker longer in the morning.  I'm so ready for the cozy weather, and of course, for the holidays that are just right around the corner.  

I'm grateful the Reds are playing in October, although with the annihilation of last night this could be the final game tonight.  But there is plenty of great football ahead of us, and college basketball will be starting soon as well.

I'm hoping October is a more emotionally settling month as well, and I'm looking forward to November and the month of gratitude that will follow.  I'm grateful for the very peaceful feeling in my heart today, even if it is only for today.

The Reds get to keep playing

Even though the Reds lost today, they finally won a series from the Brewers (first time since 2022!) and by winning two out of the three, when the Mets lost today, the Reds were in the position to take the third National League Wildcard and keep playing.  It's been a long time since this has been the case.  When Terry Francona came out of retirement to manage the Reds, we knew he would only do that if he thought there was a real chance of being winners.  There were injuries and slumps, but at the end of it all, they get to play again this week!

We'll remember this school day

This has been another less than spectacular week at school.  There are two students who are continuing to cause trouble in the middle school classroom, and their behavior is astonishing.

Today though.  Wow, today takes the cake.  Shortly before Noon I was in my office and was called to an outdoor classroom over the Walkie.  My boss and I both took off because I NEVER get called to this classroom.  They had been doing a science unit that had turned into an archaeology unit.  They had been digging a hole to study soil levels, then found some broken plates, etc, and kept digging.  The hole had become about three feet deep.  The student jumped in feet first, and the hole managed to collapse around him.  We ended up having to call the fire department to extricate him from the hole.  As I told my boss, any day that we have to call 9-1-1, I think it is fair to say that isn't the best day.  The student was upset at first, but calmed down quickly, and the FD did a great job of getting him out.  Quite a day at work, and the end of a crazy week.  In fact, it's been crazy for almost three full months, and we are ready for things to settle!

Another weekend in September

It is definitely beginning to look like fall around here.  Sadly, it isn't colorful, nor is it cool, but because of the draught things are brown and yellow and beginning to fall from the trees.  And although our a/c is running, because of the lower humidity, the heat isn't oppressive.

Andrew and I both had long weeks.  Andrew had something every evening, and Thursday I even attended a meeting for him.  We've decided to "tag-team" a committee seat that is about serving our neighbors in need.  It is an honor to be able to be involved.  That should be the last really, really hard week for Andrew.  It's a little unfortunate that it happens at the beginning of the school year, especially when the school year beginning has been so rough for us.

He even had to work yesterday, but our evening was really lovely.  One of my high school friends was in town and we always have a blast visiting for a couple of hours.  It's always such a gift to be included in his plans!

Today, I went to work at my mom's house.  It's a daunting task to get things under control, but we are working on it.  It's hard to see a positive step forward for my mom with all of her mobility issues.  We are doing what we can though, and my sister is amazing about those things.

There are definitely a few stresses in life, but I am constantly reminding myself that we are basically safe and healthy, and we can work around the other things.

A lot has happened in two weeks

After I wrote on Labor Day, I received a phone call from Lyndi and she was crying.  They'd been in a car accident.  They were okay, but it was Lyndi's fault and I could hear Thomas screaming.  He's had a bit of PTSD since his accident five years ago.  We were over an hour away, but we made some phone calls, and some dear friends rushed to be with them.  Complicating life was the fact that the care was not drivable, leaving them with only the old 2001 that we don't trust for many distances.  It needs some work.  So after a week of that, we traded them so they could use Andrew's car and we are living with the Civic.

In the meantime, Lyndi took her driving test and we were so excited when she passed!  She really is a great driver.  However, because she is married she couldn't be on her parent's car insurance, and when our insurance found out they were married they had to go on their own policy.  So she isn't covered, which means she can't drive.  It's not overly convenient for them right now, but things will work out.

Last week was also crazy in that Andrew had to work almost every evening, and we were trying to get ready for the kids' party.  I am so grateful my MIL was here.  She made sure we had meals and helped with laundry.  We couldn't have made it through the week without her.

Work has been more insane than I can even explain.  These parents have lost their minds.  Their behavior has been astounding.  Today, a set of parents showed up swearing and yelling and making demands.  What is even happening with these people?  I have been spending literally HOURS in admin meetings trying to make backup plans for backup plans in case some teachers decide to leave because the parents are so awful.

There are also things going on at church and in other aspects of life, but overall we are hanging in there.  It won't last forever, and we are all healthy and hanging in there.  But wowza, life can settle in anytime now!

I will always remember

Yesterday, we had an open house to celebrate Thomas and Lyndi's wedding.  It was nothing formal, just come by when you can.  I will always remember how my kids felt loved by the people who came to celebrate them.  I will always remember how my son shared with me that he shed tears when he opened the gift from his Godfather, who created a unique piece of art personal to them, just as my son had done for them when they married ten years ago.  I'll never forget my son calling me last evening after they got home to thank us for all we had done.  I'll never forget how much love I felt in that room, or the gratitude I felt for those that were able to make it, and also for those who couldn't be there but let us know.  I am so grateful.

But I know a person can hold two feelings at the same time.  When Thomas and Lyndi first talked about getting married, I remember thinking how I couldn't imagine having a wedding that didn't include our big extended family.  I was so grateful to have been included in grad parties, weddings, baby showers, etc., and I wanted all of them to share this day with us.  The kids agreed a format like yesterday was a perfect way to include all of them.  And I will always remember how it felt, when I looked out over everyone, and not a single one of them was there.  Not. A. Single. One.  My mom was there, and my sister was there.  None of my first cousins and their kids, none of my second cousins or their kids.  No aunts and uncles. Absolutely none of that big extended family was there.  And the worst part?  With the exception of my aunts and two cousins, NO ONE even bothered to RSVP that they weren't coming.  I'm not asking for a gift, but at least acknowledge the celebration and politely decline.  And here's the thing, you want to do this to me?  Okay.  But this was about celebrating my kiddo, who is working really hard to be a decent young person in a really hard world.  I couldn't help but think back to all of the graduations, weddings, grad parties, showers, soccer games, baseball games, football games, plays, etc. I had attended, nearly all of which were at least an hour's drive.  And I was happy to do it and so grateful to be included in most cases.  And even times when I couldn't attend a specific milestone event, I ALWAYS sent a gift.  I was important to me to cultivate those family ties.  

Don't get me wrong, I am not claiming some huge family conspiracy against us.  Not at all.  It just is what it is.  And what it is, hurts.  I'm sure Thomas didn't think much about it.  Friends were there.  And those friends who are always there and have become our "framily"?  Absolutely.  One of our dear friends drove home from a college performance in Detroit and arrived in the middle of the night, then was driving back last night.  So many dear, dear friends were there and made my kiddos feel so special.  As did my coworkers, whom I adore.  And I still love my family, but I also need to guard my heart a little.  And I need to guard my energy.  This September has been REALLY hard (a post for another time).  If this is how my extended family feels about events, then it's okay for me to send a gift and save my energy for the people who will truly appreciate it.  This Mama Bear is so grateful for the people who love my kiddos, and they are all truly a gift.

It's a beautiful start to September

Today is an absolutely gorgeous beginning to September.  Upper 70's, no humidity, not a cloud in the sky.  AND, a Monday off.  I don't think it gets any better.

August didn't end the way we would have like, with the Irish losing their first game of the season, and to the 'Canes.  But, Thomas was in the emergency room, which was far more relevant in life.  I'm happy to report he was discharged with severe dehydration, although I think it would be best if he kept an eye on things.  His system has always been a bit fragile.  I'm grateful for Lyndi, who takes such good care of him.  And I'm so grateful for my MIL and our relationship, as I have an amazing model for how to have a good relationship with Lyndi.  Nothing pulls at the heart strings though, like a kiddo not feeling well.

September is going to be a BUSY month, but I'm grateful for the opportunities in our life.  I won't lie, I've been a bit emotional about some things, but overall, life is good.

A quiet Labor Day Saturday

Today has been a very quiet Labor Day Saturday.  Andrew had to be at work at school at 9am, and we are cautiously optimistic he'll be home around 9pm tonight.  It's a long day for him.  I've been enjoying the beginning of college football and watching the Buckeyes continue their dominant ways over Texas!  It ended up being close at the end, but it was mostly a fabulous OSU performance.  With Andrew gone, it isn't as much fun to watch the games so I had it on, but was also picking up the house.

It's also been incredibly quiet in our neighborhood today.  It's an incredibly gorgeous Saturday, in the 70's, no humidity, not a cloud in the sky.  It's a wonderful day to be outside, but that sure isn't happening around here!  None of the kids and families who live close to us are out, and honestly, no one is out walking or working.  I took Bettis out for a walk, and it's oddly quiet for a normal day, let alone a Saturday of a holiday weekend!  

Tomorrow I am headed up to my mom's house for a weekly cleaning session.  Tomorrow evening our Fighting Irish play, and I'm so grateful Andrew and I will have an evening at home together.  And then we still have Monday...woohoo.  It's a little daunting to realize it will be six weeks before we have another long weekend.  This is one of the hardest stretches of the school year, especially in our house where Andrew stats for football and usually works another 2-3 days a week at athletic events.  I'm trying not to think about that though, and just be so grateful for this moment in time, which for today is all college football!

It's been a humdinger

This has been, by far, the most challenging beginning to a school year I have ever experienced...even more so than COVID in 2020.  We have three new staff members who are amazing, but still need some additional assistance, understandably.  We have some new students who have exhibited unexpected challenges requiring me to spend a significant amount of time in classrooms to offer support, and we have some parents who have lost their minds and have required an unbelievable amount of time to deal with them and try to resolve "issues".   It's been more exhausting than I can describe.

And it was HOT.  Oh my goodness, it was so miserable.  Thankfully, an amazing front came through late last week, and right, now it's beyond gorgeous.  Tonight will be down in the 40's!

This weekend is Labor Day weekend and college football begins.  I love this time of year, and I'm ready for school to settle down as well!

Tomorrow we start

The clothes are laid out, the alarms are set, we are all ready for our first day of school.  For Andrew this is the beginning of year 30(!!), and Catherine is so excited to begin her first full year.  She started her job after the beginning of the year, so she is very pleased to be doing this from the beginning.  It's really sweet to see how excited she is.  And I'm starting year 6 in my job.  I"m so grateful to have a job I love so much.  The beginning of the school year used to make me sad when the kids were younger because it was the end of our carefree summers, and it marked the aging of my kiddos.  Now though, I'm excited to see our students returning tomorrow.  Here we go!

It's almost that time...

This coming week school begins.  Catherine, Andrew, and I all have students on Wednesday.  I'm ready...or as ready as I'm going to be.  I allowed myself to leave early yesterday afternoon, knowing it was the last Friday that I would be able to do so.  While I am very grateful for the summer, and for the flexibility and more laid back schedule, I'm also grateful for the full time schedule of the school year that allows me to have a "full-time" paycheck.

Last week I made sure that the kids all took time to visit my grandmother.  We were there about 45 minutes, and she really enjoyed having us all there.  I'm not going to lie, it is really, really hard for me to visit my grandmother.  For so many years, she was such an amazing force in lives and that person we visit now just isn't her.  I struggle with that.  Regardless, after our visit we drove into town and had dinner at a pizza place, where two of my cousins (and a husband) and two of their kids joined us.  We had a blast and we agreed it is something we should do more often!  I'm so glad we made those things happen.

Today I made another visit north to help my sister work at mom's house.  That is another post, but it was definitely a very long day.  I'm grateful for a quiet evening right now, especially since we had dinner plans with Thomas and Lyndi last evening.  Tomorrow is church and then dinner with more friends.  August is never my favorite month, but it is the beginning of college football season so I can't be sad about that!  And of course it will be the holidays before we know it! 😁

Last day of July

The last day of July has arrived.  It was a full day, too.  I worked until 4:00, so basically back to the normal grind.  A cold front came through, which at least broke the horribly hot weather we'd been having.  Two weeks from today it will be the second day of school.  Lots to do between now and then, but I am ready to get back to a routine...and regular sized paychecks as well. 😁

I really do love my job, and I don't love summer weather, so I've been wondering why I'm feeling sad about the end of this summer.  We had a great summer.  We enjoyed a wonderful vacation with everyone and then another great trip with friends, but summers are different then they used to be.  My children are now adults, and I accept that.  As with everything in life, it has both pros and cons.

I've realized though, how much my life changes when school starts.  It isn't just my job, which cranks up, obviously.  But Andrew goes from having almost no responsibilities during the year to having the busiest season of the year.  And our town COMPLETELY changes.  Our quiet little town adds about 16,000 students, not to mention that even professors and other staff leave town during the summer.  Right now, going to the grocery is a piece of cake.  That changes dramatically when we have all those extra people. 

I know this is a short-term "mood", and I love fall and all that it brings, followed by the holidays and hopefully some snow.  Hopefully the cooler weather of the weekend will help to life spirits!

Last trip of the summer

This past weekend we took our final trip of the summer.  Yesterday was also my final day off for the season, but we still aren't working full days.  Yes folks, the new school year is nearly upon us.

I had originally taken these days off to have a nice long weekend at home.  Plans changed though.  Friends from California were going to be in Pittsburgh so that meant traveling over on Friday, and then my mom had a medical appointment on Monday and I told her I would take her, then we had lunch with my daughter-in-law, so needless to say, not nearly as many things got done as I had hoped.  But that is life!

Anyway, it was a nice visit in PA.  We got in Friday for an awesome dinner with my mother-in-law.  Saturday I was able to sleep in until almost 10.  We had plans in the city, and we had such a great time seeing so many people we hadn't seen in quite a while.  In fact, in my case it had been years since I had seen them.  It was so hot though, and even in the a/c, it was so crowded that it was really warm.  I was grateful that by early evening we were back at his mom's house and brought in a pizza for dinner.  We watched a cheesy Christmas movie, and I really enjoyed having the opportunity to visit.

Two weeks from today we will be getting ready for the first day of students the next day.  The summer always goes so quickly, but I love my job...and I'm soooo ready for cooler weather that the fall will (hopefully) bring!

Sometimes life isn't fair

This July has been full of some sadness for some family friends.  While we were in KC, we learned that the father of a friend of my parents had passed away.  The man was 98.  This was most certainly not a tragedy.  I knew literally the entire family, including some "steps" that had married into the family.  I took the day off and paid my respects at the visitation.  The night before this news came, we learned of another death, and this one was indeed tragic.  A young man, only 21 years, passed away after a year-long fight with cancer.  His family was also friends with my family, and his grandmother had been good friends with my mother when I was growing up.  His grandparents had passed away 30 years ago in a tragically sad incident.  As another friend said, this family already had their tragedy, how could this be happening?

This morning brought further sad news, and sadly it involves the first family I wrote about.  A granddaughter lost her husband this morning.  Both are in their early 40's, and he'd been fighting cancer since last fall.  They have three little boys, the oldest only eight, and the youngest not yet in Kindergarten.  My heart is so broken for this family.  Those boys need their dad.  I know the family will rally around Lesley and her boys, but this just isn't supposed to happen.

Teacher of the Year

It took me two months to get this written, but I don't want to forget Andrew's big accomplishment of this year.  He was named the Rotary Teacher of the Year.  I am so, so proud that his talent has been recognized.  He's really awesome at his job.  He's going to use the prize money to take his kids on a field trip.  He's amazing!

KC, Mo

We decided back in April that we would make a trip to visit our friend, Julie, in KC, Mo who lost her husband four years ago.  We've seen her several times since then, but it was her coming here, not us going there.  At dinner with our good friends one evening we were discussing the trip, and we decided to be there on the 4th just like we were when they first moved fifteen years ago.  By the time dinner was over, we had confirmed with Julie and made our hotel reservations.  I was just as excited about this trip as I was about our family vacation last month.

Our friend is a control freak and won't ever let anyone else drive.  So that was decided early on.  We left Thursday (7/3) morning, and the trip took FOREVER.  Part of it was our need to stop due to constantly hydrating, but part of it was the traffic was really heavy as well.  By the time we arrived, we had dinner with our friend and then tumbled into bed.

The next day, July 4th, was my favorite part of the entire trip.  We had breakfast at the hotel, then Julie came to pick us up for our day out.  First, we had to watch Nathan's hotdog eating contest because the guys are ridiculously obsessed.  Our first stop was to a distillery that we had visited together seven years ago.  We had the BEST strawberry cream concoction, and they even had the Reds game on for a bit while we were sitting there.  The next stop was into town where we had a lunch, visited a shop or two, and then found a little wine store where we could have a glass.  There was an 80's/90's trivia game, and our table took full advantage.  When we got back to the hotel, we just decided to order some appetizers for dinner and hang out in the bar, then we ventured to our room and watched fireworks on TV.  It was such a fun day.

Saturday took us to Julie's house where we spent the entire day.  She had moved since her husband passed away, so it was a new location.  We made a trip to the grocery to pick up supplies for an awesome dinner made by the guys, and again played lots of games and had some wine.  It really felt like old times hanging out.  We returned to the hotel and Julie joined us, where we stayed up well into the night playing card games.

Sunday was our last day of fun.  I had talked us all in to making sure we had three full days of fun and not returning home until Monday.  This was the day we went downtown to see some sights, and we also had an incredible meal.  Oh my goodness, I'm already looking forward to doing that again next year!  We drove around and saw some other sites before returning to the hotel and turning in for the night.  We met Julie for breakfast on Monday morning, then we were off on our way home.  I'm so grateful for the memories we made and for the friends with whom we made them!  We've already decided we are doing it again next year!

The first half of July

I am wayyyy behind in writing, but it isn't a bad thing.  We've been having fun and enjoying the more laid back life that July brings.  I have lots of things to write about, including our trip to Kansas City, but I'm going to start with our new furry family member, Bettis!

Andrew made it very clear he wanted another dog after Abby passed last October.  I told him I didn't want another dog, but that I loved him and knew how much it meant to him, and that I was okay with another dog.  We had always kind of joked that June 16 was the date, but the unplanned trip to Vermont derailed that.  When he returned, there wasn't much talk about it, as I knew he was kind of just exhausted at that point.  After we returned from KC, he was READY.  He researched and had sent in applications.  Last Wednesday, we drove 1/2 hour north to the next town.  We had been told about a dog who had been surrendered by his owner just the day before as the owner was moving into assisted living.  They brought the dog out and he was just shaking so hard.  I put my arms around him, we put him on a leash to take him to see how he did with cats, and he was ready for us to walk him out the door.  He was ready to go!  They offered to take us to see other dogs, and I looked at Andrew and we knew...this was our guy.  He is a pug/beagle mix. I always said if I owned a pug I was naming him Bettis after Jerome Bettis. It's a little ironic because this guy has the beagle body, but Bettis Grant is his name.  We brought him home that night, and my goodness!  By Friday it felt like he had been here forever.  He's been a lapdog from the beginning and just full of love for his humans.  We are so, so grateful for this new furry family member!

The end of another June

June has absolutely flown by, which I suppose it does nearly every year.  This weekend though, has not flown by (I've been off since early Thursday afternoon) and for that I am very grateful.  

I'm grateful that work has been fairly uneventful since I returned from vacation.  I'm also grateful that we are closed for this entire week.  This was my idea three years ago, and it is really one of the best decisions we've ever made.  If we were open, one of admin (and probably only one) would have to be working and would be resentful (at least I would be).  This way, ALL of us can be off, and none of us feel like we are missing anything.  I'm going in a bit here and there to bring in mail and check on the plants, but overall it a good amount of down time.  I certainly don't need to water the plants, by the way, because although we are in a heat streak that is absolutely miserable, we are having daily monsoon downpours.  They tend to come up out of nowhere...just increasing my desire to remain indoors. 😂

Summer break is almost half over...but it's been a great first half!

Mid-June

I am off work today, and I've enjoyed the quiet.  I don't get much alone time in my house in the summer, and I'm cherishing this opportunity.  Catherine is home from work, but is taking a nap in her room.  I should be more productive, but I'm listening to our sink drive (ugh!) and enjoying our cat, Maudie, who is insisting to be right up against me (it's a little warm, but sweet).

Tuesday, Andrew hit the road again, God love him.  Our original plan for the summer had been to take a trip to Vermont at the end of July and to take his mom with us as it was a visit to Andrew's aunt who is 92.  However, the week before we left for vacation, a phone call came explaining that Aunt had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.  Treatment would only extended the inevitable, and at 92, well...I think you understand.  It was decided that Andrew and his mom would make the trip right away, and unfortunately it meant I couldn't go.  I'm so, so grateful though, that Andrew and his mom are able to do this.

I've also been spending day looking around at my house.  I love photos.  I love having memories literally staring at me.  The hard part?  I can't cover every single wall space and flat surface with photo frames.  In the last six weeks, we've had two big photo-worthy events in the wedding and our vacation.  As I said, we took a TON of photos on vacation.  I'm trying to not have a cluttered house, while also having these memories surround me.  They truly bring me joy.  

I am so grateful for this summer and the slower pace of life!

It was the best vacation ever

There is no doubt in my mind...this is the best vacation I've ever taken.  While I hope that I have many fabulous vacations as I continue to grow older, this one might not be topped.  Having Thomas and Catherine and their "others" join us was such a gift, and of course my mother-in-law was with us as well.  The house had amazing views of the sound, and there was a view from literally every window.  Our bedroom had a private covered deck, which of course had a view!  I sat there Saturday afternoon, our last day there, and there was a nice breeze, the sun was out, there was some activity in the cul-de-sac, and I just soaked it all in.  I was so grateful for the week we'd just had and for the afternoon we were having.

We had some really good meals, especially the Friday evening meal.  We ate at this huge restaurant that had water views from just about every table.  We had drinks, meals, and even desserts.  Our afternoons were generally spent at the house just hanging out, and I even got to read TWO books!  Because we eat early, our evenings were spent at the house hanging out some more.  Early in the week, especially, we would all sit out on the back deck and enjoy the water.  The full moon was absolutely gorgeous as it lit up the sound.  I loved the fact that the kids wanted to be out there with us.  We laughed so much on this trip.  Thursday night was designed game night, and we laughed even more.  Friday we finally got to show Andrew's mom the movie The Princess Bride.  She had never seen it before, and we laughed some more.  I was so, so grateful for how much time the kids wanted to spend with us.  I loved how the kids not only humored me with family picture after picture, but they wanted to make sure we all shared them so everyone had access.  It wasn't all perfect of course, as there were seven people with seven personalities, but honestly, it doesn't get much better.  I truly don't have the words for how wonderful it was and how grateful I am!

Our vacation has begun

Our amazing vacation has started.  Honestly, this may be the one where I leave the house less than any other vacation ever.  Well, at least the property.  The house is located at the tip of an island peninsula, with water views at every angle.  The living space on the top level has a completely unobstructed view of the sound, and it is absolutely gorgeous.  This is also the nicest house we've ever been in when it comes to cleanliness and maintenance.  We could not be more thrilled.  It is truly the perfect house for our family for this week.

We brought in pizza last night for dinner and tonight is the first night we are actually going out...the best part of our vacations!  We just found out today that the place we eat on every trip is no longer in business.  It had been around since the 1940's and was the very first meal Andrew and I ever had on the Outer Banks.  We've eaten at this restaurant on all previous seven trips, the only restaurant we can say that about.  Our kids even had great memories, even if they weren't all food related, and we were sad to hear that it was sold 18 mos ago and then suddenly closed earlier this year. 

So nice to know this trip is just getting started!

Ready for vacay

In about 17 hours (hopefully), we will be out the door for vacation.  It's a 13ish hour drive to our place at the Outer Banks, and I'm so excited.  My MIL is here, and the kids are all coming with us as well.  I'm calling this the last "big vacay".  I truly hope that we get to take other vacations as time goes along, but this is the last one I'm paying for almost everything.  I'm so, so grateful for this opportunity and the memories we are going to make!

A lovely May ending

Yesterday, Andrew and I had several plans.  The first one ended up being cancelled though, as there was a mechanical failure on a volunteer project Andrew was supposed to work on.  We then headed north to my hometown for a graduation party for the daughter of dear family friends.  My sister and mom were there as well.  It was a very nice visit with family and friends.

Then we decided to go shopping.  I detest shopping.  But, there were a few things I wanted to purchase, and Andrew had a few thoughts as well.  The nice thing was that we didn't just walk around browsing.  I knew where I wanted to shop and Andrew knew where he wanted to shop.  Then we had a wonderful dinner with a drink, hit one more store on the way home, and were home by late evening.

I am so grateful for yesterday.  The weather was gorgeous, and it continues to be today.  Before Andrew started mowing, the animal sounds from our backyard were so serene and peaceful.  A week from today we are headed to North Carolina, and I know our blessings are abundant.

Delightfully unexpected company

This morning I received an email from a dear friend who was going to be passing through town.  We were able to rearrange things on our end and meet for dinner.  Catherine joined us as well, and we invited her boyfriend to come along also.  Thomas was disappointed he couldn't attend as he would have loved to introduce Lyndi.  It was a short evening, but absolutely delightful.

It was especially appreciated in the midst of this very long week.  As I told someone today, once I get through this week I should be fine.  Then I laughed, because I feel like I've been saying that for weeks now.  It was nice to have a break from work and enjoy company!

The smallest shoe graduated

I have a picture I took 16 years ago (coming up in early June).  It is a picture of ten pairs of shoes on our porch.  One pair belonged to Andrew, three pairs belonged to my kids, and the other six pair of shoes belonged to kids of good friends, and they were all at my house for the entire day as they were in need of a babysitter.  I remember it was a pretty crazy day, and I specifically remember realizing in amazement that lunch was going to have to be in shifts as we didn't have the capability to feed everyone at the same time.  I remember being a bit relieved when the day was over, but it is also a fabulous memory.

This weekend, the smallest pair of shoes graduated.  She is the last of our close group of friends, and we've been friends long enough that I remember when she was born.  She is a beautiful young lady with a fabulous sense of humor, and I adore her tremendously.  We sat and visited with her brother Saturday evening (who was the owner of a pair of shoes as well) as well as brother's girlfriend whom we had met before.  The daughters of other friends were there as well.  I was so grateful that I had seen these kiddos grow up, I was so grateful that I was still a part of their lives, and I'm so, so grateful for these friends that have become family.

Whew!

There are just a few more days remaining in May.  And what a month is has been!  We had the wedding, which was a crazy weekend itself.  That was followed by musical week which requires extra evening work for school.  By the end of that week, I was absolutely exhausted.  For Mother's Day weekend, I just wanted to be able to sit, which I did because it turned out I had a touch of a bug.  The next week brought our end-of-year ceremony, but the night it was scheduled we were in a very severe weather pattern.  We ended up having to scramble and reschedule some things.  It made the week marginally easier, but meant the following week was tougher.  We so much rain in May it was crazy.  The last day of school is always the picnic, and every year we hope it will rain so we can cancel it.  After the rain had played havoc with our schedule the entire month, I was soooo annoyed that although rain had been in the forecast for days, the last day of school was dry, so the picnic was on.  Our boss fell and broke her hand right as the picnic started, which meant responsibilities fell more to me.  That was kind of how May went at school this year...not quite according to plan and just a bit of added work.

In the meantime, our pastor at church is retiring.  He has been pastor of our church for 25 years.  The man has been an incredible blessing in our lives, and I have no doubt that I would not be the faith-filled person I am without this pastor.  He baptized me eleven years ago, and I'm just so grateful that I've been able to not only attend, but work for, a church that, well, I can't even describe it.  He'll be missed, and the work is going to increase not only for myself but also for Andrew who is now our council President.  There are a lot of conversations and decisions that need to be made regarding the future of our church.

But the nice thing is...it is the end of May and school is out!  I know there is still going to be plenty of things to do, and there will be church craziness, but we have a lot of fun planned, and for the next eleven weeks, there are no students at school.  The time to relax is upon us!

I love Memorial Day weekend

Memorial Day weekend has always been one of my favorites.  It is the unofficial kick off of the summer, and many years (at least since moving here) we are done with school.  I loved the years we did the cemetery trip with my mom's family, and when Dad had his cottage we tried to spend a day there as well.  As a child, Dad would often take us to my grandparent's place in Michigan.  There were lots of friends gatherings over the years as well, and of course it is often a weekend filled with graduation festivities.  And of course, we get an extra day to the weekend, too!  This was so incredibly needed as the month of May was beyond crazy at work. 

This weekend had some grad parties with very dear friends, it had quiet time with just Andrew and myself, I tried to shop (unsuccessfully), and we had a lovely day with the kiddos.  There has been a tremendous amount of stress and drama involving the kids, and it was so much fun to hang out today for a meal and then a family game of croquet.  I laughed, and I especially loved hearing my daughter-in-law laugh out loud.  In two weeks we will be on vacation with all of us, and I think it is going to be an incredibly special week where we make lots of memories.

We have a lot of fun plans for this summer, and I plan to soak it all up! 

The wedding part III

The day of the wedding arrived and it was cold and wet, with lots of things to do.  Our dear, dear friend had a serious medical issue the week before the wedding and that added an extra layer of stress and emotion to the week.  She is doing okay and I was able to visit her in the hospital, but it definitely added to the craziness of the week.

We were exhausted heading into the weekend as it is a crazy time at work, and having to do all the setting up and arranging.  With it being at our school I pretty much had to handle most things, and that is why I hired one of my co-workers to be helpful.  Catherine was bridesmaid and was getting ready with the girls, and of course Thomas had all his buddies with him.  I was grateful that Andrew and I were actually able to get ready in a different building.  It gave us a few minutes of quiet, and I was so grateful that Emily co-worker) was there to handle things.  Andrew and I shared a few moments together, then we walked over to the wedding area.  Andrew and I took seats in the front row.  Our mothers were behind us, and we were joined by my sister and few good friends behind them.  Thomas's groomsmen consisted of his cousin Ryan, two friends I didn't know, Thomas's childhood friend Joseph, and our good friend Nick who is Thomas's godfather and was in our wedding all those years ago!

As we sat there waiting for the wedding to begin, I couldn't help but reflect on the craziness of the last couple of months.  In many ways, I was grateful that it all happened so quickly.  I'm a fairly sentimental person, and I know that I would have spent too much time being emotional about my "baby" getting married.  While I worry that Thomas and Lyndi are so young, I'm happy that they have each other.  I'm happy that overall they were reasonable about what kind of wedding they could afford.  And my happiness is generally what I felt, right up until Joseph, his childhood friend, walked down the aisle and Thomas and Joseph fistbumped each other.  These two have been friends since they were in Sunday School together at age four.  They were so close during the early elementary years...and then we moved.  And they stayed close...and here they were sharing this incredibly special moment.  That one little moment did me in, and the tears began to flow.  I got it together though, and enjoyed a lovely, albeit incredibly short ceremony.  We had dinner for about 40 of us at a local pizza restaurant where we could reserve a room.  I was happy to spend the dinner with Andrew's mom, our friends, and cousin Ryan.  My mom and sister didn't want to stay, and that made me a little sad, but it is what it is.

Ryan had an early flight so Andrew left at 5:45 for a trip to the airport.  Thomas and Lyndi came over around 11, and we had things to tear down and clean up at school and return to church.  It was nearly 4:00 before we were ready to just sit that day.  Andrew took the next day off work so he could meet his mom's neighbor for his mom's return trip.  I'm so grateful for the people who were there, and for those who helped out and have supported the kids.  I wish my family could be a little more on board, but I try really hard to put that behind me.  I'm also grateful that Lyndi takes such good care of Thomas, and they really, truly love each other.  I'm glad we get along with her, and I'm grateful she enjoys being a part of our family.  This is definitely ushering in a new era!

The wedding, Part II

In retrospect, I might have been better off suggesting a different date for the wedding, as this past week was the busiest week of the school year due to our school musical.  A weekend wedding followed by the longest week of the year leads to exhaustion.

Anyway, I've realized I need to come up with a blog name for my DIL.  I am going to call her Lyndi.  Thomas and Lyndi really are wonderful together, but they are so, so young.  Andrew and I have done our best to be there for them, and love them, and also stay out of their way.  It's all a fine line.

Back to the wedding!  We had decided my MIL would come for Easter and stay for the wedding.  I knew I would need her help in the week leading up to the ceremony.  Thomas couldn't take any time off work, and neither could I.  My MIL was helpful with getting Lyndi's dress pressed and helping to prepare meals, things I just couldn't do.  Because the wedding was at our school and there was a Friday evening event, we couldn't set up until Saturday and that meant no rehearsal.  We did borrow chairs from our church, so we were able to get those moved (although not placed until Saturday) on Friday.  Thomas had a cousin fly in from Vermont who was a groomsman and we were beginning to run out of room for people to sleep in our house so I was able to rent an Airbnb from a family at school for the weekend.  Lyndi did not want she and Thomas to see each other the day of the event, so that required a decent amount of logistical planning.  I hired a young co-worker from school to come and help with set-up and organizing.  Oh, and did I mention the weather?  Ten days before the event it looked absolutely gorgeous.  A bit chilly, but workable.  Then as it got closer, the rain chances increased, but still only in the morning.  Still workable.  And then as it got even closer, rain chances continued to increase and creep later into the day.  And finally, the day was basically just a complete washout.  And still a chilly one at that.

I'm so grateful for the amazing friends that the kids have.  They were so helpful in getting things ready.  I don't mean for this to sound like a complaint, but it is...Lyndi's family was not involved in any way at all.  They were very clear from the start that there would be no financial contribution, and I respected that completely.  But to not even be able to help set up chairs, or cut the veggies for the appetizers...well, that got to me a bit.  But finally the day arrived, and it was time.

About the wedding, Part I

I suppose yesterday's post may have been a bit of a surprise.  To be honest, I just wasn't ever entirely certain this wedding was ever going to happen.  The "engagement" happened nearly three years ago, and it was a really rough experience.  Thomas didn't want to be honest with us about it.  I get it, he was 18 and she was 17 with a year of high school to go.  But lying about it isn't helping anything.   Anyway, it was last summer when they really began to get serious about things, and she bought a dress, and they bought decorations, but no date was set.  Part of the problem was they really wanted an outdoor wedding, but I can't be out in the sun and heat, and obviously some months are too cold.  There was also the issue that there wasn't much money for a celebration, but there are a lot of people who wanted to be included.  Finally, early this spring, it was decided to do a small ceremony and a bigger party this coming fall.   There still wasn't much money, but my school offered to allow us to use the grounds and there is a pavilion on site, and buildings in which to get ready.  Dinner was to be at a room in a local pizza restaurant.  All of a sudden there were five bridesmaids and lots of guests, at least from the bride side.  Our side's guest list included 14 people (and that includes the groom).  My boss began to begin concerned with parking as our school is very small.  But plans were made and things were falling into place...

My son is married

Thomas got married yesterday.  They've been engaged for awhile, but never set a date.  Then last summer, they wanted to get married in a matter of weeks.  We talked them into waiting until next Fall, but it became apparent they weren't going to be able to save to have the wedding they really wanted, and we could only help so much.  As we talked to them a few months ago, they decided to do a smaller ceremony sooner, and then a larger party in the fall.  My boss offered our school as a location for the desired outdoor ceremony and with a pavilion, it all fell into place for yesterday.

I'm exhausted, but I'l write more soon (as I can).  This is also why I haven't written much recently, and as we are headed into the busiest week of my school year I'm not sure how soon I'll be back, but I wanted to share the lovely news in our family!

It was the best Easter

We had a very lovely Easter weekend in our family.  All the kids were here for church yesterday, and it was a lovely weather day.  My favorite part though, was Saturday evening.  Thomas and his girlfriend came and stayed over Saturday evening.  We had potato pizza, which is always a hit, and then we sat around and played a game.  We all laughed so hard!  We are taking the entire crew on vacation with us this year, and the fun we had Saturday made me look forward to it even more.

After church we just hung out as our family meal will actually be this weekend.  I don't think anything could top how much fun we had this weekend, though!

It's real

I know I haven't written for a bit.  It's been really crazy in our world, but that is a different post.  Today, on the day before Easter, this is a post about church.  And it's going to be long

Catherine is currently dating a man who was raised an atheist, and still considers himself that to this day.  I don't think less of him, but I do feel a bit sad for him, as my faith has been one of the greatest comforts of my life.  It also makes me a bit sad that my grandchildren (someday, no hidden info there!) may be raised without faith, but I can continue to pray on both counts.  It's not for me to judge.  I raised my children to love and be accepting of all.  Her boyfriend is really a fabulous young man, and she could do (and has done) so much worse.

Tomorrow morning, my wonderful husband will get up really early so that he can take his mother to Mass.  The kids are all staying over here and joining us for church at our regular service.  This is the "hard" part of faith.  My mother will not go to church with us.  Our church doesn't "count" in her church.  I won't lie, it can be difficult not to take that personally.  And when we go to church with her, and we always do when at her place and often on holidays here so we aren't attending twice, we aren't allowed to fully participate.  And even partially participating can be challenging as their are no bulletins or "programs" provided.  So you either know it or you are just sitting there.

I know I sound a little bitter about this.  And that is because I am.  I tried to attend church regularly with my husband, but on more than one occasion I would leave in tears.  I understand there is church trauma out there, and I completely understand how it can hurt.  I am so, so grateful that we have found a church that makes both of us feel so incredibly welcomed and served, and we serve as well.

As we begin the season of Easter, I pray for church peace in the hearts of all.  I pray that all feel the peace and comfort that my faith brings me.  I pray that we love all, whether they are of the faith or not.  I pray for healing faith of all kinds.  I pray that the optimism and joy that we feel tomorrow lasts through the entire year.  Happy Easter.

Photo memories

The thing I've been working on most during the break has been labeling and organizing photos.  Some of them went all the way back to 2017, most were from the 2020's, especially in the last two years.  Honestly, it was a bit of an emotional experience.  Eight years ago, Thomas was in middle school.  It broke my heart a bit to see him that young.  I worked on the pictures from the last Thanksgiving G.G. was alive.  It caught my heart to see the family gatherings that we don't get to have anymore.  There were pictures of Rosie that we lost in August, 2022, and more heart-wrenching were the photos of Lincoln, and especially of Abby, both of whom passed in October.  In spite of a few teary eyes, I am so, so, so grateful for those memories!

Back to work in 12 hours

My break is over, and to be honest, I don't mind at all.  I've got lots to do this week, and I'm looking forward to getting a paycheck.  It is ending with a bang as there are severe storms coming through this evening.  Today though, was a nice way to end the day.  We had a birthday lunch for our dear friend Larry who has had some serious health issues in the last two years.  The kids joined us as well.  It was a nice way to end the break.  Yesterday, we just hung out and watched a baseball and a movie.  Andrew is on break this coming week.  While it's a bit of a shame that we didn't have the same break, I don't really mind all of the alone and quiet time I had this past week.  I'm so grateful for the week!

It's been a very nice break

This spring break has been absolutely fabulous.  It's been a terrific mix of fun, productive, and relaxing.  We have 7-1/2 weeks of school remaining, and it feels really easy after this week.  I'll probably feel differently by about 10am Monday, but I'll take it however long it lasts!

I never really got into the basketball games last week.  There were only a couple of good first round upsets, and those teams didn't make it to the second weekend.  We had dinner plans with dear friends with Saturday and I did really enjoy that.

Monday was a day that I allowed myself to just hang out and do whatever I wanted.  The "thing I wanted" this week has been organizing photos, and I've gotten soooo much done.  I'm so pleased!  Tuesday, I worked, both at school and at church, and Wednesday I had lunch plans and then made a trip to visit my grandmother.  Yesterday, Andrew had a doctor appointment, so he was home, and we ran an errand and ate lunch out, then we settled in to watch Opening Day.  Not how we wanted it to go, but there are 161 games remaining.  Today I am home along again, although I didn't sleep last night.  I don't mean I didn't sleep well, I mean I literally couldn't sleep, so I've been awake now for the 25 hours.  I don't love that this is how break is ending, but I am super grateful I don't have to work today!  I've really appreciated the alone time from this week, but I've also really appreciated some time spent with family and friends.  It's been a fabulous break!

We made it to spring break

I have all of next week off.  Woohoo! It's disappointing that Andrew and I don't have the same break, but it also gives me lots of "me" time, and that is nice as well.  I really, truly love my job, but there are days when it is a lot to manage, and managing people can be hard.

We are enjoying the basketball games, although I'm not nearly as into it this year.  The weather is overcast and dreary, but I have the whole week off!!!

The first official day of Spring

It snowed today.  Gotta love the first official day of spring!  It was really just very, very light flurries as we were doing dismissal, but it was cold and icky today.

When I leave work tomorrow, I will officially be on spring break.  I'm not quite as excited about it this year as Andrew will still have to work.  And because Catherine works in the public schools also, she will also have school as well.  I'm looking forward to quiet time though.  And I'm definitely looking forward to sleeping in.  Maybe do a puzzle?  Work on photos?  Honestly, it doesn't feel as though there will be enough time to do all the things I'd like to do.  And Andrew has a doctor appointment one day so that means I won't have the day alone that day.  Andrew and Catherine have the week after me as their break.

Last weekend we had a really nice family dinner.  My mom came down, and the kids were here.  It was fun to have six of us around the table.  I find hosting to be stressful, but I greatly appreciate that Andrew is willing to make nice meals for all of us.

Andrew has really been looking for a new dog.  I keep telling him not until June!  We will be going on vacation in early June, and although Abby was a wonderful traveling companion, we have no idea the temperament of our next pup.  And to be honest, I'm not ready for another pup.  I'm not looking for something else I need to take care of.  I still miss Abby terribly, and when Andrew pulls up a video, it brings tears to my eyes.  In fact, just sitting here typing this has brought tears to my eyes.

This is the weekend of basketball madness that I love so much.  I'm not really into it this year though.  I'm not entirely sure why.  Maybe because Dayton didn't have a great year.  Maybe because there is just so much else happening that this seems unimportant.  Maybe it is because Andrew isn't home.  I have it on, but it just isn't as exciting.  

I am grateful for the extra sunshine this time of year!

Five years ago today the schools were closed

Five years ago today was a day I will remember forever.  I was subbing in a math room where the students were almost exclusively seniors.  My own daughter was among them.  We had lots of conversations about the coronavirus, and we suspected the governor was going to announce that schools would be closed.  I remember reassuring those students that of course there would be a graduation as it was still two months away.  I could not have been more wrong.

I remember sitting at home that evening just feeling a little lost...I suddenly was without a job, and of course it just felt so surreal.  While schools were given a couple of days to work things out, we had to close immediately due to a suspected case.  And it was the beginning of so many changes in life.  While it was so hard, I also remember how much fun we had together as a family.  We played games and hung out and were just always together.  While I remember the fear, I never forget to be grateful for the time we had together.

I doesn't feel at all like it has been five year.  FIVE YEARS??  My goodness.  In some ways it feels like just a year or two ago, and of course in another way it feels like a different life.  And in some ways it was.

So grateful for this quiet Monday

Today was a teacher work day at school.  I asked for the day off, and although I did a bit of work from home earlier, I'm so grateful for today.  For one thing, we lost that hour yesterday, so that always makes today feel harder.

I cried at church yesterday.  One of the hymns was the very first hymn from my friend's funeral just over a month ago.  It was too soon, and although I tried really hard, I cried.  I'll be honest, I haven't gotten over the loss of him, and I don't think I will anytime soon.  I can only imagine how his family and close friends are feeling.

I also have to mention that there was another saga involving Thomas's car last week.  This poor kid, he was really taken when he purchased this car.  And Andrew was there too.  There were no red flags at the time of purchase, but we sure have learned to ask better questions.  We are helping him as we can.  That's what parents are for.

Today is such a beautiful day.  The sky is bright blue, and the temps are in the 60's.  Absolutely wonderful.  I have enjoyed having our sweet cat, Maudie, curled up with me.  I've been sitting in our back room which looks out into the woods, and the squirrels have really been active.  I am so, so grateful for such a peaceful day.

Anniversary re-do day

 On our anniversary three weeks ago, Andrew was the sickest he has been in years.  We had planned for an entire day together, and that was not to be.  I wasn't angry of course, it wasn't his fault.  But we decided the next available Saturday would be our re-do day, and that happened yesterday.

It was a bit different than our original plan, but probably was even better!  Our school is currently hosting an online fundraising auction, and I needed to head to Cincinnati to pick up some donated tickets.  We had actually purchased the tickets for the American Sign Museum that were donated last year, so we decided to spend some time checking it out and grab this year's donation.  It is such a fun place!  I mentioned to Andrew that my dad would have absolutely LOVED that place.  He loved old signs.   It was a great start to my day, and we plan to return again with the kids or with Andrew's mom.

We then headed to a mall area as I was hoping to do a bit of shopping.  We had a wonderful lunch/dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, found a store that sold Cincinnati bourbon, and did a bit of other shopping.  We brought cheesecake home and hung out, watching some of our favorite shows.

Overall, it was a really great day and I'm so grateful to get to spend days like that, and all days, with my amazing husband!

This date

This date has some sad memories for me.  It was four years ago today that we lost our good friend, Tim.  It was so unexpected, and I'll never forget that day.  Five years ago today was a really rough day for our family.  I won't go into details for the privacy of my children, but it was a really, really hard day.  It was on this date 38 years ago today that my grandfather passed away.  Even though we knew that was coming, it too is a day I'll never forget.  Another memory is from 33 years ago today.  It was my senior year of high school, and our boys' basketball team was playing in the first round tournament game.  They'd won an incredible game two days earlier that went into double overtime that secured the league title.  It seemed as though the emotions and stress of that game caught up with them and they couldn't pull out the expected first round victory.  Thirty-three years later, I can still remember seeing my friend Ryan sitting on the bench as time expired.  I had never missed a home basketball game in which he played, and it all came to an end that evening.  That is not a memory I think of often, but it happened on a Sunday, and with Ryan gone, it feels a little sadder this year.

On the upside, today was a very nice day.  We ran some errands, and we had an impromptu dinner wtih friends.  Ready for another week!

Given the gift of time

Today was a fairly unexpected snow day.  We knew snow was coming overnight, but we were only expected to receive about an inch, maybe a little over.  I woke up at 4am, and I got up and looked out the window.  We had definitely received the snow, and I was pleased the road hadn't been plowed, but it had stopped snowing, which I thought was a bad sign.  I was fairly certain we'd have a delay, but it didn't seem to be enough to get us the day off.  At 5am we received a call that the public schools were on a delay, and about 30 minutes later a text came for my school.  At 7am we received a call that the public schools were closed.  I know our townships have been having some troubles keeping the roads cleared lately, but was still a bit surprised.  I was certain there was no way we would close.  However, about an hour later my boss texted our admin team, and she said she'd like to go ahead and call a snow day, but didn't want to appear "silly".  I loved the perspective of our assistant who said that the only real info we had was from the public schools, and if they said the roads aren't safe, we didn't know any differently.  It was so great to have an expected day off!  I had to go into church for a meeting this afternoon and Andrew still had to go to school this afternoon for evening parent/teacher conferences, but we enjoyed our day of nothing.  And with Catherine working at the school, she was home with us as well.  Thomas even had the day off for a dental appointment and stopped by to say hello!  It was a much needed day!

A very quiet long weekend

A four-day weekend is always delightful.  I loved the fact that I arrived home just a bit after 4:00 on Thursday, and I didn't leave my house again until I left for work this morning.  Originally, the plan was a trip to visit my MIL, but I just didn't feel well enough.  It's not that I felt awful, but I couldn't get through the night without coughing or just being loud with congestion.  It was really nice to be able to sleep how I needed through the night, and it was really nice to be able to sleep as much as I wanted, and it was really nice to not have to worry about doing much...I literally just rested.  It was exactly what I needed, having so much time to just sit.  Andrew came back Sunday morning (while we were getting a couple inches of snow), and it was really nice to have Sunday evening to ourselves.

I love my job, so I'm not sad when the four-day weekends are over, but I sure do appreciate them when they come around!

This moment in time is lovely

 

This was the view yesterday outside my family room in the back of our house.  We have a beautiful, large window that allows us this view.  Today is even lovelier, as the sun is shining with a bright blue sky.  A deer just came really close to the house and then ran into the woods.  It was absolutely beautiful.  It IS beautiful.  I allowed myself to feel joy that I had been present in that very moment.

I write this, because not all moments are lovely.  My job has some really hard moments, and because I am on the front line with humans, it can be challenging.  And I can't even pay attention to what is happening in our country right now.  It is just entirely too much.  I find the future terrifying at the moment.

Andrew and I have begun to discuss his retirement.  He only has to teach another five years, although he says he will go longer.  Health care is our biggest concern.  We've talked about where we'll retire, although we are at least a decade from having that conversation, I suspect.

I've been sick lately, and been spending a lot of time just sitting.  It has allowed me the opportunity to notice how wonderful and beautiful nature can be around us.  For right now, I'm recognizing how lovely this moment in time is.

It's hard when the birthday comes so soon

Today would have been my friend Ryan's 51st birthday.  When I have lost loved ones, I've always found the birthdays to be the hardest.  While holidays and celebrations can be hard, I found the birthdays to be the hardest because it is only about that person.  My thoughts are with his family today, and especially with his parents, who undoubtedly have vivid memories of this very day 51 years ago.

Work has been hard lately with a lot of "managing" that has needed to happen.  I get that there is just a lot going on everywhere, but my goodness.  I'm so very grateful that we have arrived at a long weekend.  Andrew has to work tomorrow, but I do not!  I've had a bad cold this week so that has made things even more exhausting.  We are supposed to go visit my MIL this weekend, but we'll see how I'm feeling tomorrow.  Andrew will go regardless, and he should.

I'm grateful for each and every day, even the hard ones!

This was not the anniversary we had planned

This was not the anniversary we had planned, but it could certainly be much, much worse.  Andrew and I had planned a day of just hanging out.  It was a weekend that literally had nothing on our calendar, and other than Andrew needing to attend a funeral visitation for a colleague's wife this morning, we had the weekend entirely to ourselves.  So, I won't lie and say I wasn't disappointed when Andrew texted me at the end of his work day and told me he was really sick.  He had stomach issues and spike a fever.  I'm incredibly disappointed as it will be weeks at best before we can make this happen again, and today is our actual anniversary on a Saturday.  It could be so much worse though.

I realized that I neglected to write last weekend about my mom getting hit by a car.  It was really just a bump but knocked her down.  I took her to urgent care last Saturday, and everything appeared to be okay.  She has mobility issues as it is, so this certainly didn't help.

It's been a rough week at work, in the world, in our family, and for friends.  I am praying, and praying hard, for peace and healing in our lives.

I'm angry

Today, my sister and I drove three hours to attend the funeral of my friend, Ryan.  There were a lot of people I knew, and I'm so glad I went.  I don't think I would have ever felt it was real if I hadn't gone.  When his mom saw me, she said to me, "He wasn't supposed to do this to us, was he?"  I said he sure wasn't.  I was able to see and hug his brother and sister-in-law, and even his sister-in-law's parents.  So many hugs and memories.

As I sat there in this church hours away from my home, I just kept thinking that I couldn't believe I was sitting there at Ryan's funeral.  I couldn't believe I had finally made the trip down there, and it was for his funeral.  And then I was angry.  Ryan took his own life, and hundreds of people were sitting in a church paying respects to him, and we were hurting.  The lives of his wife, children, parents, and brother are never going to be the same.  I know he was hurting and I can't imagine what he was going through, but I can't help be angry.  And I'm angry at myself.  I'm so angry that I'll never get the chance to spend more time with him.  It's so awful.

I will always treasure the memories of our childhood and teenage friendship.  I will always be grateful that Ryan was a part of my life, and I'll be praying for him and his family.

This last day of January sure held a lot of emotion

Today is the last day of January, and it always the day we celebrate becoming a family.  I will forever be grateful to have been a mother to my three kiddos.  For the first time, I'm not sure we will actually have an opportunity to celebrate it as a family, but that is probably okay.  My kids are adults, and looking to the future and starting their own families.  I miss having little ones, but I'm so grateful for the adults they are becoming.

I also learned this morning that a school mate had passed away after taking his own life.  Ryan and I met in second grade, and we were Mutt and Jeff according to many.  I'm just under 5', and he is over 6'.  We could fight like cats and dogs, but we were friends.  I hadn't seen him in over 20 years, but saw him again last February when we attended the funeral for another classmate.  His daughter went to college here in town, and I kept meaning to reach out to his parents (who I've seen many times over the years, sadly, mostly at the funeral home) to get his number so we could visit sometime when his family was in town.  I never did though, and now I can't.  I'm angry at him for taking this route, and I'm angry at myself that I didn't make more of an effort.  And I'm so heartbroken for the family and loved ones he left behind.

I'm very grateful today is Friday.  Sleep isn't coming easily tonight, and I'm glad I can sleep in tomorrow.

The "grands" came to visit

Thomas's girlfriend has three young nieces.  They are sweet girls, and we've enjoyed the few times we've seen them.  Earlier this week, Thomas asked if he and his girlfriend could come visit us this evening.  Of course we said yes!  Then he let us know that they would have the three girls.  Of course we are still happy to have all of them!  I told them Andrew had to work until late afternoon, and he said they'd come by as soon as they picked up the girls.  And then yesterday, he texted to let me know that they'd be here right after lunch.  This meant they'd be here for hours, and most of the time Andrew wouldn't be here.  Not exactly how I expected to spend my Saturday afternoon, but okay!

We had a few toys that we've kept over the years that are easy to pull out for young kids, and we did exactly that.  We also got out some books.  I had apples that could be cut up for snacks, and I love string cheese so there was plenty of that!  All-in-all, they were here for over three hours.  I think they wanted to stay for dinner, but the girls were starting to get a little fussy.  I couldn't blame them.  We decided to give the kids money for dinner and they were on their way.  I'll be honest, I was absolute exhausted.  As much as I enjoyed spending the day with them, I wasn't overly sad that they weren't involved in dinner.  Andrew and I decided to have a dinner out before the students return (tomorrow).  We hit the local Mexican restaurant, and kind of laughed at the irony that we were seated next to a large group which included some very loud children.

I look forward to they day when Andrew and I will actually have our own grandchildren, but I'm not in a rush.  My own kids need to grow up a little bit themselves. 😊

Cold doesn't really begin to describe it

On Sunday, the temps really began to plummet.  This morning when we did carline, it felt like -3.  By this afternoon at dismissal, it felt like -8.  It was brutal.  I couldn't get over the difference even in just a few degrees.  Tomorrow morning it is supposed to feel like -12, and I'm very grateful that we are on a two-hour delay.  By the time school begins at 11, it will be "better" at -8 (feel) again.  COLD.  The public schools were on a delay today and again tomorrow as well.  Even sitting in our house, it just feels cold.

I was especially jealous of the public schools this morning as last night was the OSU/ND National Title game.  I really thought I would be fine with whomever won, but that isn't really how I felt.  I was rooting, unapologetically, for Notre Dame.  I would root for Ohio State against literally ANY other opponent.  As it turned out, OSU won, and I just didn't feel like I could really enjoy it or be happy about it.

I was grateful for our extra day off this weekend.  I was able to get so much accomplished around the house.  I was able to really get some things organized and cleaned up.  It was very pleasant to come home today and enjoy my uncluttered house.

I'm tired and looking forward to extra sleep tonight!

It was a long week, but at least we also have a long weekend

This week has been something.  We had a classroom hit with a respiratory virus, and out of 20 people exposed, 17 showed some kind of symptoms.  This particular virus tends to hit adults harder than kids, and all three teachers were really sick.  Tuesday turned into a bit of a triage day as we sent six students home during the day, and we ended up having to close the classroom for both Wednesday and Thursday.  Because of the numbers, we contacted the county, and with an official "outbreak" we have to take rather severe mitigation measures throughout the school.  It was a bit exhausting.  Between the illnesses and the weather, I kind of feel like we have really hit the ground running in 2025.

Andrew is working at basketball this evening, so I'm enjoying the quiet and coziness in what seems to be the only room that is actually picked up in the house.  Our family room is a very small room, but both Andrew and I agree it is our favorite room in our house.  Everything about our house is small, and we are okay with that.  I had to work at our church Monday evening, and then I had church meetings Tuesday and Wednesday evening.  Tomorrow, I am meeting my mother and sister at my Grandmother's assisted living to finally celebrate Grandma's birthday, and Sunday I am the speaker at church for our Stewardship campaign.  I am so grateful that we get an extra day off on Monday.  I'm also very grateful that I really like my job!

The end of an early January weekend

Our weekend had some extra hours!  Thursday morning we found out that the public school was going to be closed on Friday due to incoming weather.  I knew there was no chance we would shut down for the entire day because the weather wasn't coming until the afternoon.  Our school doesn't have to worry about buses or things like that.  I was very pleased that we ended up doing an Noon dismissal.  Catherine decided to spend the weekend at her apartment so Andrew and I had a lovely Friday evening.  We received another 4" of snow on top of what was already here.

Another highlight of our Friday evening was the Ohio State victory over Texas.  The dagger was scoop and score by a defensive lineman.  It was a heck of a game!  I didn't think anything could top the Notre Dame victory from the night before, but I was wrong.  Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be watching an OSU/ND title game!  It's crazy!  It's exciting, and in some ways I can't lose, but I can't imagine rooting against either team.  What I'm really rooting for is some snow to fall overnight the night of the game so we can sleep in the next morning!

Yesterday, I shoveled our walk (again) and tried to get work done at church, but not all info had arrived yet.  I ran an errand, then came home and was delighted that I had no where else to be for the rest of the day!  I was able to get the trees completely undecorated and started to get things organized.  Our evening of watching the Steelers game did not go the way we wanted, but we had a really nice evening with a fire in the fireplace.

This morning we had church and then came home.  It was a fabulous afternoon to really get things put away and cleaned up.  We've watched football, although we don't really care about the games.  I know that I'm going to have a long week, but I appreciate that I've had a productive and yet relaxing weekend. 

The weather and car shopping

The winter storm that came through last weekend was definitely not overestimated!  We received about 9" of snow from Sunday morning through Monday afternoon.  There seemed to be some bursts where some areas received more than others, and we were one of those areas.  We spent hours shoveling ourselves out Monday afternoon.  None of us had to work those two days, although I was required (and did) work from home on Monday.

Tuesday things were clear enough that although there was no school, we were able to head to Thomas and go to an appointment with him.  His work had asked him if he could go into work after his appointment, and he agreed, but first it meant we had to dig his car out.  The neighborhood where he lives had not been touched by a plow or salt truck and it was another area that had received 9" of snow.  On our way home, Andrew and I decided it was our best chance to car shop, but first I need to explain how we got to that point.

Back in early September, my car wouldn't start one morning.  I was able to have Catherine take me to work as it was during the time she was working with me.  I realized something was amiss, at least a bit when it became evident that the interior lights were on, even though they weren't in the "on" position.  Things seemed to be fine though, until a couple of weeks later when the the car wouldn't start again.  This time Catherine wasn't here, and I went to my neighbors and begged for a ride to work (their youngest attends our school but goes in early for extended care).  That was the beginning of it starting to happen more frequently.  It got to the point that I couldn't even trickle charge it and it had to be jumped, and when we would jump it the vehicle would start honking and it was clearly quite a problem.  We finally got it jumped and started and drove it directly to the mechanic.  At first, they had trouble replicating the problem.  Once they were able to do so, they couldn't figure out what the problem was.  All-in-all, they ended up having my vehicle for seven weeks, and because the repair was electrical, it cost thousands of dollars.  Because we hoped to get another two years (at least) out of the vehicle, we agreed it was worth it.  I was thrilled to finally get my vehicle back the week before Thanksgiving.  Fortunately, with both Andrew and I working in town, and with Catherine around during the week, we were able to make things work each day.

You can imagine my irritation when, on the Sunday before Christmas, the vehicle wouldn't start as we were headed to church.  The situation was very similar to the way it went before, and we knew it was time to trade in the vehicle.  I had done some research, and we got a very fair deal.  I was able to get a 2022 black CR-V with low mileage.  Hopefully I will have this car for many, many years.  It's all been some chaos and a bit of stress, but I feel like things have worked out!

My grandmother turns 94 today

Today my grandmother turned 94.  I called her this evening and she sounded very chipper.  She said she'd had a cupcake, my sister has visited, and everyone made sure she knew it was her birthday.  Last spring we really didn't think she would still be here with us.  She made an incredible recovery and is doing well.  This weekend we are going to take a meal into her.  I'm grateful for the opportunity to celebrate her!

Andrew and I were both home today because of the weather, but we weren't actually home.  I'll write another post about the weather and our day soon!

Putting away Christmas

I have started to put away the Christmas decorations.  It is breaking my heart a little bit this year.  It always fees a bit sad anyway, but this year I've actually had to fight some tears.  Andrew is working today so it's just me, and I'm grateful for the quiet opportunity.

The first thing I did was take down Thomas's ornaments so they would be separated.  Thomas took a few of them with him, but the majority were still on our tree this year.  This is the very last year that my baby's ornaments, and all of those memories, are going to hang on my tree.  The last year of his "new driver", or football, or tennis ornament.  The last year of the special ornaments from family and friends over the years.  This is what we want in life, of course, for our children to grown up and be independent.  But I can't deny I'll miss unwrapping and hanging those memories each year.

I've also been a bit emotional as I've put away the pictures we have out each year.  I miss the little people in those photos so much.  Again, I'm grateful they have grown into who they are, but I miss those little people.  And as hard as the last year was, I miss the simple little problems they had back in those days.

We also have a lot of Christmas things that are beagle related, and we miss our sweet Abby so much.  There were tears on Christmas morning as we still had Abby related memories as gifts, and it's hard to think about her without crying, even now.

I was sick for a week right after Christmas, and between that and they kids having their own lives, it all just felt different and not very "Christmas-y".  There were no lights that we went to see, no fun TV episodes or movies, no family games.  While I have strived so hard to accept this is the way things are now, it still felt, well, less than.  I'm working on that, and I'm hoping it had as much to do with being sick as anything else.

Tomorrow is the last official day of break, but there is a massive winter storm heading our way.  Neither Andrew nor I are supposed to have students on Monday anyway, but our boss has let us know we'll probably do a Zoom meeting and then work from home.  I don't have that much I can do at this point, but I'm sure I can find some things.  While Catherine won't have to work, Thomas still will, so snow days are tougher than they used to be for my heart.

To be honest, I'm looking forward to having a less cluttered home, and I'm hoping that will lead to a less cluttered mind.  And I'm working on remembering my blessings and being grateful for each day.