Happy New Year!

Vonn stopped by to visit!

Vonn stopped today, and he, Paul and the girls went out for lunch. I didn't join them, as I was home cooking the fatted calf for tomorrow's party:) He was all excited about a new gun he received for Christmas. It's some kind of military issue pistol (?) I absolutely know NOTHING about guns, but he says he'll bring it hunting. He didn't bring his dog Vala, because she's in Mayville with his folks. His Mom just lost her dog 'Ellie' of 14 years, so was feeling badly. Anyway, we had a great visit! Always love to see him.

looking back

Christmas is a great time to look back. This is a nice photo of Jeff at 5, Jeannine at 6, me at 6 months and Jill (our Kokomo) at 4 years. (My gosh, does Krissy look just like her Mom, both as a baby and now.) My Dad commented that my mouth was always open, and I was born talking:) Funny how true...love you Dad and Grandpa Gilbert...gone from us now for 11 years come February. A special "hi" to friend Mary Jo, who called from Atlanta to visit via phone. She spent her Christmas in Memphis with a friend. Also, congrats to James' sister Keri and husband Tim who found out they're expecting in August. How neat! We love little people. James and Elise can spoil them, as is their right as Uncle and Auntie.

Rick popped in...

Rick just popped in. He and Eva are going to the 'cafe' for tea and muffins.

home again

No new pictures to add today because we forgot the camera:( The trip home took just 11 hours to cover 620 miles. The roads were dry, and even near Chicago and Milwaukee travel was easy. The rental van was very comfortable...full-sized with leather seats and power everything. That made a great deal of difference in a trip as long as it was. Kristen and I hope to fly down in March, as we (Elise, Krissy and I) all celebrate birthdays. Let's see. Elise is 24, Krissy 23 and I'm 40 something. I have several years yet to catch up to Paul. I plan to give Elise and James tickets to the BB King concert at the Ryman Theatre the last week of March for a gift. They have so many nice gifts, maybe this will be something different that they can enjoy. The Ticketmaster 'gift card' will be able to be used however they wish, so if they want to attend another concert they can.

nice weather for trip

We've been so blessed with beautiful weather for the trip to Nashville. We stopped on Christmas day (late evening) in Lafayette. We even managed to see the Purdue Christmas concert. We were very impressed. I always thought of Purdue as having mostly engineering students. Though they might be, they are excellent musicians as well. We really enjoyed it...couldn't help think of Elise bopping around the stage in the Marian Sabre shows...the concert was very much like that, with a lot of audience appeal. Today has been fun with the family acting as tourists. We had a nice lunch downtown, in an open-air bar and grill, and spent the afternoon in the Parthenon, a replica of the real thing in Athens, complete with an art exhibit. The art was very different, very "Eva-esque" if you will. 3-D shadow boxes with a mixture of materials. Very nice. James was busy today making a flour-less chocolate torte, but joined us for the afternoon. Paul was commenting on how much nicer downtown Nashville is now compared to 25 years ago...cleaner, safer, etc. A big "hello" goes out to niece Kylie who is enjoying the holidays at home with Kathy, Bob and Erik. What a nice break for her. We hear Houghton has TONS of snow. It's nice because Kylie (and Ellie) really enjoy that, and manage to relax with several winter sports. Love you guys. Hope to see you again soon.

all set for Christmas

Paul and Eva will be doing the late evening service tonight, while Elle's choir will sing tomorrow at 10:15. I'll pick up Minnie and Aliyah and we'll attend tomorrow. Eva's playing a Telemann violin concerto for a prelude piece, and also doing a duet with one of the choir members. Paul also has a 4:15 service today for families with young children, so we'll have a nice dinner after that and before the 10:00 PM concert prior to mass. Dinner is an osso buco (veal and veggie stew) with a cold shrimp dish to start. We've been so fortunate this year to have snow so early. Eva, Elle and I will be getting in a little skating before the festivities begin. Merry Christmas to all!

Aliyah's parrot

Aliyah received an early Christmas gift from her Aunt Chris. His name is Henry. How unique! Merry Christmas to all! May you get a few surprises:)

Is it Henry?

Did you know that macaws are all patterned differently not unlike zebras? This is not Henry. Our macaw does have 3 rows of feathers under the eye, but the upper most is very light, and although Henry has 6 rows above the eye, his first, second and third are separated, with one less tiny feather at the base. Interestingly, each individual bird recognizes another by these markings. Neat. What a wonderful Creator we have.

Shout out to Jane!

A very welcome back "hello" to Jane, a wonderful girl I worked with 10-15 years ago. We counseled AODA at a local group home with dually diagnosed. We had a great friendship then, but Jane left to live and work in Sheboygan. Somehow we lost touch, but recently found each other again! She's just as great as ever:) She had a baby boy when I had Ellie, so we shared a lot of baby stories. Love you, Jane!

Minnie and Aliyah grateful...

Aliyah and Minnie received some beautiful gifts today. Thanks to Jack from church for playing Santa. A young, single businessman from the twin cities (mom a member of our church here) bought them all and even wrapped them. 1 large box contained a complete set of dishes! Minnie was overwhelmed. On top of that, he also sent a gift card. How generous! Afterward, I took Liyah ice skating, and Elle and friend Lisa went to see a movie. I called Linda (Paul's musician friend who did some singing at the reception) to inquire about how to start the process of getting an exchange student. Linda and her husband Tom are sponsoring a boy named Julien, from Belgium, and they are really enjoying him. We're thinking next year when Elle's in high school. We must finish up some Christmas cards yet, and afterward, Elle and I are doing a little baking. Some for here, and some to take along to Nashville.

Special Day

We had a great evening. We 'hosted' several tables of 8, and were told we were responsible for 120 or so. There were many boy scouts there, and they provided several gifts of popcorn and nuts. The scout leader was a great gal and happened to be at a table we were responsible for. She came from a large family, and was raised with camping and fishing. Funny. We talked fly fishing and ice fishing the whole evening. Ellie laughed out loud at some of her jokes. When the guests sat down to eat, we discovered that the actual combined total of guests were 800. It was really neat. Everyone had different centerpieces and gifts. The Children's Choir was there, and Mrs. McClain mentioned that she really missed James. Apparently the group is dwindling in number. They sounded good. The sound system was poor, but it was obvious the kids did a great job. Several middle school teachers also mentioned that they missed James. The caterer was Linstroms, our wedding caterer, and they mentioned to us how happy they were to cater the first wedding at Holy Family. We got a Christmas card from them and also from the Children's Chorale. How nice. I managed to hold several babies while their folks ate, and was "spit-up" on by several babies. One little guy was just 5 months old, and the single mom said she hadn't been out since he was born. He was a great little guy, and we managed a photo of him with Santa. Here is the article from the paper. They failed to mention that turkey was the entree. It smelled insanely good.

The Salvation Army, Fond du Lac Corps, today announced that Tom Herre, City Manager of Fond du Lac, has accepted the honorary position as chair of its first annual Salvation Army Community Christmas Dinner. The dinner event will be held on Friday, December 21 at 6P.M. at the Recreation Building on the Fond du Lac Fairgrounds. The first-time event is open to Salvation Army clients who can register to attend when they sign up for Christmas assistance the week of November 3 - 9.

"This is a celebration of humanity," said Herre, "and I am delighted to be part of the start of what will be a new and great Fond du Lac tradition. It will be a first class dinner, and a first class event," continues Herre. "The Community Christmas Dinner brings together the community in a new way, helping all to feel valued and an important part of the Fond du Lac Community."

"The event will feature a traditional Christmas dinner. We have been overwhelmed with the generosity the people and businesses of Fond du Lac" said Jamie Winkler, Captain of the Fond du Lac Salvation Army. "Girl Scout Troops are baking and donating pies. Linstrom's Catering is providing mashed potatoes, cranberry, rolls and butter. We will be receiving cooking assistance from the culinary arts school at MPTC."

Dinner will be served by individuals, families, service groups, churches, and youth group volunteers who will be "table hosts." Each table will be covered with a linen table cloth and feature eight napkins, compliments of Model Cleaners. "Table Hosts" will provide place settings of eight including a china plate, cup and saucer and flat wear. Table Hosts will also provide a holiday centerpiece for the table and table favors for each place setting. Additionally, hosts will act as the waiter and waitress for the table.

Captain Winkler continued, "We anticipate that fifty percent of the guests attending this dinner will be children, so we have made special arrangements for Santa to drop in and the Fond du Lac Children's Choir to perform. Additional entertainment will be provided by the Cornerstone Worship Center Ensemble, a children's Christmas Reading from the Fond du Lac Community Theatre, and the Fond du Lac High School Cardinal Singers will perform. It's going to be a wonderful evening creating memories to last a lifetime!"

For more information about the First Annual Community Christmas Dinner, call 923-8220, or to register to host a table, go to ringbells.org. It is the mission of The Salvation Army to meet human needs in God's name without discrimination. To find out how you can help accomplish that mission through donations of time, service and money, individuals are encouraged to call The Salvation Army at 923-8220.

script reading with kitty

Elle just got the script for the show. They begin rehearsals on January 3rd. Just making some last minute preps for the meal tonight. I bought 8 M&M favors with cute bows and wrapping paper for the favors. Eva and Paul have to duck out early to head to the UW concert.

Break a leg!

We just found out that Elle's role is Dorothy! Woodworth Middle School is doing the Wizard of Oz in April. Go Ellie! We actually knew before she did, as her music teacher called Paul. She wants him to sequence the orchestra parts, so she's getting him the full score. So exciting. Dates are April 11, 12 and 13, for all the local folks.

quiet day

Today proves to be very quiet. Very little is scheduled, aside from Elle's sax lesson tonight. The weather is mild, and I plan to walk the dog this morning. Otherwise, I'm patiently waiting for our Christmas card photos to arrive. They were promised today at the latest, so I can mail them out soon. As I mentioned before, we wanted to include a wedding photo, so that's the reason for the delay. I have several friends who send after Christmas which is nice, too. Paul is busy today checking out rental SUV's for the trip to Nashville with the gifts. Even though we have a grand caravan, it's simply not big enough for all the gifts, which include everything from the shower as well. We'll be packing up on Christmas day, and leaving early on the 26th. Paul has several bookings for the New Year holiday, so we won't stay that long...3-4 days, and we can play it be ear, with an eye close to the weather forecast. Krissy and the girls may remember getting stuck in a blizzard in January 1999 in Mattoon, IL., after vacationing in Florida. We ended up in a Red Cross shelter at a church. When we talked about having to stay, the older girls said they didn't want to. Being around strangers frightened them, and as Krissy and Elise said, they didn't want to have to sleep next to a "Bubba." At that point a 5-year-old Elle spoke up and said, "I'll sleep next to Bubba!" It turned out to be a great experience. We met lots of great people, and they took care of our every need. Eva wrote them a thank you on a chalkboard in one of the children's rooms. Turns out the head of the Red Cross chapter found it, was touched by the sentiment, and it appeared on the first page of the paper the next day! Nice memory.

Ellie's "green" thumb...

Ellie came home with a green thumb today, after painting a miniature stadium which she built in Tech Ed. Her team of 8th. graders are vying for a prize for the best sculpture. In other news, congrats to Eva for getting a 4.0 this semester. She had a tough curriculum, (composition, pedagogy, student teaching) so this is an accomplishment. Want to mention here that my niece Kylie, who couldn't join us because of finals in Houghton MI, is having a great first semester as a freshman. We'd love to hear from her when she's back home in Traverse City for Christmas. She and her brother are great kids, and Kathy and Bob can be very proud of them. Kudos also to Elle for landing a role in the spring play. Elle, Eva and I will be attending the Nutcracker Ballet in Chicago soon, performed by the Robert Joffrey Ballet. Can't wait. Elle is in her 2nd. year in pointe, and is anxious to go. Elise also studied pointe for many years. I wish she could join us. Friend Jack called from church, and has a family who will 'adopt' Aliyah and Minnie for Christmas. He would like to meet them. We may set up a time on Friday for the meeting, or I'll give them the gifts myself. It depends on his schedule. Many thanks to John from church, who helped with the clean up of the hall, and made an effort to locate a lost item. The church community has been wonderful to us. Thanks also to all the prayers and thoughts for Elise and James. We appreciate all the positive e-mail messages and cards. We found out yesterday that 120 people will be attending the homeless/homebound meal tomorrow. This is a little higher than expected, so I'm going to work tonight to be prepared. To everyone...have a great night.

Krissy and Eva

Eva's up burning the midnight oil with finals, so I couldn't sleep. I thought the photo was nice of Krissy and Eva, taken at the rehearsal dinner. Still anxiously waiting for the photographer to send all of his photos. Eva, Rick, Elle and I signed up this year to host the Salvation Army Christmas meal for the homeless on Friday evening. We are using many of the wedding centerpieces and flowers. The meal will be already made by volunteers, so our job is to set the tables, serve and provide small gifts. We'll find out the actual numbers of those who signed up on Thursday, so we'll have a day to plan. Afterward, there is entertainment and a Santa for the children. It should be nice. It doesn't seem like any work at all after the wedding preparations:)

a few more nice photos

These are just a few more from our camera. Jo has some nice ones too, but I haven't gotten them yet.

Very Busy Day

Today has been hectic. I just brought the tuxedos back, and returned the silver cake base to the decorator in Kimberly. Paul and I are now headed back out to the hall to remove the 30 circular tables and 240 rental chairs, and return them to the rental shop. After that, a good cleaning of the hall is in order, so I guess that will be up to me. Thanks to everyone who is forwarding digital photos to us. They are just great, and I really appreciate it. This evening, Eva and Elle both have concerts, and Aliyah has dance class. Paul has 6 students, and then rushes out to St. Mary's Springs to accompany the choirs for their holiday program. Everyone is headed in different directions. We still have a few pecan tarts left over from Sunday's breakfast. I might have to splurge a little...I deserve a sweet indulgence:)

Nice photo of Elle

Elle and I are viewing lovely photos sent to us by James' Mom. We are both bleary-eyed, but thought this photo was so nice we had to pass it on.

Too cute.

Thanks to James' Mom Debby for the photo. Just wonderful. Couldn't resist adding it. Tomorrow, I'll have more. What a wonderful weekend.

Girls relaxing...

Photo is of the girls relaxing with cousin Kristen who stayed overnight on Friday. Keri (James' sister) stayed at the Holiday Inn with her folks, so didn't join us. More photos to come. I'm just too pooped to stay up late to update or fool with them. I feel like I could sleep for 48 hours. I imagine others involved in the wedding are feeling the same way:) Good night and God bless.

THE BIG DAY!

The wedding was lovely, and today we're just cleaning up the hall, opening gifts and relaxing a little. James bought everyone pizza for lunch:) We're also busy getting photos and videos downloaded and comparing images with the family. Just took a quick break right now to check e-mails.

forgot to mention

By the way, Elise is getting married tomorrow:)

good news

Eva had some good news today, as she learned after casting that she has the lead role in the UW spring play. "The Roommate" will be performed in March. It is fairly new, but very good. I am finishing the script reading tonight. Elle also had good news as she has made it into National Junior Honor Society with 12 consecutive semesters of 4.0 or better (with accelerated classes.) This is really great considering she's suffering a flare-up with her JRA. She's been in remission for 7 years, so this a little discouraging. She's back on her anti-inflammatory, (6 doses so far,) and we hope to have her feeling well for the wedding. The telltale sign of feeling better...she dances! If she dances tomorrow, she's doing well:)

getting ready...

We set up the hall on Thursday rather than the original plan of Friday. This was a great idea. It was a lot of work. First the hall was cleaned and the banquet tables stored. Next, Paul and James worked in the freezing wind to bring in 30 rented round tables and 240 chairs from the U-Haul. Quite a job, but the hall looks lovely. Afterward we had a wonderful dinner at Sebastians, James' favorite steak house. Elise and I had scallops, and there were SO many, we took a boxful home:) Fell into bed exhausted at 11. Gifts are arriving at the house for James and Elise. They stayed up awhile and opened a few.

Take a lesson from cats...

Boy, do cats have it right. No matter how much is going on around them, they always manage to find the "sun" spot and relax in it. Picture is of Lena in Eva's room. She was interested in the changing of linens for James, who is arriving tonight, and stayed comfortably for over an hour. Otherwise we're getting anxious of course for the wedding, but everything should run smoothly. The caterer, florist and cake designer have all just been great. They've welcomed last minute questions, and have been patient with us. This is funny...Paul, Elise, Eva, Elle and I (during college years) have done many weddings. The musicians don't worry us. The florist and caterer do. How foolish. They are all professionals, too. I used to laugh at the brides that called Paul and the girls the night before asking if they had a cold. Funny. Everything is relative.

Another packer win...that's great!

Met with the caterers for last minute instruction and a few changes. They were very helpful. They do a lot of catering for the American Club in Kohler, so we're in good hands. Still it's hard to decide where things go because no one has used the facilities yet. It's been a learning experience. Elle, Eva and I went to Oshkosh for a few last minute items...nylons, make-up, that sort of thing, and we also bought some beveled mirrors to put under the centerpieces. I also found a pretty sweater to wear with my dress for rehearsal. Paul is sick now. I hope it passes before the wedding, and spares the rest of us. He and Elle have another mass tonight at 7 with the "Faith on Fire" group, which is a lot of singing and mostly geared toward the young people. We've picked up a little more snow this weekend, and everything still looks nice and fresh. Cleaned the bedrooms today, and bought an air mattress for the extra people coming over.

uneventful day

All the Christmas decorations went up yesterday, so today was uneventful. Eva is much better, and auditioned for the UW play which will begin rehearsals in January. Elle had a sax lesson, and Liyah and I shopped for groceries. Not very exciting. There are about 20 people who did not respond to the invitations, and we know that several ARE coming, so we'll have to track them down for food choices, as we're meeting with the caterers tomorrow. A new person was hired to take over for me at Holy Family. Reports are all positive, and I'm sure she'll do well. I am continuing my "break" from work. I'm sure I'll make up for things when the holidays settle down. I remember one week 15 years ago, when I worked 110 hours in one week! Lordy, I couldn't (and wouldn't) do that now!

Christmas kitty

Eva's cat Lena loves hanging out beneath the Christmas tree. Eva reminded me that last year Lena destroyed several favorite ornaments. She was just a kitten then, and now she's much more mellow. Thought the photo was cute. Eva is sick with the flu today...high temp, body aches, nausea, diarrhea, etc. She absolutely can do NOTHING today. She had all of her favorite classes, which she has never missed, but couldn't even get up for them. She even watched me decorate the tree, which she has always enjoyed helping with, but she couldn't move from the couch. I hope if the rest of us get sick, it's soon. I couldn't imagine being that sick during the wedding.

Aliyah fell on the ice...

Aliyah fell today at school, and got a big 'bump' on her forehead. The school nurse put ice on the area, and it looks pretty good, although Liyah confessed to crying a little. On a brighter note, Eva is finishing up with the wedding centerpieces, and Elle has had her last fitting for her dress. She also bought a really cute rehearsal dress which is a blue and black print with a jacket. Very nice. I must share an interesting Henry story. Henry always sleeps until about 8AM, and is usually very quiet until then. This morning, before 7, he started screaming. I mean screaming. Paul was in the shower, and the rest of us were upstairs. I was thinking someone was in the house, because Hen was frantic. So I ran downstairs, armed with a tennis racket, and found the reason for the commotion. McTavish, who sometimes sleeps in the hot tub room because it's toasty in there, had tried to get back into the living room. His back legs don't work, and he ended up stranded between 2 rooms on the step. He couldn't move without an assist, and Henry was calling me to help. Once I helped the dog up, Henry went back to "roosting" until his usual wake-up at 8 AM. Whoever coined the term 'dumb animal' surely never had one. Thanks Henry.

a usual weekend...busy

A few photos. Henry is enjoying his applesauce, and Elle and Lisa made a superhero out of my carrot that grew looking like a butt and legs. No real purpose here for the photos, I just thought they were interesting. This weekend saw the church's dedication. The ceremony was well attended, with an estimated 1000. Eva couldn't play the instrumental, because her violin had 2 broken stings, a broken bridge, and her pegs were out of whack. It was a 'no go.' Fortunately, the congregation didn't know about it. She has to fix the problems by Saturday, as she and Paul have a wedding. Otherwise, she may be able to 'borrow' her prof's violin for the day. We bought Aliyah's dress for the wedding today, and she was very happy. It's red and black, and she has a tiara like Tatum. Eva and I bought Rick a really nice vest, and it looks good with his shirt and dress pants. Otherwise, a belated birthday wish to friend Angie, a podiatrist in Albuquerque, who turned forty-something last month. She's a great gal (and I'm certain a great doctor)who shared the neighborhood in the 70's with us as kids. We love you Angie, and would love to hear from you.

Evel's aunt

A little bit of trivia here folks. Useless knowledge, I suppose. Evel Knievel died today following a multitude of problems, including pulmonary fibrosis and complications of hepatitis c. His aunt Angelita Knievel was my principal at Manitowoc Roncalli in the late 1970's. She also taught a variety of classes, and was very bright and always welcoming. She was a member of the Franciscans. Jo and I just talked about how bright and articulate the Franciscans are. Most have masters or doctorate degrees. Angelita always blushed when anyone asked about Evel. She was very proud of him. It seems he was quite the philanthropist, and had several charities he donated to. Pic is of Evel (real name Robert Craig) and his son Robbie.

good-bye to a friend

Today was the funeral for Germaine B, a wonderful elderly woman who I've been visiting for 3+ years. Her husband of 62 years passed away this spring, and she has been carrying on without him. They were such a great couple. They farmed for many years in St. Peter, just east of Fondy and on the ledge overlooking Lake Winnebago. Germaine and especially her husband Leander, always would remember the Lisa French halloween murder case of 1973, because Lisa's remains were found on their farm. This was their 'claim to fame' that they'd rather not have. They were just delightful people. They had 1 son, and he had 6 or 7 kids...all great people too, and they were very proud of them. I'll miss them both. Rest in peace Germaine, and enjoy your reunion with Leander:)

good old dog

Mctavish is really going downhill because of his arthritis. He's on aspirin therapy but it doesn't seem to help much, and he continues to need help to get up. He can't manage the stairs either. The hope is he'll just sleep away. Having put several pets down, it's not something I want to do. Today is just as cold, and at around 11 AM we had quite a blast of snow. I went out to help Stan at the farm, and for a while it was white out conditions. Eva and I are going tree shopping today, and then working on the table centerpieces for the wedding. Also have to give the house a thorough cleaning, before dragging in all the Christmas decorations. Thank heavens Grandma Mare is back on-line, and we can shoot her e-mails once again. For anyone who doesn't have her new address, it is: gmare@lakefield.net

different directions

Everyone is busy tonight. Eva cantored for a funeral earlier today, and now is heading out to do homework at the cafe. Her plans then include meeting with Rick to bring him some gingerbread because he's been sick today. Elle has auditions for the middle school musical, which will be The Wizard of Oz. Aliyah is busy trying out for the jump roping team at her elementary school, the Wizards. I had the day off, and planned to put up the outdoor decorations. It was 17 degrees and 35 mile per hour gusts, so I abandoned that idea. I've been busy addressing Christmas card envelopes. We plan this year to include a wedding photo in our cards. It would be difficult to wait until after the 15th. to address everything. So, I'm thinking I'll address the usual Christmas list, and then on the 16th, order a nice wedding photo to include. Response cards have been coming in regularly. We may have to do a few calls for those who haven't responded yet. Paul is busy at the new church tonight, getting ready for the bishop and tending to many details, for the dedication of the new church. He says after December 1st, he'll 'have a life again.' We'll see.

poor little guy

I just spoke to Jo. She spent 4 hours in the ER with True. He was running a fever and feeling poorly all weekend. After some x-rays the doctor confirmed pneumonia. We've got to stop these ER visits! Get well wishes go out to True Samuel:)
Love you. xxooxxooxx

lovely weekend

Special thanks to Rick and Kate who picked up James and Elise at MKE on Thanksgiving Day. We finished up some last minute wedding details, and had a traditional feast. Elle made her famous gingerbread trifle:) On Saturday, Elise and James left and we drove up to visit our Manitowoc family. Jeff and Mickey joined us from Madison, and we had another great meal at Jeannine's house. It was very relaxing. Eva is feeling much better, but is still on her meds. We had a nice surprise when we came home today. Vonn visited from Platteville with his lab Vala. He's testing for his pilot's license next week. Good luck Vonn! He promised me a flight after his solo. To Grandma: I'll be the first to go. I trust his training and his judgment, and I think it's a privilege. We'll get you on a plane yet! (Maybe to Nashville to visit Elise and James? Or to St. John, to vacation with Krissy and Dave.)

ER night, Busy day...

Last night we ended up in the ER for 3 hours with Eva. She was having chest pain, and it was getting serious. She was born with 'pectus excavatum' or funnel chest to the lay person, and when she was 5 years old doctors said it was not bad enough to warrant surgery. She has never had any symptoms, and has always been very active. Her cousin Kylie had surgery several years ago to correct this problem, and I recall her Mom Kathy saying she just had 4 inches between the sternum and backbone. Eva's case was not that severe. Somewhere I read about a familial link(?) Anyway, after a series of tests, blood work and x-rays, it was determined not to be serious, but only a condition called 'costochondritis,'which is a swelling of the cartilage joining the ribs to the breastbone. The source of the pain may have been stress induced. What stress? A wedding 3 weeks away, a break-in down in Nashville, term-papers, finals, pedagogy class, juries, etc. Did that hit close to home. She was prescribed hydrocodone, but I'm VERY cautious about that. She had 1 dose, and it cleared up the pain immediately, but she was totally 'loopy' for lack of a better word. We'll see how today goes. I'm working at an all day church community blood drive, and later helping out with Immanuel Trinity's free thanksgiving meal program to the homebound. It's a great community effort. Volunteers sign up to help fix the meals, or deliver them to individual homes. I heard that they will be starting up a Christmas meal program also. Lots to do today....best get started. Keep Eva in your thoughts and prayers, please.

Justin was 28 yesterday!

Birthday wishes go out to Justin, who shares a birthday with Aliyah:) We made some chocolate covered strawberries for him! Don't they look delish?

Happy Birthday to Aliyah!

Our dear Aliyah is 8 years old today! (This is incredible, because she was born at 6 months gestation, and weighed 1 pound and 13 ounces.) She was all fired up, doing cartwheels on the floor, and asking for seconds of ice cream cake. It made me remember when I was 8. I had a birthday party with all of the girls from St. Boniface School. We all went outside to play games, except for Stephanie Held, who stayed behind and ate all of the frosting off the cake! It's funny the things you remember. We played "button, button, who's got the button" and "clothespins in a bottle." I was good at that...I always had good eyes. I remember Mom Marilyn made sloppy joes, and all the girls came to the party with dresses on. Friend Mary had a fresh perm. She was cute, as usual. I always admired her blonde hair. Isn't it funny, we always want what we don't have? Birthday wishes to our Aliyah...we love her:)

Vinnie and Brett

Another great game. I think I heard friends Donna, Robin, Tony and Clyde screaming from Valders! Go Pac:)

"of Spiders and Men" (or women) 70 years later...

John Steinbeck himself would have been frightened. I had the worst 'spider' moment of my life. While helping out at Elise and James' new house, I was trying to tighten up the garage door sensors. They had loosened up, which happens a lot, and they weren't facing each other. The door would't properly close. So I was kneeling down with my right hand tightening the wing nut. I had previously noticed some VERY big insects in a web, and 2 big egg sacs, but didn't worry much. It was 41 degrees and growing up on Lake Michigan I knew spiders to be VERY sluggish in November. Well, as I started to tighten I noticed something moving in the web. I glanced up and saw a black widow. I didn't realize that my right pinkie finger was stuck in the web with the egg sacs. The movement must have drawn 'Momma' out. Our 'Momma' spider gently caressed her egg sacs, and then came after me, but I was long gone. I called Elise out to look, and she said I was white. I've never been that close to a black widow before. I could literally feel her vibrations. The neighbor said to destroy the egg sacs which can hold 700 spider-lings...so we did. Elise and I were crawly all night. On a lighter note, we cleaned the house pretty well, spending 12+ hour days, and even managed to bathe the cats. Really, the house was trashed. There was glass everywhere. Elise said that James pushed her into the laundry room when it was discovered they had a break-in, because he didn't know if the person or persons were still there. She was happy to see me on Thursday, and got up to check the locks when I left early this morning.

no posts for a while:(

I won't be posting for a while. I've booked a flight to Nashville tomorrow early AM, to help out with the clean-up. Thanks to friends Sandy and Donna, for helping me out and rearranging plans for this weekend in Fondy. James will be gone to Las Vegas, a trip that has been planned for some time, and Elise will have her hands full with the clean-up...I'm good at that. Also want to thank John and the church folks for their continued prayer and concern. Will post on Sunday evening when I get back. Thanks also to Dottie and Tess for their kind thoughts and prayers following our conversation. There are a lot of good people out there.

prayers needed folks

Elise just called. Someone broke into their Antioch home (smashed through a kitchen window)and stole electronics, games, jewelry, tv, and misc. Apparently they ransacked everything. James was on the phone with the police as Elise called us. After the robbery at the new church, I really understand the feeling of violation. They found both kitties hiding under a bed:(

interesting sounds

Very interesting sounds over here tonight. Eva is practicing violin for an upcoming UW concert (Don Giovanni overture) while Elle is practicing jazz sax in the next room:) Henry is singing opera (thanks to Elise) and Steven is barking at the neighbor's new puppy. I wonder if I'll ever be old enough to actually miss all the noise!? I'm also trying to finish up sister Koke's stained glass panels...I've been working on them slowly due to my sore right wrist. Spent some time with Stanley on the farm today. Loaded up a 'ViaVoice" program for him, so he can speak into the computer rather than type, which is getting very difficult for him. Brought home some more Winesaps...very tasty apples.

Tatum and Jo Jo

Jo and Tatum came to Fondy for a dress fitting today, and also found cute shoes for both Tatum and True. Jo took some photos of the nativity scene stained glass, (above photo) for possible use in the paining. Afterward, Tatum enjoyed herself at the new McDonald's lighthouse play area, which includes a few water falls. Jo and I had some ideas for the reception area at the new church...seeing this wedding is a first, we have to plan from scratch. The area we will be in for hors duevers is the gathering space, and the small band of musicians will be playing here also. We didn't know when the regular saturday mass service would be (now we know it's 4:15) so we had to have a little "wiggle" room with the time for dinner...we need to be out of the reception area, and into the dining hall by 3:30-ish. (That's why an exact time wasn't given on the invite.) It looks like reception from about 1:00-3:30, and sit down dinner in the large dining hall around 4:30 or 5. (It's all in the same building.) The evening big band will play from 6:30 to 10:30 approximately, so it won't be a very late evening. Jo and Tim are helping put together the reception table situation, keeping in mind we wanted round tables, and the church only has banquet tables. Lots of extra work, but we're paving the way for others. Maybe some generous person will donate the funds for the round tables :) It has been estimated to cost 35 thousand to outfit the new dining hall. Ouch.

QUITE A GAME!

This has been a great weekend for Wisconsin in sports. Brett just continues to break records. Paul and I had a chance to go to a Monday night game, and he's just as amazing in person. Enough said:) Friend Kate visited today, and as usual we enjoyed her company. We had the rest of the turkey tenderloin in subs...they were yummy, and managed a walk with McTavish who is doing pretty well with aspirin therapy. I was also browsing through some class schedules for January. I haven't decided on anything other than a local yoga class. Elise and I went to yoga every week while she was in school at Marian. Of course, she was more limber than I was, but we both really enjoyed it. I'll sign up for a Tuesday class, as that's the only day around here that has nothing else scheduled. Maybe Elle would like to join me. They always say dancers should "cross-train." Just kidding. She's busy enough. Besides, she probably doesn't want to hang out with a bunch of old ladies!

busy weekend

The Badgers had a great game today, beating Michigan. It was very exciting. Elle and I watched while cleaning, and I guess we did more watching than cleaning! Today at 4:15 is the first mass at Holy Family (the new church) so we're planning to go. Paul has been there all day ironing out minor sound problems, and also attending a staff inservice. Eva's choir sings tomorrow at 10, so we may go again. Elle and I bought some turkey tenderloin for the grill tonight. Eva and friend Kate are doing homework at the Internet "Connect Cafe" downtown. Invites finally all done. Quiet evening planned. Maybe a little hottub:)

couldn't resist

Snapped this photo of Lena today, thought it was funny. Otherwise, I treated friend Carol to a nice lunch today, as she celebrates a birthday on Sunday. Also picked up a beautiful oak antique table that Eva has been slowly paying off. The antique dealer is a good friend, and said she could take as long as she needed. Well, it's finally paid for. She also bought a large 100 year-old mirror, in great shape and very decorative. We must find a place for them until Eva moves out. She may leave Fondy after her sophomore year (this year) as she's in the guaranteed transfer program. We'll see. I have a temporary splint for my hand, so I'm forced to use it less, and the pain is tolerable. Ellie reports her back hurts much less. That's good, because she has another 3 hour dance session tonight:) The response cards for the wedding are coming in fast already, even though the last of the invites aren't out yet. Lots of work to do.

Eva has a new job...

Eva has a new job which is very fun and enjoyable for her. She records practice CD's for choral use at a local recording studio. She and friend Katie learn and record music in 4-part harmony. It's then sold to different groups for learning and teaching purposes. Eva's a good sight reader, so she really enjoys the job:) My wrist is really hurting from the typing, so I'm going to call it quits. xxooxx
By the way, the time of the posts is off by 2 hours...I'm not sure why. The fact is that the posts read 2 hours earlier than I post(?)

kitty Carmen

I didn't have a nice photo of Carmen until now. She's Elise's kitty who lives here. She is a sweetheart, and prefers to cuddle with Ellie. The woolen in the background is from Ireland... a souvenir from our recent trip. Lots of news for today. First of all, Elle and I are gimpy following a couple of mishaps. Yesterday was quite blustery; 40 mile per hour gusts. While at the grocery store, a runaway cart hit me in the arm just as I was closing the hatchback. This forced my wrist into the hatchback as it was closing. Ouch. I thought for sure I had broken my wrist. I managed to get home, driving left-handed only, and put ice on it for an hour. Still hurts like the dickens, but can't be broken, because the fingers all move. Freak accident, I guess. Elle hurt her back (middle upper) while performing a gymnastics move during jazz and hiphop. It happened near the beginning of class, and she bravely (or stupidly) finished without a complaint. She is now suffering. She's taking an anti-inflammatory and soaking in the hot tub. We're a pair. On a lighter note, all the invites are done for the wedding. Everything is pretty well set. I bought shoes today, and Elise bought a rehearsal dress. I received several cards from staff, all wishing me well in the new job. They are a great group of people. I really will miss them. Tonight we used some of Stan's apples and made an apple crisp, which was delicious. A big thanks to Stan for a winter full of apples.

Good-bye to St. Joseph's Church

Thank goodness the Packers won. It gave us a little positive; although football can't compare with real life. It was a nice diversion. We needed a little Packer high, as it was a difficult day. St. Joseph Church closed officially today. It was a very emotional and beautiful mass. All of my girls were baptized there, and received first communion, so it was hard to hear that "St. Joseph Church is now officially closed." Elise was also confirmed there, as an adult making a commitment to her faith. I suppose we must welcome our future traditions at the new church. Change is difficult, but if we have faith, things will work out:) Just think. We'll have the first marriage, witnessed by friends, families and loved ones. Strength for the days ahead :)

7 and 1! WE'LL TAKE IT!

hi henry

Henry is mastering his "feet" and "wings" lately, and was in a wingy mood today. In other news, I got a lot done. Ordered the tables and chairs for the wedding reception, and then drove out to St. Peter (our little country church) for an anointing after mass. It was very well attended. The folks out there are really friendly, and it's always a joy to go out there. (They also beat everyone with the funeral meal:) Spent a few hours with Stan and split wood using his new splitter. He's got enough for the week and then some. Got lots of exercise tromping from the barn to the house with the wood. Very pleasant day...temps and otherwise.

Good-bye to Holy Family staff :(

I enjoyed a wonderful luncheon with Holy Family staff on my last day as a staff person. My co-worker John gave a heartfelt toast. I'll miss him. I'm going to be working at several group homes around Fondy for people with special needs and autism. It is a full-time position. I will start training, (renew CPR, drug screening, CBRF regs, etc.) in a few weeks. I took a few weeks off to tend to wedding plans and also to finish up on Aunty Koko's stained glass panels. Leaving Holy Family has been bittersweet for me. The staff has been wonderful. I feel fortunate to have been a part of the staff for the past 3 years. I will miss each and every one. xxooxxo

Elle's news!

Elle had good news today. She was chosen to be in the Wisconsin State Honor's Choir, which will have a series of concerts in January. This is really neat, as only 4 middle school kids were picked, (one for each voice) and Elle was chosen to represent the school as the soprano. Congratulations! Show up those big sisters of yours!
xxooxx

what a finish!

26 halloweens ago

Elise came across this photo and said she wished she had the knit sweater...it was SO cool. It had reds and yellows, greens and oranges and big buttons of different colors. Circa 1981 in Grandma's living room. Nice memory:)

trick or treat

We went through a lot of candy yesterday, with a close to record number of trick-or-treaters. Several of Ellie's friends came around in costume, but she opted to hand out candy instead, which left me to take Aliyah around the neighborhood.
Still doing laundry from the camping trip, and everything else smells like the campfire. Ellie and Aliyah are dancing tonight, and Eva, Rick and Paul are watching the Pac on Monday night TV. Wedding invites are almost done. WooHoo:)

a few more camping pics from this weekend