I have been reading the daily Advent posts on the New Hope Community blog, and today's post really hit me. (You can read it here.) It talked about "...'old tapes' running through our heads..." which is something I find myself struggling with very often. However, I am (slowly) learning how to put those resentments, belittlements, and/or losses behind me.
I found this post very encouraging to me because it reminded me that I am NOT the only person who goes through this!
Roller Skating News Coverage
Check out some of our skaters who were featured on the news on Tuesday, November 25. You can find the story here:
http://www.myvalleysports.com/
Let me know what you think!
http://www.myvalleysports.com/
Let me know what you think!
Changing Lives
I read a blog post yesterday that really made me think. You can read it here. This post discussed how commenting on a child’s simple, homemade costume did so much to raise that child’s self-esteem, and how moved she and her mother were by this small gesture.
I often wonder what I (as one person) can do to change the world. I hear people talking all the time about making the world a better place, but after reading this blog post, I see how simple it really can be. It made me wonder how many lives I have changed, simply by smiling at someone at the right moment or by commenting on an outfit, a costume, a hairstyle, or something...something that was, in my mind, a simple act of common courtesy.
Amazing what a little courtesy can do!
I often wonder what I (as one person) can do to change the world. I hear people talking all the time about making the world a better place, but after reading this blog post, I see how simple it really can be. It made me wonder how many lives I have changed, simply by smiling at someone at the right moment or by commenting on an outfit, a costume, a hairstyle, or something...something that was, in my mind, a simple act of common courtesy.
Amazing what a little courtesy can do!
Making Memories with Family
I just wanted to share this photo, because simply looking at it makes me feel good. It’s a photo of our grandson, Matthew, and his great-grandparents (Curt’s parents). We were lucky enough to spend a few hours yesterday at my in-laws’ house while Bill and Matthew visited, too.
I never really knew my great-grandparents. In fact, I only ever met one of them, and she passed away when I was rather young. Even though I was young, I can still (slightly) remember her. I look at this picture and hope that our little ones will someday realize how blessed they are. I pray that the boys all have the chance to grow up knowing and remembering how many people love them.
I never really knew my great-grandparents. In fact, I only ever met one of them, and she passed away when I was rather young. Even though I was young, I can still (slightly) remember her. I look at this picture and hope that our little ones will someday realize how blessed they are. I pray that the boys all have the chance to grow up knowing and remembering how many people love them.
Friends
Have you ever lost touch with a friend? I don’t mean someone that you knew in school or a casual acquaintance, but a real friend? Some may say that if the person was a real friend, we wouldn’t have lost touch. I don’t think that is true.
I have three friends in my life that I miss, friends that I simply grew apart from. There was no fight, no falling out, nothing that I can pinpoint as “this is what happened between us.” First is a dear friend who I’ve known since the day I was born…I think. We have always been rather close, but due to his being on crutches or in a wheelchair most of his life, we didn’t really “hang out” together much. We try to keep in touch, but it doesn’t always work out that way. I try to arrange at least one day a year where I spend the whole day in Butler, and I try to spend a few hours with him. Again, that doesn’t always work out, either.
The second is a friend from school - all the way back to elementary school. He and I were constant companions. Even when I wasn’t the easiest person to be around, he was always there in some way. All the way up through college and slightly beyond, we were almost always together. Then it happened. We went out together less often. The phone rang less often. I moved to Ohio. Despite the fact that I keep trying through email to hook up with him, it just never seems to happen. Again, when I arrange my day trips to Butler, I try to let him know, but he very rarely has time to see me. I can’t remember the last time I even saw him.
The third is the first friend I made when I moved to Ohio (other than people I knew through skating). We met at work, and we found out that we had much in common. I even asked her to be in my wedding, which is something I would NEVER have done if I hadn’t thought we’d be friends for life. She lived in Salem, while I live in Boardman, which made it tough to get together after we both moved on to other employment. I tried to be there for her when her marriage was in trouble, just being around to listen if nothing else. Yet again, things happened, we called each other less often. We didn’t get together as often.
However, today I decided to stop this in its tracks. I found out that she had recently been going through a lot of crap (for lack of a better word), but I hadn’t heard anything about it until now - after it was all done and over. I told her that we needed to fix this. We are supposed to be friends - there for each other no matter what, but we both had to be interested in making the effort to keep this friendship going. Thankfully she feels the same way, and I am hoping that today marks a new start for us!
(Wow, this one got rather long, didn’t it?)
I have three friends in my life that I miss, friends that I simply grew apart from. There was no fight, no falling out, nothing that I can pinpoint as “this is what happened between us.” First is a dear friend who I’ve known since the day I was born…I think. We have always been rather close, but due to his being on crutches or in a wheelchair most of his life, we didn’t really “hang out” together much. We try to keep in touch, but it doesn’t always work out that way. I try to arrange at least one day a year where I spend the whole day in Butler, and I try to spend a few hours with him. Again, that doesn’t always work out, either.
The second is a friend from school - all the way back to elementary school. He and I were constant companions. Even when I wasn’t the easiest person to be around, he was always there in some way. All the way up through college and slightly beyond, we were almost always together. Then it happened. We went out together less often. The phone rang less often. I moved to Ohio. Despite the fact that I keep trying through email to hook up with him, it just never seems to happen. Again, when I arrange my day trips to Butler, I try to let him know, but he very rarely has time to see me. I can’t remember the last time I even saw him.
The third is the first friend I made when I moved to Ohio (other than people I knew through skating). We met at work, and we found out that we had much in common. I even asked her to be in my wedding, which is something I would NEVER have done if I hadn’t thought we’d be friends for life. She lived in Salem, while I live in Boardman, which made it tough to get together after we both moved on to other employment. I tried to be there for her when her marriage was in trouble, just being around to listen if nothing else. Yet again, things happened, we called each other less often. We didn’t get together as often.
However, today I decided to stop this in its tracks. I found out that she had recently been going through a lot of crap (for lack of a better word), but I hadn’t heard anything about it until now - after it was all done and over. I told her that we needed to fix this. We are supposed to be friends - there for each other no matter what, but we both had to be interested in making the effort to keep this friendship going. Thankfully she feels the same way, and I am hoping that today marks a new start for us!
(Wow, this one got rather long, didn’t it?)
Veterans' Day
On days like today, I cannot help but think about my Grandpa Otterson - "the Commander." I am so thankful for all the Veterans of the US Military who fought to give us the rights and privileges that we sometimes take for granted.
Happy Veterans Day to all who have served in our Armed Forces!
We wouldn’t be here without them.
Make a FAMILY TREE for Christmas
For those of you who are interested in reminiscing about the past year and who like to do something a little different, consider this. Last year, Curt and I started making our own Christmas tree ornaments. Since last year was the first year, we took pictures from whenever…years ago through mid-November 2007 and made them into nice, little ornaments to hang on the tree. The plan is to take new pictures throughout the year and make new ornaments every year. We cut them into different shapes, glue them onto “fun foam,” hole punch them, and tie a ribbon. It would be something really fun to do as a family, letting the kids choose the pictures and glue the pictures to the foam shapes.
Our Tree from 2007
It is a really fun way to remember how blessed we were throughout the year. Let me know what you think and if you try it.
Our Tree from 2007It is a really fun way to remember how blessed we were throughout the year. Let me know what you think and if you try it.
Happy Birthday Logan...
Well, not exactly. Logan is one month old today, and what a month it has been! Unfortunately, we still have not made it down to South Carolina to meet the little guy, but we get regular reports from his parents and his aunt. We are hoping that sometime over the holidays, we will get to visit with them.
We talked to Scott on Saturday. Ethan wasn't really in the mood to talk, but we got at least a "Hi," a "bye," and a "love you" that were clearly audible (which is sometimes tough when you get a two-year-old on speakerphone). We even got to hear Logan for the first time, which made me all the more excited to get down there!
I was also excited to get a note from Jessica yesterday in the mail. It was a thank-you for the gift card we sent for Logan's "diaper shower" and a "PS" thank-you for the Halloween goodies we sent to the boys. (That sounds so cool..."the boys...") Anyway, I was so excited to learn that Ethan really likes the sticker/coloring books - they are "his favorite" according to Jessica.
That's all for now.
We talked to Scott on Saturday. Ethan wasn't really in the mood to talk, but we got at least a "Hi," a "bye," and a "love you" that were clearly audible (which is sometimes tough when you get a two-year-old on speakerphone). We even got to hear Logan for the first time, which made me all the more excited to get down there!
I was also excited to get a note from Jessica yesterday in the mail. It was a thank-you for the gift card we sent for Logan's "diaper shower" and a "PS" thank-you for the Halloween goodies we sent to the boys. (That sounds so cool..."the boys...") Anyway, I was so excited to learn that Ethan really likes the sticker/coloring books - they are "his favorite" according to Jessica.
That's all for now.
Getting to Know Me
This was a really interesting email that a friend sent me the other day. I really enjoy stuff like this because I think it gives me a little more insight to my friends. Some of these are things we never really talk about, but they are interesting little tidbits of info.
---------------------------------------------------------------------
1. What time did you get up this morning? 5:00
2 . Diamonds or Pearls? Diamonds
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? I don't remember...it was this year, though.
4. What is your favorite TV show? House
5. What do you usually have for breakfast? Something different every day...mostly.
6. What is your middle name? Otterson (Lee was my given middle name, but I changed it when I got married)
7. What food do you dislike? Tripe - if you can call that food.
8. What is your favorite CD at the moment? Elton John - The Captain and the Kid
9. What kind of car do you drive? Ford Escape HYBRID
10. Favorite sandwich? Grilled Cheese or Tuna salad
11. What characteristic do you despise? Hypocrite
12. Favorite item of clothing? My huge, oversized, Steelers hoodie sweatshirt that someone gave me.
13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? Myrtle Beach
14. Are you an organized person? Sometimes.
15. Where would you retire to? Myrtle Beach.
16. What was your most recent memorable birthday? ???
17. What are you going to do when you finish? Go to work.
18. Furthest place you are sending this? PA
19. Person you expect to send it back first? Probably no one
20. When is your birthday?? December 3
21. Morning person or a night person? Neither
22. What is your shoe size? 6 1/2 wide
23. Pets? All in pet heaven
24. Any new and exciting news? Not really - not since Logan.
25. What did you want to be when you were little? A Pianist
26. How are you today? BLAH
27. What is your favorite flower? Pansy
28. What are you listening to right now? Nothing
29. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? Whenever we can go to Myrtle Beach to see Logan (and everyone else)
31. Do you wish on stars? No, I pray to God
32. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Purple
33. How is the weather right now? Beautiful!
34. Last person you spoke to on the phone? My Mom
35. Favorite soft drink? Squirt (Ruby Red, especially)
36. Favorite restaurant? Probably Red Lobster or Longhorn
37. Hair color? Brown
38. What was your favorite toy as a child? Don't remember.
39. Summer or Winter? Summer
40. Spring or Fall? Spring
41. Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate
42. coffee or tea? Tea - iced!
43. Do you want your friends to email you back? Yes
44. When was the last time you cried? A couple weeks ago.
45. What is under your bed? Some under-bed storage boxes and I'm sure a few dust bunnies
46. What did you do last night? Watched Ghost Hunters
47. How many keys on your key ring? A BUNCH!
48. How many years at your current job? Depends on what you mean by that.
49. Favorite day of the week? Friday nights and Saturdays
50. Do you make friends easily? I don't think so.
51. How many people will you send this to? A few, but not many. May post it on my blog.
52. How many will respond? Probably none of them.
53. Do you like finding out all this stuff about your friends? Absolutely :)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
1. What time did you get up this morning? 5:00
2 . Diamonds or Pearls? Diamonds
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? I don't remember...it was this year, though.
4. What is your favorite TV show? House
5. What do you usually have for breakfast? Something different every day...mostly.
6. What is your middle name? Otterson (Lee was my given middle name, but I changed it when I got married)
7. What food do you dislike? Tripe - if you can call that food.
8. What is your favorite CD at the moment? Elton John - The Captain and the Kid
9. What kind of car do you drive? Ford Escape HYBRID
10. Favorite sandwich? Grilled Cheese or Tuna salad
11. What characteristic do you despise? Hypocrite
12. Favorite item of clothing? My huge, oversized, Steelers hoodie sweatshirt that someone gave me.
13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? Myrtle Beach
14. Are you an organized person? Sometimes.
15. Where would you retire to? Myrtle Beach.
16. What was your most recent memorable birthday? ???
17. What are you going to do when you finish? Go to work.
18. Furthest place you are sending this? PA
19. Person you expect to send it back first? Probably no one
20. When is your birthday?? December 3
21. Morning person or a night person? Neither
22. What is your shoe size? 6 1/2 wide
23. Pets? All in pet heaven
24. Any new and exciting news? Not really - not since Logan.
25. What did you want to be when you were little? A Pianist
26. How are you today? BLAH
27. What is your favorite flower? Pansy
28. What are you listening to right now? Nothing
29. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? Whenever we can go to Myrtle Beach to see Logan (and everyone else)
31. Do you wish on stars? No, I pray to God
32. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Purple
33. How is the weather right now? Beautiful!
34. Last person you spoke to on the phone? My Mom
35. Favorite soft drink? Squirt (Ruby Red, especially)
36. Favorite restaurant? Probably Red Lobster or Longhorn
37. Hair color? Brown
38. What was your favorite toy as a child? Don't remember.
39. Summer or Winter? Summer
40. Spring or Fall? Spring
41. Chocolate or Vanilla? Chocolate
42. coffee or tea? Tea - iced!
43. Do you want your friends to email you back? Yes
44. When was the last time you cried? A couple weeks ago.
45. What is under your bed? Some under-bed storage boxes and I'm sure a few dust bunnies
46. What did you do last night? Watched Ghost Hunters
47. How many keys on your key ring? A BUNCH!
48. How many years at your current job? Depends on what you mean by that.
49. Favorite day of the week? Friday nights and Saturdays
50. Do you make friends easily? I don't think so.
51. How many people will you send this to? A few, but not many. May post it on my blog.
52. How many will respond? Probably none of them.
53. Do you like finding out all this stuff about your friends? Absolutely :)
Letter from 2012
I usually try to stay out of political discussions, but I have been having a tough time making my decision this year. I have been bouncing back and forth, but this is an interesting article that seems to be making a big impact on things.
A Chilling Look at an Obama Presidency
Focus on the Family Action
Click Here for the article
The letter is entitled "Letter from 2012 in Obama’s America" and is posted on the CitizenLink/Focus on the Family Action, Inc. website.
It hasn't really helped me finalize my decision, but maybe it will help someone else out there.
A Chilling Look at an Obama Presidency
Focus on the Family Action
Click Here for the article
The letter is entitled "Letter from 2012 in Obama’s America" and is posted on the CitizenLink/Focus on the Family Action, Inc. website.
It hasn't really helped me finalize my decision, but maybe it will help someone else out there.
A Huge Thank-You to Everyone
I just wanted to thank all of you who kept our family in your prayers for the past week or so. In case you have not heard, Baby Logan’s test results came back, and he is perfectly healthy! It was a very strange time for us - up and down like a roller coaster…so glad to have a new baby in the family, and then 10 days later to be worried that he could have a terrible affliction, finally to find out on Friday (a little over a week later) that he is healthy. What a strange time for us all. I can only imagine what Scott and Jessica (Logan’s parents) were going through. And again, Curt and I were reminded how difficult it is living far away from family members. We were also reminded that God hears prayers…He hears us when we cry out (just like we have been learning at New Hope the last two weeks)!
Roller Sports Links
Toward the bottom of this page, I have posted several roller skating-related links for anyone who would like to learn more about the sport that I am so into.
Why is picking a costume so difficult?
Last Year's Haunted Castle Set-Up at the Baun Residence
I can’t understand why, every year, I seem to have the most difficult time coming up with a Halloween costume for myself. Curt and I have a reputation in our neighborhood of being one of the scariest houses on the street. We had a new neighbor move in two houses down last year, who gave us a run for our money, and now we even have the house in between getting into the game (although on a much smaller scale). So, because of the “scariest houses” reputation, I feel that I have to do this every year for fear of letting the neighborhood kids down.
This year, we have put up the haunted castle - shown in the photos above (although it’s in a different spot this year). I’d also like to get the cemetery set up on the other side of the castle, since we moved it this year. We’ll have the fog going, scary music playing, and caution tape everywhere the night of trick-or-treat…but I still have no clue what to do for my costume.
If anyone has any suggestions, I’ll take anything into consideration…time is really getting short.If you're in the neighborhood, feel free to drive by and check out the haunted castle. It wouldn't be the first time we had people just walking into our front yard to check it out! :) (Don't ask!!)
This year, we have put up the haunted castle - shown in the photos above (although it’s in a different spot this year). I’d also like to get the cemetery set up on the other side of the castle, since we moved it this year. We’ll have the fog going, scary music playing, and caution tape everywhere the night of trick-or-treat…but I still have no clue what to do for my costume.
If anyone has any suggestions, I’ll take anything into consideration…time is really getting short.If you're in the neighborhood, feel free to drive by and check out the haunted castle. It wouldn't be the first time we had people just walking into our front yard to check it out! :) (Don't ask!!)
How Do You Save a Dying Sport?
Those of you reading this may or may not know that Curt and I are figure skating coaches, although it’s probably not the type of figure skating you are used to seeing. Our figure skaters are on roller skates, not ice skates. Yes, roller skates...and not inline skates, the “old fashioned” quad skates.
(In fact, we are former competitors, ourselves.) Curt and I mostly specialize in Dance and Figures, but Curt is also skilled in Freestyle.
It is probably one of the most frustrating sports in which we could participate, simply because no one really knows that it even exists! Did you know that roller figure skating (formerly called “artistic” skating) has regional and national championships every year? We even have world championships every year and have skaters that participates in the PanAm Games. (In case you didn't notice, the one major event missing is the Olympics, which I have given up on, personally.) Roller Skating is huge in many other countries. In fact, roller skaters in many South American countries are considered celebrities! They are actually mobbed for photos and autographs when entering arenas for competitions. (Can you believe it?)
Last season (earlier this year), I had my first competitive skater go to the Regional Championships in Michigan. Unfortunately, she has since given up skating (which happens quite often when kids reach their teenage years). So, I am currently down to one skater, who is an adult beginner. My husband is down to the fewest number of skaters he has ever coached, and he is considering dropping it altogether. We've tried blaming the economy for the declining numbers, but since roller skating is one of the least expensive sports to participate in, we can’t really use that as an excuse (except for those students who would drive hours - yes, hours - for lessons and practice).
Instead of dropping it, I am wondering how we can get it to pick up a little again. I've tried the usual routes of advertising (posters/hand-outs in the rink, contacting newspapers and TV stations), but nothing seems to be helping at this point. I’m also trying to find a way to make the sport appeal to kids. We have coached all age groups - from age 8 to age 78 (and that’s not an exaggeration!) - but without bringing in some “new blood,” the sport will be non-existent in our area in 10 years. (I actually only give it 5 years.)
The worst part about it is that Ohio is one of the biggest states for roller skating. Our state has some of the largest skate clubs in the country. So, why can’t we find any skaters? Any ideas, suggestions, questions, etc. would be greatly appreciated!
(For more information on competitive, artistic/figure skating, check out http://rollersports.usoc.org/, and under "Disciplines," click on "Figure.")
(In fact, we are former competitors, ourselves.) Curt and I mostly specialize in Dance and Figures, but Curt is also skilled in Freestyle.It is probably one of the most frustrating sports in which we could participate, simply because no one really knows that it even exists! Did you know that roller figure skating (formerly called “artistic” skating) has regional and national championships every year? We even have world championships every year and have skaters that participates in the PanAm Games. (In case you didn't notice, the one major event missing is the Olympics, which I have given up on, personally.) Roller Skating is huge in many other countries. In fact, roller skaters in many South American countries are considered celebrities! They are actually mobbed for photos and autographs when entering arenas for competitions. (Can you believe it?)
Last season (earlier this year), I had my first competitive skater go to the Regional Championships in Michigan. Unfortunately, she has since given up skating (which happens quite often when kids reach their teenage years). So, I am currently down to one skater, who is an adult beginner. My husband is down to the fewest number of skaters he has ever coached, and he is considering dropping it altogether. We've tried blaming the economy for the declining numbers, but since roller skating is one of the least expensive sports to participate in, we can’t really use that as an excuse (except for those students who would drive hours - yes, hours - for lessons and practice).
Instead of dropping it, I am wondering how we can get it to pick up a little again. I've tried the usual routes of advertising (posters/hand-outs in the rink, contacting newspapers and TV stations), but nothing seems to be helping at this point. I’m also trying to find a way to make the sport appeal to kids. We have coached all age groups - from age 8 to age 78 (and that’s not an exaggeration!) - but without bringing in some “new blood,” the sport will be non-existent in our area in 10 years. (I actually only give it 5 years.)
The worst part about it is that Ohio is one of the biggest states for roller skating. Our state has some of the largest skate clubs in the country. So, why can’t we find any skaters? Any ideas, suggestions, questions, etc. would be greatly appreciated!
(For more information on competitive, artistic/figure skating, check out http://rollersports.usoc.org/, and under "Disciplines," click on "Figure.")
Roller Skating Association International Celebrates National Roller Skating Month
In October of 2008, the Roller Skating Association International (RSA), along with skating center owners across the country and worldwide, will celebrate National Roller Skating Month. Their objective is to promote the health, fitness, and fun benefits of roller skating.
Roller skating has been known for decades as a safe, fun activity for children, teens and families, and now those same people are recognizing that roller skating provides a major means of physical fitness and a fun addition to leading a healthy lifestyle. Roller skating provides a complete aerobic workout and involves using all of the body’s muscles, especially the heart, and is a great activity to help fight the growing problem of childhood obesity. In conjunction with the President’s Challenge, a program of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, the RSA introduced a national fitness program called Skate A Million Miles that targeted children and reminded parents and other consumers that roller skating is a fun and healthy activity for everyone, especially young people.
Skating continues to be an economical, fun and safe source of family entertainment in an increasingly challenging economy and is a great opportunity for children and teens to develop new friendships in their community. In addition to skating, some roller skating centers now offer other activity-oriented entertainment options, such as climbing walls, soft play climbing areas or laser tag.
Roller Skating Association International, is a not-for-profit trade association representing skating center owners and operators; teachers, coaches and judges of roller skating. The association is the leading advocate for one of America’s most traditional and popular recreational sports. For more information on roller skating, or to locate a center near you, visit the RSA’s website at www.rollerskating.org or contact the RSA office at 317-347-2626.
Media Contact:
John Purcell
317-347-2626
jpurcell@rollerskating.com
Roller Skating Association Intl.
(317) 347-2626
rsa@rollerskating.com
Roller skating has been known for decades as a safe, fun activity for children, teens and families, and now those same people are recognizing that roller skating provides a major means of physical fitness and a fun addition to leading a healthy lifestyle. Roller skating provides a complete aerobic workout and involves using all of the body’s muscles, especially the heart, and is a great activity to help fight the growing problem of childhood obesity. In conjunction with the President’s Challenge, a program of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, the RSA introduced a national fitness program called Skate A Million Miles that targeted children and reminded parents and other consumers that roller skating is a fun and healthy activity for everyone, especially young people.
Skating continues to be an economical, fun and safe source of family entertainment in an increasingly challenging economy and is a great opportunity for children and teens to develop new friendships in their community. In addition to skating, some roller skating centers now offer other activity-oriented entertainment options, such as climbing walls, soft play climbing areas or laser tag.
Roller Skating Association International, is a not-for-profit trade association representing skating center owners and operators; teachers, coaches and judges of roller skating. The association is the leading advocate for one of America’s most traditional and popular recreational sports. For more information on roller skating, or to locate a center near you, visit the RSA’s website at www.rollerskating.org or contact the RSA office at 317-347-2626.
Media Contact:
John Purcell
317-347-2626
jpurcell@rollerskating.com
Roller Skating Association Intl.
(317) 347-2626
rsa@rollerskating.com
Awaiting Logan's Arrival - UPDATE
Logan Alexander Baun (our third grandson) arrived at 1:25 this morning. He was 6 pounds, 11 ounces, and 19 inches long. According to his daddy, he has a full head of dark hair, and Mama and Baby are both doing well. As soon as I have pictures, I'll share!
Awaiting Logan’s Arrival
How exciting is this? Logan (our third grandson) may be coming any day now, instead of at the end of the month, and we are so excited while awaiting his arrival! For those of you who may not know, Curt’s son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Jessica, are expecting the arrival of their second son, Logan, any day now. Logan will be Ethan’s little brother, who I’m sure you’ve heard me talk about (especially since we just visited them in Myrtle Beach, SC). Our other grandson, Matthew, lives here in Youngstown with his parents, Bill (Curt’s oldest) and Amy.
Logan was supposed to be due on Halloween. However, after Jessica’s doctor appointment last week, they moved up his due date to October 10-17. Then, after her appointment yesterday, they adjusted again to be this weekend! We’re really hoping he comes today, since that would give us a birthday on October 3 (Logan), November 3 (Curt/Grandpa), and December 3 (Me/Grandma)! So, we are armed with our cell phones, and I’m sure I’ll jump every time mine rings today!
Anyway, I just love this part of things - the speculating…what will he look like? What color hair will he have? How big will he be? I’m sure all parents/grandparents go through it, but since I’ve never had children, I don’t really know. I’ve only been through it with Jacob (my nephew), Megan (my niece), Ethan, Matthew, and now Logan (our grandsons). The thing that I find funny is the fact that it is no less exciting no matter how many times I go through it! ;)
When Ethan was born, I celebrated (in Las Vegas) with a mini-bottle of champagne. I think that I’d better go get another one!
Logan was supposed to be due on Halloween. However, after Jessica’s doctor appointment last week, they moved up his due date to October 10-17. Then, after her appointment yesterday, they adjusted again to be this weekend! We’re really hoping he comes today, since that would give us a birthday on October 3 (Logan), November 3 (Curt/Grandpa), and December 3 (Me/Grandma)! So, we are armed with our cell phones, and I’m sure I’ll jump every time mine rings today!
Anyway, I just love this part of things - the speculating…what will he look like? What color hair will he have? How big will he be? I’m sure all parents/grandparents go through it, but since I’ve never had children, I don’t really know. I’ve only been through it with Jacob (my nephew), Megan (my niece), Ethan, Matthew, and now Logan (our grandsons). The thing that I find funny is the fact that it is no less exciting no matter how many times I go through it! ;)
When Ethan was born, I celebrated (in Las Vegas) with a mini-bottle of champagne. I think that I’d better go get another one!
Closed-Mindedness
I have been struggling with something over the past few days - I don’t understand how people can be completely closed-minded. I am currently reading and studying some books (thanks, Paul) that are…broadening my horizons, so to speak. My whole point in doing this is to make me more understanding of other people’s views. However, I have had comments made to me such as, “You’re being deceived.” I’ve even had offers from one who said that she would pray for me so that I’m not “led astray” by these views, which happen to differ from “the norm.”
Now, why would someone think that I’m being deceived or led astray just because I’m learning others’ points of view? Could it be because they are closed-minded? I don't really know.
Keep in mind that I never said that my reading/studying was changing my opinions and/or feelings on the particular subject. (Maybe when I’ve become more knowledgeable about the subject, I can feel confident to share it with you.)
I just feel that if I don’t understand where others are “coming from,” I cannot know where they are "going to." Does that make any sense?
Now, why would someone think that I’m being deceived or led astray just because I’m learning others’ points of view? Could it be because they are closed-minded? I don't really know.
Keep in mind that I never said that my reading/studying was changing my opinions and/or feelings on the particular subject. (Maybe when I’ve become more knowledgeable about the subject, I can feel confident to share it with you.)
I just feel that if I don’t understand where others are “coming from,” I cannot know where they are "going to." Does that make any sense?
General Update
I know that it’s been a while since I wrote anything, but as some of you know, we were away for a week, visiting family in Myrtle Beach. We had a wonderful trip, and it was so amazing to see how much our grandson, Ethan, has grown. He seems to be a happy little guy, and he now talks like crazy! I was just a bit disappointed that he took so long to warm up to us. He hasn’t seen us since October 2007, and he didn’t even let Grandpa Curt pick him up until the last night we were there. I guess that’s the downfall to being a long-distance grandparent. Now that Ethan talks so well, we’re hoping that telephone calls will help him remain familiar with us. We’re also trying to come up with other ways to make ourselves more familiar to Ethan, so we’ll see how that all works out. (Any ideas are welcome!)
On Tuesday evening, Scott (Curt’s son) called us to see how things were going since we got home. He also wanted to tell us that the due date for their second son, Logan, has been moved up. Logan was originally due on October 31 – a Halloween baby! However, after Jessica’s doctor appointment on Monday, they adjusted the due date to October 10. So, we are officially on “baby watch!” We have cell phones with us all the time – even Curt, who only takes his phone if he “needs it.” Every time the phone rings, we jump up to see who it is calling. It’s so exciting!
Even though we can’t get back to Myrtle Beach for the “Diaper Shower,” I’m hoping to talk Curt into going back to Myrtle Beach after Logan arrives. I really don’t think that it will take much, but we’ll see!
On Tuesday evening, Scott (Curt’s son) called us to see how things were going since we got home. He also wanted to tell us that the due date for their second son, Logan, has been moved up. Logan was originally due on October 31 – a Halloween baby! However, after Jessica’s doctor appointment on Monday, they adjusted the due date to October 10. So, we are officially on “baby watch!” We have cell phones with us all the time – even Curt, who only takes his phone if he “needs it.” Every time the phone rings, we jump up to see who it is calling. It’s so exciting!
Even though we can’t get back to Myrtle Beach for the “Diaper Shower,” I’m hoping to talk Curt into going back to Myrtle Beach after Logan arrives. I really don’t think that it will take much, but we’ll see!
September 11
You know, I always thought people were crazy when they would tell me things like, "I remember exactly where I was when JFK was shot..." or "I remember exactly what I was doing when I heard about…" I always thought, "Oh, yeah, right. How could you remember exactly?"
Then came September 11, 2001. I remember exactly where I was, what I was doing, and it is honestly a time in my life that I will never forget.
I hope that everyone takes a moment today to remember what they were doing and where they were when they saw (or heard, as in my case) the news. I also hope that everyone takes a moment to pray for all of the people who were victimized (in one way or another) on that day 7 years ago.
Then came September 11, 2001. I remember exactly where I was, what I was doing, and it is honestly a time in my life that I will never forget.
I hope that everyone takes a moment today to remember what they were doing and where they were when they saw (or heard, as in my case) the news. I also hope that everyone takes a moment to pray for all of the people who were victimized (in one way or another) on that day 7 years ago.
My Crazy Day
I'm a little bit bored at work, so I thought that I'd share what's happened during this - my crazy day, which isn't over yet.
First, I did something this morning that I can hardly believe. We gave away our piano! My nephew and niece started piano lessons, and we had wanted to get rid of the piano because our living room just isn't big enough for a baby grand. My mom decided that she would pay to have it moved, so as of this morning, it's gone!
We still have an old Yamaha electric piano in our "home office," but that thing hasn't been used in years. Curt's going to move it out into the living room, so he says. I don't know if I'll be able to adjust to it, since it doesn't have a full keyboard. However, Curt said that we'll shop for a new digital piano in the spring.
Then, tonight after work, I have to meet my dad in New Castle. My mom had to go out of town to be with her sister who is in the hospital, and I never got over to pick up Ethan's birthday gift. So, Dad is going to meet me - on the condition that I take him out to dinner! I jumped at the chance. I can't remember the last time that I went to dinner with my dad - just the two of us.
I'm hoping to be home sometime before 9:00 PM. (For those of you who don't know, I am usually asleep in the recliner by 9:30 PM, which is probably because we get up at 5:00 AM.) That also means that Curt will be stuck at home, rearranging the living room and getting stuff ready for the trip. That could be bad...
First, I did something this morning that I can hardly believe. We gave away our piano! My nephew and niece started piano lessons, and we had wanted to get rid of the piano because our living room just isn't big enough for a baby grand. My mom decided that she would pay to have it moved, so as of this morning, it's gone!
We still have an old Yamaha electric piano in our "home office," but that thing hasn't been used in years. Curt's going to move it out into the living room, so he says. I don't know if I'll be able to adjust to it, since it doesn't have a full keyboard. However, Curt said that we'll shop for a new digital piano in the spring.
Then, tonight after work, I have to meet my dad in New Castle. My mom had to go out of town to be with her sister who is in the hospital, and I never got over to pick up Ethan's birthday gift. So, Dad is going to meet me - on the condition that I take him out to dinner! I jumped at the chance. I can't remember the last time that I went to dinner with my dad - just the two of us.
I'm hoping to be home sometime before 9:00 PM. (For those of you who don't know, I am usually asleep in the recliner by 9:30 PM, which is probably because we get up at 5:00 AM.) That also means that Curt will be stuck at home, rearranging the living room and getting stuff ready for the trip. That could be bad...
Bible Study - Update - Myrtle Beach Trip
Unfortunately, I didn't get to go to the Bible study last night. Things really blew up with our upcoming trip to Myrtle Beach. First, we found out that our friend, Betty, couldn't go with us, due to her husband being in the hospital. This may not sound like a big issue to some, but we use Betty's timeshare when we go, so this was a bigger deal than one may think.
So, we got a "guest certificate" (for an additional fee), which would allow the remainder of the party to go without Betty. However, we then noticed that the reservation was for a one-bedroom unit, when it was supposed to be for a two-bedroom unit. (It's hard to sleep 5 people in one bedroom.) The company assured us that the one-bedroom could accommodate our party, but then they said that two of the beds were bunk beds! Well, Curt and I really aren't into the bunk-bed thing, and I don't think my parents (both between 65 and 70 years old) are up for getting into bunk beds! So after some arguing with them for screwing up the reservation, we ended up with NO PLACE TO STAY.
Talk about panic!!
So, we called my mom and kept getting her voicemail all evening. She finally called me back to say that they may not be going with us, since her sister (in New Jersey) was in the hospital. My mom and her other sisters are probably heading to Jersey this weekend or early next week.
Curt and I made arrangements to stay with his son, but then Curt decided that he wanted to stay on the beach or no where. So, we spent about 20 minutes looking online, and we found what looks to be a GREAT place to stay!
So, what ended up not being a great way to spend an evening didn't turn out too bad. We're still waiting to hear about Betty's husband and my aunt, who are both in the hospital (one in Cleveland, and one in Jersey). Nevertheless, we have a place to stay, and the trip is still on...thankfully!
So, we got a "guest certificate" (for an additional fee), which would allow the remainder of the party to go without Betty. However, we then noticed that the reservation was for a one-bedroom unit, when it was supposed to be for a two-bedroom unit. (It's hard to sleep 5 people in one bedroom.) The company assured us that the one-bedroom could accommodate our party, but then they said that two of the beds were bunk beds! Well, Curt and I really aren't into the bunk-bed thing, and I don't think my parents (both between 65 and 70 years old) are up for getting into bunk beds! So after some arguing with them for screwing up the reservation, we ended up with NO PLACE TO STAY.
Talk about panic!!
So, we called my mom and kept getting her voicemail all evening. She finally called me back to say that they may not be going with us, since her sister (in New Jersey) was in the hospital. My mom and her other sisters are probably heading to Jersey this weekend or early next week.
Curt and I made arrangements to stay with his son, but then Curt decided that he wanted to stay on the beach or no where. So, we spent about 20 minutes looking online, and we found what looks to be a GREAT place to stay!
So, what ended up not being a great way to spend an evening didn't turn out too bad. We're still waiting to hear about Betty's husband and my aunt, who are both in the hospital (one in Cleveland, and one in Jersey). Nevertheless, we have a place to stay, and the trip is still on...thankfully!
Bible Study
I have really been looking for some good sources of Bible studies, and I found one that sounds interesting. On Thursday nights, there is a non-denominational Bible study held at a church not far from my house, and I think I’m going to try it out and see what happens. (I wasn't real impressed by my initial contact with this group, but I'm all for second chances!)
They are starting tonight with a 30-week course in the book of Revelation. It sounds exciting to me, but 30 weeks is a LONG time. I would have to miss the third week right off the bat, since we’ll be going to Myrtle Beach that week.
In addition, there is a small group from New Hope (my new church) that will be “Blogging” through Revelation” (as they call it) over the next few months.
If it works out that I can attend this Bible study, it may be interesting to see what differences and/or similarities are shared between the two groups. This could be fun!
Just a bit of Venting...
This is one of those times where blogging my be therapeutic for me, allowing me to get out one of my frustrations. So, here goes…
Why is it that there are so many charitable organizations to aid in the relief of world hunger, world poverty, and world disease? In addition, we see so much of our government’s money being sent overseas as “aid” to other countries. What’s wrong with keeping that money here – in the USA – and using it here – in the USA – to combat poverty, hunger, disease, or whatever here – in the USA? I know that may sound a little selfish to some, but I'm just a little confused.
The United States is supposed to be soooo powerful – a “superpower” – yet we can’t even take care of our own citizens. What is that all about?
Is there really anything that we, as individuals, can do to improve these situations? We could, obviously, start right here in our own town, in our own state. Just see some of the interesting things I’ve read about over the last few days.
Doesn’t anyone realize that Cleveland, Ohio is considered the poorest city in our country? Cleveland also tops the list for having the most children living in poverty in the United States. The “poverty threshold” as stated by our government is $10,590 for one person, $13,540 for two people, or $21,027 for two adults and two children. Have you ever lived on that amount of money? When I was single, I tried to live on approximately $19,000 a year, while having a decent home and decent transportation. There were times when I lived on mac and cheese or PB&J for 3 days before payday because I didn’t have the money for anything else, and I was at nearly double the poverty level.
Then there is crime. I don’t understand how our government can spend billions of dollars overseas to “make the world safer” when they can’t even make our own country safe. In the top 20 most dangerous cities in the US, Cleveland, Youngstown, Cincinnati, and Dayton, Ohio are ranked 10th, 15th, 16th, and 19th respectively. No other state in the country had more cities on the “dangerous” list than Ohio. (On the bright side, Parma, Ohio was ranked 23 as the safest cities in the country.)
I just don’t understand, I guess.
Why is it that there are so many charitable organizations to aid in the relief of world hunger, world poverty, and world disease? In addition, we see so much of our government’s money being sent overseas as “aid” to other countries. What’s wrong with keeping that money here – in the USA – and using it here – in the USA – to combat poverty, hunger, disease, or whatever here – in the USA? I know that may sound a little selfish to some, but I'm just a little confused.
The United States is supposed to be soooo powerful – a “superpower” – yet we can’t even take care of our own citizens. What is that all about?
Is there really anything that we, as individuals, can do to improve these situations? We could, obviously, start right here in our own town, in our own state. Just see some of the interesting things I’ve read about over the last few days.
Doesn’t anyone realize that Cleveland, Ohio is considered the poorest city in our country? Cleveland also tops the list for having the most children living in poverty in the United States. The “poverty threshold” as stated by our government is $10,590 for one person, $13,540 for two people, or $21,027 for two adults and two children. Have you ever lived on that amount of money? When I was single, I tried to live on approximately $19,000 a year, while having a decent home and decent transportation. There were times when I lived on mac and cheese or PB&J for 3 days before payday because I didn’t have the money for anything else, and I was at nearly double the poverty level.
Then there is crime. I don’t understand how our government can spend billions of dollars overseas to “make the world safer” when they can’t even make our own country safe. In the top 20 most dangerous cities in the US, Cleveland, Youngstown, Cincinnati, and Dayton, Ohio are ranked 10th, 15th, 16th, and 19th respectively. No other state in the country had more cities on the “dangerous” list than Ohio. (On the bright side, Parma, Ohio was ranked 23 as the safest cities in the country.)
I just don’t understand, I guess.
Photo Contest Follow-Up
Although my photo did not get a ribbon or award of any kind (and it was displayed in a really crappy spot), it was really cool to see it hanging there with other photos. I studied the winners and thought that mine could've been right up there - really. I did notice, specifically, that four of the five or six ribbons awarded were "beach-related" sunrise/sunset pictures. Although mine had water in the picture, it just wasn't "beachy" enough! ;)
Now I have something to "shoot" for...
Now I have something to "shoot" for...
Photo Contest
After six years of saying, “I should enter this picture in a contest...” I finally did it. I entered a picture in the photography exhibit in the Canfield Fair. It's a great shot of a sunset behind a palm tree leaf. It was taken on our honeymoon at Disney, which was before digital cameras were real popular - only six years ago, if you can believe that!
The photo contest judging was on Tuesday, but I haven’t found out if I won anything or not. I am very curious, but considering that it has been raining, we have yet to get to the fair. I’d like to go tonight, but Curt will be stuck at the rink until who knows when. If he gets out early, we may go tonight. If not, we’ll definitely go this weekend. I’ll let everyone know when I find out.
The photo contest judging was on Tuesday, but I haven’t found out if I won anything or not. I am very curious, but considering that it has been raining, we have yet to get to the fair. I’d like to go tonight, but Curt will be stuck at the rink until who knows when. If he gets out early, we may go tonight. If not, we’ll definitely go this weekend. I’ll let everyone know when I find out.
First Blog
Okay, first of all, I really know nothing about this whole “blog” thing; I just know that everyone seems to keep in touch through “blogging.” So, I thought that it might be a fun way for me to get these crazy, random thoughts out of my head. Maybe, if I type them out, I can get rid of them…or make better sense of them! Maybe I can get some of my ideas moving (when it comes to skating) or get my head in tune with my heart, simply by typing out these little messages every now and then. Heck…maybe blogging can be therapeutic! I guess it doesn’t hurt to try, right?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)