How long?

Can't believe it's been so long since I posted - I must re-start my blog just for saving memories if nothing else.  For now, though, it's off to bed - up in 6 hours to exercise, then head to Wisconsin for a wedding!

mid July

Have had a wonderful week so far...the Star Wars Concert last nite (tickets were Kevin's Father's Day present) was wonderful and we had a great time. Watching the orchestra on the big screen was as exciting as some of the Star Wars movie excerpts (there were quite a few "replays" during the performance).

Tomorrow we will celebrate a good friend's birthday at the Danish Breakfast - always a fun time! And with the upcoming weather forecast for less humid - but still very warm - weather, I should be able to accomplish a good deal in the yard tomorrow afternoon.

Altogether a great week...

Grammy day

Back with the boys today - no two days are ever the same! The boys slept well, with Simon waking up first. As soon as he finished eating, Elliott was awake...but not very hungry, since he didn't finish his bottle!

We got a few pictures taken...had some play time together on the floor...and then they were both ready for naps. Oh, was it quiet - they both fell asleep as soon as I realized they were tired. Then they both awoke at the same time - both happy and smiling - so I figured I'd feed Elliott first since he hadn't had as much to eat.....but Simon thought otherwise and was not happy being the one left out. So we did the "grammy two-feed" and both had their bottles at the same time. Now on to more play time!

Love being with these boys!!

Hot days of July

Thank goodness we added central air when we remodeled the house a few years ago...I am so thankful - and feel so lucky - to know that our family members have a/c and can afford to use it!

Very thankful, too, on this hot day, that I'm here with the Grands for the day...what a delight they were last night. Both boys are learning to eat from a spoon (and parents are learning to feed from a spoon!)...takes a lot of practice - and patience - on both sides, but all are doing well. It's early in the morning as I write, and as always, I look forward to the time the boys wake up and we can begin our day together. Their "here I am, come and love me - and make me laugh" smiles are beyond description, so of course I need to capture as many as I can in digital format...and then send some off to their mom during the day (hope she enjoys receiving them as much as I do providing them!).

I can hardly wait for the rest of Erin's birthday present to arrive...and hope she likes it as much as I do. Only a couple more weeks and my youngest will be 28 - yikes! I know it hasn't been that long since we brought that little girl home!

Time to get the coffee going...it's morning!!

SUMMER 2010 - a summary of the last year!

How did I let nearly a year go by without posting? I realize this blog is mostly for my own "enjoyment", but nevertheless, I wish I had been better about posting consistently.

I knew...but will still amazed...at how quickly and easily I would fall in love with grands. Elliott and Simon are such a joy...and I treasure the opportunities the kids have given me to be such an integral part of their everyday lives. It has been such a pleasure - a thrill! - to be involved in their daily care, watching them grow and develop, and tending to the Grammy/grandson relationship that is so dear.

While I only have positive words and thoughts surrounding both Barry and Beth, watching my son become such a dedicated father has filled me with even more love, pride, and awe. His involvement in the day to day care of the boys, his love, care, and concern for his lovely wife...and his engaging little boys, has been a exciting to watch. He fell in love quickly with those little guys - and my heart overflowed as he reminded me of the "how tos" of diapering, bathing, feeding etc. - skills he learned from those wonderful NICU nurses.

I think back on the myriad of feelings I recall having as a young (new) parent - how I felt helpless when I couldn't "fix" whatever was wrong - couldn't stop the crying...or couldn't seem to get it "right"...how I felt so utterly responsible to make sure that I was the "best" mom (and wife, and teacher, and....) when now I realize that just "being" was the best - to do what I could, with positive intention and love, to be a parent who loved, and lived and, most importantly, laughed and enjoyed my family. Regrets don't do much...so I don't want to waste time and energy on what I can't change..but I DO want to do whatever I can to encourage, support, and love these new young parents. From my point of view, they're pretty special people...who are providing the greatest start for their little guys!

And then my thoughts go on to my daughter...my amazing Erin...the one who has made her way through a number of challenges, and keeps on going. I'm just as proud of her accomplishments as I am her tenacity...and I know she'll reach whatever goals she sets. She's had quite a journey from the teen years to adult hood, and I'm proud to be her mom!

This summary of the year wouldn't be complete without my thoughts on my dear husband - the new Grampa! - with whom I'll soon celebrate 37 years of marriage. Although he's not able to be with Elliott and Simon nearly as much as he'd like - work and Scouts drive difficult calendars - they "drive" his questions and our conversations. I love seeing the twinkle whenever he talks about those two...he proudly carries his photo album full of the newest pictures...and I know he's looking forward to the day his schedule is less hectic and he can spend as much time with them as he'd like.

What's next? We'll see...I DO plan to post at least weekly...

Good grief!!

Almost 2 months since my last post - that's ridiculous! Yes, it's been a busy summer, and yet it doesn't seem like we've even HAD summer yet. I've been working - and working out - camping - being busy...and being lazy. The best part of the summer, though, has to have been the time we had with family and friends at Burt Lake. What a wonderful daughter-in-law we have (just like the rest of her family!!) to allow us to share in their special camping experiences. The Maier's are a special group of people!

Kevin's just had his first cataract surgery - and while it went well, he's tired and has some double/blurry vision. We know it will resolve and are looking forward to having the 2nd on completed in two weeks. After that it should be smoother sailing for him -at least as far as driving at night goes!

I'm busy making baby afghans (with lots of love included in those stitches!) and gearing up for the busy fall season. Next week marks my 40th class reunion date (it can't be!!), with Kevin's 40th celebration in mid-September.

Add Danish Festival - and the library used book sale - and the wrap-up of One Book One County - and more trips around the state for work....and the fall is sure to fly by, just like the summer did!!

Mid June

How on earth can it be mid-June (ok, past mid-June) already? I have so much to do this summer that I feel like the days are slipping by unfulfilled. Work is keeping me busy - two monitoring visits coming up, corrective action plans and grants to review....not complaining (love the work!), just so many things to do in dwindling days.

As for home, I'm working on a pet project (more on that in a few weeks) that keeps me busy in the evenings. Then there's the never-ending chase of cat hair! Speaking of which, one less cat is here in the house (for now...). Tumblebump has decided that he's destined to be an outdoor kitty, despite having lived indoors for all of his 10 years. He "escaped" about 10 days ago...we were able to capture him and bring him home, and he was MISERABLE!!! He kept trying to convince me (with yowls and knocking at the door) that he needed to be outside. The little bugger slipped right out through the garage again the other night...he came home (on the deck only - wouldn't come near the door) briefly last night, but we haven't seen him since. Somehow I think Chauncy is happy being the sole kitty in the house.

The rain has been welcome...everything is green and lush...but now the mowing needs to commence again. Yikes - it's getting long!! Perhaps tomorrow afternoon....or Monday....or....

We're looking forward to a graduation open house on Sunday, then Kevin's off to a Big Band rehearsal. Next week will find us both going in a variety of directions...we may even wave as we pass each other on the road!

Have a great weekend!

Wednesday Fun

Had a great morning at the gym this morning - 45 minutes on the elliptical (!), then used some of the other machines. No lifting today...no one there to spot.

Once I arrived home I was able to get a bit of work done towards upcoming monitoring visits...then off to play Mah Jongg. My new set is fantastic (thank you, Beth and Barry!), and brought me lots of winning games today. The soft-side shoulder bag is very easy to carry and I'm thrilled with my choice.

Now it's on to more monitoring preparation tonite as well as some getting some knitting up to date.

Ready for the weekend!

Busy day today - exercise first, then coffee, and on to Sue Ellen's new office building. It's a fantastic new (well, ok, remodeled) addition to Greenville. The office suites are colorful, tasteful, and "eclectic"...or is it "abstract"?

I was able to get the 6 deck planters finished today, as well as a planter in front of the garage. A few grasses and other plants were placed in various gardens, but many more await their turn tomorrow...as does the grass. It's gotten SO long in the past week....lots of mowing to do.

So onto another weekend - Kevin and Erin work and I have WW in the morning, then over to Mom's with newspapers...and to see her new garden.

Flowers - and an Auction!

Wow...got lots of flowers at Trufant today - some at the flea market and some at the auction. The prices were pretty good today. Wish I could be there next week (it promises to be a huge flower auction), but I must work in Lansing that day.

Now on to planting - hopefully I can begin later this afternoon (after an annual medical appointment)...or tomorrow. Lots of planters to fill...some to plant in the ground...maybe even another hanger.

Had a great day with LOTS of laughs at Connie's playing Mah Jongg. The "founding" partners played all afternoon (and some of us into the evening as well!). When I arrived home, there was my new Mah Jongg set! I love it!! Now I just need to wait for the 2009 cards to arrive.

Kevin is off tomorrow, since he works on Saturday....I'm hopeful he can sleep in and get some much needed rest. But I'm also hopeful that we can get the poor 'ol truck in for some work. Seems we "may" have to plan a memorial service (for real!) this time...but then again, who knows? That truck has been a great little wonder for quite a few years, and may just have another life in her somewhere!

It's not dead...just stunned!

Remember the old Monte Python dead parrot sketch? That's the way Erin's car can be described...not dead, just stunned. She, of course, is thrilled that her car can be resurrected...not only for the cost, but because she loves that car.

Busy, busy time of year. Planning for 40th class reunion, working, yard work...you name it, it needs to be done!

I hate cars...but what else is new?

Cars. Ugh. Erin's car is at the shop with some transmission concerns...not good...then there's the old Ford truck...which ALSO has transmission problems. YIKES....this one will need to be towed in, though, so hopefully we can get it in next week. In the meantime we'll need to juggle...anyone have a good - but cheap - car for sale??

Spring/Summer

What an absolutely gorgeous day. The lawn is raked...myrtle is being moved from where it's overtaken a garden to under a blue spruce...the camper is in the front yard waiting for a good wash/cleanup.

And I'm ready to get some sleep! Not that I did all of the above items, but it was just a long day after a short night. Off to WW first thing in the morning, run some errands, then play mah jong tomorrow afternoon at Gisela's.

So next on the list is to clean the office! What a mess it has become. By this time next week it should be in shape!!

Finally checking in

Can't believe it's been over a week since I checked in here. The week was busy with 3 days of training in GR...a full day of conference calls....and catching up on things around here today. Hopefully I can get into the yard tomorrow and begin to muck out the branches, leaves, etc. What a mess!

Still trying to de-clutter - 3 bags of papers and one box of cardboard readied today for recycling next week. Hope to get more accomplished yet today - and over the weekend. Too much "stuff" is making me twitch....

Looking forward to the weekend, though - Kevin is actually home this weekend, so perhaps we could even go to dinner on Saturday!

Busy week

Well, it's been busy lately. Although my cold makes it difficult to do much of anything else while I'm breathing, it's getting better! I've been able to work out a bit in the fitness center and pool (twice this week!), and just started back with my exercise group doing the Biggest Loser dvds. I wasn't able to do all of the moves today (seems my left foot toes just don't want to bend yet...sure hope that changes sooner rather than later), but it felt good to be able to begin to participate again.

In addition to just getting around better, I've also been working many, many hours on a project for MDE - planning, scheduling, and conducting many conference calls. The biggest hurdle is getting various schedules together, but it's all working well! Ten calls currently scheduled and ready to finish...two still to line up (for now - more to come later)...and 17 completed!

Now I need to get busy on the yard work!!

Spring!

It's spring! I can't remember a time when I've wanted spring as much as I do this year.

I'm getting along walking without my cast - although my foot remains swollen much of the time (that's to be expected), I surely don't miss the sound of velcro ripping as I'd hurredly put the cast on upon awakening. I've worn two different pairs of shoes...many remain that I cannot yet wear...but before long I'll be in sandals anyway.

Hoping to get lots of work done today - both "on the job" and off. Kevin's off today, but is already busy with some Boy Scout related projects. I'm still hopeful he can tackle one project that I have in mind....

Lookin' forward to the weekend.....

Today's the day...

I've been looking forward to. I visit Dr. Buchanan this afternoon to find out how my foot is healing. Funny, but I'm almost fearful of trying to stand/walk without the cast...my leg/knee/foot all feel so weak - and floppy! But nevertheless, it's an exciting day!

Weekend!

Well, I'm really getting used to moving around well in this cast...sans crutches. I know that when the doctor gives me the ok to walk without the cast that my mobility will slow down somewhat (at least it has the other times I've been in a cast - yikes! this is the 3rd time!!). My foot continues to swell quite a bit during the day, but no real pain, so I'm really feeling great.

Lots of work accomplished this week, setting up/coordinating conference call reviews with local school districts. It's great to be able to work from home, not having to hassle trying to get a convenient parking place, or wondering about weather related issues. I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to take this task on...it will keep me busy for many more days.

Had a fun 72nd birthday breakfast for my friend, Char - her actual b'day is St. Paddy's day, but the group celebrated this morning. What a gal!!

Now it's on to the weekend...perhaps there'll be a mah jong afternoon tomorrow?

Wow

What a morning! I went to the fitness center and pool - first time in nearly 6 weeks! It felt funny taking the elevator to the fitness center, but I didn't want to waste my energy - or hurt my foot - on the stairs (a gal in a cast can only do so much exercise!). I did one round of bench presses (60 pounds...down from my usual, but a place to start). Next time I'll plan to work upper body for a bit...there are a few machines I can do while still restricted.

The pool was next. The lifeguard helped me scoot down the steps and get on a noodle to bicycle around. Typically I'll do that for an hour, but since it's been a while I found I was tired after about 30 minutes. I had wanted to stay longer (the rest of the work-out group was coming in at 8....I got out about 7:55), but didn't want to push past my limit the first time back. It worked well...I came back up the stairs on my bottom, lifting up with my arms, dried off my leg/foot, got my cast back on and, with the lifeguard holding a chair, got back into standing. It felt good!! I can hardly wait to go back on Wednesday.

Sunny Wednesday

After a busy Monday - going to town, working around here, etc. - I went to the MDE to work on Tuesday. Boy, am I out of shape now! I left home about 5:30 a.m. - worked until 3:30, and came home exhausted! I stumbled my way to bed by 9, and was out when Kevin and Erin each arrived home.

Today I'm beginning a project for the MDE - I love this kind of project...it can be accomplished at home, without the hassle of driving in to Lansing.

Beth and Barry sent some photos of the trip - wonderfully green, warm-looking pictures...just what I needed to assure myself that warmer weather is coming!