Minnesota Musings

A New Blog - A New Address

2011-09-05T18:35:00.002-05:00

I won't be updating this blog in the future.

You can visit me at my current blog starting in September at the following location:
Musings From Minnesota

Enjoy!

Where Did June Go?

2011-07-04T13:16:00.002-05:00

It's the 4th of July and I didn't post in June at all. Where did the month go?

Bill and I left for Little Rock on June 3 and I didn't get back to Minnesota until June 22. I stayed in Little Rock for 2 weeks. From there I drove to Clearwater, Florida with Sarah and Becca to help them get settled in their apartment. I flew home from Florida to go back to work on June 22.

We spent a week in Arkansas with Megan and Lucy while their parents were vacationing in Hawaii. The girls were delightful and it was great to have lots of granddaughter quality time with them.

Bill drove back to Minnesota that Saturday and I stayed with the girls until Will and Elizabeth returned on Monday at noon. That second week was great family time. Sarah and Becca drove down from Minneapolis on Wednesday, stayed three days, and then drove on to Florida. I joined them as their co-pilot and navigator (with a little help from AAA and their road maps) and we made it to Clearwater by Monday at noon.

Sarah and Becca signed a lease and got settled in their new apartment. We made it over to Clearwater Beach Tuesday evening in time for a lovely sunset. I flew back to Minnesota early Wednesday morning and was able to get to work by noon.

Sarah Graduates on Saturday

2011-05-22T22:21:00.002-05:00

Another Holman graduate! Great day for a great accomplishment!

We are so proud of our new college graduates!

Becca - Our Graduate

2011-05-15T23:36:00.004-05:00

It was a beautiful, sunny day as Becca successfully graduated from the U of MN. Family and friends gathered to help her celebrate. Congratulations, Becca!

More photos:

My Birthday - April 28

2011-04-28T23:00:00.012-05:00

My daughters and I met for dinner tonight. Great food and a wonderful dessert.

I received flowers from Bill in my favorite sunny color.

I arrived home to a phone message from my granddaughters. Sorry I missed their call but it was great to hear their cheery voices.
I also received a beautiful video from their mommy so I can hear and SEE the girls singing over and over.
You too can watch the video for yourself HERE.

My friend Kathy took me to lunch for my birthday at Olive Gardens and we shared a huge piece of chocolate cake for dessert. Yes - my diet starts on Saturday.

Birthday's eve was spent with friends at our monthly craft gathering and I was showered with gifts, projects and even a candled birthday cupcake. Thanks everyone.

I am taking a three day weekend so the celebration can continue. But actually I think I am about partied out.
FOCUS TIME AGAIN:
Back to my fitness focus once again which means exercise, exercise, exercise and eating healthy. More news and my plan soon.

Saturday Fun in Minnesota

2011-04-03T12:17:00.000-05:00

It is finally beginning to look like Spring will actually arrive here in our cold state. We have had 5 months of winter and now the outside temperature is almost reaching the 50s. We may see a few days here without winter coats and mittens required.
Bill and I took advantage of the warm weather and sunshine on Saturday to do some cleaning and have lunch at a familiar place near and dear to our hearts in M's old neighborhood.

I think the new design on the cup is so cute. We love the macaroni and cheese. Bill had their new ADULT Version Mac and Cheese.

Goodby March

2011-04-02T03:23:00.001-05:00

Just where did this month go? March came and went and it's almost April but still not much Spring weather here. They are predicting snow for tomorrow. But maybe it will be sunny and nice this weekend.

On the office front, there has been lots of re-modeling on our floor this month with new staff moving in just last Monday. And with the new employees came the completion of the nice new modern kitchen too. There's coffee, soft drinks, with table and chairs.

Back in the Gym Again

2011-02-20T11:19:00.006-06:00

After a month of little gym time, I was back at LA Fitness Saturday morning with my trainer. I love boxing, even though the left, right, left form is taking some extra learning time for a directionally challenged person like me. It is definitely a good workout. I spent 30 minutes boxing and then 30 minutes on the cycle. It's fun to be back.

Getting Fit

2010-11-14T20:01:00.001-06:00

I did it - I signed up at the Fitness Club this weekend, had my introduction class Sunday evening and even signed up for a personal trainer.
What have I done?
I meet with my trainer again Monday evening and then I'm taking an aerobic class too.
I decided that I wouldn't do this without a lot of support. They have a special until November 15th for training so I went for it. Melissa and Sarah, I'm counting on you as my cheering crowd.

Yes, I'm happy now because I just finished that set of exercises. But will I feel the same tomorrow?

Getting Mail

2010-10-24T00:50:00.000-05:00

We've got mail:
Our oldest granddaughter is studying the letters of the alphabet this year in her Pre-K class.
Recently they studied the letter "L" and she sent a letter to her favorite grandparents in Minnesota.
M and a friend are mailing their letters:

Here is the result:

I taped it to the PC so Grandpa won't miss it when he got home from work on Friday!
Thanks, M for brightening our world.

What I Learned From My Dad

2010-10-13T01:16:00.000-05:00

My dad, Bob Eide, July 2008 at Emily's wedding in Colorado.

My dad passed away a year ago. My daughter and I traveled to Colorado for his memorial service.
We left Minnesota ahead of the snow and we were greeted in Colorado with sunshine and beautiful warm fall weather.
October 2009
Beautiful fall day - a perfect day to celebrate my Dad and a smile from M.

What my dad taught me:
Keep walking, and walking and walking.
Take pictures and capture the everyday moments to share.
Invite the family to eat - pancake breakfasts and spaghetti dinners were his specialty.
Keep in touch - type and send a letter every week to family and friends.
Read, read, read - it keeps the mind active and your knowledge current in a changing world.
Attend the family celebrations - he never missed a grandchild's graduation (high school or college) or a family wedding.
Joy in traveling - there's so much to see and so much rich history to enjoy along the way.
Travel the back roads. The people are friendly and home-cooked meals are the best.
And much, much more.
Thanks Dad for being a big part of my life.

That's me in the middle - several years ago. The handsome one is my dad!

Beautiful Fall Ground Cover

2010-10-11T21:44:00.001-05:00

I've noticed that the ground cover this fall is just a colorful as the bright leaf colors. While driving to meet a friend on Sunday, I was amazed at all the purple and lavender among the red, yellow and browns from the wild flowers. I'm not sure what it is (some weed, I suppose) but it makes a beautiful bouquet fitting for a queen's table.

For the Sport of It -- From the Spectator's View

2010-10-04T23:07:00.000-05:00

October 3, 2010 - Metrodome - 7:30 AM as the sun is just coming up.
We had a long busy Sunday. We were up early to pick up the family runner in St Paul and get her to the Dome by 7:30 AM and the starting line for the TC Marathon.
We spent the rest of the day chasing the participants to various locations to cheer them on and glimpse our daughter zooming by.

And they are off! Cheering them on at Hennipen Avenue - first mile out of the 'gate'.
I missed Sarah by a block - lots of runners in this photo, but not Sarah.

Nine miles into the race- Minnehaha Parkway and 35 W - under the bridge.

Running feet.

At 22.5 miles of running -- Summit Avenue in St Paul:

Lots of runners, and many spectators! Even a band to pulse the runners on! Great fun.

Again, no Sarah photos. Bill and I are posing as spectators. When Sarah arrived we cheered and clapped but did not stop her for photos. Check it out at the finish line.

The band was great!

Next stop - on to the Finish Line.

We had a great view of the runners at the finish.

We met our winner at the end of the race. Great accomplishment, Sarah. We are so proud of you.

Sarah after the race. Great job.

Leaving on a Jet Plane - for Paris

2010-09-22T22:32:00.001-05:00

No not me. I wish.
Our daughter heads for Paris tomorrow for a 10 week internship. She is studying abroad this semester as a U of MN student.
Oh, to be young!
Becca, please keep us posted on your adventures and the sights you see. Best wishes for a safe trip.

Bill and I had dinner with Becca at California Pizza Kitchen before she prepared to leave on her trip. We will miss her happy face here in the neighborhood.

Sidewalk Cafe - Minnesota

2010-09-15T07:42:00.000-05:00

I met my daughter at Starbucks after work for coffee. (I'm not saying which one but here's a hint - she is soon to be seen in a sidewalk cafe in Paris, France!)
I am excited for her and the wonderful adventure she is able to experience. Here's to safe travels and a wonderful time in Europe!

She also took a photo of me with one of my favorite places in the background.

Don't you just love beautiful Fall days outside? I do!

Agenda and Some of the Fun in Detroit Lakes

2010-08-28T14:53:00.001-05:00

I'm back from 'Fishing' with my family in northern Minnesota. Several of us met in Detroit Lakes for rest, relaxation and visits to the old family sites. My two sisters flew into Fargo from Denver and rented a car to drive to DL (an hour away). My dad's sister and her husband along with their two daughters flew to Fargo from Riverside, CA and drove to DL also. We all stayed in rented accommodations near the lake.

My sisters and I stayed at The Lodge on Lake Detroit. We had a suite with a bedroom and separate living, dining and kitchen area.
The motel opened in May of 2006. We recommend it and would love to stay there again.

Our room is at the end on the second level.
This is the wonderful view from our walk-out patio.

I joined the family on Saturday afternoon. The agenda was already full by then but I kept us organized by marking off done and booked plans to keep us on track.
We had lots of places to see and people to meet.
Our Agenda(more or less):
Saturday:
Window shopping
Historical Museum of Detroit Lakes tour
Dinner at the Hotel Shoreham
Dessert at Essie's lake home with family friends visiting from Minneapolis
Sunday:
Attended the Congregational Church where our parents were members and we attended nursery
Lunch at the Sunlite Bar and Grill on Lake Floyd (great hamburgers)
Drive to Itasca State Park
Tour of the park and crossing the Mississippi at the head waters
Back to DL for wine and cheese at our motel and plans for the rest of the stay
Note: Uncle Marv had booked an afternoon on the lake on a pontoon boat to float around the lake. This never happened. The wind picked up Sunday morning during our stay and there were white caps on the lake every day. It would not have been a rather bouncy ride for us all.
Monday:
Walk on the beach, feet in the lake after breakfast
My sisters and I toured Detroit Lakes taking photos of family homes and lake sites
More shopping
Lunch at Long Bridge Resorts with Aunt Yvonne and Uncle Marv
Off on my own - I visited the Newspaper office in town where my father worked as a young man in the 1950s
Back to the motel to relax and read
Dinner at the Speak Easy with grasshopper pie dessert
After dinner visit at the condo where Aunt Yvonne, Uncle Marv and daughters, Nancy and Debbie stayed
Tuesday:
Visit and photos at the family cemetery plots
Another visit to the Historical Museum
Lunch at our motel (salad and fruit)
I rested while my sisters did more shopping
Dinner at the Fireside Inn
Wednesday:
Pack and load cars by 9:30 AM
One more stop - Back Porch Quilts
Drive home to Minneapolis

Disclaimer: This is the agenda and the stories as I remember it with photos taken to help me recall the facts more accurately (one can hope).

Saturday evening we all met for dinner at Hotel Shoreham. This is the place where Marv and Yvonne met at a dance and started dating.

Many years later, after four children, many grandchildren and even more great-grandchildren they are back where it all started.

After church on Sunday morning, we drove farther north to Itasca State Park.
We all had to walk across the head waters, and yes, one of us fell in. Debbie was a good sport about it and dried off eventually.
Here's the best I could do to record the event. Debbie is coming out of the water behind Carolynn. We were all laughing so hard with her, we forgot to take photos.

This is one of my favorite action poses. We all had our cameras and here Nancy is taking photos of Debbie and Carolynn on the log across the Mississippi. As you can see, she has more than one camera to use. It got pretty crazy taking multiple photos during several family activities, but fun too.

Monday morning we walked down to check out the beach at our motel. It's a lovely, sandy beach. We did go wading but didn't have time for a swim.
Sorry, Tami no goggles and inner tube photos this trip.

And other sights around town:

This is at the park on the lake and recreation center. They built a new playground but kept the old. My sisters, cousins and I played here many summers as children during our family reunions in Detroit Lakes.

YES, the water had white caps and it was breezy most of the week.

Lunch at Long Bridge:

Here is the bridge:

No time to share everything and you wouldn't want me to. Hope you've enjoyed my visit. I sure did!

A Few Views from My Vacation

2010-08-26T22:51:00.000-05:00

I am back from my fun retreat up north. I had a lovely time in Detroit Lakes with my sisters, my aunt and uncle and their two daughters.
Poor (I mean lucky) Uncle Marv was surrounded by all six of us women for five days!
The weather was wonderful - in the 70s and there was just enough breeze to keep the mosquitoes away most of the time.
Here are a few photos for your enjoyment until I have time to post more photos and tell the stories too.

The tall pine trees of Itasca Park:

All of us:

Aunt Yvonne and Uncle Marv:

Sunset at the lake:

Aunt Yvonne, me and Uncle Marv

View of the lake from our patio:

My sisters:

Come back for a visit soon. I'll be posting more photos and stories over the weekend.

Gone Fishing

2010-08-21T07:12:00.000-05:00

As soon as I pack up the car, I am on the road to northern Minnesota. I'll be joining my sisters and a couple cousins in Detroit Lakes for a fun girl's family reunion.
I'll be back in a few days with lots of photos and stories. Until then, packing my fishing pole and heading out to join family.

My Stampin Up Demonstrator Site

2010-08-15T13:41:00.001-05:00

My Stampin Up demonstrator site is now ACTIVE! You can check out products and projects by selecting it HERE or from the 'Stampin Up with Janice' FRIENDS AND FAMILY link on this blog.

A Walk Around the Lake

2010-07-15T20:27:00.000-05:00

Rosa joined me for the lunch hour today and we walked all the way around Normandale Lake. It's over a mile; we walked it in an hour.
It was fun to finally see the other side of the lake and wonderful exercise for us too.

A Beautiful Sunset

2010-07-07T22:09:00.000-05:00

We had another heavy rain late this afternoon. It rained so hard during my drive home from work that I had to pull into a parking lot and wait for the sun to come out.
Then the traffic to get south of the Minnesota River was the worst so far this year.
Good with the bad:
We were blessed with a wonderful sunset this evening outside our townhouse window! Why is the sunset the brightest when the sun comes out after a rain storm?

More Summer Flowers and a Waterfall

2010-07-07T22:01:00.000-05:00

Happy July

2010-07-05T22:16:00.001-05:00

Happy 4th of July. We had a rather quiet one here in Minnesota.
It was nice to have three days off but I must say I didn't do much except rest, rest and rest. But we all need a weekend like that once in awhile.
Sarah and Becca were here for a late lunch on Sunday and stopped again for a visit on Monday. No photos taken (Can you believe it?) but just no one in the mood.
We had a lot of rain and we have having more here again Monday evening.

My granddaughters had fun in AR with their Daddy home for the weekend (W had the weekend off from his new job training). I talked to them on Sunday evening. So fun.
E decorated t-shirts and made skirts for her girls for the holiday. So adorable I had to share - the outfits and the babies!

Tomorrow it's back to work again. Hope you all had a great weekend.

Goals for This Week

2010-07-01T20:05:00.000-05:00

Goals this week:
Two of my goals for this week were to get the oil changed in our car of recent purchase and to continue attending a weekly summer study called 'Wake Up Call'.

I stopped at Goodyear this morning at 8 AM to get the oil changed. It took about 45 minutes.
I love the morning crew. They are my favorite and they all came out for a break as my car was finished.
Cliff rang up the sale.

Here are the rest of the guys.

This is the third week for a study on Psalms. We have been meeting at 7 AM on Wednesday mornings. My goal is to attend all six weeks and I'm halfway there.
It was my turn to bring pastry this week and I picked up donuts on the way.

Daily Walking Update and Flowers Everywhere

2010-07-01T19:35:00.000-05:00

I started walking daily exactly one week ago. I challenged myself to walk each evening before dinner but I love to walk at lunch time too. It's so great to get outside and away from the computer for at least 30 minutes in the middle of the day. The flowers are beautiful, there are lots of sidewalks and with camera in hand I've gotten some really great photos to share with my blog audience.

I love the flowers planted and wild around the office area and I still have the lake to explore. Many residents and office workers walk around the lake every day and I have yet to give it a try. That's my plan for next week and I'll make a point of sharing it with you. Tune back in for more adventures of the walking photographer in Minnesota later this month.

Hobby Update - Working Out at the Gym

2010-06-27T13:30:00.000-05:00

Bill joined the local YMCA recently and I was able to take a tour today. He needs a hobby and working out several times a week is just the ticket. The River Valley YMCA just opened in September 2009. They have lots of exercise equipment, have classes, and even a pool. It really is a great facility. Maybe I need a hobby there too?
Take a look. This is today (a Sunday) and everyone looks like they are having lots of fun. I have a 3 day pass so I'll be trying it out between now and the middle of July.

What's your hobby? What do you do to relax and stay in shape?

Walking Goal - 30 Minutes Every Day on Tour

2010-06-27T12:49:00.000-05:00

I am on Day 3 of my 30 minutes of walking every day. Bill and I were in Prior Lake for Sunday morning coffee and I took a walk down Main Street to get my 30 minutes in after. Main Street is cute and there are a few interesting shops I'll have to take a look at again soon when they aren't closed.

This is where we had coffee. No pastry. It looked good but I wasn't even tempted. Well, maybe just a little.

Here's a cute gift shop at the end of the street. The displays outside are so cute and reminiscent of days gone by.

Another cute shop.

Sign in town:

Happy Anniversary to Us

2010-06-19T00:06:00.000-05:00

Lovely dinner at the Roasted Pear and a movie at home. Great Evening.
We watched 'The Fountainhead' with Gary Cooper and Patricia Neal. Have you seen it? It's from a book by Ayn Rand popular in the United States in 1943.

Cheers!

It's A Boy!

2010-06-17T18:34:00.000-05:00

Emily had her baby this morning at 3 AM. It's a boy. Mommy and baby are doing well.

Congratulations to the proud parents and my sister and hubby - his grandparents!
Send more photos soon! Can't wait to shop. I love to shop for baby stuff. It's just the mailing part that I'm not real good at, but I'll do my best.

Lunch with Jo

2010-06-15T19:24:00.000-05:00

Here we are together again for a fun lunch at Kincaids with our favorite server (Jilliane - not pictured).
Nice break from work and it's great to see my friends. We'll have to do it again soon, Jo.

Memorial Day Weekend So Far

2010-05-30T21:47:00.001-05:00

Sunday's Evening Sunset:
There was a beautiful sunset tonight after a Sunday afternoon of rain.

Saturday Afternoon Scrapbooking

2010-05-15T21:51:00.001-05:00

I don't know how long it has been since I worked on a scrapbook.
I was invited to join some women working on their scrapbooks and of course I said, 'yes'.
I had supplies in a box of our Red Wing trip from a few years ago, pulled it out and joined the group.
Great fun! D's husband made us Frapacinnos,while we worked on pages.

I even finished my travel scrapbook - including journaling. But only because it was just Bill and me on the trip (no children or grandchildren) and Bill didn't let me take many pictures. This project was done in no time.

I arrived home in time to join Bill for dinner at Noodles and Company (now in Burnsville) and then we caught the movie 'Date Night' - really cute and hilarious!

Did you have a fun day too? Hope so. The weather was beautiful.

Wisconsin Road Trip

2010-05-04T22:48:00.002-05:00

I drove to Appleton, WI last weekend and stayed with my friend Wendy. She moved a year ago to be closer to family and I wanted to spend some time with her.
She is in a lovely townhouse with a great club house, pool and wonderful, caring neighbors nearby.

We toured downtown Appleton, the river front and Lawrence University.
We broke the tours into two days and didn't do a lot of walking since Wendy recently fell and broke her heel (Can you say OUCH?) and then a few days later fell again and broke her left wrist (another big OUCH). She gets around quite well on a scooter outside and inside too.

The weekend was spent at her house, eating, making cards, watching movies, and being entertained by friends that stopped by.
It was my kind of girl friend weekend - lots of time to chat, catch up on news, and relax.

Thanks, Wendy. I had a great time.

Wendy (above) and me (below) with a bear. We had lunch at Good Company.
Note to granddaughters - M and L: this bear has glasses just like me!

Campus tour:

The flowers were beautiful all over campus.

Wendy's house (my car is in the driveway):

A baseball game on Sunday evening - Wendy's son Paul is in a league.

Monday afternoon and time to get on the road again. Happy travels, until next time.

Happy Birthday Evening

2010-04-29T18:28:00.000-05:00

Our family met at The Good Earth to celebrate my birthday. I received gifts from my family and a chocolate ice cream from the restaurant.
Good food, fun evening, time with family = priceless.

From One Cube to Another

2010-04-26T18:42:00.000-05:00

Our office staff moved over the weekend. We packed up our PCs and paperwork on Friday.
We unpacked in the new office space on Monday.

I'm all packed up for the movers.

Settled in the new office already:

Some other sights around the office:

At some office cubes near me:

Now we can get back to work!

All in the Family Genes

2010-04-25T18:23:00.000-05:00

Passing on the genes within the family is an interesting adventure. Our children's children, better know as grandchildren seem to show signs early on (either in looks or personality) that they belong to your family.
As our first granddaughter grew from baby to toddler most of us agreed that she looked a lot like her mother.

We also thinks she looks a lot like her daddy.

One year old M.

And the little girl in the corner is M's mother.

Granddaughter #2 looks like her daddy's mother (me) and sisters.
One year old cutie L.

Grandma Jan and sisters - the younger version:

Check out WE Holman blog here for more cute photos of L as compared to G Jan and sisters as E points out.

Lunch with My Daughters

2010-04-15T18:09:00.000-05:00

Sarah, Becca and I met for lunch at the Good Earth today. We all love their food. I always have the Cashew Chicken Melt. It's the best. My currently veggie daughters had the Ginger Carrot Soup with a wrap or a veggie burger. Yummy.
We posed for a few photos outside after lunch in the nice, warm spring weather.
The photos are so fun, I had to share them all! What did you do out in the sun today?

Easter Sunday Family Time

2010-04-04T20:03:00.001-05:00

Sarah and Becca came down and fixed lunch for the four of us. We had bean dip and chips along with grilled veggie sandwiches.
They even brought their grill to fix the sandwiches on.
Great dinner! Fun break! Thanks girls.

The finished product - YUMMY!

Blog Worthy

2010-04-01T21:22:00.000-05:00

A New Car:
We found a car. Bill and I bought a second car (2006 Toyota Corolla).
We made the deal - just in time since he will be going in one direction, while I will be going in another to work on Monday.

Happiness - a car to get me to work and back.

More March Minutes

2010-03-26T23:06:00.002-05:00

More photos to share:
Along with a visit to the zoo, a museum and the neighborhood park, we had lots of fun with family last weekend here at home and about town.

Story time.

Pizza in a PINK Box

Baking a Cake

Lunch at Noodles and Company:

Cooking Outside:

The cake was good!

More posing by our little princesses:

Family Time

2010-03-23T22:23:00.000-05:00

I finally have time to catch my breath and share some recent family photos from this last weekend.
W and L were here Friday through Monday. Since W was on Spring Break we all met here in Minnesota for some quality family time.
My granddaughters are so delightful. It was great to have time for some fun activities.

Friday we visited the Minnesota Children's Museum. It was cold outside but great inside and a perfect day to explore at the museum.
Both girls found lots of activities that they could enjoy.

Saturday we toured Como Zoo. It was still a little chilly outside but most of the animal events can be enjoyed inside.
L loved the monkeys and the tiger. M thought the animals were great - flowers not so much, but she was willing to explore them with me.

Sarah and Becca were down Saturday and Sunday. They fixed dinner for us all on Saturday evening.

Sunday we went to church activities and had time for the neighborhood park in the afternoon.
Playing in the park is always a good opportunity for 'happy' photos. I was not disappointed.

Spring Cleaning

2010-03-18T23:42:00.000-05:00

Bill and I have been busy cleaning today - moving furniture around, making room for an extra car in the garage and getting out a few baby items for our granddaughters. It's almost like Christmas Eve waiting for Santa! We are anticipating the arrival of our son, his wife and their two children for the weekend. It doesn't get much better than this.
So picture this - same house - M and LG playing with books and toys...
Do you see it?

Come back next week for photos of our weekend adventures.

My Granddaughters

2010-03-10T22:39:00.001-06:00

I love my granddaughters. They are growing up so fast. E is a great sharer of many wonderful photos.
I am so excited that we get to see them in person soon here in Minnesota. Until then I am happy to have so many precious pictures to remind me of how sweet M and L are.
I miss them so much!

In the Great Outdoors

2010-02-27T19:31:00.000-06:00

Our Snowy World:
Capone and I took to the streets this morning (the sidewalks are icy and the parks are full of snow).
It was a sunny morning so we walked, he did what dogs do, and I took photos of the snow at our house.
The bushes are all covered with snow.
The roof is covered with snow.
Even our air-conditioner is covered with snow; but who needs air conditioning right now anyway.
We do have HEATING. All is well at our house.

March Here We Come

2010-02-25T22:13:00.000-06:00

Visitors
We will have family and friends coming to visit here soon.

Wendy is in town early in March and staying at our house Saturday. It's been almost a year since she left Minnesota and moved closer to her grandchildren.
It will be great to see her and have some quality time together again. (Photos to follow, of course.)

Will and his family are driving to Minnesota to visit later in March. I am so excited to see everyone. I saw them in October but it seems like forever!

Any grandmothers out there that can relate?

March is not the greatest month to visit Minnesota (although better than January); I'm hoping for good weather and great traveling roads for everyone.

Inspiration From a Fellow Blogger

2010-02-24T00:06:00.000-06:00

I have been inspired:
Kim at Life Beyond the Picket Fence has posted some of the things that she believes as an inspiration to us all.
Read what she has to say (link above) and then read my list here.
I Believe in:
• the love of God
• the wonder of being a parent to three wonderful children
• the joy of being a grandparent to two beautiful granddaughters
• the talents, support and intelligence of my husband
• writing things down (post-its have saved the day many times)
• spell check
• creative time to stamp, scrapbook, take photos, and update my blog
• learning, whether for an advanced degree, planning a garden or learning to knit
• saving instead of spending (most of the time)
• the fun of finding another stash of unpacked goodies in our garage
• the Minnesota Vikings – 2009 was a great season even if we didn’t get to the Super Bowl
• the calming effect of a cup of hot tea with cream
• the value of a smile
• the love of a pet
• the need for quiet time
• the need for girl-time even when you’re almost fifty
What do you believe in?
Inspired by: The creative masterpiece of Kim @ NewlyWoodwards

Saturday Shares

2010-02-20T16:10:00.001-06:00

Fresh Flowers in the House:
I picked up flowers on Friday and presented them to Bill as a gift for his successful completion of an exam earlier this week. I also benefit since they are on display in our front room. It's a way to celebrate a task well done and bring the thought of spring inside.

This is the time of year when we are waiting for spring weather, but know that it will still be winter for a couple more months. That's why we appreciate the spring flowers even if we can only have them inside for now.

Ready for Spring!

2010-02-15T16:24:00.000-06:00

I recently heard someone say that they are ready to smell the dirt. Can't you just smell the good clean earthy smell of soil ready for new plants to sprout?
In this land of snow and ice, it will be a while coming, but I too am so ready.

Just so you know - This picture was taken in June 2009. A girl can dream, can't she?

Just When We Thought the Road Was Clear

2010-02-14T18:54:00.000-06:00

SATURDAY ROADS
Traveling across town on Saturday, the roads were clear and the truck behind me was ready to drive 90 miles per hour (I let him go around). After a week to work and back at 5 miles per hour, anything above fifty is great - but watch out for pot holes. This winter has been cold, icy and snowy, even in Minnesota standards.
SUNDAY UPDATE
It's Sunday afternoon, Valentine's Day and snowing AGAIN. It seems that we are getting snow for all our holidays this year. We were snowed in for Christmas and New Year's Eve. Hopefully we will see dirt and flowers by July 4th. I am so glad that we are in a townhouse this winter and do not have to plow the driveway or sidewalk. We do however, still have to walk Capone (definitely worth it for the best dog ever). It was windy this afternoon and the snow drifts just keep growing.

To My Favorite Valentines!

2010-02-13T21:22:00.001-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day:

I wish I could spend the day with all of you. Looking forward to a weekend together soon.

New Baby in the Family

2010-02-04T23:00:00.001-06:00

Introducing Emma Grace:
Little Emma arrived at the end of December. She is my nephew Paul and his wife Sarah's first baby and my sister C's first grandchild. So cute!

My Top Ten Reasons to Blog

2010-02-03T19:51:00.001-06:00

Reasons I Blog
1. I can share all those photos of friends and family. It’s faster and cheaper that printing them.
2. I can share my day or week with others and encourage them to share theirs with me.
3. I can keep up with family and friend events.
4. I feel connected and part of the blogging community. My favorite blog links are available right on my own blog for one-stop access.
5. It’s my online diary.
6. It’s a place to share the things I love - flowers, fall leaves, cute cards and photography.
7. It’s a place that I can go back to and review what we were doing – a week ago, a month ago or even years ago.
8. It’s an online challenge – Does anyone have a comment? Does anyone read this?
9. It’s a chance to be creative. I could do that… I like that … It enables me to do more online shopping even though I should not.
10. It’s a place to comment on current events!
What are your top reasons for blogging?

Vital Friends

2010-01-28T23:44:00.002-06:00

Vital Friends: The People You Can't Afford to Live Without
By Tom Rath, Published 2006

I read this book on a break at work and shared it with co-workers. We had a great discussion!
There are countless ways to develop healthy friendships, but first you must learn to recognize the eight roles friends play in your life. Friends can act as:
• Builder (motivator)
• Champion (sing your praises)
• Collaborator (has similar interests, passions)
• Companion (always there for you)
• Connector (introduces you others, widens your circle)
• Energizer (always gives you a boost, makes you laugh)
• Mind opener (expand your horizons, embrace new ideas)
• Navigator (helps you make decisions)

Some friends fall into more than one of these groups. Not to worry. Author Tom Rath helps you ferret out what roles your buddy or co-worker plays in your life, or you in theirs. He offers definitions, space to list which friends fit which category, specific actions to take to strengthen each friendship and to establish new friendships.

Find out who your vital friends are and why you need them at work?

Just Around the Corner - February Celebrations

2010-01-27T21:32:00.000-06:00

Two birthdays are coming up on the Second of February -- My son and oldest granddaughter :)

Wish them Happy Birthday with me. Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday to you.

Fun is being planned - even though my son has a class that night. I just wish I could be there too. Why do they live so far away??

January Updates

2010-01-27T20:42:00.001-06:00

Snowy, very cold, cloudy, still icy and it's still January. That's Minnesota!

Do you get my point?
And this week is just as cold, the wind is chilling, and it is getting colder!

Just Me and Capone

2010-01-17T15:15:00.000-06:00

Finally able to capture a good me with help from faithful dog, Capone.
Obviously Capone is not as happy as he could be, but we can't have everything.
Bill says 'Capone didn't smile'. Thoughts on this???

Minnesota Snow

2010-01-16T08:29:00.001-06:00

I tell people that my blog is more about Minnesota than about Musing. The winter weather is a big part of life in our state and it is with us for half of the year. From November to April there is snow and ice on the ground and because it stays cold (actually freezing) the snow will remain for many weeks before we get snow again.
This is a view from our patio today - January 16,2010:

Guess Who I Saw on Saturday?

2010-01-12T20:43:00.000-06:00

While at Starbucks on Saturday for some coffee and some out of the house time, I ran into this special girl:

She's so adorable and just as perky as ever. Great chatting with you, M!

A Very Merry Christmas With Our Daughters

2009-12-28T21:31:00.001-06:00

Sarah and Becca were here tonight to celebrate Christmas. The snow has stopped and they both have the night off from work.
They brought tacos and had dinner with Dad.

Handmade bags from L are a hit!

New coats for the cold winter weather! Not a Christmas present but a necessity for our Minnesota winter weather.

Merry Christmas to All and to All a Good Night.

Christmas Morning

2009-12-25T12:03:00.001-06:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS:
My son called this morning to say Merry Christmas and remind me that we have their package to open - so we did.
Lots of beautiful surprises. See:

Hope you are all have a fun and jolly Christmas with your loved ones even if it has to be delayed a little.

Christmas Eve in Minnesota

2009-12-24T19:13:00.002-06:00

We are ready: tree is trimmed, packages are wrapped, guest room cleaned, pot roast is in the oven AND no one is coming.
I just have to share some decorations.

Bonnie, do you remember this one?

Hopefully Sarah and Becca will make it south tomorrow. Sarah get better. We'd love to see you both.

The Stockings are Hung ...

2009-12-22T22:29:00.000-06:00

We pulled out the Christmas stockings and the tree from storage this evening. The tree is up but not decorated. I still have two more days of work - we're getting there.

What do you think?

On a positive note, my cards are all in the mail and packages are all delivered out of town. Now to decorate the tree and shop for food. I also need to organize the guest room AGAIN for our daughters visiting later this week. It's always something, isn't it? It's well worth the reward - the joy of having the family together.

M Called to Chat

2009-12-20T22:37:00.000-06:00

My granddaughter called tonight. She saw 'The Princess and the Frog' yesterday. She called to say she saw Princess and the Frog, Merry Christmas, and I love you.
Just the sweetest. I wish it wasn't so far to Arkansas from here.

A Snowy Sunday in Minnesota

2009-12-20T15:57:00.001-06:00

We had a light snow this morning. It was just enough to decorate the neighborhood in white again on top of the eight inches we had earlier this month. I took a photo in the morning during the snow and then again later in the day when the blanket of snow had settled outside on branches and benches.

Later today - the bench on our patio. It reminds me of a typical December day - a pretty snow without the horrible chill and wind.

What's the weather like in your neighborhood today?

Cheers and Happy Holidays

2009-12-12T23:19:00.001-06:00

Tonight was our annual holiday fondue party. We had a wonderful dinner cooking our beef and shrimp and lots of good conversation.
After a leisurely dinner, we exchanged 'white elephant' gifts. It's a great start to the season.

Cheers

Great friends and the cooks in the kitchen

The fun exchange after dinner:

Did we have fun or what??

Photos of all the players, I think, except me --- I was busy taking all the pictures.

This is Worth Repeating ----

2009-12-11T19:22:00.000-06:00

I found this quote among my stash of good thoughts. Have a great day and a great weekend.
No photos today. Just a thought to share.

Today... I wish you a day of ordinary miracles ---

A fresh pot of coffee you didn't make yourself.
An unexpected phone call from an old friend.
A good sing-along song on the radio.
Your keys right where you look.

I wish you a day of happiness and perfection --

I wish you little bite-size pieces of perfection that give you the funny feeling that the Lord is smiling on you, holding you so gently because you are someone special and rare.

I wish you a day of Peace, Happiness and Joy.

Remember to make the time today to do something special for a total stranger.

HAVE A TERRIFIC DAY ... MAKE IT A GREAT DAY!

thankful for

2009-11-28T01:45:00.000-06:00

three adorable grown children
two beautiful granddaughters
my loving husband
family and friends - near and far
our cozy townhouse
flowers
sunny days
books to get lost in
clean laundry
vacuumed rugs
girlfriend time
blog parties
learning new things
walks with our dog
taking photos
creating new scrapbook pages

Adorable Girls

2009-11-14T17:51:00.000-06:00

I just had to share --
My adorable granddaughters in new jumpers that their mother made.

Saturday - Just Us and a Day Off

2009-11-07T17:05:00.000-06:00

Bill was home today. He's not working and it's Saturday. What's up with that?
I enjoyed having him home and getting his help.
Bill and I cleaned the house, picked up groceries, enjoyed the beautiful weather and now we are working on paperwork and our budget.
It's 63 degrees outside and sunny and NOT windy. It is a great day to be outside. Capone enjoyed the view from the patio.

Who Has A Birthday This Week?

2009-10-25T23:19:00.000-05:00

My baby girls, Sarah and Rebecaa have a birthday this week. They turn 22 years old on October 30th, the day before Halloween. Happy Birthday beautiful girls.

Remembering My Dad

2009-10-05T19:06:00.000-05:00

Back home in Minnesota for a visit this weekend, my dad passed away.
I can't imagine our family without him. He taught us the love of reading, the fun of photography, the importance of family and friends and the desire to write about life. We had lots of great family times and from his early boy scout years, many of them were spent outdoors -- hiking, walking, picnics, swimming and fishing.
He was a famous cook, known for his great pancake breakfasts and spaghetti dinners. One famous pancake breakfast for twelve here in Minnesota was actually prepared and eaten outside by Lake Harriet.

He cared deeply for his family and his many friends. He wrote letters and kept in touch with family and friends all over the Nation. He loved to travel and was on the road often. He will be missed by many.

Some Sad News

2009-10-04T22:06:00.001-05:00

We did our share of cooking this weekend. I cooked Thursday and Friday evening to entertain my father and his wife Ruth on Friday evening. Sarah and Becca were home on Saturday and cooked a wonderful meal for Saturday evening. We had cole slaw salad with cranraisens, garlic mashed potatoes, chicken corn chowder soup, deviled eggs, and freshly baked muffins. Lots of good home cooked comfy food.

Some Sad News:
The sad part of the weekend was getting the news from Ruth that my father passed away early Saturday morning at their motel near our home. It was an exhausting morning with the local police. the medical examiner, a Chaplin, and the staff at the motel(who by the way were all wonderful, understanding and so helpful). Bill, and my daughters rallied around Ruth and me to help us through the rest of the weekend. We moved Ruth into the guest room at our townhouse. Sarah and Becca went for groceries and cooked. Ruth and I made phone calls and tried to catch our breath after the death of her husband and my father.

Sarah and Becca left Sunday afternoon to get back to jobs, studies and their classes. Thanks so much for all your help on the home front.

Ruth is a real trooper. Bill and I helped her return her rental car and get to the airport so she could get an early Sunday evening flight back to Colorado.
I just had to take a photo of the famous 'Omaha' rental car to share with family.

The car was returned, bag checked and Ruth was delivered safely to the security check in. Safe travel wishes for her flight back to family in Colorado.
We will drive out later this month for the memorial service for my father.

Denver Visitors

2009-10-02T21:56:00.001-05:00

My dad and his lovely wife Ruth are here visiting from Denver for the weekend.

It's great to have them here.

My Youngest Granddaughter

2009-09-19T02:42:00.000-05:00

Proud Grandma Jan had to share a recent photo of LG. She just turned one and is already posing with sunglasses. So cute!

Missing Wendy

2009-09-17T21:16:00.000-05:00

Our Study Group started this evening for the Fall. Our previous leader Wendy moved to Wisconsin this summer after three years of leading our group.
It's a great group and we have a couple other members stepping up to lead - but Wendy you will be really missed.
Wishing you well in your new home. Come by and see us sometime.

September 13 Greeting - Happy Birthday to E

2009-09-13T17:38:00.000-05:00

Here's to a great day. Hope you are treated like a princess - all year long.

My Son is in Grad School

2009-08-29T13:22:00.000-05:00

I am so proud of my son for many reasons. He is a good son, a great husband, and a super daddy of two adorable girls. He also took an exam to apply for grad school, passed and was accepted to the Business Grad program at the Univ of AK.

I wanted to post a note to say how proud I am of him and I wish him the best. He will do very well.
W and Bill chatted about his new commitment during a relaxing evening in Arkansas last week.

I so wished they (my son and family) lived closer to Minnesota. But now I have a good excuse to go South in the winter (at least for one great big long weekend).

August Goals Completed - Now for September

2009-08-28T22:30:00.000-05:00

August was pretty productive and I was able to happily accomplish several goals that I posted earlier this month.
1. DONE - Take exam for certification and complete successfully.
2. DONE - Finish unpacking the remaining boxes in the garage(from our move in May) and get the second car in.
3. OOPS - Recycle clothes and make room for the ones I want to wear. Recycle shoes, purses and handbags too.
4. DONE - LOOKING GOOD - Set up my craft area.
5. DONE - Start holiday homemade cards with help from Stampin Up.
6. DONE - FUN ! FUN! - Take a road trip to Arkansas for LG's first birthday.
7. PARTIAL - I DID HELP BUT I STILL DON'T KNOW HOW TO GET THERE - Help Sarah and Becca get settled in their new apartment by the end of the month and learn how to get there on my own. Quite a feat for someone directionally challenged.
8. DONE - Take a card class and learn new crafty skills.

Not bad for one month, an exam, card class, holiday cards started, more move projects checked off and a road trip.

SEPTEMBER GOALS:
1. Recycle those clothes and accessories
2. Organize my card stash for gifting
3. Send a package of goodies to my family in Arkansas
4. Get September birthday cards out on time (that will be a first ever)
5. Read a Programming book for career growth
6. Practice SQL for work
7. Date night once a week with hubby
8. Sign up for a Bible study

After all the activity in August and Scrapfest in September, that's about all I'll have time for.
What are your goals for September? Anything special?

Arkansas and Back

2009-08-26T23:53:00.001-05:00

It all went way too fast.
We went, we had fun and we are back.

Birthday Girl - One Year Old

She loved her cards and tags but not the paper so much.

She gets to try again with another family celebration next week.
Unfortunately E was sick for this one and missed out so they are planning a redo for the end of August.

I had plenty of granddaughter time. It was the BEST!

Sarah Moves On

2009-08-10T20:32:00.000-05:00

The U-haul is packed. Off to St Paul and the newly painted apartment.
A few more stops and the furniture will be unpacked.

For now our second bedroom is empty except for a desk and the twin beds - ready for a sleepover whenever Sarah or Becca stop by.
Where did she go? Who do you think will miss her the most?

I'll miss you too. We'll come up and see you at the new place soon.
Stay tuned for more updates.

Successful Completion of Exam

2009-08-09T22:04:00.000-05:00

I finally finished my study goal and took my CSQA exam on Saturday morning. The test center was calm and quiet with only about 20 of us taking exams that day. I completed my exam is just under 5 hours. Now I wait 4 weeks to get the results but that's what happens when half of the exam is written as essay answers. I had to really watch the time because when your time is up, it's up! I was in the middle of my last essay question when the screen popped up with - "This portion of the exam is done."

Time to enjoy the rest of the summer before the 'snow season' comes to Minnesota.
How about you, any fun planned during the rest of the summer?

The Car Drama Continues

2009-07-31T23:12:00.000-05:00

I thought I had a photo of Sarah's car - the evil Jetta, but it is in the archives at the moment and I can't find it.
You all remember the blue Jetta. It's a nice looking car but it has lots of problems.
The latest antic is a dead battery. We took the car in for repair this evening and it now has a lovely new battery for the winter.
It received a new engine in January (while in CA) and has had several new parts added since it's return to MN in March.
Anyone up for a guess as to what it will need fixed next??
Since I don't have a recent photo of the car, I'll post a cute one of it's owner.

I did find a photo.
Not a very good photo - but it will have to do. No more road trips for this car!

Sarah and Becca and Harry Potter

2009-07-27T21:47:00.001-05:00

The girls and I went to lunch and a movie on Saturday.

We loved the new 'Harry Potter'. The characters are growing up so much. It's fun to go back to movie #1 and see how young they were.

Study, Study, Study

2009-07-13T21:51:00.001-05:00

I have one goal this month: Take my exam and PASS.
I will be testing for my CSQA Certified Software Quality Analyst certification. I am trying to spend as much time as possible reviewing and reading. My exam is scheduled for 8:00 AM on Friday, July 24, 2009.
Wish me luck. Keep me in your prayers.
I'll get back to my blog again after I finish the six hour exam that Friday.

4th of July Weekend

2009-07-01T22:48:00.000-05:00

Are you ready for the long weekend? Have you made plans?

My car is heading to Arkansas to see family while I stay here and entertain friends.
Sarah and Becca are spending the long weekend with their brother and family.

Family to visit - W, E, and nieces M and LG

My friend Tami is coming to my house to scrapbook, make cards, and watch movies with me.
It will be so fun to finally have some quality, one-on-one time with her - it's been awhile.
Tami's in the blue shirt (sorry I don't have a more recent photo but they were all archived after our PC crash at the end of May) I'll get a few updates this weekend.

Hope you all have a great weekend too.

June 18 -- Happy Anniversary

2009-06-18T00:26:00.000-05:00

Hubby and I have been married for MANY years.
Thursday is our .... Let's just say that it's closer to 40 years than 30, but who's counting.
Here's to many more! Happy day to us both.
Happy Anniversary, Bill!

Granddaughters - Life is Beautiful

2009-06-01T21:15:00.000-05:00

M and LG were here with W and L over Memorial Weekend to help with move packing. I was able to 'capture some memories' during a few free moments.
M is now 3-years-old and LG is 9 months. They are so adorable and they grow up so fast. I'm so glad they were able to come visit.
Here are a few photos of my cuties from that weekend:

A Place With a View - for Capone

2009-06-01T20:37:00.000-05:00

Capone has made his request and found a view he likes. When he's not out for a walk, greeting family at the door or under foot to watch a DVD, you'll find him resting here:

A Peak at our New Home

2009-06-01T20:14:00.002-05:00

We are moved in and unpacking.
Here's our townhouse and some views inside:

Garage Sale - Day 2

2009-05-30T18:42:00.000-05:00

Saturday was my turn at our sale. I opened up the garage at 8 AM. It was quiet in the neighborhood and no one showed up until almost 9:15 AM.
However, it was busy from 10 AM - 12:30 PM with plenty of garage sale customers. I had help from Sarah, Rosa and Melissa with traffic and sales. Thanks everyone for your help and wonderful support throughout the day. Melissa brought lunch and she and Rosa both helped move items around and out the driveway.

Garage Sale Moments

Beanie Babies will have new playmates soon:
A women bought a couple small green pottery plant holders to match some others she has. Her son was in the car waiting but I thought I'd ask if she knew anyone who wanted Beanie Babies. (They were very popular years ago and my daughters collected several.) Her husband knows someone at his office who sends them to the children in Iraq. Bingo! We loaded two boxes of the adorable little stuffed creatures into the backseat of her car (free).
Afternoon Slump:
There wasn't much attendance for the afternoon session. Some neighbor children stopped by to search for treasures and chat with 'Jan' (me). By 2:00 PM we started bringing everything back slowly into the garage and closed up by 2:30 PM. I packed FINDS in my truck and headed home for a nap.

New friends; silly poses!

The Results:
There wasn't much furniture left after Thursday (see Garage Sale - Day 1 from earlier this week), but with additional craft supplies, books, pottery, glassware, toys and sports equipment, the day was well worth the effort. Next step - give that stuff away. I have pick-ups scheduled soon to pass our family heirlooms on to the next generation.

Medical Update

2009-05-28T20:17:00.000-05:00

Here’s the Scoop
Results from my first visit to the 'KNEE' Specialist this week:
I have arthritis in my right knee. (I have tripped and bruised it badly twice in the last year.) I may need a knee replacement in a few years. But for now I will get cortisone shots two or three times a year along with diligent exercise of walking, swimming, stretching and eating healthy food. A strong body is a healthy body.

The news was shocking for me, but only because I was thinking muscle tear and healing with PT in the next few months. My MRI from a week ago did show as abnormal but the orthopedic doctor (after reviewing the six new knee x-rays taken at his office that day) showed the knee wear and tear. It's a good thing I have a DESK JOB.

Sarah was there for moral support and helped ask questions. Thanks so much, Sarah. Physical Therapy may not help but strength exercises are good – stretch to be flexible and keep moving! There is no cure for arthritis but hopefully it won’t get worse too fast.

Life is hard and getting old is not easy either – but what is the alternative? No more birthdays?

Successful Garage Sale - Day 1

2009-05-28T19:14:00.000-05:00

It was Bill's shift for the garage sale today. He unloaded lots of extra furniture - chairs, roll top desk, dressers, hutches, tables, the lawnmower and the buffet serving cabinet. The stationary exercise bike left the garage too. Craft stuff was sold so I'm packing up more to sell on Saturday. Bill even sold the neighbor's tricycle within 15 minutes of drop off and delivered the consignment money to G across the street all in the same afternoon.

Bill had Sarah's help late morning and early afternoon and they reported the ongoing results throughout the day. I would say it was a very successful day. Having a garage sale with the neighborhood is certainly the way to do it.

I have the Saturday shift with a couple of friends and we will see if we can do as well. I still have books, DVDs, glassware more craft items - cheap. I'll be pricing and setting up what's left Friday evening after work so hope to have a better idea of Saturday items soon.

UPDATE: I have my new e-mail address in my profile so you can get my new e-mail address from there even if you prefer not to leave a comment on the blog. Of course, I have the right to delete any e-mailers I do not know.

An Update From Me!

2009-05-26T20:15:00.000-05:00

I have been very busy this last week. We have been packing clothes, dishware, books, and many other useful household items in the process of moving to our new home here in Minnesota.
My son and his family drove up from Arkansas for the long weekend to help us pack and relocate items. It was great to have their help. Thanks so much W and E!
Special thanks also to Sarah, Becca and Melissa for all their excellent help. Bill and I couldn't have done it without you.

In the mist of all the moving, our eight-year-old PC network decided to crash. Bill has been busy reconstructing our Internet access, Windows programs, e-mail software and restoring lost data. We now have a new Dell PC with updates and memory galore. Still no e-mail account, but it's a work in process. I haven't decided on photo storage yet so you'll have to patiently wait for recent family and home snapshots.

We have another garage sale this weekend - May 28 and May 30 as part of a large neighborhood effort. We should be rid of lots of recycled stuff and cozy in our new location by June 1st.

Memorial Day Weekend Adventures

2009-05-20T22:59:00.000-05:00

One Year Ago
W and family (then living in Utah) along with Sarah, Becca and I (from Minnesota) met in Colorado over Memorial Weekend, 2008. We had a lovely time with all of my family there.

This Year - 2009
(Two More Days)!
Now one year later we are having another family weekend, this time here in Minnesota. It's too last minute to get my family here from Colorado, but I wish they were coming too. You know what they say, 'the more the merrier.'
Will is coming to Minnesota with his beautiful family to help us in our downsizing adventure.
Yes, it will be a busy weekend but with all the help and smiles, the work will be completed quickly.
I plan to make time for playing with my granddaughters and helping the guys grill a meal or two.
Note to Family:
I wrote an e-mail or two PRIOR to this post with all this new information but alas my Outlook 'out box' is holding my wonderful newsy messages captive without a timely release. Who got the woman out of the Iranian prison? Do you think they could release my e-mails?

Moved In - Almost

2009-05-20T22:34:00.000-05:00

We are moved into the townhouse and continue to get settled. I love the new space and we have more storage then we thought.
I have some photos but need to load them to the PC. I now have the Internet and e-mail on the premises. Yeah!
I'll load photos later this week when I find the camera loading devise.

Today

2009-05-16T21:34:00.000-05:00

Bright and early Saturday morning:

Sarah, Capone, Austin and friends - volunteer movers. Thanks so much.
Thanks also to the White family and furry pals Gracie and Baily for entertaining Capone during the furniture move.

We picked up Capone and brought him back to the house to rest while we packed up dishware. He's at his favorite spot in the dining room but without the table he likes to hide under. 'Where did all the furniture go?'

He's at the townhouse tonight and adjusting to the new place (but staying close to family).
I'll post more photos when we're a little more settled.

The Move is On

2009-05-15T19:46:00.000-05:00

We are getting ready to move to our new location. The previous family is almost moved out. We have movers coming tomorrow morning to load up the furniture and unload it at our townhouse not far from here.
Step one is to move the furniture in, set up the kitchen and make the beds.
Step two will be to make it lovable and cozy.
No photos yet but hope to have some to share later this weekend.

What are you doing this weekend?

Best Present Ever

2009-05-10T13:01:00.002-05:00

Mother's Day is usually a forgotten event in the Holman family. My husband thinks it's a Hallmark holiday. It's just after my birthday so hard to think of something new for Mom and since it's in May, my children are usually hitting the books hard for final week to end the school year.
I think it's an honor to be a mother and we deserve all the 'appreciation' we can get.
This year my son and family mailed a card and bracelet and made me PROUD. (See my post on Saturday.)
Best Gift Every:
Sarah enlisted the help of friends from work to help us move furniture in May.
Becca and her roommate are coming to help with the move too.
Last year for Mother's Day my sister asked her three grown children to sort through all their childhood belongings to get them out of her home. It was kind of a success (50% participation) but a great idea.
So now my children have stepped forward to help and they make me proud to be a mother!

Best Mother Award

2009-05-09T19:21:00.001-05:00

No one could have a better daughter-in-law who is the mother of my granddaughters and wonderful wife to my son.
She is a wonderful mother and the greatest wife. We are all so lucky to have her in our family. She has the cutest and best-behaved little girls in the world. I know she would rather have a Target gift card than a big production here on my blog; but it's coming in the mail a little late.
Happy Mother's Day, E!
E and daughter LG
E reading a book to M.

Mother's Day Present

2009-05-09T18:19:00.001-05:00

I received a package in the mail on Friday from Arkansas. Exciting!
I found an adorable homemade card signed by E and W (my son) and their two daughters. In a little red box was a present just for me.

It has two charms, one for each baby girl, and it's yellow (my favorite color). It has gold and silver - a mother can never have too much glitter! I love it and I love my family.
I saw them a month ago but I miss them so much. Becca or Sarah will be going down South for a visit soon and I'll have to go too.
As M says, 'I'll see you when I see you!'