Wednesday

We went back to Dollywood (or Gollywood as Maya calls it) today for the 50s 60s show, more ferris wheel and merry-go-round. We've been fortunate to have beautiful weather.

Wayne grilled some awesome New York Strips for dinner and then we went on a walk to see the view. A game of 10,000- lots of laughs and another day over......

Dollywood or Bust? (pun intended, hahaha)

We went to Dollywood today. I liked it quite alot. It was calmer than Mickey's House. More natural. There were lots of trees and water features - brooks, waterfalls, mill streams, a grist mill, paddlewheels. There was music playing just about everywhere but without the kind of frantic feeling we sometimes had at Disney. This is the off-season and we didn't have to wait in line anywhere. They let Maya ride as many times as she wanted to. She went on the carousel, ferris wheel, piggy parade, duck ride - she had a blast. We ate barbeque pulled pork for lunch. It was delicious. We were surprised, they didn't have any sauce on it - it was all on the side and you could add it, but the pork wasn't cooked in the sauce. Yummmmm, quite tasty as Maya would say.

We're planning to go back tomorrow, weather permitting, to see more shows. I didn't get on a roller coast today, I'll try again tomorrow, I hope!

Some of us (not me) were brave enough to go on the water rides.

Then we came back to the cabin and ate dinner. Played pool, watched tv, talked, and talked, and oh, did I mention talked? The cabin is spectacular. I'll try to get some good pictures tomorrow. Just awesome, we're loving it. Perfect for friends or family getaway, you're together but it's big enough that you can go off and do your own thing if you want to.

Jaime sent us pictures of Hobart, wow, wow, wow. We hope everyone is safe and the waters will recede. Hmmm, I'll post some pics....

On the Road Again

We're travellin' again! This time we're with the Wills, Petersons, and Liggetts in Gatlinburg. We left on Sunday morning at about 9:15. We packed the car the night before, that helped us avoid our usual slowdown and noon departures :)

There was bad weather going through Ohio and Kentucky. Hurricane Ike was taking some last puffs - there were very high winds. We saw downed trees, for miles and miles, and miles. A bridge we were supposed to take near Cincinnnati was closed because of an overturned truck. We saw several trucks upside down in ditches, scary stuff. Many towns didn't have electricity and it was a challenge to find an open gas station. Even Wayne gave up price shopping and got gas at the first working station. Someone from Cincinnati posted this on a forum - "It seems a bit crazy to be posting about Hurricane Ike from Cincinnati, Ohio but we got the winds from the storm as it moved north--- we had up to 75 mph winds which damaged houses, killed at least 3 people, and knocked down trees...resulting in over 90% of the Greater Cincinnati area losing power! It was the strangest storm as we never really got any rain, just the strongest sustained winds I've ever seen for hours yesterday afternoon. They are saying some people could be without power for a week."

We did make it all the way to Lexington. It was funny, the hotel that Royce and Sherry chose was right across from the Cracker Barrel where we had lunch with Ru and Jeanne, almost two years ago. Then we went to a Logan Roadhouse restaurant that was just across the street from the Target where we met Ru and Jeanne. Small world.......

The Gatlinburg tourism center had sent us a bunch of information that included a card with a "shortcut" to avoid traffic going into Gatlinburg. It was supposed to save up to an hour....HA! It took us forever.......well it didn't help that we were behind a Crankshaft, but still.....It was pretty awful. It was supposed to be a "scenic tour" but Wayne said it was more like a "fool tour".

Tomorrow we're on to Dollywood!

Three Deer

I caught a good pic of "our" deer. There are twin deer that come around pretty often. Here they are with their mother.

Another Year....

It was an awesome birthday! The feeling when Maya says (or even better sings) "Happy Birthday Mommy".....it's incredible.

I spent my actual birthday (Friday) in a continuing education accounting class in Fort Wayne. I know, yuck. But this particular one was less yucky (that's a CPA tech term) than most are. Sometimes I sit in those classes and think, why would anyone want this job. Thankfully the jobs themselves are MUCH more interesting than the theory and the classes. This one was called "MBA in a day". I was curious to see what it would be like - I mean, I spent two years in full time graduate school classes studying - how could it be taught in a day? It made me feel better on two levels - first, you can't teach it in one day, you can't even briefly run through all the material just reading headings. Second, things haven't changed as much as I had expected they would have, since the Dark Ages, when I got my degree. Oh, I'll add a third, I remember alot more than I thought I would. All in all, not the best way to spend a birthday, but interesting nonetheless.

The three of us (how cool to say that!) went to El Salto for dinner. Yummmmmm! I love margaritas and don't get them very often, so that was a special birthday treat. Then we went home and had birthday cookies.

Today, Mom and Dad came over for the Notre Dame game. Wooo-hoooo! Go Irish, go! My Mom doesn't like the coach, Charlie Weiss. He was rude to us outside the Regis and Kelly show back a few years and I don't think she's forgiven him. She loved seeing him getting plowed over by a player, but we do hope he's not seriously hurt.

We had birthday cake :) Yes, that is Maya's fingers going into the frosting. It wasn't quite as dramatic as the neighborhood party last year when she used her full hand to swipe off a huge glob of frosting, but she did get quite a bit :) I can't blame her, it was exceptionally yummy frosting.

So another year begins for me. I'm excited to see what the next year brings!

For Sophie

Hugs and prayers, baby!

Favorite Foto Friday - You're Cookin' Now

Today was choose your own theme. I'm going with "You're Cookin' Now"

If you're wondering, huh, what in the world is Favorite Foto Friday ??? There are a bunch (sometimes over 70 bloggers) that post pics on the same theme on guess what day? yup, Friday. Sarah, the author of the blog, Kiss the Frog for Me, chooses the theme and everyone who wants to participates, puts a link to their blog on hers. If you want to see other peoples Friday Foto's, go to http://www.kissthefrog4me.blogspot.com/ and you will see tons of links. Make sure you have a comfortable chair....reading blogs can be addictive.

Sept. 11th Patriot Day

September 11th...........911....................shock, sadness, fear.

There isn't a day that passes that I don't remember September 11, 2001. It was a wake up call for me in so many ways. After that day, the whole world changed. Before 9/11, I thought that we could never be attacked at home. That home, that our country, was safe. That war, would always be on foreign soil. That war would be fought between soldiers. Never civilians, never a surprise, never at home. Working in the city and seeing tall buildings every day, it frightened me. I would see the Aon Center (the fourth largest building in the US) at the end of the street, whenever I got off the train, and picture a plane hitting it. Unimagineable before that day. So many people were touched by the tragedy that day. My brother was so close to being on one of those planes. My friend Michelle lost a family member.

It made everyone realize that life can be taken from us at any moment. It is truly a gift - a present to be lived and enjoyed in the present. Wayne and I started an unofficial "bucket list". We took the long wished-for rafting trip on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. We swam with dolphins. We went to Disney World. We went to Paris. Many, many things led us to the decision to risk so much and pray to God for a child. Sept. 11th definitely played a major part in that decision for me. Songs like, "I hope you dance" had new meaning. There is no dress rehearsal - this is the real thing. And at least I believe, we only get one shot at it.

Please fly your flag today. Take a day to love your country and your fellow Americans. Our freedom is something to be treasured. Say a prayer that our safety will continue, our blessings in this great country will continue for us and our children.

Patriot Day, 2008 A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

September 11, 2001, was etched into America's memory when 19 terrorists attacked us with barbarity unequaled in our history. On Patriot Day, we cherish the memory of the thousands of innocent victims lost, extend our thoughts and prayers to their families, and honor the heroic men and women who risked and sacrificed their lives so others might survive.

Since 9/11, we have recognized the threat posed by terrorists to the safety of the American people and worked to protect our homeland by fighting terrorists abroad. We are confronting terrorism by advancing freedom, liberty, and prosperity as an alternative to the ideologies of hatred and repression. Our Nation pays tribute to our courageous men and women in uniform serving around the world and the devoted members of our law enforcement, public safety, and intelligence communities at home who work night and day to protect us from harm and preserve the freedom of this great Nation.

Seven years ago, ordinary citizens rose to the challenge, united in prayer, and responded with extraordinary acts of courage, with some giving their lives for the country they loved. On Patriot Day, we remember all those who were taken from us in an instant and seek their lasting memorial in a safer and more hopeful world. We must not allow our resolve to be weakened by the passage of time. We will meet the test that history has given us and continue to fight to rid the world of terrorism and promote liberty around the globe.

By a joint resolution approved December 18, 2001 (Public Law 107-89), the Congress has designated September 11 of each year as "Patriot Day."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim September 11, 2008, as Patriot Day. I call upon the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, as well as appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Patriot Day. I also call upon the people of the United States to observe Patriot Day with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and remembrance services, to display the flag at half-staff from their homes on that day, and to observe a moment of silence beginning at 8:46 a.m. eastern daylight time to honor the innocent Americans and people from around the world who lost their lives as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-third.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Adventure Day

Wednesdays are Maya's Adventure Day with Grandma and Grandpa. We started at Matey's Restaurant for lunch. I wish I had taken a picture of the restaurant. It's like a giant boat. From the deck on top, you can see the Lake. Unfortunately, LOL, the deck wasn't open and we had to eat down below. I think it's only a summer-thing. The food was great though, Mom and I had bleu cheese burgers and Dad had fish and chips. Maya nibbled at some corn dogs.

Then we looked at the beach. I know, I know I'm such a coward! Oh, shoe shopping at Stride Rite is just more fun. Less healthy, but more fun. Grandma bought Maya pink kitty cat rain boots and cute brown and cute black shoes. Yay, Grandma! Then, what do we like as much as shopping? CHOCOLATE ! On to South Bend Chocolate - woooo hoooooo! Sugar rush!

First Day of Bible School

Maya started Bible school today! Last night, I gave her a new "Puppy-pack" - a backpack that looks like a dog. I let her put anything she wanted into it to take to Bible school. She said, "I can't wait to go to Bible school" about fifteen time, I think she was trying to convince herself or maybe me.

Maya summed up the highlight for me, by saying, "I didn't cry." Woo-hooo!! This is the first time that I've left her with strangers (even playgroup, I stayed the first couple - okay lots - of times). There were tons of kids, I think that helped. They heard the story of Creation, had a snack and colored. According to Maya, it was lots of fun and she "can't wait" to go back. Yippppeeeeeee!!

I had my own Bible school too - it was just registration today. Janet and Louise were both there - good to see them :) Louise worked with me at KAT. She told Janet that I'm not a morning person and my boss once bought me an alarm clock. You just can't outrun your youth, hahaha.

Maya and I went to Ronald Donald's afterwards for lunch. Then we headed for Portage car wash but Maya fell asleep before we got there. I pulled into the Kohl's parking lot and we both slept in the car, just like homeless. A quick stop at Menard's, Fazoli's with Grandma and Grandpa on kid's night. Whew! Fun day!

laugh every day

One Sunday morning, the pastor noticed little Randy standing in the foyer of the church staring up at a large plaque. It was covered with names and small American flags mounted on either side of it. The six-year old had been staring at the plaque for some time, so the pastor walked up, stood beside the little boy, and said quietly,

'Good morning Randy.'

'Good morning Pastor,' he replied, still focused on the plaque.

'Pastor, what is this?'

The pastor said, 'Well son, it's a memorial to all the young men and women who died in the service.'

Soberly, they just stood together, staring at the large plaque.



Finally, little Randy's voice, barely audible and trembling with fear asked, 'Which service, the 8:30 or the 10:45?'


(thanks for the laugh, Giselle!)

Don't we cleanup good?

Saturday was the big social event of our year - the Golden Apple Awards. I "retired" as the Chief Financial Officer for Golden Apple and it is definitely at the top of my list of favorite places that I worked. For non-Chicagoans, Golden Apple started when philanthropist Mike Koldyke was watching the Academy Awards one night and said to his wife, we should do that for teachers. Fast forward, years later, is the "Academy" Awards for ten outstanding teachers. It is now a black tie premiere Chicago social event where you still need to bring a box of tissues with you, because there will be tears and goosebumps. Over 700 people attended this year. The Awards itself is taped for later television broadcast by WTTW, then there is a dinner and dancing afterwards. Our most famous attendee over the years, was First Lady Laura Bush. Wayne graciously invited my mom to attend in his place this year.

The event was at the Hyatt, so Mom and I stayed there overnight and were able to take a walk through Millenium Park on Sunday morning. I love Chicago!

I often mention how much I miss my friends at Golden Apple, the city, and my office. Sounds bizarre, but it was THE prettiest office I could imagine. The last picture was the view out my office window. I've always loved Lake Michigan and seeing it everyday and then add the park.....ahhhhhh!

ANYWAY, back to the Awards.

We had a wonderful time. Great cause. Amazing mission and most, most, most of all - the nicest group of people ever!! Many, many great teachers and people who care about teachers.

Thank you Golden Apple - for years of golden moments.......

Favorite Foto Friday - Oh Baby!

Today's Favorite Foto Friday theme is to post pictures of parent and child as babies. Thanks to my fantastic Mom, I have an album with pictures from my whole life - including baby pics! Yay, Mom!

Can you say "HUGE FOREHEAD"? Whoa, now that's a forehead on me! Lots of people tell me that Maya and I look alike - we surely do both have not-so-much pretty baby pictures. I just had to put two more when we are a tad bit more human looking :)

(Sorry, I'm technically challenged this morning and rushing out the door, so the pics are odd sizes and sideways!)

Library Storytime

Storytime has started at the library (Chesterton has the BEST library for kids). Here's Maya....

hmmmm, camera shy?

Well, for some reason, my usual clicky-self hasn't been taking pictures. Huh? Sooooooo, as maya is prone to say lately, this is going to be more of a journal entry than a fun blog post. Our life hasn't slowed down, I just don't have any cute pics to share :(. Anyway...

Today Grandma and Grandpa came over for "Adventure Day"! In my quest for self-improvement (yawn), I've made a schedule (shed-ule), and Wednesdays are "Adventure Days". We chose not to do the field trip thing, because I've been trying to paint our laundry room for days now. Yes, I know it's a laundry room and by definition tiny. But, ya know, tiny rooms are harder to paint than big rooms (rationalize, rationalize). So somehow, I managed to get paint on my hands, but absolutely not one smidge of paint on the walls - don't ask.

We did have fun going out to lunch. We went to Red Cup. Giselle introduced me to this cute, cute place with THE best Portabello Goat Cheese grilled sandwich ever. They have a deck outside (well, of course, outside) that has a canopy created by three trees, trunks covered in ivy. Maya had beef barley soup and a cranberry nut muffin. She must have said, "tasty, delicious lunch" about ten times! I guess she liked it. She also stole, yes didn't even ask!, from grandma, some beautiful strawberries, plums, and grapes. But that was topped by Grandpa, who stole, hold your breath, a BROWNIE, from Maya. Oh, Grandpa, don't you know that chocolate is sacred?! Maya was actually speechless (that is a very infrequent state for her). She didn't even cry, she was so shocked. He made up for it though when he bought her another music box - a sweet one with a baby in a rocking crib - that plays Brahms Lullaby. Okay, Grandpa, we girls can be bought - we forgive you!

Yesterday, I asked Maya if she wanted to go to "Ronald Donald's" - we usually go on Tuesdays after playgroup, but there was no playgroup today, long story. She said "no, mommy, I want to stay home." Hmmm, surprised me, but I'm always happy to stay home. We did "craft-es" and made new grace cards. I think I'm going to try to market these..... We wrote (well, I wrote) prayers on card stock that Maya had colored. We light a candle and say a prayer before meals. Then when everyone is finished eating Maya can blow out the candle - one of her favorite things to do. She also says "happy birthday" but whatever... The theory is that one can't get up from one's seat until the candle is out. It's not working 100% in practice, but we're trying. What do you think? Will it sell? Blessing Sets.....Daily thoughts (for the non-religious among us)....Grace Candles.... I think I'll keep working on it, I sense an opportunity here. Grandma's favorite grace is "Bless us sinners as we eat our dinners." God has a sense of humor, too, don't you think?

Today is bean soup day at our favorite family restaurant and this is one of Wayne's frequent menu choices. After dinner, Maya wanted to go for a walk (good girl!) and we played "freeze race". That's where Maya and I race - Daddy says, "ready, steady, go" then randomly says, "stop" and we're supposed to freeze. Maya doesn't always do the freeze part, but it's fun. This is also when Mommy repeats her refrain of "this is why Mommy is the only one who thinks Maya needs a sister" as I run like an old fool. Huh! Then we play balance beam on the curb. Ya know what? Maya needs a sister (wink, wink).

Wow, I love this child. Can you tell? I keep asking myself if every child is as smart and funny and cute and beautiful and sweet. Every mom must feel the same, that their child is special, but this one sure is! At dinner she just looked over at Wayne and said, "I love you, Daddy". The waitress even melted into a puddle. Daddy was a BIG goner.

Sarah Palin's speech at the Republican convention was tonight. I was very impressed. I waver between Democrats and Republicans, there's things I like about both and things I don't like about both. Without a political discussion, though, I'm happy to see a woman VP nominee, whichever party it ended up happening in. Go Sarah, break that glass ceiling into a billion pieces and make room for my daughter someday.

I'm worried because the parties are becoming so polarized. So many people love any and all the candidates of their party, and hate any and all the candidates of the other party. I hope we can encourage respect of both candidates. While we might not agree with their opinions, it's no reason to love or hate the person. Sometimes there is such bitterness and hatred......not the world I want for my daughter.

Okay back to cute Maya stories! She announced today that she would like a purple "Foxy" to replace Lamby. Yup, replace Lamby!! I was shocked. But her favorite best - Lola, of Charlie and Lola - has a Foxy. Hmmm, the hunt begins. Somehow I don't think it will be so easy to find a Foxy.

Jodi, who went to the Smoky Mountains on vacation and convinced me to plan a trip, saw a bear there!! Close up and personal!! A wild bear!! Hmmmm, I don't think she'd mind if I posted the picture. Even if I haven't been my clicky-self, yippee, now I have a picture to post. This was scary though, she said a father and son had been attacked recently by a bear on this same trail. Well, I'm glad you just got pictures of this bear, girlfriend! The second pic is of the view from her cabin. Awesome is God's creation!

I got my first birthday card......and it was from QVC! Hmmmm, probably not such a good thing that QVC is sending me birthday cards!

Scooter Girl

My big girl....