I know, it's been ages since we blogged... so... about 2 weeks ago, we received 11 inches of snow. It was amazing... and beautiful, and gave just about everyone a 2 day snow vacation. The fun parts of the blowing snow gave us 5 foot drifts along the south wall of our house and packed the snow with about a 6 foot radius around the mailbox. Our mailman literally climbed up the mountain to give us mail. That lasted a day or so; and then he just put it into the church's box. It was fun times!
So, last weekend, we have several days of high 30s and 40 degrees... so some of it melted, the snow piles just condensed...
And that brings us to today... Snowfall! We are expected to get another 10-18 inches by Christmas night... yes, snowing through Christmas. It's beautiful... fluffy and way fun to sit inside and watch...
And we love our snow removal crew from church... Hats are continually off for B, R and P. For your snowblowers, snowplows, snow shovels and other many tools that you love to use on big projects!
A very Merry Christmas to each of you! Blessed holidays, and safe travels!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Return from Sweden
So, we didn't post that we were going on the trip; and we didn't blog our way through the Lutheran homeland, but now that we're home... I'd love to tell you about it! S is still sifting through the 800 photos, for our presentation.
We arrived in Stockholm on a Wednesday afternoon, and jumped on the express X2000 train to Goteborg. Arriving after dark, and after a full day of travel, we found the Kville Hostel, with our beds awaiting us.
We spent Thursday and Friday morning in Goteborg; enjoying the Volvo plant, the City Museum, lots of people watching, wandering through the streets to enjoy the people and absorb as much as we could. We loved the mass transportation nagivations... Goteborg has trains, light rain, trolleys, old trolleys, newer trollies, busses, older busses... it was limitless!
Friday, we hopped on the SJ (Swedish Train System), and were on our way down to Kalmar to catch up with L & G. We found L immediately upon departing the train. (Oh, a bit of advice... even though it adds to the adventure, we recommend getting reservations on all train rides, even if they don't make you... it could relieve any stress or worry that you'll loose your seat).
L immediately whisked us off to visit a friend of his, who is the Priest of the Kalmar Cathedral, which is under a $1.7 Billion renovation... it's amazing!!! And that was just the first of many cathedrals for us to enjoy. We headed from Kalmar to Oskarshamn, along a great road with many stories... and L filled us in with as many as he could tell us!
Our housing in Oskarshamn was at the elderly living community, a flat in the community building, which was fabulous. L & G stocked the fridge with more than enough for our breakfasts and snacks. We took a look around and then joined L & G for dinner at their home. G created an amazing chicken dish that was out of this world, and filled us with a fruit and creme dessert.
Saturday morning, G took us down to the Folkaskola to meet S-G and learn more about the schooling of future Church Musicians. It was a delightful morning. We rejoined G & L, and were off on our whirlwind tour of the Vaxjo region... first, we stopped into a village market, sampling Elk jerky, more Swedish kaffe, smelling the Sweet Sugar (Cotton Candy) and absorbing more sights, sounds and smells of Sweden. Then, it was to Orreforrs Glass Factory! Kosta Boda is another factory in the area... the Kingdom of Glass region! We thought long and hard about what we did purchase... making sure what would travel well, and mean something. Cannot report what the details are... as gifts have not been distributed!
We lunched at the buffe at the town cafe, Thai and WeinerSchnitzel... delicious combination! After lunch, we headed to Vaxjo, to see the cathedral, and visit the Immigrants Museum. Although neither S or I are of Swedish decent, it was fascinating to read more about how they came over... and where they landed... (beside Minnesota!) They went to New York; Austin, Texas; Minnesota and Chicago. SO much Lutheran history. We met a fascinating couple who were in town as a part of the Chicago delegation for the Olympic bid announcement in Copenhagen later that week.
We headed back through a beautiful road to Oskarshamn. A quick nap, we were heading downtown Oskarshamn to have dinner with L, G and their dear friend, A. A great night of food, fellowship and creating amazing friendships.
Sunday was a highlight... an amazing highlight... S participated in worship as a co-communicant. Worship was amazing. I know, you'll read that word a lot. Mass was high, church was full, communion was powerful and even though it was in Swedish, we both still knew what was going on and were able to participate. It's amazing how quickly you catch on, and S and I both participated in English as we were able.
Sunday buffe was at L & G's home. It was formerly the rectory, but after being at the parish for 25 years, they bought the home from the church; as L hopes to retire in the near future; and G is tired of moving! :) Bless her!
We sat with a young member of the parish, the local Methodist priest and a handful of other church members. Every so often, L & G host 30 or so church members at their house for Sunday Buffe. It was a lovely meal and learned more about Sweden, and shared more about Hastings and Nebraska.
We were given a bit of time to rest, and then it was off to another small village, to see more amazing church architecture and relics inside a sleepy community. It continually baffled us that most of these churches were built in the 16 and 17th centuries... and have altars and altar pieces that date back then as well... the woodwork, artistry and craftmanship is amazing.
Monday was a early morning of being packed, eating breakfast and heading to the bus stop to catch our 5 hour bus ride to Stockholm.
It was a dreary, rainy day... and the perfect day to spend on the bus. Only main problem was that we didn't pack a lunch; so 5 hours of a bus and hunger made us not very pretty at the end. We arrived safely in Stockholm, hoped off the bus and 'poof' there was my dear friend, A, waiting for us! Quick introductions and we were off in the car and getting out of Stockholm, before traffic stacked up. Now, this road trip did involve a quick stop at McDonald's, for a late lunch. It was the easiest thing for us to communicate that we'd like to have. We headed up to Uppsala, dumped our stuff off at the house; and then headed up to the Uppsala Castle, which over look the Linneaus Gardens. Linneaus was the scientist to create the 2 Latin word system for all flora and fauna. The Uppsala Castle is one of the highest points in Uppsala, creating an amazing view... with the maple, oak and birch trees changing colors, it was priceless! We then trodded down to the Uppsala Cathedral... the granddaddy of them all. The most amazing church... which can be put on the list with Notre Dame, St. Peter's Basilica, Heidelberg Cathedral... amazing, and more amazing to realize that A can look out on it every day from his house... yes, we were staying at the Archbishops Mansion... And then, we went to Gamla Uppsala, where the ancient ruins are, and the remainder of the original Uppsala Cathedral, where what is standing is the East wing, which is still huge! One can imagine how large the original cathedral was... which was built in the 1500s. Then, we ran out to his sister's house... she and her husband are both pastors, and have a parish in the country. His brother in law showed up his parish, which is a small stone church. They have been there for 19 years, as his sister is a Church Historian, and they have raised their children in a great barn-style rectory. They also have a fantastic little kitten which reminded us of Tucker... he even let me hold him!
His lovely bride, K would be in late that evening, so the three of us found a great Italian restaurant for dinner... and then headed back to find K home, and spent time just catching up and chatting.
Tuesday, we had just a bit of A's morning, before he headed off on a business trip... we met his staff at the Sverige Kirke (Church of Sweden) office. We also went to Gottlunda, an area outside of the sprawl of Uppsala that has become the gathering area for immigrants arriving to Sweden. We met the local minister, and toured their 1970's architecture church. It was very modern, and something closer to what we would experience in the US. We walked around the large apartment buildings, which have been a great resource for the immigrants to create their new lives in. The Middle East is one of the areas to which the influx is arriving from.
A headed off to the airport around noon, so we took in lunch at the Church office cafeteria (catered by Sodexho!), and then set out to explore Uppsala... the Gustavanium Museum, more time in the Cathedral, walking the streets and headed out to the WORLDS LARGEST IKEA store!!! It was heaven... but all we bought were a bag of AUTHENTIC Swedish Fish and a bag of potato chips... and had a snack while we were in the store...
K fixed a delicious meal of marinated Roast Beef with vegetables; and couscous, and lots of tea!
Wednesday, we set out on our own to Stockholm, taking in the Castle, checking out the Royal Treasures, the State Apartments and watching the Royal Band, during the changing of the guards... walked down to the ferries and went to the Vasa Museum. It was amazing. The ship was built in the 1600's, and sunk on it's maiden voyage... didn't make it out of the bay; the sails were too tall and it tipped over... and it was brought up in 1960s... and has been restored to an amazing amount. After the museum, and an unfriendly bus driver, we walked back to Central Station... a lovely walk along the river and came upon the Swedish Souvenier store... gathered a few items, happened to be the exact amount of paper currency we had left, so we knew it was time to go home.
We got back to Uppsala in the later evening, going back through the shopping district and getting late to the house, to warm up Borch and dig into K's homemade bread. And to pack...
We packed up our items... filled up our extra backpack with souveniers... got a good night's rest... and then headed to the train station Thursday morning by 7 a.m.
Got to the Arlanda airport with lots of time, had a quick flight to London Heathrow Airport... and then onto our 777 flight back to the states... 8 hours later, we were in Chicago... for 6 1/2 hour lay-over... partially on purpose, partially due to the weather delay... we arrived in Omaha at 12:00 a.m. and onto the hotel for a good night's sleep! It was a 26 hour day of travel for us.
That's my recap... we'll be sure to let you know when we put our presentation together!
We arrived in Stockholm on a Wednesday afternoon, and jumped on the express X2000 train to Goteborg. Arriving after dark, and after a full day of travel, we found the Kville Hostel, with our beds awaiting us.
We spent Thursday and Friday morning in Goteborg; enjoying the Volvo plant, the City Museum, lots of people watching, wandering through the streets to enjoy the people and absorb as much as we could. We loved the mass transportation nagivations... Goteborg has trains, light rain, trolleys, old trolleys, newer trollies, busses, older busses... it was limitless!
Friday, we hopped on the SJ (Swedish Train System), and were on our way down to Kalmar to catch up with L & G. We found L immediately upon departing the train. (Oh, a bit of advice... even though it adds to the adventure, we recommend getting reservations on all train rides, even if they don't make you... it could relieve any stress or worry that you'll loose your seat).
L immediately whisked us off to visit a friend of his, who is the Priest of the Kalmar Cathedral, which is under a $1.7 Billion renovation... it's amazing!!! And that was just the first of many cathedrals for us to enjoy. We headed from Kalmar to Oskarshamn, along a great road with many stories... and L filled us in with as many as he could tell us!
Our housing in Oskarshamn was at the elderly living community, a flat in the community building, which was fabulous. L & G stocked the fridge with more than enough for our breakfasts and snacks. We took a look around and then joined L & G for dinner at their home. G created an amazing chicken dish that was out of this world, and filled us with a fruit and creme dessert.
Saturday morning, G took us down to the Folkaskola to meet S-G and learn more about the schooling of future Church Musicians. It was a delightful morning. We rejoined G & L, and were off on our whirlwind tour of the Vaxjo region... first, we stopped into a village market, sampling Elk jerky, more Swedish kaffe, smelling the Sweet Sugar (Cotton Candy) and absorbing more sights, sounds and smells of Sweden. Then, it was to Orreforrs Glass Factory! Kosta Boda is another factory in the area... the Kingdom of Glass region! We thought long and hard about what we did purchase... making sure what would travel well, and mean something. Cannot report what the details are... as gifts have not been distributed!
We lunched at the buffe at the town cafe, Thai and WeinerSchnitzel... delicious combination! After lunch, we headed to Vaxjo, to see the cathedral, and visit the Immigrants Museum. Although neither S or I are of Swedish decent, it was fascinating to read more about how they came over... and where they landed... (beside Minnesota!) They went to New York; Austin, Texas; Minnesota and Chicago. SO much Lutheran history. We met a fascinating couple who were in town as a part of the Chicago delegation for the Olympic bid announcement in Copenhagen later that week.
We headed back through a beautiful road to Oskarshamn. A quick nap, we were heading downtown Oskarshamn to have dinner with L, G and their dear friend, A. A great night of food, fellowship and creating amazing friendships.
Sunday was a highlight... an amazing highlight... S participated in worship as a co-communicant. Worship was amazing. I know, you'll read that word a lot. Mass was high, church was full, communion was powerful and even though it was in Swedish, we both still knew what was going on and were able to participate. It's amazing how quickly you catch on, and S and I both participated in English as we were able.
Sunday buffe was at L & G's home. It was formerly the rectory, but after being at the parish for 25 years, they bought the home from the church; as L hopes to retire in the near future; and G is tired of moving! :) Bless her!
We sat with a young member of the parish, the local Methodist priest and a handful of other church members. Every so often, L & G host 30 or so church members at their house for Sunday Buffe. It was a lovely meal and learned more about Sweden, and shared more about Hastings and Nebraska.
We were given a bit of time to rest, and then it was off to another small village, to see more amazing church architecture and relics inside a sleepy community. It continually baffled us that most of these churches were built in the 16 and 17th centuries... and have altars and altar pieces that date back then as well... the woodwork, artistry and craftmanship is amazing.
Monday was a early morning of being packed, eating breakfast and heading to the bus stop to catch our 5 hour bus ride to Stockholm.
It was a dreary, rainy day... and the perfect day to spend on the bus. Only main problem was that we didn't pack a lunch; so 5 hours of a bus and hunger made us not very pretty at the end. We arrived safely in Stockholm, hoped off the bus and 'poof' there was my dear friend, A, waiting for us! Quick introductions and we were off in the car and getting out of Stockholm, before traffic stacked up. Now, this road trip did involve a quick stop at McDonald's, for a late lunch. It was the easiest thing for us to communicate that we'd like to have. We headed up to Uppsala, dumped our stuff off at the house; and then headed up to the Uppsala Castle, which over look the Linneaus Gardens. Linneaus was the scientist to create the 2 Latin word system for all flora and fauna. The Uppsala Castle is one of the highest points in Uppsala, creating an amazing view... with the maple, oak and birch trees changing colors, it was priceless! We then trodded down to the Uppsala Cathedral... the granddaddy of them all. The most amazing church... which can be put on the list with Notre Dame, St. Peter's Basilica, Heidelberg Cathedral... amazing, and more amazing to realize that A can look out on it every day from his house... yes, we were staying at the Archbishops Mansion... And then, we went to Gamla Uppsala, where the ancient ruins are, and the remainder of the original Uppsala Cathedral, where what is standing is the East wing, which is still huge! One can imagine how large the original cathedral was... which was built in the 1500s. Then, we ran out to his sister's house... she and her husband are both pastors, and have a parish in the country. His brother in law showed up his parish, which is a small stone church. They have been there for 19 years, as his sister is a Church Historian, and they have raised their children in a great barn-style rectory. They also have a fantastic little kitten which reminded us of Tucker... he even let me hold him!
His lovely bride, K would be in late that evening, so the three of us found a great Italian restaurant for dinner... and then headed back to find K home, and spent time just catching up and chatting.
Tuesday, we had just a bit of A's morning, before he headed off on a business trip... we met his staff at the Sverige Kirke (Church of Sweden) office. We also went to Gottlunda, an area outside of the sprawl of Uppsala that has become the gathering area for immigrants arriving to Sweden. We met the local minister, and toured their 1970's architecture church. It was very modern, and something closer to what we would experience in the US. We walked around the large apartment buildings, which have been a great resource for the immigrants to create their new lives in. The Middle East is one of the areas to which the influx is arriving from.
A headed off to the airport around noon, so we took in lunch at the Church office cafeteria (catered by Sodexho!), and then set out to explore Uppsala... the Gustavanium Museum, more time in the Cathedral, walking the streets and headed out to the WORLDS LARGEST IKEA store!!! It was heaven... but all we bought were a bag of AUTHENTIC Swedish Fish and a bag of potato chips... and had a snack while we were in the store...
K fixed a delicious meal of marinated Roast Beef with vegetables; and couscous, and lots of tea!
Wednesday, we set out on our own to Stockholm, taking in the Castle, checking out the Royal Treasures, the State Apartments and watching the Royal Band, during the changing of the guards... walked down to the ferries and went to the Vasa Museum. It was amazing. The ship was built in the 1600's, and sunk on it's maiden voyage... didn't make it out of the bay; the sails were too tall and it tipped over... and it was brought up in 1960s... and has been restored to an amazing amount. After the museum, and an unfriendly bus driver, we walked back to Central Station... a lovely walk along the river and came upon the Swedish Souvenier store... gathered a few items, happened to be the exact amount of paper currency we had left, so we knew it was time to go home.
We got back to Uppsala in the later evening, going back through the shopping district and getting late to the house, to warm up Borch and dig into K's homemade bread. And to pack...
We packed up our items... filled up our extra backpack with souveniers... got a good night's rest... and then headed to the train station Thursday morning by 7 a.m.
Got to the Arlanda airport with lots of time, had a quick flight to London Heathrow Airport... and then onto our 777 flight back to the states... 8 hours later, we were in Chicago... for 6 1/2 hour lay-over... partially on purpose, partially due to the weather delay... we arrived in Omaha at 12:00 a.m. and onto the hotel for a good night's sleep! It was a 26 hour day of travel for us.
That's my recap... we'll be sure to let you know when we put our presentation together!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Labor Day Weekend
So, summer is wrapping up. And according to the Weather Service, it was the 7th Coolest Summer on Record for Hastings. 17 days with weather over 90 degrees. I tell you, a bit different from Texas or North Carolina!
Students headed back to school about 2 weeks ago, which brings the traffic back around our house at Hastings High School, and the marching band is back in session at 6:30 a.m. each school day. It works as a great alarm clock for us!
Church kicked off the school year with a carnival last Sunday; which included throwing pies at MJ and S. Each received 2 pies in their face, courtesy of adults and youth from the church. Folks really enjoyed the craze.
Students headed back to school about 2 weeks ago, which brings the traffic back around our house at Hastings High School, and the marching band is back in session at 6:30 a.m. each school day. It works as a great alarm clock for us!
Church kicked off the school year with a carnival last Sunday; which included throwing pies at MJ and S. Each received 2 pies in their face, courtesy of adults and youth from the church. Folks really enjoyed the craze.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Mid-Summer Review
I know... it's been a while. So, let me attempt to recap the past 6 weeks.
Boating with M & J on the Fremont Lakes, Synod Assembly, C's ordination in Lincoln, Pampered Chef Bridal Shower in Ainsworth for H, Cottonwood Festival in Hastings, L&R wedding in Hastings, 4th of July with the family in Hildreth and Hastings, Pampered Chef Bridal SHower for L in Hastings, Hastings Public Library Book Sale, LCGS Ice Cream Social and then this weekend, we are escaping to Johnson Lake for 36 hours of R & R for the rest of the summer's chaos.
Upcoming events: LCGS Canoe Trip to Valentine, S goes to Texas, Byrne family arrives in Nebraska, Kool-Aid Days, back to school, Labor Day weekend... pretty much, that sums up the rest of the summer.
I'm feverishly looking for volunteers for Kool-Aid Days... August 14-16th. Should be a blast. Can't wait to participate... as S and I haven't been in town long enough to have attended one, yet! And yes, somehow, I found myself on the planning team. How'd that happen?
The house is going well... Tucker is enjoying the cool weather, playing with his friends (squirrels, birds and anythign else that comes by). We're loving the cool weather for baseball games of our kids, bike rides with S & K, and a few trips to the lakes for boating and watercraft recreation.
4th of July was great... The family all gathered to celebrate S, P, and R's birthdays as well as for S's sending... she deploys July 22, for Qatar for approximately 6 months. I know... she's been gone for longer; but that was restationing in Germany... no vacationing for us to this location!
Other news... my step-brother and his wife, S & A are expecting their first child in December. So, we'll finally obtain Aunt status... going to have to take it when I can get it!
We had a new family join LCGS and they are our age and have been lifesavers for me, for having someone to play with. They live just 6 blocks away and S is currently unemployed until school starts back for K... so the three of us have had great times on our bikes, exploring the city. Lots in common and then again, somedays, nothing in common which makes it fun!
My best friend's family will repatriot to Houston next week... they've spent the last year in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
M & S head to New Orleans next week for the National Youth Gathering, held by the ELCA on a triannual basis... good times for 36,000 youth!
Not much else. Just want you to know that we're still alive!
Countdown to Sweden: approximately 9 weeks!
Boating with M & J on the Fremont Lakes, Synod Assembly, C's ordination in Lincoln, Pampered Chef Bridal Shower in Ainsworth for H, Cottonwood Festival in Hastings, L&R wedding in Hastings, 4th of July with the family in Hildreth and Hastings, Pampered Chef Bridal SHower for L in Hastings, Hastings Public Library Book Sale, LCGS Ice Cream Social and then this weekend, we are escaping to Johnson Lake for 36 hours of R & R for the rest of the summer's chaos.
Upcoming events: LCGS Canoe Trip to Valentine, S goes to Texas, Byrne family arrives in Nebraska, Kool-Aid Days, back to school, Labor Day weekend... pretty much, that sums up the rest of the summer.
I'm feverishly looking for volunteers for Kool-Aid Days... August 14-16th. Should be a blast. Can't wait to participate... as S and I haven't been in town long enough to have attended one, yet! And yes, somehow, I found myself on the planning team. How'd that happen?
The house is going well... Tucker is enjoying the cool weather, playing with his friends (squirrels, birds and anythign else that comes by). We're loving the cool weather for baseball games of our kids, bike rides with S & K, and a few trips to the lakes for boating and watercraft recreation.
4th of July was great... The family all gathered to celebrate S, P, and R's birthdays as well as for S's sending... she deploys July 22, for Qatar for approximately 6 months. I know... she's been gone for longer; but that was restationing in Germany... no vacationing for us to this location!
Other news... my step-brother and his wife, S & A are expecting their first child in December. So, we'll finally obtain Aunt status... going to have to take it when I can get it!
We had a new family join LCGS and they are our age and have been lifesavers for me, for having someone to play with. They live just 6 blocks away and S is currently unemployed until school starts back for K... so the three of us have had great times on our bikes, exploring the city. Lots in common and then again, somedays, nothing in common which makes it fun!
My best friend's family will repatriot to Houston next week... they've spent the last year in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
M & S head to New Orleans next week for the National Youth Gathering, held by the ELCA on a triannual basis... good times for 36,000 youth!
Not much else. Just want you to know that we're still alive!
Countdown to Sweden: approximately 9 weeks!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Week In Review
Monday morning, I received an email from S... "Call me before I get to GI, J & J have news." Ok, that was enough for me to dial RIGHT AWAY! J & J P... S's seminary roommate and his wife were heading from Rochester, MN to Colorado/Utah for 10 or so days of vacation and a quick outdoor class for the wife... and I-80 was the only way from Point A to B... thus, they would be coming through... tentatively, at 1 a.m. on Wednesday; staying till 7 a.m. and then heading back to the open road.
They got in about 3:30 a.m., we chatted for a bit, then put them to sleep for a long nap and before shooing them west, we went to The Garden Cafe for breakfast. That was a first for all of us... delightful to see them, briefly catch up, show them our world (attempt to recruit them) and wish them well on their journey.
Somehow we made it through the workday, then were treated to a wonderful evening outdoors with friends CJKH & JH and other choir members for dinner, conversation and pure enjoyment of the outdoors... we had a few days of high 80s, so the weather was just perfect.
Then... the day wasn't over... I checked my facebook and discovered that I will be an Aunt! My step-brother S and his wife, A, are expecting the first grandchild in late 2009. We wish them a very safe pregnancy and wonderful parenting!
Our Memorial Day weekend will be slow, by choice; but relaxing... we're gearing up for a very busy June, with excitement every weekend!
Not much else to report... plants are growing, the sun is staying out later and later (to which we are very glad) and life continues to be good!
They got in about 3:30 a.m., we chatted for a bit, then put them to sleep for a long nap and before shooing them west, we went to The Garden Cafe for breakfast. That was a first for all of us... delightful to see them, briefly catch up, show them our world (attempt to recruit them) and wish them well on their journey.
Somehow we made it through the workday, then were treated to a wonderful evening outdoors with friends CJKH & JH and other choir members for dinner, conversation and pure enjoyment of the outdoors... we had a few days of high 80s, so the weather was just perfect.
Then... the day wasn't over... I checked my facebook and discovered that I will be an Aunt! My step-brother S and his wife, A, are expecting the first grandchild in late 2009. We wish them a very safe pregnancy and wonderful parenting!
Our Memorial Day weekend will be slow, by choice; but relaxing... we're gearing up for a very busy June, with excitement every weekend!
Not much else to report... plants are growing, the sun is staying out later and later (to which we are very glad) and life continues to be good!
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Vacation vs vacation
S sets out tomorrow for a week's vacation in the Fresno, California area with dear friends: E, J, A & M. J and I are classmates from jr. high; and their children are our God-Children. One of those "if anything happens to us, the kids are going to you" arrangements. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to have them in our lives; but I do pray every day that E & J aren't taken from them!
Now... S has gone on vaca by himself before... back to North Carolina; but he hasn't taken a vacation to visit my friends, without me. I chose to not go, it was my choice to save my meager vacation time; for our big trip to Sweden in the Fall. But it's kind of a downer, to know he's flying out to see them; and I won't be going along. And believe me, this concept of vacationing alone is perplexing to our church members.
But I, too, will be on vacation. Without S home, I don't have to cook real meals (real implies meat is involved); I can get lots of cleaning done (steam cleaning the carpets is Goal #1), have the bed all to myself and not turn the TV to Headline News... I have full control over the remote! I will escape to my mother's for the weekend, as it is Mother's Day on Sunday; and I have meetings, work and other events to fill part of the calendar...
And it bodes well for us to have a vacation from each other... we usually are apart each summer for several weeks, and this summer isn't filling up with the usual escapes... so, this will be good!
Now... S has gone on vaca by himself before... back to North Carolina; but he hasn't taken a vacation to visit my friends, without me. I chose to not go, it was my choice to save my meager vacation time; for our big trip to Sweden in the Fall. But it's kind of a downer, to know he's flying out to see them; and I won't be going along. And believe me, this concept of vacationing alone is perplexing to our church members.
But I, too, will be on vacation. Without S home, I don't have to cook real meals (real implies meat is involved); I can get lots of cleaning done (steam cleaning the carpets is Goal #1), have the bed all to myself and not turn the TV to Headline News... I have full control over the remote! I will escape to my mother's for the weekend, as it is Mother's Day on Sunday; and I have meetings, work and other events to fill part of the calendar...
And it bodes well for us to have a vacation from each other... we usually are apart each summer for several weeks, and this summer isn't filling up with the usual escapes... so, this will be good!
Monday, April 20, 2009
Sweden in the Fall
I know, it's not as famous as The Netherlands or Paris in the Spring; but it's what's going to work for us!
So... then you ask, Sweden? That's a logical destination location for folks of Germanic and English ancestory... everyone flocks to Sweden. It's the #1 Vacation spot for US Americans. I know... my sarcasm is oozing.
So... here's why... Spring of '97, C was working in Chicago at the Lutheran Seminary (LSTC), when a group of 30 Swedish pastors came over to see how the ELCA was run and how the Lutheran tradition had evolved from its Swedish roots. The Church of Sweden would be separating from the government in 2000; and they wanted to see how a church functions, not being controlled by the government. And C, not native in Swedish dialect, history or anything of sort more than visiting Lindsborg, KS; was given the task to be the group's tour guide for 10 days.
Now, as many of you know, C is known for "meet you once, friend for life" kind of person. She has maintained contact with the leader of the group, A; and the coordinator for the '97 trip, L. Coincidentally, A has become the ArchBishop of Sweden in that time and currently lives in Uppsala. L is still in the region of Vaxjo.
C also had a dear friend during her Washington Semester, P, who is a upper-grades teacher in Karlstad. So... hopefully, we'll make those three main area stops and spend time with them all.
10 Days in Sweden (plus or minus a few hours of travel!)
We're very excited, as we told ourselves that we do need to get a trip in before we have children, that requires passports. And this one definitely fits the bill!
So... then you ask, Sweden? That's a logical destination location for folks of Germanic and English ancestory... everyone flocks to Sweden. It's the #1 Vacation spot for US Americans. I know... my sarcasm is oozing.
So... here's why... Spring of '97, C was working in Chicago at the Lutheran Seminary (LSTC), when a group of 30 Swedish pastors came over to see how the ELCA was run and how the Lutheran tradition had evolved from its Swedish roots. The Church of Sweden would be separating from the government in 2000; and they wanted to see how a church functions, not being controlled by the government. And C, not native in Swedish dialect, history or anything of sort more than visiting Lindsborg, KS; was given the task to be the group's tour guide for 10 days.
Now, as many of you know, C is known for "meet you once, friend for life" kind of person. She has maintained contact with the leader of the group, A; and the coordinator for the '97 trip, L. Coincidentally, A has become the ArchBishop of Sweden in that time and currently lives in Uppsala. L is still in the region of Vaxjo.
C also had a dear friend during her Washington Semester, P, who is a upper-grades teacher in Karlstad. So... hopefully, we'll make those three main area stops and spend time with them all.
10 Days in Sweden (plus or minus a few hours of travel!)
We're very excited, as we told ourselves that we do need to get a trip in before we have children, that requires passports. And this one definitely fits the bill!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Cat Needing Therapy For Bad Habit
Tucker is our cat... he's 7 now. And he's a Maine Coon, which doesn't mean a whole lot to many people, but those who own Maines know of their idiosyncracies... and Tucker is right there in the mix. We've adapted to his need to paw his water, rather than lap at it... and his need to soak up sun on his belly, sleep in odd and bizarre locations/positions... but the kitten inside of him, has one other piece that continues to make us laugh.
He's a kleptomaniac. While he's not curled up with us in the dark of night sleeping; he's ravaging through the house trying to find something to steal, and get only as far as his food bowl, with his find. That's where he puts his prizes... in his food.
The usual suspects are his plastic milk jug ring toys, ponytail holders, rubber bands, pens and pencils. But the unusual suspects have been: C's sport watch (out of a bathroom drawer), a people thermometer (from a bedside table), highlighters (a bit big, don't you think?), pedometer, outlet plug covers (which he steals even if you're watching) and today's find, which I got a huge laugh out of, a Werther's Original candy.
S brought it home yesterday, and it was on a counter. Here's the conversation this morning.
"S, did you want to eat your Werther's?"
"Eventually, I would. Did you already have it?"
"NO..." (insert VERY LONG pause).
"Ah... well, I guess, not anymore. Nice one."
Funny how few words need to be said for us to know what EXACTLY occured.
We love Tucker. And the advantage to being the first one up in the morning, is the humor of finding SOMETHING interesting in his food bowl.
He's a kleptomaniac. While he's not curled up with us in the dark of night sleeping; he's ravaging through the house trying to find something to steal, and get only as far as his food bowl, with his find. That's where he puts his prizes... in his food.
The usual suspects are his plastic milk jug ring toys, ponytail holders, rubber bands, pens and pencils. But the unusual suspects have been: C's sport watch (out of a bathroom drawer), a people thermometer (from a bedside table), highlighters (a bit big, don't you think?), pedometer, outlet plug covers (which he steals even if you're watching) and today's find, which I got a huge laugh out of, a Werther's Original candy.
S brought it home yesterday, and it was on a counter. Here's the conversation this morning.
"S, did you want to eat your Werther's?"
"Eventually, I would. Did you already have it?"
"NO..." (insert VERY LONG pause).
"Ah... well, I guess, not anymore. Nice one."
Funny how few words need to be said for us to know what EXACTLY occured.
We love Tucker. And the advantage to being the first one up in the morning, is the humor of finding SOMETHING interesting in his food bowl.
Cake Mix Cookies
Quick and Easy Recipe for You!
1 Box Cake Mix (Any flavor)
2 Eggs
1/3 C Oil
Mix well, and drop onto UNGREASED cookie sheets in 1 inch balls.
Bake at 350 for 7-10 minutes (watch your oven) until cookies have cracked and are slightly brown on top.
You could ice them, I suppose... but then again... they don't always last long enough!
1 Box Cake Mix (Any flavor)
2 Eggs
1/3 C Oil
Mix well, and drop onto UNGREASED cookie sheets in 1 inch balls.
Bake at 350 for 7-10 minutes (watch your oven) until cookies have cracked and are slightly brown on top.
You could ice them, I suppose... but then again... they don't always last long enough!
Friday, April 10, 2009
21st Anniversary... or "Quite Possibly the Worst Trouble of Kari and Courtney"
Come back with me to March 29, 1988... you are at Grace Lutheran Church, Round Rock... and you are sitting near the pew of Barb and Kari Roy and Patti and Courtney Luebben. It is the pew of two VERY NEWLY confirmed young ladies and their dashing mothers... and it's Good Friday worship service. Otherwise known as, "The Day the Wrath of the Mothers Came Uponeth"...
Kari and Courtney were known for a law-abiding trouble making, all within safe boundaries of getting in trouble with their mothers, but nothing so terrible that any law enforcement would be included in the punishments. But on this particular occasion, as the worship service was nearing an end... a wild hair came upon the young ladies...
The altar was stripped, the lights were dimmed, the symbolism of the closing of the tomb had occured, and the piano began playing Hymn 92 in the Lutheran Book of Worship, "Were You There," which might I add is an old African Spiritual. Which, in the Lutheran world is song rather reverently, and DEFINITELY not in the original context to which it was written. No swaying, no hands, no praying, no harmonizing... just standing still, following the tune and singing the words, AS PRINTED! We, Lutherans, do not deviate from the black ink on the page.
EXCEPT this particular Good Friday, in that third pew, in the two seats containing Kari and Courtney.
The song begins, "Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Oh, oh, oh, oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble. Were you there when they crucified my Lord?"
The song continues through a beautiful journey of Christ, as he is nailed to the cross, laid in the tomb and risen from the grave. Each piece of the journey taking on it's own verse and amazement.
But, as I continue to allude, this day, the song was different. Kari and Courtney belted out with grace the song, adding in motions of swaying and trembling (shaking what our Mothers gave us), and singing backup with each other and off beat "WERE YOU THERE" at the most appropriate times... times in which, we predicted, the writers of the song had originally intended.
Now... this was going along just fine, until our mothers caught us in the swaying and praying act. And it was going fine, until we found ourselves OUT OF CONTROL in laughter!!! I'm not a quiet laugher; nor do I do well to calm myself down...
(i'm one of those that's been known to fall out of a chair in laughter!)
And so... every year, on Good Friday, Kari and Courtney connect through phone, email, fax, smoke signals or whatever, to join together in singing "Were You There" with the utmost reverence and care for our favorite song (oh, and we graduated in '92, so the hymn number has always been VERY easy to remember.)
So... on this anniversary, I send my voice across the miles and across the pond to the suburbs of Amsterdam, Holland to my best friend's home and sing with a smile and a laugh, "Were You There When they crucified my Lord?" Happy Good Friday My Very Best Friend!
Kari and Courtney were known for a law-abiding trouble making, all within safe boundaries of getting in trouble with their mothers, but nothing so terrible that any law enforcement would be included in the punishments. But on this particular occasion, as the worship service was nearing an end... a wild hair came upon the young ladies...
The altar was stripped, the lights were dimmed, the symbolism of the closing of the tomb had occured, and the piano began playing Hymn 92 in the Lutheran Book of Worship, "Were You There," which might I add is an old African Spiritual. Which, in the Lutheran world is song rather reverently, and DEFINITELY not in the original context to which it was written. No swaying, no hands, no praying, no harmonizing... just standing still, following the tune and singing the words, AS PRINTED! We, Lutherans, do not deviate from the black ink on the page.
EXCEPT this particular Good Friday, in that third pew, in the two seats containing Kari and Courtney.
The song begins, "Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Were you there when they crucified my Lord? Oh, oh, oh, oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble. Were you there when they crucified my Lord?"
The song continues through a beautiful journey of Christ, as he is nailed to the cross, laid in the tomb and risen from the grave. Each piece of the journey taking on it's own verse and amazement.
But, as I continue to allude, this day, the song was different. Kari and Courtney belted out with grace the song, adding in motions of swaying and trembling (shaking what our Mothers gave us), and singing backup with each other and off beat "WERE YOU THERE" at the most appropriate times... times in which, we predicted, the writers of the song had originally intended.
Now... this was going along just fine, until our mothers caught us in the swaying and praying act. And it was going fine, until we found ourselves OUT OF CONTROL in laughter!!! I'm not a quiet laugher; nor do I do well to calm myself down...
(i'm one of those that's been known to fall out of a chair in laughter!)
And so... every year, on Good Friday, Kari and Courtney connect through phone, email, fax, smoke signals or whatever, to join together in singing "Were You There" with the utmost reverence and care for our favorite song (oh, and we graduated in '92, so the hymn number has always been VERY easy to remember.)
So... on this anniversary, I send my voice across the miles and across the pond to the suburbs of Amsterdam, Holland to my best friend's home and sing with a smile and a laugh, "Were You There When they crucified my Lord?" Happy Good Friday My Very Best Friend!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
In Like a Lamb; Out Like a Lion
RRRRRRRR! You got it. Spring is predictable; ok, I should say that March is predictable, Spring is not. Yesterday, I took in a fantastic walk around the park with temperatures around 50 degrees. Today, we awoke to blowing snow and temperatures hovering around 30. But it's spring, it's Nebraska and it's March 31. March came in beautifully, if any of us can remember back to March 1. So, it would only make sense that it's going to go out with a bang. Why complain? The weather will level out, be more consistently gorgeous and we'll have plenty of time to enjoy it... in the meantime, hold off on your garden "To-Do" list and enjoy the serenity of doing NOTHING!
S and I had the most delightful visit with T & S last night... A lovely couple who have 4 four-legged's that they call 'kids.' 2 cats, 2 dogs (really overgrown puppies who haven't calmed down yet). And wonderfully, they live not too far from us. I think I might have found a nearby walking partner to drag outside in the great weather.
So... we've been here 6 months, hard to believe; as it's really seemed like forever; due to how quickly we acclamated to our surroundings and dove into the community. And it's been 6 years since our first date. Again, it seems like so much longer that we've been in each others lives; and yet, it's just a fraction of our time on earth... but so many years to come is the excitement that lies ahead.
This post really has very little purpose except to defend Mother Nature and everyone who's giving her a bad reputation for being so brutal after such lovely spring days... but that's what we get. And we should be prepared... our snow shovel is STILL on the front porch. Never know!
S and I had the most delightful visit with T & S last night... A lovely couple who have 4 four-legged's that they call 'kids.' 2 cats, 2 dogs (really overgrown puppies who haven't calmed down yet). And wonderfully, they live not too far from us. I think I might have found a nearby walking partner to drag outside in the great weather.
So... we've been here 6 months, hard to believe; as it's really seemed like forever; due to how quickly we acclamated to our surroundings and dove into the community. And it's been 6 years since our first date. Again, it seems like so much longer that we've been in each others lives; and yet, it's just a fraction of our time on earth... but so many years to come is the excitement that lies ahead.
This post really has very little purpose except to defend Mother Nature and everyone who's giving her a bad reputation for being so brutal after such lovely spring days... but that's what we get. And we should be prepared... our snow shovel is STILL on the front porch. Never know!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Projects
That word can bring a smile or a snarl to your face, in my family. It either implies you're on the doing end; or the 'listening' end of the project. Still unclear?
When my mother says, "Ooooh, I have a new project to do." It usually involves wood, fabric or paint. And it can EASILY involve all three. The woman is one of the most creative women I know... she can envision an idea in her head and then manage to not only put it on paper; but execute it RELATIVELY close to the original sketch. Amazing. And her ability to paint small details is much better than my 'stay in the lines' coloring that I can crank out.
So... my crafts have also been given the title of "project." And for most accounts, the title fits. My current projects include knitting, cross-stitching and playing with the Cricut machine that I was given for Christmas from S & S. It's way fun; and not only have I loved working with it to make my scrapbook look 51% professional; it's been a great way to liven up gifts and bare walls. What more fun could you have with contact paper, than writing out your favorite sayings and putting them throughout the house?
Ok... Cricut, what is it, you ask? Pronounced: Cricket www.cricut.com (or grasshopper, if you're my husband who finds it funny) is a die-cut machine which enables you to use various cartridges to cut out hundreds of shapes in sizes up to 24". You can cut fabric, paper, vinyl, chipboard, photos or who knows... possibilites are endless! It's pretty fun and rather easy to operate. It keeps you from buyings a million letter stickers for your scrapbook; or vinyl letters from companies, for home decor.
At Christmas, I used it to decorate glass bricks as well as glass ornaments. Who knows what I will have learned by next year.
So... projects ensue at the house, it keeps us all happy... I stay busy, or atleast always dreaming up something I could do with the new machine, or watching the cross-stitch take shape, stitch by stitch; and the rest of the household just stays out of the way and puts in their 2 cents, when requested.
It's a happy day for all!
When my mother says, "Ooooh, I have a new project to do." It usually involves wood, fabric or paint. And it can EASILY involve all three. The woman is one of the most creative women I know... she can envision an idea in her head and then manage to not only put it on paper; but execute it RELATIVELY close to the original sketch. Amazing. And her ability to paint small details is much better than my 'stay in the lines' coloring that I can crank out.
So... my crafts have also been given the title of "project." And for most accounts, the title fits. My current projects include knitting, cross-stitching and playing with the Cricut machine that I was given for Christmas from S & S. It's way fun; and not only have I loved working with it to make my scrapbook look 51% professional; it's been a great way to liven up gifts and bare walls. What more fun could you have with contact paper, than writing out your favorite sayings and putting them throughout the house?
Ok... Cricut, what is it, you ask? Pronounced: Cricket www.cricut.com (or grasshopper, if you're my husband who finds it funny) is a die-cut machine which enables you to use various cartridges to cut out hundreds of shapes in sizes up to 24". You can cut fabric, paper, vinyl, chipboard, photos or who knows... possibilites are endless! It's pretty fun and rather easy to operate. It keeps you from buyings a million letter stickers for your scrapbook; or vinyl letters from companies, for home decor.
At Christmas, I used it to decorate glass bricks as well as glass ornaments. Who knows what I will have learned by next year.
So... projects ensue at the house, it keeps us all happy... I stay busy, or atleast always dreaming up something I could do with the new machine, or watching the cross-stitch take shape, stitch by stitch; and the rest of the household just stays out of the way and puts in their 2 cents, when requested.
It's a happy day for all!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Escape to Witch Mountain, aka: Johnson Lake
So... an hour and a half from Hastings is Johnson Lake. A great hidden getaway from the perils of the world... atleast from phones, computers and people who know us. S and I took off on Friday morning to the lake, to stay at my aunt/uncle's cabin for 24 hours... to get away and see what else this great state has to offer us. Plus, how often do we really go to a lake cabin in the winter? Not enough would be my answer... the solitude, the serenity of the birds flying north; and the semi-frozen lake were totally worth it.
The cabin... let me try to describe it to you... Imagine your grandparents house in the 50s... ok, so yeah, for some of us, they still have the same furniture as then... goldenrod couches that have the occasional design that's way too classic... beauty over comfort was the motto then, combined with "oak" panelling throughout the entire house... carpeted bathroom, complete with the pink tub. And the decor was a walk back in time, that you could learn a thing or two by looking at the pictures, seeing the lineage of the family, and reading amazing things. It was fantastic. Nothing flashy, just sensible, comfortable and that right at home feeling; where you expect your grandmother to appear any minute.
We took books, movies, and our sense of adventure. We never got to the movies; watched a bit of NBC TV, as that was the only station that decided to come in; and we read like mad... did some bird watching, some mid-morning napping... it's exhausting being lazy; and ate here and there. Met a few neighbors, peeked into a few houses for sale and walked the neighborhood... and dreamed of our return visit when the weather is warmer, the water is melted and ready for swimming/boating; and gleefully and well-rested, we returned to the city...
Everyone needs these places... places to just 'be.' Places that God clearly has dominion over... ok, I know it's a man-made lake; but the flocking of the birds in their migratory patterns, the ducks wandering around the lake; the squirrells running like mad; and the serenity of the sun appearing over the lakeshore in it's daily accent into the sky. It's a marvelous beauty to behold. Does it compare to Lake Michigan or many of the other great lakes we've experienced in our lives? No... but who said I was comparing?
On the "Ides of March", I hope you do not approach them with trepidation, but with excitement to find your "Witch Mountain" or whatever you call yoru escape for R&R.
The cabin... let me try to describe it to you... Imagine your grandparents house in the 50s... ok, so yeah, for some of us, they still have the same furniture as then... goldenrod couches that have the occasional design that's way too classic... beauty over comfort was the motto then, combined with "oak" panelling throughout the entire house... carpeted bathroom, complete with the pink tub. And the decor was a walk back in time, that you could learn a thing or two by looking at the pictures, seeing the lineage of the family, and reading amazing things. It was fantastic. Nothing flashy, just sensible, comfortable and that right at home feeling; where you expect your grandmother to appear any minute.
We took books, movies, and our sense of adventure. We never got to the movies; watched a bit of NBC TV, as that was the only station that decided to come in; and we read like mad... did some bird watching, some mid-morning napping... it's exhausting being lazy; and ate here and there. Met a few neighbors, peeked into a few houses for sale and walked the neighborhood... and dreamed of our return visit when the weather is warmer, the water is melted and ready for swimming/boating; and gleefully and well-rested, we returned to the city...
Everyone needs these places... places to just 'be.' Places that God clearly has dominion over... ok, I know it's a man-made lake; but the flocking of the birds in their migratory patterns, the ducks wandering around the lake; the squirrells running like mad; and the serenity of the sun appearing over the lakeshore in it's daily accent into the sky. It's a marvelous beauty to behold. Does it compare to Lake Michigan or many of the other great lakes we've experienced in our lives? No... but who said I was comparing?
On the "Ides of March", I hope you do not approach them with trepidation, but with excitement to find your "Witch Mountain" or whatever you call yoru escape for R&R.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
It's Not About the Groceries...
About two years ago, S and I sat in our professional counselors' office; and I remember him saying very clearly, "It's not about getting the dishes washed, it's about the conversation that happens while you're washing them." I suppose I should back up a bit... I'm a bull in a china closet. That's how I attack most household chores... get them done, get them done 99% well, and 100% quickly. Speed over accuracy, for the most part; although not enough to look neglected and half-done. My favorite person in the world that I live with, S, is accuracy over speed. He's a 100% over 50% kind of guy. Methodical is how we describe it in our house. This was disconcerting to me about 2 years ago... it drove me nuts. I just wanted the chore done; and at my preferred speed. So, it was the topic at the counselor's... he wanted us to enjoy the time together standing around the sink; and not worry about the task at hand.
And so... last night, we hit the grocery store together. Honestly, I think the last time we did any major grocery shopping together was maybe the weekend we moved to Hastings. Maybe! But the shelves were empty, the fridge was bare and my husband was claiming starvation! We made our list, grabbed our reusable grocery bags and hit the road. We did arrived at the store without our list (never fear, Wife is visual!) We went through each aisle; sometimes one arriving back at the cart with an armload of stuff while one other was still staring at which canned veggies to purchase... but in an hour's time, we had successfully filled the cart to overflowing and arrived at the checkout. With only one thing missing: bagels, which was discovered this morning.
Huge thanks to a gift card from Christmas, we barely broke the bank, headed home to put everything away and poof... groceries were put away, S felt much safer in the house and I went to the computer, as I heard a mouse getting into the chips immediately! He was content. He knew the house had food, he would not starve; and we had an enjoyable evening that had nothing to do with the stress/chore of getting groceries; but rather enjoyed the time together!
And so... last night, we hit the grocery store together. Honestly, I think the last time we did any major grocery shopping together was maybe the weekend we moved to Hastings. Maybe! But the shelves were empty, the fridge was bare and my husband was claiming starvation! We made our list, grabbed our reusable grocery bags and hit the road. We did arrived at the store without our list (never fear, Wife is visual!) We went through each aisle; sometimes one arriving back at the cart with an armload of stuff while one other was still staring at which canned veggies to purchase... but in an hour's time, we had successfully filled the cart to overflowing and arrived at the checkout. With only one thing missing: bagels, which was discovered this morning.
Huge thanks to a gift card from Christmas, we barely broke the bank, headed home to put everything away and poof... groceries were put away, S felt much safer in the house and I went to the computer, as I heard a mouse getting into the chips immediately! He was content. He knew the house had food, he would not starve; and we had an enjoyable evening that had nothing to do with the stress/chore of getting groceries; but rather enjoyed the time together!
Monday, March 9, 2009
Post-Production a.k. Resume Normal Behavior
Twilight of the Golds has ended... with a standing ovation at the Sunday afternoon matinee... I think the other performances were just as amazing; but we typically leave the audience in shock or tears and I'm not sure they are ready to stand... quite yet.
Yesterday was the first day that I heard the sniffles in the audience; and on stage, for that matter... as the final monologue was wrapping up, tears welled up inside of me; and I tried to hold it in, long enough for the curtain call and return to the dressing room before losing it. I knew it would be the last time that moment would ever occur. You can get the same group of people together again; but the performance, the mood, the stage would never be the same. It reminded me of graduation from anything... You leave changed, but you can never return to that moment.
It is my sincere gratitude to EVERYONE who came to the performances, who prayed for S and I during the production, who considered how many lives were changed because of the production, or from the need of the script. This production allowed me the safe environment to meet amazing folks, involved with the production and patrons who told their story. I am ever grateful to them all.
To the Gold-Steins... thank you for taking the journey with me! Thank you for supporting my love of theatre, even though I may not be perfect and have my faults on and off stage... thank you for taking the leap of faith in becoming a person that we all can agree on, isn't quite who we'd want to be in real life... and for loving these people even with their faults!
To my family... thank you for your support, your concern over the subject matter and my safe ability to go through this transformation.
To LCGS... thank you for being supportive, for attending, prayers and for talking about how this play affects you and how we, as Christians, work together to balance science and God in this ever changing world.
And to S... for being my biggest fan!
Yesterday was the first day that I heard the sniffles in the audience; and on stage, for that matter... as the final monologue was wrapping up, tears welled up inside of me; and I tried to hold it in, long enough for the curtain call and return to the dressing room before losing it. I knew it would be the last time that moment would ever occur. You can get the same group of people together again; but the performance, the mood, the stage would never be the same. It reminded me of graduation from anything... You leave changed, but you can never return to that moment.
It is my sincere gratitude to EVERYONE who came to the performances, who prayed for S and I during the production, who considered how many lives were changed because of the production, or from the need of the script. This production allowed me the safe environment to meet amazing folks, involved with the production and patrons who told their story. I am ever grateful to them all.
To the Gold-Steins... thank you for taking the journey with me! Thank you for supporting my love of theatre, even though I may not be perfect and have my faults on and off stage... thank you for taking the leap of faith in becoming a person that we all can agree on, isn't quite who we'd want to be in real life... and for loving these people even with their faults!
To my family... thank you for your support, your concern over the subject matter and my safe ability to go through this transformation.
To LCGS... thank you for being supportive, for attending, prayers and for talking about how this play affects you and how we, as Christians, work together to balance science and God in this ever changing world.
And to S... for being my biggest fan!
Monday, March 2, 2009
Opening Weekend
Courtney wipes forehead in sigh of relief, then falls back into couch and smiles.
Well, I can report that we got through the three performances this weekend. Opening night was the best of the best. It was a high for us all, and absolutely amazing. Saturday's performance had a few glitches and Sunday's as well; but all in all, we were pleased. R, the director was pleased; and the crowd seemed to enjoy the performances... really absorbing everything we said. What a high.
And now, we have three days off. "CAN YOU IMAGINE?" We dont' report back till Thursday; which leads us all to a bit of a scare that we'll be super rusty; but that's what Thursday is for... Brush up rehearsal.
The side note to this is that this weekend has been an amazing journey for S and I. We've hit some new notes in the marriage that we hadn't seen/experienced before and it was really quite amazing.
Our Lenten journey has begun... GIrl Scout cookies have been delivered... my thin mints are all in the freezer... with the hope that I'll hold out for them until after Easter! My Lenten journey will be to get back to Weight Watchers and get refocused on my goal!
peace be with you all!
Well, I can report that we got through the three performances this weekend. Opening night was the best of the best. It was a high for us all, and absolutely amazing. Saturday's performance had a few glitches and Sunday's as well; but all in all, we were pleased. R, the director was pleased; and the crowd seemed to enjoy the performances... really absorbing everything we said. What a high.
And now, we have three days off. "CAN YOU IMAGINE?" We dont' report back till Thursday; which leads us all to a bit of a scare that we'll be super rusty; but that's what Thursday is for... Brush up rehearsal.
The side note to this is that this weekend has been an amazing journey for S and I. We've hit some new notes in the marriage that we hadn't seen/experienced before and it was really quite amazing.
Our Lenten journey has begun... GIrl Scout cookies have been delivered... my thin mints are all in the freezer... with the hope that I'll hold out for them until after Easter! My Lenten journey will be to get back to Weight Watchers and get refocused on my goal!
peace be with you all!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Down to the last details
Opening night is Friday!!! This Friday!!! Hard to believe that this journey of Suzanne Gold-Stein began only 6 weeks ago... and in 10 short days, her life will go to someone else; and leave me! For anyone who's done theater, they know how the life of the character begins to seep into your every day life... you begin to have the grey lines as to whom is who. Lines from the script infiltrate your daily vocabulary... not that I walk around saying Haftorah (haf TOR ahh); but other lines that just make sense to say... "I wish it weren't so complicated... this is complicated." for instance...
Never the less... we are ready... we've had 2 dress rehearsals, with cosutmes, makeup, lights and sound.. with one more on Thursday; before opening night. S came to one dress rehearsal, with my aunt and uncle was was very impressed by the production. It was very reassuring to know that my commitment to this production has not been a waste... it's theological, ethical, moral and societal in all of it's dimensions...
And it's time consuming... last night, as I was dressed and ready to go, I found myself standing downstage of the Gold-Stein's apartment... admiring the decor, the set, the whole living room; and putting myself into Suzanne as much as I could... Rob entered, adjusted a pendant light and stood there with me... we like our place... it's a safe place; and it truly allowed me to thrust myself into Suzanne; and leave myself at the doors... and in return; I left Suzanne on stage; and brought myself home... exhausted and exhilirated.
If you haven't bought tickets yet... it's not too late... hastingscommunitytheatre.com. Click on the tickets option and the email will be recieved. Shows are 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday afternoons. Well worth your time...
The Media blitz has been this week as well. R and I were on 2 TV stations on Monday; and then we'll be in the Hastings Tribune on Wednesday or Thursday. The photographer joined us last night during our rehearsal.
I'm so glad I showed up for auditions... opportunity of a lifetime.
Next winter: The Crucible!
Never the less... we are ready... we've had 2 dress rehearsals, with cosutmes, makeup, lights and sound.. with one more on Thursday; before opening night. S came to one dress rehearsal, with my aunt and uncle was was very impressed by the production. It was very reassuring to know that my commitment to this production has not been a waste... it's theological, ethical, moral and societal in all of it's dimensions...
And it's time consuming... last night, as I was dressed and ready to go, I found myself standing downstage of the Gold-Stein's apartment... admiring the decor, the set, the whole living room; and putting myself into Suzanne as much as I could... Rob entered, adjusted a pendant light and stood there with me... we like our place... it's a safe place; and it truly allowed me to thrust myself into Suzanne; and leave myself at the doors... and in return; I left Suzanne on stage; and brought myself home... exhausted and exhilirated.
If you haven't bought tickets yet... it's not too late... hastingscommunitytheatre.com. Click on the tickets option and the email will be recieved. Shows are 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday afternoons. Well worth your time...
The Media blitz has been this week as well. R and I were on 2 TV stations on Monday; and then we'll be in the Hastings Tribune on Wednesday or Thursday. The photographer joined us last night during our rehearsal.
I'm so glad I showed up for auditions... opportunity of a lifetime.
Next winter: The Crucible!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Perms...
Yes, go ahead and laugh now... b/c I'm not posting any pictures, so it's left up to your imagination. The last time I received a perm was in 1987, the start of my 8th grade year of middle school. Perms were in, as were the big bangs that you used your curling iron and a can of hairspray to achieve great height and success. And since 1988, I have had my straight, no frills, no bangs 'do. And it's suited me well. We've gotten along, we've gone shorter then longer, then some layering, then not some layering; but all in all... anyone that's ever met me could desribe my haircut to another person, and they'd know who I am.
Until today... so, my director asked that I get a body perm, to add some dimension to my hair. Because as we all know, I have very little body to my hair, especially in a no-humidity setting. I went to the hair salon, MG did her job; and I walked out looking like a poodle. I KNOW... 48 hours later when I'm able to wash it, it will tame, and over time, it will tame; and when I'm able to really style it, it will tame... but in the mean time... oh, and I was thrilled when the discussion of rehearsal being cancelled due to the 6 inches of snow; but NO, rehearsal's back on; and I'm going to have to face my stage family...
But again, the difference between a good hair cut and a bad one, is just 6 weeks! And my luck, with my fine and thin hair, this perm won't stick around for long... maybe I'll like it. Maybe I won't... but what's a little adventure, right? Especially if the bill isn't coming to you... oh, all in a days work for an actress, I suppose! :)
No pictures, please. If you must see the 'do, then you'll have to attend the production of "Twilight of the Golds" which opens 2 weeks from TONIGHT! (no stress, yet!)
Until today... so, my director asked that I get a body perm, to add some dimension to my hair. Because as we all know, I have very little body to my hair, especially in a no-humidity setting. I went to the hair salon, MG did her job; and I walked out looking like a poodle. I KNOW... 48 hours later when I'm able to wash it, it will tame, and over time, it will tame; and when I'm able to really style it, it will tame... but in the mean time... oh, and I was thrilled when the discussion of rehearsal being cancelled due to the 6 inches of snow; but NO, rehearsal's back on; and I'm going to have to face my stage family...
But again, the difference between a good hair cut and a bad one, is just 6 weeks! And my luck, with my fine and thin hair, this perm won't stick around for long... maybe I'll like it. Maybe I won't... but what's a little adventure, right? Especially if the bill isn't coming to you... oh, all in a days work for an actress, I suppose! :)
No pictures, please. If you must see the 'do, then you'll have to attend the production of "Twilight of the Golds" which opens 2 weeks from TONIGHT! (no stress, yet!)
Monday, February 9, 2009
February
February is a weird month... the weather isn't quite so sure what it wants to do... snow, rain, sunshine, winter, spring; and none the less, in the off years; it seems that just as quickly as the month arrives, it's gone.
Twilight of the Golds opens in just a few short weeks. www.hastingscommunitytheatre.com for tickets. It's a shameless plug; but I'm willing to do it!
Church continues to keep S and I busy... adult programming, outreach, worship, youth group and bible studies. It's good to be busy, and it's good to be a part of this worshipping family. I find myself looking around and being very comfortable in saying that I know lots of names. It almost seems as though one day, you just wake up and "POOF" you know them. You are integrated. You belong. You fit in and no longer stand out as the newcomer. It's what most folks dream of.
This weekend was cultural overload weekend for us. We attended the HCT fundraiser, the production of "The Glass Menagerie" at HC and sang/played with the church choir. And on Saturday, I gathered with some gal pals, P, K and J at www.beadsandbotanicals.com to help CK celebrate her 6 years in business. CONGRATS SISTER!
So, life is continuing to adjust, mold and fit into what we now call 'life.'
Twilight of the Golds opens in just a few short weeks. www.hastingscommunitytheatre.com for tickets. It's a shameless plug; but I'm willing to do it!
Church continues to keep S and I busy... adult programming, outreach, worship, youth group and bible studies. It's good to be busy, and it's good to be a part of this worshipping family. I find myself looking around and being very comfortable in saying that I know lots of names. It almost seems as though one day, you just wake up and "POOF" you know them. You are integrated. You belong. You fit in and no longer stand out as the newcomer. It's what most folks dream of.
This weekend was cultural overload weekend for us. We attended the HCT fundraiser, the production of "The Glass Menagerie" at HC and sang/played with the church choir. And on Saturday, I gathered with some gal pals, P, K and J at www.beadsandbotanicals.com to help CK celebrate her 6 years in business. CONGRATS SISTER!
So, life is continuing to adjust, mold and fit into what we now call 'life.'
Friday, January 23, 2009
Pay It Forward Four Months Later
Today was moving day. Don't panic. It wasn't our moving day. It was moving day for the B's, formerly of Texas and now of South Central Nebraska... about an hour west of us. Now, the P's and the B's are related.
So, exactly four months (to the day) after S and I moved to Hastings, the B's arrived for their new adventure. And may I add that it was EVER so nice to be on the other side of a moving van. The side where, you're slightly invested in the unload; but you havent' toiled with all of the emotional and exhausting weeks leading up to it... you're not wondering which box won't show up; which piece of furniture might not have made it in one piece... or where are you ever going to put everything with a different closet configuration.
I dutifully assisted with the unpacking of bathrooms, kitchen, wardrobes and anything else that could use my assistance, without really having to make huge decisions. We decided early on that saving packing paper was not necessary, nor was saving every box... only the good ones.
Their new home is beautiful; and they will settle into it well.
Did I mention that it was 60 degrees yesterday; and today, it barely hit 20, with snow? Alas, four months makes a considerable difference when it comes to what kind of weather you arrive in. But it's winter in Nebraska... need I say more?
It's good to have them nearby, and I'm sure there will be much more said in future posts about the adventures of the B's and P's... but until then, it's back to the theater for rehearsal... we're 4 1/2 weeks away from opening night... February 27, 2009 www.hastingscommunitytheatre.com Tickets are now available!
So, exactly four months (to the day) after S and I moved to Hastings, the B's arrived for their new adventure. And may I add that it was EVER so nice to be on the other side of a moving van. The side where, you're slightly invested in the unload; but you havent' toiled with all of the emotional and exhausting weeks leading up to it... you're not wondering which box won't show up; which piece of furniture might not have made it in one piece... or where are you ever going to put everything with a different closet configuration.
I dutifully assisted with the unpacking of bathrooms, kitchen, wardrobes and anything else that could use my assistance, without really having to make huge decisions. We decided early on that saving packing paper was not necessary, nor was saving every box... only the good ones.
Their new home is beautiful; and they will settle into it well.
Did I mention that it was 60 degrees yesterday; and today, it barely hit 20, with snow? Alas, four months makes a considerable difference when it comes to what kind of weather you arrive in. But it's winter in Nebraska... need I say more?
It's good to have them nearby, and I'm sure there will be much more said in future posts about the adventures of the B's and P's... but until then, it's back to the theater for rehearsal... we're 4 1/2 weeks away from opening night... February 27, 2009 www.hastingscommunitytheatre.com Tickets are now available!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Manic January
So, Steven is wrapping up his time with the students and Professor from LSTC (www.rural-immersion.blogspot.com) and I have completed my first two weeks of rehearsals, which wrapped up with us running Scene 1 last night... (pretend it says Act 1, as the timeframe is virtually the same.) We celebrated with a group field trip to a local watering hole. I must tell you that it was rather odd... on several accounts... A: it was my first social night out without Steven to a Hastings establishment; and B: it was the first time I had been in the bar scene in YEARS. I was trying to recall, and honestly, it goes back to before we were married... It's not that I don't enjoy the company and stories; but the opportunities just haven't presented themselves for it, in years! So, the group consisted of the cast for Twilight and several of the crew members: producers, directors, etc. We had a good time. I hadn't really had the chance to get to know folks on a more personal 'off-stage' manner; and I think it helps with the jelling of the group.
Ok... bright light just went on. I just noticed the icon for inserting an image. Boy, am I a little slow... which means that I really think I'll go back and download pics into some of these stories. Oh C, sometimes you can be so dense!
Here's more news... the moving van from Texas will be arriving in Hildreth, on Friday... THIS FRIDAY!!! Can you beleive that it's actually time for P & S to arrive in Nebraska? Seems like we've been talking about this FOREVER! I'm so excited!!!
Well, godspeed to my new friends at LSTC... they will part from Nebraska tomorrow and return home to Chicago, to continue the journey.
Ok... bright light just went on. I just noticed the icon for inserting an image. Boy, am I a little slow... which means that I really think I'll go back and download pics into some of these stories. Oh C, sometimes you can be so dense!
Here's more news... the moving van from Texas will be arriving in Hildreth, on Friday... THIS FRIDAY!!! Can you beleive that it's actually time for P & S to arrive in Nebraska? Seems like we've been talking about this FOREVER! I'm so excited!!!
Well, godspeed to my new friends at LSTC... they will part from Nebraska tomorrow and return home to Chicago, to continue the journey.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Hustle and Bustle at the Peeler's
For C, the first week of rehearsals for the play have finished. Blocking has started; and the 'family' is really gelling quite nicely. Lines are starting to come more easily, and the ease of movement is coming back with little problem. There is a smell and feel about the stage that is just so comforting feeling... I really had forgotten how much I love the escape... the cozy feeling, the lights, the audience, the jargon, the challenge of the direction.
K and I are having a great time working together... we did our one on one scene blocking the first night, which was nice to get the 'mushy' stuff out of the way and really be on the same team by the time we added in my parents. It really is a "Us" against "You" feeling sometimes... and spouses need to do that. You need to band together to fight off the evils of the world, or atleast to stand your ground against your parents! :)
We met yesterday, downtown a at the local coffee shop, to run lines and really see how we're progressing. Coincidentally, my 'dad' also appeared at the shop. He was impressed that we were surrounded by our script and really working on it. This is K's first time on stage, so all of the encouragement and helpful tips have been putting him more at ease.
Meanwhile, back at the church/ house. S has been frantically preparing for the arrival of the group from our seminary in Chicago. They arrived Friday, amidst the winter mix of snow and blowing winds... semi-safely! :) We are hosting the professor of the group, P. Who is a delightful and very intelligent man. The group will be here for 10 days, emersing themselves in all things Nebraska and rural, and semi-rural: feedlots, research centers, Willa Cather, Runza's, Archway Bridge Museum, Hastings Museum, Kool-Aid, steaks, downtown hastings, C's shop, the old Ammunition bunkers, etc. It's keep S very busy, but he and J have done a phenomenal job in the preparation and execution. It's also helping for neither of us to notice that we're going in 10 different directions! :) It's our own little ballet and the choreography is a bit rusty, but it's working!
And so... it's Sunday morning. Preparations for chuch and hostin ghte group for dinner have begun. Tucker is torn between computer time and bath time... I think he had enough time w/ his mother last night, so it's time with dad.
Ah... the perils of midwest living.
Mom and S arrive in less than 2 weeks. The official countdown has REALLY begun!
K and I are having a great time working together... we did our one on one scene blocking the first night, which was nice to get the 'mushy' stuff out of the way and really be on the same team by the time we added in my parents. It really is a "Us" against "You" feeling sometimes... and spouses need to do that. You need to band together to fight off the evils of the world, or atleast to stand your ground against your parents! :)
We met yesterday, downtown a at the local coffee shop, to run lines and really see how we're progressing. Coincidentally, my 'dad' also appeared at the shop. He was impressed that we were surrounded by our script and really working on it. This is K's first time on stage, so all of the encouragement and helpful tips have been putting him more at ease.
Meanwhile, back at the church/ house. S has been frantically preparing for the arrival of the group from our seminary in Chicago. They arrived Friday, amidst the winter mix of snow and blowing winds... semi-safely! :) We are hosting the professor of the group, P. Who is a delightful and very intelligent man. The group will be here for 10 days, emersing themselves in all things Nebraska and rural, and semi-rural: feedlots, research centers, Willa Cather, Runza's, Archway Bridge Museum, Hastings Museum, Kool-Aid, steaks, downtown hastings, C's shop, the old Ammunition bunkers, etc. It's keep S very busy, but he and J have done a phenomenal job in the preparation and execution. It's also helping for neither of us to notice that we're going in 10 different directions! :) It's our own little ballet and the choreography is a bit rusty, but it's working!
And so... it's Sunday morning. Preparations for chuch and hostin ghte group for dinner have begun. Tucker is torn between computer time and bath time... I think he had enough time w/ his mother last night, so it's time with dad.
Ah... the perils of midwest living.
Mom and S arrive in less than 2 weeks. The official countdown has REALLY begun!
Saturday, January 3, 2009
The New Year
New Year's Eve, we found ourselves at a W & G's house... along with my aunt and uncle. Our original plans included D & C, but they had a quick family obligation to respond to. (Our prayers are with them and their family).
This was a first for us... we'd never been invited to join anyone for New Year's Eve before. Strange thought, I realize... we gathered around 7 p.m., chatted, had dinner and celebrated my aunt's birthday (Jan. 1). I think she believes that all of the New Year's fuss is for her! j/k! Dessert came and we headed home around 11 p.m. in time to see the ball drop. (We had celebrated at 10 p.m., pretending we lived in Nova Scotia). I immediately headed to bed and Steven stayed up.
Now, we've both agreed that New Years day is something of an anomoly... so the celebration is the night before; and I suppose party revelers need an entire day to recouperate... but for those of us who aren't such party animals... the day is a bit long and boring.
Albeit we did watch bits and pieces of the NU bowl game... enough to know what happened... but other than that, boredom was a bit of something to fight off. We took in the fair weather with a walk, and got lots of chores done...
So, the reason for this blog??? I need stimulation... holidays falling on a Thursday make for a VERY long weekend; and after two weeks of this working 2 1/2 days, I'm getting restless. I know... my boredom is quickly ending, with play rehearsal around the corner, on Monday... and maybe in a month, I'll lament my slow time... but until then... I made three necklaces yesterday, and I'm sure I'll find something else to create today...
Maybe it's back to the scrapbooking, as I've realized that there aren't that many more pages to be done to catch up with our fmaily book...
Our prayers do continue with the Trinity family, on the death of the secretary's daughter in law on new year's eve... she was tragically killed in a 2 car accident in the area... cannot even imagine...
This was a first for us... we'd never been invited to join anyone for New Year's Eve before. Strange thought, I realize... we gathered around 7 p.m., chatted, had dinner and celebrated my aunt's birthday (Jan. 1). I think she believes that all of the New Year's fuss is for her! j/k! Dessert came and we headed home around 11 p.m. in time to see the ball drop. (We had celebrated at 10 p.m., pretending we lived in Nova Scotia). I immediately headed to bed and Steven stayed up.
Now, we've both agreed that New Years day is something of an anomoly... so the celebration is the night before; and I suppose party revelers need an entire day to recouperate... but for those of us who aren't such party animals... the day is a bit long and boring.
Albeit we did watch bits and pieces of the NU bowl game... enough to know what happened... but other than that, boredom was a bit of something to fight off. We took in the fair weather with a walk, and got lots of chores done...
So, the reason for this blog??? I need stimulation... holidays falling on a Thursday make for a VERY long weekend; and after two weeks of this working 2 1/2 days, I'm getting restless. I know... my boredom is quickly ending, with play rehearsal around the corner, on Monday... and maybe in a month, I'll lament my slow time... but until then... I made three necklaces yesterday, and I'm sure I'll find something else to create today...
Maybe it's back to the scrapbooking, as I've realized that there aren't that many more pages to be done to catch up with our fmaily book...
Our prayers do continue with the Trinity family, on the death of the secretary's daughter in law on new year's eve... she was tragically killed in a 2 car accident in the area... cannot even imagine...
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