Hollow-een

Back when I was a kid, Halloween was a huge deal. Not only did we have all-day parties at school (Political Correctness wasn't invented yet) with pumpkin decorating and costume contests, at home my parents hosted their share of parties, too.

While I don't remember the one pictured above, I have photographic evidence that I wanted to grow up to be either Dolly Parton or a diva of some kind while my twin was a young farmer, complete with a corncob pipe. Funny how I ended being a "look at me and my blog" diva and she feeds cows each morning before heading to her full-time job.

Too bad we didn't dress up as millionaires!!

I have tried to carry on some Halloween traditions with Carter. We'd always get pumpkins to carve and costumes to wear while trick-or-treating. Last year, he went with some friends and I insisted he dress up. My thought is teenagers are too old to trick-or-treat. But if they are still going to do it, it better be a legitimate costume.

This year, I'm not sure what happened. Here it is Halloween night. Carter is in his room doing homework. There isn't one pumpkin on our front porch -- just a lonely scarecrow decoration I threw out there on Saturday. We're not the Halloween equivalent of Scrooge or anything. On the way home from work we stopped at the grocery store so I could pick up some candy (which has been staring me in the face probably every time I've shopped since July 4th practically).

We do have our yard lights on to signal "We have candy here!" but it's been a quiet night. The official trick-or-treat hours are 5-7 p.m. We got our first and last guests at 6:42 p.m. A family of 4 kids from around the corner. That's it.

Sad. It's sort of like I've lost my childhood twice now. I'll have to do a better job of getting into the spirit next year! For now I'm sitting here feeling kind of hollow... except for that spot in my gut that is slowly filling up with all these leftover Twix, Nestle Crunch and KitKat bars.

At least that part of Halloween hasn't changed!

Your Light Shall Rise

If you offer your food to the hungry and satisfy the needs of the afflicted, then your light shall rise in the darkness and your gloom be like the noonday. ~ Isaiah 58:10

Sometimes, I'm pretty sure God gets frustrated with me. Oh He doesn't necessarily send an overdue amount of trials and tribulations my way, but I get my share. And when I do, I pray about them.

But still worry.

I am not trying to question His plans or reduce my faith, but it just happens. And why? In the end -- and sometimes that "end" is way down the road -- it turns out OK. Almost always, something good comes of it.

For the past 10 days I've had a "concern" weighing on my mind. Something "suspicious" was spotted in my initial mammogram and I was ordered for further testing. I tried not to think about it -- on one hand knowing that the last time I went through this, it turned out to be nothing, but on the other hand knowing a friend of mine is battling breast cancer as I type this. So nothing to worry about, right?

Today was my appointment for further diagnostic imaging. I played it up like I wasn't too worried. But in all honestly, I was a bit concerned. And I tossed and turned all night. Of course this is where God chimes in and says, "And for no reason, right?" Right. Thank God. They did their best to squeeze the life out of me, but they determined I had no tumor. No cancer. Hallelujah!

I felt blessed and then doubly blessed as I caught much of the news coverage today about Hurricane Sandy. So much devastation already. Some 7 million people without power and I can sit and type on my computer -- with the furnace running, too!

Later, I felt triply blessed.

Carter and I volunteered tonight at The Neighborhood Table -- a nonprofit group that serves meals to the needy every Thursday plus the last Tuesday of each month. Since our church was one of the sponsoring groups tonight, I made sure Carter signed up to get his last confirmation service hours (which count for school, too), plus I thought it would do us both good.

It did.

We waited on a table and served the food, drinks and desserts, then cleaned up after them and set the table for more. I guess it was a slower night because we served only about 150 people. Still, knowing there are that many -- at a minimum -- in our community who are in desperate need of a free hot meal is sad.

It definitely makes us appreciate our blessings today!! We have our health. We are safe. And we know where our next meal is coming from.

The light is definitely rising in my darkness. Thank the Lord.

That's Cool

Had an interesting drive to work today. The temperature was hovering around 19 degrees so there was pretty frost everywhere. Then, as we're driving into the slow sunrise, we can see the full moon in the rearview mirror. And it was low!

That's cool.

Is this because it's fall or because Daylight Saving Time is so late or because Hurricane Sandy is screwing up everything?? Who knows?

I do feel badly for friends and family out on the East Coast. When I see the path of this hurricane, I am so glad that even though hubby and I took our trip to New England too early for fall colors, we also were too early for the hurricane season. Whew.

We'll have our share of worrying when snowstorms head our way... hopefully not for a few months!

Tonight, since it was too cold and too dark to go running, Carter worked on homework and I worked on a "cool" project. I love using my creative talents to help others when I can. Tonight I was working on some racing proposals for one of my nephews (not Colin this time). It was fun to take his info, use a bit of graphic design work and make it look "professional." It's almost ready to go. I just need to find the exact font to match his racing logo. That will be a fun challenge.

Yep, that's what I do for fun on a cold autumn night. That and pack for my next Scrap Camp -- less than 2 weeks away!

There's always something COOL going on around here...

Blessed Day

Today was confirmation Sunday at our church. What a blessing to not only see our son confirmed as an adult member of our church, but also sharing it with family and close friends!

Most of this group of nine have been together since kindergarten and some bonded even more during this summer's backpacking adventure. A neat group of kids!

We had to arrive at church right after the 8 a.m. service so the confirmands could get their picture taken by a cake with all of their names on it. Cool, eh?

 

Then they had an hour to goof around and try not to get their clothes dirty. Do we really have to tell this to boys who are 14 and 15?? Apparently so!

My friend Penny and I got a nice picture of our sons. Clay and Carter have been great friends since kindergarten -- not only going to Sunday School and Confirmation together, but K-6 at Grant Elementary School. He's like a second son to me and it's amazing to see how grown up they both are!

 

Late last night my sisters Raylene and Renell arrived at our house. Raylene and husband Steve (unable to make it) and Renell are Carter's godparents. It was wonderful his two godmothers could make it. Plus, my brother Ron drove over from Minnesota this morning to attend the service. Jim's parents and sister's family also attended Carter's ceremony. Carter's family rocks!

Had to take the opportunity to get a nice picture of the three of us, too. (I should have worn heels!)

 During the church service, Carter's mentor Ted got to introduce Carter and share his chosen Bible passage -- 1 Peter 1:21: Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him, and so your faith and hope are in God.

Pastors Jen and Josh congratulate Carter after the service. I appreciate their influence on Carter!

After the service, we held a lunch at our house for the family and mentor Ted and his wife. Plus more cake.

Nothing says God loves you quite like frosting, right? Seriously, we do feel blessed that we could share the day with loved ones and see God working through Carter already. Today we count ourselves lucky. Sure we might be saying the serenity prayer tomorrow to get through a teenage moment.

But today... we are truly blessed!

Frosty & Fanatical

Fanatic: A person marked or motivated by an extreme, unreasoning enthusiasm, as for a cause. 

Never let it be said that cross country doesn't have its share of excitement and loyal fans -- especially at the state level of competition!

Today was the State Cross Country meet at the Ridges Golf Course in Wisconsin Rapids. It's a nice central location for most school districts and especially convenient for us, less than 5 minutes away.

As usual, we offer up the Austin Shuttle Service for out of town friends trekking to Rapids to see family or friends compete. This year we only had one taker -- some friends from Madison. They park at our house and hubby drives them over and picks them up. Then they don't have to ride a shuttle bus to some parking lot. Hubby also dropped Carter off at the start of the day and me off before the girls ran.

Carter had to get there early to get his "makeup" on. He and the other freshman cross country runners and an 8th-grade runner braved the 40-degree temps and made friends with body paint. Above, you see Carter got the C for Cara, one of our two Assumption girls running today.

Haley was the other runner and the guys later painted her name and letters on their backs, too, but then couldn't figure out how to stand in order without one of the names being spelled backwards. Nope, they didn't think it through! Still, it was great to see such dedication to their teammates.

Haley (left) ended up finishing 19th overall for the girls Division III run and Cara finished 58th. Not bad!

None of our boys made the cut this year. But before the girls race, their coach put his arms around Carter and a teammate and reminded them, "This is what it's all about, boys!" I hope next year we'll see a few of them fully clothed and running with a race number on their bellies instead of paint.

Either way, I'm sure we'll all be there to show our school spirit in one form of Royal Blue or another.

Go Royals!

TGIFF (Thank God it's a Free Friday)

Back when Carter was younger and far less judgmental of his parents, he actually enjoyed spending his days off of school with Mom. Well that honeymoon's over.

Today he was off from school so I used up a vacation day to spend with him. That's not quite how it went.

I got him up at 10 as he requested. I had a yummy warm blueberry Butter Braid waiting for him. Then we went our separate ways. We actually both had productive days. He got his homework all done and I got some "fall cleaning" done -- yes, I do windows occasionally -- and even got a 4-mile run in when I went to pick up the car after an oil change.

So I guess we each had our own "free" day. Can't really complain about that. It's just a lot more fun snuggling on the couch watching 'Finding Nemo" together!

Tonight he is gone to a "party" -- well bonfire -- at a friend's. That's our typical life now. He has the social life and I am snuggling on the couch with myself, watching a movie.

Time's change. At least the couch is still comfortable!

Chill Pill

Earlier this week, I was pretty jealous of my sister who already had an Eggnog Shake and my girlfriend who had a Holiday Mint McFlurry. Tonight, my friends, the Schwan's man came to my rescue. Much like a squirrel gathers nuts for the winter, I have stocked up on 3 quarts of Peppermint Stick Ice Cream.

Of course, I am softening up one right now, just to make sure it tastes as good as last year. That'll be my chill pill after a stressful week.

Most of my family got their own chill pill today -- and not in a good way. Unless you like snow in October!

Not me.

Snow and icy stuff fell in the Twin Cities on north to Duluth and over in northwest Wisconsin. Here I worked from home today and had the windows open because it was 60 degrees. Rainy but warm. Makes Wisconsin seem like such a huge state that we could have totally different weather.

The bad news it that whatever they get back home, we tend to get here in Rapids the next day. According to my weather man, though, it's just going to be very cold the next week -- no snow or rain this weekend. Good thing I did grab that last bit of deck chair time last weekend!

Tonight is a good night to snuggle up on the couch and watch the Vikings lose. Actually, they were behind while I was gone to a "Pure Romance" party (not sure what I want to share about that). Now it's halftime so they may do better the second half since I am home and changed into Purple.

Either way my blanket's warming up... and so it my ice cream. I better go!

Freshman Fifteen

Typically, the "Freshman Fifteen" refers to how much weight a new college students puts on her first year. From experience, I can say it's somewhat close to the truth! In Carter's case, his "Freshman Fifteen" refers to the fact he seems to be going 15 different directions this first year of high school.

And, miraculously, keeping his sanity. (Not so sure about Dad and Mom, though!)

Cross Country had no more than wrapped up on Monday, when we had Parent-Teacher Conferences on Tuesday, followed by Confirmation rehearsal tonight! The only reason we can keep up with him is because we are the ones driving!

We were pleased to discover his first grading period went well and that his teachers find him a "pleasure to have in class." Most said he was very good about class participation, not afraid to speak (hmm, whose child is that?) and ask or answer questions. This is important to hear. Knowing our child is respectful of his teachers and classmates is just as important as good grades. We are blessed he has accomplished both. So far.

Just as his high school career begins, Carter's christian education at church wraps up with Confirmation this coming Sunday. I should clarify -- his Lutheran christian education -- since he continues to have a Religion class at Assumption every year as one of his "core" classes.

We had a quick rehearsal tonight and class photo. There will be 9 students getting confirmed Sunday. Basically we had to run through what they had to do up front, what us parents had to do and the role of the mentor and godparents. Of course, the pastor also reminded the kids not to stand and "lock their knees" so they won't faint. That's what we need is THAT idea in Carter's head! Too late. He's already thinking about it.

I hope he can put that behind him, too!

So let's see, that's 3 different directions so far.... Tomorrow we'll need to give him a ride to school since the public school is off and there is no busing. On Friday he has no school and is invited to a bonfire party. On Saturday, he has a surprise costume/birthday party and then Sunday is confirmation.

When does he have time to eat and sleep??

Not sure. But at this rate, he has no chance of gaining that freshman fifteen. Let's hope no one else in the house does either!

Light at the End of the Tunnel

Even in our darkest hours -- which these days happens to be on our commute to work in the morning -- we can still find light at the end of the tunnel.

I realize it is only Tuesday, but is has a been a stressful week! Personally, I've had a few surprises to deal with and I've also had loved ones coping with some pretty serious challenges. When all seems dark, we wonder if there is a light at the end of the tunnel and, if so, how long is this tunnel.

It reminds me of some of the covered bridges we saw out East. They are single lane. So not only are you going through it in the dark, you know that between you and that light at the end, you run the risk of hitting something head-on. A very low risk, but nonetheless, it takes some guts and some faith.

When we focus on the light -- sometimes a happy outcome, the support of family and friends or new direction in life -- the journey is not so scary.

We get through it, turn around and look back and think, "Wow, that wasn't as bad as I thought." Or "Look what I just survived! I made it through OK!"

Our journey doesn't always have to be in darkness.

 Sometimes there are windows to shed a little light... a respite from the fear, pain or sadness.

That relief can come in the form of people who love us and support us...

Or from a brief bout of self courage. Faith in our own abilities.

Sometimes we just need to stop, take a look out that window and remember all the blessings God has bestowed upon us.

What I've learned in the last 24 hours is that most things have a way of working out. I've received some positive news about a cancer operation, a missing child and word that McDonald's already has their eggnog shakes and Holiday Mint McFlurries.

Yes, God gives us what we need, alright. And if we don't know what that is, He'll find a way to lead us in the right direction.

That's so much easier than doing it on our own, isn't it?

On the Ledge

No one needs to explain to me what it means to talk someone off the ledge. On the contrary, I usually need to be coaxed on to the ledge.

Then I wonder how I got there... and how I can get off before my heart stops beating in fear. Fear of heights, fear of falling, fear of the unknown.

While cruising around northern Vermont with our distant cousins, we stopped at a little wide spot in the road because they wanted us to see a pretty waterfall. I'm sure I was out of the car with my camera faster than I can type this sentence. I climbed up rocks and got to a flat spot that I knew was going to allow us a nice view of the waterfall.

Only problem is, there was an edge to the rocks. And I was pretty sure the world dropped a million feet down from there. I inched forward for a step or two but suddenly felt too tall. Too far off the safety of the ground. So I sort of crawled close to the edge, breathing deeply and going slowly -- as to not shake the Earth off its axis.

Did you think I was kidding?? I really never did get close to the edge. But hubby not only got a pitiful shot of his wife, he also got the waterfall.

He's so brave! He's my hero! I obviously feel safer at the bottom of the waterfall, closer to ground level!

But yet, I still allow myself to get too close to the edge sometimes and wonder how I got there. I think it is my nature to go full steam ahead. The problem is that when you get to an "edge," you don't have much time to stop before going over.

I've been doing that lately. Cruising along at a good clip, feeling pretty good about where life is taking me, when I turn a sharp corner and bam! I am slapped with some major "unknowns." I am teetering at the edge and not sure what is beyond it. It's scary. I can't step backwards because it is not an option. I'm not brave enough to step forward either. Not at this point. I sort of have to wait, patiently, not looking down but hoping either a bridge magically appears before me or, at a minimum, hubby takes my hand.

I can't rely on him to always be the brave one, though.

When we stopped to see what is called the Ausable Chasm in New York, we sauntered out onto this bridge to see this big "crack" in the wall of rock. As soon as we both looked over the edge, we both jumped back and just about passed out. Whoa, vertigo! It was so far down, we couldn't even get close to the side of the bridge to take a picture looking down!

This is as close as I got. Can you see the tiny scenic overlook on the other side? Those people are insane!

We just kept walking across the bridge -- thankfully a very sturdy one -- and I went over to look on the other side. Hubby stayed where he was. Until I called him over to see the pretty surprise.

Sometimes we need to quit squeezing our eyes shut in fear and see what is right in front of us. Maybe it's not so bad!

I will think of these beautiful pictures as we hang out on the ledge and wait to see what transpires. We don't know what God has planned for us.

But we do know He hasn't allowed us to fall yet!

Indian Summer?

Is it still politically correct to refer to a really warm autumn day as Indian Summer? I hope so. And I hope we have a few more like it before the snow flies.

Today really wouldn't qualify, unfortunately. While the forecast said it should be about 66 degrees at 3 p.m., it fell a little short.

My mission, if I chose to accept it, was to get my "Saturday chores" done (yes, another weekend of being behind), get a run in and whatever else I deemed productive so that I could park my bountiful butt in a lawn chair out on the deck at the peak of sunshine and warmth.

Well I did get some chores done, some laundry, too, proofed some pages for work and did a short run to get my legs and painful hip moving again. The Vikings were not on TV so I decided to hit the deck early. It was still in the high 50s and breezy at 2 p.m. so when I sat down, I had goose bumps -- and not from the book I was reading. So what does a sun worshipper do when it could be a last desperate chance at sun?

Find a way to work around it.

I ended up setting up my chair inside the garage -- where the sunshine still hit, but not the wind. Who's smarter than me?

Not many. Ha.

Was nice to sit a bit and finish up a book and then come inside to find out my Vikings won without me. That's a good Sunday. Got some grocery shopping done, made supper and now can relax before another busy week is upon us.

Hopefully Indian Summer will return in full force one of these days. If I can place an order, I'd prefer it when I have the day off. Thank you, Mr. Sun.

Dear OLD Dad

We went up to Luck (and back) today to celebrate my dad's 85th birthday. While he doesn't technically hit the milestone until Tuesday, it's just easier, obviously, to get together on the weekend.

Strange how two months ago, we weren't sure from one day to the next if Dad was going to make it. Today, he looked so healthy, you'd never know it was touch and go not that long ago. Just a testament to the power of love, prayers and, yes, the right drugs. Thankfully!

He was in good spirits today as 7 of his 8 children (all except my sister in Texas), 6 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, 4 of his siblings and still more gathered in his honor.

Part of our entertainment was a special Bingo game we called LEROY. Instead of numbers, we had words under each letter that started with that letter and portrayed something about Dad's life. For example, under the L, we had Lone Spruce (his old CB handle) and under the O we had October 23rd. The R's were his 8 children, naturally.

The idea was my sister Romey's. I just came up with some of the phrases and designed the "cards". Good teamwork!

If you got Bingo, er, LeRoy, you had to yell out "LeRoy!" too. Well of course, we let the birthday boy win!

Had good food and cake, too! We held this party up the road from my parents' place at Skonewood. We used their fellowship hall and that seated us all perfectly... with plenty of chairs to move from table to table and visit. It was great to see everyone and always great to see generations bonding.

Can't wait to do it again next year!

Final Finish Line

This afternoon was the sectional meet for cross country and, as expected, Carter's last race of the season. None of the boys from their little team of 7 will go on to state. Some of the Assumption girls will, though! So it was an OK finish for the season.

Thanks to some support request emails going out to the entire parenthood of the high school, we had plenty of fans traveling up to Wausau for the race. That was cool.

Here's some of the high schoolers who traveled up to support our runners! Yes, it's sunny but that was when it was all said and done. The boys got sprinkled on a bit but it rained good and steady on the girls. Jim and I brought everything from hand warmers to umbrellas so we were good.

Got a few shots using the "continuous sports" setting on the camera, but not much turned out in the weather.

Carter ran a decent race. He almost got another PR. Just missed his best time by 6 seconds and finished with 23:51. Over the course of the season -- basically two months of races -- he improved his time by some 3 1/2 minutes. I would kill for that!

Of course, like his mother, he is concerned how he does compared to the others. We said he should be proud that he went out for a new sport and improved in his first season. If he wants to get better than some of the others, then he has an incentive to train in the off season. Frankly, they'll need him next year. Three of the guys are seniors so those 4 freshman have a lot of responsibility the next 3 years!

I'm pretty sure Carter will go out again. I will see how much I have to prod, beg, demand he runs over the winter. I will be happy to be his running partner. Except his slow jog is probably still 2 minutes per mile faster than me!

Maybe I'll have my most-improved off season yet!

M-m-m-m Good!

We interrupt this blog to bring you the following commercial message...

Attention BUTTER BRAID lovers...

Carter is selling Butter Braids for school to help raise money for their technology programs. If you want to order 1, 2 or 6, let me know by Oct. 28.

Available flavors: Apple, Blueberry & cream cheese (pictured), Caramel Roll w/caramel glaze, Cherry, Cinnamon, Cream Cheese, Raspberry, Strawberry & cream cheese. ... Just thaw, rise and bake. They are soooooo yummy and totally worth the $11 each.

I won't do a hard sell because he is not in any sort of "contest" to sell the most. And really, if you've had them before, you know they sell themselves!

OK, commercial over.

That does remind me we do have one of those Butter Braids in the freezer, I'll have to bake it some day soon. Today's Martha Stewart moment, however, was brought to you by Snap, Crackle and Pop. Yup, due to popular demand, I had to mix up some Reese's Puffs Rice Krispy Treats for tomorrow's sectional cross-country meet.

Kind of hard to believe we're down to the last meet already. Though this cold, wet weather is making it easier to accept. Days like these would be perfect for having a Butter Braid in the oven.

Don't you agree?

The New Orange

With everything else PINK during the month of October, we might as well make pumpkins pink, too, to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Don't forget to check your pumpkins!

Easy enough to remember. They make it super easy at work and do it right on site. So today I started my day on the Pancake House on Wheels (aka Mobile Mammography Bus). Not fun, but it's short-lived pain. And frankly, we can't just wear pink. We do have to take some actions steps, ladies!

Obviously, getting parts of you squished like flapjacks can only mean your day is going to get better! And it did.

Had a chair massage this afternoon. So much back and hip pain (off and on) lately that I needed it. AND I am getting a massage tomorrow, too! All this pink must mean it's "Be Kind to Women Month" too, isn't it?

Tonight I had some fun with a new group of friends and acquaintances. They've been doing a monthly Girls' Night Out for quite some time. This time, I got to tag along for their creative outing. Seriously creative.

We were at a pottery studio, of sorts, much like my Wednesday night Ceramics Class from 20 years ago in Marinette. You just paint the porcelain object with special paint and sometime in the next few days, the owner fires them in the kiln and they become magical gifts or items for your home. I was working on a gift. But if it doesn't turn out, I'll keep it at home.

Afterwards, we stopped at a saloon around the corner from home for more chit-chat. I had a good time and it was nice to come home and the homework was all done. Nobody's grouchy and we're all getting to bed on time.

Perhaps I should make a habit of Momma's Night Out.

Or maybe just during PINK months!

Against the Wind

I'm going to try something new. Since I know I will never have time to post all my pictures from our wonderful New England vacation, I am going to feed them to you one or two at a time... finding something relevant to blog about related to the photo. It sounds like this could almost be inspirational -- but let's not put any pressure on the author here...

On our last full day of vacation, we took the car ferry from Port Kent, N.Y., across Lake Champlain to Burlington, Vermont. Since we arrived at the dock more than an hour early (just to be sure to get our tickets), we had time to wander around the marina. And, naturally, take some pictures.

It was windy that day and I was concerned about how the ferry would do in the rough waters. You know me, gotta find something to fret about! When I noticed this gull on a dock post, I realized he had bigger things to worry about than me.

How does this little bird, with its beak facing the wind and the power of that invisible force ruffling his feathers, even manage to stand on his own two legs? Spindly little legs at that. How does he face such adversity and still successfully take off and manage forward flight progress?

He must have some help.

We often hear and say the phrase: “God won’t give you more than you can handle." Sometimes we are encouraging a friend or loved one going through a tough time. Sometimes we say it to convince ourselves we can handle whatever is thrown our way.

While I always thought it was an actual scripture quote, I've recently learned it is not. It's actually somewhat of a misquote we've all interpreted.

The words of support stem from I Corinthians 10:13, which actually reads: No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

God won't let us be tempted beyond what we can bear. Temptation and adversity are not the same thing, so as luck would have it -- we can be assured that He will likely give us more than we can handle. On our own, that is. The message that He will provide "a way out" is encouraging, though, in any situation.

Sometimes that "way out" is prayer. Other times it's friends and family. Other times, we find the answer in our own heart.

I have several friends right now who feel they are going against the wind. They can't control the strength or velocity of it, but they are trying to find a way to stay airborne. While they may doubt their ability, I don't. And neither does God. They are strong women. And smart enough to know they don't have to face anything alone.

There's nothing like a friend to smooth the rough waters...

Chocolate Lover

Move over, Willy Wonka... I've got my golden ticket right here!

Yes, it's true what they say about Mondays. Some Mondays require more chocolate than others.

It's also true that the best part about having a co-worker go to Hershey, Pa., is his return!

I have to admit, this is not MY chocolate. I just wanted to know what it was like to hug 20 pounds of it! Yep, it feels as good as it looks and sounds. I also wanted photographic proof that I could hug it and walk away. Like I have super will powers!

As a staff, we are going to split and share one of these 5-pound bars. The other 3 were "ordered" by co-workers so they already have homes -- and none are on Blue Jay Drive. Dang. That's OK. With all my pledges to try to get into some healthy eating and exercising habits, 80 ounces of milk chocolate is the last thing I need. Enjoy in moderation, right?

That's what they say. Portion control. Blah, blah, blah. I get it. I just don't have to like it.

I guess when my clothes aren't tight, I will like it. And when a short walk relieves my stress as good as a bite of chocolate, I will like it. And when I go trick-or-treating and these are the new FUN SIZE candy bars, I will love it!

Oh wait... getting off track here. Better find some chocolate to stimulate my brain!

No Sun Day

If I had to hazard a guess, I'd say it has rained for 48 hours straight. Oh, don't worry, I'm not complaining. I just wish it had come early and often this year so we all wouldn't be dealing with this drought.

My family Up North wasn't getting anything this weekend. So I'm sure they got all kinds of "year end" yard work done while we sit watching our leaves get wetter and wetter on the ground. It sort of forced us to do indoor activities today, which I needed to do anyway.

Went to early church where I was scheduled to read and Carter had to acolyte for the last time. I still get a bit of anxiety when I have to do that -- memories from earlier this year pop up -- but we both survived just fine. After church, did a quick grocery run and came home and made chili. It was just one of those cold, rainy days you wanna eat something warm and sit under a warm blanket on the couch! If there was nothing else to do.

While the chili was simmering, I got my "Saturday chores" done. This is becoming a habit. Of course, I've been gone or busy most Saturdays this fall. And lazy the others.Today I just wanted to get the dusting, vacuuming, even some baking, done before the Vikings came on at 3:30 p.m.

Well that wasn't worth all that effort, that's for sure. Not like the world has come to an end, but it sure gets frustrating losing a game after an early lead.

Sigh...

Not like we had many options. I couldn't blow off the team to go sit out on the deck or anything! I certainly wasn't going to run in the rain for a second straight day either. So we suffered through it and figure the week can only get better.

Plus, the rain stopped. Maybe the sun will come up tomorrow after all.

Step by Soggy Step

Ironic that I am intermittently committed to a regular diet and exercise regime, but when it comes to running a race I've registered for, I wouldn't dream of not doing it. Even if I am out of shape and not trained for it. I am going to earn that darn t-shirt. Come Hell or high water.

Today, it was "high water."

Three of us signed up a month ago or so for the Lettie's Central Waters River Run over in Amherst. Some of the Desperate Housewives of Blue Jay Drive have run this each fall. It's sort of been a tradition to wrap up the race season with a pretty 5K along the Tomorrow River.

Well this year, they changed it to a 5-mile run instead and started it at the Central Waters Brewery in Amherst. My "half marathon" sister Chris and neighbor Cindy signed up, assuming it would be a lovely fall day to run. Watching the forecast all week, we knew that was not going to be the case. 40-something degrees and rain. Yup, that's how runners get their reputation as being INSANE!

Unfortunately, Cindy couldn't run -- she's on injured reserve under doctor's orders -- but she rode with me and was our official race photographer. Chris met us there and we just went for it!

With the rain pouring down outside, we stayed inside the brewery as long as we could before being forced to the Starting Line.

Most people had running tights and rain gear or light, "wicking" clothing. Had to wear a baseball cap to keep the rain out of my face. Then added a pretty purple (ha) headband to cover my ears. Yes, it's October but we had a "windchill" of 37 degrees. Do you think we're INSANE yet??

Chris, who is in far better shape than me, paced me for the first 3-4 miles. Then I let her go and kept her in my sights so I would keep moving. Knowing I wasn't well trained for this, I had hoped to finish under an hour then would be thrilled with 55 minutes because that would be 11-minute miles -- and I am at that pace in my little training right now. I don't know if it was the rain prompting me to finish faster or what, but I was ecstatic to cross the Finish Line at 52:52. I can only get better from here!!

The soggy survivors!! Of course, we'd do it again. Because we are INSANE!

As a bonus today, I got to see my friend Jean. She used to work with me in Iola and she is the one I blame (or credit) for getting me to start running 5 years ago! She placed first today in her age group so she is obviously a great mentor and inspiration... and drill sergeant! Lovingly said, of course.

As an extra bonus, when I got home, hubby had my towels in the dryer so I could take a nice hot shower and dry off with warm towels. He's the best! I will say it did take several hours to finally warm up, but I am not complaining. I was happy with how things went and will deal with my inevitable hip pain tomorrow!

As a super extra bonus, Carter has been at a friend's this afternoon and evening so hubby and I got to go out to eat (Rocky Rococo's can be romantic) and he is re-teaching me cribbage. I learned a lot watching him play with Don and Sally out in Vermont. Now it's time to put it to use. For the record, I won the first game. And yes, I am fully aware that probably won't happen again.

I may be INSANE. But I ain't stupid.

TGIF (Thank God I'm Friendly?)

I'm ashamed to say I have become a lazy friend.

We like to think that modern technology makes it so easy to connect with friends. But are we really connecting? I mean really connecting -- the same way a good talk on the phone or a hug in person would do?

I don't think so.

As a parent, I have observed the interaction between "kids these days." They can be sitting next to each other or "hanging out" and not talking to each other at all, but have their heads down, looking at their cyber device of the day. Do they even talk to each other beyond texting?

I don't think this bodes well for their future interaction with acquaintances, co-workers, bosses and even significant others. But who am I to judge? I was reminded today I am just as guilty.

No, I don't have a smart phone that keeps me online and in constant touch with the world. But I have other vices. I'm sure all of you have heard of Facebook and many of you are on it. At first I thought I was too old to understand it. Then I wondered when or why I would ever use it. Eventually, I discovered I could find and "connect" with old friends, former co-workers and classmates -- all the way from grade school to college. How awesome!

Sort of. Sure it's great to have all these "friends" back in my life, but does the sheer volume make me a good friend?

No.

It makes me think of people more often than maybe I would day to day. And I do like to keep tabs on what people are up to and how their kids are growing, etc. Not in a super snoopy way but in a good, "I'm interested because I like this person" kind of way. You know what would be even better? Calling that person or stopping by to see them and TELLING them face to face that I am interested in their life today because I like them. Because they are my friend.

But I'm lazy and don't do that. I use "social media" and even this blog as my crutch. My way of communicating. Or not communicating.

Today, I discovered some sad news about a friend -- and I still call her a friend even though I have been so selfish with my own life I have not made an effort to call her or see her when she lives a mere 5 minutes away from where I work. Now I find out she has breast cancer and had to have a double mastectomy this week. How did I not know this? Where have I been? How can one be a supportive friend if one is not being a real friend in the first place?

I had a good cry -- in shock and in shame.

Of course, I will pray for her recovery. That's really the least I can do. I also will pray God can forgive me and somehow use me to be a supportive friend. A true friend. An honest to God, in the flesh, "here's my shoulder for you to cry on" friend.

I wouldn't expect any less from MY friends. Would you?

Cow Pies to Cow Bell

As a new Cross Country parent, this season has been quite educational. I have one mom who has kindly taken me under her wing to tell me where to stand for good spectator cheering and viewing (and picture taking) and another dad who emails maps and schedules. They're taking care of us newbies but we still find new things to ... uhm, comprehend.

Today, for example, the schedule clearly stated the conference meet was at a farm. Not a school or golf course or park, but a genuine farm between Marathon and Wausau. Thankfully, they included a map or I may have ended up in the corn maze next door!

Since hubby wasn't home from his work trip in Chicago yet, I just went straight to the meet from work. I knew it was going to be chilly so I planned ahead and dressed accordingly, including long underwear and the "hand warmers" in my shoes. Turns out I didn't quite need all that.

The way the farm course was set up, the kids ran past the corn, then through some woods and who knows where in the back 40, then circle toward the dirt road and finish line. I was a little concerned we'd all have to watch where we stepped but I didn't see any cows or cow pies.

It was not ideal for spectator viewing like those golf courses have been. Instead we could catch them at a certain mile marker then, while they ran off into the woods for another mile, we could cut across a logging road (I think) to another viewing/cheering area before the finish. The challenge was getting from that one spot to the other in a timely manner. So while the kids were running, some of us adults were, too. I had running shoes on, but I kept it to a jog since I wasn't wearing a "running bra". Plus, I didn't want to get recruited. Ha. Right. Still worked up a sweat, though.

Since today was the last regular meet, the coach had all the boys run varsity together. So even though Carter has done JV the last two meets, he got to run with the faster guys. He doesn't want me to tell anyone where he finished, but I'm sure he could hear the ATV that brings up the rear of the pack to signal the finishing group. The good news is that he got another PR! Finished in something like 23:45, he thinks. That's great!

Also, one of our girls finished first overall so she got a conference award for that. Awesome! While the teammates stuck around for awards, I headed home so I could meet up with Jim and take just one vehicle into town to meet Carter's bus and take in the Assumption High School football game versus Wausau Newman.

By then, I was really glad I had on all those layers, plus a hat, mittens and two blankets! It was just windy enough to make it super cold. I know it's supposed to get down to 23 tonight. I know it wasn't quite that, but when our team falls behind -- despite an early lead and plenty of cow bell from the fans -- it doesn't help.

We did end up losing our last regular game of the season 32-20. Now it's playoff time for all sports.

At this rate, I may have to invest in some more hand warmers. At least my shoes don't smell like a barn!

Patience is a Virtue-al

With modern technology, if you can keep up with it, everything is so fast! But ohmigosh, when it's not working, I have so little patience it's not even funny!

Today at work some program on our websites wasn't working and no one seemed in a hurry to fix it even though I (and I'm sure others) needed to get some content online. I just kept going back to it every half hour to see if it was working and no, not yet.

Tonight, after a frustrating day at work, it still wasn't working on my work Mac but it works on my home PC. Why it does, I have no idea. But at least I got two hours of work done before Modern Family came on at 8!

So I am watching that and blogging during commercials because I am a chronic multi-tasker. I think it comes with the speed of everything else. Just gotta go, go, go!

Unless you're my computer! Sigh... With all the things that exist in the Virtual Reality world of technology, you'd think I'd find patience somewhere. Maybe it's just on PCs and not Macs. You think?.

Show's back on. Gotta log off so I can check laundry during the next commercial set!

Go, go, go!

Running Mate

With the elections just a few weeks away, I'm thinking I am not the only one who is a little tired of political ads, mud slinging and the like. But if you have your pencil poised to write in Carter Austin, don't hold your breath. He doesn't want anything to do with politics.

At this juncture.

As part of his last few weeks of confirmation, the students are paired up with a mentor who guides them through weekly lessons and does some extra "assignments." Our friend Ted has been kind enough to mentor Carter, coming over on Sunday afternoons to do their book lessons and prod him along on his faith statement (another homework assignment!).

One of their extra assignments was attending a church council or committee meeting. They took care of that tonight, meeting up at church after Carter and the cross country team enjoyed a spaghetti dinner at school. Carter and Ted hopped around to a few of the committees -- Youth & Family, Property, etc -- to get a taste of the democratic process at church.

Carter was adamant he will never serve on any type of committee. He says, "Mom, it was like planning your mom's 80th birthday party all over again!"

OK, some of you know what I'm talking about!

The one example was a Youth & Family discussion about an upcoming movie night. "They spent 15 minutes just talking about the snack. It had to be fish-shaped crackers to look like Nemo. Fifteen minutes!"

While it seems extreme, each little detail is important for event planning (we learned this through some party planning). Also, it is a democratic process so everyone can weigh in with their opinion. And, at church anyway, there's not really a time limit.

Thankfully, the guys got out of there so Carter could get home and get to his school work. Good grades are still important whether you plan to run for office or not.

Also, they can hopefully get you a job some day where you don't have to clean people's toilets or examine them for leaks. If you thought you were having a bad day today... Our poor plumber had to get up at the crack (tee hee) of dawn, come over to our house to look at our toilet (fun) and then, couldn't leave until he changed his flat tire... in the rain. Yup. I bet you didn't have such a bad day after all, did you?

Mr. Plumber does get my vote of sympathy anyway. As for Carter, I think the only running mate he'll be is my pace setter in a 5K.

Columbus Day

It might be Columbus Day Observed, but for me it felt like Independence Day -- as in, I'm on my own.

Hubby has a work trip in Chicago and will be back Thursday night. Strange how we spend a week together then I was immediately gone 4 days for a sister weekend and now, a week later, he's escaping for 4 days, too. Hmm.

Thankfully, he didn't have to leave until mid-morning AFTER they administered flu shots at work. We signed up for the same time so he could hold my hand through the process if necessary. I think you know needles and I are not friends. And I get a little nervous. Just a little bit.

I didn't have to physically hold Jim's hand but he was right there for me and helped me back to my desk just in case I was gonna pull a Carter and faint. OK, that wasn't fair. I was fainting long before Carter was around! I did OK today, though. Arm is still tender but I didn't have any other reaction so I should be able to handle this on my own going forward.

The non-fun part about the single parent gig is that when it falls during the week, I have to be a hard-ass and get Carter to buckle down and do his homework. We didn't have a very pleasant conversation tonight. The first grading period ends Friday already (we do the 6 hexes vs. 4 quarters) and now that he is in high school, these grades COUNT. Not that we haven't had the conversation before. He just needs to use some of his time more wisely.

Don't we all?

While he was trying to hit the books, I was getting our bathroom prepped for the plumber tomorrow. Something's not right with the toilet in our bedroom bathroom. So Jim called the plumber today and I get to deal with him tomorrow on my own. Not to sound like the stereotypical female, but I'd rather the guys handled that stuff with the guys.

Plus, I will look like an idiot because tonight (for some odd reason) it was working fine -- not leaking, not having any water level issues. Sigh... So who knows if Mr. Plumber will find anything or not tomorrow. It might be just a loose pipe or I might have make a big decision like ripping out carpet or getting a new toilet. I really appreciate the "other half" for things like this!

The only thing I don't mind is that I got one more crack at that TV and remote tonight. This time, The Voice was on and I got caught up on that a little between testing for leaks and using my own Voice on Carter.

Enjoyed that. Might just have to dream about Adam and Blake tonight... and Jim, of course. That just goes without saying!

Honest, Honey!

Scatter-Day

It seemed I was going in so many different directions today I could almost call it a productive day. Almost.

Went to early church with Carter then headed to Plover and Stevens Point for some shopping. Trust me, I am not a casual shopper. Just shop when we need something. In this case, Carter needed some casual shoes  for school (since he's outgrown the ones I bought in June) and some khaki pants for school (since it is getting cold AND he's outgrown the ones from last school year).

We found some khakis -- and some jeans since he has outgrown those, too. I guess I should be happy he is growing! Only my pocketbook objects.

Naturally, when we're shopping, we end up buying something we didn't plan to... you know how that goes.

We noticed some drawer/shelf units and Carter -- who is still awaiting his birthday dresser 5 months later -- said he liked it. Not that I didn't trust hubby to assemble it (he just had rotten luck with the initial birthday dresser in May), but Carter and I decided to put it together ourselves. It really took less than half an hour and was very easy!

The plus side is that he finally has a dresser instead of living out of a tote. (He never complained, honest.) The plus plus side is that this prompted him to clean and organize his room. I now have a tote filled with clothes that don't fit plus "toys" he's too old for. So I can price those at my leisure for the spring garage sale. His room does seem more "roomy" now, too.

While he was working on that, I did my Saturday chores a day late again. Then I went for a run. I have a 5-mile race coming up this Saturday and I am not trained for that. Considering I didn't run during vacation, etc. So I am behind in my fitness, that's for sure. But I went for a 4-mile run this afternoon and didn't have to stop to walk at all. Granted, it took me 44 minutes, but I was glad I didn't need a rest. Progress!

Got home in time to discover the Packers blew their lead and lost. Whoa. I did not see that coming. Too bad.

Of course, they didn't have the Vikings game on TV here so I had to keep tabs on the computer. How exciting! With our huge win over the Titans, we now have twice as many wins as we had ALL of last season! I'm a little embarrassed about that, but... SKOL!!

Tonight hubby is at a sports association meeting and Carter is doing homework. I have the entire couch, TV and remote to myself and there is NOTHING on! Maybe I should take a cue from Carter and get some room cleaning and organizing done.

Yeah, maybe.

Playng it Cool

I feel badly for any kids having to compete in this more-than-chilly fall weather today. Not to mention their dedicated athletic supporters, bundled up on the sidelines and bleachers.

It was 38 degrees with winds 10-20 mph when Carter went to his cross country meet. We got lucky this one was hosted by Lincoln H.S. in Rapids and held at The Ridges golf course, just 5 minutes from home. I prepared myself well -- long underwear under heavy sweat pants, a turtleneck, sweatshirt and jacket AND, most importantly, hand warmer packets in my shoes and gloves.

I felt comfortable, but when you see these pictures of Carter, you're just gonna wanna grab a blanket or hot toddy.

If you couldn't see Carter in the mass of JV runners (top photo), here he is at the start.

There were 20 schools I think from everywhere from Tomah and Manitowoc (seen here) to Eagan, Minnesota.

In his first trip by us, he was already falling behind. He just didn't seem on pace.

Of course, we later learned his right knee was hurting. But as long as he was passing people, I figured he was fine.

What I liked about the golf course setup was that the runners passed by spectator areas in many places.

Cold yet?

Where did his gloves go?? Anyway, his finishing time was the slowest since his first few weeks. But at least he finished strong and didn't finished last.

Just another look at the bundled up spectators! B-r-r-r.

Besides Carter and team Royal, we also got to see our friend and former co-worker Jeff and cheer on his daughter, who was running varsity for Stevens Point. Also got to take pictures for my friend Becky, whose daughter was running varsity for Wisconsin Rapids. That was fun.

After we came home and warmed up, I did go out for a short 2-mile run -- I think just to prove I can run in this weather, too. Ha. Then Jim, Carter and friend Tyler and I all went up to the theater in Stevens Point to watch the movie Trouble with the Curve.

Oh, Clint Eastwood, you never disappoint me! Jim and I both enjoyed it. And no, we did not make the boys sit by us. (I wasn't gonna share my popcorn!) They said they liked the movie as well.

Dropped Tyler off and now we're home, wondering if at 7:30 at night it's not too late to be productive. Since Jim's Reds start their playoff game in a half hour, I don't think that's gonna happen. Might have to hit the hot tub, though, before snuggling under the blankets for the night.

I still can't get warm enough. And this is only fall! Sigh...