Exodus of August

Dear August (aka Summer): I insist you stick around longer!!!

I am not ready to let summer go just yet. Yes, technically it is still here for several weeks, but most of us suffer from that end-of-summer illusion when Labor Day comes around.

I do enjoy that extra day we I worked hard for all year. I guess I will have either yesterday or tomorrow count as the "bonus day" since today wasn't too holiday-like.

Carter and I got up early for church. Following the 8 a.m. service, we had in informational meeting sharing next steps to getting a new pastor now that ours have officially left the building. While I was hoping for a "looking forward" type focus, I came away feeling a bit negative. I guess churches are no more immune from politics than any other organization. Praying we all keep proper focus.

After that, I went grocery shopping and Carter met up with some friends to go to the Central Wisconsin Fair in Marshfield. He went yesterday, too. Knowing he doesn't really care for rides at his age, I can only surmise he is meeting up today with a girl a met yesterday. That better go no further than the month of August on the calendar! He doesn't need any distractions from school.

(Do as a I say, not as I did as a boy-crazy teenager!)

This afternoon, I did my Saturday chores and got a 4-mile run/walk in. I decided that would count as my sun time (sorry, Mr. Deck Chair and friends). It was pretty warm out. I walked part of the route, which was a good thing since I found a penny. You wonder what my running speed is? Well, I can spot a penny and pick it up and not break stride. Ha. Can't turn your back on luck – or run (walk) past it.

I did meet up with Mr. Deck Chair after supper, but those pesky Skeeters were cramping our space. So I had to move inside to read a bit. Called my mom to see how she was doing. She's doing just fine and was happy to spend the day with her sister... going to some garage sales. (So help me if we need another Dumpster!)

Shouldn't cast stones. I still have plenty to do around here. Don't remind me that I have an "extra day" tomorrow to do it, either. The September page of our calendar shows we've got plans, rain or shine. We're movin' on.

Thanks for visiting, August!

Splish, Splash, I Was Taking a .... Mulligan?

You know what's awesome? Having an extra day to the weekend AND getting to spend it golfing! You know what else is awesome? When the rain clouds don't overstay their welcome so you can enjoy it!

Today was the second annual golf outing to benefit the Assumption High School football team. Last Labor Day weekend, hubby golfed while I ran the Women Rock 10K in the Twin Cities. This year, he stayed with his foursome of all guys and I had a hard time getting a foursome together since 4 of my gal pals already had formed a team. At the last minute, I got to fill in with a friend's daughter, Taylor, and her friend Jake.

After a solid soaking last night, we got hit with rain right as we were approaching our noon shotgun start. We got a good downpour once during our round and a few scattered sprinkles. But otherwise, pretty decent weather and even some sun!

One of my favorite gifts ever from the guys was a pair of golf sandals. Love them. And they especially come in handy on days like today when you are splishing and splashing your way to your ball. Thankfully I didn't have to hit mine "out of the water" because it was scramble so we took the best shot of our group.

Had a super time. I could have done better with a lot of shots, but a lot were just fine. There was no way we were in contention to win among co-ed groups so we just had fun with it. (Got to take off my competitive hat for the day!)

After golfing, there were awards, a dinner and auction to raise more money. Unfortunately, the football coaches and parents had to leave early because last night's rainout in Thorp was rescheduled for tonight. So the "beneficiaries" of the event will just have to believe us when we say we were still supporting them even if we chose dinner over a roadtrip to cheer them on in person.

Last I heard, they got to splish and splash around plenty, and even slogged their way to victory, so that's what counts!

If you're the competitive type...

Green Means Go!

It took all summer,  but we finally got down to Madison International Speedway to see our nephew Colin race.

We almost didn't go because there was a serious threat of rain. Good thing we "braved" the elements because the rain never came to the racetrack, located south of Madison between Oregon and Stoughton. 

Our local football teams weren't so fortunate.  Rapids got rained out in town and lightning chased our Assumption team out of Thorp – and they'll have to return to try again tomorrow night.

As for racing,  we were prepared with rain coats and umbrella. And Jim's sister Sherry – Colin's mom – who knew how to get there.

 

 

Sorry for crappy photos from my phone. Colin qualified 6th, finished 2nd in the heat race and took 6th in the 60-lap feature. This was the last race of the season. Not sure where #87 finished in overall season points but it doesn't matter. It was just fun to see him racing. 

The only bad thing is that it is 11 p.m. when it's over and it's tough to drive two hours to get home! Glad the Austin siblings kept each other awake in the front seat because this old lady kept bobbin' my head in brief naps ... and my legs were restless!

Time for bed since tomorrow is going to bring golf, not rain. That's my forecast and I'm sticking to it.

Today's Numbers: Seven-Eleven

Got my backpack... got wheels... look out junior year, here I come!

Yup, it's back-to-school time for our baby. Since I had to get to work early and the first day of school starts late (8:30 instead of 7:30), I had to rely on hubby for the traditional first day of school photo.

He did a fine job, especially considering Carter overslept and was certainly not in the mood for Mom's scrapbook demands.

The good news for him is that he is in 11th grade now and only has to deal with this one more time... except those college move-in days and all that. But let's not get ahead of ourselves.

Today was also the first cross-country meet of the year. That's why I had to work early so I could leave early and we could get to Pittsville by 4 p.m. According to the Weather Channel, it was not going to start raining there until 6 p.m.

They were wrong. The kids had to run in a light rain the whole time. Glad I have a Royal blue rain coat with hood. Jim had to borrow my Twins umbrella since our huge golf umbrella was home in the garage. Didn't quite think that one through, but we were in a hurry to get there on time!

The boys finally have a larger varsity team, with Carter, 3 fellow juniors and 4 sophomores. There are two varsity girls and two middle-schoolers, as well. Finally some numbers instead of last year's total of 6 kids. Above, Carter is in the middle, still running with other Royals after mile 1. Then they spread out more.

Here he is in the final sprint to the finish. He ended up finishing 7 seconds faster than his end time at Pittsville last year. What an encouraging start to the season. I hope he feels good about it. Haven't got to talk to him since he and the team were going out to eat after the meet.

I wonder if he'll have homework to do tonight. He'll have to get back into that routine far better than his waking up to the atomic alarm efforts this morning!

Ahhh.... love that back-to-school time, don't you?

'Twas the Night Before...

'

'Twas the night before 11th grade and all through the house, not a creature was stirring except for my computer mouse...

With 3 assignments done, Carter is working on his 4th school assignment due the first day tomorrow. Since he needs the computer, I will log off and appreciate that MY summer isn't over.

Can't wait for the daily challenge of dragging him out of bed begins! Better get to sleep so we can get that started!

OK, mouse... back to homework...

When the Fog Lifts

We got hit with a pretty major storm in the Rapids area on Monday morning. Like 4:30 a.m. when sirens may or may not have gone off and we did not hear them because one, we were asleep, and two, it was so blasted hot and humid we had the windows shut and the air on.

I actually thought the "real storm" was just starting as I was heading to work shortly before 7 a.m. It was raining and lightning was zig-zagging across the sky. But when I got out onto the main roads, I saw the storm damage.

The road was littered with leaves and tree branches of all sizes. It wasn't until later that I learned I saw the least of it. Some structures were seriously damaged by fallen trees and there were thousands without electricity.

Guess we were fortunate to not have damage or lose power. Would hate to miss that Monday morning alarm!

On the way to work, though, it was both rainy and foggy but I still noticed a new caution sign in Plover, a town I can't avoid (twice a day). Although I couldn't see clearly with the windshield wipers going rapidly, I thought it said something about exiting if you are overweight. I thought, "I gotta get a picture of that tomorrow!" A message from the fitness gods to the chronic yo-yo dieter.

So today, I remembered and had camera phone ready. However, once the rain stopped and the fog lifted, I got a different message:

So I guess if you are OVERHEIGHT, you should exit right. Well so not MY exit after all.

Looks like I can remain "vertically challenged" AND, as long as there are no warning signs, enjoy a piece or two of that zucchini bread I just took out of the oven!

Are You Ready for Some ... Emmys?

I'm an awards show junkie, but I was surprised when I learned today that the Emmys are on tonight. Tonight? One night after the VMAs and on a MONDAY night, no less?

Thinking Monday nights were for football, I was ill-prepared.

I texted the guys and reserved one couch as MINE for the night. My plan was to don some orange to support Orange Is The New Black nominees, plus wear a smile to support the hopefuls from Big Bang Theory and Modern Family.

I got as the orange transformation but never made it to the couch until now, after 9 p.m. My fault for volunteering to do a "little project" / "little favor" for a friend. It's done now and beautiful, of course (ha), but I missed most of the show. Do you think they'll have results online?

I did just catch the "In Memoriam" segment and have weepy eyes. Will have to get back to the couch and watch more for some humor.

As long as the couch is mine, I better use it, right?

Bittersweet Sunday

The downside of this Sunday was that it was our last church service led by our husband-and-wife pastoral team who are moving onto greener pastures (we can say that in Wisconsin).

It's been a good 5-year run and they will be missed.

I especially got to know Pastor Josh last summer when I was his Wing woMan on our mission trip to the Ozarks! It was a fun-filled and faith-filled week that I will never forget. Carter got to bond with both of them during camps, backpacking and mission trips, and confirmation classes. It's just not going to be the same.

The upside of this Sunday, though, was that they decided to confirm the 9th-graders while our pastors were still here, rather than waiting until late October. That was nice of them to do. The confirmands still have to go through their month-long "final project" with a mentor this fall, then they will officially, officially be done.

I feel blessed I get to be a part of that. Emily, the daughter of my "half" sister (as in half-marathon partner) Chris, asked me to serve as her mentor.

This entailed confirmation cake before church and again at their house after the Goodbye Potluck. Oh, and I also got to introduce her today in the service, share her scripture verse and stand with her parents and family to pray over her with the pastors. It's a neat privilege and I look forward to getting to know this fine young lady even better!

We got home about 4 p.m. so no sense getting motivated at that point. I did cross the street and cooked up some essential oil salves with my neighbor. If you need anything to help with eczema or need a "sleep stick," let me know.

When I got home, hubby had left to golf with his dad and sister. Carter is out for a run. I could grab the remote right now and claim it as mine. But am I cool enough to watch the VMAs?

I could work off some of that cake trying to keep up with that "young people's music"!

It's Not the Heat...

Is it possible to melt even if you are not a snowman AND it is the middle of summer? I think so.

The old timers used to complain, "It's not the heat, it's the humidity." I get their point now.

Even though today was not the 86 degrees predicted, the humidity was off the charts. When hubby (sitting in the comfort of the A/C) says: "I just don't feel like doing much today," who am I to fight the trend?

I should have shifted into relaxation mode right then and there. Instead, I figured I better get a run in. I'm not very smart.

It wasn't even sunny out, just foggy. In fact, while I was running/walking, I couldn't tell if it was raining, misting or the air was that thick with humidity. Either way, I gave the Wicked Witch of the West a run for her money. By the time I was back home, I was melting!!

Didn't take much convincing after that to lay low.

Got my chores done, went to the grocery store and the library and then was back home for the afternoon and evening with nothing on the agenda. Poor Carter had to work a split shift today while we did as little as possible.

I spent a few hours on the computer with a few fun (for me) design projects. I "should have" been working on all kinds of de-cluttering projects around the house, but really, I felt it was my wifely duty to follow Jim's lead.

I don't always listen to him, but today was a good day to start!

Just Chillin'

How does one "chill out" when it is 86 degrees and the humidity feels like 186?

Ice.

You'd have to be hiding under a rock not to have heard of or seen video footage of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. Unlike this spring's "Cold Water Challenge," which quickly lost its purpose and became dangerous in some instances, this challenge has legs.

Many people (from kids and grandmas to celebrities and presidents) are either opting out of the challenge by donating to ALS at www.alsa.org, or are accepting the Ice Bucket Challenge AND donating. That's what the Austins are doing.

I was not nominated, but our terrific trio at work decided to be proactive, pushing for donations, but sacrificing ourselves in the heat. Ha. It was definitely a chilly wake-up call at the office today!

See the video here...

Oh but wait, we're not done! Jim was nominated, too!

See his video here....

Apparently, Carter participated in one at school, too, with his cross country team, but I have yet to see physical (i.e. visual) evidence. I'm sure he did it. It would feel great after an hour-long run, wouldn't it?

Oh wait... this just in...

Check out his brief video here: http://instagram.com/p/sAaiAKlnqi/

Do you feel any cooler yet?? I might just turn the A/C off.

Ha. No.

De Deutsch Countdown

I don't sprechen any Deutsch, so I will just type in English... The countdown has begun.

According to German teacher "Frau" T., the flights are booked and Carter leaves for Germany in just 297 days! (That's June 15 and we will mark it on your 2015 Assumption Music Calendar for you when you buy one from Carter later this fall!)

In a unique twist, they are flying Icelander airlines instead of a German airline, which means they will be touching down in Iceland before the last leg to Germany. Uff da. Carter will be to more countries than I was to states before he graduates!


Very cool for him. He misses his "brother" Lukas and can't wait to meet his family. I wish there was a way to sneak in on this trip, but they have their chaperones set and I am not squeezing into a suitcase for endless hours.

Though it would be worth it. We miss our boy. Some day we'll see him again. I know it!

In the meantime, Carter's process of getting a passport and all that will begin as soon as school starts. He'll still be fundraising (hint, hint), but I'll keep you posted on that, naturally.

For now, I've got less than 300 days to plan what we're sending over with Carter... and how we'll fill our time back in the States the month he is gone! Hmm...

297... 296... 295...

Got to Go to GNO

Every month there is a group of wonderful women from the Rapids area who gather socially for a Girls' Night Out. Or, as we simply call it, GNO.

I can count on one hand how many times I have been able to attend over the past few years. And I can't think of why. Since they mostly meet on Wednesdays, my scheduling conflict used to be confirmation. You know, back in the days we had to drive Carter everywhere. But after that, I'm not sure what filled up my calendar and prevented me from joining them.

Thankfully, they didn't take it personally and continue to invite me back each month!

Last week, when I noticed the calendar was still clear, I wrote it in INK! So tonight I finally got to go to GNO!

We met up at Anchor Bay Bar & Grill for dinner, drinks and chit-chat. What a beautiful night on the Wisconsin River. Slight breeze and temps that actually called for a light jacket for comfort. Very nice.

The first to arrive were my scrappin' soul sistah Jenny (left in photo) and BFF Christine. While I forgot to actually "focus" the phone camera, we at least remembered to smile! The three of us haven't been together in months. That was a treat in itself.

And while it was an evening away from home and hubby and kids, we still managed to sneak in conversations about all three. Still was relaxing, though! Every girl deserves a night out once in awhile – even if I did have to call it an evening early to get some work done.

Next month, maybe I'll get lucky and I can write it in INK and not have a self-imposed curfew.

Look out, world... This girl might stay up past bedtime!

It's Essent-Oil

Despite some pretty bad decision-making along the line, I have tried in recent years to rectify some of the damage by focusing on my health. I could always brag that I was "on" nothing! No drugs of any kind, just your run of the mill daily vitamins, occasionally jumping on the calcium and fish oil bandwagons.

It was actually a bit devastating 2 years ago when my anxiety issues came to light and my panic disorder reared its ugly head. I tried deep breathing, praying, distraction and the "witch doctor," who helped me in numerous ways therapeutically, but did not cure the anxiety. As a last resort, I became just another one of "those people" who couldn't function without medication.

Dang, there went a good streak.

On the plus side, I have my anxiety under control and keep my panic attacks to a minimum. Of course, with all drugs (if you've seen ANY commercial), there are side effects. For me, this one causes insomnia.

Every. Single. Night.

So for 2-plus years, the only way I can get to sleep at night – no matter how tired – was to take "something" ... sleeping pill, Tylenol P.M., NyQuil, Benadryl, whatever helped. I tried to mix it up, alternating it so my body wouldn't get too used to one thing and not work for me. It was my new merry-go-round. Had to time it so I would take it early enough so that it wouldn't be so hard to wake up in the morning. And even then, I was groggy.

As a very last resort, I decided to give one more thing a try: Essential Oils.

Essential oils are natural aromatic compounds found in the seeds, bark, stems, roots, flowers, and other parts of plants. They can be both beautifully and powerfully fragrant. In addition to their intrinsic benefits to plants and being beautifully fragrant to people, essential oils have been used throughout history in many cultures for their medicinal and therapeutic benefits. Modern scientific study and trends towards more holistic approaches to wellness are driving a revival and new discovery of essential oil health applications.

As it happens, my next-door neighbor has learned about all of this over the past several months and has started using some for various needs. When she told me a few weeks ago she was "cooking up" some "Sleep Sticks," I was intrigued and stopped over.

Here she was, literally cooking up some beeswax and various essential oils, making a concoction that was poured into little Chapstick containers. It had the same consistency as lip balm but I was not to put it on my lips. Instead, my instructions were to rub it on the bottom of my big toes and the whole bottom of the foot if needed. Our largest pores in our body are on the bottom of our feet, with the largest of those on our big toes. You want your body to absorb something, that's where you go.

That very night I tried it. Still took quite awhile to fall asleep. I was hoping it was because I had too much on my mind. I just wanted so badly for this simple solution to work. The next night, I followed the same routine. Don't even recall "trying" to fall asleep. I just did.

Now we are officially two weeks free of any night-time sleeping aid – other than my magic stick! Hallelujah!

My neighbor Cindy also whipped up a special pain relief stick (I'm sure there's a more professional name than Pain Stick) that I have been using on my hips so I can run again. That is working well and I am feeling less and less pain as I use my legs and hips more and more. What a relief!! Hallelujah to that, too!

Probably obvious my next sentence is that "I drank the Kool-Aid."

Oh yes, I signed up to be an official witch doctor (I prefer Wellness Advocate) – buying, mixing and selling the multitude of magic potions that are do-TERRA Essential Oils. I am excited. It has worked well for me and I want to save the world! We know that not everyone reacts the same to each oil or oil blend. My Sleep Stick may not work for someone else but there are a multiple "recipes" to try.

Just think of something that is troubling you and there is an oil for that. I'm serious. Pain relief, digestion, energy, even a recipe to address Restless Legs Syndrome, which I plan to mix up for my mom who has been taking pills for decades. It's worth a shot. You never know.

If you are interested at all or want to learn more about it, check out my site: http://www.mydoterra.com/robynaustin/  We can talk about what's bothering you and what I (and the other witches in my coven) can do to help.

It could be essent-oil to you!

Flash Flood

It dawned on me today that God probably has Noah on speed dial for occasions like today. I don't recall the last time we were actually in a Flood Warning, but it certainly made sense once I ventured outside.

I knew there was like an 80% chance of rain today so I wisely packed an umbrella in the car this morning. Doesn't do me any good when it's in the trunk and I'm running from my office out to the car, now does it?

The ride home was crazy rainy. It would let up, then I'd see the lightning, then it was start pouring again. I had to make a stop at KwikTrip and Wal-Mart. I basically could not see a thing driving there on Griffith Avenue. Apparently, my hybrid windshield wipers cannot keep up with torrential rains. Made it safely, though, and that's what counts.

When I got to Wal-Mart, I sat in my car and wondered if it would let up or if I'd have to make a run for it. I sat for a few minutes then splashed my way to the entrance. For the record, that does count as my run today. After I was done shopping, it had let up a little but had caused some real-life flooding in the area. My normally short route home was detoured due to water over the road.

And take a look at our driveway (above). It's never gotten this much rain that fast. Carter had to walk through a lake from his car to the house. As much as I brag up my kid, you'd think he could walk on water, right?

It did not get him a free pass out of either of his cross country practices today either. Had to dig out the "boot dryer" though so he can practice again in the morning – with dry shoes. And based on the radar, get them wet again tomorrow.

I might have to see if I can find Noah on Facebook. I'm sure I'm not the only one singing: And God said to Noah, "We're gonna build an arky, arky..."

Surprise Family Reunion

You might question the wisdom of throwing a surprise birthday party for an 80-year-old. But as it turns out, hubby's uncle has a strong ticker and he got the biggest kick out of it.

We headed up to Marathon this afternoon, which you may find on a central Wisconsin map listed as "God's Country" (according to Jim) or the general homeland of both his parents.

There was a very nice crowd of family (on Jim's mom's side) and friends to surprise Uncle Lyle. The nice thing about the event is that it doubled as an impromptu family reunion.

And I'm not just talking about hubby's aunts, uncles and cousin. I mean my in-laws – Dad, Mom, Sherry, Baird and Colin – who I have scarcely seen this summer. With all my travels Up North, Out West and to the Windy City, I haven't been home enough for our paths to cross. Spending the afternoon with them all was a nice treat. Even better than birthday cake.

Honest!

It was also nice to see the few people in my mother-in-law's family that I do know. Don't see them much except at funerals and, well, funerals. So this was good to have them all together for a happy occasion.

Jim and sister Sherry (both in blue) enjoyed the family reunion with their cousins who could make it (pictured above) and aunts and uncles.

On the way home, we got a quick tour of God's Country and got to see some of the old homesteads. I was completely lost, but I suppose that's how Jim feels when we venture up to Oh My God Country – which you'll find on the map North of Hwy 8!

Gotta love family.

WE do. Honest!

Not so Hot August Nights

Today had that weirdly FALL feeling to it. For one, our high school football team had a pre-season scrimmage. Secondly, while the temperature did reach 84, it seemed more like an Indian Summer day than the typically hot August days, where temps are close to 90 and humidity is off the charts.

I was just fine with that.

In fact, it even prompted me to do a little "fall cleaning." No worries, I didn't go overboard. I did add some mopping and window washing to may Saturday chores. Then, got rid of some clutter. I'm serious.

Dropped off a ton of plastic bags at Wal-Mart (they recycle those) and dropped off several bags and two boxes of old Christmas lights at the recycling center (the money raised from the copper in those goes toward Carter's trip to Germany next summer).

In other fundraising activities today, Carter and I worked concessions at a Drive One 4 Your School event, where the school earns money for each test drive of a new Ford. The junior class sold food and treats to earn money for prom. (Not ready to accept that reality yet.)

While Carter is a licensed driver, he had to be 18 to test drive one of the cars. So he didn't get to drive a new Mustang like I did!!

I would give it TWO thumbs up if I wasn't using one of my thumbs to take the picture! Was fun to drive, even though I couldn't put the pedal to the metal in the city limits. Some day, one of those sweet 'Stang thangs will be mine!

(Maybe I'll have to start my own fundraiser for that WORTHY cause!)

This evening, since the air held that autumn vibe, we had a neighborhood campfire to celebrate one neighbor's birthday, one neighbor's departure for college and, well, just neighbors being neighborly.

This version of a "hot August night" is fine with me. But you know the real ones are coming yet.

Me and Mr. Deck Chair will be fine with that version, too!

Wheel-y Nice

Leave it to my good friend and co-worker Angelo to make his wedding day a classic.

You might suspect these 3 cars are the actual wedding party – he dotes on them like loved ones  – but they were just there to transport the party.

And look wheel-y nice!

Yup, I am the odd ball out at work in my "old cars" department. My Hondas get too many miles on them before they actually get "old." But our editor Angelo has his collection of Caddys and Caprices (weird mix, yes, but they looked sharp today!).

Weather was gorgeous, too, as he and his new Robyn tied the knot over in the Fox Cities. Wedding was in Neenah and the reception was in Appleton.

Very nice time seeing a few co-workers out of the office and old friends we hadn't seen in awhile. All three of us were able to get off this afternoon to enjoy the festivities. That was very nice.

Just so happy to see the once confirmed bachelor find a wonderful new best friend to share the rest of his life with. Hearing their vows and toasts and seeing their happiness was refreshing. And a good reminder of how good I have it, too!

Wheel-y good!

Miracle on Ice (Cream)

When you see a threatening message like this, you almost HAVE to go to Dairy Queen, don't you?

I wasn't taking any chances (even though I was the one who created the graphic)!

But it was for a good cause.

Today was Miracle Treat Day at Dairy Queen. This meant that $1 or more from every Blizzard Treat purchased at participating DQ stores was donated to local Children's Miracle Network Hospitals to help children in need.

Their slogan: "Together we can provide hope and healing to sick and injured children in our community."

Plus, did you know that helping people makes ice cream taste better AND removes the calories? That's what makes it a Miracle Treat, right? Well, that's according to the very smart teenage son of one of my girlfriends. I saw it on the Internet so it MUST be fact!

So while I didn't have time to stop by DQ earlier today, I managed to get in the short line after a meeting tonight and order a small Chips-A-Hoy Blizzard. Nothing tastes as good as King Cone, but for a good cause, I made the sacrifice.

Aren't you proud of me?

Now, if only I could get through a week without ANY ice cream or its soft-serve imitations. That would be a whole different kind of miracle.

Vacation Dedication

All 3 of us took a vacation day to work at the Wisconsin Farm Technology Days over in Plover today. Not that we know or desire to know anything about farming. This was just to volunteer in neon yellow shirts at one of the food tents as a fundraiser for Carter's legion baseball program.

So even though it was a vacation day, we had to get up early as usual to hit the road before 7 a.m. Sound relaxing, eh?

Carter had gone to a friend's last night and ended up watching a movie. We told him he could ONLY if he was not a pain in the butt, whiny, tired kid today. (That was reserved for me!)

So this morning, when I learned Carter was up late last night watching Grease for the first time, I attempted to wake him with "You're the one that I want! Ooooh, hooo, hooo, honey!"

He says, "Now is not the time." And rolls over.

I'm like the Rodney Dangerfield of mothers. I get no respect!

Oh well, at least we were on the road in time and spent 7:30 a.m.-2 pm. taking food orders and filling them to hundreds and hundreds of customers. This is seriously a big event, expected to draw well over 100,000 in its 3 days. Since we had to use up a vacation day, we just worked one of the days. Our dedication only goes so far.

The event grounds (actually someone's farm land) are marked with street signs plus other identifying signs like this one.

Frankly, this sign has ALL the essentials as far as I'm concerned!

Yes, that is a King Cone sign there. There were 6 food tents and 2 King Cone ice cream tents. I had full intentions of checking one of them out after our shift. But, after standing for so many hours (with no caffeine either), we were all beat. We grabbed a sandwich and headed home.

Frankly, I would probably get a better deal PLUS more selection stopping at the regular King Cone tomorrow (if I feel I must). Ha.

Was nice to get home and still be on "vacation." Spent a few minutes with Mr. Deck Chair, listening to the last few chapters of my audio book. I guess I was tired. I fell asleep in the chair and just now had to re-listen to the last 10 minutes!

I guess my body knows the vacation should mean VACATION. Maybe I could get re-energized with some Grease!

Woo-hoo-hoo, honey!

Oil and Water

Some things just don't get along well with each other. Take oil and water as an example, you can mix them together and shake as hard as you like, but they'll never become friends.... or will they?

A science experiment will prove that adding some dish washing liquid or detergent to the two components does the trick. Detergent is attracted to both water and oil helping them all join together and form something called an emulsion.

Does that work on humans?

I may not be a scientist but I can prove – in a spiritual and emotional way – that is does.

If you are a twin, you probably understand the concept of oil and water. Raylene and I have definitely played the roles throughout our lives.

As children, our mom created that "emulsion," bringing us together by dressing us alike, even though we were not identical. Our family and, well, everyone we knew pretty much created that "emulsion" calling us "the twins," rather than addressing us or treating us individually.

By the time we were the typical moody teenagers, we rejected all outside emulsifying agents and separated as much as possible. At school we were competing for friends. At home we were competing for attention and approval. We were at odds far more than we were ever together in our petri dish called life.

One of us wanted to be water. One of us wanted to be oil. It didn't matter which was which, as long as we were an individual component.

After high school, we accomplished that, going our separate ways and, sadly but predictably, disconnecting. But we became individuals finally, making our own friends, our own families, our own career paths, our own choices.

At some point, thank the Lord, Ms. Oil and Ms. Water matured. Scientifically, I am sure that does not happen. In real life – our lives – it did.

As if we were floating in a bottle, every time our lives would experience a shakeup of sorts, we'd come together again, bonding and supporting. When the bubbles settled, we'd separate again. Over time, our maturity, our appreciation and respect for each other and, simply, our once-resistant love for each other began to serve as the "emulsion" to keep us together – and there for each other.

It has been a rough growth process in our petri dish, with lots of shakeups along the way, but it's looking like a successful experiment. If you want proof, take a look at this "photo finish" image a photographer shared today from Sunday's race.

Oil and Water – in the form of Vikings and Packer fans or twin sisters – do mix!

Very well, thank God.

Thanks for your support, Loving Sister!

A Knack for Knature

A decorative sign said: "Garden Tours: 25 cents." I took advantage of the "family discount" and got it for free. I can tell you, though, my sister Romey's garden is priceless.

Was so glad I stopped by on my way home from Up North yesterday to see her – and it. While I have 2 black thumbs, she has 2 green thumbs plus 8 green fingers! Her yard and her new garden haven is beyond amazing! Why don't I just quit talking and show you!

Thanks to her handy husband Rick she is transforming a little shed into her "Summer Cottage." It now has siding, shutters, a cute front porch and is wired for electricity! Keep in mind, this is many seasons in the making. Lots of blood, sweat and tears – and she ain't done yet!

She's a big fan of dragon flies and they fit right in with her colorful flowers and decorations.

From every angle, I'd exclaim: "Oh, how pretty!" or "Oh how cute!" Look at the neat "bottle tree." Funky stuff!

She was even so appreciative of the Packer tickets I won for her that she planted purple and yellow Viking flowers for me! She's the best!

All kinds of different Day Lilies. I previously wouldn't know a Day Lily from a Daffodil but it's an educational tour!

If a hummingbird has an evil twin, this is it! We don't know what it is! It's not a bird and it's not a bee, but it's as ugly as can be! Anyone know? Yuck.

The meaning of a dragonfly changes with each culture. The dragonfly symbolizes renewal, positive force and the power of life in general. Dragonflies can also be a symbol of the sense of self that comes with maturity. Also, as a creature of the wind, the dragonfly frequently represents change. And as a dragonfly lives a short life, it knows it must live its life to the fullest with the short time it has – which is a lesson for all of us.

One final, overall look! Hope you enjoyed the tour. You can make your checks payable to me and I'll be sure to forward them on!

Thanks, Romey. You have a knack for nature and design. A true gift from God.

Up for the Challenge

There is an Exercise Challenge series of races in the Twin Cities this summer covering every type of health "challenge" from diabetes and obesity to arthritis and addiction. Today my twin sister, her daughter and I participated in the Challenge Addiction 5K.

Addiction has been a demon in our family tree that may never meet its end. But we ran/walked today to honor those who have defeated it one day at a time and to support those still suffering.

We did leave the house at 6 a.m. as  planned. For once, I was the one who felt at "home" wearing Vikings garb! Gotta love twins as opposite as we are!

My niece Ashley (she's the tall one) did the 2.5K, which was one lap around Como Lake. We walked with her for that lap and then Raylene and I took off like professional runners.

For 2 minutes.

As we planned in our "virtual training" together, we were going to stick with running 2 minutes, walking 2, running 2, etc. so we wouldn't injure ourselves in our "beginner" stages of running. That worked well. We didn't care about our finishing time at that point.

The best part was finishing together, hand in hand, supporting each other through to the end.

Finish line!

Our post-race "the old ladies did it!" selfie! We were proud of ourselves, yes, but those we ran for today, too.

Addiction is not an easy road to travel. I can guarantee you running a 5K is a helluva lot easier! So glad I could be a part of this today.

Thanks, Loving Sister!!

My Big Dairy Air

The only time I feel like a "city girl" is when I visit my twin sister's and see live farm animals that are not part of a petting zoo or exhibit at the fair!

Got up here to rural Grantsburg/Siren this afternoon in time to help feed the handful of cows and calves. And by help, I mean I took photos and, well, that was about it! I've HERD that farm girls have nice CALVES -- so I wanted to get my farm fix.

After supper, we went over to the infamous Burnett Dairy Cheese Factory and had a scoop of ice cream for dessert! They had my favorite Blueberry Waffle Cone flavor that King Cone doesn't carry any more, so I was in heaven!

Now that we have our daily dose of dairy, the twins have to hit the hay. We have to be off the "farm" and on the road by 6 a.m. for our 5K in the Twin Cities.

That's so early! Don't know how farmers do it every day but this city slicker won't be sticking around long enough to find out.

This time anyway.

Tying Thy Knot

Can't decide which is worse, showing up at a party the only ones in costume or showing up at a costume party without one? Hubby and I learned tonight we can survive being the plainsclothes partiers.

Or in this case, wedding guests.

When we RSVP'd to a wedding reception party at the nearby Lions Park, we had no idea there would be anything there but the post-nuptial celebration. Instead, we drove in through a time machine that took us back to the Middle Ages.

Unbeknownst to us, the Shire of Falcon's Keep (hailing from the Kingdom of Northshield) was hosting the 22nd annual Poor Man's Pennsic. A quick wiki on that... The hosts are a part of the Society for Creative Anachronisms, an international non-profit organization dedicated to recreating the customs and cultures of the Middle Ages.

That apparently applies to weddings! Or "handfasting" as they called them.

So even though we were not a baron and baroness, lord and lady, troll keeper or mistress, we were allowed to stay to celebrate with a longtime former co-worker of ours and his new bride. They officially tied the knot at the courthouse earlier in the day. But this evening, after some serious jousting battles (we had to sign a waiver to even watch), they were united in the handfasting ceremony.

Here are Lord Casey (in kilt, ha) and Lady Maryjane. And the preacher dude who I am sure has a very special name and medieval title, but it escapes me.

And here they are, literally tying the knot!

I tell you, it was the strangest event (wedding related or not) that either of us have attended. I guess everyone has their hobbies. I was just glad I didn't see anyone get their eyes poked out and no one was sent to the stocks for not dressing in costume.

The newlyweds were warned, however, that they must stay together forever or the powers of the universe would destroy them.

I wonder if that threat would work on Carter to keep him away from girls.

I seriously saw this sign posted down the street tonight. I can only hope Carter doesn't drive that direction any time soon!

Or thou young knight in shining armor wilst get into a spot of trouble!!

Un-Paved with Good Intentions

I surmise that if the road to hell is paved with good intentions, then the road to hell-th must be unpaved with good intentions. It is not an easy journey.

Found this cartoon today and this captures some of my daily good intentions...

It had me giggling out loud for a few reasons... Obviously, my hubby's name is Jim, but did you know his father's name is John? I don't intend to embarrass them by sharing, just pointing out how easy it would be SAY I went to the Jim, er gym, but I wouldn't get away with it for long before an observant bystander would notice I show no signs of a visible physical transformation.

Busted!

I have a few people to thank for pushing me down the correct, unpaved path... My oh-too-honest doctor... My hubby who walks around the lake every morning before I even leave the house... My dear "wellness advocate" friend who is healing my hip and my mind naturally... My inspiring BFF who has shown pure determination in sticking to her healthy eating plan and shedding pounds weekly... And my twin sister, who has now caught the running bug!

When my twin told me (and my siblings) months ago she was signing up to do a 5K on Sunday, Aug. 10, I just couldn't commit at that time. My hip was bothering me too much and I hadn't been running at all – and scarcely walking.

After that "overweight" wakeup call during my physical, thankfully accompanied by new hip stretches, I was feeling more hopeful. Embarrassed, but hopeful. When I asked my twin again a few weeks ago if anyone signed up to do the 5K with her, Raylene said no one had. I didn't want her to do it alone so I said I would join her.

That has forced me to start my running routine from square one. You other runners know what this is like. You want to just go out there and run but realize (if you're my age at least) you better ease back into it. Really ease back into it. Do some combination of walking and running. I am not going to push it and put myself back even further than square one if that is possible.

Turns out, since the twinster is a new runner, we are both prepping the same way for this weekend's event. Run... walk... run... walk... We're not out to win any races, we just want to be able to do it together and cross the finish hand in hand in triumph. No matter what our finishing time, I am grateful to her for getting me started again (that's always the hard part), because when I do the run part of my run/walk, it feels so good. I missed that!

My neighbor Cindy has been my best pain-management support. She cooked up (literally) a wonderful combination of Essential Oils that dig deep in my muscles and joints and eases that pain. Between that and stretching, I am determined to stay on that unpaved path to health. There is more to be said about what these oils have done for me but I will save that for another blog. It is amazing stuff and shouldn't be glossed over in a side note.

So even though I did not hit Jim or the gym today, I did get a 5k run/walk in. And lived without limping to tell about it.

Progress down the right path...

Quick Learner

You can imagine how surprised I was to hear my cell phone ring at work this afternoon. Turns out, someone was finally calling from the soup can at the other end of the string.

My first reaction to seeing Carter's number pop up is that something must be wrong. He rarely calls and mainly texts – when he does choose to communicate.

Today, though, it was just an honest-to-goodness effort at communicating. He was letting me know he was done with work but at the lake and told me when he'd be home. He's a quick learner! Makes me wonder if I should teach him some more lessons.

Of course, I have learned a thing or two this week, too. Like not assuming the worst when we don't hear from him. And realizing there are some things he's just going to have learn to do on his own – without my prompting, a.k.a. nagging.

Will he get his 3 books read before school starts? That's not my problem.

Wow. I felt so brave typing that but you know I don't actually THINK that way.  In my mind, it is my problem, too, because I don't want MY child to fail in some way. I know the reality is that we learn many of our life lessons by failing first. It's just hard to let go and let it happen.

Maybe he'll be a quick learner about that, too.

I hope so. I should not be the only one stressing about school already!

Just 3 weeks away and counting down...