Juicing

Fig and fam - juicing is really tasty and rewarding with the right combos. Fig, I would never dream of juicing asparagus. You can kind of figure that something that kind of tastes like socks is going to taste like sock juice. Leafy greens are the biggest bang for the buck and really do taste good. You are right that the biggest benny of juicing vs eating raw veggies is the volume of goodies and the quality of calories. You just aren't going to sit down and eat 5 huge carrots - two big apples and a beet (my frequent breakfast juice) for breakfast. But with juicing you get all that good stuff and get it fast. I also applaud the purchase of a cheap juicer. For the newbie juicer they are the only good selection. Reason: most quit almost immediately. After you become a juicepostle (my attempt at a fun word) you must spend the dough on a compression juicer. The cheap ones (anything under 200) are all centrifugal. Meaning - you shred the food and spin the juice out. This adds tons of air which reduces shelf life. Also, you only get about 70% of the juice. A compression grinds and then squeezes with high pressure and all that is left is saw dust. They are used for about 150 otherwise cost around 350-400. They are great though and the cleanup is a breeze. Examined a friends and am going to go for it and get one. When I juice I am more nimble - sleep better - have more energy - keep my weight in good shape and grow long luxurient hair. What's not to love.

one not so serious post

At the risk of blog overkill, I have to tell you what happened yesterday. First of all, I sent Aaron off on his first overnight field trip. He was up at 5:15 a.m., ready for action. Ate oatmeal and cranberry juice (at 5:30 in the morning! Make me throw up.) and was humming as he strolled to the car. Bus left at 6:00 a.m. He barely gave me a hug, let alone a wave out the window. Sniff, sniff.

William, Pat and I went to a sushi bar for supper. Will started with octopus. Then moved forward, without rice, to the yellow-tail. Before the night was over, he ate raw octopus, yellow-tail, tuna, salmon, red snapper, sea bass, super-white tuna, and I don't know what all else. Pat LOVES sushi, and as I gnawed on my grilled totally cooked salmon (with no sauce, no rice, crap) she and Will poured over the plates in absolute delight. Kindred spirits. Next time, they enter the sashimi zone without me.....

juicing converstion, continued

Toot et al., I have done some reading on juicing. I do know about carrots, beats, yams, etc. being higher in sugar. It seems the general rule of thumb for veggies is, "everything that grows under ground is higher in sugar. Everything above ground is much less." According to my reading this morning, the best veggies for enhancing the pancreas are:

Alfalfa
olives
asparagus
lettuce
mustard greens
radishes
cabbage
cucumbers
brussels sprouts
string beans

What kind of a juicer do you have, Tom? Are you happy with it's performance? Since my life is topsy-turvy at the moment, I might as well give it a try. I am, however, going to pass on the below the ground veggies for the moment. Heck, (I really wanted to say Hell, here, but for Mom's sake, I decline...) I've made it through colonoscopy juice before. Surely this can't be worse than that. Love you, Mom. Still ready to paint that room in your choice of colors....

Kevin's Dad update

Kevin said his visit with Ernie on Tuesday night was the best. Ernie was really rough on Wednesday, but did seem some stronger yesterday. As I understand it, the problem is that the raging infection needs heavy antibiotics. He is getting 2 via i.v. One is ok. The second one is dangerous to his already compromised kidneys. (Gosh, Tom, this "antibiotics will mess you up" talk is a little unnerving, isn't it!) Anyway, the second one can only go in as a slow drip. The question is, will it be enough to kill the infection without killing the kidneys. His blood pressure/heart rate was better yesterday. He cannot feed himself because he is so shaky and weak.

Dusty, who hasn't seen any member of the family but Kevin since 2005, did come to the hospital yesterday morning with his wife, oldest son, and 19-year old granddaughter. They had a nice visit, both with Ernie and alone with Kevin. The two older sisters were there. (Kevin's mother's children, but not Ernie's. Although he raised them, things were always splintered between the children.) Kevin said everyone was civil, but strained. Nothing really new there; it's been like this between them for the 23 years I've been around. The thing to pray for is the first meeting between full brother/sister, Dusty and Lyn.

Kevin thinks that today is pivotal. He's anxious to see if Ernie continues to grow stronger and what the infection numbers are.

Kevin's Dad

Kevin's Dad is very sick. In the hospital in Lancaster, just below Columbus. His kidney function is at 25% last I heard. His heart rate is high (144) but his blood pressure bottomed out in the night and they moved him to ICU. Kevin flew up yesterday. He stopped at the hospital on the way from the Columbus airport and had a nice visit with him. It may be his last good visit, I don't know. Keep them all in your prayers, please. Kevin's sister and brother have refused to talk to each other since 2005, so there is a lot of healing to be prayed for. Kevin is the only member of the family...the ONLY one, who is on speaking terms with everybody. There is going to be a lot on him. Kevin adores his dad.

Thanks, Dad

So, yeah, like, I have a wonderful new doctor. A Phillipine woman. Dr. Intaphan. Really, I love her! The best g.p. I've ever had. Told me this morning I am on the threshold of diabetes. Need to start eating like a diabetic. Lose 25 pounds. No sugar. Little carb intake. Little to no pasta (lasagna, mac and cheese, spaghetti with meatballs, orzo, couscous) bread, rice, all of the above. So, my dear sibs, it's very possible that the dreaded "D" will get us all. I say we go on a group diet. First prize? A pot of Mom's dumplings.

Crap. Can't say I didn't expect this day to come. I'm fat and I eat ice cream like it's oxygen.

Edie's Recovery

Guys - I have created a new Blog http://edierecovery.blogspot.com/ to post daily updates around Edie's condition. It will save me about 300 phone calls a day until she gets out of the hospital. I will also take any comments from there to her. Thanks guys.

Sunflower smile

One is on my desk. Sunflowers smile if you never noticed. Open up your creative minds and allow them to bestow their sunfloweriness upon you. Anyhow, I feel all sunflowerie because yesterday I was notified that as of Monday I am classified as a 14 (Secretary II). Last week I recieved my step raise (5%) of my wage), and jumping from a 12 to a 14 gives me another 5%. It also gave me 6 more years of step wages instead of 4. I didnt expect that, but it was a added blessing for sure! So now if i can just avoid the layoff on Sept 14th all will be peachy. It seems logical that I wont be laid off because of all the above info, but we must remember we are dealing with the city. There is NO logic anywhere.

Thanks for all your prayers. I wasnt in the top three test wise, and still got placed with weeks.

Happy Birthday, Marti

Gracie is giving you our birthday wishes telekenetically..........Open your mind, and you shall receive.

It's been a looong day. It's 9:40 and I've been home about 20 minutes. Can't let the sun go down (wait, too late) without posting a Happy Birthday wish to Reubein! OLD<>

News | Muslims must unite for Islam's savior: Iran

News | Muslims must unite for Islam's savior: Iran

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We bought a new house

We Mogadore Shultz' bought a new house in Suffield. Nice ranch with a pond and soon to be a new barn. Country living on one level. Probably moving mid October. 137 Kehner Road - Suffield .

Decision 09

Go down the shore or not? Go. In NJ we "go down the shore" rather than going to the beach. We went to beautiful, 1 hour away, Sandy Hook. Christina got turned around amidst all of the unbrellas and was lost for an hour, though Melanie and I only knew it for about 10 minutes. We found her calmly talking to a Lifeguard about where her family might be. Joe and Kate didn't know it either. Christina zigged when she should have zagged, and everybody else thought she was with the people she was supposed to be with. She didn't panic at all, which is so much like her. She has always been very independent.

Buy a car or not? Buy. Kate has worked and saved like mad, and decided to buy a car. We have a friend who is a car broker and he is getting her one. Either a Buick or a Ford Taurus would be best we think. I want some metal between her and the mobile madness called driving in New Jersey. That means no Corollas or Focuses, Focae? Foci? You get the point.

Play or not play? Play. Joe had a mini-crisis over football, and nearly quit before camp started, but the team captain talked him down and he is happily sweating and hitting tackling dummies with other large teenagers. The crisis was spawned by the collective wisdom of his other 15 year old friends. Need I say more?

Arrange or not? Not. I have found Kathleen's future husband, but Melanie has forbidden me from taking a deposit and holding it in escrow.

Anyway, life goes on here in Jersey. Later.

Harry, the red headed prince of Wales err Macon.

Well, Harry is doing great. Edie was concerned that he had ear mites, but didn't and is in perfect health. So far he has chewed several clothespins, a National Geographic, a pokemon card and some this and that, but nothing major. No shoes, birth control pills, scissors, earrings, books, all of which Bonnie not only chewed but partially ingested and eliminated. Yes, Bonnie ate the pills and she also swallowed and pooped out a small pair of embroidery scissors. Oh, and an open safety pin. Harry is much more cautious at this point with his "off the diet" expeditions. He is a great puppy and we are enjoying him very much.

Titles Schmitles

Well then, nice comments everyone. I am only lukewarm to Facebook myself as you have to weed through so much crap to get to something you are interested in. This site is so much more targeted. It appeals to my efficiency self. Riley and I just finished bluing the guns. A first for me.

Where is everyone?

Hello all - since no one is posting I will endeavor to liven the blog. I have some questions:

1. Frau, it seems that the plan to sever part time staff at the city has reduced the risk for the time being. Is this true? What is the scuttlebut on Broadway?

2. Fig, how is the dog adjusting? And, when is school starting for the nephews - must be soon?

3. Marti, where is your house? I still don't know.

4. Tim, is your gang still planning to come east for thanksgiving? And, if so are you still looking for some good places to hang out in the area?

5. Mom, how much did the price of pellets go up over last year? Just curious.

Happy Birthday Fig

Hi Fig - the Mogadore Shultz' bid you birthday greetings from Dodge City Kansas. Festus and Ruth say hello - Ruth mostly eats carrots and passes gas. Happy Birthday Fig - it is not appropriate that you should be 43 but I guess you are. I can't help but wonder if dear old Abby Hoffman has not trusted you now for nigh on 13 years, what the heck does he think of me - or for that matter Tim?!

This is what a happy birthday wish to Figlet looks like. I couldnt get Skittles to fall from the sky for her, so this is the next best thing.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BECKY!

Love Beth, Amanda, Vanessa and Jaediepoo. Also assorted hairy people who havent figured out how to use the computer yet.

Wiblysh?

So, I got my first e-mail from Uncle Bill today. He doesn't have a computer; goes to the local library. Has no interest in spending much time with one. So, I'll not even mention Rofosh and Beyond to him. He's having trouble with arthritis in his right knee. Doc says nothing can be done except some pain meds. He's not too tickled about that.

This morning Aaron was laying on his bed, reading his corgi textbook and listening to Il Divo (you know, the opera guys that sing pop). He came to me with great big huge tears in his eyes. "Mom, I want my puppy so bad my heart is breaking." Now, if that ain't cute, I don't know what is. It's going to be a LLLOOOONNNNGGG month.

Kevin has decided to come to OH with us, so he is in and Pat is out.

That's okay Toot, no worries.

No we did not but we will be doing it when we go back down....
it was just really relaxing. Did you look at their website?
If not its www.foxburginn.com

Wiblysh?

Hey. I was thinking about Uncle Bill the other day. I don't know how computer saavy he is, but I thought it might be fun to have him join the blog. He's got so few years left.... He may be totally uninterested in anything computer, but he may spend some time whiling away on this beast like the rest of us. If you are all o.k. with it, I'll ask him if he would like to "join."

It's hotter than blazes here. Looking forward to coming north next month for some tolerable summer weather.

Posting and e-mail

As you have by now noticed, you now get both new postings and comments via email. Fig, I think there was some confusion here. I had never in fact set up the new posting notification but did have the comment posting email set up. Perhaps you had something else going on there that no one else had set up. Anyway, I now have 3 things set up: 1. email of new postings 2. email of new comments 3. The ability to post from your email.

If anyone wants any of the three removed, let me know and I can do so easily.

Clydesdales

The Clydesdales also are scheduled to appear at the 62nd annual Italian-American Council Festival at Lock 3 in downtown Akron. The event runs July 10-12.
Specific details for that appearance have not been finalized.

I havent read any more about it since the thunderstormy Kent fiasco.

Hello All

We are getting ready for Taylor's birthday party. Hard to believe she's going to be 15.
We are having one for her friends and then one for the family - its just easier that way.
The one for her friends will be at Deano's parents because we are in the middle of prepping for a new deck so it's just not good liability practice to have it at our place. The one for the family is going to be at our place and as of right now - it will be on July 11 later in the day but not sure of the exact time. I will post the time in the next few days. Right now, I just wanted to get the invite out so everyone knows they are invited....that way no one is left out :)

Deano and I went to Foxburg PA a couple weekends ago - it is not a very big place - less than 500 people. Its right on the down side of the Allegheny River - beautiful view!!! Not a great place for kids though seeing as how it's a wine and dine type atmosphere but a good get a way for adults. Our room was overlooking the river. It was just nice and relaxing. They had bicycle trails and guided segway tours.

For those of you that care, Princess had to get 5 teeth pulled - she was really hurting the night of and the next day but now she is pretty much back to normal. Her breath is a million times better and that's a good thing for us and her.

Well, that's all the news I have......see you soon

test blog

This is a test blog to see if your email is notified.

etc.

This is our puppy as he looks now at 6-weeks. This breed changes so much during puppy-hood.

When we get him in July, he should look something like this...

Item #1: Toot, my e-mail account used to inform me when there was a posting on the blog. I have not received these alert e-mails on the last several posts. Can you check the configuration and see if you can make that happen?

Item #2: We will 100% be coming to OH the last week of July. Arriving on or about Wednesday the 29, leaving probably on Sunday August 2. In case you haven't heard, we will be getting a puppy while there. A pembroke welsh corgi who is from Grand Rapids. The breeder will be in Canfield (!) for a corgi show on August 1, and we will make the great puppy exchange then. It will also be kind of fun for us (well, Aaron) to watch a PWCorgi conformation show. I'm also fairly certain that Kevin will not be with us, but my friend Pat will. Tim is going to see if it works into his schedule, too.

Item #3: Taking Aaron to the doc in a few minutes with some nasty rash. Could it be chicken pox?

Item #4: The boys were being so rotten the other night that at 10:00 p.m. I sent them each outside with a bucket and made them scrub some of our bricks. Shut them right up and they've been perfect angels ever since. If any of you come to visit, I suspect that for the next several years we will have the cleanest bricks in the neighborhood, perhaps in the world, and if there are bricks on Saturn, ours will outshine them, too.

Item #5: I've been working too hard this summer. How 'bout you? I'm singing a big recital a week from today, and after that, life will ease just a bit before the school year starts screaming at my back.

Item #6: My boys start school on August 6. Can you believe it?

Item #7: I'm not sure what this trip in July will do to our Thanksgiving trip. At the moment, we're still planning on OH in Nov.

TURKEY TIME

So does that mean we ARE NOT doing the VA thing for Gobble Gobble?
Just want to clarify it we will be Ohio Turkeys or Virginia Turkeys....

Nothing much new on the Dunlavy front. Well, I take that bat, Mr. Pretty Hair stepped on a nail and had to get a tetanus shot. He said he didn't even feel the shot hahahhaha - well, i've never had one, thank goodness, but i've heard they hurt so i think he's full of "cow pie" :)

Taylor has successfully surpassed me in height and the length of her legs. I told her the other day that they go all the way up to her hip, much to my dismay she did not respond with the "they do not" answer that I gave many years ago when someone said that to me.

Well, the only time i get on the blog is when i'm at work so I must get busy.....

Peace Out!!!!!!!!

pastor haggerty

I just wanted to let everyone know that the services today went well. pastor was duly honored and the truth of the hope of the gospel made plain. To let you know also that many many of the ones who were there thru the times that we were inquired about you all and manysent their regards. On another note:as I understand it both Lannings and NJ Shultz's are planning to be here in Ohio for Thanksgiving. if that is not correct please let me know. Whatever the plan and whatever all can do we do enjoy being together whenever we can, even though it is getting harder to schedule everything.. I love you all

Hey Girlies and Burlies!

Just a quickie. I am up for a promotion that would give me a nice raise. I am not the only one, so I need to ace the test. Pls pray for me. My financial empire is crumbling.

Clydesdale sorrow

My clydesdales didnt parade due to lousy rain and thunder. I pouted majorly. At the rain, not the clydedales for staying dry and toasty in their fabulous semi. They are coming to Lock 3 in Akron I think in July. I am not as thrilled because the crowd will be way huge, but I'll give it a shot. All I can say is everyone better respect that they are mine.

What an outrage

Couple Ordered to Stop Holding Bible Study at Home Without Permit
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Pastor David Jones and his wife Mary have been told that they cannot invite friends to their San Diego, Calif. home for a Bible study — unless they are willing to pay tens of thousands of dollars to San Diego County.
"On Good Friday we had an employee from San Diego County come to our house, and inform us that the Bible study that we were having was a religious assembly, and in violation of the code in the county." David Jones told FOX News.
"We told them this is not really a religious assembly — this is just a Bible study with friends. We have a meal, we pray, that was all," Jones said.
A few days later, the couple received a written warning that cited "unlawful use of land," ordering them to either "stop religious assembly or apply for a major use permit," the couple's attorney Dean Broyles told San Diego news station 10News.
But the major use permit could cost the Jones' thousands of dollars just to have a few friends over.
For David and Mary Jones, it's about more than a question of money.
"The government may not prohibit the free exercise of religion," Broyles told FOX News. "I believe that our Founding Fathers would roll over in their grave if they saw that here in the year 2009, a pastor and his wife are being told that they cannot hold a simple Bible study in their own home."
"The implications are great because it’s not only us that’s involved," Mary Jones said. "There are thousands and thousands of Bible studies that are held all across the country. What we’re interested in is setting a precedent here — before it goes any further — and that we have it settled for the future."
The couple is planning to dispute the county's order this week.
If San Diego County refuses to allow the pastor and his wife to continue gathering without acquiring a permit, they will consider a lawsuit in federal court

Who's who

So I'm an apparently grumpy blue eagle now? Nice, very nice. I suppose Becky and Tom chose me as the eagle because the eagle has that certain allure that I am famous for, a sort of Latin sexual machismo. I don't remember the majority of the characters apart from the "major players".

The Thanksgiving idea sounds good to us too. Its been a number of years since we came out there to visit the Lost Gravy Memorial and celebrate Obama Redistribution of Pie Day. I'll take Tom's piece and share it with Dean.

Emily got her ears pierced

Emily and her best buddy Lauren got their ears pierced together last night. They wore matching outfits and held hands throughout the ordeal. Lauren's younger sister' Olivia 4 and Abigail 8 (she will marry Riley one day - her dad and I have both confirmed this in secret to the wives who blabbed) eyed Lauren with great respect. Riley was quietly reverant for the right of passage event. The mom's teared up Dean (Lauren's dad) and I discussed football a little too loudly. After - Dean, Riley Ab and Olivia went to Dick's to buy hunting supplies while the girls shopped for ear-rings. A good night for all.

Family together

on the post for the July get together we asked about August 1-2. Becky just saw in the paper that the boys school starts early this year, August 3rd. So basically that week end is out for them. We can do it the 25-26 of July - or - do we need to reevaluate the time since schedules do change with kids in sports, fairs, vacations and work schedules. Do we want to do it on one of the early holidays like Thanksgiving? Please give your thoughts. Also, do we want to consider meeting about in the middle for everyone occasionally, which would be Va/NC area? Please lets hear from everyone so we all can plan.

Coming to Kent on May 28th!!!!!!!

Last year I got to see these beautiful horses and it was thrilling! It was a fabulous moment and I wanted to hug them, but they didnt have good crowd control they felt, so they didnt let us give them one single hug. My disappointment was huge and I am pretty sure some Frau style pouting commenced. Also, the semi they travel in is a sight to see! I got annoyed last year for just a second when I couldnt see the horses as they were standing near their semi, so I pushed through the crowd and climbed up on the running board and held onto the mirror so I could see. Oh, yes it wrong, and the children in the crowd were envious of my bad behavior. Their parents looked at me with angry eyes and I stood there smug in my tallness. They wanted to climb up too, but THEY had to be an example to their offspring. HA! BOOYAH! *insert booyah dance here* But my actual point was this...it is so fantastic to look at I wanted to hug it also..and I did. *insert large toothy grin here*

So Ohio family...if you can you should. You will not be sorry. (I sure wish all the kids could see them NJ's and GA's.)They are magnificent on TV, but in person they are magical. * I am so excited I can hardly sit here and type!*

Love ya! Mean it! Frau

Typed in purple to emulate the lovely shade of my shirt today.

Muppets R Us

I tried to comment, but alas, it refused to let me. Good one Fig! And heres my thoughts....
You are a Rowlf and a Kermie...in that order
Marti is Miss Piggy combined with Beaker...totally
Tim is the indeed the big blue Eagle but also Professor Honeydewish
Tom is the Swedish Chef and indeed the pilot from Pigs in Space
Mom is Fozzie and Rowlf...in that order
Dad is most certainly that piano guy, but he is also one of the old guys in the balcony
Alas, I am but one. The super groovy old man in the balcony heckling and throwing out witty reparte. (if thats spelled right)

Muppets are us

Jeff Borck, Pat's son, was recently tagged in a huge muppet picture like this one. The idea was to assign people certain muppet characters, keeping their similarities in mind. So, since we spent many hours watching this beloved show, I thought it might be fun to do the same. I would love to hear your differences of opinion. How would you tag the seven of us? Here are my choices....

Tim: The huge blue eagle by Fozzie.
Tom: The captain from Pigs in Space, shown right behind Rowlf.
Frau: While she has channeled Miss Piggy for years, I'm going to assign her to one of the witty old guys from the balcony.
Marti: Miss Piggy. Sorry, Frau, but nobody can karate chop with her mouth better than Marti.
Mom: Fozzie Bear.
Dad: Without doubt, deep down, I think he was the piano player from Muppet Mayhem. That's him next to Gonzo.
Me: I think I'm Scooter.?

Home to stay

The cat is glad that April is over since I did quite a bit of traveling. First a way to short trip to Tim/Melanies and kiddos. Then to Cinncinnati/Kentucky to the Creation Museum and a dinner theater where we saw Camelot. Then the big A plane took me to the warm state of Georgia where I had a great time and now home. Again I noticed that the work just waits for you. The floor did not vacuum itself and the garbage did not walk down to the road on its own. So what good is all this new technology anyway? About July.. how does the week end of August 1st & 2nd sound to everyone? Post your comments and we will try to plan a good time. Love you all.

Mom

The Return of the Rose

Mom is safely home in Ohio...you probably all know that now. To all of you who live up there, I want you to know that your daily access to her makes me very jealous.

Hi Guys!

Hello to all that are tall and all that are small! (standard Frau greeting)

I havent updated lately due to scheduling and no puter access at home right now. But I have several comments. First off, Fig, your blog about the birthdays and carmel cake making was a fantastic view of that day. Plus your cake sounded darn good and I demand a caramel cake tasting for the fam next time you are all in town. (demand=contritely asking with batting eyes). And I also have never been able to duplicate Mom's dumplings OR her rolls. To which, might I add, there seems to be no recipe. Just pick one she says. I did. It sucked.

Our baby is fabulous, although struggling with poop related issues due to crappy formula. She just got a prescription from her Dr today for the "good" stuff again. We started buying it yesterday, so I am glad she got a script for WIC. Its pricey stuff! So hopefully she will be back to blasting out big diaper amplified farts soon. She got a grade A from Dr G this morning. 10 lbs, 2 oz and 22 inches long now! Also given the "in the 90 percentile" rating for her alertness and activness. If I may insert a proud and bragging tone right here....she is amazing in her alertness! The Dr said she couldnt believe she was only a month old because of just that. She is strong too, and insists on being burped in a sitting position holding her head most of the time so she doesnt miss anything. Shoulder burping is only for sleepy times. She has the Shultz burping skill and really belts them out. Tom says Emily also is majorly skilled in this area. GO EMILY! Id like to see her and Marti in a burping contest...hmm..a game for the summer meeting? I think so! So anyways, I love to hold Jaeden, and rub her fuzzy head and look into her blue eyes. Her hair is turning strawberry I think. Long fingers, big feet and personality +! I cant put into words how much we love this baby. Nessie is a very good mother. She always speaks so softly to her baby no matter how long she wails, and walks the floors at night and you can see the love in her eyes. I make sure she gets breaks, and Todd does too if the baby is not fussy. Believe me, I go sit down there and hold her if I dont get her for a few days. It made me appreciate Mom guys. She has had to live away from 5 of her grandchildren, and I cant imagine how hard that has been for her. But you guys have made it easier by keeping her in their lives as much as possible. Hugs to you all for never letting many miles seperate Gran from her babies.

Ok, I gotta get off here. See ya !

in Dixieland

So, the kids have completed week one of their 2-week annual testing extravaganza. They need extra brainpower..must have protein for breakfast. What was their choice? Grits and cheese. How many of you had that for breakfast this week??? Their school served that for breakfast every morning this week.

The hot lunch line at Macon State had okra and collards yesterday. No corned beef, no halupkis, no kraut and kielbasi.

Jaeden

How is baby?

What's up my fellow siblings!!

Happy Belated Birthday to everyone that I missed saying it to.
I can't believe how old you guys are getting. LOL JK

Mommy spent two nights at the Dunlavy residence last week and it was pretty cool.
Deano told her that she could stay with us if she ever wanted to sell her house - and
he meant it. There were no short and curly twisting antics necessary for him to say that either.

Taylor made the Hight School Softball Team - she's excited. Their season opener is tomorrow at home against Champion. I'm excited and nervous but I don't think she is. Then on Saturday she has a double header in LaBrae (all i know is it's in trumbull county). Between April 3 and May 19 they play 26 games..... it's a brutal schedule. I wont make it to all of them but I will make as many as I can. I've already informed people that on the games I cant make that I would appreciate their attendance. It's frustrating because the games start at 4:15 during the week. Now, I ask you, how many people can actually make a 4:15 game if they work until 5 and they are 43 miles away........they didn't have the parents in mind when they made the schedule - they had themselves in mind - what's wrong with starting @ 5 I ask you because at least that way - you can work your scheduled hours and then still make part of the game.
(In case you haven't noticed - I'm a little bit salty about the whole thing)

Okay, well, that's all I have time to write for now - I will write again at a later time

the ultimate cooking throw down

For Will's birthday, the request was funfetti cake. No problem. Aaron? Homemade caramel cake, just like Grans. Oh boy. Gran makes the world's greatest caramel cake. I whipped up three layers (included buttermilk in the recipe) and then yesterday while making the caramel frosting, in walks Gran. She says, and I quote, "If you put yours next to mine, nobody could tell the difference." Now folks, we've all had people compliment us over the years. This one will go down as one of the goodies. Caramel frosting, in case you don't know, takes forever to make. It has too cook until softball, then you have to whip it (which takes forever) then spread it before it becomes hard. Gran's caramel cake. It's like hearing, "Oh, your dumplings are as fluffy as Rose's!" I've never attempted Mom's dumplings. Never.

Charles Chips

I have a recurring and pleasant memory. In the summer of what I think was 1979, Dad worked at the Tonys Pizza, Charles Chips place. He worked at night. He would sometimes arrange for Barry Murray, Tom and myself to drive down there around 9-10 o'clock at night to hold up large structural truck parts he was repairing or creating so he could weld or bolt them together. He would then remind us what knuckleheads we were, make a Joe Neubert joke about "get a short piece", pay us off with ice cream or pizza or something and send us on our way. I remember hot summer nights without a care in the world, all of us with some money in hand because we worked jobs and had no bills. I don't remember who drove or what was driven, but these are pleasant, pleasant memories.

my love is endless

Announcing the arrival of Jaeden in WebNursery(R)
Monday, March 23, 2009 7:05 PM
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I feel like such a jerk. I just signed on to Rofosh and saw all of the postings for my birthday. Thanks everybody. Sorry I have been so late in responding. I must admit that the pictures of me are way too realistic and are deeply, deeply disturbing. It scares me to think that I will soon resemble the Unibomber. Thanks for your eloquent and gracious words Tom. Right back at you. I do not feel like I have always been a good brother as you so kindly describe, but we have all somehow done more than simply stay in touch over the years and that means a lot. Kate is driving pretty well, and of course, Joe feels that the whole thing is totally unfair - he should be driving not his nerdy sister. Anyway, thanks again and hopefully see you all the last week of July.

BABY ALERT

Vanessa is dialated 2, and the baby is no longer breech. She is being admitted into the hospital at 8 pm tonight to begin the Patocin (?) so Jaeden should be here by lunch tomorrow Im thinking. So pray for them as they begin this journey. I'll post or call tomorrow.
Shes going into Summa, Akron City. Same place Marti and Fig arrived!

Happy Birthday

All the fun pictures have been posted - I like both versions. I will say what needs to be said, pre-50 any way. As a brother I know how hard it can be to be one. I also know how much a brother wants to be a really good one. Brothers want to be heros to their siblings. They want to be leaders, and to inspire. They want to be right because they are, not because they say they are. They want to be admired and loved. Mostly, a brother wants to have his life speak love and peace to his siblings. I have a brother like that and couldn't be prouder. Happy birthday Tim.

Tim's future

Frau. What you have posted is the Tim of Christmases past. Here is what Tim will look like next year, when he's FIFTY!

Oh happiest of birthdays Tim!

In honor of Tim's 49th birthday I cheerfully submit this caricature I found online, CAN YOU BELIEVE IT!!!! Its like someone drew our dear Timber! Isnt this kind of what you looked like back when you worked with Dick Carver Tim? This is most likely what he looks like (minus all the hair, grayer and add chin whiskers) after Kathleens driving sessions. Dont curbs just take on a whole new life when your on the passenger side Dad? Oh yeah, you learn a whole new respect for curbage.

Happy Birthday Tim! Next year we have to all come and see you on your 50th! Try not to loose too much hair over it. At least not on your head. The backs ok.

Love ya! Mean it!

lions and tigers and bears, oh my!

Hello Girlies and Burlies
First of all, Grammie had a nice birthday, and Kathleen told me she got her permit for her birthday...well isnt that just something? Kate driving? Nessa birthing? Whats next in 2009? I agree Fig...where did the days of syrup and searching for lures (?) at the bridge go? We will shortly have around 50 March birthdays to celebrate. Apparently July is a very active month for this crowd.
I was pondering that Dad has been free for 8 years on that day. It seems like such a short time ago. i hope he has a big fluffy cloud and lots of friends.
All is well in the land of impending birth. Appt today and her last one on Thursday, and scheduled delivery for Friday? Sat? One of those days. She is way ready. I dont have the internet at home anymore, so I will have Marti call everyone if I cant. Baby Daddy is doing ok. We were making fun of him Saturday night because he had on his big slippers that look like giant sneakers. He was just strolling around with his sunburned face and giant feet and oh, hey, the man has a giant, and I mean GIANT remote. The biggest I've ever seen. I thought it was a gag gift, nope. Its a huge remote and the really funny part is that morning Vanessa lost it. How could you? Its as big as the couch! Its at least 12' long and probably 6' wide. I wonder if he'll drive a really big truck someday? tee hee haha I crack me up. He's been roofing and working very long hours, so he usually behaves when he's working steady.
I got Jaeden these little pink pants that are so tiny and square I just wanted to hug them. I will put so many pictures of her online I will have to do it on myspace so I dont hog Rofosh. We are very excited and I admit I can hardly wait! Theres a little lady who will be kissed repeatedly by a bushy haired bespectacled grandma who will most certainly buy her her first black leather jacket. Newborn sized! Just kidding Ma. Leather whould chafe her.
Also, might I add, Toot is still fat and sassy, but less fat and more sassy. Edie also looks fabulous and svelte. Manda is anxiously waiting to be an Aunt and has a hard time not spending her entire paycheck on the baby. Christmas will be back to magical now. I better get an early start on that. Nothing better than babies and their eyes full of wonder at the world!
Ok, gotta go. See ya soon!

Yes indeed. Time marches on. Next year will be a milestone year in our house. I will turn 50 OMG OMG OMG!!!!!!!, Kate will be 18, and Joe will be 16. Somehow I can't see Joe as sweet 16, but I have it in my head that 16 is a milestone year for some reason. I am planning on getting a tatoo for turning 50. I will create it and draw it on myself ( shoulder just in case you were snickering in some depraved manner ) in permanent magic marker that lasts about a month just to get a feel for it and then decide if I really want to wear it in the nursinig home or not. I am 49 today, Mom is 72 kate is 17 and Dad has been gone a long, long time. Unfortunately he had to leave us many years ago, and I keep the good times close in my heart. Take care.

Grandma?

For those of us not local, Frau, keep us posted on the baby-watch. How is baby-daddy? Is Vanessa waivering at all in her decision to keep the baby, especially with domestic issues? I've been praying for you all.

We are getting old. Kathleen is driving. Joseph is snapping Tim in half like he's a toothpick, Will just went to see the cheerleaders at the Georgia Basketball State Tournament, and you're about to be a grandmother. Yikes. What happened to those days in front of a black and white eating cheerios with syrup and peanut butter?

Westward Ho ye amphibians!

So, last night we stood in the pouring (I mean buckets) rain in the dark with flashlights while spotted salamanders made their annual pilgrimage across the road from pond a to pond b. The good folks at the park service close the road for their protection and we dopey higher evolved beings watch them cross the road. I can't quite put into words the dichotomy of feelings this raised with in me. I can put in to words the massive goosebumps I got from the cold water that gave me the shivers. What the heck - the kids had fun.

baby update and angry musings

has anyone notice VonTootlesburg's new picture? it is snazzy and full of sizzle. (all those years at the Carousel have indeed rubbed off). Anywho...baby Jaeden could arrive any time. They want her to go at least one more week for lung development but after that who knows? Apparently with her blood clotting disorder the farther along she gets the more jeopardy the baby could be in, so she wont go past 39 anyways. Baby Daddy is ...well what can one say that would be positive? Hmm....nibbling lip trying to form positive thought so hold on a short sec.....
The fear of chewing my lip off looms large in my thoughts, so I simply state he's around. He is not large, not in charge and not living life respectfully or carefully. His maternal unit brings out incredible anger in me. I try very, very hard to keep it in check and mostly succeed. I did have a temper lose last weekend and thankfully baby daddy and baby daddy momma stayed away. I of course dont stand around screaming obsenities and all such useless moments of that sort, but I do speak my mind with ruthlessness that really seems to unnerve people. Still, I dont want this for Vanessa or Jaeden. Baby Daddy is either gold or garbage...theres no middle ground with this kid. Lately he's garbage. But he is Jaedens father, so I ask all my family to pray for his sorry useless baby making ass. And of course Vanessa and Jaeden and throw me in for good measure. I would like to not have a ruthless moment because they are damaging in life. Reality is important, but knowing what people think of you (collectively speaking) and your life is not and serves no purpose other than to inflict pain. So as the wonderful moment of Jaedens appearance into the world approaches that joy has the dark cloud over it. Bummer. Time to change the weather.

Yea, I have no idea what to title this.....

Hello everyone.

Okay, so yesterday morning, I got up around 5:45 to let the dog outside, I was still very much asleep and layed down on the couch while she was outside walking the perimiter and depositing yet another doggie land mine, anywho, i heard her bound up the stairs so I got up to let her in. Well, instead of going back to bed for a few more minutes I just decided to lay back down on the couch and curl up with Winnie the Pooh. Next thing I know, Deano comes out and asked me why I was on the couch, and I proceeded to say "I had to let the dog out, plus I'm trying to figure out why my mom is in Indiana." He said "Your mom is in Indiana?" I said, "I guess but I don't know why." He asked me when I found that out and I responded with "this morning." So I got up and was motoring about getting ready for work, etc, and he asked me again when I found out my mom was in Indiana? I looked at him and said "what are you talking about? My mom isn't in Indiana, she's at home and probably still sleeping." He just said "OH MY GOODNESS>" and then proceeded to tell me the events of the morning.

Then this morning, same thing happened, I got up to let the dog and and layed down on the couch only this time, I didn't dream that mom was in indiana, I dreamt that someone was trying to break into the house.....I think the couch has it in for me.....I told Deano we should probably get a new one that doesn't have issues with me.

News Flash!

Marti joined a gym and is torturing her thighs! Ha! Told on ya lil sistern! Also, her giant fat hamster got stuck in his traveling tube and she had to break it to rescue his oversized hammy butt. Hence he had to have an entire new hamster kingdom purchased for his living comfort. Pretty slick move for a hamster huh? She also insists he is now litter trained with some new high tech hamster gizmo she installed. Hmmm.....

juvenile big people

Well, as I said in my comment on Tim's post, the boys' "Grampy" died on Saturday. He had cancer and at 83, it was stronger than he was. He went to the hospice hospital on Thursday evening and died at 8:10 Saturday evening. I know the exact time, because I was with him. Gran was so tired, and felt comfortable going home because she knew he would not be alone. I sang to him for about 30 minutes, then quietly sat in the chair in the corner. In about 30 minutes, he was gone. The part I want to share is this. When the Lannings arrived at the hospice center at about 4:00, we went in his room and all said a sweet word to Grampy, who was by then very quiet with his eyes closed. Aaron had insisted on bringing his new bible, and without hesitation, he knelt down beside Grampy's bed and read (his choice) Psalm 100, the last two verses of Revelation, and a passage in Micah (What does the Lord require of you...?) that we had read earlier. When he was finished, Will stood at his other side and prayed the most amazing prayer, thanking God for Grampy's life and for the comfort in knowing that "You will be right here to receive his spirit." Who needs a preacher? (Tim, this reminds me so much of the recent chapter in Alan Hirsch's book chiding the church for isolating its ministers-in-training in seminaries and away from a congregation. All that book-learning couldn't have improved on the innocent trust and compassion of these two little fellers as they ministered to their Grampy.) The best part of being 8 and 10 year old boys is that as soon as they finished giving their version of "the last rites," they went out into the lobby and giggled at SpongeBob.

Hello chaps. Sitting here, quite happily, amidst the snow flakes. There is still something magical about the sound of a snow plow on a school day. I was thinking this morning how we used to lay in bed ( it was about 58 degrees in the house ) and listen for the plow on 224, hoping that Mom would call up the stairs that school was cancelled. At that point, an Obama-like joy would overwhelm me. Anyway, thats it from Jersey. Expecting 8-10 inches before its all done, but it will be gone by this time next week. Later.

Chubby Hugs

Netenyahu (sp?) and Ahmadinejad (sp again?) both need to meet this guy. If you don't know him - please read get fuzzy - No one can fight when Chubby Hugs is around.

from joel rosenberg's blog. I HIGHLY recommend it!

February 20, 2009
NETANYAHU GETS THE NOD AS U.N. SAYS IRAN HAS ENOUGH URANIUM TO BUILD FIRST NUCLEAR BOMB

How will Netanyahu work with President Obama given deep differences on Iran?
Benjamin Netanyahu received the official word today from Israeli President Shimon Peres that he has six weeks to put together a coalition to lead the next government of Israel. The announcement came as the U.N. announced that Iran now has enough uranium to build its first nuclear weapon.
Given the seriousness of the growing crisis with Iran, Netanyahu is calling for a broad “unity government” that would include Tzipi Livni’s Kadima party. “For decades we have not withstood so many challenges at the same time,” said Netanyahu. “To face up to these challenges we need to join hands and unite all the forces within the people. I call on all parties, those who recommended me and those who didn’t. I turn to [Kadima leader Tzipi] Livni and to [Labor leader Ehud] Barak — let us join hands and pledge for the future of Israel. I hope to meet with you first and discuss a wide unity government.”
Livni, however, today said she refuses to serve with Netanyahu. ”Today, the foundations of a right-wing extremist government under Netanyahu were set,” Livni wrote in a text message sent to 80,000 Kadima members. “The path of such a government is not our own and we have nothing to look for there. You didn’t vote for us in order to provide a kosher certificate for a right-wing government, and we need to provide an alternative of hope from the opposition.”
The big question for Netanyahu, however, may not be how best to form his government, but how his government — whatever form it takes — will interact President Barack Obama, given the deep fissures between the two men over how to stop Iran from becoming a nuclear-armed power.
“Iran is developing nuclear weapons and poses the greatest threat to our existence since the War of Independence,” said Netanyahu. “Iran’s terror wings surround us from the north and south” Based on my conversations with Israel’s next Prime Minister, I believe Netanyahu fundamentally understands the apocalyptic, genocidal Islamic eschatology driving Iran’s current leaders. By contrast, I am convinced that President Obama or Secretary of State Clinton do not understand at all the End Times beliefs of the current leaders of Iran, and are thus making wrong policy choices based on their lack of understanding. Let us pray, therefore, that as Mr. Netanyahu forms his government and then meets with President Obama and top U.S. leaders that he is able to help American officials understand who they are dealing with in Tehran, and find a way to work together to stop Iran before it is too late.
HEADLINES TO TRACK:
Iran holds enough uranium for bomb
Iran hails military ties with Russia
Israel: Iran, Syria secretly continuing nuclear projects
Israel’s Peres: Netanyahu will form new government
Binyamin Netanyahu to be Israel’s next Prime Minister
Senior Kadima official hopes for ‘broad’ coalition: “Senior Kadima official Dalia Itzik on Friday said she hoped that Likud leader Benjamin Netanyahu would forge a ‘broad coalition’ involving her own centrist Kadima party.”
Gaza militants fire 10 mortar shells, Qassam rocket at Negev
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February 18, 2009
ISRAEL WAITS FOR PERES’ DECISION

Israel's President Shimon Peres, right, receives the official Israeli election results from Deputy President of the Supreme Court of Israel Eliezer Rivlin at Peres' residence in Jerusalem, Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2009. (AP photo)
Israelis are waiting for President Shimon Peres’ decision regarding which Member of Knesset (MK) is most likely to be able to form a stable governing coalition. Already, 50 MKs have told Peres they are backing Likud’s Benjamin Netanyahu to be the next Prime Minister. Only 28 MKs have told Peres they back Kadima’s Tzipi Livni. One of the big questions at this point concerns who Avigdor Lieberman and his Israeli Beiteinu party will back. Lieberman is expected to return to Israel tonight from a vacation in Minsk and is scheduled to meet Peres Thursday morning. Developing….
HEADLINES TO TRACK:
Israel’s Peres begins consulting parties on PM
President Peres concedes he was wrong to back Gaza pullout in 2005
Barak tells IDF: Iran nukes are an existential threat to Israel
Slow Obama stance on Iran nukes worries Israel
Man who founded Muslim TV station accused of beheading his estranged wife in Buffalo
Israeli unemployment rises 15%
MEMRI: Turkish officials moving to form new alliance with Iran
Manila arrests Islamist over plot to attack Israeli, U.S. embassies
Iran hails energy ties with Russia
Iran, Russia Hold Defense Summit in Moscow
Russia won’t toughen policy on Iran
Iran minister seeks missiles on Russia trip
Obama OKs about 17,000 more troops for Afghanistan
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February 14, 2009
U.S. TO HELP REBUILD CITY OF BABYLON IN IRAQ

Iraqi soldiers walk past a replica of the Ishtar Gate of Ancient Babylon, 135 km (85 miles) south of Baghdad, January 13, 2009. (Reuters photo)
Largely overlooked by the Western news media over the past few weeks was an enormously significant story. The government of Iraq is moving forward with plans to protect the archaeological remains of the ancient City of Babylon, in preparation for building a modern city of Babylon. The project, originally started by the late Saddam Hussein, is aimed eventually at attracting scores of “cultural tourists” from all over the world to see the glories of Mesopotamia’s most famous city. What’s more, the Obama Administration is contributing $700,000 towards “The Future of Babylon Project,” through the State Department’s budget.
“Officials hope Babylon can be revived and made ready for a rich future of tourism, with help from experts at the World Monuments Fund (WMF) and the U.S. embassy,” reports the Reuters news agency. “‘The Future of Babylon’ project launched last month seeks to ‘map the current conditions of Babylon and develop a master plan for its conservation, study and tourism,’ the WMF says. ‘We don’t know how long it will take to reopen to tourists,’ said Mariam Omran Musa, head of a government inspection team based at the site. ‘It depends on funds. I hope that Babylon can be reborn in a better image.’”
In my non-fiction book, Epicenter 2.0, I wrote about the Bible prophecies in Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Revelation that indicate the ancient city of Babylon in Iraq will, in fact, be rebuilt in the “last days” of history and become the wealthiest and most powerful city on the face of the planet. I also cited my interview with Iraqi Finance Minister Ali Abdul Ameer Allawi who told me in 2006 at the peak of the insurgency, “Cultural, religious, archaeological, and biblical tourism is a big opportunity for Iraq. I think rebuilding Babylon is a wonderful idea, as long as it is not done at the expense of the antiquities themselves.” For many, I know the rebuilding of Babylon seemed like a far-fetched idea in the Bible. For many more, it seemed like a far-fetched idea in 2006, as well. But skeptics and cynics take note: now that the insurgency is dying down, the Shia-led government of Iraq is actually moving forward with this historic and prophetic project. They say Babylon will be “reborn.” And they’re right. It will be. Stay tuned.

I am way behind these days. My life has evolved into a weekly run all over North Jersey. I feel like a pinball - in fact, I have, in my estimation, become the Pinball Wizard. Had a victorious run- in with an extended warranty last week. Transmission goes on the Windstar, only 65K miles, and Ford, while grumbling about...themselves ( they didn't quite grasp that ) paid for the $3K transmission and a rental car. They wonder why everubody drives Camrys? Joe is calf raising 230 pounds. BTW Frau, calf raising is weight lifting not orphan baby cow adoption. He has been dying to "wrestle" me, which should be understood to be his interpretation of a mugging. He crumpled my chest, knocked the wind out of me, twisted my left leg so I couldn't do my patented spin move and generally pounded me into submission in 45 seconds. Melanie had been warning me not to do this, but in my mind, I am Tim the Mighty taking on Gino Kingsley in the backyard. I can still think what to do, but my body just lays there and laughs. Melanie yelled at me, Joe raised his hands in triumph, called me a wus and walked away guiltlessly ( I expected some remorse ), Kathleen laughed, and Christina cried, seeing her Dad pummeled so heartlessly. I whimpered and dreamed about the good old days at Vulcanic Heater with Dick Carver, $3.50 an hour, and brown hair.

Ummmm, it may just be me having a "Marti Moment"
but I don't get the whole urinal thing

Every good gift...

Tonight I am reminded of God,s grace. Why me and not the other guy? That should be reversed to the other guy who says "Why you and not me?" I don't know the answer to that but I do know that it has nothing to do with me or you or the other guy. James says "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of light in whom is no variableness neither shadow of turning". There are no mitagating factors, just the facts. It comes from God. Praise His Name.

You don't know Johnny Like you think you know Johnny.

so I go in the bathroom on the 17th floor of the Phoenix Chase tower the other day. I round the corner and am faced with three urinals. Above each of the three is a recently handwritten sign on 8 1/2 X 11 paper that says : "urnial does not flush itself." To my delight, one of the three was running all by itself. It's the little things ya know.

Is this your experience???

We have been called for a conference with Aaron's teacher. He's being silly, talkative, and as a result not doing his best work. Well, ok. That perfectly describes my boy. Here's a sample math problem from last night. Third grade....

1784+1784-x=1215

Is this typical of Christina, Riley and Emily's recent third grade math experience?? We are in a math/science magnet school, and I'm just curious about how this measures with the rest of you.

For Frau....

Happy Birthday, Frau. May the road rise to meet you and may it not be covered with ice. May the sun be at your back, but not in your eyes as it glares off the snow. May the song of a thousand humpback whales lull you to sleep. And may all the Akron jackasses decide to be self reliant today. Love, Fig

Hello one and all. Sorry I haven't posted in a while. I have discovered hot tubs. My friend has a really nice one and I have been sitting in jetted 106 degree water drinking vitamin water while it snows. The key is the hot towels when you get out; otherwise, things that should stay warm tend to freeze which shouldn't happen for a few more years. One feels like Caligula or Carolyn Kennedy or something. All are well; normal colds, hating school, snoring wife. Later.

birthdays

Here it is, the beginning of the birthday marathon. I told Tom this am that every birthday of one of my children I somehow am reminded of a day - many years ago - when a new little one entered my life. To Tom, happy birthday Saturday and to Beth happy birthday Sunday. When Tom was born he had a lot of hair, his first real barber shop visit at the age of 6 mo. When Beth was born the house we lived in was very drafty and when she was about 2 wks old she spent 7 days in the hospital with severe bronchitis. So to two who have blessed my life,XXXXOOOO's.

Now what?

So, for the past year or so, I've wondered if I have diabetes, low thyroid, iron deficiency, cancer, ms, all because of an enormous amount of fatigue. I mean, I could barely keep my eyes open. Well, on Wednesday last week I took students to Savannah; was gone W, Th, F. I had my own room in a nice, quiet (mostly) hotel. On S, S, M, T, Kevin slept in the playroom because of sleep issues with his knee immobilizer. So, I had my own nice, quiet room. Man, on Tuesday and Wednesday, I felt great, clear headed, lots of energy. Kevin got a new knee brace on Wednesday and is actually now allowed to sleep without his leg being elevated, and without his brace. So, starting on Wednesday night he and his snoring have moved back to our bed. Thursday, I was a little sleepy. Today, I'm so fatigued I wonder if I have diabetes, low thyroid, iron deficiency, cancer, or ms...........

Ear dialogs LIVE onstage!!

Burly's and Girly's

Just to let you know I have an appt today with an ENT who is also lisenced as a dentist. Thanks Fig and Marti! I'll keep you updated on ear issues and tingly moments.

Ear Anarchy

Hi girly girls and burly boys! In the future I shall simply refer to you all as burlys and girlys. I have a question on parents of my family...I have been having problems with my inner ears. It is a mixture of things from a rush of heat to a feeling of fullness or numbness and tingling like when your foot goes to sleep, only not as intense. I have had ex-rays, massages, been adjusted for my neck, back and TMJ, and no luck. It doesnt go away. The only thing that happened that puzzles me is that when I had a root canal done two weeks ago, the following day the symptoms were gone and stayed gone for over a week. Then they slowly came back. As soon as the "attack" starts if I open my mouth really wide it stops. Since Drs and dentists and chiropractors seem unable to fix me, do any of you have any ideas? Ever heard of it or had it? Im at my wits end and I am going NUTS with this! I have to have more tests of course, but I feel angry about it. Its very irritating to have tingling (not noise or ringing), in my ears all the freaking time. Ive done alot of research on the internet but its all what ifs and maybes at this point. I dont like my ears anymore.

A NOTE FROM MOM

My life seems so boring so I choose not to write things like "How are you, I am fine" but I sure do enjoy reading all the notes and comments. i learn about snot, fairy dust, knee surgery, onery grandsons, employment, unemployment, future polititicians and all sorts of mayhem. Just so this isn't to dull let me tell you ...when I was a child our relatives played a big part in our lives. We did not have the internet or blogs but they are very wonderful when you don't live next door to each other. That is why this is so nice, because it is sharing everyday things with family and it draws you much closer. One very small memory - before my dad died i remember we went out to Aunt Lucille and Uncle Freddies after dad finished working. Theirkids were already in bed and looking back I don't know how pleased they were to see us that late. Anyway, I don't know what all the big folks sat around and talked about but we kids ate about 2 loaves of homemade bread with homemade butter and homemade peach preserves. It was great. As you can see, it may be classified as boring today but then we were just a family enjoying each other. So, even if it is a blog, or when we get together, enjoy because it is the family God gave you. And that includes the Lanning, Riggenbaughs, Hennighs and Dunlaveys. love to you all.

ouch

According to the Operative Report we received today, interpreted by the PT, Kevin's surgeon probably gave him another 10 years without a total knee replacement. The list of all the things he scraped and shaved and cauterized and moved and readjusted is pretty long. Poor guy. He will be out of work no less than 4 weeks they are saying now. Thank God for sick leave! In the meantime, I have to take 8 college students out of town, leaving on Wed and returning on Sat. So, Kev and his knee and the boys are going to learn to live together. He's hobbling around pretty good, and we have lots of friends to help.

If you think about it, pray for Kenny, one of my students. The kid had the most horrible childhood and is a vile atheist. I mean, a very profane, angry atheist. We are engaging in some e-mail chats about peace. I'm trying to move very, very slowly with him. He trusts no one and is truly one of the neediest people I know. Besides, he is going blind and can't afford the corneal implant he so desperately needs. He's very thin, wears big clothes to hide his body and dreads that he uses to cover his face. He is truly one of "the least of these." Lift him up, will you?

Thoughts on grandparenting....

Hey all! Yes to your comment about being a grandma Figlet. I have much glee and joy inside when I consider my grandaughter. I envision her with curls like her mother and big bright curious eyes like all our babies used to have when all is new and wonderful. I want to send her to private school, pay for ice skating lessons and spend evenings reading books and sipping hot chocolate out of the disney princess cups I bought last week. One of Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella and Snow White. Which I actually have on my desk at work. *insert wide toothy grin here* I already rock her and sing bible school songs to her in my head. Its weird, I dont feel old enough to be a grandmother and yet I am. However, THIS grandma is keeping her long blond hair and will wear triple hoops until the day I kick off.
Toot, I work 8 - 4:30, but for the chance of paying less in parking fees I would be glad to wait around and go for my walk after work while you finish up. We can split the darn fees. They suck majorly! So lets get together! Call me

Hail to the chief

Well, it seems the good citizens got it right for a change. Just when I had lost all hope and thought - oh my, another term of the same old same old - the Kritters and Kids 4-H club elected Riley club president. It was campaign strategy that won it for the boy in the end. Here are the exciting details. The club (all 30 or so) are 80% female and largely preteen or younger. So what chance does a boy have? Here was the plan. Divide the girls. We knew Riley would win the boy vote. So now he just needs 10 of the 24 girls. Hmmm. The young girls would never vote boy - they are gross. Turns out the girls are evenly split between tween and pre-teen. So, we have Emily run to split the pre-teen vote between two girls and then have Riley campaign directly to the tweeners. He candied them and gave a stirring speech (had some help writting it - I'm blushing) espousing their value. In the end he wins their support and gets a one vote victory. We played those little chicks like Rove with a South Carolina push poll. It was sweet victory. Emily was awarded for her loyalty with club photographer. I am now controling the club from the shadows like Cheney. I would write more but I am off to hunt quail (or am I?) with a friend.

Just an update

Hello to all that are tall and all that are small
Things are ok, I got to see the baby kick the ultrasound thingie off of Vanessa's belly yesterday. Shes already full of attitude apparently. Invitations are coming, but her shower is Saturday February 21 at 4 pm. I wish you all could come... Tom can you tell Edie and Emily? I already emailed Marti and Tate. I got the baby an adorable Princess sleeper with princess slippers and a princess hat. Different shades of pink with a crown on each shoe, hat and an emblem on the sleeper. ADORABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!! oK, GOTTA GO! Love you guys!

The way forward

http://my.barackobama.com/future In this link you will find a short message from Barack about how ordinary americans can help move the country forward. While I think I might be the only one in the family who supported BO I know I am not the only one who wants to fix this terrible mess. Perhaps if all of us work to make it better instead of watching the guy in the white house try to figure it out, things can be better. So, please do hit the link and judge as you will.

Kevin's surgery

Kev is sound asleep, in our bed, with his knee above his heart and his toes above his knee. We got to the hospital by 6:00 and were leaving at 11:00. Not bad, there. Doc said that while his cartilege (spell check) rip was not all that bad, his knee cap was a disaster. So, while he feels worse now, he should be better in a few weeks. He will be off work no less than 2 weeks, no more than 4. Not an easy task for my guy that hates to sit around. Send him all your darning.

Liposuction anyone?

By the way young Tootlesberry...if you and Smurf are seriously trying to be unchubbyier then I challenge you both to a duel. I feel decidedly large, and must remedy this feeling post haste. Whats the time frame for the biggest loser to declare victory? If I win you two have to take me to Hawaii and then publicly dance in your plus sized hula skirts. I have to stay in good health for my grand baby. If Im not around to whisk her away to Oz, or Never Never Land, then who will?

Dream a little dream............

Im planning Vanessa's baby shower. Although my creative juices go wild at the thought of how best to present said shower, limited time and funds stop me dead in my tracks. I want fairies darting around sprinkling people with fairy dust so we could all fly hand in hand to never never land and party on the pirate ship! I want to have a swashbuckling contest and hand out pirate wigs or eye patches for all attending. The password to get in would be, arg me bucko, and no peg legs allowed!!!Oh boo hiss the limitations on this human body! Sigh.......... I cant wait to get my angel wings and a cloud. I want a turbo charged XLZ super fluffy cumulus with and extra white exterior.

How is Kevin?

How did Kevin make out today?

test of video upload - something the kids did i think

Riiiiiip

Kevin is scheduled for knee surgery one week from today. Ripped cartilege in his right knee. He is trying to pass it off as a sports injury, you know, so he sounds tough like Joseph Shultz.

Toot is employed

Hi group - I got rehired by Chase today and will start January 21. I will be working in Akron with only minimal travel. Can't state the actual role as they are going to be making a formal announcement and are horrified of leaks. The job will be great - swell salary and bennies. Most importantly, home every night. Funny, I had applied for an entirely different job and after a few discussions, they decided to create this bigger role for me. Seems they hadn't considered it as an option but my history put the thought in their heads and it worked out well for them and me. Hooray!

Tim and Tom, (and Beth, since you were right in the thick of it),

When you were boys, about age 9, were you constantly poking, wrestling, chasing, aggravating and generally making mayhem? Please tell me you were and that this is just normal boyhood. W and A are about to put Kevin in his grave with all the noise.

2009 is over-rated so far

We are all as sick as dogs. Christina and I went to the doc today, Melanie ,as is her wont? - want? - wont?, refuses to go, so she lays prostrate on the couch hacking up goobers the size of Toms head. I have a headache from the lunatic coughing fits, all of my Christmas chocolate covered cherries are gone, my left shoulder blade is out so I resemble Rodan from the rear, I have to speak at a Korean church on Sunday and I can barely breathe, my Boston CD is scratched, and the Cultural Revolution starts on January 20th. On a lighter note, my new bathtub pillow and rich, luxurious bubble bath makes me feel pretty.

Carousel

Today they announced the closing of the Carousel effective tonight. When I think of all the dear friends I left behind who are losing their financial support and health benefits I cant help but cry. Many of them will face possible foreclosure of their homes, and my friend Sue who is 60 and has several significant health issues ...well, I dont know what will become of her. Please pray for my friends.