Holiday Lunch

Each year, for several years now, we have lunch with Bob Boswell to celebrate the holiday season. Today, we (Jimmy, Andie, Amy, Jack, me, and of course, Bob) went to the Revolving Restaurant in Covington.

It was comical to see Bob try so hard to make Jack smile. However, Jack was mostly interested in eating. Finally, before we left, Jack broke down and smiled, with all his dimples.

Thanks guys for good company, a beautiful view and a wonderful lunch! May peace and joy fill your holiday season and the new year.

Candy at Peluso's

Christmas time is a time of holiday traditions. One of ours is to take all the kids to Peluso's Market on Monmouth Street to buy "holiday candy."




Jimmy called us today and said to meet there at 5:30 PM.


The kids loved filling up the paper sacks with gum drops, peppermints, chocolates and hard candy.


Afterwards we walked out back for my favorite part, looking at (or rather smelling) the fresh cut Christmas trees for sale.

Mmm, the timeless fragrance of pine takes me back to my childhood when we had a "real" Christmas tree every year. Sudddenly I am six years old again!

I know it is Christmas time, once I smell that wonderful pine!

CarolFest 2007

As we have done for many years to celebrate the holiday season, we attended CarolFest.

It never ceases to amaze me the beauty of Music Hall. I especially love the crystal chandeliers, always glittering like well polished diamonds. There is a feel of wealth and culture inside Music Hall. With only a few steps inside the front entry, we left the soiled streets of life and entered into a castle of pure enchantment.


To attend a CarolFest performance, it is truly an event that is shared by the conductor, musicians, and audience – yet it’s also deeply personal to me because of my love for music. Music has always inspired and allowed me to feel emotions much more deeply. It was especially nice this year as we were seated in the sixth row.

To share this with my family is truly heartwarming.

We all treasure the memories that we find each year at CarolFest.

Blue Man Group

I have heard Tricia talk about going to see the Blue Man Group in Las Vegas, at $90 a ticket, but, for one reason or another, she hasn't seen them. My daughter, Katie, was going to go to Chicago earlier this year to see them, but other plans came up.

Tonight the tickets were free -- courtesy of my brother (Tricia's dad). So, Kevin, Tricia, Betsy and I headed for the USA Bank Arena in downtown Cincinnati to see the Blue Man Group.

BMG is centered on a trio of mute performers, called Blue Men, who present themselves in blue grease paint, latex bald caps, and black clothing.

They began the concert by playing the "drumbone." The Drumbone is an instrument made from PVC with two movable sections to alter the pitch. One Blue Man plays the instrument with pink fluorescent drumsticks, another moves the horizontal slide, and the third Blue Man moves the vertical slide.

We watched as they performed "The Rock Concert Instruction Manual" on how to gain fame and fortune by becoming a rock star from a fake infomercial, using an audience member's credit card.

Next the blue guys gave an audience member a marshmallow sculpture on her head - that was in one Blue Man's mouth...

I soon received a cell call, from two seats away, as Tricia asked how I liked it. I could tell that she was not impressed by all the blue grease. Well, to tell you the truth, I had probably seen enough, too. The marshmallow blob on the audience lady's head, kind of did it for me... Course the opening video of dental surgery didn't do much for me either.

Betsy looked at me, I looked at Tricia, Tricia looked at Kevin - and, we all got up and headed for the door. We are no longer feeling blue.

Autumn Walk

After a 10 minute drive down the road we found a nice place to walk. There were still beautiful fall leaves on the trees, although just hanging on by a thread.

We found a wonderful aging oak tree with bright orange leaves dangling over a forgotten grave.

A gazebo to rest in.

A peaceful lake that shimmered in the sun.

Not surprisingly, the lake had only a few ducks left. Yet, it must not have been too long since they were there, judging by the bottom of our shoes...

Best Halloween Costume

OK, if you know me very well, you know that I have not missed a Halloween, ever. So, you can imagine how many different costumes I have seen over the years.

This year, for most realistic costume, my brother Jimmy (Homer, in more ways than one) gets the award!

Happy Halloween!

Lunch at Butler

It has been a while since I have been to General Butler State Park for lunch. Today I decided that is where I wanted to go.

As we drove for less than an hour to get there, I remembered the other times that I had been there.

Immediately, I fondly remembered when the whole family, Jimmy and his kids, my children, and even my mom drove to Carrollton for lunch. Amy, just a teenager, being there. Katie and Philip were toddlers and behaved so well in the lodge. I can only smile to remember that happy day.

I can also remember going there with Jimmy and McGehee so many years ago. They were both in law school at Chase at that time. I remember watching in wonder as they had a bet who could eat the most fried chicken from the buffet. I would have bet on Jimmy, being that he is a man that really enjoys his food. Also, I had to consider that McGehee was a tall, slender fellow that really didn't care much about food, so I couldn't see him eating more than 3-4 pieces, tops.

To my surprise it was McGehee that had Jimmy beaten by two chicken pieces, with a grand total of 19, compared to Jimmy's mere 17 pieces of chicken. I shake my head every time I remember those two guys eating all that chicken!

As for today, we were finally there. We sat down to the buffet, not only to eat and enjoy each other's company, but to perhaps make another memory at the General Butler State Park.

Looking Back

This entry will take a different turn from my usual format.

My daughter asked me what will happen to the archived columns of the Kentucky Post newspaper once they shut their doors this December. It was a good question, and I am not sure exactly what they plan to do. So, I thought I would post on my blog one of our favorite columns. We both smile to remember back to that time when our dear friend, Ken Fields, was still with us. He was always on board with us, no matter what we wanted to do. Just like in this column written by our friend, David Wecker...

Clooney encounters of the close kind

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I'm reminded once again that no matter how diligently I apply myself to climbing the ladder of success, whenever I look up, I'll be looking at the seat of some Clooney's pants.

Let me elaborate. The other morning, I had breakfast with Ruthie Johnson and her daughter, Amy Haller, of south Newport. I've known Ruthie for a few years. Amy, I just met.

Ruthie's in her mid-40s and teaches computer classes for Newport High. Amy's 28 and delivers The Kentucky Post to subscribers in Campbell County. Also, Amy looks very much like Meg Ryan with freckles. The fact is, she lights up rooms.

Ruthie and Amy are devoted Clooneyphiles. Ruthie says it started when she was a little girl. She remembers hearing Rosemary's songs while her mom was hanging laundry on the clothesline. As a former employee of the Beverly Hills Supper Club, she said it was somehow easier hearing about the fire from Nick on Channel 12.

One way or another, Nick was always on the TV in her living room or on the radio in her car, sharing some bit of information in that warm, comfortable way he has. Not just with her, of course — but with her nonetheless. She says it's like hearing from a friend.

The feeling rubbed off on Amy and transferred itself to George. Just as her mother followed Nick's career, Amy watched George graduate from "The Facts of Life" to "Roseanne" to "ER" and the big screen.

Anyway, Ruthie and Amy have had several Clooney encounters in recent months:

• In June, after the gala celebrating Nick's 50 years in broadcasting, Ruthie and Amy waited outside the back door at Music Hall until 3 a.m. for a glimpse of a Clooney.

When George emerged, Amy asked her mom for a scrap of paper so she could collect an autograph. Ruthie handed her a tattered ATM envelope. It was all she had.

"I apologized for the crummy piece of paper, and George said, `Yeah, it was pretty crummy.' And he laughed," Amy says. "He couldn't have been nicer."

• In July, the girls took Ruthie's '97 red Dodge Caravan to Rosemary's funeral. They were half an hour late, parking spots were scarce and yellow tape was everywhere.

"So we turned down an alley and saw a spot," Ruthie says.

"I realized, `Omigosh, we're behind the church.' On the other hand, it was half an hour into the service, so I seriously doubted it was being held for anyone — "

They stood in the back of the church. They cried when Nick got up to speak. And as Ruthie and Amy were leaving the church, the paparazzi descended on them. A woman in the crowd pointed at Amy and ID'd her as George's new girlfriend.

As Ruthie backed the Caravan into the alley, she discovered to her horror it was the third vehicle in the procession. Amy slunk in the passenger's seat, mortified. At the cemetery, men in suits opened the van doors and escorted them to the grave site.

Amy was scared to death she would be arrested. She remembers feeling guilty when people she didn't know began consoling her. She also remembers George having really nice sunglasses and looking really great. For her part, Ruthie concentrated on blending in.

• A few weeks ago, Ruthie and Amy persuaded Ken Fields, a long-time Newport school board member and basically my second dad, to accompany them to the fourth annual Rosemary Clooney Festival in Maysville.

"I went along to give them some legitimacy," he said.

The number on their table was 102, which Ken said put them three blocks from the stage, almost to the fence. But it didn't matter to Ruthie and Amy because they weren't in their seats more than a few minutes.

I sprinkled more hot sauce on my fried eggs as Ruthie and Amy took turns telling me what their evening was like. They told me about how friendly and gracious and charming everyone in the family was, about how they took time to talk to anyone who wanted to talk and about how it really was like a great big family gathering and they were part of it.

Then they showed me the photos. There's Amy and Nina, Nick and Amy, Amy and Dante DiPaolo and there's the both of them with George. It would have been perfect, if only Amy hadn't blinked when the shutter snapped.

"I think they're starting to recognize us," Amy said.

The day after the festival, Ruthie and Amy stopped at Walgreen's in Newport and dropped the film off to be developed. They had an hour to kill before their photos would be ready. So they hopped into the Caravan. Without really thinking about it, they found themselves on the AA Highway, headed for Augusta, Ky.

That's the kind of night it was for them.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

By the way David, you still have our pictures!

Urban Dog Sledding

What a beautiful day today. Katie, Rachel and I went for a ride this afternoon through the neighborhoods close to home. Lots of people where either working in their yards, tossing footballs or jogging down the sidewalks.

As we drove through the streets of Fort Thomas, out of nowhere, we all questioned at the same moment, “DID YOU SEE THAT?” I had to be sure that what I saw was exactly what they saw. I turned the car around and listened to the girls giggle as it was confirmed, we did see this.

There was a middle-aged man riding a bicycle. He resembled a Blues Brother, sporting the same type of hat and sunglasses. Now for the catch, he was not peddling his bike. No, he had four beautiful, blue-eyed Huskies doing that for him.

Please excuse us for laughing - this was the first time we had ever seen "Urban Dog Sledding!"

My First Birthday Party

I know a woman should not tell her age, but for some reason this has never really bothered me. So, I will tell you about my 50th birthday.

A week ago Friday, two days before my “official” birthday, it started as just an ordinary day. I arrived at school a little early and began my normal routine. My principal acknowledged my birthday on the morning announcements, which made me smile. I had a couple “Happy Birthday” wishes but no hints of how the day would unfold.

By 3:00 I was ready to call it a day and start the weekend. A couple teacher friends at school asked me to join them at Starbuck’s to chat, as we have done several times before on other Fridays.

At 4:00 my cell phone rang and my daughter, Amy, asked me to come home because Grandma needed her medicine and was hungry. I left Starbuck’s and drove straight home.

When I pulled up the street I saw many of my favorite people walking out of my garage to wish me a Happy Birthday. This was a total surprise to me! I can't say how shaken and deeply moved I was. I had never had anyone celebrate my birthday with such a party as this! And, what a pleasure to have even more friends and relatives arrive throughout the day.

I cannot adequately thank all of my dear friends and family that made my day perfect.

Tricia and Amy, thank you for organizing and pulling off this wonderful surprise party! Kevin, the food was excellent, thanks for taking care of it! Thank you Jimmy for graciously providing the funds for my party. You guys from school and CO, I need to watch you all - you guys are too good (and sneaky) about keeping a secret from me! Thank you for sharing this day with me! Betsy, Mary Jo and Tami - thank you - you know you are like family to me. Mary, thank you for always being there for me - good times and the not-so-good times, you are my adopted sister. Al, my one soul mate, thank you for a shoulder to lean on and an ear to bend, but most of all, for a heart that has never stopped caring for the last 24 years. Susie, my dear friend of 44 years, you mean the world to me - I didn't want you and Mark to leave. To all of the members of my dear family - thank you for putting up with me - I love you with all of my heart.

Each and every one of you have all added so much joy to my life. Regardless of whether you have been with me for all of these eventful 50 years, or if only on part of this journey, know that all of you have played such a significant part of my life. You are my blessings.

Thank you all for the wonderful gifts, and a day that I will always treasure. Most importantly, thank you for your gift of love and friendship. May we all enjoy many more happy days together.

With Love,
Ruthie

Rosemary Clooney Festival

Tonight was the Ninth Annual Rosemary Clooney Festival. It started for Amy and me at about 4:15 PM. With hair done, make-up on, we were dressed and ready to go. Cameras were in both of our purses. Down the AA Highway we headed toward Maysville, Kentucky.

On the hour drive we reminisced about the other Rosemary Clooney Festivals we have attended. We talked about our dear friend, Ken Fields, and how he was with us at the other festivals. We miss him so much. We wondered if Ken was watching down on us with a smile, knowing how much we enjoy these events.

We arrived in Maysville and found a parking spot about 5:20 PM. The gates were not scheduled to open until 5:30 PM so we walked over to the floodwall murals that had been dedicated earlier in the day. They were so beautifully done. My favorite was the classic picture of Rosemary smiling with her chin resting in her hands.

It was now time for the gates to open so we got in line. There were all kinds of people waiting to get into the festival. We saw lots of older couples and several younger couples. There were also groups of women, groups of men, and even groups of teenagers.

Once our names were checked off the admission list we walked onto Market Street. As usual, the street looked as elegant as a first rate hotel ballroom. There were round tables draped with fine linens and centerpieces all up and down the street in front of the Russell Theatre. There was stemware and bottles of wine on each and every table. An excitement filled the air.

Our table included six very attractive women, ranging in ages from 40 to 65 years, along with me and Amy. These women were hoping (as undeniably we were) to see George Clooney tonight. George had been to other Rosemary Clooney Festivals and the rumor was he would be there tonight. Unfortunately, he did not show. Although we were all disappointed, we continued to have a good time. It was fun to be seated with these energetic women. These gals all had a great sense of wit and humor. And as the evening (and the wine) flowed, they became even wittier.

As for the weather, we had what is now called “Rosie weather”. It was a beautiful September day, in the upper 80’s with low humidity. Even as the night air moved in, off the Ohio River, it stayed very comfortable with no need for a jacket. The sky was clear and quickly filled with stars.

Along with the stars in the sky, there were many stars in the crowd. It was great to see Dante Dipaolo, Rosemary’s widower at the table across the street. The Pointer Sisters were performing on stage. But among our favorite people to see were Nick and Nina Clooney, brother and sister-in-law of Rosemary Clooney, and father and mother of George Clooney. They, without doubt, are the most gracious “stars” in our community. They are always supporting important organizations, functions and events to better not only our community, but the world.

The Clooneys are certainly a part of our adopted family. They have become so especially through the newspaper columns they both have written. And, we have been fortunate to “socialize” with them at many other events. Without fail, they both have a gift of making you feel important, like a well-liked friend or even family member. They are truly special people.

As the night was ending, Amy decided she wanted a pink glow-in-the-dark glass. Every table had a collection of one color; pink, yellow, green or blue. We had the blue ones on our table. She wanted not only the blue one, but also a pink one, to take home for her daughter, Rachel. She went to a table (where only half the people showed up) and asked for an unclaimed pink glass. "No", they snapped, not offering her a reason. Disappointed and empty handed Amy made her way back to our table.

Immediately, without a second thought, the elegant 65 year old woman at our table stood up and sashayed to a nearby table with her cloth napkin in hand. And, ever so elegantly, she dropped her napkin onto a coveted pink glass. Before anyone was the wiser, she handed the napkin, (with pink glass inside), to Amy as we made our way off Market Street. We turned smiling and waved goodbye to our new "festival" girlfriends.

Josh at the General Store

Another Saturday and we have a day together. Well, except for Katie, she went to an all-day retreat this morning.

Today, it was Rachel and Michael that were going to decide where we would go for lunch. To my surprise, Rachel said she wanted to go to Augusta. Michael agreed that would work for him, too. So, off we headed down the AA Highway and Route 8.

We left Route 8 at our usual turn and drove by the lake and under the railroad trestle. Around the corner we drove on the one lane road right through the middle of a huge corn field. The stalks were tall and quite brown this time of year, especially with so little rain.

Then, we were on Riverfront Drive in Augusta, one of my favorite places to go. Down the road we drove past the beautiful historic older homes and then finally to the red caboose. We parked in front of the General Store. The General Store is a gift shop with “country” types of gifts, along with about 8 tables for dining. I really like the home cooked food at the General Store.

The General Store was not crowded at all. The only people there were sitting at two tables, so we had our choice of where to sit. Of course, Michael and Rachel wanted to sit by the window where the large set of checkers were calling their names. They seemed to be enjoying themselves while contemplating each move... Well, until “Josh” came over to them.

Josh was a cute little cherub of a boy. When he smiled his cheeks caused his eyes to close. He asked if he could play. “Sure”, Michael said. He helped the little boy up onto the chair and Rachel graciously asked him if he would like to make a move…

Next thing we know, little Josh was moving alright, he began flinging the checkers on the floor and across the room. So, I look around the room and shoot a look at his parents. Umm… they were not catching on. After several minutes of Rachel picking up the strewn checkers, Rachel came over to the table where Michael and I were now sitting. Josh, still unsupervised, was now moving the sales merchandise around the room to his liking.

Ah, at last, our order was ready and we were starving. As we sat at the table, ready to take our first bite, Josh came over to me and stood about six inches from my face. Splat!!! He spit in my face!!! I couldn’t believe it. I spoke very loudly as I expressed my disgust for this action. Josh laughed. The parents continued to leisurely eat their meal while their little menace ruined our lunch...

Although lunch did not go well, I did enjoy the time we spent afterwards. After buying a couple waffle cones for Michael and Rachel we walked along the river. We walked to the Rosemary Clooney house where the street was closed for some type of dinner gathering. We counted over 40 round tables of eight displayed on the street with nice linens and goblets. Rachel guessed that they were prepared for a wedding reception later that evening…

We walked down to the river and sat on the bench while the ice cream melted more quickly than they could eat it. The water looked beautiful today. The ripples looked like diamonds on the water. How peaceful it felt to watch the water (especially away from Josh) flowing south along the backdrop of the green trees on the Ohio bank.

Finally, it was time to head back home. We got in the van and headed north on Route 8.

I started thinking about how children are raised. Little Josh, started out as such a cute little angel. I guess he was just being a little boy without limits. And, he apparently had not been told that spitting was not such a good idea. Yet, without boundaries this little angel quickly became a big devil.

So, I looked in the rear view mirror and told the kids that the reason I say “no” so much, “It is so you don’t act like Josh!”

I think they may have an idea what I mean this time.

World Travel Made Simple

Today is Saturday. You have probably guessed what that means – lunch out. So, about noon, Katie, Michael, Rachel and I hopped in the van and drove to Frisch’s for lunch.

As we drove away the kids asked if we could take a little drive. So, I drove past the Newport Levee and through downtown Cincinnati. There seemed to be a lot of excitement in the air with the Labor Day fireworks on the river only one day away.

Today, I felt like we needed to do something a little different. I decided to pull into a parking lot next to the Ohio River that was lined with flags. I made the kids hop out and stretch their legs. I saw a sign that said Friendship Park. A park seemed like a nice change of pace for us. We walked over to the sign and noticed a walking trail. We followed the scenic trail as it meandered along the beautiful waters of the Ohio River.

All the sidewalks were laid out in an undulating fashion. This trail gradually revealed manicured gardens that were representative of the world’s continents. We walked through the “Land of Europe” first with plants, flowers and shrubbery that reminded you of European gardens.

Next was my favorite area, the “Land of Africa”. It had beautiful, tall, golden pampas grass all around the walk. I felt as if I were on a safari and that I might see a giraffe around the next turn.

Continuing our walk we crossed the “Land of Australia”. There were plants that reminded us of eucalyptus and bushes of bright blue flowers. We pretended that beyond the bushes perhaps a kangaroo might be hopping…

In the center of the park was the Plaza of the Sun. This was a circular clearing where we stopped to rest. We relaxed along the panoramic view of the Ohio River. Across the river you could see the peaceful green hills of Kentucky. Here, at the Plaza of the Sun, the kids noticed a Stonehenge type sculpture with seven pillars carved from old English Oak. Each pillar seemed to be burned on the bottom. It was quite interesting to look at as we agreed it appeared to be a form of a sundial.

All along our trek we noticed the concrete trail was textured with plants and animal prints that you might find on each continent. Moving on the footpath through the continents was the “Land of the Americas” with beautiful trees and plants representing the Americas.

Finally, as we strolled along to the end of this walk we reached the “Land of Asia”. We found many Evergreen trees and shrubs, along with Japanese Maples lining our path. The only thing missing was a footbridge and a temple.

As we turned around to retrace the trail that would lead us back to our van, the kids ran on top of the winding knee-high concrete wall that would lead its way back to the start of our walk. All along this beautifully landscaped serpentine trail you could look beyond the beautiful trees and see the blue river flowing with such grace.

Although we were only a few miles from home, and the entire path was perhaps a half of mile each way, we felt as if we journeyed through many continents.

And, with no passport required.

Hot August

We have been hot in Northern Kentucky for about a month now. Temperatures have hovered in the mid to upper 90’s and have even crossed the scorching line of 100 degrees a few times. Humidity has been unbearable too, so that has only added to our “heat index” numbers.

In late August, hot is just plain uncomfortable. Hot makes you sweat. Hot makes you cranky. Hot is the topic on everyone’s lips, and brows. Being hot makes you crave cool things; ice water, iced tea, ice cream and ……for real relief, Long Island Iced Tea.

Hot is typically something that you want in the middle of January or perhaps on your enchilada. Everyone would like to look “hot” occasionally. And, if you are at a casino, you hope your luck to be “hot”.

The reality is that it is not January and I am not looking so “hot”. And, the only luck I want is for the weather to cool down to more seasonal temperatures.

In the meantime, I might be ordering that Long Island Iced Tea, just to cool down.

Back to School (Letting Go)

For many years now, it is in August I prepare for the upcoming school year for my children. Although the ranks are dwindling down – from five school children to only two – the procedure is always the same. With the first back-to-school ads we start buying the essentials for school. Deals on new shoes to new notebooks can be found around every corner. Unfortunately, for some odd reason, last year's old scissors, protractors, backpacks and binders just “don’t work” for my kids. So, out come the school lists and we buy everything bright, shiny and new.

Yet, the “first day” back to school always sneaks up on me. Without fail, I always wonder where the summer has gone. Every year I regret that there were so many things I wanted us to do, but somehow never got enough time. So it seems, the first day back-to-school always turns into a day of reflection for me. My mind inevitably rewinds to all the other “first days” taking my children "back to school."

The first days of Kindergarten seemed to be the same for all five of my children; John, Amy, Philip, Katie and Michael. They were all ready to go. There were never any tears on their part, just an excitement and wonder about what this whole “school” thing was about.

Like any mother, I was truly happy about this transition for my children. I worked so hard preparing them for this new adventure, endlessly looking for opportunities to teach them the alphabet, words, colors, numbers, and how to read. Off to school they all would happily go. On each of their first days of school, it wouldn’t take long before the teacher would have everything under control and it would be time for the parents to leave. Although I was happy and proud of my little ones, I would always find myself crying outside in my car, not wanting to drive home.

I am not absolutely clear as to why I always cried those first days. Perhaps, I cried somehow knowing that the natural separation had begun between the strongest bond I would ever know, that of a mother and her “baby.” They were “my” children until that first day of school. There was a painful knowledge that this “letting go” was to be the course I would be on for many years to come.

Yesterday, my youngest child, Michael, went back to school. He is in the eighth grade and will finish his last year at the school where he began Kindergarten. I am remembering his “first day” there. Michael was such a little fellow back then, but already so smart. I remember leaving him at his seat in his kindergarten room for the first time. I just didn’t want to leave. He turned to me, smiled and said, “Mommy, I love you. I am ready for school. I am a big boy now. It is OK to go home now.” Seeing the tears in my eyes he added, “I promise I will come home.” And, he did.

This past week my youngest daughter, Katie, started her first day of college. So many memories of her first day of Kindergarten, First grade, Second grade, Third grade, Fourth grade (and, well, you get the idea), all floods my mind. It is very hard for me to even write about.

As Katie drove away to her first class, she smiled and yelled, “Mom, it’s OK. You know I will be home later.” And, she was.

Pride, excitement and tears, still sweep me away.

This “letting go” that started with their “first days” of school has not stopped haunting me. I have been trying for many years to get this “letting go” thing mastered. I can tell you the truth, I haven’t.

Spontaneity

Last week Saturday was getting a little boring. Not much to do, especially with the last 10 plus days having boiling temperatures in the upper 90’s. We were thinking that we should do something that required little effort and was "cool." We started in the afternoon by going to get a bite to eat at a restaurant in Hyde Park called the Echo. It is a little diner that had really good food. Next, we went to Graeter’s, a Cincinnati favorite for ice cream, and had vanilla waffle cones.

Soon, Michael and Katie wanted to know what was next on our agenda. Of course, they know me all too well. (I don't need a "plan" to have fun.)

What to do? Hmm… I started by getting on Interstate 71 and driving north. Surely I would see something that would spark an idea. I drove for about 100 miles and needed some breakthrough on what to do. I saw a road sign that suggested Wheeling, West Virginia. What’s there I wondered. Nothing I could think of. So, I stayed on course north. To be honest, I really had no idea where to go. But, I insisted that we were going to do something fun. Another 125 miles clicked by and I saw the signs to Cleveland. For a moment, I pondered the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame…

Wait, what was this I-90 to Pennsylvania? Hmm… the kids have not been there… Blinker on, next exit, east to Erie, PA.

At this point I had invested some significant time and gas into this adventure. On the way to Erie, I had a grand idea –Niagara Falls! (Hey, we were only one state away at this point.)

Now, with a legitimate destination, the sun was going down. After over 6 hours of driving, I found a motel for us in New York. Then, our next stop was to a Walmart to get a cheap change of clothes, along with some necessities.

Sunday, we woke up and drove about an hour and arrived at Niagara Falls.

We were all amazed at the size of the falls, especially the Canadian side. All we could compare Niagara to was Cumberland Falls, which is located in our home state of Kentucky. Cumberland is equally beautiful but not half the size of Niagara, although Cumberland does boast it is the only waterfall in the world that has a “moonbow.” (At one time this distinction was shared with Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Africa but due to forest cultivation Victoria Falls has lost its moonbow status.)

After admiring the vastness of these waterfalls, we rode on the famous “Maid of the Mist”. Although we had rain jackets on, the mist was overwhelming as we were sprayed continuously by the falls. Nearing the falls the waves got more forceful as our boat rocked more aggressively. Strangely, it felt like we were in the middle of a hurricane! Yet, it was so much fun!

Once we were back up to the observation deck and dried off, Katie and Michael decided we needed to cross the bridge to Canada to have lunch at the Hard Rock Café. Sounded like fun to me. So, we crossed the border and ate lunch. Afterwards, we drove around to check out the local sights. We decided that we would have to come back another time and plan for a longer stay. But, for now, it was 2:00 P.M., Sunday, and I needed to begin the 8 hour drive back home. Yes, I had to be back at school bright and early on Monday morning.

Although it was a long ride home, we talked and laughed about all the "cool" things we experienced in the last 24 hours.

This was an adventure that sprung from nowhere. No roadmap, no plan, just going with the flow... Yet, it will certainly be a precious memory for many years to come.

Spontaneity – I highly recommend it.

Diary of a Paper Girl

Have you ever had a love/hate relationship in your life? You know, the kind where you can make a list of all the reasons to love it, yet, you could equally list all the reasons to despise the relationship.

This is the diary of a KY Post delivery girl.

When I purchased the route five years ago, it was like all new relationships. I was optimistic and saw a future with this new partner. We were going to go places. It didn’t take long to learn that this wasn’t going to be all fun and games. I had to put a lot of work into this relationship.

This relationship has taken up all of my Friday nights for the last 5 years (putting the ads and TV guides together.) Saturday mornings getting up at 3 AM has not been easy (to go to the warehouse to pick up the papers so all the ads and guides could be inserted into one neat, tidy paper.)

This partner was always demanding my time – six days a week, every week of the year.

But like all relationships that come to an end, I am starting to remember the good times. I remember the good people I have met because of this association. I remember the long drives during all the seasons of the year. And, the payoff for all of my labors (at the first of the month when the payments came in) was especially gratifying.

We will still hang on a little longer, but the writing is on the wall (last publication will be December 31st, 2007.) I will have to say good-bye to the good and to the bad. I will not miss the ink on my hands, clothes and car. I will not miss filling up at the gas station 3-4 times a week. I will not miss the late Friday nights or early Saturday mornings.

However, I will miss the long rides along the country roads in Campbell County. I will miss the wonderful people that live on those roads. And, of course, I will miss the extra income it provided.

I am getting ready to let go. I will soon need to look for a new “relationship.” I may be flirting with Ebay in the near future…

Delivery – A Four Hour Window - Not

OK, the entertainment center has been on order for two months, and finally it is scheduled for delivery today. I have been quite anxious to get our new entertainment center, but to tell the truth, it has been so long since I have seen it in the showroom, I have almost forgotten what it looks like.

Yesterday I received a call to tell me about the “four hour window” in which it would be here. It had to be right in the middle of the day, between 12 to 4 PM. No going out to lunch for us today. All plans will have to be put on hold until my delivery arrives.

Not that I expected them to get here exactly at noon, but I did sit by the front window, just in case. After about an hour, Katie walked by with a look that said they probably wouldn’t be here until much later. I didn’t want to think that. I wanted to see the truck pull up the street any minute, unload my entertainment center, set it up in the location I had sitting empty in the family room. After that we could take a break to grab some lunch. And, finally, what I was really looking forward to, I would like to arrange all my Rookwood, colored glass and favorite pictures on the 20 glass shelves that were on this massive piece of furniture.

By 2:00 I moved back to the family room and listened for the truck to arrive. It felt more practical to think they were coming any minute after 2:00, being right in the middle of their "four hour window."

By 3:00, I started a load of laundry and turned the TV on.

By 4:00, Katie walked by and said I had been duped. Hungry, she was ready to leave for a bite to eat.

I decided to call the delivery number and ask where they were. I was told they would be here any minute. No longer than 40 minutes the woman said. Hmm… perhaps they should have called me; after all, they were late on their “four hour window.”

I spent the next forty minutes back in the front room watching out the window. No one came.

At 5:15, I called again. Where are they? It shouldn’t be much longer.

At 6:00, I finally heard a truck pull up the street. I watched as they threw my precious pieces of furniture on the street. The boxes were ripped open in the rain and then carried to my family room. I immediately dried the wood and glass. As the sixth and final piece was about to be carried in the delivery fellow asked me to come out to the truck. He pointed out a manufacturing defect in the most prominent piece. We can leave it or take it back he said. Oh my, another two months to wait, was my immediate reaction. So, I called the place where I made this purchase and asked for the manager. Customer satisfaction was my goal. I was told they would replace it and to keep the damaged piece until it could be replaced.

The delivery men left at 7:20.

Famished, we ate immediately.

Then, as I looked so forward to placing my favorite objects on the glass shelves, there were no hooks to rest the shelves on. In addition, there were scratches on the wood and two damaged shelves.

This “four hour window” turned into almost a “SEVEN and a half hour window.”

Actually, I think a “two month, 7 ½ hour window” would be more accurate. And now, they will probably have to add another couple months to get the right pieces. More accurately, this will be a “FOUR MONTH plus window”… and I am not waiting by the door.

Dental Appointments

It was very hot and muggy today, one of those lazy, scorching summer days. All I wanted to do was stay inside with the air-conditioning and the remote.

However, Katie and Michael had appointments with the dentist today. This would be their first appointment with their “new” dentist. Their old dentist has cancelled several appointments and it seemed harder and harder to get in to see him. So, today they were going to a new, woman, dentist.

Once I reminded Michael that the appointment was today, he immediately went to task. He went straight to the bathroom and starting brushing. He brushed to make up for all the times I told him to brush but only spent 30 seconds brushing. He brushed so long as if he could hide the fact that he hasn’t put a whole lot of effort into his oral hygiene.

Katie on the other hand had probably already brushed 10 minutes this morning before I reminded her about the appointment. She is quite conscientious about her teeth, after all, she had braces for several years that not only straightened her teeth, but also taught her the discipline of proper brushing and flossing.

We drove to the new office. It was in an older house that had been converted to an office. It was a small, but friendly office. It had yellow walls, a fireplace, TV and comfy couches. It felt like you were visiting an old relative.

For the next two hours I watched a couple episodes of Andy Griffith and then The Peoples Court - from friendly neighbors to vicious adversaries. I really can’t complain, though. I relaxed on the couch in front of the TV while the ceiling fan tried to lure me to sleep. I knew how hot it was outside so I had a real appreciation for this cool, cozy waiting room.

Finally, the dentist called me back. The verdict was in. Both kids, no cavities. Katie needs her wisdom teeth taken out soon. Michael needs to brush longer. As for the new dentist, we all agree, we like her.

And, I did get to relax in the air conditioning and watch TV after all.

Moonlight Swim

It is that time of the year when not only the days are hot, but the evenings are hot, too. Earlier today we saw a bank thermometer that showed the temperature was 96 degrees. Later, my computer said that it was 84 degrees at 9:00 PM. It is on just such a night like this, that the kids and I like to swim… by moon light. Yes, we love taking a “moonlight swim.”

So, Amy, Rachel, Brandon, Michael and I met down in the backyard at our pool. Oh my, was the water warm. It felt like bath water, as they say. There was no effort getting used to the water. Unlike my 30 minute adjustment period to the water, tonight it only took seconds.

We floated around and enjoyed just lounging in the water. The only lights around us were the flashing fireflies. And, the light that shines on the American Flag over at the ball field.

In the darkness of this evening while in the pool, we seemed to hear more sounds around us. It was easy to hear the cicadas (which are still hanging around our area, even though it is not their "official" year to be here) and the rhythmic chirp of the crickets. We heard a couple airplanes fly overhead toward the airport. We could hear the occasional sound of a dog barking. We even heard the music of a distant ice cream truck. It was so peaceful to be in the pool tonight.

Although, Brandon did create a little stir when he mentioned that he threw his “dog tags” (he likes to pretend he is an army man) up onto the deck. Since it was so dark we were not sure where they landed. We made Brandon reenact how he threw his arm when he tossed his dog tags to the deck. He did this over and over but we couldn't find the dog tags. Eventually, Amy had to get a flashlight to scour the yard, but still no luck. Then, as Amy’s last resort, she called on St. Anthony. Within the next two minutes she noticed Brandon’s army tags hanging from a board at the side of the deck.

Finally, it seemed like time to go back inside and get dry PJ’s on, as it was getting late. Once we got out of the warm water, it only made the air seem so much cooler. Everyone scrambled for their towels.

The pool is empty and everyone is now home. And, even though it is still pretty hot this evening, I feel like I need a blanket. Maybe this is why we like “moonlight swims” so much.

Taking a Drive - for Ice Cream

Tonight Katie and Michael wanted to go for a drive. That was fine by me, because I love to take rides. We have been on so many rides there are only a few roads in Northern Kentucky that we haven’t driven on. We wanted to venture to someplace new.

I started to go east on the AA but then changed my mind since there are always so many wrecks on the AA. I decided to go down US 27 south to check out the new parts of US 27.

When we got about 20 minutes away from home, Michael yelled to bring my attention to a motorcycle carrying two men that had flipped over while turning onto a side road. I drove to the next place where I could exit. I turned around to go back to see if we could help. When we got back to the accident both men were standing. One was rubbing his head and the other guy looked dazed. I asked if we could help in any way, or could we call for help. The one guy in the daze said, “Yeah, you can come over here and kiss me.”

(OK, kids, lesson number one – be cautious when you talk to any strangers, including guys in motorcycle wrecks.) What a weirdo! It was obvious that these guys were drunk. There wasn't anything I could do for them, except let them sit there in the hot sun and dry out….

So, I got back on 27 and continued our drive south.

We went as far as Butler when I decided that I wanted ice cream. The deal was this – we had to continue riding south until I found an ice cream place. (I like to make deals like this…)

First, we went through Falmouth but decided McDonald’s didn’t qualify as an ice cream place. Much farther down the road we went through a small town called Cynthiana. The old "Dairy Barn", I remember from being a kid, was now vacant. On the outskirts of town we saw another McDonald’s and decided this would now be acceptable as an “ice cream place". When we got in the lot we counted 13 cars in the drive-thru line. (Apparently, they couldn’t find any other ice cream place around either.) We did the math figuring at least 3 minutes per car times 13 and we all decided to pull through and continue our trek south to find a real “ice cream place".

Well, we finally ended outside Lexington. We ran into I-75 and all saw the yellow arches again. We drove in. We ordered ice cream and french fries. When we got to the window the kid in the window said they were out of all ice cream – no dairy products. We paid for the fries and left.

Since we were so close to Lexington, we decided we might as well drive through downtown, past Rupp Arena, and then head home. Not something you do everyday. So, that is what we did.

We finally headed for home. Now the kids said that they were thirsty from the fries. And, I still wanted some ice cream. I waited until I got an exit closer to home and pulled off the highway. Wait… this was the same McDonald’s we were at earlier that didn’t have a dairy products. What were the odds?!

We spent four hours on this little drive… We didn’t want to drive on a road with accidents, yet saw the motorcycle crash. And, we did want ice cream, but didn’t get any. Go figure.

Modern Day Cookout

Yesterday was a busy day. I got up early and made my "to do" list and headed out. My first stop was to the bank to get some money and then off to the grocery store. I had planned a cookout for the family. Summer days without an occasionally cookout would just not be right. Our cookout was scheduled for 4:30 p.m..

I had big plans to prepare a variety of culinary delights with little time to work with. The main focus was my famous potato salad, along with a barrage of delectable side dishes with grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. What more would you want at a cookout!?!

After I finished my early morning chores, I started to chop my veggies. Then, the distractions began. My phone started to ring constantly. The kids wanted to go out for lunch. The dryer bell periodically nagged me to come upstairs to fold the laundry. As I looked over my lists, I noticed I had forgotten some main ingredients. So, with kids in the car, we headed back off to the grocery. OK, so they convinced me that they needed an "appetizer" to hold them over until the cookout. So, I drove through McDonald's for some chicken nuggets.

Once I got home, my mom called and asked if I had gone to the bank for her. Oops. Back in the car I drove to the bank. When I got back home, I should have known not to check my email, but there was a seemingly urgent request to return the laptop I borrowed from school. So, I had to get into the car one final time to return the laptop.

By now it was almost 3:30. I found Katie hard at work in the kitchen. She had everything all chopped up, boiling, baking, or cooling, trying to keep this preparation end of my cookout on schedule. All I had to do was fry the bacon (one of the most important ingredients in my potato salad). Unfortunately, I got a glimpse of the expiration date on the bacon. It was two weeks past the date. Scratch my world famous potato salad.

By 5:00, not all that late, we took all the food we, (I mean Katie), prepared and neatly displayed the food on the serving table outside. I am sure it was at least 90 degrees and the sun was very bright. As we walked outside into what seemed like an oven and then back into the cool, refreshing air-conditioned house, we considered the possibility of eating inside. But, as I told Katie, we were having a cook-OUT, so that meant we had no choice but to endure the heat OUTside.

As I grilled, along with the hamburgers, I felt as if I were melting. Thoughts of the chilled air in the house was becoming more persuasive. Hey, wait a minute. All the kids were already in the house with their food. Only the adults, trying to indulge my fantasy of a memorable summer cookout were still outside, trying to hide their discomfort.

So, Katie and I carried all the food back into the cool kitchen. I think everyone was relieved that I had come to my senses. Everyone seemed much happier inside. I certainly was. I even think the food tasted better.

After everyone left, I started to think about the whole day. It was too busy with too much to do. I didn't count on all the distractions. Thank goodness for Katie and all her hard work.

I learned that I didn't have to have my potato salad for a cookout. In the past, this would be unheard of.

Finally, I considered the whole idea of a cookout. It is called a COOK-OUT. Not an EAT-OUT. Next time it is 90 degrees and I want to have a cookout, I plan to keep the grilling outside and the eating inside.

Or even better, I think I will have pizza delivered.

Tape on the Wall

This evening I went to my mom's house to clean. My mom only lives two doors away.

I just got home - four hours later. I cleaned the kitchen. Dishes, laundry, floor, windows and then I started to wipe down the walls. Unfortunately, I literally wiped the walls down. My mom has an old kitchen with walls made of square plastic tiles - pink (now beige) at the top half and across the middle, black horizontal tiles, and the bottom half is blue. As I wiped, the plastic tiles slowly started to fall off the wall.

I have asked everyone I know to help her and replace the walls, yet nothing has been done. If I knew how to do drywall, I would attempt it myself. I even suggested that we all go in together for her 80th birthday (this September) and hire someone to fix her walls, but no one is interested. It makes me feel so sad that she has to live with a kitchen like this.

As I studied the walls, I remembered back over forty years ago looking at those same walls. My mom would proudly tape up my good school papers there. She would tape up each week's spelling words for me to look at all week, until the big test on Friday. Valentine's day I would rush home with all of my Valentine's I got at school in my decorated shoebox to show her. My mom and I would read each one as she taped them on the "blue" tiles for us to enjoy. At Christmas time she would tape up paper cutouts of Santa and his reindeer on the "pink" half. These were such good memories...

The wall was dry. So, I used some tape to put the fallen tiles back up. If tape could hold up so many memories, I figured it could hold the tiles, too.

I have learned so much from my mom.

Full Tummy - Rainy Saturday

It seems like we have developed a tradition of having lunch out on Saturdays.

Today, it is kind of a gloomy day with gray skies and a feeling that it will rain soon. Not much is going on anywhere. I really didn't feel like driving very far, so I took Katie, Michael, Rachel and Brandon to eat at Frisch's.

To entertain themselves, the kids always turn the paper placemats over so they can play hangman. They seem to stump me every time.

It is funny to listen to these guys talking to each other. It is like hearing four conversations going at the same time. I can never follow what they are talking about, yet, they have no problem carrying out their conversations.

Next we went to get an ice cream at UDF. Oh, how I love the chocolate malts from there. However, I restrained from having the extra, and I do mean extra, calories. The kids are not worried about things such as calories or carbohydrates...

Everyone is now home and feeling like taking a nap. Perfect timing, full tummy and a rainy Saturday.

Joe Hedges

Here is a new way to find a band you like.

1) Pick an ailment you have.
2) Google it.
3) Find a link to Youtube.
4) Watch the promotional video.
5) Voilla! You may have found your new favorite band.

This is exactly what happened to me earlier this year. I suffer from Mitral Valve Prolapse. What I found was Joe Hedges with his new CD "Mitral Valve Prolapse." And yes, it is my favorite band.

I have told everyone I know to check out this new CD and the web site at http://www.joehedges.com/ where you can find the MVP music video and the cool promotional video.

So, I am telling you, too.

Home is Where MY Heart Is

I like this title - which really means - I AM HOME!

I got home last night rather late, around midnight. My family was awake and looking forward to seeing me. It seemed like even Buddy (our dog) was waiting for me.

We sat upstairs in the loft on the couch and talked for about an hour. I was extremely tired but so happy to be with my favorite people in the world, my family. It was so nice, the kids joking around and smiling, no TV, no distractions, just being with each other, happy.

Finally, we all went to bed and I think I slept with a smile on my face.

My heart is home.

Home

I am so excited that I will be on my way home at 5PM today!

There are some things that need to be left alone, so, I will only say this, I want to be home.

There have been several workshops that I have attended. I want to focus on the positive aspects of this adventure. There are many talented, knowledgable, and friendly people here.

Among them, a gal from Macon, GA -- funny and I love her accent. Another one would have to be a guy, Rob, who I call the Blue Ridge boy. He is so nice and helpful. I hope to email them occasionally.

Will resume later, gotta run for now. Remember, I am going home today! :)

Sunday Night in Connecticut

I am in my hotel room checking out what is in the room. King size bed - nice. Fridge and microwave - nice, but I don't plan to use. TV and remote are working - excellent.

Well, I am a little homesick. I miss my family.

OK, next I am reading the directory on the desk. I am at New England's top ranked public university, the University of Connecticut. I am at the main campus in Storr's. I have been inside the Nathan Hale Inn since I have arrived. I am looking forward to a little free time to check out local sights.

Well, let's see. The directory says that local attractions include... a dairy? I need to get some sleep. I think I must be reading this thing wrong. I am rather sleepy.

Good night from Connecticut...

Flying on Sunday

Oh my gosh, am I tired! I left Newport, KY at 8:00 this morning, drove to Lexington, KY, to then fly to Hartford, Connecticut via Altlanta, GA. It is 7:30 PM and I have finally arrived. I am at the University of Connecticut in Storrs to learn more about web design for my job.

I am (hopefully) off to dinner and will resume writing when I get back to my room.

Saturday Drive to Augusta, KY

What a beautiful day! It is sunny with blue skies and just enough white puffy clouds for contrast. Seventy seven degrees and no humidity.

I decided that we would drive to Augusta, as I have been doing for many years. So, Katie, Michael and I headed down Route 8. Yes, the AA Highway is faster but not as scenic.

When we got there we went to the General Store for lunch. I love the Augusta Burger with sweet tea. I guess I should know by now that the service is quite slow there. It is very difficult to get a refill on your drinks and if you want dessert, well, you may not have enough time. Even with this being said, I love going there. It is like being back in time, where time runs slow.

Summer Morning

It is early this summer morning, considering I could still be in the cozy envelope of my blankets and sheets. Yet, I prefer the pink and orange rising sun. I enjoy the morning serenade of birds getting ready for their day. The dew on the grass. The smell of fresh brewed coffee.

I notice my environment so much better in the early summer morning. The sights, sounds, the smells and the feel of who I am.

Blogging

OK, it has been less than 10 minutes and I want to post again. You see, I am learning and I need practice.

I am trying to think of the many ways I could use blogging in an elementary classroom environment.

Writing
Communication
Sharing
Ownership
Motivation
Voice

hmmm... I need to think about this.

My First Blog - My First Day

This is the first day of my blog. I am not sure what direction this will take me. I have no plans or format for this thing. I am merely experimenting with the idea of having my own blog. My guess is that I may try this for maybe a month.

It is difficult for me to decide what to write about.

Lesson one for me -- Consider content.

Day in Chicago

Day in Chicago

Testing my new slideshow...