Vargo Family News

My precious baby

2011-08-02T20:18:00.001-04:00

Yesterday my baby came to visit me . . . she has grown so much since the last visit! She's smiling and cooing and telling big stories. I'm so proud of Jonathan and Sarah as they are wonderful, loving parents. They tend to her needs so lovingly - it is amazing to watch them interact with her. ...it's pure love!!

She's totally perfect and peaceful

So happy and content

Love...

She's telling Mimi a story

Doesn't it look like she's saying "nana nana boo boo"? :)

Happy baby

My precious baby

2011-07-08T08:34:00.000-04:00

"Olivia Grace"

My beautiful baby...could she be more perfect?!! I am totally over-the-moon-crazy-in-love with her!! She is simply pure joy!!

Jonathan and Sarah are wonderful parents - so loving and caring. I am very proud of them as I watch them interact with Olivia. What a blessing!!

Vaca...

2011-07-06T22:15:00.001-04:00

In the past two weeks, I have been busy traveling coast to coast! The day school ended, I hopped on a plane in Flint and my journey began. ...Flint, Chicago, Phoenix, Atlanta, Flint, Boston, Bar Harbor, Halifax, Sydney, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Montreal, Philadelphia, Detroit, Flint!! During those two weeks, I've traveled by car, golf cart, small plane, big plane, ship, train, bus, and car. What a thrilling two weeks!! Pictures will be posted soon!! :)

I returned home Sunday, and my precious baby, Olivia Grace, greeted me! It was a dream-come-true to have her in my arms once again. She had changed so much in just those short two weeks. My love for her is overwhelming. Unfortunately, she left to back home and it felt like my heart went with her. Sad, very sad to see her go. I wonder if that feeling will ever get better.

This week, I've worked on unpacking, laundry, ironing, and enjoying my 'summer'. Life is so good!

Mackinac Island

2011-06-05T21:21:00.001-04:00

Over Memorial Day, we ventured to Mackinac Island with friends. We hooked our bikes on the back of the car and took off Friday after work. Three and a half hours later, we were on the ferry in route to the magical Island. We had a great room, great food, great friends, and great bike trails! The weather was cold, dreary and threatened rain everyday, but it didn't deter our fabulous time! Three days of pure fun on the Island = a great weekend~! A special treat was to run into my cousin - - the Island policeman for the summer! Loved it! :)

Photo opportunity on our ride around the island

Our group on our trek 'through' the island! It was amazing!

The tulips were in prime season! So beautiful!

Delish lunch at the Gate House!

Neumanns sailing to the Island

Having breakfast on our first day...notice, we've already made it to the Murray Hotel for our fudge!!

View out our window . . . through the screen !! :)

Mimi Shower

2011-04-21T23:01:00.003-04:00

This week, Edgerton hosted a wonderful Mimi Shower for me (and Olivia). I was showered with lots and lots of wonderful gifts. Their generousity and giving hearts have blessed me! Olivia now has a pack and play to sleep in, blankets to wrap up with, dishes, sippy cups, spoons, several darling outfits, bath towels, lotions and soaps, dolls, toys, photo albums, books, and many, many more amazing gifts. Once again, I'm blessed beyond words by their generosity and gifts of friendship. Many thanks to our terrific staff!!!

Delish and adorable cake, made my Megan. Love it!!

Lots and LOTs of wonderful and much-needed gifts! Many thanks! :)

yesterday...

2011-03-08T07:17:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a frustrating, discouraging, and depressing day. How can my sweet, little, nine year old student lose her mom to cancer? What will she do? She needs her mommy and always will. How will she grow up and what will she become? And, my darling student who is in intensive care struggling with newly discovered juvenile diabetes...wavering and fighting a coma? Will she learn what to eat to keep her 'level'? Will she learn to give herself insulin shots? Poor baby. Or how do you live through the news that my friend/colleague received yesterday afternoon about her adult daughter?? - - and today she's sadly preparing for her funeral. And...I had parent-teacher conferences!

Now today, after a night's rest, I'm standing tall, trying to shake off yesterday's dilemnas, and I'm ready to hit the road. My students will be sad, my colleagues will be hurting, and ...again...we get to have parent teacher conferences this afternoon and evening!

As I always say (and try to convince myself)...LIFE IS GOOD...NO WORRIES! ...argh...

Mean people

2011-02-12T17:31:00.004-05:00

Have you ever wonder why people are mean? Not everyone...just certain people.

Recently I've encountered mean people, and I've had to remind myself that the concept of authorship is key to surviving these experiences.

Why are people mean? Here's the short answer: They're hurt. Here's the long answer: They're really hurt. At some point, somebody—their parents, their friends, their employers, their spouse...someone—did them dirty. Maybe they were crushed. Maybe they're still afraid the pain will never stop, or that it will happen again. Maybe that's why they hurt others. I wonder why mean people don't censor themselves. Why don't they process the hurtful things they say and do?

The fact is that we've all been hurt, and we're all wounded, but not all of us are mean. Why not? Because some people exude kindness, care, compassion, and forgiveness. I hope (and pray) my life exemplifies one that is not 'mean',one that offers love and compassion. What ever happened to "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all", or 'Do unto others as you would have them to do unto you."?

May my life shine on others. May I be an encourager and an uplifter. May I show love, not hurt.

Adam's Graduation

2010-12-17T23:10:00.002-05:00

This afternoon, we witnessed Adam's graduation from Michigan State College of Law. It was a beautiful ceremony - very small and personal. The professors were so proud of these students' hard work and dedication. We were especially proud of Adam, as he was the student speaker at the graduation. He presented a wonderful speech to the graduates and families and friends.

Now...he gets to study and concentrate for three months to prepare for the Bar Exam in February. Yipee!

After the graduation, we celebrated with dinner at PF Chang's and then gathered at Julia and Adam's beautiful house for a time of festivities and desserts. So proud...

December Dance Club

2010-12-12T20:46:00.001-05:00

Last evening, we went to Dance Club. It was a wonderful evening shared with good friends. The meal was amazing, the band was outstanding, and everyone looked beautiful...all sparkly and bright!

Kathy and Gena

Mark and Gena

Steve and Rosie

...tis the season

2010-12-12T20:10:00.001-05:00

The house is decorated, the gifts are under the tree, the stocking are hung, and the ground is covered with snow. Christmas is just around the corner...

As I patiently wait for the 'big' to arrive, my heart grows tender with childhood memories... ...memories that taught me the true gifts of Christmas were Peace, Joy, and Love
...memories of specially chosen presents stuffed under our Christmas tree
...memories of homemade Christmas cookies, frosted perfectly
...memories of Christmas carols shared around our upright piano

It's my prayer that my children gather memories and traditions as we celebrate together this year. It is pure joy to me to have Jonathan and Sarah, and Julia and Adam gather in our home this Christmas season. What could be better?

I'm wishing you a joy-filled Christmas, and a holiday filled with love. Celebrate the Reason for the Season ~ JESUS.

Good news...yipee

2010-11-11T22:31:00.000-05:00

It seems like there's been a lot of sad and depressing news ...cancer, infection, death, divorce, loneliness, etc. BUT, last week, we received wonderful news!! Jonathan and Sarah called to let us know they were EXPECTING!! Their wonderful and exciting news warmed my heart and restored my joy!! I can't even believe Craig and I will have a GRANDBABY!! I'm going to be a MIMI!! OMG!! I've already started a countdown till June 9th, 2011. Can't wait!

What a BEAUTIFUL baby!!

Fall

2010-10-14T20:30:00.003-04:00

Fall is a lovely time of the year.

These things make me happy...

cool breezes coming from the sky, dotted with puffy clouds
the colorful leaves slowly drifting into scattered piles
the fresh cornucopias of harvest blessings
Halloween costumes
bags and bags of candy
homemade soup steaming on the stove
pumpkin pie and apple crisp
Candy corn mixed with salty peanuts
girl's weekend up north
visiting local orchards- fresh donuts and honeycrisp apples
Scarecrows and corn husks decorating the light posts
Jack-o-lanterns lit on the porch
long walks in the cool evenings

Autumn is wonderful...if I were a bird, I'd fly all around the globe, roosting in all the 'autumns' of the world.

Things I don't love about autumn...

MEAP tests
knowing the cold and snow of winter is right around the corner
late sunrises and early sunsets

Fortunately for me...the positives far out weigh the negatives of Autumn. Let's enjoy the few days we have left of God's beauty.

Pure beauty...

Girl's weekend

2010-10-07T22:29:00.000-04:00

Of course, we visited the pumpkin lady

Last weekend was a wonderful girl's get-away weekend. Nine girlfriends trekked west across our great state to Pentwater. There, we celebrated Marilyn's 'big' birthday!! It was a time to not only celebrate Marilyn's birthday, but it was a time to catch up on what was going on in each other's lives. Together, we laughed until we cried, ate lots of good food, hiked, climbed, walked, watched a movie together, ate more, shopped, admired God's handiwork in the beautiful colors painted on the trees, picked perfect pumpkins, and slept in till 8:00! For me, the weekend was like being on a paradise vacation on a far-away island. I'm so blessed with special friends. Memories, words of encouragement, uplifting conversations, kindness, thoughtfulness abounding, pumpkins, chocolate. . . so much more.


Marilyn's delish birtday cake


Present time ...in our jammies

This says it all :)


On top of Mt. Baldy - simply beautiful (Stella and Cathy were still shopping)

Final photo shoot at the beautiful Pentwater Gazebo

Today...

2010-09-23T20:20:00.000-04:00

Today was not my favorite! At 7:10am, I entered the doors of my school with a happy, positive, perky attitude, but it didn't take long for me to decide I'd rather be home, under my covers.

The copy machine got jammed...really jammed.

My students were excited to celebrate a little boy's birthday more than they were excited to complete their five paragraph essay. "What do you mean 'paragraphs'? Indent??? What is that?" Really!? Is it really that difficult? Do they NOT know the MEAP is coming in 2 weeks!?

I came home at 5:00pm. Exhausted. Hot. Tired. Craig was golfing. Again. Grrr... I decided to go to kickboxing to relieve my frustration. What a perfect end to a troublesome day. Instead of kickboxing, our teacher decided to do 'drums alive' (which is difficult to explain). I totally enjoyed beating my little drum sticks on my exercise ball, moving, dancing, and banging! Little sweet faces appeared on my ball as I drummed, drummed, and POUNDED!! Phew...I'm feeling better.

Now, Grey's Anatomy.

Tomorrow is a new day!

U of M and MSU

2010-09-18T16:52:00.002-04:00

This adorable puppy is so tolerant of her Mimi!! :)
I think she's sad she got left behind today.

Today is a big day for Julia and Adam, and ME! Julia and Adam went to Ann Arbor to watch the Wolverines play at 11:00am. After that game, they drove to East Lansing to watch the 8:00pm Spartan game. They left this morning donned in blue and gold, but their trunk was filled with green and white to make the quick switch.

Why is it a big day for me? I get to babysit my granddog, Bella. She was dropped off early this morning in her blue and gold jersey - - ready to spend the day with Mimi!! I wrapped her in her special blanket and rocked away! :) She makes me happy!

Well, I must run and get Bella dressed in her 'green and white' for the next big game. Go M.S.U.!

I think she's a little embarrassed U of M got scored on so many times! Oh well, MSU will do better!

1st week back

2010-09-09T21:44:00.001-04:00

I'm about to complete my first week back to school. ...ugh...After 31 years, you'd think I would have this 'back-to-school' stuff down to a science. Each new year brings new smiles, new problems, new challenges, and new love. I look out at my 30 bright little smiles, and I'm amazed at what they know and what they will learn over the next 176 school days. My job is not only to teach them, but I must equip them to be responsible adults...not an easy task. I may not teach them everything, but I will teach them to think. To wonder. To dream. To make a difference. To reach. To strive to BE.
I love...
...their enthusiasm
...their curiosity
...their imagination
...their willingness to take a risk
...their innocence
...their questions
...their tenacity
...their giggling
...and their hugs!
I want to be the teacher who doesn't simply teach from the driven curriculum, but from her heart. I want to inspire. I want to encourage. I want to teach!! Here's to 176 more school days 'till summer! :)

Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-07T20:58:00.000-04:00

Craig and Don had made a big golf date on Friday, so it seemed only fitting that Diane and I make plans to have lunch together. We choose our favorite...Bar Louie, in hopes of sitting in the outside area to catch up on our past week. Unfortunately, Mother Nature didn't cooperate with our plans, but we snuggled into a quiet booth inside, and it was wonderful chatting and enjoying our Farmer's Market Pizza.

Friday evening, Craig and I headed west to Pentwater, as Don and Karen had invited us to celebrate the long weekend with them. Craig and I were ecstatic to join Denise and John and Don and Karen in some Labor Day fun! The weather did not cooperate with our beach plans, but we found lots to do in the rainy, windy, cooler days. Honestly, it was just a treat leaving Genesee County for the weekend! :) Time spent together with friends is priceless and so memorable.

We biked a wonderful trail


We went to the Country Dairy in New Era - - delish sandwiches and ice cream

And we witnessed God's beauty.

First time . . .

2010-08-29T22:51:00.000-04:00

Julia and Adam invited Craig and me to dinner this afternoon. DINNER?!! What??
They wanted to try out their new grill and we were the proud recipients of their efforts. It was an amazing time watching them scurry around their kitchen together, timing everything so the meal would be perfect. I was impressed, to say the least!

Julia prepared potatoes for the grill . . . lots of potatoes! :)

Adam perfectly formed the hamburgers!

There were fresh green beans and corn on the cob!!!

The proud couple and their new grill!

Adam trying his hand at grilling . . . Craig supervising over his shoulder

Taadah!! The delicious dinner beautifully served on the sun porch.

Can you believe it?? ...Julia even made a delicious chocolate cake for dessert.

It was a delightful afternoon ~ ~ the dinner was delicious. Watching the new bride and groom work together in the kitchen warmed my heart! I was very proud of their accomplishments!

After dinner, Julia was spotted clipping coupons! WHAT?? What has happened to my daughter! Coupons? Who would have thought she'd be interested in coupons ! You go, girl.

2010-11

2010-08-28T12:25:00.002-04:00

Summer is coming to an end, and our 2010-2011 school year is gearing up. As I reflect on the past two months of summer, I'm reminded of many happy memories. My heart and mind will never forget the two beautiful weddings uniting Jonathan and Sarah, and Julia and Adam. We are so blessed.

As I mentally prepare for the new school year, I'm reminded how excited and nervous my new students come into the classroom. It's my mission and pledge to create a warm and loving environment for them to pass through their 4th grade year. A lot has been written and researched about the power of positive and negative words, moments, and interactions.

When I read the article, The Magic Ratio of Positive and Negative Moments by Patsi Krakoff I couldn't help but think of the students in my classroom. How many of our children come to school each day with their 'buckets' empty? What can I do to not only fill their buckets, but provide them with an environment that provides the Magic Ratio of 5:1 -- five positives to one negative interaction.

I want to be positive and encouraging...I want to be a 'bucket filler', and I want to be the teacher my students look back on and know how much I cared about them. I don't want to be a 'should-of, could-of, would-of, teacher.

I'm off to a great 2010-2011 school year! Wish me luck. :)

Louisville #3

2010-08-22T20:46:00.009-04:00

Leaving Louisville is always very difficult for me! I've never been a fan of having my children live long distances from me . . . and 6 hours by car is too far! I know, I know . . . they're grown up and married, BUT, I'm certain they still need their mother for something!!!

Anyway, on our trip home, God sent me a beautiful sign ~ a beautiful rainbow. The day was dreary, and I was feeling dreary, but looking out and spotting a perfect rainbow warmed my heart! (If you look closely, you can see there was a double rainbow!!) I know Jonathan and Sarah are placed there for a reason, and God has blessed them beyond words!I was encouraged as we drove north to Michigan. The sun came out, and the sky brightened, and God confirmed to me that Jonathan and Sarah were in their perfect place!

Louisville #2

2010-08-22T20:24:00.009-04:00

While we were in Louisville, we went to an adorable shopping and restaurant area. It had little specialty boutiques and great eateries. One shop that caught my eye was the Comfy Cow. It was a quaint and 'comfy' ice cream and sweet shop.

The rocking chairs could be taken off the wall for children to sit in while
enjoying their homemade ice cream!
So adorable! So darling!
So comfy!:)
They had plenty of delicious, homemade, hard-to-resist, cookies and brownies.

LOUISVILLE

2010-08-22T19:52:00.007-04:00

This weekend, we went to Louisville to see Jonathan and Sarah. Jonathan opened his new Edward Jones office in Crestwood, and we helped him decorate it. It was wonderful being together, again.

This is Jonathan's new office! We're so proud of him~ :)

This is front area of his new office, where the 'branch assistant' will be.
Don't they look so happy and proud?!! :)

Keep up the GREAT job, Jonathan! Continue to work hard!! We love you to the moon and back!! :)

Mr. and Mrs. Schlusler

2010-08-12T22:43:00.003-04:00

Friday, August 6, 2010, our little girl walked down the aisle to become Mrs. Julia Schlusler. She was confident, excited, and extremely happy!! Her smile never left her face the entire day. In my humble opinion, she was a beautiful bride!!

We had spent many months planning and preparing for the 'perfect' wedding --it was my goal to 'make her dreams come true'. As she strolled down the aisle in her blush pink wedding dress, my heart was warmed by the joy she radiated.

I'm sure she and Adam will have many, many years of wedded bliss!! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Schlusler!

This is one of my very favorite pictures from that day!!
I love the look on both girls' faces!! I don't know who's more excited, Julia or Sydney!! Priceless!!

Bride Bella

2010-07-31T12:32:00.006-04:00

Hmmm...I'm not sure she loves this...

We thought is was only fitting that Bella be donned in a wedding veil for our week of celebration. After all, she is celebrating, too!! We feel she looks beautiful, just like Julia!! :) What else does one do with their idle time the week before the big wedding?? Isn't she a beautiful Bella !

TOMATO!!

2010-07-31T12:25:00.004-04:00

Pure beauty!!!

This year I decided to try my hand at growing tomatoes. I purchased four small plants, and planted two each in pots. In just a short time later... wahlah!!! This week, my first little tomato turned a delicious-ready to eat-RED!! There are tons (well, not tons, but lots) of little green tomatoes - - just waiting for their perfect debut!! Can't wait!!

phew...what a week

2010-07-23T12:37:00.010-04:00

Fourteen days and counting! Julia and I have been busy tying bows, fixing, fussing and having a blast with the last minute wedding preparations!! The days are being checked off as Julia and Adam's wedding quickly approaches. The time has come for the final payments for the reception and the florist! Check! Got that done!
Meanwhile, if those payments weren't enough, the toilet in the main floor bathroom has been dying a slow death. Whenever we have company, it seems to go on the brink!! Well, after much checking and tweaking,. . . we are getting a new toilet in the powder room ~ $400.00
If that wasn't enough, Craig was heading to the hardware store to fix the falling-apart-kitchen chairs, but my car wouldn't start! Yup...you guessed it, we needed a new battery! ~ $200.00!
Yea! The mail came! I quickly ran to see what good news it would bring and sure enough, our car insurance payment is due! Lucky for us, we'd set up monthly installments! Perfect timing! Who has $3800.00 this week???

Well, to relax a bit, Craig decided to give the lawn a quick trim! WHAT!! The lawnmower had slipped a belt. Thank goodness, it was only ~ $178.00! Well...it's Friday now. Craig is finally mowing the grass, the toilet guy is on his way to replace the broken one, three of the four kitchen chairs are glued and in working order, the car insurance payment has been transferred, and Bella and I area heading out for a calm, relaxing, walk! Here's hoping to a better week to come! Sheesh......

Butterfly

2010-07-04T18:49:00.006-04:00

Craig and I were relaxing on our deck and two butterflies were flying around, landing, chasing each other, landing...! It was a beautiful sight to watch them. One landed several times on Craig's white shirt while the other flitted and flew in circles. Eventually, they would settle on the deck to rest, catch their breath and sun themselves. (at least, that's what I thought they were doing!)As I watched these butterflies, I was reminded of the difficult changes they go through in their short life. They began as a fuzzy caterpillar and transformed into a beautiful butterfly. Admiring them, I realized if nothing ever changed, there would be no butterflies! Our household if changing rapidly. Our kids are transforming from dependent children to married adults. Watching them grow and blossom is a beautiful thing. . . just like the little butterfly flitting around our deck! Thanks, God, for another lesson from nature!

July 4th ride

2010-07-04T18:39:00.004-04:00

Yesterday we met Steve and Kathy in Clare and we rode the Pere Marquette trail - Clare to Midland. It was a beautiful ride! It felt wonderful to be on our bikes, outside, away from party-planning-central! The sky was a perfect, cloudless blue and the warm breezes blew into our faces! Steve, Craig, and Stephanie flew off and Kathy and I steadily plodded along. As we pedaled, we discussed lots of things, solving problems as we rode! On our return to Clare, we shared a delicious lunch on the porch of a local cafe - - it couldn't have been more perfect.

Happy Birthday, early!!

2010-07-04T18:32:00.003-04:00

We celebrated Gail's birthday this past week. We started off at Bar Louis with a delicious appetizer, and then to Leo's for Greek salad. After several hours of eating, chatting and catching up, we ended our celebration at McDonald's with a hot fudge sundae! Special friends, special times, special memories! I'm so grateful for dear friends.

Parties!! Lots of parties!

2010-06-29T22:17:00.016-04:00

Our family is so blessed!! Our wonderful friends and families have showered our kids with love and many gifts!!! Jonathan and Sarah and Julia and Adam have had many showers, parties, and celebrations in the past few months. I'll highlight each celebration and include some beautiful pictures!

March 27th, my sisters hosted a bridal shower for Sarah at Ruggero's. It was a wonderful time to celebrate their upcoming wedding! Jonathan even surprised us with a visit towards the end of the shower. On May 1st, Diane and Gail hosted a bridal shower for Julia at Diane's home. It was Julia's first shower and she was SO excited for it! About 35 neighbors, friends, and family attended. They had prepared fresh, summer salads, fancy sandwiches, fruit kabobs, and tons of homemade desserts. Julia was showered with many gifts, recipes, and advice!! May 22, 2010, Jonathan and Sarah were married in Louisville, Kentucky! It was a beautiful, intimate wedding at a lovely venue, The Pendennis Club, in downtown Louisville. We were surrounded by family and close friends to celebrate their matrimony. It was a perfect weekend shared with many warm and loving memories.On June 12, my church girlfriends 'showered' Julia with a lovely bridal shower. Honestly, it was the most beautiful shower I had ever seen done at our church. The decorations were so sweet ~ high-heeled shoes, lace, tulle, roses, hat boxes . . . very pretty and elegant!! Bobbie shared a thoughtful devotional and prayed for them. Lasagna, antipasto salad, rolls, and a delish cake was served for lunch. It was truly perfect! Julia and Adam received many wonderful gifts for their new home!June 19th, Kay and Kathy hosted a bridal shower for Julia at Kathy's Restaurant in downtown Flushing. The party was in the private room upstairs which allowed for a quaint, sweet setting. Several family and friends came bearing lots of gifts for the newlyweds. Lunch was served from several entrees chosen from their menu and a yummy, mousse-filled cake was served for dessert.To conclude our summer festivities, Craig and I hosted a celebration to honor Jonathan and Sarah's recent marriage. We invited close friends and family to join us for appetizers and desserts. The weather was perfect, after much worry about the projected rain storm. God certainly shone His face on us! Everything turned out more perfectly than planned. About 150 came offer their congratulations! This week, I've had a few quiet days to reflect on the past months and I'm reminded just how loved I am. I am so grateful for friends and family and the joy they bring to me. Now...I'm gearing up for Julia and Adam's big day, August 6th. I'm afraid my quiet days are over and I'm up and running to finish the plans for their wedding! The fun never ends at the Vargo's household!

...there's a spider in my window...

2010-06-07T21:28:00.005-04:00

She's wrapping her fly for her dinner!

Last week I watched this busy spider spinning her perfectly straight web outside my kitchen window. She went up and down, back and forth, left to right, and north to south. She was so involved in her work! A few minutes into her building, a fly flew into the edge of her orb. Quickly, she scurried to it and began to encapsulate it in her web. She actually wrapped the entire fly with her sticky substance. After she had 'captured' her dinner, she scooted up the web and back down again. When she felt the web was strong enough, she lifted the mummified fly up to the top. I was enthralled in her perseverance.

As I reflected in my own life, I wonder if God sees me running up and down, back and forth, north to south, and east to west, in my daily busyness. Do you think He's got His hand on His hip, shaking His pointer finger at me, wishing I would s-l-o-w down and relinquish my busyness? Who would have thought that tiny, wispy, spider was placed in my window to teach me a lesson that day. ...hmmmmm

Biking + Dance Club = Fun Weekend

2010-05-18T21:04:00.010-04:00

We had a GREAT, fun-filled, sun-filled weekend! Early Saturday morning, we started off for the Bay City Rail Trail . We biked with dear friends for 20 miles and headed back to FlintTown.

We always bike for food!
Friends we met along the way~
When we got home, we headed to Grand Blanc to pick up our annuals. What a huge decision! There were so many beautiful plants to choose from! The car was packed full after we settled on what to buy. I rushed home to hop in the shower and head to dance club. We had a great dinner, fantastic band, and wonderful friends to share the evening. Noticed my sunburned face from biking!!

No wonder the weekends always fly by!! I can't wait to retire!!! :)

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T20:06:00.006-04:00

Yummmy breakfast in bed!

This morning, a delicious, hot and steamy breakfast was delivered to my bed! Julia waltzed very early into our bedroom with a tray full of pure delish! She had made a homemade waffle, warmed maple syrup, scrambled eggs, yogurt with granola, and fresh orange juice - - all for ME~! What a delight! Happy Mother's Day from my sweet and thoughtful daughter. It was a beautiful start to my day! :)

As I reflect on another Mother's Day, I am reminded of my mother's love she bestowed in me. I can only hope my children look back one day and see a mom who was there for them. A mom who prayed for them. A mom who took time to listen and share, with loving, open arms. The years have flown by and my children have grown into amazing adults, but I continue to love them more than they'll ever know! I am truly blessed!

...love you and miss you, Mom! Happy Mother's Day!

TJ, Lily, and Ben

2010-04-18T19:25:00.004-04:00

Please pray for my colleague, TJ. The doctors have diagnosed her 7 week old baby with a neuro-muscular disorder, SMA, Type 1. He does not move his little arms or legs and has been having trouble breathing. Please join us in praying for a miracle for them - - a perfect healing of Ben's muscles!

It was a joy and a privilege to spend a few minutes with them on Saturday! I got to hold him and love on him (and cradle him to sleep)!! He is an absolutely perfect baby! Pray for his little muscles to begin to work properly!! Pray for their family to be strong and courageous! Pray for their joy to be restored!

Isn't he beautiful!! :)

Girlfriends...

2010-04-18T19:19:00.004-04:00

Don't you love spur-of-the-moment outings?! Meleia, Karen, and I went to Panera Bread and to a movie on Saturday afternoon. Our conversations and our time together were rich and rewarding. It's always fun to chat and catch up with special friends - especially over lunch!! Friendship isn't a big thing, it's a million little things! Thanks, friends, for filling my life with joy and love!

Happy 26th Jonathan

2010-04-15T21:35:00.004-04:00

Twenty-six years ago we rushed to the hospital to deliver our first baby - our son! What an exciting time!! Time has literally flown by - - we have watched Jonathan grow from a chubby little guy into a handsome young man! Jonathan has always brought us much joy and pride - - and he continues to make us proud of him! God has blessed him with many talents and I love to watch him reach for his dreams. Happy Birthday Son! I love you to the moon, and back!

Engagement pics

2010-04-15T21:31:00.003-04:00

Julia and Adam had their 'engagement' pictures taken recently. It doesn't seem possible my little girl is getting married in just three short months!! I know they will be very happy as they begin their new lives together! Many blessings!!

Birthdays...

2010-03-21T20:33:00.006-04:00

Happy birthday to our St. Patrick's puppy, Bella!

This week begins the birthday buzz at our house!! Bella celebrated her 1st birthday on Wednesday and Adam celebrates his 24th tomorrow! We'll be celebrating with more cake on Thursday for Julia's 22nd birthday. On Friday, we will be enjoying filled cupcakes for Sarah's 23rd birthday! Happy Birthday to alllllll!! xoxo

Adam requested German Chocolate cake . . . yummy

Spring

2010-03-09T21:42:00.007-05:00

Spring has sprung in Michigan. The weather has been warmer, the sun has been shining brightly, and the robins are chirping their way around their new found homes! The soft, squishy snow still hangs around, but soon will be melted into the ground for good! Something about this time of year makes me smile! Could it be that we only have 64 days of school left? Or could it be that the weddings are quickly approaching? All I can say is I'm loving the change of seasons and looking forward to what Spring delivers to us!! Bring it on!! :)

SNOW DAY

2010-02-10T21:27:00.004-05:00

SNOW DAY! What a wonderful word!! I got 'the call' at 9:30 last night that school was canceled for today! Great news!

I slept in until 8:00am - made home-made hot chocolate, puttered around the house, had dinner at P. F. Changs, and made a quick stop at Somerset. Life doesn't get any better than this! What a blessing God decided to dump 12 inches of snow on us! Love it! :)

The Maids-of-Honor weekend

2010-01-31T19:00:00.013-05:00

Marisa, Julia, and Brittany

This weekend, Brittany and Marisa came to Michigan to spend the weekend with Julia. (They were Julia's roommates at ONU.) Brittany is from Chicago and Marisa is from southern Indiana. It was so sweet of them to make the 5 hour trip to FlintTown. We had a wonderful time together!!

Saturday we spent the entire day shopping for 'bridesmaids' dresses. What fun! Finally, after 3 stops, they found just the perfect dress! Check. Bridesmaid's dresses done.

Nope!Nope!

Third stop!Getting better! Yea! We found it! So hard to say goodbye!!

Julia is very blessed to have such special and dear friends! My thanks to them for all they

do for my girl, Julia!

Planning

2010-01-30T00:09:00.004-05:00

Nope...not the dress she chose! Pretty, however!

Not this one, either!

Two weddings + showers + parties + planning = tons of fun!!! Recently, our days have been filled with spreadsheets, shopping, appointments, phone calls, sampling, etc!! What a great time we've had planning two wedding!! So far, no sign of Bridezilla or Motherzilla!! Pray for us! :)

Venue - check
Wedding dress- check
Flowers - check
Caterer - check
Invitations - check
Photographer - check
Music - check
Guest list - check
Favors - check
Cake - check
Decorations - check
Flower girl dress - check
Bridesmaid dresses - going tomorrow
My dress . . . well, currently I have 7,
but I'm still looking for the 'perfect' one!

hmmmm...what am I missing??
I'm having a blast planning and preparing!! I can't wait for their big days to arrive!!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-16T13:04:00.009-05:00

Christmas at the Vargo's house was wonderful this year! We opened gifts Christmas Eve morning, and headed to KS Christmas Eve around 11:00pm. (We thought we'd get ahead of the predicted winter storm).
Hmmm...all was well until we reached Kansas early Christmas morning! Adam and Craig carefully (and slowly) drove us to Kay and Dean's house. We surprised them by arriving early... in time for a delicious prime rib lunch! We had a great time with family . . . enjoying each minute together!

Julia and her most favorite G-Dog!
My b-e-a-u-tiful sisters!! Love them! :)
Getting ready for Laci's baby shower!
What fun we had showering Baby Gianna into the family!!

Time spent with family is precious and dear! I'm grateful that we got to celebrate together in 2009!! Lots more fun to come in 2010!!

2009-12-21T23:16:00.007-05:00

CONGRATULATIONS, Sarah!!

What a joyous event! Saturday, Sarah graduated from WMU!! She has worked very diligently to obtain her Bachelors of Arts in Communications. We are proud are of her tenaciousness, and can't wait to see what will come next for her! Opportunity is calling and I know she will follow her dream! Proud of you, Sarah! Put your future in good hands . . . God's hands! He has a special plan for YOU!! :) Love you!

Waiting for the graduates to come in.
Proud Jonathan and Sarah!! :)

December Dance Club

2009-12-21T22:50:00.005-05:00

Dinner, dancing, big band, great company . . . it's always an evening I look forward to!!

Rosie, Kathy, Cathy, and Mark . . . standing in for Gena :)

Christmas Party

2009-12-21T22:37:00.002-05:00

What a hoot! We had our annual White Elephant Christmas party and the 'white elephants' topped all white elephants! The gifts ranged from an $800.00 painting to a bright orange pair of golf shorts! Who thinks of these things?!! We had a great time, laughing, eating, catching up, and of course, opening great prizes!!
PS...I'm still finding very special prizes throughout my house!!

Cheating - Proud of you??? WHAT???

2009-11-11T21:02:00.014-05:00

Today, two students in my class were blatantly cheating on a timed test. Simple. Learn the multiplication facts and you're golden! After the incident, I spoke to my 'authority' regarding the situation - - fully expecting both children to receive after school detention.

Surprisingly, she didn't understand why I was upset with them ... "I should be PROUD of them!" "The boy had allowed the girl to copy from his test because he was being KIND to her. He understood she had trouble with the task and wanted to help her." (WHAT!!! Are you SERIOUS?!!!) Then she said, "I should be PROUD of her because she has become academically successful by learning ways to cope with her disability."

WHAT IS THIS WORLD COMING TO?? When is wrong WRONG?? The last time I checked, kind people don't help you by cheating!

The day I become PROUD because someone CHEATS is the day I need to say good-by to education! Whatever...

Pentwater girl's weekend

2009-11-01T15:50:00.011-05:00

Last weekend was our girl's fall weekend getaway in Pentwater! We stayed at Karen's beautiful house . . . we felt like queens! We had wonderful conversation, food, relaxation, and rejuvenation! Friends are like diamonds...precious and few! I love you girlfriends~ :)

Meleia, Marilyn, Sharon, and Karen posing under the beautiful red Maple tree.

On Sunday we had lunch at the beautiful Tea Room - delish salad and soup!

Our scrumptious caramel ice cream sundae served in a hollowed out orange.

Shopping in downtown Pentwater - so pretty!!

We were walking to see Lake Michigan for our last time this fall!
Chilly weather, but beautiful!!
Brrr...the Lake Michigan looks so cold!
Beautiful fall clouds, ushering in winter! :(

What a beautiful time away . . .I'm so grateful for precious friendships!

Halloween

2009-10-31T19:33:00.007-04:00

Happy Halloween!

Bella investigation the jack-o-lantern after her tubby!
Craig with Bella! She was a pumpkin for Halloween! :)
Ready to trick-or-treat!!

Isn't she the cutest pumpkin ever?? Love her!
Costumes, pumpkins, and candy! Oh my! What could be better?!!

Engagement - Bling Bling!

2009-10-11T19:35:00.009-04:00

Love is in the air...!!!

Adam and Julia got engaged today! On one knee, Adam proposed this morning (after conferring with Craig on Friday). What a surprise and delight! This week, Jonathan and Sarah set their wedding date, and now we'll have another big day to prepare for! We're so blessed to have Sarah Jevnikar and Adam Schlusler in our family!

Bling Bling!

Isn't it pretty?!!

It is our prayer that their lives will always be filled with love and joy! Congratulations!

Fall 2009

2009-10-05T19:55:00.004-04:00

I love Fall!
...cool and crisp morning air
...bright orange pumpkins, waiting to be carved
...golden brown apple pie
...sunflowers hanging their heads to the cool nights
...odd shaped gourds
...candy corn and peanuts mixed together
...colorful wreaths hanging on the front door
...bright yellow and burgundy mums
...gooey caramel apples with crushed nuts
...fresh cider
...long bike rides on a deserted dirt road
...fallen leaves flamed with color, crunching under my feet
...cornucopias filled with fresh harvest
...pumpkin bread with raisins
...Indian summers
For everything, there is a season...

Family Time

2009-09-27T18:49:00.009-04:00

Charlevoix family weekend . . .

On Sunday, after the wedding, we were able to spend time with Sarah and Jonathan and Sarah's parents, Joy and Larry. We feel so blessed that Jonathan is loved and welcomed with open arms by the Jevnikars! Our time spent together is rich and memorable.

Lunch together at the Village Inn with the Jevnikars
Jonathan and Adam fondly greeting each other! :)
Julia & Sarah (this is the way girls greet one another)

From the beautiful Charlevoix bridge!

Sam and Joel's wedding

2009-09-27T18:22:00.010-04:00

This weekend we went to Charlevoix for Samantha and Joel's wedding! It was a beautiful affair! They were married outside at the Queen's Castle! It was wonderful being included in the Jevnikar family for the weekend! Sarah was the Maid of Honor ~ she looked stunning! We also enjoyed spending time with Jonathan! It was a great weekend of celebration! Going to weddings always reminds me . . . "the road is bright before us, as hand-in-hand we start. We'll travel on together, one mind, one soul, one heart!" It's my prayer that Sam and Joel have many, many happy years together.

Biking

2009-09-27T17:55:00.014-04:00

...the wheels on my bike go round and round...

The Tridge in Midland

For the past few weekends, Craig and I have joined friends on biking expeditions. The Pere Marquette Trail in Midland was one of my favorites. It's a great trail - - blacktopped for miles and miles. My favorite part of this trail was stopping at a great restaurant going, and a delish ice cream shop coming back! We got to stop TWO times for eating! :) Biking is a wonderful way to enjoy the beautiful fall out-of-doors!

Cathy and me posing at the 10 mile marker!

Last weekend we biked the Paint Creek Trailway in Rochester - Lake Orion. It was a beautiful, but dusty trail. We found a darling apple orchard along the way and stopped for cider and a hot, homemade cinnamon donut. We also stopped for dinner at a 'famous' hot dog restaurant along the trail. Biking 20+ miles has its rewards!!

Meleia and Karen forging the trail! :)Meleia and Mike, Karen and Don, Craig and me at the orchard.

My biking buddies know ... I BRAKE FOR ICE CREAM AND FOOD!!! :)

Cops and Doughnuts

2009-08-02T18:48:00.006-04:00

Cops & Doughnuts
Between the wedding and reception yesterday, we took a drive to Clare to visit the Cops & Doughnuts bakery! Very cute! I first heard about this on Good Morning America and then on Fox News. Later that week, there was a big article about it in the Flint Journal! Check out the story on their website at www.copsdoughnuts.com.
This is one of the nine police officers who own it now. By the way, their doughnuts and cookies are terrific! Love it!

Petoskey

2009-07-30T16:12:00.010-04:00

This week we went to Petoskey with Don and Diane. We stayed at the beautiful historic Perry Hotel! Believe it or not, the guys left their golf clubs home! Biking was great, but after four days,they were itching for the golf course! Our view of Lake Michigan was amazing!

We biked from Petoskey to Bay Harbor!!!
Wow! Amazing!! Beautiful!!

The next day we biked into Harbor Springs! The trail goes right along the lake and through a Nature Preserve. Beautiful sights! On our way home we stopped in Charlevoix to look around. I'm entranced by the bridge that rises every half hour for the boats to pass through! So very amazing!

2009-07-18T23:35:00.008-04:00

This week, Kay and I headed to the Mackinac Island. She hadn't been there in 25+ years, so we decided to do the 'tourist' thing and visit for a day. The weather was cold and drizzly, but we had a big time!! We shopped, sampled, sauntered, and shivered, but loved every minute of it!!
Kay and I rented bikes and rode around the island. The vistas were breath-taking!
The flowers on the Island were amazing! I guess the cooler temperatures contribute to their beauty. Brrr...it was only in the 60's while we were there!!
While it sprinkled, we sat on the Grand Hotel's porch - - staying nice and dry! Notice the beautiful Big Mac bridge in the background of this picture! Amazing sight from any angle!!
As we sat on the porch, we admired the 'taxi' as the guests arrived at the Grand.
The storm was creeping closer and closer to the island - - time to head for the mainland! It was a fantastic day, despite the chilly temperatures!

Charlevoix sunsets

2009-07-11T21:51:00.006-04:00

Going...

Gone!!

The sunsets in Charlevoix were amazing! Watching the sun set at the end of a wonderful day filled me with anticipation of God's blessings. What an marvelous gift ~ wrapped so bright.

Charlevoix

2009-07-11T18:54:00.018-04:00

CHARLEVOIX!!! Marvelous!!

Jack, Craig, Julia, Kim, Steve
Cathy, Kathy, Liz, Stephanie

30l Nichols St. ...Downtown Charlevoix

We are so blessed! The Steve and Kathy invited us, and Jack and Cathy, to Charlevoix to hang out for the week. We stayed in a beautiful home one block from Lake Michigan and the downtown area. It was a week of relaxation and renewing!!

The first day we rode our bikes from Charlevoix to Petoskey on the bike trails. It was a 30 mile breathtaking ride along Lake Michigan. We stopped at Bay Valley to have breakfast at the Pancake House. Delicious!

Liz, Steph, and Julia waiting for our table!
Riding along Lake Michigan...Brrrrr....

We finished our ride in downtown Petoskey. We ran into several friends from FlintTown. It was fun seeing everyone there! :) That evening we watched the sun set into Lake Michigan. Amazing!

The girls watching the sun set

The next day Craig, Steve, Kathy, and David Leyton went golfing. Jack, Cathy, and I went shopping downtown Charlevoix. What a sweet, inviting little village! A highlight of our time in Charlevoix was being able to sail on the Neumann's boat. Eight of us boarded on their sailboat and traveled into Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan. The water was tourquoise and the clouds looked like giant puffy pillows. They even opened the downtown bridge for us to pass through! It was amazing!!!

The bridge opened for US!! Ahhh...

Craig and I are very blessed! Our friends are special and dear to us!! They are the kind of friends that could sit together on a porch, never saying a word, but we'd walk away feeling like we'd just had the best conversation! Love them! :)

Happy 4th of July!!

2009-07-04T20:05:00.006-04:00

Ok, this morning Craig suggested we ride our bikes into Flushing for breakfast. I thought it was a great idea! I'm always excited to go out for breakfast! Plus, it makes more sense to me to ride to SOMEWHERE... as I don't understand just taking a 10 mile bike ride for nothing! I'll gladly ride 20 miles TO an ice cream shop or TO breakfast!

OK . . . we ride to Flushing to ChooChoo's restaurant. All the while I was pedaling, I was vacillating between French toast, or a Swiss and mushroom omelet . . . We pull up to the restaurant and all I saw was CLOSED!! OH MY WORD!! I've ridden 10 miles and the restaurant is closed??? Craig QUICKLY suggested riding downtown to Kathy's and see if it was open. Ok, I love breakfast at Kathy's! NO!! It was closed, too! The bakery across the street was closed, the Elbow Room was closed! Skip's was closed!! The pizza shop was closed!! I'm close to spazing out, so Craig suggested checking out the A & W!! FINALLY, something was open in Flushing! It was only 10:30am, but I thought a hamburger and fries was better than riding to his next destination. . . The Hollywood Diner on Corunna Road!

Phew . . . finally somewhere that's open!

Notice the water bottle on my bike is filled with Diet Root Beer!! :)
(Not exactly the biker's code of ethics!!!)

All in all, it was a great ride. . . but the next time we head out, I'm packing a snack pack for emergencies!! Geeeze!!!

Mexico

2009-06-29T15:14:00.017-04:00

Mexico. . .Playa Del Carmen

The Reef Playacar . . . the resort where we stayed

. . .the beautiful Caribbean Gulf

Aren't these cool chairs? I made Kathy pose with me!

These were everywhere!! They scurry up and down the trees.

Sharon, Kathy, and me on the plane

Franko and Leonardo - our entertainment crew

Aztec Flyers

Beautiful waterfall at Xcaret.

Gorgeous flowers - they grow all over!!

A quaint sitting area right by our room at the Reef.

Everything is so green and lush!
Flying home - - watching the sun set! Love the American Clouds! :)

Mexico . . . beautiful beaches, sweet people, hot, very hot climate, tall, lush trees, fantastic flowers, and horrible food! We had a great time, but I was never so glad to return to America, the Beautiful! There's something special about our great land - - Home of the Free!!

Bay City Rail Trails

2009-06-13T21:06:00.008-04:00

The Bikers

Saturday we drove to Bay City with our friends to go on the Bay City Rail Trails! What a wonderful experience!! We rode our bikes for 35.1 miles!! It was an amazing ride through the city, around the countryside, along the water, past beautiful gardens, and through the woods. God even blessed us with a very special sight - - a beautiful deer just grazing along the trail! It was a GREAT day!

Isn't he beautiful!!

We stopped for lunch at a delish cafe and ate outside!! Later, we stopped for ice cream!! It couldn't have been a more perfect day!

PS I love my new bike!!

New bike!!!!

2009-06-11T20:30:00.011-04:00

Craig took me to Assenmacher's to get a new bike!
It was SO exciting!
After riding several different bikes,
I chose this one! I LOVE it!!!
He bought my old bike 26 years ago . . .
time for new technology!
Love it! :)
It looks like it has a headlight,
but it's just the reflector!!
It does have a very cool horn (bing-bing) on it!!
Love it! :)
I can't wait to join the "Shifting Gears" for a bike hike! :)

Graduation - ChiTown

2009-05-10T18:29:00.013-04:00

Adam, Julia, Sarah, and Jonathan in front of

beautiful tulips - downtown Chicago

After graduation, we hopped the Metra train and headed into Chicago to celebrate Julia's graduation. We strolled along the Magnificent Mile, shopped, ate, and enjoyed our time together as a family! Bella went along and stayed in her 'bag' all day, very contented!

Sarah and Julia in the train station

Julia and Adam in the Hershey store . . . yummy
Craig and me at the 'Bean'.

Bella enjoying Millennium Park

It was a great day of celebration and family time! What a precious time to draw closer together~ pulling our hearts close! I so enjoyed being together!! How blessed am I!

Graduation from Olivet Nazarene

2009-05-10T17:31:00.004-04:00

This weekend was Julia's graduation from ONU! It was a beautiful, outdoor ceremony - - very moving and touching! We feel so blessed that Julia could be immersed in that faithful environment, and a part of the Olivet family for the past three years! She as grown into a beautiful, confident, and self-assured young woman!

Doesn't' she look happy - - it's been three intense years of study! Phew!

BELLA joined our trip to Chicago - - her first road trip!

My Grandpuppy!!

2009-05-06T19:54:00.007-04:00

~~ BELLA ~~

Yesterday we opened our hearts to a new puppy! Julia is graduates Saturday from Olivet Nazarene and REALLY wanted a puppy as her 'graduation gift'. She researched and searched the internet until she found just the 'right' one. Bella is a 7 week old, adorable, shih tzu puppy. She is totally lovable! I really think she is probably the cutest puppy in the whole entire universe!!

Isn't she just the sweetest little puppy??
She almost looked 'ticked' she has to go outside to potty!!
She's pretty comfortable just using the kitchen floor instead of going outside!
Hmmm...

SPRING

2009-04-28T19:08:00.006-04:00

Don't these sweet flowers just scream "SPRING"?!!!

I love to see the flowers pop open as the rain washes them clean. This afternoon, the sun was brightly shining on the flowers as I drove in our driveway. It seemed their little stems were proudly holding up the beautiful buds to the sun ~ thanking God for the fresh drinks of water. I love spring anywhere, but If I could choose, I would always greet spring in my garden!

Happy Spring!

Nashville

2009-04-12T13:51:00.013-04:00

Last Saturday, Craig and I headed to Nashville to meet up with family! Kay and Dean were coming from Kansas City - - an eight hour drive for all of us! We stayed in a beautiful condo right across the street from the Grand 'Ole Opry!

Craig driving to Nashville! Doesn't he look happy?!! NOT!

Me, after several hours in the car! Ughhh...
Kay and I went to see the beautiful Opryland Hotel!
It was amazing!
We even toured the Country Music Hall of Fame! Loved it!
John and Katie - love 'em!!
The highlight of our trip was to see Katie and John again! We met at their house, and went to dinner at a very quaint and sweet restaurant in Columbia. It was great to see them and catch up on their lives!
They are special and dear friends!

We all had a 'big' time in Nashville - we're rested and ready for the final 8 weeks of school!! Yahoo!!!!

Happy Birthday to ME!!

2009-04-02T18:47:00.008-04:00

Check out this delectable piece!

This week I celebrated my birthday! It was a wonderful week filled with beautiful cards and well wishes! My VERY favorite part of my birthday was the scrumptious, triple chocolate cake Craig made from scratch! It was perfect in every way!!! The cake was moist and chocolaty with little bits of melted chocolate throughout, and the icing was creamy mocha chocolate! Yummmy! (I've eaten a rather large piece each day this week!)

To think that just weeks ago, before Craig went on 'disability', he was an expert on cooking Minute rice and oatmeal! Beyond that, he was a paraplegic in the kitchen! This time off work is panning out quite nicely! (no pun intended!) I think his new name shall be Craig Crocker!! Deeelish!!

March Dance Club

2009-03-28T20:45:00.002-04:00

March's dance club's theme was 'Black & White in the Streets of New York'. It was a wonderful party! The food was fabulous and the band was amazing! It's always fun to dress up, have a marvelous meal, and enjoy an evening on the town! Great times with friends!!

Happy 21st Birthday JULIA

2009-03-25T20:30:00.003-04:00

HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY, JULIA!!!

You are a beautiful young lady ~ strong and courageous!! Having you as a daughter is a precious and honored gift! Not long ago, you were my 'little girl', but now you're my 'shining star'!! Keep that beautiful smile on your face and light up the world! I love you more than you'll ever know! Happy 21!!

Gotcha!!

2009-03-10T22:44:00.003-04:00

GOTCHA!!
(Notice the trap on top of the live trap - - that was his next move!)

Craig has been 'hunting' this critter for several months! This poor little thing has eaten our deck, dug holes in our yard, and crept around the bushes in the back yard since summer! One day last week I was standing at the kitchen sink and I saw him jump out of the snow bank, leap through the air, and dive back into the foot of snow! He was so quick!!

Poor Craig has tried everything to 'live' trap this little fellow. He's left him gourmet meals in the trap, he's strung pop corn across the cage to entice him, he has lured him with peanut butter covered cheese, and even tried to trick him with other yummy snacks. The chipmunk would jet in front door of the trap, and out the back door! Craig tried to balance it, ramp it just right, wire the door shut, and even rigged a wire across the ramp inside. Finally, thank God, he got him!

After a short, little ride in the car, Craig let him out in the neighboring woods. I'm looking for the chipmunk to return any day . . . expecting his next buffet!!

Cutest shoes

2009-03-10T22:33:00.006-04:00

Aren't they so cute!

Wouldn't you agree these are the cutest shoes? Saturday was a rainy, gloomy day - a perfect day for the shopping mall. While Craig and Tom were at the Golf Expo, Connie and I shopped around at Twelve Oaks Mall. These shoes were calling my name! After trying them on (several times) I decided I needed a shiny, new, black, pair of dress shoes!! Sooooo cute!! Love them!! AND, they were on sale! :) Plus ~ I received a free umbrella with the purchase!! It was a win-win situation!! You know what they say . . . if the shoe fits, wear it! :)

Valentine's Day Dance Club

2009-02-15T18:03:00.002-05:00

Last night was Dance Club . . . a perfect evening on Valentine's Day. We had a fantastic dinner! The chocolate cake was to die for!! The band was awesome! Everyone looked festive and bright! It was elegantly wonderful!

Valentine's Day

2009-02-15T17:53:00.005-05:00

Friday evening Craig and I celebrated Valentine's Day with a delicious dinner at Pesto's. After dinner we went to a movie. It was a relaxing and fun evening! Saturday morning, he awoke early to exercise, but when he got home, he surprised me with a yummy mocha, a beautiful tulip plant, and a perfect greeting card. What a sweet start to a 'love'ly day!

Spring flowers

2009-02-04T22:08:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, my sweet friend, Connie, brought me a bouquet of tulips! She wanted to brighten my world and encourage me. The tulips remind me Spring is 'just around the corner'! I'm grateful for her kind heart, her kind thoughts, her kind words, and her kind deeds. Thanks for making me smile and brightening my day! Love you! :)

Lost

2009-01-28T21:36:00.015-05:00

I've been thinking of the word LOST !!
Isn't it an interesting word?
Think about it . . . LOST. . .lost. . .l-o-s-t!
In the past few weeks, I've observed the word 'lost' more frequently!

Sometimes when you lose something, it can be a good thing.
Often times, when you lose something, you grieve.
It hurts. You have pain.
You decide!

She lost her Grandma Dear
He lost the ability to hear
She lost her precious Godly mother
He lost his job
She lost her sweet puppy, Hailey
They lost the football game
She lost 6 pounds
He lost his self-worth and self-esteem
I got lost in my book
He was a lost soul
We lost a student from our class
A bill got lost in the mail
They lost their championship game
I lost my mom 4 years ago
She lost her dignity
They are lost on I-75
I sometimes feel I lost my mind

Pain

2009-01-24T00:16:00.014-05:00

Pain
Do you ever wonder why we experience pain?
Not the kind of pain that bleeds
or hurts on the outside. . . the inside kind of pain
that hurts your heart - real pain.

How do you comfort a friend in pain-
a friend who has just lost her mother.
or a friend who buried her Grandma Dear?
How do you comfort a brilliant man
who's lost his hearing
and can no longer teach?
How do you help a son who has
has no job because the company has
mismanaged their funds?
Pain
inside pain
Sadness

When times are tough and feelings are strong
I need to be reminded that
God is still in control!
Jesus is the Father of Compassion
and the God of all comfort.

Mr. Christmas

2009-01-13T19:58:00.004-05:00

I was reminiscing through our Christmas photos and came across this picture of Craig. Doesn't he look like 'Mr. Christmas'?! Christmas is NOT Craig's favorite time of year, but you'd never know it by looking at him here! Too funny! (We're so glad he brings out the red plaid shirt every year for the holidays!)

OK, it is pretty!

2009-01-11T14:27:00.012-05:00

Enough is ENOUGH already!!

Winter has arrived and the snow just keeps on a'coming! It IS pretty (from the inside), but that's the only positive thing I can think of about A-L-L the snow we've gotten! We're predicted to have an 'arctic freeze' this week. Hmmm...what else is new! My nose hairs freeze when I go outside already ~ can't hardly wait for it to be colder!! Let's see...only three more months of winter and then SPRING!! :)

Our beautiful back yard
Craig, the snow monger!

Family Christmas 2008

2009-01-07T21:34:00.019-05:00

Christmas - memories with family!

Julia and Adam

Jonathan and Sarah

Both of our kids came home with their 'significant' others to celebrate Christmas on Monday, December 22. It was a joy and blessing to be together to open presents and enjoy a big dinner together. We had a great time together, laughing, reminiscing, and eating! It felt so good to have everyone together in our home!!

On Christmas, Craig and I drove to Kansas City to celebrate the Holidays with our family. Julia and Adam drove together on Friday. We had a big time together - - it was great being with my sisters and Daddy-O!

"Sister-time"

More "Sister-time"
Even more "Sister-time"! Aren't we lovely!!
Dean-O made us delicious 'hunky' breakfasts
And delicious dinners!! We NEVER went hungry!
We EVEN made malts very late into the night!
(thanks, Adam & Julia for making the ice cream run
to the grocery store!)
These have to be 3 of my most favorite people in the entire world!

I'm so glad the Holy Star shines bright for us ~
we can find the love of Christmas throughout the entire year!
I hope you had a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and
A HAPPY NEW YEAR

Miss Vargo

2009-01-05T06:49:00.008-05:00

Today is Julia's first day of student teaching in Lenexa, Kansas! In just a few minutes, she will walk through the doors of Christa McAuliffe Elementary School. How is this possible? It seems like only yesterday she was donned in her blue plaid jumper~off to Kindergarten at St. Pius X! I can clearly remember the day she walked across the stage to accept her diploma from C/A High School! I thought I'd never live through the day we drove her to O.N.U. just 2 1/2 years ago to begin her university studies! Geeze...time flies when you're having fun! :) I know she will be an excellent teacher, as she loves and nurtures children. Her gentle spirit has so much to offer them! Julia will invest her life into their lives and encourage them to grow and develop, just as she has through the past 20 years!

We're so proud of her and all she's accomplished! She has, and will, make a difference!

See Julia run. See Julia read. She Julia teach.
You go, girl! We're so proud of you!!!

Dance Club

2008-12-14T21:56:00.007-05:00

Steve and Kathy

Steve and Rosie

Last night we had our Christmas Dance Club. It was a festive evening ~ everything and everyone looked so sparkly and pretty! It was a wonderful dinner and a great band! We're looking forward to our next!!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-14T21:37:00.008-05:00

God bless you during this season of peace, hope, and light.

May your heart be merry and may your joy be bright!
Merry Christmas from our family to yours!!

More SNOW

2008-12-01T15:30:00.002-05:00

When will the snow stop?? Every time I look outside, there is more snow! There's nothing like a cold and snowy snow day and a warm cup of mocha!! Aren't we blessed!

SNOW!!

2008-12-01T15:23:00.003-05:00

Julia and Adam went outside to 'play' while it was snowing! They had snow much fun! :)

The snow just kept on coming and coming!! Our dream came true for a 'snow day'! Exciting!

Thanksgiving Blessing

2008-12-01T15:16:00.003-05:00

Craig and I were very blessed to join Adam's family for Thanksgiving dinner. Together we shared a delicious feast! Mike and Deanne have been family friends for years, and it felt good to share the holiday with 'family'! We have so much to be thankful for!

Happy Thanksgiving :)

2008-11-23T18:55:00.011-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving to YOU!! I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving week! This poem says it all for me . . .

May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey plump,
May your potatoes and gravy
Have never a lump.
May your yams be delicious
And your pies take the prize,
And may your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off your thighs!

Enjoy your time together with family!

SHOPPING!!!

2008-11-15T20:51:00.003-05:00

SHOPPING!!! Today Karen, Sharon, and I went shopping! We all had good intentions of nailing our Christmas list but we didn't really have much luck! I bought a few things for ME... no gifts for the fam!! I hope I get in the 'spirit' soon so I can get this shopping done!! It would be nice to have some ideas and 'want' lists! Maybe I'll just get everyone the 'true gifts' of Christmas . . . peace, joy and love! We'd REALLY have a Holly Jolly Christmas!

Kroger!

2008-11-14T17:33:00.021-05:00

My dear, sweet, friend, Brenda inspired me to grocery shop at Kroger! She had told me all their sales and her marvelous buys . . . butter for $2.50 a pound, evaporated milk for .50 , orange juice for $3.00 a bottle, granola bars for $1.50, and on and on and on! With her encouragement, I ventured to Kroger after a long day at school! I went up and down the aisles, searching for just the right buys! After almost 90 minutes, I had finished my mission! I had purchased 10 bags of 'stuff' (nothing of which I really needed, but thought I might use some day... with the holidays coming up and all...)!! My grand total for everything was $204.05 BUT I only had to pay $105.27. I had saved $98.78! Wow!

What an experience! Kroger really is the Right Store and the Right Price!!

So...if you need some butter, or granola bars, give me a call! I have an excess! :)

Halloween

2008-10-31T19:51:00.010-04:00

Yummy candy. . .

Tonight was Trick-or-treat night! Craig worked on the computer while I answered the door to hundreds of ghosts and goblins. It was fun seeing the little ones donned in their costumes! Watching the kids show up at our door brought back fond memories when our children were young! Fun times!! :)Top L - our faux jack-o-lantern
Top R - Craig working on the computer
Bottom L - Craig pretending to pass out treats
Bottom R - Kim getting ready to eat more treats!!

Hmmm...U of M or State??

2008-10-26T20:35:00.003-04:00

There was some friendly competition in our house this weekend! Adam showed up Friday evening wearing 'State gear' and Craig was donning 'Michigan' gear! Normally, Adam is a die hard Michigan fan, but has become slightly loyal to State since he began Law School at M.S.U.! I guess Adam was the real winner on Saturday . . . didn't REALLY matter which team won - he'd win either way! Go BLUE!!

Fun Times

2008-10-19T17:54:00.012-04:00

Adam and Julia have so much F-U-N together! They laugh, giggle, and snicker when together!

Saturday they went to the "Big House" to watch Michigan get beat!! They had a great time at the game, and buzzed around Ann Arbor! Julia had never been to a Michigan game so it was a big treat!!

He even tolerated a 'photo shoot' by the beautiful red bush!!

It's been said that in the sweetness of friendship, there is laughter and sharing of pleasures! It warms my heart to see Julia and Adam having fun and sharing laughter together! "Friends fill your life with joy, your soul with sunshine and your heart with love".

2008-10-18T20:49:00.003-04:00

Last night we had our first 'Dance Club of 2008'. We had a wonderful dinner and enjoyed dancing to to big band. It's always fun getting dressed up, joining friends, and having an evening out! It was great having Doug and Barb and Jack and Cathy join in this year! We're looking forward to the upcoming dances . . . and we must practice our fancy footwork!

Happy Sweetest Day!!

2008-10-18T11:27:00.006-04:00

Isn't he a handsome sweetie?! :)

This morning my 'sweetest' surprised me with an iced coffee and whole wheat bagel from Tim Horton's! I also received a beautiful, heartfelt greeting card and a yummy dark chocolate treat! WOW!! What an awesome Sweetest Day. It's true... a real soul-mate is the one you are married to!! Hmmm...what can I do to surprise him? I hope YOUR day is sweet!

Empty nest . . . again

2008-10-14T21:09:00.006-04:00

It was great having Julia home this weekend for her fall break! After she left, our house was still and quiet once again! We LOVE to have our house full - - our kids add so much joy to our lives!

Yummy...

2008-10-13T06:44:00.004-04:00

Yum!! :) A perfect fall snack!! There's nothing better than freshly popped corn with Honey Crisp apples! It was a delightful treat while watching Desperate Housewives!! To me, popcorn and apples go together like a wink and a smile!

Incredible Friday evening

2008-10-12T14:16:00.006-04:00

Friday evening, Craig and I sat outside on our deck and enjoyed a bonfire. The weather was fantastic (for October 10th) and it just felt good to sit, quietly watching the red, yellow, and orange flames lift to the starlit sky. How often will we be able to enjoy the warm evenings before the snow begins to fly? "To everything there is a season - a time to keep and a time to let go - Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Signs of Autumn

2008-10-08T20:29:00.005-04:00

FALL

Don't you just love 'fall'? Autumn reminds me of caramel apples, colorful leaves, and cool, crisp evenings. Pumpkin pies, cornucopias, candy corn, cranberry bread, and leaves flamed with color, crackling under your feet are all signs of fall! There's nothing better than a sunny, fall afternoon ~ the cool breezes blowing across your face, with the fresh smell of 'winter's coming'. Curling up under a fuzzy blanket, sipping warm apple cider is one of my favorite pastimes! I understand why birds fly around the earth seeking the successive autumns ~ autumn is like a second spring...every colorful leaf is like a flower! I wonder if there will be autumn in heaven.

Girl's Pentwater weekend

2008-10-05T18:57:00.012-04:00

Another wonderful weekend! My 'girlfriends' have once again filled my life with joy, my soul with sunshine, and my heart with love! Seven 'girlfriends' spent an awesome weekend in Pentwater at Karen's house! God blessed us with crisp, sunny weather, great food, quiet walks, and special times together sharing our hearts! It was a perfect weekend for apple orchards, 'Octoberfests', pumpkins farms, and relaxing walks on the beach! It's been said that many people will walk in and out of your life . . . but only true friends will leave footprints in my heart! I feel so blessed to have their friendship!