I hope that you gave it a little try
Here are the answers:
Down:
1. Kayak
2. Samuel
3. Miko
5. Sister
8. Construction
12. Element
16. Counselor
18. Kickball
Across:
4. Parents
6. Camping
7. Support
9. Volleyball
10. Fiesta
11. Erin and Jeff
13. Friends
14. Seattle
15. Peace
17. Tutoring
19. Cooper
20. Olympics
Thanks for playing. Merry Christmas to all and Happy New Year!
love, Roberta, Cooper and Miko
Monday, December 22, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
30 and giving thanks
Last Sunday was my thirtieth birthday. 30. 3-0. Three decades. huh.
My family and friends surprised me in my parent's garage. I had friends represented from elementary school through my current work friends. My godparents were there...as they were when I was born. Pretty amazing really. The invitations reached my current co-workers at my agency as well as my high school. I was a little overwhelmed to see friends from all stretches of my life. Erica, my bestest friend from college, drove from Minnesota. Lori and Lorie from Rochester, MN also made the trip. My college roommate who lives in WI attempted the surprise as well but was surprised herself and had her appendix removed that night instead. What timing.
My sister, Adam and a friend from work Sarah decorated, my mother made food and everyone laughed and had a good time. There was a little pinata action as well! My 30th was a great fiesta. Thanks everyone!
We spent Thanksgiving at Erin and Jeff's house. Sam was a really good boy and even fell asleep early. The last few weeks has been better for Sam, which makes things easier for Erin and Jeff too. We had great food and good laughs. I love spending time with my family.
Dad, Erin and I ventured out about 6:30 Friday morning to watch the action. We ate free breakfast at Sam's Club and found a few good buys. Most of all we just enjoyed the morning together, some real Father/Daughter bonding.
Ugh...that leads to today. I attempted to hang Christmas lights outside. I totally suck at that. I ended up only wrapping my lamp post, again. I don't want to be a scrooge, but the outside lights just aren't my cup o' tea. I did buy a Christmas tree today too though, so at least I can celebrate the holidays on the inside of my house! Now I'll go rummage through my parents boxes to find some ornaments and trimmings for the tree.
Just a quick fill in...hope all is well. Please continue to pray for Sam, Erin and Jeff.
My family and friends surprised me in my parent's garage. I had friends represented from elementary school through my current work friends. My godparents were there...as they were when I was born. Pretty amazing really. The invitations reached my current co-workers at my agency as well as my high school. I was a little overwhelmed to see friends from all stretches of my life. Erica, my bestest friend from college, drove from Minnesota. Lori and Lorie from Rochester, MN also made the trip. My college roommate who lives in WI attempted the surprise as well but was surprised herself and had her appendix removed that night instead. What timing.
My sister, Adam and a friend from work Sarah decorated, my mother made food and everyone laughed and had a good time. There was a little pinata action as well! My 30th was a great fiesta. Thanks everyone!
We spent Thanksgiving at Erin and Jeff's house. Sam was a really good boy and even fell asleep early. The last few weeks has been better for Sam, which makes things easier for Erin and Jeff too. We had great food and good laughs. I love spending time with my family.
Dad, Erin and I ventured out about 6:30 Friday morning to watch the action. We ate free breakfast at Sam's Club and found a few good buys. Most of all we just enjoyed the morning together, some real Father/Daughter bonding.
Ugh...that leads to today. I attempted to hang Christmas lights outside. I totally suck at that. I ended up only wrapping my lamp post, again. I don't want to be a scrooge, but the outside lights just aren't my cup o' tea. I did buy a Christmas tree today too though, so at least I can celebrate the holidays on the inside of my house! Now I'll go rummage through my parents boxes to find some ornaments and trimmings for the tree.
Just a quick fill in...hope all is well. Please continue to pray for Sam, Erin and Jeff.
Blogged with the Flock Browser
Sunday, November 02, 2008
Catch up game...where've I been?
Uh...I am still alive. It's true. I live my life day to day and sometimes forget that others may want to know that I exist. At least one or two people read this and may enjoy a few pictures or life updates. Apparently nothing can match my outpouring of emotions about my failed Olympic dreams, so here it goes.
In the last couple of months I have been spending a lot of time at work. Things are going well there, I still get frustrated with many, but wake up each morning not hating work. Now once I get there, that's a different story....but I somehow make it through 8+ hours until I get back home to Cooper (he is really cute by the way.)
A couple of weeks ago my favorite auntie Carol and cousin Kristi came to town. It was a quick visit, but long enough to make some stamped cards, shop at a craft show and have some laughs. It's always good to see Kristi too especially now that she lives close to Mt. Rushmore. :)
It's babies galore lately. Sam has a new cousin, I have yet to meet Peyton Weiner, but the pictures sure are cute. My bestie Trichelle has baby Norah and I am anxious to meet her over Christmas, she has beautiful dark hair and a really good mommy and daddy. My friend Sara is also pregnant, Lorie is due at the end of December...lots 'o babies!
Last weekend I traveled to Fairmont, MN to hang with Erica. We then headed to Minneapolis to get our shop on. Erica is the best and her friends Karina and Tabitha are really great too. We had a fun time and we all spent too much money. I bought at overpriced handbag that is a reward once I (if I ever do) reach my first weight loss goal.
Erin and I have decided to make a 'lifestyle change.' We joined Weight Watchers. Obviously I have only ever watched my weight increase in my life, so we both would benefit from some weight loss. It's hard--I am doing fine, but it's not fun.
Volleyball started last night. We are 3-0 and I think the team is going to be fun and we can all handle our own on the recreational volleyball court. I look forward to many Saturday nights in sweatpants and T's!
See--not a lot happening really. I will post some pictures of the Octoberfest weekend with Sarah, Adam, Molly and Kevin in Sioux Falls, that was a fun night.
Hope all is well--keep praying for Sam, Erin and Jeff.
In the last couple of months I have been spending a lot of time at work. Things are going well there, I still get frustrated with many, but wake up each morning not hating work. Now once I get there, that's a different story....but I somehow make it through 8+ hours until I get back home to Cooper (he is really cute by the way.)
A couple of weeks ago my favorite auntie Carol and cousin Kristi came to town. It was a quick visit, but long enough to make some stamped cards, shop at a craft show and have some laughs. It's always good to see Kristi too especially now that she lives close to Mt. Rushmore. :)
It's babies galore lately. Sam has a new cousin, I have yet to meet Peyton Weiner, but the pictures sure are cute. My bestie Trichelle has baby Norah and I am anxious to meet her over Christmas, she has beautiful dark hair and a really good mommy and daddy. My friend Sara is also pregnant, Lorie is due at the end of December...lots 'o babies!
Last weekend I traveled to Fairmont, MN to hang with Erica. We then headed to Minneapolis to get our shop on. Erica is the best and her friends Karina and Tabitha are really great too. We had a fun time and we all spent too much money. I bought at overpriced handbag that is a reward once I (if I ever do) reach my first weight loss goal.
Erin and I have decided to make a 'lifestyle change.' We joined Weight Watchers. Obviously I have only ever watched my weight increase in my life, so we both would benefit from some weight loss. It's hard--I am doing fine, but it's not fun.
Volleyball started last night. We are 3-0 and I think the team is going to be fun and we can all handle our own on the recreational volleyball court. I look forward to many Saturday nights in sweatpants and T's!
See--not a lot happening really. I will post some pictures of the Octoberfest weekend with Sarah, Adam, Molly and Kevin in Sioux Falls, that was a fun night.
Hope all is well--keep praying for Sam, Erin and Jeff.
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Sunday, August 10, 2008
Missed my calling?
So as I have been watching the Olympics the last couple of days, basically non-stop, I have now just questioned whether or not I have missed my calling to be an Olympic Athlete. This is why:
As a child I loved swimming, I was referred to as a fish at my swimming lessons. I loved the deep-end of the country club's pool. I liked the diving board too. Could I have been a diver? I was known to do somersaults off of it, huh. Now the swimming thing. I could do the "American crawl" with the best of them.
Other sports I feel I could have perfected are tennis (took lessons at the Club too,) I was a helluva basketball player in elementary school too. Another teammate, Karen and I, were a force to be reckoned with. I also threw the shot-put in 7th grade. I could have kicked some ass if I would have stayed with that too.
Let's see...I drove my bicycle up a curb once. That probably squashed my cycling dreams. My dad is an archer...could have tried that, but never did.
I played softball too! Though refused to slide so at some point that dream came to an end too. Though I do remember when I played 3rd base I was the only 5th grader that could throw to 1st base. Skill.
When I lived in England I took a fencing class...basically sucked at that though. The mask made my face hot and I felt claustrophobic. Wouldn't have done well.
Volleyball. I love volleyball. Though by the time I really loved it I was plenty overweight and couldn't rock out the little panty shorts. Well I could have, but it wouldn't have been good for anyone. So now I play rec. league and always wear pants.
I didn't know I liked to kayak until about 3 years ago and was too old to pursue the Olympics at that point.
So as I have described, I had a couple of opportunities I could have stuck with in order to become an Olympian. Unfortunately, I was a quitter at most activities. So with that I feel now I could receive a Gold Medal for sitting on my ass watching others pursue their dreams. Go USA.
As a child I loved swimming, I was referred to as a fish at my swimming lessons. I loved the deep-end of the country club's pool. I liked the diving board too. Could I have been a diver? I was known to do somersaults off of it, huh. Now the swimming thing. I could do the "American crawl" with the best of them.
Other sports I feel I could have perfected are tennis (took lessons at the Club too,) I was a helluva basketball player in elementary school too. Another teammate, Karen and I, were a force to be reckoned with. I also threw the shot-put in 7th grade. I could have kicked some ass if I would have stayed with that too.
Let's see...I drove my bicycle up a curb once. That probably squashed my cycling dreams. My dad is an archer...could have tried that, but never did.
I played softball too! Though refused to slide so at some point that dream came to an end too. Though I do remember when I played 3rd base I was the only 5th grader that could throw to 1st base. Skill.
When I lived in England I took a fencing class...basically sucked at that though. The mask made my face hot and I felt claustrophobic. Wouldn't have done well.
Volleyball. I love volleyball. Though by the time I really loved it I was plenty overweight and couldn't rock out the little panty shorts. Well I could have, but it wouldn't have been good for anyone. So now I play rec. league and always wear pants.
I didn't know I liked to kayak until about 3 years ago and was too old to pursue the Olympics at that point.
So as I have described, I had a couple of opportunities I could have stuck with in order to become an Olympian. Unfortunately, I was a quitter at most activities. So with that I feel now I could receive a Gold Medal for sitting on my ass watching others pursue their dreams. Go USA.
Blogged with the Flock Browser
Saturday, August 02, 2008
The last few weeks.
Summer is winding down for me. I go back to work full time in about 11 days. I can't believe how quickly the summer has gone by and that just 8 weeks ago I felt I had the freedom of summer to do as I damn well please. And I have.
Took a trip to Eau Claire, WI with my high school besties. I can use 'besties' cuz I am on Facebook and that's how I roll. Trichelle, Betsy, Lorie, Lori and I went to Country Jam, an outdoor music festival. I indulged, actually overindulged, though have pictures to prove I attended. I'm too old for that by the way.
Made it back from that trip to attend Kelsey's wedding. Kelsey is one of Sam's caregivers and has been a vital part of his care the last few years. Kelsey wanted Sam to be her ringbearer and he did a great job. Erin and Jeff were his escorts and he smiled great for pictures and looked smashing in his tux. I do have to say as they came down the aisle, big smiles and love radiated from my sister and her family. I teared up a bit...really cool to see that little man and how he holds such influence on so many people. I've been a proud auntie before, but that moment was priceless for me.
Kickball started, period. No further comment. Leave it at that. Well, I have to say that the people are great and we laugh.
Great news for Sam! Through many fights, meetings, discussions, arguments, let downs, frustrations etc...Jeff and Erin succeeded once again in their mission for Sam to receive the best care and education possible. He will attend Children's Care Hospital and School until October '09. The SF school district has been very difficult and ignored some obvious things and neither Erin or Jeff would back down in their goal. They both are fulfilling roles that I doubt either ever expected they would...though I don't fully know the difficulty and the struggle they endure daily, what I do know is Sam couldn't have better parents.
The bathroom is a couple of steps away from completion. Still need a window treatment, light switch cover and some more decorations, but it is functional and I am pleased with the outcome.
My college roommate got engaged too. That's pretty dang exciting. Time to get less fat so I can be all smiles at her destination wedding! :)
Tonight I am attending a "get ready for the Olympics party" and we'll play some Wii Sonic and Mario at the Olympics to fully gear up for 08.08.08!
Oh and Cooper is still cute.
Took a trip to Eau Claire, WI with my high school besties. I can use 'besties' cuz I am on Facebook and that's how I roll. Trichelle, Betsy, Lorie, Lori and I went to Country Jam, an outdoor music festival. I indulged, actually overindulged, though have pictures to prove I attended. I'm too old for that by the way.
Made it back from that trip to attend Kelsey's wedding. Kelsey is one of Sam's caregivers and has been a vital part of his care the last few years. Kelsey wanted Sam to be her ringbearer and he did a great job. Erin and Jeff were his escorts and he smiled great for pictures and looked smashing in his tux. I do have to say as they came down the aisle, big smiles and love radiated from my sister and her family. I teared up a bit...really cool to see that little man and how he holds such influence on so many people. I've been a proud auntie before, but that moment was priceless for me.
Kickball started, period. No further comment. Leave it at that. Well, I have to say that the people are great and we laugh.
Great news for Sam! Through many fights, meetings, discussions, arguments, let downs, frustrations etc...Jeff and Erin succeeded once again in their mission for Sam to receive the best care and education possible. He will attend Children's Care Hospital and School until October '09. The SF school district has been very difficult and ignored some obvious things and neither Erin or Jeff would back down in their goal. They both are fulfilling roles that I doubt either ever expected they would...though I don't fully know the difficulty and the struggle they endure daily, what I do know is Sam couldn't have better parents.
The bathroom is a couple of steps away from completion. Still need a window treatment, light switch cover and some more decorations, but it is functional and I am pleased with the outcome.
My college roommate got engaged too. That's pretty dang exciting. Time to get less fat so I can be all smiles at her destination wedding! :)
Tonight I am attending a "get ready for the Olympics party" and we'll play some Wii Sonic and Mario at the Olympics to fully gear up for 08.08.08!
Oh and Cooper is still cute.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Flickr Fun
Thanks to Corey
The Flickr Game.
THE RULES:
a. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.
b. Using only the first page, pick an image.
c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into fd’s Mosaic Maker.
And here are the questions:
1. What is your first name?
2. What is your favorite food?
3. Where did you go to high school?
4. What is your favorite color?
5. Who is your celebrity crush?
6. Favorite drink?
7. Dream vacation?
8. Favorite dessert?
9. What you want to be when you grow up?
10. What do you love most in life?
11. One Word to describe you.
12. Your flickr name.
My answers:
1. Roberta 2. Chicken 3. Washington 4. Blue 5. Johnny Depp 6. Rum N Coke 7. African Safari 8. Cheesecake 9. Professor 10. Friendship 11. Laughter 12. A pic from my Flickr set
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Omaha, NE trip July 1st and 2nd
Adam and I went to Omaha to attend the Olympic Trials for Swimming. We attended Tuesday and Wednesday night finals sessions. We saw World Records
broken! Tuesday night Natalie Coughlin and Aaron Piersol set ne
w records and Michael Phelps set a new US Open record. It was great to see how the events take place and everything is on a tight schedule. The crowd was so into it too!We also witnessed Katie Hoff setting records and basically blowing away her competition. It was probably a once in a lifetime experience and am really glad I got to attend the competition. Makes me pretty excited for the Olympics!
The pics are hard to tell who the people are, but at least I can prove I was there!
On Wednesday we also went to the Omaha Zoo...it was hot, but I love the zo
o! We saw the snow leopards eating actual elk legs..pretty great right?? The air conditioning in the IMAX theater was great, so were the sexy glasses!
International Element Owners Club Meet-Columbus, OH
Another geek meet! I traveled to Columbus, OH by way of Chicago to pick up my fellow-geek club member, Trina, for another Element meet. The meet was in the Columbus area this year as all of the Honda Elements are made at the East Liberty Honda Plant. As a group we toured the plant. It was really an amazing thing to see. I had never toured a factory before and was truly impressed with the precision and the dedication to making a quality product. The associates of the plant were friendly and enjoyed having us there. We also were able to see the test track used to determine performance and capability. Neither of these events are usually open to the public, so was great to see.
We spent a lot of time in the parking lot again as the weather was perfect. A lot of socializing, laughing and story telling takes place in the parking lot! Many of the same people I met in St. Louis two years ago were there, so it was a reunion for many. The people of this club are dedicated to making the events memorable and I really love these people. Never in a million years would I have guessed that I'd drive over 2000 miles to hang out with people that drive the same car as me...in a parking lot. But for some reason, as long as I am able to, I will do the same thing over and over!
Then on my way home after dropping Trina at Midway in Chicago, I continued on to my college roommate's house near Milwaukee. Sarah and I don't get to see each other very often but I love every second I get to spend with her. We can not see each other for years and it's like old times...but not the times we lived together, cuz' that wasn't always perfect! I miss her a ton.
Some of these pics are mine, others I stole from my friends on the site.
We spent a lot of time in the parking lot again as the weather was perfect. A lot of socializing, laughing and story telling takes place in the parking lot! Many of the same people I met in St. Louis two years ago were there, so it was a reunion for many. The people of this club are dedicated to making the events memorable and I really love these people. Never in a million years would I have guessed that I'd drive over 2000 miles to hang out with people that drive the same car as me...in a parking lot. But for some reason, as long as I am able to, I will do the same thing over and over!
Then on my way home after dropping Trina at Midway in Chicago, I continued on to my college roommate's house near Milwaukee. Sarah and I don't get to see each other very often but I love every second I get to spend with her. We can not see each other for years and it's like old times...but not the times we lived together, cuz' that wasn't always perfect! I miss her a ton.
Some of these pics are mine, others I stole from my friends on the site.
Seattle and Pics
I
visited Seattle in April. A friend from Graduate school and my first job in Sioux Falls, Danielle is going to law school at Seattle University.
Another friend, Trina (from the Element Club) lives there as well. So I got to explore Seattle with both of them. It was a great trip. The weather was very unpredictable, there was snow, rain, wind, and low temps, but we still got to see the things I wanted.We visited great restaurants, I ate at my first Dim Sum restaurant in Seattle's China Town and loved it. I can't find that around here! We also took the Ducks Tour, which is a WW2 vehicle that goes on land and water. A great look at Seattle and some history. We took a ferry across Elliot Bay and could see the skyline through the rain and fog, but barely. Danielle, Trina and I also went to the Experience Music Project, a museum that if I were in love with guitars I would have been drooling the whole time. But it was enjoyable. I went to the Public Market and had a great cup of coffee at the first Starbucks store! :)
We also took an underground tour where more Seattle history was learned. Then we went to Fremont, a neighborhood in Seattle, to visit the Fremont Troll. This was a piece of 'art' that won a contest to be placed under a bridge in a residential neighborhood. Pretty weird but cool at the same time.
I really liked Seattle and can see why the people love their city. I have visited places in my life and when I got home thought that Seattle could definitely be a place I could live. It was a great long weekend.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Almost!
Well the countdown to summer is on. I only have a few weeks left of school and my contract ends the 31st of May! This year has just flown by. I have a feeling that in the next few weeks I will be awfully irritable. I have so much work to do...you see I have a procrastination problem. Yeah, really I do. So I have to do work now that I should have 3-6 months ago. Impressive I know!
I have some pictures and will write later about my trip to Seattle. Had a really great time. I loved the city. More to come.
I have some pictures and will write later about my trip to Seattle. Had a really great time. I loved the city. More to come.
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Wednesday, March 12, 2008
an update to nothing
Again not much new or exciting going on in my world. Work is busy but going well. I can't believe that we were talking about our summer schedules today, this school year is flying by. We all have spring fever though and the kids are definitely getting antsy....Cooper and I are ready to hit the dog park again too. Soon, I think!
Our volleyball team was the top seed going into last weeks tournament, we lost and so we've entered the loser's bracket. So we play again this Saturday night...hopefully to head towards the finals! It's been fun though. I just signed up to play sand volleyball this summer too at a bar in Tea.
I also booked a flight to Seattle in April. I will be visiting my friends Danielle and Trina. I am excited as I have never been there and have heard such wonderful things about the city.
I wish there was more going on to update but...life is pretty monotonous right now!
So...here's a bunny with a pancake on it's head
Our volleyball team was the top seed going into last weeks tournament, we lost and so we've entered the loser's bracket. So we play again this Saturday night...hopefully to head towards the finals! It's been fun though. I just signed up to play sand volleyball this summer too at a bar in Tea.
I also booked a flight to Seattle in April. I will be visiting my friends Danielle and Trina. I am excited as I have never been there and have heard such wonderful things about the city.
I wish there was more going on to update but...life is pretty monotonous right now!
So...here's a bunny with a pancake on it's head
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Ahh!
I got nothing...no real updates. Christmas was nice as always, New Year's was fun (no incriminating pictures) and it's always fun to see my friends when they are home...so nothing too exciting because I am too busy playing my Wii...but I stole this pic from my sister's site because it belongs on mine. Priceless right? I love that kid! :)
Friday, November 23, 2007
Thanksgiving
Yesterday I went to my parent's house to celebrate Thanksgiving with my family. Erin, Jeff and Sam joined us as well as a quilting friend of my mom's, Bev. The day went rather smoothly and the food was excellent as always. I love spending time with my family and am thankful we are all in the same vicinity and the chaos of travel is removed.
On Wednesday night I got together with a few of my greatest friends that were home for the holiday and we celebrated my birthday as well. It was fun to spend the time with those that aren't home as much as I'd like.
Tuesday night I also had a pre-Thanksgiving meal with some other friends and their children.
During this season it's time to remember those that we are thankful for. I am grateful to have wonderful friends, a loving family, and all the other perks that not everyone is allowed. To all I was able to celebrate with this week, thank you for your love and friendship...and those I didn't, may you feel blessed and loved each day.
Edit: Also met up with Carol, Kristi and Kelly in Watertown for a quick day of family bonding....these pics prove it right?
On Wednesday night I got together with a few of my greatest friends that were home for the holiday and we celebrated my birthday as well. It was fun to spend the time with those that aren't home as much as I'd like.
Tuesday night I also had a pre-Thanksgiving meal with some other friends and their children.
During this season it's time to remember those that we are thankful for. I am grateful to have wonderful friends, a loving family, and all the other perks that not everyone is allowed. To all I was able to celebrate with this week, thank you for your love and friendship...and those I didn't, may you feel blessed and loved each day.
Edit: Also met up with Carol, Kristi and Kelly in Watertown for a quick day of family bonding....these pics prove it right?
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Goodbye and Thank you
My grandmother, Harriet, died tonight. Physically, her body gave out. Mentally she has been missing for years now.
I remember the smell of my grandma and grandpa's car when they would pick me up from school. There was always a pillow and a box of tissues in the backseat with me. A list of all the counties, with license plate numbers, was under the visor. The smooth ride in their big "grandpa car" was memorable as well.
My grandma had a wonderful smile and warm eyes, you know the type that draw people in because she was kind and caring. Their house was comfortable, grandpa used to have the TV on really loud and grandma and I would be in the kitchen baking or drawing on dishcloths. I think she knew I wasn't artistic, but dang she'd encourage and cheer me on. She was very talented and offered me opportunities to be creative. She was a teacher by profession and by nature I believe.
Sunday night I visited her with my sister and I remember thinking what a great mother she must have been too because of the father I have. In the past few years she would recognize us less and blankly respond to our hugs and squeezes. Selfishly, I didn't want to see her that way. But she's not only my grandmother, she's my dad's mom. I think of the memories he's shared with me about his childhood and about the examples she set for my dad and it makes me sad for him. Her passing is a blessing...but she's gone now, and that's painful.
Tonight I witnessed some of her last breaths...like she was there to witness some of my first. She cared for me and loved me in a way only a grandma could. How lucky I was/am to have her influence on my life. "Hoddy" impacted many lives and all who knew her understood her warmth and love for people. I'm sad for those that only knew her in these past few years because they never got to experience her as a whole.
Thank you grandma for your love and guidance. Grandpa has been waiting a long time for you.
Grandma's Obituary
a pic from last Christmas
I remember the smell of my grandma and grandpa's car when they would pick me up from school. There was always a pillow and a box of tissues in the backseat with me. A list of all the counties, with license plate numbers, was under the visor. The smooth ride in their big "grandpa car" was memorable as well.
My grandma had a wonderful smile and warm eyes, you know the type that draw people in because she was kind and caring. Their house was comfortable, grandpa used to have the TV on really loud and grandma and I would be in the kitchen baking or drawing on dishcloths. I think she knew I wasn't artistic, but dang she'd encourage and cheer me on. She was very talented and offered me opportunities to be creative. She was a teacher by profession and by nature I believe.
Sunday night I visited her with my sister and I remember thinking what a great mother she must have been too because of the father I have. In the past few years she would recognize us less and blankly respond to our hugs and squeezes. Selfishly, I didn't want to see her that way. But she's not only my grandmother, she's my dad's mom. I think of the memories he's shared with me about his childhood and about the examples she set for my dad and it makes me sad for him. Her passing is a blessing...but she's gone now, and that's painful.
Tonight I witnessed some of her last breaths...like she was there to witness some of my first. She cared for me and loved me in a way only a grandma could. How lucky I was/am to have her influence on my life. "Hoddy" impacted many lives and all who knew her understood her warmth and love for people. I'm sad for those that only knew her in these past few years because they never got to experience her as a whole.
Thank you grandma for your love and guidance. Grandpa has been waiting a long time for you.
Grandma's Obituary
a pic from last Christmas
Saturday, September 08, 2007
update
Kickball is almost over, we've lost most of our games, but boy were we excited after we won the first one! Oh well, it's still been fun to play. We've opted out of the all-day tourney, probably to let the other teams have a chance...right.
Adam, Craig, Ali and I went camping in Yankton a few weekends ago. No pictures, but we had a great time playing dominoes, badminton, track ball, and a few bumps and sets with the flat volleyball. We also did some geocaching. It was a fun and quick weekend.
What else? I got a new job, same agency new school. I am now at Roosevelt High School full-time, which is great. The people are wonderful and I am thrilled to be as busy as I am. Big change from running between schools.
Had my 10 year High School class reunion last weekend. We had a great, great time. I had no idea I would, but it was fun. We had a decent turn-out, but I feel bad for those that chose not to come, because everyone shared that it was much better than they'd expected. I consumed plenty of keg beer and an occasional shot. Seemed all worth it!
Many of my closest high school friends were home for the party...definitely missed a few of them though :(
Some Reunion Pics
Went to a Geocaching event this morning at the Outdoor Campus. Cooper and I were picked up by Adam and Iris and we went on a cache poker run. I am sure I will win something really big! It rained a bit, but we found the caches, which is better than the last time we cached. Adam and I both had some form of itchweed or something.
Not sure what else to share...hopefully Erin and Jeff will post pics of their new "toy" too...
Adam, Craig, Ali and I went camping in Yankton a few weekends ago. No pictures, but we had a great time playing dominoes, badminton, track ball, and a few bumps and sets with the flat volleyball. We also did some geocaching. It was a fun and quick weekend.
What else? I got a new job, same agency new school. I am now at Roosevelt High School full-time, which is great. The people are wonderful and I am thrilled to be as busy as I am. Big change from running between schools.
Had my 10 year High School class reunion last weekend. We had a great, great time. I had no idea I would, but it was fun. We had a decent turn-out, but I feel bad for those that chose not to come, because everyone shared that it was much better than they'd expected. I consumed plenty of keg beer and an occasional shot. Seemed all worth it!
Many of my closest high school friends were home for the party...definitely missed a few of them though :(
Some Reunion Pics
Went to a Geocaching event this morning at the Outdoor Campus. Cooper and I were picked up by Adam and Iris and we went on a cache poker run. I am sure I will win something really big! It rained a bit, but we found the caches, which is better than the last time we cached. Adam and I both had some form of itchweed or something.
Not sure what else to share...hopefully Erin and Jeff will post pics of their new "toy" too...
Friday, July 27, 2007
UNDEFEATED!
Pretty exciting. We are undefeated in kickball, let me be a little more specific. We won our first game, 9-8. I like to use undefeated because it makes us sound good and tough. Not that we aren't or couldn't be, but we just don't know yet. See, most of the people on the team know only one or two other people. Who knew that a CF of people thrown together by two people could offer up a winning team??
I am probably getting too excited now, it is just one win afterall. But I am just not used to winning, so maybe this is gloating. All I know is that if gloating is wrong, I don't want to be right. :)
I am probably getting too excited now, it is just one win afterall. But I am just not used to winning, so maybe this is gloating. All I know is that if gloating is wrong, I don't want to be right. :)
Monday, July 16, 2007
Kelley Family Reunion July 12-15
So, is it still called a "Family Reunion," when I haven't met most of the family? :) I suppose it is and now that I have met them...it's great to call them family. My parents, Cooper and I headed to Wickiup Village in Spearfish Canyon, SD for the Kelley Reunion. My grandmother is a Kelley and I hadn't met many of my relatives. My family members are spread out over the US...all parts of the country were represented in one campground brought together by blood. It was a very nice weekend, the weather was beautiful and I enjoyed learning about my family...past, present and future.
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