• On the Road Again: Where Were We?

    If you guessed the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri you are correct!  We have actually been in St. Louis 4 times already this month.  I have seen the Arch many times driving through St. Louis, but a couple years ago we actually went up in it.  It is a great place to visit with some neat history.  There is actually a museum in the bottom of the arch.

    Did you know?

    • Arch is 630 feet tall
    • It is made of Steel and Concrete
    • Eero Saarinen was the Finnish-American architect who designed the Arch
    • From the top of the Arch on a clear day you can see up 30 miles in either direction
    • Tram ride takes 4 minutes to go up and 3 minutes to go down
    • There are 1,076 steps inside the arch, however, they are only used for maintenance and emergencies
    • It was originally called the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial now it is the Gateway Arch National Park
    • The Memorials to Thomas Jefferson, for his role in opening the West & Dred Scott who sued for his freedom in the Old Courthouse
    • Directly across the Mississippi River from the Arch on the Illinois side is the Malcolm W. Martin Memorial Park  where the Gateway Geyser (the tallest water fountain in the U.S.) and the Mississippi River Overlook can be found

    If you are going through St. Louis, Missouri and have extra time I encourage you to check it out.

  • In Memory of Grandma Doris

    As I sit here quietly for the first time in awhile I begin to reflect on my Grandma Doris and the multitudes of ways she impacted my life.  Part of me doesn’t want to think about life without you in it, but I realize that you will always be a part of my life story and many others. Even though it’s not easy there’s a time to say goodbye….I’ve never been good at goodbyes….

    I learned many lessons from Grandma over the years.   You gave me the extra confidence to do or be anything I set my mind on.  Grandma Doris was truly a one-of-a-kind person.  She was unique and loved you in her own way.

    Growing up whenever they could Grandpa Verlyn and Grandma Doris would take the time out of their busy schedules to come to see me and the other grand-kids participate in whatever sports, concerts, competitions, or activities we were involved in.  I cannot tell you how much this meant to me, just knowing that they cared enough to be there for me and be a part of my life and activities spoke volumes in my life.  They have a lot of family members and many spread out over multiple areas so I know it wasn’t always easy or convenient to make it to these events.   I never doubted their love (why else would they sit on those hard bleachers to watch us over the years).  You knew when Grandma Doris was there….her voice had a way of piercing through all the noise in the crowd and hitting straight into your heart.  She would be your loudest and proudest cheerleader in the crowd no matter how good (or bad) you were.  It was one of Grandma’s many ways of supporting and encouraging you to be your best.

    As a kid we would spend our Christmas Eve’s  at Grandpa and Grandma’s house.  There was always an amazing spread of food, fun activities, games, gifts and fun.  The house was full of many family and friends on any given Holiday.  As kids we would often play in the basement while the parents would play games upstairs.   One of our favorite games was Ghost in the Darkness…can’t remember who came up with it, but it was fun!  If we got too loud or rough we would hear Grandma Doris’ shrill voice and her footsteps on the stairs, it was pretty amazing how quickly all kids were instantly on their best behavior as soon as we heard Grandma coming.  I have no idea why Grandma and Grandma went through so many deep freezers when we were kids, but it may have had something to do with the grand-kids using the top of the deep freezer as our safety zone in a variety of games we played while at their house.  Oops!

    Grandma preferred comfort over elegance in her day to day life but enjoyed getting fancy for special events involving family and friends.  Grandma knew how to have a good time.

    It was okay with Grandma if her house wasn’t perfect as long as everyone felt welcomed.  Anyone was invited to come join the fun adventures at her house whether they we family, friends, or even strangers.  If you needed a place to crash for the night, no problem, there’s always room for one more.   The more the merrier at Grandma’s.

    Grandma wasn’t big on making fancy meals, but could make the best Mayonnaise Cake with Chunky peanut butter frosting.  Delicious! When it came to cooking, the quicker the better, as far as Grandma was concerned.

    My family lived in Grandpa and Grandma’s basement for several years while my parents were building their house.   It was an adventure in itself, but gave me additional opportunities to spend with Grandma which is something I didn’t truly treasure until later in life.

    Grandma was a bargain hunting, coke and beanie baby collecting lady.  I have often wondered over the years how many McDonald’s or other kids meals she and Grandpa have eaten in her quest to collect the special beanie babies or other cool toys!

    Life is precious,  life is short.  May this be a time to reflect on the special memories, love, and fun times with Grandma Doris.   She has made an impact on the hearts and lives of those around her.  You were always gracious, giving, and had a strong personality Grandma.

    I will always remember Grandma’s smile and cackle that came along with the twinkle in her eyes when she was having fun.  Her spunky personality, loyalty to those she loved, spirit of adventure, gift of hospitality, and so much more.

    Whenever I see a chicken, I can’t help but think of you, if I ever have a house with a big enough closet I plan to leave my Christmas tree up year round (just in the closet covered with a sheet most of the year – think how much time it would save around the Holidays decorating and un-decorating….genius Grandma!)  You always amazed me how you could walk barefoot on the gravel roads, through sticker patches, and more.  We always knew when you were walking through the front door with your friendly “YooHoo! Anyone home!”  Many times stopping by to say “Hi” or drop off a batch of fresh eggs,  garden tomatoes or other items.   Disposable cameras, toasty warm home with a crackling fire in the winter, digging out slivers, and even Vicks vapor rub remind me of you.

    Thank you Grandma for loving us and leaving your imprint in our hearts and lives over the years. I love you Grandma.  May you rest in peace today January 15, 2017 and forever.

  • Three Ways Your Family can Welcome in a New Year!

    With a new year comes a lot of excitement!  The feeling of a fresh start in many areas of our lives, planning for future events and adventures, new goals, and more!  Everyday is a blessing!  While we welcome in the New Year don’t forget to reflect on the many blessings that you have enjoyed over the past year(s).  I encourage you to initiate a conversation with your family (it can be during a family dinner, game night, or any good time when everyone is present).  During this family time focus on these three things as a family to start off your New Year right.  This time together will make a positive impact on the hearts and lives of each individual family member and is worth it:

    1. Reflect back the fun memories and blessings of 2016!  Often the hardest part with this stage is getting the ball rolling.  Before the family time create a list of several good family memories to get it started.  Mention one and let others input their memories tied into that event as well as start adding their own memories.  Give everyone a chance who wants to talk the opportunity.  If there is a pause bring up a different memory to keep them going.  Before long you’ll be laughing and the kids will be bringing up memories connected to the event or new ones that you forgot about.  This is a wonderful way to end a year and begin a new one.
    2. Take a moment to think about the tough times over the past year! While the harder times are not easy to deal with or will bring back sadness or emotions they still have an impact on our lives.  Sometimes during these times of discussion you realize that a family member is still struggling with something.  Whether it is grief over a lost pet or loved one, anger, frustration, or something else.  This is a good time to gauge how everyone is doing and give you an opportunity to encourage each other or help those family members heal.  The love and support you receive from those around you can make an incredible impact on your life as you continue to move forward.  Knowing you are not alone, you are loved, and you have a team of people who want to help you can help the family member heal more quickly.  (Do not use this time to point out problems with each other, but to talk about harder times and to encourage.  Some topics made need to be tabled for a later and more lengthy conversation)  It will give you a good insight into your children and some ideas of what to help encourage them with over the next few weeks as they continue to grow and heal.
    3. Look ahead! As one year wraps up and a new one begins it is a great time to set some goals both personally and as a family.  Use this time to set family goals together.  There may be some activities that the kids have been wanting to do, but you have been letting it slip not even realizing that it was very important to them.  The goals discussed during this family  time should be family related, although they most definitely have a personal impact on each family member.  Write these goals down and review them weekly or monthly or regularly throughout the year to remind the family members of what is important to the family as a whole.  This also provides a lead in for each of the members to think about their personal goals.  It allows a great opportunity to have a group of people focused on similar goals and encouraging each other along the way.  Some family goal ideas (eat healthier, regular family game night, monthly date night with spouse and each child, daily family devotions, learn a new skill together, plan a family vacation, weekly family night, quarterly family service project, etc…).  Make a point to write the ideas down and either make a decision that day or within a few days on the family goals.  Type up a list, print it or email it to each family member so that they can be reminded of the ways your family is working together to create stronger bonds, happy memories, and improving lives.

    Setting aside a time when everyone is together can be difficult, however it is important.  It can be during a family dinner, game night, or another time when the family is together.  Make sure it is a convenient time with as little distractions as possible.  A time when everyone is more relaxed (not hungry, ready for bed, or trying to multi-task while having this conversation).  The reflecting on memories helps create a happy bond, the tough times allow family members to see that they are not alone and have the support of people who love them, and looking ahead gives you the opportunity to improve and grow into a better individuals and family unit.  If you do write down the family goals please do your best to follow through as much as possible because these goals are important to the members.

    Life has a way of staying busy.  Taking the time to spending reflecting on good memories as a way has a way of bringing everyone together.  It may cause some laughter, tears, and healing.  It is good to be reminded of the many blessings in our life and to realize that we are journeying through this life together.   Yes, we make mistakes along the way, but we can can make the best of it and have a lot of fun too.  Many blessings to you and your family this 2017 New Year!!!

  • Relationships: Traits of a Good Friend

    • A friend is a person you can trust,
    • Who won’t turn away from you;
    • A friend will be there
    • When you really need someone,
    • And will come to you when they need help.
    • A friend will listen to you even
    • When they don’t understand
    • Or agree with your feelings;
    • A friend will never try to change you,
    • But appreciates you for who you are.
    • A friend doesn’t expect too much
    • Or give too little;
    • A friend is someone you can share
    • Dreams, hopes, and feelings with.
    • A friend is a person you can think of
    • And suddenly smile;
    • A friend doesn’t have to be told
    • That they are special,
    • Because you both feel that way
    • A friend will accept your attitudes,
    • Ideas, and emotions
    • Even when their own are different,
    • And will hold your hand when you’re scared
    • A friend will be honest with you
    • Even when it might hurt, and will forgive you
    • For the mistakes you make.
    • A friend can never disappoint you,
    • And will support you and share in your glory.
    • A friend shares responsibility
    • When you have doubts.
    • A friend always remembers
    • The little things you’ve done,
    • The times you’ve shared, and the talks you’ve had.
    • A friend will bend over backwards
    • To help you pick up the pieces
    • When your world falls apart.
    • A friend is one of life’s most beautiful gifts.

    – Luann Auciello

    Wow, some powerful words and wonderful reminders of the characteristic traits to look for in a friend as well as how we can be to be a real friend to others.  We will never be perfect all or even most of the time, but if we have a supportive friends we  an still enjoy the journey through life.

  • Relationships: Lifelong Friends

    A special friend is a rare find….

    • Someone who shares your joy and happiness,
    • Someone who cares enough to show love and kindness,
    • Someone who is a comfort is a comfort to spend time with,
    • Someone who is honest and thoughtful.

    A special friend is a wonderful gift….

    • Someone who offers understanding when life is difficult,
    • Someone whose smile is enough to brighten any day,
    • Someone who accepts you and is glad that you are you,
    • Someone who forgets mistakes and is gentle and trusting.

    You are this special friend to me.

    • Our times together are treasured in my heart.
    • I wish you love, laughter, and all of life’s most beautiful things.
    • I wish you health and cheer, and more of everything that makes you happy.
    • I wish that we will always be friends!

    – Donna Levine

    Thankful for Donna Levine’s words and great reminder of the importance of friendship.  It is nice to find a rare friend that sticks with you in the thick and thin.  Sharing your joy and sorrows.  One of the biggest gifts we can find is that of a friendship.

  • Visiting Anchorage, Alaska

    First glimpse at our Home-Away-From-Home this week as we pulled into the Seward Port!

    We made it to Port Seward and caught the first glimpse of our ship!  The kids were super excited (and Dad & Mom too)!  We arrived at a good time so were able to drop our luggage off, go through the check in process, drop items most of the backpack items off in our rooms, and head back out to tour the town of Seward.  Our visit to the Alaska SeaLife Center  took up the majority of the time we had in the town, but was a great activity for the whole family.  It was a cloudy and misty day in Seward, however, we still had a wonderful time.  It was a beautiful area, small town, and the local people we met were very nice.

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    Beautiful views as we roll into the town of Seward

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     Someone crashed on the way to  the port!

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    Sweet girls having fun in Seward and excited about going on our Alaska cruise

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    Gorgeous area!

  • Relationships: Friends Like You

    • A friend is someone who listens without judging you right or wrong, good or bad, and gently helps you define your thoughts to regain perspective.
    • When you’re feeling bad about yourself, a friend is there to remind you of all those positive qualities you may have forgotten.
    • When you share with a friend, decision-making becomes easier and problems seem less critical.
    • A friend gives you the priceless gift of time; time to share, to try out new ideas and rethink old ones.  No matter how often you’re together, you discover dimensions of yourself through the bonds and the mirror of friendship.
    • A friend loves you for who you are, not what you do.  Feeling so accepted, you are able to set higher goals, try harder, and achieve more.
    • Through close friendship, you learn the fine art of giving.  You expand, become more selfless, feel more deeply, and help more effectively.  See the happiness you bring to another person gives you a greater sense of well-being and increases your capacity to love.
    • Wherever you go in life, whatever stage or place you reach, a friend who has entered your soul is always with you, gently guiding, faithfully following, and ever walking beside you.

    – Sandra Sturtz Hauss

    Developing the deeper friendships take time energy and commitment.  The first and ultimate relationship we should focus on is with our heavenly father followed by our relationship to our spouse and then trickles down to our kids, extended family members, friends, and others in our lives.

    Sometimes our friends are close enough to our hearts that they are like family.  We feel comfortable around them.  We share laughter as well as dig deeper into the fears and struggles of life.  They are the people you know pray and encourage you no matter what that day brings.  Make sure you are continuing to be the kind of friend who allows your friends to celebrate and grow!

  • Counting My Blessings: Week In Review

    It was a busy week packed full of work, summer camp, and more fun activities.  We were able to get a lot done around the house too.  Thankful for my family and the many blessings I have been giving every day.

    I want to be accountable to you so the following are snip-its of some of the things I am thankful for this past week.

    Counting My Blessings – Week In Review:

    Monday –Thankful for that I was able to get Jake’s haircut done today.  We’ve been trying to get it done for over a week now, but finally found a good time to get it done.

    Tuesday – Thankful for a great chiropractor who helps keep our family in line.

    Wednesday – Thankful for the girls hard work as they finished up their Summer Reading Programs from the library.

    Thursday – Thankful for a family that pitches in to help when there is items that need to be done around the house and yard.

    Friday – Thankful for the girls having an opportunity to go to Roper Mountain Science Camp this week.  They learned a lot and had a terrific week!

    Saturday – Thankful for technology and the way we can stay connected with family, friends, and others even if there is a lot of miles in between.

    Sunday – Thankful for extra time with my family and a chance to relax, have fun, and make memories.

    What are you thankful for today?  I encourage you to take the time to write down a few blessings that you have in your life today.  It will help cheer you up and turn your focus on the amazing blessings you encounter each day.

  • What Does Your Fortune Cookie Say?

    Our fortunes!

    Recently we had Chinese food and the following were our fortunes from the meal:

    • Jake – “You will be traveling to distant lands for business purposes” (He travels a lot of places for work!)
    • Bridgette – “You will travel to many exotic places in the next few years.” (I LOVE to travel.  I have already been to many amazing places over the years and I cannot wait to see more of the world.  Plus, sometimes I get to travel with Jake when he goes on work trips.  Maybe our fortunes were suppose to be together, sounds like more fun for me though! 🙂  Already looking forward to these exotic places we are going to together!)
    • Brina – “You have a flair for adding fanciful dimension to any story.” (She is definitely the more fancy of the two kids!)
    • Karlie – “You will soon be involved in many gatherings and parties.”  (I am curious about what she’s going to be doing!)

    It was a fun evening of relaxing with the family, eating Chinese food, and laughing about silly fortunes.  We have so much to be thankful for in our lives.  We are richly blessed and take many things for granted every day.  Let’s treasure the time with have with our friends, families, and those around us.  It is not impossible to run into people that you know even if you are across the world.  Our lives leave an imprint of each person we interact with whether it is only once or many times!  Make each moment count for good!