Monday, August 9th, 2010
Status Update: Big C had the best day ever in Lake Michigan. It was amazing. I am a little sore from the hike up the dune and playing in the strong waves. Warren Dunes State Park ROCKS! Thanks Lane for coming with us.
Comments:
Lane-"Thanks for planning & letting us follow- it was a blast! Glad my chiropractic appt is tomorrow though! i thought my legs would be more sore but its my back- must be the carrying stroller/ baby on sand doesn't do much for the back!" Maddie needs surgery tomorrow? (Wed.) Probably shouldn't have been climbing the dunes- oops!
Laura: "I know that place is special to you..."
Status Update: today's date is 8-9-10. Next, date like that will be 9-10-11. Yes, this is what I do all day. Useless facts.
Comments:
Amanda likes this.
Lane: "I noticed that- my friend had her baby yesterday- cool birth date."
Comments:
Lane-"Thanks for planning & letting us follow- it was a blast! Glad my chiropractic appt is tomorrow though! i thought my legs would be more sore but its my back- must be the carrying stroller/ baby on sand doesn't do much for the back!" Maddie needs surgery tomorrow? (Wed.) Probably shouldn't have been climbing the dunes- oops!
Laura: "I know that place is special to you..."
Status Update: today's date is 8-9-10. Next, date like that will be 9-10-11. Yes, this is what I do all day. Useless facts.
Comments:
Amanda likes this.
Lane: "I noticed that- my friend had her baby yesterday- cool birth date."
LCA Carnival
Wednesday, August 4th, 2010
Status Update: Big C is looking forward to LCA FREE Family Fun Event this Sat. There is going to be a lot of things going on. Inflatables, dance performances, ATA Karate demostration, $100 of dollars worth of give aways, free balloons, and much, much, more. Come and join the fun.
Julie - likes this.
Status Update: Big C is looking forward to LCA FREE Family Fun Event this Sat. There is going to be a lot of things going on. Inflatables, dance performances, ATA Karate demostration, $100 of dollars worth of give aways, free balloons, and much, much, more. Come and join the fun.
Julie - likes this.
Game Night with the girls
August 2nd, 2010
Big C's Status Update from Facebook
... is still laughing from game night last night. My tummy hurts. I haven't laughed that hard in months.
Comments:
Cheryl: "Lisa kept making comments all day today. "where yo tennis balls at!""
Becky: "It was the best game night... :)"
Big C's Status Update from Facebook
... is still laughing from game night last night. My tummy hurts. I haven't laughed that hard in months.
Comments:
Cheryl: "Lisa kept making comments all day today. "where yo tennis balls at!""
Becky: "It was the best game night... :)"
August 2010
Things we did in August....
5th - Went blueberry picking with friends in Leslie. Picked approximately 8 pounds. Love to freeze them and then snack. Taste just like candy.
6th - We went to East Lansing Aquatic Center with Grandma S. and friends. Little went down the big slide for the first time. Little C had fun playing with AP.
7th - Big D completed many iron art pieces. Green Wall, Chimes, Positive/Negative, etc.
8th - We went to Warren Dunes State Park with friends. The waves were gargantuan and the lake was approximately 70 degrees.
11th - Kalamazoo County Fair : We went with Grandma Stone and Little AP (little C's friend). Little D rode a big girl ride for the first time. It was called the Fire Ball and it went high in the sky and spun around. I rode it with her about 10 times and then she rode it alone for a few more times. Such a brave girl.
14th - Thompson Harbor State Park: The family stayed at the Stone Path cabin out in the middle of no-where. It was so peaceful an serene. It was difficult to find but well worth it. Lake Huron in Thunderbay in Alpena was absolutely wonderful. We are definitely going to do this trip again. We enjoyed the view of Presque light house.
20th - Z celebrated his 15th birthday with a mountain of spaghetti, cookie dough ice cream cake, movie, and luncheon at a park in K-zoo.
21st - I celebrated at Monkey's (my cuz) house warming party. She sure knows how to throw a good party.
24th - The girls of the family got the their back to school hair cuts. Little D told the beautician exactly what she wanted. Wow... does this really start happening at 7 yrs old?
25th - We went to the kids school orientation
28th - Big D and I went on our 4th annual trip to Hartwick Pines State park for Black Iron Days. A vacation for just the two of us! Date weekend.
5th - Went blueberry picking with friends in Leslie. Picked approximately 8 pounds. Love to freeze them and then snack. Taste just like candy.
6th - We went to East Lansing Aquatic Center with Grandma S. and friends. Little went down the big slide for the first time. Little C had fun playing with AP.
7th - Big D completed many iron art pieces. Green Wall, Chimes, Positive/Negative, etc.
8th - We went to Warren Dunes State Park with friends. The waves were gargantuan and the lake was approximately 70 degrees.
11th - Kalamazoo County Fair : We went with Grandma Stone and Little AP (little C's friend). Little D rode a big girl ride for the first time. It was called the Fire Ball and it went high in the sky and spun around. I rode it with her about 10 times and then she rode it alone for a few more times. Such a brave girl.
14th - Thompson Harbor State Park: The family stayed at the Stone Path cabin out in the middle of no-where. It was so peaceful an serene. It was difficult to find but well worth it. Lake Huron in Thunderbay in Alpena was absolutely wonderful. We are definitely going to do this trip again. We enjoyed the view of Presque light house.
20th - Z celebrated his 15th birthday with a mountain of spaghetti, cookie dough ice cream cake, movie, and luncheon at a park in K-zoo.
21st - I celebrated at Monkey's (my cuz) house warming party. She sure knows how to throw a good party.
24th - The girls of the family got the their back to school hair cuts. Little D told the beautician exactly what she wanted. Wow... does this really start happening at 7 yrs old?
25th - We went to the kids school orientation
28th - Big D and I went on our 4th annual trip to Hartwick Pines State park for Black Iron Days. A vacation for just the two of us! Date weekend.
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Pop-Up Stores Create Value Downtown
A creative article by Big D
posted on August 17, 2010 09:00
posted on August 17, 2010 09:00
By Dace Koenigsknecht
Economic Restructuring Specialist
Michigan Main Street Center
Michigan State Housing Development Authority
There seems to be a renewed buzz over the past year regarding pop-up stores. The Great Recession has offered few positive, exciting things in the marketplace, but the media is awash in pop-up stories. They provide consumers and landlords with options that were not previously present, and they generate activity on the street and at the cash registers.
To read more click below.Pop-Up Stores Create Value Downtown
Downtown is Worth Saving, Because Downtown is VALUABLE
Another blog post by Dace via MSHDA.
posted on July 20, 2010 07:30
By Dace Koenigsknecht
Economic Restructuring Specialist
Michigan Main Street Center
Michigan State Housing Development Authority
I consulted my respected Random House dictionary the other night; the anchor of a book that came with the Windows 3.1-compatible CD that fostered a chuckle. In the age of Google, I like the massive weight of it, the starchy feel of the pages filled with words that have evolved through the centuries. My destination: value or valuable. I discovered the 18 definitions of value to be daunting for my exercise, but valuable was perfect for the task.
I found the following three definitions for the word valuable. Each one depicts a specific segment of why downtown matters – why downtown is worth saving – why downtown is VALUABLE.
1. “Having considerable monetary worth; costing or bringing a high price”
Real estate. Land. Terra firma. No matter the word, a plot of earth and its improvements are the largest single investment most people will ever make. It is a conservative investment, even in a challenging economy, which provides stable, long-term growth – a positive return-on-investment (ROI).
Click Here to : READ MORE.....
posted on July 20, 2010 07:30
By Dace Koenigsknecht
Economic Restructuring Specialist
Michigan Main Street Center
Michigan State Housing Development Authority
I consulted my respected Random House dictionary the other night; the anchor of a book that came with the Windows 3.1-compatible CD that fostered a chuckle. In the age of Google, I like the massive weight of it, the starchy feel of the pages filled with words that have evolved through the centuries. My destination: value or valuable. I discovered the 18 definitions of value to be daunting for my exercise, but valuable was perfect for the task.
I found the following three definitions for the word valuable. Each one depicts a specific segment of why downtown matters – why downtown is worth saving – why downtown is VALUABLE.
1. “Having considerable monetary worth; costing or bringing a high price”
Real estate. Land. Terra firma. No matter the word, a plot of earth and its improvements are the largest single investment most people will ever make. It is a conservative investment, even in a challenging economy, which provides stable, long-term growth – a positive return-on-investment (ROI).
Click Here to : READ MORE.....
5th Year Cancer Free Party
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Saturday, July 17th, 2010
My husband gave me a wonderful anniversary party for my 5th year of being cancer free. According to ustoday.com women who survive five years after being diagnosed with breast cancer have a good chance of remaining cancer-free, a new study shows.
In the most detailed study of its kind, the report shows that 89% of such patients remain disease-free 10 years after diagnosis, and 81% are cancer-free after 15 years.
By Liz Szabo, USA TODAY
Thank you for coming out and supporting me!
Thank you babe for being my rock and taking good care of all of us during our time of difficulty. We are moving on up.
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Article from the Scrapfest
CityPulse, June 30 - July 6, 2010 » Page 12
Fabrication was no vacation
Fussy neighbors, scorched tables: Welcome to Scrapfest
Some random bit of wisdom says to “do something every day that scares you.” For two weeks, I did that consistently as a member of a team competing in Old Town Scrapfest 2010. The event, a fund-raiser for the Old Town Commercial Association, is in its second year. Such Video owner David Such, who launched the project, found an apt sponsor in Friedland Industries, a metal salvage company located in Old Town.
The competition begins with teams scrounging around Friedland scrap yard for one hour to gather up to 500 pounds of scrap. They then have just under two weeks to fabricate sculptures, which are displayed and auctioned off at Old Town’s Festival of the Moon/Festival of the Sun.
For some reason this sounded like a great challenge for me in April, when OTCA put out its call for entrants. Being primarily
Fabrication was no vacation
Fussy neighbors, scorched tables: Welcome to Scrapfest
Some random bit of wisdom says to “do something every day that scares you.” For two weeks, I did that consistently as a member of a team competing in Old Town Scrapfest 2010. The event, a fund-raiser for the Old Town Commercial Association, is in its second year. Such Video owner David Such, who launched the project, found an apt sponsor in Friedland Industries, a metal salvage company located in Old Town.
The competition begins with teams scrounging around Friedland scrap yard for one hour to gather up to 500 pounds of scrap. They then have just under two weeks to fabricate sculptures, which are displayed and auctioned off at Old Town’s Festival of the Moon/Festival of the Sun.
For some reason this sounded like a great challenge for me in April, when OTCA put out its call for entrants. Being primarily
Leading Main Street
Check out my hubbys accomplishments at the National Main Street conference in Oklahoma City.
Email Share Print RSS Font: A / A+ / A++ .Leading Main Street
By Andrea L. Dono | From Main Street News | June 18, 2010 |
A unique aspect of the National Main Street Network is the opportunity for leadership at every level. This year, the National Trust Main Street Center was pleased to recognize the Michigan Main Street Center and the Washington State Main Street Coalition for their innovative contributions to the Main Street movement. They were acknowledged during a special ceremony at the 2010 National Trust Main Streets Conference in Oklahoma City last month
Read More on...Leading Main Street
Email Share Print RSS Font: A / A+ / A++ .Leading Main Street
By Andrea L. Dono | From Main Street News | June 18, 2010 |
A unique aspect of the National Main Street Network is the opportunity for leadership at every level. This year, the National Trust Main Street Center was pleased to recognize the Michigan Main Street Center and the Washington State Main Street Coalition for their innovative contributions to the Main Street movement. They were acknowledged during a special ceremony at the 2010 National Trust Main Streets Conference in Oklahoma City last month
Read More on...Leading Main Street
Annual Scrapfest draws local artists, volunteers to Old Town
Annual Scrapfest draws local artists, volunteers to Old Town
My husband is participating in the scrap festival for Old Town. Check out the video.
Annual Scrapfest draws local artists, volunteers to Old Town
By Cole Bertsos
(Last updated: 06/14/10 10:59am)
Abandoned kitchenware, discarded car parts and metal knick-knacks were collected by 16 teams of artists Saturday afternoon at Friedland Industries, Inc., 405 E. Maple St., in Lansing, to kick off the second annual Old Town Scrapfest.
Scrapfest is a competition focused on taking what many people would consider trash and recycling it into unique and innovative sculptures, said Brittney Hoszkiw, executive director of the Old Town Commercial Association, which is in charge of organizing the event.
The competition, which is a part of Old Town’s annual Festival of the Moon & Festival of the Sun, gives teams of artists two weeks to create a sculpture from the scrap yard material.
The sculptures will be judged and auctioned off to raise funds for public arts June 26 during the Festival of the Sun in the Old Town Historic District.
Hoszkiw said the event showcases a town — and a competition — like no other.
“The whole event is unique — it’s been described as ‘Junkyard Wars’ on steroids and I don’t think there’s anything like it in the United States. To have a (community) embrace the fact that we have a scrap yard in our neighborhood and (we) find creative and artistic and out-of-the-box ways to make that work for us,” Hoszkiw said.
Many of the artists, which include blacksmiths, painters and machinists, said they look forward to the event because it gives them a chance to see a unique artistic process.
“Creating these sculptures from scrap, I’m really intrigued to see what everyone comes up with,” artist Terri Pollack said. “It’s really cool.”
Scrapfest committee member and Old Town Lansing resident Shannon Rolley said her favorite part of Scrapfest is watching the transition from the junk yard to the finished product.
“I think it’s so interesting to see people, both when they’re picking up the materials (and) to see their vision and what they’re thinking about,” Rolley said. “Then a couple days later (seeing) it as a piece. That whole process is so intriguing to me.”
As this is the second year the event has been running, Rolley said although the competition has remained foundationally the same as its debut year, some scheduling changes were made.
“This year we’re giving people two weeks (where) last year we gave them one week, so there was no weekend involved,” Rolley said.
“We had artists request just a weekend (to work), not that they need much more time, just weekend days, so we gave them a little more time but still kept it close. It is a challenge — that’s part of the fun,” she said.
Along with the competition portion of Scrapfest, organizers and artists both said they enjoyed the positive environmental aspect that goes along with it.
“We’re taking something in our community that some people look at as trash and turning it into art, you know, something beautiful,” Rolley said. “It’s sustainable, it’s green and it’s great.”
Hoszkiw said along with operating on a different schedule, the competition is different this year because of the participants it attracted after a successful first run.
“I think we have a whole other caliber of artist this year,” Hoszkiw said. “Last year it was kind of a pilot year and this year we were able to engage professionals, blacksmiths, machinists and a whole new group of folks to our event … I’m looking forward to seeing what they can do with some scrap.”
My husband is participating in the scrap festival for Old Town. Check out the video.
Annual Scrapfest draws local artists, volunteers to Old Town
By Cole Bertsos
(Last updated: 06/14/10 10:59am)
Abandoned kitchenware, discarded car parts and metal knick-knacks were collected by 16 teams of artists Saturday afternoon at Friedland Industries, Inc., 405 E. Maple St., in Lansing, to kick off the second annual Old Town Scrapfest.
Scrapfest is a competition focused on taking what many people would consider trash and recycling it into unique and innovative sculptures, said Brittney Hoszkiw, executive director of the Old Town Commercial Association, which is in charge of organizing the event.
The competition, which is a part of Old Town’s annual Festival of the Moon & Festival of the Sun, gives teams of artists two weeks to create a sculpture from the scrap yard material.
The sculptures will be judged and auctioned off to raise funds for public arts June 26 during the Festival of the Sun in the Old Town Historic District.
Hoszkiw said the event showcases a town — and a competition — like no other.
“The whole event is unique — it’s been described as ‘Junkyard Wars’ on steroids and I don’t think there’s anything like it in the United States. To have a (community) embrace the fact that we have a scrap yard in our neighborhood and (we) find creative and artistic and out-of-the-box ways to make that work for us,” Hoszkiw said.
Many of the artists, which include blacksmiths, painters and machinists, said they look forward to the event because it gives them a chance to see a unique artistic process.
“Creating these sculptures from scrap, I’m really intrigued to see what everyone comes up with,” artist Terri Pollack said. “It’s really cool.”
Scrapfest committee member and Old Town Lansing resident Shannon Rolley said her favorite part of Scrapfest is watching the transition from the junk yard to the finished product.
“I think it’s so interesting to see people, both when they’re picking up the materials (and) to see their vision and what they’re thinking about,” Rolley said. “Then a couple days later (seeing) it as a piece. That whole process is so intriguing to me.”
As this is the second year the event has been running, Rolley said although the competition has remained foundationally the same as its debut year, some scheduling changes were made.
“This year we’re giving people two weeks (where) last year we gave them one week, so there was no weekend involved,” Rolley said.
“We had artists request just a weekend (to work), not that they need much more time, just weekend days, so we gave them a little more time but still kept it close. It is a challenge — that’s part of the fun,” she said.
Along with the competition portion of Scrapfest, organizers and artists both said they enjoyed the positive environmental aspect that goes along with it.
“We’re taking something in our community that some people look at as trash and turning it into art, you know, something beautiful,” Rolley said. “It’s sustainable, it’s green and it’s great.”
Hoszkiw said along with operating on a different schedule, the competition is different this year because of the participants it attracted after a successful first run.
“I think we have a whole other caliber of artist this year,” Hoszkiw said. “Last year it was kind of a pilot year and this year we were able to engage professionals, blacksmiths, machinists and a whole new group of folks to our event … I’m looking forward to seeing what they can do with some scrap.”
Main Street Goes Pink
Main Street Goes Pink
This is such a beautiful article that you wrote about our journey. I am in tears. I am happy to report that my doctors confirmed today that I can disconitue my breast cancer medicine effect September. The risk of reoccurance is slim to none after 5 years cancer free. I look forward to celebrating our cancer free 5th anniversary in Howell. It sounds amazing.
This is such a beautiful article that you wrote about our journey. I am in tears. I am happy to report that my doctors confirmed today that I can disconitue my breast cancer medicine effect September. The risk of reoccurance is slim to none after 5 years cancer free. I look forward to celebrating our cancer free 5th anniversary in Howell. It sounds amazing.
January - What Happened in History
1 Paul Revere was born (1735)
1 Emma M. Nutt become sthe first woman telephone operator. (1878)
1 The ball was first dropped at Times Square in New York City. (1908)
3 Construction began on the Brooklyn Bridge (1870)
6 Samuel Morse demonstrates the telegraph (1838)
7 Astronomer Galileo Galilei discovers four of Jupiters moons. (1610)
9 The United Nations opens it's headquarters in New York City.
10 The world's first underground passenger railway system opens in London, England (1863)
11 American League baseball adopts the "Designated Hitter" rule (1973)
12 Batman debuts on television (1966)
14 The United States of America ratifies a treaty with England ending the Revolutionary war. (1784)
14 The Miami Dolphins defeat the Washington Redskins in Superbowl VII , and become the first undefeated team in NFL history. (1973)
14 The Simpsons debut on television. Will Tv ever be the same again!?! (1990)
15 The Pentagon opens (1943)
15 Happy Days premieres on television (1974)
16 Operation Desert Storm begins to oust Saddam Hussein's' Iraqi forces from Kuwait. (1991)
17 The U.S. Supreme court rules that taping on home VCRs does not violate copyright laws. (1984)
20 The Beatles release "Meet the the Beatles", their first album to the U.S., sparking a new "English invasion". (1964)
20 At 69 years, 349 days old, Ronald Reagan becomes the oldest person to become U.S. president. (1981)
21 Edward Jenner introduces the smallpox vaccine, which eventually leads to wiping out this deadly disease.(1799)
21 The first Kiwanis club is formed in Detroit. (1915)
21 Science fiction writer George Orwell dies. (1950)
22 A historic Supreme Court decision in Roe vs. Wade legalizes abortion. (1973)
23 The deadliest earthquake in history strikes Shansi, China, killing 830,000 people. (1556)
24 Beer was first sold in cans . See Beer Can Appreciation Day (1935)
24 WWII Yalta agreement signed by the U.S., England, and Russia. The agreement defined how Germany would be divided and administered after the war's end.(1945)
25 The first Winter Olympic games begin in Chamonix, France. (1924)
25 The first Emmy awards were given out. (1949)
26 The Dental Drill was patented. (1875)
27 The Russians liberate Auschwitz in WWII (1945)
27 Tragedy strikes the Apollo space program as a fire in the command module kills astronauts Lt. Col. Virgil “Gus” Grissom, Lt. Col. Edward H. White, and Lt. Cdr. Roger Chafee . (1967)
28 U.S. space shuttle Challenger explodes 72 seconds after liftoff, killing the seven crew members. Among the crew was school teacher Christa McAuliffe. (1986)
29 Baseball's American League is founded (1900)
30 Tet New Year offensive launched by Viet Cong guerillas in Vietnam. (1968)
31 Confederates appoint Robert E. Lee their Commander in Chief.
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New Years 2010
Thursday, December 31st, 2009
New years Eve
My hubby and I went out with some friends for New Year's Eve for the first time in years. We enjoyed a mouth watering dinner at Ukai Japanese Steakhouse. For dinner I order the Samurai Special which included a
Shrimp Appetizer, Soup, Salad, Vegetable, Steamed Rice, and Ice Cream. Our meals were prepared at our table by Expert Hibachi Chefs. After dinner we headed to Royal Scott to do some cosmic bowling. We played
a couple games of pool and bowled a few frames before the clock struck midnight. As we watched the ball drop on the tv we notice Royal Scott's count down was a few seconds ahead so Big D and I got to kiss twice!
Once for the real count down and once for Royal Scotts count down.
Christmas 2009
Saturday, December 12th and 17th, 2009
Decorations
We decorated our Christmas Tree with our ornaments. The girls really enjoy opening up their ornaments every year. I think it feels like a precursor to opening up their Christmas presents on Christmas Day.
Thursday, December 17th, 2009
School Christmas Parties
Little C had her Christmas party started before little D's party. I coordinated a collection of money from parents to buy a gift certificate to the teacher store as a gift to Mrs. Bellore and Mrs. Judi. Little C made special card for all the kids in her class. Her classmate Carlos didn't like his because it had pink in it. :( The teachers let the kids make candy jars to give as presents. Mrs. Judi made a beautiful bracelet for little C and Mrs. Bellmore got her a book.
Little D's school Christmas party
I also collected money from parents from little D's class in order to purchase a gift certificate to the teachers store for her teacher Mrs. R. Little D's party started shortly after little C's party so I missed most of her party. The teacher gave all the children in the class huge erasers that looks like a long piece of hard candy as a gift. She said she gave them this because they have an eraser eater in the classroom. YUCK! It's true most of the pencil have erasers missing. I make sure to tell Little D to only use the pencil that mom wrote her name on.
Saturday, December 19th, 2009
Crosslan Christmas
We had our annual white elephant Christmas party with the Crosslan's today. Unfortunately, little D got sick just before we left. Little D and daddy had to stay home the next day. We were very sad that they couldn't join us in caroling.
Sunday, December 20th, 2009
Christmas Caroling
Some friends of ours and their families went Christmas Caroling at a retirement home in East Lansing today. Kellie organized a production of Jesus birth. The kids dressed up in costumes that included the three wise men, Shepard's, sheep, angel, Joseph, Mary,and baby Jesus. The kids did an awesome job acting out their roles while Mark read the story. It was so cute I wanted to cry. After the performance all of us joined in singing carols and then walked around wishes everyone a Merry Christmas. I am so blessed to have such wonderful and thoughtful friends.
Monday, December 21st, 2009
Santa
The kids and I went with the Wallis kids to see Santa at the mall today. Z of coarse was too cool to see Santa so he got a hair cut instead. I didn't get my monies worth either because he only let them take a tiny bit off. The hair is still in his eyes! I like his long hair but I want to see his beautiful blue eyes. The kids wasted no time jumping in Santa's lap. I decided to sit in Santa's lap this year too. I had one of the ladies take a picture of me and Santa. I could not believe what I saw in this picture. I think Santa was checking me out. I don't think I will be doing that again anytime soon. One of my friends made a comment on my facebook page "I don't think that was a candy cane in his pocket". Blah. After telling Santa our Christmas wishes we walked down to the big Christmas Tree in the mall for a photo opt.
Thursday, December 24th, 2009
Christmas Eve
We spent Christmas Eve day at Grandma and Grandpa K13's eating a wonderful dinner and opening Christmas presents. As tradition would have it at the end of our time with the k13's we drove around town looking at all the Christmas decorations, Christmas lights and returned home to put out the cookies, milk, and reindeer food. Tuck the sweet children into bed and frantically finished wrapping the presents for morn. Our dear neighbors had a Christmas Eve party going on topped with teenagers standing on our porch screeching. Needless to say, I marched across the porch to inform them (in a very nice tone) that my children are trying to sleep so Santa can come. Luckily, they obliged.
Friday, December 25Th, 2009
Christmas Day
Little C woke up Christmas morning feeling sick. It was unusual to see a little one look so un-enthused to open presents. Luckily, she still had a good time opening them even though she had a bowl at her side. My precious and daddy stayed home Christmas day while I took little D and Z to Grandma S and Papa's. Christmas day was filled with a lot of emotions. Me, my mom, and my brother shed tears today for the loss of my dear sister in-law back in March. The first Christmas without her felt strange. I got my mother and brother special ornaments. My moms ornaments read:
I see the countless Christmas trees
Around the world below,
With tiny lights like heaven's stars
Reflecting in the snow.
The sight is so spectacular
please wipe away that tear
for I am spending CHRISTMAS
WITH JESUS CHRIST this year.
I hear the many Christmas songs
that people hold so dear
but the sound of music can't compare
with the CHRISTMAS CHOIR up here.
I have no words to tell you
of the JOY their voices bring
for it is beyond description
to HEAR THE ANGELS SING.
I know how much you miss me,
I see the pain inside your heart
for I am spending CHRISTMAS
WITH JESUS CHRIST this year.
I can't tell you of the SPLENDOR
or the PEACE here in this place
Can you just imagine CHRISTMAS
WITH OUR SAVIOR face to face
I'll ask him to lift your spirit
as I tell him of your love
so then PRAY FOR ONE ANOTHER
as you lift your eyes above.
Please let your hearts be joyful
and let your spirit sing
for I am spending CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN
and I’m walking WITH THE KING.
All we could do is hold each other and weep then within seconds later feel happy while watching the children run around with laughter and joy. I will hold that moment in time close to my heart. The time I was able to grieve Beth huddled in a corner alone with my brother and my mother at last. I don't think they realize how much I needed to do that with them.
Friday, December 25th, 2009
Bronson Park/Christmas Card Lane
After enjoying time with my mom, papa, brother, niece, and nephews we went to my dad's house to spend the night. I make a point to go to Bronson Park and Christmas Card Lane every Christmas season. It reminds me of home as a child. The kids love walking through candy cane lane. The park is finally starting to look like it did when I was a kid. Most of the tornado damage has been replaced. The next day grandpa F and Grandma Jo treated us to a movie. The girls saw "Princess and the Frog" while the boys saw "Sherlock Holmes".
THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG summary
Walt Disney Animation Studios presents the musical THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG, an animated comedy set in the great city of New Orleans. From the creators of "The Little Mermaid" and "Aladdin" comes a modern twist on a classic tale, featuring a beautiful girl named Tiana (ANIKA NONI ROSE), a frog prince who desperately wants to be human again, and a fateful kiss that leads them both on a hilarious adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana.
THE PRINCESS AND THE FROG marks the return to hand-drawn animation from the revered team of John Musker and Ron Clements, with music by Oscar®-winning composer Randy Newman.
Sherlock Holmes Summary
After finally catching serial killer and occult "sorcerer" Lord Blackwood, legendary sleuth Sherlock Holmes and his assistant Dr. Watson can close yet another successful case. But when Blackwood mysteriously returns from the grave and resumes his killing spree, Holmes must take up the hunt once again. Contending with his partner's new fiancée and the dimwitted head of Scotland Yard, the dauntless detective must unravel the clues that will lead him into a twisted web of murder, deceit, and black magic - and the deadly embrace of temptress Irene Adler. Written by The Massie Twins
Moon Walk
Friday, December 18th, 2009
Moonwalk Field Trip
Little D's Daisy Girl Scout troup went on a field trip to Moonwalk a new inflatable bounce house in the mall today.
I wouldn't suggest that anyone waste their money at this facility. The management is horrible and they have very little to offer for entertainment. My choice will always be Jumpin Jaxs! I love that place.
In Rememberance
Beth you are always remember, loved, and missed. I will never forget this week!
Monday, March 23rd, 2009 Kalamazoo Gazette
Franklin, Mrs. Beth Ann
of Holland formerly of Kalamazoo passed away Sunday morning, March 22nd, 2009 in Holland, MI. Beth was born in Kalamazoo, MI. February 3rd, 1973, the daughter of Tommie and Dorothy Ann (lles) Sharp. She was a beautiful and devoted daughter, wife, mother, sister, and friend. She enjoyed spending time with her children, watching them grow and play together. On June 2nd, 2000, she married Jeremy Tyler Franklin, who survives. Together they gave birth to three wonderful children, Jeremiah Thaddeus Franklin who is 7, Michell Aaron Franklin who is 5, and Samantha Faye-Ann Franklin who is 3. She is also survived by four brothers John, Robert, Paul and Joe Sharp. Beth was preceded in death by her father. A funeral service in her memory will be held at the funeral home at 11 o'clock Tuesday, March 24th, 2009, with
a visitation beginning 1 hour prior. Interment at Riverside cemetery. Beth will be missed by all who new her, and is sent to heaven with a million kisses by Sam I am. Contributions in her memory may be made toward the childrens college fund.
Joldersma & Klein
917 S. Burdick
269-343-2628
Songs played at the funeral were "Be E Glad", "Baby, I'm Amazed by You" Lone Star and "The Best of Times" Stix. The gravesite service was at Riverside Cemetery on Gull Rd. , Kalamazoo, MI. Luncheon after the funeral was at the (V.F.W) Veterans of Foreign Wars 8845 S Sprinkle Rd, Portage, MI.
The funeral was officiated gracefully by Chaplain David Blauw. Blauw is the Chaplain at Holland Hospital and was with our family during the entire journey. He did a fantastic job officiating the service. He said many things that hit home for me. The kids did a Great job during the service. Sam wanted to dance with her cousin Zach, Jeremiah sat on Papa John's lap, and Mitchell sat on the couch between Zach and Grandma Stone. Beth's brother Joe gave an outstanding Eulogy. After Joe's eulogy the chaplain opened the floor for anyone whom wanted to speak. Many friends and family stood and professed their love to Beth. I felt an urge to stand and talk about Beth's free spirit and one of her favorite memories of having a flour fight while making Christmas Cookies with Zach and I at my home in Jenison, MI a few years ago. After the funeral we followed Beth and family to the gravesite. I held Samantha during the gravesite service and she repeated to me how she wanted her mommy really, really, really bad. It broke my heart to hear. We celebrated Beth with family and friends with a luncheon at the VFW hall. I printed out pictures of Beth for family and friends to take. It felt good to have family around after such a hard week and funeral. The picture attached is the sister bouquet from the funeral
Beth I promise to be there for Jeremy and the kids.
Beth Update
It was a long hard journey but the suffering ended Sunday. Beth is now celebrating in heaven with all mighty God.
Obituary
Beth Ann Franklin born Feb. 3rd, 1973 Kalamazoo, MI passed Sunday, March 22nd, 2009 in Holland, MI.
She was a beautiful young woman,wife, mother, sister, and friend she is survived by her husband Jeremy Franklin and three children Jeremiah Franklin 7 years old, Mitchell Franklin 5 years old, Samantha Franklin 3 years old, her mother Dorothy Ann Sharp, and her four brothers John, Robert, Paul, and Joe. She has been sent to heaven with a million kisses by Sam I Am.
Viewing: Tuesday, March 24th, 2009 at 10:00am
Funeral: Proceeding viewing at
Joldersma & Klein Funeral Home Inc
917 S Burdick St
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
(269) 343-2628
Cemetery
Riverside Cemetery
1015 Gull Road
Kalamazoo, MI
Thursday, March 19th, 2009
I sit here tonight looking through years of pictures trying to pick out special photos of Beth for her funeral and she lies in the hospital struggling to die. Her body so young but her brain so damaged. I can't believe it is true. How does this happen to a beautiful young women, mother, friend, daughter, sister, and wife? Why does god want her now? It has been approximately 2 days and 7 hours since Beth was removed from life support. The doctors stopped giving her food and water and say they are keeping her comfortable while she passes.
Tuesday, was one of the hardest days of my life. I had to watch my niece and nephews say goodbye to their mom. My baby niece (Samantha) just wanted to lie on her and give her hugs and kisses. She missed her so much over the last few days and has told me over and over that she just wants to go to the hospital and give her mom a "million kisses". At three years old she doesn't understand what is happening. My 5 year old nephew (Mitchell) has a hundred questions. He wants to know what the monitors are for, what the red spot is on the sheets, and what the feeding tubes are... etc. My brother did an excellent job on keeping his explanations of things simple such as: the monitor is just a computer and NOT a device to check her heart rate and blood pressure.... or....The red spot on the sheets is spilled medicine and NOT blood from mommy's IV. Mitchell didn't want to leave the hospital and did a lot of crying. My seven year old nephew (Jeremiah) pretended nothing was happening to mommy. He was afraid to go into the room. He would only peek in on her. He wanted to leave the hospital as soon as he got there. He wanted to go get ice cream or basically do anything that had nothing to do with seeing mommy unconscious in her hospital bed. Jeremiah was getting really anxious so I thought it would be best to get him moving. We decided to go elevator hopping. We went from hospital floor to hospital floor being spies and detectives. It seems crazy to run around the hospital having fun while Beth is suffering but it isn't and wasn't. I am so happy that I could be there to help my niece and nephews process all this stuff the best way they knew how. I am glad I could be there to help Jeremiah play spies, to help Sammy pick out a flower to put on mommy's tummy, to support my brother while he explains all of Mitchell's questions. I think Jeremiah explained our emotions best when he said, "I am sad on the inside but happy on the outside".
My brother feels like part of him has died. He doesn't know if he can ever love again. He is scared, confused, and overwhelmed and wants to be at Beth's bedside but also wants to be with the children to help them grieve. He aches for both his wife and his children. Both him and I never EVER thought the day would EVER come that we would pray for her to go to the lord. We want the suffering to end. Everyone is exhausted. I am exhausted so I can't imagine how my brother feels. My heart aches to hear him beg God to take her. It hurts to hear Beth struggle to breath. Why? Does he have something big in heaven for her to do?
Beth we love you dearly. You are so gently and so kind. I regret the day you leave us! March will never be the same again.
There are things that we don't want to happen but have to accept, things we don't want to know but have to learn, and people we can't live without but have to let go.
~Author Unknown
Saturday, March 14th, 2009
Some of you know that my maiden name is Franklin. The Franklin family is in crisis mode right now. I wanted to let you know that I will be out of town for a week or more. My brothers wife (Beth) had an asthma attack on Thursday March 12th at 1:00am and then went into cardiac arrest. She was without oxygen for many minutes. My brother gave her CPR until the paramedics arrived. Currently, she is in the hospital fighting for her life.
Information from different websites: When a patients blood circulation prevents delivery of oxygen to any parts of the body. Cerebral hypoxia, or lack of oxygen supply to the brain, causes victims to lose consciousness and to stop normal breathing, although agonal breathing may still occur. Brain injury is likely if cardiac arrest is untreated for more than 5 minutes.
Beth has been unconscious for almost 48 hours. At first the doctors didn't have much hope that she would survive and if she did she would have severe brain damage. On a positive note she made some improvements today. Her lungs now have about 97% oxygen and she can breath on her own but it takes too much energy so the doctors have her sedated so she can rest. Docs also stated she was able to respond to movement in her lower extremities. We wont know much until she wakes up. Once she wakes up the doctors will administer tests. My brother has been at the hospital the entire time holding her, kissing her, and telling her how much he loves her. I think he is only getting 15 minutes of sleep at a time. Beth is a stay at home mother of three young children. They have a boy (7 years old), another boy (5 years old), and a girl (3 years old). My brother typically works 50-60 hours a week to support them. His boss told him not to worry about the job right now. I am trying to help my brother the best I can. I am staying with the kids at his house in order to provide some stability. Both families are offering wonderful support to me and my brother's family. I wish I could be at the hospital with my brother but at this time I feel God wants me with the kids and helping with the house.
Prayer Request:
- Pray for my brothers wife(Beth) that soon she will know Gods calling. We need her here and are hopeful this is gods will that she stay with us. If not pray for the loving lord to embrace her fully.
- Pray that the family remains patience and listens to what the lord would like us to do.
-Pray that the Franklin Family can remain supportive and healthy during this crisis.
-Pray that my brother will keep GOD close to his heart and NOT push him away or be angry with him.
- Pray that the children will feel at ease even though they are away from mom and dad right now.
- Pray that god will give our family the proper words and patients.
- Pray that God looks over these children and keeps them safe.
I am asking for no calls unless it is an emergency. I have many family members calling me at this time and I am struggling trying to keep them all informed. I will do my best to send updates on Beth's status via email, facebook, and my blog. Feel free to leave a message on those forms of media at anytime.
Beth is at :
Holland Hospital
602 Michigan Ave.
Holland MI 49423
616) 392-5141
info@hollandhospital.org
Big C
The Champagne Effect
The Champagne Effect
posted on March 02, 2010 10:33
By Dace Koenigsknecht
Economic Restructuring Specialist
Michigan Main Street Center
Michigan State Housing Development Authority
I’m an avid reader, a dozen books in this New Year, currently anything from self-improvement to historical fiction. The Big Moo by The Group of 33, edited by Seth Godin, was a quick and inspirational read; a collection of short essays revolving around change and making you/your business remarkable. One sentence from one essay from this one book helped me define the answer to the question most asked of we Michigan staff: how do you get resistors on-board with Main Street? In short, you don’t. The decision is up to them. It all comes down to a bottle of champagne.Click here to read more
another wonderful article from my husband
Girl Scout Daisy Troup
Thursday, December 17th, 2009Little D earned the following girl scout badges and pins today.
- OFFICAL GIRL SCOUT MEMBERSHIP STAR: Each membership star represents one year of registration as a Girl Scout.
- DAISY GIRL SCOUT MEMBERSHIP PIN: This pin, worn only by Daisy Girl Scouts, shows that a girl is a member of Girl Scouts at the Daisy Girl Scout age-level.
- Camping Badge: for attending camp last summer.
Little D's Daisy troup sold over 1900 boxes of cookies this season!
Currently little D has earned the following patches/pedals
- Light Blue: Honest and Fair
- Yellow: Friendly and Helpful
- Red: Courageous and Strong
- Orange: Responsible for what I say and do
- Purple: Respect Myselft and Others
- Green: Use Resources Wisely
Best Garlic Bread in Town
Monday, December 14th, 2009
Don't laugh and don't call the fire department! ... caught the garlic bread on fire today. The bread , the bread, the bread is on fire. We don't need to no water let it
burn, let it burn. If you are a 80's fan you know the real lyrics of that song.
Spider Man lives in the North Pole
Sunday, December 13th, 2009
Today's Little C-isms: Dad and little C were talking about spiderman. Dad: "Where does Spiderman live?" Little C : "the north pole".
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Comment:
Mark: That could be the plot of the next Spiderman movie - the Abominable Spidey
Palm Tree in the Winter
Thursday, December 10th, 2009
Big C: "that's it...
I am turning my heat up to 80 degrees and then I am going to pretend that the Christmas tree is a palm tree." Too Freakin COLD
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Friends that Like this: Shelli, Kim, Becky
Comments
Julie: Good idea!!
Little C-ism
Thursday, December 10th, 2009
Little C: "Mommy how did you make me? Did you take vitamins to make me?" Mom: "hmmmm.. something like that little C"
Little C Bunjabread Man House
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Thursday, December 10th, 2009
Little C 's teachers had a creative holiday preschool project for the kids today. They made gingerbread man houses. Lots of yummy toppings for the houses such as red lip smacking licorice, my favorite M&M's, marshmallows, candy canes, gum drops, and sprinkles. The students used cardboard milk cartons, frosting,and graham crackers. They placed the milk carton on a foam plate and then frosted one side of the graham cracker and stuck them to the carton. After all the walls and roof were in place they frosted the entire house and added the candy. It was so hard for little C to keep from licking the frosting off of her fingers. Many of the students put tons of gum drops onto the plate for trees including little C. After we brought the house home little C reminds me "Mom, don't eat my bunja bread house".
http://www.kidsturncentral.com/holidays/christmas/gbhouse.htm
Little D Dance Performance
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Wednesday, December 9th, 2009 We attended Little D's holiday dance performance tonight at Hill. I am extremely thrilled that my daughter's school has a great program for visual and performing arts however, I was a little disappointed with this years holiday performance. The light and sound crew didn't do a very good job. I believe the crew consists of students this year and I am not sure if students have done it in the past or not. Little D did a great job with her dance and song to Miley Cyrus' "The Climb". She wore a blue shirt with a very sparkly head band. Grandpa and Grandma K were able to join us for her performance this time. Z was kind of there, at least his body was anyway. Big C
Little C-isms
Monday, December 7th, 2009
According to little C if you get hurt you can "fix your body up with tape".
Friends that liked this journal: Marlowe , Jan, Kim
Little C-isms
Saturday , December 5th, 2009
Little C what do you want for Christmas? "A lion" and she meant a real lion = Mom going to the store to look for a big stuffed lion pillow.
Comments:
Brett: I think I saw a booth in the Merdian Mall that was selling pillows that looked like animals last weekend.
Juli: I think Kohl's had some in the Black Friday ad too ....
Little C ended up getting webkinz Lion, puppet lion, and big stuff lion for Christmas. Ask and you shall recieve. Thank you everyone.
Big C
Trinity's Christmas Journey
Saturday, December 5th, 2009
We went to Trinity's Christmas Journey tonight to experience Jesus' life story. Our guided tour for the journey was a MOPS (Mother of Preschoolers) friend of mine. She did a great job narrating. The tour started in the church with a short drama of creation, Adam and eve, and sacrificial ceremony. During our brisk cold walk through the woods we heard about Isaiah's prophecy of the Eternal Father, Virgin Mary, Joseph and Mary's journey to Jerusalem, Jesus' birth, Jesus' death, and Jesus' resurrection. With the smell of bon fires in the air we heard the significance of the candy cane, star on the Christmas tree, and Christmas bells. After our walk we went to the teen center inside the church for cookies, hot chocolate, and crafts (the kids made Christmas ornaments). Our hostess Deborah asked the kids what their favorite part of the Journey was and they both said baby Jesus. She also recommended that we dip our candy cane in our hot chocolate. Yum.
My look alike - Ali Larter
Saturday, December 5th, 2009
It's Doppelgänger week.. during this week please change your profile picture to someone famous (actor ,musician, athelete) you have been told you look like ...
According to Laura , My look alike is Ali Larter from the movie"Driving me Crazy". What do you think?
Here are the results from My FB page:
Laura: You could be a stunt double for her. Or an exact replica! Just put on your dark lipstick:
Shelli: Yes, you look alike :)
Kristie: You do look like her, Christie. you look like her twin, but you were cuter.
Laura: I couldn't tell you two apart when I saw this pic on my friends list... But it looked familiar! You guys are twins!!
Big C
Breakfast with Santa
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Saturday, December 5th, 2009
We went to little D's school to eat breakfast with Santa. We were served french toast sticks and milk. There were many activites for the kids to do such as face painting (little D got a butterfly), coloring, free books, and a free healthy snack bag. The girls spent some time with Santa and then enjoyed the activities. While scrapbooking this event some friends and I shared a joke about nappy Santa. Don't ask.
Big C
MABA Christmas Party
Saturday, December 5th, 2009
Today big D and I went to the MABA ( Michigan Artist Blacksmith Association)Christmas Party in Lansing. They have the BEST potluck dinners in town! We didn't have time to stay for the auction this year and it looked like they had some good things to auction off. We always enjoy our visit with our blacksmithing friends.
Little C-isms
Thursday, December 3rd, 2009
Little C - "Mommy, do you like boys without shirts on ? because I don't".. Mom: "It depends on who it is little C".
MOPS White Elephant
Tuesday, December 1st, 2009
MOPS Christmas Party
I had a hilarious night at my mom's group (MOPS) Christmas Party. We did a white elephant exchange. There was just plain crazy stuff exchanged. I ended up taking home some diet Pepsi which was perfect for me. Unfortunately, most of us left the lovely gifts at Lori's house hidden behind couches, etc. I don't think she was very happy about that but with a smile she said she would save it for next years party. It was very generous of Lori to open her house for us ladies. Her house was filled with laughter and she provided a warm ambiance. Of coarse we had the best food ever. The MOPS ladies know how to do it right.
Big C
MOPS Steering Team Member
Welcome December 2009
Today in History:
1824
The presidential election between John Q. Adams, Andrew Jackson, William Crawford, and Henry Clay was turned over to the House of Representatives due to the lack of an electoral-vote majority.
1887
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes appeared for the first time in print in the story "A Study in Scarlet."
1955
Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her front-section bus seat to a white man in Montgomery, Ala.
1959
Twelve nations, including the United States, signed a treaty setting aside Antarctica as a scientific preserve free from military activity.
1997
Representatives from more than 150 countries gathered at a global warming summit in Kyoto, Japan, and over the course of ten days forged an agreement to control the emission of greenhouse gases. President Bush pulled the U.S. out of the Kyoto Protocol in 2001.
1998
Exxon and Mobil agreed to merge, creating the world's largest corporation.
1791
The Bill of Rights took effect with Virginia's ratification of it.
1890
Sioux Indian chief Sitting Bull was killed by Native American police.
1916
The French defeated the Germans in the Battle of Verdun.
1939
The movie Gone With the Wind premiered in Atlanta, Georgia.
1944
Band leader Glenn Miller disappeared in a plane crash over the English Channel.
1961
Adolf Eichmann was sentenced to death by an Israeli court for organizing the deportation of Jews to concentration camps.
1964
Canada adopted its national flag, a red maple leaf on a white background.
1966
Animated-cartoon pioneer and movie producer Walt Disney died in Los Angeles.
1989
A demonstration that turned into a popular uprising in Romania began the downfall of Nicolae Ceausescu.
1170
Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, was murdered by four knights acting under the orders of Henry II.
1845
Texas became the 28th state in the United States.
1851
The first Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA) opened in Boston.
1890
The last major battle of the Indian Wars, at Wounded Knee Creek, took place with hundreds of Indian men, women, and children massacred.
1937
The Constitution of Ireland, changing the Irish Free State into Eire, went into effect.
1940
During World War II, Germany began dropping incendiary bombs on London.
1989
Vaclav Havel was elected president of Czechoslovakia.
1996
A peace agreement was signed, ending 36 years of conflict in Guatemala.
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