Cire's birthday

Until then . . .

While all sorts of fun and amazing things are happening at home, in my life and at school, one thing that's not happening right now is time . . . because of that, I'm choosing to suspend writing this blog "until then" . . . whenever "then" may be - it may be a month or two or maybe forever . . . but when the time is right, I'll be back!  Hugs to all!  Margo

Blood Donor Day!

 

LOL!  We took two cars to give blood today because Micah was pretty sure she wouldn't be able to give.  She was called in before me, but my person was quicker!  I knew my iron level before she did.  In fact, I was giving before she even got the results!

Her guy had absolutely no need for speed and he definitely did not RACE to take her blood.  I gave and was ready for snacks before she even got her initial poke.   But we were both able to give and had another good time sharing our blood! 

And, yes, I waited for her to finish, sharing stories with the ladies at the check-in and snack bar . . .

What's that hair . . .

The stories you can't make up are always the best!  From the mouth of one of Sam's fifth graders yesterday re: his mustache:

"Mr. Zupke, I want hair on my lip like you.  How did you get it?"

"Puberty and you'll get it."

 

Thankful Thursday!

I ran out of time yesterday before I could post "Thankful Thursday", and now that it's Friday - I honestly don't remember what I was going to post yesterday - which tells you the sad statement of my mind!  So we'll ad lib, and I'll just tell you the things I'm thankful for today:

• I will always be thankful that the rain held off and we had outdoor recess!
• Micah brought home four containers of lasagna last night and four containers of potatoes, two with onion and two with cheese!
• We're having lasagna for supper - and I didn't have to make it!
• Our next-door neighbors are having lasagna - thank you, Micah!
• And Jen, from work - her family is having lasagna, too!  Two of her boys, who she describes as "picky eaters", promised me today that they would try it!
• I completed my WSI training today - an entire week before it expired!  And it's good for two more years!
  
• The pool reopens on Monday and I'm already signed up to swim! 

Not to mention - it's Friday!  So much to be thankful for!

School Began!

The first day of school was yesterday!  My school, Oak Hills Elementary, houses the Districts' Ignite program - but does not provide busing for the Ignite students, so the first week or two of school, drop off is a virtual NIGHTMARE!

Since I now start at 8:45 a.m., I am always going to need to arrive in the midst of drop off traffic.  I decided yesterday that I did NOT want to be in line for a minimum of half an hour (seriously, drop off started at 8:35 a.m. yesterday and ended at 9:15 a.m.) so . . .

I rode my bike to work!  What a hoot!  It's the first time I've biked to work since the 1980's!  It was great!  I passed students walking, I waved to teachers, I saw former students!  My favorite, though, was the kinder who said to me, "My mom used to ride a bike, too, when she was younger."  

The Benefits of St. Paul College

You may or may not know this - Micah is pursuing her baking certificate at St. Paul College this year.  Her classes are from 2-8:55 p.m. Monday - Thursday.  We didn't realize the benefits of her baking certificate included carrot soup, minestrone soup, tomato soup, lentil salad, American potato salad, German potato salad and Caesar salad - and that was just this week!  We are so looking forward to lasagna next week and whatever else the future holds!!!

Stay tuned for further updates in deliciousness . . . 

NLFS September eNewsletter

We are a New Life Family.  We last saw Tammy, NLFS Executive Director, at the Women's Night Out Event in August when she came up to Micah's table and said, "Did you bring any gluten-free items this year?" to which Micah had to respond sadly with a "no".  Of course, Tammy then asked Micah to "please, please, please bring gluten-free baked goods next year."  This newsletter just broke my heart because this is an organization that has done so much good for our family . . .

Dear Friends,  I want to be transparent with you today and tell you that my heart is heavy. It has been  a challenging summer for pregnancy centers like New Life. On June 24th, when the  U.S. Supreme Court decision was announced, the celebration felt short-lived as we knew there was much work to be done as our services would be needed now more than ever…and pregnancy centers became a target for attacks.   While there is so much to be grateful for, I want to give you a picture of the current  climate in which we serve and live. You may have heard some rumblings about #JanesRevenge – a pro-abortion group threatening and attacking pro-life organizations because of the overturning of Roe v. Wade. They have firebombed and vandalized centers. And while so far, we have not been the target of the most extreme circumstances, we have not avoided it all.  These posters were posted all over the            Phillips community near our new building  We have had consistent sidewalk chalk outside our University office saying similar things We have had inflammatory and disparaging articles       —-written about us  Most recently, our own Minnesota Attorney General      —- issued a consumer warning against pregnancy centers I often think (naively), “If they could only see what we really do, surely they would  change their minds about us.” And then I remember Jesus. He (unlike us) led a perfect, sinless life and yet was betrayed, beaten, and crucified. However, that is not the end of  the story, and these attacks are not the end of our story either.   As discouraging as these attacks are, the truth is – the people hurt most by them are  our clients. Single mothers, hurting families, and those who are sitting in the midst of  crisis in need of support. Women and men deserve a welcoming and safe place to work through an unplanned pregnancy; where they can process their situation without pressure or judgment. A place that will walk with them today, tomorrow, and for years to come.  We exist to value, listen to, and care for people in crisis. I would like to be bold in asking you to stand in the gap for our clients today. Here are five very tangible ways you can help:  PRAY – Sign up to receive our in-the-moment prayer messages by texting PRAY to 612-482-4400 or join us for in-office prayer. Visit your closest center for one hour per week to pray over our staff, our clients, and the work that we do. Prayer is the most powerful thing we can do!--------------------------------------------------------------------------- BE FAMILIAR  – Know what we do and let people know about us. These current accusations about pregnancy centers are categorically untrue about New Life, and quite frankly, untrue about the many other organizations I know personally which have been attacked. If you ever have questions about what we do or how we do it, -I am always happy to talk with you directly! nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn VOLUNTEER – We need Spanish-speaking volunteers in our centers. NNNNNNNNN SHARE OUR JOB OPENINGS – We are very short-handed and need additional staff to continue serving clients well and to be able to open our new location in nN the Phillips community of Minneapolis. Do you know someone who might be the perfect fit? NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN. NNNNNNNNN. NNNNNNN GIVE – You can support the work of New Life Family Services financially. - -Whether it is a one-time gift or you choose to give monthly, your generosity will make a difference.   While the political divide continues to grow, New Life has never been about politics. For nearly 50 years, we have focused on being the hands and feet of Jesus to those in the midst of an unplanned pregnancy. We help those hurt by abortion find the healing and redemption Christ offers. We build families through adoption, and so much more. New Life has never been more committed to our mission, and we are so incredibly grateful for you! “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret  when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked  schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret –  it leads only to evil. For those who are evil will be destroyed,  but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land.”                  — Psalm 37: 7–8 Sincerely,  Tammy Kocher Executive Director

 

The ULTIMATE Lazy Man Triathalon

The Y sponsored a Lazy Man Triathalon this summer from June 6-August 28.  During that time, I needed to:

Swim 2.4 miles

Bike 112 miles

Run/Walk 26.2 miles

While texting my biking friend, Beth, I shared that I hadn't gotten on a bike in well over two years.  In fact, I had found the following equivalents:

1 mile swim = 4.2 miles running

1 mile run = 3 miles biking

1 mile swim = 12.6 miles biking 

We determined that she would bike the equivalent of a Lazy Man Triathalon and I would complete it without ever getting on a bike!  We were both successful!

Check out my end totals:

Total Swim Miles: 80

 Total Run Miles: 95

Using my equivalents chart, I have determined that I accomplished well over FOUR Lazy Man Triathalons this summer!  But will the fact that I never got my bum on a bike stop me from winning any prizes from the Y? 

Thankful Thursday!

My "Thankful Thursday" occurred on either Wednesday or Friday this week - take your pick!

WEDNESDAY

On Wednesday, I found out where I would be "stationed" as a tutor at Oak Hills this coming school year.  It has been said for the past year or so, that it would be my turn to be stationed in kinder-land.  I have zero to no desire to be stationed there, so I spent my summer praying that God would place me where I could best serve Him.  I found out on Wednesday that my home base will be in the fifth grade wing😁 where I've spent my last two years.  To quote Jen, who was in kinder-land last year, "You little rascal!  That sounds fantastic!"  I am ever so thankful.

FRIDAY

I got the results of my MRI today and I DO NOT have a stress fracture in my foot!  I have arthritis.  Dr. Paul said to take the cam boot off (I did!), Aleve the pain (I will!), and purchase "forefront rocker" shoes (this weekend!).  Thank you, Jesus!      

Medical Capacity Building With Dr. Charlotte

An Extra Set of Keys

 When we got home from visiting Dad today, I grabbed the car key out of the ignition, the spare car key from the glove compartment (that's a Sam explanation as to why I now insist on always bringing another key . . . ) and the keys out of my pocket.  The keys out of my pocket?!? Dad's KEYS!  Micah and I had walked up town to get Dad's mail for him and I never gave him his keys back!  

Sam called him later and he has keys for his vehicles so he's good, but he won't be able to get his mail or go out to his wood shop until we get his keys shipped back to him . . .

Lunch Where?

Sam, Micah and I drove down to see Dad today.  I snapped this picture of Dad and Sam at lunch and sent it to my sister with the text, "Guess where we had lunch today?"  Within minutes my sister responded with "Isn't that where Ray and I brought Dad for lunch two weeks ago?"

Like Dad said, "There aren't too many places around that serve a good burger" and when you're ninety-years-old and in the mood for a good burger and this daughter's family hasn't been there since FEBRUARY, what do you care where you eat?

So if you're ever in Spirit Lake, Iowa and want a good burger, my Dad suggests "Burger and Company" on Hill Avenue - even if they got his order wrong today! 

I got a new shoe today . . .

Just one!  And when I get the MRI next week, we'll know what's up!  Right now, it's a suspected stress fracture.

I told Sam we could only run a three-legged race if we put his right leg with my left!

 

Thankful Thursday

Today I'm thankful for the material blessings of a new quilt for our bedroom and the new paint that we've started to put on the walls!  After twenty-one years of the same color, I am thankful for the upcoming change!

With a sad heart . . .

It is with a sad heart that I post Matt and Micah's maternal grandfather Tony's wife Sheri died this afternoon.  She was able to donate her liver and kidneys.  Her eyes and tissue will go to research.  A final scan was done on her brain today to make sure they were correct with what they were saying.  Her brain death was at 2:58 p.m.  She will continue to live on through others💕

Our hearts go out to Tony . . . 

Forty-Five Years of Friendship

Denise and I have been friends since we met at what was then known as the Presbyterian Camp on Lake Okoboji!

We're better at texting, emailing and writing than we are at getting together!  It had probably been four years since we were last together.  That's us on Monday afternoon in Cannon Falls, which is more or less, halfway between our homes.

A Little Birdie . . .

Matt, Micah and I were sitting in the kitchen talking Sunday afternoon, when we saw something big fly by!  This hawk landed on our neighbor's roof and I was able to snap a picture!

Micah says it's her hawk, "Chili Pepper".

I say, "Eat the bunnies!"

 

School-a-palooza!!!

Sam and I volunteered at School-a-palooza at Berean today.  It was the most amazing, fantastic, free get-ready-for-school event you've ever seen!  We had over 3000 students who received free backpacks, shoes, winter coats, school supplies, food, and more!  

We were stationed in the winter coat area - I was greeting and Sam was fitting coats.  By 10:30 a.m. (we started at 8:15 a.m.) our coats were gone and we began volunteering over in foods.  What a blast!  And we got free lunch to boot!

 

The Breakfast Bunch

We have an eclectic group from the Y who meets not as regularly as we'd like!  Ruth is a retired school teacher whom I'm know for over thirty years who used to work out at the Y before Covid, Jenny worked at the Y forever and is now retired, Carla swims at the Y with me and Steven was our lifeguard as was his girlfriend Rachel.  On our way to Ruth's house yesterday (because she does live closest to the Y and Carla and I had been swimming in the morning), I said to Carla, "You know, Ruth is going to make an egg bake, a fruit salad, and have some type of bread.  I hope you're hungry!"  Carla's like "No way!"  Yes way!  We had individual quiches, fruit salad, doughnut holes, blueberry muffins, lemon bread and strudel!  Score!  Thanks, Ruth!    

CPR on Wednesday!

 Right in the middle of CPR class on Wednesday, I got a text from our birth mom, Allison.  It turns out that her dad, Tony, had to do chest compressions on his wife, Sheri, on Tuesday night.  She had ventricular fibrillation that stopped her heart.  She is currently at the U in a medically induced coma and is not doing well.  Sheri joined our "family" maybe eight to ten years ago and this has been a shock to all of us here - imagine how much more devastating it is to the rest of the F.O.O.'s (Matt and Micah's Family of Origin)!  If you pray, do pray for Sheri, that the swelling in her brain would cease.  Thanks!  

Thankful Thursday!

You know it's been a busy week when you don't have a chance to write your "thankful Thursday" post until Saturday afternoon!  Way back on Thursday, I was thankful for a great week of teaching the Water Safety Aides at Black Hawk.  I taught with two others who were very easy to teach with.  We had a small class that worked well together - after Monday's "but I don't want to get my face wet" - and it was just pleasant!  I thankful for that because . . .

 

Four Generations

Our plans had been to go see Dad last Saturday, but when Matt came down with Covid on Wednesday, Dad put the brakes on our plans.  His exact words were "I've spent enough time in the hospital this year.  I'm not going to risk going back."  We respected his decision, but look what we missed!

My sister Nancy, Dad, Nellie, and Lexie

 

New Glasses!

Not only did I pick up my new glasses after work on Tuesday - first pair since 2011! - but I also got a tutorial on how to take selfies from my (much younger!) co-worker!

The Water Safety Aide Class

Once again, I'm teaching the water safety aide class for ISD 196 over at Black Hawk Middle School.  For the first time ever, we had three staff and eight students and a very interesting day.  

Student A:  I called three times this morning to see if she was coming to class or not.  It turns out that the phone number I had was for an aunt.  Auntie had no idea where Student A was, but she was sure she could attend at least a portion of one of the days.  Um, no. She needs to attend ALL.FOUR.DAYS - 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  Down to seven students.

Student B:  Was three hours late to class.  His parent thought he could just stay after class and make up the time.  Um, no.  We are done at 3:30 p.m. and we don't stay late.  We have lives.  However, we do start work at 8:30 a.m. (our prep time) so he could come then to watch the videos and read the lectures he missed this morning.

If A and B weren't enough, wait until you read C . . .

Student C:  She had one mad mama today.  She came storming into the building after class, "What have you done to my daughter?  She's in the car in tears!"  I calmly explained to her mom that her daughter had refused to do anything that required her to put her face in the water - that would include three strokes, dives from the deck and dives in the water.  I offered to work with her daughter on the three strokes that did not require her to put her face in the water, and her daughter hid in the bathroom.  Mom's response:  "Well, if I knew my daughter had to get her face wet, I would have NEVER signed her up for the class!"    Hello!?!  She wants to teach small children how to swim without getting her face wet?  Knock, knock . . . anyone home? 

I think that makes six students and three staff.  I guess we'll know tomorrow!

Friends Through the Thick and Thin

 Last night for our friend, Sheryl's birthday, we met two other couples at "The Howe" for dinner.  We had the most wonderful time catching up, reminiscing and laughing!

Follow our connections:  Mark, Ann and I went to Haiti together back in the early '80's; Mike and Mark were college roommates as were Ann and Sheryl; I actually went with Ann on her first visit to NDSU; Mike helped bring electricity to the same hospital Mark, Ann and I had grouted while we were in Haiti!  Ann, Sheryl and I all have birthdays on the 11th of different months.  No wonder we had fun!

"The Howe" was chosen because it was Sheryl's maiden name.  Now we're going to look for a "Heuer" and a "Dambroten" restaurant.  Wish us luck! 

Thankful Thursday!

Finally.  The next to last Bible study of the summer and Micah said, "Mom, I'm going to go with you to Bible study today."  So off we went.  Had a great time.  Then, as we were leaving, I told Betsy, our leader, that I wouldn't be back next week as I had to work.  She turned to Micah and said, "Are you going to come?"  Micah said, "No, I'm kind of shy.  It was really fun today, but . . . "  And Betsy said, "What if I bought cookies for the last day?  Then would you come?  Because you'd have to deliver them here?"  

I'm thankful for Betsy's quick wit, her "grabbing" Micah and "hooking" her in, and her purchasing two dozen cookies from Micah for Bible study next week!  I'm also thankful that Micah will have the opportunity to go to Bible study again! 

All in a Day's Work . . .

This week, I taught CPR on Tuesday and First Aid on Wednesday for the Water Safety Aid Class (WSA) at ISD 196.  Unfortunately, they were short a Water Safety Instructor in the pool on Wednesday, so they put the WSA Instructor, Makayla, in the pool and let me teach the last hour of the WSA class on Wednesday.  Even though I had brought my swim suit, I was DETERMINED NOT to get wet!!!  Success!  I taught from the deck and just got splashed - all accidentally, of course!

Blessed Beyond Measure . . .

Micah had made well over three-hundred chocolate chip, gingersnap and brown sugar cookies for NLFS's "Girls Night Out" last night, plus three different kinds of cup cakes.  She came home with seventeen cupcakes, but over one-hundred-and-sixty cookies.

"Mom, what do I do?"

Well, she began to text friends who have bought from her in the past.  She knows what church is going to have some of her cookies out tomorrow!  And she knows where a group of missionaries along with a group of church ladies are enjoying some of her cupcakes and cookies even as I write.  She even knows which friend enjoys frozen cookies . . . but there were still close to a hundred cookies left!

So I prayed as I walked around the block with Ollie, the dog we're watching, before lunch, and God said, "Text your neighbors."  I came home, asked Micah's permission and sent out a text to eighteen neighbors.  "Micah had an event last night at New Life that didn't have as many people as expected . . . "

That text went out at 1:30 p.m.  By 1:37 p.m., every cookie was spoken for and we had to turn neighbors away.  At 1:42, Micah sent out a text which included these words, "You all have brought so much joy to me that you don't even know.  I'm so happy to have friends and neighbors like all of you💕"

As we walked with Ollie to deliver cookies, we thanked God for His goodness and provision.  Can someone say "Amen"?      

Girls Night Out

 

Our adoption agency, New Life Family Services, sponsored an event last night called "Girls Night Out".  Micah was asked if she would like to sell baked goods at the event and she said, "Yes!"

We arrived at Cedar Valley Church in Bloomington a little after 5 p.m. and were placed next to a most delightful NLFS adoptive mom, Nena, who was selling candles.  We had a great time sharing our stories well setting up.

The most interesting thing was that Nena had recognized Micah and I from when our family, together with Allison's, had been on the cover of NLFS's magazine!

But it gets even better!  Not a person there we knew except for NLFS staff, but Micah was approached multiple times for different speaking engagements she has done over the years for NLFS!  

"Where do I know you from?  Were you on a NLFS panel at one time?"  

"Yup, more than once."  

"Say, didn't you speak at the 45th Anniversary Gala?"  

"And I was scared to death!"  

And again, "Weren't you on the front cover of one of NLFS's magazines?" 

It was a fun night, a great speaker, and we went home encouraged with our interactions.

Unfortunately, NLFS was expecting 1000 people and it didn't seem like there were even 500 people there.  So Micah had a TON of cookies left which is a whole 'nother story . . . 

New Glasses?!?!

I do not NEED new glasses. My old glasses are totally fine, they're just eleven years out of style and I really don't like to wear them out in public because, well, they're just really out of style.  

We've been talking about me getting new glasses for over two years, but as things have "died" - wash machine and dishwasher and furnace last year - and new glasses are NOT a necessity, they just haven't happened.  Until . . .

Today!  I had a blast trying on so many different frames!  We were laughing with the "Al Roker look", the purple glasses, the multi-colored frames - I tried them all and settled for a pair that I think I'll really like.

Sam went to pay for them (we had back to back appointments because driving is still a pain in the knee for Sam) and our credit card bounced!  Instead of being devastated, we just laughed!  After paying for two contact eye appointments (which cost more) and two new sets of contacts and Micah's tuition and a couple of other things, we had MAXED OUT our credit card.  

So the plan is to now buy my new glasses on Monday!   

Thankful Thursday!

So much to be thankful for on one simple Thursday!

• While going for my early morning walk, I ran into Rich and Jen.  Rich commented that they needed to order another flourless chocolate cake from Micah soon because the one they had had earlier tasted "just like heaven".  I happened to know that Micah had one she had made the day before in her fridge and she was selling it for half price.  Rich was over before noon.
• I meet with an amazing group of ladies for "Bible Study in the Park" on Thursday mornings.  I always leave encouraged by their hearts and their love for Jesus.
• While I was with "my ladies", Sam was getting his stitches out.  The PA was well pleased with Sam's progress and believes his relapse was due to Sam doing too much too soon.  In just a few weeks, he should be as good as gold.
• I was able to help Micah package cookies for New Life Family Services (our adoption agency) "Girls Night Out" tonight - like over 300 chocolate chip, ginger snap and brown sugar cookies - all individually wrapped, mostly by yours truly!
• My friend, Deb, dropped off my Stampin' Up order.  Prior to her arrival I had texted her to let her know Micah was making cookies and she could pre-order.  She promptly texted back, ordering sixteen cookies.  She was getting ready to leave with the cookies and I mentioned to her that she needed to pay for them.  We all burst out in laughter as she said she had put her money in the cooler where she was going to keep the cookies while she went to book club.  She quickly went to her cooler and gave Micah some "cool change".  
  

Almost Twenty-Five Years Later . . .

She looked at me.  I looked at her.  She smiled at me.  I smiled back.  She said, "I know you."  I responded with, "But from where?"

There in Menards I ran in to Brigette, my aquatics supervisor at Redwood Pool the summers of 1997 and 1998.

We had a blast catching up! 

Egged!

Matt had a few friends over last night to play "Settlers of Catan", a game he learned from our time with Mercy Ships.

Around 9:30 p.m., they decided to go outside and shoot fireworks.  They had just cleaned up the leftover debris, and a police car came driving though our neighborhood, an extreme rarity.  

This morning, we discovered Sam's truck, which is parked on the street, was egged.  The neighbor's car parked right behind his truck was not.  Hmmm . . . my math says someone was unhappy with the fireworks - that were done before 10:00 p.m.!

Late Night Phone Call

 The land line (yes, Sam insists we have one of those) rang around 9:30 p.m. Friday night, which really isn't late, but it is later than most telemarketers work so we knew something was wrong somewhere - and Matt wasn't home!

Sure enough - he was actually on his way home and got a flat tire on 35W - and he didn't have what he needed to repair it in his car.  "Micah to the rescue!" as I was in my pajamas and Sam still can't drive.

Sadly, Matt had to work on Saturday, so he wasn't able to get new tires.  Shops aren't open today, and he works again tomorrow.  So guess who's car he's been borrowing?  Mine!  Yeah!  Not.

The Last Day of Lessons

Thankfully, today was the last day of swimming lessons for me.  Not that I didn't love my kids and parents - they were wonderful!  But I find it a bit pathetic that I drove home every day with the heat ON in my car trying to thaw out before I got a hot shower - irregardless of WHAT the outside temperature was!

Thankful Thursday!

 Thankful Thursday actually happened last night.  Sam and I were walking around the block to exercise his knee and all of a sudden, he could no longer bear weight on his right leg.  He collapsed to the ground.

Fortunately, two neighbors who were outside started to run over.  Twenty years in our neighborhood and we had never met Jeff - until last night.  We'd seen him outside, been annoyed by his little white yippy dog every time we walked by his house, and said "Hi" probably a thousand times or so.  He was the first one on the scene.  "I'm going to get my car and bring you home.  Can you get in my car?"

Kayla, the nurse, stopped running when Jeff beat her.  I gave her the thumbs up and she went back to her to daughters who were playing in the yard - although I did receive several texts from her throughout the night.

We actually "met" Jeff while he was driving us home and thanked him again after he helped me get Sam in the backseat of my car.  Then Sam and I were off to TCO Urgent Care where he got the same PA he had had the first time he went in for his knee.

While she thought it was too early for another MRI, her concern is that there may be a fluid sac behind Sam's knee causing his pain.  She encouraged him to ice and elevate and see his PT today.

Sam's PT today didn't agree with her diagnosis and wants him to contact his surgeon.  He left a message today but has yet to receive a return phone call.

I am so thankful for the neighbors who came to our rescue last night!   

Road Construction!

 

You know, that other season of our year!  

I was grumbling about it as I drove to the Y because I had to take a longer route and wait at more stop lights and . . . I looked up at the sky and there was a rainbow, a sign of God's promise.  Had I gone my usual way to the Y, I would have never seen it!

3FT with the FOOs

After two Covid postponements this summer, we were finally able to get together yesterday at Allison and Logan's house for some 3FT (Forced Family Fun Time - although no one felt forced!) with the FOOs (Family of Origin):

Matt and Josie enjoying a family-free moment

Matt, Lincoln, me, Kingsley, Allison, Logan, Micah, Sam and Kennedy

Matt's favorite little sister is getting bigger!

 I have to say, the biggest laugh of the day was Lincoln ending Matt and Josie's family-free moment by attacking them with his nerf guns!  Matt was able to take one away and join in the action while Josie just tossed the little nerf darts right back at Lincoln!

NLFS Transracial Adoption Panel

Here's the link to the transracial adoption panel Sam and I were on for our adoption agency, New Life Family Services, back in February:

https://vimeo.com/701764371/08c3153b39

I just watched it today - it is a rainy day and a Saturday!  I found it worth the viewing because I gained new insights on transracial adoption from the other couples who were sharing. 

Thankful Thursday!

There is so much to be thankful for this Thursday . . .

• From Nina finding my favorite pair of running shorts that I had dropped outside of the school building yesterday to . . .
• Nina subbing for me today so that I could take Sam in for his torn meniscus surgery to . . .
• Not having enough time to make lunch today so Micah HAD😀 to go to Cane's and pick up lunch for us before Sam's surgery  to . . .
• Sam having a successful surgery this afternoon to . . .
  
• Me completing five of the seven FastBridge classes I had to do for my tutor position while Sam was in surgery! 
  

What!?!

There's a song we sing when we're trying to teach swimmers how to flip over - "The Pancake Song".  

Every time I sing it, I like to ask my students "What do you like to eat on top of your pancakes?"

I couldn't hold in the laughter yesterday when Grant responded with "Cucumbers!"

Surgery: 2:00 p.m. Thursday!

Sam will be having a torn meniscus on his right knee repaired tomorrow afternoon around 2:00 p.m. 

When I got home from work today, he was stressing out a bit.  "I know I can't eat after midnight and I can't have anything to drink four hours before my surgery, but CAN I HAVE A CUP OF COFFEE?  I CAN'T MAKE IT WITHOUT A CUP OF COFFEE!"

Easy peasy.  "Call Sammi and ask her."  She's Dr. Johnson's care team rep.  He did.  She said yes.  Now Sam is happy!

Air Conditioners!

Seriously, in my parent/child class this morning, two of my families have no air conditioning.  One is having a repair person on Friday and the other is getting one on Monday.  Of course, that doesn't mean they'll be fixed that day, but it does bring hope!

This afternoon, I saw my friend Deb who said their air conditioning went out on Sunday, but they were able to get it fixed on Monday for $165.00.  Interestingly, their neighbor stopped by and said their air conditioner had also gone out and the repair person would be there in THREE weeks!  Deb and I agreed - call someone else! 

From the Mouth of a Fourth Grader

After my class with two fourth graders finished doing their bobs Tuesday morning, I asked them who had read the night before:

G:  "It's summer break.  We're not supposed to read."

O:  "My mom's a music teacher so I got to read Dr. Suess." 

A Sad Situration

It was another epic fail on Monday night.  I was at Black Hawk again to teach a First Aid class after last week's disastrous CPR class.  Once again, it was computer failure.  The first computer spit out the DVD.  The second computer did likewise.  My class of five waited patiently, offered what I thought was helpful advice and walked out at 7:10 p.m. - one hour and ten minutes after class was supposed to start.

Teija and I have a new plan for NEXT week.  We have a NEW DVD - it was once lost but has since been found.  I am bringing my laptop from home.  Should the District DVD's continue with their bad behavior, we will use mine!

Fortunately, the class agree to come back and try one more time - and this time, we only have to watch the videos because we completed the hands-on skills Monday night.  

The Lost Tribe of W.S.I.'s

It appears that not only is there a shortage of lifeguards right now, but there's also a shortage of W.S.I.'s - Water Safety Instructors.  Mine, amazingly enough, remains current and this summer I was asked to teach swimming lessons at Black Hawk Middle School in Eagan.

Knowing that this was Teija's first summer as the Aquatics Director and that W.S.I. numbers were short, I said I would with two qualifiers:

1. I'm only there because YOU need me, so I don't need to work the full time slot.
2. I'm good with like three, maybe four, classes a day.

That is so NOT what happened!  Nope.  I'm the first one in the pool every day and the last one out.  I have six classes ranging from the itty bitty babies and their parents to fourth graders.  And I'm having a blast!   

My People

It was a wonderful evening!  Bring your kids.  Bring food.  Have a blast!  We've all worked together at the Burnsville Y and were so glad to see one another again!

We plan to do it again this summer - maybe without the kids!  And in Barbara's case, definitely without the costume!

 

I Love My Rheumatologist!

I met with my rheumatologist at 8 a.m. this morning and got news I've been wanting to hear since 2018!  My polymyalgia rheumatica appears to be in remission!  I'll have blood work in six months and another appointment in six months, but . . . things are looking good!  

Since I was feeling so good, we talked about life - his new niece, his upcoming vacation, the shortage of rheumatologists in the Twin Cities.  He ended our time with, "I've had so much fun talking with you I think we should bill my insurance for your visit!" 

The Money-Changer

After my mammogram yesterday, I decided to reward myself with a $1.00 McDonald's Coke.  Naturally the drive-through line was FOREVER, so I decided to pop in.  My first clue was when the woman in front of me had to explain to the young man behind the register THREE times that he'd given her the wrong change.

I paid with a $2.00 bill.  His response was, "Wow.  I've never seen one of those before," and then handed me a $1.00 bill back.  A $1.00 Coke is actually $1.07.  I should have just taken the money and run, but I said, "You gave me $1.00.  You should have given me ninety-three cents back."  I handed him the dollar bill and he gave me one quarter, one nickel and one penny.  I said, "I actually get three quarters, one dime, one nickel and three pennies back."  He looked at me. He took the money back.  I said, pointing to the quarters in the till, "I get three of those - twenty-five, fifty, seventy-five cents.  Now I get one dime."  He looked at the dimes and he gave me a nickel.  I told him I wanted one of the small silver ones which is a dime and a nickel which he was holding.  I told him we were up to ninety cents and now I needed three pennies and I would have the right change.  Got it!

Yikes!     

Thankful Thursday!

Honestly, today I'm thankful mammograms are only once a year! 

And that the technicians are always so gracious!

 

Knee-d we say more?

Sam and I met with my knee surgeon this morning and got the results of his MRI.  You have to love Dr. Johnson!  He said Sam's right knee shows little to no arthritis, it is actually in very good shape, but . . .

There is a tear in his meniscus that Dr. Johnson will be repairing next Thursday afternoon! 

Bird Rescuer!

As I went by Ryan's house on my afternoon walk today, he was outside with his mom and her childcare kids.  Ryan is a seventh grader who I've gotten to know over the years because of dog walking.  He was stressed/nervous.  His mom had watered plants today and found a baby bird in one of their hanging planters on the deck.  They were able to get the planter down but couldn't get it back up.  (His mom has vertigo and wasn't even going to try.)  Would I be willing to put it up so the kids woulds bother the bird?

Nailed it!  First try!  Happy mom.  Happy Ryan.  Hopefully, happy bird!  

Our Drought is Ending!

We received word today, that after thirty months without a lead pastor at our church, Rev. Dr. Deven MacDonald, together with his family, from London, Ontario, has accepted our position!  We are excited!  We enjoyed a question and answer time with him at church last Friday night and his heart for Jesus as he shared from the pulpit on Sunday.  Now, may the immigration process go quickly . . .    

What a Night!

I taught CPR last night over at Black Hawk Middle School in Eagan.  Thanks to a gracious lady at the chiropractor's office who let me jump ahead of her in line, I actually made it to work on time, surprising my boss who knew I might be late.

We were setting up the space when it hit us - we did not have our DVD for the class.  We knew exactly when and where we had had it last, but it obviously didn't make the move from Falcon to Black Hawk.  Teija said, "No worries.  I have a spare DVD at my office.  I'll run over and get it.  It will only take me ten minutes.  Just stall."  Right.

Class started at 6 p.m.  My first person showed up at 6:10 p.m.  My next two showed up at 6:35 p.m. - just before Teija arrived with the DVD - forty minutes after she told me it would only take ten minutes!  

Fortunately, they were a great class!  We had some good laughs and a fun time!  Unfortunately, we were all a bit tired so I decided to skip a few of the redundant videos and get us out of there on time!

Super Sam's Sensationally Sad Story . . .

After killing himself a few weeks ago turning over the mulch in our backyard (which, by the way, looks pretty fantastic!) and replanting three astilbe and one coral belle, Sam took his right knee over to Twin Cities Ortho Urgent Care this week.  Now he's scheduled for an MRI on Monday and he'll be seeing my knee surgeon on Wednesday.  The early prognosis is a torn meniscus.  Depending on what he finds out when he meets with Dr. Johnson on Wednesday will determine the remainder of our summer.  Bummer.  

Ever the optimist, Sam said, "Well, I hopefully won't have to miss any school."😆