This past Saturday, I headed down to Kansas to the lake.
There were quite a few friends from the area at the lake to celebrate a 50th birthday.
I’m not quite sure when we suddenly went from celebrating 21st birthdays to 40 and 50th, but I digress.
What a fun weekend; my kids were also along for the fun.
I had to work Friday night and was running a little behind Saturday, so we did not arrive at the lake until around 2 p.m.
Everyone was ready to hit the water shortly after we arrived. We had one pontoon, three boats, four jet skis, a Wataboard and a Lilypad floating mat.
By far the most popular item was the Wataboard. I even gave it a whirl...
It was not easy and a workout.
You strap your feet into boots (which were HUGE on my small feet). The boots are attached to a board which has jets on the bottom of it. The board is attached to a long thick hose which attaches to the jet ski turning mechanism.
The jet ski is what powers the Wataboard. You have to get the board centered beneath you under water. Then lock your legs and find your balance. Easier said than done!
The person on the jet ski waits for the go ahead and they slowly shoot you up in the air, or try to anyway.
It took a few tries to get up. The first time I did, it scared me and I crashed right away.
You may only be around five feet in the air but it feels like you are about 20 feet up.
I had quite a few crashes and one sort of half flip that shot me way under water, making me nearly lose my bottoms and take in water.
I was not going to give up, and I did eventually make it up in the air twice. What a rush, it was so fun! Despite the pain that comes with smashing into water from five feet plus in the air and jet propulsion behind you. I would do it again.
There was a group of people camping with a bucket calf... (I really can’t make this stuff up). Apparently, a couple in this group got married Saturday at 5 p.m., at the lake and the bucket calf was the ring bearer... Only in Kansas!
We had all planned on hitting the water again Sunday, however, it was a cool drizzly morning and everyone was tired so we all packed up and headed home.
It was another warm day Sunday and my kids wanted to be outside, so we headed to the river when we got home.
All we took with us was a fishing net. As it turned out, that’s all we needed. The river is pretty low right now, which also means the water is clear.
You could walk along the banks to where it was maybe a foot or two deep and see some large fish trying to hide under grass. You just put the net down and had someone else walk toward it and that made the fish pretty much swim right into the net.
There were a few times that they were too quick and got away. It’s another little thrill to grab a fish in a net.
We caught three fairly large catfish and two large carp. It was a catch and release day. Still so much fun and it kept my kids outside for two days with no electronics.
By this time, it was around 8 p.m., and we were all tired. So we headed home, ate dinner and fell into bed.
I am thrilled to be going on a mini-vacation by myself this coming weekend. I’m headed to a cabin in Colorado surrounded by lakes.
A little downtime to relax, and just think for a while. I plan to do some fishing while I am there. I can hardly wait!
Enjoy your week/weekend and get outside for a while! There is always something to do!
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Tuesday, July 19, 2016
When the Well Runs Dry...
It was just Memorial weekend that we received a good amount of rain. Farmers were getting antsy to get in the field and finish planting. I always cringe when I hear someone complain about all the rain.
Fast forward a month and a half or so and the rain stopped. We can’t get it to rain, the crops are drying up and the ground is cracking.
I told my son the other day we should do a rain dance. His reply, “But mom, we don’t have a stage.” Oh the logic of a four year old.
Now, if you are a frequent reader of my columns you are waiting for the metaphor. I do love my metaphors and will not disappoint.
There are so many “wells” in life. When our emotional well is full, life seems pretty good.
We don’t usually go around wishing the things away that have filled it. Like all wells, it cannot stay full, there is no endless supply.
Wouldn’t it be great if we could stockpile our water, keep it tucked away and always ready for when our well starts to run dry.
There are plenty of small creeks and rivers that constantly feed into our wells. These pretty little creeks can sometimes be what sustains us and keeps a constant stream flowing into our well.
But sometimes the creeks and rivers find another way to instead slowly drain our well. When that happens, it’s time to build a dam. It can be scary shutting off these outside sources…
What if we can’t find another creek to fill our well. At times you have no choice, you have to shut it off before it drains you completely. All you can do is pray for rain and trust God will find another source, maybe a small underground spring to fill your well.
Where am I going with this? Good question, I can’t say I even know.
As a writer there is a entire well on it’s own. It seems when my personal well is drying up, my writing well does also. I struggle for some rain and/or inspiration.
Truth is, I don’t have a lot to write about at the moment. I’ve had to build some dams and am praying God fills me up again. The key is keeping track of your well and making sure it does not fully run dry.
In the meantime, I still have my cup and it manages to run over quite often. I just have to pay attention to the small things.
Fast forward a month and a half or so and the rain stopped. We can’t get it to rain, the crops are drying up and the ground is cracking.
I told my son the other day we should do a rain dance. His reply, “But mom, we don’t have a stage.” Oh the logic of a four year old.
Now, if you are a frequent reader of my columns you are waiting for the metaphor. I do love my metaphors and will not disappoint.
There are so many “wells” in life. When our emotional well is full, life seems pretty good.
We don’t usually go around wishing the things away that have filled it. Like all wells, it cannot stay full, there is no endless supply.
Wouldn’t it be great if we could stockpile our water, keep it tucked away and always ready for when our well starts to run dry.
There are plenty of small creeks and rivers that constantly feed into our wells. These pretty little creeks can sometimes be what sustains us and keeps a constant stream flowing into our well.
But sometimes the creeks and rivers find another way to instead slowly drain our well. When that happens, it’s time to build a dam. It can be scary shutting off these outside sources…
What if we can’t find another creek to fill our well. At times you have no choice, you have to shut it off before it drains you completely. All you can do is pray for rain and trust God will find another source, maybe a small underground spring to fill your well.
Where am I going with this? Good question, I can’t say I even know.
As a writer there is a entire well on it’s own. It seems when my personal well is drying up, my writing well does also. I struggle for some rain and/or inspiration.
Truth is, I don’t have a lot to write about at the moment. I’ve had to build some dams and am praying God fills me up again. The key is keeping track of your well and making sure it does not fully run dry.
In the meantime, I still have my cup and it manages to run over quite often. I just have to pay attention to the small things.
Clay County Fair 2016...
Another Clay County Fair has come and gone, leaving me exhausted and a tad sun burnt.
I try to help cover the fair as much as possible every year, that being said, I also have a child in 4-H.
She shows horses which makes it a tad easier, as the main day I am too busy is Friday. The horse show, however, is the longest of all the shows.
The fair has some memorable events every year, never fails...
Wednesday and Friday, there were run-away horses we helped catch. There is a run away animal EVERY year!
Thursday (Ashley finds this story hilarious), I was covering the Little Tuggers Tractor Pull. My girls were on the bleachers alone, when a man (who looked familiar) came up and was talking to them. This concerned me a little.
Then this man started taking pictures and videos of numerous little kids. This concerned me even more.
This is when Ashley showed up. She sat beside me and made a comment about needing a picture of Pete Ricketts. I said something to the effect of, “Oh, where is he?” She said, “Here.”
I then said to her, “Who is this man, he was talking to my kids, and he’s been videoing lots of kids, he’s kind of a creeper.”
Ashley starts laughing, “That would be our governor!” I replied with a laugh saying I thought he looked familiar.
In my defense, it can be very hard to recognize someone when you are not expecting to see them.
Friday was horse show day. I wake up a bundle of nerves for my daughter. She does an incredible job showing horses and walked away with three purple ribbons and trophies again this year!
It is a long, hot day, luckily, there was a bit of a breeze making it a little more bearable. I managed to miss a little spot on the back of my neck with sunscreen and it was red!
I ran home after the horse show to shower and make myself more presentable, before heading back to the fairgrounds to help cover the concert.
It was a good concert, but the attendance was low. I decided to stay in our camper that night as it was late, hot, and I had a horse to attend to at the end of the night and first thing in the morning.
After the concert and a little socializing, I headed to the camper set everything inside, including my phone, car keys, etc.
I was getting ready for bed and went to the bathhouse. When I went back to my camper, the door was locked, and the keys were inside...
Fast forward an hour or so and a spare key arrived. However, it was for a little side door which happens to lead to a laundry shoot, which I crawled through to get back into the camper.
I believe I finally got to bed after 2 a.m. Welcome to my life, only I can pull off such shenanigans. This has made it possible for me to laugh at myself on a daily basis. What else can you do?
Saturday morning came far too soon, as I said I had a horse to attend to and he likes to act like he is starving in the morning. I took care of him and went to pick up Karys, so we could help in concessions.
Luckily, the rest of that day and the fair were fairly quiet, as far as shenanigans go.
Sunday was the epic water fight that ensues every year. It is a tradition, as the kids are exhausted and SO hot. They love it!
Once the stalls were all cleaned up, which is a hot, yucky job, we got to go home.
By the time we get home it’s all we can do to keep our eyes open. I have to at least, stay awake long enough to eat the delicious prime rib sandwich from the Cattleman, and to do dishes and laundry.
The shower you take at the end of the fair feels better than any shower ever!
Once we are all clean and cool, it’s time to fall into bed, and to slip into the deep sleep that comes after hard work!
Here’s to next year.
*** side note - as I was preparing to take the camper and shut the slide in a hurry, I didn't realize the bedroom door was open and heard a loud noise, opened the slide again and realized I broke the doorknob clean off.
Thursday after meeting Pete Rickett's I saw the sheriff walking his bulldog, we went up and pet him, etc. found out later his dog died 30 seconds after we pet it...
Also that night a woman had fallen into a hole and her foot was stuck so I ran to get Dr.'s, then I ran to get a shovel to dig her foot out. Then I ran to get a bag of ice... it took me an hour to recover from the running...
I try to help cover the fair as much as possible every year, that being said, I also have a child in 4-H.
She shows horses which makes it a tad easier, as the main day I am too busy is Friday. The horse show, however, is the longest of all the shows.
The fair has some memorable events every year, never fails...
Wednesday and Friday, there were run-away horses we helped catch. There is a run away animal EVERY year!
Thursday (Ashley finds this story hilarious), I was covering the Little Tuggers Tractor Pull. My girls were on the bleachers alone, when a man (who looked familiar) came up and was talking to them. This concerned me a little.
Then this man started taking pictures and videos of numerous little kids. This concerned me even more.
This is when Ashley showed up. She sat beside me and made a comment about needing a picture of Pete Ricketts. I said something to the effect of, “Oh, where is he?” She said, “Here.”
I then said to her, “Who is this man, he was talking to my kids, and he’s been videoing lots of kids, he’s kind of a creeper.”
Ashley starts laughing, “That would be our governor!” I replied with a laugh saying I thought he looked familiar.
In my defense, it can be very hard to recognize someone when you are not expecting to see them.
Friday was horse show day. I wake up a bundle of nerves for my daughter. She does an incredible job showing horses and walked away with three purple ribbons and trophies again this year!
It is a long, hot day, luckily, there was a bit of a breeze making it a little more bearable. I managed to miss a little spot on the back of my neck with sunscreen and it was red!
I ran home after the horse show to shower and make myself more presentable, before heading back to the fairgrounds to help cover the concert.
It was a good concert, but the attendance was low. I decided to stay in our camper that night as it was late, hot, and I had a horse to attend to at the end of the night and first thing in the morning.
After the concert and a little socializing, I headed to the camper set everything inside, including my phone, car keys, etc.
I was getting ready for bed and went to the bathhouse. When I went back to my camper, the door was locked, and the keys were inside...
Fast forward an hour or so and a spare key arrived. However, it was for a little side door which happens to lead to a laundry shoot, which I crawled through to get back into the camper.
I believe I finally got to bed after 2 a.m. Welcome to my life, only I can pull off such shenanigans. This has made it possible for me to laugh at myself on a daily basis. What else can you do?
Saturday morning came far too soon, as I said I had a horse to attend to and he likes to act like he is starving in the morning. I took care of him and went to pick up Karys, so we could help in concessions.
Luckily, the rest of that day and the fair were fairly quiet, as far as shenanigans go.
Sunday was the epic water fight that ensues every year. It is a tradition, as the kids are exhausted and SO hot. They love it!
Once the stalls were all cleaned up, which is a hot, yucky job, we got to go home.
By the time we get home it’s all we can do to keep our eyes open. I have to at least, stay awake long enough to eat the delicious prime rib sandwich from the Cattleman, and to do dishes and laundry.
The shower you take at the end of the fair feels better than any shower ever!
Once we are all clean and cool, it’s time to fall into bed, and to slip into the deep sleep that comes after hard work!
Here’s to next year.
*** side note - as I was preparing to take the camper and shut the slide in a hurry, I didn't realize the bedroom door was open and heard a loud noise, opened the slide again and realized I broke the doorknob clean off.
Thursday after meeting Pete Rickett's I saw the sheriff walking his bulldog, we went up and pet him, etc. found out later his dog died 30 seconds after we pet it...
Also that night a woman had fallen into a hole and her foot was stuck so I ran to get Dr.'s, then I ran to get a shovel to dig her foot out. Then I ran to get a bag of ice... it took me an hour to recover from the running...
Respect...
Simple Definition of respect:
A feeling of admiring someone or something that is good, valuable, important, etc.; a feeling or understanding that someone or something is important, serious, etc., and should be treated in an appropriate way; a particular way of thinking about or looking at something.
It’s painfully obvious how much this country and its patrons have lost respect.
Fourth of July is my favorite holiday. There’s delicious food, friends, family, parades and of course, fireworks.
My girls and I were in the parade in Clay Center again this fourth.
It started out great, we painted the horses, won first place and everyone was ready to go. The horses were doing great, until we got about a block from the start.
Horses sometimes spook, and when they do, it’s game over. They are used to loud noises and kids and crowds, which makes you feel comfortable riding them in a parade. That being said, there are a lot of other things that factor into it.
As I said, we were doing good until we got to the start. There was a young man who all of a sudden, decided to light a large round of black cats. The first horse spooked and it was a domino affect.
I started yelling as loud as I could, “NO FIREWORKS!” He listened just long enough for us to be out of eye sight.
It was a long parade for those of us at the back. When people ask you to do something, especially in a situation such as this, you need to show respect and listen.
After the parade, I tried to find the young man, but he had disappeared. I guess that was just as well.
We are a nation run by electronics. We are a nation that no longer wants to “rock the boat.” Everyone feels they deserve a bit of everything, we can’t hurt anyone’s feelings. We don’t take the blame when things go wrong. We are a nation that has lost respect.
It’s become too easy to hide behind a text message. You get upset, you text someone. This is how things get misunderstood. You can’t read emotion behind a text message.
That makes it that much easier to just fly off the handle and say whatever you want to say without seeing how it affects the other person. It often leaves a lot unsaid.
I personally have tried my hardest to instill respect in my children. How many four-year-old boys do you know that will be immersed in a game of Knockerball, the point of which is to slam into people as hard as you can my son,c who was out in the middle of all this, and every time he bumped into anyone he stopped and apologized.
When we are face to face with someone, it seems to slow us down, consider our words before they are spoken (or typed).
It is far too easy to just place the blame on someone else anymore. “It wasn’t me,” is still responsible for a lot that goes on at my house. That doesn’t mean I stop trying.
We need to give respect where respect is due, and in return, we will receive respect.
Please take some time to stop and think about what you are doing, and what kind of reaction it may put into motion.
From a mom with kids on horses, I also ask you to just sit and enjoy a parade, don’t light off fireworks or spray water toward animals.
Show respect.
A feeling of admiring someone or something that is good, valuable, important, etc.; a feeling or understanding that someone or something is important, serious, etc., and should be treated in an appropriate way; a particular way of thinking about or looking at something.
It’s painfully obvious how much this country and its patrons have lost respect.
Fourth of July is my favorite holiday. There’s delicious food, friends, family, parades and of course, fireworks.
My girls and I were in the parade in Clay Center again this fourth.
It started out great, we painted the horses, won first place and everyone was ready to go. The horses were doing great, until we got about a block from the start.
Horses sometimes spook, and when they do, it’s game over. They are used to loud noises and kids and crowds, which makes you feel comfortable riding them in a parade. That being said, there are a lot of other things that factor into it.
As I said, we were doing good until we got to the start. There was a young man who all of a sudden, decided to light a large round of black cats. The first horse spooked and it was a domino affect.
I started yelling as loud as I could, “NO FIREWORKS!” He listened just long enough for us to be out of eye sight.
It was a long parade for those of us at the back. When people ask you to do something, especially in a situation such as this, you need to show respect and listen.
After the parade, I tried to find the young man, but he had disappeared. I guess that was just as well.
We are a nation run by electronics. We are a nation that no longer wants to “rock the boat.” Everyone feels they deserve a bit of everything, we can’t hurt anyone’s feelings. We don’t take the blame when things go wrong. We are a nation that has lost respect.
It’s become too easy to hide behind a text message. You get upset, you text someone. This is how things get misunderstood. You can’t read emotion behind a text message.
That makes it that much easier to just fly off the handle and say whatever you want to say without seeing how it affects the other person. It often leaves a lot unsaid.
I personally have tried my hardest to instill respect in my children. How many four-year-old boys do you know that will be immersed in a game of Knockerball, the point of which is to slam into people as hard as you can my son,c who was out in the middle of all this, and every time he bumped into anyone he stopped and apologized.
When we are face to face with someone, it seems to slow us down, consider our words before they are spoken (or typed).
It is far too easy to just place the blame on someone else anymore. “It wasn’t me,” is still responsible for a lot that goes on at my house. That doesn’t mean I stop trying.
We need to give respect where respect is due, and in return, we will receive respect.
Please take some time to stop and think about what you are doing, and what kind of reaction it may put into motion.
From a mom with kids on horses, I also ask you to just sit and enjoy a parade, don’t light off fireworks or spray water toward animals.
Show respect.
Me
walking Pistol. Lindsey trying to control Puma, Brielle trying not to
get trampled...the after effects of fireworks at the beginning of a
parade...
Festivities...
This past weekend was a bustle of activity, as EdgarFest and Dugout Days were both underway.
Friday night, I went to Edgar to cover the 5K, it was hot and humid! Kudos to those that run, especially in that kind of weather.
Following the 5K, I headed out to KAM raceway to take in some races. I forgot how fun they are to watch! Even better when you know someone racing.
Micah Biltoft pulled off two feature wins Friday night. It was exciting, and a bit nerve racking!
Saturday, it was back to Edgar for more fun. My kids played in the bounce houses while I walked around snapping pictures.
There was also face painting, a shaved ice truck, and tons of games.
All three of my kids participated in the Little Tugger’s Tractor Pull. All three of them placed second!
They went back to the bounce houses while we waited for a game of Knockerball to begin.
The kids were first, let me say, young boys were first. They went at it and came out of those blow up balls drenched in sweat.
Next up were the smaller kids (mine), they had fun! Weston refused to actually get into a ball, but very much enjoyed rolling it around on the gym floor.
The point of these is to run into people and knock them over. Weston however, apologized everytime he ran into anyone.
Karys had fun, Brielle got upset in the beginning. She didn’t like people knocking her over. I figured out why later. I moved her to the side and just rolled her around in the ball, then she loved it.
Shortly after all the kids, the “Old Guys” and or “Big Boys” if you will, had their turn.
That was by far, the most entertaining group of them all. They really went at it at first. Then after about four minutes, you heard a few asking if they were done yet. They were losing momentum, fast.
I was talked into trying after this, and I decided what the heck. Oh my goodness! It was fun, but man was it a workout.
Turns out you are VERY top heavy in these contraptions, and it is incredibly hard to stand up again after you have been knocked down.
I would just get back on my feet when another person would be ready and waiting to take me out again. Then, my kids got in on the action and started pushing me down too!
Needless to say, I am still sore, my shoulders hurt from the weight and force of it all. I looked it up, and inflated knockerballs weigh around 28lbs.
After the fun of that game, we decided to head home for a short rest. I was spent.
The girls and I had about an hour to lay down and catch our breath.
Then we were off to Sutton to help cover the parade, they got to catch up with some good friends and got a ton of candy.
After the Sutton parade, we had just enough time to get back to Edgar for their parade.
It was bigger than past years this year! Jim’s Agri Air even flew down to do a flyover at our parade!
More candy for my kids...
We met up with friends, ate a sandwich, and then headed to the fire hall to watch fireworks.
Weston does not like loud noises and we should have brought him some headphones. He watched from inside the car!
It was a wonderful display, lasting approximately 30 minutes. I got my camera out and had a go at taking some fireworks pictures. They didn’t turn out too bad.
Sunday, we were tired and didn’t do much, my kind of day.
I LOVE this time of year. I always wanted to have a birthday to celebrate during the Fourth of July. How fun would it be to get to have a barbecue, friends, maybe a parade and fireworks on your birthday!
I would be in heaven!
Have a wonderful Fourth of July and be safe with those fireworks, but enjoy!
Friday night, I went to Edgar to cover the 5K, it was hot and humid! Kudos to those that run, especially in that kind of weather.
Following the 5K, I headed out to KAM raceway to take in some races. I forgot how fun they are to watch! Even better when you know someone racing.
Micah Biltoft pulled off two feature wins Friday night. It was exciting, and a bit nerve racking!
Saturday, it was back to Edgar for more fun. My kids played in the bounce houses while I walked around snapping pictures.
There was also face painting, a shaved ice truck, and tons of games.
All three of my kids participated in the Little Tugger’s Tractor Pull. All three of them placed second!
They went back to the bounce houses while we waited for a game of Knockerball to begin.
The kids were first, let me say, young boys were first. They went at it and came out of those blow up balls drenched in sweat.
Next up were the smaller kids (mine), they had fun! Weston refused to actually get into a ball, but very much enjoyed rolling it around on the gym floor.
The point of these is to run into people and knock them over. Weston however, apologized everytime he ran into anyone.
Karys had fun, Brielle got upset in the beginning. She didn’t like people knocking her over. I figured out why later. I moved her to the side and just rolled her around in the ball, then she loved it.
Shortly after all the kids, the “Old Guys” and or “Big Boys” if you will, had their turn.
That was by far, the most entertaining group of them all. They really went at it at first. Then after about four minutes, you heard a few asking if they were done yet. They were losing momentum, fast.
I was talked into trying after this, and I decided what the heck. Oh my goodness! It was fun, but man was it a workout.
Turns out you are VERY top heavy in these contraptions, and it is incredibly hard to stand up again after you have been knocked down.
I would just get back on my feet when another person would be ready and waiting to take me out again. Then, my kids got in on the action and started pushing me down too!
Needless to say, I am still sore, my shoulders hurt from the weight and force of it all. I looked it up, and inflated knockerballs weigh around 28lbs.
After the fun of that game, we decided to head home for a short rest. I was spent.
The girls and I had about an hour to lay down and catch our breath.
Then we were off to Sutton to help cover the parade, they got to catch up with some good friends and got a ton of candy.
After the Sutton parade, we had just enough time to get back to Edgar for their parade.
It was bigger than past years this year! Jim’s Agri Air even flew down to do a flyover at our parade!
More candy for my kids...
We met up with friends, ate a sandwich, and then headed to the fire hall to watch fireworks.
Weston does not like loud noises and we should have brought him some headphones. He watched from inside the car!
It was a wonderful display, lasting approximately 30 minutes. I got my camera out and had a go at taking some fireworks pictures. They didn’t turn out too bad.
Sunday, we were tired and didn’t do much, my kind of day.
I LOVE this time of year. I always wanted to have a birthday to celebrate during the Fourth of July. How fun would it be to get to have a barbecue, friends, maybe a parade and fireworks on your birthday!
I would be in heaven!
Have a wonderful Fourth of July and be safe with those fireworks, but enjoy!
Resilience...
This past January, a friend introduced me to the town of Pilger, NE.
As you know, Pilger was hit by two devastating tornadoes June 16, 2014.
I was greeted by smiling faces and hand shakes. These polite welcoming strangers took me around town following the path of the tornadoes.
It being January things looked pretty bleak. There were no leaves on trees and the brown of winter had settled in.
Outside of town, it was obvious where the tornado started; the trees were very damaged.
While the town had been cleaned up, the devastation was still very apparent.
I ended up spending the afternoon with these amazing people.
Angela, Joe, their son, Jake, and Amy. I got to hear stories and get to know these wonderful people.
By the time I left they were no longer strangers.
Instead, they left me feeling like we were long time friends. They are truly inspiring, and are a huge reason this town is now know as “The Town Too Tough To Die.”
The tornadoes took numerous homes and businesses and two lives in and around Pilger.
Last Thursday was the two year anniversary of the tornadoes. I had the afternoon off and decided to venture back to Pilger to see how things were going.
I was surprised, things are looking good. The trees, while still showing all the destruction, are producing leaves and coming back to life.
The town looks good as well! There is a new bank, tire shop, trucking shop, church and numerous other things. They are slowly building a “new” Pilger.
I got to meet up with Angela, Joe and Amy again for a short visit. I was once again greeted with smiling faces and hugs.
Residents were busy preparing for a celebration that took place on Saturday, with open houses all over town and the new and rebuilt businesses.
I saw pictures of before and after the tornadoes. I heard more stories, I witnessed the beginning of healing.
Pilger is a town of resilience, they have gotten quite a bit of coverage even in the last few months. It is truly inspiring, they are not going to give up.
I was unable to attend the celebration Saturday, as we laid my step-grandpa to rest, and then I got some R and R with my small family and dear friends.
From what I saw when I was there and have heard, I think the celebration was fantastic.
Getting such an up-close and personal look at the devastation such a tornado brings has changed me.
I have had experiences with tornadoes and cleaned up after them, but nothing as detrimental as these were.
The town has suffered a hit to the population since the tornadoes, but that doesn’t stop them.
They are continuing on with life and their spirits are high. Much of the people reading this can relate to what happens when a small community is destroyed.
Small towns struggle to survive as it is, losing the majority of a town and school is scary. You wonder how the town will continue on.
Pilger is proof you can. The thing with small communities is they all band together and help each other.
I am so thankful for the experiences I have had there. I thank God for the people I have met. They are some of the kindest, welcoming people I have ever come across. I am proud to call them my friends.
If you are ever driving down HWY 15, I strongly suggest you take a little extra time in your trip to drive into Pilger.
Chances are, there will be a smiling friendly face, happy to tell you stories and show you the town.
If things have been a little rough for you, take a trip up there. Meeting these people and seeing the resilience of a town “Too Tough To Die” puts things in a whole new perspective.
It’s a motto we could all stand to take on in life. Go visit this quaint little place, be inspired and leave feeling revived and ready to take on the world.
As you know, Pilger was hit by two devastating tornadoes June 16, 2014.
I was greeted by smiling faces and hand shakes. These polite welcoming strangers took me around town following the path of the tornadoes.
It being January things looked pretty bleak. There were no leaves on trees and the brown of winter had settled in.
Outside of town, it was obvious where the tornado started; the trees were very damaged.
While the town had been cleaned up, the devastation was still very apparent.
I ended up spending the afternoon with these amazing people.
Angela, Joe, their son, Jake, and Amy. I got to hear stories and get to know these wonderful people.
By the time I left they were no longer strangers.
Instead, they left me feeling like we were long time friends. They are truly inspiring, and are a huge reason this town is now know as “The Town Too Tough To Die.”
The tornadoes took numerous homes and businesses and two lives in and around Pilger.
Last Thursday was the two year anniversary of the tornadoes. I had the afternoon off and decided to venture back to Pilger to see how things were going.
I was surprised, things are looking good. The trees, while still showing all the destruction, are producing leaves and coming back to life.
The town looks good as well! There is a new bank, tire shop, trucking shop, church and numerous other things. They are slowly building a “new” Pilger.
I got to meet up with Angela, Joe and Amy again for a short visit. I was once again greeted with smiling faces and hugs.
Residents were busy preparing for a celebration that took place on Saturday, with open houses all over town and the new and rebuilt businesses.
I saw pictures of before and after the tornadoes. I heard more stories, I witnessed the beginning of healing.
Pilger is a town of resilience, they have gotten quite a bit of coverage even in the last few months. It is truly inspiring, they are not going to give up.
I was unable to attend the celebration Saturday, as we laid my step-grandpa to rest, and then I got some R and R with my small family and dear friends.
From what I saw when I was there and have heard, I think the celebration was fantastic.
Getting such an up-close and personal look at the devastation such a tornado brings has changed me.
I have had experiences with tornadoes and cleaned up after them, but nothing as detrimental as these were.
The town has suffered a hit to the population since the tornadoes, but that doesn’t stop them.
They are continuing on with life and their spirits are high. Much of the people reading this can relate to what happens when a small community is destroyed.
Small towns struggle to survive as it is, losing the majority of a town and school is scary. You wonder how the town will continue on.
Pilger is proof you can. The thing with small communities is they all band together and help each other.
I am so thankful for the experiences I have had there. I thank God for the people I have met. They are some of the kindest, welcoming people I have ever come across. I am proud to call them my friends.
If you are ever driving down HWY 15, I strongly suggest you take a little extra time in your trip to drive into Pilger.
Chances are, there will be a smiling friendly face, happy to tell you stories and show you the town.
If things have been a little rough for you, take a trip up there. Meeting these people and seeing the resilience of a town “Too Tough To Die” puts things in a whole new perspective.
It’s a motto we could all stand to take on in life. Go visit this quaint little place, be inspired and leave feeling revived and ready to take on the world.
Calm and Collected...
These are two key words when dealing with horses.
“Riding is an unseen, unspoken language of subtletics in which the rider and the horse are to be harmonious.” - Author unknown
My kids love horses, especially my daughters. They started taking lessons three years ago.
Lindsey Hinrichs is a very patient girl, good with horses and kids alike.
She is the one who has taught my girls everything they know.
This past weekend was our first horse show of the year. It was HOT. It always is on show days.
This year, both of my girls were competing. Karys on her horse, Puma, Brielle on a borrowed horse, Big Ugly.
Big (as I call him) is an older calm horse, he has one speed...slow.
He’s great for kids and first time riders. Brielle may have had some of the slowest times in speed events of the day, but she participated and that’s all she really wants at this point.
Puma is about nine years old, and a gorgeous black horse. He likes to do things his way every once in a while.
Before she started riding horses, Karys was very timid, she needed to learn how to assert herself.
Puma has done so much for her. It’s good when he acts up a bit, she has learned to just hold on and maintain some control, then he settles down.
Last year at a show, he took off on her as soon as he entered the ring. She was disqualified, but she got control and made him go back and do it over, the right way.
After that, he hasn’t pulled such stunts again.
The first show is always full of nerves and excitement. The horse feels what the rider is feeling and feeds off of it.
He was fairly good, just had a couple incidents. He got in front of the crows nest the first time and tried to turn around and do what he wanted, but she gained control and they completed the event.
The second time he did well until the kids all lined up in front of the judge. Once everyone started clapping and cheering, he got antsy and acted up. She stayed on him and they both calmed down some.
By the third event, she was a little nervous to go into the arena, but she did it, and it went very smoothly.
I love watching her on this big beautiful animal, her confidence and persistence. It’s a sight to behold.
She improves every year and we are slowly getting her to do new events out of her comfort zone.
This was her first time competing in pleasure. All things considered, they did well.
While the pair did not come away with any wins, they did come away as more of a team.
They are learning respect for each other, and deep down, you see the love they both have for each other.
Horses are falling by the way side. They are expensive and being replaced by equipment.
It saddens me as I have personally witnessed what a horse can do for a child.
I wish I was a rider, maybe with time, I will work my way up to some leisurely trail rides.
For now, I get so much joy watching my girls on these majestic creatures. Horses are very intelligent and can be quite empathetic.
When we are having a bad day, it always feels better after we spend some time just being with Puma, petting him and getting nuzzled.
By the time Brielle is old enough for 4-H and horse shows, Karys will have Puma broken in just as he needs to be.
In the mean time, I sit back and watch Karys grow. She has changed so much since she started riding. There is still a lot of growth to come.
They are not completely harmonious yet, but someday they will be.
For now, she just keeps trying, she is learning, you win some and you loose some.
You always get back on the horse.
“Riding is an unseen, unspoken language of subtletics in which the rider and the horse are to be harmonious.” - Author unknown
My kids love horses, especially my daughters. They started taking lessons three years ago.
Lindsey Hinrichs is a very patient girl, good with horses and kids alike.
She is the one who has taught my girls everything they know.
This past weekend was our first horse show of the year. It was HOT. It always is on show days.
This year, both of my girls were competing. Karys on her horse, Puma, Brielle on a borrowed horse, Big Ugly.
Big (as I call him) is an older calm horse, he has one speed...slow.
He’s great for kids and first time riders. Brielle may have had some of the slowest times in speed events of the day, but she participated and that’s all she really wants at this point.
Puma is about nine years old, and a gorgeous black horse. He likes to do things his way every once in a while.
Before she started riding horses, Karys was very timid, she needed to learn how to assert herself.
Puma has done so much for her. It’s good when he acts up a bit, she has learned to just hold on and maintain some control, then he settles down.
Last year at a show, he took off on her as soon as he entered the ring. She was disqualified, but she got control and made him go back and do it over, the right way.
After that, he hasn’t pulled such stunts again.
The first show is always full of nerves and excitement. The horse feels what the rider is feeling and feeds off of it.
He was fairly good, just had a couple incidents. He got in front of the crows nest the first time and tried to turn around and do what he wanted, but she gained control and they completed the event.
The second time he did well until the kids all lined up in front of the judge. Once everyone started clapping and cheering, he got antsy and acted up. She stayed on him and they both calmed down some.
By the third event, she was a little nervous to go into the arena, but she did it, and it went very smoothly.
I love watching her on this big beautiful animal, her confidence and persistence. It’s a sight to behold.
She improves every year and we are slowly getting her to do new events out of her comfort zone.
This was her first time competing in pleasure. All things considered, they did well.
While the pair did not come away with any wins, they did come away as more of a team.
They are learning respect for each other, and deep down, you see the love they both have for each other.
Horses are falling by the way side. They are expensive and being replaced by equipment.
It saddens me as I have personally witnessed what a horse can do for a child.
I wish I was a rider, maybe with time, I will work my way up to some leisurely trail rides.
For now, I get so much joy watching my girls on these majestic creatures. Horses are very intelligent and can be quite empathetic.
When we are having a bad day, it always feels better after we spend some time just being with Puma, petting him and getting nuzzled.
By the time Brielle is old enough for 4-H and horse shows, Karys will have Puma broken in just as he needs to be.
In the mean time, I sit back and watch Karys grow. She has changed so much since she started riding. There is still a lot of growth to come.
They are not completely harmonious yet, but someday they will be.
For now, she just keeps trying, she is learning, you win some and you loose some.
You always get back on the horse.
The Zoo...
This past Thursday, I found myself with an actual day off!
I loaded up the kids and we headed out for the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, NE.
Of course, my kids had heard about the boy that fell into the Gorilla enclosure and the shooting of the gorilla that followed.
The good thing about this was the discussion we had about staying close (especially Weston).
We have not been to the Omaha Zoo in about three years now. That place changes all the time. There is no longer a parking lot where the parking lot was located last time we were there.
The main problem with this is you don’t have time to see even half of the zoo in a day.
We were on a bit of a time crunch, so we tried to see as much as possible as fast as possible.
I thought with it being a Thursday the zoo wouldn’t be as busy. I realized just how wrong I was when we had to park along the curb at the end of the parking lot!
Turns out, it was the day for all the daycares and daycamps to go on a fieldtrip... to the zoo. There were so many people.
When I bought our tickets, I decided to go with the package that included Sting Ray Beach. Wow, have prices gone up in recent years.
We grabbed our map and decided on the best route. First things first, the jungle.
All three of my kids were having a blast soaking in everything. We were enjoying our stroll through the jungle when we walked under-into one of the fake caves.
This cave had a little sunlight, just enough that you could see the family of bats hanging just a couple short feet above your head. I am sure they did not belong in there, as they were not contained in anything.
I do not like bats. I have had very bad experiences with them in the past, which is why it took everything I had not to scream and take off running.
I did however, look up and see this family of bats and said to my kids, “GO, GO, GO!” We got the heck out of there as fast as we could!
Next stop was the concession stand; we were starving! We chose the one right next to the aquarium, as that was where we were headed next.
There is nothing like watching kids see large sea turtles and sharks swim over their heads! Right as we were leaving that area, something swam over that my girls weren’t expecting and they jumped.
After the Aquarium, it was time to go visit the giraffes and elephants. Elephants are a huge favorite in our house.
They had built a new large indoor enclosure for the elephants, so we went in and watched them eat and saw a baby.
Next up was the gorillas. There were a couple very large ones sitting right up next to the glass; they were nice and relaxed, just soaking up some sun.
As we walked by one monkey enclosure, my girls got to see more than they wanted, so we moved on quickly.
It was getting to be time we needed to get to the other side of the zoo so we could visit Sting Ray Beach. Due to all the construction going on and what looked to be blocked off paths, we went by it a couple of times.
Eventually, we made our way to the exibit. It was pretty fun. You rinse your arms off up to your elbows and stick your hands right in the water to feel and play with the sting rays. Some of them sort of had one of their sides up for a high five.
It was about this time our cousin almost got attacked by a peacock while waiting outside; we decided it was time to go.
I loaded up the kids and we headed out for the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, NE.
Of course, my kids had heard about the boy that fell into the Gorilla enclosure and the shooting of the gorilla that followed.
The good thing about this was the discussion we had about staying close (especially Weston).
We have not been to the Omaha Zoo in about three years now. That place changes all the time. There is no longer a parking lot where the parking lot was located last time we were there.
The main problem with this is you don’t have time to see even half of the zoo in a day.
We were on a bit of a time crunch, so we tried to see as much as possible as fast as possible.
I thought with it being a Thursday the zoo wouldn’t be as busy. I realized just how wrong I was when we had to park along the curb at the end of the parking lot!
Turns out, it was the day for all the daycares and daycamps to go on a fieldtrip... to the zoo. There were so many people.
When I bought our tickets, I decided to go with the package that included Sting Ray Beach. Wow, have prices gone up in recent years.
We grabbed our map and decided on the best route. First things first, the jungle.
All three of my kids were having a blast soaking in everything. We were enjoying our stroll through the jungle when we walked under-into one of the fake caves.
This cave had a little sunlight, just enough that you could see the family of bats hanging just a couple short feet above your head. I am sure they did not belong in there, as they were not contained in anything.
I do not like bats. I have had very bad experiences with them in the past, which is why it took everything I had not to scream and take off running.
I did however, look up and see this family of bats and said to my kids, “GO, GO, GO!” We got the heck out of there as fast as we could!
Next stop was the concession stand; we were starving! We chose the one right next to the aquarium, as that was where we were headed next.
There is nothing like watching kids see large sea turtles and sharks swim over their heads! Right as we were leaving that area, something swam over that my girls weren’t expecting and they jumped.
After the Aquarium, it was time to go visit the giraffes and elephants. Elephants are a huge favorite in our house.
They had built a new large indoor enclosure for the elephants, so we went in and watched them eat and saw a baby.
Next up was the gorillas. There were a couple very large ones sitting right up next to the glass; they were nice and relaxed, just soaking up some sun.
As we walked by one monkey enclosure, my girls got to see more than they wanted, so we moved on quickly.
It was getting to be time we needed to get to the other side of the zoo so we could visit Sting Ray Beach. Due to all the construction going on and what looked to be blocked off paths, we went by it a couple of times.
Eventually, we made our way to the exibit. It was pretty fun. You rinse your arms off up to your elbows and stick your hands right in the water to feel and play with the sting rays. Some of them sort of had one of their sides up for a high five.
It was about this time our cousin almost got attacked by a peacock while waiting outside; we decided it was time to go.
That Others May Live...
“It is my duty as a Pararescueman to save life and to aid the injured. I will be prepared at all times to perform my assigned duties quickly and efficiently, placing these duties before personal desires and comforts. These things we (I) do, that others may live.” -The Code of the Air Rescueman.
I personally spend Memorial Day in reflection of our veteran’s and their service. The memories of those I love and lost remain ever present in the back of my mind.
I got married in late May 2003. A few months before our wedding, my brother-in-law was overseas flying search and rescue helicopters in the US Air Force.
At the time, he and my sister had a not-quite two-year-old, and she was in the first trimester of their second pregnancy. I was calling my sister every couple of days to check in with her and see how she was feeling.
While at work one day I heard a helicopter had crashed and all members were killed. The media had said it was a blackhawk; my brother-in-law flies pavehawk’s so I thought he was safe this time around.
A few days later during a phone call to my mom, she realized no one had told me. My brother-in-law’s commander had sent him ahead of his crew to get a few things done and prepare for their arrival at another location (he never left his helicopter). Unfortunately, the helicopter went down and the entire crew was lost. Because I had been checking in so often with my sister everyone, had assumed I knew.
My brother-in-law escorted the remains of his entire crew home, and stayed with them until their families were able to claim them.
My heart was broken for him and all those families suffering this loss.
I was unable to do anything for my sister at the time, as they were currently living in Georgia. I decided a few days later to write a letter to my brother-in-law. You see, survivors guilt had set in hard. I wrote him a letter telling him how incredible he is, how much I look up to him and why. Those who sacrifice and serve in our military are my heros.
You will hear people say, that’s what they wanted to do. They made the choice to serve and sacrifice, which they did, but it changes people. It’s a hard life, not only for our service members, but also for the loved ones in their lives.
They spend more time away from their wives, children, friends and parents than they do with them. They miss birthdays, holidays, anniversaries and milestones. Then they return home to children that have grown and changed so much, and have to, in essence, re-incorporate themselves into their lives.
I, for one, enjoy memorial weekend. We go camping, ride jet skis, play at the lake and enjoy time with friends. I’m not saying that should not happen, after all, then this would all be for naught.
Just take the time to reflect, remember and appreciate those who sacrifice so much so we are able to live and enjoy this life.
Take time to thank our service men and women; if you see one, say thank you.
And maybe when you visit the cemetery to place flowers on the graves of those you have loved and lost, take some extra ones to place on the graves of those whose remains were never able to be identified.
For there are mothers, grandparents, children, significant others, and friends whose hearts are forever scared and broken by the unknown.
“Here rests in honored glory an American soldier, known but to God.”
To all those who have or are currently serving in the Armed Forces of the United States of America, I give my most heartfelt thanks!
“As we honor their memory today, let us pledge that their lives, their sacrifices, their valor shall be justified and remembered for as long as God gives life to this nation.”
- Ronald Reagan
I personally spend Memorial Day in reflection of our veteran’s and their service. The memories of those I love and lost remain ever present in the back of my mind.
I got married in late May 2003. A few months before our wedding, my brother-in-law was overseas flying search and rescue helicopters in the US Air Force.
At the time, he and my sister had a not-quite two-year-old, and she was in the first trimester of their second pregnancy. I was calling my sister every couple of days to check in with her and see how she was feeling.
While at work one day I heard a helicopter had crashed and all members were killed. The media had said it was a blackhawk; my brother-in-law flies pavehawk’s so I thought he was safe this time around.
A few days later during a phone call to my mom, she realized no one had told me. My brother-in-law’s commander had sent him ahead of his crew to get a few things done and prepare for their arrival at another location (he never left his helicopter). Unfortunately, the helicopter went down and the entire crew was lost. Because I had been checking in so often with my sister everyone, had assumed I knew.
My brother-in-law escorted the remains of his entire crew home, and stayed with them until their families were able to claim them.
My heart was broken for him and all those families suffering this loss.
I was unable to do anything for my sister at the time, as they were currently living in Georgia. I decided a few days later to write a letter to my brother-in-law. You see, survivors guilt had set in hard. I wrote him a letter telling him how incredible he is, how much I look up to him and why. Those who sacrifice and serve in our military are my heros.
You will hear people say, that’s what they wanted to do. They made the choice to serve and sacrifice, which they did, but it changes people. It’s a hard life, not only for our service members, but also for the loved ones in their lives.
They spend more time away from their wives, children, friends and parents than they do with them. They miss birthdays, holidays, anniversaries and milestones. Then they return home to children that have grown and changed so much, and have to, in essence, re-incorporate themselves into their lives.
I, for one, enjoy memorial weekend. We go camping, ride jet skis, play at the lake and enjoy time with friends. I’m not saying that should not happen, after all, then this would all be for naught.
Just take the time to reflect, remember and appreciate those who sacrifice so much so we are able to live and enjoy this life.
Take time to thank our service men and women; if you see one, say thank you.
And maybe when you visit the cemetery to place flowers on the graves of those you have loved and lost, take some extra ones to place on the graves of those whose remains were never able to be identified.
For there are mothers, grandparents, children, significant others, and friends whose hearts are forever scared and broken by the unknown.
“Here rests in honored glory an American soldier, known but to God.”
To all those who have or are currently serving in the Armed Forces of the United States of America, I give my most heartfelt thanks!
“As we honor their memory today, let us pledge that their lives, their sacrifices, their valor shall be justified and remembered for as long as God gives life to this nation.”
- Ronald Reagan
Never Too Late...
About 16 years ago, I was attending Massage Therapy school at the Colorado Institute of Massage Therapy.
It was a two-year program. Unfortunately, approximately a year into the program, life happened. I ended up dropping out and moving out here.
I loved massage school, and I was good at it. That is one profession you don’t hear people say, “I have an appointment for a massage today, I don’t want to go.”
I once had a psychiatrist tell me I should really become a child psychologist. I had been going through my own therapy with him for a while and he thought I would be very good at it.
There is a big part of me that wants to hear everyone’s story. That being said, there is also a big part of me that wants to help; I have a desire to fix things.
That desire also leads to me over analyzing everything. In the end, I decided I could not go into psychology. It would wear me down, I would have a hard time leaving my work behind.
Back to massage, this is a profession where I can heal and fix and help. It is also a profession where I don’t constantly worry about my clients.
Fast forward 16 years. A lot of life has happened in that time: marriage, kids.
There has been a tremendous amount of change in my life in the past year.
I went from being a stay-at-home mom for 10 years to going back into the workforce.
With three children, comes a lot of expenses. I love working at the paper, but I need to do a bit more.
I have decided to return to Massage Therapy school. I will continue working at Clay County News as much as I can.
I begin my online coursework any day now. I will complete all of my kinesiology, pathology, physiology and other similar classes online.
This coming fall, I will be moving to Colorado for six weeks for intensive training and schooling. It is going to be hard; I can’t take my kids with me, as my school hours are full-time, 40 hours a week.
To help pay for this schooling and loss of income for six weeks, I have taken on another part-time job. I am exhausted. This is a complete life and schedule change for myself and my kids...
Hard work pays off, right?
When I say I am exhausted, I really mean exhausted. I almost drove to the wrong job this morning. When I woke up, I didn’t know what day it was. I honestly thought I lost a week in the haze of working mostly 12 hours a day, seven days a week.
Why I am I doing this? I need to; I need to do it not only for myself, but also for my children.
They need to see you finish what you start. You have to go to school, your education is of utmost importance.
Chances are, I will look back a year from now and not remember if I was coming or going. There have been a lot of days lately I question why I am doing this.
I will admit I am getting burnt out, which is why I reiterated what hours I am willing to work at this second job.
It’s not easy, I miss my kids. I went from being with them 24 hours a day, seven days a week to barely seeing them, and when I do, I can’t help the fact that my eyes close.
The key is to keep reminding myself this will all be worth it in the end. This is only a short period of time in the grand scheme of things.
When I have finished all this, I will be that much more satisfied with myself. I will have found that much more worth in myself.
It will show through to my kids. After all, they are what drives me, they are what I do everything for.
The more confidence and worth I see in myself, the more it will reflect on my kids.
Isn’t that what we all want for our children... to be happy, confident, to see themselves as they are seen through our eyes.
Like I said, this is and will continue to be hard work, but it will be so worth it in the end.
Let me be your inspiration, look at me and know it really is ‘Never Too Late.’
It was a two-year program. Unfortunately, approximately a year into the program, life happened. I ended up dropping out and moving out here.
I loved massage school, and I was good at it. That is one profession you don’t hear people say, “I have an appointment for a massage today, I don’t want to go.”
I once had a psychiatrist tell me I should really become a child psychologist. I had been going through my own therapy with him for a while and he thought I would be very good at it.
There is a big part of me that wants to hear everyone’s story. That being said, there is also a big part of me that wants to help; I have a desire to fix things.
That desire also leads to me over analyzing everything. In the end, I decided I could not go into psychology. It would wear me down, I would have a hard time leaving my work behind.
Back to massage, this is a profession where I can heal and fix and help. It is also a profession where I don’t constantly worry about my clients.
Fast forward 16 years. A lot of life has happened in that time: marriage, kids.
There has been a tremendous amount of change in my life in the past year.
I went from being a stay-at-home mom for 10 years to going back into the workforce.
With three children, comes a lot of expenses. I love working at the paper, but I need to do a bit more.
I have decided to return to Massage Therapy school. I will continue working at Clay County News as much as I can.
I begin my online coursework any day now. I will complete all of my kinesiology, pathology, physiology and other similar classes online.
This coming fall, I will be moving to Colorado for six weeks for intensive training and schooling. It is going to be hard; I can’t take my kids with me, as my school hours are full-time, 40 hours a week.
To help pay for this schooling and loss of income for six weeks, I have taken on another part-time job. I am exhausted. This is a complete life and schedule change for myself and my kids...
Hard work pays off, right?
When I say I am exhausted, I really mean exhausted. I almost drove to the wrong job this morning. When I woke up, I didn’t know what day it was. I honestly thought I lost a week in the haze of working mostly 12 hours a day, seven days a week.
Why I am I doing this? I need to; I need to do it not only for myself, but also for my children.
They need to see you finish what you start. You have to go to school, your education is of utmost importance.
Chances are, I will look back a year from now and not remember if I was coming or going. There have been a lot of days lately I question why I am doing this.
I will admit I am getting burnt out, which is why I reiterated what hours I am willing to work at this second job.
It’s not easy, I miss my kids. I went from being with them 24 hours a day, seven days a week to barely seeing them, and when I do, I can’t help the fact that my eyes close.
The key is to keep reminding myself this will all be worth it in the end. This is only a short period of time in the grand scheme of things.
When I have finished all this, I will be that much more satisfied with myself. I will have found that much more worth in myself.
It will show through to my kids. After all, they are what drives me, they are what I do everything for.
The more confidence and worth I see in myself, the more it will reflect on my kids.
Isn’t that what we all want for our children... to be happy, confident, to see themselves as they are seen through our eyes.
Like I said, this is and will continue to be hard work, but it will be so worth it in the end.
Let me be your inspiration, look at me and know it really is ‘Never Too Late.’
End of the Year...
It was graduation weekend in Clay County.
The last day of school for Sandy Creek kids was Wednesday, May 18.
The end of this year has been particularly hectic. Last Monday, I left Sutton at a quarter to five. I had to get home to get my kids and myself ready for the Elementary concert at Sandy Creek.
As I was leaving town, I had finished up a phone call setting up live streaming for a weather app. I knew there were some storms forming, but didn’t think much of it.
As I was about to turn onto Highway 14 from Highway 6, I noticed spotters were out from Clay Center.
I continued on, as I had to get us all to the concert on time.
I have a radar app on my phone the National Weather Service in Hastings uses. I thought perhaps I should pull it up and take a look. That’s when I saw it...
A large hook just west of Fairfield. It was about this time my phone started ringing. It was Tanner asking me where I was.
I told him I saw the hook, and knew I was driving into the storm, but was going to keep going. If it got too bad I would just pull into someone’s yard.
Once I got out of Clay Center, the rain picked up. A few miles out of town I saw more spotters and a sheriff’s deputy turned around on the road and parked to watch.
I pulled my phone out and tried to give this live stream a try. As I’m staring at the clouds, I see the rotation and striation.
My phone begins to ring again, I ignore the calls as I’m trying to live stream this incredible event.
I continue driving, at this point the supercell is directly above me. As I turn off of Hwy 14 onto 74, the rain is coming down so hard I can barely see. Hail starts hitting my car, also.
I try to make a quick decision as to where to go. Should I park at Sandy Creek, try to make it to the driveway of the house with the big red barn...
As I drive, it clears up a bit and I pull into John Deere and park. I publish my first live stream video and start another one.
I am elated. Here I am sitting in a parking lot facing a tornado that has formed and is coming down. This live stream is going to be incredible. I’ve never been through an experience like this before.
My phone begins to ring again, numerous times. I ignore and continue streaming. The large tornado dissipates and a smaller rope tornado forms. Once that one dissipates, I stop and prepare to leave.
I soon realize the phone calls kicked me off of live streaming. I have nothing, no video of this incredible tornado and experience of a lifetime.
I am not a happy camper, sigh. Oh well, there is nothing that can be done about it now. I have the experience forever ingrained into my memory.
Upon arriving at home, I find out Sandy Creek had been hit by the tornado. I grab my camera again and head back out to see the damage.
By the time I arrived home that night, it had been a few hours since the storm. There were still piles of hail in my yard and the power had apparently gone out.
I discovered a couple days later when I had time to sit down for a bit that my local channels had disappeared. Turns out the storm had messed with my satellite dish.
To be quite honest, I am glad I was not at home. I have to park my car outside and honestly, storms fascinate me. When they hit, I like to be out where I can see them and whats coming.
As we were in the parking lot at Sandy Creek we noticed a small funnel form off to the south a good distance. I did catch a picture of it with my camera, however it disappeared about as fast as it appeared.
It was not nearly as exciting as what I had experienced earlier in the evening. Sandy Creek had a fair amount of damage, enough to close school for the following day and cause a late start the day after that.
It just added even more stress to the staff at SC. They have done all they can to pack in every activity that was planned before the year comes to an end.
The last day of school for Sandy Creek kids was Wednesday, May 18.
The end of this year has been particularly hectic. Last Monday, I left Sutton at a quarter to five. I had to get home to get my kids and myself ready for the Elementary concert at Sandy Creek.
As I was leaving town, I had finished up a phone call setting up live streaming for a weather app. I knew there were some storms forming, but didn’t think much of it.
As I was about to turn onto Highway 14 from Highway 6, I noticed spotters were out from Clay Center.
I continued on, as I had to get us all to the concert on time.
I have a radar app on my phone the National Weather Service in Hastings uses. I thought perhaps I should pull it up and take a look. That’s when I saw it...
A large hook just west of Fairfield. It was about this time my phone started ringing. It was Tanner asking me where I was.
I told him I saw the hook, and knew I was driving into the storm, but was going to keep going. If it got too bad I would just pull into someone’s yard.
Once I got out of Clay Center, the rain picked up. A few miles out of town I saw more spotters and a sheriff’s deputy turned around on the road and parked to watch.
I pulled my phone out and tried to give this live stream a try. As I’m staring at the clouds, I see the rotation and striation.
My phone begins to ring again, I ignore the calls as I’m trying to live stream this incredible event.
I continue driving, at this point the supercell is directly above me. As I turn off of Hwy 14 onto 74, the rain is coming down so hard I can barely see. Hail starts hitting my car, also.
I try to make a quick decision as to where to go. Should I park at Sandy Creek, try to make it to the driveway of the house with the big red barn...
As I drive, it clears up a bit and I pull into John Deere and park. I publish my first live stream video and start another one.
I am elated. Here I am sitting in a parking lot facing a tornado that has formed and is coming down. This live stream is going to be incredible. I’ve never been through an experience like this before.
My phone begins to ring again, numerous times. I ignore and continue streaming. The large tornado dissipates and a smaller rope tornado forms. Once that one dissipates, I stop and prepare to leave.
I soon realize the phone calls kicked me off of live streaming. I have nothing, no video of this incredible tornado and experience of a lifetime.
I am not a happy camper, sigh. Oh well, there is nothing that can be done about it now. I have the experience forever ingrained into my memory.
Upon arriving at home, I find out Sandy Creek had been hit by the tornado. I grab my camera again and head back out to see the damage.
By the time I arrived home that night, it had been a few hours since the storm. There were still piles of hail in my yard and the power had apparently gone out.
I discovered a couple days later when I had time to sit down for a bit that my local channels had disappeared. Turns out the storm had messed with my satellite dish.
To be quite honest, I am glad I was not at home. I have to park my car outside and honestly, storms fascinate me. When they hit, I like to be out where I can see them and whats coming.
As we were in the parking lot at Sandy Creek we noticed a small funnel form off to the south a good distance. I did catch a picture of it with my camera, however it disappeared about as fast as it appeared.
It was not nearly as exciting as what I had experienced earlier in the evening. Sandy Creek had a fair amount of damage, enough to close school for the following day and cause a late start the day after that.
It just added even more stress to the staff at SC. They have done all they can to pack in every activity that was planned before the year comes to an end.
Monday, July 18, 2016
The Best Gift...
"If I know what love is, it is because of you." - Hermann Hesse
I am so blessed to have my three wonderful kids; they taught me how to love unconditionally.
Life has been busy and I needed a fun day out with my kids. We decided to head to the Guardians of Freedom Air Show in Lincoln this past Saturday.
We grabbed the sunscreen, wagon and my camera bag and were off.
If you know me at all, you know how easily I get lost. I always have and always will blame it on the fact that I grew up with the mountains telling me where I was. I don't have that anymore.
The interstate had a sign to take an exit by Milford, that was not on my list of directions...
We took it anyway, there is some beautiful country back there!
Eventually, we made it to the Air Park without and GPS guidance (I'm testing myself every once in a while).
As we drove in, we saw numerous cars parked here and there, with picnic chairs and kids playing. We chose one of the first big empty parking areas we came across.
We got out all our gear, put on the first of many coats of sunscreen and started walking.
Myself and my children have never been to an Air Show, and were quite excited for the day ahead.
As we were walking, I told them when we found our spot, to just sit down and rest because there would be a lot of walking that day, and I couldn't carry anyone back.
I reminded all of us this was going to be a fun day with no complaining. (** side note, I'm so mean)
As we were nearing the entrance to the Air Show, we were stopped by Air Patrol and asked if I wanted bracelets for my kids in case they got lost.
Of course we did, you just put your last name and phone number on the bracelet and there you have it. I told my kids, however, to please stay right with me and not get lost. We had no problems!
There were tons of military equipment and planes open so you could look through them and sit in them.
My girls climbed up into a large military truck and posed for a picture. My son was out of his element and not about to get out of the wagon.
As they were sitting in the truck, a child in the drivers seat decided to honk the horn over and over. It was extremely loud, and my son immediately said he wanted to go home.
Luckily, we just convinced him we would get away from that truck.
We walked through the large crowd of people and found an empty spot on the ground to park our wagon and sit on our blanket.
Weston remains quite content in the wagon. This is very unlike him as usually he wants to go an run and play. I hate to admit it, but his unease made the day much easier.
The Air Show began with he announcer simulating a dog fight, as the two planes flew over, they made explosions on the ground. It was just like bombs going off. Weston was terrified.
He went from excitement of seeing the airplanes to hiding his face and, at times, crying. I should have been prepared and brought ear plugs.
By the time the Air Force portion had begun, we were still doing ok, until the F-22 Raptor took flight. I have a brother-in-law in the Air Force, so I was really looking forward to this portion of the show.
The F-22 is extremely loud. Poor Weston was hiding and crying and wouldn't let Karys take one step away from him. Even she was getting worked up.
Brielle and I were having a blast; it didn't bother us one bit.
It turns out on Saturday the fires in Canada had blown their smoke clear into Nebraska. As the day wore on, visibility became less and less.
There was no para-rescue demonstration, and the Blue Angels did not fly, it was just too dangerous.
We had a blast anyway, walked the mile back to our car, and sat in traffic for over two and a half hours. It was a great weekend!
Little Get Away...
I got a little get away this past weekend.
One of my cousins got married in Colorado, so I took off by myself.
The wedding was in Fort Collins, CO. Friday evening. It was to be an outdoor wedding, however it was snowing all weekend, so it became an outdoor-indoor wedding. It took place on a ranch clear up in the foothills beyond the Horsetooth Reservoir.
When we arrived, we were told the pans had changed, guests would now be seated inside.
Right before the wedding, a large garage type door opened displaying a gorgeous view.
There was a beautiful arbor with flowers and the snow was gently falling. The wedding party stood just outside the open door. As I said, it was a beautiful sight.
I felt a little bad for the wedding party as they had to be cold. We could see our breath inside the venue.
Once the ceremony was over, they closed the door and turned on an overhead heater. My table happened to be placed directly underneath this heater.
Weddings have changed quite a bit since I was married. There are appetizer tables, photo booths, signs stating how to hashtag the couple so they can see and enjoy all of your photos from the evening.
Mine was pretty simple in comparison. It was a wonderful night, luckily the ground was warm enough the roads never got icy.
The best part of the weekend was reconnecting with family and friends. I hadn't seen that side of my family in about eight years.
The best part is you pick up right where you left off. That is, after you catch up with what all has happened over the years.
Of course, I had to show pictures of my kids to everyone that would look at them.
They had a dance following the dinner and my mom even learned how to do the Cupid Shuffle. There was no cell service this far up, so I didn't get it recorded. It was great!
The next night, I got to hit the town with a couple of my classmates I haven't seen in, well about 18 years. Hate to admit I am old enough to have not seen them in that long.
We had a wonderful night, dinner and some drinks in Downtown Fort Collins.
While we ate, we started talking to a couple at the end of the bar. Turns out they were from Alliance, NE.
We spent a fair amount of time visiting with them. They proved Nebraskans are a friendly bunch.
As I said, it had snowed all weekend and I was a bit sad I hadn't gotten a view of the mountains yet.
Sunday morning, as I was leaving town, the snow had ceased and the clouds had disappeared . I got a gorgeous view of the mountains I so love and grew up with.
I will admit, it was hard to leave again. I have missed Colorado and my family and friends so very much.
It was so nice catching up, I can't wait to do it again. We have plans, we can't go that long without getting together again.
Thank you Colorado, my family and friends, for a wonderful weekend. It was just what the Dr. ordered for this girl.
One of my cousins got married in Colorado, so I took off by myself.
The wedding was in Fort Collins, CO. Friday evening. It was to be an outdoor wedding, however it was snowing all weekend, so it became an outdoor-indoor wedding. It took place on a ranch clear up in the foothills beyond the Horsetooth Reservoir.
When we arrived, we were told the pans had changed, guests would now be seated inside.
Right before the wedding, a large garage type door opened displaying a gorgeous view.
There was a beautiful arbor with flowers and the snow was gently falling. The wedding party stood just outside the open door. As I said, it was a beautiful sight.
I felt a little bad for the wedding party as they had to be cold. We could see our breath inside the venue.
Once the ceremony was over, they closed the door and turned on an overhead heater. My table happened to be placed directly underneath this heater.
Weddings have changed quite a bit since I was married. There are appetizer tables, photo booths, signs stating how to hashtag the couple so they can see and enjoy all of your photos from the evening.
Mine was pretty simple in comparison. It was a wonderful night, luckily the ground was warm enough the roads never got icy.
The best part of the weekend was reconnecting with family and friends. I hadn't seen that side of my family in about eight years.
The best part is you pick up right where you left off. That is, after you catch up with what all has happened over the years.
Of course, I had to show pictures of my kids to everyone that would look at them.
They had a dance following the dinner and my mom even learned how to do the Cupid Shuffle. There was no cell service this far up, so I didn't get it recorded. It was great!
The next night, I got to hit the town with a couple of my classmates I haven't seen in, well about 18 years. Hate to admit I am old enough to have not seen them in that long.
We had a wonderful night, dinner and some drinks in Downtown Fort Collins.
While we ate, we started talking to a couple at the end of the bar. Turns out they were from Alliance, NE.
We spent a fair amount of time visiting with them. They proved Nebraskans are a friendly bunch.
As I said, it had snowed all weekend and I was a bit sad I hadn't gotten a view of the mountains yet.
Sunday morning, as I was leaving town, the snow had ceased and the clouds had disappeared . I got a gorgeous view of the mountains I so love and grew up with.
I will admit, it was hard to leave again. I have missed Colorado and my family and friends so very much.
It was so nice catching up, I can't wait to do it again. We have plans, we can't go that long without getting together again.
Thank you Colorado, my family and friends, for a wonderful weekend. It was just what the Dr. ordered for this girl.
Celebration...
This past weekend was one of the best weekends ever!
It has been over 10 years since all four of my siblings (myself included) have all been together at the same time.
My sisters flew in from Washington D.C., and Tucson, AZ., and my brother and his wife drove down from Sioux City, IA.
What was the big celebration, you ask? My Grandma Jean turned 90, Saturday April, 23. My brother also happens to share a birthday with our Grandma, so we got to celebrate him as well.
Friday afternoon, my sisters arrived at my house to spend a little quality time with myself and my kids. It was MUCH needed!
Friday evening, we all headed to Red Cloud to meet up with my parents, brother and sister-in-law, Jess.
My siblings had found the Red Cloud B and B. It was amazing. Once we all arrived in Red Cloud, we said our hello's, got our hugs and proceeded to go inside the B and B for the tour.
It was gorgeous! We all said we would happily move in there!
We took our tour, learned some great history, and heard stories all about the lady of the house.
I highly recommend staying there!!! The remodeling job they did was fantastic.
All the tiled floors are heated. There is marble, subway tiles, a HUGE jetted tub, apron front sink, sub zero fridge, gorgeous original woodwork. Need I go on...
We all headed to The Palace for dinner (my kids included). Thank goodness for a nice laid back place to eat, as my son can't sit still, and he was crawling all over the floor pretending to be a sprayer.
After dinner we went back to the B and B. They give you a tour, and the key to the house, show you where your breakfast is (scones and a tray of fresh fruit) and the house is all yours for the night (in our case).
We all sat and visited for a while. My sister Marla and I sat outside on one of the three porches to watch my kids run and play.
Once they got tired and worn out, my parents took them home for the night.
It was down to the five of us (myself, two sisters, brother and sister-in-law). We sat down in the living room to visit for a while, and give my brother birthday presents.
We then moved into the dining room where we played a card game, drank some wine and laughed until we cried for hours. It was the best!
Saturday morning, we headed into Edgar. My extended family had planned and set up a birthday party/open house for my Grandma.
We got to see tons of cousins and their children. It was so nice getting to catch up with so many people, and for a happy event at that!
It's amazing what happens when kids grow up and start having children of their own.
Before you know it, years have gone by without you being able to see most of them. My family is quite spread out.
We all got to sit and visit and eat a wonderful meal as a large extended family. My Grandma, her brother, his wife, and a couple of children, grandchildren, and I believe a couple great-grandchildren were in attendance.
So were my Grandma's children and almost all of their children, and grandchildren. Just with our extended family alone, we had around 62 in attendance.
Numerous others came to wish her a happy birthday during the open house portion of the party.
My Grandma is not only who I am named after, she is truly an amazing woman.
Af the ripe young age of 90, she is still going strong. She is kind, loving and a caregiver by nature.
What a blessing she has gotten 90 years in She has lived quite a life, seen so many things and changes. She grows stronger in her faith all the time.
She is to be looked upon as an amazing example, I hope we get to throw her a 100 year birthday party also!
I want to again wish you a Happy 90th Birthday Grandma Jean! Love you bunches!
By Sunday morning, everyone had gone home, all was quiet again. My kids and I had a lazy pajama day.
I love my people, they are all amazing, my heart hurts when they are away.
Love you all SO much!!!
String Art...
A couple months ago, I attended a Class With A Glass at the Art Bar in Hastings.
I took two friends with me, this particular class was a first for all of us.
You paid for your spot in the class, walked into the Art Bar and everything was out and ready for you.
This class involved string art. We could choose between two different backgrounds with either a chalkboard, or barn wood look. The backgrounds were printed on wood and also had the letters LVE, and a bunch of all dots in the shape of a heart for the O.
We chose a table, sat down and awaited our instructions. As I said before this was a Class With A Glass, so we chose a drink from the drink menu, ordered it and got to work.
You can either start pounding in your nails first, or you can pick out your paint and string.
Even though all these boards started out looking exactly the same, it was fun to see just how different they were by the end.
It was quite noisy with all these people pounding nails into boards, but over soon enough.
I chose some string that was off white, blue, and brown. There really is no rhyme or reason to how you go about string art. You can pick a pattern, but really it's best to just go with it.
You pick a nail and double know your string around it, then add a dab of hot glue so it does not come unravelled. They you just start winding the string around the nails however you like.
I had seen a picture of someone who was able to make it look like an actual heartbeat (or EKG line if you will) going through the middle of her heart. That is impressive, I am not that talented with string art!
One of my letters had arrows on it, another I painted a plaid pattern on and the last had polkadots. It really was a lot of fun.
Once you finished your project, you got a frame nailed on, and a big group picture was taken. We also took pictures with our small groups.
My friends and I really did enjoy the class, enough so, we decided to put our own version of one on ourselves.
Friday there was no school at Sandy Creek, there was however, a teachers inservice. Once the inservice was over, we all headed to a house and got to work.
Now, I was a little late as I don't work at the school, and when I went to leave my house, I accidentally locked myself out of it, sigh.
We all gathered our string and craft supplies and laid the out on the tables for the other ladies to choose from.
I did not make a string art piece this time, I just walked around to help, answer questions and observe the creative minds at work. Really, that was just as much fun as making one myself.
I did take a few boards home with me so I could do some string art with my girls. They would love it!
A couple of us have signed up for another Class With A Glass in another week, can't wait!!
As for the rest of the weekend... the kids and I did some spring cleaning. Sunday was so windy but still nice out, so we flew kites!
By Sunday night, it was evident my middle child had a raging case of pink eye. By Monday morning hit was evident she shared it with me. While it is uncomfortable an looks terrible, I will not complain about being able to spend an extra day with two of my kiddos.
Stumped...
I'm stumped at what to title this column...
This crazy up and down weather has me feeling stumped, also.
Last week, I covered my first track meet of the year.I started the day with two shirts and a coat. It was windy, but didn't feel that bad. The sun was shining.
A couple hours into the track meet, the sun disappeared behind clouds. Shortly after that the wind picked up.
I ran to my car and grabbed my long rain coat and a blanket.
Within another half an hour, I had two coats on and the blanket wrapped around me.
It was COLD. I felt so bad for the poor kids running. They were jumping up and down, doing everything they could to stay warm between events and while waiting at the starting line.
The canopy that covers the finish line equipment (computers and cameras, etc.) blew off the frame a few times. They finally gave up and just took it down.
The wind was so harsh and bitterly cold my whole body ached by the end of the day. Once I got home, I used all the hot water shot my shower.
Saturday rolled around and it was pretty nice. I went with a friend and her mother to The Petal Patch outside of Ruskin.
If you have never been there, I strongly suggest you make the trip!
Cheryl Christensen, the owner, knows her stuff! She hold the workshops throughout the year. They sell out FAST.
We attended the potted plants workshop Saturday. You show up, pay for however many planters you want to plant, then go through the greenhouses and pick your plants (with a little guidance, as far as what is shade and full sun).
Cheryl provides everything you need, the planting soil, plants, food, and juice. It's so much fun.
I always feel better after I get my hands in some dirt. You leave your planted creations there and Christensen takes car elf them, fertilizing and growing them.
You pick your planters up in May, and wow, you don't recognize them. They become huge beautiful baskets, all you have to do is take them home and water them, and occasionally, with some plants trim them back.
Like I said, it is so much fun and so worth the trip!
By Sunday, it was hot, it felt like summer. I opened my windows, cleaned my house and spent the rest of the day outside.
I have this tiny bucket charcoal grill I thought I would break in Sunday evening. It takes some adjustment to cook on a charcoal grill.
I put way too much charcoal in it! Let's just say the steaks I made were well done, but edible.
Here we are into this week a track meet is upon us again today. It was supposed to be 70 and a slight chance of rain, and of course, the wind is supposed to blow.
I left the house in two shirts and a coat, once I went outside, I turned around and grabbed a sweatshirt. It's cold again...
Gotta love spring, it's something different every day, leaving us stumped on what to wear and what plans we can make for the day.
I suppose it's better that way. Once it gets really nice out, we all just want to be outside, and it becomes hard to concentrate.
Summer is almost here!
** side note, the following are some pictures of the varying degrees of cold that day...
Weather...
I love thunderstorms. They fascinate me and there is nothing like the smell of rain!
As a child, storms scared me, like most kids. As some point, however, my outlook changed.
I believe it was after I moved to Nebraska. Storms happen often here, and they can be bad.
It would have been 2004, when a tornado hit the Fairfield area and Clay Center area. It happened over Memorial weekend.
We had left town to attend a graduation in Colorado. We were headed to Imperial first to get my parents. That was the longest drive ever. Literally, every time we would decide we could leave a car wash (for cover) and continue our drive, they would come on the radio and say you do not want to be on HWY 4 between blank and blank. That was exactly where we were each time.
At one point the sky was green and all the sudden, (after an announcement we should not be exactly where we were) a huge gust of wind came up and our Yukon was suddenly pushed back and over to the side a bit.
Once we got to McCook, the sirens were going. Like I said, it was a long trip.
Upon arriving in Imperial, phone calls were made back here. Turns out, tornadoes went through and when we got home, there was some major cleanup to attend to.
The things you find in a field left behind... it's amazing. It is also not fun to cleanup, so much stuff everywhere. We spent a few days walking out fields looking for and picking up debris.
I believe it was also that year we were standing outside at the farm, when we heard Fairfield's sirens go off. We decided to take a drive and see where the tornado was.
We got about a mile down the road when we came across a neighbor. That is when we discovered the tornado was south of us and you could see it.
It was still probably 15 miles away but it was quite a sight.
I would say it was after cleaning up debris and seeing a tornado on its journey, I was no longer afraid. Fascination took over.
This past Wednesday, I was able to attend Severe Weather Training at the Clay County Fairgrounds.
Mike Moritz was our "teacher". The class was very informative and interesting. I learned a lot of new things. I can now be a "spotter."
I attended the training with Ashley. After speaking with her prior to the training, we decided that would not be enough.
I placed a phone call to Mike Moritz at the National Weather Service in Hastings and stayed for a while to check out the radar. Maybe we will get lucky and have a storm roll through while we are there!
Side Note:
On a completely different note...
I had a few local events to attend this past weekend. My column was brought up at one of the events. I made the comments there are times I really struggle with what to write.
Someone asked me if I ever get tired of attending all these events.
I just had to laugh inside, as that was basically what my last column was about.
Feeling like a broken record... I'm still trying to get out of that rut...
Broken Record...
This past weekend, I came across a quote: "My mother taught me this trick: if you repeat something over and over again, it loses its meaning...our lives, she said, are the same way. You watch the sunset too often, and it just becomes 6 p.m. You make the same mistakes over and over, you'll stop calling it a mistake. If you just wake up, wake up, wake up, wake up, one day you'll forget why. Nothing i forever, she said."
I don't know if I have writer's block, or if I have just been stuck on repeat lately. I feel like a broken record. To me, it seems my column says the same thing week after week.
The last few nights, I have gone outside to look at the stars... they haven't been shining, as it's been cloudy.
There is something about looking up at those twinkling lights in the sky that sort of rejuvenates my soul.
If you change your angle every now and then, it looks completely different than the last time you looked. Once I read that quote, I made a conscience effort to see every day in a new light.
We live in a small community that extends through many towns. When I am covering events that take place in each town, it sometimes is easy to feel as though I am a broken record.
It is up to me to try and find a new angle, if you will. That is easier to do when kids are involved, as they are not on repeat.
The same can be said about the sky during the day. My kids and I love to look at he sky and the clouds. My son points out when an airplane if flying over. My girls shout out what they see in the clouds.
Just over a week ago when it rained, we were pulling into our driveway, when in my rear view mirror, I saw the reflection of a beautiful rainbow.
As soon as we parked the car, the girls and I were running to take pictures of it. I taught them how to use the "pano" mode on their iPads to view the entire rainbow in one shot.
Because this was before St. Patrick's Day, Brielle looked at it and said, "What a perfect time for a rainbow, there are leprechauns all over the place right now."
How many rainbows have I seen in my lifetime? Quite a few. None of them have looked the same. When I was young, around Karys' age, we were driving up Monarch Pass in Colorado to visit my sister at college. This is a pass you do not want to have ate drive in the winter. It is notorious for being nasty.
There was one particular trip where a rainbow was shining on the pass, directly on the road. We actually drove through the rainbow, it was like sparkly light shining through our vehicle. For once the pass was beautiful, instead of scary.
This quote struck me, it's so easy to get stuck in a rut, to live life on repeat.
Even on Easter Sunday, it's always interesting to see if the preacher can come up with a new way to tell the Easter story.
I feel the need to challenge myself to look at things in a different light. No matter the circumstance.
Even folding the laundry or doing dishes. Maybe I could load the dishwasher in a different pattern (just kidding, you never mess with a good dishwasher layout).
Have to throw a little joke in somewhere. Still, you get what I'm saying.
If life feels boring, or bad or happy even, try to mix things up, even just a little.
Don't live on repeat, don't forget why. Nothing is forever.
The Hunts Begin...
Spring Break was this past Friday for Sandy Creek. Unfortunately, we only got one day off. That meant for my kids, and a few others, it was to go work with mom day.
As the weather gets nicer, and Easter draws near, there are tons of activities going on around the area.
Friday night I met a friend in Hastings after work to attend a few trunk shows at a local boutique, we had a great time.
Saturday was the vendor show and egg hunt in Edgar. They had a very nice turn out with quite a few vendors. My kids and I could not resist some of the delicious treats.
We grabbed hamburgers for lunch, which were also available at he show, and waited for the egg hunt.
Right before the kids all went outside it started to rain, it switched from a drizzle to actual rain.
The kids didn't mind, and of course, once the hunt was over and everyone went back inside, it stopped raining.
Since we were cold and wet, we head home to dry off and relax.
The spring forward time change is the roughest one at our house. I can't get the kids to bed as early as I would like, plus it's light out later. Getting up an hour earlier than usual is rough. We are not exactly morning people.
Sunday was gorgeous, we spent as much time as possible outside. My girls love digging for worms once the ground gets soft again.
The next two weeks also provide egg hunts in the area. As I said, I had my kids with me for the Edgar egg hunt. That proved to be a tad challenging. My kids are fairly spread out age wise, so they were in three different areas for the hunt.
That means that Weston was left to his own device. I was there watching him, but trying to snap photos and keep my camera dry at the same time.
I had to wrangle him in a few times before it even started. He did not stay in his designated area, he took off running anywhere he saw eggs, then he took off when he found his sister.
This sweet little boy of mine is full of spunk. He never stops moving and he always has a motor sound coming out of his mouth.
He has gotten to the age where he is not afraid of the Easter bunny. I got a very cute picture of him looking at her in awe, of course, she was also holding a bucket of candy.
I enjoy watching all these sweet little faces run around grabbing eggs. Especially the youngest ones, they just run around with their basket looking at the eggs and candy, and then looking at their parents. It's usually the parents that end up picking them up and putting them in the basket.
What I enjoy most about this time of year area the rain showers. I love the smell of rain, and a good thunderstorm is my favorite. I just broke down and ordered a remote shutter cable for my camera. Hopefully, I will catch some good lightning shots this spring!
Keep an eye out for your local egg hunt. Watch the weather as storm season is approaching. Don't forget to hunt nature and see what fun things you can find!
Sunday, July 17, 2016
Spring?...
It's only the beginning of March, right? This weather has me so messed up.
This past weekend was very nice. As spring really is right around the corner, it's time to do some prep work.
My daughters love horses! My oldest received her first horse for her birthday this past October. Last year was her first year in 4-H.
We have a wonderful friend that has shown them the ropes, you can tell! Last year, Karys won three first place trophies. Between her natural ability and Lindsey working with her, it is a sight to behold.
My poor girl had even come down with one of the worst cases of the stomach flu we have had in years the day before.
She has been taking riding lessons for around four years now. Last year was also our first year showing.
It was after those lessons and her father watching her show that day for 4H that convinced him she did need a horse.
April will be here before we know it, and April 1st is the deadline to sign up for 4H. Horse shows will be starting; so much to prepare for.
Karys hadn't ridden her horse in over four months. This past weekend, we dusted off the sale and got her on.
She said it felt good to be back on her horse; things went well. Her little sister also took a little ride on another horse, and I even hopped on our horse for a short ride. He was good to me, also.
The weather was so nice we were in T-shirts by 11 a.m. The horses had worked up a sweat by the time we were done.
One reminder it is not yet spring, however, are the horses coats. They are still "long" and fluffy. They have not yet begun to shed.
Karys always has to take the time to brush out her horse before she saddles him up. Between the horse hair flying and her normal seasonal allergies, she was a sneezing mess.
All this back and forth between the cold weather and the warm weather, the animals with their winter coats, and the allergies in full force, it just has us all screwed up.
Don't get me wrong, I love this nice weather... I just know it's just a teaser.
The other night, it sprinkled, I had to stand outside and smell the air for a while. I love the smell of rain, spring i drawing near.
I hope this weather is here to stay, at least for the majority of the time. Once it hits, it's a mad dash to ride as often as you can. Less than one month to get yourself and your horse back in shape, and on the same page is not a lot of time.
I can't wait for horse showing season. It's such a thrill watching my little girl control and work with such a large animal. For the most part, he is a gentle giant.
Her favorite competitions are barrels and poles. She is quite good at it, we just need to work on speed.
Her little sister is not as competitive as she is, and for now, is pretty content to just sit on a horse for hours and slowly ride around.
Although Saturday, Lindsey for on the horse with Brielle, and they did a few reigning spins. When asked if she wanted to do it again, the response was an immediate yes.
It would not be a bad thing if she focused more on reigning, then the barrels and poles, so she and her sister are not competing against one another.
I am contest just going for a little ride here and there and giving the horses scratches. I also always have a camera ready for one of Lindsey's horses, who loves selfies.
He sees himself, and it's an up close and personal view. He tends to leave slobber on my screen.
I am excited to see how far Karys progresses this year. She has gained so much confidence since she took up this sport.
She has had to learn to assert herself, or her horse won't obey, and they will be disqualified. As a quiet sit back and observe kind of kid, it's been perfect for her. She has found her voice.
Grab your boots and spurs girl, it's time to ride.
Busy Work...
I really do enjoy track season; I just wish sometimes the meets weren't quite so cold...
I covered track in Henderson last week. While is wasn't too bad through much of the day, the track meet was a long one. It didn't get over until 8:30 p.m. Once the sun went down, it cooled off quickly!
This weekend was fairly quiet. Friday afternoon, I got to go out to Sandy Creek and "tour" the new concession stand that is being built. You will hear more about that next week.
Saturday, we got to eat some grilled hamburgers (yum) and play outside.
Sunday, we went to church and then home. It was a rainy day!!! What a nice rain we received over the weekend; a long soaker, just what we needed!
Sunday evening, I had friends over for dinner, with smoked brisket on the menu! Everything was finished cooking and I was just getting plates out of the cupboard when I got called out to cover a fire. Luckily, the fire was contained by the time I got there and my every-so-nice friends watched my kids while I took off five minutes after they arrived.
I was back home in about an hour and just did some re-heating and we were ready to eat.
Like Karys had said to me, I love food this time of year. We get to smoke and grill out meat, eat fresh vegetables and it all tastes so good!! We get more of a variety than what we eat all winter!
I got to spend the morning home on Monday. I had some things to cover around noon, and I'm pretty sure I have an ear infection, ugh.
I won't complain about the extra time and snuggles I got from my sweet little boy this morning!
I did receive a phone call Monday morning with some exciting news from the Deweese Community Club; stay tuned.
I also had to make a trip out to Sandy Creek to cover a few things, and while I was there, I was pulled aside and told some more fun, exciting news. You will have to wait a little while to hear about that!
I have to give a shout out to Sandy Creek. There are so many wonderful programs and opportunities for kids going on out there!
Not only that, but our staff and administration are so easy to talk to and or with. If I ever have any questions, I get answers right away. The fact that our school also allows so many other extracurricular activities to be held out there is just amazing!
It really doesn't take much to be welcomed with open arms, and big hellos and smiles out at school. I happen to spend a lot of time out there currently, and most people know me by my first name. It feels great to send my kids to a school where everyone knows them, and the communication is so open!
Thank you to Sandy Creek, I am amazed at what the kids are learning and experiencing! We even have some great inventors out there!
The end to this school year is quickly approaching!! I can't believe it's almost here. I look forward to graduation, and watching some great kids move forward in life. I can't wait to see what you do with it all!!
Patience...
I have said it before, I am not a very patient person. It is something I really need to work on.
My kids were with me this past weekend. The two youngest are like oil and water.
I have at add that my youngest is three. Three is not an easy age, he wants to do everything himself.
Brielle wants to play with animals, but they go in certain places and do certain things.
Weston wants to play with Brielle and her animals, but he wants them to stomp around and destroy things. This causes a fight.
Saturday it just so happened to be over 70 degrees. The downside, the wind blew... hard.
When you have three kids and it's nice out, you stay outside, even if that means facing the risk of blowing away (that is possible, I blew away when I was three).
There happens to be a large pile of rocks in our yard right now. They played on that for quite a while.
We then went to our farm as their dad was out of town and we needed to feed and water a few animals.
We hopped on our UTV and took a ride down to the river. We walked down to the river and went for a little stroll. The water is perfectly clear this time of year.
Along out stroll, we stopped to look at rocks and skipped a few along the river. They let their imaginations run wild, they observed many different parts of nature.
We found a few logs along our walk and had to try them out for sitting on, but only for a few seconds! We also managed to walk through some thorn patches. It took me a good five minutes to pull all the thorns off of my kid's pants.
After our little river stroll and Ranger ride, we headed back to our farm. The kids were happy to play on the swings and slides, and in the tree house my dad and I built them a couple of years ago.
The plan was to get lots of fresh air, and wear them out. We went into Fairfield that evening to eat sandwiches at the fire hall with our neighbors. Turns out my plan worked well, we are and visited for a little bit. It was very apparent my kids were tired, so was I.
Sunday was a little slower, it was still nice, and windy. We didn't play outside quite as much. When my kids are gone my laundry is done, my house is clean and my cupboards are full.
Within minutes of them coming home it is the exact opposite. After a little cleaning we took up an invitation to go see some lambs.
Our other neighbors (this qualifies as about a two mile radius) raise sheep. Their boys show them for 4-H, and at the State Fair. They had tons of babies for us to run around with and pet. They are so cute! My kids had a blast there.
We saw a set of triplets, some fuzzy white lambs, some spotted lambs, some gray lambs and one that looks like he has a saddle on his back.
Weston, of course, spent his time chasing them around and scaring them. Brielle was a tad more patient and quiet, she even got to hold one for a minute.
Karys, the one I need to observe and learn from the most, stood for some time scratching their heads and necks.
As ornery as Weston can be, they invited us back. They even told the kids to watch, in a couple months, the boys would be putting halters on the sheep and walking them down the road.
Maybe my kids can even try walking them a bit themselves. I need more days and events such as that and the stroll along the river.
That is where I find my patience, in the quiet moments. The moments where there is no rush, when you have to sit and be still in order for an animal to approach you.
When you can be outside, soaking up the sunshine and fresh air, when you just breathe. I need to remind myself of those moments when I lose my patience.
Saturday, July 16, 2016
Media Pass...
As you know, last week/weekend, I went to Omaha and covered State Wrestling. This was my first experience with a "big" event. I received a page of typed out rules before I went.
I got a press parking pass so I could park behind the Link Center and enter through a back door event door. This door leads you into a small room with a security office, etc. From there, you went through another set of doors and down a hallway, which led straight to a desk. At the desk you are handed a lime green "media" vest, you are to wear the best at all times while in the Link Center.
The vest has a number on the tag, you write down the number on a paper attached to the desk, followed by your name, who you work for, and you circle, print, broadcast, etc. At the end of each day you turn your vest back in, and it gets marked off the list. You start each day with the same process.
Next to this desk is another door which leads to a room full of tables and outlets. This is the Media room. They provide coffee, water, pop, and in the morning, pastries.
There is also a tv in the corner of the room which scrolls the list of wrestlers currently wrestling, the ones, on deck, and the ones in the hole. You also have access to wifi.
There is a wide variety of media, everything from a mom with a camera to the "big" stations, such as tv news crews. From the media room is another hallway that curves around the arena, with branches here and there leading to different areas in the arena.
Once you get to the big open are, there are floor managers. They are there to make sure you have your press credentials, and keep the aisles open. The mats are obviously on the middle of the floor, but on one side below the public seating, there is a row of long skinny tables and chairs, once again for media. Those are full all the time.
For the most part, the floor managers were nice and friendly. They caught me yawning a couple times and had to tease me about it. there were also a couple that took their job very seriously and were all business.
In between the matches you cover, you just try and stay out of the way. It's crowded down there. Once it's your turn you go sit on little mat next to the wrestling mats and get ready. There were a few times I had to jump up and move so the wrestlers would not land on me.
The noise level on the floor is crazy, it's even louder than in the stands. It all travels down to the floor and intensifies, that's all you can hear and you have to shout to talk to someone.
For the most part, everyone was pretty nice. You meet tons of new people and chat with them here and there. I spent a little extra chat time with a gal from Franklin, she was very nice and we helped each other out here and there.
I was nervous at first, but it was not overwhelming at all, it was fun. It's events such as these I love, it's constant motion, new people, new experiences.
That being said, I arrived every morning around 8 a.m. Night one, I left a little after 8 p.m. (I did get a break from 2-4). Friday, I left the arena a little after 9 p.m., I got about an hour break outside of the arena. Saturday, I arrived at 8:45 a.m., and left around 7 p.m. Once again with a little break from the arena.
By the second half of the day Saturday, you are tired. My legs needed stretched out from the constant up and down. Three nights in a hotel with paper thin walls and windows left me quite tired. I got a 4 a.m. wake up every morning by people talking in the parking lot. The majority of media personnel are yawning, and finding places to sit for a while.
This also means you get a very up close and personal look at the coaches and wrestlers. It is very interesting how they all react.
Some are very quiet and reserved with a win or a lose. Other's got little out of control with their celebrations, and of course, there were a few coaches that just made me shake my head. In my opinion, it never hurts to have a little compassion, especially when you just lost.
Tedious...
Bear with me, this column is going to be all over the place. I'm afraid I am all over the place right now.
I've been debating writing anything of this sort, I let you into my personal life to an extent, do I touch this subject, or just move on...
I am a perfectionist, I get it from my mother. If I can't do it well, I don't want to do it at all.
This also means I have on patience. I do not like tedious tasks, they make my skin crawl.
There are times that a decision needs a lot of careful consideration, and time to think it out. When it is necessary, I take that time.
I like to do things and get them done, move on. I don't like being stuck, when I am stuck and struggling with something, it wears me down, and consumes me until I can somehow fix it and move on. When I make a decision, it's made. I go with it and try not to look back.
That being said, I am also very empathetic. In this job, I get to know people, that can be a struggle for me.
I get very submerged into the events I cover, I feel passionate about some things.
Covering sports especially. I am going to talk about wrestling some once again.
After covering the Red Raiders quite a bit now, I am starting to get wrestling a little more. I will always find aspects about is gross. That's just because I am very weird about, well, sweat and personal space.
I have learned so much about all these different sports, they all have such a different atmosphere. As time had gone on, I have felt the most comfortable at wrestling meets.
Life is constantly changing, as are people and situations. Mine certainly has, especially in the last few months.
Lately I am struggling to see where exactly I fit in. I am stuck, and it is getting to me.
You see, I hate to sound cliche, but there are people in your life you think really care about you, but things change and you lose them. There are also people that you never really even saw, they show up when you need someone the most and become a part of your lifeline.
AS a mother, you learn about unconditional love. There are also unconditional friendships. Those are amazing, if you find them, hold onto them, take care of them.
I have seen just how much of my life is based on conditions. You see, I would like to and have somewhat hidden myself away.
Now that I am covering so many events, I have to put myself out there, be seen in the public eye.
As I said, every sporting event has such a different atmosphere. Wrestling for instance, some say it's a lonely sport. I disagree, yes, it is up to the wrestler as an individual to make it to the net round. However, the support system is incredible.
Wrestling is about determination, strength, technique, respect, heart and heartbreak. Wrestling was a whole new world for me. I realize each situation is what you make of it.
That is the one sport I should have felt the most uncomfortable with. I knew nothing about it, I didn't understand it, I didn't know most of the kids I was covering and or their families.
I am quiet and reserved, but once you get to know me, I can have a strong personality. You have to take me in stride.
Wrestling is also about acceptance, I can walk into a meet, and not get "looks" from people. I get smiles, people scoot over so you have a place to sit.
You tend to know your opponents and their family. There are even times you cheer on the person that beat you. It's like a giant family atmosphere.
I found acceptance there when I needed it the most. No questions about who I am or what I am up to. No friendships based on conditions. Those are the friendships that are causing me to struggle, and be stuck.
I didn't want anyone new in my life. New people came, and it was for the better. It turns out now the old familiar places are the ones I am struggling with.
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