Retired & Loving It

Our belated Christmas 12-27-10

2011-01-12T10:34:00.000-08:00

"You've got what disease?" I asked Ann-Marie on December 24. "It's called the foot, hand and mouth disease." was her reply. "And it is contagious!" she continued. Well with that conversation, it would be the first time I would celebrate Christmas without my daughter. And our annual Christmas morning breakfast brunch. Brett did get to enjoy both of those events. So finally on December 27, we were able to celebrate Christmas with Ann-Marie with us. We had got Sam a set of musical toys which included a little drum set. Grandpa was trying to show Sam how it worked.

I enjoyed getting shower gel and lotion from them. Sam was enjoying the little phone Aunt Louise gave him.

For my birthday one year Gary had give me a beautiful charm bracelet with several charms on it. This year he gave me a snowflake charm to add to the bracelet.

Sam with his new towels.

My sister Linda knows just the right gift to give. Sam is enjoying his new bear friend.

As always, kids love to play with things that are not toys...like a box top.

With a red and green bow on their heads, I guess with Ann-Marie better, this really was our present.

Our Rehfeldt Christmas 12-24-10 TRADITIONS!

2011-01-12T08:18:00.000-08:00

TRADITIONS! TRADITIONS! My father loved seeing the play, Fiddler On The Roof in Chicago a long, long time ago. He's favorite song was, "If I Were A Rich Man." Why NOT? Being a father of twelve children he knew for him it was out of reach. And since my father did have a good singing voice, I enjoyed him singing this song. I'm sure he could relate to so many of the great songs in that play.

Having said all of this, the Rehfeldt family has kept up with our Christmas traditions. Being a large family, my father would load us up in the car during the Christmas season and we would go to several of our Aunts and Uncles to sing Christmas Carols. Then as our family got bigger and bigger via marriages and the kids that come from that union, we started singing to family members in nursing homes and people who just were what we called shut-ins.

My brother, Scott has far back as I can remember has headed up this tradition. It's not only a blessing to the people to whom we sing, but a blessing for all of us. It's so wonderful to see my neices and nephews and their kids join in this wonderful tradition. After we sing, we usually mingle with the people. Sometimes we were able to bring them treats. On rare ocassions we have called this tradition off. But I trust it will stay with us forever.

We use to meet in one of the family's members home until we just got too big a group. The one we held at our home here in Rockton, we had wall to wall people. Most of the neices and nephews I have talked to like that home atmosphere feeling. But as we kept growing in number, we needed a larger place. Lately, thanks to the wonderful people at the Berean Baptist Church in Beloit, we are able to use their facilities. Great kitchen! Large huge room next to it for the younger kids to run.

While the caroling is going on a lot is happening at the church. Depending on who stay behind, they all pitch in to help get the table and chairs up. Like the photo above of Caleb doing that very thing. The food tables get set. Louise is always there early with the ham and turkey. Then we have a place for twelve bins representing the each of Wayne and Agnes' children. We do one gift per family. It can from a box of chocolate to a gift card to a restaurant. (My brother Bruce usually spoils us with that.) If someone gave me a bag of Mrs. Fischers, I know I would think that is such a great gift. One year my sister, Kathey had made us a very decorated large box to put all our belongings in. Then one year Tim and Judi gave us a bin with a lid to put our goodies in. It's so much fun. And it's become another one of our traditions.

One of the traditions is to bring a dish or two to pass around. WOW, you should see our appetizer and dessert tables. Above we have Aunt Louise talking to nephew Jason and his two children, Oliver and Autumn. Since they live in Chicago, we always look forward to visiting with them. His father, my brother Dave died last December 04 ,2009. So this time is even more precious.

So we all grab a plate and enjoy all the wonderful food everyone has contributed to our annual party.

Another tradition we have is a program. Anyone can participate. It can range from reading a poem you did, singing a song, doing a funny skit (Like B.J. usually does with his cousins.) or telling a story. Above we have Aaron singing while he plays his guitar. This year Louise shared with us how Bruce and her where in a car accident which totaled their car. A man had run through a stop sign. Sheila shared how she got in the wrong van with another man at the wheel. Funny just too funny. Great nieces and nephews either sang or play instrumental numbers.

One of the greatest Rehfeldt's Christmas Eve tradtion is to read the Christmas story. Which we ALL KNOW is the true meaning of Christmas. Sad to report that this was the first year without our mother who always read the Christmas story from the bible. So Carol got the honor.

Another tradtion is to sing...Here comes Santa Claus! Here comes Santa Claus! It's a sign for Santa to start making his entrance. My father always played this part. He usually would grow a beard and he already had the body for it. SMILE! When he died, my brother Dave took over. Then the brothers started taking turns. Now we let anyone who is in the family and wants to do the honors be Santa. The funny part for all of us Rehfeldt kids, we know the kids know who Santa is and they all just play along with us. Can you guess who our Santa was this year? It is up to each parent to bring a gift for Santa to give to his kid. That way the kid usually get something he likes. We have always had great Santas. One year Santa forgot to color his eyebrows white....those red eyebows just didn't look right..did they Aaron?

My grandson Sam was a little shy at first when he got on Santa's lap. Then he saw Santa's kind face and warmed up to him quickly.

This tradition is fairly new but has been around quite awhile. Scott in his zangy games. They change every year. One year he gave us all a different number and when he called you number, you got to pick a grocery gift from off his many tables. But this year, he corralled his brothers and sisters to help him. We got to wear these great aprons to help with all the games he had setup way before the caroling event.

Both the adults and the kids love this time of the evening. At each game you could earn gold coins and then turn them in for prizes. Louise and Carol manned those tables. The rest of his siblings had different games to take charge of.

I had the job of letting people get four small disc into those buckets above. It was much harder than you would think. Bryant Sturgill I believe was the first kid to achieve that task. Later Mackenzie (above) achieved that goal also.

As you can see, our evening is packed. And then it's time to cleanup. Everyone helps. We all appreciate Jeannine staying behind with her son to make sure everything is back in place. Since they are members of Berean, it helps us know they will put everything in it's right place. I guess you could say we have family in high places! Smile.

"Sunrise, Sunset...on season following another..." May our Christmas traditions carry on.

Rehfeldt's Annual Christmas Eve Party. 12-24-10

2011-01-12T08:09:00.000-08:00

http://www.slide.com/r/4FSNGwnZ2z_pKvnJtRBgCzDdFHhInJrT?previous_view=mscd_embedded_url&view=original

Christmas in Dixon! 12-19-10

2011-01-12T06:49:00.001-08:00

Since Gary's daughter and her family would be in Alton, Illinois for Christmas, Camille decided to have Christmas at their home on December 19, 2010. We don't like missing church but with her husband being a fireman (and their schedules can be crazy) may have been the reason for picking this day. At any rate, with Brett at the wheel, we all headed down to Dixon. The drive is always a beautiful drive...if the weather is nice this time of year. And the weather was great. Below, sitting in the chair is Vickie, Camille's mother. Camille's cousin, Janell had their dog, Bear in the house. If you have ever seen Sam around dogs, you will know that he just loves them. He is laughing all the time, especially when the dog starts wagging his tail. Sam will try to get a hold of the tail. The tail keeps wagging in Sam face as his just laughs and laughs!

Above we have Michelle, Camille and Janell. A beautiful photo of Camille with some of her cousins.

Then we have beautiful Camille and Ann-Marie!

Before the party began, I wanted to get a picture of Andrew! Above he is with one of his cousins.

Then I went to Brigitte's room to get of photo of her with her cousins...Brigitte really hates to get her photo taken! So as a result, that girl under the covers is our beautiful granddaughter, Brigitte.

We had plenty of food! Great table of desserts! You name it, I think we had it. We had brought a nice large fruit tray. A piece of chocolate, a piece of fruit! A cookie, a piece of fruit! ETC. Oh, and that photo above tell how crazy White Elephant Exchange can get.

Then it was time for the White Elephant Exchange. I was happy with the nice frame I got and to my surprise, no one took it away from me. Above, Camille is checking out other people gifts.

Since Brigitte doesn't like her photo taken, I think the one above is so precious. Giving Grandpa a nice hug. I guess she didn't realize I was taking a picture of her or she would of ran and hid. And I'm not kidding.

Daughter and dad! Don't they look so much alike!

What a wonderful surprise Gary and I received from Dave, Camille, Andrew and Brigitte, two ticket to the Fireside!

Since I came into Gary's life late, I'm still getting to know his side of the family. I always appreciate the opportunity to meet and visit with Camille's cousins.

It was getting late and it was now time to head home. We all had a great time. Little Sam did finally fall asleep in the car. He was so good all day.

Laurie is here! 12-03-10

2011-01-11T19:00:00.000-08:00

It's always been a great blessing to me to have so many sisters. We can just be ourselves around each other. My sister, Laurie who is the youngest of the sister has most of her life lived away from the rest of her sisters the most. Since her husband has always been in ministry that is very understandable. We wished we could see her more but as the saying goes, "It is what it is." So when Laurie wanted to spend time with us...especially with Louise, we were all looking forward to spending time with her.

You perhaps don't know this and of course I will inform you...Louise had made beautiful Christmas stockings for all of us and our offspring. Now that's a lot of stockings! Laurie wanted to learn how to make them in case something might happen to Louise. Right now Laurie and Frank have seven children - three are married, giving them ten grandchildren. Louise had made stocking for all them. Laurie and Frank still have four daughters who have not married . Plus the other married couples may have more kids. So I thinks it's great that Laurie wants to learn how to make these beautiful Christmas stockings.Since Laurie would not be with us for our annual Christmas Rehfeldt Party, we started the day out giving each other gifts. Laurie gave us all beautiful cards that she had made for us to use for Christmas. Plus we got some great Arbonne products.

My sister, Louise is a great cook. She knew Laurie loved rhubarb pie! And she also knew that some of loved her carrot cake. Yes, we got both. Laurie who does watch what she eats, ask Louise to give her a very small slice.

Well, we kept watching as Laurie kept taking another small slice, then another. It was so funny. She finally asked Louise to remove it after she about half of it. REALLY she ate almost that much. Above one of her daughter has phoned to see how she was doing. I would say, she was having a great time.

Laurie had also brought with her some delicious homemade marsmallows. And they were just that...DELICIOUS!

Venita and Judi were not able to be with in the morning, but joined us for lunch. And we had a nice spread.

Louise and Laurie started their project in the morning and after lunch they continued on, making headway.

While they were working away, Carol and I started splitting some materials that Louise had. Half for Louise and the other half for Laurie.

Finally!!! Above we have the finished product.

My sisters are all very generous. Louise had a lot to help Laurie make some more stockings when the time came to make another Christmas stocking.

It was such a wonderful fun day with my sisters. My sister, Jan was suppose to come down but wasn't able. She was truly missed.

Then it was time for Carol to take Laurie and me home. We dropped Laurie off at Hilander with all her great Christmas gifts from her sisters and the bin of goods from Louise. Laurie's husband would be coming soon to pick her up.

Perhaps the highlight of the day was when Louise told me that Laurie said, "I wished I could do this once a month." We wished she could too!

Looking forward to the next time we can all get together again.

The Taming of the Shrew 11-13-10

2010-11-15T15:12:00.000-08:00

Whenever we get invited to attend a play, I'm always ready to go. It doesn't matter where the play may be. So when Jan phoned us about the play at Maranatha Baptist Bible College, The Taming of the Shrew, I was more than happy to attend. Since I am now reading a biography of William Shakespeare by A. L. Rowse, I knew it would worth my time to see another play by Shakespeare. Petruchio was played by Jeff Miller and Katherine was played by his wife Christina Miller. They were excellent. And since they are married in real life...they got to kiss each on stage without getting into any trouble.

But before the play, Jan and Darryl had invited us for supper. Never turn that down either. Above Jan is offering Ann-Marie some dried apples coated with cinnamon and some other spice

Such a beautiful table setting

Then Jan had asked someone to set a buckeye (a chocolate peanut butter candy) next plate. My niece Leah, had made some and told Jan she could use them whenever she wanted. Thanks Leah, it was delicious.

Great hot buns.

Tammy, Megan, Jacob and Caleb.

Darryl, Jan, Betty, Carol, and Ann-Marie - Gary and I didn't get our picture taken, but we where there.

Great meatballs to go with the spaghetti.

And of course, what's a meal without dessert! Blueberry delight was so good!

And then Jan was giving out her homemade jam. Gary can't have any because of the seeds, but Tammy say that she just microwaves the jam and then runs the jam throught a strainer to get the seeds out. At any rate, Jan is so wonderful to share the jam with anyone who would like some.

Thanks Jan and Darryl for a great evening.

Melissa turns 21 - November 06,2010

2010-11-13T12:05:00.000-08:00

Birthdays, birthdays and more birthdays! All year round. Well, it was Melissa's twenty-first birthday!

Louise car already had her grandchildren, Megan, Caleb and Jacob in it. Then she added me and Carol. We were packed in like a can of sardines. Jacob, me and of course Louise, the driver were in the front seat. Good thing that Louise loves the old Cadillacs because they do have more room in the front and back. But it still was real close company. Part of Louise's gift to Melissa were two photo of Melissa when she was a baby. One was one with her with her mother and the other one was her with her father.

Since I usually am the one taking the photos, and never appear in the pictures I'm taking, I quickly handed my camera to my brother Bruce so I could get a photo of me with Melissa.

Above you have a nice phot of Melissa and her boyfriend Donny.

It was so nice to see brother Ron again. And of course he had books to hand out to all of us.

Paul and Kara and their clan were also able to come. Venita and her boyfriend Kenny showed up also. I didn't get a nice photo of Kenny so you won't get to see him.

A wonderful surprise was to also see Scott and Sheila. They were talking about staying fit and trim. Especially to keep them from having to take medication later on in life.

Bruce had a nice fire going and it added a nice addition to her birthday party.

Outside Jola was gathering seeds for our Christmas gift. Can't wait to get that gift and plant the seeds in the Spring.

I took Sam outside. The weather was a perfect Fall day. One of the kids brought a ball out and Sam enjoyed playing with it. Even learning to bounce a ball.

Downstairs we had the pool sharks, Jacob, Hannah, Adam and Caleb.

It was just a fun relaxing day. Bruce always has good food. We had sandwiches from Jimmy John's and plenty of side dishes.

Coming back, I rode with Ann-Marie and Brett, giving the group in Louise's car a breather. And of course on our way home, we stopped at a resale store. Just a must.

Well, for now, I believe it will be a long time before we go to Huntley for another birthday. Time for things to settle down awhile. I think!

Time for a sister fix! 10-29-10

2010-11-04T16:19:00.000-07:00

"Lord help the mister that come between me and my sister." Those words are from an old, old song. Living in Rockton is such a blessing. My sister, Carol who just moved back from Connecticut lives in Beloit, Wi. only ten minutes from my home. My other sister, Louise, who lives in Brodhead, Wi, is about twenty minutes or so from my home. Then my sister, Jan, who lives in Watertown, Wi is exactly one hour and ten minutes from my home. She timed it, so I know it's true.

Having said this, I do see Carol and Louise more often than I do Jan. So I get a sister fix once or twice a week. Sometimes, it may be a month before we all see Jan. Soooo one day Jan phoned and was missing her sister dearly. Time for good get-together with sister. Sometimes, time can present a problem and in that case we will met halfway to save on time. This time we chose Jefferson, Wi.

We hit St. Vincent resale shop first. They have so much to look at. I wished I had taken photos from our shopping. I collect tins and they had plenty of them. Not every tin appeal to me, so I am selective when chosing. And of course, I'm always on the outlook for red wooden handle kitchen utinsel items. Found none on this trip. But we all did find some good buys. Then we heeaded to another resale place. TIME FOR LUNCH!! At first we needed to find an Associated Bank for me. Money was what I needed. We never did find one, because they don't have one in Jefferson. But when we turned down this one street ( Carol was with Jan in her car, and I was with Louise in her car.) I said to Louise, "Hey, that looks like a new place to try." "Oh, I think Jan wanted to go to a sit-down restaurant and order." Louise replied. That was fine with me. When we couldn't locate the bank where somewhere had told us there would be one, we stopped our vehicle and talked about where we would eat. "Did you see that neat place to eat when we turned that corner back there?" Jan asked. I just laughed and said that was almost my exact same words. So we turned our vehicles around and headed for Wedi's for lunch.

.

For some reason or other, I love to take silly photos of people..so why not us sisters.

The place was small. At first all the tables were taken and we had to sit at a counter. But by time we ordered our food, a table became available. Above, Louise is placing her order.

On the wall we saw this old photo of how the place looked at one time.

Severals of the sisters, ordered hamburgers, while Louise and I ordered a steack sandwich. And they were very delicious.

And being an ice cream place, we did have to order dessert. Louise and Jan shared a medium size sundae.

I got a single scoop of double chocolate with carmel sundae. It was more ice cream then I wanted. But being a true Rehfeldt, I ate the WHOLE sundae.

Carol got a single scoop of ice cream and that was also bigger than she wanted. But true to form...she ate the whole thing.

We just sat around, eating, talking, laughning and getting our sister fix. It was such a joy to hit upon this place, especially since it closes at the end of October and reopens in March.

While time was slipping away, we still had time to check out one more resale shop downtown. Since it was a small shop, the time element worked out great. It was nearing 2:30 and Jan needed to head home.

Can't wait till next sister fix.

Gary turns 67! October 22,2010

2010-11-03T13:25:00.000-07:00

Ann-Marie, of course, took the photo above. But we finally got together to celebrate Gary's birthday. We first went out to eat.

Supper at Jessica's was fun. Just trying to catch-up with each other's daily lives. Asking Brigitte and Andrew how school was coming along. Camille and Ann-Marie taking about their jobs. And while the talk was going on...

Sam found the little creamer for coffee and just poked his little finger in! Splash! Milk went flying all over, especially on him.

Then we all went back to our home, Andrew and his close friend, Mason were showing Grandpa how they did texting.

Us girls (Should have included Brigitte.) were in the kitchen getting ready to serve cupcakes and ice cream.

Brigitte with her chocolate cupcake.

Andrew with his chocolate cupcake and vanilla ice cream.

What a great gift the grandkids got grandpa. Too, Too funny. And of course when we got talking about deer hunting, I suggested that Gary go downstairs and get his ...

beautiful deer head. We need to mount it on the wall...someday.

It was a wonderful evening.

Just think, Gary in three years, you will celebrate your 70th!! Now that's going to be really scary!

Door County Oct. 11-17

2010-11-02T08:30:00.000-07:00

"Oh what fun it is to ride..." to the beautiful scenic areas of Door County. I'm so glad that we were able to meet with Alice, Darren, Lucy and Elaine for lunch before they were leaving Door County for home. I'm just as glad to introduce them to the Inn at Cedar Crossing in Sturgeon Bay. We had a great time talking and enjoying the food. To our surprise, it was Darren's 39th birthday. So he really is 39 and holding. After lunch we headed towards Sister Bay where we would stay at the home of Charlene Rice.Since we knew Tuesday was going to be a beautiful day, we loaded up our bikes and headed to Fish Creek to take our annual nine mile bike ride through the Pennisula State Park. And indeed it was a perfect day for a bike ride.

And in Fish Creek is one of our favorite restaurants, Julie's Cafe. One breakfast dishes that I really enjoy is their fresh spinach omelette.

Wednesday was another nice day, so we decided to work around Charlene's home and get her ready for the winter season. Gary drained the hoses and swept out the large garage while I took care of taking the patio deck furniture off and swept the smaller garage. Then with Gary's help, we stored the patio furniture in the smaller garage.

Since we knew that Sister Bay was going to have their annual fest, we took Thursday to do shopping. Like going to the Door County Bakery and gettin their delicious homemade breads and goodies to take home to family and friend. Then off to one of the stores to pick up some delicious homemade strawberry and rhubarb pies. Jan wanted some vegetables dips, and I knew Ann-Marie would just love some chocolate covered caramels. And who doesn't want some nice cold apple cider.

Friday was a full day. We had arranged ahead of time to meet our dear friends, Dan & Judy Waggoner at Wilson's Ice Cream Shop for lunch. They had been to Door County for the first time this year a few months earlier...and they only live about two hours away.

One of the main event I always enjoying going to is to the Peninsula Players. Dan & Judy also love seeing plays. They themselves have been in several themselves. At the park they always have a nice roaring fire going. And since the evening was cool, we did enjoy the warmth of this fire.

Dan & Judy waiting for the play, The Panic to start.

All through the park our carved pumpkins. It really gives a great atmosphere to a scarey play.

Dan had a friend tell him that he must have breakfast at The White Gull Inn in Fish Creek. He was to order..

the french toast stuffed with cherrie and cream cheese, plus their special breakfast potatoes. A full order was way too much as Gary, Dan and Judy found out. I had order a half order. It was like having dessert for breakfast. But because the place was so popular, we had to wait for about an hour before we got sitted. It was worth the wait and we were all stuffed when we left. We were even able to take some back for Charlene to enjoy.

When we got back we played Squence and I also taught Dan and Judy the game, Golf. A game my sister Linda from France had taught me. Then it was time for Dan and Judy to head home. Time does fly when you are having fun with friends.

One early morning, I grabbed my camera and took a walk up the hill towards Sister Bay. What a beautiful view you can get while walking. The above photo is one I just loved.

Like all vacations, you know that they will go faster than you want and before we knew it, it was Sunday and time to head home to Rockton. I did get a photo of the sunset as we neared home.

Thankful once again for a beautiful time in Door County. Enjoyed the beauty of God' creation, friends and a safe trip home.

Isabelle turns one. Party 9-25-10

2010-11-01T05:31:00.000-07:00

Whenever a child turns one year old, it should always be a very special ocassion. So whenever I'm invited to a one-year-old party you can count me in. Dave and Cari Berg's little girl Isabelle turned one and we were invited to the party, I was looking forward to it. What to have for the little ones in way of a party favorite can be a challenge. I loved the little horns they received. But I think Sam needed to learn which end to blow the horn. (Sam, turn it around.)

Cari had set up a play area for the young kids to play in along with toys from home. They have an older child Dawson who had turned two in March. Also some little tricycles of various styles. I love the one pictured above because I could push Sam in it. But first Sam needed to know how to peddle to make the wheels work.

Here we have the proud parents with Isabelle getting ready to blow her candles out...with the help of her brother Dawson.

I can tell from the photo above that Dawson and Isabelle were enjoying the birthday cake.

Isabelle got so many gifts. I think she will enjoy wearing new clothes but toys may have a priority in what she truly will enjoy.

While Dawson's mom and dad opened the gifts for Isabelle, Dawson thought it was time for a snack.

Grandma Louise, Cari, Isabelle and Nana ( Cari's mom)

Sam had so much fun running around that near the end, he just zonked out in his grandmas arms. As the saying goes, "They look like an angel WHEN they are sleeping." Whatever, he is precious to me.

As always, it was fun getting together with family. Tammy, Rick, Megan, Caleb, Jacob, Ann-Marie, Brett and Gary were there also. I just didn't get any photos of them. But we enjoyed visiting with everyone.

Happy birthday Isabelle!

Cranfest 2010 - September 23 & 24

2010-10-31T07:57:00.000-07:00

It's always amazes me that when something is going to be a disappointment God turns it into something special. Like our trip to Cranfest in Warren, WI.

Many years ago, perhaps five or six, we were going through the small town of Baraboo. We hit upon a drug store that served the good old fashioned malts and sundaes. So we decided that on our way to Warren, we would stop in Barbaboo and have lunch at this drugstore. Well, the drugstore was still there but no soda fountain. What a disappointment. Then she told us about the Garden Party Cafe.

When we went up some stairs low and behold here was a lovely room. We were sitted next to the big window looking out over the street and across the street was their beautiful court house. The people were friendly and the food very delicious.

And Gary and I agreeded with the sign you saw while exiting down the stairs on to the street. "Now wasn't that fun! Visit us again! Thank you!!" And I'm sure we try to visit this place again.

Gary and didn't have dessert (We often don't) but we saw an ice cream place diagonal from the Garden Party Cafe. While eating our ice cream and visiting with people inside, we noticed a couple drive up to the cafe in a Chulmer Detroit car. We had an opportunity to talk to the driver. When Gary told him that he had never seen one before, the driver told him that there are not too many around. (I'm not sure if I even spelled Chulmer correct.)

Then it was time to leave Baraboo and head for Warren.

The first time we did the next morning was head straight to the bus tours to get tickets to see the cranberry bogs. Last year even though we tried to get tickets at 1:00 p.m. they weren't giving any more tours So this year we wanted to make sure to get the tour. It was a raining, windy and cold day. When we purchased our tickets, they asked if we wanted to take the bus NOW!! With the weather being bad and thinking of a nice warm bus, it was a no brainer. We had a great bus guide explaining everything about bogs.

Here a photo of what the bogs look like before they actually bring the cranberries to the top. That's something we thought we would see. But that wouldn't happen until about two more weeks.

Once we were back at the fest, Gary got a delicious dessert.

See how delicious that looks.

If it wasn't for my love of antiques, Gary wouldn't have met up with some friends of his, Donna and Paul Olsen. Several times I made Gary stop and let me look at several booths that had antiques. While headed back to one of the stores for warmth, I saw one more antique booth. It's a good thing that Gary let me go because that was where Paul was standing and Donna was looking at antiques. See Gary, it pays to be nice to your wife, even if you think all antiques are junk. We must have talked for about an hour. We would have loved to have gone out with them for supper, but we would have ended up getting home very late.

Gary says this was our last time for Cranfest. So I think I will try and think of something new in the place of this event.

Sam's first Monroe Cheese Days 9-18-10

2010-09-22T01:59:00.000-07:00

On the 18, we had a pancake breakfast to go to in Jansville, Wi. It rained a little on our way up and really poured a lot while we were eating our pancakes thankfully inside a hugh building. But as we were leaving (I knew it was cheese days in Monroe.) and the weather had turned sunny, I asked Gary how far Monroe was from Jansville. "Not far." was his replied. And we headed home. Why, oh why do I think he might get the hint...I would love to go to Monroe to get some fried chesse curds. When we are almost home, and after some talking about Monroe, Gary said, "We could go to Monroe and get a cheese sandwich for lunch." I'm thinking, not now, we are almost home. Let's just forget about it. Well, when we got home Brett was dropping Ann-Marie and Sam off so Ann-Marie could do her weekly laundry. Brett was going to Geneva to spend time with an old friend .

Ann-Marie had told me that she also knew it was Cheese Days in Monroe. "Hey, Gary" I yelled out into the garage, "Do you still want to go to Monroe for a cheese sandwich?" "Sure." was he reply. After putting Sam's car seat in, the four of us headed to Monroe. If you are wondering why we took this photo with it saying on this trash can, you will have to ask Ann-Marie about our conversation on the way up to Monroe.

Since Sam is starting to walk, he only likes the stroller when it is moving. But with such a hugh crowd, we just couldn't let him run freely. Upon arriving, we were all hungry. Gary and Ann-Marie had a delicious pork chop sandwich. I opted for a steak sandwich. Also delicious. Then Gary found out where he could get a cheese sandwich. So he had two sandwiches. But what Ann-Marie and I really wanted was the fried cheese curds. Getting the tickets was easy. Waiting in line was a whole new story.

Ann-Marie and I are somewhere behind this line.

Here we are somewhere getting closer to the tent to get our fried cheese curds. It took us a whole hour and ten minutes before we could enjoy them. Never in my life have I waited in line that long for anything.

But they were worth it. Nice and hot. And oh so cheesy.

Since Monroe Cheese Days are every other year, I'm glad we did go even if we had to wait in line so long. I remember when Bob and I would take Ann-Marie when she was a little girl and even purchase her a little beany hat that said Monroe Cheese Days on it. So it was important that we take our grandson, Sam. Of course he will enjoy it much more when he is older and can also enjoy the food and entertainment. And a special thanks to Gary who looked after Sam while Ann-Marie and I stood in line for one hour and ten minutes. That's a long time for anyone to look after a one year old. Thanks Gary!

Ali's Birthday Party Date: 9-11-10

2010-09-22T01:39:00.001-07:00

We have so many family members that I believe that we could perhaps have a party every day of the year. I kid you not. But thankfully we love each other a lot and even if we can't always make all the parties...we do try. My brother Bruce's daughter Ali was turning 18 and Bruce was giving a party for her at his home in Huntley. In our car, besides us, we had my sister, Carol, Louise and my sister-in-law Venita. So you know we were having a fun time coming and going to Huntley. Not sure about Gary having as much fun with all us women. I'm so glad Jan and Darryl were also able to come. We don't see Bruce's mother-in-law Christina very often so we were also glad that she was able to join us.

One thing I love about parties is seeing some of my nephews...like Steven and his son,

my great nephew David.

Above is my brother Bruce with his two beautiful daughters, Melissa and Ali.

Above is the birthday girl with a button letting us all know that she is now 18! Ali is a senior this year and this will mean a graduation party this Spring. Just think, another party!

It was a great day. As always plenty of food, fun and fellowship. Thanking the Lord once again for my large family.

Projects - Never Easy.

2010-09-22T00:33:00.000-07:00

If you have ever been involved with BIG projects, they always take longer than you originally thought. Point in case: Gary's shed. He has been wanting one in our backyard for several years. We finally decided to just do it. At the beginning he ordered the kit he wanted and started laying the ground for the foundation. This involved, at least while I watched from our kitchen window, a lot of hard work.

He had an idea when the lumber would arrive, so he kept busy getting the foundation ready.

Finally the lumber arrived and Brett came over to lend a helping hand.

I did get a little ahead of myself. Originally this was going to be a grandson and grandpa project. Gary had picked up Andrew on August 9. It was so great to have Andrew through the 19th of August. The lumber didn't even arrive the first week Andrew was here.

While working on the shed, many problems came up. Like warped wood pieces. Gary was getting so frustrated in the evening after trying to make each piece work. In the meantime, we took time out on August 18, which was Andrew's thirteen's birthday and went to meet Camille and Brigitte in Byron for supper. Brigitte came back with us so we could all go out the next day and enjoy the Berg's Farm. Brigitte had been wanting to get out to my sister's farm for a long time. It was a really fun day for all of us and a much needed break for Gary.

The shed was not finished, but Andrew needed to return home. So after our visit on the farm, we met Andrew and Brigitte's father in Byron.

After talking with several people, Gary was told that he should just return the whole kit. Which made so much sense. We had found out from his brother Don that he had purchased a shed all finished for more money but it sounded like a better way to go. Gary was able to return the shed and start all over on laying a different type of foundation. Of course, a lot of more work for him.

This finished shed needed a foundation of stone. Gary did a great job of getting it ready.

Finally the day came!! Here comes the shed. Here comes the shed. It arrived September 3, 2010.

I'm glad his brother came over the day the shed arrived. Gary had already measured the length between the house and the next door fence and knew it would fit. What a great experienced driver we had. It was very close, but the shed made it through without any dents in either the house or fence.

I have videos of how they put the shed in place. Very interesting. This man knew his work and was an expert at what he does.

Not a great photo of Gary, but I believe the other shed kit had taken it toll on Gary.

And I must say it does look great in our backyard. And the Lord even gave us this shed . Gary purchased it for less than the first shed and Gary didn't have to spend a lot of hours putting it together. And on top of everything, the delivery was free.

I know Gary is so happy to now have his shed in place. Whenever you are in the neighborhood, stop by and Gary will be so happy to show his shed to you and bore you with the details of trying to put the first shed together.

Jan's Grandkids at Berg Farm on 8-23-10

2010-09-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

Being in such a big family you just don't know what may come up. One day my sister, Jan phoned and asked what I would be doing on the 23rd of August. "Well, I may be on Jury Duty." was my replied. Louise one of my other sister was sitting across the table from me. Jan was going to have Aaron and Linda's kids for a week. "I was wondering if perhaps we could come down for a few days. Right away Louise said, "That's fine with me. They can stay at my house."

I really wanted to see Molly, Spencer and the twins, Ryan and Dakota. But I didn't know what my involvement with the Jury Duty would be. Sunday night I phoned the court house and I was told to show up on Monday. From 9:00 a.m. many of us waited in a room waiting to be called. At around 10:30 a.m., the judge came out and told us that we could all go home. Plus with his sense of humor, he told us not to spend our stimulus package in one place. Before we left, we all got a check for $13.00!!!

When I got out, I phoned Gary and wondered if he would mind going out to the Berg farm. Of course he loves going out there also. So I was praising the Lord that I got to do both that day. Jury Duty and see Jan's grandkids. I believe so many kids would love to live with their Aunt Louise. So much fun. Spencer enjoyed swinging on the rope in the barn.

Caleb is great with horses and always helps his grandpa giving rides to other kids.

Above is Ryan having his turn on the horse.

And above is his twin brother Dakota enjoying his turn.

Molly got a ride on the horse too. Here we have Jacob and Molly enjoying one of the many cats you will find roaming around the farm.

Now, I tell you, doesn't Bruce look like a great farmer. It suits him very well.

Most of us like playing games...but Louise. We did talk her into playing golf. She did enjoy it. But on the second game, she left us to take a nap.

What can I once again but say, it was such fun! Great food and always great fellowship. Thanks once again also the the Bergs!!

Grandkids at Berg Farm 8-19-10

2010-08-28T15:08:00.001-07:00

This year our grandson Andrew turned 13 on August 18. We picked up Brigitte in Byron in the evening and sorta celebrated his birthday at a family restaurant. Brigitte had been wanting to visit Aunt Louise and Uncle Bruce's farm for a long time. Since school was going to start soon for the both of them we wanted to make sure we could have them enjoy a day at the Farm. So along with Tammy's kids, Megan, Caleb and Jacob they played outside ALL day. There is always a lot to do on the farm. They all love the rope. They can jump from one bail to another in the barn.
They chase after all the cats. Sometimes you will see one carrying a cat around if they were able to catch one.

And of course Uncle Bruce with get one of the horse out and let the kids have a ride

Us old folks just sit around and talk.

The guys got the grill going and Tammy put the hot dogs and brats on to cook.

And since Louise is such a great cook, we always have plenty of food. Carol made a delicious potatoe salad and I of course being the great cook that I am brought Mrs. Fischer's Chips.

The kids were having such fun that Brigitte didn't want to stop and eat. But since she ate nothing for breakfast, I told her that she had to a least have one hot dog. Which she did. I didn't have to ask her twice about having a delicious brownie that Tammy had made.

Thanks once again Bruce and Louise for having our grandkids out! Can't wait till Sam will ask me, "Can we go out to Uncle Bruce and Aunt Louise's Farm?"

2010-08-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

Jan Back From China - Sisters off to Garage Sales

2010-08-28T11:10:00.001-07:00

On August, Friday thr 13th, it was time for the sisters to go to Garage Sales. Jan had in been in China for about three weeks, and when she got home she needed to get some well deserved rest. But enough is enough. Time for her to see her sister and enjoy going garage sailing. Garage Sale do vary! So many times it can consist of kids clothes and lots of baby toys. Others may have books and tools. And as in the photo above...lots of stuffed animals. We didn't purchase any of the above stuffed animals, we just loved that green bird! And the fact that it matched Louise's outfit.

And another item you will find at most garage sales are purses! Louise loves little purses with short handles. And here again, she didn't purchase this one with the letter "L" on it. She has as many purses as shoes...I think!

As always it was great to see Jan again and see pictures from her trip to China. And I must post the video I was able to do will seating in the backseat of Louise's car.

We enjoyed the full day and even got some plants at a nursery.

Oh and so I will remember this day, Friday the 13th (I know it's just another day.) but when replanting some flowers I got stung by a bee. Never can remember that ever happing to me. It was liking get a shot from a big needle without a pain killer.

8--08-10 Heilman 60th Reunion

2010-08-25T12:21:00.000-07:00

As long as I have been married to Gary, the Heilman reunion is held at Bill and Esther Dickman's home. It's located on Highway 75. They have a big farm house with lots of out buildings. Here we have Esther getting the quilt for each family to sign. The front part is now all filled up that you now have to sign on the back side.
Gary & I arrived early enough so we could help setup.

Then one by one the families start arriving, bringing lots of food.

This year for the kids they had this hugh slide they could all enjoy.

And also a jumping tent!

Last year Sam was just a wee baby! This year he was able to crawl around on the blanket we had on the ground for him.

Because it was the Heilman's 60th reunion, they took group photos. The one above is for the Arthur Heilman's offspring.

The photo above is from the Daniel Heilman's offspring.

This photo is from the John Heilman's offspring...the largest group there.

Then of course it time to end the day. Pack up any food and dishes you brought and head home.

There were a lot of people attending this year than ever before. Gary didn't even know some of the people. As always there was plenty of food. I'm still getting to know just the regular Heilmans. But I was happy for those Heilmans who got to see people they hadn't seen for years.

Annual Game Night - 7-26-10

2010-08-09T11:19:00.000-07:00

It's just part of belonging to a big family. Again when Charity and Colleen come home we try to get together for a game night. It can be anyone's home. This year we had it at our home. Everyone brings something to munch on. It all works out...always enough food. Hannah enjoys playing Guesstures. She is quite good at it.
Candice trys her hands at Guesstures!! A lot depends upon the word. You can chose one point words all the way up to four point words. And just so you know, sometimes the four point words are easier than a one point word.

Above we are all playing Apples to Apples. It's the only game my sister, Louise will play. She didn't like any games until the sisters went to Door County and persauded her to play the game. She got hooked. You ALWAYS knew which word was her!!!!

Since we didn't have a stranger wondering around my house, Candice took the first photo and I took the one above.

Always look forward to bonding more with family members on these smaller group activities. Even if it's not that small. But it surly is smaller than our Christmas Eve gathering...60 or more people.

Thanking God once again for my wonderful family.

Sam's Birthday Party Part #1

2010-08-03T09:56:00.001-07:00

For some reason, my computer will not let me download some of the pictures from Sam's party. I for one am not a happy camper...I didn't take any photos of Sam's party except for the one where he doesn't like his cupcake. But the computer did let me download two photos. One by my nephew BJ and one that I had taken before everyone arrived...THE CAKE!!! BJ took some great photos..some are in part #2 of this blog. But the ones I wanted to include in this section, the computer won't copy them????? Above we have Samuel Robert Alan Soderstrom born on a Sunday the same day of the week as his mother. Sam was born on July 26, 2009. It truly is hard to believe that a year has gone by.

Ann-Marie was only going to make cupcakes for Sam's party, but Grandpa Heilman wanted a cake. So I just told Gary that Granpas can do anything they like when it comes to grandchildren. So we went to Hilander's and order his cake.

I have great photos taken by BJ of Sam with his mom and dad. Another was Grandpa Soderstrom with Sam. But that's the way life goes sometimes...not getting done what you wanted.

But we sure all enjoyed the cake! I believe that there was one piece left, that Grandpa Heilman ate the next day.

Sam's Birthday Party - July 24, 2010 Part 2

2010-08-02T15:04:00.000-07:00

We love all the little people at Sam's party! There was Dawson!! BJ got a great photo of him playing out in our yard. Then we had Brielle ...she and Sam shared his toys that I have at my house.

And of course I had to hold the birthday boy!

Ann-Marie had made cupcakes. Below we have Ann-Marie holding the cupcake while Brett lights the candle.

None of were sure how Sam would react to his first try at a frosted cupcake.

Well the picture tells the whole story!! Didn't like it one bite.

Well, while Ann-Marie opened the gifts, Charity kept track of all his great presents. Since it was getting late, I was feeding Sam his bottle while his mom opened his gifts...hence no photos from me. Sad state of affairs!!

But it was so fun to celebrate his birthday with his great Aunts, Uncles and cousins...plus his two grandpas and especially this grandmother.

There are many things I desire for my grandson Samuel but the one that is so close to my heart is that he comes to know the Lord at an early age and walk with Him throughout his life time on this earth.

Happy first birthday Samuel!!

Annual Family Garage Sale - July 22, 2010

2010-08-02T10:41:00.000-07:00

Whenever my nieces, Charity and Colleen come home from their home in Springfield, TN., they always want to know when their aunts will be out doing garage sales. So we all look forward to getting together come rain or come shine. Well, the morning started out rainy. Even had some phone calls wondering if we were still going to go garage saling.
But nothing can stop us...even Brielle came prepared!!!

We usually have GIRLS ONLY...but we found out that some of the nephews just love to join us!! Like Tony staniding behind his sister Elizabeth!

It's so much fun also to see the cousins getting together too!

One thing you can enjoy is getting imput from family members...sometimes. LOL

Well, it looks like there wasn't anything for some of the younger group. They look bored.

But even if you didn't purchase anything, you always enjoyed catching up with each other's life.

One never knows what type of garage sale you might find. One was all records. Louise and Elizabeth started dancing to the beat. Elizabeth first approached me wanting to dance. I told her if she wanted someone with the right moves...you better find Aunt Louise. And I was right as you can tell from the picture above.

Jacob find a nice addition to his collection.

Well, here we all are...total of sixteen!! I believe that we had three vehicles.

We always end the event with lunch somewhere. Beef-a-Roo in Roscoe was the place this time. Some had other engagements and so left while others continued on to some more garage sales.

Fun day. It started out rainy and ended up sunny and very humid.

Heilmans - Christmas in July

2010-07-12T13:27:00.000-07:00

I've nevered done a "Christmas in July" before. But I can say it beats not having to drive on icy roads. And the weather was just great. Lisa and Al (Gary's brother) had lots of trees on their property which gave us much needed shade. Lisa and Al have taken an old farm house and upgraded it. They call it their, "Money Pit" I just loved the driveway with the engraved Heilman's rock.

Here is one of the side view of their home.

Knowing that most of the time this blended family gets together someone is missing due to work or other engagements..so the first thing I wanted because we were ALL there was to get a family photo. Hurray!!

Of course we had to have grandmother with all of her grandchildren!!

Then the guys...minus Sam!

Oh, here we have Sam with his mom!! I loved taking Sam for a stroller ride while we were at this event.

Just love this snapshot that Ann-Marie took. Brigitte just HATES to have anyone take her photo. Good job Ann-Marie! It's a great photo of brother and sister.

Since it was a Christmas party, you could bring a white elephant gift. Sometimes you end of with something really nice like...

a pair of driving gloves. That what's Ingrid got.

Above is a photo of Gary's two brothers Donny and Al.

It was so great that Dave and Camille brought along that toss game.

Andrew wasn't too intereted in at first, but as he watched us played, he decided to join the group. And he and his dad beat Gary and me.

Ann-Marie is wondering about this game...after all she is a lefty!! I think that her and Brett lost to Dave and Camille

While we were eating, a strong wind came up and we asked people to just grab a pole so the tent wouldn't fall down. Sam was such a trooper in helping out with the help of mom.

Donny's dog EJ was the best friend for Brigitte.

It was a small group, but that was nice because you really got to visit with each other. I'm still getting to know more about the Heilman clan...like I found out that Ingrid was born in Germany and her parents came to the States when she was two years old. Gary didn't even know that!!!!

Then as always, it was time to head home. Great food. Great photos. Great family. Great clouds to look at on route 75!!

Celebrating Louise's Birthday - Belated

2010-06-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

On June 22, Judi, Carol, Louise and I headed to Johnson Creek to meet our sister Jan. Due to circumstances in all of our lives we were going to celebrate Louise's birthday. She was born on June 1...so we were somewhat late in celebrating her birthday.

The only thing I had to remember to bring was the salad by Rachel Ray. Jan had lasagna in her crockpot going while we were shopping. Yum! Yum!

This picture is out of order but that's the way it happened. Before we left to go back home, I had Jan dig up a plant that is overtaking her flower garden. Now I hope it will overtake an area in my flower garden.

It is always fun to shop at Bath and Body Works! So many bargains.

And as you can see...we ALL took advantage of that. We also went to Harry and David's right next door to the bath place. They always have good sweets!!

What event would not be complete without us being silly at some point or another.

The meal was soooo good! Then it was time to sing to the birthday girl. Jan ended up getting a cake from Wal-Mart. Louise loves chocolate! And this cake was so delicious.

Then it was time for the birthday girl to open all her great gifts from all her great sister. She got money, she got a pencil sharpner, she got a ton of bath and body products from Jan and then Jan surprised her with a nice photo of the family from Mom's Memorial.

Then I was also glad that she finally got from me something she had been wanting for over a month....

pictures that our nephew BJ had taken out at her farm!! I owe a debt to BJ. He downloaded them for me and I was able to purchase them from Walgreens. Thanks BJ!!!

As always, it was a day of shopping, talking, laughing, and eating. And once again, it was time to head home.

Happy 62nd birthday Louise!

Father's Day 2010 - Dixon

2010-06-23T12:45:00.000-07:00

We had planned to go to Dixon on Friday, but due to Camille's schedule, we went to Dixon on Saturday afternoon. In the early afternoon, we had a new home to see that David Thompson has just purchased. Then off to a graudation open house. It was indeed a busy day. Then we headed for Dixon, had supper and then went on A nice bike ride. Here's a great statue of Lincoln when he was young. I had never seen this one before.
It was a good thing that we didn't to to Dixon on Friday. There was a terrible storm that came through and knocked not only trees down, but power lines. Above was a tree that was knocked down in the park we were riding our bikes.

As always, one must check the air in their tires. Camille's tires needed a little more air.

Sunday morning Camille and the grandkids had gifts for the dads. Above we have Andrew and his dad, Dave.

And of course nothing like a father and her daughter.

We attended church. Ate out. And then headed home. It always go too fast.

Father's Day always has very mixed emotions for me. Since Gary and I now have a blended family things will never be the same. I always think of Ann-Marie's dad...that is he is not here. Now I think of Brett as now being a dad. There are many "WHYS" in my life. Both Ann-Marie and I will always miss her dad . We accept God's path. It would not have been one that we would have chosen but we always know that His way is best.

But we both wish Gary, Dave and Brett a very Happy Father's Day!!

Brigitte Feeds Sam

2010-06-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

One thing both Gary and I love about our grands...they love to help. When I got ready to feed Sam, Brigitte wanted to do it. Just enjoy the photos. Sometimes Sam won't let go of the spoon!
Here he looks like he has a long colored mustache! Sorta Chinese style!!

Now you can write your own caption for that photo!!

Strawberry Picking with Grandkids 2010

2010-06-15T06:34:00.000-07:00

It's that's time of year...strawberry picking time!! We always look forward to seeing our grandkids, Andrew and Brigitte from Dixon. Because Gary was not doing well last year, we missed picking strawberries with the kids. But last week we got the grands for five days. Wednesday Gary took the kids bike riding. When he phoned me from Poplar Grove saying Brigitte bike had a blown tire I knew we needed help. Great that my sister Carol was on call. She picked me up and we drove to Poplar Grove to get both Brigitte and her bike. Gary and Andrew came home by bike...a long ride from our home to Poplar Grove. But they made it.

On Thursday June 10, we did some morning garage sales. Then we headed for the Hazeltines Strawberry farm in Janesville, Wisconsin.

Here you have the four of us with our empty white basket. We were ready to fill them to the brim.
Brigitte decided to only pick the really BIG ones!

Andrew just got down on his knees and pick any size strawberry to fill his basket.

The strawberries were so ready to be picked. In no time our baskets were full.

Coming home we passed a drive-in place that Gary and his brother use to go to when he was sixteen. Well, since that was over FIFTY years ago, I said we must take the grands to this place.

Gary wasn't too hungry so he just ordered a vanilla malt.

While we waited for our sandwiches, Brigitte played on a small playground they had in the back. Since Brigitte doesn't like people to take pictures of her, I have to just sneak one in.

Finally our food came and we enjoyed just relaxing and talking about when Grandpa used to come to Circus Drive-In.

Upon arriving home it was time for me to get busy and clean and cut the strawberries up. That week we had strawberry smoothies, strawberry shakes and strawberry shortcake. Which I did share with my sister, Carol and two of her grandsons, Zachery and Issac. And I am happy to report that I was able to freeze some too.

Just so thankful that we were able to do our annual strawberry picking with Andrew and Brigitte.

Enjoying My Friend Judy's Party

2010-06-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

It was a last minute thought, but a great one. Dan had emailed me that they would be in the Chicago area to meet up with their daughter Amy and son-in-law Eric who live in Michigan (This was half-way for the both of them.) to give them an old TV they had. And since their son Jerry and his family live in Chicago they were all going to have lunch at Lou Malnati's. Wouldn't it be fun to surprise Judy ahead of time. (Her birthday is June 2.) We would be meeting on May 29th! Dan had already talked to Marsha and she would be able to come. Dan also invited Ann-Marie and Brett.

What a great idea! So after checking with everyone, we were looking forward to surprising Judy. And surprised She was!!!

I have known Dan and Judy ever since Bob and I were married. In our first apartment in Chicago, they lived above us. We all shared our love for the Chicago Bears! Did a lot of traveling together. So Judy and I go along ways back.

Marsha is a dear friend of Judy's. Judy and Marsha both attended Edgewater Baptist Church in Chicago when Dr Erwin Lutzer was their pastor. Marsha is still going there. And of course Judy is in Appleton, WI. The three of us use to go on weekend Christian events. Judy even named us at one time THE THREE MUSKETEERS!

I was a great time catching up with each other's life. I even got to meet Marsha's daughter Rebeccca and her husband Peter. And Judy's daughter Amy who had recently been made a VP of Citizen's Bank after working for them for over twelve years.

As always great fun, food and fellowship. Then it was time to head home. So thankful for Brett who did all the driving. And Sam was so good during the party! On the way home he just sleep like a baby should.

Enjoy the video below. And a BIG thanks to Dan who paid for the whole meal!!! I even had a leftover piece of Lou Malnati's pizza today for lunch.

Surprise Party For My Friend Judy

2010-06-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

My Birthday With My Sisters

2010-05-26T13:42:00.000-07:00

Since I was in South Carolina for my birthday, my sisters waited for me to get back so we could celebrate it together. Sisters always include my sister-in-laws and other female members of my family who can come. We do allow some males under 21!!! Like my newphews. Since my sister Carol has moved back from CT and living in Beloit, WI. she can join us in our birthday celebrations. Carol made me this delicious giant oatmeal date cookie. Sorry, you can't have any...IT'S G O N E GONE!!

My sister-in-law Venita knows I love Mrs. Fisher's! Sorry! That's also G O N E GONE! But I'm enjoying the indoor plant she gave me.

You may wonder why I have two pictures that look the same...they're not! The one above was taken by Ann-Marie and

this one was taken by Candice!!!

The fun part of any birthday can be the cards! Some make you cry. Some make you laugh. Some just make you feel so fuzzy inside that family truly cares about you. I still have some almonds left that Tammy gave me. The delicious candy bar...sorry G O N E GONE!!

I hadn't see Brielle in such a long time. She just prettier each time.

My sister, Louise knows I collect wooden red-handled kitchen utensils!

Louise made me the most delicious carrot cake you will ever eat!!! Some of us were able to takes some pieces home to our husbands.

We all gathered at the Bee-A- Roo on North Second! Just got to love that look on Aidan's face! Sheila had made me a jar of the best homemade applesauce you would ever want to try. In fact Gary put it on his pancakes one morning!! Poor Jan-- she celebrated my birthday with TWICE!!! She says I have this CD coming that I just love...but I haven't seen it YET!!! According to her, it may become my Christmas present. LOL But she did give me $$$! I'm sure I will think of something to buy.

It was so much fun. Enjoyed seeing my family again. Talking, eating, opening gifts and eating a piece of that carrot cake. We all missed my sister-in-law Judi who forgot the date! But when I had gotten home from S.C., there on my table was a card from her. She included a gift card to Kohl's. So one day I'm going shopping!!

And the celebration is still going on. My daughter will spoil me one night with dinner and the movie, Letters to Juliet.

Thanking the Lord for my big wonderful family!

My Trip to South Carolina - Part #3 - Activities

2010-05-26T08:26:00.000-07:00

I'm so blessed to have so many sisters all with different gifts! The first morning alone with the kids, even while she still had her PJ on, she had the kids making charts! They all really got involved in making their own charts. She kept it simple. Only three catag0ries: Obey, Be Kind and Be a Helper. Whenever they did one of the following, they would get to put a sticker in that square for that day. Great idea.

Isn't she just lovely in her PJ? Jan and I were both amazed how much we really got to do with the kids. Especially with me being sick. Here's some of the fun things we got to do with them.
There was the Easter Egg Hunt. Bryant hid the eggs for the two younger girls. Above you have Mikayla enjoying her find.

Jan and I took turns hiding the eggs for the three older kids. Bryant and Mackenzie enjoyed the hunt.

Madyson and Mackenzie check out the goodies inside the eggs.

We took time off from cooking one day and took the kids to a place called Chick-Fil-A. It was nice they had a play area for the younger kids.

Before we took the kids out to eat, we stopped by a very nice park to let the kids play for awhile. There's Madyson-really into swinging with her head down.

Mackenzie just relaxing !

And of course, I needed to enter into the action.

My sister Jan is such a wonderful Grandmother. She is always involved with some activity with her grandkids. Like the game...

Red Rover, Red Rover, send Grandma right over!!

You can tell by the look on all the kids faces, that they think Grandma will not get through their line!

One day while I was home with the two younger girls, Jan picked up the older kids and took them shopping to find an activity they would enjoy doing that evening. She named it : ACTIVITY NIGHT. I tried to help Bryant, but we ended up leaving the details for his dad to help him with. But at least we tried.

Oh, and perhaps this one activity was one of the most funniest of all. LOOKING FOR FOUR -LEAF CLOVER. When I was young I use to collect four-leaf clovers. I even had a nice book that I kept them all in. Some were small and some were very large. Even had a few five-leaf clovers. So knowing this, I thought the kids maybe might find one or two in their backyard. Well low and behold I think some leprechauns were working in their yard the night before. At first Jan said, "I'll give you one dollar for every four-leaf clover you find." I kid you not they just kept finding four-leaf clovers. She finally had to put of limit of $5.00. And several of them would had doubled that if she had NOT put a limit on them.

One day I painted the girls finger and toe nails.

Mackenzie had a special kit with nail polish and little stars, hearts etc to put on her nails.

Jan, The grandma kept the kids busy with games and reading stories to them. I wished I had done a video of her singing, "I could have danced all night..." with each one of the kids except Bryant. Those kids love being pulled up into the air and singing right along with her.

So we did enjoy spending time with those precious 5 grandkids of Jan. And I,of course are their GREAT AUNT!

It was work! It was fun! It was time to come home!

2010-05-25T13:24:00.000-07:00

My Trip to South Carolina - Part #2 My Brithday

2010-05-25T12:55:00.000-07:00

Danielle had informed me that on my birthday, I was to eat on this special plate! Which I did...because on May 11, it was my birthday. She had planned to have chicken Enchiladas for Tuesday!!It must be on of the kids' favorites, because we ate almost all of them.

My sister, is a great planner! She had the kids trying to blow up balloons! We had those party blow horns...not the noisy one (Thank you.) She made a three layer (via Bryant request...who birthday is this anyway?) White cake with white frosting!!!

And they all sang "Happy Birthday to me." It was so much fun. The kids gave me great gifts! McKenzie had made me a great bookmarker. Bryant had given me a dollar and two of his four-leaf clovers. Got a box of Milk Duds and of course a box of Suzie Q's!!!

And what's a party without pin the tail on the donkey! Bryant was the winner. Of course I realized how ahead of time he figured out from the white flower on the wall where to pin the tail!!! Then I showed the kids how the game really should be played....

As you can see from their faces, they know I'm way off the mark. I should have been playing pin a pedal on the flower.

It will be a birthday party that I will truly remember!! Thanks gang!

My Trip to South Carolina - In Three Parts - Part #1

2010-05-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

"Do you want to get away for ten days? All expense paid?" asked by sister Jan so long ago that I don't remember what month she asked me that question. Of course the little wheels in my head are turning. Somehow I didn't think this was what one might call a fun vacation. By that I mean no responsibilties. Then on top of that first question, she asked me if I would be willing to fly! FLY! FLY!! Like in an airplane? "Not really." Was my first reply.

Well, to make this story short, I did decide to fly to South Carolina only because I know the drive would truly wear her out. And that's not a good thing when you are going to watch five grandchildren. (Ages: 2,4,6,8,10) Plans were to leave the 6th of May and get back the 16 of May. The day before we were to leave I started getting a sinus cold. But I wasn't going to let that stop me.

We fly from Milwaukee to Cleveland, Ohio and then on to Anderson, South Carolina. Flight - Okay or I wouldn't be writing this. Let me tell you that Danielle is one very organized mom I know. She had written out everything that Jan might need to know PLUS planned and froze all our evening meals!!!

Since we arrived on Thursday and the Senior Trip didn't start till Saturday morning, we got to spend a little time with Michael and Danielle. And their dog Maggie. Along with their five great kids.

Saturday morning they were off before I even got out of bed. Jan of course was up to see them off. Then Sunday was Mother's Day! What a great surprise to have these kid shower their great aunt with bath products. I am one of those people who loves to spend time in the bath tub and read. Thanks for these great gifts!!!

And of course Grandma got showered with some great bath products also!

The only thing going awry was that my cold was getting worse. Hard to breathe at night. Started losing my voice in the early evening, wasn't sleeping well....etc. Each day I just prayed that I could help Jan in someways. She was in great health and I think that's what got us through.

Tinker Swiss Cottage - May 04, 2010

2010-05-23T08:21:00.000-07:00

On the first Tuesday of every month, we have Senior Saints Prayer Breakfast...usually at Jessica's in Roscoe. But this time we decided to have an activity after our breakfast so instead of Jessica's we went to Stockholm Inn. And as you are all aware of...they have a great menu for breakfast. Are activity for the day was to visit Tinker Swiss Cottage! I don't think that I have ever visited it before. But if I had, a lot of changes have been done to the cottage and continue t0 be ongoing.

Can you believe that this tree is over 300 years old?

This photo is actually the back side of the cottage. I'm standing on a suspension bridge which the older people loved jumping on and making the bridge move...me no like that feeling!!!

They of course had a shop to purchase some items of interest...like Gary getting my a York mint patty. He said it was for my birthday!!

They showed us a video before going through the cottage with a lot of history behind the home.

There is so much to see in this cottage. One must go and see it to get a great appreciation for what Robert Hall Tinker did for his home along with his wife contributions.

Here we have a photo of some of the people who where there. Some had to leave early because of work.

So if you want a fun activity and learn some factS about Rockford...GO SEE TINKER SWISS COTTAGE.

Mother's Day - Before Mother's Day

2010-05-23T07:58:00.000-07:00

With out much thought, I had committed myself to go with my sister Jan to S. C. to help her take care of her five grandchildren. Not a hard task for us. We had done this before when there were only four grandchildren and one more wouldn't matter. The dates were May 6 - 16th. Not thinking that I would be gone not only for my birthday but Mother's Day also. And I didn't even give it thought that this was my first year as a Grandmother.

So when I told Ann-Marie the dates, she was glad she knew about these plans because she had been planning something special for me. OOPS!!! So before I left for Anderson, S. C., they gave this beautiful bracelet. As you all know Robert is my first husband's name. What a blessing to wear.

And even I didn't think about being a grandmother via my wonderful daughter. Oh, I enjoyed my grandchildren Andrew and Brigitte via my marriage to Gary, but to think that God would allow Ann-Marie to become a mother and then me a grandmother is words I can't express.

And of course, my daughter know me very well....I love chocolate...not just any kind...but chocolate with carmels. So she hand picked these at Fannie May Candies.

So I did indeed celebrate Mother's Day early. Got to wear my new bracelet on the plane to S.C. Ate some candy...but also left some behind so I could enjoy when I got back. THANKS! THANKS! Ann-Marie, Brett and Sam! Thanks for these wonderful gifts.

An Evening with Kathy & Judy 4-29-10

2010-05-23T07:30:00.000-07:00

I always look forward to an evening out with my daughter. So when she found out that the talk host girls from WGN. Kathy and Judy would be speaking in town, she called me immediately and asked, "Do you want to go?" "Yes! Let's go." So she signed us up quickly because she knew the tickets would sell out fast...which they did. We had only heard Kathy and Judy on WGN. I didn't hear them alot when I was working. But after retirement I got to hear them a lot more.They are not believers but we would enjoy the different topics that would come up on their show. They even at times talked about what different people at the radio station believed about God. And since of the people who work for WGN are true believers, Kathy and Judy would actually tell us what those people believe. Which I found very interesting because it was the gospel in a nutshell.

At any rate, Ann-Marie and I were able to meet some really great ladies at our table. We even had a Kathy and Judy at our table...just not the ones who worked for WGN.

Both Ann-Marie and I were wondering if Kathy and Judy would mention why they were fired from WGN. Which of course they did but were very careful of what they said because they were still under contract...ending soon. But perhaps one of the reasons they explained was due to rating. Now, I'm not sure how that could apply to them, because they seemed to have a huge following. But at the same time they both expressed that there is life after radio and express different directions they might be taking.

After a delicious dinner and various FUNNY skits by different people we finally enjoyed just listening, crying, laughing as Kathy and Judy caught us up with what they both were doing. The photo above is us with Judy.

And here we are with Kathy!

Now whenever we hear of Kathy and Judy, we can say, I saw them both in person. It was a wonderful evening and I'm so glad that we attended an evening with Kathy and Judy.

Garage Sales - Footville, WI

2010-05-22T17:24:00.000-07:00

Finally I was able to download the photos from my sister's Jan's photos to show you just how full you can pack a car that already has five passengers. (Fours sisters and one niece.) We heard that there were alot of garage sales in a small town called Footville. So Carol, Beth and I met my other sisters, Louise and Jan near Footville, WI. And there certainly were alot of garage sales. I saw this old antique oil container that I thought Louise might want. She did purchased it and found out from her husband that indeed it was used to put lamp oil in.

My sister, Carol who at that time would be moving back to WI from CT saw a vacuum cleaner that she felt she could put to great use.

With the five of us we packed the trunk FULL! Now I wonder where would we put that vacuum cleaner Carol had purchased?

Never fear! With Louise big old card, Carol just placed it on her lap. No problem !

Oh, and what about that piano bench that our sister Carol purchased....just let sister Jan and me hold it on our laps.

It was indeed a fun filled day. We did stop for lunch at a small place right in the big town of Footville. Then continued on to finish a few more garage sales. As you will note from the photos above, it was time to head home.

Jackie Retires 4-02-2010

2010-04-07T12:25:00.001-07:00

It was on again! It was off again! I'm talking about my dear friend Jackie's retirement. You would find an "X" through a date that Jackie told me she would be retiring! Then something would come up and she decided to wait a little longer. But after all, it was up to her when SHE wanted to reitre.

So after so many "X's on my calander I wasn't for sure when she told me that April 02, 2010 was to be her day of retirment...and it truly was finally. So, I just wanted to have a small supper for her. I had invited Ann-Marie and Brett and of course little Sam just follows them. Later I found out Candice was home alone since her family members were all in Texas, I invited her and Brielle too. My day was busy making a new salad receipt from Rachel Ray. I was so surprise that everyone loved it! I know I did.

Then I made a scalloped potatoe dish. The steaks were being marinated. Later the guys would cook them on the grill.

It was so much fun getting this dinner ready. I had fun making my own nut cups. Setting the table with a plant for Jackie to plant in her yard as my centerpiece.It's that beautiful hydrangea plant in the photo above.

I had found a nice card that said at the top, "I DID IT". Then I downloaded a photo of Jackie in it. Since it has magnets on the back of the picture, I hope she put it on her refrigerator!

And as always, Ann-Marie find those funny cards about retirement.

And of course what goes with a good dinner...desserts! Yes, my friend Jackie made the dessert!!! And they were so delicious. The above one WAS and apple and pear dessert.

And for the CHOCOLATE LOVER...you truly would love the above one. Something like a triple chocolate dessert!

Jackie survived the evening. We even made her play a game she had never played before. SEQUENCE!

I just want to wish her the best retirement! HAPPY RETIREMENT MY FRIEND!

My Easter 2010

2010-04-07T12:08:00.001-07:00

Well, I am so disappointed with myself for not taking my camera to St Charles, where we spent the entire afternoon with Brett's brother Dave and his wife Dawn. It was a beautiful day! Lots of food..good ham, deviled eggs, mashed potatoes etc. And of course plenty of chocolate candy. Ann-Marie and I even got out and took Sam for a nice stroller ride around the park next to Dave's home. BUT I FORGOT TO TAKE MY CAMERA TO TAKE PHOTO OF SAM'S FIRST EASTER!

But I can back-up to when Sam came to Grandpa and Grandma house to give them an Easter Card. And, of course, I had my camera ready. Isn't he so sweet...he looks so bashful!

Now he's starting to look right at us.
Happy Easter Grandma and Grandpa!

So, I'll just remember this Easter in a very special way.

Dave did get his camera out and took lots of photos! And we did enjoy visiting with Brett's family.

Family Gathering March 22, 2010

2010-04-06T12:08:00.000-07:00

It's been so long since I have updated my blog, I'm not sure where to begin..but begin I will. Let's just start at the Rehfeldt's gathering out at the Berg Farm. Due to my mother passing on to glory, the family would all be together once again...I hope not our last!! Farmer Elmer aka Bruce Berg, married to my beautiful sister, Louise (She just might read this.) have a wonderful large farm in Brodhead, WI> And they are both great people when it comes to having a huge group of people around.

Plus, Louise is an excellent cook! And with the help of her daughter, Tammy everything seems to flow just right!

Another fun aspect of being on the farm is that Farmer Bruce will just hitch up the horses to the wagon and anyone can enjoy a nice country ride!!

It was a time for cousins to visit with each other...we really enjoyed having Anna here all the way from France! That's always a treat.

It's a time for hugs, providing that you let people hug you!! Above we have Ann-Marie and Alex her cousin from Montana greeting each other with a hug.

It's a time to see new babies that we haven't seen nor held in person...like Trey! He was such a joy to watch crawling around everywhere! So happy that he is now one healthy baby!!

It's a time to catch up with other families that we don't see that often!

Above brothers and sisters go over the plans for Mom's Memorial Service for the next day.

It's time for my younger great nieces and nephews to be up to no good!! Not really...I think they are being good.

It's a time to be silly and just enjoy each other's company! Like Tammy and Colleen. I think they'll be after me for posting this photo.

Ann-Marie and her cousin Michelle from Oxnard, California.

It's a time for sisters to try and take a photo together. It took awhile but we did it. I guess we forgot to take one of the brothers.

Just enjoy the photos. There are so many photos on facebook from other family members so if you are not bored by now, you can check out their pictures.

Thank you Lord for my large family! And thank Bruce and Louise for allowing us to have once again...fun, food and fellowship!!

Sam Visits Grandpa Trotter's Grave

2010-03-05T03:52:00.001-08:00

March third will always be a reminder to Ann-Marie and me that life is indeed very fragile. Yes, that's the day God took her dad and my beloved husband to a much better and eternal place, heaven.
Ann-Marie took the day off so we could take Sam to see grandpa Trotter's grave. With the sun so bright and inviting us to be outside we looked forward to this day. Candice, who mother's grave is also at the Scandinavian Cemetery, met us at my home along with sweet Brielle. Gary, Brett, Ann-Marie, Sam, Candice, Brielle and I headed for the cemetery. Now as often as we have visited this site, you would think that we would have no problem locating the exact spot. We did not figure the factor that the stone marker would be covered in frozen snow. So here we all are out trying to find Bob's marker. Using our feet, then car window scraper we tried to locate the place. After trying so hard and discovering lots of other people's marker, we had to give up. Well, settling for a nice spot perhaps somewhere near Bob's marker and which we thought the small wreath would add a nice touch, we snapped the photo above. As the saying goes, "That's as good as it gets." Or same saying of that sort.

Besides, the wind was blowing some and we were getting a little cold. But you know Sam was really enjoying being outside.

There are many things we pray for our children (child in my case) and our grandchildren. Thinking about the many things I loved about Bob and would want to be passed on to Sam are way too many. But beside the fact that I want Sam to know the Lord at an early age, I do pray for two characteristics I believe Bob possessed. The first to rightly divide the Word of God in his heart and life. And OH TO HAVE A WONDERFUL, WHOLESOME SENSE OF HUMOR!!!

A Little Valentine's Party With Mom

2010-02-14T09:03:00.001-08:00

It's always fun to get together when my sister, Jan come down. And since Valentine's Day was coming up, we planned a little Valentine's Party to be held at River Bluff Nursing Home where my mother now lives. So many members of my family are very crafty...in more ways than one. But especially with making handmade boxes, like the cone-shaped one and the smaller box one pictured at the bottom of this photo. Just fill them with any goodies and everyone is happy.

My sister, Louise spoiled us all by purchasing pizza for everyone. Plus she made a great pasta salad.

My sister Jan, made this delicious thick heart-shaped cookies. They were so big and sooo good, I had to take one home to enjoy eating later.

Since Tammy's husband Rick had the day off, he was able to join us. Plus Gary and Brett attended too.

And whenever Sam and Ann-Marie are with my mother and I, I always want to get a photo of us...because here you see four generations. Something I never ever thought would be.

It was so fun just chatting, eating and enjoying all the goodies bestowed on all of us by one another.

Just want to wish eveyone a very Happy Valentine's Day!

Strange Dream

2010-01-14T11:40:00.001-08:00

Wednesday, January 13, 2009 I spent the day running around with my two sisters, Linda and Louise. Had fun getting lots of bargains. Had supper and then Gary and I headed off to Prayer Meeting.

Then when we got home I wanted to continue watching another of the three Bourne series. I can't remember ever watching them in order and from beginning to end. It was about eleven o'clock when I finished watching the movie. I wasn't tired so I decided to work a little on my Christmas puzzle . Gary came up from working in the basement and started helping me with the puzzle. I don't know if you are like me when working a puzzle but I always set sort of goal...like

finished the jingle bells cascading out of Santa's sack. Finally around one o'clock we accomplished that goal. TIME FOR BED!

Well, thinking I would fall asleep quickly I kept tossing and turning. "Remind me never to work on a puzzle before I go to bed. I think it gets my brain going." I told Gary. (Than later I remembered that I had had THREE DIET COKES at Taco Bell for lunch with my sisters. Gary is against drinking pop, so I wasn't about to say anything to him...would you? That might mean about an hour or more of the woes of pop.)

Finally I did go to sleep. The clock was ticking away in my dream. It was Sunday morning. Camille, Gary's daughter and family had spent the night. It's 10:45 a.m.Camille is getting the kids ready. I'm trying to get on facebook to see Kathy Pope's new decorated room. The computer won't let me get on facebook. Dave Boucher is still fast asleep . "Are you going to church with us?" I asked. "NO!" he bellowed out. Now I wondering were Gary is. It's now eleven forty-five. Oh I can see by the clock in my dream that I don't have enough time for Gary. I'm going to eliminate him from my dream. Can you believe that even in my dream I'm thinking, "This is neat I can eliminate people from my dreams." So I have Gary off somewhere for the weekend. It's almost twelve and time for us to leave for church. DREAM ENDS.

Pop! Movies! Puzzles! Whatever none of the above made any sense. Never been in Kathy Pope's home. Never had the Bouchers stay a night. And I never attended a church where the service started at noon. ONLY IN YOUR DREAMS can these strange things happen. Hope you enjoyed this dream with me.

Rehfeldt's Christmas Party 2009!

2009-12-22T04:54:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, this year the Rehfeldt Christmas was a mixed bag of emotions. That wonderful photo of Dave's family below is missing a huge part of their lives...Venita's husband for 41 years, Paul and Jason's father, Kara and Jennifer's father-in-law and Noah, Adam, Hannah, Autumn and Oliver's grandpa. If they had not been able to attend this year, it would not have felt like a Rehfeldt Christmas Party for me. After all Dave was the Santa who took over when our father passed away. And we Rehfeldts missed our brother and my mother her son.

But thanks to my wonderful nephew, BJ who takes awsome photos, came with his equipment and was able to take such a great photo of Dave's family...I just sorta snapped a photo with my camera to get a photo for my blog. Thanks also to BJ for setting up his equipment so family members could have him take great photo of their family.

I just love every new babies that are born into our family. Did you know that my grandson Sam was my mother's 56 GREAT grandchild? I've said it enough, so you may already know that wonderful fact. We had three new babies this year at the Christmas party...Oliver, Sam and Isabelle ! I'm wondering what they will be like in six or seven years..

Perhaps like Jacob, Brigitte, Mikayla, Dakota, Sydney, Spencer...up to no good. Ha! I must confess that the little girl doing the whispering is none other than my granddaughter, Brigitte. (Better keep my eyes on her.) Christmas without kids of any age is not alot of fun...we'll think about that one...there are moments.

And we are so blessed to have my ninety-two year old mother, Agnes Theresa still with us to read the true meaning of Christmas. The birth of Jesus Christ.

Then after singing many wonderful Christmas Carols...our finally song to give a cue to Santa is "Here comes Santa Claus".

We were all grateful for Aaron filling in for our brother Dave this year. And it was fun as always. Most of the kids knew who Santa was and just play along with the fun.

This year we did our party a week earlier and instead of an evening one we needed to have an afternoon party. With my large family we try very hard to please MOST everyone. Not everyone can make it when we have it on Christmas Eve. But these are things that I truly missed this year beside my brother Dave. The Christmas caroling in people homes, the limited time we had the building for (Another party was coming in.) With Bj taking photos some family didn't get a chance to have their family photos taken because we ran out of time. And then..

my sister Linda from France had to stay at our home because she had gotten sick and couldn't come. Here all the way from France and couldn't attend her own family Christmas party! Glad to report she is starting to feel somewhat better.

But it was such fun getting the food ready. Everyone is so helpful with setting up and cleaning up afterwards. The food always so delicious. The visiting with family members is so fun. And of course the singing, the skits..Jan did an A plus one. Hopefully a family member has it on video! Great job Jan. And the nieces and newphews did a great job on their parts. Scott and Box Mania. Santa and the kids.

With such a large family..we had about 73 family members this year, I did 3 slide shows. So if you have the time or even the interest, just sit back and enjoy each one.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!!

2009-12-22T04:53:00.000-08:00

Box Mania!!

2009-12-22T04:25:00.002-08:00

"What's BOX MANIA?" you ask. Well, let's just say that it's one of the zany things that my brother Scott is totally responsible for. The last two years I have come in last!!!

Scott picks on his sisters and sister-in-law to do this game. Can't wait the year when he picks on the brothers and brother-in-laws. At any rate, it fun and sorta of like Let's Make a Deal. Each person picks a box. The inside lid has something written on it.."You get to pick 10 items from off the table behind you..etc. Mine was, You get one item off the table. I really didn't care (too much) I had spotted earlier the bottle of Listerine I was out of at home, so I grapped it and was pleased. (I must get smarter at this game. I'm not a very good looser. Just ask anyone who plays boardgames with me, like my friend Jackie.) Scott will offer you items off the table and you can choose if you want the box or those items.

It's so much fun. There is alot of wheeling and dealing going on. Jola was first and boy could she bargain with Scott. I need to start hanging out with her. Lina got the best prize...a wallet that contain $10.00 in it. Maybe I should hang out with her! At any rate enjoy the video below.

2009-12-22T04:25:00.001-08:00

2009-12-22T04:12:00.000-08:00

Here Comes Santa Claus!

2009-12-22T03:36:00.000-08:00

One of the oldest traditions in our family is the coming of Santa Claus at our Christmas Eve party. Since my father's death in 1983, several different brothers have filled in the gap. But mostly it was my brother Dave who did the honors. As you all know, Dave will spent Christmas in heaven this year, having died December 4th. My wonderful nephew Aaron filled the gap this year. Let me just say at this point, the Rehfeldt family know the TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS...THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST.

What was fun this year was when Santa sat down next to my mother and asked her, "Should I give these children any gifts." With a very stern look, she said, 'HAVE THEY BEEN GOOD?" Laughter filled the whole room.

Let's take a moment and look at who sat on Sant's lap. Please forgive me for not getting everyone who sat on Santa's lap...there were these annoying parents with their camera in hand who just had to stand in front of me...the nerve!LOL ! ENJOY THE VIDEO

Thanksgiving - Nice & Quiet 2009

2009-12-01T13:30:00.001-08:00

Usually we are off to someone else's home for Thanksgiving. Be it my sister, Louise or Brett's family in Geneva. BUT this year Gary wanted to bake a big turkey and just stay home....so we did. I'm so glad that Brett, Ann-Marie and Sam could join us. My dear friend Jackie was also free to enjoy Thanksgiving with us. For some reason or another...babies are always the main attraction at any event, and Sam was no exception.

So Gary took care of the sixteen pound turkey and the turkey dressing. I did the green bean casserole and veggie tray. Ann-Marie made Mrs. Soderstrom delicious mashed potatoes ...they are so good, you don't need gravy or butter on them. She also made her own famous cream cheese filled rolls.

Jackie arrived with three great desserts! I thought that she was only bringing a pumpkin pie. But she arrived not only with the homemade pumpkin pie but homemade apple pie and chocolate cupcakes. (That was Ann-Marie's favorite dessert.) As for me I loved her apple pie!

Here you have the table setting of some of our good food.

Jackie and I enjoyed a nice hot cup of tea with our pie.

Well, later Brett took a nap while Gary retreated to the garage to continue recycling some items he had collected along life's road. Some habits never die. In the meantime, Ann-Marie and I taught Jackie how to play a card game called Golf. She must have enjoyed it (She doen't like games too much.) She played three rounds with us.

Jackie headed for home and Ann-Marie and I headed to the movies to see The Blind Side.

It was indeed a more quiet Thanksgiving I've had in a long time...but I enjoyed every part of that day. So thankful for family and friends to share this day with.

"Wonder of Wonders, Miracle of Miracles"

2009-11-23T07:31:00.000-08:00

Ten years ago Robert Lawrence Trotter, the love of my life, the husband of my youth was suddenly taken home to heaven after celebrating 32 years of a wonderful marriage. It was such a very empty, painful, sorrowful and lonely time for me for such a long long time. Not just months but years. God had made us one when we got married and now half of me was going on with everyday life without him. BUT NOW....TAKING THE WORDS FROM THE SONG MIRACLE OF MIRACLES IN THE SHOW FIDDLER ON THE ROOF I CAN SING AND SAY....

"BUT OF ALL GOD'S MIRACLES LARGE AND SMALL THE MOST MIRACULOUS ONE OF ALL IS THE ONE I THOUGHT COULD NEVER BE, GOD HAS GIVEN A GRANDSON TO ME."

Now whenever I hold my grandson Sam, I feel a wonderful comfort and realize this precious gift from God. In the quietness of me holding Sam while he is sleeping, I feel the soft tenderness of a loving God bring to my mind and perhaps I hear God whisper in my ear..."I have given you a part of Bob back."

So I end my Thanksgiving blog with the song of "Miracle of Miracles" in my mind and heart. And I might add that goes for Ann-Marie, Brett and my whole family.

Weekend With All The Grandkids!

2009-11-10T09:11:00.001-08:00

With Sam just a little over three months old, I was looking forward to having all three grandkids, Saturday November 7th. On Friday evening, Gary and I drove to Byron, to pick up Andrew and Brigitte. After having supper at Giuseppi's Italian Restaurant & Pizza, we headed home.

Andrew and Brigitte get along pretty good. There are times they just need to be doing activities apart from each other. Like on Saturday morning Grandpa and Andrew rode their bikes from Roland Olsen Park to Harvard. Stopping only to have lunch in Poplar Grove. In the meantime Brigitte and I took care of Sam. While Sam slept, we had our lunch out on the deck. After Sam woke up and had his lunch, we took him out for a ride in his stroller. Brigitte loves to play Sorry. Here we have her telling Grandpa how to play the game. I had played the game with her the day before.

When we picked up the kids on Friday, Brigitte love her new toy...Leapster. She played it all the way to our home and then some.

I dearly wanted a photo of the three grandkids. Something I thought would be an easy task actually turned into a mess. When Andrew and Grandpa got back from their ride, I had Andrew sit in the recliner with Sam in his lap. I then asked Brigitte to sit next to Andrew. "I'm not sitting next to him!" she said. "Well, then just stand next to the recliner." was my reply. 'I DON'T LIKE TAKING PICTURES!!" she said with tears running down her face. Well, I knew right away that Brigitte the first one to have gotten up that morning was way over tried. So I knew that this photo was not to take place.

But after Andrew and Brigitte had taken a shower and put on their pj's I was able to capture a natural photo with Grandpa holding Sam and Brigitte and Andrew looking at him. They both love Sam so very very much.

Brigitte will make a great mom someday. She wanted to take over every duty that belonged to an adult. "I can hold him standing up." "I can carry him out to the stroller." "I can, I can." she just kept telling me. While I was feeding Sam his bottle, Brigitte tried his little jacket on and to our amazement it fit her...somewhat. During the stroller ride, Brigitte was in charge of pushing it.

Here we have our two very handsome grandsons!

Gary enjoys making pancakes when the grandkids come. I forgot to get some cool whip. They both love to put cool whip on their pancakes. This time Brigitte put peanut butter on her pancake while Andrew used the traditional pancake syrup on his.

I do believe now that I think of it, that Brigitte used peanut butter on one of her pancakes and syrup on the second one.

Sunday morning we got ready for church. We weren't sure if Andrew recovering from a cold should go. When he decided to go back to bed, I ended up staying home with him. Believe me when I tell you that I got his cold that very morning. But I'm getting plenty of rest so I can enjoy events coming up.

As always it was another fun time with our grandkids...ALL THREE!

Sound of Music - Fireside

2009-11-03T14:49:00.001-08:00

We all know that the Fireside is an expensive place to eat and see a play. But we also know that it is well worth the moeny...if of course you have the money.

When I knew they would be having the Sound of Music I really wanted to go. So we gather some of the people we thought might like to go and made plans..well the plans we made for a Friday, October 30 fell through. Which I was not happy about. The Firseside didn't do a matinee on that Friday. Because my friend Jackie had already made plans for Saturday, she would not be able to attend the Saturday matinee. And we were all looking forward to spending time with her. (A side note: Ann-Marie and I met Jackie at Granite City for lunch on Friday.) We'll have to do better planning in the future.

Here we have Colleen, Jan and Betty doing some shopping in their unique shops.

The shops are always fun to browse through. Some of us had a few items we wished we could have. Like Jan. She just loved these decorative Christmas boxes.

Ann-Marie found several mugs she liked that related to being a mom.

She especially liked the one that said, "New Mommy Two Blessed To BE Stressed."

My sister Louise who has more money than some of us, purchase this beautiful picture. "To Grandmother's House We Go."

And again, if you know anything about me, you know that I am a snowman collector. Well, here's my purchase. The comment some of us made were, "That could be Grandpa and Grandma with Grandson, Sam."

My sister Louise is just herself wherever she go and whoever she's with. She had us all laughing. We could truly say that she was our entertainment for the evening...skip Sound of Music. But the meal was so delicious...right to the last bite.

Here's the gang: Me, Louise, Betty, Jan, Colleen and Ann-Marie.

The play was excellent. Even if not all the songs were sung from Sound of Music. It's always amazing to me how they can take a small stage and bring it to life like a real movie.

County Fair in Watertown

2009-11-03T14:07:00.000-08:00

On October 23rd, Gary and I headed to Watertown to enjoy an evening with my sister Jan and her husband Darryl. Mainly I was going to enjoy the County Fair that was for ladies only!!! The members of her church put so much work into this event. The evening was so filled with fun, food and fellowship Of course what's a fair without trying to guess how many items are in a jar.
Before the fair started, we all had a sandwich from Cousins. Then the men had to leave.

What a great performance that Jan and Susan did with the song, "There's a Hole in Your Bucket..."

I had a small part in this...I cut the hole in the bucket.

It was so nice to see Betty again. We had fun making cards for the Fall season.

Wow, if you ever get a chance...you must try funnel cakes. They were the top of the line.

There were many booths to visit. I got to an Avon booth to purchase bubble bath. The baked good table dug into my wallet also.

There were prizes to win from each of the booths. Books, Avon products, homemade cards, etc. Well, for me, I got the best prize of all!

I won a bag of popcorn!!! But I must say, if I had known this was going to happen, I wouldn't have purchase a bag. But since I just LOVE POPCORN it was no problem for me to down two bags! But I must say, Betty and Jan kept putting their hands into the bag...especially Betty. I kept asking her if she wanted to take one of the bags. "No, I have popcorn at home." was her reply while she put her hand into the bag to get more popcorn. What a way to end an evening...laughing.

Then our men came back and helped cleanup the place and got it ready for Sunday morning!

Isabelle's Shower & Horse Rides

2009-10-13T07:16:00.000-07:00

Shower for Isbelle Berg

2009-10-12T12:44:00.001-07:00

This wonderful family of ours, just keeping growing. What's another family shower now and then? Just more family memories. So we now welcome Isabelle Berg! What a shower without a delicious cake! And it was real delicious.

Here we have Cari, Isabelle and Grandma Louise.

Spencer enjoyed getting the gifts to give to Cari.

Tammy had two great games for us to play.

After the shower we all went outside to watch the kids take turns on riding the horse lead by Caleb taking hold of the reins. I had to post the above photo and entitle it "Smarty Pants!" I had a pair of purple gloves on my hands but when I wanted to take a photo, I took one off to snap the picture. I noticed that I was missing it and tried looking for it on the ground. My sweet neice...well, I use to think she was sweet said as she put her hand in my face with my purple glove on, "What are you looking for?"

The whole day was filled with fun, food and lots of fresh cold air! I trust I will get the slide show done so you can see the kids riding the horse. They all just loved that part of this day.

Linda Sturgills & Kids Visit

2009-10-12T12:11:00.001-07:00

On Friday October ninth, we were able to have Aaron's family spend the night...that is minus Aaron. Linda and Aaron have four great children, Molly, Spencer and their twins brothers, Ryan and Dakota. Since they live in Michigan, we don't see them as often as we would like. Jan and Darryl took them to Edward's Apple Orchard in the afternoon and then they all came and spent the night with us. I wished I had a photo of the four kids sleeping across our bed in the computer room. Poor Linda, she slept on the floor next to them. I had phoned Ann-Marie earlier in the week and wondered if they had Friday open to come over for pizza and visit with Linda and the crew. I'm so glad that they were able to come. All the kids, including Linda had been wanting to see their cousin Sam.

The twins Ryan and Dakota were anxious for Ann-Marie to open all the gifts they brought for Sam.

What was also so fun was seeing how Sam is developing. In the photo above when Ann-Marie was talking, Sam would turn his head to look at his mommy because he recognized her voice.

Here we have Molly holding little Sam.

Here we have Linda holding Sam while Dakota and Ryan look on.

The kids all love to play games. Here Spencer plays checker with his Grandma.

In the morning we had to get ready to go to a family baby shower but not before Gary was trying to show Spencer how to really whistle loud.

Spencer tried, but it is going to take some time before he catches on. I wonder if his dad knows how to whistle loud. Perhaps he could teach him.

What a joy to see them! It's hard to believe that the twins will turn four in December. Thanks for spending the night Sturgill Crew! It was fun! And great memories.

Door County to Help Charlene

2009-10-12T11:21:00.000-07:00

On October the fifth, we headed for Sister Bay, Wisconsin. This was not to see all the wonderful places in Door County but to do lots of needed work around Charlene Rice's home. Having been a widow myself, I know how much it means to have someone come and help out with yard work and odd jobs that need attending to. We arrived in the afternoon with the sun still shining. Gary went right to work with trimming the branches off the trees that were hanging too low and got in Charlene's way when she mowed the grass.

Here we have Gary climbing the ladder. In both of the above photos, you will see that I am no where near him or the ladder. Gary was on his own due to an accident I received last year trying to help him.

I stayed with doing the safe jobs. Like raking up the loose branches on the ground and taking them out to where they could be burned later. We worked till the sun went down. THEN for me one great blessing I recieved was watching....

YES!!! Monday Night Football. What was also a surprise for Gary and I was that Charlene had us take the downstair. We original were to stay in Grant's study room. And the couple that had stayed in Grant's room wanted to stay there. So we got the whole downstairs to ourselves. But Charlene, along with her guest Sam & Paula also like football, so we all watched the game together.

It was such a great game!! It was so funny to see Brett Favre play against his former teammates. I was hoping Minnesota would win...and they did!!!

The next day it rained ALL day so Gary and I cleaned her two garages. Gary also changed the vacuum belt on one of her vacuum and replaced a vacuum bag on another one.

The next day, Wednesday, the sun came out and we were so glad to return to much needed yard work. I worked on trimming death branches out of different bushes and trimmed a few low branches out of the trees.

Gary took time and washed all the deck furniture before he put it away for the winter. Then he swept off the deck and driveway. He was able to drain her hoses and put them away for next year.

See how great it all looks when he got done!

But as the saying goes all work and NO Play....We did take a two hour break to do a little shopping. And of course we stopped at Wilson Ice Cream shop for a treat.

On Thursday the sun started coming up and we needed to head home.

But Gary and I was so spoiled by Charlene. We didn't know it and didn't even expect it, but she fed us everyday! After thinking about it, it really saved time for us to get more work done. She was truly a blessing to us. We told her if we had had more time we could still do more work but she just said, "No, No, you have already done so much."

It was Work and every night my body was feeling it. But both Gary and I thank the Lord for the health to help Charlene.

Visit to Springfield, Illinois 2009

2009-10-12T09:55:00.000-07:00

It 's always great to take a trip with other people. First off, you never know what you might encounter. For instance, finding the right seat belt for everyone. Since there were ten of us going to Springfield, Illinois, it was so funny just making sure everyone was belted in. We laughted so much! You would have had to been there to experience that laughter. After what seemed like about a half an hour we were able to leave the parking lot of Heritage Baptist Church. Of course you have to take in account that this is the Senior Saints going on this trip. Ages ranging from about sixty-two to ninety one. With such difficutly in getting belted in we began writing a poem. Started with "We are the Senior Clickers. The mighty mighty clickers.

With Bill Lawson at the helm, we headed to Lincoln's Home. After seeing a movie about Lincoln's home, we had a guided tour in his home and the homes surrounding it.

The next morning we went to the Abraham Lincoln & Presidential Library & Museum. That is so AWSOME to see! "Blending scholarship and showmanship, this expansive 200,000 square-foot complex brings together a culmination of Lincoln history, lore and legend to one state-of-the-art facility. You'll discover more than 40,000 square feet of galleries, theaters and historic displays. Above you see a photo of our group with the Lincoln's family. Yes,those are just statues...but they look like real people.

Here we see another great statue of young Abe with OLD Gary! We could have spent more time here, but we needed to head to New Salem before heading home. We didn't even have time to see Lincoln's tomb.

We ate lunch at the New Salem Village. We saw a sign that said the best burgers in town. I tried one...they were okay, but I'm thinking to myself I've had better.

In this photo we have Les Kramer listening to a man explain how they made buckets, tubs, and barrels at the Henry Onstot Cooper Shop. This shop is the only building left from the original New Salem.

Clair Dietz, ninety-one and Gary listened while this lady at the Martin Waddell Residence explained how different hats were made. And as always time just flies by as you visit all the different homes in the village.

We all wanted to let Bill know that we appreciated his driving and took up a small collection to give him . He didn't want it but Lucy forced him to take it. We were thinking he could buy supper for himself. Knowing Bill he probably put in the offering the next Sunday. But I on the other hand, hope he used it for supper.

Here we have Les and Freida Kramer checking out the map for our return trip home.

If anyone knows me very much, I like funny photos. So after everyone had taken photos of the group, I told them I wanted them to be silly...AND THE ABOVE PHOTO IS WHAT I GOT! Gary jumped in front of everyone and I just took the photo! LOVE IT! LOVE IT!

We had a great time getting to know each other a little more and so very thankful to arrive home safely.

Warrens Cranberry Festival 2009

2009-09-29T05:27:00.000-07:00

It's only 152 miles to Tomah, Wisconsin where we had reversations at the Comfort Inn. The drive was beautiful. Some of the tree leaves are turning into full color. There were several rock formation that we spotted on our way up.

While I was busy checking us in and Gary was getting our luggage, I didn't even notice their Guest of the Day sign. When Gary came back into the lobby he said, "How did your name get on that sign?" If anyone knows me, they know that I am NOT an observance person. "Wow, that me!" I said. Well I got a package with bottled water, popcorn and a snack bar in it, along with "Congratulations!" for the desk clerk. Being this was our first visit to Cranberry Fest, we really didn't know what to expect! But as you can see in the photo below.....it's a sea of people. Well what would expect with 850 booth of arts and crafts, 350 booth of antique and flea markets, 100 booth farmer's markets. Needless to say, Gary and I got our walk in every day.

With any event one likes to check out different foods that might be available. Since I'm a muncher, those ribbon fries below was one of my favorite foods.

Right near the top was cranberry ice cream!! They only make it for the festival. Gary and I truly enjoyed licking our cranberry ice cream cones.

We won't able to see all the booth but I did have Gary stop at the antique booths. I was looking for some special plates that I collect...Homer Laughlin that have the bull and bear on them. No luck. But we did purchase some goodies to bring home with us. Hugh cabbage heads, homemade blueberry jam, oatmeal cranberry walnuts cookies, honey, and a special dried mix of cranberry, blueberries and cherries to put on our cereal.

The only disappointment we had was when we tried to purchase bus ticket to see the cranberry bogs. It was only one-thirty in the afternoon, but the tickets were all sold out. But we did go visit the Cranberry Discovery Center-Museum and learned all about cranberries. It was such an excellent museum! Do you know why cranberries float? It because they have four air pocket inside the berry.

We won't able to see the Bear Game, (Those Wisconsin station) but because of my special package gift, I did get to enjoy my Sunday night popcorn. However concerning the Bear's game, we did see the last two minutes because we went to the Ground Round which has a sport bar and you could see any team you wanted on individual TVs at each booth. And the Bears won!!!

Will we go back next year? Our reservations are already made for next year! This time we will go Friday and Saturday and get our bus tickets early so we can see the bogs! Plus visit some of the booths that we didn't visit.

For now we will just savor our goodies and look back on Cranberry Fest 2009!!

Mom's Birthday Gifts - Turns 92!!!

2009-09-25T07:40:00.000-07:00

What would you like if you lived to be ninety-two? As the saying may go, "Each to his own." Well, we put that question to our mother. And here is what she wanted:

Before we do begin, my mother who grew up on the farm, enjoys just going for country rides. She has always loved looking at houses and even at one point in her life had a collection of houses given to her by her family and friends. So to begin her birthday day, she wanted a country ride. Ride along with her three daughters, Jan, Louise and I as we fulfill her birthday wishes. First on her list was some donuts critters from Edward's Apple Orchard West. She only loves them when they are HOT! So, of course we had to eat them hot off the press.

Some of the critters just look like a much smaller donut! Let me tell you they were hot and very delicious. Above you can see Jan enjoying one of those critters.

Second on Mom's birthday list was onion rings from Culver's. Louise checked to make sure that there was a Culver's in Freeport, because that was where we were going to have our picnic.

Mom's third wish was to have our picnic at Krape Park, in Freeport, Illinois. It's a great family park. We have all been there at various time in our lives.

On Mom's birthday list was having a salami sandwich. So Louise packed the french bread, various cheeses, salami and of course the ingredients that make a sandwich great...like onion, relish, mayonnaise etc.

And no birthday would be complete with out a birthday cake. Since my brother Bruce had given mom a small cake from Hilander's, she kept it for trip. We sang off- key, "Happy Birthday" to her and then we.....

devoured the cake. Yes, we eat the WHOLE THING!!!!! To complete the party, mom then opened our cards and gifts to her.

Even though the sun never came out, we had a perfect day. Before we started to eat, Jan had somthing hit her on the head. "What was that?" Of course if we had noticed what laid all around the ground, we probably would have realized that it was a small acorn. While we were eating, something hit me on my neck, I knew what it was but didn't realize that a small acorn can hurt so much. It just added some more laughter to our day.

Before we left the park Jan wanted Louise and I to walk to the Carrousel to take a picture of us riding the horses. Since mother is limited with her walker on how far she can go on uneven grounds, we left her in the car. Her reaction to us leaving her along...."You mean you are going to forsake me on my birthday." she said laughingly. But when we arrived at the Carrousel, it was closed.

The last birthday wish was a stop at Union Dairy Ice Cream Shop in Freeport, Illinois. What a perfect way to end the day. Above mom is enjoying black cherry ice cream in a waffle cone.

Lots of talking, laughing and of course WAY TOO MUCH FOOD! Now it was time to head home. Hope you enjoyed riding along with us. Wasn't it fun! And to think that mom got ALL HER BIRTHDAY WISHES!

Grandkids Visit 9-18-20, 2009

2009-09-21T12:52:00.001-07:00

Like many weekends this year, this weekend was packed full. On Friday afternoon, September 18, we headed for Dixon, IL. We usually love taking our time driving thru all the little towns on our way down. Those beautiful towns, like Byron and Oregon. But with all the road construction going on, we wished we had taken a different route. But we made it in time to see Andrew play soccer. Even if they lost the game, they truly played hard at trying to win.
Here we have Brigitte getting a piggyback ride from her dad.

When Andrew as done playing this is what he looked like. Very soaked with sweat.

After the game, Gary had to mount the bike rack on our buick so we could take the grandkids bikes back with us. That took awhile, but we managed. When we got back home and Gary had taken the bikes off the rake, Andrew came into the house and said, "Grandma, you have to come outside and look at your trunk." "Why?" was my reply. "Just come out and look at the trunk." he repeated.

I'm not sure if you can see the dent, but believe me when I say there is a very nice dent in my trunk. Andrew's bike was a very old bike and we didn't think about how much heavier they use to make bikes. It was the weight of his bike that caused the bike rack to make this dent. Happy to report that after calling State Farm this morning, we are covered to have it fixed.

On Saturday morning we headed for Janesville, Wisconsin for family day with the co-op we belong to. Brigitte hates to have her photo taken and as a result...this is what I got. She still cute. Brigitte could have played in those bouncing houses all day.

In the meantime Andrew and Gary took a bucket ride. This one bucket went up only 50 feet. Some of the others went up to 65 feet. We then had lunch that the company provided. Then we headed to Edward's Apple Orchard West to pick up some donuts. We were thinking that we would see me mother that evening.

When we got home we prepared for our long bike ride to Poplar Grove. We invited Andrew and his sister Lindsey to join us. Their mother said it would be okay for them to go. When I told her that it would be going to Poplar Grove she laughed and said, "Your kidding!" The picture above is the five ahead of me....as always.
Let me tell you after leaving Mary Drive and getting to Roland Olsen Park was enough riding for me. I was thrilled when Lindsey said she had to get back for a youth activity. Sooooo I told Gary we would head back. I even asked Brigitte if she wanted to go back with us. "No, I want to go to Poplar Grove with Grandpa." she said.

Here we have four brave souls heading for Poplar Grove.

Lindsey and I arrived back around 4:30. At the same time Gary and his crew arrived in Poplar Grove for dinner. They must had rested a good forty minutes. Gary realized that the sun usually sets around 7:15 and needed to head back.

Around 6:45 Carrie, Andrew mother came to my door. "Are you thinking the same thing I am? Where are they." was my question to her. Thankfully before Gary and I parted ways, he remembered to give me keys to our house and I rememered to give him our tracfone. When I phoned him, they had just turned on to Dorr Road. I got on my bike and met them on Surf Trail. We all arrived at Andrew's door at 7:15.

After everyone took a shower, we all relaxed and watched a movie that Brigitte had brought with her from home. And we all slept good that night.

After Sunday School and church, we had lunch at Culvers and then went to visit my mother who will be 92 this Thursday.

My mother always enjoy seeing grandkids even great grandkids like Brigitte and Andrew.

Then back home. This time Gary just took his truck. Put the heavy bike in the back along with Brigitte's bike. We don't have the big cab on our truck so I had to stay home while Gary took the grandkids back to Dixon. There is a little side seat that Brigitte is small enough to fit into.

After they left, I turned on the Bear's game and fell asleep during the first half. Didn't even knew it had been raining. Gary got home around 7:30.

So it was another weekend packed with fun, food and fellowship. Thanking the Lord for the safety we had during all of our activity. And for giving us Andrew and Brigitte.

Linda Returns to France

2009-09-16T17:59:00.001-07:00

Like any vacations, all good things must come to an end. So on Thursday, September 10th, it was time for Linda to return to France. Our brother, Ron is the first-born and then follows Linda. So we were glad that Ron was able to come here from Chicago for a few days. Since they are both very intellectual, they enjoy conversations that I find very somewhat at a level I'll never understand. I'm just a plain Jane type of girl. And frankly, I enjoy that...at times.Both Louise and Dave were able to join us to see Ron and Linda off.
Here we have Linda letting us know that she has packed her carry-on bag and it is very heavy.

I'm glad Dave and Gary were able to help with Linda's luggage. Believe me when I say: "She packed those suitcases so full that I was afraid the zippers might break." Ha! And to even think of all the boxes she had already sent on to France!

So we wished her a wonderful flight home. Which I'm happy to report that she indeed did. And I know that she has many many memories of her 2009 trip to the States!

We will miss not seeing her around...and even little Sam will miss his Great Aunt Linda.

Trusting she is now recovering from all the activites that come when she visits the States.

Judi Turns The Big 50!

2009-09-16T17:31:00.001-07:00

On Friday, September 4th, it was a packed day of fun. Jan came down from Watertown so we could celebrate our sister-in-law 50th birthday. Since Judi works for Rockford Christian we wanted to see what time would work for her to bring her a birthday wish. She had 10:30 openning for just a half -hour. It didn't matter to us. We found her waiting for us outside...we were at the wrong place. I'm so glad we spotted her.
We filled in the most fun and laughter one can only do with this crazy family of ours.

It was nice that Ann-Marie was still off work. She just adds more fun to our adventures. We loved singing "Happy Birthday" to Judi. Afterwards she opened our funny cards and enjoyed the enclosed gifts inside.

After we celebrated her birthday, we continue on with going to garage sales. Yes, we did hit some garage sales on are way over to see Judi.

Then Louise went up and picked up Mom and we all meet at Culvers for lunch.

My niece Tammy had a great surprise for Jan! Jan loves to tell the story of the wide-mouth toad. Well low and behold Tammy was shopping somewhere and came across the book. Since Jan didn't have that book, she was so happy to receive a copy.

And of course it is with joy when my mother who will soon turn 92, can join us. Also with Linda being here from France, it was extra special.

Once agin thanking God for all the relationship He has given this family...like a wonderful sister-in-law like Judi.

A Funny Thing Happened In Door County

2009-09-07T05:16:00.000-07:00

One of the big questions when staying at the home of Charlene is: "WHERE WILL YOU SLEEP?" We needed to bring our own sheets and pillowcases. There are four choices. The king bed, the queen bed, one of the two twin beds or one the two hide-a-beds.

This is one blog that I wish with all my heart that Ann-Marie could have posted. She has a way with words and can be so funny. The reason I need her is because it was very comical when looking back! Of course I first must make the statement we made in Door County. "WHAT IS SAID OR DONE IN DOOR COUNTY, STAYS IN DOOR COUNTY" But since I am a Rehfeldt, I must tell this story.Here we have Venita making up her bed. Linda would take the other single bed.
Don't we all look so happy heading to Door County. The five us would arrive on Saturday. In making decisions on who should sleep where, Louise would take the king-size bed and when Tammy arrived on Sunday, she would share the bed with her mom. Jan and I would share the queen-size bed. Linda and Venita would take the single beds.

Sometime during the night, something went awry! One of the hide-a-beds had sheets on it. But no one was sleeping in it. Hummmmm. Linda was in the living room and we asked her if she had slept on it. "No!" not me. Well it had to have been Venita. So when Venita got up she just said, "Boy, does Linda snore. I just couldn't get to sleep so I came out here and made the hide-a-bed." The word snore in the dicitionary says, " To breathe the nose and mouth while sleeping, making snorting noises caused by the vibration of the soft palate." And may I add...very annoying.

To make a long story shorter, Jan & I would ask Charlene if we could sleep upstairs in the room above us. Venita would take our room, which is nice and quiet. Great plan! We thought. When Jan & I went upstairs the next night, we could hear everything. Not only the people downstairs, but anyone outside in the yard. Neither of us slept well that night. So now Venita was going to try the upstairs and Jan and I would go back to our original place.

In the meantime, Linda had taken the hide-a-bed. Beth and Carol took the twin beds. Even though in the morning, we might hear someone say, so and so also snores we finally all stayed put.....

but in the morning the day we would be leaving, I found Jan sleeping on the other couch in the living room. "What are you doing sleeping on the couch?" was my question. "Well, last night you started snoring and I told you to turn over because you were snoring. You said that you hadn't even gone to sleep yet, so you couldn't be snorning. And then I said I must had been dreaming, because you certainly were snorning.!" I do remember her saying that and also remember telling her, "I wasn't snorning, but I will turn over." Then durning the night I must of done some more non-snoring, because she did forsake me.

Louise and Tammy perhaps gets the prize! Never heard about anyone snoring in their bed. Carol and Beth stayed put, but we did find out that each other did snore to some degree! So when making plans where to sleep, perhaps the first question should be...WHO SNORES?

Perhaps I could have titled this post: Musical Beds. Vacations are truly about the memories...the good and the bad.All in all we had a great time! And there are somethings that will certainly stay in Door County..NO QUESTIONS ABOUT THAT! Besides snoring is not all bad...you made end up having a bed all to yourself.:)

Door County - Finding a Hat for Venita!

2009-09-07T04:42:00.000-07:00

Venita our only sister-in-law who was brave enough to come with us, had one thing that she was really looking for while in Door County..A HAT! She is outdoors a lot and wanted something just right to cover her head from the sun but not be a hat that would be too hot to wearWhenever we went into a store, we would like to see if that store carried any hats. Venita would go over and check the style and of course the price.Here she is checking the price on this orange hat.

Here we find her trying on another hat she found.

Did you realize that after many stores and trying on many hats, that it was the very last night we spent in Door County that she actually found the right hat! After we had supper at The Cookery in Fish Creek, we had some time to shop in Fish Creek before we headed for the play, Wait Until Dark.

Someone had noticed a shop where they had parked the van, that was a store with just ALL HATS! Since I had been taking photos of Venita trying on hats, I didn't want to miss her shopping at this store. Well, if you wanted a hat, this was indeed the place to shop. Thankfully I saw one with an opening at the top of the hat. "What do you think of this one Venita?" I asked. She tried it one and love it. "I like the way the top of the hat is made. I don't think my head will get too hot with the opening at the top." Venita replied.

So just before heading to the play, Venita was able to purchase a new hat. Not only will it serve her well, it will be a great way to remember her trip to Door County.

Door County - Just Us Girls 8-22 to 8-26-09

2009-09-02T04:23:00.000-07:00

Well it was so much fun and so many photos! It all started out here in Rockton with my sister Louise behind the wheel along with my sister Linda and my sister-in-law Venita. (Of course I tagged along.) We headed for Watertown, Wisconsin to pick up my sister Jan. Jan took over the driving as we headed for Sister Bay. Thanks to Tammy for letting us use her van. I'm not sure how all of our items would fit in my Buick which Tammy would drive up the next day with just three people in the car. Here we have the five of us.

If you have ever been to Door County, you know it is beautiful part of Wisconsin. It has many shops and places to eat. One could go there just to check out all the restaurants and shops, but you never have enough time.

One really neat place to visit in Sister Bay is a resale shop. We all had fun shopping there. As you can see from the photo above, I think we all found something to buy. I think that I was so pleased to finally find a picture for our bedroom.

Isn't it just beautiful!

My sister-in-law Venita was looking for a certain hat to wear for walking and working in her yard. I will do a post on just that one event. It was fun watching her trying on different hats and finally on our last day, she found just the one.

Speaking of placing to eat, I wanted the girls to try Wilson's. We had two booths. I sat with Jan, Linda and Venita. We all got a nice thick malt to eat with our meal. And it truly was thick and refreshing.

When I was refilling my malt, I wish I had taken a photo of that because it overflowed and I had it all over the table. Such a lost for me.

When you have such a group that we had, we all did different activities. Us brave ones..Beth, Jan, even Linda the cane lady and I took a bike ride. Peninsula State Park has a nine mile bike path. The day was overcast but we would still see how far we could go before it would start raining hard.

Here you have the four of us ready to take off. I entitled this photo: "Look mom no hands." As you can see our feet are not on the petals. Linda and I stayed together while Jan and Beth stayed together. As Linda and I was nearing the one mile mark, we heard thunder and decided to head back. Good idea. As we waited at the bike shop for Jan and Beth the heavy rains came. Soon Jan and Beth appeared like wet rats. But they get credit for going the farthest.

In the evenings at Charlene's we did various activities. Thanks to Jan, Beth and Tammy were able to do some stamping.

One evening we ALL played Apples to Apples. Now that's an event you ALL would have loved to been to. We laughed and laughed so hard that some of us almost...well you know what I was about to say. Other nights just a few would play the golf game that my sister Linda taught us. We were so busy that I never got to even watch the news. I had no idea what was going on in the world. In fact on Wednesday evening, the night we got back, my sister Linda was watching a program on the Kennedys. At the end of the program they had listed the birth and death dates of Senator Edward Kennedy. I turned my head around to look at Gary and said, "When did Ed Kennedy died?" "Today." was his reply.

But some of did enjoy watching some of the Rosemary & Thyme series.

One of the beautiful thing about staying at Charlene's is that she lives out in the country. But very close to the town of Sister Bay. One morning I wanted to just walk up the hill from her home to view the beautiful house at the top. Linda said she would join me. I didn't now how far she could go but she made it to the top. Along the way we began to pick up wild flowers here and there. We ended up with a beautiful bouquet to put in a vase. My sister Linda has a photo of that!

The main event on our last day, was to eat at The Cookery in Fish Creek and see the play Wait Until Dark at the Peninsula Players Theatre. Which we did.

As you all know, vacation time always goes way too fast. Soon we were packing up to leave.

We packed the truck of my Buick as full as we could. But we still needed to have Tammy take some of our items in her van. Oh the problems you get from shopping too much! And yes Tammy's van was packed to the gills.

What great memories we all have to share! Too many cooks in the kitchen at times! Lack of sleep. Fun shopping, eating, resting, walking, playing games etc. When we got ready to leave I made the comment, "Are we all still friends?" "WE ARE ALL STILL FAMILY!" was my sister Jan reply.

Garage Sales

2009-08-30T01:48:00.001-07:00

Well this post will be done in reverse! Sometimes I get the photos in the order of the story, but it's 4:00 a.m. and I'm so far behind in my personal blog that I'm just will have to tell you this event in reverse. Thanks to my sister-in-law Sheila, we had a delicious lunch at their home after the garage sale. She is such a great cook! Something I am not. We had a great quiche, salad, french bread and a delicious cake made from scratch.

She even spent time making these delicious cupcakes!

Now to the beginning of the day. With my huge family, we started the day off with my sister Louise, her daughter Tammy and her three children, Megan, Caleb and Jacob. Then we had my sister Carol from Connecticut with her daughter Beth and her four children, Isaac, Zachary, Austin and Mikayla. Then my sister from France Linda and me. Now that's a crew to go to garage sales with! Above we have Zachary and Isaac trying out some neat seats. My sister Linda and their grandmother Carol purchased them for my wonderful great nephews.

Here we have Mikayla, Jacob and Austin also making another purchase. In the background we have Megan, Beth, Isaac and Carol.

Now we did not make this purchase, but Mikayla looked so cute on it that I just had to take a photo of her.

It again was a great day to spend with my sisters, two nieces and then all those great nieces and nephews. And to end it with a relaxing lunch with Scott, Sheila and their grandson Aidan.

Thanking God once again for all the relationships He has given me.

Ann-Marie Turns 31! Linda Turns 69! = 100

2009-08-30T01:03:00.001-07:00

It was just a nice small get-together with my one and only, who also became a "MOM" for the first time this year. Just getting away for a short time without Sam was going to be the big challenge. With my oldest sister Linda here from France, who also shares the same birthday it was great to have them be together. In the above photo above, my brother Dave and his wife Venita phoned us while we were eating to sing "Happy Birthday" to them. It was indeed a wonderful surprise!

One of Ann-Maire friends, Angie was able to join us.

Here we have Ann-Maire and her Aunt Linda celebrating their birthday together with some type of drink. Linda reminded us that with Ann-Marie turning 31 and her turning 69 it equaled a century! They don't look that old. Well at least not my daughter! Just kidding Linda.

And here we have our party group. And so thankful that Candice, Ann-Marie's cousin could also join us!

After dinner, we went and saw Julie and Julia. Can you believe that my sister Linda had never heard of Julia ! It truly was a fun evening. As they say in Chicago...Happy birthday to the boat of you! Sam must have survived the evening because we never had a call from his daddy!

Andrew Turns Twelve

2009-08-20T07:15:00.000-07:00

On August 18, twelve years ago Andrew was born. Gary's daughter Camille wanted to name him after her brother, Andrew who had been killed in a car accident when he was only eighteen. Camille had even asked her father if he would mind her naming her son after his son. And of course I'm sure he felt it an honor for her to do that. Some of you may not know, but Camille doesn't really enjoy her own birthday, because that was the day her brother was killed.

But with all the sorrows that life brings to us, God sheds His many blessing on us also. Like our grandson Andrew. He has been a real joy to this blended family. Well, I'm not a Cardinal fan, but Andrew and his dad are real good fans of that team.
Here we are all getting ready to sing "Happy Birthday" to Andrew.

My sister from France wanted to give Andrew a special gift. So Andrew was so happy to get some euro money. I told him that he could take it to the bank and cash it in for American money. But he said that he just wanted to hang on to it.

With approval from his parents, Gary was able to purchase Andrew his first pocket knife. Which we also added some money to his card. His already thinking about getting a case for his new knife.

Then we have Andrew's sister Brigitte who just had her hair cut and was having fun with her mom.

Happy birthday Andrew...just think, next year he will become a TEENAGER! That will become a whole new world for everyone!

Moving Day for Ann-Marie & Brett

2009-08-17T04:43:00.000-07:00

WHAT A DAY IT WAS---from morning to night. But thankfully all the big items got moved into their apartment so they could start living in their new "HOME". One is always so greatful for the help they can get. Several of the men from Morningstar were able to give some of their time to help. Since there was not a rented U- Haul, it took many trips back and forth. But we were also thankful that the apartment was only one mile away.

There were several ladies who came later and helped with taking items out the freezer and frig. I tell you when you go from a two story house to a two bed apartment, you appreciate all the help.

Of course with all that lifting and lots of calories burned, one needed to stop and enjoy a sandwich from subway.

Above we have Gary and Brett putting the bed together in the apartment.

We were all so thankful to my sister Linda, who is here from France, to stay at the apartment and take care of Sam. She was also able to unpack lots and lots of boxes with items for the kitchen. Oh and we don't want to forget to thank her for getting supper for us later that evening. Thanks Linda.

It was indeed a very busy, exhausting day for everyone. At night while I was sleeping, if I had to move from on position to another my body ached. But I have to say I love their new apartment.

Sam seems to feel right at HOME!

We still have things yet to finished up at the house, but it will get done. As Gary always say, "Get it done!" And he does just that!!!

Just want Ann-Marie, Brett and Sam to enjoy this new avenue in their life. After all...Home is really where they are TOGETHER.

Gramma Done Good

2009-08-14T04:30:00.000-07:00

I know that the title of this blog is not good grammer. But to me it fit the occasion. What a joy to be able to have my grandson Samuel for a full day. I was not sure how the day would start or end.

Samuel arrived at my home asleep. Now that's a great start. After Ann-Marie and Brett left, I thought of all the things I needed to get done in the kitchen. The first item on my list was to make good use of three ripe bananas. Plus at the Heilman Reunion, I had a bag of fresh black walnuts that Gary's cousin had processed. Doesn't that just make banana bread sound good? So while Samuel slept, I was able to check off the first item on my list. Banana Bread Done
Next on my list was to process zucchini that my sister Louise had given me. I'm so thankful for a food chopper. It made the job easier. I was able to get 6 cups of zucchini to freeze. Then when I want to make zucchini bread or muffins I have my zucchini all ready to go. I must confess that I did have to stop between chopping to fed Samuel. But he went back to sleep and Gary and I were able to enjoy lunch together.

The last item on my list was to make a beef pot roast for all of us for supper. And please forgive my photo above. I meant to take a picture of it before we devoured it...but I forgot. So at 1:00 p.m I put the roast to cook slow in the oven. My plan was to fed Sam at 4:00 p.m. then put the potatoes and carrots in at 5:00 p.m. Somehow it all went according to plan.

Ann-Marie and Brett arrived around 4:30 p.m. and Ann-Marie was able to get a very short nap. At 5:30 p.m. we were all able to sit down together and enjoy supper as a family.

Oh you are probably wondering how Sam survived the whole day...well, I would say as his Gramma...

SAM WAS A PERFECT LITTLE GRANDSON. Wouldn't you agree!!

Heilman 59th Family Reunion 8-09-09

2009-08-11T15:02:00.001-07:00

The Heilman family have a very neat tradition. They have this hugh quilt that has a square for each family. Whenever you attend you put the date you were there in your square.

This year the cooks grilled prime rib steaks and sweet corn. It so delicious and so tender. Each family bring a dish to pass. And as always we had plenty of food.

Here we have Gary's brother Don. I call him THE CHEF! He always makes sure we have good meat!

Here we have Dave and Camille with some of the Heilman clan.

We started the day without rain. But in the afternoon we had two seperate rain events.

I will entitle the photo above as "Playing in the rain!" Kids love to play in the rain.

The Hielmans also always have something fun for the kids to play in. This year it was a cow....upside down.

When I was giving Sam a bottle, the sun was shining and Grandpa Heilman said that Sam need sunglasses. So Sam got to wear Grandpa's sunglasses. Here Sam is now two weeks old.

Coming home was a little scary for me! The clouds look so foreboding. Gary kept saying I never seen clouds like that. Not knowing what kind of clouds they were, I was wondering if we might run into a tornado.

While watching the news that evening people had sent photos into the different TV satations showing the same clouds that I had taken photos of. That evening I found out that they are called shelf clouds. NOW I KNOW!

Next year the Heilman will mark their 60th Reunion. Hope the weather is much better. And I really don't want to see those clouds next year. We did end up driving in a heavy downpour! But so thankful we arrived home safely.