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React, Don’t Run
When you are scared, do you run or react?
Just the other night, I ascended the stairs from our family room to retrieve a pair of glasses. Walking through our dark dining room towards the front door, I encountered a dark figure standing in front of me. With a can of fruit in hand, I screamed bloody murder and prepared to throw the can at this person, then push the figure against the wall, hopefully out the door. Luckily, I realized it was my sister. Unable to reach me by phone, she grew worried and came over to check on us. Wow, she almost got a can of fruit between her eyes.
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The Good, the Bad, and the Honest
Since I was young, people have called me different names. Some were based on my real name, others on how they saw me. I don’t know why I got each one, but here are a few I remember. -
Surviving Sixth Grade
It was Johnathan Stecker who made my life as a sixth grader miserable. Tallish and cool, he rode a BMX bicycle, a Mongoose that he was very proud of. Before Thanksgiving, Mrs. Heimerl, our teacher, assigned us a prompt to write the story behind Norman Rockwell’s picture “Thanksgiving”. His narrative depicted a BMX bike crashing through the room, glass shattering, and guests screaming, captivating everyone with the vivid sound effects in his writing. -
Nicknames from the Heart
As a child, nicknames seem to run rampant. Kids like to pick apart anyone and everyone’s names to either tease or torment them.My name is Sandra, Sandy for short. The only time I ever heard or hear the name Sandra is if I am in trouble or someone is upset with me.
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Why Do They Call You That?
As the screen door closed behind my date and me, we heard Dad say “Remember Bumpy, your curfew is 11:00”. I hollered back “Yes Dad”. As we walked down the driveway, John asked me why Dad called me that.
I smiled and said that it was a long story. He said he wanted to hear it so I explained.
When I was a kid, the neighbor kids and my sister Sandy and I loved to play outdoor games. Often it
was starting to get dark and our visibility wasn’t what it should have been. On one particular occasion, I was running through the yard to get to the safe place where I couldn’t be tagged and didn’t see our metal clothesline pole. When I came to, I found myself with my arms and legs wrapped around the pole and all of the kids were trying to wake me up. The next thing I knew my head began to throb and I was moaning.
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The Labor Day Hunt
Some of my more memorable vacations were those spent on Labor Day Weekends. It was always a huge project for me since I was the one who seemed to instigate this event. During the earlier weeks of summer, my family would go camping. I could have stayed in my tent for the duration of the summer. I just loved our camping experiences. I loved having people around me to enjoy, and I loved being outdoors no matter the weather. To me this was summer. -
Coming Home to Camp
Our family has a wonderful tradition of taking a 2-week family vacation every summer. It first started when we would go camping at Spikehorn Campgrounds near Bailey’s Harbor in Door County. We would arrange for campsites that were next to each other. Each year on New Year’s Eve, I would call the fellow who made the arrangements. We spoke so often, that he would send me an annual Christmas card. -
Camping On My Own
When our family went camping, it always turned into a massive production. We had a 22-foot screened tent that served as our family meal area, and each family member had their own tent or camper setup. It was reminiscent of a family commune. I didn’t truly appreciate the contributions that each family member made to our camping adventures until I found myself setting up a campsite entirely on my own. -
A Wallflower’s Tale
I couldn’t wait for the next Jr High Dance. I loved going into the dimly lit gym and feeling the anticipation of dancing with a really cool guy. This is pretty funny because I was the biggest wallflower you could imagine. -
Prom Fashion Failure
When I was in school dances were a big thing. We used to have a dance after every football game, basketball games, and at miscellaneous other times. But, the biggest event was always the Junior Prom. -
Everything Except the Dance
My boys attended Prom only during their Junior year in High School, which differed from my own experience. Back in the 80s, I attended prom as a Sophomore, a Junior, and a Senior. What made the Junior prom so special was the opportunity to plan and take part in creating the event.
For me, the most exciting part of prom each year wasn’t the event itself—it was the shopping for the dress that brought the most joy.
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Mortified at the Dance
I was a sophomore and starting my first year of senior high. We were having a dance at the beginning of the school year. I was very interested in a senior guy that I had met, but we weren’t going out. He and I both decided to meet at the dance and I was very excited. -
Another Day Another Lickin’
As I remember I was always getting into trouble. I was curious, mischievous, and just plain naughty. I had a knack for bending the rules. I was the middle child and perhaps seeking out attention. I was not one to sit idly and be bored. I always seemed to make bad choices in the process of being a kid. -
Overworked and Underpaid?
Imagine a young child spending hours sweating under the midday summer sun, digging a hole in the field next to her family’s yard. She sought treasure – anything from dinosaur bones or ancient relics to interesting rocks or even a snake hole. What did she find? Just clumps of dirt and wriggling worms.
Observing her dad mow their yard, their home situated in a newly developed area bordered by fields, the girl couldn’t help but envision herself taking on the task. Each week, her dad diligently mowed the whole field on the south side of their property, transforming it into what resembled a park. It took about two hours to maintain the yard and field, a responsibility the girl eagerly awaited.
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Gimmie the Pennies
Picture this. I’m 5 years old and it’s Mother’s Day. We are all getting ready to go out to eat and I’m ready before everyone else. I’m bored and asked Mom if I could go outside. She told me that was fine as long as I didn’t get dirty. Apparently, I took that message to heart, because I was found just sitting at the side of the road in my little lawnchair. Lisa called mom and said “You have got to check this out!” In my defense, I was just doing what I was told. -
Please Be Happy
I worked hard to find my place in our family. I was the youngest of three girls. My oldest sister was 9 years older. My middle sister was 5 years older. As the youngest, I often felt like I wasn’t allowed to do the things that the older girls could do. I wanted to help. My mom said I had a hernia so she wouldn’t let me shovel snow or vacuum or do anything that would exert extra effort. I wanted to be more of a player even though I was younger. My sister thought it was silly and somehow it was my excuse not to get involved. -
Streamline and Simplify
“The question of what you want to own is actually the question of how you want to live your life.” –Marie Kondo
I love vacationing and spending time at our cottage. It is so “me” to drink good coffee, go adventuring, look for fun earrings to buy, read while the family is watching TV, and write in my journal.Now I can do all these things at home too, of course. But the kicker is that a couple of other things always seem to block me. If I could just let go of them or figure out how to minimize the space they take up in my world…I would be a super happy camper.
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Letting Go of Overthinking
Sometimes when something is troubling me or I don’t understand why people do the things they do, I have a hard time not overthinking the issue. Thinking about a problem or situation can keep me awake at night and cause me to fill my mind with nothing else. -
Get Your Ass in Gear
Something to let go of?Procrastination. This is what I am best at. Pretty sad, but true.
I don’t remember when this became a trait that I became a master of.
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The Green-Eyed Monster
I have a bad habit of comparing myself to others and then feeling bad about how things are going in my life. I look at the people around me and see people with more money or bigger houses or people going on fancy vacations and I get jealous. Why isn’t my life like that? -
No One Special
Favorite or least favorite celebrity??Boy, this is a hard one for me. I have never met a real celebrity to classify anyone to be a favorite or not.
As a teenager when everyone was wild about Elvis, Tom Jones, and the Beatles, I was interested in their music, but never actually went all crazy for any of them. I liked to watch Elvis (who didn’t as a teenager), but in movies not so much. Tom Jones starred in a couple of movies that I really liked, and I liked his performances and music, but I didn’t go crazy over him. Now, I am one of the few it seems, but I really didn’t care for the Beatles or their music at all.
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Pat McCurdy
I can’t say that I have a favorite or least favorite well-known celebrity (with the exception that I CAN’T STAND the Kardashians), so I thought of a local celebrity that I really enjoy. Pat McCurdy! -
Why Bother?
I went to Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks on a trip to San Antonio, TX. It is billed as a place to “walk among the stars and snap a few selfies as you come face-to-face with unique, lifelike wax figures of superheroes, characters, and celebrities!” I passed up Brittany Spears, Madonna, Harrison Ford, Prince William, Princess Kate, and various presidents. I did sit with Jimmy Kimmel for a moment to laugh with him about a joke I recently heard, but I soon went on my way. (Yeah, I know he doesn’t look much like Kimmel, but that’s pretty much the problem with these “lifelike figures”. They may look like a famous person, but you have to use your imagination with most of them.)
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Shallow Meetings
I have 3 very nice photos of myself with 3 different celebrities. One is with Barbara Mandrel. Another picture is with Olivia Newton-John. The third picture is with Barry Manilow. One would assume that I knew these folks. We are smiling and looking comfortable with each other. -
My Fab Four
Meet the Fab Four of my life – the four pillars that keep me grounded, inspired, and constantly entertained. They’re not a rock band, but they sure do rock my world in unique ways. So, let’s start with number four, shall we?
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Favorite Things? Too Many to Count
Whenever I think of my favorite things I think of the “Sound of Music”.I have yet to figure out how to put my favorite things to music so they rhyme and become singable. -
A Few of my Favorite Things
<music note> “These are a few of my favorite things…” <music note>Thank you Julie Andrews for putting that song into my head.
We’ve talked about our favorite things before and the first thing that comes to mind are physical things. This time, I thought I’d also incorporate some non-tangibles.
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My Loves
Here goes.
I love my family. They are all different and wonderful in their ways. Each one makes me feel loved (well most of the time). They all seem like caring and nice individuals. All are very different and take on individual roles in my life, and I love them for their differences.
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Lookout Springtime
Purging is a concept that I have a challenge with. I think part of it is the lack of desire to make quick decisions about getting rid of things that I might need later. Setting that aside, it is time to focus on one area at a time and to get things that are no longer needed, distributed and out of the house. -
Where to Start
Spring and fall house cleaning always seemed overwhelming to me. The thought of ripping everything apart twice a year seemed like just too much work. I had an aunt who helped to put my anxiety at ease. She said she would thoroughly clean whatever needed it at the time and did not tear the house apart to accomplish spring and fall cleaning. -
Spring Purge
I love the idea of purging, whether it’s diving into “spring housecleaning” or embarking on a minimalist-inspired throw-out session.
Although my closet isn’t bursting at the seams or cluttered with dated items, I relish the process of regularly sorting through my clothes and decluttering. Enlisting a neutral third party makes this task easier. Sometimes, I turn to my daughter Aubrey for assistance, while other times, I seek help from my son Kadon.
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Spring Organizing
I have never been a big advocate of cleaning in general. It’s not my favorite thing to do. So, when asked what I do for Spring Cleaning – you will see a glazed look on my face. As a child, we always cleaned on Saturday mornings, but I don’t ever remember being subjected to a major Spring Cleaning undertaking. Maybe this is an idea from years ago. Maybe some still abide by that idea. I’m not sure. All I know is that I don’t do it.
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The Notebook
I had a hard time thinking of a movie that I would deem romantic. To figure that out, I had to determine what I find romantic. What gives someone that feeling? Is it having someone do thoughtful things for you? Is it having someone speak sweet nothings to you? Is it having someone who thinks of nothing but you? -
P.S. I Love You
Romantic movies… where do I even begin? The first one that springs to mind is “P.S. I Love You.” It’s not just the love story between the characters that captivate me, but the transformation of Holly, the main character, that truly intrigues me.
In the movie, Hillary Swank portrays Holly, a vibrant and independent woman who meets Gerry, played by Gerard Butler while traveling in Ireland. They fall in love, get married, and move to New York. However, tragedy strikes when Gerry becomes ill with brain cancer and passes away. Over the next 12 months, Holly receives letters from Gerry, each guiding her through life without him and ending with the poignant phrase, “P.S. I Love You.” -
Splendor in the Grass
A romantic movie that made a real impression on me was “Spendor in the Grass”. This was a movie made in the early 1960s and was staged in 1920 in Kansas. I was probably at the most impressionable time of my life being a teenager and it left me feeling very romantic and sad all at the same time. -
An Affair to Remember
When I think of romantic movies, I want to feel weak in the knees and relate to the relationship that I am witnessing on the screen. There have been several movies that I consider to be extremely romantic. Dirty Dancing, The Bodyguard, and Pretty Woman are near the top of my list. The one movie that takes the prize is “An Affair to Remember” with Deborah Kerr and Cary Grant. -
Me+Ecology=Meecology
I couldn’t wait for sixth grade. Mrs. Heimerl had a little side room where the “advanced” kids got to work. The way I figured it, I would just make the cut as far as smartness. But when the school year began, the room was a resource room for kids with special needs.
Darn.
I loved special treatment… any way I could get it.
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The Influence of Miss Davidson
It was fall and I was just starting the fifth grade at Washington School. My teacher’s name was Miss Davidson and I thought she was exceptional. She had been a teacher for a good long time and was older than the other grade school teachers I had in earlier grades. That would have made her at least 40 years old. You know, really ancient. -
More Holes in My Head
All my friends were getting their ears pierced and I felt like the odd man out. I swear I was the only girl in my school that still had my earlobes intact. I begged and pleaded with Mom to let me get them pierced, but it did no good. She was a rock. It wasn’t happening. Finally, it was Christmas and Mom and Jackie had conspired together to gift each other’s daughter with a coupon for “Two more holes in your head”. -
The Dreaded Track Meet
I can’t remember very many fun or happy incidents while I was in grade school. But, I do remember hating track metes. First of all, I didn’t like many physical activities. Running was at the top of that list. -
That Would Feel Luxurious
Have you ever thought about what feels luxurious to you or what would it take to make you feel like you were living a luxurious life? At first, I had absolutely no idea what would give me that feeling. Others were talking about having cleaning ladies or cabins on the lake or someone taking care of them, but none of those resonated with me. -
Luxurious Indulgences
In the fall of 1992, Tom and I found ourselves seated in the counselor’s office, seeking guidance for our tumultuous relationship and Tom’s battle with depression. Among the various prescriptions for our struggles, marriage counseling was deemed necessary. It was here that the psychologist posed a question that struck a chord: “Tell me why you don’t have someone come and clean your house?”
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The Luxury of a Stellar Day
My idea of luxury has definitely changed over the years. What I used to think was an idea of luxury would be a big, fancy home, expensive vehicles, a huge bank account, a beautiful wardrobe, and exotic places to travel to. Well now at this age I have recognized that the idea of luxury is far different than it used to be. -
In the Lap of Luxury
Luxury means different things to different people. I have been fortunate in my lifetime to feel luxurious many times. There were big events and small events that gave me the feeling of being complete and satisfied and living in the lap of luxury. -
Antique Secretary
I was offered a part-time job in the school office in the early sixties during my senior year of high school. This job was being a secretary to the Superintendent of Schools. Then when I graduated I was offered this same job full-time. -
My Main Street Experience
In 1993 I left working in the furniture store and wanted something that would reward my time and pique my interest. I applied and was hired to work for the Columbus Downtown Development Corporation. Our main focus was the restoration and rebuilding of the downtown Columbus area. This program was a part of the Department of Commerce and the Wisconsin Main Street Program. -
A Bill Collector With Charm
During the summer of 1985, I attended a Leadership Training event organized by my church. This event took place just outside of Washington D.C. We participated in classes, events, and evangelism activities in the evenings and weekends. But during the day we all held full-time jobs–I was a bill collector.The minimum wage stood at approximately $3.25/hour, but we were encouraged to seek employment offering $4.00/hour.
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Waitressing Summers from Hell
During the summer of 1989, I decided that I needed to keep myself busy. I already had my waitressing job at Larson’s Family Restaurant, but thought “Why not get another job?!” Apparently, I was a glutton for punishment. -
Read to Me…Not
When I was in high school, I loved to read–but not necessarily the books that were assigned in class. Even if I hadn’t read the whole book, I could contribute to the conversation by reading the dust jacket, the first chapter, and the last chapter.I decided that I would change this habit when I got to college. I signed up for an English literature class. One of the first books we were assigned was Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin. I loved the idea of reading this book. I loved the first line. It is the only first line of any book that I’ve memorized.
“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.”
I loved the discussions about family, wealth, reputation, social class, and of course, pride and prejudice. But I didn’t actually read it until years later.
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Atari Love
I can still remember the Christmas that I got my Atari 2600. I think this is where my love of technology began. I received the game system that morning and as soon as the presents were opened, I had it set up on our basement TV. But with my luck – by the time I was ready to play with it – it was time to get over to Grandma Is’s house to celebrate the holiday with the remainder of the family. -
My Broomstick Horse
When I was a kid I don’t remember having many toys. We had the staples such as roller skates, ice skates, a bike, and a doll or two. I also had a metal dollhouse and paper dolls. But, the one thing I had was a good imagination. -
I Am Trixie Belden
Being young in the 50s was a whole different ball game than being young today. I remember 3 different pastimes. First was playing cowboys and indians with the neighborhood boys. Second was getting out our jump ropes, pogo sticks, and stilts and the third was pretending to be Trixie Belden and her sidekick named Honey from the Trixie Belden mystery series. -
Escape Room Adventures
This past weekend, my kids, their significant others and I went to an escape room in Wisconsin Dells. It was a Christmas present from me to all of them and we wanted to do it before a couple of them went back to school. Last year, for my birthday, they treated me to an escape room adventure in Madison and we had so much fun that I knew we had to try it again. -
Five on the Floor
At one time I owned a Honda Accord with a 5-speed transmission. It was a very fun car to drive and Matt would always comment that he wished he knew how to drive a 5-speed car. When he got his driver’s license, I asked him if he still wanted to learn how to drive a standard transmission. He jumped at the chance. -
A Good Climbing Tree
I pulled into the driveway and parked my car. Putting the car in park, I waited for Aubrey to emerge from her friend’s house. While waiting, I glanced around the front yard, noticing a bird feeder hanging from a shepherd’s hook, a shovel leaning against the garage, and a big, old tree.
Upon closer inspection, the tree seemed almost ideal for climbing. If a couple of 1×4 pieces of board were nailed to the trunk, one could reach the lowest branches.
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Pickled Poop
I have six grandchildren and one great-grandchild. I have had the wonderful opportunity and experience of living close to all of my grandchildren. This includes being able to spend good quality time and a lot of fun experiences. -
Hockey Puck Chicken
I have never considered myself a fabulous cook. I am one of those people who doesn’t read directions or recipes. I like to cook things that don’t require a lot of preparation. I believe quick and easy and, of course, delicious meals are what I make. I have previously stated that when it comes to preparing a meal out of necessity it is just plainly no fun, or there is no sense of accomplishment. I feel pills are in order on those occasions. Let’s face it, you purchase the items, put the food away, prepare the meal, then when everyone is done within ten minutes, you have to clean up the mess. I do love to go to eat and let someone else do the cooking. -
Root Soup Surprise
As I’ve written, I love eating and making soup. I rarely use a recipe. My soups usually begin with a veggie base of some kind and develop from there. All goes well, usually…except for this one time when I decided to make
“root soup”.Now I have no memory of where this idea came from but it is a creamy soup with a base of leftover mashed potatoes. I added chicken stock, cream, salt, and pepper. Then it was time for the other roots. I cleaned and cut up garlic, onion, carrots, turnips, parsnips, and a beet.
Sounds pretty good, right?
Not so much.
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Unexpected Vegetables
I feel lucky that I haven’t had a “worst cooking experience”. That is, of course, in my opinion. My family tells me that one thing my late husband prepared blew everyone’s mind. He had a salad he served between courses that was to serve as a ”palette cleanser”. It consisted of 3 scoops of lime sherbet, garnished with green pepper and salad tomatoes. He would normally serve it between two courses that had very distinct flavors like a strong flavored appetizer followed by a mild flavored beef dish. -
Funky Cheese Enchiladas
Every night was a struggle to find something to make for the kids that everyone would eat and enjoy. Between 2 young boys, my husband, and myself, we all had varying tastes. For example – the boys would only eat vegetables if they came with ketchup, I don’t eat vegetables at all and one boy wouldn’t eat “sweet” meat. -
Dance Motivation
During my childhood, every Saturday was cleaning day. It was the last thing a kid wants to do on the weekend, but it was not an option. Everyone had their certain jobs, like my job was to dust the entire house and Lisa’s job was to vacuum everything. -
Campfire Songs
Picture this: a motley crew of kids, their laughter echoing through the air as they tumble through a day bursting with adventures. After the sun dips below the horizon, they gather around a crackling campfire, their faces illuminated by the dancing flames, sharing stories and marshmallows under the starlit sky. It makes me stop, take a deep breath, and sigh…there’s nothing better. -
Here comes Summer
When I think about my life I think about music. I love music. If I am in a bad mood or feel lazy and must accomplish a task such as cleaning, I turn on the music. I mostly listen to upbeat music of Michael Jackson, JLo, Whitney Houston, and the list goes on and on. But, when I need to feel really good I listen to a good old classic that usually, note usually, lifts me up. That song is “Here Comes Summer” by Jerry Keller. This was written in 1959 and even today when spring is approaching I can actually hear it played on the radio if I am lucky. -
Sometimes I Feel Like a Sad Song
One of the few songs that helps put a smile on my face is “Oh What a Beautiful Morning” from the musical “Oklahoma”. Our class performed this musical when I was in high school and I loved the lyrics. I remember that the performance by our high school talent was awesome. If I open the curtains in the morning and the sun is shining and the sky is blue, the words “Oh What a Beautiful Morning” pop into my head. -
No Stress Allowed
So many times in my life, I would wake up and the first thing I would focus on would be all of the things I would need to accomplish for the day or the stress of yesterday, which would negatively influence my day. It wasn’t until recently that I realized that I am in charge of how my day will be and how I handle my stress.
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Believe Everyday
I enjoy quotes. They will often spring me into action and motivate me. Two of my favorite motivational speakers were Dr. Wayne Dyer and Mr. James Rohn. Wayne Dyer wrote a book with the title of the words of one of my favorite quotes. “You’ll see it when you believe it.” Dr. Dyer spoke about the concept that if your mindset is where you can take truths on faith rather than having visual evidence, you will see the results you want in your life.
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Be Bold…Begin
“Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.” –Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
I first encountered this quote on a trip to the Boundary Waters in northern Minnesota. The small tan spiral-bound notebook we each received at the trip’s start included it, presumably to inspire us during and after the adventure.The book contains famous quotes covering leadership, nature, and education, but this one stood out to me. It struck me as truth, resonating deeply and filling me with hope.
It’s been 30 years since I first read this quote. Reflecting on the years in between, I believe the word “boldness” is the secret sauce.
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Don’t Waste Today
Today is the First Day of the Rest of Your Life:I like this quote because we can’t go back to yesterday and need inspiration for tomorrow. So, the quote, “Today is the First Day of the Rest of Your Life” represents to me that we should leave yesterday behind and work on tomorrow, making it the best we can.
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Take Me As I Am
I can’t imagine my life without my family. They can appreciate the good and overlook the bad in me. For example, I asked for a set of kayaks for my birthday. My daughters must have thought this a good idea as they both purchased one for my husband and one for myself. But, being who I am I felt they were too small. So, being the sweet things they are they loaded them up, not without trouble, and purchased the larger ones. Not to mention the cost was more also. They weren’t surprised as they knew me too well. -
To Have a Family–or Not
You are born into a family. You don’t get to pick. Right?
In my case, when I was a young woman, I had to decide if I wanted a family–or not…
I met my first husband, Tom, in college. We were both attending a small fundamentalist, evangelical church. It was a bible study. We dated/courted throughout our four years in school under our church elders’ careful watch and counsel.One of the commitments we were both excited about was building our family. We planned to have as many children as the Lord would bless us with–maybe 13. It sounded like a good number to shoot for. It was fun that this number freaked our parents out. (You may question our taste in humor here.)
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Family is Everything
To some people, the presence of family brings stress, challenges, and dread. They don’t like to be around family because of differing opinions or hard feelings. I have difficulty relating to those people as my family is the exact opposite. I couldn’t imagine life without them. -
Family History Shared
When I turned my key in the apartment door, I always felt the same sadness. I just wanted to go home. I wanted to be with my family. The move to Colorado back in 2005 had seemed like a good idea. It checked all the boxes. A good job for Michael, and a great school with a hockey team for Matt’s Senior year. It felt right since they had both helped me take such good care of my mom. Now, she had passed. Still, my gut was telling me “Don’t go”.
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Making Christmas Tree Memories
Mom was responsible for decorating our Christmas tree when I was a child. It was filled with C7 multi-colored lights and covered with homemade ornaments. Sparkly balls and vintage metal-like glass bulbs added to the festive look.
Craig and Luka, 2006 But I was often involved in making the ornaments. One year we strung popcorn on string. (We used several days-old, stale popcorn. Otherwise, the needle popcorn will fall apart when you try to push the needle through.) We used the same completed string for several years. It got thrown out when It finally began to fall apart. It probably should have been thrown out much sooner–it began to look like buttered popcorn over time (but it had no butter on it).
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Christmas Tree Evolution
When I was growing up, we believed that Santa brought our Christmas tree. This meant another trip for Santa but he never seemed to mind. The tree arrived, as if by magic, several days before Christmas. I would come down the stairs to find the long-needled pine tree dripping with tinsel and decorated with colored balls and multi-colored lights. I can remember thinking it was a great surprise. My sister would go through all kinds of gyrations the night before the tree arrived to get me to go to sleep. I was pretty gullible and didn’t put it all together until many years later. -
Never the Same Tree Twice
Already thinking about how I would like to decorate for next year! I love having more than one Christmas tree in my home. I love the ambiance of the lights. We put one tree up in our living room and one in the family room. Now when I have extra time (if that ever happens) I like to put a tree up in my bedroom and two in the extra bedrooms. -
One Tree is Not Enough
I’m 8 years old and it’s Christmas time. Mom has gone to the tree farm and asked them for just the top of 2 trees. The guys look at her like she has 4 heads, but they proceed to find her 2 trees about 4’ in height. Now, it’s time for me to decorate my tree. I can do anything I want with it. Mom has given me access to all of the decorations and I can use whatever I want. As my room is yellow with red accents, we put little yellow lights on the tree which give off a soft glow at night. (Yellow lights on a tree are my favorite, but I don’t have a yellow room with a tree anymore) -
I Believe
I can’t say that I remember believing in Santa Claus as a child, but I always knew that it was just a topic you didn’t bring up or question. I was concerned that if I ever questioned his existence, he would just stop showing up. But one thing I do remember was the magical way the presents appeared under the tree. -
Memories of Santa
I don’t remember ever being taken to see Santa Claus when I was little. There was lots of talk about this jolly old sort, and I just went along with the fact that there was this wonderful old guy, with a white long beard, and a red suit. He made millions of toys and dropped off the toys you asked for on Christmas Eve Call me gullible. It was fun believing all the hoopla involved in Santa being so secretive and wonderful at the same time. I knew he flew in the sky with his reindeer leading his sleigh. -
Is Santa Real?
The tradition continues…my grandson, 13-month-old Luka Jr., sitting with Santa (December 2023). Santa is such a huge part of the festivities and celebrations of Christmas. The movies, stories, decorations…all seem to involve the jolly bearded gift giver.
Now, I don’t remember actually believing, not believing, or any “discovery” events.
I do admit that I did know that mom was the holiday gift buyer–on several occasions, I did find my Christmas gifts before December 25. But it didn’t bother me that they were supposedly from Santa.
I will also confess that I appreciated that my sister was 5 1/2 years younger than me. So I figured that I had to keep up appearances so that she would believe as long as possible. I figured that as long as at least one of us believe, the presents from Santa would continue to come.
And then, somehow, I grew up and had my own children, and the holidays continued to roll around. Shows about Santa continued to air on t.v. and traditions that I grew up with became traditions that I perpetuated.
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Holiday Disclosure
Santa Claus was a true test of my faith in my family and friends. I was the youngest of three girls and there was a five-year span between my sister Sandy and me. I was also gullible and trusting so I believed everything my sister and my parents told me. -
A Holiday Purist
Hallothanksmas (the blending and mixing of the holidays) began in the retail community.As a teacher, the last day with students for the year was usually around June 5th. This year I noticed that our local Wally World began putting out “Back to School” banners and items out in the store on July 1.
As the 2023-2024 school year began, my daughter Aubrey was a bit of a minimalist regarding school supplies. So, not unexpectantly, I had to pick up more notebooks and folders after a couple of weeks. I was shocked to see the beginnings of Christmas displays on September 15. (The date is firm in my memory as it was soooo incredibly early.)
Why is this all so bothersome to me?
I am a holiday purist.
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Happy Hallothanksmas
I am definitely a holiday purist and can’t stand the fact that stores start putting out Christmas decorations before Halloween. It actually aggravates me to hear Christmas music before Thanksgiving. I’m the type of person who wants to enjoy each holiday before moving on to the next event. -
A Spotlight on the Holidays
When September arrives and the leaves start to turn, the kiddos return to school and best of all the holiday season begins. I like to take my holidays one at a time. I will avoid stores that start playing Christmas music in September. Granted the retailers have to maximize sales. At the same time, we all know that Christmas is December 25 every year. Do we really need to hear “Jingle Bells” in September to know Christmas is coming? -
Less is More
I am a holiday purist to the fullest extent.I have a pet peeve. I believe each holiday should be celebrated one at a time. When one holiday has ended it is time to start the next. Now, I think leaving decorations a couple of days after the holiday is o.k., but then it is time to move forward.
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No More White Elephant Gifts
I can truthfully say that I can’t remember ever receiving a gift that I didn’t like or appreciate. I always feel the thought behind the gift is what really counts. -
White Elephant Waste
When it comes to gift giving, I try very hard to come up with something that will mean something to the recipient. Not everyone goes through the same amount of thought that I do though. I can’t say that I’ve ever received a really horrible present except when it comes to participation in a White Elephant gift exchange. -
Thoughtless Gift
Thinking about the “worst” present I have received has been a challenge. I have been lucky to receive just what I’d been wishing for from Santa and the important people in my life. I loved my skis and boots. My emerald earrings and necklace were unexpected and perfect. I always loved receiving new flannel pjs when I was a kid and my Bonnie Braids and Revlon Bride doll were just what I wanted. -
Please, No Socks or Underwear For Me
Our family has participated in a “Secret Santa” gift exchange for the last several years. (This year, I believe there are 17 family members involved.) Each person gets one name and buys a gift (spending up to $25) for that person.
What makes it so fun and special is that no one is going to give, or get, something that is…necessary. All gifts will be tokens of thoughtfulness. I think there are 4 main rules that we follow to amplify enjoyment.
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Food Coma
Thanksgiving is probably my favorite holiday. Our family takes turns in sharing the different holidays. Our daughter, Lisa, is always the hostess for Thanksgiving. This started when my son-in-law, Craig, shared that he loved to make the turkey. So, he got the job of hostessing Thanksgiving and dragged his wife, Lisa, along for the ride whether she was in agreement or not. -
Thankful for Tradition
Our family has divided holidays between Mom, Lisa, Judy, and myself. We celebrate Christmas at Mom’s house, Judy and I alternate Easter at our homes and Lisa gets Thanksgiving. Because of this, when someone asks me how I’m celebrating the holiday – I gratefully get to say “I don’t have to host or cook – I just get to enjoy the day!” -
Dad’s Benediction
There is so much to be thankful for…that is what this holiday is all about. It is also a time to remember and honor memories.
My dad has a favorite blessing that he recites at family gatherings. (I have googled it and found no references.)
Let us bow our heads in prayer.
Lord God, gracious and merciful,
We acknoledge thy bountiful goodness towards us and give you thanks for our daily bread…
so richly provided by thee.
And we ask you to continue to bless us
with the benedictions of thy fatherly hands.
Through Jesus Christ, our Lord,
Amen
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Tables of Thanks
Thanksgiving is a very nostalgic holiday for me. I cherish the warm and special moments spent with family for as long as I can remember. The first Thanksgiving table was at Mom and Dad’s home on MacArthur Drive. The next large table I remember was in Michael’s and my home on Scott St. More recently, the big table on Rose Circle has been the setting for our holiday memories. Lisa and Craig have created a special Thanksgiving for all of us for the past twenty years. -
Evolution of Breakfast
“Eat breakfast like a king,lunch like a prince,
dinner like a pauper.”
This was the saying many years ago when I was struggling with my weight. I would eat a big breakfast and feel sluggish and drowsy for much of the morning. Was it the quality of the food? Was it the content of carbs versus protein? Was it the sugar, fat, salt…?
I’m not sure. Probably yes, yes, and…yes…
When I taught, I often skipped breakfast and had a snack around 9:30 with the students in my class. Although I sent home a letter with a dozen suggestions for “healthy” treats, the most common items were brownies, rice crispy treats, granola bars, cheese cheese-flavored crackers…it makes me tired just writing this.
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Slippery Frosting
On September 22, 2004, Grandma Is passed away and our family was forever changed. She was the one to make the holiday cookies and candy. She was the one that made the special bean and ham soup. She was the one that made Mom’s birthday schaum tortes. She was the one that made Lisa’s birthday cake and slippery frosting. -
Passing the Baton
Cooking and I have been through several evolutions. I left home at 18 as a young, married woman. I could cook (sort of) thanks to my brief Home Economics class in High School. Cookbooks were my friends because, at the time, a long-distance phone call cost money. That meant I couldn’t afford the luxury of calling mom for instructions. -
A Cake Made with Love
In our family, we try to make birthdays somewhat special. Usually, a cake or a favorite dessert is made for the birthday person. The first year that I was married my husband, Art, made me a birthday cake. Now, he is not a cook or a baker so this was a very special effort on his part.
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No White Walls
In college, my rooms were boxes with white walls enhanced with my personal belongings.When Tom and I married, we lived in several apartments…all decorated with the same Hunter Green and tan items. The walls were always white from Eau Claire, WI to Memphis, TN, to Oak Park, IL.
We bought our first home in Sun Prairie, WI. Besides my garden outside, the first thing I did inside was PAINT. I painted mottled soft tan stripes in the master bedroom and deep raspberry walls sponge-painted with ivory in the guest room. I was just getting started. When we moved to my first house in Beaver Dam, I was ready. The home had sat unsold for several months before the previous owners decided to install new ivory carpeting on the main floor and paint every room with a fresh coat of clean white paint. When I moved in, my fingers itched to make it mine.
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Trading Spaces
Having moved from a tri-level home to a larger two-story house was a bit of a challenge to get used to. You learn to live one way and then have to refigure a new environment. We had our family room on the lower level and grew to love that idea. -
The Office
When the Realtor showed my sister and me through our house, there were several things that caught my eye. I loved the black kitchen cabinets, the laundry room on the main floor, and the cozy dining area with great views of the backyard. -
Pick a Color
I was 23 years old and it was time to decorate my first apartment and then my own house. I had no idea where to start, what to do, or even what color to use. Then I remembered an idea Lisa had shared with me (after all – if Lisa thought it was a good idea – it probably was)
