At last there is a diagnosis on the some of the problems I have been having!
To catch you up, I have been experiencing really severe neuropathy in my feet for the past several months, along with some of there things that I'm sure you don't want to know about. Trust me - you don't want to know. The feet are a problem, though. I have scalded them while reading in the tub - the hot water was trickling on them and I never felt it. I have fallen into the front hallway when I got one foot stuck on the threshhold - I never felt it. I have rammed them into doors, refrigerators, file cabinets, etc. I have gotten one stuck in the car door. My balance has been off - hence I sometimes use a cane. I'm telling you, it's been aggravating.
My doctor referred me into a neurologist, who began immediate testing for MS, lupus, lyme disease, diabetes. Some of the results were on the fringe of norm, but still in the norm. Blood work was done to test levels of B1, B6, B12, zinc, copper, etc. Again, they were on the fringe, but nothing to panic about.
MRI's were done - beginning with my brain and neck (remember - I fell on my head in January while walking Mr. Eddie). It showed lots of arthritis in my neck - something I already knew.
Next came a thoracic MRI - upper torso. Nothing remarkable.
Then came the lumbar region. It showed arthritis that is compressing my spinal cord. There is a name attached to it: L/S spondylopathy. The neurologist has now referred me to a neurosurgeon, who is reviewing all of the tests before he brings me in. L/S stands for lumbar/sacral. Here is the rest of the definition:
Spondylopathya general term indicating a disorder of the vertebrae. Various forms may occur in patients with paralysis, including neuropathic osteoarthropathy (disc space loss, bone sclerosis, fragmentation, subluxation, osteophytosis) and development of bony outgrowths of the spine. In some patients, improperly healed fractures may lead to formation of paraspinal masses.
An erosive spondylopathy may occur either as an isolated process or as a component of ankylosing spondylitis. In the latter instance, focal areas of bone erosion and sclerosis of both the central and peripheral areas of multiple discovertebral junctions are observed.
Apparently, there is a gene that has been identified with this disease. My father, two of my sisters, and a nephew have all had issues with this part of their back.
I'll keep you all informed!
On Wednesday, I joined Fern and Betty for a genealogy day. It was wonderful - and the first time we have been able to do it this year. We cleaned up some loose ends and untied some others.
Amid torrents of rain, we had a wonderful day at the temple on Friday. Kerry drove Julia Hoffman and I to Columbus. I felt sort of bad for a young couple that was trying to get their wedding pictures in between raindrops. Another woman was there for the first time. She was from a town in West Virginia named Big Ugly. All three of my sisters knew right where it was.
Mr. Kerry is off for the next week, and that means it's time for us to play. He is very gentle when it comes to making sure I'm okay. I may have my challenges, but I feel totally safe with him around. We are headed north through Michigan and up around the northern shore of Lake Superior. I have been there since I was a young teenager, and Kerry has never been there. My parents and I went fishing in those parts many times - so I have fond memories. I particularly remember a time we went salmon fishing. The salmon were HUGE! People were putting them upright into galvanized garbage cans when they caught one. I saw one fisherman knock one in the head with a hammer when it jumped into his boat. Dad wanted to catch one so bad. I prayed not to - and I was the only one that did!
So, off we go! I'll see y'all next week! But, in the meantime, we wish a happy September birthday to:
Earl ~ Jean's husband - Sep 7
Larry - husband of Kerry's sister, Content - Sep 9
Steve - Jean's son - Sep 14
Erin - Betty's daughter-in-law - Sep 16
PT - Betty's son - Sep 20
Orson - Kerry's father, who would have 91 years old this year - Sep 30
And a happy anniversary to:
Justin and Erin - Sep 25 - 4 years!!!
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Beautiful Ohio
Hot and cold. Hot and cold. Hot and cold.
No, these are hot flashes - it's been that kind of a summer in Ohio. I've never quite seen one like this in the 54 years I've been celebrating summer. When it's hot - which has only been a couple of times this summer - it's really hot.
But today, I'm just plain cold.
My week began with another MRI, with another one scheduled for tomorrow. I have now been MRI'd from head to tail. I learned that there are many people with tattoos that cannot have MRI's because of the type of ink they use. They can get burned. This would be especially important for those that have tattooed eyeliner, brows, etc. My tests have been coming back relatively normal, for which I am grateful. But, there are still some problems to be addressed that I hope they can find an answer to. Kerry and I hope to serve a mission someday, and I don't want to be held back because of health problems.
After a dental appointment on Wednesday, I journeyed to Greenwich to have lunch with a group of friends. I took the long way up there, traveling through some beautiful Ohio farmland. In the scriptures, we learn that all things testify of Christ - and I looked around in amazement at the things that do. Let me list a few:
The corn was rich and full, and pointed straight up - just like we are to be upright and be thinking heavenward.
The skies were gray and full of clouds, but there were patches of blue and bits of sunshine streaming through - just like our lives can be gray and burdensome and heavy, but if we choose, we can let the Light penetrate.
A train was speeding along through the country side - just like we need to stay on the right track. If we vary just a little bit, we can go miles out of our way.
A little deep, but those were my thoughts.
Lunch with my friends was so nice. It was good to be together. Pat, the host, is my visiting teacher. (For non-LDS: each adult woman in the ward is assigned visiting teachers - usually 2 - to visit each month with a spiritual message. They look out for you and the needs for your family. Men also have the same assignment for each family in the ward - a spiritual message and seeing to your needs.) This month, she invited the women she visits to come to her home for the message and lunch. It was great!
I took the long way home again. Again, beauty is everywhere.
Following a busy day at the temple on Friday, Kerry and I went to the Blueberry Festival in Lexington (the town where he also works at the Post Office). It was delightful! We enjoyed pulled pork and had a delicious blueberry/peach cobbler. Oh, my! The next morning they had a blueberry pancake breakfast, but I didn't quite make it to that.
Saturday evening, we attended the annual Corn Roast at the Clearfork Ward (formerly Galion Branch). Since I have been a member of the church in the area all my life, I think I know just about everyone. It was wonderful seeing friends that were friends of my parents and sisters. We reminisced about old times and many expressed gratitude for my family and the service they gave through all the years. We brought home some of the corn - courtesy of Sam Breedlove - and enjoyed it for dinner after church today.
I have been surrounded by good people all of my life. Mom always told me that I would find exactly what I was looking for - that if I looked for good, I would find it. If I looked for bad, I would find it.
I have chosen to look for good.
Last week's newsletter was so long that I was afraid AOL wouldn't send it if I added much more to it. But, I wanted to be sure to include a picture of the beautiful prayer shawl that my friends made for me. It touches my heart every time I even think about it. So many loving hands went into making each square, with the final product being assembled by Waunita Wharton - my friend that moved here when I was just ten years old. Here is a picture of it:
It even has a pouch/envelope to keep it stored in - and I can even sit on it for softness. I wish you could see the stitches. Each color is a symbol - and they are so special to me I have chosen not to list them here.
Last Sunday was a special day for Betty's youngest son, Justin. He has always been such a nice young man. He has begun going to the same ward as his mom - in Wadsworth - and they have just LOVED having him there. He gave a talked a few weeks ago that was just outstanding.
Well, last Sunday he was ordained an Elder in our church. This is nothing to be taken lightly, for with this ordination comes power and responsibility. It's not an automatic ordination. One has to qualify and be found worthy. This may help you understand: http://www.mormonwiki.com/Elder
I am so proud of him. He will have the power to bless his family immensely.
He and his wife, Erin, are good parents to Baby Vanessa.
Here comes another week! At the end of it, Kerry will have a week off and the temple will be closed for deep cleaning. I have a feeling we will enjoy ourselves, as usual. We love being with each other and keeping the love we share connected.
Here are some good thing sent to me by others:
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT Hang in there SAINTS.....................................One day a young lady was driving along with her father. They came upon a storm. The young lady asked her father what should she do, he said "keep driving".
Cars began to pull over to the side, the storm was getting worse.
What should I do the young lady asked, "keep driving" her father replied.
On up a few feet she noticed eighteen wheelers was pulling over also.
She told her dad, I must pull over I can barely see ahead. It is terrible out here everyone is pulling over.
Her father told her not to give up just keep driving.
Now the storm was terrible but she never stopped driving and soon she could see a little clearer.
After a couple of miles she was on dry land and the sun was out.
Her father said now pull over and get out. She said "but why now?"
He said "get out look back, at all the people that gave up and is still in the storm".
You never gave up and now your storm is over.I thought this was a testimony for anyone of you that is going through something.
Just because everyone else, even the ones that appear to be the largest and strongest gives up.
You don't have to, because if you keep going, on up ahead your storm will soon be over and the sun will shine upon your face again.
Everything is always okay in the end, if it's not, then it's not the end.
No, these are hot flashes - it's been that kind of a summer in Ohio. I've never quite seen one like this in the 54 years I've been celebrating summer. When it's hot - which has only been a couple of times this summer - it's really hot.
But today, I'm just plain cold.
My week began with another MRI, with another one scheduled for tomorrow. I have now been MRI'd from head to tail. I learned that there are many people with tattoos that cannot have MRI's because of the type of ink they use. They can get burned. This would be especially important for those that have tattooed eyeliner, brows, etc. My tests have been coming back relatively normal, for which I am grateful. But, there are still some problems to be addressed that I hope they can find an answer to. Kerry and I hope to serve a mission someday, and I don't want to be held back because of health problems.
After a dental appointment on Wednesday, I journeyed to Greenwich to have lunch with a group of friends. I took the long way up there, traveling through some beautiful Ohio farmland. In the scriptures, we learn that all things testify of Christ - and I looked around in amazement at the things that do. Let me list a few:
The corn was rich and full, and pointed straight up - just like we are to be upright and be thinking heavenward.
The skies were gray and full of clouds, but there were patches of blue and bits of sunshine streaming through - just like our lives can be gray and burdensome and heavy, but if we choose, we can let the Light penetrate.
A train was speeding along through the country side - just like we need to stay on the right track. If we vary just a little bit, we can go miles out of our way.
A little deep, but those were my thoughts.
Lunch with my friends was so nice. It was good to be together. Pat, the host, is my visiting teacher. (For non-LDS: each adult woman in the ward is assigned visiting teachers - usually 2 - to visit each month with a spiritual message. They look out for you and the needs for your family. Men also have the same assignment for each family in the ward - a spiritual message and seeing to your needs.) This month, she invited the women she visits to come to her home for the message and lunch. It was great!
I took the long way home again. Again, beauty is everywhere.
Following a busy day at the temple on Friday, Kerry and I went to the Blueberry Festival in Lexington (the town where he also works at the Post Office). It was delightful! We enjoyed pulled pork and had a delicious blueberry/peach cobbler. Oh, my! The next morning they had a blueberry pancake breakfast, but I didn't quite make it to that.
Saturday evening, we attended the annual Corn Roast at the Clearfork Ward (formerly Galion Branch). Since I have been a member of the church in the area all my life, I think I know just about everyone. It was wonderful seeing friends that were friends of my parents and sisters. We reminisced about old times and many expressed gratitude for my family and the service they gave through all the years. We brought home some of the corn - courtesy of Sam Breedlove - and enjoyed it for dinner after church today.
I have been surrounded by good people all of my life. Mom always told me that I would find exactly what I was looking for - that if I looked for good, I would find it. If I looked for bad, I would find it.
I have chosen to look for good.
Last week's newsletter was so long that I was afraid AOL wouldn't send it if I added much more to it. But, I wanted to be sure to include a picture of the beautiful prayer shawl that my friends made for me. It touches my heart every time I even think about it. So many loving hands went into making each square, with the final product being assembled by Waunita Wharton - my friend that moved here when I was just ten years old. Here is a picture of it:
It even has a pouch/envelope to keep it stored in - and I can even sit on it for softness. I wish you could see the stitches. Each color is a symbol - and they are so special to me I have chosen not to list them here.
Last Sunday was a special day for Betty's youngest son, Justin. He has always been such a nice young man. He has begun going to the same ward as his mom - in Wadsworth - and they have just LOVED having him there. He gave a talked a few weeks ago that was just outstanding.
Well, last Sunday he was ordained an Elder in our church. This is nothing to be taken lightly, for with this ordination comes power and responsibility. It's not an automatic ordination. One has to qualify and be found worthy. This may help you understand: http://www.mormonwiki.com/Elder
I am so proud of him. He will have the power to bless his family immensely.
He and his wife, Erin, are good parents to Baby Vanessa.
Here comes another week! At the end of it, Kerry will have a week off and the temple will be closed for deep cleaning. I have a feeling we will enjoy ourselves, as usual. We love being with each other and keeping the love we share connected.
Here are some good thing sent to me by others:
WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT Hang in there SAINTS.....................................One day a young lady was driving along with her father. They came upon a storm. The young lady asked her father what should she do, he said "keep driving".
Cars began to pull over to the side, the storm was getting worse.
What should I do the young lady asked, "keep driving" her father replied.
On up a few feet she noticed eighteen wheelers was pulling over also.
She told her dad, I must pull over I can barely see ahead. It is terrible out here everyone is pulling over.
Her father told her not to give up just keep driving.
Now the storm was terrible but she never stopped driving and soon she could see a little clearer.
After a couple of miles she was on dry land and the sun was out.
Her father said now pull over and get out. She said "but why now?"
He said "get out look back, at all the people that gave up and is still in the storm".
You never gave up and now your storm is over.I thought this was a testimony for anyone of you that is going through something.
Just because everyone else, even the ones that appear to be the largest and strongest gives up.
You don't have to, because if you keep going, on up ahead your storm will soon be over and the sun will shine upon your face again.
Everything is always okay in the end, if it's not, then it's not the end.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Wedded Bliss!
Wow! I haven't had a week like this one in a long time.
Physical therapy still keeps me going. I dislike the things they make me do, but I'm willing to do them if it means my body and its functions may improve. Sometimes you gotta do what you don't wanna do...
We had Relief Society at Sherry Parr's on Tuesday evening. It was such a nice evening. We all took something and ate outside on her patio overlooking the woods. It was unhurried. It was beautiful. It was good.
I had all kinds of errands to do on Thursday morning, followed by something that took my breath away. I did my jobs, dropped Mr.Eddie off at the spa, and joined a group of friends that get together and work with various forms of fiber. They knit. They crochet. They spin. They particularly wanted to know if I was coming that day and kept calling me. I told them I was on my way.
A few moments after I arrived, they presented me with something that nearly all of them had a part in making. I read a letter first, as it described their gift to me. It was a prayer shawl with symbolic colors and patterns running through it. The colors and stitches represented different things to help me remember how loved I am.
I am not usually at a loss for words. Just ask my kids. I don't usually cry or express emotion in public. That comes from being a pianist. If I cried, I wouldn't be able to see the music. But this time was different. As I wrap myself in this beautiful fabric, I will never forget the hands that lovingly pieced it together just for me. They have known of my struggles physically and the emotional struggles from extended family members. I will include a picture of it next week, for there are many yet to be included in today's missive.
I arrived at the temple on Friday happy to be part of Joseph Clark and April Graves' wedding. I warned my temple workers that they were both over six feet tall. They assured me they would take good care of them and the invited guests.
Weddings in the temple are very simple and meaningful. Brother Call, the man who married them, gave some wonderful words of counsel, then asked them to come to the altar. This beautiful couple was then married for time and eternity - and the tears flowed from them and from the friends and family in attendance.
The reception that evening was delightful. April is not gaudy in any manner, so things were kept simple. It was one of the most beautiful evenings ever.
One of the joys I felt was being in the temple with so many of the young people I have taught in my years in the church - both in Young Women's and in seminary. I felt it was payday!
I slept in Saturday morning, drove to the Farmer's Market in Bellville, and prepared myself for yet another wedding - that of Jean's grandson, Cory. (In the paper last week, they listed the marriage licenses applied for. They typed his name as Cry. I'll bet everyone was thinking he must have been a colicky baby!)
It, too, was a beautiful wedding. It took place in the only church in town with no air conditioning. The ceremony was simple and the pastor did a wonderful job. It was followed by a lovely reception at the Eastbrook Center here in town - a place I had never been to before. I've enclosed some pictures:
Jolene and Cory Roth - the happy bride and groom!
Crystall and Rusty - Cory's brother and his girlfriend.
Jim and Fern - my sister and her husband. She was in the hospital again this week and was not doing her best. But, at least she was able to come!
Keri and Steve - Jean's son and d-i-l. He is Dave's brother. Dave is Cory's dad.
This is Keri - Steve's wife. I just thought it was a good picture of her!
Earl - Jean's husband. We've always said, "If you don't like Earl, what's wrong with YOU!"
Pete - Betty's husband. He is a good man that has always provided well for his family.
Pat, Patty and Barb - Jean and Earl's good friends and my internet buds.
Mr. Kerry and me!
And, of course, the SISTERHOOD! Fern, Jean, Betty, Peggy!
Till next week!
Miss P
Physical therapy still keeps me going. I dislike the things they make me do, but I'm willing to do them if it means my body and its functions may improve. Sometimes you gotta do what you don't wanna do...
We had Relief Society at Sherry Parr's on Tuesday evening. It was such a nice evening. We all took something and ate outside on her patio overlooking the woods. It was unhurried. It was beautiful. It was good.
I had all kinds of errands to do on Thursday morning, followed by something that took my breath away. I did my jobs, dropped Mr.Eddie off at the spa, and joined a group of friends that get together and work with various forms of fiber. They knit. They crochet. They spin. They particularly wanted to know if I was coming that day and kept calling me. I told them I was on my way.
A few moments after I arrived, they presented me with something that nearly all of them had a part in making. I read a letter first, as it described their gift to me. It was a prayer shawl with symbolic colors and patterns running through it. The colors and stitches represented different things to help me remember how loved I am.
I am not usually at a loss for words. Just ask my kids. I don't usually cry or express emotion in public. That comes from being a pianist. If I cried, I wouldn't be able to see the music. But this time was different. As I wrap myself in this beautiful fabric, I will never forget the hands that lovingly pieced it together just for me. They have known of my struggles physically and the emotional struggles from extended family members. I will include a picture of it next week, for there are many yet to be included in today's missive.
I arrived at the temple on Friday happy to be part of Joseph Clark and April Graves' wedding. I warned my temple workers that they were both over six feet tall. They assured me they would take good care of them and the invited guests.
Weddings in the temple are very simple and meaningful. Brother Call, the man who married them, gave some wonderful words of counsel, then asked them to come to the altar. This beautiful couple was then married for time and eternity - and the tears flowed from them and from the friends and family in attendance.
The reception that evening was delightful. April is not gaudy in any manner, so things were kept simple. It was one of the most beautiful evenings ever.
One of the joys I felt was being in the temple with so many of the young people I have taught in my years in the church - both in Young Women's and in seminary. I felt it was payday!
I slept in Saturday morning, drove to the Farmer's Market in Bellville, and prepared myself for yet another wedding - that of Jean's grandson, Cory. (In the paper last week, they listed the marriage licenses applied for. They typed his name as Cry. I'll bet everyone was thinking he must have been a colicky baby!)
It, too, was a beautiful wedding. It took place in the only church in town with no air conditioning. The ceremony was simple and the pastor did a wonderful job. It was followed by a lovely reception at the Eastbrook Center here in town - a place I had never been to before. I've enclosed some pictures:
Jolene and Cory Roth - the happy bride and groom!
Crystall and Rusty - Cory's brother and his girlfriend.
Jim and Fern - my sister and her husband. She was in the hospital again this week and was not doing her best. But, at least she was able to come!
Keri and Steve - Jean's son and d-i-l. He is Dave's brother. Dave is Cory's dad.
This is Keri - Steve's wife. I just thought it was a good picture of her!
Earl - Jean's husband. We've always said, "If you don't like Earl, what's wrong with YOU!"
Pete - Betty's husband. He is a good man that has always provided well for his family.
Pat, Patty and Barb - Jean and Earl's good friends and my internet buds.
Mr. Kerry and me!
And, of course, the SISTERHOOD! Fern, Jean, Betty, Peggy!
Till next week!
Miss P
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Packin' heat!
I'm hot! For the first time this summer, I'm hot. The last time we had temperatures over 90 degrees was the middle of June. And poor Mr. Eddie - he's covered with hair!
Physical therapy went well at the beginning of the week, but not so good during the middle of the week. Some days are better than others - just like everyone else. I'm still plagued with neuropathy, muscle weakness, imbalance, etc. But, I try not to complain. As I was coming home from therapy, I saw a man in a motorized wheelchair that had absolutely no legs - not even stumps where they would have been.
At least I have legs.
Kerry and I travelled to Columbus on Tuesday. I had an appointment with the surgeon who took care of me last year. Later, it was off to a huge cemetery just down the street. My nephew, Bryce, had asked me to take some photos of the tombstones of some of his ancestors. Of course!!! Kerry and I both love cemeteries - even if we don't know a single person in them. It was fascinating to see the dates on the stones - a husband/wife who died one day apart in 1918 - probably the flu epidemic. A baby that died when he was just two days old. The parents' feelings would be no different than ours today.
After dinner, Kerry went on to work at the temple while I went shopping at Gander Mountain. I told Kerry our ancestors would have laughed - I wandered down aisles for "bass fishing" and "trout fishing" and "walleye fishing", etc. The same types of aisles existed for hunting, etc.
My ancestors would have grabbed a pole, a hook, some bait and said, "Let's go!"
I can also imagine their delight in our fabric stores with all of the different cloths, needles, etc. OR in a hardware store...
I'm telling you, we take a lot for granted.
After I finished at the temple on Friday, I had an appointment with my neurologist. He seems to be a good doctor who is determined to find the root of these physical ailments.
That was followed by a lovely bridal shower for Miss April Graves, who is marrying Joseph Clark this Friday. Imagine that! Two of my former seminary students! I am SO happy for them - AND for their parents!
Saturday found me in a class that began at 7:00 am until 7:30 pm for my CCW. I won't go into detail here, but you can google it and find out more about it.
This will be a week of weddings - April and Joe will be at the temple on Friday, and the very next day will be the wedding of Jean's grandson, Cory.
Marriage is good. I can't imagine my life without Mr. Kerry. He makes me laugh, he holds me, he cries when I cry, etc. He is the best person I've ever known. At my class yesterday, they teased me because my face lit up every time I mentioned his name.
I guess the question is...do I make his face light up? Kerry...send me an email and let me know!
Love to y'all.......
Miss P
Physical therapy went well at the beginning of the week, but not so good during the middle of the week. Some days are better than others - just like everyone else. I'm still plagued with neuropathy, muscle weakness, imbalance, etc. But, I try not to complain. As I was coming home from therapy, I saw a man in a motorized wheelchair that had absolutely no legs - not even stumps where they would have been.
At least I have legs.
Kerry and I travelled to Columbus on Tuesday. I had an appointment with the surgeon who took care of me last year. Later, it was off to a huge cemetery just down the street. My nephew, Bryce, had asked me to take some photos of the tombstones of some of his ancestors. Of course!!! Kerry and I both love cemeteries - even if we don't know a single person in them. It was fascinating to see the dates on the stones - a husband/wife who died one day apart in 1918 - probably the flu epidemic. A baby that died when he was just two days old. The parents' feelings would be no different than ours today.
After dinner, Kerry went on to work at the temple while I went shopping at Gander Mountain. I told Kerry our ancestors would have laughed - I wandered down aisles for "bass fishing" and "trout fishing" and "walleye fishing", etc. The same types of aisles existed for hunting, etc.
My ancestors would have grabbed a pole, a hook, some bait and said, "Let's go!"
I can also imagine their delight in our fabric stores with all of the different cloths, needles, etc. OR in a hardware store...
I'm telling you, we take a lot for granted.
After I finished at the temple on Friday, I had an appointment with my neurologist. He seems to be a good doctor who is determined to find the root of these physical ailments.
That was followed by a lovely bridal shower for Miss April Graves, who is marrying Joseph Clark this Friday. Imagine that! Two of my former seminary students! I am SO happy for them - AND for their parents!
Saturday found me in a class that began at 7:00 am until 7:30 pm for my CCW. I won't go into detail here, but you can google it and find out more about it.
This will be a week of weddings - April and Joe will be at the temple on Friday, and the very next day will be the wedding of Jean's grandson, Cory.
Marriage is good. I can't imagine my life without Mr. Kerry. He makes me laugh, he holds me, he cries when I cry, etc. He is the best person I've ever known. At my class yesterday, they teased me because my face lit up every time I mentioned his name.
I guess the question is...do I make his face light up? Kerry...send me an email and let me know!
Love to y'all.......
Miss P
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Back to the Ohio
North Central Ohio Essay Contest -- Finalist -- Peggy Clemens Lauritzen
Back to the Ohio
BY PEGGY CLEMENS LAURITZEN • North Central Ohio Essay Contest • May 28, 2008
Editor's Note: This essay was a finalist in the recent contest which drew nearly 200 entries asking "What makes north central Ohio a great place to live and work?"
I’ve been to the big city, and I’ve come back to north central Ohio.I’ve been to the fantastic arts and cultural entertainment opportunities in those bigger cities, only to come back and find similar enrichment right back home.
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My parents were native Kentuckians who were transplanted to the coal fields of West Virginia. They left their extended family members to look for a place that would afford better employment and opportunities for education. This is where they settled. And, after living in some of those bigger towns, I came back and settled here, too.This is where my husband and I wanted to raise our family. And, we did.Raising four children on a single income was not always easy, but it was possible. While my husband worked, I found good ways to stretch our budget.Farmer’s markets, pick-your-own strawberries and apples, raising some vegetables and fruit on our own helped us make ends meet. Opportunities for stretching our imagination and learning existed in library programs and book sales, nature centers and heritage festivals. Watching fireworks and being part of a parade contributed to our patriotism.On those rare days when all six of us were home together, we drove short distances to see how people who seemed to come from a different era of time live their lives. We breakfasted by a covered bridge in the forest, camped and roasted day-old donuts in our own backyard while looking up and making shapes out of the clouds. At night, we would marvel at the constellations that can only be seen when it’s completely dark — something one misses in the city.Now those children are gone — mostly off to bigger cities. But, how they enjoy coming home!It has been such a joy to hear them reminisce on those events of their childhood, and how they want the same for their families.It’s just the two of us now. We live in a different day and age than when we raised our children, and certainly from when we ourselves were children. News comes to us daily of terrorism threats, violent weather, violence between people, and the degrading of moral values. Certainly those calamities have reached into our little part of the world. But, living in a tranquil area helps me to be able to handle bad news — no matter where or who it comes from.So, north central Ohio is where I’ll stay. It’s home to me. It’s home to my family. And, when out-of-state friends come to visit with the challenge to “show me Ohio”, this is where I bring them.
A wise man recently said that “the world sees peace as being without conflict or pain. But, we can have peace amidst the conflict.”Ohio is a place where that is possible, both in our lives and in our own homes. It all begins with us. And what better place to start than right here, right now, in north central Ohio?
Back to the Ohio
BY PEGGY CLEMENS LAURITZEN • North Central Ohio Essay Contest • May 28, 2008
Editor's Note: This essay was a finalist in the recent contest which drew nearly 200 entries asking "What makes north central Ohio a great place to live and work?"
I’ve been to the big city, and I’ve come back to north central Ohio.I’ve been to the fantastic arts and cultural entertainment opportunities in those bigger cities, only to come back and find similar enrichment right back home.
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My parents were native Kentuckians who were transplanted to the coal fields of West Virginia. They left their extended family members to look for a place that would afford better employment and opportunities for education. This is where they settled. And, after living in some of those bigger towns, I came back and settled here, too.This is where my husband and I wanted to raise our family. And, we did.Raising four children on a single income was not always easy, but it was possible. While my husband worked, I found good ways to stretch our budget.Farmer’s markets, pick-your-own strawberries and apples, raising some vegetables and fruit on our own helped us make ends meet. Opportunities for stretching our imagination and learning existed in library programs and book sales, nature centers and heritage festivals. Watching fireworks and being part of a parade contributed to our patriotism.On those rare days when all six of us were home together, we drove short distances to see how people who seemed to come from a different era of time live their lives. We breakfasted by a covered bridge in the forest, camped and roasted day-old donuts in our own backyard while looking up and making shapes out of the clouds. At night, we would marvel at the constellations that can only be seen when it’s completely dark — something one misses in the city.Now those children are gone — mostly off to bigger cities. But, how they enjoy coming home!It has been such a joy to hear them reminisce on those events of their childhood, and how they want the same for their families.It’s just the two of us now. We live in a different day and age than when we raised our children, and certainly from when we ourselves were children. News comes to us daily of terrorism threats, violent weather, violence between people, and the degrading of moral values. Certainly those calamities have reached into our little part of the world. But, living in a tranquil area helps me to be able to handle bad news — no matter where or who it comes from.So, north central Ohio is where I’ll stay. It’s home to me. It’s home to my family. And, when out-of-state friends come to visit with the challenge to “show me Ohio”, this is where I bring them.
A wise man recently said that “the world sees peace as being without conflict or pain. But, we can have peace amidst the conflict.”Ohio is a place where that is possible, both in our lives and in our own homes. It all begins with us. And what better place to start than right here, right now, in north central Ohio?
A Laid Back Week
What a wonderful, lazy, do-whatever-we-feel-like week!
It began with my occupational and physical therapy sessions. Bit by bit, I do believe they're helping. I've been doing whatever they ask of me, but it usually wears me out afterwards. I didn't come straight home from my sessions, and after a bit Kerry called me to make sure I was okay. Bless his heart. The older we get, the more we truly depend on each other.
The next day, we packed a lunch, threw Eddie in the car, and headed for Indiana, PA. Kerry had been wanting to go there for awhile, for years ago we saw the most fantastic marching band perform when my Jordan and Erik were in band competitions. It also is the birthplace of Jimmy Stewart, one of Kerry's favorite actors. He has always loved "It's A Wonderful Life", as his own father did.
The drive over was beautiful. We wandered through eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania on some of the most lovely roads ever. I keep a stack of things to read in the car, and when we were on straight roads I went through them. Some things I read to Kerry. Some I just study for myself. We almost NEVER have the radio on - or the CD player. We love the quiet - we love the conversations we both have with each other.
Though the weather was perfect, it wasn't cool enough to leave Eddie in the car. I told Kerry to go through the Jimmy Stewart Museum and give me a complete description when he came out. Mr. Eddie and I stayed in the car under a tree and watched the world go by. We snacked. I read. He growled at things he thought was threatening - he thinks he's protecting me. I didn't mind waiting - I've done plenty of that in my life as I waited for kids at piano lessons, school functions, etc.
Kerry was elated when he came out! He could hardly wait to tell me all about it. There are two things that stand out in my mind:
1. Jimmy Stewart was quite the patriot. He went into the Air Force, but before being accepted he had to gain weight. At 6'3", he only weighed 150 lbs. He actually could have opted out, but he wanted to serve his country. He flew several missions over Europe. One stipulation that was always in his movie contracts was that no mention be made of his war service. He felt it was personal and that it was his honor and duty to serve - but not to laud it on movie marquees.
2. Only 45 films have ever been approved by the Vatican as being suitable to watch. One of them was "It's A Wonderful Life". (Another was "The Wizard of Oz" - which Kerry sobs through the ending every time!)
Indiana, PA
We enjoyed dinner, then meandered our way back home, stopping at farmer's markets, ice cream stands, etc. all the way.
Wednesday was quite rainy, but we enjoyed having lunch with Fern and Jean and Betty at Olive Garden.
Friday was a great day at the temple. Kerry and Natalie Williams and I had a very full day with all of the many things that take place in the temple. I was particularly exhausted at the end of the day, for I am still having to get around with a cane - at least for awhile. Natalie insisted on taking us out to dinner at Schmidt's Sausage Haus - a wonderful restaurant in the heart of German Village. We invited a member of the temple presidency and his wife to join us. He had heard about the restaurant, but had never been to it. They LOVED it! http://www.schmidthaus.com/
We finished up Kerry's vacation week at Betty and Pete's home in Vermilion on Lake Erie. I had actually never been to this house before - just the one they moved from a few years earlier. Just like their Florida house, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this one! Pete fixed a wonderful beef tenderloin on the grill while Betty fixed boiled redskin potatoes, fresh corn, salad, ratatoullie, tomatoes, banana split cake, etc. Later, Pete took us out in the boat. It was such a peaceful afternoon. We were really grateful for the invite - and the opportunity to see Justin, too.
Kerry & Callie
Now we begin a new month. I can hardly believe that our summer months are just about over. We have had such a cool summer in Ohio - some morning and evenings have felt like autumn. I know it won't be long. Kerry and I have enjoyed ourselves immensely as we settle into our routine. We love being able to be near family. We love our friends. We love our home.
We love life.
This month, we wish a happy birthday to:
Pete ~ Betty's husband - TODAY ~ Aug 2
Jordan - OUR SON - Aug 6 (he'll be 26!!!)
Linda ~ our special friend in Florida!
Joy ~ Kerry's sister - Aug 12
Brooke ~ Betty's daughter - Aug 18
And a happy anniversary to:
Kelly & Marion - Kerry's brother and his wife - Aug 5 (I remember his parents really, REALLY wanting us to come to Utah for the wedding. Jordan happened to be born the next day. Jordan - you've always had the lousiest timing...)
Frank & Terri - my genealogy friends - Aug 8
Love to y'all ~
Miss P
It began with my occupational and physical therapy sessions. Bit by bit, I do believe they're helping. I've been doing whatever they ask of me, but it usually wears me out afterwards. I didn't come straight home from my sessions, and after a bit Kerry called me to make sure I was okay. Bless his heart. The older we get, the more we truly depend on each other.
The next day, we packed a lunch, threw Eddie in the car, and headed for Indiana, PA. Kerry had been wanting to go there for awhile, for years ago we saw the most fantastic marching band perform when my Jordan and Erik were in band competitions. It also is the birthplace of Jimmy Stewart, one of Kerry's favorite actors. He has always loved "It's A Wonderful Life", as his own father did.
The drive over was beautiful. We wandered through eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania on some of the most lovely roads ever. I keep a stack of things to read in the car, and when we were on straight roads I went through them. Some things I read to Kerry. Some I just study for myself. We almost NEVER have the radio on - or the CD player. We love the quiet - we love the conversations we both have with each other.
Though the weather was perfect, it wasn't cool enough to leave Eddie in the car. I told Kerry to go through the Jimmy Stewart Museum and give me a complete description when he came out. Mr. Eddie and I stayed in the car under a tree and watched the world go by. We snacked. I read. He growled at things he thought was threatening - he thinks he's protecting me. I didn't mind waiting - I've done plenty of that in my life as I waited for kids at piano lessons, school functions, etc.
Kerry was elated when he came out! He could hardly wait to tell me all about it. There are two things that stand out in my mind:
1. Jimmy Stewart was quite the patriot. He went into the Air Force, but before being accepted he had to gain weight. At 6'3", he only weighed 150 lbs. He actually could have opted out, but he wanted to serve his country. He flew several missions over Europe. One stipulation that was always in his movie contracts was that no mention be made of his war service. He felt it was personal and that it was his honor and duty to serve - but not to laud it on movie marquees.
2. Only 45 films have ever been approved by the Vatican as being suitable to watch. One of them was "It's A Wonderful Life". (Another was "The Wizard of Oz" - which Kerry sobs through the ending every time!)
Indiana, PA
We enjoyed dinner, then meandered our way back home, stopping at farmer's markets, ice cream stands, etc. all the way.
Wednesday was quite rainy, but we enjoyed having lunch with Fern and Jean and Betty at Olive Garden.
Friday was a great day at the temple. Kerry and Natalie Williams and I had a very full day with all of the many things that take place in the temple. I was particularly exhausted at the end of the day, for I am still having to get around with a cane - at least for awhile. Natalie insisted on taking us out to dinner at Schmidt's Sausage Haus - a wonderful restaurant in the heart of German Village. We invited a member of the temple presidency and his wife to join us. He had heard about the restaurant, but had never been to it. They LOVED it! http://www.schmidthaus.com/
We finished up Kerry's vacation week at Betty and Pete's home in Vermilion on Lake Erie. I had actually never been to this house before - just the one they moved from a few years earlier. Just like their Florida house, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVED this one! Pete fixed a wonderful beef tenderloin on the grill while Betty fixed boiled redskin potatoes, fresh corn, salad, ratatoullie, tomatoes, banana split cake, etc. Later, Pete took us out in the boat. It was such a peaceful afternoon. We were really grateful for the invite - and the opportunity to see Justin, too.
Kerry & Callie
Now we begin a new month. I can hardly believe that our summer months are just about over. We have had such a cool summer in Ohio - some morning and evenings have felt like autumn. I know it won't be long. Kerry and I have enjoyed ourselves immensely as we settle into our routine. We love being able to be near family. We love our friends. We love our home.
We love life.
This month, we wish a happy birthday to:
Pete ~ Betty's husband - TODAY ~ Aug 2
Jordan - OUR SON - Aug 6 (he'll be 26!!!)
Linda ~ our special friend in Florida!
Joy ~ Kerry's sister - Aug 12
Brooke ~ Betty's daughter - Aug 18
And a happy anniversary to:
Kelly & Marion - Kerry's brother and his wife - Aug 5 (I remember his parents really, REALLY wanting us to come to Utah for the wedding. Jordan happened to be born the next day. Jordan - you've always had the lousiest timing...)
Frank & Terri - my genealogy friends - Aug 8
Love to y'all ~
Miss P
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