It's October!

...and...lots of stuff is happening. Here's an update:

TeenREACH Murphysboro

First off, Beth and Lilly are having the best time ever attending an after school program called TeenREACH at the local youth and recreation center. Jim and I have volunteered time in several ways to help increase the membership and get the word out into the community. Here's a snapshot of what it's all about:

The kids that didn't have homework on the photo day got to pose for this picture. Yes...that's Bethany on the left holding up the sign.

Inside, Lilly was diligently working on her homework.

And later, Bethany goofing around....

Here is the flyer I designed that is being used for recruitment with parents, teachers, churches, etc.

Also, there's a poster invitation for an OPEN HOUSE to showcase the students' science fair projects. It's Lights On After School nationwide this month!


OK....next...

Jim and I are off to Springfield again this week for xrays and (hopefully) the last doctor visit to follow up from his neck/spine surgery. I've begun to hate that trip up and back. It's so long and the same 'ole, same 'ole.

Spring, aaahhh, I mean Fall Cleanning?

I must have my seasons mixed up. It's been cleaning and getting rid of time around here. I heard about this neat Yahoo group called FreeCycle.org. We've gotten rid of lots of stuff just posting items and giving them away. I've also gotten a few cool things, as well. Anyway, everything must be free that is listed. Can't believe the activity in the group! Try it! I wish we had an active Craig's List here in Southern Illinois...

Another year older...

Well, Saturday marks the last year of my 5th decade. That's right...I'll be 59!!!!! Goodness, can't believe it! Next year I'll have the trauma most people go through when they turn 40. I can't even remember that birthday!!!!

And, special birthday wishes to: 'Baby Gaby' ... who just turned one; Gabe ... don't know how old you are; Nick...our doctor in training; Jody... we love you!; Safa ... we miss you! Lots of Libras in our circle of friends! (Hope I didn't miss anyone!)

Upcoming...

Lilly's Self-Proclaimed Favorite "Holiday?"

Can you guess? Halloween!!!! She's already counting the days... Bethany thinks this will be her last year trick or treating. (You know how that was...you still wanted all the 'stuff,' but were embarrassed to go to the doors and ask.) Now we're just trying to figure out what 'costumes' would be the right ones. Sizes for 11 and 12 year olds aren't that readily available. Maybe they'll have to resort to making their own...something I did when I was a kid. Heaven forbid!

Thanksgiving weekend

We're making our (2nd annual) trip to the Chicago area for Thanksgiving this year. My long-time friend, Denise, has lovingly asked us to stay with her family again. It also gives us a chance to visit the Baha'i House of Worship in Wilmette. And, this year, we all will be having lunch with the girls' Grandma Nancy at the Hard Rock Cafe. We also will spend some reflective time visiting Kelly's gravesite. Thanksgiving was her favorite holiday, so we're focusing our memories on those special times.

That's it for this time...gotta go move some more furniture!!!!!