mipackerfan: the Blog

9-26-11 Our Scheuer Family Theme Song

2011-09-25T13:02:00.000-07:00

Stronger by Mandisa

Hey, heard you were up all night

Thinking about how your world ain't right

And you wonder if things will ever get better

And you're asking why is it always raining on you

When all you want is just a little good news

Instead of standing there stuck out in the weather

Oh, don't hang your head

It's gonna end

God's right there

Even if it's hard to see Him

I promise you that He still cares

When the waves are taking you under

Hold on just a little bit longer

He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger

The pain ain't gonna last forever

And things can only get better

Believe me

This is gonna make you stronger

Gonna make you stronger, stronger, stronger

Believe me, this is gonna make you ...

Try and do the best you can

Hold on and let Him hold your hand

And go on and fall into the arms of Jesus

Oh, lift your head

it's gonna end

God's right there

Even when you just can't feel Him

I promise you that He still cares

'Cause if He started this work in your life

He will be faithful to complete it

If only you believe it

He knows how much it hurts

And I'm sure that He's gonna help you get through this

When the waves are taking you under

Hold on just a little bit longer

He knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger

The pain ain't gonna last forever

In time it's gonna get better

Believe me

This is gonna make you stronger

Listen to her sing this amazing song:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vih1xwxQUIo

Thursday, September 15, 2011

2011-09-15T19:55:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time, but our computer was not allowing me to use this site. I'm back!

Logan's Senior Year

Study Hall

Latin IV-Mr. Darien

World Literature-Mr. Weyrich

Senior Religion-Mr. Alles

Writing Workshop-Mr. Forke

Symphonic Band-Mr. Schmidt
PE IV-Mrs. White

Intro to Forensic Science-Miss Siebarth

Logan is on the Varsity Soccer Team.

Brett's Freshmen Year

Concert Band-Mr. Schmidt

Algebra-Mr. Heintz

Latin I-Mr. Darien

Boys PE I-Coach Heinkel

Freshmen Religion-Mr. Koebert

Intro to Lab Science-Mr. Ellenberger

World History-Mr. Armitage

English I-Mr. Guilford

Brett is on the Freshmen Football Team. His team got to scrimmage against SWCHA...our friends, the Buchmeyers, are a part of this Homeschool team.

Katherine is enjoying the 6th grade. She is keeping busy with lots of homework, piano and trumpet lessons, and playing soccer and volleyball. Katherine made a new friend, a visitor from Italy. The two girls had lots of fun playing volleyball, badminton, going to the Milwaukee Public Museum, kayaking, roasting marshmallows and making pudgy pies.

Jr. Year!

2010-09-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

Logan started his Jr. year at Milwaukee Lutheran High School a couple weeks ago.
Here's his first semester schedule:
1. Concert Band (Mr. Schmidt)
2. Latin III (Mr. Darien)
3. Jr. Religion (Pastor Harrmann)
4. Interpretation & Persuasion (Mr. Guilford)
5. Probability & Statistics (Mr. Krause)
6. Sports Literature (Mrs. Bauer)
7. Study Hall
8. Chemistry (Mr. Kohrs)

Logan is playing on JV and Varsity Soccer. He scored his first high school goal last Saturday. He is improving a lot and doing a great job helping the younger players!

Homeward Bound!

2010-07-26T18:19:00.000-07:00

It was a relaxing Saturday morning at the Cheshire Lodge. Jim and the kids went down to the pool for a couple hours, while I packed our things.
After breakfast we took a few pictures at the hotel and headed out. There were two more stops before leaving St. Louis...we got to see the dorms that Pastor lived in at the Sem., and then stopped at Schnuck's for bottles of Fitz's Rootbeer.

Not far from crossing the Illinois border, it began..."Mama, I have to go to the bathroom!" We stopped at a rest stop. Then Pastor took over the driving for a bit. The plan was to stop in Springfield for lunch. Logan was resting and Brett and Katherine were watching an episode of Doctor Who. They were quiet, so we kept going. Jim closed his eyes for a bit. We were going to stop in Lincoln next, but kept on going. It was decicded that we would, for sure, stop in Bloomington. Pastor showed us his vicarage church and then we found an Olive Garden.
After a late lunch (2:30 P.M.), it was time to finish our journey.

Jim drove the rest of the way home. We made good time, got Pastor to his car, and were home by 7:00 P.M. The windows were rolled down in order to appreciate the cooler air. Thankfully, there was no water in our basement! It was good to be home!

3rd Day in St. Louis!

2010-07-26T17:50:00.000-07:00

We met up with Pastor at 9:15 outside of the Seminary's Chapel and stayed for the morning service. There was a group there that was heading home from the National Youth Gathering. Logan recognized a couple of the teens from Milwaukee Lutheran. It was good to know that the leaders were taking time to take the youth to the seminaries on the way home.

We spent some time at the St. Louis Art Museum. Pastor said that he could prove that it was better than our museum in 10 minutes. The Milwaukee Art Museum has a much better Renaissance section, but all in all, he was right.

We drove out west (I think) and had lunch at Steak N Shake. The burgers were good, but the water was disgusting! Logan and Brett sat at a table by themselves, and did just fine.

I got to drive the two blocks to the Concordia Historic Institute. We tried, unsuccessfully, to meet with the president-elect. We knew we weren't going to be able to see him, but we had to try! Pastor showed us the Chapel and the museum. The museum tour was a chronologically history of our LC-MS. It was quite fascinating! On our way out the kids did a little shopping at the gift shop. Katherine bought a turquoise apron with wording, "Taste and see that the Lord is good!" Brett bought a gift for a friend.

It was time to feed the group again, so we stopped at another place that Pastor hadn't been to before...Gus' Pretzels. We all got some pretzels and loved the price and taste!

We drove past Anheuser-Busch and Historic Trinity Lutheran Church, before getting to the Gateway Arch. The security wasn't as bad as Pastor thought it might. We walked around The Museum of Westward Expansion, but unfortunately, the line was too long to go up the Arch.
Pastor and Logan sat outside the Arch while the rest of us walked down the many steps to the riverfront.

Finding a Walmart was imperative to fill our cooler with bottled water. Marilyn, the GPS, was able to locate a Walmart about 15 mintues away. Logan and Katherine ordered subs from Subway and ate them while the rest of us ate at the St. Louis Bread Co. (Panera's).

We got back to the hotel too late for swimming. So we got the kids settled in our room and met up with Pastor at the pub. We talked, laughed, and simply enjoyed hanging out. Jim wanted me to try his Irish Coffee. He knows I like Irish Creme but not coffee. I tried it and did not like the taste it left in my mouth. I took a sip of Pastor's beer. Keep in mind, it was the first beer I have ever had in my life! It was ok...just ok. I took the last drop, also, and decided that beer is not for me, either.

Day 2 of St. Louis!

2010-07-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

We had a leisurely morning and met Pastor at the Concordia Seminary Library. He showed us around a bit. Pastor and Jim talked to Mr. Berger. He looked at Jim and said, "You're a Scheuer!" I had to pull them away from their reunion so we could get going with the rest of our day. We found a great street parking spot by Turtle Park for our trip to the St. Louis Zoo. The best part was seeing a lioness napping up in a tree....the tree hugger! I truly thought it was fake, a stuffed lion that a zoo keeper put in the tree, until we saw it move.

I knew that if the kids were going to cooperate the rest of the day, we should feed them...so off to the Olive Garden we went. I don't think Pastor had ever been there. He loved the soup...Chicken & Gnocchi! Our break was a success...everyone was fed, full, and happy!

The St. Louis Cathedral was next on our list. It was not a disappointment. Awesome is such an over-used word, but it definately fits for what we saw on the inside of this church. Brett had many questions for Pastor about various religious and Catholic aspects to the design.

Then we went a little closer to our hotel and stopped at the St. Louis History Museum. The kids had fun playing 'Washers' with Pastor.

Swimming at the Cheshire was next. They have an outdoor pool, and it was very warm. It usually takes me a long time to slowly get myself in a pool...not this time. It was wonderfully refreshing!

After drying off and changing, we piled back into the van and went the couple blocks to Schnuck's Grocery Store. We brought back bags and headed to 'our' round table in the lobby area of The Cheshire. We had rotissiere chicken, wheat dinner rolls, carrots, and apples for a very late supper. It was nice sitting together and enjoying the atmosphere.

It was time to check another site off of my list. Pastor, Brett, Katherine, and I drove to Ted Drewes Custard Stand. What an experience! There was a mass of people standing outside waiting in line or congregating out front eating their treats. It was still so hot that mine and Brett's frozen custard wasn't frozen any more....more like a drippy mess, but it was fun!

Meet Me in St. Louis!

2010-07-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

We had a leisurely morning at our hotel in Quincy, IL, stopped at the post office, and started on our next journey...bound for St. Louis. Per our travel agent's recommendation, we took the scenic route along the Mississippi River (via HWY 79). We saw flooding in Louisiana, Missouri and had lunch in Elsberry, Missouri. Although there was a detour on our journey, we made it to the St. Louis Amtrak station with 15 minutes to spare. Uncharacteristically late, the Amtrak arrived 20 minutes past it's arrival time. Katherine and I waited inside for Pastor Wangerin, while Jim and the boys circled the parking lot.
Our first St. Louis site was Union Station. The kids had fun watching 'Paul' make fudge. Jim and Logan bought Milwaukee Brewer t-shirts, Logan looked inside the Hard Rock Cafe, and Katherine fed giant goldfish. Then we took the side streets to our English hotel....The Cheshire Lodge. It is amazing! After relaxing for a bit, we went to Talayna's Pizza. Our waiter was very friendly! We ordered a New York Manhattan-style pizza and a St. Louis-style pizza. The waiter explained how the St. Louis-style thin crust is made. The crust is pressed, not rolled!
There was time left in our evening, so we went to the Delmar Loop...stopping at Blueberry Hill and Fitz's Rootbeer. Surprisingly, Pastor Wangerin had never been to Fitz's. The boys shared a rootbeer float, and the rest of us shared one. We took a drive through the Concordia Seminary grounds before taking the 2 minute drive back to the lodge.
After resting for a bit with the kids, Jim & I joined Pastor down at the pub. The two guys had beers. Jim & I played a game of checkers. Unfortunately, Logan came down to tell us that Brett wasn't feeling well. We got up to the room in time to be with Brett as he got sick....fun times!
It's 11:32 P.M...Jim & I are in the lobby area on the computer, while our children sleep. I have a busy Thursday so we better head up!

Boyhood home of Mark Twain!

2010-07-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

We left Springfield in pouring rain. By 11:00 A.M. we were in Hannibal, Missouri and went straight to the Mark Twain Cave. Upon arriving, we witnessed a lot of damage from the recent (overnight) storm. The three guys read in the van while Katherine and I did the one hour tour of the cave. Towards the end, the guide gave Katherine the flashlight and let her lead the other kids to a part of the cave, all by themselves. She was so excited! It was definately worth the price of the tickets to see her so happy about being there.
From there we drove to the riverfront, parked the van, and watched the Mark Twain Riverboat go down the Mississippi River. We left our van there and walked to all the other sites....Mark Twain's boyhood home and museum, the Becky Thatcher house, Huckleberry Finn's house, and J. M. Clemen's Justice of the Peace Office. We got to see and hear 'Mark Twain' for a half hour.
In between all the fun we stopped by Becky's Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor & Emporium.
We learned that the levies broke this morning right before we arrived. That was why we so much damage. When we walked back to the riverfront, we saw huge cement walls. The flood gates were closed! So to the top of a grassy hill we walked to see. Our van was the only vehicle in the parking lot. We weren't sure how we were going to get out. Thankfully, there were workers who waited for us before closing the other three flood gates. What an experience! The nightly news is on right now, and we are seeing just how bad Hannibal got hit.
With all our sites checked off my list, we drove to Quincy, Illinois to stay for the night. Chinese for supper and swimming before relaxing in our room.

Learning about Mr. Lincoln!

2010-07-19T20:37:00.000-07:00

Amazingly enough, the children were up early and ready for breakfast. We were out the door by 8:40 A.M. and headed back to Oak Ridge Cemetery. Being in the tomb of President Lincoln was an experience we will never forget. From there we drove to downtown Springfield, found a great, free parking spot, on the street, a block from our next destination: The Lincoln Home. Jim got timed tickets for us to tour the house within 15 minutes from when we arrived! After our tour we walked to the Presbyterian Church to see the pew where Mrs. Lincoln sat. Unfortunately, Mr. Lincoln was not a church-going man. There was time for us to go to Mr. Lincoln's law office before moving our van from the two hour parking limited spot.
Using the Downtown Springfield map, we found the train depot where Mr. Lincoln and his family boarded to Washington D.C. There was meter parking on the street....25 cents for 30 minutes!! This is huge! During our visit to Philadelphia last summer, we learned that that city is not vehicle friendly. To pay for parking was outrageous, but not in Springfield!
We stayed long enough to learn a few things and take a couple pictures. By the time we were done, we all had lunch on our minds. Unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks at The Olive Garden was what we were after. It was delicious! It wouldn't be a Scheuer vacation without rain, and the Lord did not disapoint us (not like He ever would!): a downpour of rain, followed by the power going out. The generator kicked in almost immediately. Katherine was the only one with a rain jacket. So we had her run to the van to get umbrellas. She loved it!
With food in our stomachs, it was time to go the the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum...WOW! There was so much to see and do!
We made supper in our hotel room: sandwiches, fruit, chips, and cookies. We couldn't wait to enjoy the pool. It was cleaner than last night and there were less children.
We had a wonderful day and look forward to what tomorrow brings!

Springfield, Illinois

2010-07-18T18:04:00.000-07:00

Our family vacation started this morning after church. Our first stop is Springfield, Illinois. We got to the Oak Ridge Cemetery just as the caretaker was closing. We'll be back in the morning. Katherine is watching Shrek 3 while the three guys are checking out the weight room. The pool is filled with many loud children (obviously a birthday party). We'll go back in an hour. We always look forward to time in a pool!
I'll post pictures soon!

Saturday, July 10, 2010

2010-07-10T15:28:00.000-07:00

I am taking a cue from Grace and writing a little bit about each of us. It has been a long time since our last post!

James is ushering at Miller Park. He wasn't supposed to tonight but agreed to come in due to the high volume of tickets sold. He had been busy with summer school, as well, but not any more. Jim is all done with those students until school starts in Septemer.

Child Care has been a big part of my summer. The children are good, and it helps pay for band and tuition. I have been busy planning our family vacation...Springfield, IL-Hannibal, MO-St. Louis, MO. The checklist is set with all the sites to visit and places to eat!

Logan will be busy in August. He was hired to work at the Wisconsin State Fair. He'll be an usher at the Grandstand. We are excited for him! He is playing indoor soccer during the summer....well the games are indoors, but the practices are out in the heat.

Brett has made a decision...he wants to be a veterinarian when he grows up. He has loved playing with so many new dogs this summer, either from the neighbors or relatives. Brett has been watching a lot of movies recently...the A-Team, Night and Day, The Karate Kid, The Losers, The Blind Side plus all the X-Men movies, all the Ultimate Avengers movies, all the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, and To Kill a Mockingbird.

Katherine plays on Logan's soccer team. She holds her own and does very well. Katherine does need to work on her boasting. She loves working with Coach Francis and her cousin, Arian. She was upset that we chopped down a dead tree in the front lawn...her climbing tree. Because of her loss, she discovered a bigger tree in the back yard is just as good for climbing.

The three kids have enjoyed our numerous trips to the library. We walk daily with church friends. They even got to babysit Charley for an hour!

Our Independence Day Party was a success! There were 35 relatives and friends over for it, and the Lord provided excellent weather.

Logan is home!

2010-03-27T20:00:00.001-07:00

Jim & I, Brett and Katherine left the house this morning on a mission...find an Easter dress for Katherine. We have been to so many stores in the past week: Boston Store, JCPenneys, Kohls, and Target. Today we added Macy's, Crazy Eight (we found her dress shoes here), and Sears. It was decided to leave two dresses on hold at Macy's while we continued on our quest.
While we were out, Logan called to say that the band was about three hours away. We got home and started one of his favorite meals: tacos and then brownies with strawberries for dessert. The phone call came at about 4:00 P.M. saying that he was at the high school. Logan requested we bring Lucy with us. So we loaded up the van and drove to get him and all his gear. He was so happy to see us, and it was good to see him!
Unfortunately he wasn't feeling well. He showered and laid on the sofa while we ate supper. It's been a long night so far....no fever just sick. I pray he will be over whatever he has by the morning.
Dress Update: After supper, Katherine and I met up with our friend, Brownie Lady. Katherine modeled the two dresses at Macy's. I am happy to report that we had an enjoyable time and came home with a dress that Katherine likes!

The Milwaukee Art Museum

2010-03-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, March 24th Brett, Katherine, and I went to the Milwaukee Art Museum. Wednesday is the free day at the museum, and I couldn't wait to get there! We parked by Veterans Park and walked over. They were not happy about wearing nice clothes on a 'No School' day. Once they got in to the museum, their attitude changed. They both asked to use the camera.

*Brett checking himself out in the mirror

*Is Brett scared of his sister or the mummy?

*Brett with the painting: Far From Home

*East is the Place

*Campbell's Soup Cans

*Schrank Our take on Lucy Pevensey and the wardrobe!

Katherine's favorites: I liked the big splat one because it was like Jackson Pollock. I was happy to see the Campbell soup cans, because I learned about Andy Warhol in school.
Below are the photos Brett took. Some are typical of Brett: food and animals.

Brett: I took these pictures because they caught my attention. My favorite was the dog catching the hedgehog.

*Still Life With a Crab

*Poultry Park

*Noah and the Animals

*Moses and the Tablests of Law

*Portrait of a Terrier

*Two Young Men in Powdered Wigs

*Flowers in a Terra-Cotta Vase

*Settee

*Homer and His Guide

*(I forgot to write down the title)

*Winter Scene

*Early Morning

*Shepherdess

*Young Girl Braiding Wreath

These are my two favorite paintings in the Milwaukee Art Museum.

I must say it was a very enjoyable trip to the museum. I had the most fun watching Katherine look at the art work. She would look at every angle and actually study each piece...quite fascinating!

When we were done, we walked back to the van and drove to Whole Foods. Their pizza is on sale on Wednesdays. We ordered one and did some shopping while waiting for it to be done in the stone oven. It was a wonderful day!

Oshkosh and Sherwood

2010-03-25T20:22:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, March 23rd found the three of us traveling to different parts of Wisconsin. We were in Oshkosh in the morning and got to Aunt Esther at a perfect time. She had just finished breakfast. We wheeled her to the game room and started playing cards...Rummy 500.

I had taught Brett and Katherine so they could play with Aunt Esther, too. Brett got to watch a dog show (It's Me or the Dog) on the big TV. It's always an added bonus to be able to watch cable TV! We stayed until it was time for Aunt Esther to go the dining room for lunch.

After grabbing a quick lunch we drove to Sherwood. We were met by a very happy 3 year old. Andrew was especially excited to see Katherine. It was a sunny, beautiful day! We took advantage of the nice weather and walked to a park. The kids (and Nathan) had so much fun playing. I even climbed up this interesting ropes climber.

*Katherine, Nathan, Andrew, and Brett on the climber

*Katherine, Fatime, and Nathan

*Katherine, Brett, Andrew, and Nathan on the swings

After a while we left the park and drove to High Cliff State Park. Nathan & Chrissy are blessed to live so close to it. We walked up the steps to the observation deck and then played at the playground.

*Brett giving Andrew and Katherine a ride

*Nathan playing with Andrew, Brett, and Katherine

It was getting late in the day, and Brett was getting a headache. We drove back to their house. Brett took two Advil and took a nap. Katherine and Andrew played while we worked on supper. Nathan made great burgers, but my favorite was the broccoli/coleslaw salad! Nathan and Brett played basketball, Andrew and Katherine played in the basement, and Chrissy and I sat in the kitchen talking. It was a wonderful day that had to come to a close. We said our goodbyes and told Andrew that we would be back this summer.

*Katherine with Wangerin and Andrew

*Katherine, Brett, and Andrew with DD

*Nathan, Katherine, Brett, Chrissy (and the twins), and Andrew

*A tired Andrew and Katherine

Visit to the Domes, and Witness the Battle of the Books

2010-03-25T17:39:00.000-07:00

Monday of our Spring Break was filled with fun. Brett and Katherine went walking with me. They didn't walk so much as play with the other children...Charley, Norah, Conall, and Thalia. Then we spent time at the Domes. The kids didn't want to go because it is boring, but they sure seemed to have fun. We met up with friends and saw others when we were there.

*Snail #1

*Snail #2

*Palm tree

*Brett, Katherine, Ethan, Thalia, Lauren, Conall in the Arid Dome

*Ethan, Benjamin, Lauren, Thalia, Brett, Conall, and Katherine

*Brett's monster

*Brett and Ethan staring off

*Katherine and Brett in the Show Dome (which was being worked on)

In the afternoon we drove to Lamb of God Lutheran Church for the Battle of the Books. Our friend, Anna was in first place entering today's finals. It was interesting and fun to watch. Anna's team won! Afterwards there was ice cream (and all the toppings you could imagine) for everyone. Definately a good time!

*The team listening to a question

*Conferring the answer

*The winners

Kyle's birthday party

2010-03-20T16:44:00.001-07:00

Today we went to the Rupes' house to celebrate Kyle's 9th birthday. Lisa made a special cake for herself and Kyle, a white bundt cake with chocolate frosting and sinful brownies for the rest of us. We drank tea from a Russian tea set that Lisa bought in 1994 and had never used. They were so beautiful...I'll have to take a picture of the set the next time I stop over. The grownups talked politics and/or Army stories while the kids played.
The coffee table was filled with chips, salsa, guacamole, and a tray full of veggies. Kyle took many chips, but did eat a couple carrots and some broccoli. It was a cold first day of Spring, with snow covering the grass, but it was nice being together with the Rupes.

*Ella and Katherine having drinks

*Brett and Kyle

*Kyle looking at his new Nerf gun set from his grandparents

*Kyle and Fatime

*singing "Happy Birthday"

*Kyle blowing out the candles

*friends

*two nine year olds

*cousins: Maddie and Ella

*Ella and Katherine playing with the marble game

*Kyle and his Uncle Jeff

*siblings: Lisa and Jeff

*cousins: Brianna, Ella, Maddie

*Brett and Kyle

*friends

*Ella, Fatime, Lisa, Katherine

Happy birthday, Kyle!

Friday, March 19th

2010-03-20T07:15:00.000-07:00

Logan called from Animal Kingdom today. He has gone on two rides and is having fun! He found a t-shirt and beach towel that was cute: Pooh Bear standing next to a tiger and says, "Tigger, is that you?" I reminded him to take lots of pictures. Thankfully, he did remember his camera when they left the hotel this morning.

I had a day off today because of parent/teacher conferences. It was so nice to get errands done and some work around the house. We went to Mount Olive's fish fry in the evening. I am telling you it was the best fish fry ever. Then it was time to head to MLHS for Position Day. Our team played at 7:00 and 7:30 P.M. It was the first time for us to see how they would perform in competition. We lost the first match but won the second.
They all did well in some way. It's going to be an exciting season!

Thursday, March 18th

2010-03-20T07:07:00.000-07:00

The buses arrived safely and on time: 8:00 P.M. The kids had free time, so Logan and a few others were walking around outside of their hotel. Logan said that it was really hot there. He was bummed to hear that Marquette lost their game.

After school Brett, Katherine, Lucy, and I stopped at the Rupes' house. Today is Kyle's 9th birthday. It was a quick "Happy birthday to you!" and visit. Then it was time to get homework done before volleyball. We had a busy evening...Jim & I are coaching the 7/8 grade boys' volleyball team. Practice was from 5:00-6:30. Then we rushed to Milwaukee Lutheran for parent/teacher conferences. By the time we got home, we went over Katherine's memory work and sent her to bed. Brett stayed up a bit to read .

MLHS Band Trip (3/17/10-3/27/10)

2010-03-20T06:19:00.000-07:00

It took many shopping trips to Kohls, Target, Trader Joe's, and Walmart to get everything he needed, and Logan was all set on Wednesday, March 17th.
We arrived at 6:15 P.M. to a packed parking lot.

Brett helped Logan carry his belongings to the bus. Brett has the heavy carry-0n (from Mr. Bartz) with all the drinks and food, all the essentials...water with electrolytes, chocolate bars, gummy penquins, chips, licorice, cookies, and apples.

There were three charter buses being weighted down with luggage, instruments, uniforms, carry-ons, teenagers, and chaperones. God bless those chaperones!

Jake, Logan, and Peter have gone to school together since they were in Kindergarten.

As scheduled, the buses left at 7:00 P.M. Ten days is a very long time, but we believe this experience will be good for Logan. We pray that he and the others will be safe and enjoy their time in Florida.

Grade School Solo Ensemble

2010-03-06T15:29:00.000-08:00

Today was the Grade School Solo Ensemble at Milwaukee Lutheran High School. Brett's scheduled performance was at 10:10, but that didn't stop him from getting to the high school by 9:30 A.M. to hear his friend, Karl, perform. Karl did well and earned a '1' rating. Cyrus came early (he wasn't playing until 11:00 A.M.) to hear Brett's performance. Understand that for years I have called the two of them 'twins'. Unbeknownst to either child, they had both picked the same piece,
The Entertainer...weird but cool! They both did well and were awarded a 1 rating (Gold). Good job, boys!

Book Review

2010-03-03T14:27:00.000-08:00

The 4th grade has been assigned a Black History Month project. Katherine gets to do

a poster project about Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. I went to the Tosa Library and checked out My Grandfather's Son: A Memoir. It took me a week and a day to read it cover to cover. It is an inspirational story for children of all races. In the book you learn about Clarence Thomas' upbringing and struggles. You find out that Missouri's former senator John Danforth is wonderful, and Vice President Joe Biden is not. Our nation is blessed to have this Godly man on the U.S. Supreme Court. I highly recommend this book to everyone!

Girls' Day Out and Date Night

2010-02-14T19:52:00.000-08:00

We had friends over today, and it's always a special treat when we can get together! There were only 11 of us, with Liz being on a birthday trip to Idaho, and we were all scattered. Logan walked to his basketball game. Jim took Steve and Sam to the game. I took Amy, Anna, Bethany, and Katherine out for the day (a couple hours, anyway), while Brett and Elijah stayed home. It was a sunny afternoon, and I knew that I did not want to spend it indoors. I asked where they wanted to go. Bethany said, "somewhere awesome." Since that didn't narrow it down any, we stopped at sites I thought they might enjoy.

First stop was the Wisconsin Humane Society (www.wihumane.org). We looked at all the puppies and dogs that were up for adoption. You can click on the site above to see the ones we saw. Once we left there, we drove down Wisconsin Avenue and got to see various landmarks along the way to the lake.

Our next stop was the Milwaukee Central Library (http://www.mpl.org/File/branch_central.htm). It is a very impressive building, and I think we could have left Amy there all day. She loved the fact that she could touch and read the books, unlike at the Library of Congress! We walked up and down and in different parts of the library.

*outside the Central Library

*Katherine, Bethany, and Anna in the lighthouse, which is in the Children's Library

*the girls on the staircase in the library

How rude of me to make the girls walk on such a beautiful, sunny Sunday afternoon. We parked down at the marina and walked to the Milwaukee Harbor. There was a ten year old who couldn't believe we were getting out and walking, but we all had fun walking on the icy path and looking out at Lake Michigan. There were many geese and one beautiful swan. We didn't walk the whole length, because it was getting late. I promised the girls that we could pack a picnic lunch this summer and come back to the area. Anna is holding me to it!

After driving past amazing houses on Lake Drive, we made our way to Trader Joe's. Anna found Millie right away, and all the girls got lollipops. We picked up a few things and got yummy samples. Anna asked, "how many samples do we get?" Are you kidding me? One, please!

Then it was definately time to head home for a quick supper of Chinese food before our friends left.

I am thankful that these four beautiful girls spent part of their day with me!

Tonight, Jim asked if I wanted to see a movie with him. As most of you know, I am not a movie person but spending time with my James is always nice. We saw "Blindside" at the Times Theater. We loved it! To quote a famous cucumber, "I laughed, I cried, it moved me, Bob!" We highly recommend all take time to see this movie. Take your family. Take your youth group. It is based on a true story.

Boys' Basketball Tournament (2/5/10-2/6/10)

2010-02-10T19:34:00.000-08:00

Last Friday and Saturday was the Mount Olive 7/8 Grade Boys' Basketball Tournament. Mount Olive had two teams playing. Brett was on Team Two. Friday's game was a disaster. Mount Olive's "Bench players" playing Mount Calvary. The good thing about Friday was seeing Bette. Brett had left a message on her answering machine, inviting her to the tournament. It was a wonderful surprise., and Brett was very happy to see her. Unfortunately, I had a severe headache and couldn't wait to get home.

Saturday was a much better day. My headache was gone. There was a lot of running around to do. Brett had Saturday Morning Band at MLHS. Then it was off to the tournament. Team Two won their 10:00 A.M. game. Grandma & Grandpa, Bette, and Mrs. Flory were there to cheer on Brett. I had to get Katherine to her 11:00 A.M. soccer game. The Shooting Stars lost by one goal. It was not a good outing for our goalie. Our friend, Sue came to watch Katherine play, and Jim's parents made it from the basketball game. It was so nice having people there for Katherine, besides Mom.

We drove home to hit the showers. Then it was time to get back to the tournament. If Brett wasn't playing, we were watching Cyrus' team play. We were so blessed to have family and friends come to the games! Brett's Team Two won their second game of the day, which earned them the Consolation Champion trophy. They beat St. Martini by one point. Brett had five points! We are so proud of the whole team!

*Bedull and Katherine

*Ali and Katherine

*Katherine and Brianna
*Fatime and Katherine

*Cyrus and Brett

Consolations Champions!

After the tournament was over we headed home. Cyrus was sleeping over. He and Brett had so much fun playing video games and goofing around.

We had a special guest in Bible Class ...Ava the Great Dane. The kids love her! She was going from Bible Class to the Humane Society to learn to be a therapy dog. She will be great!

*Logan, Cyrus, and Brett with Ava

*Katherine with Ava

Dead Sea Scrolls and Happy Birthday to Ali

2010-02-07T11:14:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, January 27th, Jim & I went out on a date! We had an early supper at Louisa's, across from Cathedral Square. We loved it! Then we went to the Milwaukee Public Museum to see the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit. Our advice: Don't buy the audio-guide. Do bring Pastor Wangerin or someone who can read Hebrew and Latin.

Friday, January 29th we celebrated Ali's 16th birthday. It is a tradition, for those who are crazy enough, to eat the birthday cake with no hands. Logan won (though Ali said that she let him win)!

Cousins: Cyrus, Logan, Vera, Brett, Ali, Katherine, and Nevi

My beautiful niece, Alexandra, turned 16 on Saturday, January 30th. I went with Bedull and Ali downtown to their hair salon. Ali got a facial and a manicure. I got a pedicure. It was wonderful!

Friday, January 22, 2010

2010-01-25T17:04:00.000-08:00

Mount Olive's Family Fun Night

The gymnasium was transformed into a large game room. Adults, if they are smart, had Tylenol with them. Jim & I took turns manning one of the game booths. I must say that it was a lot of fun (unless you are a fifteen year old boy with no one to hang out with)!

*Katherine and Brianna
*Charley

*Brett and friends

*Nastassia and Fatime

January 20, 2010

2010-01-21T07:26:00.000-08:00

Fatime turns the big 40!

Today is my birthday, and I am 40 years old. I do not feel any different than I did yesterday, and I praise God for every day that He sees fit to give me.

The birthday girls: walkers Karen and Fatime share the same birthday

I made a peach coffee cake for my walking group and my co-workers. There was enough for Logan to have when he came down for third lunch. He thought it was amazing! Jim came home with with two gifts for me: he got a haircut (which I have been asking him to do for a while) and flowers (red roses and pink tulips). We were a little late getting to Pastor's house for supper, but it was for a good reason. Adam called to wish me a happy birthday. He talked to me a bit and then wanted to talk to Jim. It was about 5:50 by the time we got to Pastor's, and it was time to get things ready for supper. The oven was already pre-heated, so Jim put the Papa Murphy pizzas in, and we made salads. The meal was simple but good.

So here we are around the table: Jim & Fatime, Brett

Logan, Pastor, and Katherine.

After supper everyone sang and we ate a delicious birthday cake compliments of Pastor Wangerin. I cleared the table while the boys fought over what cable TV show to watch, Jim looked at some political video on-line, and Katherine and Pastor played with the trains. Once everything was back to normal, we packed up and left for home.

What a wonderful birthday!

Saturday, January 16, 2010

2010-01-17T09:50:00.000-08:00

January and February are always occupied with basketball games and tournaments.

After Saturday Morning Band we drove to Martin Luther High School for Brett's league basketball game vs. Emmaus. Brett played well on defense. Jim's parents drove in for the game. We asked if we could keep them for the day. We went to Barnes & Noble and had lunch at Pizza Hut. Peter, Sarah, and Ryan joined us. Then it was time to head to Wauwatosa. This weekend we were at Our Redeemer for their 7/8th grade tourney. We stayed for most of Brett's 2:00 P.M. game (which, of course, did not start on time!) but had to drive Katherine to her 4:00 P.M. soccer game. Katherine had a few great saves in the first half and scored one goal in the second half. Poor Lucy was home for nine hours. We got back to take care of her for a little bit before heading back to O.R.

As things turned out Mount Olive faced Our Father's for 7th & 8th place. Mount Olive's coach put in all the
bench-warmers. They played their hearts out, and Brett scored five points.

Mount Olive still lost in the end.

Katherine and Uncle Latif at the game
So an interesting thing happened at the game...a woman came up to me and asked if I was Fatime. I said, "Yes." How could I deny that? Apparently she had been staring at me for a while and asking others about me. She didn't suppose I would remember her. Once I took a look at her I did realize who she was...Miss Bobeck, my favorite teacher in high school. I haven't seen her in almost 21 years! I don't know if it is a good thing, or not, that I haven't changed much in that time. I did think it was a pretty neat turn of events... especially with so many people making such a big deal of me turning 40 this year. In the picture above (with Katherine and Latif), Miss Bobeck is the one with the long brown hair and blue sweater on the end. Her great-nephew plays on Our Father's team.

Here is Cyrus making his first two points of the game. He played well and scored a few points.

In the second half of the game Brett ended up

guarding his cousin, Cyrus...not exactly the best match-up.

Thankfully, Brett's coach put in another kid to guard Cyrus.

Win or lose, Brett and Cyrus are still cousins and friends!

Monday, January 11, 2010

2010-01-15T16:26:00.000-08:00

We haven't posted a picture of Lucy in a while. If you haven't heard, we love Lucy. She is such a good dog! Jim took this photo Saturday afternoon.
Yesterday the Green Bay Packers lost a playoff game to the Arizona Cardinals. It was a game that was in our reach to win. Logan, who lives and breaths sports, took it very hard. He wore all black to school today.

Saturday, January 9, 2010

2010-01-14T14:22:00.001-08:00

What a busy day! I let Jim sleep in and took Brett to Saturday Morning Band. Then it was a mad rush to wash dishes, start some laundry, and get everyone else ready for Brett's basketball game. We got Brett from Band and stopped off at Pick N Save. We invited Jim's parents over for lunch and thought we should have food to serve them.

Back we went to Milwaukee Lutheran for Brett's game vs. Our Redeemer. Excellent Game! All 14 players got in the game, Brett scored 2 points, and the stronger players passed to the weaker ones. Mount Olive won with dignity.

We had a wonderful afternoon with Jim's parents. Lunch consisted of sandwiches, chips with salsa, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices. Bobbie made a chocolate cake with cherries on top as an early birthday cake for me. It was delicious!

*Don't ask!

The boys went down to play on the Wii, while the girls played Rummy 500. I have gotten Katherine addicted to that card game. Bill and Jim came up, sat with us at the table, and gave input on our card game.

In the evening we met my side of the family at Red Arrow Park for ice skating. It was a birthday celebration for Latif (1/7) and Bedull (1/8). Katherine and Logan were the only ones from our family to enjoy being out in the cold, on the ice.

*Katherine and Auntie Dully

*Katherine and Aunt Sue

*Ruth bundled up for a chilly night out

*Logan skating (in the light jeans)

*Katherine skating
*Latif, Logan, Bedull, Eli

I stayed in the Starbucks, at the fireplace, with my nieces Ali and Vera. Brett and Cyrus played outside.

*nieces Vera and Ali with their Aunt Fatime

Unfortunately our time with everyone did not last long.

We needed to get Katherine to her 7:00 P.M. soccer game. I was not happy with her. She couldn't find her cleats at home and grabbed Logan's old size 8's...like that was going to work. Her game was off, but she did score a goal in the second half. Her team won in the end.

Like I said...it was a busy day!

Thursday, January 7, 2010

2010-01-09T19:56:00.000-08:00

We love entertaining, and today it was with the Milhans Family. I have known Nathan since he was a little boy. He and his family joined us for supper. It was a crazy day, so it was a simple meal: rotisserie chicken, corn, broccoli, and rice pilaf. Brownies and a anniversary poundcake were for dessert. Nathan & Chrissy were celebrating their tenth year of marriage. Their son, Andrew had a lot of fun playing with Lucy and our children. He ran and ran and ran, and hopefully, was tired for the ride home!

*Andrew getting a ride from Logan

*Andrew watching how Logan plays the piano

*Andrew trying the piano all on his own

It was another wonderful evening with friends. We are so blessed!

The Twelfth Day of Christmas

2010-01-09T05:44:00.000-08:00

Friends were coming over for supper. I had everything all set: home-made pizza, tossed salad, fruit cups, and brownies with ice cream for dessert. I was nervous about cooking anything for JP. He has been a chef and knows how to make amazing food. I am proud to say that the meal was a success! The kids went downstairs to play while the adults talked at the table.
It was eight o'clock and time to say our good-byes. We pray they have a safe trip back to Bolivia.

The Eleventh Day of Christmas

2010-01-08T20:19:00.000-08:00

Back to school and back to work means getting up at an earlier time than of recent...ugh! Monday means Katherine had a piano lesson after school. I am glad she likes taking lessons. We have a metronome that was given to us by Heather, and we need to make sure Katherine is using it. Her rhythm is off many times. She does play every day and every chance she gets, so I know that helps. Brett had a last minute basketball practice from 3:15-4:45 P.M. Jim was able to get him on the way home.
Pastor came over for supper tonight, and then he and Jim went to Mount Olive's Church Council meeting.

The Tenth Day of Christmas

2010-01-08T15:21:00.001-08:00

What is the easiest way to wake up three little girls? Have them lay in your bed and watch "Mr. Ed" on television. Then after giggling for a half hour at a silly, talking horse, they are ready to get moving. Liliana was the first one ready. She grabbed on to Logan, and he dragged her all the way to the bathroom entrance. Then she let go.

Jim took the boys early for church, because Brett was the acolyte. The girls spent time playing with Lucy while I was getting myself ready. I think they would have been happy taking Lucy back to Bolivia with them.

In the afternoon we went to visit my sister, Adile and her family. They live very close now, but I am ashamed to say that we have not been to their new house since they moved in three years ago. That will change. We had such a nice visit. My brother-in-law, Gezim is a big Packers fan. He and my guys watched the game. I stayed in the kitchen with Adile and my nieces talking and learning how to make rice pilaf. Another full but fun day!

The Ninth Day of Christmas

2010-01-08T14:00:00.000-08:00

Katherine had a soccer game at 1:00 P.M. Her friends, Isabella and Liliana came to watch the game. Katherine was the goalie for the first half. Three goals got past her.

Either her new goalie gloves are too big, which is what her parents think or she has not gotten used to them just yet. In the second half the coach put her out in the field. The Shooting Stars won 8-6 with Katherine scoring 5 goals!

Our friends, Steve & Liz came over with their oldest son, Sam. Logan, Brett, and Sam played football outside and video games downstairs...long day with lots of fun. Jim went shopping with Steve & Liz while I took Katherine to the Pettit National Ice Center.
She met up with Isabella and Liliana. These are girls that are here visiting relatives. They currently live in Bolivia. Katherine can usually keep up with Isabella, who is a much better skater, but Katherine was wearing skates without long enough socks. She was so sore. I kept saying, "You'll be fine. Keep going." Yes, Rebecca, I do feel bad! Katherine saw a friend from school. They skated together for a while, too. After a couple hours it was time to go home.

Katherine and I brought Isabella and Liliana home with us for a sleepover. This would be Liliana's first sleepover ever. She is a five year old who is full of life.

The kids all scattered playing around the house, while the grown-ups worked on supper. Jim makes great guacamole! One of these days, we'll actually prove it to Lisa. After our Mexican meal, the Buchmeyer 3 left for home. The girls played games, watched a little bit of TV in our waterbed, and giggled. What a fun slumber party!

The Eighth Day of Christmas

2010-01-08T13:11:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year...It is January 1, 2010! We started our new year by going to the New Year's Day worship service at Mount Olive. What a relaxing day! We watched an "old" movie with the kids. Brett got "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure" from friends. Jim covered Katherine's eyes when Napoleon was bowling.

The Seventh Day of Christmas

2010-01-07T20:24:00.000-08:00

*Charlie, a member of our walking club

After walking at church this morning, we decided it was time to see Aunt Esther. We haven't been to Oshkosh since her 99th birthday in August. It was so good seeing her
look so well. We took her for a walk to one of the game rooms. Katherine played the piano for her. Aunt Esther told us about when she and a friend would go to piano lessons together.

We spent most of our time in the large gathering area. The boys watched a football game on a big TV. Jim & I, Aunt Esther, and Katherine played Rummy 500. It was Katherine's first time playing with Aunt Esther. The two of them did very well!

We played until it was time to get Aunt Esther back for lunch.

In the evening we went to the New Year's Eve service at Mount Olive. Then we spent a few hours at Daut & Sue's house, eating and playing games. We all had a good time. We got home about 11:30 P.M. I didn't want to be on the streets after midnight, with drunks.

The Sixth Day of Christmas

2010-01-07T19:20:00.000-08:00

The guys watched a movie at home. Katherine and I went out to find school pants for her. She is outgrowing all of her clothes. We stopped at two resale shops and Target. We left with two pairs of stretch pants and three pairs of school pants.
We were getting quite hungry (It was about 1:30 P.M.), so we tried the City Market on North Ave. The food was great! Katherine ordered a cheeseburger and waffle fries, and I had a tuna salad on a croissant and an oatmeal/raisin cookie. We split our sandwiches to share with one another and sat talking for a bit. It was a nice outing.
In the evening we drove to Menomonee Falls for a funeral. Our friend, Tom Librizzi was saying good-bye to his Dad...a very hard thing. Pastor Wangerin did a nice job with the service. We pray that the Lord would strengthen the Librizzi Family.

The Fifth Day of Christmas

2010-01-06T18:41:00.000-08:00

Our nine year old friend from Mount Olive came over for the day. Mark had a great time playing video games with the boys. Another nine year old, Isabella, came over, too.

I took Brett, Katherine, Isabella, and Mark to Currie Park for more sledding and snowboarding.

Mark went down the hill twice, in the beginning and before we left. The rest of the time he spent "sharpening" the snowboard, saucers, and sled.

I was dressed warmer, so we stayed out longer than yesterday.

Jim went to see Sherlock Holmes at Bayshore's IPIC. After Mark and Isabella went home, I dropped Logan off at a friend's house and took Brett and Katherine to meet Jim at Panera's for supper. It was a Christmas gift from a friend of ours. Then it was off to Barnes & Noble to use the gift cards. Katherine found two soccer books, and Brett found a book: Deeper. It was a successful outing.

The Fourth Day of Christmas

2010-01-05T19:07:00.000-08:00

Even though we got home late last night, Katherine and Bethany were up early. They went downstairs to play on the Wii. I heard them trying to be quiet and got up to make breakfast. I left to go walking at church, which I do five days a week. Then it was time for a field trip to the Domes. Monday is the Free Day for Milwaukee County residents. It is a wonderful place to visit, especially in the winter months. Jim & I took Brett, Katherine, Bethany, and Ella Rupe.

In the Tropic Dome

In the Arid Dome

In the Show Dome

When we got home the girls played a Raggedy Anne game while I worked on lunch. We dropped Ella off on our way to Currie Park for some fun out in the cold. Did I say fun? I was freezing! I lasted about 45 minutes and said we were leaving.

When we got home to thaw out the children went down to play more video games until it was time for Bethany to go home with her Dad.

The Third Day of Christmas

2010-01-05T18:31:00.000-08:00

Sunday we went to Mount Olive's 8:30 A.M. worship service. Pastor sat with us during the sermon (our friend, Ryan Rupe was preaching). We were to have the Buchmeyers over for brunch, but three of their children were sick. It was very disappointing. It's so nice when our families get together. Jim & decided to pack up the kids and go to their house in Mukwonago. Steve & Liz graciously opened their home to the six of us (Lucy included). We talked, ate, played a game of Pop Culture Trivial Pursuit and discovered that we are not "of this world" families (Team One won),

*Team One: Steve and Jim

*Team Two: Anna, Brett, Amy

*Team Three: Sam and Logan

*Team Four: Liz and Fatime

and watched "The Sound of Music." It will never be the same again. Jim and Steve were making jokes the whole time. We did a lot of laughing that night. It was a wonderful night with great friends!

We arrived with six and left with seven. We took Bethany home with us.

The Second Day of Christmas

2010-01-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

There were no alarms set for this morning and no plans. We had a leisurely start to our Saturday. Katherine got to play with Isabella, while her mother, Rebecca, and I went shopping at Kohls. I love shopping for other people and had fun picking out clothes for Rebecca. We went out to Red Lobster for lunch. The waiter was amazing, giving us lots of cheddar bay biscuits. The boys and Jim played video games and did some cleaning.
Our evening was spent playing games together.

Christmas Day

2010-01-04T18:27:00.000-08:00

Let me first say that our Advent was not great. There were no devotions, lots of running around, and hurrying here and there. It was very stressful! Consequently, Jim & I plan to change the way we do things next year. Our Christmas Day was wonderful! Our growing teenager could have slept a lot longer had we let him. The rest of us were quite anxious to get down to the living room. Once we were all up, we sat down listening to Jim read the Christmas Story from the book of Luke. Then it was time to open gifts and get ready for church. Pastor Wangerin had a nice sermon and the music was great. After taking a few pictures, we went home to take Lucy out and headed to Oconomowoc.

I was in charge of the fruit salad, and I brought my struessel-topped pumpkin pie. Our noon dinner was sooo good...prime rib, baked potatoes with toppings, steamed veggies, fruit salad, and Stephen-made croissants. The Grandma-made cookies and my pie wasn't until after we opened gifts. Brett and Logan opened their gift from Grandma & Grandpa. They truly thought they had gotten a box of Christmas cards. "OK (long pause), thank you. Jim told them to open the box and there was Ultimate Alliance II for the Nintendo Wii. As the picture shows, they were very excited.

Jim had been waiting for his special gift for a long time. You see, one day in Spring, Jim printed a copy of the Dr. Who scarf pattern (from Season 16) and asked his Mother to make it for him. She said yes not knowing exactly what she was getting herself in to. This scarf was made with lots of love as well as many hours of precious time!

Then we were all off in different directions playing games or napping.

On our way home we stopped by Daut & Sue's house. We ate and visited for a while before heading back home to our Lucy. There was one more quick stop to the Rupes' house. I ran upstairs to wish Lisa a Merry Christmas. I am so glad her family is here, even for a short while.

We had a wonderful day celebrating our Lord's Birth with our church family and relatives. We pray you, too, had a special day with family and/or friends.

Christmas Eve

2010-01-04T17:18:00.000-08:00

We went to the 6:30 P.M. worship service at Mount Olive...Brett was singing with the Jr. Choir. After church, we hosted a Christmas get-together with some of my relatives...Daut, Sue, and Cyrus, Bedull and Ali, and Ruth. We ate, opened gifts, and watched, "It's a Wonderful Life." It was a late night but a lot of fun.

No School Activities (11/1-11/2)

2009-11-02T19:57:00.000-08:00

Katherine scoring a goal in the last game of the Fall Season

All Saints' Day get-together with friends

It was a smaller group this time with their oldest and our oldest out of town.

Today Katherine donated 10" of her hair for Locks of Love. Her hair is so thick that the stylist put her hair into two ponytails. Katherine told her Dad that the lady took 20" off. A friend of ours joined us at the salon. Afterwards we went out for ice cream. It was a special girls' time!

As you can see, her hair is quite a bit shorter than any of us are used to seeing. It will take time to adjust to the new look. This is the second donation she has made in 22 months.

We are so proud of Katherine!

MLHS 2009 Homecoming (10/2/09-10/3/09)

2009-10-04T20:03:00.000-07:00

Friday evening was Homecoming activities at Milwaukee Lutheran. I made sure we were dressed warm enough. Brett grumbled about wearing a sweatshirt. He is 'never' cold! He appreciated the extra layer once it got dark. The parade started at 5:30 P.M. Katherine and I heard the band and ran to watch as they marched from the neighborhood across the street onto Grantosa Drive. There were quite a few floats with students throwing lots of candy our way. Brett and Katherine made out quite well with their pockets stuffed with treats for the next couple weeks! After the parade, Logan had some time to eat before getting ready to play (his trumpet) for the football game. The forecast wasn't good. There were sprinkles on and off, and the field was muddy. The marching band did play during half-time, but without their uniforms. They did wear their band hats, though. Brett and Katherine found some kids and played football on the grass outside of the cafeteria. It was after 10:00 P.M. by the time we got home. We were busy with a lot of visiting and catching up, but that is for a blog entry by my James.

*Logan (with the black sweatshirt) marching in the Homecoming parade

*Logan performing during half-time of the Homecoming game

*Katherine, Brett, and Logan after our fun-filled Friday night at the Homecoming game

Jim was kind enough to let me sleep Saturday morning, and he took Brett to Saturday Morning Band. What a nice treat! Logan's soccer team tied at Wisconsin Lutheran, 0-0. Then it was off to Katherine's soccer game. Her team lost, but she had an assist on a goal and she scored a goal right after that (which was right after I left for the florist shop!). We had some time to come home and relax. Logan worked on homework for a bit. Then he needed to hit the showers before getting ready for the Homecoming Dance. Everything turned out quite well. I'll let Logan write about his experience sometime. These are all the pictures I took. Nastassia took a few, as well. Maybe I'll be able to post those, too.

*Logan and Nastassia at the Coronation

*Nastassia, Logan, Romario, Marissa

*Mr. Bartz (my walking partner) with two of his granddaughters: Katie and Hannah

September in Review

2009-10-03T20:45:00.001-07:00

Saturday, September 12: Celebrating Grandpa's Birthday

Sunday, September 14: Holy Cross Sunday was celebrated at Mount Olive. We invited Bill & Bobbie to join us for the worship service and Bible Class with Brad Alles. The music was wonderful! Afterwards we had brunch at our house in honor of Grandparents' Day.

Katherine has joined a new soccer team: the Robins.
Their record was 3-1 in September, and
Katherine scored three goals!

Moment (9/1/09)

2009-09-01T17:21:00.000-07:00

Today was Logan's first home soccer game of the season. MLHS is in the North Shore Conference, which is not a good thing when it comes to soccer. There are only two subs, so the boys get tired. JV lost to Homestead 1-7. We tied last year's record for Conference games. After the game Logan asked to stay for the Varsity game. We took him to get something to eat first at the concession stand. Logan put his arm around my shoulder and talked to me most of the way there. Jim was walking behind taking it in. Logan is not our affectionate child! This was such an amazing moment! Jim was surprised that I didn't put my arm around him. I thought it was best to simply walk and enjoy this time with my eldest son.
Here's the rest of his schedule:

Tuesday, Sept 8 at Germantown 5:00 P.M.
Thursday, Sept. 10 at Watertown 4:30 P.M.
Tuesday, Sept. 15 vs Port Washington 5:00 P.M.
Tuesday, Sept. 22 at Grafton 5:00 P.M.
Tuesday, Sept. 29 vs Nicolet 5:00 P.M.
Saturday, Oct. 3 at Wisconsin Lutheran 11:00 A.M.
Tuesday, Oct. 6 at Whitefish Bay 5:00 P.M.
Saturday, Oct. 10 JV Red Knight Quad (at MLHS) 9:00 A.M.

Logan's Sophomore Classes (8/31/09)

2009-08-31T17:59:00.000-07:00

Semester I
1. Concert Band (Mr. Schmidt)
2. Latin II (Mr. Darien)
3. Design Survey (Mrs. Janousky)
4. English II-Genre (Mr. Weyhrich)
5. Advanced Algebra-Trigonometry (Miss Bolz)
6. Physics (Mr. Koebert)
Lunch
7. Sophomore Religion (Mr. Koebert)
8. U.S. History I (Mr. Kalkopf)

Semester II
1. Concert Band (Mr. Schmidt)
2. Latin II (Mr. Darien)
3. U.S. History II (Mr. Koch)
4. Boys' P.E. (Mr. Niedfeldt)
5. Advanced Algebra-Trigonometry (Miss Bolz)
6. Physics (Mr. Koebert)
Lunch
7. Sophomore Religion (Mr. Koebert)
8. English II-Language Usage (Mr. Rohde)

Family Vacation - Jim's Perspective

2009-07-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

I feel like I'm writing that dreaded, cliched essay "What I did last summer." Our vacation really had two distinctly different parts to it: visiting family/friends and visiting our great country. Both parts were great.

Seeing Jeff and Grace at their home was a special treat. I honestly can't remember the last time I visited a cousin in his/her own home. The closest thing I can think of is visiting Liz in Germany, and we met in Heidelberg, not in her home (when you travel thousands of miles and cross an ocean, I think meeting someone in a nearby city should count). It still seems like yesterday when our families would crowd together at Thanksgiving and Christmas in our parents' homes; now it's our turn. It was fun seeing the Michigan Wilhelm family in action. Softball games, VBS, Jeff's church, Grace's tour of Greenville, and their fabulous home were all highlights, but it was their hospitality that stuck out the most. They made us feel at home, and that was a blessing.

It's been years since we've been back to the Detroit area, and our son Brett couldn't wait to get there. Since he was born in the Detroit area (Grosse Pointe), Brett has laid claim to the Motor City as his home town. Of course, he was only two when we moved back to Milwaukee, but that hasn't stopped him from supporting the various Detroit teams, especially the Lions. It was great seeing the Justice family again. Just like Jeff and Grace's family, the Justice family made us feel at home. We had a great time hanging out together, making campfires, going to Frankenmuth, seeing Don's school, and going to Trader Joe's! The best part was reconnecting with the Justices. To be honest, the happiest times I've had as a teacher were at Lutheran East in Harper Woods, and the Justice family was a large part of that. That staff was like a close-knit family, and it was like lighting in a bottle. I don't know if it will ever happen again, but I'm glad it happened at least once.

Leaving Detroit was a difficult process, not because we were sorry to leave, but because the city closed down the major highway we needed to take. I felt like we were being quarantined! Anyway, on my birthday we went from Detroit to Philadelphia all in one fun-filled day. The absolute worst part of the trip was all of the tolls we paid out. Talk about organized crime! The actual driving wasn't that bad; the kids were well behaved and we made good time once we escaped Detroit. We got into our hotel just in time for us to unwind in the pool.

Philadelphia. Well, there are a few things that stuck out to me about the city of brotherly love: homeless people, extortion, and fantastic history. I don't think I've ever seen so many homeless people like I saw in Philadelphia. Everywhere we went there were homeless people camping out and staking their claims. They were in church entryways. They were in the parks. They were at the street corners. We even saw one bathing in a fountain in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Not to be too political, but I wounder why most of the homeless can be found in the cities that have been controlled by Democrats for decades. They care so much about the 'little man' in society, you thing they would be able to help all of these homeless get a job. I guess they think giving them a park bench is good enough.

Anyway...on to extortion. We though we'd save money by driving; however, our car cost us almost as much as out great hotel prices we got. Thirty dollars per day to park! Between tolls and parking we must have dropped almost $200 on our vacation! In spite of the larceny, I'm glad we went.

The history of Philadelphia is fantastic. We got to stand in the very room where our nation declared its independence and eventually solidified that independence with the ratification of the constitution. Just being in the same room that those great men graced with their actions was a moving, unforgettable experience. We saw the Liberty Bell, Betsy Ross' house, Ben Franklin's grave, and we even worshiped in the same pew that George Washington worshipped in! Of course, the service itself was a travesty of secular humanism that never mention the name of Jesus Christ once in the sermon, but what can you expect from the Episcopal church? It's like one of those gourd rattles you see in the fall - pretty on the outside, but inside it is dried-up and empty; it sounds good but you get no nourishment from it.

One night Logan and I visited the Star Trek exhibition in the Franklin Museum. While it was interesting being able to walk around a mock-up of the NCC-1701D's bridge (Trekkies will get the reference), I was disappointed by some of the displays. They simply made $18 models and spray-painted them silver - cheap! We did get to sit in Kirk's classic captain's chair, and we saw various props and costumes from all of the movies, including the current one, Star Trek (which is a must-see, by the way). I thought the exhibition overall could have been better, but it was cool doing some of the things we did.

We also visited historic Little Italy. It was interesting seeing not only Italian shops, but Asian and Hispanic shops as well. My favorite shop was the butcher shop that sold kangaroo and python meat (no, we didn't try any). And, of course, we had several Philly Cheese Steaks. We had one downtown, we had one from a cart selling them, and we compared Pat's and Geno's cheese steaks. The winner hands down was Geno's.

Our side trip to Atlantic City was interesting. It was cool having a hotel room with an ocean side view. Unfortunately, as is the case with so many of our vacations, it was overcast and rainy. The best part of Atlantic City was the ocean. We just couldn't relate to the rest of it.

On our way back home we made two more historical stops: Valley Forge and Gettysburg. Valley Forge was my favorite historical site because of a simple railing. You see, on the grounds you can visit George Washington's headquarters and tour it. We were the only people there at the time, and the park ranger told us that while most of the house was in original condition, the one thing they knew for sure was original was the railing used to go up stairs. Normally something like this would be roped off to be preserved, but here we got to touch the very handrail that the first President of the United Stated touched. That was by far one of the coolest things I have ever done! That alone made the trip worth it.

The trip through Gettysburg was interesting. We purchased a CD tour guide and took the car tour around the battle site. I was impressed as to the large area over which the battle took place. The CD brought the battle to life and gave us a richer understanding of that significant battle. The best part was at the end where we saw where President Lincoln gave his Gettysburg Address. That was the perfect end to our vacation. Of course, we still had hundreds of miles to go to get home, but that was not a bad trip back (except for going through Chicago during their cheat Summerfest knockoff, Taste of Chicago).

Was the trip perfect? No, but what trip ever is? Did the kids get on my nerves at times? Sure, but they do that at home too. Did Fatime drive me crazy as we drove over the mountains? No! Of course not! Would I do it all over again if I had the choice? In a heartbeat.

Vacation: Atlantic City, New Jersey (6/25/09-6/26/09)

2009-07-25T19:39:00.000-07:00

Atlantic City

On the 10th day of our family vacation, we drove from Philadelphia to Atlantic City, New Jersey. Jim found a nice hotel right on the boardwalk. Katherine couldn't wait to swim in the ocean. I had packed gallon-sized ziplock bags for seashells. We found lots of them! We walked on the boardwalk for a bit with the children, got them dinner: gyros, and then left them in the hotel room watching cartoons. Jim & I walked all the way down the boardwalk and into four casinos: the Tropicana, the Trump, Caesar's Palace, and Bally's. It was our first time being in those establishments and discovered it is not for us. We did not gamble and couldn't wait to get back to our hotel.

*We had an ocean view from our hotel windows!
*Katherine running on the beach
*Katherine, Brett, Jim, and Logan on the beach with our hotel (the Atlantic Palace) in the background

*on the boardwalk
*at the Quarter, a section of the Tropicana Casino

Vacation: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (6/20/09-6/24/09)

2009-07-18T18:35:00.000-07:00

Philadelphia

On the sixth day of our family vacation, we spent Jim's birthday on the road for over 10 hours. We got to our hotel around 8:30 P.M. The kids couldn't wait to get to the swimming pool.

Sunday morning we went to Christ Church. We were there for the history, not to convert to the Episcopal faith. Pastor Wangerin was surprised to see us there, as we were supposed to be in Canada. Our plans had changed so we were able to spend a few hours together.

*we sat in the same pew that George Washington and his family sat for worship

*Jim and Katherine sat in the Franklin pew.

*starting our walking tour

*outside the first bank of the United States

*on the grounds of Independence Hall

*in front of Independence Hall

*at the home of Benjamin Franklin

Afer doing some site-seeing with our personal tour guide, the six of us walked to

Sonny's Famous Steaks for lunch.
It was time to go our separate ways...Pastor to the train station, and we were continuing our Philly visit.

*Chinatown

*at the home of Betsy Ross

The second bank of the United States houses a gallery of paintings by Charles Wilson Peale.

I loved looking at the paintings!

*Brett looking at a Charles Wilson Peale painting of John Adams

*Katherine and Brett imitating Benjamin Frankin in thought

*portrait of Martha Washington

*outside of the Second Bank of the United States

*Logan outside of the Franklin...Jim and Logan saw the Star Trek exhibit there. Across the street is the spot from National Treasure where Riley was getting the letters from the kid to crack the next code

*next to the Liberty Bell-a must see for Katherine!

*inside Independence Hall

*the upstairs room where the Declaration of Independence was signed

*if you look closely, you will see Wangerin firing Dackel out of the cannon

*This is the actual document that was read to the public

Jim & I ordered Subway for the kids and left them in our hotel room. We went out to the City Tavern (http://www.citytavern.com/). I ordered the Martha Washington Colonial Turkey Pot Pie, and Jim had the lamb chops with steamed veggies. It was all wonderful!

*My James and our clam chowder soup

Who expects to walk through a department store and find the world's largest organ? That's exactly what we did (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wanamaker_organ)!

*Wanamaker Organ inside of the Macy's Department Store

*console for the organ

*City of Brotherly Love: Philadelphia

We walked up and down the streets known as the Italian Market. Ironically there are also Mexican stores and restaurants. We sampled a Philly cheesesteak from both Geno's and Pat's (across the street). Geno's gets our vote!

*famous cheesesteaks in the Italian Market
*'Adam' in the Rodin Museum

*Rodin's The Thinker

On the last day of our stay, we stopped at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The building itself was very impressive. Brett couldn't wait to run up the steps like Rocky Balboa. Logan was tired of walking around and seeing things, so he waited in the van.

*Philadelphia Museum of Art

*Katherine and Brett posing with the Rocky statue

Vacation: Rochester Hills, Michigan (6/17/09-6/20/09)

2009-07-16T16:13:00.000-07:00

Rochester Hills, Michigan

On the third day of our family vacation we drove east to the Detroit suburb of Rochester Hills. We stopped off in Auburn Hills at the Palace (where the Detroit Pistons play). Logan was thankful!

It has been many years since we last saw the Justice Family (I believe it was 2003!). Jim and Don worked together at Lutheran East. Don & Amy have three sons: Andy is 11 months older than Brett, Mike is 10, and Jake Justice (Rescue Heroes comes to mind!) is 7. They were kind enough to have their house of five grow to a house of ten for three nights.

The kids played basketball, soccer,

video games, and watched TV. Katherine (our daredevil) climbed a ladder to swing from a rope, and then she went bike riding with Jake.

They got along very well together. Jim & I introduced Amy to Whole Foods and Trader Joe's.

*Jim and Amy with the dark chocolate bar

Thursday, we spent Don & Amy's anniversary in Frankenmuth. We did some shopping at Bronner's (the world's largest Christmas store). Then we walked to the Silent Night Chapel. It is a replica of the one in Germany. http://www.bronners.com/silentnightchapel.html

We walked around the downtown area, visiting many shops and sampling fudge, salt water taffy, and cheese. After lunch at Tiffany's, the kids went to a house of mirrors.

Then it was time to head "home".

Katherine got her hair French-braided by Amy. Don went to work for a while, and we relaxed at the house. The Justices have a cat named Tito. I lovingly referred to it as "Fat Louey" like the cat in Princess Diaries. Amazingly enough, Jim did not have a single allergic reaction the whole time we were there. They have an air purifier that must work very well.

Saturday morning Don made breakfast for us. Water bottles were filled, the van was packed, and it was time for our good-byes. It was so nice visiting with old friends.

On our way out of Michigan we stopped at the old Tiger Stadium, Comerica Park, and Ford Field.

Vacation: Greenville, Michigan (6/15/09-6/17/09)

2009-07-16T11:11:00.000-07:00

Greenville, Michigan

On the first day of our family vacation we travelled to Michigan to visit Jim's cousin, Jeff and his family. We don't see each other often, but when we get together it's like we just left one another. We got there in time to watch Jeff, Grace, Sarah, and Matthew play in their church-league softball game. Their team won, and then it was off to a late supper of pizza. We stayed up late playing on the talking and playing on the Wii.

Tuesday, Katherine and Logan went to Mount Calvary's VBS camp with Jeff, Sarah, and Matthew.

Camp Concordia is comparable to our Camp LuWiSoMo, except their camp is closer to town than the 2 1/2 hours we would have to drive. It was so nice seeing so many kids enjoying VBS in such a beautiful setting. Logan helped Matthew with the Kindergarteners. Katherine went along with the other 4th graders. Jim, Brett, and I got a tour of Greenville from Grace and Mary. We stopped in this quaint store that reminded us of the old Drew's in the Tosa Village. Brett saw lots of Detroit Lions things, but settled on two pencils.

Fact: Did you know that Greenville is the birthplace of Meijer's? For those of you who do not know...Meijer's is like a Super Walmart, with stores in Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. Speaking of Super Walmart, we stopped to get a couple items for supper. Brett looked around for Lions things and purchased a Detroit Lions t-shirt.

We went to Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, where Jeff is sole Pastor.

The kids played basketball, and we had burgers for supper. Afterwards we walked, or drove, or rode bicycles, or rode on scooters to a local ice-cream place.

It was a wonderful evening!

Wednesday morning we had breakfast and said our good-byes. We had such a nice time and look forward to seeing the Wilhelms soon!

Report Cards

2009-07-05T14:19:00.000-07:00

Logan earned a 3.375 for the second semester...Honor Roll.

Brett earned a 3.62889 for the 4th quarter...High Honor Roll.

Katherine earned a 3.61111 for the 4th quarter.

There is room for improvement, but we are still very proud of our children!

Wangerin's Injury (written by Katherine)

2009-06-30T16:43:00.000-07:00

We had lunch with Pastor Wangerin. I shared a cheesesteak with him. This was right before Wangerin's injury.
On Sunday, June 21st, when the family got back from seeing Pastor Wangerin, we went to the hotel. I set Wangerin down on the bed. Then Brett sat on him. I quietly said, "Get up!" But he did not move. I tugged on Wangerin's right arm, and then 'SNAP'...'SNAP'. Wangerin's right arm was broken off! I cried a lot. Mom said that we were going to look for a Build-a-Bear Workshop. But we did not find one. So we looked at the Philadelphia Visitor's Center. Mama put Wangerin's arm in her purse. I did not like that, because I did not want people to see that he did not have an arm. We saw these two girls who were dressed up from the past. They were sewing quilt pieces together. Mama asked if they could sew a bear's arm. They said that it would be a bit more difficult and would take a long time, but they said they would do it. The one girl gave the job to the other girl because she said she was better at it. I was ok leaving Wangerin with them. I trusted them. We walked around looking at things and reading signs and posters. We got back about a half hour later. Wangerin was about finished. The girl was sewing the arm up really good. She was very nice to fix my bear for me.

Logan's Thoughts on Our Family Vacation

2009-06-29T09:52:00.000-07:00

My favorite part of our long trip was when we got to stay with the Wilhelm's for two nights. First we watched their church softball game. They won 19-5, then we went to a pizza place for dinner. After dinner, we went back to the house and went to bed. Brett and I were in Matt's room (which is really cool!), mom and dad were in Sarah's room and Kate was in Mary's room. It was fun staying up past midnight watching Seinfeld. The next morning we woke up and went to Vacation Bible School, Matt and I had a group of little kids. It was pretty fun!

After VBS ended, we went back to the house then Matt, Kate, Brett and I took Sammy (their dog who is really cute!) for a walk around the town. That was really fun!!! After we got back from that we played a few games of basketball (Me and Matt vs. Brett, Dad, and Kate) then we went inside for dinner.

That evening we had grilled burgers which were really good, then we went to an ice cream place!!! I loved it!!!

When we got back, we played some wii, then we played the Scene It? Movie version. After that we went to bed. I only made it through the first episode of Seinfeld (from midnight -12:30am) that night then I went to sleep. The next morning we woke up, said our long and sad goodbyes and left for the Justice's.

We stayed with the Justice family for three nights. Ummmmmm, lets see the first day we played basketball with the Justice boys (Andy, Mike, and Jake) and played on their wii with them which was pretty fun. We grilled out and had s'mores for dinner, which was really tasty!!!

The next day we went to Frankenmuth which is a neat little German community, that's where Brett added a new member to his Dackel (dachsund) family, he named the dog (stuffed) that he got Michigan.

Then we went back to the house, had dinnner played outside for a while then went to bed. The next day we went to a nearby Wal-Mart where I got a Detroit Pistons hat and Brett got a Calvin Johnson jersey for $5.00 (I wonder why it was so cheap?). After that we did more of the same things, watching T.V, playing outside, and playing video games. We had a great spaghetti dinner then after watching most of Young Guns 2 with dad and Mr. Justice on T.V. I fell asleep.

Then we went on to Philadelphia which was pretty fun except for all of the walking and going to one too many historic sites.

Dad, Brett, Pastor Wangerin, Logan, Katherine in front of Independence Hall

Logan, Katherine, Brett at the spot of the First Continental Congress

Katherine, Brett, Logan in front of the sign for "Brotherly Love"

After Philadelphia we went to Atlantic City for a day and then we started our journey

back home.

Logan resting on the beach

Logan, Katherine, Mom, Brett in Atlantic City, NJ

We went to Gettysburg which was pretty neat, stayed overnight.

The next day we went about halfway home stopping at a hotel in Ohio at around 11pm. Then we went home to our Lucy!!!

THE END!!!!!!!!!

Brett's Thoughts on our Family Vacation

2009-06-28T12:20:00.000-07:00

Our first stop was the Wilhelm's house. They have a really cute dog named Sammy and I just love him. I played with him all the time there. We went to the Wilhelm's church softball game. It was fun to watch. Their team won the game. The next day, I went to the VBS camp but I found out that I was too old for it. I didn't want to stay anyway. So I got a tour of Greenville from Mary with Grace, Mom, and Dad. We went to this store that had some Lions stuff. I saw some good stuff but I didn't want to spend that much money. So I just got four pencils for a dollar. On our way home we went to the Walmart, and I bought a Detroit Lions t-shirt. Logan and I slept in Matt's room. The next day we went to the Justice's house in Rochester Hills. We played basketball a lot. On the first night we were going to sleep in a tent in the Justice's backyard but it rained. The next day we all went to Frankenmuth. We went to a few fudge and taffy shops. For lunch we went to a burger place. After that I got Michigan, a stuffed Dachshund. That night we went in the tent for an hour but then slept in the basement. It was a good thing because it rained. Then we went to Philadelphia. On Sunday we went to an Episcopal church, and we sat with Pastor Wangerin. The service was really different. After the service we did some site seeing. Pastor Wangerin got us all cheasesteaks.
So our vacation=lots of fun for me.

Dinner at the Rupes and Logan's Basketball Game(6/11/09)

2009-06-12T18:09:00.001-07:00

Thursday evening we were invited to the Rupe house for supper. Ryan was busy with a doctorate class in St. Louis, and Logan was at a friend's house. So it was just the seven of us. We had baked chicken legs, French fries, steamed green beans, and fresh fruit. The kids spent time playing while Lisa, Jim & I watched part of 24's Season 4...Edgar! Definately a good way to spend an evening!

*Ella and Katherine wolfing down their cupcakes before Kyle sees them!

*Katherine, Kyle, Brett, and Ella watching Shrek

We went home for about an hour to love Lucy and do some dishes. Then it was time to head to Wisconsin Lutheran College. Logan is in a summer basketball league there. He got a lot of playing time! It was a close game, but unfortunately his team lost to Catholic Memorial. It also made for another late night.

*Logan running down the court

*Logan on defense

*Logan with the ball

Brewer Game with the Scheuers (6/10/09)

2009-06-12T15:59:00.000-07:00

Wednesday evening the five of us met up with Bill & Bobbie, Stephen and Ben, Peter & Felicia, Sarah, Rachel (a friend of Sarah), and Ryan, Tim & Zoe, and Amit in the parking lot of Miller Park. Tim, his wife Zoe, and her son Amit are visiting from Israel. They got the experience of tailgating at a ball game...burgers, hot dogs, fruit, veggies, pickles, chips, and brownies. I know it was nice for Jim's parents to share this evening with four of their six sons. Amit took to Logan right away. Most of the kids tossed a ball around for a while. Then we headed to the game. Ben had a spill with the sidewalk.

Bad news: bloody right elbow

Good news: went to the First Aid Center, got bandaged, and was given a Webkinz Bunny

We got to our seats on the third base outfield side. They were great seats! Amit sat with Logan and Brett. Sometime during the game we saw our next door neighbors. That was a nice treat. The game itself was uneventful but long. The Brewers lost to the Colorado Rockies 2-4. By the time we walked up the hill to our van and drove home, it was 11:30 P.M. We were all tired!

*Felicia, Bobbie, Ryan, and Amit enjoying their supper

*Brett and Uncle Stephen getting their brownies

*Amit and Tim playing baseball

*Stephen getting ready to throw the ball

*Amit getting ready for the flyball

*Dad & Mom with four out of the six sons: Tim, Jim, Peter, and Stephen

*Mom with Tim, Jim, Peter, and Stephen

*Dad with Tim, Jim, Peter, and Stephen

*Ryan, Sarah, Ben, Brett, Logan, Katherine, Amit

*Katherine with Daddy's sunglasses

*Katherine with Daddy's baseball cap

*Logan explaining baseball to Amit

*Amit hugging Logan

*happy Ryan with the ball from Ryan Braun

*"Prince Fielder", Brett, Ben, Ryan, Katherine, "Ryan Braun", Logan

*Katherine, Grandma, Zoe

*Brett, Logan, Amit

*Jim, Bill, Bobbie, Stephen, Felicia, Ryan, Ben, Peter

Lunch and Playing at Ella's (6/10/09)

2009-06-12T15:28:00.000-07:00

Wednesday I packed a lunch for the five of us consisting of tuna sandwiches, carrots sticks, blueberries, and chips with salsa. We loaded up the van with Katherine's bicycle and the children and drove to Ella's house. Ella likes Brett and spent lunchtime giggling at whatever he said or did. That made Faith and Noah laugh. Katherine rolled her eyes in disbelief that Brett was doing anything worth giggling about. Afterwards, the kids had a lot of fun playing outside.

*Noah riding in the yard while Faith rests

*Faith and Noah riding bicycles

*friends: Brett, Ella, Faith, Katherine, Noah

Summer Fun (6/9/09)

2009-06-09T20:18:00.001-07:00

Tonight the children and I sat in our neighbor's driveway visiting. They had a campfire going, and we invited ourselves over. Logan and Brett rode their bikes to Sentry to get marshmallows and chocolate bars. Angela had graham crackers. It took the boys a while, but they came back with the goodies. We roasted marshmallows and enjoyed the fire. We are so blessed to have such nice neighbors/friends! Unfortunately Jim missed the fun. He was ushering at Miller Park, where the Brewers just lost to the Colorado Rockies. Hopefully tomorrow's game will be better. We're going to be there!

*Logan and Brett roasting marshmallows

*Katherine resting with Riley

Camp Scheuer begins! (6/8/09)

2009-06-09T19:48:00.000-07:00

We are watching two school children over the summer. I write "we" because it is a family job. Brett is wonderful with these siblings who will be in the first/second grade in the Fall. He makes up games and races. We walk every morning at church. Today Brett and Noah ran in relay races against Katherine and Faith. Brett reads to them, and they read to him. Katherine plays with Faith. Today they built a fort in the living room. Brett and Noah built one in the basement. Yesterday we had a good time at the Domes. It's so nice to see that they all enjoy being together!

*Noah, Faith, Katherine, Brett taking a bow after their "Crazy Dance" at church

*Noah, Katherine, Brett, Faith in the Tropic Dome

*Katherine, Faith, Brett, and Noah in the Arid Dome

*Faith, Brett, Katherine, and Noah showing off in the Show Dome

*Brett chasing Ava down the ramp at church

School's Out! (6/6/09)

2009-06-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

Logan finished his exams on May 29th. He is glad to have his Freshman year done! Now it's time to find a job. Please pray that he gets motivated to get out and find something. He does have one job working as a photographer's assistance. When he works it'll be nice, but it is not a steady job. Because he'll get called and have to go to his assignment, Logan is probably looking for lawn mowing jobs, babysitting, or dog walking. Something where he can get income, but won't be tied down when his boss calls. This summer Logan will be playing in-door soccer and in a basketball league. He'll also be going to Summer Strength at the high school.

Yesterday was the last day for Brett and Katherine. According to their report cards, they have been promoted to the 7th and 4th grades, respectively. They played with friends while I helped with the Teacher Appreciation Luncheon. We finally got home around 2:00 P.M. Brett is signed up to play volleyball. Katherine is finishing her Spring soccer season and will take swimming at the high school.

Last night, Daut, Sue, and Cyrus joined us for a quick supper of spaghetti. Then Jim and the boys went with them to a indoor football game down at the Bradley Center. Katherine and I played soccer outside and tennis inside on the Wii. I actually beat her! I don't think that has ever happened before. We decided to surprise some friends in West Allis. We got there and got a surprise of our own. Micah & Jamie were there with their 3 1/2 month old son, Noah Isaac Milhans. After they left, we stayed and visited with Bette and David and their 3 year old grandson, Andrew. It was a late night. We left around 10:00 P.M. Katherine was so tired, but it was so good to see old friends! (I don't mean old!)

*Andrew standing on the playset

*Katherine's turn to make a shot

*Katherine holding her own with the 14 year old neighbor, Alex

*Katherine and Andrew playing with the marble game

*Serious pose of Katherine and Andrew

Astronomical Odds (5/30/09)

2009-05-30T13:05:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all the graduates of Milwaukee Lutheran High School, especially these three young men. Read all about it: http://www.jsonline.com/news/education/46546837.html
http://www.fox6now.com/news/witi-090531-military-grads,0,7303239.story
What an honor!

Honor Roll Dinner (5/27/09)

2009-05-27T19:10:00.001-07:00

Tonight we honor Brett and all the other 4th-8th grade students who have been successful academically this year. There was a dinner in Mount Olive's multi-purpose room: hot roast beef, hot turkey, dinner rolls, pasta salad, baked beans, fresh fruit, black olives and pickles, and of course, cake. As you can see by the pictures, Brett had a good time. We are very proud of him!

*happy Brett (with frosting on his teeth, lips, and tongue)

*6th grade Honor Roll students

*Alexander, Brett, Eddie, Carson

Scheuer Trip to Ohio 5/23/09-5/25/09

2009-05-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

The alarm rang too early this morning! Jim & I were up at 4:15 A.M. We loaded up the van and got the kids ready for our long trip to Ohio. We wanted to leave by 5:00 A.M. but finally rolled out at 5:30. Driving through Chicago at 6:30-6:45 A.M. is definately good...no traffic at all! We stopped at Subway for a quick lunch and made it to Adam & Jill's house at 3:30 P.M. We got to spend some quiet time with baby Claire out in the Florida room. She is beautiful! We checked into our hotel and took advantage of the indoor pool. We had a late supper of pizza and brownies out on the back patio area. After supper a few of us decided to go for a walk...John & Gina and Eric, Jim & I, Brett and Katherine. It was good to get out and breath some fresh air!

*Logan sleeping while Katherine and Brett watch a Dr. Who episode
*Uncle Jim and baby Claire

*Aunt Fatime and baby Claire

*cousins Logan and Claire

*cousins Brett and Claire

*cousins Katherine and Claire

*cousins Logan and Ellie

*cousin Brett playing with Ellie

*cousins Ellie and Katherine

*Claire, Jim, Adam, Ellie

*Logan, Uncle Adam, and Brett playing with Brewer
*Jim swimming while Eric and Logan play around

Sunday morning we went to Atonement Lutheran Church. We felt so blessed to have been able to be there to see Claire being baptized. It was the most beautiful Baptism I have ever seen! After the service there was a luncheon in the church's fellowship hall.

*the Baptismal party as well as all the children in the congregation were invited up while we sang the first two verses of "Father Welcomes All His Children" from the LSB.
*the pastor baptizing Claire

*Adam got to present Claire Amelia Scheuer to the congregation

*the Wobick/Scheuer Family-28 of us!

*baby Claire doing what she does best-sleeping

*Adam giving the "before we eat" speech, while Ellie holds onto Wangerin

*cousins Sarah, Brett, Eric, and Katherine with Claire

*Claire closeup

*Katherine watching while Fatime reads a Dora story to Ellie

Later on in the afternoon we all met up at the Worthington Community Center. It is their version of a YMCA on steroids. It has so much to offer to the community. We went swimming. Brett and Logan got to play basketball with a group of men. They were very nice to my boys. We all gathered under the covered patio for supper. Some of us had chicken and some of us had Chinese food. When it stopped raining, we drove to Adam & Jill's house. The strong guys helped Adam carry the pieces of a wooden playset (from across the street and three houses down) to his backyard. The boys had fun playing basketball out front. It was another late night.

*Adam, Ben, Isaiah, Stephen, Jim, and Logan playing water basketball

*Gina, John, Katherine, and Brett moving along the lazy river

*Grandma and Claire

*cousins Katherine and Ellie done swimming

*sisters Ellie and Claire

*cousins Joey, Brett, Isaiah, Logan, Ben, and Ryan

*after moving the playset parts-Glen, John, Stephen, Eric, Terry, Jim, Adam, Peter
Monday morning we packed up our belongs and left the hotel. We stopped by Adam & Jill's house for a quick good-bye. It was time to go home! We stopped at the Red Robin restaurant in Valparaiso, Indiana for lunch. It was our first time there. We all liked what we ordered. We got to Mukwonago, WI around 5:30 P.M. The kids played football, while Jim & I visited with Steve & Liz, and of course, loved Lucy! We had a wonderful supper before heading home.

It was a quick trip to the Eastern time zone and back, but we feel truly blessed to be with loving family and friends for the weekend.

*Claire and Uncle Jim sharing a little special time together

*Aunt Fatime with Claire saying good-bye

*our Lucy

*Anna, Katherine, Amy, Brett, Sam, Elijah, Logan, Bethany, and Lucy

Queensryche Concert (5/2/09)

2009-05-16T15:53:00.000-07:00

Those of you who know me know that Fatime and a 80's Metal band do not mix. Lisa had tickets, but Ryan was out of town. I didn't want her to go alone. I have gone to concerts (Heart and INXS) alone before, and it's not fun. So I told her that if she couldn't find anyone else, I would go. It came down to the last half hour and the telephone rang. 'Yes, Lisa, I will go.' How does one dress for a rock concert? I showered and changed into jeans and a black shirt (seemed a safe bet!). Lisa picked me up and we went down to the Northern Lights Theater at Potawatami Casino. I have never been in a casino before. It was loud and smoky...definately not my scene! I can honestly say that it wasn't the worst concert that I have ever attended. I enjoyed people watching. The music was so loud and the speakers were so large. We went away with ringing in our ears. We both got our hearing back sometime Sunday. What an adventure!

*Fatime at a metal concert

*Lisa and the lead singer for Queensryche

Brett's Music Assignment...Animal Football League-The Musical

2009-05-16T07:18:00.000-07:00

There once was this animal football league. The teams in the NFC were the Funky Colts, the Huge Bears, the Crazy Poodles, and the AFC teams were the Cute Dachshunds, the Blue Seahawks, and the Stinky Monkeys. The league was started in 2591. This league is unique because they sing throughout the games. The season was 20 games long. Here is the standings midway through the season:
AFC NFC
1 Cute Dachshunds 10-0 1 Crazy Poodles 10-0
2 Stinky Monkeys 7-3 2 Funky Colts 8-2
3 Blue Seahawks 6-4 3 Huge Bears 1-9

The main star quarterback on the Dachshunds was Dackel and the main running back was Sir Henry Charles Dickens. The Crazy Poodles’ star quarterback was Tim and their main running back was Johny. The teams that made it to the Dog Bowl were the Cute Dachshunds and the Crazy Poodles. They’re big rivals. Finally on Dog Bowl Sunday the game was on. The Poodles won the coin toss. They picked to receive and the Dachshunds would receive at the beginning of the second half. When the Poodles received they fumbled the ball and the Dachshunds recovered it and ran it in for a touchdown. Shortly after that the Poodles intercepted the ball and took it to the 10- yard line. The Dachshunds held them there until fourth down. The Poodles kicked a field goal and made it. The score was 7-3 at the end of the first quarter. In the second quarter both teams didn’t score. In the third quarter the Dachshunds fumbled the ball on the kickoff but recovered the ball. They didn’t gain any yards by fourth down so they punted. The Poodles got tackled on their own 20. Then the third quarter ended. Don’t forget that the Dachshunds are still winning 7-3. The Poodles threw a Hail Mary with three minutes left. Their wide receiver caught the ball in the end zone. Then they kicked the ball off with one minute and fifty seconds left. The Dachshunds quickly ran to their 30-yard line and ran out of bounds. With 20 seconds left Dackel handed it off to Sir Henry Charles Dickens. Sir Henry was at the Poodles’ 18-yard line with 3 seconds left. He ran as fast as he could and scored!!!! The Cute Dachshunds won the Dog Bowl 14-10!!! At the end of the game the Cute Dachshunds sung their Dog Song. It goes like this, “Dachshunds we score those touchdowns, and we Dachshunds always make those field goals. Dachshunds rule!!”

Brett's limerick (5/15/09)

2009-05-15T18:06:00.000-07:00

There once was a big farting dog

who had lived in a foggy bog.

He flew fast to the zoo.

It smelled like poo.

The smell came from a funky frog!

Brett's Birthday (5/11/09)

2009-05-12T14:28:00.001-07:00

Monday was Brett's 12th birthday. He first requested lasagna for his class treat. After I vetoed that one, he picked dirt cups (crushed chocolate chip cookies, chocolate pudding and Cool-Whip mixed together, and gummy worms). Brett chose Chinese food for dinner. With crazy schedules, it was easiest to call the Chinese Pagoda and order our food to go. We had a nice time visiting with Grandma & Grandpa.
Kyle and Ella came over for a while. Ryan is away, and Lisa had band rehearsal. Ella had fun playing soccer in our backyard and listening to Logan read her a story. She treated us with a story as well (Dr. Seuss' Hop on Pop)! Kyle sat on my lap eating an apple. Then he watched a movie in our bedroom for a bit.

*Brett and his dirt cups (class treat)

*Blowing out the candles on his Trader Joe's ice cream cake

*Brett, Grandma, Katherine, Logan, Grandpa

*Ella listening to Logan read, I Just Forgot by Mercer Mayer

Mother's Day (5/10/09)

2009-05-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning we went to Mount Olive's 8:30 worship service. Ryan preached a fine sermon. I sang with Brett and the Jr. Choir at the 11:00 A.M. service. Then we drove to Oconomowoc. Jim, Peter, and Stephen planned a delicious dinner: garden salad, steak, baked potatoes, broccoli, corn, fresh fruit salad, plus appetizers and desserts. It was definately a feast fit for queens! I regret not taking a picture of Bobbie and her sons that were there. We celebrated three out of the four Scheuer May birthdays: Logan (5/4), Brett (5/11), and Ryan (5/14). We sang to the three of them and enjoyed the many desserts. I am so blessed to have three healthy, happy children, and equally blessed to be a part of a wonderful family.

*Katherine (eating a blackberry thanks to Uncle Stephen), Isaiah, Stephen, Brett

*Bill, Peter and Jim horsing around

*Cousins Logan, Brett, Isaiah

*Logan, Katherine, Fatime, Brett

*Sarah, Felicia, Ryan

*Isaiah, Heather, Ben, Elsiana

*singing to Logan and Ryan

*singing to Brett

*Cousins Brett, Ryan (eyeing up the cake), Logan

Our Get-Away (5/8/09-5/9/09)

2009-05-09T17:10:00.000-07:00

This story starts in February at the dinner theater of MLHS. Katherine won a one night stay at a bed & breakfast. She was very excited until we told her that she could not go. I told her that we would make it up to her sometime.

Fast-forward to Friday. Nick & Angela agreed to take Lucy out. I packed two bags-one for the three kids and one for us. I got Brett and Katherine, drove to MLHS and picked Logan up. Then we headed to Oconomowoc for the switch-the three kids for Jim. Logan, Brett, and Katherine stayed with Grandma & Grandpa. Katherine got to pick what they were having for supper. Grandma & Grandpa took the kids to a fun ice-cream parlor in Watertown. They also played outside and stayed up late. Unfortunately I forgot to pack Wangerin for Katherine. She had a hard time sleeping without him. We are so grateful to Jim's parents for watching/spoiling the kids. They love visiting them (even if they don't have cable TV anymore!)!

Jim rested while I drove to Cambridge (Wisconsin, not Massachusetts or England). We stopped at the Lake Ripley Lodge Bed & Breakfast to check in first. We got to pick one of two rooms that were available. Then we drove into town. The only shop open was the Rowe Pottery Works Shop ( http://www.rowepottery.com/ishop/). Jim bought me a Mother's Day vase. (It was on sale!) We walked around for a bit and were getting hungry. It was after 6:00 P.M. We drove to Fort Atkinson and found Salamone's Italian Pizzeria (http://www.salamonespizza.com/sals/ftAtkinson/index.cfm). It was a Friday, so Jim ordered the fish fry. It was just ok. I ordered the vegetable lasagna (a home-made special recipe). It was so good! We got back to Cambridge before dark and walked across the street to sit on the dock. It was warm, quiet, and serene. If you want to get away and relax, this is the place for you (http://www.lakeripley.com/)! There was a lot on our minds, and we did a lot of talking, but it was relaxing and peaceful. Once the rain started we came in and sat on the screened-in porch. We sat looking at a Wisconsin picture book. Jim's yawning became a bit much. We went in for the nignt. Strong storms lasted all night. I enjoyed listening to the rain and the waves on the lake. I was up early praying. I wrote that there was a lot on our minds. I needed to take it to the Lord. We got a wonderful surprise- No morning rain! Jim & I went on a morning walk. We got back in time for breakfast with the other guests: a family from California, one from Chicago, and two from Fort Atkinson. By 10:30 A.M. we were off to reality, stopped at Pick N Save before getting our three children. It wasn't the best time to take a mini-vacation, but it was well worth it.

*Lake Ripley Lodge Bed & Breakfast

*looking out to Lake Ripley

*Jim at the Rowe Pottery Works Shop in Downtown Cambridge, Wisconsin

Our room was on the first floor

*Jim out front at the Lodge

*Fatime next to the sign with view of the Lodge

*our room is behind those French doors (left side of the porch)

*We sat here Friday night (right side of the porch)

Scenes from our walk

More scenes from our walk...Do any of you know someone named Warne (I don't mean personally)? Isn't this an interesting chalet-type house?

views of Lake Ripley before the rain started

Logan's Birthday Celebration (5/5/09)

2009-05-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

15 years ago today Logan was baptized. We were too busy yesterday to have a nice meal planned, so today is the day to celebrate. The birthday person gets to pick the meal. Logan decided to have Milwaukee Lutheran pizza and fresh fruit. For dessert he picked brownies and apple pie. Grandma & Grandpa joined us and brought a garden salad. Everything was delicious!

*Grandpa, Jim, Katherine, Brett, Logan, Grandma with the Milwaukee Lutheran pizza

*Logan and his birthday brownies

*Mom and Logan

15 (5/4/09)

2009-05-06T05:29:00.000-07:00

Today is Logan's 15th birthday! He was nine days late, 8 lbs. 14.2 oz., and 21" long. I remember saying how intelligent he looked. Now he is almost as tall as his father and an honor roll student at Milwaukee Lutheran High School. Jim made a pan of "brownie lady" brownies. I used two toothpicks and paper to make a little banner for the top of the brownies. I wrote "Felix Dies Natalis" and put them on his lunch table in the cafeteria. He was so happy that he almost hugged me. That is huge! We have a very busy day planned, so no birthday dinner tonight. Brett has his last volleyball match at 5:00 P.M. Katherine has soccer practice from 5:30-6:30 P.M. Jim & I have been excused from attending the M.O.'s voters meeting because of Jim's "quarantine." It'll be a quick supper of deli chicken from Pick N Save, steamed green beans, and strawberries.

Joey's Confirmation (5/3/09)

2009-05-04T19:55:00.001-07:00

Katherine had a soccer game on Saturday...she played well! After the win, we went home to load the van and get Lucy. We drove a little over four hours to Rhinelander for a Scheuer Gathering. This time it was for our nephew, Joey. He was being confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church. The service was Sunday at 2:00 P.M., so the party was Saturday evening. We had a fiesta...tacos, guacamole, salsa, blue chips, Tostito chips, fruit, veggies, quasadillas, plain & peanut M&M's, and a cake! The kids played basketball, made a hot-air balloon, ran around, and had lots of fun playing together. Lucy loved barking at Eric's rabbits. She did stop after a while. She and Spotzen played well together, but Lucy learned that Spotzen does not like her eating his food. Sunday morning, we listened to Mount Olive's worship service via the internet at www.mtolivemke.org. We have live-streaming for the 8:30 A.M. service. With it being Good Shepherd Sunday and Confirmation, you'd think that Pastor Wangerin would hit a homerun (so to speak). He did! We then showered, changed, relaxed and/or played some more. After the Confirmation service, we headed for home. It was a quick trip but very nice. John & Gina are wonderful hosts! We always feel welcomed and at home there.

*Eric, Brett, Logan, Jim, and Stephen playing basketball

*Katherine and Gramps cleaning up before bedtime

*Cousins Eric and Katherine with their balloon creations

*Katherine, Grandma, Brett, Fatime listening to Mount Olive's Worship Service on the internet Logan and Jim were in there, too!

*Spotzen resting on Katherine's blanket

*Gina with her sombrero

*Brett and Logan watching the Brewer game before Joey's Confirmation

*Grandma & Grandpa with 8 of their grandchildren: Elsiana, Katherine, Joey, Isaiah, Ben, Eric, Logan, Brett

*Two Points!

*Happy Lucy loving the outdoors

*This is the backyard scene

*John, Grandpa, Eric, Gina, Grandma, and the two pastors praying over Joey

*Joey playing the drums for the closing song, "Jesus Loves Me"

*Eric, John, Gina, Joey

*Aunt Gina and Katherine

*Cousins Logan and Joey

*Brett, Katherine, and Logan sleeping on the way home

*Jim is happy driving with the children napping!

Scott Walker's Announcement (4/28/09)

2009-04-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

One more post folks! Tuesday evening, the kids and I went to Wisconsin Lutheran College to hear the Milwaukee County Executive Scott Walker announce that he is running for governor of Wisconsin. Jim was busy ushering at Miller Park. The doors opened at 4:30, and he was scheduled to be there at 5:45 P.M. We got there at 4:45 P.M. A lady said that we should sit on the stage. Oh my goodness! We were in the fifth row, directly behind Scott's head. It was very exciting! We were on the Channel 4 news that night.

*This is how close we were

*Here is the athletic building filling with supporters

*Scott Walker is in the suit looking to the left.

*Logan, Brett, and Katherine with their Walker signs

There's a new Scheuer (4/29/09)

2009-04-30T15:14:00.000-07:00

Adam & Jill are the proud parents of another girl, Claire Amelia Scheuer. That makes Ellie the proud big sister. We had a friendly poll picking the sex of their unborn baby and the date of arrival. 10 people thought they were having a boy. 8 people guessed a girl. No one picked the correct date of April 29th. We all prayed for a healthy baby, and God answered our prayers! We look forward to seeing them Memorial Day weekend for Claire's baptism.

Jill, Ellie, and Adam on Easter Sunday

*Adam, Claire, and Jill

*Claire with Grandpa Terry

*Claire Amelia Scheuer, 8 lbs. 6 oz. 21"

Sports

2009-04-30T14:58:00.000-07:00

*Brett is ready for a return

*Brett bumps the ball over the net

*Katherine starts the game

*Katherine's 2nd of 5 saves as goalie

Social Studies Fair (4/24/09)

2009-04-30T14:28:00.000-07:00

*Brett with his board on Greece He also helped Jim make baklava (a rich Greek dessert). It tasted great!
*The kids had to pick an occupation and draw the theme into the word Google. Brett picked a veterinarian.

*Katherine's Japanese kite

*Katherine's dioroma of a Japanese room-compete with flip-flops outside, a Japanese scroll that reads, "God is love", and a hand-drawn mural of a cherry blossom tree

*Katherine's Haiku

*The third graders with their costumes made by Mrs. Murphy

*Mark, Mia, Katherine, Raven, Trey, and Victoria having tea

It was a wonderful, Friday evening. The weather was quite pleasant. We parked a block away and walked over to Mount Olive for the Social Studies Fair. The children put a lot of work into their projects. We were happy to have Peter & Felicia, and Ryan come look around. The only thing that I would change is the amount of time that the Fair was open. It was only two hours long, and that is not enough time to adequately see everything. Hopefully they will change that in two years. It's an every-other-year thing.

Our Rescue Mission

2009-04-18T11:48:00.000-07:00

People have all sorts of callings: some are called to teach, some to preach, and some are called to the mission field. Our family has been called to run a rescue mission.

Imagine living a life of luxury, basking in the tropical sun with your family and friends without a care in the world when suddenly hard, cruel hands ripped you away from the life you once knew, never to see it again. You get tossed in the back of a truck with other victims of the same, dire fate. After what seems like an eternity in that cramped truck, you enter a sinister-looking building where you and your fellow victims are separated: those who are deemed unacceptable are put into a mass grave. You shudder as you approach the inspectors, hoping you will get to live another day, no matter what that day will bring. You sigh in relief as you get the stamp of approval, then you get placed in a cargo hold of a ship. The light is limited, and the space available makes the truck feel like a limousine. You lose track of the days at sea, and the conditions almost make you wish you never had the stamp of approval.

Then one day a harsh, piercing light blinds you as doors are opened. You lament how the sun, who was once a cherished friend has now become a source of pain. But your senses are soon overwhelmed with a cacophony of shouts and horns as the malodorous atmosphere almost knocks you out. Callous hands jerk you up, and you are held up for display in a nightmarish scene. As far as you can see, people are bidding for victims like yourself. Some of the friends you made on the boat were just sold to a squat, hairy Italian man. Before you can see where they went to, you are suddenly exposed to the crowd, and you can't believe you are hearing people bid for the right to own you. Then it's over; you get whisked into a truck and for two days all life is is a series of bumps as you approach your final destiny.

When the doors finally opens, you are taken to a large room with bright lights and soothing music. You get placed into an area with others just like you. Some are from Chile, some from Brazil, like yourself. At this point, all you want is a place to feel safe and secure. Then you see them - families just like the one you were stolen from a lifetime ago. If only you could go with one of them. They could make you safe and warm and provide that thing that has eluded you since this trip of terrors began: a home. Your revelry is interrupted by a one of the Chilean captives. Your hopes are crushed as he tells you of the horrors that await you once one of these nice, loving families gets a hold of you. You shudder as tales of getting skinned alive and then being either hacked to pieces, or just plain eaten. You wonder what you ever did to God that he hates you so. Then it happens. A beautiful woman with gorgeous eyes that defy color comes up to you and puts a bag over your head.

Little do you know that your travels are finally over. God doesn't hate you, for He led you to the one place on this earth where you can live the remainder of your days in peace and comfort. There will be no skinning alive, no hacking to pieces, and no eating. For the Lord has led you out of captivity to the Scheuer Rescue Mission, where no banana is ever eaten, but is allowed to slowly and gracefully finish its days until it decomposes in peace.

That is our calling in this house. We run a rescue mission for bananas where they can spend their remaining days devoid of fear from being eaten!

Scheuer Week in Review

2009-04-18T05:54:00.000-07:00

Monday: Brett and I went walking at Mount Olive with Mr. Bartz, Karen, and Ava. Brett got to take Ava for a walk. Jim and Katherine worked on her kite project. Then Jim & I took Brett and Katherine to the Domes and to the Greenfield Hobby Shop. We know two people who like the train section there, but we went to get kite string and rods. Katherine and Brett both found things to put on their birthday lists. It was definately a fun "fieldtrip"!

*Katherine and the Kapok Tree

*Katherine and her Mama in the Show Dome

*Brett, Daddy, Katherine

*Katherine, Mama, Brett (Katherine looks pained because we were kneeling on the gravel and woodchips)

Tuesday the kids went to school. After walking with Mr. Bartz, Karen and Ava, I went to work. Jim stayed in his bathrobe and watched movies all day. Jim enjoyed his first day of Spring Break (without the family). He worked at Miller Park that evening. The rest of us went to Brett's first volleyball game at Hales Corners Lutheran School. The 5/6 grade boys did a great job! They played like a team. Every one of them got their serves over the net. They won their first match! It was late by the time we got home. While the kids worked on their homework, I ordered supper from the Chinese Pagoda. It was a nice treat, and Jim would have left-overs the next day.

Wednesday Jim grilled lamb patties for supper. We had them with baked potatoes, beans, fresh fruit and veggies.

Thursday Jim decided to join our walking club. Jim dropped me off at work and went to the Rupe's house to assemble Kyle and Ella's playset. It was definately a project! Kyle got to spend time with us in the afternoon. Jim and Kyle picked me up after work, and we went to Whole Foods. We bought a Kyle-friendly pizza that will stay here until the next time he visits. We had tacos for supper. Jim went back to work on the playset. Katherine worked on her memory work. The boys stayed home playing baseball in the backyard. I went to Sam's Club to shop for Mount Olive's hot lunch.

*Kyle kicking the soccer ball

*Kyle, Brett, and Katherine playing soccer

*Kyle and Miss Fatime playing "Row, Row, Row Your Boat

*Kyle on Katherine's skateboard

*Kyle and Brett looking at dogs on the internet

Friday, Mr. Bartz and I walked outside. Then it was time for Hot Lunch: chicken patty on a bun, chips, carrots & dip, and a ice cream sundae. Mark came over after school and played baseball. In the evening, we had a nice visit with the Wards. Jonathan & Kaethe were members at Mount Olive before moving to Pittsburgh. That was six years ago! They now live in Grand Rapids, MI. We got to meet their beautiful daughters, Mali and Brinnly, who had a nice time playing with Katherine in the sand box. It was so nice seeing them and sharing how our lives have changed. It was also good to see that through it all, the Lord shines in our lives. He is in control! May our good and gracious Heavenly Father bless the Wards and their growing family!

*Katherine, Lucy, Jim, Fatime, Kaethe, Mali, Jonathan, and Brinnly

*Mali, Katherine, and Brinnly playing with the sand

*Katherine and Brinnly

*Katherine, Brett, Mali, Jonathan, Brinnly, Kaethe, and Logan

We made the kids a quick supper. Jim & I decided to go out, just the two of us. We changed into nice clothes and drove to the Alpine Inn, in Mequon. Jim ordered the Seafood Platter, and I got the lightly breaded Haddock. The atmosphere was wonderful! It made us think of our time in Germany. Afterwards, we drove down to Beach Court in Fox Point. It was quiet except for the water splashing on the rocks (Lake Michigan). There were so many stars to see. It was a wonderful end to a full day.

Today I took Brett and Katherine to Hawthorn Glen for the National Clean-Up. We stayed over an hour removing concrete pieces, brush, and garbage. Eddie came home with us. The boys played basketball and videogames. They are eating their lunch outside. It is a beautiful day!

*Brett and Eddie moving a log

*Katherine removing branches

*Skins vs. Shirts

Easter Sunday (4/12/09)

2009-04-13T05:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter

Katherine and I sat alone at the 7:00 A.M. worship service. Brett sang with the Jr. Choir, while Jim and Logan accompanied them on their trumpets. We all sat together for the 8:30 A.M. worship service. Pastor joined us during the hymn of the day and the sermon. The music was beautiful! We had breakfast and waited for Logan who carried the Alleluia banner in at the 11:00 A.M. worship service.

*Jim, Logan, Pastor Wangerin, Katherine, Fatime, Brett

We got home, loaded the van with desserts and the seven of us (including our friends Faith & Gary) went out to Oconomowoc. We had a wonderful noon dinner: garden salad, fresh fruit, ham, green beans, cheesy potato bake, sweet potatoes, black olives, deviled eggs, and hot cross buns. The kids went on a Easter egg hunt outdoors and indoors. They all had a good time. Elsiana especially liked her M & M's. You could tell by the chocolate on her face and the cute grin. We sat around talking and had desserts: angel food cake with strawberries and cool-whip, apples-snickers salad, brownies, and carrot cake. We got to see Adam & Jill, Ellie and Peanut via the webcam. They are all doing well. We pray for a safe, healthy, and speedy delivery.

If you check out their blog, you'll see the coolest Easter egg!

*Katherine on Saturday's Easter egg hunt at church

*Faith & Gary

*Katherine running to get another egg

*Brett and Sarah found an egg

When we got home, we straightened the living room and kitchen. In the evening we had Latif & Ruth, Daut and Cyrus, Bedull and Ali over for desserts. Some of us played Imaginiff, which was a lot of fun. Some played video games.

*Logan, Brett, Katherine on our front lawn

*Logan, Lucy, Brett, Katherine

*Brett, Jim, Ali, Daut, Latif, and Bedull playing Imaginiff

We are so blessed to celebrate our Savior's Resurrection with family and friends.

Easter morning (4/12/09)

2009-04-11T22:26:00.000-07:00

He has risen...Alleluia!!

We'll be going to the 7:00 A.M. worship service. Jim and Logan will be playing their trumpets, and Brett will be singing with the Jr. Choir. We'll stay for the 8:30 A.M. worship service. I love Easter! God bless your day!

Good Friday (4/10/09)

2009-04-11T05:16:00.000-07:00

Thoughts on Good Friday

We went to most of the Tre-Ore Service this afternoon at Mount Olive. I love that service. It's so contemplative. We have seven different ministers preaching on the 7 words from the cross. This year we stayed to hear from Pastor Ronald Meyer, Pastor Wurm, Pastor Bruce Harmann, Pastor David Paape, and Pastor Ryan Rupe. Brett and I walked out together. When we got outside he said, "Well that was awful." I must say, I was a little confused. Brett doesn't get a whole thought out of his head. He keeps one guessing. So I asked, 'What do you mean?'

Brett: I don't mean the service. What they did to Him was awful. I have always gone to this service and didn't get it. I mean I was fighting back tears in there.
Mama: You get it, Brett! I told Katherine this morning that you can't have Easter without Good Friday. All the sadness today will turn into joyful rejoicing come Sunday. Praise the Lord!
Brett and I had a moment, and I thank God for his faith!
In the van I said that I saw Mrs. Paape (my first grade teacher). Brett didn't know who I meant. Logan said, "You know, her son is the guy who did a good job preaching before Ryan." So (I guess) Logan enjoyed the service, too.

Wilhelm Visit (4/6/09-4/7/09)

2009-04-07T19:01:00.000-07:00

Jim has 7 Wilhelm cousins. The oldest, Jeff, is a pastor in Greenville, Michigan. His middle child is doing some college shopping in her Junior year of high school. Jeff & Grace, Mary and Matthew toured Concordia-River Forest yesterday. They got here in time for supper. We had lasagna and garlic bread. Then the boys ran downstairs to watch "Chuck." Then, of course, since Mom was not watching, the boys played on the Nintendo Wii. I guess that was their way of being good hosts, even though the rule is "No Video Games During the School Week!" They all ran up for dessert: moist brownies and pumpkin pie. Because shopping is hard work, Mary fell asleep on the loveseat. Jeff was not feeling well and slept while we watched UNC defeat Michigan State.

*Logan, Brett, and Matthew playing on the Nintendo Wii

*Mary and Lucy resting

This morning, Matthew went to school with Logan. He had a good time and loved not having homework! The rest got to relax in the morning for a bit. Jeff & Grace visited Katherine's third grade class. This is the year for Mount Olive's Social Studies Fair, and Katherine's class is learning about Japan. Jeff & Grace lived there for 3 years (20 years ago).

*Lucy and Grace having a morning moment.

*The kids learned "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes" in Japanese.
*Third Grade clas with Jeff & Grace. Nice picture, Mary!

While I voted, the kids played at Center Street Park. Then they had an after-school snack and played football out front.

*Logan, Matthew, Brett, Katherine after school

Brett had volleyball practice at 5:00 P.M., so he waited here for Jim. Logan, Katherine, and I took Matthew out to Oconomowoc by his Uncle Bill & Aunt Bobbie's house. We heard about the "shopping" that was done today. Wisconsin Lutheran College is now at the top of Mary's list. She has a year to decide and more schools to visit, but we are so happy with the thought of Mary continuing her education right here in Milwaukee. The kids and I stayed for a wonderful meal made by Bobbie...salad, porkchops, steamed broccoli, corn, hot cross buns, and applesauce. Her famous chocolate chip cookies were for dessert.

*Isaiah, Katherine, and Ben

*Logan, Stephen, Heather, Elsiana

*Matthew, Mary, Grace, Jeff, Bill

Mary, Katherine, Matthew, Isaiah, Heather, Ben, Jeff, Grace, Logan, Bobbie, Elsiana, and Bill

Cyrus' Confirmation (4-5-09)

2009-04-07T17:12:00.000-07:00

We started our day by attending Mount Olive's 8:30 A.M. Palm Sunday Worship Service. Katherine marched in with her palm branch with the other 1-3 graders while the congregation sang, All Glory, Laud, and Honor. Then the kids sang the first and third verse of Hosannah, Laud, Hosannah. I love these songs! Kyle decided to sit with us. I'm sure it was a nice treat for his Mom! Pastor Wangerin sermon title was "Peace March." He talked about Jesus entry into Jerusalem with the Peace that passes all understanding. I'll post the service once it is up on Mount Olive's site.

Here it is: http://www.mtolivemke.org/index_files/RadioBroadcasts.html, click on the Palm Sunday service.

After church we drove to Our Father's Lutheran Church on the south side of town. Our nephew, Cyrus, was being confirmed at the 10:45 A.M. service. He had three rows of relatives/friends there for him. Quite a few of our Albanian relatives were there. Two even came all the way from Hackensack, New Jersey. It was a very special day for the whole family! What a wonderful witness! After a lot of pictures, we went to the lunchroom for a meal prepared by Daut. The kids had a good time running around the dark gymnasium with their good clothes.

Kujtim & Helime Gaba, Adile & Gezim Bermema

Katherine, Fatime, Jim, Ruth and Emily, Susan, Cyrus, Daut, Bedull, Logan, Vera, Ali, Brett

*Daut, Pastor Fabrizius, Cyrus, Susan

*Cyrus and Aunt Adile

*Proud Daut with Cyrus

*cousins Ali and Vera

*Bedull, Susan, Vera

*Vera and Fatime

*Ali and Bedull

*sisters Adile and Fatime

*Cyrus and his cake

*cousins Logan and Vera

*cousins Brett and Vera

*cousins Katherine and Vera
At 8:30, I took Logan and Brett down to the train/bus station. We surprised Helime and Kujtim. We wanted to say good-bye before they left for NJ. It was so nice of them to come!

*Kujtim, Brett, Fatime, Logan, Helime

Grandma & Grandpa visit (4/4/09)

2009-04-07T12:59:00.000-07:00

Jim's parents recently returned from a month long trip to Ohio and Florida. We invited them over for supper on Saturday. We made chop suey and then had brownies & strawberries for dessert. After watching Michigan State win their game, we took a drive to Trader Joe's. We love that store! Katherine and Brett like walking around trying to find Millie the parrot. Once they find it, they tell the manager where it is to get a treat. We left there with four bags full of goodies. We headed home and said our good-byes. It was so good seeing Jim's parents again!

*Grandma and Brett

*Logan actually eating the chop suey

*Katherine found Millie hiding behind the basketball hoop!

*Jim bagging his Mom's groceries