Grotto, The Legendary Taste

Labor Day weekend at Harvey's Lake is traditionally known as the "end of the season". At dusk on the Sunday evening before Labor Day, there is a parade of decorated boats. The parade is followed by an incredible fireworks display launched from a church located at the water's edge. The bursts of light reflected in the lake is a spectacular sight. Equally impressive are the many boats, complete with running lights, anchored in the middle of the lake to view the show. Even though these two events are must sees each year, a slice of Grotto Pizza is a must have to mark the end of the summer!

Training

Today we had a day of training on Learning Focused Schools. We learned about previewing and graphic organizers. I was familiar with these concepts from my public school teaching years. I really enjoyed learning about them again. It made me realize how much I've missed teaching this last year. I just love this stuff! Thoughts and prayers are with Bruce and Helen Achuff tonight and their children, Molly and Rocco. Tomorrow is the Memorial Service for Maggie. I know there will be an outpouring of support and love. I hope they will get a sense of God's love surrounding them.

The Last Day of Summer

Today, we went to Mt. Gretna, the Chautauqua of Pennsylvania, to celebrate the last day of summer (I officially start my new job tomorrow). It is one of my favorite places. Numerous cottages, no two the same, are nestled away in the woods. I love to stroll along the paths looking at all the cottages and just taking in whatever the seasons have to offer. After we got done walking, we had lunch at the Jigger Shop, best known for its decadent ice cream concoctions. Today, we had sandwiches and fries. It was a great way to end the summer!

Charlotte and Carrie

I have not blogged for awhile. So much has happened since April. I got a job as an instructional assistant in kindergarten. School starts very soon. I will be happy to be back in the classroom after a year off!

My husband and I took a trip to the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon and Zion in June. It was a trip of a lifetime. Bryce was my favorite. We flew in and out of Las Vegas. Las Vegas is interesting to see but was not for me.

My little granddaughter, Charlotte, was baptized in July. My husband, daughter, Sally, and her husband, Andrew, all attended the baptism along with Charlotte's other grandparents and great grandparents. It was a wonderful day. I smocked (in blue to match her eyes) a dress for Charlotte to wear on her special day.

This month I've been doing a lot of outside work. My husband and I trimmed shrubs that were incredibly overgrown and with the help of Sally and Andrew cleaned up a huge tree that fell down at Fern Hill. It was a challenge getting electricity restored.

My Granddaughter, Charlotte

I didn't know how it would feel to be a grandmother. But, on February 1st, 2008, I found out that it is one of the true highlights of a woman's life. Not only do I have the privilege to see and touch our family's future in this little girl, but I also experience the joy of observing my daughter as a mother. I am so very proud of both of them!

Welcome to Fern Hill!

It all started four years ago when we purchased a weather worn lake house from my cousin and became the third generation to own the beautiful Dutch colonial on Harvey's Lake. We began a renovation that included replacing the heating, plumbing and electrical systems, as well as adding new windows. Siding and a new roof helped to protect the long neglected house. Inside, plaster walls were repainted, a bathroom and kitchen were remodeled. Original woodwork, bead board and a stone fireplace were carefully preserved. Slowly, the little cottage was returned to its former glory. The "little house", a small guest house on the property, was remodeled to include a small kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. The three car garage got treated to new siding and a green roof to match the house and guest house. At the lake side, a new dock replaced the dilapidated, rotting original. Fern Hill was born Since then, we have been busy making lots of family memories. Countless treks across our lot in the front of the house have led us to the dock where we fish, float on rafts, sip wine, eat cheese, watch fireworks and boat parades. From our dock vantage point, we are treated to the parade of seasons: the crazy water activity that is Summer, the colorful patchwork that is Fall, the quiet ice covered splendor that is Winter, and the honeysuckle sweetness that is Spring. A fire pit built with rocks from the woods has provided heat for hot dogs, s'mores and chilly evenings.