Merry Christmas!

I want to wish all of you a safe, restful, peaceful and joyful Christmas & New Year! I am so thankful to have such a loving family.

I also want to say thank you for taking initiative and making our family blog fun and informative! I love hearing about each of your lives!

Be sure to respond with your favorite Christmas present you're giving or received this Christmas! I won't reveal any family gifts at this time, but I have to say that I LOVE the present Janell & Jessie gave me. I have the collector's edition of Pride & Prejudice. You know, the five hour version with Colin Firth! Andrew knows what I'm talking about. I made him watch it with me once and kept saying, "Andrew, you'll be a better man for it!" Look at him now! I'm right!

I love you all! Merry Christmas!

Happy Holidays!

To your left is Indy, who was visibly embarassed to be dressed up in her $2 Christmas outfit from Target's dollar aisle (love the dollar aisle, by the way). But like all top models, she just dealt with what she was given and worked the camera. I mean, just look at that face.

Anyway, I just wanted to say happy holidays to everyone. I hope you all have a great time in all your respective states.

We still have no snow up here in Minnesota, which is kind of sad. I like a nice white Christmas -- we'll see if we get any of the white stuff this weekend. The nice part about no snow is that it's not really all that cold outside -- maybe in the 40s, which isn't too bad for up here.

Well, have a fabulous Christmas and Happy New Year! Here's to good health, some more happy & healthy babies to join the family, and hopefully some more opportunities to get everyone together in 2007.

"Rebirth" at House of Blues

Kyle, Jessie, Janelle & Josh

Josh & Angie

The Wrigleyville Roommates

Here are some pics from the House of Blues in Chicago where Katy's comedy group "Rebirth" performed last Friday. It was a hilarious. Katy did a fabulous job... especially as the adultress. Katy, don't forget us when you're famous!

Guess Who!

Let's play a game. Who can guess who this man is? First one to guess right wins. GO!

Carol Cocktail

Thanks Heidi!

How to make a Carol Cocktail:

How to make a carol

Ingredients: 1 part jealousy 3 parts crazyiness 3 parts instinct

Method: Combine in a tall glass half filled with crushed ice. Top it off with a sprinkle of curiosity and enjoy!

Username:

Personality cocktail
From Go-Quiz.com

Newest Branches of the Family Tree

O.K. All - Honesty required.

Driving down the highway, Mary Anne and I had a "discussion" about the names of all the grandkids. Of course, she could name them all (but one from your branch George). I was able to name my own two and then began to stumble. I said to her that I bet all the girls, I mean, women of the next generation could name them all. She replied that everyone from our generation could name them too.

No way, I replied. I won't embarrass anyone but myself here; but a quick phone survey confirmed my assertion. Now the test. All generations welcome. Try to name all the newest generation, Angie & Josh's and Alicia and Patrick's excepted. I will be very impressed by any male who can get them all. Chauvinist that I am.

Happy Holiday's to all. Steve

SNOW! Kind of...

Growing in up IL/MN snow was a yearly thing - happy at first, then annoying as I had to scrape my car everyday. Here in TX it's a rarity, but I got to use my scraper today! My kids were thrilled over the flurries we had (not really anything I would consider full-blown snow, it was more like sleet that couldn't decide WHAT precipitation to be) and their eyes lit up. They lit up so much they were almost unable to concentrate on the songs we were singing! And I do not have a window in my room. I do not envy those with a window - nothing got done today in the classrooms. Though the teachers figured it out... "If you're good and we work hard for the remainder of the period we can go out side for the last 2 minutes of class". I couldn't bear the thought of herding children when the bell rang (not unlike herding cats), especially when they would have been enjoying this rare phenomemnon - I would feel guilty. So instead I made them stay in. I know, I'm the kind-hearted teacher you've always wanted. =)

Happy Birthday Mom!

I want to wish my mom a Happy Birthday! I did wish her happy birthday on her actual birthday but I thought I would post it here too in case you want to send her birthday wishes through comments, calls or whatever.

I was celebrating her life yesterday and rejoicing that I have such an incredible mom! Thank you to you all for being such a huge impact in her life and therefore all of our lives. She gives us many reasons to celebrate!

Love you Mom!

Family Photo History

Family -

I am currently working on scanning family photos to have a digital copy. Here are a few that I have found that are fun to look at. Enjoy!

Patrick & Alicia

The Blogging Bandwagon

Soooo... several of us have taken cues from KatyO and her genious mind and created our own blogs for our friends, our families, and ourselves! Heidi's you have been made aware of. Now Alyse and I each have one. If any of you lovely family members have your own blogs, please let us know! I know I love checking up on everyone on the links to the Mueller Blog, Super Connor, and all the other links that "link" us together (HAHAHA - punny teacher comment there). Keep us updated!

Alyse's Blog: http://alyseinaustin.blogspot.com

Kate's Blog: http://keepingupwithkate.blogspot.com

We may take awhile to come anywhere near the greatness of blogging as perfected by KatyO, but we'll take a gander at it!

Fall Pictures of Josh, Angie & Piper

Here are some of our latest photos. Enjoy!!

Dog park etiquette

Since everyone else has cute baby pics and baby stories, I thought I'd share a story about my baby (Indy, the chocolate lab puppy). This is a picture from when I first got her at 8 weeks -- now she's 9 months old!

Anyway, I had quite the time at the dog park the other day, so I thought I'd blog about it. Check out the blue blocker lady story on my blog.

I ain't a playa hata, I'm a playa maker!.It's a Boy!

Team Lindsay,

Alicia and I found out Tuesday that "the player to be named later" in our lives is going to be a boy!

We are excited for this great family he is going to be a part of. The rumor mill has it that Connor is a little nervous now that some of his thunder is going to be stolen (p.s. - he knows he is going to get beat up by this new addition one-day).

The due date is March 16th so be praying for a great continued pregnancy. Alicia is an all-star and is doing fantastic. She is beginning to glow!

Cabo

Are anyone else's parents going to Cabo and as excited as mine? I had no clue they were going until they were arguing over a budget... now they're on the phone (both of them) with Art and Pat and I can tell - they're going to have fun! I love hearing them both so excited about their travels with family. If it's anything close to what Chicago was for the ladies, I am just about as excited as they are to simply hear about the events that will ensue.

Notes from my life... I'm still with the 'rents (if you hadn't guessed from the previous paragraph) but am excited to move on to the next phase of my life - a new beginning. Thanks to everyone for all the prayers, love and support! After hearing from multiple others I can not tell you how blessed we are to have this family that loves us all for our own unique selves and who will stand by us no matter what!

Enough of the melodramatic saga... Have a great night, and parents/aunts/uncles - I expect a not-so-detailed but still exciting report of your adventures upon your return! Love to all!

Josh's Favorite Films

Someone asked a few years back to come up with my top favorite 25 films. I said "OK" and finally stopped at 110. Here's the top 50.

I would like to dedicated #1 to Joe Lindsay for introducing this film to me, #23 to my family because its the best film to get them all laughing and #18 to Matt and Shelly because they hate this film almost as much as I love it.

Enjoy...


1 Raiders of the Lost Ark
2 Shawshank Redemption
3 Babe
4 Life is Beautiful
5 Moulin Rouge
6 Fellowship of the Ring
7 Sling Blade
8 Strictly Ballroom
9 The Usual Suspects
10 Schindler’s List
11 Return of the King
12 Batman Begins
13 Amadeus
14 Chariots of Fire
15 The Mission
16 The Matrix
17 The Prince of Egypt
18 Fargo
19 The Empire Strikes Back
20 The Hunt for Red October
21 The Last of the Mohicans
22 Shall We Dance (original)
23 Waiting for Guffman
24 The Two Towers
25 Braveheart
26 The Truman Show
27 Forrest Gump
28 Edward Scissors Hands
29 Raising Arizona
30 Memento
31 Traffic
32 The Muppet Movie
33 Good Will Hunting
34 Field of Dreams
35 Star Wars
36 Return of the Jedi
37 Dead Man Walking
38 L.A. Confidential
39 Fiddler on the Roof
40 The Godfather
41 Best In Show
42 A Mighty Wind
43 Camelot
44 Unforgiven
45 Big Night
46 Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
47 Indiana Jones & the Last Crusade
48 E.T.
49 One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
50 Fried Green Tomatoes

New blog

So, I know, you must all be thinking, "Wow, another entry from Heidi. She must have a lot of time on her hands..."

I've been meaning to start a blog for a while now since I have friends and family all over the U.S. (and overseas). So I finally did it! If you want to check it out, feel free. There's not a whole lot there just yet -- it doesn't quite compare to the coolness of Katy's blog or superconner.com, but it will fill up eventually. And I promise to post lots of cute puppy pictures. :)

Here it is: thelifeofheidi.blogspot.com.

Enjoy!

Bob & Beth Do the Twin Cities!

So a couple weekends ago, my dad and Beth visited the great north country, and it was really great to see them. Beth looks great -- very fit and energetic. And my dad looks pretty good, too...apparently he's seeing a personal trainer now. Saturday night, we had a lovely dinner party at Stacy and Taylor's place in downtown St. Paul. If you'd like to see all the pics from that night, just click on this link: http://www.kodakgallery.com/ShareLandingSignin.jsp?Uc=18feg6zq.b3dh0cn2&Uy=-8817wi&Upost_signin=Slideshow.jsp%3Fmode%3Dfromshare&Ux=1

More books

This might be getting old for some people, but I felt like reflecting on some of my book history. This is what I came up with....although I feel like there is more than one answer for some of these.

1. Book that changed my life: There are two. "The Wisdom of No Escape and the Path to Loving-Kindness" was a book I read in a spirituality class in college. Interesting perspective on how to live your life in kindness, love yourself, accept things you can't change, etc. The other book that changed my life was "Lady and the Tramp," because it was the first "chapter" book I ever read, and it inspired me to keep on reading. :)

2. Book I've read more than once: "Where the Red Fern Grows." Love it. It was also the first book that made me cry.

3. Book I'd want on a deserted island: One of those survival guide books, of course.

4. A book that made me laugh: "Marley and Me." Highly recommended if you have a dog, have had a dog or are thinking about getting a dog. It's wonderfully written, an easy read and very entertaining.

5. A book that made me cry: Other than "Where the Red Fern Grows," all Nicholas Sparks books always make me cry. I also cried reading "Marley and Me." It's so touching!

6. Book I wish I had written: "My Sister From the Black Lagoon," because I feel like the author ripped off a bunch of my own childhood stories--not from my sisters, from my brother.

7. Book I wish had never been written: Really not sure on this. I'm thinking there were probably several books I never finished reading that were required in school. One that pops out in my head was "The Broken Cord," about a kid with fetal alcohol syndrome. The author turned out to be an alcoholic or something, and he was the one telling the story of his son, I believe. After that, I think Woodbury High School didn't require 10th graders to read that anymore.

8. Book I'm currently reading: "Fierce Invalids Home From Hot Climates," a book given to me by Stacy and Taylor. I've only just started it, and so far it's pretty good.

9. Book I've been meaning to read: "1984" since I borrowed it from my brother about two years ago. There's many more on my shelf that I need to read, but that's probably the next one.

If you made it all the way to the end, congrats! :)

COUSINS!!!!

BOOKS

A while back Katy laid bare her feelings about all sorts of books- after some time, I am finally following her request to do the same.

1. One book that changed your life; ummmmmm....tough question... but I will have to say What so Amazing about Grace and A new Kind of Christian. Both are books that helped me gain insight about extending grace to others as well as myself, not to mention the never ending lovelyness of the grace of god.

2. A book I've read more than once; Franny and Zooey. Love this book and cant really tell you why. Its hard book to get through for some, but others, like me, just eat it up.

3. One book I would have on a deserted island; I'm going to rip off Katy on this one- my bible. I'd finally have time to read those slightly obnoxious books like Leviticus. Also, I tend to keep lots of odds and ends, pictures, letters, and doodles I created during boring sermons, that would bring me, and I believe any conscious human being, hours of entertainment while waiting for the rescue plane.

4. A book that made me laugh; Me Talk Pretty One Day.

5. A book that made me cry; Jane Erye- tears of joy! and if it wasn't so weird to do so I would name my first born son, sinjin rivers- cool name, but its after a character who's a little freaky and seems incapable of real love- yikes. not exactly qualities I want to see in my son.

6. A book I wish I had written; Wild at Heart. So then, after coming to my senses, I could burn it.

7. A book I wish had never been written; Wild At Heart. But to be fair, I never actually read the book :) I read the first 30 pages and could not bear to continue- thats all I can say, my blood pressure is rising ;)

8. A book I am currently reading; 1776, Mans search for meaning, and Lies at the Altar: secrets to a good marriage (thanks to Art and Pattymelt, not sure what that means that they sent it to me... Considering I'm not even dating anyone...but love them for thinking of their youngest anyway) and I truly love Man's search for meaning- maybe one of my favorite books

9. One book that I've been meaning to read; the agony and the ecstasy- My mom has always been an advocate for reading. Since birth she has tried to steer me towards those books with the caldicott awards (I did get my hands on some babysitter club books though, but only because they were a gift from my grandfather.) and other signs of excellence on the covers. So over the years I have collected quite a few books from her reading encouraging hands. The Agony and ecstasy being one, and I WilL read it. :)

Thats it! This has taken much concentration and Katy is now in the background trying to get me to pay attention to her (she is banging on pots and pans, literally). I better go ~ Love to all my book loving family!
R.I.F!

Fall

Hudson and Tucker come to Springfield and become famous! Last Tuesday, a photographer from the State-Journal Register drove by Pat and Art's house and grabbed a shot of the mueller boys playing in the leaves! They were the cover of the city/state section :)

More Visits to Chicago

Check out the most recent visitors to Chicago! We had a great time and I can't wait to host even more people!!!! Hint, Hint. Come visit!

Chicago, Chicago...

What an amazing weekend! Check out Katy's blog for her side of the story. Which, actually, coincides with what I remember.
Meeting with the "sisters" for a fabulous downtown Chicago gathering was the best thing that we'd done in a long time. So many fun conversations. And you'd be amazed at how little was said about husband's and children!
Katy's show, Bathroom Talk, was a hit. VERY late at night, but our afternoon nap and a very funny show kept us awake and laughing. It's amazing what she does!
Shopping, eating (we ate surprising healthily, dessert only once!), more shopping...and LOTS of laughter all along the way. The Menopause show was hilarious, great characters, great music, and written just for us. And we all went down to the stage at the end and danced arm in arm! Can you imagine? And with no wine beforehand. We're crazy, bold gals. Katy, Jessie and Angie stayed in their seats, realizing it was "our moment".
Katy took us to all the right places and, I'm certain, truly enjoyed herself. So what if she's 25+ years younger than all of us! She fit right in and we loved having her there to share the weekend.
Another trip? You bet. And here's hoping that Pat and Nancy can join us on the next one. How about June, at our lakehouse? Does that sound like a possibility??? I don't want to wait a whole year!
I love my sisters more than they can imagine...and delight in their presence and their personalities. Thanks, Mother and Dad, for bringing us into your family. We're forever grateful.
Carol

Proposal

After picking up my mom and Carol at the airport and thoroughly enjoying their entertaining stories - and watching them start laughing at memories of the weekend they just shared with the other Lindsay women - I've decided I want to hear about it from the ALL the women who lived it. So come on Lindsay women who were in Chicago! Tell us your tales! Or is it more along the lines of 'what happened in Chicago stays in Chicago'? And Katy, make sure us cousins get your side of the story. I'm excited to hear about it from a cousin's point of view. =)

Grey's Anatomy

So there I was, laid out on the couch suffering from a cold on last Thursday night. Angie, healthier and stronger than I at the time, had control of the remote. I had no choice but to watch what she wanted. And what golden morsel of television programming did she choose? Yes, it was “Grey’s Anatomy.” I was too weak to protest or even move myself to the other room. I was doomed to a night of TV hell.

But as I watched, something happened. Something unexpected. I became… inspired. As I watched these debauched yet sexy doctors get lost in love and lust and death and sex I began to crack the code to the perfect television show. When the program was over I had it. I knew I could produce the next popular prime time television show for the American masses. So here it is. The secret code:

First, I will study the habits, communication styles and love lives of teenagers. I will use their words and actions to create the relationships for our characters who will be adults placed in very importance roles such doctors. Of course, I will spruce up the dialogue with thoughtful and deep scripting, but it should only take me about 7 minutes per episode to come up with some really good clichés.

The actors must all be sexy and have the ability to stare into space with a serious and thoughtful look upon their face. Their acting ability really doesn’t need to go beyond that. Now, if the character is over 40 then they can be frumpy or just cute or maybe distinguished looking. This will give the show the much needed credibility that the sexy actors can’t provide. I will have one token “fat actor” so more people can relate to my show.

Once each episode is written I will direct. I have given a lot of thought to this already. Let me give you a taste of my directing style. When one of my actors asks, “What is my motivation in this scene?” I will simply reply, “Why, it’s sex, my dear.” Every character’s driving force will be sex.

ACTOR: “I’m a doctor in surgery trying to save the life of a patient. What’s my motivation”
ME: “All you can think about is: I must hurry through this brain surgery for this gun shot victim who is holding a live grenade and is also my wife’s mother, so I can have sex with my mistress as soon as possible.”

ACTOR: “I’m dying from a plague from the 17th century and I’m trying to find something to eat. What’s my motivation?”
ME: “You’re upset because you’re hungry. Hungry for the sex you’ll never get if you die.”

ACTOR: “I’m married, yet I’m obsessing over another woman. What’s my motivation?”
ME: “You’re just not getting enough sex. Reach deep inside of you and imagine what that must be like.”

Here’s the best part: There won’t be any need to develop the characters because I’ll simply get the audience to care about the them through lots of death and popular top 40 songs. Watching someone cry over the death of a lover while Rob Thomas sings a sad and sweet ballad is the key to great television. During the singing and crying we’ll splice in scenes of the other beautiful and sexy actors looking sad or serious or looking for more sex. This formula is rock solid, folks.

I’m also thinking of casting a washed up 80’s movie star to make his comeback with my show. I was thinking of Corey Feldman or maybe Pauley Shore. I’ll have to see if they’re booked already.

By the time Grey’s Anatomy goes off the air I will be ready with my show to pick up a lost audience. That should be in about two or three weeks. Wish me luck.

Is Anybody There???

YooHoo. Where is everyone? I guess we've all been a bit busy. Just wanted to let everyone know how GREAT it will be for the "sisters" to be together in Chicago to see Menopause. And, of course, Katy's Bathroom Talk show. And shopping on Michigan Avenue. And having pajama talks at night. And dining out. Lunching out. Breakfasting out. Wheeeeeee!
Andrew will be 16 years old Tuesday, Sept 19th. Can it possibly be? No more carpooling for this mama. Instead I'll be at home on my knees praying for him to use good judgement and to be safe.
All is well at our house. Hope it's the same at yours. I look forward to reading YOUR blog!
Love to all,
Carol

Prayer/Meditation/Good Thought Request

Not to be a downer, but a good friend of mine from Indianapolis was in a plane crash this morning. All four involved survived and are in the hospital in serious/stable condition (and I think the pilot is in critical condition). So I just thought I'd post this as a prayer request or request for good thoughts or whatever you see fit. Thanks! Perhaps we should add this section for future good/bad things?

If you want to read about the crash:
http://www.wthr.com
http://www.wishtv.com
http://www.indystar.com

Katy's Triathalon

I'll be sure to blog more extensively on this subject on my personal blog. Right now I'm experiencing an exhaustion hang over and wondering what on earth possessed me to work out this morning!

My sweet roommates, Jessie and Janell, crammed in my car and drove with me up to Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin on Saturday. We stayed at the fabulous, smoke filled, LaQuinta and shared a King sized bed. Hilarious. We slept maybe a wink that night. My alarm went off at 4:40 am and we rolled out of bed, grabbed our bags for the morning and drove to the parking lot where we'd hop a school bus and be shuttled to the actual triathalon site. The weather was chilly and we saw the sun rise. It was a perfect day for the race.

It was amazing looking around at all of these athletic men and women. It seemed to me that most of the triathletes were in their 40's. These were very ripped 40 year olds. Maybe they were all bored with marathons and needed a new challenge.

I was part of the 17th wave and we all wore the isued purple swim caps. I felt calm and ready until I got into the open water for the swim. Five strokes in and I was huffing and puffing. I must have been too excited. Foggy goggles, green water and swallowing half of the lake made the swim pretty rough. I think I did the breast stroke the whole time. This third of the race I must work on!

I quickly ran up the sandy hill, saw Janell and Jess cheering me on and ran to my bike. I was thrilled to finally be on the bike and riding through the country side. This was my favorite part of the triathalon. I moved quickly and saw so much! Next thing I knew, the bike was over and I once again was greeted by my cheering roommates. The run went fast and I nearly cried as I crossed the finish line. What a race! My miles were less than 10 minutes which is a miracle. I finished in 1 hour and 38 minutes. That's better than my goal. Now I just need to get my swim down and my transition times faster!

I'll post pictures soon. If anyone wants to do this next year, I'm game! Or maybe we can add it to the Lindsay Beach Olympics!

Our Gang

Andrew is back in school (a sophomore), driving his Ford truck (with me at his side) back and forth. One month and he'll be driving on his own. Sigh. Can't believe we've come that far!
Mary has been here for a visit! She's already shopped me to death (just kidding) and has headed to Tony & Julie's house for this week. Beth and I'll be going there to visit her. I LOVE my sisters, love having sisters, love being a sister. Thanks, Mom and Dad! Kathy, we've really missed having you here, but hope school is going well for you.
Alicia is experiencing the icky part of pregnancy ...exhaustion and upset stomach. Ready for that part to be over with. Hopefully that'll happen soon.
I got to do my first babysitting with Connor on Saturday. He was wonderful, loads of fun. We spent time in the pool, a short stroller ride, battled with the bottle, etc. Gosh, he's grown so much. Already 21 pounds, but I really meant his mental growth. He's still a baby, but on his way to being a little boy. And watching Erin be a mom is about as great as watching our grandson. She's SO patient, SO sweet, SO loving and SO tired. Handles it all beautifully.
Katy, let us know all about your triathalon! I've heard the basics, but want the details. Looking forward to seeing you (and hopefully your "Bathroom Talk" show) soon.
Patrick's business is booming and he's working long and hard. Lots to do before his little one comes. We're so very proud of him and all he's accomplishing and realize more than he and Alicia what a bright future he has!
Chris is loving being a Dad, and he's a good one. Obviously loves his family, and we love him! Lots of business plans going on with him. We'll let you know what happens with praexis.com and komikazee.com. He's got quite a good business mind and it's been working overtime to grow his businesses.
Bill and I are loving life and keeping healthy. Let us know about you and yours!
Blog on,
Carol

Middle School is... So Cool!

WOW. Anyone ever taught 6th graders before? Can I TELL you how entertaining they are? I remember being that "odd", but from a teacher's standpoint, I'm now finding out what a different breed we all were! It is amazing to see the difference between the 3 grades I teach. 6th graders have no clue. None whatsoever and they don't seem to be capable of GETTING a clue. That's what makes them so loveable! They're so cute! 7th graders have a clue. But they're still trying to please the teacher. How great is that after teaching 3 years in a high school with 9-12th graders and crazy attitudes? 8th graders? Attitude the first day, grow on you the second, and by the third I'm thrilled to have these maturing adolescents as my sobering students who remind me that we grow up so fast. And yet...

Why do they choose the songs that I grew up with and my parents tuned into when it comes to requesting songs from the DJ at the "Back to School Bronco Bash" to dance to??? While I enjoyed it (Vanilla Ice, "Love Shack", etc.) I was surprised to see how much my students enjoyed it! I have one student who requested "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond - while it wasn't the #1 thing to dance to tonight, it got quite a few people singing "Sweeeeeet Caroliiiiine... BAMP BAMP BAMP!" and then prompted my Assistant Principal to sing "All I want for Christmas is a Hippopotamus". If anyone has the music or words to that, I need to get her worked into my Winter Concert.

Alrighty! Enough for one night. I just thought people might like to relive their Early Teenage Years... ahhhh... puberty. That's a whole separate blog. Have a great night!!!

I've Been Tagged

I hate being chased. I'm quick to scream, give up or I charge back at them in a dead sprint. I sometimes wonder what I would do if I were being chased by a Lion. Let's hope I never have to find out. Playing tag was always a nervous pleasure for me.This kind of tag I actually like.

Thanks to my good friend, Kellsey, I've been tagged to list books that have either impacted my life or ones I wish never would have entered it. I'm responding here for your viewing pleasure! You never know, maybe you'll be inspired to read some of these. I know I already gave an exhaustive list of some of my favorite books.

1. One Book that Changed My Life: "Ragamuffin Gospel" by Brennan Manning. This is the first "spiritual" book that actually caused me to respond with prayer. I remember sitting in my bed with all the lights out except for a small lamp and being moved to pray. It's the first time I really got a glimpse of grace. I really could live a life of freedom under the umbrella of grace instead of an anvil of guilt.

2. One Book that You've Read More than Once: Just one? I can only choose one? "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen. Hello, my name is Elizabeth Bennett! I think most women consider themselves an "Elizabeth Bennett." She's one of Austen's more flattering characters. Though you can condemn the fact that she's as prideful as Mr. Darcy. I remember running into my best friends' room and reading allowed my favorite parts. I had to share it with someone! The confession of love! The two proposals! The time they run into each other at his home! Ah, it's too much! Too much!

3. One Book You'd Want on a Desert Island: I'm just going to assume it can't be the Bible. Any good Christian would immediately say the Bible. It would be/and is my one source of truth and sanity. Can it be a series? How about the first two books in Francine Rivers' "Mark of the Lion" series? They're not exactly intellectually stimulating, but they just don't get old! I've never read two books so quickly. I wish I could read them as a "Mark of the Lion" virgin again! Ladies, can I get an Amen? Wait, now I'm questioning myself. How about "Lord of the Rings"? Yes, that too. I might need that to remind myself that the impossible can be possible.

4. One Book that Made You Laugh: "Dress Your Family in Corduroy & Denim" by David Sedaris. His honesty excited me and made me wish I could be that honest. I just don't have his capacity for memories...painful memories. I found myself laughing aloud in public while reading his auto-biographical short stories.

5. One Book that Made You Cry: I again have to say "Lord of the Rings." I wasn't ready to say goodbye to Frodo, Bilbo and their companions. I felt like I had traversed the treacherous terrain and walked their emotional journey along with them. There's great relief and pride in finishing a journey and completing an impossible task. If they had known what they were getting into, they never would have gone. But along the way they were given what was needed to make it to the end alive. Hmmm, sounds similar to life!

6. One Book You Wish Had Been Written: I'm still waiting for my best friend, Becky, to write her auto-biographical short stories. This girl has more stories that will make you laugh! I keep threatening her that I'm going to start writing it if she doesn't. This or my yet to be written coffee table book: "Dating Kissed Me Goodbye."

7. One Book that You Wish Had Never Been Written: "Kiss Dating Goodbye." I never read it and never want to. Don't we have a hard enough time as it is? For the love....

8. One Book That You're Currently Reading: I'm going to cheat here and give you two. One is actually a play by Lanford Wilson. I am performing a two person scene from his play "Serenading Louie" and just finished analyzing the play. It's a fascinating story of two couples whose relationships are crumbling. Each couple has everything going for them but they end up destroying their lives. Very interesting. The second is "The Glass House" by Jeannette Walls. She writes a story of growing up in great poverty. She never solicites pity from her readers. The humor she maintains while sharing her pain is admirable.

9. One Book You've Been Meaning to Read: The "Harry Potter" books. That or my best friend will never speak to me again. I made her read "Clan of the Cave Bear" so it's my turn to read some of her favorites. I'll read them...someday.

10. Now Tag 5 People: John S., Stacey, Becky, Missie and Jessie (my cousin, not the one from Full House). If you have a blog...blog about it. If you don't have a blog...leave it in the comments.

Anyone respond if you'd like! I'd love to read about it!

A Letter from George & D

Hi Loved Ones,

I just had to sit down and drop a note to all of you.

First, thanks a bunch for the cards in remembrance of my up and coming 70th birthday. Joe, when you become 70 I’ll still be a-head of you and waiting.

The week in MB was delightful and great. I haven’t seen some of you in three years – we all change a bit, don’t we? The meals at the house were great (anyone want some whole chickens?) The Thursday night event was delightful; we all had a bunch of fun.

Carol, your and your helpers – I know there had to be some – did a great job all the way around. It takes a lot of time and planning to set up a week for over 40 adults and 13 children 6 and under. Wow, what an experience when we all get together.

I know Bill had a lot to do with the day at the golf course. We all enjoyed – and the Lunch that was provided was a final surprise. I am anxious to see the photo’s of the Golfers. Thanks a lot Bill and Carol!

Pictures and videos! If everyone would mail (Originals on CD or DVD I will pick up any cost) to me what they have I will archive them for the future and enjoy all from time to time. I just got through some of the videos I have (that are now on DVD’s) and enjoyed all events again. Laura and Kevin’s Wedding brought a tear. So did seeing the past generation again as they were. I even went back over the Lindsay Family Memories which brought me back to times most of you wouldn’t remember. I put that on DVD also. Anyone wants a copy let me know.

We were sorry we had to leave early. Would have loved to spend an extra day at MB but with all that was going on with Rob and his family we felt we were needed in Ft. Wayne. Update on Rob & Lois’s car – they picked it up Friday morning and drove home, all OK. Rob’s Dad got out of the hospital last Wednesday and will be watched closely for at least a couple of months. You just don’t fool around with a heart condition. Laura and Kevin ended up driving straight through to Ft. Wayne. About 50 miles south of Ft. Wayne Laura hit a truck tread standing up in the road and did a considerable damage to their car. The good news is that all of them are OK and the car made it back to the city fine (It was at 3am).

We sure enjoyed seeing the next generation coming up. They are sure a bunch of cuties and to think 3 more are on the way. Let us know due dates and when they get here.

Looking to see you all again.

Love to All,
D. & George Lindsay

More Reunion Pics

Click on the link to view my photos posted on kodak gallery. http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=18feg6zq.bgh57dz2&x=1&y=-7myit1

Let me know if this doesn't work, and I'll try to figure something else out. Hope you're all back in the swing of things in "normal" life. Happy Monday!
Heidi

Posting a Blog

This post is in honor of Stacy. I do in fact read the comments. Yay.

If you want to post a blog on this site go to the Blogger Website. Enter your username and password. Then click on the little green plus sign that indicates a new post. Then tickle away on the keyboard and enlighten us with your brilliance!

crazy group pictures

Hello to all! To see some pics from the reunion or stacy/taylors wedding you can go to www.picturelove.shutterfly.com Everyone looks fabulous!

Bathroom Talk

No mom, this isn't an entry about bathrooms, etc. According to my mom, Erin's and my conversation "always goes back to that." And she's partly right. So isn't it appropriate that I will be doing a show in September called Bathroom Talk? In case you're thinking, "Gee, I bet that Katy is really talented. I ought to drive up there and see her show," it's at midnight on Fridays. Ouch! Yes, it's a late one and it will hurt no one worse than me.

As far as I know, it's going to be a fully improvised show with an all female cast (a rarity). You know us women, we can never go to the bathroom alone. It's the only time we can get the dish and pick our wedgies at the same time.

Work = Not as fun as Myrtle Beach

Well, as I sit here in my cube at work reading your blog entries and browsing through pictures of Super Conner (great site, by the way), I think "man, I would SOOOO much rather be lounging on the beach, reading a book, cooking large group dinners, chasing little ones around on the beach, playing 'Mafia,' golfing, boogie boarding, go-karting (especially beating Andrew!) or just sitting around chatting with you all in the hot Myrtle sun (or in the cool air conditioning)." Meetings and deadlines are just not as much fun. But hey, what's not to love about my office's gray walls and the stale sounds of the ventilation system and fingers typing on keyboards?

Anyway, thanks for the great week, everyone! To all who couldn't make it, we missed you and hope to see you soon! I will get my pictures posted online soon, and to anyone else to who took pictures -- let us all know when they're online and where we can view them.

One more thing....
I predict that by 2009, Stacy and Taylor will start poppin' out babies, Alyse will be almost done with nursing school, Kate will be the lead in a DFW-area musical or opera, my Dad will have a regular gig singing at a jazz bar, Beth will add "yoga instructor" to her credentials and offer a class to her counseling clientele as a way to relax and meditate and I will be almost done with graduate school and about to become a speech therapist (that is....if I get accepted next year).

That's all I got. Have a great rest of the week!

Driving cross country with Nana and Popart

Well, Art, Pat, and I (we called ourselves the 3 amigos on the drive, oh the adventures we had!) did make it home safely and without ever going more than 4 miles over the speed limit. Pat even threw in a turn and confidently, with both hands firmly at 6 and 3, drove us 2 hours closer to Springfield. Those two are just little dickens when you get them on the road and in Nashville Pat (going through withdrawal due to the new cooking arrangements during the reunion) just had to hold up some gourmet cooking store, making Art the get away driver and leaving me to cover my face in embarrassment! Oh, what Hudson, Tucker, and Piper dont know about their grandparents. Being as how we never went over 55 miles/hour it was a slow get away, but the hold-up was quicker than any bathroom break we took.
So now they are safe and sound back in Springfield and I in Chicago- I keep thinking about what I was doing 1 week ago today and it makes me miss my family. What a lovely lovely family-
love to everyone,
Jessie

3 Years and Counting!

It was wonderful to see everyone and get to relax amongst such GREAT family! Just so you all (ya'll - I have lived in TX for 3 years) know, I started at my new teaching position at Coppell Middle School East in Coppell ISD (about 30 min. SW of Frisco) today and am so relieved to feel the excitement of the new year! I can't wait to meet everyone and get this choir program going! Of course, I'm teaching MIDDLE SCHOOLERS now, so keeping me in your prayers would be appreciated. :) And I'm still living in Frisco, so more prayers for my life (and my parents, as they're housing me - haha) would, again, be appreciated.

I hope everyone's doing well and Katy - you are brilliant for this blog idea.

Love to all!
Kate Lowe

Just thinking...2009...Andrew will have graduated from high school, Jacob will have his driver's license, we'll have at least 1 new grandbaby, I'll have lost 40 lbs (again), Katy will be a S T A R...or maybe married w/a baby, Patrick and Alicia will have a thriving PFS business and a 2 1/2 year-old and maybe more, Connor will be 3 and perhaps have a brother/sister, Bill will be on the Senior Golf tour, etc,etc,etc. LOTS can happen in three years. Maybe I'll find a way to come up with a "Predictions" page where you can post your thoughts. Maybe.
Love you all,
Carol

Welcome to the Lindsay Family Blog

It's only been a couple of days since our reunion at Myrtle Beach and we are already missing each other. The tan lines may soon fade, unless you're Bill S. or Paige, but our memories won't. Enjoy reading the adventures of The Lindsay Family!