A few things...

I finished the book, The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio and loved it. I am almost willing to say I liked it more than the movie - but only because of the added information, anecdotes and poetry that comes within the span of 351 pages. I really enjoyed the opportunity of finding out more about this remarkable family and I honestly will never look at a limerick the same!

Also, and most importantly, this memoir reminds readers how important it is to never allow life's ills to rob them of an education and a fulfilling future. Everyone of Evelyn Ryan's children finished college and are currently living the life they had desired to live....despite some of the most challenging circumstances of their upbringing (alcoholic father and poverty.) If you are looking for some inspiration and humor, pick this book up and treat yourself.

On a different note...Camp or Die 2006 is in full swing. Our camping buddies, Lane and Laura will be accompanying us to our favorite camping retreat, Little Niangua Campgrounds, this Memorial Day weekend. We are looking forward to becoming one with nature and inhaling some serious campfire smoke. Little Niangua Campground sits on the edge of the Little Niangua River and is heavily treed and very well owned and maintained by the greatest people, Naomi and Ken. I seriously doubt Lane, Laura, Robbie and I will take on the 10 mile canoe trip this weekend. We have done it at least twice in the past and the state of our marriage is never quite as good after paddling and fighting our way down the river. (My parents can attest to this...they've witnessed the carnage first hand.)Needless to say...I will share the best pictures and stories...of which, I am certain, there will be many.

Next on the agenda...I exercised this morning, even though I REALLY did NOT want to. Thank goodness for my little, pink IPod, which continues to help me find a groovy motivation to move my butt. (Could RL Burnside be any cooler? Who thought you could work out to blues music?!) I weighed this morning and have lost (or successfully hidden) 2 pounds. Hey, it's a start....and all of those girlfriends of mine who have gotten excited over a 2 pound loss know how it feels.

And last but CERTAINLY not least...
A very big Congratulations, Thank the Lord, and Hallelujah to our good friends Christy and Eric who are the proud parents of little Miss Lillyan Christine. She was brought home Friday and Christy said just as beautiful as can be. Christy and Eric adopted Lillyan after months of emotional preparation, prayer and trust in God. I have admired their ability to connect with the birth parents and know that few people would have the strength to adopt under such circumstances. I know God has blessed you and Lillyan...the most loved little girl. I can't wait to meet her and will continue to pray for a quick adjustment to your new life as parents. Love you all!

Comments

pondering_c said…
i am picking up your book suggestion at the library tonight. it will be good reading material for my road trip.

yea for the 2lbs!
4:58 PM
Anonymous said…
I am so jealous! Little Niangua and camping. It is way too hot here. I also think the canoe trip shows couples what they are made of and where they need work! Canoeing with Lane and Laura and you and Robbie was also one of the most entertaining times I have experienced. I still laugh every time I think of it. Geeze that was a great vacation, broken arm and all. Kudo's on the lost weight! I am reading a great murder/mystery by Susan Wittig Albert, "Bleeding Hearts". She is one of my favorite authors. I'll have to look up your book soon. Love, Mom
5:01 PM
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