Hartman Herald

Pray for Aunt Gail

2009-09-08T20:25:00.002-04:00

Dave just talked with Marla to get an update on Aunt Gail. She will be scheduled for bypass surgery on Friday. She has one 100% blocked artery, one 90% blocked, one 70% blocked and a fourth artery with some percentage that Marla could not remember.

She is having a lot of fluid around her heart and the doctors are trying to get control of this and get her stable by Friday. If she has more chest pains, they may go in before Friday.

Remember we all just went to Vandergrift to celebrate her 80th birthday! I notice on FB that Caryn and probably Cara as well are posting updates too!

Pray for this little lady - our matriarch!!

Today is a sad anniversary.

2009-08-28T07:27:00.002-04:00

Twenty years ago today my mom passed away. She was only 54 - that is how old I am right now. Lung cancer - please don't smoke. I miss her so much. Right now some of the things I want to talk to her about - how do I deal with this empty nest? I want to ask her about her growing up years. I want to hear those stories about her grandmother who was was born in Italy. I want her to teach me to jitter bug - why didn't I let her when she wanted to? Oh I wish she could see Rachel and the young woman she has grown into, and Rose who she never met.

There is no other woman on earth who can touch you, love you like your mother.

I love you momma, I miss you.

Okay, I'm a believer.....

2009-08-17T22:12:00.006-04:00

I'm ready, take me away again, I'm sold, I believe you now. Oh my. I have experienced my first cruise! I must say that I went with my lovely daughter and had a wonderful time, now I'm looking forward to going again with my husband and having an even more wonderful time.

We left Baltimore on the 7th and came back on the 14th. First stop was Grand Turk, then Half Moon Cay, then Nassau - Bahamas. It was on the Carnival Pride.

The immediate lessons that come to mind for me: two swim suits are better than one, water shoes make for comfort. I only took one excursion - a glass bottom boat ride - but still had a great time. That beautiful white sand and clear water, I would have stayed in it all day, had I not stayed in the same sun on the two days at sea - forgetting to put sunscreen on my face - everywhere else - not the face!

While bobbing around Grand Turk I was talking with another woman from the ship who said she was there with 52! That's 52!!!! members of her family. They plan a cruise every year and then whoever can make it has a year to pay it off and that's their reunion. They've been doing it for 15 hears now and had close to 100 family members in the past. What a great idea! Maybe next summer (2010) at our next reunion in Texas we could talk about it.

We must all be busy - or else we are all on Facebook!!!! I've chatted more with the Tresters on Facebook then here. Maybe we should just all get on FB?????

I did email Nick and Becky - Nick replied that they are all well, just busy with new baby - I'm hoping they post new photos soon. I think they are on FB, just need to figure out how to reach them to become Friends.

Anyway - here are a couple photos from my summer adventure!

Computer Skills ???

2009-06-15T12:06:00.002-04:00

Hey Cindy,

Nice job with the cut & paste. I don't know how you made it look like Dave and I were dancing, and I wish that I had your computer skills. Dave and I have a solemn vow..........that we will deny, deny, deny that we ever danced together.

Seriously, we had a wonderful time with Dave, Cindy, Rachel, and Mom. we only have two regrets.......first that we didn't have more time to spend with you all. And second........that Cindy brought had her camera at that moment!

We love you all,
Tim & Merideth

Dads 50th Surprise Party

2009-05-31T08:36:00.002-04:00

So I know these pictures are a little after the fact! But as most of you know, we had a surprise 50th birthday party for my dad back in March. The Party had a golf theme and I thought I would share a few pictures with all of you!!

Dad & Mom in their golf attire!

Brittany & Dad! For those of you that don't know Brittany, she is Jeremy's cute wife!!

Awesome cupcakes! They were so cool looking!

Bryan (Tessa's boyfriend) & Shane (my Hubby) out cookin on the grill. Jeremy did the preparing of the food and then Bryan cooked it all up!!

Jeremy cheesin it with his best friend, Josh, and his little girl, Kennedy!!

If any of you want to see more pictures, feel free to check out my blog at www.swaraslife.blogspot.com

Wedding Bliss

2009-05-29T07:39:00.002-04:00

Here is a couple of the wedding pics that I have so far!!

All of the Bridesmaid shoes & bouquets!!

My daddy & I - daddy/daughter dance!!
We danced to "I loved her first" by Heartland!
I love my daddy, he is the best!!

Our rings! I absolutely love this pic!!

Shane & I after we were married in the

Las Vegas LDS Temple!!

Awww...I love this picture! I am the luckiest girl in the

world to have such an amazing guy!!

Thanks for all the support from all of you!!

I love you all so much and cannot wait for you to all be able to meet him!!!

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Shane Luke!!!!!

2009-05-11T19:18:00.011-04:00

Whew - it was a whirlwind weekend for us Maryland Hartmans. We flew out of BWI on Thursday evening at 6:30 pm. It had been raining and raining and raining here, in the 60s. Chilly, wet, almost not quite miserable. When we landed at Las Vegas at 8:55 Pacific Time (11:55 Maryland time), the pilot announced "welcome to Las Vegas where it is currently a balmy 96 degrees!" Wow! Rachel was on a different flight, but landed just minutes before we did, so we caught up with her quickly. Then we found our chauffeur (smile Uncle Tim!).

Tim whisked us away into the night - and found the bachelorette party where we promptly dropped off Rachel. Oh I wish I had had my camera at the ready! Words cannot due justice to the sight of the bride to be and her maid of honor as they hurried outside to greet their cousin, auntie and uncle! We will just say the "accessories" were appropriate for a bachelorette party. The father of the bride might have even blushed!

Friday we got to shop a little with Grandom (Peggy) and then that evening we enjoyed the rehearsal dinner prepared by Jeremy & Brittany Hartman, LLC - A Fine Catering Firm. We would highly recommend this couple to anyone - do you know that Brittany was even kind enough to teach me how to eat an artichoke!!!

Now come some photos. I apologize in advance for the many family members that I did not get in pictures. For some reason I seemed to focus on the bride and groom - duh.

This appeared to be a serious conversation between Mother and son. Cooper looks a little concerned.

Bride and groom appear relaxed after the rehearsal and dinner.

Father of the bride

Uncle of the bride

Grandmother of the bride

At Aunt Stephanies luncheon following the morning ceremony at the temple.

Look at Mr. & Mrs. Shane Luke enjoying luncheon.

Later in the evening at the ring ceremony - so beautiful and look at the lovely attendants and Tim & Meridith - it was a lovely ceremony - the toasts were moving and funny.

Their first dance!

There was wonderful dancing all evening, the final dance belonged to Jeremy and his grandmother.

Oh excuse me, the final dance was given to

David and his mother!

Oh yea, that's right it was the last dance given to Tim and his mother!!

OH FOR HEAVEN'S SAKE - THOSE TWO HAD THE LAST DANCE!!!

Hey, is that Rachel and Brittany in the background?????

2009-03-12T01:15:00.001-04:00

Cindy...Thanks for always posting our link so everyone has updates!!! I'm so bad at just maintaining our blog, getting to post on this one also will take a while. There is always so much to keep up with on the internet. We appreciate your keeping everyone updated on our lives, hopefully I can get Nick to start posting here while I keep up our blog so we keep it up with both!

Becky

They've posted more photos!

2009-03-09T20:58:00.002-04:00

Hey you guys!

Go to

www.thehartmanstory.blogspot.com/

They've put up more photos of the little ones - Noelle and Owen!

How are you all? This past weekend we had a little taste of spring - low 70s, did just a little yard work - it was so pleasant. Now we are adjusting to the "time change - springing forward." Anyone else missing that hour of sleep? YAWN.

A March Snowfall

2009-03-02T13:27:00.008-05:00

These photos are really current, like a couple hours ago. We didn't get it too bad - about 5-6 inches of powdery stuff. This first pic shows Petey's venture out the slider onto the patio, see the circle - just far enough to make some yellow snow then a quick U-Turn!

Dave got the snow blower goin'. This has been a great opportunity for "us" to help our neighbors - we've been blessed with this little piece of equipment, so Dave does the "seniors" and anyone else he can help.

A shot of Harford County Snow plow! In some years past when we've had a really wet, significant snow, we've cleaned our driveway and around the mailbox only to have the snowplow come by and bury the mailbox and the end of the drive!!! Not a problem today!

These photos are from Saturday - day before yesterday. I'm still adjusting to the empty nest, but thank goodness she has to do laundry!!!!

Rachel came home to do laundry, and brought her
Terrorist, I mean four-month old yellow lab, Enzo to visit and play! Enzo really wants to be friends with 11 year old Petey - who has forgotten that he is a dog and wants nothing to do with Enzo. As you can see from the photos, Enzo laid on the couch next to Petey who endured this as long as Dave was sitting with his hand on Petey. Then Petey said "enough, this couch isn't big enough for the two of us!"

So while laundry is laundering, Enzo and Petey are bonding, Rachel and Mom are at Bed Bath & Beyond, I'm shopping the aisles and find Rachel in the chair with the back massager, just texting away. The look on her face - "what?".

More of what's happening!

2009-02-23T10:15:00.002-05:00

Pam - I'm so glad you posted! You know I've been seeing pictures on line of all that bad ice storm in Kentucky. Glad you are coming out of that. I can imagine how tight quarters were for you all - but what a blessing that you could all take care of each other!

Louie! How long is recovery going to be?? You are in Dave and I's thoughts and prayers.

So, are you planning to come to the Pennsylvania reunion this summer (2009?) Oh I hope so, I think Gary and Debra are planning also - and Tim & Meredith! Oh please, oh please.

Now, wonderful news I found this morning!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Go look at the announcement regarding

Owen Matthew Hartman

at www.thehartmanstory.blogspot.com

Sigh - I just love seeing those baby pictures.

Okay, again I'm gonna say I'll try to be better at posting!

What's been happening!

2009-02-16T13:26:00.005-05:00

Hello everyone. I'm giving you an update on what's transpired in the past few weeks.
First of all, WOW! what a cold snap. I can't believe something so beautiful can cause such havic. The resent ice storm was so beautiful. Everything turned to glass. I have never seen anything like it. Louie's mom had no power for a week nor did James & Theda. Our little place was so crowded for a little bit, but we enjoyed it tremendously. Then came melt down, such beauty with every tree glistening. Very dangerous with all the ice falling from trees and power lines. It was like the sky was falling. I'll send pics one of these days.

I also wanted to let you know that Louie was hospitalized for a week. He made a trip to the emergency room on Jan 29th with severe stomache pain. The doctor thought he had an infection in his lower intestine and prescribed an anitbiotic as nothing showed up on his CT Scan. After taking the meds an fighting for more than a week unable to keep any food or liquid in his system, vomiting bile nightly, his Doctor went ahead and admitted him on the 5th of Feb. He was so dehydrated and very weak. They did a contrast on him and the liquid did not pass through his lower intestines and indicated a blockage of some sort. He still is vomiting bile at this point and was scheduled for surgery. Turns out that scar tissue from a previous surgery in 2005, (a burst pancreatic scist that burned is entire belly region). He was able to break it and now he is in the process of healing and regaining his strength. He feels pretty good today and is out and about.

Love all of you. Can't wait to be a part of the next reunion this summer.

Wow what a fantastic trip!

2009-01-24T17:16:00.002-05:00

Cara - I love the photos! Did you know the people at the Polish dinner? The Eiffel Tower was beautiful lit up for Christmas. Your girls are real world travelers and troopers posing for all those pictures. I must admit I'm a real lurker on Facebook and I had already looked at your pictures that are on there! Sigh. Hey I checked out your Caracreates.com site. Got any suggestions for this blog? It would be need to get more creative here. Do you offer a family discount???

Pictures From Our Trip

2009-01-23T18:16:00.003-05:00

I just wanted to share them with ya'll. They are here:
http://s400.photobucket.com/albums/pp89/casonnier/
Just click on the album links on the left side.

We had a wonderful time visiting mom and dad! Emma was so enthralled with Paris that she came home and started French lessons! I think Hannah had a good time but she hasn't said what was her favorite part. They built there first snowman - EVER! When we lived in Maine and had snow the girls were too little to build one.

Talk to you all soon!

It's Not So Cold Now

2009-01-19T14:10:00.005-05:00

Today was our first "real" snow. I tried to get a close-up of this woodpecker eating suet from the bird feeder in the front yard. He has a beautiful red color on the back of his head. So, here's Dave! At first he used a big push broom to sweep the driveway of snow, but by the time he got back to the garage, he decided a shovel would be necessary. Nice big snow flakes.

Right after I took the photo of Dave I turned around and took this one right in front of the house. It has stopped now.

Ciara thanks for your encouraging words! We are excited for you and your wedding plans! I like peeking over at your blog and reading about your life - keep updating!!!

Now let's get everyone else involved!

Hey Everyone

2009-01-17T01:45:00.002-05:00

Hey so I figured I better get on here and post! I noticed that Aunt Cindy seems to be the one posting all the time!! Well I am heading home in 2 days to work on more wedding stuff!! I am really excited and wedding plans are going great! The countdown is officially on, 16 weeks as of tomorrow and I will be MRS LUKE!!! I can't wait for all of you to have an opportunity to meet him! He is seriously an amazing guy! Aunt Cindy, just so you know, I know its hard on you guys to have Rachel move out, but it is extremely difficult to move away from home and everything you know too! Trust me! Well I hope everyone is doing well! I love you all and miss you all tons!!

Baby It's Cold Outside!

2009-01-16T16:33:00.002-05:00

Oh man, it's 4:34pm, the sun is shining, the sky is a beautiful blue and it's 18 degrees!!! And the wind is blowing, so the wind chill factor is like ZERO. I certainly shouldn't whine! I remember being stationed at Grand Forks AFB, North Dakota and I heard on the news yesterday it was MINUS 44 there! Gulp, gasp.

I found a recipe for crock pot pulled pork and it is delicious - we had it last night. I cut up chunks of pork tenderloin, made a rub with paprika, garlic, salt & pepper - coated the chunks, put them in the crockpot - then poured in 1/3 cup of liquid smoke. Cooked on high for 6 hours. Then pulled it apart with a fork. We added cider vinegar until we liked the taste. It was a little questionable at first - Dave really wanted to put on some barbeque sauce and I was trying to stay true to the North Carolina bbq it was supposed to be (according to the recipe), we are now believers, surprised by the taste change from adding the vinegar. Try it, lemme know whatchathink.

I've taken the music off - I realized that when I check to see IF ANYONE OUT THERE IS POSTING, that sometimes the music startles me and can be loud - so, it's gone.

Anybody out there?

New Year - Changes

2009-01-12T22:12:00.003-05:00

Well Tim, Dave and I understand how you felt when you carried Ciara to her new home. Sigh. Rachel has moved out, she has her own place and even has a room mate - Enzo! Enzo is a yellow lab and I must admit he is incredibly lovable. Unfortunately our senior room mate, Petey, is not very social, whenever Enzo comes to visit Petey becomes very standoffish and wants to "mark his territory."

I have been reading "The Hartman Story" and getting excited for Gary's next grandchild. Has anyone seen their blog? www.thehartmanstory.blogspot.com

It's cold here. Next Sunday will be tense in this house. Ravens - Steelers. Oh my! We haven't been in touch with Hutch and Marla but I'm sure it will happen.

Okay, I'm going to try really hard to be better at posting! Will you all too? Please? Pretty please?

John Burruss Memorial

2009-01-06T20:19:00.002-05:00

Heavy Heart....

2009-01-03T13:24:00.002-05:00

My heart aches and my thoughts and prayers are with you all in Texas. I am so glad Dave can be with you as you have the memorial today for John. I cling to absent from the body present with the Lord.

Love to you all! Cindy

Hope Everyone is Ready for Christmas!!!

2008-12-22T10:49:00.003-05:00

Hello all - I think I've shared in the past that I enjoy reading (lurking) blogs. Today I was visiting a blog that I enjoy very much http://athomewiththefarmerswife.blogspot.com/ and she has a video posted that I enjoyed! It is on todays post (Dec 22) and it's the second video - she has written: Kelly can teach us all something.......

All you ladies - look at it and know that I want that for all of us in this family. I love you all (okay you guys too), and wish we were closer.

Brenda - Dave and I are praying for John! Keep us informed!

Cory & Tiffs Wedding

2008-11-23T17:36:00.003-05:00

The Beautiful Bride
Getting Ready Cutting of the Cake!

My Future Hubby and I!

Tessa and Bryan!

Jeremy & Brittany Hartman

I know it's early...

2008-11-22T23:27:00.002-05:00

But if I don't have your mailing address, would you please forward it to me if you'd like to receive our holiday card this year. Thanks!

And I can't wait to see the picture Ciara.

Cara :)

Hello Everyone!

2008-11-22T11:28:00.002-05:00

Hey, I figured it had been a little while since I had gotten on here and posted, so I better update everyone with what is going on! As you all know, Cory got married last weekend! The wedding was beautiful and we all partied and danced the night away! I will put up pictures tonight when I get home from work! I also bought my wedding dress last weekend! I would post pictures of that as well, but then my fiance might see it and that wouldn't be good. Other than that all the wedding stuff is coming along greatly! :) We have booked our location and have our bridal party all picked out! Miss you all!!

Please.....................

2008-11-20T19:44:00.002-05:00

Please talk, please. Is anyone else busy already getting ready for Thanksgiving?? I got a big ole 20.25 lb butterball in the freezer already. I want to get a turkey breast too, so I can send some leftovers home with some. I've made sugar cookies already - found these cute cookie cutters shaped like maple, oak, and acorns. Finished the biscotti, now I'm working on pecan tarts. Our freezer is burstin'.

Dave and I are going to Charlottesville, Virginia for the weekend. We've never been to Monticello and after really enjoying the HBO series John Adams, we decided we need to go see Thomas Jefferson's home. I'll take pictures of course. It's supposed to be pretty cold Saturday, probably Sunday too!

Okay, please share, I'll be good - I'll try not to let so much time go by.

I Miss You Guys!

2008-11-14T19:11:00.003-05:00

Sigh, I need to be with you all! I need to hear from you all! Thanks Tim! Funny how this is my favorite time of year - it's beautiful, on my drive to work I cross a little "body of water" on a one lane bridge - I think the creek is called Winters Run. There are trees hanging over the road and meeting overhead. When the wind blows all the autumn colored leaves flutter down, I took some pictures, but since I've inherited Rachel's old laptop, I haven't figured out how to down/upload photos yet. Before I share more, I want to show you a picture that my niece emailed me - when my sister in Florida was here last fall, my other sister and her family (who live in Frederick, Maryland) came over. My nephews wife is a photographer, so she brought her camera(s). We decided to have each family grouping dress differently - in white, in black and crazy in purple. Anyway, Rose sent the "goofy" family picture.

Rose cracked me up, she wrote "I've got no idea what Uncle Dave is doing." ha ha ha

I let myself get "down" this month - my 54th birthday was last week and I was dwelling on my mother's death. She went in the hospital for the last time on her 54th birthday, she died three weeks later. I think of her and how relatively young I am and I just grieve again for her loss. Bear with me, I miss her so much. There is no other woman like your mother. I know not all mothers are the same ..... but.....

Then, the same week as my birthday, my boss called me in to his office and boom the economy has struck home. My hours have been cut, I now work 3 days a week. After my initial bad attitude, and Dave's encouragement, I realize, this is okay, I'm off Fri, Sat, Sun and Mon every week. There's lots I like to do at home, so I can handle this. The situation is to be "revisited" after the first of the year. My hopes are not very high.

But in all this I have many, many blessings! My family is coming to my home for Thanksgiving! We will have another crazy photo shoot courtesy of Heather! My husband loves and supports me (and is very excited about dinner being on the table when he gets home from work 2 days out of 5). It will just take a little longer to pay off the kitchen remodel. It's only money.

God is in control. I share this all the time, now I must practice the words I share!

Ciara - I can't say how much I enjoyed your post about the marriage proposal! I was reading it outloud to people. How romantic! I'm so happy for you. You look absolutely BLISSSFUL!

Rachel is racking up those air miles. Rich has reservations to fly to Philly on Thanksgiving Day. But his leave hasn't been approved yet, if it is not approved, she will fly to Texas. I hope and hope his leave is approved, both because his family would love him to be home for Thanksgiving, and because I hate the thought of Rach sitting in airports on Thanksgiving Day. Ugh.

Helllloooooooo!!??

2008-11-07T13:40:00.002-05:00

This is very rare that I make two posts in a row. I guess everyone just got busy......or maybe Cindy got tired of pushing.......I hope not. We need you, Cindy. You understand us, and all of our quirks. You know how to make us talk!

Well, having made my plea to Cindy....let me tell you all what is going on with us. Not much..

Just kidding. We made it through the election (Merideth and I voted early). Although we voted for the "other guy", we are optimistic about the future of our great land. We will pray for President Obama as we would for any and all of our leaders. It is our hope that he is all that he said that he is, and that he is able to unite us for a common cause......America!

We, like the rest of you are concerned about the immediate and long-range future of our economy, and our way of life. These are definately troubled times.

So much for the political stuff. Cory and Tiffany are getting married on the 14th (just a week away). So things are ramping up just a little. They seem at ease with the plans......they are heading to Seattle this weekend for a Company party. After the wedding at the country club, they are heading to LA to catch a Cruise Ship to the Mexican Riviera for a week-long honeymoon.

Jeremy and Brittany are doing well. They have settled back into their regular routine, and are growing together as a married couple.

Ciara and Shane are coming down this week for the wedding. Ciara will be home on Tuesday. She and her mom are going out to look for a wedding dress, and to do some planning for the May 9th event. Shane will join us on Friday, and I think that they are heading home on Sunday.

Tessa has just a few more weeks of school left.....then State Boards......then off to work! We are so excited......oops, I mean she is so excited! She and Bryan are doing well.

Merideth and I are just in LOVE, and busy planning our future (69 months until the big event).

We hope that all is well with each of you.

Love to all, and Happy Holidays.

Tim and Merideth

2008-10-07T20:59:00.003-04:00

Ohhhhhh Cindy,

That was funny! I was just going through my e-mails and got to the last "new" merger (bang-bang back at cha).

Yeah, we got the pictures of the proposal, the ring, and the happy couple. Merideth and I could not be happier with Shane. He is a good man and treats Ciara like a princess (when she deserves it), most of the time. We knew that he was the "right" guy when we first met him. The way those two are together, their happiness, the look in their eyes, and all of those outward signs that someone is in love.

So, Jeremy and Brittany are happily married, Cory and Tiffany are anxiously waiting (Nov. 14), Ciara will be married in May, and Tessa just turned 21. I am not sure about Merideth, but I am starting to contemplate middle age. I am really no where near it, but just starting to think about what it might be like.

Love to all for now.......I gotta get back to work

Tim

Announcement!

2008-10-05T19:13:00.003-04:00

So I have an announcement to make, as of today, I am engaged to the most amazing guy in the world! I am going to be a Luke! Shane proposed today, he took me up in the mountains to where we had our first date! He was very sneaky, we went up to go "elk hunting" and help his younger brother find an elk! When his brother wasn't there, I just started looking around the mountains through the spotting scope to find some elk. Shane had taken a little walk to "use the restroom" and then when he came back he wanted me to look and see where they were planning on hiking for the deer hunt. Then he pointed out this green poster off a distance in the trees; I was having the hardest time making out what it said. Then finally I made out the word "Marry" and know what was going on. I turned around and Shane was on his knee with a ring in hand and asked me to be his wife! Of course my answer was a tear filled YES!!!!!!!!!!! I am so excited! The sign that Shane made me!!
My Beautiful Ring!!!!!
My future hubby and I right after the proposal!!!!

German Fest 08

2008-10-05T15:07:00.001-04:00

I thought I'd share our German Fest photos from this weekend! We had lots of fun!!

Not Much

2008-09-26T22:31:00.002-04:00

Well, there's no news, but I miss you all. Wish we could/would talk more.

It's definitely cooled down here, really feels like fall. I went for a walk after work today and my neighbor's tree was dropping buckeyes, I picked up a bunch to put in a bowl with some acorns and pine cones, it will make a nice fall decoration. I like fall. Tomorrow I'm making Cheddar Chowder for dinner, one of our favorite soups. I'm going to go to Panera Breads and see if I can buy some of their bread bowls to serve it. Just thought I'd share.

Dave has his truck loaded up with "stuff" to take to the dump. It feels good to clean out, but I'm such a pack rat that Dave really has to prod me to part with "stuff."

Dave and Rachel are both off and running with their teaching -- both come home and are busy preparing at home. I tell you - they earn their pay.

I did send the card that we all signed for Aunt Gail's birthday - and a large copy of the photo at the top of the blog with everyone identified and everyone's address. Knowing Aunt Gail alot of you have probably heard from her already. She's a pistol - 81 and tarp as a shack!

Doesn't anybody want to talk?

So many stories

2008-09-16T22:32:00.002-04:00

Cara - I've heard the saying (and I probably won't get it right), that children are God's way of saying the world should go on.

Thanks for sharing your memory(ies). Hearing (reading) others stories gives me a little glimpse into their (your) life (I AM NOSEY). The more stories I hear (read) the more I realize that this is a small world we live in.

Here's something a little different, watch this waterfall! I enjoyed this, I have emailed it to some of you.

http://www.noob.us/miscellaneous/creative-waterfall/

My 9/11 recollections...

2008-09-15T13:28:00.004-04:00

9/11 brings a mix of joy and sadness for me...

At the time, we were living in Maine and I was telecommuting for a mutual fund company. I was an adjuster so I was waiting for Wall Street to open that morning so my system would update with the closing prices from the day before. I was logged into our department's chat room and a friend told me to turn the tv on. So I went into the living room and began to watch the madness. Needless to say, Wall Street didn't open that day, or for days after that, so I was on standby and had nothing to do.

We had offices in the twin towers - and 328 company employees died in New York. There were also Boston employees, 2 in fact, that died on the plane that left Boston. Needless to say, it was a sad day for my colleagues and their families.

However, I was also 9 months pregnant at the time. And with nothing to do for work, I found myself sitting on the couch watching LOTS of news. So much in fact that I went into labor 2 weeks before my due date. So after 2 days of labor, Emma was born on 9/13/2001.

So this time of year while sad, is also joyous for me. Every year I can see the beauty of the world's potential in my growing child admist the madness of religious intolerance.

Cara :)

Thanks

2008-09-13T20:55:00.002-04:00

Tim - I just finished reading your post (to Dave too). I must admit, I hadn't thought about you first responders across the country and the impact and perspective you all had.

Thanks for sharing.

Anybody else?

2008-09-13T01:24:00.002-04:00

I'll never forget........

I was on my way to work and had stopped into 7-11 for a cup of coffee. I was in uniform, so the clerk asked if I had heard about the plane crash. After a short conversation, I left with the same impression that Cindy had; I though that it must have been a small plane, surely a Cesna or something along those lines. When I got to work a few minutes later, Gene (the fella that I was relieving) was glued to the TV. I knew Gene well enough to know that he almost never has the TV on in the morning, much less sits in front of it.

Anyway, Gene looked up at me and said "can you believe this #@$&" (Gene doesn't curse much either). I stood there in absolute disbelief at what I was seeing, it just couldn't be happening!

As the minutes passed, I began to think about what our brothers (FDNY) must be going through and what an insurmountable task lay before them. It was about then that the second plane hit. I remember sitting there in the chair.......breathing.......breathing.......at least I must have been breathing since I'm still here. Then I became aware of the phone ringing, ringing, ringing. It was my workday calling! I had completely forgotten where I was.

The next thing that I remember is crying when the Tower 2 came crashing down. There must be hundreds, if not thousands of people in there! I wondered immediately how many firefighters must have been caught in the collapse. I remember thinking that the other one is coming down in a few minutes......get out....GET OUT!

I spent the rest of the day driving from station to station and doing some peer counseling. As you can imagine, our gang was pissed! Many of them wanted BLOOD, and they wanted it NOW! How could anyone do this to America....to civilians.......to our FDNY Brothers! Most were in shock. We had a difficult time understanding what had just happened, much less trying to make some sense of it.

I can't tell you how many times I talked with Merideth and the kids that day. It's all kind of a blur after that morning. But, I know that we found some solace in each others voice. I remember for days afterwards, the absence of airplanes in the sky. And, even more so......the first time that I saw an airliner after the flight ban was lifted. For months, each time I heard a jet overhead I would look up and wonder......is it happening again?

The next morning I went home and cried with Merideth as we watched New Yorkers suffer through the disaster. We had some of our folks that were deployed to assist with the initial searches at ground zero, and wondered what they must be going through.

Yesterday, and each September 11th since 2001 I get to participate in a memorial ceremony at the New York / New York Hotel along with about a hundred local firefighters. I can tell you that each year....the emotions are there. And, that I will never forget the day that 3,000 innocent civilians were murdered and 343 fireman died in the line of duty.

Thanks for letting me share.

Tim

Remembering

2008-09-11T13:12:00.003-04:00

Hey you guys, I know I've told you that I enjoying reading blogs. Today a lot of my favorites are remembering 9-11. One I just read was sharing what she was doing that day. It made think, I wonder what the Hartman families were doing that day. So, I'm going to share "where I was when the world stopped turning...." (thanks Alan Jackson)

I was working as a part-time secretary at our church, and I was the only one in the building that day (something that rarely happens). I had the radio on, listening to a local country music station. They interrupted the program to say that a plane had just crashed into one of the world trade center buildings. In my head I imagined a small private plane and was thinking maybe the pilot had gotten sick, heart attack or something like that.

I continued working and not much later you know what happened. Now I was stunned, shocked and suddenly I had a thought I'd never had before in my life - "we are under attack." We - the United States. I called Dave - he was at work and had gone into the conference room at his work where they had a television and had seen the second plane fly into the other tower. We were on the phone with each other - but not saying anything - just needed to be aware of each other's presence. I wondered about Rachel at school. I was anxious for the work day to be over and be at home with my own little family. That evening we watched hours of coverage and just prayed and held onto each other.

Just typing this gives me such a sense of heaviness, sadness, I want to cry and mourn for all those lost.

Tell me where you were......

Wedding

2008-09-08T15:13:00.003-04:00

The wedding was tons of fun! Everything was beautiful and the bride couldn't have looked more stunning! Unfortunately like my dad already stated, I as well did not get any pictures, however my Aunt Steph did and I stole a few of them to post on here! Hopefully there will be more soon!

Her dress was amazing! She designed the whole thing and wow did she ever look amazing!! She is the newest Hartman!!Tessa and my little cousin Shelby! I am not sure if any of you remember her from the trip to Florida! But she has definitely grown up!! They look beautiful!!
Party Time! The bride was able to take off the bottom part of her dress that way she could have herself a good time! Can anyone say "YMCA?"

!!

2008-09-08T13:21:00.002-04:00

Whew!!!!!

I can't believe that it's finally over. We have a new daughter-in-law! The wedding itself was beautiful.....the bride was gorgeous (and as is typical........late), the groom was admittedly nervous (and very handsome), the setting was breath-taking, the weather was near perfect, the guests were plentiful and joyful. All-in-all it was a wonderful day! We visitied with good friends, and danced the night away. We took our camera and our video camera, but didn't take a single picture (too busy). I am certain that there will be some pictures to post soon.

In the meantime, welcome to Brittany Joy (Rodriguez) Hartman!

Congrats can be sent to jbandbj@hotmail.com

Love to all,
Tim and Merideth

2008-09-06T10:07:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to

Mr. & Mrs.

Jeremy Blair Hartman

Brittany and Jeremy,

Dave and I wish we could be there to see the rest of your love story. We are looking forward to seeing the photos that Ciara has promised. Remember, if you want to visit the East Coast (and this goes for anyone in the family), we are here and welcome you!

Congratulations again, best wishes for the joy filled life you will have together!
Love - Uncle Dave & Aunt Cindy

Wedding

2008-09-05T15:51:00.001-04:00

So tomorrow is the big day for Jeremy and Brittany! We are all super excited!! I am getting ready to head down to So. Utah in about an hour! I will post tons of pictures as soon as I get back! Sure wish you all could be there! Love you all tons!!

Some New Pictures

2008-08-29T22:44:00.004-04:00

Mom and Dad recently flew in from Belguim and we traveled up from Louisiana to North Carolina and met at Caryn's. Here are some pictures we took while we were there!!

Oh and another thing

2008-08-18T21:09:00.002-04:00

Geesh, I forgot to add to my last post that Marla and Hutch need everyone to think seriously about their plans for next summer because they will need to reserve some cabins soon. So please think about this!!! Have you looked at the site yet? I think we will have a great time at the park and doing outings! Please give it a look soon!

Hello Family....

2008-08-17T17:13:00.002-04:00

I just finished a nice chat with Marla and by the way tomorrow is Aunt Gail's 81st birthday - she will be receiving the card we all signed for her in Texas. We were talking about the reunion in Pennsylvania next year. Here is a web site to visit

http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/moraine.aspx

This is the site for the Moraine State Park - go there and click on all the wonderful information - they show pictures of the cabin (even interior shots), list all kinds of fun things to do - below are some items that I have "cut and pasted" from the web site:

Fishing: The 3,225-acre Lake Arthur is a warm-water fishery. Common species are northern pike, large mouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie and bluegill. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission stocks muskellunge, walleye, channel catfish and hybrid striped bass.

Crescent Bay Boat Rental: On the South Shore, just past Pleasant Valley Beach and about one mile from the park office, the concession is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day between 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Single and double kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, small motor boats, run-a-bout motorboats, sailboats, and four sizes of pontoon boats are available for rent. Items for sale include gasoline, fishing bait, and prepackaged snacks and refreshments. 724-368-9955 www.moraineboatrentals.com

Lake Arthur Wildlife

Lake Arthur provides over forty miles of scenic shoreline. Its tributaries include Muddy Run, Big Run, Swamp Run, Bear Run and over 75 intermittent streams. Ranging from an average depth of 11 feet to about 36 feet deep near the dam, the shallow waters are home to a variety of warm-water fish. Frogs, newts, turtles and water snakes prowl the edges of the lake. The tall great blue heron, and the small belted kingfisher prey on minnows and fish fry. In early spring, common loons stop at the lake on their migration north.
Osprey may be seen flying over Lake Arthur. Once extirpated from Western Pennsylvania, these “fish hawks” have been reintroduced to Moraine through a hacking program begun in 1993. The first osprey pair to nest along Lake Arthur as a result of the reintroduction effort raised three young in 1996. Bald eagles have also been spotted nesting in the area.
A waterfowl observation deck is along old Route 422.

*******************************************************

Marla says the park is probably a 4 hour drive to Niagara Falls - so easily a trip we can do. She also said there are wine trails nearby in New York. Two hours from the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio.

There's more, but I can't remember all she said - I just know Dave and I are already excited and HOPE HOPE HOPE that bunches of you all will be able to come too. Go ahead, check out the site I included here!

In other news - Dave and Rachel start back to school tomorrow - poor babes - some of us have had to continue working all summer - sigh.

Love you all bunches and bunches!

Hey Tim

2008-08-11T20:15:00.002-04:00

Tim so you are a sore loser. Are you? SO SAD! I had fun ,sorry I had to let you down.Better luck next time. LOVE YA, DEBRA

My sister

2008-08-11T20:09:00.002-04:00

My sister cat had 7 kittys but this one died after 3 days.

mom & puppies

2008-08-11T20:03:00.002-04:00

more puppy pics

2008-08-11T19:58:00.003-04:00

New puppys

2008-08-11T19:50:00.003-04:00

Puppys for sale $FREE

Reunion was a blast!!

2008-08-11T01:06:00.002-04:00

Destiny Rae and her beautiful drawing of Uncle Tim, "The Pig!"

Uncle Gary and Uncle Dave playing some Chess! Oh the fun things we did!!
Dad and Jonathan playing horseshoes! Watch out, don't walk in front you might get a horseshoe to the face!!
All the youngsters after catching the minos!
Sitting out by the campfire and roasting marshmallows! It was such a blast!!
I have a lot more pictures! Just e-mail me if you want me to send more!! love you all!!

I can't wait till next time.........

2008-08-08T01:29:00.002-04:00

What a great time we all had. Merideth and I talked and talked about the family and the adventures........then, we got home and back to reality. Jeremy and Brittany are getting married in 30 days, and the cabin (mountain) is no where near ready. We are heading up again tomorrow to spend about 10 days. Hopefully, we'll be able to get alot accomplished.

Jeremy had an accident (not that kind Cindy) on Tuesday. He was pulling a trailer loaded with mountain supplies, heading out of town. It had just rained so the freeway was a little wet. Anyway, to make a long story short he spun out, and hit the center divider. He is OK, but the truck is most likely totalled. Just a little stress added to an otherwise un-stressful time. He is taking it very well and is even a little excited about the prospect of a new truck. He and Brittany are working non-stop on the last minute details for the wedding.

Cory and Tiffany are way ahead of the power curve. Their planning is all done, and they are just waiting patiently for the 14th of November to roll around. Unfortunately, we have been out of town and have not seen them lately. Cory just had a birthday (24) and he thinks he is all grown up now.......I tend to agree. He just bought a new truck........at least he says its a truck. He bought a Dodge (do they still make trucks). They are busy taking care of their horses and doing the things that young couples do.

Ciara is posting, so you know what she is up to. She also just had a birthday (23). Miss you sweetie!

Tessa is now a Senior at Euphoria School of Cosmetology. She is becoming quite the stylist. She and Brian are doing great. Brian is on a new project at work that gets him up at 3:30, so they haven't been able to see each other as much as they would like to. Her birthday (21) is coming up in October.

But hey.......back to Texas. It was wonderful to spend some "quality time" with all of you. The stories, laughter, and bonding is what reunions are all about.....dysfunctional or otherwise. I think I'm still a little sore from the whiffle ball, and I'm alot sore that Debrah beat me head-to-head in poker. Merideth and I are planning to go to PA next summer to see the "cousins". Hopefully you guys can make it there too. I sent an e-mail to Helen about reserving the place for 2010, and am waiting for a reply.

Pam.........please post!

Love to all,
Tim & Merideth

Woo Hoo Ciara!

2008-08-06T08:32:00.002-04:00

You know how to make your favorite auntie happy!!!! Great job posting and your catalog will be in the mail shortly!

Hey this is the Hartman Herald! Please share what's happening in your life! I want to know and I'm sure everyone else in the family does too! Jennifer & Paul - I so want to see photos of your family - it's been a long time. Chris & Alicia - your babies too! I know Nick and Becky are expecting and have their own blog - but please post here too! Okay Pam - you gave us some beautiful pics of your granddaughters - what beautiful little ladies they are - but I want MORE!! Come on the rest of you! We can stay close - just take a few minutes (and if you need get your children and/or grandchildren to help you with this new fangled technology!)

Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Ohio, Maryland, Utah, Texas, Nevada, Oregon, California, what's that country Bill and Diane are in? We are all over the place - but we can stay in touch! I'm pleading now! YOU ARE MY FAMILY and I so loved my time with you all in Texas (and those who weren't there - yea we talked about you and loved you in absentia [spelling suspect]) I need to keep this connection!

Okay, all this begging pleading and neediness could be avoided ya know.

Hey Everyone~

2008-08-05T23:21:00.002-04:00

So I figured I better get on here and blog or Aunt Cindy might get a little upset! :) I am so glad that I got to do down to reunion, I don't know about all of you, but I had a blast! Aunt Cindy, the pictures are adorable! I love them! I will post some pictures that I took! Jason and Jen, both Addison and Mason are adorable, and don't worry Davey, Destiny is just as cute! :) I love you all tons! Ohh and Aunt Cindy, I am really hoping I was included in that mailing of the catalog, I am really wanting to see everything in the catalog! If not, then I will just have to steal my mothers next time I go home! Hope everyone is doing well! Oh and Aunt Cindy thanks for the movie review, I can't wait to go see it!!!

Movie Review!!!!!

2008-08-01T22:09:00.002-04:00

Okay, we had date night tonight - dinner and a movie - yes, it was only McDonalds (because the line was too long at Chick-fil-A) - but the movie - wow.

"Mamma Mia!!!! " At first Dave said, "this is silly" but then I heard him gut belly laughing a few moments later. We did notice that most of the attendees in the theatre were "middle-aged women" and a few brave men (Dave chief amongst them). We laughed, we sang along alot, I sniffled, and we both really enjoyed it. I think I'll be buying it when it comes out.

Okay family, please chat with me and all of us in the process!

Love ya! Cin (& Dave)

Yahoo Brenda!

2008-07-31T21:56:00.002-04:00

Outstanding - I love hearing/reading from everyone else. Glad you got the CD - Dave and I had a blast printing the case covers! I know there are some real "ssshhhaaakkkyyyy" pictures! I'm still trying to learn all settings on the camera.

Tell Jen if she is interested in becoming a demonstrator there is a conference call on Sunday and she is more than welcome to join in the call - no commitment - just to get more information. I have already mentioned her to my leader. And that goes for anyone else interested (if you are reading this). Just give me a call.

I love that Mason and Addison had to be deprogrammed!! Ha ha! And that Destiny, she misses us huh! Let me know what she thinks of the pictures! We sent picture cds to Pam & Louie, and Hutch & Marla.

Debra called me today - her dog had 7 puppies! I hope she takes pictures and puts them on the blog! I love puppies - good thing we don't live there!!

Dave has training everyday next week, then just one more week before school starts. It's been tough leaving for work every morning with Dave and Petey still lounging in the bed!

Okay that's enough for now! Brenda keep coming back and posting - the rest of you too! Let's keep in touch!!

GOT THE CD

2008-07-30T17:21:00.002-04:00

YOU ARE THE OFFICIAL PICTURE TAKER. GREAT JOB! SOME FUZZIES BUT STIL A FANTASTIC JOB, CONSIDERING I DIDN'T EVEN TAKE OUT MY CAMERA. MASON AND ADDISON ARE DOING GREAT AFTER A COUPLE OF DEPROGRAMING DAYS. THEY ARE COMING OVER THIS WEEKEND AND WILL REALLY ENJOY THE PICTURES. LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT ONE ALREADY. CINDY I RECEIVED YOUR CATALOG AND ALREADY HAVE A FEW THINGS IN MIND. I'LL PLACE AN ORDER AFTER JEN COMES THIS WEEKEND.
I KNOW I HAD A GREAT TIME AT THE REUNION I HOPE EVERYONE ELSE DID TOOOO!!
DESTINY WAS A LITTL BUMMED WHWN SHE AWOKE TUES. AND MOST EVERYONE WAS GONE. SHE SAID I WOULD HAVE TO TELL HER MOM WHAT ALL SHE DID BECAUSE SHE COULDN'T REMEMBER IT ALL. CINDY-- I'M BLOGGING, SEE I DO REMEMBER HOW. SEE YA.

Just a few more words now

2008-07-28T23:29:00.002-04:00

Dave put picture cds in the mail today to everyone. Be on the look out for them! Come on now - let me hear from you! Love you all!

Just a few more....

2008-07-28T23:01:00.009-04:00

The facilities were very nice - this outhouse right outside the barn was new!

Destiny says "a little privacy please!"

"do you think I can sit at the grown-up table?"

This was a serious discussion! Hmmm, what shall we do now? Shall we go down to the river and catch minnows, collect snail shells, how 'bout run bases for the old uns, or shall we ask for more s'mores on the fire? Naw, let's get more Texas hold 'em lessons...

Can there be too many Hartmans in a kitchen?

There was so much good food and as far as we know, no loss of digits.

A couple more pictures!

2008-07-28T22:05:00.014-04:00

What an adorable family - oh that Mason - how is he doing without us Jen and Jason?????

Uncle Gary instructing the children, "never count your money while you're sittin' at the table..."

Father and son checker match - Davey looks on, the suspense is intense!

No clue what this discussion could be - Uncle Dave

discussing the pathagorian therom? I don't

even know how to spell that! But the children's

eyes appear glazed over!

Now this is chillin!

Hmmmmm? Brudder love?

The Party's Over........

2008-07-23T22:26:00.002-04:00

What I learned in Texas:

1. It's HOT

2. I like Armadillo Eggs!

3. I like Aunt Brenda's crackers!

4. Uncle Dave (Trester) is a trouble maker and a hoot!

5. Aunt Meredith and Jeremy are gourmet cooks!

6. Destiny likes to collect "things" in her bug net!

7. The cowboys at the long horn steer drive in Ft. Worth are "c d" employees.

8. Mason is tooooooo cccuuuuuttttteeeeee.

9. Gary makes a mean s'more on the open fire for his boys!

10. We miss you all after only one day, we had such a wonderful time, playing, eating, sharing, loving and can't wait until the next time!!!

P.S. More photos on the blog to come, plus copies on cd will be put in the mail. Oh and girls, the new catalogs will be in the mail soon!

announcement

2008-07-18T19:03:00.002-04:00

hey guys....check out our blog for a reunion that hutch and i would like to plan for next year....sign up and give us your opinion, suggestions and props!!! =) hope the reunion this weekend went well for everyone!!! =) much love,
Caryn

Get ready 'cause here we come.......

2008-07-16T21:30:00.003-04:00

Our bags are packed, we are excited! This time tomorrow we will be settled in and looking forward to seeing more family!

Sweet memories!

2008-07-08T10:35:00.002-04:00

Oh Cara, thanks for posting that picture! It's sweet because I can remember that visit and that morning. I wish you all could be at the reunion. Dave is already talking about what he hopes we do in two years! He said he wouldn't mind going back to Branson! That was fun. But we were also thinking about Tennessee - Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, outlets! I imagine everyone will be talking about that in about ten days or so.

We are piling stuff up that is to go to reunion - gathering things - new shorts, sandals, pictures, cameras. How 'bout mosquite repellant - hey all you Texans - are the mosquitos a problem down there? How's the weather right now - I'm expecting hot and humid - am I right? Any suggestions before we depart?

Old Picture

2008-07-05T22:04:00.002-04:00

Hey family. Look what I found...

I was looking for some stuff in my photo boxes for a scrapbooking project and I came across this photo. Thought you would enjoy it.

We won't be able to make the reunion this month. We have to have the floor and toilet replaced in our bathroom and the only time he can do it is that weekend.

Have some fun for us!

Cara :)

Their New Adventure - My Nostalgia

2008-06-24T10:56:00.002-04:00

Well, this photo was right before I said goodbye

and started crying! They are on the way to San Antonio, when we get to Glen Rose next month for the reunion Rachel will fly back with us. I can only imagine how difficult that will be for her.

I told Dave this morning that I miss "our adventures." Taking 30 days leave and driving all over the country. Getting excited when we got new orders and immediately going to Family Services and checking out the file on the next base and studying the area and what new places we would have to explore.

I need more adventures in my life!

So excited!!

2008-06-13T04:17:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone!

I am so excited for reunion! I can't wait! As my dad said, I have bought my plane ticket and I am for sure coming!! I was lucky enough that my work schedule just happened to fall right into place! :-) I will be flying out on thursday afternoon and coming home early monday morning!!

Just to keep everyone updated, I only have 2 more days left on my training at work and then I will officially be out on my own taking calls as a 911 dispatcher!! I am so excited! The training process has been long and rough at times, but so worth it! I have had some awesome calls and some really funny ones as well! I will have to fill everyone in on some of my funny calls at reunion! I cant wait to see everyone!!

Ohh and just so everyone knows, if you are interested, I have my own blog just to keep everyone updated on whats going on with my adventure of being out on my own!! :) It is swaraslife.blogspot.com feel free to check it out! Love you all!!

We are READY!!!!

2008-06-13T00:08:00.002-04:00

Tickets in hand........and our bags are packed. Well, OK the bags aren't packed yet. And, we don't actually have our tickets "in hand" yet. But, we are ready to go to Texas! Ciara and Jeremy have made their arrangements and will be staying for most of the time (not sure about Brittany yet). Tessa is still unsure about her dude's work schedule. And, Cory and Tiffany don't have the vacation time.

Merideth and I will be arriving the afternoon of the 15th and leaving the morning of the 22nd. Our only plans for the 7 days are to have a good time with y'all.

Yeeehaaaaa!!

Love you all,
Tim and Merideth

Congratulations 2Lt Cuddhy

2008-05-25T20:36:00.007-04:00

Today we had the great pleasure and honor of being apart of Rich's commissioning. He asked Dave to give him the oath (evidently an officer must be given the commissioning oath by another officer - Dave is a retired USAF Capt). So at 8:30 am we were at Cole Field House at the U of MD.

We then drove to Arlington VA to the Air Force Memorial - what a beautiful site - overlooking the Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery, the monuments in Washington. Just beautiful, there was a ceremonial commissioning there and the pining on - Rachel got the help pin on those gold bars with Rich's parents and grandmother. It was a very happy occasion. It brought back memories of Dave's pining on - Dave's Mother and Grandmother and I put on his gold bars.

This is the memorial - the ceremony was right between the three "vapor trails" (not sure what exactly to call them).

Then the celebratory dinner at this restaurant - talk about character! It is right next to the College Park Airport. We were told that it is the oldest operating airport in the WORLD. We were also told that because of it's close proximity to D.C. that only a very few private planes use it - and they are registered with the secret service. hmmmmm.

The decor inside the restaurant was all old WWI and WWII photographs and memorabilia. There were several plans outside, including this one.

It was just a delightful day.

Dave was up at 5 a.m. and I can hear him in the living room now - snoring.

How smart is YOUR RIGHT FOOT??

2008-05-23T16:40:00.002-04:00

1. WITHOUT anyone watching you (they will think you are GOOFY……) and while sitting where you are in front of your computer, lift your right foot off the floor and make Clockwise Circles.

2. Now, while doing this, draw the number “6″ in the air with your Right Hand.
Your foot will change direction.

Ha ha ha ha ha - how easily entertained am I!!!!!!!

How is everyone!?

2008-05-23T07:32:00.002-04:00

Hey, I figured it had been awhile since I had posted anything on here to update everyone what is going on with the new job! As most of you know, I am currently a 9111 dispatcher for the city of Provo, UT!! I have had some very comical calls! One that I find very humerous, I was talking to a caller that stated he had just witnessed someone hit two deer... the caller said he had been making fun of the individual that hit the two deer and he had said he didn't understand how someone could manage to hit one deer, much less two! Then, about 200 yds away, the caller himself managed to hit two deer! We all know what they say about Kharma!! :) Anyways, I am loving my job! I have 3 more weeks of training and then I will be out o my own! Kind of scary, however, also very exciting! I am not sure if my dad let anyone know, I also received my schedule for the month of July and it does look like I will be able to attend reunion!! Whoo hoo!! Well I guess that is it for now, I hope to hear how everyone else is doing soon!! Love you all!!

Confession (not really)

2008-05-22T16:06:00.003-04:00

Well, Rachel says I'm addicted, but is that bad? Since I've found out about blogs - I have discovered quite a few that maybe I really am addicted to - I just enjoy reading them every day (okay, and sometimes more than once a day). They want me (us) to read them. And I'm gonna share them with you guys:

http://www.thepioneerwoman.com/

http://www.wonderfulworldofweiners.blogspot.com/

http://www.beccasfreshfruit.blogspot.com/

http://www.godsgraceinpractice.blogspot.com/

Okay, that's enough for now - don't want to overwhelm ya'll.

So, where are you all? I really want to talk to you! Please come on and talk. Did I tell you that we've made our airline reservations, car reservations already for July? I was thinking that's a good move with the price of gas - locked in our ticket price. Now I hear we may be charged for each piece of luggage. This could be our last "big" vacation, sigh.

Everyday as I drive to and from work I take a little short cut on a country rode and I drive over this little one lane bridge, it crosses over a little creek, I think it's called "Winters Run". Anyway, I've been taking pictures of it once a week to see how green everything's getting. Now I'm sharing it with you.

Okay, come on and let me hear from you!

Whirlwind Weekend Part II - Washington D.C. on Saturday

2008-05-09T22:03:00.019-04:00

We had absolutely beautiful weather! It's like Cory must have brought spring weather from Nevada with him. Dave got a GPS for his birthday, so the boys sat up front and got the new toy plugged in and ready to go.

Rachel and I were in the back seat - me documenting the trip (Rachel telling me that it really wasn't necessary to document her - tee hee hee). Notice the starbucks frappuccino (sp?) - Cory had one also. Dave and I were more aware of the potential need for potty breaks. Older bladder control?

So off we go to the College Park (U of Md) Metro Station. We get our fare cards and hop on. I, of course, need to document Cory standing for his first Metro/Subway ride.

First stop - Union Station (huge train station). We walk across the street the Post Office Museum - where of course we visit the Capitol City Brewery. They have samples in cute little glasses of all the beers they brew.

Just to be polite, people taste the samples......

Back across the street to Union Station, back on Metro and next stop Smithsonium/Mall and assorted monuments.

Washington Monument - 897 steps - Dave says he walked up it when we got married, his Mother was here and I imagine his Mother and I took the elevator.

Next was the WWII Memorial, it was our visit time seeing this memorial.

Then we walked along the reflecting pool (chatting about Forest Gump) and as Cory looked back to take a picture I snapped his - the monument behind him is the Lincoln Memorial.

The Vietnam wall here (Washington Monument in the background).

If you look really carefully you can see Cory's brown shirt and Dave's white head at the top of the stairs on the left as they go into the Lincoln Memorial.

We took a short pause and when I turned around, Rachel and Cory both had their cell phones out and both talking to their "honeys." Well, I'm assuming it was their "honeys." My honey was buying us all bottles of water. The weather was so nice, but we were all really hiking - still had places to go, things to do, people to see. . . .

Think this might be my favorite memorial - Korean War Memorial - these statues are life size and when you walk up on them, it's just uncanny. I would really like to see this at night, there are lights there so I'm sure it would be an incredible sight.

Waiting underground to change trains - no photos of the rest of the day, but we got back to College Park, picked up Rachel's honey, Rich. Then went to Hard Times Cafe for dinner. Then everyone came back to our house and the young people went hoppin', the old uns went to bed.

I will post the Sunday whirlwind pictures, later.

BUT, THIS MUCH FUN (AND MORE) IS AVAILABLE TO ALL FAMILY WHO WISH TO VISIT US!!!!!!!

Whirlwind Weekend - Havre de Grace on Friday

2008-05-09T21:44:00.006-04:00

Okay, the blog is not cooperating with me - so I'll have to do several posts to have pictures in. On Friday evening after dinner we went up to Havre de Grace and had home-made ice cream from Bomboys! We then walked down to the Concord Light House (1827), 2nd oldest lighthouse tower on the Chesapeake Bay - unfortuantely in this photo I didn't turn the camera and get the top of the light house. Duh! The squirrel was pretty "brazen". Cory was minding his own business munchin' his ice cream cone and this fella came staight down the pine tree and came hesitantly up to Cory - eventually he did take the piece of cone right out of Cory's hand. My camera couldn't capture it quick enough. Next post.....Washington D.C.

Okay Cory - here ya go! Cara - Your recipe is here too!

2008-05-05T08:17:00.002-04:00

Flank Steak Marinade
2/3 cup olive oil
1 c. soy sauce (or Teryaki sauce)
3 cloves garlic, minced (I just buy the jar of minced garlic)
1 T. ground ginger
4 or 5 green onions chopped
2-3 T brown sugar

2 to 3 hours ahead of time, mix above ingredients w/whisk. Put flank steak in flat plan or zip loc bag with marinade. Turn to coat all sides. Grill, to serve, cut very thin strips across the grain of the steak!

YUMMY - you can also use the marinade for chicken, pork tenderloin, etc.

Aunt Meredith's Potato Salad (Meredith please correct!!!)

5 lb bag of red potatoes
packet of Ranch dressing mix - made according to package directions.
Red onions (as you like).

Boil them potatoes - dice - put dressing over and the onions. Chill - serve. This is the way I remember Meredith cooking it at the Lodge at Lake Mead. We only eat it this way now - although we do often omit the onions (much to Dave's disappointment).

PHOTOS OF THE WILD WASHINGTON/BALTIMORE/HAVRE DE GRACE WEEKEND COMING NEXT!

To my fellow Hartmans

2008-05-02T17:44:00.003-04:00

To those that have missed me so dearly ... I am here! Came up to Maryland for business, and wanted to Uncle Dave & Aunt Cindy (Rach too I guess). Thanks to them I can talk to yall.

I miss the heck out of you guys! Just got done reading about everyone's prior postings and realized how much time has passed and how much everyone has grown. Unfortunately I won't be able to join everyone at the reunion ... I kinda have an obligation with my remaining vacation time for the year.

And to those of you thatdon't know ... I am marrying my fiance Tiffany in November, so we won't have the vacation time available. This blog is an amazing idea (Thanks Aunt Cindy) Hope to hear from all of ya real soon!

Miss ya much - Cory

Look Who We Found!!!!

2008-05-02T16:55:00.003-04:00

We found Cory and we are gonna have a good time! Tonight Havre de Grace, tomorrow Washington D.C., dinner with Rach and Rich and just fun fun fun.

Will post pictures of the hilarity!

Sadly....

2008-04-27T17:02:00.002-04:00

We will not be able to make it to the reunion. We would love to come and vacation time isn't an issue but there is just no way we would be able to afford plane tickets or the hotel stay. We are really bummed especially since we haven't seen Dad since our wedding almost four years ago! The least we can do is try and be better about posting on here to help keep in touch.

For what we lack in posting here we do slightly better on our family blog which is thehartmanstory.blogspot.com so check that out for better updates.

We hope all the plans go well for the reunion, wish we could make it.

Reunion is just around the corner!!!!!!!

2008-04-26T15:21:00.002-04:00

Hey everybody,

Here are the committments that we have so far......

Dave & Cindy for the full 5 days.....
Rachell will be coming in and meeting her beau for the weekend
Gary & Debbie will be making day trips (about 1 hour)
Brenda & Dave will be there for the full 5 days (with 2 of their grandkids)
Jason and Jennifer will be making day trips (with their newborn)
Tim & Merideth for the full 5 days
Jeremy for an undetermined time (possibly with Brittany depending upon work schedule)
Tessa & Brian for the weekend
Ciara for the weekend (depending upon work schedule)
Mom & John will be making day trips (about 20 minutes)
Tammy & Don will be making day trips (about 40 minutes)

I spoke with Hutch the other day.....he said that it doesn't look like Marla will be able to get the time off, but she is trying and will let us know.

Pam and Louie are a no for now.........if something changes, please let us know!

I got an e-mail from Jen and Paul. She said that there wasn't enough time to allow Paul to schedule vacation. Sorry Jen! We will get the word out sooner next time.

Does anyone know how to get in touch with Val, Cara, Caryn, or anyone else that may not know about the fun times?

We will have the final numbers in a couple of weeks. So far we have committed to the "main house", and we still have several other houses reserved. The main house reservation had to be finalized by the 15th of April. We still have some time on the other reservations, so don't give up on your efforts to get the vacation time.

If you are able to get the time off, and want to share in the good times, and dare I say bonding that will take place..........send me an e-mail, or give me a call. I don't remember the deadlines, but I know that we have a few more weeks.

Love to all, including younz and y'all,

Tim & Merideth

Spring is here! Or is it???

2008-04-22T16:52:00.002-04:00

Well, tax season is finally over and I am no longer working so hard. (RELIEF) I now have some time on my hands, or so I think. Baseball season has started and the boys each have a minimum of two games a week, plus practice (if they can fit it in between the rain storms). It has been unseasonably cold here in Oregon. This past weekend we hit record lows. No fun to be outside at a ball game in the snow! Paul is assistant coaching Tyler's team. Courtney and I are the official scorekeepers and pitch counters for both teams. As you can see, it is quite a family event for us. We love it. We will not be able to make the reunion in July, but I hope you all have fun and post lots of pics! It would be nice to see my dad :) I need to figure out how to download some pictures. I'll ask Paul for help, he's a computer nerd! Talk to you all soon.

Oh yea - scrapbookking

2008-04-10T18:30:00.003-04:00

Pam - do you remember this? You and James were the first family to see our little Rachel! When you blogged that you love scrapbooking I thought I've got to get that picture! It's on the 2nd page of the scrapbook I'm making that I'm calling "The Book of Rachel." :)

I must admit that I have fallen in love with scrapbooking - my first was the album we made for Aunt Gail's 80th Birthday. We listened while she was looking at it and made notes, so when I got home I recreated it for us with corrections and added comments Aunt Gail had made. We're planning to bring it with us to the reunion in July.

So this "Book of Rachel" is my third scrapbook. I've got old photos out of albums from my family that I want to put together. Funny, the Hartmans arrived in the colonies in 1749. My family (the maternal side, di Carlucci) arrived in 1900-01-02. I have my great grandfather's naturalization papers and he completed them probably 40 years after he arrived and where he filled in the date he arrived in this country - that's what he put "1900-01-02".

So, what can we do to get everybody talking? I've been meaning to tell you Meredith that ever since we came to Nevada for the first reunion, I've made your red potato/ranch dressing potato salad - everybody loves it. My friends call and now they make "Meredith's Potato Salad." You're kinda famous on the east coast. :)

It's like spring here - I drove home with the windows open, the hostas are really coming up, and the cherry tree in the front yard is swelling into buds - it usually flowers just in time for Dave's birthday (by the way - everybody - he'll be double nickels on April 23rd - don't tell him I told you).

I think I'll send the email invite to everyone again - just in case you've all lost your directions to add to your blog!

What are everybody's plans for the weekend? I think I'm going to try and talk Dave into taking a drive up to a huge craft place in Blue Ball, PA - I need scrapbooking goodies!!!!!!!

2008-04-08T13:03:00.003-04:00

Hey, I'm back in! I've recorded my password so I can find it again, (I hope) Cindy, I too love, love, love to scrapbook. I've got scrapbook fever. haven't been able to scrap much since we moved to KY, but that will change soon. I've got two grandkids ready now to learn and one more to follow soon behind them. 5 sounds like a good age to get started, don't you think.

Well James & Theda are awaiting their lumber package to be dropped this week then we will see walls framed up. I'll shoot pics when that starts. They are so excited, they've started packing and sorting for garage sale. Shopping for fridge and new living room furniture.

This Friday is Father/Daughter dance and James is taking both Maddie & Sydney on a date. Hope to get pics of that as well. We are not as camera ready as you and Rach, but love seeing pics. She is so photogenic.

Louie is off work right now, they made his decision for him and laid him off a couple of weeks ago. He is so relieved and does not get as many headaches any more. We are working out details for a new business venture.

Brenda, how did the promotion go? Loved seeing pics of your family. Aren't grandkids great. James and Theda think I'm obsessed when ours are around.

Tim, Loved seeing pics of your family as well. It would be hard to have children living out of state. At least Utah is close to Vegas.

Gary, it was good to see you as well, even if you were asleep. ha! ha!

Love this weather! not looking forward to another hard rain. Everything is still so saturated with water. We look forward to blogging more and being blogged. (is that a word?)

Love you all.
Louie and Pam

A Saturday in April.....

2008-04-05T16:34:00.004-04:00

So, this morning Rach and I went shopping at Bed Bath & Beyond - she really liked this bed set -up, so we took a picture. We went in for one item and came out $80 later with two big bags. Good grief.

Next, we went across the street to the Scrapmasters Store! Scrapbook supplies and a coffee shop inside.

Rach offered to buy me a coffee and I thought how about another picture! The look on her face says - okay, put the camera away.

Then we went home, where we found Dave in the garage, he was pulling stuff down out of the attic that he wanted us to clean out and go through.

Of course that takes a little while because of "memory lane."

Rachel found two baby dolls, both dressed in clothing that she had worn herself. So of course, there's another photo opportunity!

We filled up the trash cans and have several bags and boxes for Goodwill, but (unfortunately for Dave), we also put stuff back up in the attic.

So, now we're done for the day.... dinner is cooking, and I'm gonna go scrapbook with the goodies I purchased today.

Please someone write, share.

How about if we all post a favorite recipe? Something to get us going?

Okay, enough for now.

Sunshine, Crocuses, Hyacinths, must be Spring!

2008-03-30T14:03:00.002-04:00

Hello out there! How are you all doing? Hope you are having lovely weather - I'm sure you Nevada and Texas people are - us Marylanders are having bright sunshine, early spring flowers. It's still kinda cool outside, we wore jackets to church this morning. Yesterday we bought a bunch of pansies to plant out by the mail box - I picked them out mostly white with a splash of purple - Dave has now told me he prefers more saturated color - oh well, next year.

Dave and Rachel have been off since Good Friday for spring break, they both go back to work tomorrow. I have only had Good Friday off. Oh, I started my new job a week ago Tuesday. I'm working with a small manufacturer's rep co. They represent candy packaging manufacturers! Oh yea! They do get a few samples and I'm learning the difference between just chocolate and really really good chocolate.

I hoped for more pictures on this blog - more family shots. Bill Cook sent Dave an email with a link in it for some beautiful photos of the Allegheny River. Turn the sound on your computer when you go here:

To all who love Western PA Turn on your sound... http://www.pittsburghquarterly.com/pages/winter2008/large.html

I think you will enjoy it, we did - makes me want to go visit there. I think when we were up there in August for Aunt Gail's birthday we drove through Ford City. I think.

Do any of you have HBO? We have been watching the series "John Adams" and we love it. Funny how when I was in school history really didn't interest me at all (maybe it was those teachers). Now I really enjoy it, this series is very interesting - just from the first episodes I've been thinking about how difficult it was to get all thirteen colonies to agree to declare independence and the time and distance involved. It's fascinating - a little gruesomely realistic sometimes.

I'm going to try to take some pictures and post them - maybe even this afternoon. I would really love to chat with you all.

Love - Cindy

This is soooo Great!!!

2008-03-18T21:18:00.002-04:00

I'M SORRY I DISAPPEARED FOR AWHILE. I JUST ALL THE LATEST POSTINGS. DAVID AND I WILL BE AT THE REUNION ALONG WITH 2 GRAND CHILDREN. JASON AND JEN WILL BE IN AND OUT WITH THE NEW BABY. I NEED TO GET IN TOUCH WITH TAMMY AND DON. THEY WILL PROBABLY BE THERE TOO. BUT I'M NOT SURE IF THEY WILL BE STAYING AT THE REUNION. I NEED TO GET HER TO E-MAIL YOU CINDY SO SHE CAN BLOG ALSO. DO WE NEED TO BE PAYING FOR PART OR ALL OF THIS PRIOR TO GOING??? LET US KNOW. I'M ON VACATION 7/14-7/22. SO I WILL BE THER THE WHOLE TIME. PICTURES ARE TO COOL. IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME. LITTLE JESSICA IS DRIVING NOW.. THAT JUST AMAZES ME. GOTTA GO NOW ,I WILL TALK AT YA'LL IN A FEW WEEKS. LOVE YA BUNCHES BRENDA

What Fun!

2008-03-08T16:26:00.003-05:00

Hey, can you hear the music? With Dave's help I'm just having a grand time. First, we added the feed, so you can see where viewers to the blog are from (the Tennessee viewers are actually me viewing from work), second Cindy's Playlist! You can turn the music off if you prefer.

Tim, we are really looking forward to the reunion! I hope bunches of Hartmans/Cooks/LeCavaliers/Hutchinsons/Tresters/etc/etc. can come! I know Dave and I will be there for the full time you've reserved. Hopefully we can get a commitment out of Rachel soon.

It almost feels like spring time here - but it won't last. It has rained so hard, flash flood warnings, mud in the street, but then sunshine and birdsong. Hope I remember to put the clock ahead tonight!

Dave is happy - we're headin' to the Outback Steak House for dinner. One of his favorites!

July is getting close.......

2008-03-03T21:51:00.002-05:00

but April is even closer! Have you made your plans yet? We need to know by April who is coming, when you're coming, how long you're staying, and how much fun you want to have. Pleeeeeeaaasssseee don't wait until the last minute (I am famous for that). Merideth and I are looking at flight reservations and rent-a-car stuff as well.

Don't miss out! We're gettin' together in TEXAS!........did I mention that we are gettin' together in TEXAS?.......and one more thing.........We're gonna have a great time if you'nz are there!

One more time on the dates:

When - July 17th - 21st
Where - Glen Rose, Texas @ the Country Woods Inn
Who - Everyone!
Why - Cause we can

e-mail Tim with the specific dates and numbers for your family, or just post it on the Blog, or even a phone call will work.
tmh4@cox.net

Love to all!

Pictures!!

2008-02-28T23:29:00.002-05:00

This picture was taken at my Uncle Rees's wedding! :)

This was taken this summer at my cousin Brittany's wedding! :)

This is the picture of the house I am living in with my 3 roommates! I LOVE IT~!!

Hey how is everyone!?!?

2008-02-28T23:22:00.002-05:00

Hey! I just thought I would give everyone an update on what is going on with me up in good ol' Utah!! I just finished my first month of training and I only have 3 more months to go! :) I am absolutley loving my job! I have had some fun and interesting calls! I have some awesome roommates and I am enjoying my time up here! I am going to Vegas tomorrow to the family, I am really excited for that! :) I hope everyone is doing well and I will add a few pictures of me! :) I love you all tons!!

I miss everybody! Where are you?

2008-02-28T18:46:00.002-05:00

Okay, it's cold here (I know Marla, it's colder up there). But here's my weekday morning routine. The Mr. gets up first and right about the time that he leaves, the Miss gets up, and about the time she leaves she will call out to me "by Mom!" That's my cue to get up. So I get up and get my act together and when it's time for me to leave - sigh, this is what "tells me goodbye." Petey G. Hartman just lounging in bed. The dog's life.

How is everybody? Just super busy? Come on, let's chat. What's happening in your lives? Dave said over dinner this evening that we should think about what size car we should rent when we come to the reunion. So, we are thinking ahead! Alright, I'm not going to ramble on - but somebody please come back and chat -- who knows what photograph I might be tempted to put on here just to get your attention! NOT!

Love to all - Cindy

Hey I want more pictures!

2008-02-23T21:18:00.002-05:00

It's been quite awhile since

we've seen new photos! So I

decided to share these! May

I introduce you to

Mr. Hartman, 6 & 7th grade

math teacher, and

Miss. Hartman, 9th grade English.

Aren't they just adorable! Tee hee hee.

Where is everyone? Jen - I'm anxiously waiting to see pictures of your children! I can hardly believe Courtney is 15! I have such a wonderful memory of holding you (Jen) when you were only 4 days old! Sigh.

And wow that little Noelle, what a beauty - I really like those pictures - she was getting into baking those cookies! Nick, Becky and Noelle - you make a beautiful family.

Debra and Gary - I'm still waiting to hear what kind of puppy that is napping with Gary! What a cutie (the puppy ha ha ha).

Chris and Alicia - please post so we can see your family too.

It's ccccoooolllldddd here! There was no school on Friday, so Dave and Rachel have had a 3 day weekend. I'm working in a shopping mall and it has to be a state of emergency before we are closed. After all, where do all the kids go when there is no school? The mall!!

Rachel and her boyfriend went skiing on Friday, I haven't had a chance to visit with them, it's the boyfriend's birthday, so they are in Philly with his family celebrating.

I have started a little side business (Dave calls it my money making hobby). I'm an independent demonstrator for Uppercase Living. Go on line and check it out if you have a moment. UppercaseLiving.com. When you get to the home page you can log in as a customer, use my ID: 358521 and hartman. Let me know whatcha think.

Brenda any word yet on the position? Pam, what are you all up to? Come on, let's chat.

Tim, thanks for getting the email addresses to me, Ciara got right on there, now we need to hear from her siblings. Of course I haven't gotten Rachel on here yet either.

Dave is zoned out in the living room - he flips channels back forth between Matrix and Dances with Wolves. Ugh.

Well, I'm gonna stop now. Hope everyone checks in soon starts sharing.

Love to all! Cindy

A few pictures

2008-02-12T20:27:00.000-05:00

As promised.

Makin' Christmas cookies

"Don't touch my cookie"

Christmas at Oma's

Noelle Ryan Hartman

Enjoy. More to come.

Love,

Nick, Becky and Noelle

Hey Everyone!

2008-02-12T19:35:00.001-05:00

Hey, It is so good to see everyone on here! :) I finally decided to e-mail Aunt Cindy my address, so that I could write on here too! I am really hoping that I will be able to go to reunion this summer, but as my parents said earlier, I just started a new job, so I don't know if that will be happening!

I am absolutely loving life up in Utah, the job is great! My roommates are fun and so far i am enjoying life! I will definitely keep everyone updated, I miss and love you all!!

~Ciara

West Coast Hartman's

2008-02-12T19:10:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone! It's about time our family got into the digital age. I have enjoyed reading all of the prior posts and am very excited to reconnect with you all! We really want to go to the reunion but I need to look into finances before we can commit. We have a blog of our own as well if you'd like to check it out. ---> http://www.thehartmanstory.blogspot.com/ Becky and Noelle are actually in Kentucky (Berea) visiting her side of the family. Here's an interesting side note: I just mapquest'd Berea to make sure I was spelling it correctly and realized it is about 25 miles east of Danville. Small world! Either Becky or I will be posting pics soon.

Love,
Nick, Becky, and Noelle Hartman

Come on ... sing it with me .... We Are Family....

2008-02-11T16:38:00.000-05:00

Oh boy was I tickled when I snuck a peak at the blog from work today! I had seen the pictures of the twins last night, then to see Cara's girls (I loved being a Girl Scout), Gary sleeping with his puppy (what kind of dog is that?) and Jen's post - yahooooooo!

Jen or Chris - I tried Nick's phone last night and I think I was calling his work number, so I tried to leave him a quick message with my phone number and email. If you chat with him maybe you can clue him in.

Okay everybody, keep coming back and checking in and chatting. Tim, get those email addresses okay?

Love to all! Dave & Cindy

More Found Family!!!

2008-02-11T13:51:00.000-05:00

I guess it's time to join the blogging world. If my old Aunts and Uncles can do it, I'm sure I can figure it out! :) I am actually at work reading all of your older post and was so excited to hear from Aunt Cindy last night. I will get some pictures posted soon, but we are all doing fine in Oregon and long for the family connection! Thanks for the Hartman Herald. Love & miss you all and blog ya later.

Jen & Paul LeCavalier

Gary's new puppy

2008-02-11T00:25:00.000-05:00

Both of them sleeping

Pictures

2008-02-10T23:54:00.000-05:00

The girls became brownies this year when they started an all homeschooled troop. (None of the other local troops wanted us crazy homeschoolers - lol) The girls have earned their first badge for completing the history of the Girl Scouts and learning the GS promise and law. We are now working on Safety and Pets/Animal badges.

2008-02-10T22:07:00.000-05:00

Brandon at Awana's

Christopher at Awana's

2008-02-10T19:18:00.000-05:00

We were at the Inner Harbor this weekend. This pic is
Rachel fork feeding the pigeons her leftover soft taco
with guacomole (spelling suspect). She got sick last night
blames Chipotle Mexican Grill - I wonder if we need to check
on the pigeons.....

My sister from Florida (Fran) and her daughter (Kristel)
flew up here Thursday for the Baltimore Tattoo Convention
at the Sheraton Baltimore City. So to support Kris (she had
a booth at the convention) we all went down on Saturday.

My other other sister (didn't they make a movie about her? ha) Teresa and her daughter, Rose, came too (they live in
Frederick). So we had a nice visit us girls (oh yea and Dave too).

So Kristel let me take a pic of her as she was tattooing a client, I also had to ask the client for her permission.

Evidently Kris goes all over the place to conventions and makes good money. Last month she was in Austin, TX ya'll. I think she would have given us a discount on a tattoo - but we decided to let people pay her full price so she could get better money.

Here is Teresa (dark hair) Dave (gray/white hair) and Fran
(reddish brown hair) with my neice Rose the only one looking at me. Rosie's face says it all "Come on Aunt Cindy,
it's cold let's get movin'"

It was cold, but sun shining and beautiful. Now, right now as I'm typing this, the wind is really blowing and it's absolutely frigid outside. And I know if I'm this cold here that Hutch, Marla, Jess and Aunt Gail are really cold up in Vandergrift. Brrrr - I'm thinking of younz!!!

Okay, one more picture:

Gotta share
this one
because I pretty much forced Rose to stand next to this dvertisement for Valentine's Day dinner at Phillips Seafood Restaurant because
"YOU CAN'T EAT ROSES"

Yes, I'm that kind of auntie - loving, annoying, pesky, but loving.

Now that I'm becoming more comfortable with my camera, I'll try to put more pictures on and Dave and I will try to get more old family photos too.

Maybe we can get some of Grandmom/Mom/Peggy on there and get her to comment.

SORRY I'VE BEEN SICK

2008-02-08T15:07:00.000-05:00

STILL NO WORD ON THE AWARD. IT'S NOT A PROMOTION (YET ANYWAY). WE HAVE ALL BEEN INFECTED WITH INFLUENZA.... YUK!!!! IT'S BEEN MISERABLE AROUND HERE FOR A COUPLE OF WEEKS. I THINK IT'S BEEN THRU EVERYONE NOW SO WE'RE ALL GETTING BETTER. JEN AND JASON ARE MOVING TO MINERAL WELLS 1ST WEEK IN MARCH. THEN I'M GOING TO GET HER ON THE BLOG SO YA'LL CAN'T GET TO KNOW HER. MEREDITH SAYS SHE FITS RIGHT IN (WHEN THEY MET HER A FEW MONTHS AGO). I JUST CAN'T WAIT UNTIL JULY, NOBODY BACK OUT NOW - IT'S BEEN QUITE AWHILE SINCE WE'VE ALL BEEN TOGETHER. KEEP AFTER GARY AND DEBBI - HE NEEDS COAXING ALOT!!! DEBBI IS ALL ABOUT FAMILY. SHE HAS BEEN GOOD FOR HIM. EXCEPT HE WORKS WAY TO HARD. I'LL CALL HER AND SEE IF I CAN FIGURE OUT WHAT SHE IS DOING WRONG. TALK AT YA IN A FEW DAYS..

XOXOXOX
BRENDA

HELLLOOOOOOOO!

2008-02-06T20:39:00.000-05:00

Anybody out there?

Brenda, How is the new position looking? Have you heard yet? I hope they didn't give it to that goober in Houston. they should know by now that you are the best thing that has happened to the Star-Telegram since the printing press.

Pam, We miss you & Louis! I can't begin to tell you how excited we are to see you guys in July. I hope that the kids (sounds funny to call them kids) can make it too.

Gary, Are you on yet? Come on brother........Debbie..........somebody from that house needs to get on the blog. Maybe one of the boys can get you started. I had to have Ciara help me.

Love to each and every one you.......and younz in Pennsylvania too.