November 24, 2015

Baby Love

Paige and I went on a short trip to visit my niece and her new baby boy. He is 3 months old tomorrow and such a cutie! We had a great time experiencing the fun things babies do...spit bubbles, cooing, and precious smiles. Of course whenever there was crying or stinky bodily functions involved we  promptly handed him over to his parents! Thanks Erin and Jon for the great hospitality and sharing your wonderful little baby with us! 

Love, his favorite Great Auntie and awesome cousin  

November 3, 2015

Relief and Optimism

Tomorrow morning I will have a spring in my step because tonight I have been relieved of the heavy weight that has been on my shoulders for two years. Tonight the majority of voters in Jeffco saw the dysfunction happening in our school district and recalled our current school board majority. 

We will be starting again with a clean slate of professionals who I believe will work together to do what is best for our 85,000 students. I really didn't know what I was going to do if the election hadn't turned out this way. I have to admit I did attend a retirement meeting tonight to see what my options were. Thankfully, I feel optimistic again about what lies ahead and will push that retirement idea out of the picture for awhile. I love my job and tomorrow I can look into the faces of our students and smile because their future is bright again! Enormous thanks to all of you voters who listened and understood and gave the wonderful support we needed! 

Please note that you can follow me again on Facebook because my political posts have now ceased. I will be posting puppy pictures during the presidential election.

October 1, 2015

From Baker Street to the Theatre

On our final full day in London, we decided to pay tribute to one of the most popular English fictional characters, Sherlock Holmes. We found our way to 221b Baker Street where there is a small little house/museum (and of course gift shop) depicting his famous stories. 

We then headed back on the subway to the high rent district of Kensington to visit another royal property, Kensington Palace. To get to Kensington Palace you have to walk through Kensington park - a big and beautiful front yard that the Queen generously has open to her subjects. In fact, the combined size of Kensington Park and the adjoining Hyde Park is larger than the country of Monaco! When you are at the palace it is easy to forget that there is a huge city surrounding it. The apartments that you are allowed to tour were those of King George I and II and those of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. We have heard a lot about Victoria and Albert because there are many places named after them. I am intrigued with their famous love story and the devastating effect Albert's death had on Queen Victoria. So much so that she became a recluse for her remaining time as Queen. Her reign was the longest in history until this year when Queen Elizabeth surpassed her great- great grandmother with 63 years.

Speaking of the Queen, we went shopping at her favorite grocery store, Fortnum and Mason. I use the term "grocery store" loosely because it is more like a fancy department store with a vast amount of their famous tea, biscuits, tableware, and every other fancy thing you could think of. My friend Jessica gave me the recommendation and she should know. She is from England and owns and operates the tea room in Denver called The House of Commons which now I will be frequenting to get my Afternoon Tea fix (shameless plug- you're welcome Jessica!) They also have a restaurant there which we took advantage of to rest and relax before heading off to the theatre.

We found the Cambridge Theatre - a small venue nestled in the London theatre district. Because of our exhausting touring behaviors as well as shopping adventures, we didn't have time to go back to the hotel to change into fancier duds. Come to find out that London is similar to Denver in that many people dress casually to attend. We saw the musical Matilda and it was very entertaining and a very appropriate one to see in London. 

Well, that was it and you can't say that we didn't pack it all in our trip! Now to sleep and get ready for our travel day back to the states and reality. Farewell England! We will miss you and enjoyed your country immensely! 

The home of Sherlock Holmes

Kensington Palace

Built in ironing board!

September 30, 2015

Don't Lose Your Head- Drink Tea Instead!

The Tower of London was our destination today. It is so incredibly old and has a very morbid history. The first part of the tour is guided by a Beefeater. Ours was a retired military gentleman who had the personality of a weathered Marine but he was funny and very informative. Thank goodness we have the judicial system that we have because handcuffs and prison is much better than ropes and axes! While walking in the White Tower it was mind boggling to realize that it was built in the 11th century! The beautiful part of the Tower of London is the display of the Crown Jewels. Exquisite jewels adorn crowns of past kings and queens as well as the current queen's crown. There are many other treasures to covet there as well. It was truly the "house of bling!" I was disappointed, however, that none of it is for sale.

We enjoyed Afternoon Tea at a restaurant just outside the Tower next to the Thames. This was my first Tea and I enjoyed it. In fact my lunches now at school may involve some scones and cucumber sandwiches...

Unfortunately we had to say goodbye to Barb and Antonio because they had to head back home to Italy. After we parted ways on the subway, the remainder of our group set forth and toured Westminster Abbey. It was magnificent and we got to hear the organ as a service was being conducted  while we were there. We then walked past Parliment, #10 Downing Street and ended up in Trafalgar Square - the center of London. For dinner we walked over the Millenium Bridge and ate at the south end of London near the London Eye. Finally we hobbled back to the subway and called it a day..whew!

Outside the Tower of London

Afternoon Tea

Big Ben!

September 29, 2015

 Hangin' With Harry

Had an awesome day with my pals Harry, Ron and Hermione! It took us a few trains, but we managed to find Warner Brothers Studio and take the Making of Harry Potter tour. Last November you may remember that we answered the call to "All things Potter" by spending a week at Universal Studios in Orlando. Today's tour was different because we got to walk through the actual sets and look at all the actual props and costumes. I arrived in full geekdom- wearing my Griffindor sweatshirt and Timeturner necklace. I was a little self conscious because not many people were adorned in Potter couture. However, after the last gift shop, I was in good company!

I'm really glad that we spent most of the day there even though I felt a little guilty for not seeing some true London sites. However, on our way we found Westminster Cathedral while looking for Westminster Abbey. This turned out to be a good mistake because we were greeted by a delightful tour guide who gave a "top quality" tour.

Westminster Cathedral

Entering Hogwarts

Don and I on a self guided tour!

A huge model of Hogwarts that they used for filming 

September 28, 2015

The City, The Castle and The Ripper

This was a jam packed day! We spent the morning on a bus tour so we could take in all of London. There is so much to see...many parks, museums, the London bridge, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben (which by the way is the name of the bell, not the clock..who knew?). All within 600 some square miles and enjoyed by 9 million people! We ended up at Buckingham Palace in a prime spot to see the guards march in to change shifts. We weren't close enough to see the actual changing of the guard because you have to get there hours earlier but the parade was impressive. Our British tour guide was a walking encyclopedia with great stories. After the ceremony she declared, "....we may not be the best at everything but the English are the best in pomp and circumstance!"

We then headed out of town to Windsor Castle - the favorite home of Queen Elizabeth. She currently is at her summer home in Scotland so Lizzie and I will have to catch up another time. Windor castle is huge and it took the whole afternoon to see just a part of it. I'm pretty sure that I could handle this way of living!

Last night we took the Tube to the financial district to meet our Jack the Ripper guide. Kevin was an expert on the Jack the Ripper crime spree and took us on a walking tour of all the significant locations of all the macabre events. It was more historical than gory and very interesting. I was worried that we would be walking in empty dark places but we found that things start hopping in London around 9pm. The restaurants are full and it was a Monday night- we need to get out more! 

Over 20,000 steps on ye ol' 

pedometer today...time to crash!

London Bridge

The moat at Windsor castle is now a garden

Walking in the footsteps of Jack the Ripper

September 27, 2015

We Have Arrived!

We landed in London at 12:30pm their time and 5:30am our time. After a long wait for our ride to the hotel we finally arrived at our hotel in the Shepards Bush area. Our tour director threatened us with bodily harm if we didn't fight the urge to go to bed so we didn't even look at that soft and inviting piece of dreamy furniture when we dropped off our bags in the room. Even though it has been 30 some years since we have been in her high school classroom, Mrs. K. still has that super teacher power over us! 

We set off down the street and found the Tube (subway) station and acquired our Oyster passes for the week. We then caught up with sisters Lori and Barb and brother in law Antonio. Barb and Antonio only had to hop over from Italy so they were not feeling jet lagged at all. Still not wanting to give in to the call of our pillows, we headed to our first pub ....The Brewdog. 

We celebrated Lori's birthday, after a long and agonizing dinner provided by the tour company, with a delicious chocolate cake Barb was able to score down the street. We don't get to wish Lori a happy birthday in person very often since she lives in California, so it was extra special ....and being in London as well is an added bonus!

Finally time for bed!

Debby and Don in front of our hotel

London's version of the dollar store!

All together at our first pub

Happy Birthday!

September 24, 2015

Thursday Night Fever!

It's late and I have tons to do but I just have to write this! Tonight we went to the Arvada Center to see Saturday Night Fever - The Musical. As soon as the lights went down and the opening scene began, I had a major flashback! Whoa! The clothes, the music, the hair! I was right back in high school again! I remember the Saturday afternoon that me and my hot date (Don) checked out an event at the high school that  introduced us to the new dance craze...Disco! We won an album - Ethel Merman Sings Disco! 

The musical tonight had great music, fantastic dancing, and an awesome set. As with the movie, the plot was weak but the performers kept us entertained with their dance moves. The main character played by Ian Campayno rivaled John Travolta - that boy could dance! I decided tonight that the only way I am going to fight off this fifty flab is to have a dance party every night after school..who's in? I can't find my Ethel Merman album but I just downloaded the original Saturday Night Fever soundtrack! Now to check EBay for that disco ball......

September 13, 2015

A Family Affair

It was another busy football weekend for the Ostwalds. Saturday, the Rams lost in overtime which was a heartbreaker because we outplayed the Minnesota Gophers until the 4th quarter. But our tailgater was a winner before the game with the Taj-mahaul. Today, the whole family got to attend the Bronco Defense Extravaganza....I mean the Bronco game and enjoy a win. Hec..I would attend a lawn growing competition if it meant we would all be together! It is great to be a family unit when we can.

Tailgater fun!

Happy that my kids didn't spill as much food as the cute one behind us! My shoes are still sticky!

September 6, 2015

Ready For Some Football

Football season kicked off for me in a big way this week. Thursday night Alex and I went to the final Bronco preseason game but Don missed out since he was out of town. We carpooled with the Nelson family who enjoyed the experience even though I made them walk 10 miles (or so it seemed like) from the car to the stadium. My philosophy is that if you don't pay for parking you have more money for green chili fries and beer! 

On Saturday we attended the first CSU Ram football game- or should I say stomping - which resulted in a 65 to 13 win! It was an orange out game honoring the Aggies history which also meant a wardrobe challenge for me. The last few orange out games were when it was cool so I only have an orange hoodie. I mean, how many people go out of their way to buy orange clothes that don't have a jack o lantern on them? Oh well, I did my best to show my spirit and it was great to see Paige...and Jared...and Michelle!

Tonight was our family's second annual Morg League Fantasy Football draft. My strategy this year was supposed to be based on the thigh size of prospective players but unfortunately I didn't do my research so I defaulted to players with cool names. I'm feeling confident with the unique monikers on my roster and feel that this will be a great season for me. Go Donna's Dominators!

Fun with the Nelsons

Manning? Whatever..I go for the green chili fries!

Ostwalds (+1) in Orange

August 30, 2015

Nice Day For a Great Wedding

On Saturday we were fortunate to attend a special wedding. Alex's best friend Derrek married Sarahlinna in a beautiful wedding on a rooftop patio on the CU campus in Boulder. It was a very warm day but I think our perspiration had a little to do with the Ostwalds (who bleed green and gold) being in Buffalo territory! Alex was an exceptional Best Man with a wonderful toast to the bride and groom. The reception was a terrific party and included a hilarious groom/groomsmen YMCA dance for the bride in short shorts and suspenders....some things you just can't unsee but I have blackmail video that should have some powerful leverage with Alex for awhile! A beautiful day with a beautiful family!

The bride and groom

Mother of the groom and the ring bearer Crosby

The Hole in the Wall Gang and parents of the three best friends- Alex is the only single one left!

Derrek's beautiful sister Katelyn and the Folsom Field wedding cake

Fun Family time!

August 26, 2015

Happy National Dog Day!

If you read this blog, you know how much I love dogs. Our dogs have always been part of our family and our children truly believe the two we have now have a higher spot in the sibling hierarchy than they do! Dogs have always been a part of my life and always will be so it is with great pleasure that I participate in celebrating National Dog Day! 

Maggie and Max we ❤️ you!

August 25, 2015

Touring With the Italians

Last weekend I had the pleasure of a visit from my nephew Francesco and his girlfriend Daniela. They live in Italy and were on an American tour to see all our great attractions from San Francisco to Denver. They brought my mom along on their trip to Denver so she could see the mountains. If she had it her way, she would be living in a cabin in the forest...I told her if she didn't behave her wish might come true! 

Now, I am not the best navigator or tour guide for that matter, but did manage to get us to Estes Park and a little visit to Rocky Mountain National Park. It was a beautiful day, although a bit hazy from the Oregon fires, but the scenery was still remarkable. I learned from the trip that you should always let an Italian drive because Francesco made an impossible lane change happen...twice! 

Fantastico!

August 18, 2015

Dear Family

Dear Family, 

Due to Alex's recent discovery of a serpent of massive proportions, in the backyard today, I will not be able to attend any events in this area. This decision was made due to the fact that I am extremely averse to reptiles of this length, am not fluent in Parseltounge, and have a strong will to live. Someone else will need to oversee all dog "go potty" activities, weeding and fish feeding. 

However, if this situation is rectified by Ringling Brothers, the Denver Zoo, or any maniac from the Animal Planet by removing the offending snake, I may reconsider my decision. Until then, "may the odds be ever in your favor." 

Love, Mom

August 14, 2015

Orange You Glad It's Friday?

It has been a very busy week so it was nice to drift in and out of consciousness while watching the Broncos begin their preseason. Max and Maggie competed in their own "skins" vs. "jerseys" game. I'm not sure who won but it was entertaining! 

Max attempting a turnover

Halftime

August 11, 2015

If only....

Today was my 5th day back at work, second day with teachers. I was crazy busy helping the teachers get their classroom technology up and running. The students don't come back until Monday but there are a lot of preparations that lead up to that day. We also have professional development meetings every day which we all roll our eyes at but actually are usually beneficial and a good way to keep us focused on our purpose and what is best practice. To lighten things up a bit, our principal shared this hilarious video. It makes me wish that our society had these priorities in place. Many of you have probably seen it  but it puts a big smile on my face every time!

July 30- Aug 4, 2015

Off the Grid

Yes, I have been lazy this summer as you have noticed by my sporadic Blog posts. Now that I'm back at work, I probably will be more organized. It seems the busier I am, the more productive I am. 

Anyhoo, before I get back on track, I wanted to share our annual camping adventure in Wyoming. We camp every year in the middle of the Snowy Range mountains where there are few people, no cell towers, no internet, and the dogs run free. This was our 19th year enjoying the great outdoors with our good friends, the Kinnes family. We were also joined by Don's parents, Alex, and our friend's brother and son. Paige and boyfriend Jarod joined us for the weekend along with a day visit by more friends of the family. At one point we had 15 people and 7 dogs! This all equates to lots of fun and great food. Isn't it interesting that the food others bring is always better than what you brought (school cafeteria flashback!) The fishermen and woman (Paige) successfully provided the main course for the Saturday night fish fry so all was right in the world.

Max is still missing all his girlfriends. He was the only male dog so he loved his harem! He also proved trustworthy off the leash and ran with the "big dogs". After all, he was named after the boy in Where the Wild Things Are! 

 It was really hard to come back to reality and the first day of work!

Don taught Jarod how to fly fish with success!

The wild thing!

Max with his harem and Karen and Morgan

Our backyard for a week

Don looks forward to celebrating his birthday every year in his favorite place! Happy 54!

Gregg's brother Mark serenaded is at the campfire

The Blue Moon rose above Karen and Gregg

August 8, 2015

Wine and Jazz

Saturday night found us at the Balistreri Vineyards for the KUVO Live at the Vineyards event. Our friends Debbie and Ken joined us to enjoy wine, jazz and food....lots of food! There were 30 restaurants there serving a sample of their finest gourmet dishes - an upscale version of Costco snack ladies. We did our best to try them all but started to feel some pain near the finish! Along our journey were  a collection of Balistreri wine and plenty of sangria. The event was delayed a tiny bit at the beginning due to a short but intense storm that descended upon us just as we were getting started on our food fest. Table cloths and umbrellas flew, rain poured down and vendors scrambled to protect their goodies. Fortunately, the storm passed as quickly as it came, everything was righted and the festivities resumed. 

The H2 Big Band entertained us until the headliner, Dianne Reeves took the stage. What a voice! Unfortunately, she didn't go on until 10pm which doesn't sound too late unless you have been eating and imbibing since 6pm (see above) so we didn't see her whole show. Our coach awaited to take us home, driven by my angelic son who agreed to be our chauffeur for the night. A great night with all my favorite things and people!

August 7, 2015

Play Ball and Other Geriatric Activities 

Paige has been having fun this summer filling in when needed on her friend's adult rec softball team. Tonight was her last games so Don and I and the dogs decided to go watch - just like old times. We were on the road just a few minutes and Paige called,  "Mom, turn around and get your tennies we're short one female player." What?! I can't remember the last time I played softball....maybe at a family picnic when I was a teenager? But, what the hec I was up for the challenge. 

 I thought I was off the hook when I arrived at the field but after two swigs into my Mike's Lemonade I heard Paige shout, "mom you're up!" Just like many things I get myself into - it seemed like a great idea until  I was in the moment. I didn't take into consideration that there would be bright lights and everyone would be staring at me thinking, "how old is she?" I channeled every Rockies, Little League, and Girl's Softball game I had ever been to so I wouldn't look like a geriatric idiot. I must say proudly that I did make contact with the ball every time I was at bat and almost got on first base once. For defense, they put me in right field since it had the least activity which was fine by me but it is farthest from the dugout. So much running!

 It was a very fun time and we played two games. Very abbreviated games since the mercy rule took effect both times - our team was kind of the Bad News Bears. I think our team's biggest problem was we didn't have matching shirts....there is power in apparel! 

Hey batter, batter- not dressed for softball but had matching jewelry!

Trying to pay attention in the outfield

Lefty Paige at bat..she did score a run!