Build Day!

Saturday I had the chance to build with the Columbus Habitat chapter. The day started at 8:30 and after a quick talk, we broke into several groups to begin our task for the day: Putting in the floor joists. It felt good to be out on a construction site and I definitely got in a good workout hauling the 16 foot boards while trekking thru the mud. I also got to put in some time toe nailing in the boards, and lucky for me, they gave me plenty of extra nails, as I went thru quite a few. Who knew that nails bend so easily? By the end, I had the technique down. Hopefully I can get another build day in although it will be hard to schedule it in. I recommend everyone go out and help on a build site. No prior experience or skill (see me) needed.

M. Nevel Esquire

Thanks to Mike Nevel, Esquire for his support. I have worked with Mike the past 2 years at LimitedBrands with Real Estates Payable. Mike and I went to DC a couple of weeks ago (see March 18 post, Mike is on the far right) and had a good time. There were some good shenanigans and Mike positioned himself for the vp position on the YAD board. Not sure what the position does, but I am sure Mike will do a good job.

Thanks to the Palmers

Thank you Marv and Geraldine for your generousity. The Palmers are cousins on my mom's side and we have had the pleasure of planting their flowers the last couple of years. We always look forward to see what color flower Geraldine brings us back from Bordines to plant for the year. They have an amazing house and enjoy spending the day out on their back patio. They have a wonderful marriage - Marv makes sure that whatever Geraldine wants, he provides. There is no limit.

A friend is like a four leaf clover, hard to find and lucky to have

I would like to thank Mindy Seidler for her generous donation and for being such a good friend. We met almost 6 years ago as new hires at Goodyear Tires. While living in Akron was an experience, it was much more enjoyable hanging w/ Mindy and she is the one who got me into snowboarding. Although I moved to Columbus after only 2 years in Akron and Mindy moved to Chicago shortly thereafter, we have remained good friends. She truly appreciates my unique sense of humor, or at least acts like she does.

Good friends are like stars.... You don't always see them, but you know they are always there

I would like to thank Arnie, Judy, Lara, Erin and Ilana (and all the pets) Sussmans for their generous donation. The Sussmans have been friends of the family for as long as I can remember, since Lara and I were in playgroup together and I rebelled against all planned activities and did what I wanted to (I guess I have been a rebel since way back when). They let us store hundreds of flowers in their backyard last year and even watered them for us (the dog also helped out by watering the flowers). If you ever want to go to Honey Tree, give them a call. Unfortunately, Erin is not able to join us on the bike trip this summer, but rumor has it she has started training now for next year's trip.

Thanks to the Brickners

I would like to thank Phyllis, Gerry and Lily for their generous donation. Years ago, they hired my brothers (and mom) and I to plant flowers, as we were planting the flowers for their condo entrance and many of the condo owners. They are super nice and are now good friends of the family. We are able to joke with each other, and we occasionally give Phyllis a hard time, but only to keep her on her toes. I wish all of our customers were as easy going and took as good of care of their flowers.

Good Riddance!

"Good Riddance" I believe were the exact words said when my boss approved my leave of absence. Just kidding. He is glad to have me in the department and will surely miss my unique sense of humor. It is now official: My 3 month leave of absence from LimitedBrands has been approved, starting May 10th and ending August 12th. It will be nice to enjoy a teacher's summer vacation. If only I could get winter, mid-winter and spring break vacations.