Stan's Painting of PA

I took a photo of a painting my Dad (Stan) did of PA Klopfenstein awhile back. What do you think? He's been painting off and on... all kinds of things -- from abstract art to portraits like this.

 

The packing process has begun as of tonight!

Some of you may recognize these dishes from Grandma K's kitchen. There are 4 dinner plates, 4 smaller plates, a meat platter, a small vegetable bowl and a covered vegetable bowl. They definitely show wear.

If anyone is interested in them, you are welcome to them. I am thinking about a trip to central IL in late February or early March that I could bring them or I can pack and ship.

Christmas at Perry's

The Corda Roy's Bean Bag Bed/Chair was a gift to Perry and me from our children.  It will be handy for extra sleeping space when they are all here.  Such a good idea!  The Emch family arrived Sunday night about 10:30 and left this morning.  The Endress family arrived Monday afternoon about 4:30 and left yesterday afternoon at 5.  Brandon and Preston managed to take apart our old ping-pong table which was stored in the furnace room and re-assemble it in the garage.  It was in use much of the time.  Yesterday, the children decided to have a restaurant for lunch.  They printed up menu options and took our orders and served us and even cleaned up!  The left overs of  all the previous meals were the choices and it worked out great.  Anna thought of having cups with crayons and paper for the little ones to use while they waited to be served their food.  Later, they called us out to the garage where they re-enacted the nativity story.  They were so creative in their custumes and Milan in the box as the baby Jesus was quite adorable.  I wish I could post the video I took but it probably wouldn't work since I am so tech impaired.  I smile at what a creative bunch they are.  The house is quiet now and Grandma is sad.  No matter how much work it is with all the food prep, I always want them to stay longer. --- Carol

Stevig's Christmas

Keith and I spent Christmas Day in Bloomington at Larry & Barbs.  Lauren is home from U of I for
winter break.  Erin and Thomas from Champaign were there too.  Bonnie and Ben couldn't make it
home as they both had to work.  Barb served a delicious meal and of course I took Heavenly Hash.
Our big news is that Erin and Thomas are expecting their first child in early March.  It will be our first
great-grandchild so everyone is excited.  We are hoping he will be born on March 6 (Keith's birthday).
Sorry no pictures.

Good News Tonight!!

Don't want to take away from all the Christmas gatherings posts, but we just got some good news and I've got to share it.  Many of you know that Mike has been on a rotating shift for his entire 23 years at the nuclear station.  It has taken its toll over the years, both because of being on nights - so hard on him to get "turned around" - and because of missing many big events, such as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day this year.  He just called me from work - as of June he will be transferred to a straight day shift job.  Not sure what it is, but it has something to do with preparing the work for when units are offline for refueling.  No nights, rarely weekends.  We are grateful and glad!!

RDK Christmas at Gloria's on Sunday

Gloria opened her Normal, IL. home on Sunday for the annual RDK Christmas gathering.  Gloria's artwork, decorations, and entertainment ideas all centered around a HAWAIIAN theme!  Many thanks to her and also to Jodie for the great planning ideas and efforts.  And, thanks for the many who contributed to the delicious food.   Here's a few pics to show how entertaining it was for the many who came for the FUN.

                                        Judy reading to the many children before the gift exchange.

                                         It was the next best thing to being in Hawaii   !!!

                                         Dan played Santa Claus to the delight of the kids....

Lynn and Mim Family Christmas 12/23/12



The family was at our home on the Sunday before Christmas.  Here are a few pictures of the occasion.  "A good time was had by all!"

Mike Bailes pulled all the rockers out of the garage and on to the porch, and gave the "extended version" of the Alberta deer story to all who were interested.

CHRISTENSEN CHRISTMAS

We had a great day at the Christensen house today. The family was all here except Jerry Wetzel. For those of you who might not know, Jerry, Angela, and Nathan are to Jacksonville Florida. We are sad to have them move, but are happy for them as they have wanted to make this move for years and it has finally become a reality.

Angela, Jerry, Kelsie, Nathan and I will leave Friday morning to complete the move. We will be taking a truck, Ang's car, and our car - four drivers, three vehicles, and one child. Perhaps you could say a few prayers for us on Friday and Saturday; we would appreciate it. We will probably stay a day or two there, then head on to our condo in Indian Rocks Beach and are looking forward to some sun, beach, and relaxation.



7 am Christmas morning - whipping up the famous Heavenly Hash!

 



Looks good enough to eat, right? Yummy!

 

Heater was home for the weekend and is now living with an aunt in Elgin and attending a Hair-styling school there. Note that her long hair is cut short, but still looks cute. Grace is a typical eighth grader and growing into quite a young lady.

 

The boys spent most of the day in the basement and it sounded like they were having a great time down there. Fortunately I got them to sit still for a few minutes and take their picture. Left to right: Zac, Noah, Owen, Miles, and Nathan.

 

L/R: Trenton, Heather, Angela, Janice, Jason.

 

L/R: Kelsie, Drake, Michelle

 

If you don't know this old  couple, you really don't have any business reading this blog! :)

 

We were able to Skype with Jerry - I think he's lonesome and ready for his family to join him!!

 

Kelsie has recently returned from her semester in Thailand where she had a wonderful experience. We were all glad to see her home safely - and she was equally glad to be with all of us again. She's a sweetheart. I'm tired now and ready to "hit the hay"!!

More Pictures from Perry and Carol's





December 15, 2012 Christmas Dinner sponsored by Perry and Carol at the old homestead in Gridley.  Built 1902. Additional pictures to commemorate the occasion, as taken by Cleve on Saturday at my request.

Great-grandfather Peter Klopfenstein's egg box. discovered in the attic of the homeplace.  He was well known for marketing produce at the local train station, as riders exited off the train.  A memory of yesterday that we know nothing about today. 

 

Office swivel stool at EJ Klopfenstein Grain and Coal Company.  Estimated at 75-80 years antique. Dad used a stand-to desk and this high stool. 

The family shared lots of good memories of times gone by.  Family history is of great importance.  Love, Uncle Lynn and Aunt Mim

Klopfenstein Christmas Dinner at the Home Place

After dinner, I walked around and snapped a few photos.  I didn't get any of the children.  We were glad for our guests and had a nice time.  ----Carol