Christmas Letter for 2014 and 2015

   Last Christmas, I couldn't seem to write a letter even after a full year of adjusting to Dale’s job loss and heart condition. We did drive back to Kansas/Missouri and visited all our family, which was a blessing. But on the return trip, our car was broken into overnight, and we lost thousands of dollars of possessions that we were taking back to Delaware. God wasn’t trying to ruin us completely... We were glad our family was unharmed, and the insurance money helped our budgeting. AirBnB also helped with a dozen different people renting our "basement apartment” in St. Joseph (whilst Angie was the “pool boy”). Finally, God surprised us in June by sending a family who wanted to rent our house. We moved (meaning the twins did all the work) to a rental house in north Wilmington with a dishwasher (!) and separate bedrooms (!) for the first time in Ben and David’s lives. Please excuse the USPS who doesn’t forward so well!

     Dale still has physical limitations which make him unable to accept the flying offer$ that come every month, but he was happy to find a new medication in September that decreased the negative side effects he has been battling. He helped me say goodbye to the 1996 Previa after 231,000 miles (LOL it lasted almost the whole 25 years of our marriage). He also handled multiple car repairs/trades/sales for Reid and twins and Father Benjamin. He has become killer at “Words with Friends” in between teaching simulator sessions at Flight Safety.

     I am still hosting international students as my part-time job. Both Johnson and Terry came back from last school year (sophomore and junior at Tatnall). While they were gone over the summer, we rotated through five other Chinese boys attending junior high camps or college (I've learned a great deal about the Communist Party in China). Basically, I cook and clean and chauffeur -- Love that dishwasher! We also welcomed five pilgrims for the Papal Visit to Philly (“Like happiness, holiness is always tied to little gestures.” -Pope Francis) and renewed our admiration for Catholic missionaries (like Jimmy Mitchell and Father Anthony). I increased my tutoring contracts now that I am not working for the Chinese placement office. During my busiest times, I have 70+ hours (7 days a week) and my slowest weeks have 25 hours (and only 5 days). I still like ACT better than SAT (given the upcoming changes).

     Reid served as Vice President at his fraternity, was Homecoming Chair (again), and attended all the good (and bad) sporting events at K-State. He is an executive officer for Sigma Alpha Pi and has a work-study job with the Professional Advantage Program at the College of Business. High hopes for another summer internship (thanks, Uncle Carey). We took him to Wall Street, Ground Zero, Times Square & Rockefeller Plaza this week.

     Ben and David continue online/homeschooling plus they took Sociology at community college. Next semester is World History (less liberal, I’m sure). They are having an amazing hockey season (beating the #10 and #12 teams in the country). They recently accepted a tender from the Janesville (Wisc) Jets, which is one of the best teams in the NAHL. This contract was a huge honor since each team has a limited number of offers they are allowed to extend. We are all holding our breath for the USHL draft in early May (that is the premier junior's league with the most college scholarships).

     Last, but certainly not least, is our joyful news of Megan Augusta and her wedding with Spencer Thomas Rusch in November. I have photos on Facebook and my WarmlyCandise blogspot, which pale in comparison to “the" perfectly grand affair. Sorry we couldn’t invite all our friends, but our hearts are still overwhelmed by the prayers, good wishes, lovely setting, extraordinary food, fun music, and all manner of blessings brought to us by this small but important extension of our family. Their charming house and prosperous jobs with Rubin/Brown and Mr. and Mrs. Wedding Events are sure to make their way into future Christmas letters. 

     We all do well to keep a sense of humor in this world, and in this Year of Mercy, I pray you best wishes for a   

     Merry Christmas!  and a  Happy New Year!

Chesterton said: “I have little doubt that when St. George had killed the dragon he was heartily afraid of the princess.”   and  “What life and death may be to a turkey is not my business; but the soul of Scrooge and the body of Cratchit are my business.” 

Professional Photos of Wedding

We have a glimpse of the photography skills of Laura Ann... Awaiting all the photographs.

The Wedding Dinner (Part 3 of 4)

Megan made sure all the reception details were charming. The "Boo Cat Club" at the renovated Artists Guild Building has Art Deco features, a loft, two fireplaces, and glass ceilings. First, the cocktail hour began in the lower level, where jazz music from an instrumental duo gave it an even cozier feeling. 
Butlered hors d'oeuvres made their way around: brie cheese and cranberries in phyllo triangles, petite grilled asiago cheese and pear sandwiches, and mini lamb chops with panko coating. The guest book was a signable album of engagement photos. On display were three wedding gowns (Gr Judy's, Gr. Elizabeth's, and mine) as well as a dozen wedding photos from both family's ancestors.
Next, guests found their table assignments from a tall mirror in the foyer. The plated dinner was served in three courses: spinach salad with bleu cheese and walnuts, beef tenderloin with bacon-wrapped shrimp on a "MRS" skewer alongside roasted asparagus and potatoes, and of course, the red velvet cake with blush ruffled frosting.
I sat by Alison, who was Megan's confirmation sponsor. She did the second reading at mass and her two boys were altar servers. Megan began babysitting for the Schiebers when Edmund was born, and he always promised to marry Megan, so it was cute that he was here that day. Dale sat by Kenny, who was best man at our wedding just 25 years ago.
Dale gave a welcome speech and advised the newlyweds to remember that God gave us two ears and one mouth so we should listen more than we talk. Reid gave a bridal toast saying how he was close to Megan since the twins had each other, and how she always set a fine example for him and everyone around her. Spencer's older brother and best man Jason gave a salute to his boyhood buddy. The prayer was led by Father Chuck, who reiterated the earlier homily and emphasized the strong bonds of family life.

With three years in the wedding business, Megan knew the right vendors who would go above and beyond. We adored the place cards hand-lettered in gold ink, black hemstitched napkins on gold-edged china, gold chargers on burgundy tablecloths, and gold-embossed bottles of Coppola wine next to the table numbers in gold vintage frames. But we were utterly amazed at the flowers: dark-wine peonies plus red and blush roses topped each and every candle stick with an overflowing cascade of soft greenery. The head table featured an enormous eucalyptus garland dotted with gold mercury glass votives. Sweet elegance filled the room!



Sweet elegance filled the room!

The Wedding Ceremony (Part 2 of 4)

The morning rain turned into snow as we watched through the window from the Seven Gables Inn, where all the bridesmaids had their hair and make-up done. When the veil was finally added to Megan’s updo, we both got a little teary eyed! The first look was for Dale—meeting her at the bottom of the stairway. 

Then Spencer got his “First Look” on the patio, with all the bridal party peeking through the windows to see them exchange gifts (a hockey jersey is sentimental?! she wanted a Kate Spade "Mrs." bracelet?!).
The wedding began inside the chapel of Sts. Mary and Joseph with beautiful prelude music by a violin and cello duo. The four bridesmaids (AGD sisters) wore long black gowns, and the ushers (her brothers) and groomsmen (Spencer’s childhood buddies) didn’t miss a cue. The interns from "Mr. and Mrs. Wedding Events" brought programs with velvet ribbons, gold pew bows, and a basket of vintage handkerchiefs for tears of joy.

Here comes the Bride! Her dress by Vera Wang was complimented perfectly by a custom-made lace top and cathedral length veil. The readings and homily seemed especially meaningful for the couple, given the challenges of the past year. Their vows were sealed with a kiss and confirmed in the Eucharist with many Catholic relatives and friends.

Instead of rice or confetti, the exit was an exhilarating send-off with “Team Rusch” rally towels.

The Wedding Rehearsal (Part 1 of 4)

From last year's engagement on Nov. 21 until this year's wedding on Nov. 21, we have watched Megan's excitement and Pinterest boards expand. Her vision was classically styled and sophisticated in every detail. 

She designed a vintage-looking monogram, which ironically spells "MRS". The monogram appeared prominently on her cream-colored invitation suite, which was tied up with a black velvet ribbon. 
We regret that we couldn't invite all our friends, nor could they all travel to St. Louis (Rusch's home parish), but we cherish the prayers and email messages which arrived from far and near.
Megan came to the rehearsal on Thursday in a stylish cocktail dress--its sparkles picked up the happiness in Spencer's eyes! Father Benjamin arrived to "run the show," but infected all of us with his holy sense of humor. Both grandmothers from the bride's side were guests of honor at the delicious dinner at LoRusso's on the Hill.
Joe Rusch gave a moving toast and Michelle Rusch read a poem that touched our hearts. A slide show of family memories reminded us of the blessings since 1990 & 1992.

Christmas Memories

My camera was stolen just after Christmas, so I've lost the formal photos from church and the engagement dinner and from Meggar's trendy apartment (where we watched the "Michael Buble Special," ate, drank, laughed, and opened presents).
Aunt Kathryn sent me this one from the Leonard family gathering in Wichita!

He Proposes with a Twist

      Spencer's proposal was both humorous and romantic--which is a perfect reflection of the style of his personality! Meggar might deny it, but she likes being teased a little.  That's because she grew up coping with Captain and three little brothers! (smile)
     So the proposal story starts with flowers being delivered on Friday morning (nice), and a dinner date at a sushi restaurant (very nice). Meggar was a little suspicious because sushi is her favorite and not her beloved's. No proposal at the restaurant though.
     Next, they went to the restored Moolah Theatre, which features vintage decor and cocktails for movie goers and a bowling alley too. It was here they had previously celebrated their dating anniversary and where Spencer had said "I love you" for the first time. No proposal on the loveseat though.
     On the way back, they strolled through the City Gardens, but there was no proposal near the sculptures nor the flowers either!
     But the icing on the cake came in the car when Spencer quipped, "You didn't think I was going to propose tonight, did you?!"
     Well....
     They agreed to call it an early night and watch their favorite series on NetFlix. Meggar was snuggling up in a blanket with the TV remote, and Spencer said he wanted to get something to drink. Then he called from the kitchen for some assistance. When Megan walked in, she saw dozens of tea lights and Spencer down on one knee with "the box."
     He said something sweet which she doesn't quite remember.
     She said, "Yes!"
     They called and woke us up on the east coast.
     They called his parents, too.
     Then they called Meg's roommate, who had been asked to stay away from the apartment until the surprise was accomplished.
     Happily. Ever. After.

Here Comes the ....

With great joy, we announce the engagement of our only daughter!

Megan and Spencer

(Few titles will ever make me feel as special as this one: Mother of the Bride)

The Circle of Life

Meggar's new life in St. Louis seems to be going in fits and starts. This week brought the sad news of the death of Spencer's grandfather, Ollie Rusch, after just one day in Hospice Care. His 94-year's presence among a close-knit family was evidenced at the wake and rosary today. Funeral services will be held tomorrow at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church on the feast day of St. Louis (seems appropriate).

New Wheels

Have you seen the Progressive commercials? I suppose everyone knows Flo with the blue headband. I love the quirky humor of those TV ads. And Meggar loves the customer service she has received from Progressive. They have provided her a rental car, quick estimate for her claim, and rapid turn-around on her settlement check. The buy-out amount was more than fair for her Ford Explorer Sport, which already had 170,000+ miles. It served her well for all six years of high school and college. But looking for a used car on the spur of the moment proved difficult. On top of all the insurance phone calls, there was a rush of looking in the paper and driving around to dealerships. She enlisted the help of Sniper and Playmaker (who love researching cars on the internet), and Captain (who has plenty of used car experience from the days when his dad operated a used car lot). She also had support from Spencer, who happened to be in St. Louis for his 3rd exam in the CPA testing process, and accompanied her to several car lots and Craigslist hopefuls.
In the end, she chose a white Saturn Vue with low mileage, plenty of hauling space for wedding events, and a sun roof.

Big Wedding

Meggar has a few butterflies this week. This is the weekend of her "big" wedding: 250 guests at large Catholic Church and fancy reception at largest hotel in downtown St. Louis. Total budget for the bride is pushing six figures. Meggar signed up this bride, and five others, through her advertising promotion on the website of "The Knot" magazine in early spring! What a great start for her Mr. & Mrs. Wedding Events.
Today was the planners' conference at the fancy hotel. Twelve vendors and managers met in their board room, and Meggar said everything went smoothly. (I can tell she likes the pressure of so many details on a grand schedule.)
She already accomplished a small wedding through her friends at "Le Bouquet" in early June. We are watching for photos as they become available on her website.

As Promised...

Congratulations to our first college grad!

I ordered this photo from the event photographer--

best $10 I spent all four years!

The Final Note -- Part Three

The recital was a graduation requirement for Meggar, but truly a joy for her own family to share it with her. The party afterwards was a fitting tribute for her closest friends and for a few special friends and relatives who could make it. I knew it was too far away for many more who wanted to attend. Meggar is planning to send a recording of her piano pieces by mail to those who would like that memento.

Captain gave a few words of wisdom and a beautiful meal grace. I got to tell a humorous story to poke fun at her from the first semester's piano recital.

Guests: Gr. Judy and Gr. Gerald came from Wichita,

Gr. Elizabeth came from Colorado with Aunt Kathy and Uncle Terry,

Bill and Constance (from Jane Austen Book Club),

Alison (from church & her confirmation sponsor),

and Alpha Gamma Delta (members and alumnae).

*Credits to Playmaker for being the event photographer.
Not pictured: Heidi (from Pony Express Museum)
and Spencer (the boyfriend) and parents.

The Final Note--Part Two

After the 4:30 piano recital, we hosted a reception for Meggar at the Kirksville Country Club. Our black tables were topped with antique cake stands, black pianos, and vintage sheet music which was folded into fans by Carey Leonard's three crafty girls: Barbara, Hannah, and Rebecca. Each pedestal was accented by yellow and black ribbons.

Out front we placed a table for gifts, which twinkled with white lights and more black and yellow accents. I hope everyone signed the guest book with well wishes. Megan received lots of flowers, pair of wine glasses painted with piano keys, a set of teapot book ends, a Mozart action figure, and a blue window with "Mr & Mrs Wedding Events" vinyl logo.

The appetizer table greeted guests (about 30) by the open bar as they arrived (and Carey's girls had a few nibbles during the decorating time).

The buffet table was decked out with classic colors, and...

it was loaded with my famous lasagna and sweet green beans, homemade bread sticks, and a wonderful Italian salad provided by Spencer's mom (complete with artichokes, olives, and roasted red peppers).

Dessert was a variation on a "coffee and donuts" theme--this is an inside joke with Truman AGDs. The twins helped me load up baby donut skewers and melted chocolate fondue. There was also rum cake, whipped cream, and Donut House coffee.

Hannah sampled the homemade lemonade, which surely tasted better since there was a yellow-striped straw in her cup.

I was happy when Terry asked me how to use the Keurig machine so he could stay awake for the drive back home. Overall, it was a yummy event, which is absolutely the best way to celebrate a special occasion!

The Final Note - Part One

It could not have been more perfect. The graduation recital, that is. (Pity about the weather, as he British would say. There were heavy showers and high winds beforehand, but luckily no one was injured while travelling to Kirksville, Mo.) Our entire family had all been anticipating this day for weeks! It would be a culmination for Megan of her eight semesters of classical piano study. It also would be the degree completion for the first grandchild. And a "passport" that she has been longing for that enables her to take that final step into the "real world." And it was most importantly a celebration, mixed with some emotion as the rest of our family would be moving to Delaware the next day.
The auditorium seats were full with 60-odd friends and relatives coming to Truman State (between 3- and 6-hours' drive for some of the audience). Megan played tremendously well, and I'm not just saying that because I'm her mother! Megan's progression through the years is more evident to me as I've attended her recitals. And I was so proud to listen as she played more difficult pieces for this final semester. It is a testament to her diligent practice schedule, which is often behind the scenes away from family and friends. The head of the piano department and her studio professor both exclaimed their pleasure after her splendid performance.
The first Beethoven Sonata featured three movements (much like his "Inventions" that she was continually memorizing in high school). I love listening to the variations of Beethoven. And luckily, no one clapped in between the first Allegro and the Scherzo. She was so poised as her fingers fairly flew.
Her program next included a Debussy piece, which SHOULD be on the soundtrack of the next "Jane Austen" film or Masterpiece Classic. Beautiful tinkling notes that put me in mind of a spring afternoon tea party in the garden.
Finally, she played a Chopin Nocturne, in honor of Margie Cameron-Jarrett (her high school piano teacher). The way she gently struck the final two notes in perfect unison was enchanting, and the audience seemed reluctant to break the spell.
(More posts to follow soon with photos of the dress, the programme, the Country Club reception, and party-goers.)

Final Parties

Spencer won the "Crown Royal" award at AGD Formal. I think Meggar may have the longest-standing relationship in the sorority... But it's also a worthy crown, since he is such a good fella.

So far, I'm out of the family pool since I bet they would get engaged in March.
St. Patty's Day