Hangin' with the Kruse's!

Marlin and Carolyn spent last weekend in Monticello - they hung out with Lori, Rod and Matt. The guys watched football and basketball and Lori and Mom did some of that and shopped. They all went to a Bradley basketball game on Sunday. Lori and Rod in their home -they will be married 25 years in December!

Matt with Grandma and Grandpa!

Matt kind of overshadows Grandma and Grandpa!

Paying Respect!

Saturday morning Carla and I stopped at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Sesser, Illinois. We were going to change the flowers on my grandparent's grave. We were in awe of the beauty of all the flags flying the length of the cemetery for Veteran's Day. What a powerful reminder of all those who gave their lives in service to our country and to protect our freedom.

This is the grave of my Dad's parents.

I have no idea why these pics keep turning but they are the graves of my Dad's brother and sister who died as children.

Justin and Lesley's Shower

Today was the bridal shower for Justin Jones and his bride-to-be Lesley! Justin and Lesley met at Harding University. Their wedding is Dec 20th in Little Rock. The shower was a brunch at the home of Lynn and Jerry Jones. It is hard to beleive that Justin is getting married. Justin and Lesley were delightful today as they told about meeting, dating and getting engaged. Congratulations Justin and Lesley.

Justin was there with Lesley -these were all friends of his from growing up.

Beautiful Bride-to-be!

A small portion of the packages.

Proud Mama DiAnn with her son Justin and future daughter in law, Lesley.

Justin's Grandma Flo and Lesley.

Lynn was a gracious hostess - the house was beautiful. Jerry broke out his new apron to help and park cars!

Halloween Happenings

Here are a few pics from Halloween evening (my nephews apparently dodged the camera all night!) We had a great evening! We have been hosting a Halloween Open House for 20 years and love getting to see everyone! Susan and Jeff

Aunt Marion and Gracie

Jon and Angie

J.D. and Carla (JD and Jon could wear the Illini orange since they won on Saturday!)

Gracie and Lexi

Nurse Emma

The Super Hero Roades Family - I love that they come in a family costume!

Jeff and Uncle Mike

Lori and Rod were here for the first time this year!

Mom and Dad - Dad was a trooper for a guy who had surgery less than a month ago! Note - he stays prepared all night by just keeping his fork in his pocket!

Who will show up this year?

As preparations are being made for Halloween 2009 - here is a flashback of some favs from last year . . . . . the big question is "What will Susan come dressed as?" Come on by Halloween evening to see! Eric as the Burger King King

Jeff as a rocker . . . aka . . Chuck Pudiwitr in his younger days!

The King and J.Lo (Eric and Angie)

Susan as the "bride" with her rocker dude!

Fall Festival Fun

Last night was our Fall Festival at church. We had so much fun! Lots of people, yummy food and the kids had a wonderful evening. We used the theme "where memories are carved"! One of our traditional activities is to carve pumpkins (each family) Prizes for who has most and least seeds :) We then put all the pumpkins outside for the Great Pumpkin Glow and the kids have a treat walk. Thanks to everyone who helped set up, worked the event, attended the event and helped to clean up. I didn't get a whole lot of pics since I was running around - hope my friends share some with me! Making your treat buckets!

Carla and Marsha are saints to always jump in and help you with whatever you need. I am blessed with a sister in law who is a marvelous friend (Carla). Marsha is an incredible sister in Christ and special friend. God sure has blessed me!

The Compton crew starting on their masterpiece!

Carol and Tom joined us with their 4 grandkids. How fun that Kate, Gabi and Mike could join us since they moved this summer!

Dig in there a little deeper for more pumpkin guts!

Happy Birthday Marlin - Dad - Grandpa!

Happy Birthday Marlin! We celebrated last night with his favorite dinner of spaghetti! We love you and appreciate all you do for us! Enjoy your day! Dad's requested meal of spaghetti! Pretty good using both arms for a guy who had his left shoulder replaced 2 weeks ago.

In his favorite place on earth - Camp Ne-O-Tez!

Oh the glory of the football days!

Grandsons - Jake and Matt

Grandsons Eric, Kyle and Colton and son J.D.