Monday, April 13, 2015

A CONGRATULATIONS & VERY BITTERSWEET NEWS

I have been waiting to announce this
until I got the all clear from my
son-in-law, Big J
Sorry for the poor picture quality!
He has a new job
and while we are
THRILLED FOR HIM,
we are a bit sad, too.

That means that he will moving
with my daughter, Mimi,
BigBoyE, CharlesInCharge
and our sweet
Bright Eyes
out of state.
 I know that many families
have their relatives spread out all over the 
United States.
We have been so blessed to have 
them only live a couple of hours away.
Now they will be 8 hours from us.

Anyway,
as sad as I am we are thrilled for my 
son-in-law.
He is the new
DISTRICT SALES MANAGER
in Indiana
for
HARLEY-DAVIDSON!

Harley-Davidson
thinks he is serious and staid.
We know the other side of him, too.
This is one of my favorite pictures of
Big J & Mimi.
Hmmmmm...
Now that he is going to be riding 
A HOG
that's what they call those big ol' Harley's ya know.
I think I will have to order my daughter
an outfit so she can be a
BIKER BABE!
Look at this!
PINK HARLEY CLOTHES
for ladies!


image
and PINK PURSES

image

Pretty Cute, huh?
I can't wait to see if BigJ
brings Mimi home one of these!
I am trying to picture BIG J just riding
this HOME from WORK!
image
Do you think they would laugh at him?
Now that I am looking at 
Harley Stuff
I told MyHero that 
 there are some real
BIKER BABES 
out there!

I thought MyHero might like to see
a BABE in a Harley outfit.
So-I found the perfect one for him 
to look at!

Preacher approved!

Congratulations, Big J.
We love you and wish you well-
even if you are taking our girl
and grandbabies away from us!

Oh-Wait!
That means that when 
THE INLAWS
(that would be us)
come to visit we will have to 
STAY LONGER.
YOU are a LUCKY man!
your photo name

101 comments:

Boopnut said...

Oh Dianna, so sorry they are moving but happy for them! Your writing is so cute, it cracks me up!
Deb

Preppy Empty Nester said...

Congrats to your SIL! Great company. Enjoy your week, Diana.

Nancy's Notes said...

Oh my, what a great thing for your son in law! Congratulations go out to him! OH dear me, taking your babies and daughter, he had better be ready to have you all visit all the time!
Have a glorious week!
Nancy

vivian said...

well... congrats to Big J about the job... but boohoo for you that your daughter and grandies will be moving away. but they can come stay with you for the summer! and you can go there ... They sure are cute little kids! Was Big J already a Harley dude? OR is this totally new for him. My hubbys an old harley man. He used to rebuild antique bikes. but he sold his last bike about 8 or 9 years ago and has never replaced it. Any ways.. have a great day my friend!
xoxo
vivian

Vee said...

Congrats to him! And, as odd as it seems, you may see them more often than you might imagine. Just as you say, when you visit, it will be for days or weeks not just an overnight. Ha! You'll get him somehow. The nerve of him to get a good job somewhere further away.

Cheryl @ TFD said...

Well, shucks that they are moving so far, but congrats on the new job! It sounds like a wonderful opportunity for your SIL. And just think of their place as a new vacation destination! I see lots of traveling in your future! Diana, you are a good sport with your photos and funny words, I'd probably be crying crocodile tears! Take care and have a nice week.

Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...

Congratulations to your son-in-law! I'm sorry they'll be so far from you, though!

Anonymous said...

Congrats to him and I wish them much happiness in this new endeavor. Gives you a new place to travel and STAY for a really long time!!! AND think of the Harley stuff you'll get for Christmas now!

Dayle ~ A Collection of Days said...

Congratulations to you son-in-law on his new job and adventure. Eight hours away is too many, but life is about trade-offs. Do you have FaceTime on your phone? I don't, but sis does and loves talking to her grand via FaceTime, even though she only lives a few minutes away from her. :)

Sharon @ Elizabeth & Co. said...

The new job is a wonderful opportunity, but having the grandkids 8 hours away would make me sad! But I know you will make the most of your time together. There will be lots of grandparent sleepovers - what fun!

Lisa @ Texas Decor said...

Congrats to your son in law!!! Such a wonderful job opportunity! I know you're not looking forward to them moving away though. But, like you said, you'll just have to stay longer now! And thank goodness for face time, texting, etc.

ℳartina @ Northern Nesting said...

BIG CONGRATS to your SIL on his new job!! I know your going to miss them Diana so you'll just have to make lots of visits!!

Mrs. Kelley Dibble said...

Harley, er, I mean hardy congratulations!

Hugs from Texas en route to Arkansas today,
Kelley~

Daniela @Frugal Aint Cheap said...

he is a lucky man to have you! When my parents come...they stay 3 to 4 weeks. I love it!

Estelle's said...

Oh that is so wonderful and as you say, bittersweet for you! A job promotion is always a wonderful thing, so here's wishing they love their new home! You will probably be talking to your daughter everyday and sending pics of the grandbabies often! Wonderful news Diana!! Enjoy your week ahead!

Julie's Lifestyle said...

Aww congrats to your son-in-law and his new job. I hope everything works out well for them! Have a wonderful day Diana.

camp and cottage living said...

Congrats to Big J-what a place to work! I sure like all of the pink H.D goodies.
Maybe you can get a discount on that beautiful Harley!
You will miss all of them Diana, but 8 hours is still just a day trip-thank goodness!

Unknown said...

What a great opportunity. Sorry it means they will be out of state but I know you will make sure to be there for them. Love the outfit you picked out for your daughter...heehee.

Kathy @ Smile for no Reason said...

Congratulations to your son-in-law. How exciting!
I adore that picture of the biker babe!!!
I do not want to picture my son moving that far away. So, I'm not. :)
Have a beautiful day! xo

Patricia @ 9th and Denver said...

I agree with Kimberly a day trip Is all and like you said you get stay longer. Like a vacation take in some sights with the kiddos and maybe get to ride a HOG!

Jill said...

Congratulations to your son-in-law and his family! I know all too well how a move affects family dynamics. But in this uncertain economy, we must do what cares for our families. Wishing them all the best and hugs to you and the rest of the family as you adjust to the changes. Have a great day!

Blessings,
Jill

Penny @ Penny's Vintage Home said...

Our son and family have always lived 4-12 hours away....it's hard....but you adjust! hugs....

Doreen@foxdenrd said...

I am looking forward to the day you get your butt on a hog...a pink one for sure, and share it with us. Blond hair goes so well with pink, don't you agree?

Linda said...

Congrats to them. Sorry the grands will be so far away but I am sure you'll find a way to have a nice, long visit with them several times a year. You won't want to be away from those good looking grands for too long.

Stephanie said...

How exciting! Congratulations to your son-in-law and his sweet family :) Happy Monday, Diana! Hugs

tammy j said...

LOLOL! he IS a lucky man.
all kidding aside. he's a very lucky man to have YOU for a mother in law. and i'm sure he agrees!
bob and i once happened upon a convoy of bikers in silverton colorado of all places. they were all getting together there to eat lunch.
at the next table a couple walked in and sat down. she took off her helmet. i smiled a big welcoming smile... so she responded with...
"oh dear. the only bad thing about wearing a helmet... it messes up my hair!" she was in a rose colored jump suit. her husband in leather.
she was 87 and he was 89. talk about adorable! XOXO♥

Row homes and Cobblestones said...

Diana,
Sorry they are moving 8 hours away but congrats to big J for the position. Harley Davison is an incredible company to work for. Once upon a time my friend Pam rode a Harley and Jim still does. We met them through our Franch car club, they own 23 vintage Peugeots. Once upon a time before Pam was summoned to heaven because of a long struggle with Breast Cancer. Diana looking at the outfits with Harleys Pink made me think about my friend Pam and the joy she brought into our lives. I close my eyes and see her wearing her black long tee with the Harley Pink wings. Takes on a whole new meaning now for me. Jim lives in Bloomington Indiana so I am sure big J will cross paths because our J donates much and volunteers time to Harley. I'll send you his last name in a private email.
Diana I understand when family moves away. My brother and Grand and step Grand all live in Florida... John and I always say hey they are only a couple hours away (by plane). You and your Hero will be racking up the frequent flyer miles!
Hope you and your Hero enjoyed a relaxing weekend away.


xoxo,
Vera

Liz@ HomeandGardeningWithLiz said...

Oh boy I know this is a heart string tugger. Congratulations to Big J and I wish him the best on this new job! I feel bad for you though- I know how it is to have to travel everytime I want to see my kids. Maybe you could find a "toy" sized version of a Harley!

Leslie Anne Tarabella said...

Congratulations on the job, but I can imagine how you feel about the move! Sigh . . .
I just won a motorcycle ride in an auction this weekend, and I'm terrified. I don't know what got in to me during the bidding!!!!!

living from glory to glory said...

Oh my what great news with a bit of sadness too! I know what it is like to have to go really far to see my sweet kiddos! I just know it will be just as hard on the grandchildren! And you will at least get free rides on those Hogs :o)
Hugs, Roxy---

Unknown said...

Oh Diana - I know you're heartbroken - but I see lots of road trips in your future !
Sending hugs,
( and congrats to your Daughter and Son in Law ! )
xxx

Down On The Farm said...

Well, I'm happy for them, and sad for you. Kids living away is just no fun. But it will all work out (at least that's what I tell myself when I think of my daughter moving 1,000 miles away this summer). Blessings!

RURAL said...

Congrats and what a opportunity, but sad that it will make them roar out of your area....pun intended. Maybe he will be able to get you a employees discount and you too will be a Biker Babe.....OK, maybe not....lol. Diana, that would be rather well ahem...well lets say it would be something to blog about.

Jen

Kim said...

Oh boy...now that is a true happy/ sad announcement. Did you ever see that old Carol Burnett episode where she is happy/ sad all in one day? She had a wedding and a funeral and wore and outfit that split down the middle, white on one side, black on the other? I think of that often when I hear news like this. Well, it seems like a great opportunity for their family and a fabulous one for you and your husband to take a lot of long road trips! :)

Shirley said...

Good Morning Diana, Just think of it as a new vacation destination. It will just take you a little longer to get there. Congratulations to your sil and I know it is hard for family to move further away. I know that you daughter is probably having mixed emotions, too. I have enjoyed catching up with you. Both my sil and daughter rode Harley s.. They showed their bikes at one time and I will never forget when her bike beat his. My grandson even had a small bike and thought he should show his. I have been missing in action with everything that is going on. I just keep wondering what nest. Hugs and Prayers form Your Missouri Friend Shirley

Kim said...

I see luxury train trips in your future! Wouldn't that be a good excuse for a visit? Congrats to your son-in-law! (((Hugs))) to you, my friend, for having to let go of your sweet grandchildren. Now you'll just have to do more traveling, yes? That could be fun!

helen tilston said...

Hello Diana

That is great news that your son in law has secured a great job. I love your positive attitude when you say you will now be staying longer with them when you visit. Fun, fun
Helen

Kelly said...

OK, so in my head I conjured up this picture Diana! I see you and your Hero riding away on ur big hog to go for a visit? Maybe??? Well, no matter how you get there its all good... LOL. I love your positive attitude and I know its tough too! I have lived like this since 1991. Now, I am feeling the pangs of change once again with all my kiddos heading off to college.

Congrats to your son and his family on there new life journey!!! Blessings and <3

Kelly said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Musings from Kim K. said...

Congratulations. I know how bittersweet this is going to be.

Jettie said...

Hey since he is district sales manager, I'll bet he can get his mouther in law a deal on one of those pink harleys, and she can buzz down to visit pretty often. no I didn't miss spell a word, lol. And I'll bet she can put her hubby on the back with a pink helmet, and scare the pooh out of him on the way. He'll be ready to stop at Starbucks just to get away from you.

Heaven's Walk said...

Oh, this IS such bittersweet news, Diana! :( :) But congrats to him, though! So exciting! Now you'll have to get a pink helmet and hog so that you represent the HD family full on! lol

xoxo laurie

20 North Ora said...

Congratulations on his new job but sorry family will be farther away. But, you'll just have more mini vacations!

Judy

SImple and Serene Living said...

Congratulations, but oh I know you will miss those grandchildren. I can see that you will be burning up the road. :)
xo
Laura

Starting Over, Accepting Changes - Maybe said...

It is hard when they move away but when great opportunities arise for our loved ones, that is what we want for them. Now YOU have an excuse to go on a road trip

Nellie said...

Congratulations to Big J! Yes, you will just have to stay longer when you visit! xo Nellie

Red Rose Alley said...

Diana, this is great news for your son-in-law that he was hired district sales manager! Jobs are so hard to get right now or any time really. I love that picture of Mimi and him. That will give you a reason to go visit them in Indiana. You have such a close family, and miles will never separate the love you have for one another. You really are a great family, and wherever you are in the world, you will remain close.

Great news for your daughter and son-in-law, Diana. It sounds like a good opportunity for them.

love, ~Sheri

Tina@WhatWeKeep said...

I know you'll miss them, but I wish them the best of luck as they go off on a new adventure. :)

Renee said...

Congratulations for your son-in-law. I know you will miss them, but I know you will go visit, too. Maybe he'll bring one of those pink "Hogs" for you :)

Butterfly 8)(8 Bungalow said...

You will miss them.

Mary@mydogsmygardenandmary said...

Congratulations on his wonderful promotion. I know you will miss them so much. But, just think a great place to go and visit and knowing how you like to drive I am sure you will be there often.
I can just see you riding a pink hog over to visit them LOL
Have a wonderful week Diana.
XXOO
Mary

Mary@mydogsmygardenandmary said...

Congratulations on his wonderful promotion. I know you will miss them so much. But, just think a great place to go and visit and knowing how you like to drive I am sure you will be there often.
I can just see you riding a pink hog over to visit them LOL
Have a wonderful week Diana.
XXOO
Mary

Joy Junktion said...

Congratulations to your SIL! It is always bittersweet when our kiddos have to move away, at least you are retired (except for that full-time volunteer job you have) and you can go visit as often as you like! Blessings, Cindy

Melanie said...

Congrats to your SIL on his new job (and it sounds like an awesome one), though sorry to hear their family will be moving away.

Jane@Bluebird1959 said...

Happy for the wonderful opportunity your sil has, but I know how bittersweet this will be for you. My daughter was recently accepted into Virginia Tech's grad school and will be 717 miles away from home (yes, I've calculated the miles, lol!) for the next two years. On the upside for you, Harley does have some cute clothes and you certainly can rock them! (Although I wouldn't suggest the fringed leather bra top.... just sayin') Curse those kids of ours with their successful lives ! Not really, it's awesome. Jane

Brenda Pruitt said...

I know it's sad to see them move farther away, but with jobs how they are, that seems to be the norm.
Brenda

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Big ole Congrats to your son-in-law! Just think you'll get to go on more trips to visit, stay in the guest room and be waited upon! And, there just might be some good junkin spots nearby that need to be explored. Lots of good positives but on the serious side I know it's going to be a big adjustment for all.
hugs,
Sissie

Nonnie said...

Oh my goodness. That you are able to write about this with such humor so soon says a lot about you. My own heart sank for a few weeks when our kids moved 35 miles away. Congratulations to your son-in-law! Good point about going and staying longer!!

Pom Pom said...

Aw! Say it ain't so! Well, they'll be okay and you can get a Harley and buzz on over to see them. Well, maybe your hero should get a Harley with a sidecar and then you can read or knit on the road.

Karen @ Beatrice Euphemie said...

Congratulations to your son-in-law, but sad about them moving so far away. I guess that just means you have an excuse to get away more often! You'll have to find those Harley diaper covers for Baby Bright Eyes! :) xo K

Cathy, 1929 Charmer Cottage said...

Congrats to them, but boohoo for you! It must be so sad to know your little ones So buy yourself a Harley, at a discount, provided by you SIL, and get your arse on it and start riding their way! You'll become a pro at Harley's and then your SIL's job will be in jeopardy, and you guys will move there...so how this story can change when you become a biker babe!

Kirby Carespodi said...

Congratulations to him! (Indiana wants me. Lawd, I can't go back there.) My husband went to college in Indiana and really liked it.

This N That said...

Bittersweet for sure Diana..Didn't they just remodel a house?? Did it get finished?? I'l bet you and your Hero would be great as Harley bikers..My husband always wanted the one with the saddle bags..So expensive..I wish them the best!!

Anonymous said...

Diana, I know this is bitter sweet! As a Mother you must be thrilled for their success, but as Grandmother I know it must be a bit sad. Sending best wishes to Big J and Mimi for this milestone! Love Harleys! Dad calls his Hover Round his Harley and has Harley stickers on the sides!
XO, Betsy

Celestina Marie said...

Hi Diana, Congrats to your son in law on his position. I know the move is hard and bittersweet for you. We moved like this too so many times. You will have many trips to look forward too. Wishing them all the best for a smooth move and much happiness in their new home.
Love the pink Harley stuff.
Hugs, CM

Debbie said...

problem solved.
Debbie
xo

Beemie said...

You are right the news is definitely bittersweet...one of my sister's lived in Indiana for 19 years...I visited several times...a long visit is certain for your future.

Gina said...

Congrats to your son-in-law! 8 hours away isn't that bad, right?

Carla from The River said...

Hi,
How exciting for your family. And I know it will be hard at the same time. Thankfully, Indiana is not too far from Wisconsin.
xx oo
Carla

Cranberry Morning said...

So sorry to hear that, Diana. We just got ours back from Indiana! I remember that drive well. No fun, not interesting, the wonderful prize is at the end. I hope they'll build on in-laws quarters so you can have your own place when you visit! :-)) I hate it when grandkids are far away, but it could be worse. He could be a missionary to Bangladesh or something! Okay, I know I'm not being helpful. I'll move on.

Kelly said...

Congratulations to your son and his family! He's a handsome man. I can only imagine the mixed emotions you must feel about them moving. I know as a mom you want nothing but the best for your children, but you also want what's best for you and to be able to see them often will be a challenge now. Good thing there is Skype! My sister's son lives out of state and they keep in touch that way a lot. I would be ALL over that!!

Adam said...

Brings back memories of being in school and having friends move away because their parent(s) got a new job. Mine never did, I don't think my socially-shy self would of done well at a new school

Ronda@islandmother said...

That's bittersweet. It's good that he has gotten what appears to be a good job. Be thankful it is not any further. I hope there move goes smoothly with very little stress.

Donna said...

I know that must be bittersweet, Diana. It's good at least that they didn't move to the other side of the country. Maybe your sil can get you a family discount so you can get your own "hog". We all know you really want to be a biker babe:)

Chatty Crone said...

Bitter sweet! And again I know what you are feeling - my son lives 8 hours from us too. You will have to go and visit and stay a week. Congrats to them.

Rose L said...

Sounds like a job he will enjoy. It will be hard but at least it is not further away!

At Rivercrest Cottage said...

eight hours isn't too far, and have you seen the barn sales they have in Indiana? Savvy City Farmer has one or two a year there I believe. Always a silver lining.

Gypsy Heart said...

It is bittersweet isn't it? You're delighted for them to be successful and happy but taking the grands away is just awful! My son & his family moved to Houston for about 2-1/2 yrs. Abby was a little over 2 and Alex 4. It was just 4 hours compared to 8 but still.... I was still working and went down there as often as possible. My son built each of them computers and you should have seen those 2 & 4 yr old hands on a mouse/keyboard playing games, etc. Abby would email me and I'm so grateful I kept them! At first, it would be just names and phone numbers but adorable to me!

All I can say is Road Trip!!!! Keep a bag packed ~ :)

xo
Pat

Gypsy Heart said...

I forgot...a friend of mine in NJ has had a Harley with pink flames painted on it! Her husband still rides but she ended up selling hers although she really didn't want to. She looked like a million dollars in her "biker babe" clothes. :) I'll try to find a photo and send it to you!

xo
Pat

The Polka Dot Closet said...

Oh no! So glad for him, but hate that your babies will be so far away....They better send you pictures that you can post...We will miss them too!

Carol

Sherry @ Thrift My House said...

Bittersweet for sure! And yes! You'll have to stay longer when you visit. I just wish they'd be moving to NC. Then you could swing by my house for some fun and nonsense :-)

Amy at Ms. Toody Goo Shoes said...

BIttersweet, indeed! Wishing Big J much success in his new job, and happiness for the family in their new home!

Terra said...

Congrats to your son in law on his new job. Those are the best motorcycles. Yes, you will have to arrange for LONG visits!

My Garden Diaries said...

That is great news for them....but yes sad all at once. Like you said you are just going to have those chunks of real quality time when you visit with them.......those kids are so adorable!!!! Wishing them good luck on their next journey! Hugs to you!! Nicole xo

Martha's Favorites said...

I do wish your family the best. I am sorry you will not have them so close. Eight hours is not that long, you can do it! Sending hugs, Martha

Sarah said...

Congratulations and best wishes for this sweet family. Road trip again soon? '-)

handmade by amalia said...

Congrats on the new job! Sorry it's so far away. I see some traveling in your future.
Amalia
xo

farmhouse-story said...

wishing them the best life in the place, diana:) congrats on his great job!

Stephen Andrew said...

thats so exciting for them, but I'm sorry for you! I can hear your Harley revving up now!

Feral Turtle said...

Ahhhh that is kind of a bummer for you Diana. I am sorry for you and your bunny man. Thank God for the internet and Skype. You could probably talk to the kids everyday! On the bright side maybe you and your hubby can score a couple of Harleys and you could become a biker babe too!!! He could be a biker bunny!

Junkchiccottage said...

Congrats to Big J. What a great opportunity. I know you will miss your daughter and the kids but just think maybe you can score one of those pink bikes for yourself!!! I could so see you as a biker babe!
Kris

bj said...

congrats to him...
8 hours isn't TOO bad, Nana...it COULD be to another country....

Marilyn @ MountainTopSpice said...

You certainly named it right, such a bittersweet blessing indeed. Can only imagine how much you are going to miss having the 3 sweet ones around. 8 hours is a bit of a jog, but it will give you a reason to getaway as well, too. Will be praying for them, as a move is always a big deal, especially with little ones! :)

Japolina said...

Great news! That is a great job with a great company. Sorry that the babies will be so far away but when you visit, you can get 24/7 quality snuggling time!

An Oasis in the Desert said...

I think you probably remember that we just went through the same thing not quite a year ago. You are still closer than we are -- AZ to VA is a pretty fer piece! Congrats to you SIL on the new job and to his family for the new adventure.

Marissa said...

Congratulations to your son in law...
WOO HOO..
8 hours isn't so bad.... said the lady who lives 20 min away from mom LOL

Something Nice and Pretty said...

That beautiful granddaughter will make you visit many times with those eyes! Thankfully out of four only one lives four hours away the rest are close!

Lisa Mangold Kosmoski said...

I'll pray that this is a great move for their family! I will say that in-law visits can take on a new meaning when they drive 8 hours to visit but for some reason I don't think your visits are the typical in-law visits. Overall it all sounds like a very exciting opportunity for their family. Wishing them the best! Blessings ~ Lisa

Pam Kessler said...

You can live six months in Indiana, six months in Wisconsin. Sounds like a plan to me!

Simple Pleasures said...

Hi Di,
Congratulations to your daughter and son in law. Hopefully it will be a great journey and a nice getaway location for you! Blessings to them and safe travels.
xoxo

Candy S said...

Oh my! Best of luck to your daughter and son-in-law. It may be sad to have the grandchildren so far away but it is good for you to know your daughter and grandchildren are being well provided for by your son-in-law.