Orlando is strong and united

This summer has gone by so fast. But that doesn't mean that it hasn't been a memorable one. Its actually going to be one we will never forget.
The unbelievable tragedy of the Pulse Nightclub victims happened in our neighborhood. The shock of the event was - and still is- now part of our City's everyday existence. Orlando is strong and united and the community felt an overwhelming support from the nation and the world in the aftermath. The community is trying to heal and recover, but will never forget.

With the election coming up in November, I have been thinking a lot about the future that will define my children for the years to come and what kind of world and country they will live in. The realities of the world cannot be denied, but also cannot destroy the country we live in. I pray for peace and safety and security in all communities.

A New Magical Journey

Its almost been 5 months already, but in October 2015, I decided to leave my public sector job and join the largest employer in Central Florida. And I haven't yet looked back! After 10 years of being in the same routine, with a few changes due to kids and Kris changing jobs, its been a fairly smooth transition. It is a lifestyle change having to commute to work, but the time and distance is not as bad as I was anticipating. And, lots of other coworkers do it too, so it gives us something to chat about when we get in to the office in the morning. On a professional level, I am still absorbing everything, and learning so much! Its amazing how a company culture of, well, making happiness, flows into your attitude not just at work, but in life in general. I am so blessed to have this opportunity and it is definitely changing our lives for the better!
More about this adventure and StengerLife to come....

DHS 20 Year Reunion

Danville High School Class of 1995 had their 20 year reunion this July. It has been a long time coming, as the class forgot about its 10 year - and tried to have an 11 year reunion, but that was pre-Facebook. With technology connecting us more than ever these days, the 20 year reunion was a success! Estimated 150 people came back or came out to enjoy the festivities. We even received a tour of the High School - which was part of the highlights of the weekend. I didn't just go back for the reunion, but also went to one of my oldest and best friend's baby shower, and stayed with the Ehrlich's - along with their entire family - for the weekend. I flew into Chicago and visited with Carrie for a short while, and then headed down to Danville with Marisa, Matan, Sagiv, and Alexa. My goal was also to have Custard Cup 5 times in 4 days (met that goal!) and of course to see Nannie and as many other people in town as I could. Having not actually stayed the night in Danville since maybe my wedding weekend 14 years ago...it was good to see the town and all the positive changes that had happened in 20 years. I was so thankful I made the trip! It is one for the memory book - or should I say blog....

 Fancy seeing someone you know at Custard Cup!

 Mr. Cooper found this photo of our moms at their 25th reunion. I totally remember this!

 DHS in the back ground - what great memories!

 The tour - main hallway of DHS

 Awesome DHS Dick Van Dyke Auditorium. I feel like I grew up in this hall with a childhood worth of dance recitals, award ceremonies, assemblies and performances!!

 If these halls could talk!

 Doors to the football field - many a band (color guard) performances and practices out there! 

 1924 Architectural rendering of the original structure of high school.

 The "new aquatic center" 24 years ago - still looks brand new!

 The gym still smells the same....

 The "new field house" 24 yrs ago....

 Had to share with Summer - 2 months old!

 Me, Sue, Erin, and Marisa

 Class President Ivery Lewis addressing our class

 Erin and Steve

 The Beef House rolls and strawberry jam........

 Amy, Marisa, and Genny

 Bobby Joe!

 Erin, Misty, Marisa, me

 Broc!

 Breakfast!

 Summer's baby shower!

 Quick visit with Nannie!

Nannie's 90th Birthday Celebration

July 2nd, 2015 marked 90 years of life for Nannie! She didn't want a huge party, so it was just family (we missed you Jaymer and Joyce!) We had a nice dinner in Danville and spent the day catching up. To many more Nan!! You are an inspiration to all of us!

 Yes, those are Royal Donut smiley face cookies for "cake"!!