tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24556829575216345932024-03-13T13:45:10.557-07:00........... my two dadsGreghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-43749097119050615412009-12-21T07:26:00.000-08:002010-01-15T04:31:47.274-08:00Kidding Around the KitchenLucas & Friends cook a meal with Lisa Fontanesi's "Kidding Around the Kitchen". They made a delicious squash soup, an alphabet pasta & mixed veggie soup, a hearty salad with persimmon & pomegranate seeds with homemade dressing, applesauce and an apple pie. It was too much fun!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-dK608kfI/AAAAAAAAA_U/Z3F3RKBvlAA/s1600-h/DSC_0525.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417721687665578482" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-dK608kfI/AAAAAAAAA_U/Z3F3RKBvlAA/s400/DSC_0525.JPG" /></a> Lisa & Lucas show off Lucas' first homemade Apple Pie ;o)<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-b_ZWzqrI/AAAAAAAAA_M/l2gxc86F1-I/s1600-h/DSC_0324.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417720390190607026" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-b_ZWzqrI/AAAAAAAAA_M/l2gxc86F1-I/s400/DSC_0324.JPG" /></a> Lucas awaits his co-chefs with his sign-in sheet.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-b-9wLBrI/AAAAAAAAA_E/zlSdoLaYEv4/s1600-h/DSC_0326.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417720382780802738" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-b-9wLBrI/AAAAAAAAA_E/zlSdoLaYEv4/s400/DSC_0326.JPG" /></a> Leila decorates her chef's hat<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-bmW1-HHI/AAAAAAAAA-8/buDX7ti4AIQ/s1600-h/DSC_0327.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417719960019278962" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-bmW1-HHI/AAAAAAAAA-8/buDX7ti4AIQ/s400/DSC_0327.JPG" /></a>A lesson about sugar quantities in foods...10 tablespoons in soda? YUCK! 7 in yogurt? Are you kidding me??? Honey and maple syrup make a GREAT alternative.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-bmCWkzXI/AAAAAAAAA-0/rJODtDd0vjk/s1600-h/DSC_0338.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417719954518887794" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-bmCWkzXI/AAAAAAAAA-0/rJODtDd0vjk/s400/DSC_0338.JPG" /></a> Lisa preps the young chefs before they set off to make their dinner.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-bllpyeBI/AAAAAAAAA-s/2mXXCsKT2wQ/s1600-h/DSC_0342.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417719946814846994" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-bllpyeBI/AAAAAAAAA-s/2mXXCsKT2wQ/s400/DSC_0342.JPG" /></a> Some of the literature provided...INCLUDING what part of your tongue tastes sweet/sour/etc.<br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417719929973951394" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-bkm6my6I/AAAAAAAAA-c/pldWvJaQdEE/s400/DSC_0353.JPG" /></div><div>Squishing Squash! Cooking is FUN!</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417718742231957394" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-afeO2P5I/AAAAAAAAA-U/ShMPI1DAFt4/s400/DSC_0356.JPG" /></div><div>Sophia puts her squished squash into the soup pot.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417718738250503346" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-afPZmFLI/AAAAAAAAA-M/Etn3ytFwLVQ/s400/DSC_0365.JPG" /></div><div>Now its Micah's turn...</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417718726904137778" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-aelIaSDI/AAAAAAAAA-E/3PsEfsf5um4/s400/DSC_0370.JPG" /></div><div>Lisa lends a hand while Lucas & AJ prepare their soup.</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417718724241091346" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-aebNfaxI/AAAAAAAAA98/gh6DP1P6F3c/s400/DSC_0374.JPG" /></div><div>Pie crust in the making...Dads & kids roll out the dough.</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417718713931021730" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-ad0zYPaI/AAAAAAAAA90/107IxlocTlA/s400/DSC_0382.JPG" /></div><div>Leila & Jon make a fancy edge on their crust. </div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417717502127565442" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-ZXSe66oI/AAAAAAAAA9s/fyfjccWpOt8/s400/DSC_0391.JPG" /></div><div>Adam & Sophia put the finishing touches on their pie crust</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417717495523963490" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-ZW54f8mI/AAAAAAAAA9k/Imv8h1YCdOg/s400/DSC_0393.JPG" /></div><div>Leila's & Sophia's crusts are ready for filling </div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417717488707207442" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-ZWgfQgRI/AAAAAAAAA9c/hmY7enk3LeE/s400/DSC_0395.JPG" /></div><div>Lucas makes his crust edge with a special finger pinch design.</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417714944952610402" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-XCcQ5rmI/AAAAAAAAA8k/ExsNhnPbZSY/s400/DSC_0437.JPG" /> Beautiful pie crusts to be filled...</div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-blK33LTI/AAAAAAAAA-k/ojgXot3yRH0/s1600-h/DSC_0345.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417719939626118450" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-blK33LTI/AAAAAAAAA-k/ojgXot3yRH0/s400/DSC_0345.JPG" /></a> The veggies are ready for chopping...<br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-ZWA6fwcI/AAAAAAAAA9U/gLLmWh9EMzE/s1600-h/DSC_0417.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417717480231518658" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-ZWA6fwcI/AAAAAAAAA9U/gLLmWh9EMzE/s400/DSC_0417.JPG" /></a> The boys get to work...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-ZVmr4LZI/AAAAAAAAA9M/rAtYpOYIMfw/s1600-h/DSC_0419.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417717473190882706" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-ZVmr4LZI/AAAAAAAAA9M/rAtYpOYIMfw/s400/DSC_0419.JPG" /></a>...and the girls are doing a great job!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-XEWc178I/AAAAAAAAA9E/yegmTrt7jJQ/s1600-h/DSC_0424.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417714977751822274" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-XEWc178I/AAAAAAAAA9E/yegmTrt7jJQ/s400/DSC_0424.JPG" /></a> Lucas concentrates on his technique...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-XD7GBQWI/AAAAAAAAA88/knQB-VBG14A/s1600-h/DSC_0427.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417714970408337762" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-XD7GBQWI/AAAAAAAAA88/knQB-VBG14A/s400/DSC_0427.JPG" /></a> Sophia works on getting the perfect chop!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-XDZT61xI/AAAAAAAAA80/DvdVaTbyPhU/s1600-h/DSC_0429.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417714961339832082" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-XDZT61xI/AAAAAAAAA80/DvdVaTbyPhU/s400/DSC_0429.JPG" /></a> Micah's veggies are done, so in the soup pot they go!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-XC67unwI/AAAAAAAAA8s/7L_sqcWqqyA/s1600-h/DSC_0434.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417714953185304322" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-XC67unwI/AAAAAAAAA8s/7L_sqcWqqyA/s400/DSC_0434.JPG" /></a>Leila prepares her peppers for the soup.<br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-WAW-MkRI/AAAAAAAAA8c/4D2uhk1gkZQ/s1600-h/DSC_0457.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417713809660612882" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-WAW-MkRI/AAAAAAAAA8c/4D2uhk1gkZQ/s400/DSC_0457.JPG" /></a> Sophia gives the soup a good stirring...<br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417713779873212786" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-V-oAU6XI/AAAAAAAAA8M/TKnElA6gtUk/s400/DSC_0466.JPG" /></div><div>Leila't turn...</div><div></div><div></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-V_0ARb1I/AAAAAAAAA8U/zUuJHUueR8k/s1600-h/DSC_0463.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417713800274079570" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-V_0ARb1I/AAAAAAAAA8U/zUuJHUueR8k/s400/DSC_0463.JPG" /></a> Time to work out the wiggles!!!<br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-V-B198HI/AAAAAAAAA8E/2on_USU5vkw/s1600-h/DSC_0479+Cropped.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 329px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417713769629216882" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-V-B198HI/AAAAAAAAA8E/2on_USU5vkw/s400/DSC_0479+Cropped.jpg" /></a> And now to get the apples ready for the pie...if THIS isn't the coolest contraption! An apple peeler/corer ;o)<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-V9hm-njI/AAAAAAAAA78/bAz0JjjVRWk/s1600-h/DSC_0486.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417713760976412210" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-V9hm-njI/AAAAAAAAA78/bAz0JjjVRWk/s400/DSC_0486.JPG" /></a> Micah gets a turn on the peeler...<br /><br /><div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417712258040127730" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-UmCvC4PI/AAAAAAAAA7U/5VhDirXoC5I/s400/DSC_0492.JPG" /></div><div>And now to fill the pies...</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417712267231966578" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-Umk-jNXI/AAAAAAAAA7c/7rv2JrmL2wE/s400/DSC_0512.JPG" /></div><div>Time to put the finishing touches on the squash soup...</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417712275314331554" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-UnDFiT6I/AAAAAAAAA7k/piLP7dYX_uA/s400/DSC_0517.JPG" /></div><div>...and voila! a deliciously prepared meal by our new chefs!</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417712283505422578" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-UnhmccPI/AAAAAAAAA7s/dk51jBQWbBY/s400/DSC_0519.JPG" /></div><div>Some after dinner entertainment...Lucas gives the Polar Express train a spin around the tree...</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417712291228093586" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sy-Un-XrDJI/AAAAAAAAA70/kLcLITEGJgk/s400/DSC_0523.JPG" /> </div><div>This is the BEST pie EVER!!! Thanks Lisa for a GREAT afternoon of cooking! <div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-65538185231866316792009-11-15T09:23:00.000-08:002009-11-15T09:54:07.312-08:00Latest Addition to the Menagerie<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SwA6jVfCYOI/AAAAAAAAA7M/Xb2QFjjwt34/s1600-h/DSC_0005.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404383931581751522" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SwA6jVfCYOI/AAAAAAAAA7M/Xb2QFjjwt34/s400/DSC_0005.JPG" /></a> <div>Daddy continues to (re)live his childhood through us...since I've done SUCH a great job with my homework, I got to pick out a pretty new canary from Magnolia Bird Farm. Dad went to get new finches (lavender, fire and yellow-breasted) and I got "Squirt". He's bright yellow and has a BEAUTIFUL song. He starts with his beak closed with a rolling sound then opens up with a cheerful aria. Squirt likes the apples and carrots that Kate & I feed him.</div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-37669916281100208892009-09-13T10:29:00.001-07:002009-09-20T19:10:21.637-07:00Big NightBig Dinner Night at the deLancellotti's. Anya had been planning for this all summer - based on the movie, Big Night, with Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rosellini, Minnie Driver, etc. Anya made a Timbale (as in the movie) which means, "drum" in Italian. It was a delicious "piatta del giorno" or "main dish". We spoke as much as we could in Italian and talked about future travels there! GREAT evening!<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381005952916988130" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0sZ4XhIOI/AAAAAAAAA3I/Pjc7aLin8gs/s400/big_night.jpg" /> The Movie that inspired the dinner theme..."Big Night"<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0xdK4oFBI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/2j5irU-Yx7I/s1600-h/DSC_0010.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381011506985440274" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0xdK4oFBI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/2j5irU-Yx7I/s400/DSC_0010.JPG" /></a><br /><div>Lucas & Kate had their own version of "Big Night" with Grammy & Lucas' friend, Paolo.<br /><br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uHhirrHI/AAAAAAAAA44/_6XTaJx3WOU/s1600-h/DSC_0014.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381007836575411314" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uHhirrHI/AAAAAAAAA44/_6XTaJx3WOU/s400/DSC_0014.JPG" /></a></div><div>Anya prepares for a delicious meal.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uG5cRCAI/AAAAAAAAA4w/Qq3l6p76j1Q/s1600-h/DSC_0018.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381007825811081218" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uG5cRCAI/AAAAAAAAA4w/Qq3l6p76j1Q/s400/DSC_0018.JPG" /></a> David gets the wines and appetizers ready...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uGf3cg7I/AAAAAAAAA4o/EiRlTlpEWCQ/s1600-h/DSC_0019.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381007818945758130" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uGf3cg7I/AAAAAAAAA4o/EiRlTlpEWCQ/s400/DSC_0019.JPG" /></a> Donatella & Gianluca getting some fresh air...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uF7xdZwI/AAAAAAAAA4g/i5a2JtTF4rQ/s1600-h/DSC_0020.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381007809256974082" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uF7xdZwI/AAAAAAAAA4g/i5a2JtTF4rQ/s400/DSC_0020.JPG" /></a> David & Michael discuss things to do in Sicily, especially the town of Cefalu.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uFastFaI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/z05vokKHy30/s1600-h/DSC_0021.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381007800378660258" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0uFastFaI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/z05vokKHy30/s400/DSC_0021.JPG" /></a>Anya's Big Table...<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381006711372708098" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0tGB1c-QI/AAAAAAAAA4I/oruzjMV-Afs/s400/DSC_0029.JPG" /> </div><div>...and one of her gorgeous creations...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0tG7V3BaI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/uVhryO17l30/s1600-h/DSC_0024.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381006726809453986" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0tG7V3BaI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/uVhryO17l30/s400/DSC_0024.JPG" /></a> Chef Jeff's DELICIOUS Nectarine & Blueberry Crostada...<br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0tFgjYqtI/AAAAAAAAA4A/mtAzlOtE3Wc/s1600-h/DSC_0034.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381006702438558418" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0tFgjYqtI/AAAAAAAAA4A/mtAzlOtE3Wc/s400/DSC_0034.JPG" /></a> My new favorite...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0tE-Z8-kI/AAAAAAAAA34/yRz-pbZt5vg/s1600-h/DSC_0040.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381006693272189506" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0tE-Z8-kI/AAAAAAAAA34/yRz-pbZt5vg/s400/DSC_0040.JPG" /></a>et voila! le Timbale!!! presented by Anya & Joanne<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0tEY--ngI/AAAAAAAAA3w/pBOKDn3QQ_4/s1600-h/DSC_0042.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381006683226938882" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0tEY--ngI/AAAAAAAAA3w/pBOKDn3QQ_4/s400/DSC_0042.JPG" /></a> Beautiful Timbale...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0sbzlyHyI/AAAAAAAAA3o/pEgaFxL1pZI/s1600-h/DSC_0043.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381005985994383138" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0sbzlyHyI/AAAAAAAAA3o/pEgaFxL1pZI/s400/DSC_0043.JPG" /></a> Elio, Robin & Tristan<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0sbSNWJLI/AAAAAAAAA3g/IWdFu-XFV5Y/s1600-h/DSC_0044.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381005977033516210" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0sbSNWJLI/AAAAAAAAA3g/IWdFu-XFV5Y/s400/DSC_0044.JPG" /></a> Donatella inspects one of the MANY bottles of delicious Italian wines...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0sayIAP2I/AAAAAAAAA3Y/w-f6ZBbqEmk/s1600-h/DSC_0046.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381005968421175138" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0sayIAP2I/AAAAAAAAA3Y/w-f6ZBbqEmk/s400/DSC_0046.JPG" /></a> So there were some serious technical difficulties trying to get the projector to work, but we finally worked it out by dessert so that the movie could play during our feast...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0saXHA0MI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/6aW_g64AJAg/s1600-h/DSC_0052.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381005961169260738" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sq0saXHA0MI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/6aW_g64AJAg/s400/DSC_0052.JPG" /></a> The Big Sleepover after the Big Night...Lucas & Paolo opt for the lower bunk.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-33119419725745797602009-08-29T22:43:00.000-07:002009-09-06T19:25:39.135-07:00Endless Summer '09More summer fun...Labor Day kicked off at Big Corona beach with the Starks, the Bevacquas, the Bairds, & the McCollum-VanHoosears...<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRtREM1l-I/AAAAAAAAA3A/pUYzZ7bSUd8/s1600-h/DSC03741.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378543994940004322" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRtREM1l-I/AAAAAAAAA3A/pUYzZ7bSUd8/s400/DSC03741.JPG" /></a> Lucas & AJ's kelp barge is getting reclaimed by the tide...<br /><div><br /><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRtPnSi6FI/AAAAAAAAA2o/Wt5Ool5Cu84/s1600-h/DSC03750.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378543969999448146" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRtPnSi6FI/AAAAAAAAA2o/Wt5Ool5Cu84/s400/DSC03750.JPG" /></a> Adam & Annie prepare for our beach dinner...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsShO8Z8I/AAAAAAAAA2g/3w6W4HYhX4g/s1600-h/DSC03759.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378542920401708994" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsShO8Z8I/AAAAAAAAA2g/3w6W4HYhX4g/s400/DSC03759.JPG" /></a> Lucas & Daddy watch for the green flash just as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsSNT7AyI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/YL4DhzsUoIM/s1600-h/DSC03760.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378542915053880098" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsSNT7AyI/AAAAAAAAA2Y/YL4DhzsUoIM/s400/DSC03760.JPG" /></a>Sienna & Jon watch the sun go down...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsRgNE6zI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/ByuxNh39XRs/s1600-h/DSC03764.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378542902945573682" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsRgNE6zI/AAAAAAAAA2Q/ByuxNh39XRs/s400/DSC03764.JPG" /></a> Our new favorite brunch spot...Cafe R&D at Fashion Island in Newport...Kate is sporting some new pearls she bought today...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsQ-YzU3I/AAAAAAAAA2I/wdQ_pOiW_mI/s1600-h/DSC03767.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378542893867946866" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsQ-YzU3I/AAAAAAAAA2I/wdQ_pOiW_mI/s400/DSC03767.JPG" /></a> My loved ones :o)<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsQVD6PZI/AAAAAAAAA2A/IWWAaFToMhE/s1600-h/DSC03768.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378542882774465938" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SqRsQVD6PZI/AAAAAAAAA2A/IWWAaFToMhE/s400/DSC03768.JPG" /></a><br />Lucas attemps to float a penny on top of the fountain...</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Last Weekend:<br /></div><div><div>We beat the heat today by heading to Laguna Beach to visit our friends who live there. We are SO ready for the cooler weather...fire season has started as several are burning in the Angeles National Forest today. Hopefully we'll get a break from this 100 degree plus weather we've been having for the past week!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SpoSOxKnyCI/AAAAAAAAA14/jNb17A6aq3c/s1600-h/DSC03739+cropped.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 333px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375629150145464354" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SpoSOxKnyCI/AAAAAAAAA14/jNb17A6aq3c/s400/DSC03739+cropped.jpg" /></a> If he knocks over my sandcastle, he's going right back in that water!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SpoSOeiaixI/AAAAAAAAA1w/mF7oY06EuhU/s1600-h/DSC03738.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375629145144986386" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SpoSOeiaixI/AAAAAAAAA1w/mF7oY06EuhU/s400/DSC03738.JPG" /></a> I think I have sand in every nook and cranny of my body!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SpoSNzzssNI/AAAAAAAAA1o/1a3a9OwD5A4/s1600-h/DSC03737+cropped.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375629133674754258" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SpoSNzzssNI/AAAAAAAAA1o/1a3a9OwD5A4/s400/DSC03737+cropped.jpg" /></a><br />I can't look...did the wave get my brother??? </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-85536587280080325212009-08-04T21:43:00.000-07:002009-08-04T22:32:36.966-07:00Santa Fe RedouxVictoria & I rendevous'd for a weekend in Santa Fe to boost the decor of their vacation rental. We had a GREAT time and found that we work very well together!<br /><br />Upon arrival, we had a freak hailstorm greet us. It was SO cool to see such wierd weather...especially coming from southern California!<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366341611643165922" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkTQ4FjXOI/AAAAAAAAA1A/UEZEEPCVqh4/s400/DSC_0017.JPG" /> This is a picture I took of the entry from this past February - the place looks awesome in snow!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkTSlr4qBI/AAAAAAAAA1g/iqqx2yR12aY/s1600-h/DSC03012.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366341641063409682" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkTSlr4qBI/AAAAAAAAA1g/iqqx2yR12aY/s400/DSC03012.JPG" /></a> First we had to get some healthy faire for the kitchen...we bought some goodies at the Farmer's Market at the Railyard.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkTSaAbq5I/AAAAAAAAA1Y/EdIrAInxi7o/s1600-h/DSC_0036.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366341637928364946" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkTSaAbq5I/AAAAAAAAA1Y/EdIrAInxi7o/s400/DSC_0036.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkTRhZeaGI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/SdFBDxLJzXI/s1600-h/DSC_0037.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366341622732580962" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkTRhZeaGI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/SdFBDxLJzXI/s400/DSC_0037.JPG" /></a> Here was our blank slate...time to get started! Main House living room - the new furniture arrived on day 1.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkTRPh8kKI/AAAAAAAAA1I/L_YZLVE9DSw/s1600-h/DSC_0032.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366341617936273570" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkTRPh8kKI/AAAAAAAAA1I/L_YZLVE9DSw/s400/DSC_0032.JPG" /></a> Vic contemplates the seating placement.<br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSgy5lz4I/AAAAAAAAA04/-u3klIigtHo/s1600-h/DSC_0039.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366340785617096578" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSgy5lz4I/AAAAAAAAA04/-u3klIigtHo/s400/DSC_0039.JPG" /></a> After ALOT of running around town, looking for bargains, we get the living room dialed at about 12:30am Monday morning.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSgu7-3tI/AAAAAAAAA0w/baUiD2Uz3sw/s1600-h/DSC_0065.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366340784553385682" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSgu7-3tI/AAAAAAAAA0w/baUiD2Uz3sw/s400/DSC_0065.JPG" /></a> We focused on the main living spaces with the limited time we had, but found a few items for some of the bedrooms...The Kachina dolls were adorable so at the Farmer's Market so we had to get them for the kids' room.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSgEPWa_I/AAAAAAAAA0o/IqxgI4zUpQs/s1600-h/DSC_0066.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366340773091896306" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSgEPWa_I/AAAAAAAAA0o/IqxgI4zUpQs/s400/DSC_0066.JPG" /></a> We didn't do anything yet to the master suite upstairs...It was in pretty decent shape. Maybe we'll get some new bedding when we return next February!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSfuUn6xI/AAAAAAAAA0g/S4XI4xZVdfM/s1600-h/DSC_0080.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366340767208434450" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSfuUn6xI/AAAAAAAAA0g/S4XI4xZVdfM/s400/DSC_0080.JPG" /></a> View from the deck off the Master Suite.<br /></div><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSfK-bW4I/AAAAAAAAA0Y/sFuJLzOK0cg/s1600-h/DSC_0081.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366340757720095618" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkSfK-bW4I/AAAAAAAAA0Y/sFuJLzOK0cg/s400/DSC_0081.JPG" /></a> The Casita (Guest House)<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRzKFRSJI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/MdiAUbMx8uE/s1600-h/DSC_0024.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366340001566115986" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRzKFRSJI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/MdiAUbMx8uE/s400/DSC_0024.JPG" /></a>Living/dining room...we decided to put the dining table on this wall...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRyz4XB4I/AAAAAAAAA0I/DqnbFhw6Bq8/s1600-h/DSC_0058.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366339995606386562" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRyz4XB4I/AAAAAAAAA0I/DqnbFhw6Bq8/s400/DSC_0058.JPG" /></a> ...it just felt better.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRydo-aCI/AAAAAAAAA0A/YZ0q-2H0CCo/s1600-h/DSC_0025.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366339989636278306" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRydo-aCI/AAAAAAAAA0A/YZ0q-2H0CCo/s400/DSC_0025.JPG" /></a>Fireplace wall with TV - new hutch, but still needed some "umph".<br /></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366339980663466002" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRx8NsKBI/AAAAAAAAAz4/1eTarI0wue0/s400/DSC_0027.JPG" />The dining table on the back wall seemed lost in the corner...<br /><div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRxmH6LpI/AAAAAAAAAzw/EE8-tKU_eUE/s1600-h/DSC_0046.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366339974733639314" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRxmH6LpI/AAAAAAAAAzw/EE8-tKU_eUE/s400/DSC_0046.JPG" /></a>...so we swapped the dining table & couch to better fill the space...<br /></div><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRCDuYshI/AAAAAAAAAzo/LDpo2pGBgRo/s1600-h/DSC_0029.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366339158045930002" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRCDuYshI/AAAAAAAAAzo/LDpo2pGBgRo/s400/DSC_0029.JPG" /></a>The bedroom was in need of some updates as well...so the old bedding got replaced with....<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRBniJVvI/AAAAAAAAAzg/APtmykJ5DkA/s1600-h/DSC_0054.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366339150478399218" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRBniJVvI/AAAAAAAAAzg/APtmykJ5DkA/s400/DSC_0054.JPG" /></a> new bedding that had more of a Santa Fe feel. We also found a cool triptic that told a poem in Spanish from a local artist at the Farmer's Market Art Fair, named Ganzo. We LOVED the story & the pieces.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRBP5kZJI/AAAAAAAAAzY/0PYZKlHaUOw/s1600-h/DSC_0049.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366339144134190226" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRBP5kZJI/AAAAAAAAAzY/0PYZKlHaUOw/s400/DSC_0049.JPG" /></a> ...a nightime shot... </div><div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRAtkKUlI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/ss065t6S4Yw/s1600-h/DSC_0056.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366339134917595730" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRAtkKUlI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/ss065t6S4Yw/s400/DSC_0056.JPG" /></a>...and one of my favorite details - a tin rooster.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRAAdbL3I/AAAAAAAAAzI/YCjHrc3oFXI/s1600-h/DSC_0075.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366339122809745266" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SnkRAAdbL3I/AAAAAAAAAzI/YCjHrc3oFXI/s400/DSC_0075.JPG" /></a> ...and a daytime shot.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-14652888967096270542009-07-10T23:40:00.000-07:002009-07-12T07:10:03.563-07:00Lucas Bennet - the Next Justin Timberlake???<div>Lucas & Kai had their first recital this weekend at Lutheran High School in Orange. They have been working VERY hard on their Hip-Hop number and were so pumped afterward! Enjoy the show! (sorry for the poor quality...pics & videos were not permitted...I sneaked this from our seats in the audience).<br /><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxVrBXnrlyhAlXRKgNBkJaQTi-H61YSyoTvI40CNmg_6SrR7sacfjHP611pnQWPXp1l6A7dwm7s1LTT2uKNlA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br />Kai, Paul (instructor) & Lucas backstage before the performance...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357090422254300434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 304px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Slg1WyAdbRI/AAAAAAAAAyw/4_y3P75yIug/s400/scan0016.jpg" border="0" /></div><div>The Stage Parents get in on the fun before the show! </div><div> </div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357574495940112642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SlntnlAz8QI/AAAAAAAAAy4/sH74kcGFQSU/s400/DSC03673.JPG" border="0" />The entire cast...guess who made front & center in the cast photo!!! (we're just a little proud of our boiz)<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5357574719990283762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Slnt0nqiPfI/AAAAAAAAAzA/sVEqXZCgsFM/s400/DSC03672.JPG" border="0" />Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-81213781307405628162009-06-09T20:10:00.000-07:002009-06-09T20:27:47.906-07:00Preschool Graduation<div>The time has come...Lucas has officially GRADUATED from Preschool. We're not sure how it happened, but it did. He simply grew up. Right before our eyes. We knew we shouldn't let him stretch or eat every meal. For those were surely ways for him to grow and gain wisdom. Not only is he writing his name, he recites the "Fif-ty Nif-ty United States, from 13 Original Co-lo-nies". Maybe we should have kept him in his crib longer. Or make him have more sick days. Guess there's no turning back now. He's headed for Kindergarten. What then? He'll be writing sentences and reading on his own...what use will his parents be? Well. I guess we'll just have to live with the fact that he's moving on. Even though we want to keep him forever young, we know in our hearts that its all for the better. And we're mighty proud of our young scholar. From your Daddy & your Poppa. Congratulations, Graduate. We love you more than you'll ever know. Let's have a fun summer before Kindergarten gets "rolling" this fall!</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345533830554706754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Si8msnEL40I/AAAAAAAAAyY/9SXRO8PL-aE/s400/DSC_0011.JPG" border="0" />Lucas receives his diploma from his teacher, Mrs. Denise.</div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345533835528436210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Si8ms5mA-fI/AAAAAAAAAyg/wLTHef9sDIY/s400/DSC_0033.JPG" border="0" />Blessed Beginnings Preschool Class of 2009 L-R Mrs. Denise, Paulo, Sophia, AJ, Sophie, Lucas, Grayson & Kai.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345533845695976162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Si8mtfeJUuI/AAAAAAAAAyo/EGh9NRqDXZU/s400/DSC_0044.JPG" border="0" />The graduates prepare for life after PreK. Lucas said he wants to be a "skateboarder". <div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-26157872317621504412009-06-07T08:07:00.001-07:002009-06-07T08:53:58.833-07:00Marriage Equality RallyDay of Decision Rally at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SivfWC6vbNI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/Kcnrpdgs3lY/s1600-h/DSC03452.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344610952638590162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SivfWC6vbNI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/Kcnrpdgs3lY/s400/DSC03452.JPG" border="0" /></a> Our dear friends and supporters, Michelle (holding Kate) and Annie<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SivfV-0DUjI/AAAAAAAAAyI/8GEMQXs0UdY/s1600-h/DSC03451.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344610951536792114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SivfV-0DUjI/AAAAAAAAAyI/8GEMQXs0UdY/s400/DSC03451.JPG" border="0" /></a> Lucas has changed his "Equal Rice" to "Equal Rights"...what a difference a year makes!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SivfVu7MlZI/AAAAAAAAAyA/8nbvyfJgkW0/s1600-h/DSC03450.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5344610947271792018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SivfVu7MlZI/AAAAAAAAAyA/8nbvyfJgkW0/s400/DSC03450.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>The California Supreme Court recently decided on the validity of Proposition 8, a statewide voter initiative to define marriage in CA to only be between one man and one woman. Fortunately, for us, they allowed the 18,000 same-gender marriages that occurred last year to stand. For those couples who would like to formalize their relationship through marriage, it looks like they'll have to visit a more progressive state. I never thought I would find myself saying that there are more progressive states than CA :o(</div><br /><div></div><div>I recently engaged in a pretty intense discusssion on FACEBOOK with a woman who insisted that this isn't anything personal against same-gender couples...just a religious distinction. After many entries & points being made on both sides, I think I might have helped her understand our dilemma - separate never is equal. One of the points she argued is that the "natural" order of humanity is a bond between a man and a woman for the purpose of procreation. In response, I asked her if we should only allow marriages for those heterosexual couples whose intentions were to procreate. She agreed that would be ridiculous. I also asked where she received her marriage license. Her church or her county clerk's office? My goal was to clarify that this is a CIVIL RIGHTS issue. Not a religious one. If we were to follow the CHRISTIAN bible to establish the legal definition of marriage, women would be property of their husbands, etc. etc. There is so much in the bible that simply would not make sense in our lives today. Plus the fact that we are a country of many religions - not just Christianity. This country was established to escape theocratic oppression from a single church. Our founding fathers intentions were that there should be a separation of church & state in our life, liberty & pursuit of happiness.</div><div></div><br /><div>She then got on the subject of education. "Our children will be taught about these same-sex marriages....the hundreds of dollars I pay each month in taxes that goes toward education will be spent on this" I replied that I ALSO pay hundreds of dollars in taxes toward education each month and I don't have a problem with age appropriate education about all of our citizens...we DO EXIST. You can't bury your head in the sand in the hopes that we will just go away. If PUBLIC schools are providing information to your children that you are not comfortable with, you can a) appeal to the school board and opt out or request they modify the curriculum or b) take your child out and put them in a private school that is more aligned with your goals. </div><br /><div></div><div>I think the comment that helped the most in our mutual understanding was when I asked her why her children get to call their parents "married" but my children have to call their parents "unioned". Separate is never equal.</div><br /><div></div><div>Please check out our PSA on the subject & VOTE for it! (if you like it, of course!). It is up with many others for a spot on TV, depending on which one wins. </div><div><a href="http://vimeo.com/4958690">http://vimeo.com/4958690</a></div><div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-72783085174304256822009-04-22T08:46:00.000-07:002009-04-22T10:09:21.024-07:00Kate's First BirthdayMiss Katie Bug had her first Birthday Party on Saturday, April 11 at Zoomars Animal Farm in San Juan Capistrano. We took the train down from Santa Ana & had lots of fun with family & friends who all helped celebrate her first birthday. Happy Birthday sweet little lamb!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9NLBwX6KI/AAAAAAAAAx4/JfGzW3hI1uU/s1600-h/Party+Invitation.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327561736047814818" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9NLBwX6KI/AAAAAAAAAx4/JfGzW3hI1uU/s400/Party+Invitation.jpg" border="0" /></a> The party invitation...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9NKxb4dXI/AAAAAAAAAxw/vBxPmLGkB0s/s1600-h/DSC_0114.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327561731666900338" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9NKxb4dXI/AAAAAAAAAxw/vBxPmLGkB0s/s400/DSC_0114.JPG" border="0" /></a> I've waited a whole year for this! My first birthday cake from Suzy Cakes...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9NKn9CZjI/AAAAAAAAAxo/bt_YLvrm34U/s1600-h/DSC_0039.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327561729121609266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9NKn9CZjI/AAAAAAAAAxo/bt_YLvrm34U/s400/DSC_0039.JPG" border="0" /></a> So THIS is what all the kids are talking about. Riding the train is amazing!!!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9NKdwjCvI/AAAAAAAAAxg/kcOUUUedYx0/s1600-h/DSC_0038.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327561726384868082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9NKdwjCvI/AAAAAAAAAxg/kcOUUUedYx0/s400/DSC_0038.JPG" border="0" /></a> The Arellanos enjoy the scenery...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9MiunZMcI/AAAAAAAAAxY/Q6IIjumtM0U/s1600-h/DSC_0037.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327561043715109314" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9MiunZMcI/AAAAAAAAAxY/Q6IIjumtM0U/s400/DSC_0037.JPG" border="0" /></a> The Bairds enjoy the ride...<br /></div><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9MibK84dI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/zy37CFo0GvY/s1600-h/DSC_0036.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327561038495539666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9MibK84dI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/zy37CFo0GvY/s400/DSC_0036.JPG" border="0" /></a> The Starks are headed to the farm & leave the driving to Amtrak...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9MgivQ24I/AAAAAAAAAxI/mdfGgiBn64U/s1600-h/DSC_0046.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327561006167153538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9MgivQ24I/AAAAAAAAAxI/mdfGgiBn64U/s400/DSC_0046.JPG" border="0" /></a> Our greeter, a big fluffy Emu...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9MgD6teaI/AAAAAAAAAxA/0WnLuk7gkr4/s1600-h/DSC_0049.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327560997893667234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9MgD6teaI/AAAAAAAAAxA/0WnLuk7gkr4/s400/DSC_0049.JPG" border="0" /></a>Suzy Cakes comes through! They were DELICIOUS!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9Mf9Evv8I/AAAAAAAAAw4/po81tzCFK-A/s1600-h/DSC_0051.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327560996056711106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9Mf9Evv8I/AAAAAAAAAw4/po81tzCFK-A/s400/DSC_0051.JPG" border="0" /></a> The Party Favors...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LnRZRSjI/AAAAAAAAAww/hy10Hi_0nfs/s1600-h/DSC_0056.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327560022258960946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LnRZRSjI/AAAAAAAAAww/hy10Hi_0nfs/s400/DSC_0056.JPG" border="0" /></a> Poppa has the snacks all set...<br /></div><div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LnIjbHKI/AAAAAAAAAwo/2OJ3o-xra-s/s1600-h/DSC_0055.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327560019885628578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LnIjbHKI/AAAAAAAAAwo/2OJ3o-xra-s/s400/DSC_0055.JPG" border="0" /></a> Drinks & decorations...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LmycybZI/AAAAAAAAAwg/qad8rORdOxY/s1600-h/DSC_0057.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327560013952216466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LmycybZI/AAAAAAAAAwg/qad8rORdOxY/s400/DSC_0057.JPG" border="0" /></a> Just a simple little cowgirl hangin with her Poppa...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LmhKAWvI/AAAAAAAAAwY/Mh25E0cMcVU/s1600-h/DSC_0075.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327560009310034674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LmhKAWvI/AAAAAAAAAwY/Mh25E0cMcVU/s400/DSC_0075.JPG" border="0" /></a> Grammy helps Kate feed a Guinea Pig...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LmXF5YmI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/Zi7-LhY367s/s1600-h/DSC_0084.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327560006608446050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9LmXF5YmI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/Zi7-LhY367s/s400/DSC_0084.JPG" border="0" /></a>Sienna the nurterer. You couldn't pry her away from her little farm friends...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KHnvI1OI/AAAAAAAAAwI/6Bf_V6ZaDgI/s1600-h/DSC_0087.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327558378988819682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KHnvI1OI/AAAAAAAAAwI/6Bf_V6ZaDgI/s400/DSC_0087.JPG" border="0" /></a>The twins...Ava & Sophia...adorable!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KHdctIVI/AAAAAAAAAwA/WyZt_nnlt8A/s1600-h/DSC_0101.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327558376227152210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KHdctIVI/AAAAAAAAAwA/WyZt_nnlt8A/s400/DSC_0101.JPG" border="0" /></a> Jackson & his dad fending off those unruly goats!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KHOfgkmI/AAAAAAAAAv4/lejpy8gChbs/s1600-h/DSC_0098.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327558372212380258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KHOfgkmI/AAAAAAAAAv4/lejpy8gChbs/s400/DSC_0098.JPG" border="0" /></a> Get along, little Kai...<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KG3Fg5hI/AAAAAAAAAvw/v-cZccCntsM/s1600-h/DSC_0104.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327558365929334290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KG3Fg5hI/AAAAAAAAAvw/v-cZccCntsM/s400/DSC_0104.JPG" border="0" /></a> The newest member of Cecile's family, Mr. Thaddeus...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KGsy16tI/AAAAAAAAAvo/JQzMuYnyzAE/s1600-h/DSC_0107.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327558363166665426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Se9KGsy16tI/AAAAAAAAAvo/JQzMuYnyzAE/s400/DSC_0107.JPG" border="0" /></a>The Kunde girls get a little lovin' from Kate... </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-58844096407990606562009-03-02T16:17:00.000-08:002009-03-02T17:26:42.667-08:00Special Agent Lucas Turns 5Lucas celebrated turning 5 this past Sunday. He said he wanted a "Spy Kid" themed party. It turned out to be a very fun time. Lots of spies attended and we even had a special magic act for entertainment. Enjoy the pics...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308753736002468114" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 152px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7ZVp0eRI/AAAAAAAAAuw/8YdPHYlGEMA/s400/Invite+Cover.jpg" border="0" /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7ZiMYRJI/AAAAAAAAAu4/U5wjBStc-W0/s1600-h/Invite+Inside.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308753739368645778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7ZiMYRJI/AAAAAAAAAu4/U5wjBStc-W0/s400/Invite+Inside.jpg" border="0" /></a> The invitation...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308750503749026354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax4dMkjAjI/AAAAAAAAAsI/q_zPs8Z1-lg/s400/DSC_0132.JPG" border="0" /><br />The "Cheetah Spy"<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308757138026707746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 262px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax-fXLmuyI/AAAAAAAAAvA/co4q7f3rzdk/s400/DSC_0120+Cropped.jpg" border="0" /><br />The cause...Lucas wanted his party to help heal sick children. Open Heart Magic was the charity we found to support. Through this organization, volunteer magicians perform acts at Childrens' Hospitals to help with the recovery process... Lucas raised over $500 at his party!!! Check out OHM at: <a href="http://www.openheartmagic.com/">http://www.openheartmagic.com/</a><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308750489125651890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax4cWGEBbI/AAAAAAAAAr4/8SKI477KePM/s400/DSC_0125.JPG" border="0" /><br />Kate, the spy baby...<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308753563586047218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7PTWirPI/AAAAAAAAAug/fxpO9MEZTx0/s400/DSC_0198.JPG" border="0" /><br />The birthday cake (shared with Justin whose birthday was March 1)<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308753558843780354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7PBr5bQI/AAAAAAAAAuY/pQSLjTaKHg4/s400/DSC_0193.JPG" border="0" /><br />The making of spies...secret agent Ella prepares the kids for their ultimate mission at spy headquarters.<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308751298694061426" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax5Ld-NnXI/AAAAAAAAAsY/KcCpUTm7acI/s400/DSC_0138.JPG" border="0" /> Sophia is transformed into a butterfly spy...</div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308751306600230130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax5L7bMLPI/AAAAAAAAAsg/9zqcu8Kl5yU/s400/DSC_0142.JPG" border="0" /> Micah becomes a secret pirate agent.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7Ph627II/AAAAAAAAAuo/9h5_y4-D0kc/s1600-h/DSC_0203.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308753567496465538" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7Ph627II/AAAAAAAAAuo/9h5_y4-D0kc/s400/DSC_0203.JPG" border="0" /></a> The order of the butterfly spies..Sophia, Sophia & Mallory.</div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308751288962894178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax5K5uHyWI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/hNtCS2algnw/s400/DSC_0134.JPG" border="0" />Saige, the ever-elusive rainbow spy...<br /><br /><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308751322717357794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax5M3d0BuI/AAAAAAAAAsw/ZLQyAE4fE1s/s400/DSC_0143.JPG" border="0" />Our special spy-trainer, Brian Gillis - a magician - warms up the spies as they prepare for their special lessons. (Brian is AMAZING...ck him out at: <a href="http://www.gillismagic.com/">http://www.gillismagic.com/</a>).</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308751997816313554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax50KZ8ltI/AAAAAAAAAs4/SeHxlXamn-c/s400/DSC_0144.JPG" border="0" />The spies respond perfectly...</div><div></div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308752003116032386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax50eJf4YI/AAAAAAAAAtA/iJ-Ci0GdHOE/s400/DSC_0157.JPG" border="0" />Macy is trained in the fine art of cards - Brian guesses the card she selected and posts it to his forehead.</div><div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7OqtNkzI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/DY0m0BxbT6s/s1600-h/DSC_0186.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308753552675279666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7OqtNkzI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/DY0m0BxbT6s/s400/DSC_0186.JPG" border="0" /></a>A creepy trick...Macy writes on a folded and sealed piece of paper, the name of a dog that no one else would know. The stuffed dog appears moments later with a collar labeled with the name she wrote on the piece of paper...He did this one several times for different folks...a remarkable trick! </div><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308752798362623618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax6iwrD3oI/AAAAAAAAAto/Cmaq27XxPSE/s400/DSC_0169.JPG" border="0" />Brian called up two of the biggest, strongest guys in the audience....Ray & Kurt. They were asked to lift Sue - at 115 lbs. They each did with no trouble at all as long as her eyes were open. If she closed them, she became as heavy as a house and couldn't be budged...a very bizarre phenomenon!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308752820613696722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax6kDkITNI/AAAAAAAAAuA/4vPw2TpD8ZY/s400/DSC_0174.JPG" border="0" />With Sue's eyes open, no problem...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7OTmfZRI/AAAAAAAAAuI/4GvqQXUlPLo/s1600-h/DSC_0176.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308753546473071890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax7OTmfZRI/AAAAAAAAAuI/4GvqQXUlPLo/s400/DSC_0176.JPG" border="0" /></a> She closes them, and Kurt can't budge her!</div><div><br /><div><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax6js8jD_I/AAAAAAAAAt4/Y9NKvL83Jfc/s1600-h/DSC_0172.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308752814542098418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax6js8jD_I/AAAAAAAAAt4/Y9NKvL83Jfc/s400/DSC_0172.JPG" border="0" /></a> Ray tries...to no avail. He can't lift her either.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax6jF2ETqI/AAAAAAAAAtw/xnNIEf8_NCQ/s1600-h/DSC_0183.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308752804045934242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax6jF2ETqI/AAAAAAAAAtw/xnNIEf8_NCQ/s400/DSC_0183.JPG" border="0" /></a>They both try and can't lift her. They said she felt it was "like trying to lift a truck". </div><div><br /><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308752014025817026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax51Gyl-8I/AAAAAAAAAtY/JuXKi_kNS6Q/s400/DSC_0165.JPG" border="0" />Mallory has to write down the name of the first boyfriend she ever "french" kissed. She is embarrassed to have it guessed correctly in front of her parents - along with a sketch of him!</div><div><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax6it8QuhI/AAAAAAAAAtg/uhFrRsUSsI0/s1600-h/DSC_0163.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308752797629463058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax6it8QuhI/AAAAAAAAAtg/uhFrRsUSsI0/s400/DSC_0163.JPG" border="0" /></a> <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308752005221044290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax50l_X0EI/AAAAAAAAAtI/T8thqvbibK4/s400/DSC_0158.JPG" border="0" />Wendy gets the old foam ball "dissappearing/reappearing act". </div><div><br /><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax50-jEzqI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/S0dDt8BrMjo/s1600-h/DSC_0159.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308752011813244578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax50-jEzqI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/S0dDt8BrMjo/s400/DSC_0159.JPG" border="0" /></a> And is amazed when the ball she was holding doubled in size!<br /><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax4cDBfwxI/AAAAAAAAArw/c1FrI3seCnc/s1600-h/DSC_0123.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308750484006224658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/Sax4cDBfwxI/AAAAAAAAArw/c1FrI3seCnc/s400/DSC_0123.JPG" border="0" /></a>Once the spies completed their training, they parted with a special bag - filled with secret agent supplies to help them achieve their missions...should they choose to accept them!<br /><div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-91557234032162870102009-02-24T20:49:00.001-08:002009-02-24T21:40:24.819-08:00Santa Fe 2009Ahh, Santa Fe! My "spiritual center" of the universe. Every time I go there, I feel as though I regain the balance in my life. It truly is one of my all-time favorite destinations. The week goes all too quickly, but leaves me wanting for much much more. Here are but a few pics from our week.<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306598379550806226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 259px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTTHFLKENI/AAAAAAAAArQ/ZcJBqgnKMAM/s400/DSC_0233+Cropped.jpg" border="0" /> Our hosts, the Chicago Eleys (Tom, Victoria, TC, Teddy & Katherine) and the McCollum-VanHoosears during our annual President's Week pilgrimage to Santa Fe.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRwXJfLdI/AAAAAAAAArA/u-sJYg_BX0w/s1600-h/DSC03392.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306596889727020498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRwXJfLdI/AAAAAAAAArA/u-sJYg_BX0w/s400/DSC03392.JPG" border="0" /></a> One thing we love to do in Santa Fe, ski & snowboard...I'm posing with TC who I could barely keep up with - to be 18 again!</div><div><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz77SdlPH_tEhj5oLV5e4P_OfsSYUoq7T3juAE7LXppaNDWchVZ1Ti-tEAGTNot6dSpPdrk6p_PrQP-d22LCw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div><br />Lucas learns to navigate the slopes! "Dad, I only fell thwee times!" Hit the "PLAY" arrow to see Lucas' first ski experience. </div><div> </div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306596105824794706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRCu4oeFI/AAAAAAAAAqY/PFZFCWYNz68/s400/DSC_0230.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>The Eley & McCollum-VanHoosear kids.</div><div> </div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306594121881561410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTPPQHtKUI/AAAAAAAAAoo/-_4QcP_nT3w/s400/DSC_0095.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Everybody waits patiently for our table at the Plaza Cafe...</div><div> </div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306596089728036242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRBy63bZI/AAAAAAAAAp4/SlEa7zw12tY/s400/DSC_0211.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>What the heck...kids on stilts with mustaches??? Welcome to Canyon Road Art Feast! A delicious way to see some of Santa Fe's finest art houses (as well as some interesting entertainment!)</div><div> </div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306596095640606226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRCI8iFhI/AAAAAAAAAqA/Td-mM4OZbJA/s400/DSC_0215.JPG" border="0" /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306596096280440274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRCLVFLdI/AAAAAAAAAqI/fLM8o4mirG0/s400/DSC_0218.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Even an acordian player! </div><div> </div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306595393549771618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTQZRdCI2I/AAAAAAAAApw/4IVz9HC-ewI/s400/DSC_0213.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Miss Kate was bundled for the event...</div><div> </div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306596876570974642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRvmI12bI/AAAAAAAAAqo/58cjdBpQ-cY/s400/DSC_0237.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>The Santa Fe Farmer's Market is always fun to visit...</div><div> </div><div></div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRwIdTCDI/AAAAAAAAAq4/a_8ovXz6LdA/s1600-h/DSC_0261.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306596885783578674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRwIdTCDI/AAAAAAAAAq4/a_8ovXz6LdA/s400/DSC_0261.JPG" border="0" /></a> As well as the new Railyard Park adjacent to the market. Lucas LOVED the maze!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRv8xtXHI/AAAAAAAAAqw/iQO3AMK3UNw/s1600-h/DSC_0254.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306596882647964786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRv8xtXHI/AAAAAAAAAqw/iQO3AMK3UNw/s400/DSC_0254.JPG" border="0" /></a>The merry-go-round was pretty darn fun as well!</div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRCWcH1AI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/63B37euvTcs/s1600-h/DSC_0221.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306596099262764034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTRCWcH1AI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/63B37euvTcs/s400/DSC_0221.JPG" border="0" /></a> These are two of the most handsome men in Santa Fe!!!<br /><div><div><div><div><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTQZEMyhPI/AAAAAAAAApo/EgsAU2agEEw/s1600-h/DSC_0191.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306595389991978226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTQZEMyhPI/AAAAAAAAApo/EgsAU2agEEw/s400/DSC_0191.JPG" border="0" /></a>Lucas finds a new friend at Stone Forest...<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTQZAqY-dI/AAAAAAAAApg/Hcnh69C6Oxw/s1600-h/DSC_0168.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306595389042391506" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTQZAqY-dI/AAAAAAAAApg/Hcnh69C6Oxw/s400/DSC_0168.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />We had a house party for our other visiting friends...the Weissmans from Seattle (Lucas plays the electric guitar with Lucas Weissman - not only did they share the same name, they even looked like each other! Lucas W is 13, Lucas MVH is 5.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTQYyGApQI/AAAAAAAAApY/g3FD2me57LA/s1600-h/DSC_0164.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306595385131705602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTQYyGApQI/AAAAAAAAApY/g3FD2me57LA/s400/DSC_0164.JPG" border="0" /></a> Now its MY turn to jam!</div><div><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306594138790899122" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTPQPHNLbI/AAAAAAAAApA/L9MShqL0SOE/s400/DSC_0155.JPG" border="0" />No trip to Santa Fe would be complete without a treatment at 10,000 Waves Japanese Spa. </div><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTQYrKSuxI/AAAAAAAAApQ/FtYdCazEdnw/s1600-h/DSC_0158.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306595383270619922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTQYrKSuxI/AAAAAAAAApQ/FtYdCazEdnw/s400/DSC_0158.JPG" border="0" /></a> Is that a satisfied & relaxed customer or what???</div><div> </div><div></div><div><div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306594128125599090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTPPnYZnXI/AAAAAAAAAow/0s8_BwLww_k/s400/DSC_0110.JPG" border="0" />Daddy poses with the kiddos...</div><div><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTPP7a634I/AAAAAAAAAo4/655qba1F-EU/s1600-h/DSC_0129.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306594133504876418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SaTPP7a634I/AAAAAAAAAo4/655qba1F-EU/s400/DSC_0129.JPG" border="0" /></a> We're ready to book next year's trip!<br /><br /></div><div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-63485967375794454072009-01-13T20:48:00.000-08:002009-01-13T21:13:12.869-08:00Miss Katie Bug turns 9 months!<div>Miss Katie Bug turned 9 months this past Sunday. We decided to head to Laguna Beach - can you believe it? - to COOL OFF! It was nearly 90 degrees on Sunday so the beach was the perfect place to escape the heat. We had fish tacos at Wahoos and soaked our toes in the cool waters of the Pacific with the Flatt-Stykemian family. Lucas, (a Laguna Beach native) didn't waste any time heading for the surf. Kate loved the sand. At one point, she started crawling toward the ocean - as if she were a sea turtle returning to the sea as she scooted through the sand.<br /></div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SW1yPCBPs1I/AAAAAAAAAoQ/zy17Clx8dFo/s1600-h/DSC_0201.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291010739795899218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SW1yPCBPs1I/AAAAAAAAAoQ/zy17Clx8dFo/s400/DSC_0201.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SW1yOpb4sHI/AAAAAAAAAoI/8cephkR18pQ/s1600-h/DSC_0198.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291010733196750962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SW1yOpb4sHI/AAAAAAAAAoI/8cephkR18pQ/s400/DSC_0198.JPG" border="0" /></a> Awe....that sand feels SO good on my feet!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291012357368932226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SW1ztL8tZ4I/AAAAAAAAAoY/_P4AwynjTas/s400/DSC_0225.JPG" border="0" />Justin & Alan with their boys, Evan & Benjamin</div><div><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SW1xsHDzLjI/AAAAAAAAAoA/36KjOGtKa6I/s1600-h/DSC_0230.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291010139853368882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SW1xsHDzLjI/AAAAAAAAAoA/36KjOGtKa6I/s400/DSC_0230.JPG" border="0" /></a>Hey Poppa, check out Lucas and the surfers!<br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291010126476226914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SW1xrVOcMWI/AAAAAAAAAnw/biilqchlKYs/s400/DSC_0219.JPG" border="0" />Come on Daddy, its fun! </div><br /><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291010115547083474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 328px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SW1xqsgustI/AAAAAAAAAng/8gBf67Ii71A/s400/DSC_0210+Cropped.jpg" border="0" /></div><div><div>Daddy & Lucas stroll along the surf.<br /></div><br /><div> </div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-61599926200156481862008-12-29T21:07:00.001-08:002008-12-29T21:37:14.815-08:00Holidays 2008We celebrated many things this holiday season...our newest family member, the precious Miss Katie-Bug, our sweetheart of a son, Lucas, our family, our health and the (almost) completion of a major remodel. The pics of the remodel are coming (I know - I keep promising them, Allie...but I PROMISE I'll get to it as soon as I have a moment to spare). For now, we hope you enjoy some pics of the past month of life happenings around here and we wish all of you a very happy New Year.<br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285447979082866642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmu7vgKX9I/AAAAAAAAAmA/AdaRRtTAfjo/s400/DSC_0171.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Lucas & Kate's elf, Aloysius. He reported to Santa every night how good they both were so that Santa would bring them everything on their lists.</div><div> </div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285449150296273762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmv_6nMs2I/AAAAAAAAAnQ/4YkZrywuLIU/s400/DSC_0176.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>We lit a menorah for little Kate...in honor of her birthfamily. (She also got some cool vintage dreidels from her Aunt Stacey & Uncle Neil).</div><div> </div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvvYM0e_I/AAAAAAAAAnI/VQzMqrbTTpI/s1600-h/DSC_0203.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285448866180922354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvvYM0e_I/AAAAAAAAAnI/VQzMqrbTTpI/s400/DSC_0203.JPG" border="0" /></a> Oh, to have the best of both worlds! Miss Kate LOVED opening presents!<br /></div><div><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvvLgHRGI/AAAAAAAAAnA/Z0hFdcjma0A/s1600-h/DSC_0194.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285448862772184162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvvLgHRGI/AAAAAAAAAnA/Z0hFdcjma0A/s400/DSC_0194.JPG" border="0" /></a> Lucas gets a sharp new hat from Dorothy.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvuqsguZI/AAAAAAAAAm4/akHDca-VFoU/s1600-h/DSC_0190.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285448853965814162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvuqsguZI/AAAAAAAAAm4/akHDca-VFoU/s400/DSC_0190.JPG" border="0" /></a> ...and a Speed Racer car that has so many cool action features!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvubZr7pI/AAAAAAAAAmw/VDTsBemrZ_g/s1600-h/DSC_0184.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285448849860325010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvubZr7pI/AAAAAAAAAmw/VDTsBemrZ_g/s400/DSC_0184.JPG" border="0" /></a> Hey, Santa...you left your hat, you silly!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvt2bw0VI/AAAAAAAAAmo/Ap1ucCxiSe4/s1600-h/DSC_0180.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285448839936921938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmvt2bw0VI/AAAAAAAAAmo/Ap1ucCxiSe4/s400/DSC_0180.JPG" border="0" /></a>Santa! You got me that big-boy bike with NO TRAINING WHEELS! Its the coolest!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmu9GYI68I/AAAAAAAAAmg/btXcwQukvQs/s1600-h/DSC_0179.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285448002403101634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmu9GYI68I/AAAAAAAAAmg/btXcwQukvQs/s400/DSC_0179.JPG" border="0" /></a> Miss Kate got a new high chair - she LOVES it!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmu8qnlWHI/AAAAAAAAAmY/sQySaCNvUx0/s1600-h/DSC_0175.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285447994951686258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmu8qnlWHI/AAAAAAAAAmY/sQySaCNvUx0/s400/DSC_0175.JPG" border="0" /></a> Some of our decorations...our collection of nativity scenes.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmu8YSaeDI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/So1uBtgrm1Y/s1600-h/DSC_0174.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285447990031054898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmu8YSaeDI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/So1uBtgrm1Y/s400/DSC_0174.JPG" border="0" /></a>The coffee table decorations were SO TEMPTING for Kate now that she can pull herself up to it!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmu8M790oI/AAAAAAAAAmI/YZRYzrwEF0M/s1600-h/DSC_0172.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285447986984112770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmu8M790oI/AAAAAAAAAmI/YZRYzrwEF0M/s400/DSC_0172.JPG" border="0" /></a> Our Christmas tree(s) - a bosque of 5 live trees, one in Jeff's new antique kids' wheelbarrow.<br /><br /><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt4_jjRrI/AAAAAAAAAl4/AV1WxHhOefw/s1600-h/DSC_0154.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285446832340813490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt4_jjRrI/AAAAAAAAAl4/AV1WxHhOefw/s400/DSC_0154.JPG" border="0" /></a>Christmas Eve dinner with Grammy & Stacey & Neil. Complete with Prime Rib, Yorkshire Pudding & Crackers to pop for our Christmas crowns & silly jokes (what's up with that British humor?)<br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt4akX4HI/AAAAAAAAAlw/IjF6SlicBgA/s1600-h/DSC_0150.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285446822412148850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt4akX4HI/AAAAAAAAAlw/IjF6SlicBgA/s400/DSC_0150.JPG" border="0" /></a>Grammy gives Kate some walking lessons. Kate is sporting her cousin Emma's "Baby's First Christmas" sleeper. Thanks little Ems!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt34DpOFI/AAAAAAAAAlo/Sl4MQ0mdK1A/s1600-h/DSC_0142.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285446813148067922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt34DpOFI/AAAAAAAAAlo/Sl4MQ0mdK1A/s400/DSC_0142.JPG" border="0" /></a> Do I really have to pose in front of the presents when I'd much rather be ripping into them!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt3ScrmcI/AAAAAAAAAlg/Uu1gXyMwtHE/s1600-h/DSC_0110.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285446803052534210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt3ScrmcI/AAAAAAAAAlg/Uu1gXyMwtHE/s400/DSC_0110.JPG" border="0" /></a>Gratuitous shot of my little cowpokes - two days before Christmas. Lucas wanted to wear his new boots & he is wearing MY FRINGE JACKET FROM WHEN I WAS HIS AGE (talk about bringing tears to my eyes)! Miss Katie Bug is sporting some fancy red ropers (Justin, of course!)<br /><br /><div><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt2xEA3YI/AAAAAAAAAlY/FxHB3DLGvxA/s1600-h/DSC_0079.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285446794090700162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SVmt2xEA3YI/AAAAAAAAAlY/FxHB3DLGvxA/s400/DSC_0079.JPG" border="0" /></a>Our annual gathering of the kids from SF & Laguna - L-R Jesse, Benjamin, Evan, Kate, Lucas & Avery.<br /><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-67023609621624716782008-12-01T17:02:00.000-08:002008-12-01T19:48:30.908-08:00Thanksgiving 2008Wow, what a great turkey day we had! Our tradition (for the past 5 or so years) has been to head over to the Smiths' house for Thanksgiving. Julie makes an AMAZING turkey and everyone brings something to enjoy. Jeff's stuffing is always a hit as are Joanne's delicious pies. The day after, we headed up to Lake Arrowhead for a weekend in the cold mountains. Cozy fires, leftovers and Mexican food at Papagayo's made for a great time. The Smith girls couldn't keep their hands off Miss Katie Bug. Needless to say, Kate enjoyed the attention.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274995463244715138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSMbPp_lII/AAAAAAAAAfs/FfBmDDQhfY8/s400/DSC_0094.JPG" border="0" /><br />Turkey-hand pie crusts, compliments of Lucas & Kate<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274994308638242930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSLYCaW-HI/AAAAAAAAAfU/3cNvgn8_Rhg/s400/DSC_0070.JPG" border="0" /><br />Our hosts, Ray & Julie<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274996211384856018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSNGysgLdI/AAAAAAAAAgc/pCA26Ov64Ao/s400/DSC_0144.JPG" border="0" /><br />Ray poses with Jeff, Greg & Joanne (with her gorgeous new 'do)<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274996209152265490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSNGqYNjRI/AAAAAAAAAgU/IF2Q_IDnOw0/s400/DSC_0137.JPG" border="0" /><br />Summer & Lucas toast the feast...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274995480026321026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSMcOLCkII/AAAAAAAAAgM/lQzNBHrA5l4/s400/DSC_0142.JPG" border="0" /><br />Julie & Jeff enjoying a tale...most likely something Ray did...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274994314057026722" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSLYWmTDKI/AAAAAAAAAfc/TrjpDqmYPLU/s400/DSC_0074.JPG" border="0" /><br />Macy gets some Kate time...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274994302534689634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSLXrrKI2I/AAAAAAAAAfE/hr4HLBYR4Z8/s400/DSC_0077.JPG" border="0" /><br />Julie tiakes a turn...Kate is in HEAVEN with all this attention...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274995471714292498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSMbvNTExI/AAAAAAAAAf8/JwQprDtnaoM/s400/DSC_0127.JPG" border="0" /><br />Poppa steals some lovin'...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274994317562985554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSLYjqLvFI/AAAAAAAAAfk/KDEIEmKJcDk/s400/DSC_0084.JPG" border="0" /><br />Saige shows off her home-made antlers to Miss Katie Bug...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274995474479720242" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSMb5goJzI/AAAAAAAAAgE/W8Up8x6_v8k/s400/DSC_0133.JPG" border="0" /><br />Lucas & Summer have a good 'ole fashion pillow fight...<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSNHyKyHgI/AAAAAAAAAg0/40F0Nv0Mzzc/s1600-h/DSC_0162.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274996228423294466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSNHyKyHgI/AAAAAAAAAg0/40F0Nv0Mzzc/s400/DSC_0162.JPG" border="0" /></a>Hey, who let all these girls in my fort???<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSNHuQYK8I/AAAAAAAAAgs/LrBvP7BdAFc/s1600-h/DSC_0157.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274996227373018050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSNHuQYK8I/AAAAAAAAAgs/LrBvP7BdAFc/s400/DSC_0157.JPG" border="0" /></a> A surprise visit from Charmeen ;o)</div><div><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSNHSBKpYI/AAAAAAAAAgk/Wlmk09jaxHE/s1600-h/DSC_0150.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274996219793024386" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSNHSBKpYI/AAAAAAAAAgk/Wlmk09jaxHE/s400/DSC_0150.JPG" border="0" /></a> There's nothing like a cozy cabin morning with good friends.<br /><div><div><div><div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274997305274260930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/STSOGdwD3cI/AAAAAAAAAg8/4GtDZQSDwDQ/s400/DSC_0158.JPG" border="0" />Lucas & Summer help Ray make a bird feeder out of a stump.<br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-25051513809063594522008-11-18T20:37:00.000-08:002008-11-19T13:16:29.439-08:00What do we want? Equal Rice!When do we want it? NOW!<br /><br />This was one of the many chants at our rallies this past weekend.<br /><br />Here is our conversation:<br />Daddy: Actually, Lucas, its equal RIGHTS, not Rice...<br />Lucas: Oh, But do I have equal rights, Daddy?<br />Daddy: Yes, sweetheart.<br />Lucas: Do YOU have equal rights, Daddy?<br />Daddy: Not anymore. That's why we're here today, to let people know we're not happy that they took our rights away.<br />Lucas: Who took your rights, Daddy?<br />Daddy: People who don't understand that civil rights are for everyone.<br />Lucas: That's not Fair!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270247654312285554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 297px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOuUZGelXI/AAAAAAAAAe8/i5DqsfuQgic/s400/15_prop83_large%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" />Me on Poppa's shoulders with my Daddy holding Miss Katie Bug at an Irvine Protest Rally - photo by OC Register<br /><br /><div>My family hasn't been all that motivated lately. Basically, Daddy & Poppa have been depressed that our community worked so hard to educate people about a ballot initiative designed to revoke our basic rights as a family unit and we lost by a slight majority. The elections were bittersweet. We were elated to finally have a President with intellect, compassion and vision for turning this country in a positive direction. The past 8 years have been so grim (even though I've only been around for the last 4, thank goodness!) Yet as the confetti settled we learned the following day that Proposition 8 passed by a narrow margin. We've slowly been coming out of our funk, but it has taken alot of reading, rallying and commiserating with like-minded allys to get us over the hump. </div><div><br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270229217939482962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOdjQQq6VI/AAAAAAAAAeM/hA6e_znjMqk/s400/DSC_0070.JPG" border="0" /> Poppa & I wave Old Glory with friends at Irvine City Hall<br /></div><div></div><div>So here's my family's take on all this:</div><br /><div>It turns out that a slight majority of Californians (52%) voted to take away a constitutional right to a minority group of its citizens. The issue of same-gender marriage is a big one now that election night is over and Proposition 8 passed. Now the lawsuits are flying, the rallies are organizing and the fight is on to reclaim the fundamental right to define our family just like everyone else gets to define theirs. Kate & I should be able to say that our parents are married, just like my friends who have married parents. It's not fair for us to have to say our parents are "partnered", or "unioned".<br /></div><div>The same thing happened when in 1967, the Supreme Court heard the case of Loving v. Virginia where an interacial married couple was arrested for living together. Had their marriage gone to the popular vote, they would surely be in the same predicament we are in today. The majority vote would have been against them. Miscegenation was considered an "abomination of the bible". Fortunately, the courts are there to protect our equal rights in situations like this from the "tyranny of the majority". Here again, we are in a fight for civil rights as the majority is imposing their religious values on a minority group of citizens, undermining basic tenets of government - separation of church and state and equal rights for all.<br /><br />Most likely, the state supreme court will hear the case and determine if Prop 8 is actually a revision, rather than an amendment to the state's constitution. An amendment only requires a simple majority. A revision, however, requires a super majority (2/3) vote by the legislature and then if passed, can become an initiative to place on a ballot. If the courts determine that changing the constitution to declare marriage in the state of California as only between a man and a woman is a REVISION, Prop 8 will be thrown out and my parents' rights will be once again restored. Fingers are crossed. There are only a few cases which guide the distinction between a revision and an amendment. However, there stands a chance the state's Supreme Court will rule in our favor based on the amicus briefs filed with the court favoring throwing the Proposition out by 44 Democratic Legislators, Senator Feinstein, LA Mayor Villaraigosa, several major cities & counties (Laguna, San Fran, LA, etc) the CA Education Board and many others. This in addition to the court's May 2008 ruling that equal rights belong to all of California's citizens.</div><div><br />Time is on our side. In addition to the general movement toward acceptance of same-gender marriage, Obama recently released his updated statement re. his goals for ensuring civil rights for all American citizens on <a href="http://www.change.gov/agenda/civil_rights_agenda/">http://www.change.gov/agenda/civil_rights_agenda/</a>. This is huge. The fact that a President-elect publishes his intentions for such incredible social advancements for this country is not only long overdue, it is essential for our nation to recognize the unique diversity that is our nation's hallmark. This country was founded on equality for all and freedom of religion. Prop 8 was a huge step backwards that hopefully will be corrected soon. Children deserve the same social standing as their peers who are being raised in opposite-gender households. To deny them sends a message that they and their families are second class. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has provided their love and support on this incredible social issue. Our family, along with thousands of others will continue to let our voices be heard. </div><div>Enjoy the pics.... </div><br /><div>Oh, and one more thing...I encourage everyone to watch Keith Olbermann's video on same-gender marriage, found at:<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVUecPhQPqY">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVUecPhQPqY</a></div><div></div><div>And our mugshots on Sunday's OC Register: </div><div><a href="http://www.ocregister.com/articles/california-marriage-gay-2229941-state-voters">http://www.ocregister.com/articles/california-marriage-gay-2229941-state-voters</a></div><div>(click on more photos associated with the story)</div><div></div><div></div><div><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOef2MYFoI/AAAAAAAAAek/2aXguzvDhrA/s1600-h/DSC_0100.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270230258914170498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOef2MYFoI/AAAAAAAAAek/2aXguzvDhrA/s400/DSC_0100.JPG" border="0" /></a>An attorney, Edson McLellan, organized this rally with his wife, kids and many friends to demonstrate that "straight" families are opposed to Prop 8 too. These families spent their Saturday night making up signs, and their Sunday marching in San Clemente (a conservative stronghold in the OC) to show their dissatisfaction with the recent outcome, eliminating rights of same-gender families. Way to go Edson!!!</div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270230251297544914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOefZ0bmtI/AAAAAAAAAec/fCv4nRLjK8A/s400/DSC_0098.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Clark & Greg Collins with their son, Jackson join us in San Clemente.</div><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270230266610052578" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOegS3N7eI/AAAAAAAAAe0/6ACPxzvZoNQ/s400/DSC_0011.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Our first march, in Laguna Beach. The mayor and several others spoke on the back of a pickup truck as their stage. Talk about grass roots effort! This was a HUGE rally/march from City Hall down to the Beach.<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270230244656105938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOefBE_SdI/AAAAAAAAAeU/93ijj5y5Bw4/s400/DSC_0079.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>More protesters in front of Irvine City Hall<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270229210565359106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOdi0yitgI/AAAAAAAAAd8/xyk4KXzKJJk/s400/DSC_0088.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Our dear friend, Michelle Bartlett & her daughter, Lillian get some press coverage during the protest at Irvine City Hall.</div></div><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270229214734148194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOdjEUdYmI/AAAAAAAAAeE/KkcN41F7RQA/s400/DSC_0086.JPG" border="0" />Lucas watches Maxwell Bartlett during his mom's interview.</div><div><div></div><div></div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270229197880119650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOdiFiJUWI/AAAAAAAAAds/NVR6czWQwgs/s400/DSC_0096.JPG" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><p>Is that Sarah Palin on our side? NOT! This gal mocks the ultra-conservative Palin with her "Miss Take" beauty pageant banner. When asked if we could take her picture, she replied "You betcha!"</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270229202646621954" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SSOdiXSkXwI/AAAAAAAAAd0/T_iOUvgktf4/s400/DSC_0091.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>Complete with Neiman Marcus price tag $150,000 and the back of her banner reading "Rogue Maverick". Watch out Tina Fey! Looks like you've got some competition...</p>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-61393493312221722732008-11-04T11:34:00.000-08:002008-11-05T15:16:55.562-08:00FINALLY! Election Day is Here!<div>Lucas & Kate show their Election Day spirit. I wonder who Daddy & Poppa will be voting for???<br /><div><div><div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264888517838124514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCkNl_GNeI/AAAAAAAAAc0/mILjEMFdcds/s400/DSC_0105.JPG" border="0" /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265316272534571106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRIpQMaByGI/AAAAAAAAAdk/ubel6rHN2lk/s400/BARACK-hope-POSTER%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /><br /><div>Thanks to our dear friend, Sarah and her blog, <a href="http://feministgolddigger.blogspot.com/">http://feministgolddigger.blogspot.com/</a> </div><br /><div>for her tireless support and for providing the following NO on 8 campaign images:</div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264890796571530018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCmSO7ekyI/AAAAAAAAAdM/xIeMyXddYrQ/s400/jitcrunch%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264890798263961058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCmSVO_BeI/AAAAAAAAAdU/6oEuNMlNHbs/s400/jitcrunch+3.jpg" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264890792214695346" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCmR-sujbI/AAAAAAAAAdE/BodH6qvT_K4/s400/jitcrunch%5B2%5D.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264891761463974034" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCnKZbw2JI/AAAAAAAAAdc/yNJBju5hMOM/s400/No+on+8.jpg" border="0" /> <div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-69863107925115128202008-11-04T11:13:00.001-08:002008-11-04T11:32:09.759-08:00Halloween 2008Lucas and Kate had a terrific time at the neighborhood Halloween street party. I'd say their costumes were pretty darn cute!<br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264883038967910850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCfOrmpUcI/AAAAAAAAAb8/C-nW1ckTMHQ/s400/DSC_0039.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>Lucas (Speed Racer) & Kate (Our little lamb) are ready to hit the street!</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264883429584288850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCflaw2PFI/AAAAAAAAAcE/Ngn_SU-dBFU/s400/DSC_0050.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>Here we go!!! </p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264883715627652738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCf2EW5loI/AAAAAAAAAcM/wZxAPjr8qvE/s400/DSC_0070.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>Our hosts for the "after-party", Paulo (GI Joe) & Lucca (Indiana Jones) DeLancellotti</p><p> </p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264883904451634642" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCgBDyC5dI/AAAAAAAAAcU/nL2OJlUAQV4/s400/DSC_0080.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>The three musketeers, Paulo, Lucas & Kai</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264884141114972514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCgO1a-2WI/AAAAAAAAAcc/j_20EyoKTok/s400/DSC_0086.JPG" border="0" />Michelle & Poppa introduce Max & Kate - these two are only a few months apart. I'm thinkin' there's gonna be some fun playdates in their not-so-distant future!</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264884865314745858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCg4_RqbgI/AAAAAAAAAcs/YgrLfNzjAsU/s400/DSC_0076.JPG" border="0" />At Lucas' preschool, they have "Trunk or Treat" where cars are decorated and candy handed out. Grammy went all out with her "Mary had a little lamb" theme!</p><p><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264884664786121074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 266px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SRCgtUP6cXI/AAAAAAAAAck/60kHtqlEsAA/s400/DSC_0092.JPG" border="0" />Miss Borel's class - such great costumes!<br /><br /><br /><br /></p>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-27134830386888262302008-10-19T20:25:00.000-07:002008-10-19T20:44:34.890-07:00Grandpa & Grandmommy Meet Miss KateGrandpa & Grandmommy (Greg's Parents) FINALLY got to meet little Miss Kate. We had a great visit together & even got to enjoy some time together at the cabin.<br /><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259073995997832994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv774Lx5yI/AAAAAAAAAbU/IzXFPJI3rQw/s400/DSC_0024.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv78m5IcMI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Zw3redsBMvg/s1600-h/DSC_0041.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259074008536084674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv78m5IcMI/AAAAAAAAAbk/Zw3redsBMvg/s400/DSC_0041.JPG" border="0" /></a> Lucas & Grandpa at Lake Arrowhead...sunny, but blistering cold! We can't wait to get back to that warm fire at the cabin...</p><p><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv79HIne_I/AAAAAAAAAbs/NPFNRxosrMw/s1600-h/DSC_0022.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259074017190968306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv79HIne_I/AAAAAAAAAbs/NPFNRxosrMw/s400/DSC_0022.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv79f7XNgI/AAAAAAAAAb0/sMocpQzLTfE/s1600-h/DSC_0037.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259074023846262274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv79f7XNgI/AAAAAAAAAb0/sMocpQzLTfE/s400/DSC_0037.JPG" border="0" /></a>Grandpa gives the kids some special attention... </p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259073998755770082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv78CdUruI/AAAAAAAAAbc/aW92qbuZVtY/s400/DSC_0032.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p>Some proud grandparents! Grandmommy quickly figured out Kate's penchant for knee rides...I don't know who wore who out with all that bouncing! </p>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-60176234689511850812008-10-19T20:12:00.000-07:002008-11-22T07:50:12.458-08:00Paulo & Lucas in Lake ArrowheadLucas had his FIRST sleepover a few weekends ago...Paulo stayed with Daddy & Lucas in Lake Arrowhead while Kate & Poppa had some quality time together at home. We had fun exploring the mountains and looking for the racoon & bear tracks at the arboretum the first day. But perhaps the MOST fun was jumping from the bunk beds onto the couch! Now thats good 'ole fashion pajama party fun!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259069869696554130" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv4Lsg5FJI/AAAAAAAAAbM/V3L_ElDA4qw/s400/DSC_0012.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p>Preparing to launch...</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259069863106413986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv4LT9rhaI/AAAAAAAAAbE/GMXNHR5Ajz8/s400/DSC_0016.JPG" border="0" />Introducing, the FLYING FOUR-YEAR-OLDS!!!</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259069857892137202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SPv4LAif-PI/AAAAAAAAAa8/hVkNsgmZP3w/s400/DSC_0021.JPG" border="0" /><br /><p>An after-dinner puppet show (featuring spiders, bats & bugs) is always a nice way to end the day.</p><p></p>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-80691821747892066162008-10-01T22:16:00.001-07:002008-10-01T23:22:01.900-07:00Poppa's 25Y College Reunion - Beloit, WI<div>This past weekend, the family headed to the midwest to visit old friends and their families at the 25 year reunion at Beloit College in Wisconsin. It was great fun to see everyone and especially fun to hang out with the Eley clan. Enjoy the pics! </div><div><br /> </div><div><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaN4HclUI/AAAAAAAAAZU/rbrDgBaz1PU/s1600-h/DSC_0017.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252422259869259074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaN4HclUI/AAAAAAAAAZU/rbrDgBaz1PU/s400/DSC_0017.JPG" border="0" /></a> Two Beloit Turtles...Poppa & Lucas!<br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaOFfpQaI/AAAAAAAAAZc/GSokTfj3MXs/s1600-h/DSC_0032.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252422263460413858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaOFfpQaI/AAAAAAAAAZc/GSokTfj3MXs/s400/DSC_0032.JPG" border="0" /></a>In front of Middle College at Beloit.</div><div></div><div><br /><br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252423095124238258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORa-frwH7I/AAAAAAAAAaE/6t1CjiMNFfo/s400/DSC_0096.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>The original tailgaters! Victoria & Jeff made an awesome spread!</div><div><br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252436188755611602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORm4pQvT9I/AAAAAAAAAa0/-SJI_qAKP78/s400/DSC_0073.JPG" border="0" />The alumnae L-R: Jeff, Ginna, Charles, Victoria, Allison,<br /><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252423092772130930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORa-W690HI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/8q_EIjs-FxY/s400/DSC_0045.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Lucas is king of the Eley dogpile! (TC L, Katherine R, Teddy Middle)<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252423097520612306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORa-onF49I/AAAAAAAAAaM/3VCYwwEIfSA/s400/DSC_0113.JPG" border="0" /></div><div>Ginna & Kate having some girly time...<br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaOWdKsSI/AAAAAAAAAZk/C_AKNMXzrVo/s1600-h/DSC_0025.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252422268013424930" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaOWdKsSI/AAAAAAAAAZk/C_AKNMXzrVo/s400/DSC_0025.JPG" border="0" /></a>"My hands taste SOOO good" says Miss Kate<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaOZbyXmI/AAAAAAAAAZs/z3QBqpTP8hc/s1600-h/DSC_0058.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252422268812942946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaOZbyXmI/AAAAAAAAAZs/z3QBqpTP8hc/s400/DSC_0058.JPG" border="0" /></a>Kate's Chicago friends, TC & Teddy, show her how to be a true Cubs fan.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252426830962354162" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SOReX8w95_I/AAAAAAAAAas/fIFtlYBy_4w/s400/DSC_0098.JPG" border="0" />Teddy enjoying some tailgate time with Miss Kate<br /><br /><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaOsLi9nI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/y2RIzJ_QXNU/s1600-h/DSC_0028.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252422273845098098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORaOsLi9nI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/y2RIzJ_QXNU/s400/DSC_0028.JPG" border="0" /></a>Victoria & Lucas play some hide & seek on the grounds of the campus.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252423733158013218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORbjoi26SI/AAAAAAAAAak/6PFNyRCIagA/s400/DSC_0140.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>Lucas & Katherine are serious about Cubs baseball (playing the Brewers in Milwaukee)</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252423102032252706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORa-5awDyI/AAAAAAAAAaU/qvnk4bLLVAc/s400/DSC_0119.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>Kate yells "go Cubs" (slobber included).</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252423099542944514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SORa-wJQOwI/AAAAAAAAAac/aERQrbLwN6g/s400/DSC_0139.JPG" border="0" /> Baseball makes me so happy :o) </p>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-56180289121614486342008-09-19T10:45:00.001-07:002008-09-19T11:26:27.541-07:00Lucas Starts 08/09 Schoolyear<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SNPmxArPXQI/AAAAAAAAAZM/9lCB1W5fqlo/s1600-h/DSC_0008.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247791720486100226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SNPmxArPXQI/AAAAAAAAAZM/9lCB1W5fqlo/s400/DSC_0008.JPG" border="0" /></a>Lucas began school this past Monday - Miss Borell @ Spurgeon Nursery School on MWF and Mrs. Denise @ Blessed Beginnings on TTH.<br /><br /><div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247791712050054514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SNPmwhP7hXI/AAAAAAAAAZE/5A8X1TxoJ8w/s400/DSC_0011.JPG" border="0" />Lucas & Miss Borell...Lucas HAD to wear his Star Wars shirt - to be just like his cousin, Jacob.<br /><br /><div>He is SO excited and has grown up so much over the summer. Unlike his dad, Lucas doesn't even flinch when we say our goodbyes at school. </div><div></div><div>During his first day of school with Miss Borell, he drew this picture of his family...</div><div> </div><div></div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247790757426723282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SNPl48__edI/AAAAAAAAAY8/2uWlAXMkQ5g/s400/Family+Drawing.jpg" border="0" /></div></div><br /><p>Top: "That's me (R) and that's Baby Kate (L)"</p><p>Bottom: "...and that's Daddy (L) and Poppa (R)!"</p><p>This is probably my favorite of Lucas' drawings (to date) of our family!</p><p></p><p></p>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-33447979053084208012008-09-14T19:29:00.000-07:002008-10-06T11:46:39.799-07:00Palm Springs WeekendWe had a VERY relaxing weekend away in Palm Springs. We were invited to Scott & John's wedding there which was very fun, beautiful, and touching to be a part of. They truly are very special friends and we were glad to be there to witness their commitment.<br /><div><br />Lucas & Kate seem to have a great time. On Saturday, we went to the Living Desert and saw lots of amazing animals. The temps were in the 90's that morning and topped out around 104. That type of weather definitely slows you down and forces you to relax. We stayed at Hotel Zoso on the strip and was quite the hip & trendy place to be in the desert. The pool had a DJ mixin' up the tunes. I called my nephew in Texas, Brandon who I thought would relate most to the scene. He rattled off the name of the group playing in the background. It was some rap/electronic/hip-hop song that I've never heard of before - it didn't surprise me that he recognized the group playing right away. </div><br /><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246074517781834610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3M-qGda3I/AAAAAAAAAYk/uPTg5S1At-Q/s400/DSC_0044.JPG" border="0" /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3M-NmpR7I/AAAAAAAAAYU/0ydl9kLfSBM/s1600-h/DSC_0042.JPG"></a> Indian Canyon Golf Course - the site of the Hines wedding...<br /></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246074811629996802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3NPwxUiwI/AAAAAAAAAYs/HorIINzgThY/s400/DSC_0041.JPG" border="0" />Poppa & Miss Kate, picking the perfect seat.</div><br /><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3M-RDiV1I/AAAAAAAAAYc/9pwLsF8ld6k/s1600-h/DSC_0047.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246074511058687826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3M-RDiV1I/AAAAAAAAAYc/9pwLsF8ld6k/s400/DSC_0047.JPG" border="0" /></a> Lucas & his new best friend, Mason. Mason lives in Rancho Mirage with his daddy, Mark & his Poppa, Jack. </p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246073443867357234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3MAJdS8DI/AAAAAAAAAX8/WnvtRscrwx8/s400/DSC_0038.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>Dressed to impress...Lucas & Kate are ready to go!</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246073451262183026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3MAlAXBnI/AAAAAAAAAYE/n4uCjcqAWnc/s400/DSC_0039.JPG" border="0" />Jon (L) & Scott Hines with their children, Sage & Louis (L), and Shiloh & Eden (R). The Mayor of Palm Springs, Steve Pougnet officiated.</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246072684276819810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3LT7wzJ2I/AAAAAAAAAXE/bQno50KbGhQ/s400/DSC_0006.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>Lucas & Kate taking a break in front of the Hotel Zoso.</p><p><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3L_n7-yRI/AAAAAAAAAXs/oQ0P_57BqeU/s1600-h/DSC_0024.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246073434869254418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3L_n7-yRI/AAAAAAAAAXs/oQ0P_57BqeU/s400/DSC_0024.JPG" border="0" /></a> Hey, free camel rides at The Living Desert! </p><p><br /></p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3LUW1gWiI/AAAAAAAAAXM/sMu_Za4iGNc/s1600-h/DSC_0008.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246072691544316450" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3LUW1gWiI/AAAAAAAAAXM/sMu_Za4iGNc/s400/DSC_0008.JPG" border="0" /></a>Those giraffes sure have long necks!<br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3LUp0bJrI/AAAAAAAAAXU/VGUpKwhqxYk/s1600-h/DSC_0015.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246072696640054962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3LUp0bJrI/AAAAAAAAAXU/VGUpKwhqxYk/s400/DSC_0015.JPG" border="0" /></a> Ever ridden on a warthog? They're really creepy! </p><p><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246080294345753938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SM3SO5enxVI/AAAAAAAAAY0/5Rz6VKOl1TQ/s400/DSC_0021.JPG" border="0" />The tortoises were gentle giants and one of Daddy's favorites. We can't wait to go back again.<br /></p>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-83006519426618542302008-09-11T07:43:00.000-07:002008-09-11T08:00:52.829-07:00Happy 5 Month Birthday, Kate!Miss Kate-e-Bug turns 5 months young today! She is such a sweet, cheerful little girl. We are so incredibly blessed to have her in our lives. It is hard to believe she has grown so much in such a short period of time.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244775888589151938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SMkv4fXj3sI/AAAAAAAAAWU/JlrIuf8VlVI/s400/DSC_0008.JPG" border="0" /><br />Kate LOVES going for rides. She is out and about with Grammy during this cameo.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SMkwfF0UzpI/AAAAAAAAAW0/TdIGbC4M924/s1600-h/DSC_0037.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244776551745375890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SMkwfF0UzpI/AAAAAAAAAW0/TdIGbC4M924/s400/DSC_0037.JPG" border="0" /></a> Kate in her squirrel & acorn pajamas in Lucas' bed before storytime.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244776433834511714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SMkwYOkLzWI/AAAAAAAAAWs/WJTjxiRExSw/s400/DSC_0040.JPG" border="0" />Adoring bro, Lucas get some lovin' in before beddy-bye.<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SMkwXhg_s2I/AAAAAAAAAWk/S5ksH94idx8/s1600-h/DSC_0002.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244776421741540194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SMkwXhg_s2I/AAAAAAAAAWk/S5ksH94idx8/s400/DSC_0002.JPG" border="0" /></a>Kate at a party in Laguna Beach in her white Neiman's dress from Sophia Nalle. I'm thinkin' Vera Wang has a charming new model for her line!<br /><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SMkwEdbMp4I/AAAAAAAAAWc/4VbN5S8mXK8/s1600-h/DSC_0003.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5244776094225966978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SMkwEdbMp4I/AAAAAAAAAWc/4VbN5S8mXK8/s400/DSC_0003.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Lucas & Kate cruisin' the pool in his bumper boat.<br /><div><div></div></div></div></div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-40468879870685903862008-08-19T18:33:00.000-07:002008-08-19T19:07:24.432-07:00Aquarium of the PacificSummer fun continued today at the Long Beach Aquarium with friends, Kai, Massimo, Paulo & Lucca.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236414453675191698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SKt7M7AH7ZI/AAAAAAAAAV8/eJ3C2Ks73rk/s400/DSC03315.JPG" border="0" /><br />Lucas & Kai check out the bat rays...<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236414473639890610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SKt7OFYFDrI/AAAAAAAAAWE/QFrvBE1q9cA/s400/DSC03300.JPG" border="0" /><br />The fish are amazing!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236414674930235042" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SKt7ZzPb9qI/AAAAAAAAAWM/enuMXDMaQpQ/s400/DSC03301.JPG" border="0" /><br />Its really fun to make the squid squirt across the play area!<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236414432297120706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SKt7LrXMc8I/AAAAAAAAAV0/Hv7a9etZAF8/s400/DSC03303.JPG" border="0" /><br />The Lorakeets LOVE to eat nectar from a cup. They have scratchy feet though!Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2455682957521634593.post-78427639406108991072008-08-18T18:14:00.001-07:002008-08-18T18:21:22.082-07:00Lazy Daze of SummerMiss Kate & Lucas sure know how to enjoy the summer...Check out the new Kate Olivia swimsuit line...<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SKofCY4-yCI/AAAAAAAAAVk/fqOLNGu5YgU/s1600-h/DSC_0025.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236031642673268770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SKofCY4-yCI/AAAAAAAAAVk/fqOLNGu5YgU/s400/DSC_0025.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SKofD7QB0HI/AAAAAAAAAVs/F7GIjDk_wTE/s1600-h/DSC_0032.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5236031669076611186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_voJKvbcaj3s/SKofD7QB0HI/AAAAAAAAAVs/F7GIjDk_wTE/s400/DSC_0032.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div> </div>Greghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08681728876480785451noreply@blogger.com1