........... my two dads

Kidding Around the Kitchen

2009-12-21T07:26:00.000-08:00

Lucas & 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!

Lisa & Lucas show off Lucas' first homemade Apple Pie ;o)

Lucas awaits his co-chefs with his sign-in sheet.

Leila decorates her chef's hat

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.

Lisa preps the young chefs before they set off to make their dinner.

Some of the literature provided...INCLUDING what part of your tongue tastes sweet/sour/etc.

Squishing Squash! Cooking is FUN!

Sophia puts her squished squash into the soup pot.

Now its Micah's turn...

Lisa lends a hand while Lucas & AJ prepare their soup.

Pie crust in the making...Dads & kids roll out the dough.

Leila & Jon make a fancy edge on their crust.

Adam & Sophia put the finishing touches on their pie crust

Leila's & Sophia's crusts are ready for filling

Lucas makes his crust edge with a special finger pinch design.

Beautiful pie crusts to be filled...

The veggies are ready for chopping...

The boys get to work...

...and the girls are doing a great job!

Lucas concentrates on his technique...

Sophia works on getting the perfect chop!

Micah's veggies are done, so in the soup pot they go!

Leila prepares her peppers for the soup.

Sophia gives the soup a good stirring...

Leila't turn...

Time to work out the wiggles!!!

And now to get the apples ready for the pie...if THIS isn't the coolest contraption! An apple peeler/corer ;o)

Micah gets a turn on the peeler...

And now to fill the pies...

Time to put the finishing touches on the squash soup...

...and voila! a deliciously prepared meal by our new chefs!

Some after dinner entertainment...Lucas gives the Polar Express train a spin around the tree...

This is the BEST pie EVER!!! Thanks Lisa for a GREAT afternoon of cooking!

Latest Addition to the Menagerie

2009-11-15T09:23:00.000-08:00

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.

Big Night

2009-09-13T10:29:00.001-07:00

Big 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!

The Movie that inspired the dinner theme..."Big Night"

Lucas & Kate had their own version of "Big Night" with Grammy & Lucas' friend, Paolo.

Anya prepares for a delicious meal.

David gets the wines and appetizers ready...

Donatella & Gianluca getting some fresh air...

David & Michael discuss things to do in Sicily, especially the town of Cefalu.

Anya's Big Table...

...and one of her gorgeous creations...

Chef Jeff's DELICIOUS Nectarine & Blueberry Crostada...

My new favorite...

et voila! le Timbale!!! presented by Anya & Joanne

Beautiful Timbale...

Elio, Robin & Tristan

Donatella inspects one of the MANY bottles of delicious Italian wines...

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...

The Big Sleepover after the Big Night...Lucas & Paolo opt for the lower bunk.

Endless Summer '09

2009-08-29T22:43:00.000-07:00

More summer fun...Labor Day kicked off at Big Corona beach with the Starks, the Bevacquas, the Bairds, & the McCollum-VanHoosears...

Lucas & AJ's kelp barge is getting reclaimed by the tide...

Adam & Annie prepare for our beach dinner...

Lucas & Daddy watch for the green flash just as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.

Sienna & Jon watch the sun go down...

Our new favorite brunch spot...Cafe R&D at Fashion Island in Newport...Kate is sporting some new pearls she bought today...

My loved ones :o)

Lucas attemps to float a penny on top of the fountain...

Last Weekend:

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!

If he knocks over my sandcastle, he's going right back in that water!

I think I have sand in every nook and cranny of my body!

I can't look...did the wave get my brother???

Santa Fe Redoux

2009-08-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

Victoria & 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!

Upon arrival, we had a freak hailstorm greet us. It was SO cool to see such wierd weather...especially coming from southern California!

This is a picture I took of the entry from this past February - the place looks awesome in snow!

First we had to get some healthy faire for the kitchen...we bought some goodies at the Farmer's Market at the Railyard.

Here was our blank slate...time to get started! Main House living room - the new furniture arrived on day 1.

Vic contemplates the seating placement.

After ALOT of running around town, looking for bargains, we get the living room dialed at about 12:30am Monday morning.

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.

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!

View from the deck off the Master Suite.

The Casita (Guest House)

Living/dining room...we decided to put the dining table on this wall...

...it just felt better.

Fireplace wall with TV - new hutch, but still needed some "umph".

The dining table on the back wall seemed lost in the corner...

...so we swapped the dining table & couch to better fill the space...

The bedroom was in need of some updates as well...so the old bedding got replaced with....

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.

...a nightime shot...

...and one of my favorite details - a tin rooster.

...and a daytime shot.

Lucas Bennet - the Next Justin Timberlake???

2009-07-10T23:40:00.000-07:00

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).

Kai, Paul (instructor) & Lucas backstage before the performance...

The Stage Parents get in on the fun before the show!

The entire cast...guess who made front & center in the cast photo!!! (we're just a little proud of our boiz)

Preschool Graduation

2009-06-09T20:10:00.000-07:00

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!

Lucas receives his diploma from his teacher, Mrs. Denise.

Blessed Beginnings Preschool Class of 2009 L-R Mrs. Denise, Paulo, Sophia, AJ, Sophie, Lucas, Grayson & Kai.

The graduates prepare for life after PreK. Lucas said he wants to be a "skateboarder".

Marriage Equality Rally

2009-06-07T08:07:00.001-07:00

Day of Decision Rally at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana

Our dear friends and supporters, Michelle (holding Kate) and Annie

Lucas has changed his "Equal Rice" to "Equal Rights"...what a difference a year makes!

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(

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.

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.

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.

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.

http://vimeo.com/4958690

Kate's First Birthday

2009-04-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

Miss 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!

The party invitation...

I've waited a whole year for this! My first birthday cake from Suzy Cakes...

So THIS is what all the kids are talking about. Riding the train is amazing!!!

The Arellanos enjoy the scenery...

The Bairds enjoy the ride...

The Starks are headed to the farm & leave the driving to Amtrak...

Our greeter, a big fluffy Emu...

Suzy Cakes comes through! They were DELICIOUS!

The Party Favors...

Poppa has the snacks all set...

Drinks & decorations...

Just a simple little cowgirl hangin with her Poppa...

Grammy helps Kate feed a Guinea Pig...

Sienna the nurterer. You couldn't pry her away from her little farm friends...

The twins...Ava & Sophia...adorable!

Jackson & his dad fending off those unruly goats!

Get along, little Kai...

The newest member of Cecile's family, Mr. Thaddeus...

The Kunde girls get a little lovin' from Kate...

Special Agent Lucas Turns 5

2009-03-02T16:17:00.000-08:00

Lucas 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...

The invitation...

The "Cheetah Spy"

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: http://www.openheartmagic.com/

Kate, the spy baby...

The birthday cake (shared with Justin whose birthday was March 1)

The making of spies...secret agent Ella prepares the kids for their ultimate mission at spy headquarters.

Sophia is transformed into a butterfly spy...

Micah becomes a secret pirate agent.

The order of the butterfly spies..Sophia, Sophia & Mallory.

Saige, the ever-elusive rainbow spy...

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: http://www.gillismagic.com/).

The spies respond perfectly...

Macy is trained in the fine art of cards - Brian guesses the card she selected and posts it to his forehead.

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!

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!

With Sue's eyes open, no problem...

She closes them, and Kurt can't budge her!

Ray tries...to no avail. He can't lift her either.

They both try and can't lift her. They said she felt it was "like trying to lift a truck".

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!

Wendy gets the old foam ball "dissappearing/reappearing act".

And is amazed when the ball she was holding doubled in size!

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!

Santa Fe 2009

2009-02-24T20:49:00.001-08:00

Ahh, 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.

Our hosts, the Chicago Eleys (Tom, Victoria, TC, Teddy & Katherine) and the McCollum-VanHoosears during our annual President's Week pilgrimage to Santa Fe.

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!

Lucas learns to navigate the slopes! "Dad, I only fell thwee times!" Hit the "PLAY" arrow to see Lucas' first ski experience.

The Eley & McCollum-VanHoosear kids.

Everybody waits patiently for our table at the Plaza Cafe...

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!)

Even an acordian player!

Miss Kate was bundled for the event...

The Santa Fe Farmer's Market is always fun to visit...

As well as the new Railyard Park adjacent to the market. Lucas LOVED the maze!

The merry-go-round was pretty darn fun as well!

These are two of the most handsome men in Santa Fe!!!

Lucas finds a new friend at Stone Forest...

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.

Now its MY turn to jam!

No trip to Santa Fe would be complete without a treatment at 10,000 Waves Japanese Spa.

Is that a satisfied & relaxed customer or what???

Daddy poses with the kiddos...

We're ready to book next year's trip!

Miss Katie Bug turns 9 months!

2009-01-13T20:48:00.000-08:00

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.

Awe....that sand feels SO good on my feet!

Justin & Alan with their boys, Evan & Benjamin

Hey Poppa, check out Lucas and the surfers!

Come on Daddy, its fun!

Daddy & Lucas stroll along the surf.

Holidays 2008

2008-12-29T21:07:00.001-08:00

We 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.

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.

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).

Oh, to have the best of both worlds! Miss Kate LOVED opening presents!

Lucas gets a sharp new hat from Dorothy.

...and a Speed Racer car that has so many cool action features!

Hey, Santa...you left your hat, you silly!

Santa! You got me that big-boy bike with NO TRAINING WHEELS! Its the coolest!

Miss Kate got a new high chair - she LOVES it!

Some of our decorations...our collection of nativity scenes.

The coffee table decorations were SO TEMPTING for Kate now that she can pull herself up to it!

Our Christmas tree(s) - a bosque of 5 live trees, one in Jeff's new antique kids' wheelbarrow.

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?)

Grammy gives Kate some walking lessons. Kate is sporting her cousin Emma's "Baby's First Christmas" sleeper. Thanks little Ems!

Do I really have to pose in front of the presents when I'd much rather be ripping into them!

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!)

Our annual gathering of the kids from SF & Laguna - L-R Jesse, Benjamin, Evan, Kate, Lucas & Avery.

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-01T17:02:00.000-08:00

Wow, 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.

Turkey-hand pie crusts, compliments of Lucas & Kate

Our hosts, Ray & Julie

Ray poses with Jeff, Greg & Joanne (with her gorgeous new 'do)

Summer & Lucas toast the feast...

Julie & Jeff enjoying a tale...most likely something Ray did...

Macy gets some Kate time...

Julie tiakes a turn...Kate is in HEAVEN with all this attention...

Poppa steals some lovin'...

Saige shows off her home-made antlers to Miss Katie Bug...

Lucas & Summer have a good 'ole fashion pillow fight...

Hey, who let all these girls in my fort???

A surprise visit from Charmeen ;o)

There's nothing like a cozy cabin morning with good friends.

Lucas & Summer help Ray make a bird feeder out of a stump.

What do we want? Equal Rice!

2008-11-18T20:37:00.000-08:00

When do we want it? NOW!

This was one of the many chants at our rallies this past weekend.

Here is our conversation:
Daddy: Actually, Lucas, its equal RIGHTS, not Rice...
Lucas: Oh, But do I have equal rights, Daddy?
Daddy: Yes, sweetheart.
Lucas: Do YOU have equal rights, Daddy?
Daddy: Not anymore. That's why we're here today, to let people know we're not happy that they took our rights away.
Lucas: Who took your rights, Daddy?
Daddy: People who don't understand that civil rights are for everyone.
Lucas: That's not Fair!

Me on Poppa's shoulders with my Daddy holding Miss Katie Bug at an Irvine Protest Rally - photo by OC Register

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.

Poppa & I wave Old Glory with friends at Irvine City Hall

So here's my family's take on all this:

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".

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.

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.

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 http://www.change.gov/agenda/civil_rights_agenda/. 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.

Enjoy the pics....

Oh, and one more thing...I encourage everyone to watch Keith Olbermann's video on same-gender marriage, found at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVUecPhQPqY

And our mugshots on Sunday's OC Register:

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/california-marriage-gay-2229941-state-voters

(click on more photos associated with the story)

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!!!

Clark & Greg Collins with their son, Jackson join us in San Clemente.

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.

More protesters in front of Irvine City Hall

Our dear friend, Michelle Bartlett & her daughter, Lillian get some press coverage during the protest at Irvine City Hall.

Lucas watches Maxwell Bartlett during his mom's interview.

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!"

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...

FINALLY! Election Day is Here!

2008-11-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

Lucas & Kate show their Election Day spirit. I wonder who Daddy & Poppa will be voting for???

Thanks to our dear friend, Sarah and her blog, http://feministgolddigger.blogspot.com/

for her tireless support and for providing the following NO on 8 campaign images:

Halloween 2008

2008-11-04T11:13:00.001-08:00

Lucas and Kate had a terrific time at the neighborhood Halloween street party. I'd say their costumes were pretty darn cute!

Lucas (Speed Racer) & Kate (Our little lamb) are ready to hit the street!

Here we go!!!

Our hosts for the "after-party", Paulo (GI Joe) & Lucca (Indiana Jones) DeLancellotti

The three musketeers, Paulo, Lucas & Kai

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!

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!

Miss Borel's class - such great costumes!

Grandpa & Grandmommy Meet Miss Kate

2008-10-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

Grandpa & 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.

Lucas & Grandpa at Lake Arrowhead...sunny, but blistering cold! We can't wait to get back to that warm fire at the cabin...

Grandpa gives the kids some special attention...

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!

Paulo & Lucas in Lake Arrowhead

2008-10-19T20:12:00.000-07:00

Lucas 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!

Preparing to launch...

Introducing, the FLYING FOUR-YEAR-OLDS!!!

An after-dinner puppet show (featuring spiders, bats & bugs) is always a nice way to end the day.

Poppa's 25Y College Reunion - Beloit, WI

2008-10-01T22:16:00.001-07:00

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!

Two Beloit Turtles...Poppa & Lucas!

In front of Middle College at Beloit.

The original tailgaters! Victoria & Jeff made an awesome spread!

The alumnae L-R: Jeff, Ginna, Charles, Victoria, Allison,

Lucas is king of the Eley dogpile! (TC L, Katherine R, Teddy Middle)

Ginna & Kate having some girly time...

"My hands taste SOOO good" says Miss Kate

Kate's Chicago friends, TC & Teddy, show her how to be a true Cubs fan.

Teddy enjoying some tailgate time with Miss Kate

Victoria & Lucas play some hide & seek on the grounds of the campus.

Lucas & Katherine are serious about Cubs baseball (playing the Brewers in Milwaukee)

Kate yells "go Cubs" (slobber included).

Baseball makes me so happy :o)

Lucas Starts 08/09 Schoolyear

2008-09-19T10:45:00.001-07:00

Lucas began school this past Monday - Miss Borell @ Spurgeon Nursery School on MWF and Mrs. Denise @ Blessed Beginnings on TTH.

Lucas & Miss Borell...Lucas HAD to wear his Star Wars shirt - to be just like his cousin, Jacob.

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.

During his first day of school with Miss Borell, he drew this picture of his family...

Top: "That's me (R) and that's Baby Kate (L)"

Bottom: "...and that's Daddy (L) and Poppa (R)!"

This is probably my favorite of Lucas' drawings (to date) of our family!

Palm Springs Weekend

2008-09-14T19:29:00.000-07:00

We 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.

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.

Indian Canyon Golf Course - the site of the Hines wedding...

Poppa & Miss Kate, picking the perfect seat.

Lucas & his new best friend, Mason. Mason lives in Rancho Mirage with his daddy, Mark & his Poppa, Jack.

Dressed to impress...Lucas & Kate are ready to go!

Jon (L) & Scott Hines with their children, Sage & Louis (L), and Shiloh & Eden (R). The Mayor of Palm Springs, Steve Pougnet officiated.

Lucas & Kate taking a break in front of the Hotel Zoso.

Hey, free camel rides at The Living Desert!

Those giraffes sure have long necks!

Ever ridden on a warthog? They're really creepy!

The tortoises were gentle giants and one of Daddy's favorites. We can't wait to go back again.

Happy 5 Month Birthday, Kate!

2008-09-11T07:43:00.000-07:00

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.

Kate LOVES going for rides. She is out and about with Grammy during this cameo.

Kate in her squirrel & acorn pajamas in Lucas' bed before storytime.

Adoring bro, Lucas get some lovin' in before beddy-bye.

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!

Lucas & Kate cruisin' the pool in his bumper boat.

Aquarium of the Pacific

2008-08-19T18:33:00.000-07:00

Summer fun continued today at the Long Beach Aquarium with friends, Kai, Massimo, Paulo & Lucca.

Lucas & Kai check out the bat rays...

The fish are amazing!

Its really fun to make the squid squirt across the play area!

The Lorakeets LOVE to eat nectar from a cup. They have scratchy feet though!

Lazy Daze of Summer

2008-08-18T18:14:00.001-07:00

Miss Kate & Lucas sure know how to enjoy the summer...Check out the new Kate Olivia swimsuit line...

Goodbye Miss Ellie

2008-08-14T09:13:00.001-07:00

Our beloved and highly productive egg-laying hen, Ellie passed last night of natural causes. She joined our family on Easter morning, over 8 years ago and has outlived all of our hens. She was by far the friendliest and most playful. Not only did she pose for many pictures with family and friends and play chase with our Jack Russel Terrier, Sadie - she provided delicious eggs for our family's breakfasts for many years. She will truly be missed.

R.I.P Miss Ellie

Orange County Fair '08

2008-08-02T09:58:00.000-07:00

Daddy, Lucas & Kate took Grammy to the OC Fair this past Friday. Always a fun treat to see the farm animals, ride the fun rides & even watch PIG RACES, of all things.

"Say Cheese" was this year's theme at the OC Fair. How perfect to start out with a "cheesy" shot of Lucas as a dairy farmer!

Lucas takes his role seriously and didn't hesitate to get right down to business.

He really got into milking the cow!

Grammy, Lucas & Kate pose with "Bessie".

"They're so cute...."
"The big ones scare me, but I like the babies..."

"My favorite ride...the bumper boats"

"A Goliath slide? That's sooo cool!"

"That tickles!"

"Alaskan Pig Races? Are you kidding me?"

Had to slip this one in of Miss Love Bug from this morning, looking too darn cute in her new summer outfit!

College Station Visits the Left Coast

2008-07-31T20:45:00.000-07:00

Scott (my bro), Ashley (his wife), Jeff & Ian (their sons) visited this past week from College Station, TX. Fun times...More pics surely to follow since Scott is the avid photographer...I tend to go into coast mode when he's around, knowing he's capturing more moments than I could ever dream of! He really has the knack for it. I promise to post some pics of his when I get 'em. But for now, here's a sampling of our week together...

Me, my bro, & my nephew rippin' it up on Disney's California Screamin'! Best Rollercoaster EVER!

Ashley with nephew, Ian & my love bug, Lucas.

First time ever to ride the Finding Nemo Submarine Ride!

Jeff dreams of going to Cal State Univ, Fullerton to play baseball. He tested out their field.

Me & Jeff at a coffehouse overlooking Lake Arrowhead (Arrowhead Queen paddleboat in the background).

Ian & Lucas get their own special table at the cabin and can't wait for some vittles for dinner!

My other little love bug, Miss Kate. Its really too bad she doesn't like much attention...especially when she's in the arms of a handsome young man ;o)

Big bro, Scott & Jeff enjoying a break from a serious morning session of wakeboarding. (Action shots to come as soon as I get them). Check out nephew Ian's blog (linked to mine) to see more shots of the week.

Outstanding Weekend!

2008-07-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

What an Incredible Weekend! Jeff & I joined Anya & David deLancellotti along with David's brother, Paul & his wife, Kendall Bergstrom up in Portland, Oregon this weekend for our first Outstanding in the Field dinner. Jim Deneven started this a few years ago, bringing local growers, farmers, ranchers, cheesemakers, vitners, etc together with local chefs to create fantastic community dinners throughout the country. We chose Portland (Dundee region of the Willamette Valley) at David & Anya's suggestion since they were planning to be up there visiting their family at their vineyard & winery. Paul & Kendall were awesome hosts, showing us around Portland wine country's finest wineries which are mostly known for their Pinot Noir. We ate, drank, snacked, ate, drank and drank some more all weekend long. We HIGHLY recommend the dinner - wherever you can go to experience Jim's art. Enjoy the pics!

Jim & co's 1953 tour bus

Our B&B - The Black Walnut Inn...if you are ever in Portland wine country, try to stay at this incredible place. I got up at 5am and went for a hike around the vineyard, taking this shot as I was headed back to our room. Their breakfasts were off the charts good!

The view from the B&B of their lavender, vineyard and Hazelnut orchard.

Our host, Mark, at Drouhin Vineyards holds some of our tastings that day. He was an incredible tour guide explaining the process of creating a perfect Pinot!

At Drouhin, the vines are a meter apart, vs the normal measurement so the equipment all had to be brought in from France in order to work the vineyard. Something to do with the yield of the soil, stressing the vine to get a better fruit...(I was obviously more focused on the delicious wine, than paying attention to the technical aspects of winemaking).

Fresh new French Oak barrels, never used. Ready to receive a fresh batch this fall! We got to smell the insides which clearly influences the taste of the final product.

Paul & Kendall's barn at Bergstrom-deLancellotti vineyard. They have an incredible 360 degree view of the valley and are creating some amazing wines.

The lavender fields are so beautiful & fragrant! We had to buy one and bring it home (a single plant that is, not a whole field...although I wouldn't mind having a field of them).

L-R David & Anya deLancellotti, Paul deLancellotti & Kendall Bergstrom with the dinner's venue, Domaine Serene in the background.

Our appetizers, Freshly shucked oysters with trout caviar.

The man...Jim Denevan. He announced the way the dinner works and introduced our host, Domaine Serene winery, along with our growers who joined us that evening.

The mushroom farmer (they were OUTSTANDING ;o)

The lay of the land (and dinner table for 180 people).

Eugene, Oregon's finest pork, provided by Patrine, the pig lady (her description), and sliced by the owner of 10-01 - the restaurant who created our delicous dinner.

Yours truly, and Anya enjoy the event.

Like any good dinner, the memories & friendships are lasting...(Jeff & Paul)

Brothers David & Paul discuss "the possibilities of Soil....that's SO not Gretchen! (inside joke)

Domaine Serene's rep serves up a fine Pinot Noir with dinner

Jeff & I checkin' out the tour bus...

The pastry chef from 10-01 of Portland preparing our dessert.

Jim, 10-01's head chef (in red) and pastry chef enjoy the view and a good Pinot after the dinner

Jeff & I get our obligatory shot with the artist & founder of Outstanding in the Field

The MOST Outstanding guests of the dinner (as you will see in the following shots)

Something got us going...

Go Anya, go Anya...

I can't let Anya have ALL the fun...

David & Anya pay tribute to Patrine, the Pig Lady (who brought us the delicious pork loin for the entre).

Next year??? Austin? New York? Napa? Ojai? We'll be watching in March when the '09 dates are released and we hope to see you there!

Week of July Fourth

2008-07-16T13:14:00.000-07:00

July Fourth '08...Fun Times with Family & Friends

The three musketeers, joining forces to take over the world!

A special Birthday celebration for Christian before heading up to Lake Arrowhead.

Did someone say boating??? Lake Arrowhead??? I'm in!

Well, I prefer just being "in" the boat, not the ice-cold lake, Dad!

Miss Kate enjoys a long holiday nap - the best kind - in Poppa's arms.

Argh! These are some really ferocious bears in these parts!

The Funderburks "bearing" a pose...

Now "That's what I'm talkin' about!" says Lucas of his Indy car-racing with Poppa.

Uncle Mike reads a really good book with Miss Kate on the deck. She's in heaven!

Some more S'Mores??? The special treat after the firework show at the Nataupsky-White lakehouse with Aunt Cynthia.

Miss Kate enjoys the cool night air - everyone was watching the bats come out at dusk! "I think I saw one, Aunt Cynthia!" (she coos).

Our dear friends, Stacey & Neal join us for the firework show at the lake. They set them off from a barge in the middle of the lake. Amazing display this year!

Late afternoon hike along the lakeshore. The boys REALLY want to get wet!

We left Lake Arrowhead and gave the boys their opportunity for some aqua-action at Crystal Cove beach. The water wasn't much warmer than the lake, but it sure was fun trying to jump the waves...
...and play in the surf!

Some serious baking going on. Aunt Cynthia shares the ancient chocolate chip cookie receipe from Mimi - it is impossible to eat just one...and if you try the cookie dough first, you will be hooked for life! They were SOOO yummy!

Have no fear, Cap'n Underpants is here! Lucas enjoys his new shark-fin goggles. They're actually pretty scary when he swims with his head underwater. The fin sticks up and looks like a shark is headed your way!

Stay tuned... Next Post: A Rather Outstanding Dinner coming up this weekend ;o)

Our Big Day

2008-06-18T07:58:00.001-07:00

17 June, 2008. An historic day for families like ours...

Arriving for our 8:00 am appointment at the Santa Ana Courthouse. The courthouse was filled with excitement as we approached the Clerk Recorder's Office. Once inside, the staff was all smiles and there to help us through the process of first obtaining our license to marry then facilitating the civil ceremony. Both Jeff & I were jittery as we tried to anticipate the process, manage our two children and review the official documents while the press were asking a zillion questions about our day, our lives together and our children.

Completing our marriage license;

The reporters swarmed the scene to capture the moment;

License in hand, we waited in the front room for our witnesses, Ray & Julie Smith to arrive.

With our witnesses, Ray & Julie Smith (with daughter, Summer), we are all set for the ceremony;

Lucas attends to last minute details as we prepare to exchange our vows;

Carmen performs the ceremony as I place Jeff's ring on his LEFT HAND!!! (Lucas did a GREAT job as ring-bearer as Kate continues to sleep ;o)

More press capture our moment as we are introduced as married spouses for life;

NBC interviews us afterward;

We wore Miss Kate out from all the excitement...

Afteward, we headed over to Zov's for brunch with the Smiths. Then we were off shopping at Euro Bath & Tile to look at fixtures for our new master bath...kids went to Grammy's for the rest of the day.

We ended the day with a delicious dinner specially prepared by the chef of Napa Rose at Disney's Grand California Hotel. We sat at the Chef's Table and had wine pairings with each course. My personal favorites - petit filet cooked medium rare covered with melted brie & walnuts, the William Selyem 2006 Pinot Noir from the CentralCoast and the pistachio & cherry gelato with cinnamon crisps. Of course we had to have one more cocktail at the Uva Bar at Downtown Disney. What a great day!

Some surprises when we got home from Grammy & the Holland Family...

Some links from our big day:

You Tube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZV8-CQRHDmk

Daily Pilot:

http://dailypilot.com/shared-content/gallery/?galleryid=13&albumid=226&mediaid=3512

LA Times:

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-marriage18-2008jun18,0,6701919.story

OC Register:

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/couples-sex-courthouse-2070190-marriage-married

Chicago Tribune (Image #17):

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/la-me-gayweddings-pg,0,4092397.photogallery

Father's Day

2008-06-16T13:52:00.000-07:00

What a blessing to have two adorable children in our family! Many thanks to our beloved Lucas Bennet (4) & our newest family member, Miss Kate Olivia (2 mos) for making our day so very special. We had a fantastic brunch in Laguna Beach (Madison Cafe) and spent the remainder of the day swimming, napping, dinner with Grammy (thanks for the delicious cakes!) and watching a movie. So glad to be dads!

"Birds" of Santa Ana

2008-05-21T12:32:00.000-07:00

So the blog hiatus is over (at least this past one)...

Life has been faster than ever lately but its all good ;o)

Some random shots of two entirely different types of birds:

Dad & Lucas flew a 737 from Orange County to Chicago (well we pretended to, anyway...the pilot graciously let us sit in the cockpit and pose for a pic).

A fun shot from this morning after I took Lucas to school.

The parrots were in the kumquat trees getting a mid-morning snack. Gotta love life here in the tropics of soCal!

Springtime in Texas

2008-04-18T10:17:00.001-07:00

Lucas & Dad did some light sprucing up in Rockwall this past week, taking advantage of cool temps and sunshine to finish Allie's new garden. (Thank you, Allie for the inspiration!)

We also grabbed a few iris bulbs to bring home to California after seeing how STUNNING they were in bloom. Mimi obviously had really good taste when she planted these beauties!

Farewell to Uncle Joe

2008-04-17T16:43:00.000-07:00

Lucas & I have returned today from Dallas, TX to pay our respects to my Aunt Cynthia, my cousins, Gary, Kathy & Karen and their families as they mourn the loss of husband and father,

(Uncle) Joe Ernest Lowe 1933 - 2008

While growing up, Uncle Joe was a gruff, salty old dog - much of my life. Rough around the edges and not the easiest man to carry on a conversation with as a young boy. I respectfully avoided him other than the polite handshake upon first seeing him during family gatherings then I would scurry off to play with my cousins. He was a Captain for Braniff Airlines, then went to work for a private executive charter and retired with American Airlines as flight similator instructor.

A few years after I moved to California and had began my career, the most unexpected conversation happened between me & my Uncle Joe. We were at an impromptu family gathering in Pittsburgh, TX (hey, if there is a Paris, TX - there must be a Pittsburgh as well). We were at my cousin Kathy's family farmhouse having a grand reunion. Uncle Joe comes out of nowhere and sits beside me on a bench, puts his arm around me and begins to tell me that "while it must be hard to go in a different direction in life...not everyone has to follow the same path. You should be proud of being the person you are and want to be, not the person others think you should be. I'm sure it isn't easy with the whole macho image that we as men feel we always have to uphold. But you should go on being true to yourself. I want YOU to know, that I for one am proud of you." While I've paraphrased his comments, this was the gist of what he shared with me that hot summer afternoon in east Texas.

Afterward, both of my cousins - Kathy & Karen - came up to me with concern about what their Daddy might have said and if I was ok. I shared his comments with them to all of our bewilderment & wonderful surprise.

Thank you, Uncle Joe. That was an extroardinary gesture & endorsement that day. I will never forget it. Our relationship took on a completely different path from then on. I feel so incredibly fortunate to have seen him two weeks ago while I was in Dallas. His eyes lit up and he firmly grabbed my hand and shared with me the situation of his diminishing health. He asked what I had been up to and repeatedly said "That's Great...that's great..." a phrase he used regularly during conversation. He was completely there that day and passed exactly a week later.

Uncle Joe, may you fly high in the heavens as you so loved to do in your life here on earth. We miss you already.

Salaam.

...and of course an obligatory shot of some of the handsome attendees, Lucas & Christian ;o)

Cruisin' the Coast

2008-03-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

Lucas & Dad cruised Hwy 1 for Spring Break. Check out these classic shots of a CA native ;o)

Pfeiffer Falls, Big Sur (Chipmunk cheeks filled with fruit snacks)

"They're so cute, Dad...can I pet them?" says Lucas of the 3000 lb Elephant Seals at Piedras Blancas. (They look like long boulders, lower right hand side of the pic with Lucas).

"Are we there yet?" The endless curves of Big Sur

Earthbound Farms Children's Garden, Carmel Valley

An arbor fit for a kid.

The chamomile herb maze.

Wisdom for all ages. "Until we extend the circle of our campassion to all living things, we will not ourselves find peace." Dr. Albert Schweitzer

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

And a (now) comical interaction at 3am this morning...

Lucas: Daaadddeee? I need some water

Dad: Come here, you know how to turn on the faucet (at his bathroom sink)

Lucas: Not THAT water, I need bottled water

Dad: This water is better and you can do it yourself so that Daddy & Poppa can sleep

Lucas: Dayad! I can't drink this water! I need Bottled Water!!!

Dad: Lucas, why are you terrorizing me at 3am? Here's your bottled water!

Lucas: Thanks Dad. Can I sleep with you?

Dad: If you promise to go to sleep and not be all squirmy.

Lucas: Dad, will you scoot over?

Dad: LUCAS!

Lucas: Good nite, Dad.

Dad: Good nite, Lucas.

Brandon & Co's Spring Break

2008-03-23T19:29:00.000-07:00

My nephew, Brandon and some friends headed out west this past week from Texas for Spring Break in SoCal. We had a great time with the gang - they were incredibly fun to have around all week. Here's a peak at some of our adventures...

Brandon McCollum lookin' like a local in Marina Del Rey

Is that Matthew McConahey? Or is it just Brandon looking like him at the Marcel Bistro in Santa Monica?
Brandon & his "U.G" (uncle Greg) enjoy sailing in Marina Del Rey

Jeff relaxing on the bow of David Gales' brand new 40' Elan Sailboat.

David at the helm with a bunch of Texans!

Brandon picks avocados for a week's worth of guacamole

Anthony's serious about Smash Ball in Laguna Beach

Shea & Sasha - Lovin' Laguna Beach

Catherine & Sasha catch a sunset at Crystal Cove

The smoking gun...our drinking cups with our stripper names...Our first pet and our first street name (which didn't fit on the glass), but we all know who Sassy Sandalwood is (Brandon)!!!

Lucas whacks another baseball into the pool! (Pedro, the lizard, looks on in the background)

Lucas' New Trampoline

2008-03-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

So Lucas' Birthday present from his Daddy & Poppa FINALLY arrived this week! A shiny new trampoline :o) After watching him and both sets of cousins (Detroit & Dallas) and THEIR trampoline fun, we decided to go for it. What a great investment for 4 year olds! He LOVES spending time out there, laying watching clouds, stars, doing flips, playing like a caged monkey, the possibilities are as wide as his imagination. And there's the dad factor...I'm pretty into myself. Its GREAT exercise! Pictured with Lucas is his friend, Kai.

Little League Kicks Off!

2008-03-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

Lucas began Little League Baseball this month and is on the Northwest Angels T-Ball team. He has always loved baseball and now he's finally old enough to play on a team and get some formal training! He has a great coach and teammates. If you want to see some truly dedicated baseball players, stop by Alona Park on Saturdays at noon! They are too fun to watch. Think The Bad News Bears' T-Ball Training ;o)

Lucas' Spring Show

2008-03-14T21:13:00.000-07:00

Every Spring, Spurgeon Nursery School puts on their big show. It's adorable. This year's theme: a night at the Oscars. The kids all did really well. Lucas even sang his songs, Skidamarinck & Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah, without too much distraction (especially considering his meltdown on stage last year). We went for ice cream afterward as has become the tradition. Such cute kids! Enjoy the pics...

Home Improvements?

2008-03-11T16:22:00.000-07:00

So our home improvements 2008 have officially begun! We have been wanting to recess our washer & dryer controls since we moved here in 1994.

Having the original valves & controls sticking out of the wall caused our appliances to stick out as well, rather than being flush or at least nearly flush with the back wall. Well, due to the big ordeal that it was to a) increase the size (1.5 to 2") of the drain pipe, b) place it lower in the wall and c) find the right panel to fit our dryer's gas valve as well as the vent, we delayed doing anything about it - until now. Talk about opening pandora's box...(like many home improvements turn out to be).

Ray Smith, plasterer to the stars (he thinks) did a great job patching our interior. Now we just need to repaint, buy a new washer & dryer and get the outside repaired (which we'll do along with the bathroom addition behind the kitchen. It turns out that our smooth redwood siding is no longer available and has to be specially milled (translation - more money). We'll need to buy more siding anyway to finish the bathroom exterior so we might as well order it all at once and avoid paying the set-up fee twice.

What should have been a simple fix...gotta love these old houses!

Heart of San Diego Gala

2008-03-09T17:50:00.001-07:00

It was a beautiful weekend in San Diego. We stayed at the Hotel Del Coronado, guests of Bob & Betty Beyster & their daughter, Mary Ann.

Bob founded and recently stepped down as President & CEO of SAIC (http://www.saic.com/), one of the top 5 defense contractors for the US Government. One of their major contributions is for the Department of Homeland Security's special screening of our ports as well as their work on security for the Olympic games (among many other important contributions toward keeping our world safe). They are an amazing family and are so incredibly down to earth. The Beysters were being recognized for their generous support for UCSD's Cardiac Research at the Heart of San Diego Gala. It was a glamorous black tie event - we truly felt special and honored to be at their table.

Among the guests...Marian Ross from Happy Days! She looked stunning with her red hair and sequined green gown. (sorry no pic - I didn't want to be so bold as to snap a shot without her permission - I know, I make a horrible paparazzi).

A Tribute to Allie

2008-03-08T08:04:00.000-08:00

As my first entry to our new Blog, I feel the best way to start is by paying tribute and thanking Allison ("Allie") Miller, my tenant extraordinaire in Rockwall, Texas for inspiring me to create a running diary of our lives. There is so much excitement going on these days - I want to refer back in my old(er) age and reminisce. So thanks, Allie, for leading the way to this program that will help organize in some small way our life happenings and allow us to share them with the world. I also want to acknowledge Allie's passion for life as exhibited in our correspondence as well as her Blog (http://www.schmal.blogspot.com/). I couldn't ask for a better person to carry on the spirit of a place that has such special meaning for me.
Thanks Allie ;o)