Rick and Terri's Tales

Day 12: The end of vacation...Zion, part II

2010-10-03T21:25:00.000-07:00

Ahhh....it's over, vacation is over and it's time to head back home tomorrow...we had a fabulous trip and saw so many beautiful and amazing sights as we traveled across the state of Utah! Other than a quick trip through the state (and Terri and Jessalyn spent a couple of days with friends in Salt Lake City several years ago)...we've never really been here...so this was a real treat! As we have said...it's been a busy time, on the go every day, no rest for the weary, which we were a times, but boy, it felt great! And, talk about exercise, this was not one of those vacations where you sit and read books or lounge by the pool or on the beach...we did LOTS of hiking and walking...and after the initial shock to our bodies...it felt great! Now, when we go home, our bodies will probably be wondering what's going on...guess we will have to work at trying to get out some each day...

Today was spent soaking up some more of the wonderful Utah sunshine while we hiked along a few trails in Zion...nothing real extreme, just a moderate trail and a couple of easy ones. One of them took us to see some Emerald Pools, which were beautiful pools of water among the rocks and trees...and all had amazing reflections...it was well worth the climb and at the top one, there was lots of shade and it felt about 20 degrees cooler (which was nice!). We also saw (after being told they were there) some climbers on the face of a cliff near one of the shuttle stops...WOW...these guys were going up a STRAIGHT rock face and we were in disbelief at seeing them do this...and evidently, they started yesterday...don't ask how or where they slept...no idea how that would happen...and as interesting as this was to see...it's definitely not something we could EVER imagine doing!

Here are the last set of photos...enjoy and we hope everyone is doing well and enjoying fall...we are looking forward to settling back in at home and enjoying some nice fall weather there as well!

Upper Emerald Pool...great reflections!

Water flowing over a rock cliff...beautiful and refreshing!

Mule deer...they didn't seem to be bothered by us as we walked by and photographed them!

Reflections from one of the Emerald Pools

Path of our morning hike...

Rocks, trees, moss and water...so beautiful and peaceful!

This little gecko didn't seem to be bothered by us and almost was like he was posing!

More reflections...it was amazing to see the detail and colors!

Upper Emerald Pool

Looking down on the Virgin River...which carves it's way through Zion

Bridge crossing over Virgin River

Some very ominous clouds that rolled in later this afternoon...but by sunset, it had cleared up!

Days 10 & 11: Travel and Zion

2010-10-02T20:53:00.000-07:00

Two more days down...and one left to enjoy this beautiful state, before we head back home. Yesterday (Friday) we traveled from Bryce to Zion and enjoyed a few stops along the way...and a bit different scenes to photograph. We started with some fall colors as we traveled along a scenic byway across the state...we drove through Cedar Breaks National Monument and then Brian Head (ski area??) and then down to Zion. A stop shortly before we got there was Grafton, which is a ghost town and was wonderful. It was something suggested by a friend whose family lives in Utah and it was a wonderful stop...not really on the "beaten path" and a bit of a challenge to find, but well worth it...as you will see in the photos! We also did do a quick run through the north part of Zion, called Kolob Canyon and a short walk through there...it was just a taste of what we would explore today!

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Zion National Park - Kolob Canyon

Grafton Ghost Town

Today we ventured into Zion...the main part and what a treat. It was very different from the other parks as this time we were DOWN below all the rocks...there were options (trails) to hike up, but they were pretty adventurous and given that Terri isn't too fond of heights (although she's done well with everything so far!!)...we opted to stay on the lower trails. In Zion, you must take take the shuttle through the park, so that meant we had to pre plan a bit more than with the other parks where we could drive to each stop. Today we enjoyed a couple of shorter trails and one of them was along a river, Virgin River, and that was a treat...the water was beautiful and peaceful, even with all the people (and those speaking languages OTHER than English!)...the other trail involved a "weeping rock" which was really neat...and quite pretty with all the moss and water running off of it.

Tomorrow is our last day at Zion...and we have another couple of trails planned for the day with a few more photos (hehehe....)...and then we will (sadly) head back home...to work, reality and probably cooler and wetter weather than what we've had here. The past couple of days have brought more clouds, which have been beautiful in the brilliant blue sky...and this evening there was a thunder storm with some rain, thunder and lightning. We are hoping for the beautiful weather again tomorrow for our last day...and a chance to soak up a bit more Utah sunshine and vitamin D!

Day Nine: Bryce Canyon, part II

2010-10-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

A second day at Bryce Canyon was just as nice as the first day. This day had something that really none of our other days at the parks have had...clouds! What a surprise, and something we had actually hoped for most days...to add some interest to the extremely blue skies! It started out cooler, as we left the hotel for the park (just a few minutes away), it was 43 degrees so Terri opted to wear her jeans for the morning as we were going on a three mile hike and figured that it would be cooler, especially since we were going down into the canyon. Well, it wasn't long before she figured out that shorts would have been a better option...oh well, she survived!

Our hike, called Queens Garden/Navajo Loop Combination and it was about 3 miles and titled the best three mile hike you will ever take...and we have to agree, it was spectacular. The first part was easy, just downhill and as we got closer to the bottom, we were impressed with the hoodoos as we were now looking UP at them, rather than down...and walking among them...truly amazing! The second part of the hike was almost like we were hiking in the woods of the northwest...although past the trees you could see the cliffs of the canyon and the beautiful red and white rock...and hoodoos. Of course, as with anything that goes down...there's always an "up" part, so that was the last part of the hike, but was really nicely done in a section called "Wall Street" where the trail was a series of switchbacks that were made up with rock walls...and the view from both the bottom and top was great! Finally, we made it back to the top...and then had a half mile hike back to the car.

After that, we checked out the remaining overlooks and viewing points in the park...was a beautiful park and such an amazing sight when just a few miles away, you would have no idea that this is there, it's just countryside as you drive along the highways that surround it...wow, our country has SO many beautiful places to visit...I'm sure that we can keep busy seeing all these amazing sights for our lifetime!

It's Friday morning and we are on the road again, headed to Zion National Park, but today will do some sightseeing along the way...hopefully, some fall colors and maybe even a ghost town...we will see what we find. It's even cloudier this morning than yesterday...hope we get at least a bit of blue to go with the fall colors! Saturday and Sunday will be devoted to Zion and then we'll pack up early Monday, head back to Salt Lake City to fly home...then it'll be back to reality! We hope you enjoy these photos...it really is incredible to think that 1000's of years ago all of this began...and here we are in this day, seeing such an amazing sight!

We found some old cars and used them to "play" at sunset, just in front of our hotel

PS...lost our signal on the road, imagine that...so this post will be later than planned since I can't do anything else on it until we get closer to society! In the meantime, we are thoroughly enjoying driving on Scenic Hwy 14 in Utah...amazing fall colors...so for now...we'll just enjoy this and not worry about this post.

Day Eight: Bryce Canon National Park

2010-09-29T21:33:00.000-07:00

We arrived at Bryce Canyon National Park this morning, after a nearly 3 hour drive from Torrey...which was a bit slower than we had anticipated, but it was pretty...and we saw some great fall colors in the Dixie National Forest, just outside of Torrey. Boy, was it cold this morning...after nearly 90 yesterday, we had about 50 degrees this morning...that's quite a change from what we'd been out in the day before. It was too early to check into our room for the next two days, so we started exploring the park. This is much different than the previous ones, but just as beautiful. Today we just drove to some of the overlooks, walked a short distance at a few, but no hikes today. We are saving that for tomorrow, when we'll walk down into the canyon so we can see the rocks (hoodoos) from a different perspective.

This afternoon we were able to check into our room...which is FABULOUS...it's the Best Western Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel...and boy, is it nice...we feel like royalty, compared to our first place in Moab...and the same price...just crazy!!! After getting checked in, we joined our neighbors from Puyallup and some friend of theirs for an early dinner!! We knew they were going to be driving through Utah this week, but didn't know if our schedules would meet up at the same place, same time...and surprisingly, they were in Bryce today, so we enjoyed visiting with them and hearing what they had seen so far...what a nice extra along our travels through Utah!!

So, here are some photos from our first day of Bryce...we did shoot sunset this evening, but it wasn't as spectacular as we has hoped, but it was still nice. We have all day here tomorrow, so we'll see what else we can see and do, beside our hike...it was a bit cooler here, although this has been a hot week...and Zion (our next step) looks to be warmer, and then the storms will return next week...boy, did we timed it all perfectly...we arrived on the day of a storm and will leave on the day of a (possible) storm...with warm and dry in between!

Fall colors as we drove through Dixie National Forest...loved it!

Same tree, daylight, sunset...can you tell that Terri has a thing for trees!!

Neighbors...friends, Nick and Glenda, with their friends they are traveling with...great to catch up with them!

Another beautiful sun...at sunset, due to the smoke from the surrounding fires.

What would we do without a tripod...how else could we get photos of us...to prove we really have been to these places!

Days Six and Seven: Capitol Reef National Park

2010-09-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday (Monday) morning we left Moab and headed for Torrey, which was about 2 hours away. We really enjoyed Arches, Canyonland and Dead Horse, but were more than ready to leave our motel there...UGH...it was just awful (but thankfully, no signs of bed bugs!!)! Of course, we weren't sure what was ahead of us...as we were booked in another Days Inn in Torrey and were crossing our fingers that it was not anything like the first one...and thankfully, we were fortunate to find a clean, well managed motel that didn't smell and was MUCH nicer and more modern than the one in Moab...phew!!!

In driving to Torrey, we drove through Capitol Reef NP to get there...so got an idea of what was there before we ventured off to explore. We arrived at the motel early, but our room was ready, so we were able to check in and unload the car before heading out. Our first explorations were pull-outs on the side of the highway (Hwy 24) with some amazing views of the rocks and formations. The afternoon sun was lighting it all very nicely, so it was perfect to photograph at that time. Our only complaint was a couple in a (rented) RV who stopped at EVERY stop we did...and of course, they didn't speak any English...it got to be a joke...and I said we should pull off, get out of the car and as soon as they stopped, get back in and leave...but I'm sure they would have found us...thankfully, by the late afternoon, we lost them...that's probably because we could head down some of the smaller roads than they could in their RV.

We stopped at the visitors center and picked up a trail map and asked for suggestions for some easy to moderate trails and then headed out. We walked a short and longer trail yesterday and enjoyed exploring through the canyons and seeing these cliffs that were STRAIGHT up...it's amazing to see the different layers of rock and wonder what happened to have the different types from layer to layer. We also saw some petroglyphs and a pioneer register which was where pioneers who who traveled through there carved or wrote on the wall...their name and year they came through...pretty amazing to see dates like 1888!! We shot some at sunset, but it wasn't what we had hoped for ...not a lot of color and just a couple wispy clouds...nothing spectacular!

This morning we headed out for a hike up to a natural bridge, Hickman Bridge, which was really neat...and fun to hike up to, around and through...it's truly amazing to image these are all natural formations...and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to see such beautiful creations of nature! We explored some of the area around and saw some more petroglyphs as well as picked some apples in an orchard at the base of a cliff...all under perfectly clear skies...and about 90 degrees!!! We took the afternoon off and rested up a bit (and Terri worked on photos!!)...and then went out for dinner and had an AMAZING meal - the food, service and presentation was spectacular! We didn't bring our cameras (other than the point and shoot) as we figured it would be like every other sunset...and can you see where we are going with this...as we left and started back to the motel...the sky to the west was amazing...and the sun was red...incredible...we turned around and I shot what I could with the little camera...couldn't miss the colors...and it just figures we'd get the colors like this when we didn't have our other cameras....oh well, we still enjoyed it!

Tomorrow we are headed to Bryce and will have about a day and a half...probably not enough to explore it all, but we will do what we can...and at some point we'll share some photos from there! For now...here are some pictures from Capitol Reef and some from this evening...hope you enjoy!

The Castle (rock formations) in Capitol Reef NP

Pioneer Register along Capitol Gorge Trail

Yeah...we made it to down the Capitol Gorge Trail....now to walk back to the car...we're half way there!

Sunset from Goosenecks Viewing, Capitol Reef NP

Hickman (natural) Bridge

Petroglyphs

Historic Fruita School

Our entrees...yummmmmmmmmmmmmmm................................

Sunset...the best we've seen and of course, big cameras were in the motel...oh well!

Good news...we have checked the reviews for our next motel...and they are great...phew, no need to wait and worry what is ahead for the next couple of nights...so we can sleep soundly and not worry about where we will be sleeping the next couple of nights!

Day Five: Canyonlands and Dead Horse State Park

2010-09-27T11:04:00.000-07:00

Okay, as promised, we are updating from yesterday's photos since it was later last night and we figured that sleep might be a bit more important than updating...especially since we could do it today. Presently, we are driving from Moab to Torrey...and will spend about a day and a half seeing Capitol Reef...another national park that isn't quite as popular as Arches...we'll let you know what we think of it...and of course, share photos from there as well.

Yesterday...well, we don't want to brag or anything, but we accomplished quite a feat...for us at least! We decided to go on a hike that was labeled as moderate by the park, in Canyonlands NP and it was called Neck Spring Trail. This took us down into a canyon and was really quite nice and pleasant, with a few signs of ranching along the way...nothing to tough to start out, some gradual downhill, a few up and then back down and we traveled around the bottom of the canyon...though were disappointed we didn't see any "springs" - guess it was a bit too hot and dry for that this time of year. Well, as we walked around the bottom, with really no bearings as to which was we'd come from when looking up...we knew that at some point we had to climb up...and then it came...steep slickrock going up and up and up...yikes, the climb up was not at all gradual, like the descend down had been...and it was HOT, HOT, HOT at that point. Finally, we were up top and looking back down into the canyon, but now had to walk completely around the top of it, to return to where we started...it was about a 6 mile hike and took just about 4 hours...phew, we were pooped by the time we finished, but quite pleased we made it...of course, had we known what it was really like, not sure we would have done it, but it felt great to have accomplished that...something (for us!) that was longer and more challenging than we'd ever done before. I think we burned enough calories for the day to not feel guilty about whatever we ate during the day!! LOL

After that and lunch...oh and LOTS of water (don't worry, we kept hydrated during the hike)...we headed to Dead Horse State Park for a sunset view of the Colorado River that is 2000 feet below and offers a fabulous view of the canyons and beyond. Although the sunset wasn't anything to write home about...it was still pretty amazing to see and of course, a few (okay, more than a few!) photos were taken. We enjoyed talking with a man from Georgia while waiting for the sun to set...he's a photographer (and software and web developer) who travels around photographing the landscapes of the country...and he was really interesting to listen to and was very knowledgeable...it was much better than ALL the foreign languages we had been hearing. Seriously, we ARE a minority down here...with probably 80% or MORE of the people being from other countries...and most of them NOT friendly...what is it...on vacation, shouldn't you be enjoying yourself and at least say hello (they are in the US and you'd think at least understand the basic greetings?!?). Anyway...it was 8:30 when we got back from sunset and unloaded, washed up (we were quite gritty after our day out) and headed for a quick dinner...it was another great day...different from the others, but still great! So...here are a few of the MANY photos we took...hope you enjoy!

All the cactus we have seen has been small, like these, nothing like we saw in Sedona a year ago.

At the top of the canyone...as we hiked around it.

Looking into the canyon as we started out...little did we know how much work this would be!!

Some remanents of the cattle ranching that was done many years ago in the canyon.

View from the canyon looking up during our hike.

2000 feet down, it was REALLY high and scary...don't worry, we were very careful climbing up there!

We saw a TON of geckos the past few days...and man, do these little creatures move FAST!!

Sunset from Dead Horse State Park

Update tomorrow....

2010-09-26T22:57:00.000-07:00

It's late (for us...) and we will update tomorrow with more photos...it's a travel day for us (to Capitol Reef)...so stay tuned for some photos from today (Canyonlands NP and Dead Horse State Park)...and to hear what we saw...we promise!!!

A sneak peek from Dead Horse State Park.....

Day Four: Canyonlands National Park

2010-09-25T20:53:00.000-07:00

Another day in the sunshine and beauty of our country...it is just amazing, every turn there is something new and wonderous to see...it's just breathtaking! Today we headed to Canyonlands NP, which was about 40 minutes outside of Moab. It's the largest national park in Utah, but is easier to see and wasn't quite as crowded as Arches was...and I'd imagine today it would have been even busier...being a Saturday and a "free" entrance to NP's today.

Canyonlands is different than Arches, although we did see a beautiful arch this morning, there are not near the number of arches here that are in Arches NP...there were lots of canyons and this is where the Green River runs into the Colorado River, so below the viewpoints are amazing views of these spectacular canyons. We hiked a few more trails today and enjoyed them all, although we did turn around on one, which was pretty steep on slickrock, climbing a grainary we got just below the last level to reach the top and we just couldn't do it...too steep, too scary and too dangerous, at least for us. The crazy thing is that we met an older couple on our way up and they were talking about the great view up there...we couldn't believe they did it and we couldn't...oh well, we decided we have WAY too much left to see and LOTS more life to live and it wasn't work a risk, so we turned around and went back down...but felt pretty good about getting that far...oh well, we had plenty of other things to see and do today.

Here are some more photos from today...tomorrow we'll probably go back and do another hike in Canyonlands and then be sure to be around Dead Horse State Park shortly before sunset as that is suppose to offer some wonderful photo opportunities at sunset. We hope you are all having a great weekend...we sure are!!

Day Three: Arches National Park...part II

2010-09-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

Wow, what another incredible day, there is so much to see and photograph around here...one could spend days here seeing it all! For us, this was the last day...tomorrow we will explore a new park...stay tuned! We started out early this morning and had along day, with the highlight of the day being our hike to see Delicate Arch, which is a 3 mile round trip with about 480 foot incline...most of it is on slickrock, which is actually fairly easy to walk on, despite it's name! We were tried by the time we arrived up top, but it was SO worth it and we were happy we made the decision to do this hike...and of course, the photo opportunities were amazing!

Whooped tonight, so this is going to be brief...and I'll just post a few photos...of course, there are many more I'd love to photograph, just struggling to keep my eyes open right now, so I'd best just load the photos I have ready and leave it at that...I will share some of the others at a later time. It was warm here today, about 85 at the park, and the temperature is suppose to just go up tomorrow and the next couple of days...maybe the heat has something to do with being so tired (Rick is already out!!)...but of course, I think the hike has something to do with it as well.

Okay...here are the photos...enjoy!

Day Two: Arches National Park

2010-09-23T22:03:00.000-07:00

Well, our first official day of seeing the parks in this beautiful state...and Arches was the first...and WOW, if you haven't been here, we HIGHLY recommend it...and if you have, then you know what we are talking about! Long day and tomorrow will be as well, so this is going to be short...with just some photos from today...of course, we took LOTS more than this, here are just a couple we grabbed to share, more later.

Landscape Arch

Delicate Arch, from the Upper Arch viewpoint...we plan to hike to it tomorrow

Balanced Rock...at sunset

That's it for now...as you can see, I (Terri) had some fun with the "sun stars" today...when out in bright sunlight, what better way to make use of it and show something a bit different! Enjoy...until we post more!!

Day one....UTAH

2010-09-22T22:04:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know I've been REALLY negligent at keeping up with our personal blog...no need to tell me, I know and as bad as I feel, there's no going back to change that...so just be happy I'm posting now!

We are on a 12 day trip to Utah and today is the first day...we flew down to Salt Lake City and after some shopping to stock up on some food...we headed to Moab to start out journey. The drive was really nice, even though we had some rain, there were also many rainbows, lightning, great rock formations and a beautiful sunset. All making for a nice trip over...the only negative was when we arrived at our motel...just a warning...if you are ever in Moab, NEVER stay in the Days Inn...it's awful...and unfortunately, that is where we are staying and we've called many other places in town...and NO vacancies...so we are here for the next five nights...wish us luck! We figure that the sights during the day will make up for this...and in the whole scheme of things, it's really not that big of deal, it's just five days and it will definitely add to our stories of our time here! Tomorrow we will head out and explore and get our bearings and figure out our schedule.

For now, here are a few photos from our flight and the drive over (with our little point and shoot...not bad!)...enjoy!

Mt. St Helens, Adams and Hood...as seen from our plane this morning.

Simplicity!

Coming in to Salt Lake City...loved the view and happy it was partly clear!

The Great Salt Lake...beautiful!

Heading out of Salt Lake City...these turbines were RIGHT on the side of the road...and the colors...amazing...loving the fall colors since we don't have them at home yet...hoping to see LOTS more of it in the next days!!

That's it for now...time to head to bed and then get ready for our first day here...we'll see what Arches is all about and start our exploring (and photographing!!). HAPPY FALL, everyone!

February...over, already?

2010-02-28T22:30:00.000-08:00

It's the end of February, and I can't believe that March will start in just a few hours...what happened to the first two months of the year?! As luck would have it for those of us who are in the Northwest, we've had an unusually mild winter which has actually felt more like spring...and this is something I could get use to, although we'll be paying the price this summer, when water is in short supply! With the crocus blooming, daffodils beginning to bloom as well as the cherry blossom trees...it truly feels like spring around here and the temperatures aren't too bad either. Not warm enough for shorts or t-shirts (for the level headed!), but nice for a walk around the neighborhood or in the park!

Jayden started out the month with something new and exciting...ballet! She's talked about it for some time and was very excited to be able to start classes. Tacoma City Ballet is where she's taking the class and as luck would have it, her instructor is Danielle Wester, who is Jess' best friend and was our neighbor growing up. Her first class, she started out a bit shy and observed from across the room for part of the class, but once she became comfortable, she joined right in with the other students (all four years old) and kept right up there with them. By her second class, she was listening closely and eager to do as instructed...this is something she is really enjoying. June will bring a recital for the class...we can't wait to see her with the other students...and of course, take some photos!!

With the nice weather, often the days that I have watched Jayden, we've gone for a walk or headed down to our neighborhood park where she's been able to play with some of the neighborhood kids...it's been a real treat for this time of year!

Last weekend we went to The Dalles to visit my brother and his family. Jayden came along and was able to meet some new little "kids!" Scott and Betsy (actually Sydney) had six new kids...their goats had recently delivered six new little ones who were just adorable. Friday night we had the pleasure of watching Sydney, their youngest, play basketball for the high school and boy, did they ever put on a show...triple over time and they WON in the end...it was quite exciting. Saturday morning Jayden was eager to get out to the barn and help with the feeding...two of the kids had to be bottle fed and Jayden quickly got the hang of that and was eager to help with each feeding while we were there. Besides the goats, she loved the trampoline and hanging out with Sydney. She is right at home there...and I think if ever given the opportunity to live on a farm, she'd do it!! Sunday we headed to some friends of theirs farm, with a few more animals and some puppies to boot...she was in heaven!! It was a wonderful trip and so nice to spend time with Scott, Betsy and Sydney...they were wonderful hosts!!

March begins tomorrow and it appears as though it's going to start off with some more of this "spring-like" weather...and then a bit of rain, but no snow, so that's good. After winter last year, I must say that this mild weather is a treat...and one that we know we're lucky to have after so many other parts of the country have had some really harsh winter weather! Rick is in Hoston this week and then on Friday we are heading to Vegas for a photography convention. Lots of talented photographers, tons of information and some time to focus on my passion...I can't wait!

Happy March, everyone...and I hope this finds you all doing well and if you've had a real winter...I hope that spring finds it way to you soon!

A special person...

2010-01-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

Today's entry is sort of bittersweet...it's been two years since I lost my dad and I think I miss him as much today as I did that day. He was an amazing man - a loving husband, caring and protective father, an incredible golfer, smart bridge player, SUPER bartender, faithful and giving friend...and so much more! I really could go on an on about him...just know that I thought the WORLD of him and although I know he's doing just fine and my tears are my sadness...I'll never stop missing him. I can still hear his voice..."teeny-bear" which is what he used to call me and feel his hugs as we walked in the door and see his wonderful smile! There are so many things I want to tell him, share with him and more cocktail hours to enjoy at the lake, but I think he's there for it all, and was there for the cruise, happy to see we are all doing well and continuing on with our lives. And, I must say, that my mom was a HUGE part of getting through the past two years...her strength and courage with continuing on has inspired me and only makes me stronger and want to do better...so today I honor my dad and my mom...and just thought I'd share a few photos with you of him!

January Celebrations!

2010-01-25T10:38:00.000-08:00

January is a month of a few celebrations for our family! We started off the months with Josh and Mandy celebrating their 5th wedding anniversary...wow, has it been five years?!! What a great thing for them...we've happy to see them doing so well, of course, are very thankful for the beautiful granddaughter they gave us and looking forward to seeing them celebrate MANY more anniversaries!

Next up was Josh's birthday...the big 25!! Wow, was it really 25 years ago when I delivered him...in Yakima? It's amazing to see what my first baby has grown into...it isn't possible that we've aged that much in 25 years, is it?! We had a dinner with him, Mandy and Jayden the night before...since it feel on a work day and it was easier to get it in then....or put it off, which is tough with schedules!

Next up...Rick...and that would be his birthday....TODAY! Unfortunately, he has this little thing called, "work" that keeps him away from home today, but he and I will have a nice dinner tonight and tomorrow night the kids will all join us for a family dinner to celebrate together!

A couple more happenings for the family this month...Mandy got a new job and started a week ago, working as a CNA at a local nursing home! Her goal was to have a new job by the end of January...and she was actually hired before the end of December...so she definitely beat that goal! She's really excited to be using her certificate and working in a field she's interested in and plans to further he education while working! Way to go, Mandy! Also...Josh and Mandy moved this moth from their apartment to a house in Puyallup. They definitely we were ready to get out of the apartment...that lifestyle was not for them...or was it a very healthy one...with loud neighbors, threats of apartment break-ins (they did have a car broken into while there) and no yard for Jayden or their dog, Madie to play...it was time. Their new home needs some TLC, but is a great home, large with a huge back yard and now they are feeling as though they get lost in the house...it's probably 2 1/2 times the room they had before! We all helped with some painting and then moving a couple of weekends and although they still have work to do...they are getting settled and happy to be there!

That about wraps up January...hope you all have had a good start to the new year and will have a GREAT 2010! Until later.....

Final Cruise entry...a month later!

2010-01-25T08:30:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is, nearly a month since our cruise ended and I'm finally finishing up the last entry for the blog - it's hard to find the time to do this...although, when I get into the photos, it seems to take forever as I want to go through EVERY photo and remember the great times we had...ohhhh, what a wonderful week...can we got back again...soon?!!

Christmas day was our last day on the ship and we were at sea...a perfect way to end the week...a day or relaxation and quality time with our family! Shortly after breakfast, someone very special made a visit to the ship...a rather large older gentleman with a big white beard....yes, Santa even found his way to the ship and each of the kids on board got to sit on his lap and received a gift...talk about perfect!! For lunch, my mom, brother and I were invited to the captain's lunch in the dining room...it was nice to share a great meal with them...definitely a nice gift for all of us to be together. The afternoon found Rick and I in the Crow's Nest...a lounge at the front of the ship where we enjoyed a drink and the view...quiet and relaxing! And, how could I leave without one more "mixology" class...I joined my mom for the last one of the cruise...and we had some very tasty martinis!! If anyone is interested, I'll share the recipes they gave us!

Before dinner all gathered in our room to determine the winner of a contest we had...the girls all got $25 to spend in a port and buy a souvenir while getting the best deal we could...which involved some bartering. It seemed that most of us put it off until the last port (Cabo), but wherever we found our deal....we all had a great time shopping for it! So, the deal was to show off what we bought and what we paid for it compared to what they originally asked for it...and then the guys had to determine the winner! It was fun to see what everyone got...and in the end, the guys said it was really tough, but Jess won with a t-shirt and a carved wooden turtle. Definitely a fun thing to do...something that I'm sure will become a tradition on future family trips!

Our last dinner was a real treat...our Christmas dinner...one that none of us had to prepare (or clean up afterwards!)...and the best part everyone could have what they wanted! It was so nice to all share the last meal together of the week...and celebrate such a wonderful day...the only part missing was my dad, but you know, I think he was there...watching us all and smiling! After dinner it was time to pack and get our luggage out in the hall by midnight...and be sure to leave out clothes for the next day and anything we might need in the morning. Rick and I enjoyed one last drink in a lounge (chocolate martini...yummmmmm) before retiring for the night!

Saturday morning, the 26th, we arrived in San Diego to a glorious sunrise. After breakfast, we had a little time to wait until it was our turn to disembark. Once off the ship, and we found our luggage it was time to find our ride...some friends of my moms, came down to get them...and take us to the airport...it was a little hectic with everyone getting off the ship, but we managed just fine. The wait at the airport was a bit long...it was going to be about 4 hours, but ended up being pretty close to 6 by the time the flight finally left. And, Scott and family were kind enough to come back after we got our luggage all checked in...with "IN-N-OUT Burgers for us to enjoy...THANKS, Scott!! The flight home was uneventful and although it was good to get back home, it was COLD...there was a pretty good layer of ice on most things and the kids' cars were frozen and took quite a while to warm up and thaw out! Reality...after an incredibly fun, relaxing and joyous week...we were back home and had to transition out of vacation mode and get back to work!

What a perfect way to relax on Christmas afternoon...talk about ideal!

Lunch with the captain...and about 200 of his closest friends! We were invited to a special lunch on Christmas and it was a nice treat to have my mom, brother and myself share a nice meal together...really missed my dad that day!

View from the Crow's Nest Lounge...through the glass...loved the blue skies!

Okay...confession...another mixology class this afternoon...we kind of got spoiled

during the cruise with these classes..I miss my afternoon martinis!!!

The "girls" all had holiday shirts...and we gathered together for a Christmas photo!

Sydney, Samantha and Betsy...sorry, Scott...no shirt for you!

Jess shows off her purchase for the contest

Betsy bought for her "souvenir" a shirt for her husband...how thoughtful!

Showing off our shopping bargains!!

Final photo with our waiter and assistant waiter...they were great!

Final drink on the ship!

Sunrise on the morning we arrived in San Diego...spectacular!!!!

Wow...we had a lot of luggage!

Sad that the cruise is over!

All passengers trying to figure out their rides!

Jayden gives Sam a big kiss goodbye...she sure misses Sam and Syd!!!

Waving goodbye as we head to the airport.

Last view of our ship as we drive away...we miss you!!!!!!

Look at all of our luggage...kind of crazy, but it worked to our advantage...the line was crazy long, but an employee came and brought us to another line...that had only one person in it....yeah! Of course, this brought many dirty looks from others in the line and I'm sure a few "unkind" words...but it worked for us!! LOL

Trying to kill the HOURS we had before we flew home...thank goodness for IPOD's IPhone's and cell phones...it certainly helped!!

All dressed for warmer weather...quite a change from what she was wearing just one day ago!!

Jayden playing on Jess' IPhone.

Finally on the plane...goodbye San Diego!

Wow...she's still smiling...the rest of us are very sad!!

That's it, folks, our cruise wrapped up...a week after it completed! Again, it was a wonderful week and something that we all agreed we could EASILY do again...someday! We hope you enjoyed our photos...yes, there were lots, sorry, hard to limit it...which I did...there were TONS more! Now, it's time to get current...it's the end of January...so a new entry will come soon with a quick update for January!

Cabo San Lucas

2010-01-15T21:40:00.000-08:00

(Photo by Scott Hege)

Okay, so I had planned for this to be the final entry for the cruise, but guess what, there's going to be one more! I just didn't want to put so many photos into one entry...so this is just for Thursday, December 24th...Christmas Eve! It was definitely a different Christmas eve than we've ever had before...there was no wrapping, cleaning, shopping, cooking - no stress of the usual holiday preparations that we usual have...at least most women typically have!! And, it didn't feel like the normal Christmas, but that's not saying it wasn't a good day...it was a great day...to wake up to sunshine, warm temperatures and another beautiful port to explore! This day we tendered, which means we had to anchor the ship away from the docks and take the tenders (lifeboats) into the port. In our past cruises, it has been a bit hectic and can take a while to get on one, but this was a very smooth and quick process...and before we knew it, we were all walking along the boardwalk in Cabo. Rick, myself, Jayden, Jess and Sean all had planned a dolphin experience, but had a couple of hours before we needed to be there. Scott and his family, along with Josh and Mandy had booked a snorkeling excursion that was also a bit later. So, we all headed into town for a bit of shopping (surprise!) and eventually all ended up going separate ways.

When it was time to meet up to see the dolphins...Jayden was so excited she could hardly wait! She LOVES animals and was very excited about this! As you will see from the photos...she enjoyed the experience...although we were all a bit cold by the end...guess we should have put the wet suits on!! Note to self...next time, wear the wet suit! The only disappointing part of the dolphin experience, NO cameras allowed...so I couldn't take any photos...well, not many...I took my water camera in there, and sort of "sneakily" used it afterwards, but didn't have it while we were with the dolphins. The photos of us were taken by their staff (who charge an arm and a leg for photos...literally!).

That evening was our second formal night...so another night of the guys all decked out in their tuxes (they looked awesome!!!) and us gals in our dresses...what a great looking bunch we were...what a perfect Christmas Eve!!!!

View from our ship the morning we arrived in Cabo...

On the tender, headed into town!

The first of MANY animals that Jayden meets and holds for the day...

Jayden fell in love with Lola, instantly...if only they could have figured out how to smuggle her home!

Wow...what a beautiful hotel...I think I want to return some time...soon!!

Another animal...this is Pancho!

And Jess and Sean get their turn with Pancho as well....

This was too cute...one of the stores we shopped in...Jayden just had to be with the kids there...so they watched the SMURFS...and it was all in Spanish, but she didn't care...she just wanted to be by the little kids!

Impatiently waiting for our time to meet the dolphin!!!

Ahhh...a kiss from the dolphin!!!!!!!

Our new friend...not sure we can bring him home!

A little cold after our dolphin experience...some cuddling time with Aunt Jess...

Another animal....boy, talk about hitting the jackpot with this port for Jayden!

After lunch...on the boardwalk in Cabo...

Hmmm... where are the girls, Rick...I think you're missing something!!! :~)

It really is Christmas eve....here's proof...he's on his way!

The Hege's and Beloit Jr's on their snorkeling trip (photo compliment of Scott Hege!)

And...it's Mr. and Mrs. Hege...relaxing on their catamaran on their way back from snorkeling!

Wow, what a catch...at least he got something since the girls didn't show up for the photo shoot at Hooters!

Back on the ship...waiting to leave the port...we were a bit delayed, but no complaints...pretty scenes!

Pulling in the tenders...crew hard at work!

Was it really that funny, Jess???!!

Beautiful sunset as we headed out....

Great show this evening...lots of wonderful dancing and singing... amazing talent!

Our last formal night...all dressed up and ready for dinner!

James Bond X2.....

Ahhh...don't Mr. and Mrs. Perry look very nice!! Great dress, Jess!!!!

Jayden is in heaven with sitting by the "big girls" for dinner this evening!

Our waiter, his assistant and the maitre d' - they were all great...and really catered to my mom!
And, look at how nice the Mr. and Mrs. Beloit (jr) look on this evening...in the atrium!

A wonderful evening wrapped up by Christmas carols in the theater...by the staff...this was the Indonesian choir...they were incredible!

Part 3 - nearing the end....

2010-01-08T09:43:00.000-08:00

We're up to our second port, Puerto Vallarta, and what a day it was! We had all decided before the cruise began, that we wanted to go zip lining and this was the place we chose to do it...Scott and Betsy had done it here before and recommended this place. All was booked before - for 11 of us, even my mom!! Jayden wasn't old enough, you had to be six. She was to stay on the ship in the kids' club for the day. We were all up early, eager to start off the day, had breakfast and gathered our things for our adventure!

Josh took Jayden to the kids' club...and unfortunately, came back with her...long story, but just know that we don't recommend taking small kids on Holland America cruise line...they are not great with the little kids...geared to the older kids...and adults! So, change of plans, maybe...we'd see what we could do. We knew that she could ride up there with us (we took a cab to where we got the bus up to the canopy area) and then we'd see what we could arrange. The ride in the bus to the canopy area was on an open air bus...neat to see, but a tad chilly, though it didn't phase us, we were excited about what was ahead. Again, I want to return and take time to see more of this city...lots of interesting sights...the coastline, new condo's, old brick roads, roadside stands that are literally made of sticks, and homes that weren't much more than that...and we didn't see any of the downtown...as our day was spent with our excursion. Once at our destination, we were first guided to some Tequila tasting (of course, they were wanting us to buy some!) and it was pretty tasty...and I think everyone except Jayden tried it...and to be honest, they would have probably given her some if she wanted it...in Mexico, drinking age, I think is the age you start drinking from a cup?!! LOL After that it was time to head to our starting point and get instructions...then we had to figure out what to do with Jayden. We sort of "fibbed" about her age, saying she was 5 1/2 and was there any way she could come with us. At first they said no...that is until Jayden started to cry and those tears seemed to melt the young man who we were talking to and he then said she could go but, she had to ride with one of the employees each time...we quickly agreed!!! So, now we had 12 of us going...ages all the way from Jayden (4) to my mom (73)...wow, that was pretty exciting and what stories to share afterwards! Everyone got suited up in their harnesses and helmets and we had to watch the demonstration and then we were headed up to our first line (14 in total).

At first, we did a fair amount of walking...to get to each line, but as time went on, it was less distance between them and eventually, we were going downhill, rather than uphill. Mom did awesome...she was a real trooper and it was so cute to see the guys working it calling her "mama" or "grandma" each time she came and went...again, my mom is amazing...and I think she enjoyed it...and how many great-grandmas can say they've gone ziplining in Mexico!?! Jayden was a real trooper...she kept going (with someone carrying her from line to line many times) and never whimpered or complained (other than the beads on her head under the helmet...so she got her daddy's bandanna to wear under the helmet) and had smiles and looks of "wow" as she went from line to line! The very first line, they did send her on her own, for the "picture" and after that she was with one of the guys...and occasionally, her dad or mom as well.

Everyone had a blast...and several of us (me included) went double with one of the guys and went upside down while going across...it was amazing and so pretty as you looked down (okay, the first couple lines, I admit, I didn't look down...after that, it was easy!). I did take some pics (from my point and shoot), but nothing spectacular as when you are on a pulley "flying" over a river far below, you really don't think much about exposure, composition or light...you just click...so most of what I saw remains in my head! I did take pics of everyone throughout our adventure and some video - so you can see a bit of our excitement for the day!

Afterwards, we had a bit of time to eat something and Scott, Betsy, and Syd all swam in the river there (cold!), while the rest of us enjoyed watching from the side! The ride home was chilly again (wrapped up in the towel this time) but I was on the outside so could see more of the coastline as we headed back. Once at the office, we then needed taxis to get to the ship...with 12 of us...we had to get three...and that proved to be a bit too exciting as we didn't all end up at the same gate to get to the cruise terminal...and some didn't have their ship pass (others had them...at other gates!)...so let's just say they were calling our rooms at the time the ship was to leave...we were among the last 20 people to board the ship that day...not something we really want to repeat! I guess next time we'll "try" to relay to the taxi drivers what ship we're going to...communication was a bit difficult...except for Syd (who was in our taxi) as she and the driver had a nice conversation and even were laughing at something about us...it was fun to watch her!! I think the driver enjoyed "chatting" with her!

Back to the ship...another show and dinner...and then tomorrow, one last port....Cabo...that will be on the next edition (and last) for the cruise blogs! As before...photo heavy...and I'll add a couple videos at the end, if you're interested!

Two other cruise ships greeted us at our port on this morning.

A scene as we drove to where we started our ziplining...this was one of the better "homes" we saw along the way.

We have arrived...and are ready to go...the Hege family!

Jess and Sean ready to start...everyone is heading up the hill for instructions!

All suited up and ready to "fly!"

That's "one" for Syd...we sort of had a "photo bombing" contest during the cruise...not sure who won...haven't had the time to add up everyone's scores!! LOL

Very excited to be a part of what the rest of the group had planned for the day!

From above!

Here somes Sean!

And, then Jess!

Mom takes off...on a new line...

Mandy comes "flying" in to a platform!

And, Jayden's turn is next!

One (of just a couple) photos from while I was "flying" over the canyon!

Mom, with one of her new buddies! They loved her!

Jess just finished up...hmm, I think that guy is checking her out...where's Sean?!!?

And, it's Rick's turn!!

Here comes mom!

And, Sam is coming in for a landing!

Jayden's ride!

Beautiful skies and trees...if only (I always say that!) I had my other camera and more time!

The last line...a double one!

The Hege's swimming in the (cold) river!

Hey look, it's almost her name!!

On our way back to the ship, we passed this scene...strange way to advertise a circus, I thought! And, it seems like if the elephants really wanted to, they could just step right off and break the ropes...only in Mexico (okay, maybe Vegas, too!).

As we waited for the ship to leave the harbor, we saw this bull fighting ring across the street...and it was quickly filling up...that would have been interesting to see! Someday!

Really pretty waterway as we left our second port...wish we'd had more time!

Yes....another mixology class...yum!!!

These guys were great...very patient and a wonderful sense of humor!

We all took turns with the "shake, shake, shake" of the drinks!

The atrium...looking down on the tree and gingerbread house!

Waiting for the show to start before dinner. It's me...I'm finally in a picture today!

Jayden and her papa!!! I love this!

Sam, Syd and my mom at dinner...all dressed in black...did they plan that?

Hmmm...who's the tallest? It's not Jess! They like to give her a hard time...but there are benefits to not being so tall!!

Mom comes in after one of the rides across the canyon!

And, here comes Josh...goofing off a bit!

Last riders of the day for our group...double line, Josh and Jayden!

Christmas Cruise...Part 2

2010-01-03T22:40:00.000-08:00

Okay, it's finally time...for part two of our week on the Mexican Rivera. I'm sure that you've all been sitting on the edge of your seats, waiting for this update...and no longer do you have to wait. Just to be warned...there are even more photos in this...it's just too darn hard to pick only a few highlights from a couple of days...we packed so much into each and every day and I want to share everything (whether you want it or not!)!

So we are now up to December 21st...our second full day at sea...another beautiful day, even warmer than the day before, so you can imagine we took advantage of the sunshine and the day without a schedule or plans! We did see some land as we cruised along in the morning and it was neat to see, minimal, but beautiful with the island, blue skies and clouds...oh and we even saw a few whales during that time, gray whales, which are different than the humpback whales we have along the Pacific Northwest coast line.

Of course, we enjoyed some time in the pool and of course, some time to soak up a bit of natural vitamin D - it was a great day! Jayden especially enjoyed the pool time and someone (I won't mention names, but a photo might reveal their identity!) did a bit of line dancing by the pool after lunch! As I said...a great day!

I can't tell you how much Jayden enjoyed her "big girl" cousins, Sam and Syd...she was with them every moment she could get...and they were such great sports about her tagging behind them! Thank you, girls!!

Feet aren't quite long enough to reach the water!

So...just jump in...and boy did she go for it...she didn't want to get out! Sydney and I had so much fun with this little "fish" who had no fears in the water!

Enough said...and I won't mention any names!! LOL

Talk about GORGEOUS sunsets...we had probably one of the most incredible sunsets I think I've ever seen before...it was almost unbelievable...and it seemed just when we thought that would be it...it kept getting better and better!

Did I mention that they had "mixology" classed during the week? Well, they were great fun and I found myself at three of the four classes as did my mom...we are now experts (ha - at least at tasting!) and looking to find some of the mini martini glasses to have some fun tastings with friends!

Before dinner we all went to the show...which was really neat, it was Leo Ward, an illusionist and he was great and put on a wonderful show! Dinner was nice...another night of being waited on...we were all get REALLY used to this!

Okay...our first port...whoo hoo! We arrived at Mazatlan around 8 am and although no one had planned excursions, it didn't stop us from having a great day! We headed into town (the Golden Zone) for a bit of shopping, some margaritas (did I say that...so early in the day?!) and whatever else we could find! My brother and his family headed out to a beach for the day, so it was just 8 of us on our little adventure. We shopped it a bit, wandered around some and then found Pancho's where we decided we'd have lunch. There was about half an hour's wait, so we went to the beach (right in front of the restaurant) and "shopped" and bartered for a few items before being called for lunch. Something I had requested for this day...my birthday...was fresh guacamole and margaritas...and that is just what we had...and it was awesome! I must tell you that Josh decided I was going to do a shot (never had before!) of tequila this day...and so it ended up that he, Mandy, Rick and myself all did a shot...and it was pretty smooth - much easier to do than I thought it would be...not that I want to do it again, but I'm glad I did it! We enjoyed a great lunch while the vendors literally climbed the rock wall to our table to sell us their wares...it was quite entertaining!

I love all the wonderful colors and creative products they sell...it's something I could photograph for a VERY long time...everywhere I looked, it seemed to be calling my name to photograph!

As I said...the guac and margaritas....yum!!

My mom, isn't she absolutely beautiful! I admire and respect her so much...I can't even tell you how much!

The "shot!"

We did it!!

Jayden had her hair braided right after eating...and it was so darn cute when they finished...I'm always amazed at how quickly they can do the braiding...and she was good and patient with them as they worked on her hair...Jess and Sean stayed with her (see below) while the rest of us headed a bit farther down the beach)...and they said she almost fell asleep while they were doing it!

After lunch, the rest of us headed to the beach as we had bartered (during lunch) for some parsailing...for Josh, Mandy, mom and myself...looking back on it...is bartering really a good thing to do when you do something like this? Actually, it all worked out just fine and my mom - for the first time - parasailed over the ocean waters by Mazatlan...it was great to see...she never ceases to amaze me! And, this was a first also for Mandy...so was the first to go and she loved it...and I think would do it again, in a heart beat, if asked! I had done it before (with Josh in Hawaii...years ago!) although not by myself, so that was a bit unnerving...I'm not fond of heights (and you ask why I did it?!)...but even by myself, it was great...the views from above (yes, I had a camera...my little waterproof point and shoot...took photos and video) were incredible...really something to behold and worth the fright I experienced!! Josh, was the last...and when he took off, we thought he was going to end up in the water...it was a bit slower getting him up, but he did it...and enjoyed it as much as the rest of us!

Mandy coming in for her landing

Mom comes in for her landing...she hadn't really gotten in the harness good before taking off, so it looks like she's just dangling...don't worry, she was secure!

And me...just taking off (gee, not my best side...why did I pick this photo??)

And...Josh...mr. cool, ready to go flying!

Then, it was time to head back to the ship and we'd taken a van to get into town, but on our way home, we took the Pulmonía, open air cabs, which were a blast to ride in (safely might be another issue!)...we needed two to get us back and our drivers were racing each other along the way...I rode with my mom, Jess and Sean...and Rick rode with Josh, Mandy and Jayden...in the end, we lost, but it was down to the wire...and fun along the route, back and forth until we actually stopped at the red light...when Rick's didn't!! LOL

If only I had more time...the colorful and interesting streets, businesses, people and homes...I have to return someday when I have more time!

Some time after returning to the ship....

Jayden is wearing her great grandma's glasses...she looks pretty darn cute!

The kids with some of their purchases from Mazatlan...the guys had so much fun with the masks and the girls are darling in their dresses (we bartered a "3 for deal!")

Back on the ship that night...we went to another show (comedy) and then off to dinner...only this evening we were at a reservation only restaurant on the ship...part of our package with our room, so we enjoyed an amazing meal at the Pinnacle! During dinner, I was surprised by Rick with a little box as a birthday gift...it was a stunning new ring...I was shocked, not expecting anything at all, let alone this beautiful new ring! It's larger than my other one and lots brighter...since then, it keeps "flashing" me and I'm still amazed that it's on my hand! Boy, talk about a great birthday...everything about it and I don't know that it can be topped...definitely one to remember!!

Sam, Jayden and Syd...waiting for the show!

What a great looking couple...just waiting to be seated for our dinner!

Shocked and amazed!

Okay, admittly, I did a bit of "playing" with this photo...but couldn't resist as Josh was a bit shocked when his 22 ounce steak arrived...obviously, his eyes were bigger than his stomach! He did come pretty close to finishing it...not sure how!

Part 2 comes to a close (I'm sure you're saying, PHEW!!) and in the next few days, the next edition will be posted...keep your checking back!

A video of my mom coming in from parasailing....

Mandy and Jayden dancing...

Christmas Cruise...Part 1

2009-12-29T13:27:00.000-08:00

We're back home, back in the country and back to reality! It was an amazing vacation...great weather, good company, fun ports, tasty food (more than enough!), and wonderful memories from the week together!

Our ship, Holland America's Oosterdam, left San Diego on Saturday afternoon, but we all met up around 11 am to get on the ship early enough for lunch and time to explore. The check-in process was smooth and easy...and by noon we were "all aboard" the ship. We had been upgraded to some balcony suites for the week and those were nice...and great to have all our balconies connect so we could wander from room to room outside...not to mention, enjoy the great weather while sitting on the verandas! Of course, lunch was our first order of business...and as usual with cruise ships, the selection was endless and amazing...I think that those who hadn't cruised before were in awe of it all!

As you can imagine, I took a lot of pictures and have lots I want to share with you (if you want to see them all!), so will break this down into probably three posts over the next week or two...so here are the first two days...there will be more and some fun photos (we had some exciting adventures!) ahead...for now, here are the first two days!

The Hege clan is ready to get on board the ship...first cruise for Sam and Syd...I think they'll enjoy it!

San Diego skyline from our ship...beautiful weather which was nice to start off the week...love the sunshine, especially this time of year!

Lunch time...enjoyed and devoured by all...of course, being our first meal we ate more than we should have...oh, wait, we did that all week long!!

Couldn't resist this shot...love all the chairs and tables...and imagine someone had already started drinking shortly after noon...I think that many start as soon as the cruise begins and don't stop until we return to port a week later!

Beautiful sunset as we prepared to sail out of port in San Diego...I just love winter sunsets!

This boat came out to pick up the pilot who maneuvered the ship out of the port...he did a fine job, didn't take out any piers, boats or pilings!!

Ahhh, sunrise, up early the first morning at sea was rewarding and beautiful...although I couldn't figure out while it was on the same side as the sunset?? Was I turned around??

It wasn't look until an announcement was made telling us that we had actually been heading back to San Diego for about three hours (that explains the sunrise!) as one of the passengers became ill and needed to be airlifted to a San Diego hospital...so we were meeting the Coast Guard and they were going to airlift them to the hospital. I opted to skip my shower (for the time) and head up to the deck to watch the airlift...and although we couldn't see it actually happen, I was able to see the helicopter hover over the deck along the side...very interesting to watch, but sad for the passenger and family who had to go through that.

Eggs Benedict...they had an "Eggs Benedict Bar" that had at least six different kinds you could order...and every day we ate in the buffet area...that's what Rick had for breakfast!! His favorite...and to be able to have something other than the traditional was a real treat!

Shuffle board...that was fun to have a little fun family competition...although I was on a losing team...not my best sport, but tons of fun to play...great competition among everyone!

Love the never-ending waters of the Oceans...so blue and the details from the ship passing through...another simple beauty of nature!

Inside the center of the ship...the first three floors are open to the ATRIUM with a beautiful globe at the top. It was interesting because most ships we've been on have it open most if not all the way from bottom to top in the center.

A rough game of basketball - it began as a challenge from Josh and Sean to Sam and Syd and then Scott and Betsy joined in...a pretty competitive game...fun to watch and of course, photograph!!

Again...they're all out win...in the end, the girls (with Scott) won...and Josh, Sean and Betsy lost...Sam and Syd were pretty tough out there!

Jayden is "styling" Sam's hair before the first formal night (our first full day at sea)...she was pretty patient with Jayden...who was quite serious about her "job!"

GREAT cloud formations as the sun began to set...setting up to be a beautiful sunset...yet again!

Jayden is all dressed for our first formal night...and besides an adorable dress...there's a beautiful sunset to compliment her this wonderful night!

Josh, Mandy, Sis (Terri's mom), Sydney (Scott's youngest daughter) and Jayden...who literally shadowed Syd and her older sister, Sam, the whole week.

Instead of buying gifts for everyone, we just drew a name and each had only one to buy for...Jayden got this Barbie (which she loved!) from Sis...and of course, it was a beach Barbie...perfect for the cruise!

And Scott got a bottle of Bailey's (shhh...don't tell the cruise line that we smuggled it on board!) for his gift from me!

Rick and I...I was the "Santa" for the evening...so was chosen to wear the special hat....and Rick couldn't be left out, so put on Sean's hat (gift) to pose with me for a picture...and you might notice the bottle of Jack Daniel's behind us...that was Rick's gift...which he really enjoyed!

All dressed up and ready for a great meal...don't we look great!

I love this photo...myself, my mom and Scott...what a great looking family we are!!

Another photo I really like...Scott wore my dad's tux and in it found a ticket to a Christmas Dance from 1992 - what great memories the tux held of parties and dances that my parents had attended while he wore this! He looked great and I know that my dad was watching over us during the week!

Well, two days down and five more to go. The first two days highlights were setting sail; the lighting of the ships Christmas tree and "snow;" enjoying a wonderful meal, all together; watching the Coast Guard helicopter; shuffle board; basketball; lots of food; a formal dinner....all dressed up (though Mandy and Sean both ended up having to leave dinner...it was a bit rough that evening...thankfully, that was it for the motion sickness for everyone); and just being able to relax and enjoy the company of family! Until the next post...which will be as loaded as photos as this one...enjoy and Happy New Years, everyone!

Merry Christmas...early!

2009-12-18T10:17:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note to everyone to wish you all a wonderful Christmas and if you are traveling...safe travels! Tomorrow morning we will board the cruise ship and set sail for 7 days...to the Mexican Rivera! Needless to say, we are VERY excited and looking forward to a week of fun, relaxation and family time! We'll have 12 in all, Terri's mom, Sis, her brother and his family, Scott, Betsy, Sam and Syd; us, Josh, Mandy and Jayden; and Jess and Sean!! Five rooms, all in a row...and two tables for dinner...what a time we'll have!!

A week ago, Terri flew to Spokane to stay with her mom and then head south via car. Before they left Spokane, she celebrated and early Christmas with her sisters and their families - the usual Christmas brunch her family has...it was wonderful to see all of them and we will miss them on the cruise...sorry they couldn't come! Terri drove down to California with her mom and brother...and arrived on Wednesday evening. They are staying with friends of Sis' until tomorrow morning...the rest of the families fly down today...thank goodness we don't have the weather of last year...or no one would probably make it out of the Northwest! Their drive down was fairly uneventful...some rain one night and most of the next day, but just a tad of snow when they left The Dalles on Monday. Terri of course took photos, thinking it might be the only snow she would see for a while...and who knows, maybe all winter! Their first night was in Crescent City and the next day it was WILD...wind and rain, but guess who ventured out for photos! Yes, Terri and Scott (imagine Sis stayed inside!!) and Terri got SOAKED...clear through, but the photos and video were great fun to get...and thankfully, she packed some sweats in her luggage so she had something dry for the day to wear...otherwise, it would have been her pajamas!! The next night we stayed in Pismo Beach...and awoke to clear skies, calm winds and a beautiful ocean view...quite a contrast!!

This will be the last posting for at least a week, maybe until the new year...so until then...we want you all to know we are thankful for our family and friends and appreciate all of you...our best to you and your families!!

We love you all!! Here are some photos from Terri's trip down...The Dalles; Multanomah Falls; Crescent City; Pismo Beach; Santa Barbara beach and our lunch one day...at In-n-Out Burger!!!

December...already??

2009-12-06T20:53:00.000-08:00

Wow...as I look at our last posting, it was about 1 1/2 months ago...where did the time go and how did it get to be December so fast?!? Actually, it's been a busy month...November has flown by and this month will as well. It seems every year we get to this point and aren't quite sure what happened to the year...and this year isn't any different...but we are REALLY going to try and slow the pace down a bit for 2010! Just to soak in a bit more life, appreciate the simple things in life and spend more time with family and friends...a New Year's Resolution that we will work hard at...because it is important...life is precious!

With the events of the past week in our area - the tragic loss of four officers who were sadly taken from their family and friends - it makes you realize just how important each and every day is. We need to be thankful for what we have now...take time to be with those we love. You just never know what tomorrow brings...so live life to the fullest and don't take the simple things in life for granted. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who are mourning the loss of some wonderful people who were taken far too soon.

Upon returning from Hawaii, we had to adjust from a warm tropical climate to a typical fall in the Northwest, cool, damp (or wet!), wind and not a lot of sunshine...it sure is a contrast to Hawaii's weather. The nice part about returning home was the wonderful fall colors...which are beautiful and a sign that winter will soon be here! We've adapted now, although as I write this, we are probably about to hit our coldest spell so far this fall...with some strong winds that make it feel even cooler. This will be okay, as long as the snow stays away...at least until after December 18th. We are all heading out of town and really don't want a "replay" on last year's snow season that delayed (or canceled) many holiday travel plans. The forecasters say that it usually happens every 14 years...so we're just hoping that holds true and there aren't any travel delays this holiday season!

Terri had a busy November...lots of photos session for families, seniors and children - trying to get everything in, with the crazy weather we had a few weekends. Some have been new clients, others returning...and some new ones coming up...she is doing well with her photography business and really enjoying it all.

Rick has done a bit of traveling this month and has one more trip before the holidays...all unusual as he typically doesn't travel much with his job.

November had us celebrating two birthdays here...Jess turned 23 and Mandy turned 26 - and there were several other family and friends also celebrating birthday's in November...it's a great month to celebrate...not to mention Thanksgiving. We had a quiet day with with Josh, Mandy and Jayden joining us for dinner and then Jess and Sean coming over for dessert...it really was a great day...a time to be thankful for our family and time together.

After returning from Hawaii, Terri has been working on her office, which was remodeled during the month of October...with the finish work done after returning. It's really different from before and she's loving it so far...of course, there are still things she has to figure out what to do with, but it's a good thing...projects like this force you to clean and purge!

Of course, with being gone for Christmas, it means that we aren't decorating the house and hopefully, our neighbors won't think we are "scrooges." Some of you might know where we are going, but others might ask where we'll be?!? Well, we are going on a cruise (Mexico) with Terri's family...all of us...her mom, brother, his family and our kids...twelve in total! It will be a different Christmas...no snow, no stockings hung by the chimney or cookies and milk on a plate for Santa under the tree this year. It seems odd to not be decorating, baking or shopping this year and it will be different, but we are looking forward to it...just spending time together, enjoying one anothers company...and relaxing for the week! It's tough not to think about how nice it'll be to not have to fix meals, do dishes, make our beds or clean the bathroom...for a week...to be spoiled and to have the biggest worry be what to order for dinner! Ahhh...we can't wait! And, to have the kids with us...and Jayden...we're so excited to see her reaction to everything...it will be a memory to last a lifetime!

So, a confession...we aren't going to get our Christmas cards out until after the first of the year...we just ran out of time and figured that it was best to wait until we had more time...so look for the cards "next year!"

Most likely this will be the last entry for the year...so we'd like to wish all of you a wonderful Christmas...that is blessed by sharing it with those you love...and full of lots of joy (and some great cookies!). Enjoy and until 2010.....CHEERS!

Here are some photos from the past month...a little of what happened in our lives!

Josh and Jayden enjoy a walk (or run!) in the park on a nice fall day!

Mandy and Josh at Thanksgiving dinner.

Jess and their "youngest" son, Frankie, who was treated that day to spending Thanksgiving with family, while big brother, Angus, stayed at home! Frankie is a real sweetheart!!

Jayden with her "cousin" and aunt...the three of them had a great day! This hat she's wearing is new and she love it...inside or outside!! This was quite the outfit she dressed up in (not what she arrived in!).

Josh and Jayden looking at some photos from the day!

ALOHA....

2009-10-27T12:35:00.001-07:00

Greetings from the beautiful island of Maui, Hawaii! We have been here since October 18th and are enjoying every minute of it!! Our first two days here, we got settled in our condo and got the fridge stocked with groceries...and then on Tuesday (a week ago) we had the pleasure of photographing the wedding of Danielle Vesey and Garrett Wester on a beautiful beach. Danielle and her family moved into their home the same day we moved into ours, over 14 years ago and she and Jess have been great friends ever since...it's amazing to think that both of these girls are now married...and both stood up for each other at the other's wedding. The day was hot and a bit humid, but beautiful as was the bride...it was a wonderful day and we enjoyed being part of such a special day as well as being able to give the bride and groom something to remember their day by!

Jess and Sean were here our first week as well and we enjoyed spending a bit of time with them, although they had their only place, own car and did their own thing most of the time. It was a nice break for them, especially Jess who had been working long days since starting as a 1st grade teacher last month! She felt bad about missing a week of school, but this was planned well before she got the job...and they were okay with her leaving...though I think Jess missed her "kids" while gone!

We haven't done a lot over there, but have taken a few outings since last Wednesday. One day we drove from Kapalua around the north part of the island to Wailuku which was about 25 miles, but for at least 8 miles, it was a narrow, one lane and winding road...so that was slow going. It was beautiful, the views of the coastline were incredible...the beauty just never ended. We stopped at the Nakalele Blowhole which is an opening in the lava shelf where water "erupts" through the hole and at times is fairly strong and shoots very high. It was fun to watch. That day we didn't go all the way down as Terri had sandals on and we figured we would return and go all the way down, which we did on Sunday...it was amazing to see the power of the water being forced through the hole! We've done lots of beach walking and enjoyed every minute that. Yesterday we visited a lavender farm and were a bit disappointed...not much of the lavender was in bloom, but we still enjoyed walking around the grounds and the view of below was great. They also had some wonderful lavender scones and tea which we enjoyed.We also visited the islands only winery, which we thought was Tedeschi, but all the signs there said "Maui Winery." It was NOTHING like the Washington, Oregon or California (or even Tennessee!) wineries we've visited, but was fun to see and we were able to sample some of their famous pineapple wines, which were pretty good!!!

Today, Tuesday, we are laying low...Rick woke up with his toe throbbing and foot swollen, no idea what happened to it! He's been icing and elevating it...and we're hoping that it goes away as quickly as it came on...so we can get back to vacation and our beach walks! Thankfully, we don't have any outings or excurions planned...or we'd be canceling them as the only place we'll probably go will be the ER to have it looked at!

Sunday we fly home and we'll be sad to leave the beauty of Maui...but it'll be time to get back to reality and of course we miss Aussie...and will be happy to see her (thanks, Tara, for watching her for us!)...and of course, miss Jayden...can't wait to give her a big hug and kiss!!!! It'll be back to work for Rick on Monday and Terri will start in with wedding photos...from the past two weddings as well as a session she had between the weddings. It'll be a busy month for both of us...so we're enjoying our break while we can!!

Here are some photos from our time here...we hope you enjoy them! We may or may not update this again before leaving with more photos...depending on how busy...or not busy we are...hope you are all doing well...and enjoy the fall weather...although we've heard that at home, it's not quite as nice as it is here in Maui!!!!

Update...we ended up at the urgent care center here in Kihei and the doctor thinks that Rick has gout...so he's got a prescription and we are hoping that by morning, it will have kicked in and the swelling and pain will be gone...or at least better. The bad news is that he is suppose to just stick to vegetables and water for his diet for the next couple of days...that's no fun! :~( We are optomistic that we will so be back on track with our vacation and get the last bit of enjoyment out of it before heading home!!

Sorry for the heavy load of photos...just so many from this beautiful location...

Busy month

2009-10-16T22:42:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that it's the middle of the October...and the rest of the month will go by quickly for us as well! Terri was in New York (outside of Buffalo) last weekend for a wedding she shot and then had the opportunity to visit Niagara Falls while there. The wedding was the niece of our good friends, Allen and Brenda Swift, and she'd been asked to be the photographer for the bride and groom, Jessica and Shawn...which is so funny since we too have a "Jess and Sean!" The bride's parents are Rick and Patty Palmer (funny again because Rick's sister's name is Patty!)...are the nicest people...we've had the pleasure of meeting them at the Swifts place in Tennessee a few times and have really enjoyed hanging out with them. The wedding was very nice...the weather just about perfect and the visit to Niagara Falls - amazing! She had the opportunity to see both the US and Canadian side and as you can imagine, took a few (haha...okay, more than a few!) photos! She flew home on Tuesday evening - just in time to get ready for another trip!!

Yes, another trip is in store for us...we are flying to Maui on Sunday for another wedding and some vacation! We figured that if we were going to make the trip to work (okay, so photographing a beach wedding doesn't really sound like work, does it?!), we'd spend some extra time time...so will be there for a total of two weeks...we can't wait!!! The bride for this wedding is Danielle Vesey, who is Jess' best friend, was maid of honor at her wedding and our neighbor's daughter...so how could we not be there! Besides, Jess is the matron of honor and Sean will be a groomsman! So, yes, Jess and Sean will be there as well, they leave today, a day ahead of us! Other than the wedding, we have no plans or schedule for our time there...we do hope to do some exploring and of course the usual beach walking, enjoying a drink on the lanai in the evenings and soaking up some natural vitamin D!!

So, now it's time to get packed and ready to head out...we sure won't miss the rain while we are gone, but will miss Aussie...and are thankful Terri's cousin, Tara, is watching her while we are gone! No guarantees of a post while we are on vacation, but maybe some photos...just so those of you who aren't seeing much sunshine will remember what it's like!! hehehehe....

ALOHA.........................

NOTE: We obviously didn't get this posted before leaving...it's now Monday morning and we are in Maui, having had a wonderful walk on the beach this morning. The wedding is tomorrow...we'll update as time goes on throughout our time here!

Here are some photos from the wedding...beautiful day, beautiful couple!

Some photos (lots) from my visit to Niagara Falls...

Jayden turns FOUR!

2009-10-04T21:35:00.000-07:00

It just doesn't seem possible that four years ago we were brand new grandparents and instantly falling in love with our beautiful new granddaughter - and now, she's four years old and we love her more each day! Of course, we are so blessed to have her close enough to see often and the "mimi" days that Terri has with her are priceless...she is truly a joy and delight in our lives!

Her birthday was held at the YMCA in Gig Harbor where the kids had use of their play area (tunnels, basketball court, slide and more!) and then enjoyed pizza and cupcakes...it was a great party and we thoroughly enjoyed watching Jayden and her friends celebrate and expend a LOT of energy! Wow, if only we could harness some of that for those days when we're running low!

Jayden with her friend, Evan, who came from Pullman for her party!

She got a brand new bike for her birthday...and enjoyed riding around the room to test it out...watch out, she's zooming around pretty well on it!!

Rick's parents were also here for the party and also enjoyed sharing the special day with Jayden. We also took them to the fair the day before...so checked out our photos that were on display and enjoyed a beautiful fall day. That evening we had the kids for dinner, and Jayden came a bit early while Josh and Mandy did some "birthday" shopping. We had fun in the back yard with her...she never fails to entertain and amuse us!

Jayden LOVES to swing...and enjoyed some "swing time" the morning of her birthday while we visited the farmer's market!

She's getting SO big...can we slow down her growing up!?!

Jayden sure loves her dog, Madie.

A great looking family...

This week Terri is flying out to Buffalo, NY for a wedding she is photographing and then will spend a couple extra days there and visit Niagara Falls...which she has never seen before...she's really looking forward to that! Of course, it will be a tad cooler there...so she's packing some warm clothes for the trip! She returns the following Tuesday and will be busy unpacking, washing, organizing and getting ready for another trip! We leave that Sunday for Maui...for two weeks! Whoo hoooooo!! Our first few days will be consumed with wedding activities as we are photographing a wedding there as well...for our neighbor's daughter, Danielle! Jess is the matron of honor and Sean is a groomsman, so they will be there for the first week we are there. After the wedding...we are going to do lots of exploring and try to find some new parts of the island we've not yet explored, but of course, we'll still partake in many or our usual rituals, such as walking on the beach each morning, watching the surfers, enjoying a drink on the lanai in the afternoons, the mahi mahi tacos at Fred's Mexican restaurant in Kiehi and more! You can expect to see photos from the travels in the next month...

Hope this finds you all doing well...and enjoying the fall!!

Trip to the fair...and a new job!!!

2009-09-20T22:03:00.001-07:00

Terri and Jayden spent a couple of hours at the fair this past week...and of course, checked out the animals (pigs, goats, horses, cows, dogs, baby chicks, birds, and turkeys...which she didn't like so much!) and Jayden went on a few rides (of course, the swing, her favorite, was one of them). It was a great day, perfect weather, not too busy and just the right amout of time for a visit...enough to wear "Mimi" out. Of course, Jayden got to ride in the stroller when she didn't want to walk...no fair! Always fun when at the fair with little ones...their excitment is so much fun to watch!

Some exciting news...Jessalyn got a teaching job!! WhooHoo!! With all the cutbacks in the schools this year, she wasn't very optomistic she would get one, but just over a week ago, got a call from the Fife school district, interviewed this past Monday and was hired that evening for a 1st grade teaching position! Wednesday she was there filling out the paper work and starting to put a classroom together. It was a crazy week for her...LOTS to do and she needed to get it somewhat in order by Friday afternoon when she would meet her new students for a short visit to get acquainted. Jess' friend, Danielle, helped her in the classroom during the week and we were up there (with Danielle as well) yesterday, helping Jess get things together. For as little of time as she's had, it really looks great. The theme of her room is FROGS...so if you have any great ideas or things you'd like to donate, I'm sure Jess would love it! Tomorrow morning is her first day teaching her new class. She'll have 23 students and I'm sure they'll keep her on her toes for a while, but we know the kids will love "Mrs. Perry" and they are lucky to have her! WAY to go, Jess...we are very proud of you!

Visit to Moscow...

2009-09-20T21:18:00.001-07:00

A week ago, we headed to Moscow for the weekend, to visit Rick's parents, Howard and Jeanette. It was a quick trip...over on Friday afternoon and back on Sunday, but a fun and busy visit! Jayden came with us...in part to spend time with her great-grandparents and in part to see her friend, Evan, who lives in Pullman. We had arranged a play date for Saturday. Friday we arrived in time for "wine-thirty" and of course, dinner. Rick's sister, Patty, and her husband, John, also joined us for a great meal...fun to have us all together. Jayden seemed to enjoy everyone and was quite entertaining...she certainly knows how to charm!!

Saturday we unfortunately couldn't meet Evan as he was sick...but did stop by to drop off some photo and his mom, Erin, brought him to the car to say hello to Jayden through the window...both seemed quite sad they couldn't play...they are too cute together! Despite missing the playdate, we still kept busy and started out with checking out the bears and big horn sheep on the WSU campus...Jayden was quite interested in them, especially the bears. One of them was in a LARGE tub of water and just splashing and playing, like a kid, without a care in the world...it was actually quite cute! After that, we visited Terri's niece, Samantha (Sam) who is a sophmore at WSU and a RA this year. She gave us a tour of her (brand new) dorm and then we took her to lunch. It was great to visit with her and Jayden loves her cousin Sam, so she was quite happy! We did manage to do some photos of Jayden...not quite what Terri had hoped for, but she got a few! That night...another great meal...and Patty and John again joined us.

Sunday morning...EARLY...we woke up (and left Jayden sleeping) and headed out with Patty and John as they had found a covered bridge near Colfax they wanted to show us...we were out for about 3-4 hours, exploring the beautiful countryside of the Palouse...it's so different from the Puget Sound area and always fun to explore (okay, and maybe photograph!!). Back to Rick's parents...Jayden had just gotten up and we enjoyed a wonderful breakfast before packing and loading the car. On our way back home, we stopped in Pullman and met up with Evan (and his family...Mark, Erin and Jack) so the kids could play for a little bit...figuring the outdoors there wasn't much change of germs being passed along! IT was great as after that Jayden slept all the way to Ellensburg, where we stopped for something to eat before finishing the drive home.

A wonderful weekend, great memories, good photos and time spent with family!

Tennessee Visit

2009-09-04T11:00:00.000-07:00

First of all, I know that I'm a bit behind with August and will get that updated after this post...I just want to share our visit to Tennessee while it's fresh!

We flew into Nashville last Thursday evening and were picked up by Michael and Allison Swift who we stayed with that night. Mike and Allie are our great friends, Allen and Brenda's son and daughter in-law. We had a "surprise" planned for Brenda as her birthday was on Monday. Friday morning we headed over to Allen and Brenda's house...Brenda was at work and Allen had taken the day off...despite "going" to work earlier so Brenda wouldn't suspect anything! Shortly before noon, we showed up at Brenda's work...and it was obvious by her look that we'd pulled it off...she was shocked...it was great! We "kidnapped" her from work (Allie had gotten that approved before!) and we all went to lunch at Miss Mary Bobo's and enjoyed a delicious Southern "dinner!" The afternoon was relaxing and we did a lot of catching up on what's been going on. Some wine was consumed that evening...along with some good old Tennessee barbecue for dinner. After dinner we played a game FIVE CROWNS (lots of fun!) and were in stitches a good part of the evening...their son, Michael, is a hoot...such a great sense of humor...we always know we'll laughing when he's around! Good thing Allie puts up with him...haha! Oh...BTW...they are expecting their first child, the middle of March 2010...CONGRATS!!!!

Yum...this is what I dished up on my plate...everything was wonderful, even the turnip greens...and of course, the fried okra! And...the dessert...it was chess pie....ummmmmmmmmmmmmm!

Saturday we headed south, towards their cabin outside of Chattanooga, near the Occee River. Cracker Barrel for breakfast (yum!!) was our first stop, and then three wineries along the way! What fun to try some new wines and check out what competition TN has for Washington wines! One of the wineries, Strikers, has the most beautiful little stream running through, surrounded by trees...and it was absolutely beautiful. While we were tasting the wines, one of the south's heavy rains let loose, so that just meant we had to taste a few more wines...oh, too bad! :~) Between the second and third wineries, we stopped for a cute little restaurant for another (late) southern dinner...which was smart before more wine sample! We ended up at the cabin and spent the evening drinking wine (hehe), talking, taking a few photos (okay, that was just me!) and playing Yahtzee...a perfect evening! We also got to experience another one of the big downpours...it was a perfect place to be...to listen to the hard downpour hit the tin room and look outside and see a blur from rain...and the smell afterwards...ahhh, it was great!

Self Portrait!

The grounds at Striker's Winery...beautiful!

Where we had dinner on Saturday afternoon.

I loved the countryside...all the old farms, barns, houses...I could spend WEEKS and WEEKS there photographing!

View from the porch at the cabin...during the downpour!

Not sure why Rick doesn't look happy...maybe it's because he lost the last round or Yahtzee...or he was out of wine...

Sunday morning, after coffee and some relaxing on the porch, we headed back to their home (Tullahoma) and got ready for their kids to come over. Michael and Allie came and then their daughter, Michelle, her husband and kids (Alex and Carly) also came over...and we enjoyed a wonderful meal with all of them...it was great to see their whole family...it had been two years since Michael and Allie's wedding when we last saw all of them. Oh...almost forgot...Rick helped Allen make some wine on Sunday afternoon...Allen has been making wine for about a year and we've had the pleasure of enjoying some of his "work" and now Rick got to partake in the process! Now, we'll wait till it's ready and bottled to try it out!

Alex and Carly are adorable...only wish we lived closer to watch them grow up (and photograph!)
Brenda...our birthday girl!

"Uncle Mike" had the magic touch with Carly...though he did throw in a bit of humor with the feeding!

Alex with his Nana and Papa...so sweet!

The kids and grandkids....Chris, Carly, Michael; Michelle, Alex & Allison

Monday morning we packed up and Allie (thank you, Ali!!!!)drove us to the airport - sad to leave, but having had a wonderful visit...we hate that there are so many miles between us, but that has never affected our friendship...we stay in touch and always manage to find ways to get together! Just three more years till we both (couple) celebrate our 30th anniversaries...and we'll again be off on a cruise together...not sure where though!

Enjoy the photos...it was beautiful out there, especially green after an exceptionally wet summer.

Beautiful sunset on our last night there.

Some wonderful Tennessee (close to Georgia!) peaches from a local fruit stand.

The inside of the cabin...it's just perfect!

The "winemakers" and their process!

A Night in Seattle...

2009-07-24T21:41:00.001-07:00

Last Friday evening we headed to Seattle, to Terri's cousin's place near the Ballard Locks. It's on the water and is SO relaxing...besides the beautiful home that Tara and Ivar have, it has an incredible view and is beautifully decorated! Josh, Mandy and Jayden also came with us and Jessalyn and Sean came up shortly after we arrived...so the whole crew was there. Great friends...well, more like cousins...Connie Stark and her girls, Katarina and Hanna, were also there and we all had a wonderful time. We enjoyed appetizers and a drink on the deck as we watched boats come and go and later we enjoyed a beautiful sunset from their deck...wow, this is something we could handle on a daily basis...we are very jealous of their location! Oh, can't forget that Aussie joined us as well...she had stayed there for two weeks while we were gone this past spring and she seemed happy to return and see her pals, Cosmo and Merlin! A great dinner, wonderful dessert (nice job on the pies, Tara, Kat and Hanna!) and fun conversation...made for a perfect evening. Before we headed out...Kat decided to jump off the deck into the water...Hanna soon joined her and then Jess and Sean as well. Tara had swam with the girls before we arrived, but didn't want to go in now...although the others had another idea...and she was quickly tossed in...skirt, shirt and all. She's such a great sport...and then jumped a couple more times! We said our goodbyes and headed home...after a very nice evening!

The next day and following day, Sunday, was our neighborhood's annual garage sale. Josh and Mandy managed it and over the course of the weekend made some good money to go towards our Christmas cruise to Mexico...they were really excited and did a great job. After it was over, we loaded up everything and hauled it off to Goodwill...time to clean things out and "lighten" the load in the garage! Phew, what a relief to get rid of everything!

Tuesday was Jayden's last day at soccer...and she did awesome! Mandy was able to take off work early to come watch and she and Terri were so proud of Jayden. It was fun to watch her running in there with the other kids and showing off what she'd learned over the 5 weeks! It'll leave a void in the Tuesday schedule for Jayden and "Mimi" but they met a little girl who they'll continue to get together with so they can play and Jayden can get out on those days.

Wednesday...another "mimi day" had Terri and Jayden heading to the park with another friend of Jayden's...Evan. These two are pretty darn cute together and seem to really enjoy playing together. Evan REALLY likes Jayden and if we aren't watching, he'll try and steal a kiss from Jayden! It's too cute! Evan and his family will be returning to Pullman soon and we'll miss them...guess the two of them will have to become "email buddies!"

It's Friday night and tomorrow morning we are heading to a photo workshop in Seattle. It'll be fun to see what the speakers have to say...to be inspired and motivated by them and to get out and shoot in the afternoon...though it could be hot! Forecasters are calling for some HOT weather the next couple of days...with tomorrow being the start of it all...guess we'll need to be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated!

Have a great weekend and we hope you are all enjoying the summer as much as we are!

Fun in the Sun...

2009-07-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

This past Wednesday, Jayden, Jessalyn and I headed to a park in Auburn (Les Gove) where there is an awesome water feature for the kids to play in. It has bright colors and fun shapes with water coming out at various heights, speeds...it's called a "rotary spray playground" and is just perfect for smaller (and bigger!) kids...and with the nice weather we've had lately, it was a nice place to spend some time. We met a friend of Jayden's, Peyton, from her soccer class, there and the two of them enjoyed the water, though Jayden wasn't too sure about it at first...it took her some time to warm up to it, but enjoyed it and as you can see from the photos, the girls had fun trying to catch the water droplets!

After the water and some lunch, the girls had to get some swinging time in and then we watched the noon entertainment they had for families. It's a great park with a wonderful program...we will definitely go back again!

Next week is the last week of soccer for Jayden...she's had fun and is learning new techniques...this past week she was a bit reserved and not sure about it, but has promised "Mimi" that next week she'll play hard as her mom and papa are talking about coming to watch her play. We'll be sad to see it end, it's been fun and a good experience for her...the first, I'm sure of some organized sports for her.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

2009-07-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

Well, the weekend after our night at Snoqualmie Falls, we headed to Cannon Beach with good friends, Kelly and Tammy Grimm. Being that it was Fourth of July weekend, we headed out a bit early, leaving on Thursday afternoon...after Rick got home from Houston (where he roasted!!) after meetings there earlier in the week. The drive down was nice, we left home and it was about 85 degrees, beautiful and by the time we got to our hotel, it was about 25 degrees cooler...but still sunny! Phew, we weren't dressed for that and quickly grabbed a sweatshirt. Grimms were about an hour behind us and once they arrived and unpacked, they joined us for a drink on our deck before we all headed to dinner.

Friday we awoke to a completely foggy beach and with THE rock (Haystack Rock) right out in front of the hotel, we couldn't even see it at times...pretty crazy! Despite the fog, we were thrilled to be there...the beach (any beach!) is one of our favorite place to be...the sound of the waves hitting the beach, the birds, the smell of saltwater...it's all very soothing and relaxing! So, fog or not, we weren't going to let that affect our day. After breakfast, we all headed out to find some "sunnier" locations...which didn't really materialize much until later that day...there were spots here and there, but not a lot. One of our stops was the Tillamook Cheese Factory...where the last time we had stopped, they weren't working, so it was fun to see the cheese being packaged this time...and gee, imagine we just "had" to get some of the ice cream...okay, so no one twisted our arms, but we couldn't leave without saying we had some fresh ice cream!! YUM!! The afternoon had us walking on the beach and although we had sweatshirts on, the sun did come out after a while and it turned out to be quite nice for the evening. After dinner we went on the beach and saw a large group all dressed up...two brides and two grooms, a double wedding! We had a fire on the beach planned that night which was a ton of fun. We can't remember the last time we had done that...as kids...which was WAY to long ago! Kelly came prepared with everything we needed for the fire and between "the pit digger, Rick" and the "fire-master, Kelly" we had the best fire on the beach!

Saturday, July 4th, was another grey morning, but not nearly the dense fog as the day before. We walked into town for breakfast and then did a bit of exploring of the area (okay, we stopped at the outlet mall as well!) before deciding we needed some more wood for another fire that night. It turned out after we got the wood in Warrenton and were driving down the street, we saw the street lined with people in chairs, all dressed in red white and blue...it seemed that we were just ahead of the parade! So, we opened the sunroof and waved as we drove down the street...and we checked off our list "be in a parade" so we can now move on to another one of those items on the bucket list!! :~) Another wonderful walk on the beach with lots of sunshine this afternoon and plenty of people and dogs out enjoying the sunshine and warmer temperatures...and even the water (brrr)...and we saw another wedding...boy, the beach is sure a popular place for weddings! Drinks again on the deck before dinner and then it was back to the beach for another fire, but this time we had the "makings" for smores...which we had missed the night before! Another wonderful fire, some nice fireworks around the beach and many others out enjoying the beautiful evening. It was interesting to see the beach patrol really out patrolling, as there weren't suppose to be any fireworks on the beach - so they were up and down quite a bit. Our smores...ummmmm, quite tasty and the mess, well worth it! Now we have left over "makings" and plan to have them one night here at home with the fire pit...anyone want to join us!?!

Sunday was a sad day...we had to go home. After a great breakfast, we took our time and waited until the last minute before heading out...we wanted to get in every minute of the beach we could before having to say goodbye! It was a great weekend...and even if the weather wasn't sunny all the time, it was still awesome! And, from what we heard from the kids at home, they were all cooking, so I think we had it better anyway!

Now, we're home for a while, no particular plans for a while...a photo workshop in a week and probably another trip to Hayden as well as one to Moscow before the summer end. We hope this finds you all doing well and enjoying your summer...we must say, living in the Pacific Northwest in the summer is pretty darn good...the weather is just about ideal!

Snoqualmie...

2009-07-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we celebrated our 27th anniversary and had the pleasure of spending a wonderful night at Salish Lodge at Snoqualmie Falls. We checked in Friday afternoon and after getting our things in our room, of course, we had to walk over and look at the falls...the water is just amazing...truly part of nature that is a work of art...if you've never been there before, it's definitely worth checking out! We enjoyed a bottle of wine (yes, we drank it all!) in our room before heading to dinner in the dining room where we had a wonderful meal! The next morning after a great breakfast (too much food in a short time...we're not used to meals like that!!), we headed to the spa. There we experienced an incredible hot stone massage...WOW!! We both had the same thoughts...that we could handle this every month or two - of course, paying for them would be another thing! After such a relaxing time, we had to get our things together and we checked out...and then spent the afternoon exploring a bit of the area around Snoqualmie. It was a beautiful day...about 75 degrees and beautiful blue skies! What a wonderful way to celebrate another year together...we are truly blessed to have so many happy years together...and we look forward to MANY more ahead!

Soccer -n- Jayden

2009-06-30T23:45:00.000-07:00

Last week Jayden experienced her first organized sport...a soccer camp! Terri took her as it was on Tuesday, one of the "mimi days" and she loved being a part of a new experience. Jayden was a bit hesitant and although she met a new little friend, she still wanted her "mimi" not very far away. For her first time, she did pretty well and seemed to catch on with what they were teaching them. The group ranges from 3 - 8 year olds, so quite a difference in abilities! At the end of the first week, they all got a sticker and were sent home to practice for next week.

Today was the second session and it didn't go quite as well...Jayden seemed to be distracted by just about everything and quite often was sitting on her ball, with her back to the group... She did get the "jump" over the ball down pat, but wasn't as enthusiastic about it this week. At the end of the day, they all got a lollipop and whether or not they were stars or just observed, all left with a smile on their faces!

This lasts for 5 weeks, so three more to go...it's fun to watch and observe (okay, photograph, too!) and see a darling little one experience something new!

Amazing Athletes!

2009-06-29T18:46:00.000-07:00

A little over a week ago, we headed over to Terri's mom's lake place for the weekend. It was the weekend of the Coeur d'Alene IRONMAN and we were going to meet a friend of Terri's there. Cindy, flew out from North Carolina as her daughter was competing in the IRONMAN (we're still in awe!), so she, her husband, Billy, and daughter's family came out to Northern Idaho for the event. Friday night we stopped by for a glass of wine (they were renting a home not far from where us) and got to meet their granddaughters, Lily and Vivi, who we've seen many photos of and were now able to meet them!
Saturday afternoon they all joined us at the lake and we took a ride around the lake in the boat...so they could see what we love about the area. Then on Sunday morning...VERY early, we picked up Cindy and headed into Coeur d'Alene to be there for the start of the event...and the 2.4 mile swim. We had about an hour after arriving before the first part (pros) of the swim began...and there were already many there...family and friends...to support and cheer on the contestants. It was fun to watch the pros start off, but what was really amazing was the "all ages" group (about 2200) who started at the same time...wow...that was an incredible sight that made it well worth getting up so early! To see all the arms and heads plowing through the waters (65 degrees!)...the black, red and white looked like a sea of penquins! What was not expected was the emotional part of the event...as we watched and saw the first pro finish his two laps, the crowd cheered! As time went on and the other group was starting to finish up their laps - you could see the excitment, exhaustion and emotions from the swimmers...some walked out like it was a simple swim, others staggered and struggled...and as the time expired that they had to complete the event in, the disappointment - which had both Cindy and I in tears. These athletes had trained for months, some for a year and to not make it past the swim had to have been so tough. Cindy's daughter finished in 1 hour 17 minutes and when they called her name, we cheered (and photographed)...and we were relieved she had easily made it before the cut off (2 hours 20 minutes). An interesting sight was watching the swimmers be "stripped" of their wetsuits after the swim...there were volunteers to literally pull them out of it...looked like hard work! From there it was on to the biking...and we watched many get on their bikes and start out...and were sort of "trapped" there until the swim event was over as the route back to our car was blocked.

Once we could get out of there, we headed back to the lake, dropped off Cindy and went to the cabin where Terri's mom fixed a great breakfast for us...being that it was Father's Day, Rick got the morning off from fixing breakfast (he is usually the "Sunday morning chef" at our house). The bike route goes by the cabin (or the road just up from the cabin), so we were able to head up and watch them go by...they actually go by twice and just past our place is a HUGE hill that certainly challenges them. Cindy, Billy and the granddaughters came over and we were able to see their daughter go by (on her second lap)...and she knew as she came around the corner where we'd be and instantly waved! Her dad, Billy, brought his banjo to play as they biked by...and you could see how much it meant to the contestants as they rode by...a smile lit their faces as they heard him strumming away. It was a nice touch and everyone enjoyed listening to him, even the locals there to cheer them on.

Cindy and Billy and the girls left and headed back to rest up so they could meet their daughter at the finish line...and we enjoyed some relaxing time at the cabin with Sis. We had a great dinner and tried not to remember that we had to get up (early) the next morning to head home. Throughout the evening, we followed their daughter on the web...and she finished in about 13 hours...a great feat and something to be quite proud of...it was her first full marathon! We enjoyed our time with Cindy and Billy...and Terri and Cindy did as much catching up as possible (photographer friends!) in the short time together...and Terri was sad to say goodbye, wishing she had more time with her.

Monday morning it was back home...the drive was uneventful and quick (as quick as it could be for a drive across the state). Terri had a session with a darling one year old that afternoon and the weather turned out to be ideal...despite the threat of some storms earlier in the day. It was good to be back...but what a great weekend!!

The "pros" ready to begin the swim...

Coverage from the air...what a great vantage point, but not so sure I'd like hanging out the open door!

The "all ages" group, about 2200 ready to begin their swim...whoa, that looks intimidating!

Being "peeled" out of a wetsuit, this contestant is eager to move on to the bike portion.

The first swimmer (pro) to finish his two laps and move on to the bike

The very last swimmer to make it "under the wire" for time...not sure if he continued on...he didn't look very good.

The beginning of the bike part...

An Awesome Weekend!

2009-06-16T11:22:00.001-07:00

Wow, can't believe it's already Tuesday this week - it seems like it was just last Thursday and we were getting ready for an exciting weekend. Jessalyn's graduation was on Sunday evening and we had an open house for her on Saturday afternoon. Of course, there was the cleaning, getting food organized and prepared (we made it easy!), working in the yard and welcoming our family that was to arrive for the event!

An extra bonus of exciting news came on early Friday afternoon from Mandy who took her state licensing test for her CNA (certified nursing assistant) - she passed...with flying colors, of course! Mandy had been nervous, but we all knew she'd do just great and had no problems with the test...now to start looking for a new job that will hopefully lead to more opportunities to explore the nursing field and a future career as a nurse. We are very proud of her!!!

Friday afternoon Terri's mom, Sis, arrived...she had been in LaConner visiting a friend for a couple of days and drove down from there. It was great to see her...we hadn't seen her since her California and of course, since her accident...or should we say "accidents!" Unfortunately, on Monday of last week (about 6 weeks after the first accident), a furniture truck backed into her new car...the replacement from her first accident. Thankfully, she wasn't injured in this accident, but she felt like she wasn't safe on the road. So, it was another rental car and the new car into the shop...needless to say, she is a bit nervous about "the other driver!" She's doing well and we loved having her with us for the weekend! Both Josh (and Jayden) and Jessalyn stopped by to say hello that afternoon and that evening, we enjoyed a relaxing evening with her before the "work" began the next morning!

Saturday morning we started off with our usual - a trip to the Farmer's Market...a coffee, pastry, a bouquet of flowers and some wonderful smelling potpourri! From there, we had to get the cupcakes (OH...Indulge Cupcakes of Puyallup...amazing!!!!!!), balloons, ice and a few more groceries! Then, it was on to preparing and Sis was a huge help. Terri's brother, Scott, arrived in the early afternoon and he helped out a bit...or maybe he just harassed us?! Just kidding...nice to have him here as well. His wife and girls, Betsy, Sam and Syd, came later in the day. Rick's parents, Howard and Jeanette, arrived a bit later...they had another party for a great-great niece's high school graduation in the area that they attended before arriving here! The weather...earlier in the week the forecast had suggested a chance for rain and temperatures around the mid 60's...which was not our ideal choice for the afternoon, but in the end, we were blessed with partly sunny and about 75 degrees....absolutely perfect! With the great weather, we were able to be outside and enjoyed a great party with wonderful family and friends (who are just like family to us!!) who all helped us celebrate Jess' wonderful accomplishment! During the party there was a rousing game of horse shoes...with a $2 plastic set we bought for Jayden!! Amazing how entertaining some simple things can be! And a crowd also headed to the new basketball court in our neighborhood for the game "pig" which Sydney proceeded to win...way to go, Syd! Thank you to everyone who joined us...it was great so share our excitement with all of you!

Where's Waldo...I mean "where's Jessalyn" in this sea of red!??!

Sunday evening was the graduation, so everyone took it easy most of the day and we all planned to meet up for an early dinner before hand. Josh, Mandy and Jayden were meeting at our house so we could all ride up together...minimizing cars and parking! As Jayden was getting out of their car, her finger got smashed in the car door...poor little girl, she was crying and the finger quickly turned black and blue and swelled up quite a bit. We grabbed ice, a towel and some Tylenol for the ride to the restaurant, hoping to ease her pain and reduce the swelling a bit. Thankfully, she was okay by the time we had dinner and although the finger didn't look very good, she was doing great. Graduation was in Seattle at Benaroya Hall, a beautiful facility that seats 2500 people and it was full with the graduates and their family and friends who were there to witness the exciting event! We ended up in the top balcony (nose bleed section!) in the front row, middle (great location for pictures!) - which was REALLY high if you looked over the edge!!! The ceremony was about 2 1/2 hours and was very nice. The commencement speaker was Sid Morrison who was in the Washington Senate, was once a candidate for governor and is on the board of trustees for Central Washington University. His basic message a great one...growing up is mandatory, but growing old is optional...what a wonderful philosophy!! As Jess' name was announced we all cheered and hollered...but not so sure she heard us from the very back of the auditorium! Finding her afterwards was a bit of a challenge...and getting all of us together, but we managed and as you can imagine took some photos of her...with some of her classmates/friends and of course with family. Getting out of the parking garage was rather slow...we felt like we were trying to get out of a parking garage after a Mariner's game...sitting and waiting for a long time! The day was long...and we all were up much later than usual, but it was well worth missing a couple hours of sleep...and exciting time for Jess after working hard the past four years! Now, on to the next step...to find a job which could prove to be challenging with the cuts in education right now...but we know when she does finally get her own classroom, she'll be a wonderful and loving teacher!! Way to go, Jess!!!

It's back to routine now...Sis and Scott left yesterday and this morning Howard and Jeanette left (after Terri and Jayden joined them for breakfast at the Hedman House B&B...thanks NormaJean!!). The week will be short as on Friday we are heading over to Hayden Lake for the weekend...a friend of Terri's from North Carolina will be there with her family to watch their daughter compete in the Iron Man on Sunday...and we will spend some time with them, follow some of the competition and of course, enjoy the lake!

Jayden's finger is doing much better...it's still pretty black and blue and a bit swollen, but not nearly as bad as it could have been...thank goodness! A funny story...as I was sitting here typing this, Jayden looked at the flower bouquet on the table in the family room and said that I had to come look at it...I said just a minute...and when I went over...she said look at the whiskers...I couldn't see what she was talking about and then all of a sudden a large moth appeared...and I must confess, I screamed as I didn't have a clue anything was there...but we were able to capture it and set it free outside...what a great eye Jayden has to see that hidden in the flowers!

Have a great week...and here are some photos from our weekend. And enjoy the start of summer (which sure seems to have started a couple of weeks around here)!!

Jayden made it through Jess graduating and then crashed, but was then awake again after the ceremony.

Jess and her friend, Crissy, are shocked...no diplomas, where are they?!!

Jess with some of her fellow education classmates...they have all been together for the past two years.

Jayden is quite proud of her aunt Jessie!
WhooHoo....she did it...nice job, Jess!

Briefly...

2009-05-31T20:38:00.000-07:00

Just a quick side note to add to yesterdays blog entry...a couple of cute things we thought about that some of you might enjoy! First...yesterday Josh and Mandy had us for lunch at their place...and while we were in the kitchen dishing up our lunch, Jayden marched into the kitchen with a remote control in her hand and opened the cabinet under the sink and threw it in the garbage! We all asked why she did that...her response was "I don't need two remotes, I already have one and this is too confusing!" Needless to say, we all cracked up...and didn't do a very good job of concealing our reaction, but she was very serious and then walked out of the kitchen! Of course, her dad wasn't very happy with her action, but it was so funny, how could you not laugh at it!! One of those memories to tell her when she's older!

Today, Jayden and Josh were over for a while and Josh washed his car (and Terri's!). When they first got here, we weren't home and Jayden was inside with Aussie. When we came home, Jayden was then outside with Josh, helping him wash the cars. As we walked into the house, we saw a few clumps of Aussie's hair...which is not unusual (but she's not been shedding lately!) and as we walked to the family room, we found a few more. We picked them up and then went outside and looked at Aussie...all the way down her back were spots where the hair had been cut...and it was obvious what happened! Jayden had given Aussie a haircut! Terri asked Jayden if she'd cut Aussie's hair and showed her the handful of hair and pointed to Aussie's back and she got really quiet (that guilty sort of quiet!!) and quietly nodded yes! This was another one of those moments when you have got to keep your composure when explaining that you ONLY cut paper that is meant to be cut...no hair, not hers or Aussie's! Of course, her dad wasn't too happy with what she'd done and we just explained that from now on, no cutting unless an adult is around! On the bright side, Aussie could care less and it really doesn't look too bad...and if it had been her own hair, well, that could have been a bit more to deal with! It's one of those things that nearly all little ones do at one time or another. We had her little scissors in a basket with other craft things for her, but after this, the scissors are now "hidden" until someone gets them for her!!

Another cute comment...Terri had bought a little plastic horseshoe set for her to play in the yard and she found it today and Terri (Mimi) set it up and played with her a bit, then let Jayden play by herself as she went back to pulling plants from the beds. After Jayden was finished, she picked it all up and said she was finished and said "Thank you, Mimi, for buying this for me and showing me how to play it. I'm finished with it now!" Melt our hearts...that totally made up for Aussie's haircut...which really was nothing!

Okay...until later...we'll leave you alone! Have a great week!!

Dare to think that Summer is here?!

2009-05-30T22:01:00.001-07:00

What a shock to our systems to have had nice weather for a couple of weeks around here...it's so rare to have warm, dry and clear days in May...and to have so many is a real treat! And, the forecast looks to be decent...this has got to be a record!

Memorial day was beautiful...a tad cooler than the days before...and after, but still wonderful. We had Josh, Mandy, Jayden, Jess and Sean for a barbecue on the deck that afternoon and it was really nice to be able to sit on the back deck. The kids had spent the day on Lake Tapps on a boat, so had all gotten plenty of sunshine and fresh air...and then we fed them well, so they could all go home and crash (and probably put a bit of aloe gel to sooth some sunburns!). We enjoyed the weekend by spending some time in the yard and working on some chores around the house. In two weeks we are having a gathering to celebrate Jess' graduation from CWU and want to get things in order...so it's kept us busy on the weekends. It's really a great way to motivate us to get the chores done so that we then can "play" the rest of the summer!

With this wonderful weather, our Saturday mornings have found us heading to the Puyallup Farmer's Market...where we enjoy a coffee from our favorite coffee shop (FORZA) and then a pastry while strolling around to see what all the vendors have for sale. We are anxious for the fresh produce - and figure that we've got a couple more weeks before that happens, but then will enjoy a couple months of wonderful local produce!

The nice weather has allowed Terri and Jayden to get out on many of the days they are together and have enjoyed playing in the back yard and heading to some area parks. Our local neighborhood just put in a basketball court in our community park and they are looking forward to playing with the new purple (Jayden's favorite color!!) Hanna Montana basketball! One day last week when it was a bit cooler than the other days...they had a picnic inside, on the floor of the family room and watched Monsters Inc which seemed to satisfy Jayden...oh, and Aussie who watched their plates VERY closely while they ate! It seems that in the past couple of months, we've seen Jayden's looks change from a toddler to a little girl...when did this happen, she can't be growing up!!

We hope this finds you all doing well and having some nice weather as well...and looking forward to a good summer!

Jayden and Papa (alias...Rick) on Memorial Day

The first bloom on our clematis this year...oh, the joys of this time of year!

Our rock fountain in the back yard has attacted many birds this spring who want to clean up and cool off!
Papa and Jayden having a serious talk about something while waiting for the ribs to finish grilling!
We have a family of cute little birds (sorry, don't know what they are) living in a tree in our yard...and if we get around the tree, they sit on the fence and "talk" to us, I'm sure wanting us to get away...they are really quite entertainig! Jayden says they are "our birds!"

Our "little" girl...can't believe she's getting so big...ohhh, the joys of grandchildren! We highly recommend them!!

A wonderful Mother's Day!

2009-05-11T20:46:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd update with a few photos from yesterday....and a couple older ones (you'll understand in a minute!). Mother's day was nice around here...which in its self was a treat and then we had the kids all here for dinner which was really nice. Poor Jayden wasn't feeling well and when she arrived with Josh and Mandy, she was asleep and actually slept on the couch until we were nearly finished with dinner. She did pick up after she woke up and ate a little bit...and of course, was ready for dessert...an ice cream cake the kids brought! The above photo is one of her sleeping on the couch...she was so sweet to watch!
After dinner the kids went through a box of photos that we'd found in the garage on Saturday while cleaning it out a bit. The photos were about 14-15 years old and boy did we all have a good laugh...at each out and ourselves! There were lots, but I'll just post a few of them...and some of you may get a laugh or two out of them as well! Now, Josh and Jess (and there is one with their cousins, Samantha and Sydney and then one with Terri's brother, Scott and Sydney thrown in as well) might now think they are quite a funny with me posting them on the blog, but I think they are cute and fun...enjoy!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend...ours was great and the only way Mother's Day could have been better was to have our Mother's here with us!

Scott and Sydney
Josh, Samantha, Jess, Sydney

PHEW...the kitchen is FINALLY finished!

2009-05-09T20:57:00.000-07:00

Boy, does it ever feel nice to have our kitchen back to working order...not to mention all new! Now, it really wasn't that long compared to some other stories we've heard from people who have been through kitchen remodels in the past, so we can't complain! We did get tired of Lean Cuisine, take-out, no coffee in the morning and using the bathroom sink to wash the few dishes we had!

All in all it went well, but we did have little "bumps" along the way and it got to the point that we almost expected something with each new phase...and we usually weren't let down because there seemed to always be something!

The start was the doors we ordered...so we "thought" were suppose to be completely finished, but when we picked them up, we discovered they weren't stained...leaving us with our first dilemma. That all worked out...we were able to get the cabinet company to agree to stain (for a fee, of course!) the doors and trim for us...but when we asked them that, they told us our date for the cabinet installation was a week later than we had been told...and this was just four days before the day we "expected" them to install them! ARGH!! Then, we scrambled to reschedule the counter top installation and the other work being done in the kitchen and lower level. That all came together and we had just one more week to wait and the cabinets went in just fine. And, we were able to sell our old ones in just two days...whoohooooo!! The granite installers came out to lay the templates for the counter top and discovered the sink fitting had been cut wrong and had to call the cabinet company to return to redo it...and that took about four hours...seemed crazy to me, but evidently they hadn't installed an under mount sink before?? Hmm, I don't quite understand that because so many people have under mount! Whatever...it got done! Then came the granite installation a week later...we LOVED it and were so excited. Of course, a little "bump" with that in that the faucet we chose would not work and we had to scramble to get a new one in a day so it could be installed and we could finally have a sink! They wouldn't cut the holes until we had the faucet, so they could get them right...and again, it worked out, we found a new faucet, got the holes cut and it installed the next day. But...there was a little problem when having the faucet installed as one of the sides of the sink wouldn't hold the water, so we had find a new ring that would fit with the sink...and we did, but had to wait three days for that to get done! There were some other little bumps...the extra trim to match the flooring we put in last year came, but was actually a different shape from what we had before...we figured out a way around that...the instant hot water tank JUST fit under the sink, but the disposal had to be taken out to get it in...one of the stove feet was broken with being moved around so much, had to order another one and shipping was TWICE the cost of it! We have some narrow cabinets alongside the microwave and Terri decided we needed "sliding" spice racks in each side, it took a bit of work to figure that all out, but in the end, it worked great and looks nice!

SO...the kitchen is finished, all is unpacked and put away (but don't ask us where anything is, that'll take a few months to figure it all out!) and we're now working on the rest of the house that got neglected (and covered in a THICK layer of dust!!!) and had things thrown into other rooms during the process! So, we are now working on that and hoping to get everything ready for next month when we have a celebration for Jess who will graduate from college!!

We must give big "KUDOS" to our neighbor/handyman, Nick Holbrook, for all his great work, patience and understanding...without him, this would not have gone as well and probably wouldn't even be finished by now!!

Here are some photos to see what it looks like...and something to compare it to!

~~ BEFORE ~~
~~ AFTER ~~

Spring Photos

2009-05-09T20:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, so here we go again, a bit slow in our posts and it looks like there might be two tonight, or one tonight and one tomorrow...depending on how much we get done. This will include some photos from this spring, since Terri returned from California in early April.

These photos were taken the one of the first days after Terri got back from California had Jayden. We were very lucky to have a nice day and so spent quite a bit of time outside. As you can see, Jayden and Aussie are great pals!! And, Jayden is great and making "funny faces for me when I'm taking pictures of her! The last two...she enjoyed a popicle (okay, I confess, I gave her two!!) after a long walk around the block, but as you can see, it didn't give her any extra energy...she just crashed within minutes of finishing the second one!! She was just too darn cute to resist taking this photo!!!!

We got lucky another week with a nice day and went on a picnic with some other moms and kids in the neighborhood. What a great time we had...and the sunshine (natural Vitamin D!!!) was really energizing!!!! We sure could use a few more days like that, but won't complain and just will be happy with the ones we get!

Easter...we enjoyed a great dinner at Jess and Sean's home. Since our kitchen was torn apart and we didn't even a sink to use, they offered to have dinner for all of us. Josh, Mandy and Jayden joined us as well and it was a wonderful evening together, even if it rained and the egg hunt had to be inside. We did get to sneak outside a little later when the rain sort of stopped and the sun was trying to peek through the clouds!

Now, we're pretty current with the photos and will just add a couple from yesterday morning when Mandy, Jess and Terri went to a "Mother's Day Tea" at Jayden's preschool and were treated to a performance by the students...they were so cute and served us cookies to enjoy with our tea afterwards!

We hope this finds our family and friends all doing well and enjoying a nice weekend. It's especially nice here as we have SUNSHINE this weekend...the best Mother's Day gift we could get this year! The kids are all coming for dinner tomorrow night and if we are lucky we might get to eat outside! We wish all you mothers a wonderful Mother's Day and hope you are able to spend with your loved ones!

Girls' Weekend....

2009-04-05T23:16:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful weekend I had with my mom and two sisters, Krissy and Sarah! They flew in to San Diego on Friday afternoon and we started out with a late lunch at Point Lomas Seafood...with some incredible crab sandwiches...to die for!!! Then on to mom's place and with a late lunch, we didn't need dinner, but of course, some snacks and drinks...a great evening of just catching up and enjoying our time together!

Saturday found us headed to the beach to start for a walk...oh, the sunshine and blue skies were wonderful!! Krissy and Sarah, from Spokane, were so happy to have it above 30 degrees and NO snow!!! The beach was a bit windy, but so nice. From there, we headed to the Flowers Fields in Carlsbad which is incredible...besides the great location and warm temperatures the beautiful Ranunculus flower is amazing! Coming from the Pacific Northwest with the tulips...I wasn't sure about this, but it was beautiful and the different flower was a real treat...and of course, I took a few (well, maybe more!!) photos of them!! The weather was great, a bit windy, but comfortable temperatures and fun to stroll around and enjoy the beauty and spring treasures!! A bit of shopping, margaritas, nachos, some more shopping, some wine and a late dinner...made for a great day...which went way to quickly!

Okay, so we indulged in an amazing strawberry shortcake before heading into view the flowers...it was wonderful...just don't have strawberries like that in the our area!!!

Sunday they had to head home...but we had an incredible brunch before at the Canyon Restaurant at the Crossing Restaurant before taking them to the airport...so sad to see them leave...it wasn't enough time!!! :~( Next year will have to be longer and we'll plan a summer gathering...and even include the guys this time!) After some errands on the way back from the airport, my mom and I went for a walk in the SUNSHINE!!! It was about 80 degrees (ahhhhhhh!!!!) and a light breeze...oh, I will hate to leave this behind! A wonderful weekend...and I'll be sorry to leave tomorrow, but happy to be home and with Rick...and see Jayden on Tuesday...oh, I've really missed her!!! Rick got to see her this weekend and got some good hugs from her...I'm ready for some of those...have certainly missed those!!!!

Back home tomorrow and then will dive into some remodeling...we're having the kitchen redone - starting this week, so the next month will be a mess, but rewarding in the end! Hope you all are doing well, and able to enjoy a bit of spring weather as well. I hear that it'll be nice when I get home - I sure hope so, at least for a day or two!!! I'll be happy to be home, but will really miss my mom...it's been wonderful to spend time with her...