tid bits of us

Zurich Switzerland March 17 to April 1

2009-05-15T06:24:00.001-07:00

We arrived to Zurich On March 17 the weather was beautiful. Our first day in town was spent relaxing and catching up with Rene and Doris. They had went out of their way to see that we would be comfortable in their home. And we were comfortable very comfortable. Zurich is a nice to visit. Clean, friendly, easy to get around and no shortage of things to do places to eat and people to watch. Next time we will go back in the summer as I hear this already fantastic place gets better when the sun warms everything up.
A quick picture by lake zurich
Not the best picture I seem not to have great ones of the inside of their house. It is a very modern apartment that is located on the top floor of an industrial building.
The building they live in. A five minute walk to the train station.

Rene with Julian sitting at a cafe.

I have to say it took me a very long time for me to post about this trip. I may need to add a few pictures from time to time as I know I missed a few good ones. We also went to St. Gallen and to the capital of Bern both were day trips. Bern was a city that needed more than one day. Next time..

Luzurn March 19 a day trip

2009-04-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

A Swiss flag blows in the wind. A true Swiss flag is the worlds only true square flag.

Doris on the Left and her sister Bea on the right.
A river front view. A cold day but we still managed to sip coffees outside.
All of the water in Switzerland is drinkable. And very good. The wtaer running is very cold but it does not stop Julian from playing.
This is Kapellbrucke (chapel Bridge) It crosses the Reuss River it is made of wood. It dates back to the 14th century. However only the octagonal water tower is original. In 1993 a fire left it in a disastrous state.

Appenzell Switzerland March 21 -23

2009-04-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

This cabin in the mountains of Appenzell was built by Rene's grandfather. The family over the years has changed very little. It has three bedrooms one bath. A nice sized living space and of course a great fireplace. Getting here in the winter you have to park down below and hike up.
Here is the small town of Appenzell. This town is best know for its strong smelling cheese. Which can be used to make excellent fondues when mixed with herbs, and alcohol.
The sun soon will be set over Appenzell. It is very quiet all you here is the gentle sound of the wind.
Doris made an amazing fondue. We almost ate it all.
Our trip down Chris carried baby.
a cafe is were we left the car before heading up the hill to the cabin.

Ascono Switzerland March 24-28

2009-04-12T06:28:00.000-07:00

The snow was coming to Zurich so we headed south to Ticino. We found a fantastic hotel lakeside in the town of Ascona. We stayed 4 nights 5 days soaking up the sun.
Spring has arrived in Southern Switzerland
Doris and Jules enjoying the day at a cafe.
The view from the hotel terrace.
another view from the terrace.
A little side trip to Valle Verzasca. Mother nature has sculpted this valley which has an emerald green river running through. There were still spots of snow on the ground and all the leaves had not shown their colors but, it was still an amazing sight to see.
The old stone bridge over the river.
Simply beautiful. Lakeside in Locarno
Locarno old town
A silly picture but, I loved it.

London March 12 to the 17th

2009-04-11T07:21:00.001-07:00

This trip to London was all about family time. Our son and their daughter were born the same day. We had such a good time watching the babies together. We did manage a few outings as well. Taking the underground was enjoyable for all. The babies loved all the motion. Thank you Tim and Ruth for showing us a wonderful time. Your home is comfortable and stylish. You make us feel like family.
Out to Lunch in Hampstead Heath. Julian does the ordering.
This photo is taken on their street we were out for a walk.
The photo here of Chris and Little P is at Camden Market. A fun day outing with lots of people watching and shopping.
Ruth has two rabbits frida and bun buns this is frida trying to get away from Julian
the two of them played so well together.

She is a sweet as apple pie. We just fell in love with her. She started to crawl as soon as we left. Bummer to have missed that.

And we thought it was winter

2009-01-21T09:25:00.000-08:00

Were having such nice weather that a camping trip was in order. So on Friday we packed up the lance with some food and wine and headed North for three amazing nights.
We just love watching the sun go down. Something about that last few seconds never gets boring. I always say to Chris "Do it again please."
Happy boy

We walked a couple of miles looking for a remote campsite. This is usually a pond. A bit dried up at the moment.
I dislike this picture of myself but, Its January and I'm in a tank top and Julian is in a tee shirt. The sun shines so bright that the pacific ocean shows all her gorgeous colors.
The waves were great. At night we slept soundly hearing them crash against the shore.
Point Arena Lighthouse

Some of my favorites from the past month.. or two

2009-01-11T07:53:00.000-08:00

When you have a baby in the house most everything else is put off until later. I can't believe he is now 7 months old.
A little lemon never hurt anyone. His Grandma Carrie loves lemon I guess he takes after her.
On Christmas we had a fantastic salt encrusted prime rib.
One of our favorite things about where we live is being able to walk everywhere. Our best friends Cristen and Nathan and their son Louis live really close so we often meet up on the trail and head out for Peets coffee a nice long walk.
Our first Christmas with Lil P
This year I spent Christmas Eve at home with my mom and dad I had not slept over on Christmas eve since 19. Santa found his way to their house too.
A family game of 21 Dad was the dealer. sitting around playing cards is much fun especially when your winning!
Go Cal!!
Watch out Ladies.

Lake Camanche November 10th to the 12th

2008-11-21T13:40:00.000-08:00

Sunset over the Lance. We took a real quick camping trip with my parents. Two short nights but it was still lots of fun.
Night one Julian slept with grandma and grandpa. Lucky little boy
Thanks Mom and Dad for showing us your favorite little camp site. The fishing was good the food was great!
Dad and son
Chris's birthday was just right around the corner so mom made him turkey cupcakes. They were very tasty and so darn cute.

The one trout Chris caught.

Lake Tahoe October 14 to 17

2008-10-25T18:34:00.000-07:00

Our 9 year anniversary we headed to Lake Tahoe. The days were warm and the nights O so chilly

On the 16th we sat lake side and sipped champagne and ate cheese and crackers
Campground by the Lake south Lake Tahoe
Fall is all around us
A small lake
on a morning walk outside of Sugar Pine Campgrounds north Lake Tahoe
We all can snuggle buggel in the camper bed
At Emerald Bay

Kauai Hawaii September 27 to October 4

2008-10-13T11:49:00.000-07:00

It was my parents 20th anniversary this October so they decided to take the whole family to Hawaii for a week together. The week was wonderful. Chris and I and baby made it up to see 3 sunrises this was the first.
The little house they rented. A view from the pool.
swimming with little P way too much fun. He got his first tooth the very first day. Must be all that fresh island air.
At night after dinner we would listen to music, laugh, play games, and catch up with each other.
Aunt Stephanie with Julian
Chris and I were spoiled by getting to stay in the guest cottage. A little house with a kitchen, bathroom and a bedroom. The best part was the pond in the front of it. Each night frogs would serenade us to sleep.
Lots of room to run. boys will be boys Justin running after Stephanie.
One day the guys went golfing.
lots of snorkeling was done too.
In the morning Julian had lots to say to his grandparents.
Watch out Michael Phelps
My brothers and sisters. Marriage brought us together but Love made us family.
As a surprise we had a private luau. Here the musicians and hula dancer sing to the parents.
After a down pour of rain we moved under the deck for a little hula dancing 101
Then we kicked it up a notch... Tribal drummers and a fire dancer.

The night was a thank you to our parents. It was exciting, special, and even a little emotional. I could not have asked for a better night.
Little P's toes in the warm Hawaiian ocean.
Coco Frio for 5 bucks. Someone call the police we were robbed..
Kauai has the most beautiful chickens. Here they finish off the coconut.

All in all it was a perfect week. I had about 200 pictures but these were a few of my favorite. We closed the week with watching the sun fall into the ocean. It may have been the last sunset in Hawaii that week but, we will be back to see another.

There's no place like Camp Tuolumne

2008-09-09T08:18:00.000-07:00

Here we all are on our last morning at camp. I have posted about camp before but this year felt so special and so different. Maybe it had to do with the fact that I was carrying on the tradition of camp Tuolumne to the next generation. Or maybe it was because being with my family felt so good. Or maybe it was the beautiful weather. Or maybe it was the fact that each morning when you wake up you hear a song sang from a blue jay and you realize how lucky you are to wake up to yet another beautiful day with fresh air in your lungs and your husband lying next to you.
The warm afternoons allowed for some swimming and relaxing by the swimming hole.
The hard part is not jumping into the cold water it is climbing up beaver head rock. A task so hard it may take you 6 tries to make it up the slick rock.
At night campfire and camp songs.
I choose this picture because Dad has such a proud look on his face. This year he was honored for all the work he has put into camp over the years.
I love these men
mornings are a good time to sit in the green chairs and read.
happy little camper.
Jim and Marcia soaking up the sun. First year campers. I hope they come back.
After lunch it is in your tent or out of camp. Little P played while we read.
Mom sunbathing in style. She looks so pretty.
In the early morning we would bring the baby in bed with us. He loved looking up into the trees. It must be amazing to see such things for the first time.
A view of the swimming hole in the morning. It rarely changes over the years.

All in all it was a great weekend. Can't wait until next year.

So long Ritz Carlton HELLO koa

2008-08-16T07:47:00.000-07:00

A few years ago when our friends Rene and Doris came to California and got ready to leave on their two year trip South America we were introduced to a Lance cab over. Chris has wanted one ever since. We spent a month with them in Venezuela and I had to admit it was a nice way to travel. So here we are. We have no plans to head that far south but, we will manage to see as much as we can.
We headed North to Mendocino it was cool and foggy and we loved it.
We stayed in the town of Caspar. A tiny little camp ground that was full of abalone divers.
In the cute town of Mendocino we went out to lunch and walked around.
Chris darling, even though we had a few bumps over the few days it was a really good time with you. You have given me everything and more. Being with you and our son is all that I need. Thank you for the gift of camping. It brings us closer even if it is in a stinky mattress laying next to Jazzersize man. I love you for it.

Sunday lazy Sunday

2008-08-11T08:17:00.001-07:00

A nice break from our daily chores. We all sat pool side and tanned our legs. Little Julian slept until I woke him up.
His first time in the pool. The water was a little cold.
So cute.. He was just starting to get used to it.

One special man.

2008-08-05T14:44:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to blog about a special birthday party we had. Our Dad Ron had a birthday. He is such a wonderful Dad I could not let the day get away from me. Ron came into our lives sometime ago. He had a huge part in raising my brother and I. It is never an easy task blending a family. Somehow we did okay. Not only is he a great father, and a wonderful husband to my mom but he is a terrific person. He is a kinda guy that won't sugar coat things too much. Lives by telling the truth and keeping it real. He loves his family and cherishes time with them. He loves to relax and enjoy the simple things in life. Some of our greatest times together have been just sitting around talking. I was so lucky this guy came into our lives. I am blessed that he calls me daughter.
His grandkids Emma and Jacob came for a weeks visit over his birthday. Emma picked out a perfect cake.

Jacob showing off his style. Emma looking up with pride.
Uncle J and Little J. Hmmm could they be related?
My mom started making jewelery out of her rocks. Now everyone wears a piece of love from mom. Ron this was just a little post to let you know how much I love and cherish you. I wish you the best year ever!! May you be healthy, happy, and surrounded by love. And one more thing, Make this year count!

Utah July 25 to July 28

2008-07-31T06:34:00.001-07:00

We boarded the southwest flight and were off. Little P slept like a travel pro. Chris and I were so excited to go and see the family. We really just love to go.
One evening after dinner we sat outside with Grandma Darlene and watched the clouds go by. This was wonderful. We could talk easy and enjoy each other. We even kicked off our shoes and let the warm air hit our skin.
Grandma Darlene has 10 great grandchildren. With another one on the way. Grandma was a baby nurse for many years. She loved being with Julian and seeing how we care for him. She told us how proud she was of us. Thank you Grandma.
Grandma Margot lives in Tucson but, just so happened to be in Utah to visit her kids. She also just could not get enough of our little June Bug. She fell in love with him too. We had a thunder shower that afternoon. Chris and I love a good thunder shower.
Smile
Uncle Dan and Aunt Clifta live in South Jordan. The view is fantastic. Even better in the morning when you see her Dad working his Clydesdale horses at 90.
Uncle Jim got all smiles.

A friendship that will last a lifetime..

2008-07-21T13:34:00.000-07:00

It is hard on a kid when their parents pick up and move away. That summer I left my neighborhood was one of the biggest changes in my life. I had grown up knowing a family of girls that lived around the corner from our house. A family that I have grown to love and cherish like my own. I met Colleen when we were in the first grade. Funny I don't remember how we met but I am so glad we did. We would walk to school together everyday. We played after school making up dances, hanging out with the other kids on the block and just forming a wonderful friendship. We did things that kids don't do so much anymore. We played Mississippi until the street lights came on. We had lemonade stands, we toilet papered the neighbors, and walked everywhere in our town. I moved away the summer before the 6th grade. The hardest part was not saying goodbye to my friend. She was away on vacation when my folks moved us. She tells the story of that summer better than I ever could. She remembers coming home from her vacation and running over to my house only to find it empty.
Lucky for us we had wonderful parents who would drive us back and forth to see each other. Then her parents moved her even further away. Our friendship did not end there. We kept it strong by weekend visits and expensive phone bills. She even came out to a dance I had at my junior high this may have been the 6th grade. One weekend when we were in our freshman year I remember learning to dance in her bedroom. Her sister put on the music and we all danced and learned how to find our rhythm. And that is just one of a thousand stories.
Over the years we had plenty of ups and downs and learning experiences. We grew from each other and relied on one another too. Even though we both have busy lives and we live in different towns. I feel it is safe to say we will always be like family. When we are together it takes no time to get on the same page.
And once again another chapter of our book is being written. I now have a son for her to love and get to know. Thank you Colleen for being my friend. For understanding me and supporting me. I am sorry if I ever hurt you over the years. If I ever said anything that stuck out in your mind that was hurtful. You have been an amazing part of my life. A piece of my heart will always hold a spot for you. You are truly an amazing person. I am so proud to call you my friend. Your beautiful inside and out.

6 weeks of life

2008-07-14T07:11:00.000-07:00

Little P has been very popular since his grand entrance. Grandma Dixie is so special to him. She loves to laugh with him and makes him smile. She even is my go to support for so many things such as sleeping and feeding. Well I am happy to report that last night on his 6 weeks mark he did it! He slept from 9:30 until 3:00 am I was so happy. We are on our way to sleeping through the night
We love to drive to Grandma and Grandpa out on the Delta. Grandpa Ron calls him Little Tough Guy it is so cute. And Grandma Carrie just can't get enough of him. She has been so helpful. I never have to ask twice for her support when it comes to lending a hand with our June Bug.
Over the Fourth of July we went to Groveland to spend the weekend at Grandpa and Grandma N's house. Aunt Stephanie road up in the car with us. She could not believe how well you travel. It was a hot weekend that was so much fun. We spent the day lakeside at an all day party even ended with fireworks.
Chris my sweetest P had to work the weekend but managed to surprise us with driving up for the day to attend the party and spend time with the family.
Three weeks old and already having lunch at the Awainee hotel in Yosemite. Grandma Sharon joined us for a fantastic day in the Park. We walked from the chapel to the hotel it was so hot on the way there but on the way home we had an amazing thunder shower. Your Grandma was so proud to push you around and show you off. It was the best day ever in Yosemite.
This outfit was one that Chris wore as a baby. It was too hot to wear outside but we had to try it on to see how cute you would look.
When your at the cabin with your grandparents Grandpa Dave likes to sit with you here. It is really cute how he talks to you and watches you for hours.
Bath time
A way to beat the hot summer heat is to head for the beach. It was great to get out and walk along the shores. Stinson Beach was a perfect place to beat the heat.
Yosemite
Family 4th fun!
Ahh a break from parenthood. We went one day to Napa with our friends. We spent the whole day and into the evening playing like the old days.
so much love!

You know your a new mom when...

2008-06-18T17:00:00.001-07:00

1. You forget to call your brother on his birthday. No excuses really that was just bad!!

2. You condition your hair with shampoo

3. An episode of The Golden Girls reminds you of Sex and the City.

4. You pull a lower ab muscle rushing through Nordstroms while baby sleeps in his stroller.

5. You sit up at 3 am with baby and day dream about calling the La Leche League.

6. Sitting in a group of women breast feeding is fun and not at all boring.

7. You don't return phone calls or answer E mails.

8. A hot shower seems like a day at the day spa.

9. Your dog looks at you like you have forgotten her. And you really feel guilty about not having time to walk her.

10. An entire day goes by and all you can remember doing is feeding your baby, looking at baby, and changing baby. did i remember to brush my teeth today?

My Birth Story

2008-06-07T10:11:00.001-07:00

On May 31 at 3 pm I started going into labor. I figured I had plenty of time before the contractions really kicked in. I sat on the couch with my mom and Chris trying to eat a little chicken soup when they started hitting me harder than earlier. I was in active labor before I knew it.
By 11 pm I was 7 centimeters dilated and we thought we may be having this baby in a couple of hours. As the sun rose on the next morning labor continued to be hard. My cervix was in the way of letting the baby come down and be born. We tried many positions and did cervical massage with evening prim rose oil and arnica. My cervix was not letting go of his little head. That day for me was the hardest day I had ever endured. Not only was I amazed by my own inner strength and will power but, also that of my loving birth team around me. Having my mom's loving hands to soothe and caress me during scary or painful times was something I never knew I needed as much as I did that day. The love I felt for my husband had overwhelmed me. I remembered looking into his eyes and grabbing a hold of some extra strength that I needed. The calming loving voices from Mason and Liesl my midwives grounded me and kept me focused. However at 7pm June 1st we knew we had exhausted every method possible. We headed for John Muir Hospital. I was given Pitocin and 4 hours to labor even harder. I refused the epidural in hope that the pitocin alone would do the trick. The pitocin was insane and made the contractions unbearable. I went ahead with an epidural around 11pm. The doctor told me he would use a vacuum to pull the babies head down so I could push him out. We all thought this would be easy. It was midnight and I was told at 12:30 The doctor would come in I would push with the use of the vacuum and we may have this baby after all. The darn cervix was still in the way. It was getting caught in the doctors vacuum. We had to move forward once again on to a cesarean delivery.
Leaving the hospital room on my way to the surgery I cried out with fear and defeat. I was so angry my body could not do what I had wanted it to do. I was scared of the surgery. I was scared of the unknown. The loving arms of my mom wrapped around me and told me never think like that. You are amazing she said you did everything for the baby you could. Chris kissed me told me how proud he was of me. He would be right by me and not to worry. I also had prayers and love coming from the waiting room. There in the hospital waiting room we had our whole family. Sitting and praying and waiting to know we were all okay. I have never knew love like this before. The bright lights of the room were never what I had imagined for the birth of my baby. I remember laying there with warm hot tears streaming down my face falling to the floor. I laid so still and almost empty. I had Chris's eyes to look up at and comfort me. I said little to him but he knew when I needed a little kiss on the forehead to make it all alright. I love his eyes. He is the best thing I had ever been blessed with in my life. Until June 2nd 1:33am we were given a son. Julian Mark we named him.
Our little boy worked as hard as I did he needed a few days to recover in the infant care nursery. That was so hard not having the instant time to bond together.
Once in our room we could bond as a family. We both had tears of joy. Tears of excitement. Tears of unbelievable love.
On June 5th we left the hospital. I will never forget leaving the parking lot. I started to cry as we drove away. The birth was not how I planned it. It was much harder than I ever wanted it. I knew my family and some friends wondered why I ever tried for a home birth. I tried because I believe that it can be done and a home is the best place for it. I was very comfortable in my home the time I spent there. I had so much freedom to move and do what I needed to feel good. I had the best labor team possible and I will never forget that. I realize that this is my labor story and every women who has had a baby has one too. It may only be significant to me. And that is just fine. I am so happy to be home and have my little family together. Life is good!

Here he is!

2008-06-02T13:41:00.000-07:00

Julian Mark is here!

Born today, June 2, 2008 @ 1:27 a.m.

Weighing in at 8lbs 10oz and 21 inches long.

Mom, Dad and baby are doing great.....

Food Blogging jealousy # Two

2008-05-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

Cinnamon Raisin Bread

For the dough:
1 envelope active dry yeast
2 cups warm milk about 110 F
2 pounds all purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup sugar
2 large eggs plus 1 beaten egg for top of bread and filling
2 1/2 teaspoons coarse salt
1 cup raisins
1 tablespoon cinnamon
For the Filling:
1 1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cinnamon

Make the dough:
In the bowl of an electric mixer sprinkle east over warm milk. Whisk to combine. Add flour, butter, sugar, 2 eggs, and salt. Mix until well combined about 3 minutes. Raise speed for another 3 minutes until dough forms and pulls away from the bowl.

Turn dough out on floured surface. Pat out dough into a 9 inch round. Sprinkle with cinnamon and raisins. Knead until incorporated.
Place in large oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Allow to double in size. About 1 hour.

After remove from bowl and knead one more time. Place the dough back in bowl and allow to rise again for a second hour.
Make the filling: combine sugar and cinnamon and 2 tablespoons water in a small bowl. Return dough to floured surface and divide in half. Roll out one half into a rectangle fold in sides brush with beaten egg and add half of the filling. Do the same to the other half of dough.

Generously butter two loaf pans and set aside. Roll dough and filling towards you to shape your loaf. Place in greased loaf pans seam side down. Allow to raise above rim of loaf pan about 45 minutes. Meanwhile preheat oven to 425 F

Brush top of loafs with beaten egg and transfer to oven. Bake rotating half way through. If tops begin to brown too quickly then tent with aluminum foil. Turn out onto wire rack and allow to cool before cutting (if you can wait that long) Bread will last up to 4 days in Plastic container
Enjoy anytime of day.
This recipe was given to me by my good friend Kristie. I think she found it in a book called Yeasted Baked Goods

May 20th 2008

2008-05-20T09:30:00.001-07:00

Now we really sit and wait for baby to arrive..

It was a Doggy Dog Day

2008-05-19T06:51:00.000-07:00

On Sunday the weather was warm and the afternoon was perfect for an outing that went to the dogs. We went to Tony La Russa's Arf's Paws on Parade. A festival for dogs.
There were so many kinds of dogs. Big dogs, little dogs, some that dressed up. But all were hot dogs!
Chloe gets into the action saying hello to a new pal.
Donations were given and so were many kisses.
Okay mom, I am hot and tired lets go.

The waiting Game..

2008-05-18T06:35:00.000-07:00

Okay I really can't complain I have had a great pregnancy thus far. However I can say man oh man this last week has been a long week. With every Braxton Hick I wonder will they get stronger and head to the real thing? Good thing we have plenty of things to keep Chris and I busy so we don't sit around playing the Waiting Game.
A beautiful sunset always is a great way to kill time.
a neighbor told me she went into labor after she mowed the lawn....
It has been really hot the last few days but, my farmer and the dog still get hard work done.
Having friends come over for dinner and fun. Logan is helping move dirt with the tractor.
Our Brother in Law had a birthday. It was a fun party good food, good family. We were so glad to be part of the celebration.
well here I am in all my glory.. About to hit 40 weeks. I had time for a little sunbathing.
A hike in Brionies. A beautiful way to start the morning off right.

May 3 2008 A baby shower and a birthday!!

2008-05-11T06:50:00.000-07:00

Mu Aunt Sharon and Uncle Phil hosted a family party to toast to two special family members. Our baby to be and me.
I have been overwhelmed with special gifts and attention during this pregnancy. Melanie Chris's sister gave us an amazing gift. A scrapbook for a year. Some pages had photos already but many await us to place them once he has been born. I have never been given something so special so handmade. I will cherish this gift for years to come. How lucky and blessed we are to be given a gift of love. Thanks Mel, you are amazing and beautiful.

Uncle Jason's perfect gift. a tiny Camp chair. We will take it to camp this year even though he will be too small for it just to have a photo of all the boys sitting together in the green chairs at camp. thanks Uncle J we love it and so will he!
Liz, Jason, Carly and Janelle.. Looks like Jason is a ladies sandwich
shower games
My morning birthday surprise. I came home from yoga to find a sinful little treat from Chris and Chloe. It was so good.

Just staying busy.

2008-04-28T13:36:00.000-07:00

Chris looking fine outside. Here you see my adorable husband putting in a bamboo guard. The neighbor has bamboo growing and it shoots up in our garden.
Yes, still hooping it up at 8 months pregnant. No belly hooping just legs, neck, chest and arms.
On Saturday we volunteered at the March of Dimes. This was Chris's 10th year my second. The fire department handed out 1500 hotdogs. drinks, and loads of fruit and snacks.

37 weeks pregnant and still smiling.
Our baby's room. Chris painted a tree with cute bugs. The other walls are blue. we have some art work on the walls. One painting that hung in my room when I was a baby. We love his room. It is simple and sweet and now all it needs is a baby.

Lexus Baby

2008-04-10T07:08:00.001-07:00

Mom reminded me it is better to have loved then to have never loved at all. Thank you Lexus for loving me for 12 years. You were such a wonderful friend to me. You were brought to me when there was not a chance of your survival. I fed you with a little bottle until you could eat on your own. You comforted me when I was in need. If I cried you came running to my side. When I was sick you sat with me and kept me warm. You were a great pal. I will miss you helping me in the garden this summer. I will miss you when I take a bath and your not on the tubs edge. I miss you now not sitting behind the computer looking out the window.

Grief is a strange emotional process. I know this much pain is because I have a big heart. Because I can love and be loved. It is a hard part of life that we face again and again. I will see you again in my dreams and in heaven. I love you my little Lexus baby.

31 weeks

2008-03-22T12:01:00.001-07:00

This whole posting is all about me! As it should be right??? Just kidding. My friend Cristen was pregnant last year and she said to Chris and I " sometimes I would just stare at my body and could not believe the changes" Her face expression was hilarious when talking about it. I now know what she was talking about. Staring off in the mirror time just fades away wow I think I can't believe the changes.
Hearing the heart beat
Measuring the uterus
Mason takes my blood. We find out later that I'm a little bit anemic. No big deal really just adding Floridix to my daily routine.
Having a home birth allows for many choices with your birth plan. We have rented this portable hot tub. I will have the opportunity to relax and be comfortable. Water births are gentle and safe. The Tub will have jets as well as warm soothing water.

A midsummer nights dream

2008-03-20T06:55:00.001-07:00

Well it is official, It is Spring! This year to prepare for our summer garden I ordered seeds from Seed Saver Exchange. This will be my first attempt at growing all the vegetables from seeds. I have a nice start to what will be planted in a month. This years garden will contain
Tomatos
Black from Tula, Italian Heirloom, Golden Medal, Aunt Ruby's German Green
Squash
Black Beauty Zucchini, Spaghetti Squash
Other vegetables
Bull Nose Large Bell Peppers,Double Yield Cucumber, Golden Beets, St. Valery Carrot
Herbs
Common Chives, Thyme, French Breakfast Radish, Lettuce Leaf Basil

a little bit of what March has to offer

2008-03-10T12:35:00.000-07:00

Seriously, I love the beach, the ocean. I just don't see the need to go floating around in it looking for fish or sharks. I like it from the sand and when I'm up on the strong shoulders of Chris taking a look about before swimming in the CLEAR ocean water.
A great place to see the underwater world is at the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
The Jelly fish exhibit at the aquarium was so beautiful. Soft music plays and the lights are low. You see how Art imitates Nature.
Happy 61st Birthday Mom. Last year we went on a great Mexican Cruise this year a trip to Monterey and Carmel.
A beautiful evenings dinner at Carmel Ranch restaurant. We sat outside under heater lamps and had a great meal.

25 week Prenatal appointment

2008-02-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

25 Weeks Prego's Looking and feeling very Pregnant!
Mom came with me to a prenatal Appointment. I wanted her to meet the midwives. She had a few questions but mostly just wanted to be part of this experience.

Food Blogging Jealousy

2008-01-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

I saw a posting about Fruit Gelees I love this sweet candy so, I thought I would give them a try. I first saw the recipe and got the idea on www.sugarplumsweets.blogspot.com Thanks Emiline I loved making them and will try it again with another fruit.

This time I made Blueberry Fruit Gelees
Step one: add 4 1/4 ounce unflavored gelatin let sit in cold water for four minutes to soften. Heat Gelatin over medium/low heat stirring until dissolved.
Step Two: Add 2 cups sugar stir until dissolved. Then add 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice.
Step Three: Bring to a boil medium/low watching that it does not boil over. Boil for about 13 minutes. Then remove from heat and allow to rest for 5 minutes Skim any white foam that remains on top. After stir in 3/4 cup fruit puree. I made a blueberry fruit puree. I used frozen berries and a couple tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Stir all together.
Step Four: Pour mixture into a 8 inch square nonstick baking pan. I also used parchment paper on the bottom of pan and sprayed with a little Pam.
Step Five: Let rest at room temperature for at least 12 hours I let mine sit up overnight and into the morning.
Step Six: Use a sharp knife to loosen from sides of pan. Then pull up on the paper to release from pan. Turn over onto wax paper. Cut into small squares. Right before serving coat with sugar and serve. The unsugared candies can be stored in a air tight container at room temperature for 2 weeks. Sugar before serving.

Cabin Fever Day Dreaming..........

2008-01-23T07:45:00.000-08:00

Chris and I love airports. We love to travel and go and see new things. Even return to the old places. Being home over a rainy day (days) I have had a little cabin fever. No far away trips planned, no sunscreen to buy, no internet searching to do. Bah Hum Bug I can't wait to board an airplane soon and get out and do something new. Below are a few of my day dreams.
a Rainbow over Venice
Porto Stafano Italy
Phi Phi Island
Many Glacier, Montana
Los Roques Venezuela
Siena Italy
Snowboarding Lake Tahoe
High Line Loop Glacier National Park
Barcelona market
Barcelona City Streets
Italian Cheese, Yes Please
Central California Coast
Cabo
Barcelona beach
Angkor Wat
alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5158699201941631810" /> Amsterdam

Prenatal Visit

2008-01-14T12:07:00.000-08:00

I stand here in my yoga clothes, holding up the belly. Just shy of 22 weeks. How many months is that? I guess 5, I think I look huge when I look down at the belly. But, I want it big and beautiful. The baby needs to grow.
Here are a picture of my midwives. They are getting out the dopper so we can hear the heart beat. I love my prenatal appointments. I can ask any questions and I have no time limit. We chat for about an hour. Looking over my diet, my exercise, my heart rate and feeling for the little one. They say I'm a text book pregnancy. Everything looks perfect. They told me to gain a little more weight. I laughed at that!
Here is Mason and Lesiel and me We are counting the heart beats. 145 a minute. A strong heart beat.

The envelope please!

2007-12-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the 27th was a very exciting day. Chris and I headed to have an ultrasound. This was the big one! 5 months along they check all the organs and brain, and the sex of the child. We had planned a party for that night. A guess the sex party. Our family gathered in our home and each made a guess. Chris and I also had no idea what the sex of the baby was. We asked the doctor and the technician to please not tell us. We had brought an envelope with a piece of paper for her to write down the sex and seal up the envelope. Then we had to wait..
Chris gathered everyone around and made such a sweet toast. Not a dry eye in the house. It was a wonderful feeling to be with the people you love the most and who will love and support this child.
Inside the red envelope was a paper heart and three pictures. On the paper heart it read, Congratulations on your baby BOY!

3 days of Christmas

2007-12-27T14:53:00.000-08:00

Chris in the kitchen glazing the Christmas ham.
We hosted Christmas dinner in our home. My dad, my mom, Chris and I, our friends Scott and Stacie, my Aunt Pat My other dad and mom my sister's boyfriend Joseph and his sister anna, stephanie and my other mom. Sat down to a wonderful Christmas Ham.
This is really what I wanted. Thanks Mom
Thanks to Melanie my Dad Ron was sweeted up with sugar cookies.
Best Friends Forever!!
Family over on the 24th. Melanie and Daryle and their kids Tyler Lindsey and Natalie, Greg and Amelia and Dixie and Aunt Joan. Of course Chris and I too... French dip sandwiches were on the menu this night.
opening up some presents.
On the 23 The Newell family gathered at my Dad and moms house for a prime rib dinner and many good laughs over the game Catch phrase.
Ties dressed them well, look out Boys Elanie has hers tied the best.
Now the girls had special scarfs to wrap around and keep us in fashion.
Dad joins the group.

Christmas past

2007-12-22T17:19:00.001-08:00

As Christmas is coming towards us at full spead, I had a moment to look back at a few fun Christmas pictures. With so many to choose from my only problem was is that I have none of Chris and his family when they were young. Something I will have to work on. So a few of my side of the family are below.
My Grandparent Cunningham's Mom is holding the cat and Aunt Sharon is the little one.
Two years ago at our house we had a fun Christmas dinner I think a few more could have jumped on the couch,
My brother will always be there to hold me up if need be. He is a wonderful brother. The best you could ask for. He is sweet, handsome, caring, thoughtful, and fun too.
My first Christmas

HAPPY belated BIRTHDAY DARLING!!

2007-12-03T18:18:00.001-08:00

Dear Chris, I love you more and more each day. You are a gift that I get everyday. Thank you for being so good to me. Always be safe and keep your peaceful heart. I have never met anyone like you before. You are so caring and forgiving and loving. I wish you all the best for this new chapter in your life. Another birthday, another year to be so cute, so huggable, and just you. all my love me xoxo

stand by for this brief public announcement

2007-12-01T15:31:00.000-08:00

Hi my blog is under some work. I have fallen behind in my posts. Gees, Chris had a big Birthday and we we traveled to London and had a terrific visit with our friends and Christmas is coming and I have a lot of work to do. Please hang on a few more days I have some fun things to post!

thanks

moving all around

2007-11-08T12:48:00.000-08:00

This ultraound was the best so far. We could not believe how the little baby was moving all around. The arms and legs looking active. We were in ah of how quickly it has grown. Going into three months now I feel my body changing. My skinny jeans have been pulled off the hangers and put away for now. My energy is back and I am able to go on with my daily routine.( for now) I really have been embracing the changes. It is hard somedays not to feel well, just bloated and fat. Some days nothing looks right or fits well when I get dressed. There are still a few special people who don't know the good news and I can't wait to share with them soon.

A Girls Need for Shoes

2007-10-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

So I have been on the great black boot search for a few months now. I started off by shopping my way through boxes of Zappos shoes. If your not familar with Zappos I suggest you give it a try. It is an Online shopping meca for shoes and a few other things. I love Zappos because you can order one day and the next your shoes arrive. All of them are free shipping both ways. Makes it truly easy to shop and return. Well after heavy boots, too high of heals, cheap looking black, and just not finding the perfect boot, I became a little disappointent. However, there was this boot in the back of my mind I saw online from Nordstroms. It was a bit pricy but by now I was getting a little bit desperate. I figured what the heck I would spend the money and be happy. Well, to my surprise they were sold out. Not only there but everywhere! I went on this great Google search punching in web site after web site hoping they would have my size. I came across an Ad in this months Travel and Leisure magazine for the company that makes these boots. I was so happy to finally find their web site. The company is El Naturalista a Eco friendly built shoe from Spain. But soon my friends I relized even if I wanted to buy them from Spain I could not as once again I saw the words NOT available. So I ordered another okay looking pair of boots from Nordstroms still feeling low about missing out on such a great pair of boots. Once again, I did not like the shoes I bought so back they went. I figured today I would just have to stop this search and look again another time. Then my luck changed The company El Nauralista has one store in the United States. I called the store in Santa Monica and was so very pleased to hear YES we have one pair in your size. They are the last pair in the states and the last that will be sent to any store. This made me yell out a big whoo hoo! I love to have something different and unique and not found on every beautiful lady walking down the streets. So here they are my new boots. also check out Zappos and ElNaturalista for some fun shoe shopping.

www.zappos.com
www.elnaturalista.com

No Passports Needed!

2007-10-11T16:43:00.000-07:00

I have no idea what to pack for this journey. I don't know what the weather will be like. I don't have a map to lead me on the exact path. I have no idea what kind of people I will meet. I do have a stack of books to read and friends to rely on when I have questions or concerns. All I know is that I am happy! I am happier than I have ever been. I have been smiling from ear to ear. I sing with joy even though I can't carry a very good tune. I have been dancing around the house. Chris and I are so blessed to have a child. Well for now a fetus. Our little 1 inch peanut, Our baby. It's heart is beating 163 beats per minute. It is growing day by day. Now if only my belly would start to show so I could look pregnant. We have been wanting to take this trip for a long time. It just took some practice before we booked the right tickets!

Staying cool in the water. So Long Summer it was nice why we had you around!

2007-09-28T08:17:00.000-07:00

Ms. Lindsey staying cool in the pool.
Hi Logan can I get in your boat?
Hey how did a mermaid get in the pool?
chris you better watch out!

2007-09-28T08:10:00.000-07:00

Ron Zack and Chris staying cool in the pool.
Chris Catching a little air.
Me on the single ski
This is Scott on the wake surf. I never tried it I was too scared but it does look like fun.
Stacie on the wakeboard

Gates Wedding 9/14/07

2007-09-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

On Friday September 14, 2007 my cousin Anderson was getting married to his girlfriend Lindsey. The wedding was held on the beach on Coronado Island in San Diego. The weather was warm and you could hear the gentle sounds of the ocean. This is a picture of my Uncle Phil Aunt Sharon Mom and Dad Whitman.
A view of the reception. Dinner on the beach. and Dancing too..
Music is a large part of the family. Anderson's Mom sang a beautiful song as his Dad played the guitar.
(Picture is not of them. Hired musicans I asume)

When it was time to say goodbye and watch the bride and groom go, we sent them off with sparklers. They walked down the firey aisle and into their future. Too bad I did not have a good picture of the Handsome couple.

Camp Tuolumne September 8-10 2007

2007-09-18T15:34:00.000-07:00

Theres no place like camp Tuolumne. I have been going with my family since I was a little girl. My father went with his family and I hope someday to go with my children. Family camp is wonderful. We call it gourmet camping as all you have to do is roll out your sleeping bag on a cot and start your fun. There is fishing, swimming, arts and crafts, hiking, star gazing. And always meeting new friends.
Some of our best friends and their son Louis. Nathan and Cristen have been joining us up at camp for a good 6 years now. We all love to go and make memories.
Here is Mom with Louis. He was the most popular camper this year. I think the most handsome too.

2007-09-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

Louis's first time at camp. I think he had a good time. Sometimes it was loud in the dinning hall. Soon he will be running around and fishing like the big kids.
Mommy and baby. Near the river.
The best part about sleeping at camp is sleeping outside. You see millions of stars and the birds wake you up in the morning.
Dad shoots and he scores in the bocce ball tournement.
Nathan and Chris discuss their winning point. They finished in first place and were titled Bocce Ball Winners. Good Job guys

2007-09-18T15:18:00.000-07:00

A view as the bocce players make their way to the next point.
Here are some old time campers. An ice cream toast!
The Blues band rocked us all. They sang all your favorites and some new ones too.
The energy was great. Kids to grandparents dancing the night away.
I liked this yellow picture it is of chris and myself big smiles on the dance floor. We can't wait until next year!

Road Trip 7/31/07 to 8/12/07

2007-08-23T14:35:00.000-07:00

Leaving home is never a problem when your headed somewhere new. We left our house early July 31 and headed towards Montana. We covered 3300 miles in two weeks we made the most out of this trip. Camping, staying in hotels and with family. Road Trips Rock!
Every time we passed by Hay Chris would say " Hay" yeah it kinda wore on me after a week of passing "hay"
Oh yeah the best part of road trips road snacks. This is from a little taco stand just near Goose Lake Oregon
a dogs gotta pee and so do we..
a little more road snacks. Easy Cheese. A good friend of mine has a better idea of what he would like to do with Easy Cheese,

2007-08-23T14:29:00.000-07:00

Driving into Idaho. One fantastic view after another
Great Open Spaces
We camped here along the river for 6 bucks. One of the best nights sleep we have had in a long time.
The perfect dinner.
A quick stop on the Lewis and Clark Trail.

2007-08-23T14:14:00.000-07:00

The whole reason why we took the road trip in the first place was for this. A shaffer/ Cunningham/Birthday/ Family Reunion. We had two 30 year old birthdays to celebrate my brother Jason and my cousin Marco. Aunt Sharon did the best she could to gather the family for a reunion. So many were missing but thoses who came we had a great time. I noticed that I was not able to get great photos of everyone so I just used what I could. Family, it is one of those things in life that make you who you are. I am so blessed to be part of this family and my Dad's family and of course Chris's family. I find it strange when I meet people who have tiny families. I have told them to join mine. What is one more family member anyway? Family to us is not just blood related oh no it is far more than that. Family to me is love, friendship, and truly being there when needed. Okay and let's not forget to mention family should be different, spread all over the country and well, know how to have a good time
Cousin Chris Shaffer, Aunt Sharon, Cousin Marco and Cousin Olivia
Cousin Pam and Andy
Chris and my brother Jason out for a little Four wheeling fun.

2007-08-23T14:04:00.000-07:00

Cousins: Kayson and Dante
Jason with Chloe. Hanging out on the back porch.
Chloe in the Swan River
Because of forest fires my cousin James needed to wet down all areas around the cabin. Well, maybe it was really just a way to stay cool and have fun.
A view of the back of the Surrena's cabin.

2007-08-23T13:57:00.000-07:00

We made our way into Yellowstone National Park. We only had a day to drive around. Problem traveling with a dog in a National Park is you can't take her with you on hikes. Big bummer. So we did our best to see what we could from the road. Here we are at a very hot spring. The sulfur is in the air and the ground boils under you.
We did manage to leave Chloe in the car for an hour so we could walk to these Falls.
Yellowstones Famous Buffalo's.
Here we are waiting for Old Faithful to blow.
Oh boy there it goes. I was not really so into this. It was really crowded and well so this is all that happens. the ground does not shake, no sirens ring. Just a burst of steam and then it is over. It sure does bring in the people.

2007-08-23T13:47:00.000-07:00

OH MY WYOMING!!! oh how beautiful you are.
Grand Tetons before sunset.
Really we don't mind, we can share the road. No problem.
We stayed only one night at Turpin Meadow Ranch $148 dollars for a very clean cute cabin. We made a salad and ate next to the river. We watched swallows catch bugs, and we listened to nature sing us to sleep. Not before Chris cleaned my clock at a game of Gin...

2007-08-23T13:42:00.000-07:00

The Grand Tetons at Morning
In the town of Jackson Hole Wyoming.
I bellied up at the Million Dollar Bar.
Entering into Utah what a view!

2007-08-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

After leaving Wyoming we headed to have a short visit with Chris's Uncle Jim. When we arrived we had been on the the road for 8 hours. We arrived to a beautiful feast.
wild flowers
the rocks formations near his cabin.
Look at these handsome men.
Our way around the mountains.

2007-08-23T13:22:00.000-07:00

Uncle Jim's cabin is in a section of Utah that is hard to explain. Just a peaceful little nook that is surrounded by these giant rock formations. It was amazing.
on our morning look about.
wood damaged by fire, leaving natural art in it's path.
Ooo a little something something for our yard!

2007-08-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

Here we are in Provo Utah. We had a few days to visit with Chris's Grandma Darleen. It was nice to catch up on our lives and what we all have been up to.
One afternoon we went sailing on Provo Lake with Chris's Aunt Cindy and Uncle John. We had a great afternoon. We shared stories listened to music and laughed. We felt so comfortable with them like good old friends. Here you see Cindy and I dipping our toes in the cool water.
The three sailers

2007-08-23T13:10:00.000-07:00

Driving through Utah and into Nevada. We stoped at a rest stop just before Nevada.
Just a perfect place to hoop it up and stretch the legs

Underwater Swimming

2007-08-14T07:23:00.000-07:00

The kids came for a swim and dinner a few weeks ago. I had not been able to post these photos yet so here they are.
They took turns with the underwater camera. These are my favorite shots.
Your a beautiful young lady Jessica. I am so proud of you and was so happy we could have you over even if it was just for a little bit.
Zack, you crack Uncle Chris and I up. You are so funny. We love you very much. I hope you had a great summer. See you soon buddy!

Simply feed me

2007-07-21T07:26:00.000-07:00

Green Zebra Tomato, Lemon Boy, and cherry tomatoes stacked with fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and balsamic vinegar

farm fresh corn, spinach, eggplant, baby bell peppers and shallots.

Going Bamboo

2007-07-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

I heard Anthony Bourdain once talked about going bamboo. Going bamboo is really getting away from the "real world" and living a very chill, easy life. Going Bamboo is something many expats have done by turning in their leather loafers for a pair of flip flops. Giving up the "American Dream" laying low on the beaches of Thailand or surfing away hours in Bali. Living an island life.

I liked this phrase "going bamboo" I have adopted it myself as I think I could be among some of these chilled out islanders. I have watched many of suns fall into the ocean, I have fallen asleep to the sounds of the palm trees, and I have thought I could live without all this stuff. So from time to time I get away I leave it all behind.

Last week I went to Maui for 4 nights I took in the fresh air and relaxed. I feel recharged and peaceful. I may never go fully bamboo. I may NEVER give up my high heels for flip flops but, I can understand how some never go home and back to the real world.

O Summer

2007-06-28T10:14:00.000-07:00

It's true, summer is a favorite season of mine. Following fall, spring and glorious winter. But, I truly love summer and all it has to offer. Lazy hot afternoons, warm nights, and the endless blue skies. Summer dayz are wasted away in line at a lemonaide stand, stuffing cotton candy in your mouth, or waiting patiently as your favorite food grows and gets bigger and juicy and, and, and, hurry mr. tomato plant I am waiting for you! I have big plans for you. I have so many mouth watering receipts to show you off in.

For me, Basil and Tomatoes are like the perfect marriage. It's sweet, spicy, beautiful, soft, and just makes SENSE.
A look at the tiny garden. mainly tomato plants and one eggplant, basil, fennel, onions, garlic, oregeno, chives, and parsley.

2007-06-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

When we began the backyard project, I had trouble seeing past the dirt and the hard work. Once the rocks came I started to feel excited and I could see the light at the end of the tunnel. The creative parts of the project were begining.
A hard job but they did such a good job.
A view from the plum trees. The cement will be poured soon.
A summer afternoon.

2007-06-12T07:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I figured I would post about our summer project. We went ahead with a remodel in our backyard. This photos was taken from the roof a month ago. We are designing a new backyard. With plenty of spaces for sunbathers, shade seekers, and party dwellers.
It is a lot of hard work. I KINDA feel bad that I can't help dig up old cement or dig through the clay dirt. Here Chris is playing I mean working.
We used to have walls around this lower patio. We removed them for an open feel and view of the whole yard.
every other day a group of hard workers are in the backyard. Here these guys are removing the old plaster getting it ready for the new and improved pebble sheen....

2007-06-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

I have a feeling the summer heat will soon be back. We hope the project will be complete so we can see these smiling faces splashing around before too long.

2007-06-01T19:15:00.001-07:00

Well, I was just walking around the house with not much to do when the idea came to go shopping. I usually like to wander to TJ Maxx or into a wine store or even the garden store. But, today I headed out to Whole Foods. I never go to the store. It is out of the way and full of people. Today I went with no time limit I even got a great parking spot. My first impression of the store was WOW look at how beautiful it is laid out. As I stood there smiling in a Friday afternoon haze I was suddenly jolted out of my gourmet day dream by a rude shopper. I spun around to see who could bump me like that with out saying excuse me but in my eye sight was just the lettuce guy smiling back at me and asking if I needed any help. I carried on through the store walking up and down each aisle. Looking and learning about the products the store carried. I kept looking around with a huge smile on my face hoping to strike up a conversation with some willing soul. Hmpf no takers... I headed to the meat department, surley there was a handsome butcher waiting to take my order. Nope, no smiling man. no how are you doing miss. how is your day. what can I get you dear.. Nope nada nothing. Across the counter was a transgender with a huge attitude. she wore pink lipstick and foundation which actually was a really nice shade. Maybe I should have asked her what makeup line she uses.....
Anyway I got my beef at $18.99 a pound and carried on however not without asking the butcher are you having a good day? Her responce "ya you have a good day too." No I said Are you having a good day . "Oh, yeah thanks" the butcher said. Well I figured it was a great way to spend Friday at 1pm but, I won't make a habit of it I love my local market Lunardies the people are super friendly. I can buy all the organics I need and the butchers, they serve with a smile.

2007-06-01T19:10:00.000-07:00

Here sits Chloe in the dirt wasting away in the warm June sun.
Lexus found the dirty cement a warm and cozy place to watch Chris work.
Chris working hard in the back yard. Here he is starting the tear down of the old wooden arbor. It is home for a beautiful old jasmine plant. We will do our best to save such a special old shrub.
Even the bees are hard at work. i should be too..

Happy Mother's Day

2007-05-11T06:35:00.000-07:00

I guess when I think of it we were both lucky to connect. Some how in this great big universe my mom and dad met and had two wonderful children. My mother, Carrie she is an amazing women. She is beautiful, practical, honest, hardworking, some would say, she is the salt of the earth kind of women. Growing up she always made time for fun. We had parties for anything and everything. She laughed alot. She sang alot. She wrote songs for my brother and I. She taught us so many new and fabulous things. She made us develop imaginations. Create stories, dance, make up a play, draw or go outside. Growing up is never easy. It is painful sometimes. You can feel hurt, and loss and sadness. But, after 32 years of being loved uncondishionaly, and given the room to grow to be all I can be, It's mom I have to thank, and notice she was the first teacher, the first one to guide, and the first to love me. She always said, " you can be anything you want to be" I have done almost everything I have ever wanted to do. And I really think it is because of those words that echo day after day in my ears. I don't have fear when it comes to trying new things. I don't worry if I will fall cause, I know my mom will help pick me up. On the eve of Mother's Day weekend. I can't figure out a gift to give her that could say all of this. So I used my blog to kinda put it out there. Tell anyone who reads it. And remind me of how lucky I am to have a terrific, strong, caring woman as my mom. Happy Mother's Day Mom! I love you so much. Your my friend and family and everything. Always and Forever... your lele

2007-05-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

On May 2nd we packed up the car and headed south. It was pouring rain that morning, but it still did not stop us. We planned a two night getaway camping in Big Sur. Ventana Campgrounds. Once we reached the ocean the clouds started to clear and bring out the sun. Here we are at Phieffer Beach
A view from our Tent. Taken in the rain.
On May 3rd we woke up feeling not so fresh as we froze our little tooties all night. In fact we took the blanket away from the dog and had her sleep with us. Anything, to stay warm. When we finally managed to get warm we sleep way into the morning. 10am in fact. This is very unusual for us. It did not matter it was my birthday so all we had ahead of us was hiking and a long cheese lunch at Nepethe.
a perfect bithday cake. made fresh that moment from the famous pastry chef Christopher Pickup
This is California...

2007-04-29T16:05:00.000-07:00

Another Great Idea by another Blogger. this time it is to share how you and your beloved meet. So my blogger friends, get to writing and falling in love all over again. Thanks emily great idea.

Well, It was Friday June 13th 1997 I was at the Shoreline Amplitheater for BFD. The sun had set the music was pumping and the Cure was playing. I thought to myself Robert Smith really looks bad and sounded worse. (and i loved the cure for years before then) I turned to my friend and told her" I have to get away from this dieing cat I will catch up with you later." So there I was, wondering around looking at the faces of the drunks the stoned and everyone in between. And Then something happened, something shifted I looked up to see a guy sitting on a picnic table. He yelled out to me " hey you want a Blo Pop? " as being a hard candy freak I said "sure what flavor" It was strawberry, my favorite. We made small talk and exchanged numbers. I was thrilled to know he lived 5 miles from my house. hmm maybe he'll call I thought as I walked away and stuffed his number in my pocket. He called the next morning before 9am...

this is a photo of our original numbers and tickets. it sits next to our wedding invite and flowers

We were married October 16, 1999.
And now we are living a happy peaceful life. and who ever said don't take candy from strangers. Look where it got me. A terrific husband, a best-friend, and a bigger better family. mmmm. I can still taste the strawberry Blo Pop. okay maybe not. Maybe it's just my flavored chapstick but hey, a girl can pretend!

2007-04-21T06:46:00.000-07:00

Dreams:
I don't know if you dream but I do. I dream in color in sound and in motion. Last night I had dreams of whales. Big whales, beautiful whales. I lived in a glass house and was with friends but, I could not peel myself away from the glass windows to visit with my friends. Chloe the dog was there too. She was outside of the house next to the whales trying to make her tail splash against the water like they were doing. The waves the whales created made me feel like I was on a boat. Moving up and down with the motion of the tides. I was not scared of the whales as maybe I would be in real life as they were springing out of the water and coming down in a big crash. The glass house was strong. It was also like an aquarium. I could see under the water too.

Do you ever look up your dreams? I do. Dreaming of the Sea is a symbol of female sexuality. Tides express the ebb and flow of sexual union. The sea represents the unconscious. according to Freud Dreaming of whales means, Symbol par excellence of the womb, the whale may swallow the dreamer in what for a Freud expressess a grand act of incest. (i was not swallowed) The whale may reguritate the dreamer as an express of resurrection or spiritual re birth. The glass house represents the fear of loosing self control, to have fear of what others may think of you.

I found all of this very exciting. I can't wait to dream tonight!

Happy Birthday Mom

2007-04-19T07:12:00.000-07:00

On March 3 we chris myself Ron and Carrie jason and Liz headed for San Diego. We arrived to a beautiful ship. The Oosterdam Holland America. we spent a week together 3 Port of calls Too many meals and never enough laughs.
The guys enjoyed a little cigar in the cigar room
My favorite part was coffee on the deck outside our room. From our decks we saw Birds, Dolphins, and Whales. And a lot of water.
Just another beautiful couple

2007-04-19T07:05:00.000-07:00

On March 4th we celebrated my Moms 60th Birthday. we ate at the little restaurant on the ship. We had 5 star service and 60 stars of fun.
the family
walking the steps of the ship. we did not have our sea legs yet.
She was humble, she was beautiful, she was lovely, she is our Mom! Happy Birthday!

2007-04-19T07:02:00.000-07:00

Along the waters edge in Puerto Vallarta is art. A lot of Art painting, statues, artisits all waiting to sell all wanting to create.

2007-04-19T06:53:00.000-07:00

the family. our Port of the day Mazatln
moms birthday is still going strong. She went to use the ladies room when her cake arrrived. The waiters at Senior Frogs just went in and got her. Thank god, she was finished and making her way out. Or else who knows how this photo would have looked.

Balloons? I don't see any balloons. What are you talking about?
jason mom and me

2007-04-19T06:50:00.000-07:00

the beautiful Cabo San Lucas
Chris joined in on a spring break game. A drinking game. He had to run to the ocean have a shot then a beer then spin three times and run back. He did pretty good, came in third at 36 years old.

2007-04-19T06:41:00.000-07:00

Ready for a swim
Sunset leaving San Diego

2007-04-12T11:11:00.000-07:00

FIVE THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT ME.. LISA PICKUP
(I did this as it is going around to all bloggers a chain blog sort of.)

1. My given birth name is Elenor Rebecca Newell > no just kidding, Elizabeth Anne Newell

2. I love magazines. I would say I am a junkie for them. I look at each page. I mostly love the advertisements. The models, the clothes, the set design, the colors, the texures.

3. I am a working Actor and Print Model. It has taken me years, to admit out loud that I am an Actor. I started acting in grade school. I continued through High School and College. In High School, I competed for 4 years at the Cal State Hayward Shakespeare Competition. I toured with children's theater in Livermore and Pleasanton during college. I currently work with a mystery dinner theater company. I play a variety of Characters. We preform in different restaurants in the East Bay. When called for print work I jump at the chance. I have worked with companies like, Adobe, Clorox, Kodak, Zavesca. I currently study acting with a private coach in San francisco. I meet with him for about 2 hours a week ,and then I also attend an improv group class. I hope to work in commercials soon.

4. I have always wanted to live in another country. I have traveled a little bit in this great big world. I wish as a school kid I had went away for a foreign exchange program. I would like for my 40th birthday to rent a villa in Italy for the summer and live there. I hope to have a child with me, My husband and any friends/family that could manage a week or two away.

5. I don't like desserts. I would much rather have a glass of wine or bread and cheese.

okay Maire your turn, tell us 5 things we don't know about you. www.wildlifeofmaireandmike.blogspot.com

Venezuela February 2007

2007-04-04T17:29:00.000-07:00

Driving to the airport on our last morning, I looked out the cab window as we went speeding by. The ocean to the right of me, and the Mountains to the left. The pastel colored houses wedged into the mountain looked, like a crayon box dumped upside down. Each house so bright and so beautiful. The sun was coming up, and it was a fresh start to the day. I felt a little sad saying goodbye. But, I could not help from smiling as I knew were I had been, and were I was going. Venezuela. What a trip. We left January 31, 2007 and returned to San Francisco February 28th. We had sun, sand, rocks, mountains, oceans, lakes, rivers, hot springs and more. We saw birds, lizards, monkeys, cows, fresh water dolphins, crocodile, and more. We meet friends. We learned more, we taught more. We were and always will be travelers.............

Our last night in Venezuela. We stayed at Hotel Ole Caribe in Caracas. We lounged by the pool in the day and looked forward to tomorrow.

2007-04-04T17:23:00.000-07:00

If you are one who knows the hoop. Well, you won't be surprised to see we travel with one. Here Chris works his moves.
Go Marcia, Get Going, Move your hips around.
not so great of me on the hoop but, it made it to the blog mainly due to the socks. It was cold in that house.
Who ever said Hooping was not a full contact sport was wrong. This was Ricks first time on the hoop. I swear, I never saw anything like it. He maybe, had the hoop for five seconds when it went soaring in the air across the room to land on the glass table. Yep, in his way was a good bottle of red and three glasses. A perfect 10

2007-04-04T17:04:00.000-07:00

El Yaque is south of the airport on Isla Margarita. The waters are clear. The wind is steady. This makes it perfect for windsurfing and kite surfing. Not so good for sunbathing. But, there are many other baches for that.
a splash in the water. we are at El Agua beach
Super model Necklace

Looking out the giant house windows. Wow what a place. it was so nice to be invited to stay there. a private room. A beautiful big bathroom with hot water. a washing machine and dryer just like the one at home. ahhhh all the comforts of home sweet home.

2007-04-04T16:43:00.000-07:00

Chris has this theory, when you say goodbye to one set of friends you bump into another. Meet Rick and Marcia. We meet them a few days prior to this photo at a bar. We had a few drinks and said good night. The next morning we left early and went out to drive the island we stayed a couple of night on the other side of the island. Tonight we had just come back to El Yaque with Elaine and her cousins to have a meal. We waved goodbye to the kids and went to look for a hotel when, Chris said, "Look I think that looks like Rick and Marcia the couple we met the other night." (Rick and Marcia are from San Francisco the only Americans we will meet in Venezuela) Sure enough it was. "hola amigos" we spoke up. They had heavy bags from shopping "let us help you" we said... Minutes later Marcia was mixing up Margaritas. They invited us to stay in their house. We did..
The sunset over the waters of El Yaque Isla Margarita
We had such a nice day at the mangroves with Elaine and her cousins. We figured sharing a dinner before we say goodbye, would be the perfect ending to our day. Over dinner we spoke about politics and careers. They each have big plans and dreams. Traveling without a set schedule allows you time to mingle with the locals and take it all in. They were so sweet, so gentle. They made Chris and I part of the family. We hope we did the same for them. We know when we return to Venezuela we have just the family to call.

2007-04-04T07:28:00.000-07:00

Sun set across the lagoon
Our guide is fixing us a snack. These oysters were very warm, the were very fresh, they were very salty, they were not my favorite. I do prefer them cold with hog wash.
crabs, oysters, starfish, oh my!
landscape
Pelican taking off

2007-04-04T07:23:00.000-07:00

A view from the boat. We are in the national park of laguna de la Restininga. A large lagoon filled with mangroves, it has narrow channels to weave in and out of. This is a habitat for birds, and many fish, crabs, starfish, oysters, and more.
our guide found us a seahorse to look at
Elaine meet up with us and brought her two cousins. we all spent the day together.
this is our rental car.

2007-04-03T20:14:00.000-07:00

a view
taking a swim. the water is warm and the waves are great. This is at Playa El Agua
our hotel for two nights Hotel Flamboyant. An all inclusive resort. A big change from all other nights in Venezuela. Too many tourist
Oysters on the beach.
This is Elaine. We meet her as we were waiting for the ferry from Puerto La Cruz to the island. Isla Margarita. She is a firefighter in Caracas. She was so nice that she offered to take our bags from us and put them in her car. She was taking her car on the ferry and we were just walking on. She even drove us to the airport, once we arrived in Isla Margarita. At the airport we picked up a rental car and were on our way. We told Elaine we would see her in a few days.

2007-03-29T18:22:00.000-07:00

Chris trying his hand at the BBQ
tonight we had our last night with Rene and Doris. This photo was not a spectacular sunset but, it was our last night together. Rene got word his father was very ill. They needed to head back to Zurich and see him and the family. It was a sad night. Some tears were shed. But, we all knew it was not the end of our friendship just the end of this trip. We will all meet again. Chris and I look forward to a trip to Zurich.
dancing with the local men
more dancing. always time for dancing
the local kids had to have a picture. they wanted to show off how cool they are.

2007-03-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

We had been driving a ton so we needed a few days at one place. Again with no reservation and being Carnival weekend we were pushing our luck a little bit. We headed to Chinea Arriba in Calabozo. We arrived to locked gates. A tree lined driveway gave us hope that this was a very nice place to hang our hats for a few nights. Well, with the gates locked we grabbed a cold beer and started walking. Not long until a man arrives on a horse to welcome us to the ranch. They were a very nice group of people. We asked to just pay for one room and no food. As we had our own. However about a half hour after we started to unpack came cold drinks. Then later a terrific free dinner. What a way to be welcomed.
Chris coming out of our room. A modest room with 4 beds, cold water, and frogs.
Here we are at sunset.
doris dancing to her favorite song.
We just had to lie down and check out all the stars in the sky.

2007-03-26T16:31:00.000-07:00

Chris on a horse
luis and me
doris
we had some clothes to wash
This is the first time I ever cut anyones hair. It was hard to get started. I was laughing so much at first. Thanks rene!

2007-03-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

After sunrise. The lagoon

2007-03-26T16:14:00.000-07:00

Here you see the band. They are playing the music of the Los Llanos. Joropo. A fast pasted harp led rhythm. By day they work on the ranch and at night they sing. Well, this weekend anyway as it is Carnival.
Dancing with the owner
hooping it up to a tune. They made me by the way...
Doris and Rene
Luis, we miss you...

2007-03-25T12:58:00.001-07:00

Sometimes the kindness of strangers can really surprise you. We are in Los Llanos in a tiny town called Apurito. It would be night soon and we had no place to sleep. No hotels no campgrounds. Doris and I simple suggested we ask a nice family if we can stay one night on their land. We asked this guy he said yes! This is Gelner a proud friendly family man. American Love songs were blaring from his truck radio. His friends and family all around. Dogs, roosters, chickens and his kids ran around as the sun was setting. Here are his kids
I think he must be proud of all he has accomplished in his 33 years of life. His ranch at first glance is modest and well kept. The second look shows a happy working ranch with many first grade cattle, a small lake, birds everywhere. Fruit trees, fresh herbs and so much love.
Sunset across his lake
they brought the music the chairs we brought out the rum.

2007-03-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

Cattle out on a morning walk
for breakfast not only did they invite us for eggs and coffee but fresh cow cheese. Here you see this gentleman making more.
He is so sweet. that smile tells everything.
The three amigos.
At 6:30am I tried my hand at milking a cow. It is much harder then it looked. The female cow would knock over the bucket sometimes. Her baby wants the milk really bad. it fusses and makes so much noise.

2007-03-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

This is a capybara the world's largest rodent. It has webed feet and likes the water as much as land.
a pretty little iguana
The Los Llanos Cowboys. an estimated 130,000 head of cattle roam the enormous ranches.
the cattle going home

2007-03-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

Los Llanos is one of thoses places you whip your head around as fast as you can to take a glimse of something beautiful.
Look at them all. Each pond that had these birds had this many all together.
This is what I mean. see the crocodile, cow and yes another bird. Many lagoons we drove by had this scene.
Venezuela's Los Llanos has more bird species then the United States and Great Britain Combined

2007-03-25T11:54:00.000-07:00

walking through the tall grass fields. the sun is getting hot.
A bird in a tree
I love this picture of the Howler Monkey

2007-03-25T11:51:00.000-07:00

Our eco lodge guide. He shows us a large snail shell. Darn the French beat us to them.
Here the guys are going deeper into the Bamboo. Looking for an anaconda
Chris wading in the swamp water.
Rene ready for any danger.

2007-03-25T09:10:00.000-07:00

Some men traveling
On our way to Los Llanos. A part of Venezuela that is very different. It takes up a third of the country's land mass.
We found our eco lodge Rio Caiman
The owners wife made us a tuna pasta for dinner.

2007-03-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

"Hello and enjoy your nights sleep."
At Rio Caimen you are welcome to stay here. They set up hammocks for you to sleep in. The fresh air will keep you cool and comfortable. But, since we just showed up without a reservation, we told the owner no bother with setting up we can all sleep in the camper. But, thanks anyway....
Cocktail hour cuba libre anyone?
Sunset on the river. A beautiful time. The birds were everywhere feeding on little fish and bugs. We heard frogs humming, birds singing and then a strange slapping sound. Hmm again and again. Oh, it's the sound of Chris slapping away the hundred mosquitos.
Sunset hoop

2007-03-25T08:44:00.000-07:00

Road side lunch for four. Chicken, sausage, steak, all cooked on an open fire. Then avacado, cold slaw, tomato, and more..
The truck needed a little TLC. We stayed in the town of Barinas at a nice road side motel. The Hosteria Los Guasimitos for two days. It gave time for Doris and I to work on our tans and have a great long lunch. We really got to know each other better that day. Inside this first class repair shop.