J CLYDE FAMILY

Technology

2011-12-03T17:26:00.000-07:00

Okay technology is great! However, buyer beware, when you put all of your trust in technology and it fails to perform. Well you're just up the creek.

This past week or two or maybe it's been all summer long, my laptop just hasn't performed. Takes three, no five times the duration to perform a simple task and some not so simple. Okay, I finally gave up to it to the Geek Squad. First, we performed a quick diagnosis and then determined that some of my issue was I needed more RAM. Install 8MB of RAM and learned that Windows 32 would not handle it so let's try the computer with only updating to 4MB. Nope that didn't work.

Next was to reinstall the 8 MB and upgrade Windows to Windows 64. Okay no problem other than this will totally delete your hard drive. Okay do a backup and restore the data. Do I have all of my program keys? Who saves all of those strings of numbers and alpha digits when they purchase new programs. Okay it wasn't so bad but it did take some time.

Finally, got the laptop home and tried a few programs. Hm...wait a minute none of the programs can find my data. The data is all there but the programs can not locate. Okay back to the squad room and spent two hours waiting for them to re-map all of my data. At least I'm up and running to share some of my frustrations with computers with you. Enjoy my sentiment below:

http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=computer+frustrations&view=detail&mid=973B216AE50D50177A39973B216AE50D50177A39&first=0&FORM=LKVR8

What would we do without our computers???

Turkey Day 2011

2011-11-27T16:20:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner this year. Cheryl and I hosted my parents, my brother and sisters families and our children. I'm most grateful this year for family and we had 40 of us this year to celebrate. Here are a few pics of the fun we had together.

John and Rachel and their two boys were sure missed by all. We're thankful that they now have a clear journey to proceed forward with and pray for them as they quickly in the next two weeks move from Ohio to New York. Up up and away into the wild blue yonder goes my little military family. We will look forward to hearing all about your move and the area you have moved into.

Forty Family Members this Year.

Ryder enjoyed the meal

Boston having Fun

Let's Just Dance...and work off those calories.

Lexi has got the moves!

Adyson is in the Groove!

How to entertain 40 family members.

Dessert

Monster Mash 2011

2011-10-30T16:35:00.005-06:00

Here is a little movie for all to enjoy. Happy Halloween !

Monterey California

2011-10-30T12:35:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, Cheryl and I drove to California to attend a convention. After the convention we took the remainder of the week off and enjoyed sunny California. Here a little bit of what we saw:

A two hour cruise

Anchors Away

Da-dum, Da=dum, oh it's only a dolphin

Endangered

Flight Control requesting permission for take off.

Where's Cheryl? I hope one of those vats is not empty now.

A grand place for breakfast

Which wave should I take a picture of?

The Lone Cypress Tree

Pebble Beach 18th Hole
We shot a 72
Not Really - Just liven the dream

Kayaking in the Bay

A town meeting

Peek-a-Boo

Sunset at Big Sur

Lake Tahoe - on the way home

Never know what you will find the bushes at Tahoe

That's All Folks!

Yellowstone Adventure

2011-09-10T10:42:00.000-06:00

Last weekend for Labor Day, Cheryl and I ventured forth once again on an adventure of fun and beauty. We traveled to Jackson Hole and stay in the Grand Teton Village for the holiday. Took half a day on Friday and drove up to Jackson Hole. Dinner at the Mangy Moose a favorite of ours. Saturday morning bright and early, well mid morning, we drove up to Yellowstone. Nearly a two hour drive by time you go back into Jackson and through Grand Teton Park.

For the last several years as we have visited the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone, I have dreamt about fishing some of the appealing streams, creeks and rivers. Well this trip I lived the dream. Cheryl and I both purchased a park fishing license and Saturday afternoon I took Cheryl out into the Fire Hole River to doing some fishing. This was a great place for Cheryl to work on her casting and fishing skills without the worry of brush on the banks. She did a great job - just no fish. Did see one fish on the bank rise after our grasshopper but that was it. Oh well it was just fun to be on the river with the hot pots spewing steam and warm water into the river above and below us.

Didn't see a lot of wildlife this trip but did manage that evening on the way back to Grand Teton Village to have a cow elk block the road in front of us and then have a stare down with the vehicles trying to maneuver around her. Saturday evening we eat a Bubbas Barbecue in Jackson another favorite dinning spot.

Sunday morning we toured the park to see some of the attractions. However, we first venture across a short cut road from Grand Teton Village into the Grand Teton Park and shortened the travel time to and from Yellowstone. Of course we had to stop at Jenny Lake and take a few photos for our daughter Jenny. Hm.. wonder why she thinks she owns a lake in the Grand Tetons.

From the Grand Tetons we traveled along the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake and visited the Fishing Bridge and the Upper and Lower Falls. Still no wildlife to see but a few geese on the river. Making the short loop across the park we stopped along the Virgina Cascade and stream and did a bit more fishing. As soon as I started stringing my fly rod I could see the fish rising. I was actually successful being able to say; "Fish On!" this time. Ended up catching a couple of small brook trout and really living the dream. It was a lot of fun.

Finished the day driving along the Grand Tetons has the sunset and it was a wonderful view. It was late when we got back but we managed to muster enough strength to eat at the Mangy Moose. Monday we said goodbye to the beautiful

country and headed home. Here a few pics of the weekend.

One Hot Mama

See You Later Guys

Celebrating our Town and Cheryl's Birthday

2011-08-09T20:11:00.000-06:00

Saturday, Cheryl and I got up and went over to the city's celebration and watched the Scottish Games for several hours. Interesting fact is that we have now attended the Scottish Games for the past three years and still enjoy all those men (and women) in those Tartan Skirts. It takes a real man to wear a skirt and real men must come from Scotland. Oh that's right I am Scottish.

This afternoon our family gathered, all except our Military Family in Ohio, and we ate a wonderful barbecue dinner and celebrated Cheryl's birthday and just spent the afternoon enjoying life together.

We continued the celebration of life later in the evening by gathering with our neighbors on our driveway and watching the fireworks to conclude the city's celebration and ours for the weekend. Here some of our pics of all the fun we had liven the dream.

Hm..reminds me of her mother as a little girl.

Charge!

Don't get your toes wet.

Swimming upstream

Now this is a new adventure

Strutting her stuff

Checking out wading river

Hm..I'm thirsty

Chinese Water Torture ?

Even the Big Kids enjoy the splash pad

Maybe a bit to much

How do we get so wet?

An intense conversation with Grammy

The Motley Crew

Sparkler Time

The Whole Gang is Here

Hm.. yup fireworks a happening

Never to old for Sparklers

Smile we're on Candid Camera

Italy - Tour of Duty

2011-05-30T11:14:00.004-06:00

Well during our Italy trip, Cheryl and our friends from Alabama decided that we needed to have pictures of the men in blue through out Italy. Now I believe this started two years ago when Cheryl and I were in Malta and I decide to take a picture of every country's flag that I could locate. Okay, so during our visit to Italy it became a obligation to photograph as many men/women in blue as possible. Now you will notice some our in green for military enforcement. Hm..you wonder. What is even more amazing was I had no problem locating these individuals it was like they were following me around. Do I look like a international spy?

Here is to the officers who protected us during our tour of Italy:

Okay this guy was questionable

Now, that's a gun

Stay out of the Water!

Yes, He is a bit out dated.

The Police Station

Vatican Police

Vatican Guard

Out of my way!

Well needless to say we found plenty of officers to take a picture of and had a little bit of fun doing it. Cheryl and the our girls from Alabama would come up to me and say "Oh, look take a picture of that policeman."

Just the facts.

Italy: The Trip Home

2011-05-29T12:21:00.000-06:00

Well for the last two days, Cheryl and I have been recovering from our trip home from Italy. Needless to say the flight home did not disappoint us as we have come to expect unforeseen events in our travels. Now don't get confused, we don't like the events necessarily but after our last couple of adventures well we have come to expect trouble.

Our flight from Rome departed at noon on Thursday, May 26th. So once we had elbowed and fought our way onto the plane we were able to settle down and relax for the long flight to New York. Some 9 hours later we arrived at JFK International Airport and had a 2 1/2 hour lay over. Okay so far so good.

Well at JFK we had to claim our luggage and go through customs and then recheck our luggage. Approximately, 30-45 mins ordeal. Still left plenty of time to move to terminal three go through security and grab a bite to eat before proceeding to our final leg of the journey. The Security Checkpoint took another 45 minutes but we survived the ordeal again and grabbed a bit to eat and then proceeded to the gate with only 15 minutes to spare before boarding.

Wrong! First, the plane was late by half an hour. Okay, we can accept half hour late and it was time to board. Text Taylor and let him know that the plane is delayed a bit but we should still arrive around 11:00 PM. Boarded the plane, the plane backed out and we stopped and waited and waited and waited. Flight attendants indicated that there were bad storms but as soon as they could determine a different route and avoid we would take off. Actually, moved out onto the taxiway after an hour wait and then parked the plane for another hour and half and sat.

Now we are not happy and we are not the only ones unhappy. Okay by law now, the plane taxied back to the gate and they open the door of the plane and indicated that we would be able to get off. However, if you get off you may not be able to get back on due to security or lack thereof. Second, if you chose to depart the plane you had to take your carry on luggage with you also due to security issues. Well after some assurance that passengers could depart from the plane and be able to get back on half the plane de-boarded with the strict warning that they need to stay close by because if a window opened up we would head out immediately.

Approximately another hour passed by. Cheryl and I chose to stay on the plane. I didn't want to take any chances with missing this flight at all. The crew announced that the weather was breaking and that we would head right out and take off. Re-boarded plane, backed away from gate and moved out onto the taxiway. Once there we waited and waited and waited.

At this point we had text Taylor and asked him to take our vehicle to the airport and park it and then lock the keys in it and text us the location. We had no idea if we would still be in New York by morning or not. Finally, the pilot came on and announced that we were 10th in line to take off. Hm...I think I heard that over two hours ago.

Finally after approximately 7 hours of waiting the plane finally departed. The next 5 hours of flight seemed to take for ever. I never did think that we would finally make our home destination. Passengers were cranking to say the least.

Finally we began our final approach to the airport and turned to Cheryl and told her we need to put our electronic equipment away and prepare for landing. We did so. I'm watching the GPS Flight Tracking and note that we have dropped to 10,000 feet in elevation and think that the Flight Crew will make their finally announcement and check of the cabin for landing.

Hm..no announcement until we have reach 5000 feet. Hm.. the flight attendants are just starting to make a final check. I turned to Cheryl and told her they are way behind the eight ball on this task when the lead flight attendant comes back on the radio and firmly instructs all attendants to get to their jump seats and I sensed that the plane is about to touch down.

Yes, folks the first time I have ever seen this but we had passengers and flight attendants standing in the aisles as our plane landed. Luckily, no one was injured. I'd say our chief flight attendant was a bit groggy also.

So our adventure ends at 5:00 AM on Friday morning the 27th instead of 10:30 PM on the 26th but we are home safe and sound ready for a long weekend. Well we will take the weekend to recoup.

Italy Day Thirteen: Areverdercci Italy

2011-05-25T08:46:00.001-06:00

Caught the train to Rome mid morning and said goodbye to Napals. Probably not our most favorite location to visit but worth at least one visit.

The Spanish Steps

Arrived in Rome mid afternoon, and had some lunch. Afterwards, we walked up to the Spanish Steps Piazza. This was the only site in the last two visits that we had not seen. Our visit was short due to a sprinkling of rain; but at least we can say that we have been to the Spanish Steps.

On the walk back to the hotel we came across a fountain that we had walked to on our last visit in Rome a little over a year ago. During that walk our quest was to find the Spanish Steps. Well we were within one block of the Spanish Steps last time and never knew it. If we had only kept on the path for a bit longer we would have run right into them.

Once back to the hotel it was time to adjust our luggage for the flight home. We have to re-pack to meet wieght requirements and protect our valuables. Tomorrow morning bright and early our private driver will pick us up at the hotel and it's off to the Rome Airport and this time Terminal 5 for real. It is a Delta Ineternationl Flight to JFK. Not like last time when we should have been in Termainal 3 for Air France even though it was listed as Delta.

Our trip has come to an end and we have had a great time over the last two weeks here in Italy. We have seen some spectaular sites and people. Now all we can say is Areverdercci to Italy.

Italy Day Twelve- An Anniversary Not To Be Forgotten

2011-05-24T14:19:00.003-06:00

This morning we met our own private guide, Domineco, for a day on the Amalfi Coast. Today became an anniversary that Cheryl and I will never forget.

First, we headed out of Naples and heading up the mountains to get to the coast line, Domineco educated us on the Italian Lifestyles, life history, and various tid bits. At the summit we pulled over and he had sized Cheryl and I up and knew what our desires and wants of the day would be. A fantastic oversight of Naples was observed and then onward to the coast we climbed.

Stopping at Villa Cimbroe in Ravello, we climbed to a little know garden and saw some spectacular sights. Looking down the steep canyons walls at the small villages that lined the coast line. Here it was pointed out the the Americans during World War II lost over 4,000 troops as they tried to invade Italy and faced the steep slopes and the German Army Gun Turrets. Some of they turrets still in place today. This Garden alone made the day; however, Domineco informs us that we have not seen anything as of yet.

Moving down the mountain and onto the coast line we travelled through Amalfi. Positano, and finally Sorrento. In Positano, we found a wonderful tile shop that takes volcanic limestone and creates ceramic tile works of art from them. Decorative tiles, dishes, bowls, flower pots, and tables. Hm.. yea we need a table for our patio deck. What do you think? Why not have a table made and shipped to Highland Utah. Okay. All we can say is that I'll be working for the next ten years to pay for the table yet it is a great investment that our family will enjoy for years to come.

Positano is the place where Domineco grew up and he had made arrangements for a special lunch for Cheryl and I. High up on the cliff we were treated to a real Italian dinner with vegetables, octopus, eggplant, cheese, ham, Gnocchi, Mama's Pasta and a special anniversary cake. Yes, they made a special cake that wished us a Happy Anniversary with a candle to blow out. We indeed felt honored and appreciated the efforts in our behalf.

Our view was spectacular at lunch and in many ways we hated to say goodbye to the restaurant staff but we needed to head to Sorrento for some Gelato and then take the short way back to Naples. We had just entered a long tunnel when the traffic came to a halt. After sitting for approximately 30 minutes, we found out that the highway ahead was being blocked by picket lines of a strike. I just can't get away from the trials of Unions. After probably another 20 minutes, Domineco turned the van around and it was back the way just came to Naples. One hour outside of Naples and we had to turn around and return back the way we came taking over two more hours. Well we did get to see the Amalfi Coast twice thanks to the union strike.

I'm not sure what Cheryl is doing here, maybe the officer can shed some light.

The Amafi Coast

Yes, we are living the dream with an anniversary that will never be forgotten.

Italy Day Eleven: At the base of the Volcano

2011-05-23T11:47:00.005-06:00

Naples-Mount Vesuvius in background

Last night with our arrival in Naples, we signed up for a tour this morning to Pompeii. This is the most preserved and intact oldest community in the world. Why? Due to the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius that covered the city with volcanic ash and suffocating the residents and preserving the village of 25,000 inhabitants.

A tour guide, a Spaniard seemed more concerned with explaining to those who spoke Spanish than to the remainder of the group (English). However, despite his slow pace and yodeling we survived the tour.

As we walked through the city streets we could see the intelligence of the people who once lived here. Evidence of sewer systems, storm drain systems, running water and lead pipelines could all be observed. One could only imagine what the streets looked like back in 76 AD as we stepped back in time.

Pompeii once a port city now lies several miles from the s

One of the significant artifacts that we were able to see were the mummified bodies, skeleton bodies of some of the residents who were caught in the volcanic ash. Bodies of young men and a mother possible wondering where her child was were again more evidence of the terrible fate of this village.

Afterwards, we returned to Naples and tried to catch some of the routes of the Jump On Bus; however, after two attempts only to be told the bus was full, we abandoned the idea and took the opportunity to have a gelato, take a short nap, and then a relaxing dinner again at Antinio & Antinio.

Tomorrow is Happy Anniversary for Cheryl and I.

Italy Day Ten: Oliva Twist and a pick pocket or two and Mr. Toads Wild Ride

2011-05-22T12:51:00.005-06:00

Well all during out tour trip our tour guide has been warning everyone to be aware of the pick pockets and gypsies. This morning, Cheryl and I became well too acquainted with two gypsies and yes pick pocketers. We caught a cab to the train station and as we began to board the train two young ladies, one with a baby opened the door from inside the train and assisted Cheryl in finding our compartment. Next they had to assist us in loading our luggage up onto the racks. Now Cheryl and I were thinking, oh they are in the same compartment and that’s why they are assisting us. First my bag was lifted up and then it took one of the young ladies, Cheryl and I to lift Cheryl’s bag up onto the rack. As we began to lift the bag I felt something at my rear pocket and thought hm… I must have caught my wallet pocket along the baby and mother behind me. No, once again I felt something on my rear pocket and swatting my hand behind me I told Cheryl to move very sternly and pushing the bag upward turned to confront our friends.

Now I wasn’t sure if they were trying to lifting my wallet or not and the one young woman plead poverty and that she was pregnant I told Cheryl to give her a euro and get her out of our compartment. Cheryl noted the disappointment on her face when she observed that Cheryl’s purse was not accessible.

It was interesting to note as I told Cheryl that I thought they were trying to lift my wallet that we saw them outside the train on the platform moving into another unknowing tourist to assist. Yes, they did try to lift my wallet. She had managed to unbutton my rear pocket with my wallet in it, however, when I swatted her hand away and became a little irritated they immediately retreated not wanting to create a scene. As the train loaded we warned those who understood us to be aware of the gypsies.

Our trip was otherwise without incident but left me a bit more cautious. We did share the compartment with two other couples one from Portland, Oregon and one from Australia. It was at least comforting to spend then 1 ½ hours conversing in English at the time.

Disembarked from the train in Naples and said goodbye to our traveling companions. This is when we caught Mr Toad's Wild Ride from the train termini to the hotel. Again, the traffic signs and lanes are only suggestions in Italy. As we rushed through town and could see the VIN numbers in each vehicle next to us we had to wonder if we would survive this adventure in one piece. I thought Tijuana Taxi drives were one for the storybooks well Italy will top the books also.

It was disappointing to drive through Naples and see the filth and atmosphere of the city. Crime rate is high, dirty conditions, and having experienced now firsthand the attempt of being stolen from left a sour taste in my mouth. We had a late lunch and then realized that we had missed the last departure time jump on/off bus we retired for the evening with hopes that things would get better in the morning.

Naples is the birth place of the pizza. This evening we located a restaurant that confirmed that Naples knows how to make a pizza. Antinio & Antinio was a great find and we will revisit them before our stay is over.

Italy Day Nine: The Italian Life

2011-05-21T11:20:00.004-06:00

Today, Cheryl and I began our official lives as Italians. No tour group today to help us about town. We spent the first half of the day catching up on some much needed rest. After we had gotten up and going we caught the shuttle bus into Rome and walked around the Forum and Coliseum Area wondering what we could do to kill 4 plus hours.

On the way to the Forum; however, an interesting event transpired. We are the first passengers onto the bus at the hotel. The bus arrived at the hotel around 11:30 and then parked out in the parking lot until 11: 40 when the driver brought the bus around to the front lobby. Anyway, Cheryl and I were the first passengers on. The bus loaded up the driver walked through the bus and had confirmed that he had everyone's ticket and it was down the road we go. Approximately half way into Rome the driver's cell phone rings and he is an emotional conversation with the party on the other end. He also pulls over on the freeway and walks back to the bus. Now in our limited Italian understanding we can tell he is talking about a bambino. He quickly drives down the freeway takes an exit and heads back to the hotel. As we enter into the hotel entrance a woman is standing quite upset and she boards the bus and says something to the effect: " How could you..."

Evidently, all we can figure out is that her and her husband had caught the bus back from Rome/Airport and their baby had fallen asleep and they had disembarked and had told the driver that they would ride into Rome and be right back. Hm...well we they get off the bus in Rome, they have a 8-9 year old boy with them and evidently he was the bambino. I just can't figure out why they would leave their bambino on the bus alone at all.

Yes, everyone today we put my loyalty to the test and I can say I still have my hand after placing it in the Lion's Mouth. Well okay I got a picture of the Lion but there was no way I was going to wait in line for over an hour to lose my hand. A picture will have to suffice today.

At least this time we found the vestal virgins

Well after walking around the forum and deciding not to pay 12 Euros each to enter ( been there done that two years ago) we decide that we were hungry. No breakfast and so visiting one of the streets nearby we sat down at a sidewalk cafe and enjoyed probably for the first time in my life an one and one half hour lunch. Can I just tell you I kinda of like the Italian life style.

You know a work shift starting time, or the painted lines in the road, or the traffic signs are only suggestions. It's one thing that we have notice while particularly here in Rome is the suggested way of living. Traffic doesn't necessarily stay in the traffic lanes, they straddle the lines and work their way into whatever side of the road they want to be on. It's an amazing feat to watch 4-5 lanes of traffic come to a 2 lane ahead situation and they without incident manage to keep traffic flowing by just jockeying for position with the other drivers.

It may be also that they seem to be unaware of what we Americans call "personal space". Everywhere you go they crowed as close as possible to keep others from slipping ahead of them. No such things as an Italian waiting in a line. It's all for one and one for all. You learn quickly to use your arms and elbows to keep them at bay. Cheryl became the linebacker for our tour group as she has the gumption to block them from getting ahead of her and then wave our tour group through first. The group loved her for her linebacker abilities.

Tiber River in Rome

Well back to our lunch. We just sat and enjoyed the atmosphere just up the street from the Forum and the food. I had a pizza and Cheryl had pasta. Afterwards we talked about what our trip ahead had in store for us and the fun we have had so far. After a second round of sodas we had some gelato and then it was time to work our way back to the shuttle stop and back to the hotel for the evening.

Tomorrow it's a train ride to Naples.

Italy Day Eight: Rome is Conquered

2011-05-20T13:42:00.009-06:00

Pyamid of Rome

Today was a long and busy day. First, we picked up a guide familiar with Rome and the Vatican. Alexandra was excellent as we drove around the city pointing out points of interest and tidbits of facts for us. We visited the Circus Maximus, drove by the Forum, visited the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.

Our Tour Group at Trevi Fountain

Pantheon

Inside the Pantheon

After lunch we entered the smallest nation in the world, Vatican City. 104 Acres consists of the whole of the Vatican and it is recognized as a nation within itself. We toured the Vatican Museums and saw great colletions of the statues, tapestry and art collected over the years. We visited St. Peters Catherdal and saw the works of Bernini and mummies of popes laid to rest. Yes, the actual bodies embalmed and mummified for display. Of course St. Peters Catherdal is the location of where the Apostle Peter is buried and the center of the cathedral is built upon his burial spot.

Masterpiece Art Work

St. Peters

Hallway to the Sistine Chapel

Michangelo's Work

St. Peter's Catherdal

Vatican Square

The Swiss Guard

Looking up to where the Pope would address the crowd

The Pope was in his office today

Confession line was too long to see the Pope

One of the greatest highlights for Cheryl and I was to see the Sistine Chapel and work of Michelangelo and others. What a spectacular site to view and take in. It's too bad that they will not allow photos of the chapel and the great artwork.

Cheryl giving the Angel's and Demons Tour

Finally our last hurrah was to take and lead seven of our group through the streets of Rome to a couple of interesting spots. First, we visited the Castel and Ponte of Sant'Angelo. This historical site became well know from the movie Angels and Demons. It is here that the four popes were kidnapped and held hostage in the movie.

Our Demon Tour Group

Piazza Navona

Dinner was in a little side cafe where we had a delicious dinner and then on to the Piazza Navona where one of the bodies of the popes was dumped into the fountain in the movie. It

is a great spot to gather and hold market and entertainment as well.

Rome has been Conquered

After conquering Rome, a tired tour group met for the last time and took our last bus ride back to our hotel. Tomorrow the main group goes to Pompeii and others will go their separate ways. It has been a great little tour group and we would do it over in an instance. Thanks to Image Tours and our guide Thea, it's been great.

Italy Day Seven: Siena & the Journey to Rome

2011-05-19T14:02:00.003-06:00

Well it's time to leave Montecatini this morning. So an early wake up call came way to early at 5:45AM and a quick final packing of the bags so they could be loaded on the bus and a bite to eat and it was time to say ciao to Montecatini.

It took approximately, two hours to our first stop and the time was well used as we slept and caught a few more zzz's. Siena was a beautiful village on top of the hill that is well know for the Palio horse race every year. Siena has a Piazza de Campo that is shaped in a sea shell. Here every year the various districts conduct a lottery and 10 horses with a jockey are chosen to race. The outside perimeter of the square is covered with two inches of sand and the horse that wins (notice not the jockey but the horse ) is entitled to bragging rights for the year.

Siena Duomo was a interesting cathedral to visit and observe. Here Michelangelo had several of 12 statues displayed at a tomb site. The church was decorated in black and white striped marble which is also the colors of the village. Throughout the village and the cathedral statues of the She-wolf are displayed and honored as they claim that the she-wolf saved the city.

One last cathedral was visited where we actually observed the head of Saint Catherine. Yes the head which was preserved when she died and is displayed in the cathedral as a memorial to her.

Last was our 4 hour journey to Rome where we are staying at the Holiday Inn. Yes, the Holiday Inn, but it makes us all feel more at home as it does not depict the usual European Hotel Rooms; but are large and roomy.

Italy Day Six: Cinque Terre- Planes Boats , Trains, & Automobiles

2011-05-18T12:48:00.006-06:00

Yes, today we utilized about every mode of transportation we could, including our own two feet. Cinque Terre is a quintet of villages clinging to a bit of rugged coastline between Genoa and Pisa. First, it was an hour and half bus ride to the train station in LaSpezia. Next, we caught the train to Riomagglore, our first small village along the coast line. We then walked the “Trail of Love” to Manarola where we caught the next train to Corniglia. Here we took a fast and small bus/shuttle to the top of the mountain and walked the village streets for about ten minutes before riding back down the mountain on the shuttle and catching the next train. Of course we could have walked to the village but when we realized that there were over 400 steps to climb to reach the village …well time just wouldn’t allow us to walk those beautiful steps. The train from Corniglia took us to the favorite village where we had lunch on the bay, Vernazza. Here we had a couple of hours to enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and surroundings. Finally, it was back on the train to Monterosso, the only resort town in the Cinque Terre and then we caught a boat back to La Spezia. It was a place where we could go back to and enjoy the scenery and no I’m not talking about the nude beaches. Yes, on the boat ride our hostess gratefully pointed out where the two or three nude beaches where and the ship captain even startled some sun bathers with his ship horn which delighted the passengers. No, it was a beautiful and relaxing adventure that we could come back and spend some time even more.

Starting the Trail of Love

Manarola

Corniglia

LaSpezia Entrance to the Harbor

Vernazza

No more Trail of Love for Cheryl

Boat Ride back to LaSpezia

I think Cheryl caught the nude sunbather

Old Town with a modern highway

Mountains where the marble for all of the statues comes from

Tomorrow we move on to Rome.

Day Five: Florence and the Renaissance

2011-05-18T12:44:00.011-06:00

Today we traveled east back into the city of Florence, the place where the renaissance really began. Walking through the town center you could feel the spirits of those who made such an impact on the world today. Such men as Michelangelo, da Vinci, and Dante. The buildings portrayed the new city and the spirit that was born here in Florence.

We saw great structures and works of art such as the Santa Marie Duomo, the bell tower and the baptistery. On the baptistery we observed the famous brass doors with 9 panels depicting stories from the bible. We saw the famous marble statues of Michelangelo, and others. In the Accademia we saw the real statue of David. The perfectly portioned statue of the young man as he prepares to battle Goliath was breathtaking. The details of how Michelangelo depicted the nude David became the model for all to follow as the Renaissance began. Other wonderful works of marble were also observed.

Florence Bell Tower

Brass Doors of Baptisry

Replica of the Statue of David. Sorry no pictures of the real McCoy

How coudl I say No?

We finished the day in Florence shopping of course. Cheryl will never forget Florence as she now sports a new genuine Italian Leather jacket. All I can say is she is one hot mama with the jacket on. Okay even without the jacket she’s smoking hot.

Our day concluded with a evening attending a concert by two opera singers. When in Italy you have to love the opera as the Italians do. It was a great performance and now it’s off to bed for tomorrow comes early as we start another adventure.

Italy Day Four- Lean Tower of Pisa Crumbles to the Ground

2011-05-16T10:23:00.002-06:00

Today we traveled west to Pisa where we had the opportunity to visit the Duomo, Baptistery, and the famous Leaning Tower. The morning was fun taking all types of great photographs of the structures and shots of each other. Yes, we took the photo of each other holding, pushing and a push-me-pull-me contest with the tower as the central focal point. It was immediately after leaving Pisa that the tower came crumbling down.
Yes, I am a brilliant engineer who thought that I could focus on several items (i.e. discussion on bus, trying to determine how many photos remaining on memory card, and answering question being asked of me.) Let me assure you I’m not as brilliant as I may appear. After three days visiting various locations in Italy, this brilliant engineer, accidentally reformatted his memory card destroying the last three days of great photos and memories of a life time. The only photo I can show now is a photo of me looking pretty dumb!!!

The remainder of the afternoon, Cheryl and I with another tour couple ventured out in Montecatini and found a vehicular wagon to take us to Montecatini Alto; the village on top of the mountain. It was a beautiful site and a quaint little village that lured one to retire and enjoy the life. We spent the afternoon walking about the village streets and alley ways, finding fantastic photo opportunities and interesting buildings. Hm.. I wonder if I can keep these photos for more than a day.

Italy Day Three- Our Wet Venetian Tour

2011-05-16T10:22:00.003-06:00

Today, we awoke and enjoyed a hot cup of hot chocolate before starting the day. The main question was will it rain or just be overcast all day. We boarded the bus and proceeded to Venice where we had to catch a ferry, boat, bus, or whatever they want to call it to the dock at St. Marcos Square. Now we had come over 3600 miles to see Venice and first we are going to spend 2/3rd of a day there and then on top of it all by time we boarded our vessel to take us to the island it had begun to sprinkle.
Venice consists of a series of hundreds of islands. We proceeded to the main island. A quick tour of what is around St. Marco’s Square was made and then on to the Venetian Glass Shop. After a few Euros spent we were on our own for a few hours to explore. Cheryl and I visited St. Mark’s Cathedral. If only we could have taken photos of the inside. This is a must for those planning on visiting Venice. The bastilles were all decorated with gold mosaic artwork that was beautiful.

After St. Mark’s it was time for a bit of lunch and of course, oh did I forget to tell you that it has been raining steady since we landed on Venice, well of course we looked for an opportunity to move inside and sit and watch the rain. A pizza shop off the beaten path provided the ideal location and we enjoyed a delicious pizza and meringue cake. Mmmm… may need to return to Venice just for another meringue cake.

With time running out we hustled through the back alley ways and located the famous Rialto Bridge. A few photos and it were finding our way back through the maze to our meeting place for the tour group. Now luckily the rain had subsided enough that the gondola boats came back out and we were able to take Cheryl’s dream boat ride through the streets of Venice with an accordion playing and a singer in the next boat close by. Okay so it is a bit romantic. See honey there is hope for me yet.

This other than the walk back to the docks and a short ride back in our boat to the mainland conclude our Venice visit. Next it was a four hour drive to a mountainous village of Montecatini. It was a beautiful drive as we entered into the hillsides and even perked my interest more to observe a new freeway being constructed next to the existing road with new tunnels, and bridges to make a safer road for the traveling public. Hm..could I now call this a business trip and write the vacation off? We’ll now spend the next four nights here in Montecatini and set out on various excursions from here.

Italy Vacation Day Two- Juliet, Juliet How much have you spent?

2011-05-14T13:43:00.002-06:00

Well after yesterday's adventure it was difficult to wake up this morning at 6:00 AM and have our luggage out the door waiting to be loaded on the bus by 7:00AM. A little breakfast and our Italy tour commenced.

First was the fortress in Milan and a quick photo opt of the fortress that took five centuries to build. Milan suffered heavy damage during World War II due to the bombing by the Allied troops. Next, we visited the center of Milan. A statue honoring Leonard da Vinci greeted the way. The Gothic Duomo church was an awesome site. A cathedral built entirely of marble that houses a sitting bishop. Cathedrals that house a sitting bishop are then called Duomos.

Milan is the capital of the world when it comes to fashion and we visited a number of shops in the Galleria, the first covered mall in the world. Here the best of the fashion icons were present as we walked on the marble mall floors and window shopped. Okay, Cheryl made me buy a tie.

Next was a visit to La Scala the worlds greatest opera house. Here is where operas such as Othello, Aida, and La Boheme have been performed on the stage. A magnificent view was admired from a box of the theater. Remember the Italians love their opera.

Leaving Milan we traveled through the Po Valley which is a fertile wine country. This is the agriculture center of Italy and the vineyards were plentiful. But they also grow other products such as Kiwi, Peaches, and Apples.

Verona most popularly known as the home of Romeo and Juliet. The two young adults who grew up in opposing families and the romantic tragedy that we all know was played out. Of course, Romeo, me, in this case did stand under the famous balcony and calling out to Juliet was disappointed when she didn't appear. She was too cheap to pay the 9 Euros to go into the home and stand on the balcony.

Verona is a great place to see the life of Italians. Roaming the narrow small streets and the marketplaces consumed the afternoon. Verona also has a colosseum that is in better shape than the famous colosseum in Rome. It would hold up to 30,000 spectators.

One sad note is that we had a member of our tour group, in a wheelchair, tip and fall out of the wheelchair on the way back to the bus. Unfortunately, he suffered a good cut on his small finger and possible disjointed the finger. His partner stayed with him and the ambulance was going to take them to the hospital to have it treated. Hopefully, by morning they will catch up with us and join us again.

Tonight we ended our journey across Italy just outside of Venice. Tomorrow, Cheryl will get the gondola ride of the life time.

Itay Vacation Day One- Oh The Places We Thought We Could Go- One Long Journey

2011-05-14T13:09:00.001-06:00

The first two days of our journey/adventure/excursion or maybe we should just call them a “NIGHTMARE”. Up early Thursday AM to catch our initial flight to JFK. Arrived JFK approximately, 5:00 pm and then had to wait for our 10:00pm flight to Paris. Well, so far so good on the journey. We made our original flight and sailed through security at home, sailed through security at JFK again as we changed terminals. Had a bite to eat and recharged our electronic device batteries while we waited for our flight. Hm…maybe the forewarning was our hamburgers that on the menu sounded delicious; however, when we ordered the food we were informed that the bar was out of all their main courses and our deluxe hamburgers would be missing mushrooms and onions and when set in front of us no bacon neither. Hmm.. buyer beware.

Well after boarding the 747 flight to Paris, we waited and waited and taxied a little and taxied a little bit more and after a one hour delay finally took off. Okay, we should be okay they often times make up ground and our 1 ½ hour layover in Paris shouldn’t be in jeopardy. Landed in Paris with 30 minutes to locate our next flight gate and board the plane. Oh did I tell you we were on the very last row of the 747, and as usual Charles Degaulle Airport was a Nightmare.

15 minutes to deboard, made a mad rush to locate and ask where the next gate was located. Good it’s in terminal two and we landed in two but we still have to pass through customs and show passports another 10 minutes and the airport is assuring us that the airline is aware of the delay and will hold the plane. Okay we are through customs and another line appears and they rush us to near the front of the line and inform security that we have a plane close to departing and we need to be expedited through security. Cheryl’s first and beep goes the alarm. She gets the opportunity of having a body search okay wave the wand to ensure no concealed weapons. I’m next and inform them of my insulin vial and walk through the scanner with flying colors. Grab my belt and shoes and have them on and ready to grab the laptop when the security person ask me if the bag she has is my. “Yes, ma’ma, sir you need to come back and remove all electronic devices from the bag.” Are you kidding me? I just went through two other security points today and not had to remove anything but my laptop from the backpack. Out came the Camera, extra lens, Video Camera, Cell phone, & I-phone. Oh yes please remove your belt and walk back through the scanner. Finally, received a clearance to proceed and literally threw everything back into the backpack and we ran to the gate.

The gate was emptied. The plane was parked on the tarmac and a bus had to take the passengers to the plane to board. Therefore in order to depart on time the airline closed the boarding at 12:35 and we arrived at 12:40pm. All we could do is watch our flight taxi to the runway as it departed from Paris.

Okay now what? Quick let’s book another flight and hopefully, we can still catch our tour group dinner this afternoon. First flight 3:30 but it goes to the “other” airport approximately a 1-1/1/2 hour shuttle ride to the Milan/Malpensa Airport. Next flight to Malpensa Airport departs 9:05 pm and arrives around 10:35pm. Great we just got the opportunity to spend 7 hours in the airport that I have come to hate the most Degaulle Airport. Remember we have been up since 6:30 AM Thursday morning and now some 22 hours later we are being held hostage in an Airport for another 7 hours before we can catch a flight. Ugh!
On the brighter side we did catch a bit of a nap while waiting for our flight and I started the blog other than the blog site was unavailable and I had to utilize a word document to compile the blog thoughts and post later. Hm.. the day isn’t over, I wonder what will happen next? Hey Cheryl where do you think our luggage wound up? Oh and by the way it is Friday the 13th.

Finally after a seven hour wait we boarded the plane to Milan and arrived at 10:30 pm. Walked right out picked up our luggage and walked out the exit to met our tour guide, Thea and soon we were checked into the hotel in Milan.

Mother's Day Celebration

2011-05-11T19:26:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday, we celebrate Mother's Day. Our nearby children and grandchildren came over to the house and Papa cooked up some steaks and grub for everyone. Afterwards, we open a few gifts for Cheryl, Jenny, and Amanda.

After a few gifts it was off to Liberty Land a great little amusement park nearby where we could play miniature golf, water bumper cars, and go cart racing. Poor little Boston quickly disappointed as he found out he was quite tall enough to fly the planes or ride along. The Merry-Go-Round just didn't have the thrill for him. He settled down to concentrating on his golf game and all were filled with fun and laughter.

Rachel of course was in our thoughts also and hopefully she had a wonderful Mother's Day too. We did get to talk to her and wish her a Happy Mother's Day on the phone Sunday.

The picture says' it all. Happy Mother's Day to the great women in our lives.

Happy Birthday to our own little Tangle Princess Lexi

2011-05-06T19:35:00.001-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO LEXI!! She has truly become a little princess in her own right. Her Tangled Birthday party was a great event and once she had dressed up as Tangled well just like the movie there was trouble brewing. Here are some of the highlights of a lot of fun in the Boyaxk home.

Hm.. a dress, let's check it out

I thin that this will do.

All Right! I'm a Tangled Star Check it out.

I'm going places now.

If Ryder was rocking the floor

Hey, how do these thing work

Okay guys, observe your older sister now. This is cool!

Check it out everyone. I'm now 4 years old!

Well Happy Birthday again to a great young lady.

Graduating Scholars

2011-05-01T14:00:00.005-06:00

Our Graduates Enter the Arena

After what seems to have been an eternity for our son, can't speak for his wife, but I would guess the same sentiments are shared, the big milestone of receiving a college degree arrived on Friday. Better yet, both Taylor and Amanda, husband and wife graduated at the same time and per grateful parents walked through commencements at the same time. A great couple achieving their dreams together. Now that's living the dream,

Smile! We're on Camera Camera

It was a great accomplishment for both of them to graduate with their degrees. Taylor was the first graduating class in the new Construction Management Program at UVU and rightfully so Taylor was the first to walk across the podium to receive his degree in the program. Well it was actually Amanda with her communications degree that confused the faculty as she entered stage left first under the Construction Management Program.

Congratulations Amanda!

Congratulations Taylor!

Taylor, Amanda & Hunter Jr.

This was a big day in the life of two of our most important people in our family. Amanda's family also shared in the occasion and Hunter Jr was able to obtain his Associate Degree on the same day. The Cannon's have to be proud also as we are of the accomplishments of our children.

Husband & Wife Celebrate!
Check out the Red Shoes

Okay, maybe college was worth the hassle.

Well needless to say we are proud parents of a fine son and daughter-in-law. They set out on a journey and have obtained a great milestone in their journey. We love them and yes, this is part of living our dream

A Happy Happy Birthday to Me & a Hoppy Hoppy Easter to my Family

2011-04-24T17:53:00.000-06:00

Last weekend, the family got together and killed two birds with one stone. It was time to celebrate Papa's (me) birthday and while we were all together let's celebrate Easter with an Easter Egg Hunt too.

Now John and Rachel you know you were invited and we missed you and the boys. We know you were here in spirit and we look forward to the day when Uncle Sam brings you closer to home. Hopefully, you are having a wonderful Easter and we think about you guys a lot.

I received a few nice gifts to wear and the Air Force Hat topped the list from my missing Air Force Family. In fact it gave a great opportunity to show the other grandchildren my "hat collection" as you can see in the photos. We had quite the fashion show.

Taylor cooked an awesome steak and brauts dinner with Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler for dessert. It was a real treat.

The best gift was just spending time with my family. Thanks everyone! I'll always cherish these times as family.

The Hunt Begins!

Tracking the Easter Bunny

I Spy!

Another Egg found and on to more

Our Free Spirit.. Hm reminds me of her mother.

Grammy & Ryder Searching for Eggs

You know, I'm getting to old for these Bunny Ears.

Oh My!

Not far behind but yet paving her own way.

There's work to be done here

Our own little diva.

Now this is the way to wear a cap Papa.

If we only had a runway

That's All Folks!

Family Fun

2011-04-03T12:02:00.004-06:00

The only great escape from the every day pressures of life is to spend time with the family. This past week has been a great week as we had the great opportunity to spend time with my family on several occasions.

First, Wednesday was Boston's birthday. I just giggle inside as I watch this little man go about his business:

Can I get my driver's license now/

Okay Papa, what side should I lean my head too.

A Tractor Cool!

Taking care of business.

Friday, we met our son and his wife for an enjoyable dinner at Red Lobster. Somewhat a new experience for Amanda and fun to watch Taylor show her how to work hard for the delicious crab meat. Another great enjoyable time with family.

I should also mention that during the past week, our second daughter and her husband received their new Air Force assignment. Of course we were all wishing and hoping that they would be moving closer to home. Hm.. I definitely don't have any pull with the Air Force since they were assigned to move even further east from us. Montgomery Alabama will be a place to visit soon.

We were grateful to hear this week that they were able to locate a great home and neighborhood to call their new home. We look forward to the day when they will be close to us and we can have them join us for our family events and activities on a more regular basis. We do miss them when we gather as we did yesterday for a early grandma Easter Egg Hunt.

Who can not enjoy watching these precious jewels:

Who's on the phone?

Hm..a serious conversation

Lexi staking her territory. Hm how many eggs and treats did she see in that corner?

Look what I found.

I'm sorry married grandchildren are annexed from the hunt or is it de-annexed?

Finished the weekend having them all come over Sunday morning for some of Grammy's yummy breakfast strata,potatoes, and cinnamon rolls. Near a perfect weekend and week spending time having family fun.

Winter Adventure

2011-02-15T21:38:00.003-07:00

Cheryl and I this last weekend decided that it has been way to long since we ventured out on a little adventure /safari. So since the sun was shining on Saturday and the temperature was climbing upward a drastic change for the last 45 days we set off for an afternoon in the sun.

Now yes, I know it is still February and that there is still snow on the ground. But if all of those crazy skiers can hit the slopes in this type of weather why can't i put the waders on and venture into the beautiful mountain streams for a little fly fishing. Okay, this was my first go at fishing in the dead of winter. Hmm. kinda of enjoyed it and would do it again.

Of course, Cheryl was a bit annoyed as she did not hear me say I was throwing my fishing rod into the car and if so compelled would stop and fish. Luckily, I brought our new camera and gave her the opprotunity of experimenting with the zoom. She captured my "acting well the part" with the lens. Man do I look like a pro or what? Oh am I suppose to catch fish...well maybe another day.

What am I dong?

Competive Fisherman in the area

Fish On!..maybe

It's all in the presentation

Focus...

Beautiful Winter Wonderland

On the River

I could become addicted to an adventure like this every weekend. Just got to get Cheryl to bring a rod for herself or a book to read.

Christmas 2010

2010-12-27T17:48:00.015-07:00

Christmas this year as been a memorable Christmas considering that it was full of "firsts" for Cheryl and I.

This was our first Christmas as "official empty nesters". It was our first Christmas without our traditional Christmas Eve Party at Grandma Pinkies. It was our first Christmas to have lots of concerns for health and wellness for our family. A nephew in the hospital pending surgery and a daughter and son-in-law who were deathly ill with a bug. It was a first Christmas to spend several days with our two granddaughters Adyson and Lexi.

Here is Livin' the Dream Memories:

The Christmas Season Begins

2010-12-01T04:25:00.000-07:00

This year, Cheryl and I decided, okay it was a unilateral decision by Cheryl to take our family photos and develop Christmas Cards for close family and friends. So after enduring the preparations for the photo shoot, the actual photo shoot, the selection of what photos we liked, and the selection of where to go for Christmas Cards we have finally accomplished our task. Well almost completed we still have to mail the Christmas Cards out.

For anyone interested in doing the same Shutterfly has a great website to assist you in creating your own Christmas Cards. Go to http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards. We enjoyed the ease of the site and the ability to drag several of our photos into a collage and we were done. Thanks Shutterfly.

Of course Cheryl will not let me show off the card until you receive it in the mail. We know that you will enjoy it. Merry Christmas to all and to all a Goodnight.

Thanksgiving Adventure 2010

2010-11-25T20:02:00.014-07:00

Tuesday, November 23rd

Our adventure begins Tuesday afternoon. According to Cheryl we started our own version of the movie "2010" where the world comes to an end and a family frantically outruns the devastation of the world. Okay, well the world wasn't ending but imagine how we felt Monday night when the weather persons all communicated to the Intermountain States: "if you don't have to travel then don't! Blizzard like conditions will arrive Tuesday afternoon by 3:00 PM. In fact, the first time in the history of our company we told all of our projects and delivery drivers to cease and decease operations by noon and get home before the blizzard strikes.

Okay so what does that have to do with Cheryl and I beginning our adventure. Well of course with all of the hub-bug about invasion of privacy with the airport screenings or pat downs we chose to drive to our Thanksgiving destination. Tuesday afternoon I vacated work around 1:15PM and hurried home to pick up Cheryl and head South out of town. Of course we were trying to out run the storm and with a bit of luck and some strong wind we made our first destination 350 miles away from home and South enough to enjoy sunny weather.

Had dinner with Cheryl's folks who happened to be in the same town and Cheryl's sister that night.

Wednesday, November 24th

We got off to a slow start but enjoyed our drive to Southern California and Escondido. Only problem was that I thought I was trying to out race the storm that we left behind and as we came across the California State line it appeared that all of California was evacuating from a serious earthquake or grandma lived a long ways through the woods and over the river. Hm.. at least we will have Southern California to ourselves.

Thursday November 25th- Gobble, Gobble,Gobble

Who could ask for a better day. Okay our children all chose to abandon us this year something about it was the in-laws turn and we of course graciously accepted the offer to fly the coup. Our Turkey Day celebration was a first for Cheryl and I. We drove to Oceanside and walked along the beach side checking out the waves, surfers and birds. Sixty degrees and rising with sun shining felt great and refreshing.

Our turkey dinner was served to us by a Kenya Native who went for a run one day and stopped in Oceanside. Mimi's was a fun spot to watch the various families, couples and friends gather and enjoy a Thanksgiving feast. Mmmm...still can taste the tender dark meat turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie. Diet??? what diet. Let's just say I hope I'm not starting all over when I get home Sunday night.

Finished our day with a nap and relaxing, watching TV, and just livin' the dream.

Friday, November 26th - The Day After

Day began way to early. Somebody for free discounted tickets to the Wild Animal Kingdom booked a Owners VIP tour with the resort and it wasn't me. Regardless, we ended up staying up half the night and then getting up at the crack of dawn to take our golf cart tour. Now of course the resort wants to assess your membership and determine if there is a "better way" for you. Well after 5 hours we walked away with the plan to upgrade our membership and a few pennies less in our pocket. It after all was a good deal that we plan to utilize and enjoy more. Time will tell of course.

Mm, a bloodsicle

After a quick bite to eat, we traveled SE to the Wild Animal Kingdom. Imagine our surprise when we were able to find a parking stall right across from the entrance gate. Okay it was the end of the day and people were beginning a mass exodus out of the park. We immediately headed to the Africa Experience and caught the Cheetah Tales show on the way. Amazing animal that strolled within a few feet of Cheryl and I and a impressive presentation of the cheetah's abilities.

Next a tram ride through the various regions of Africa where we observed white rhinos, springboks, black rhinos, mule deer(okay mule deer are native to Calf but they were living amongst the African tribes), elands zebras, ostrich eggs, herons, pelicans, flamingos, lions, and many other wild animals with funny names that had big horns on their heads. It was getting dusk and difficult to capture the animals on camera but still fun.

Dinner, home again home again and crash for another day.

Saturday, November 27th

Another lazy morning by sleeping in and gaining some much needed rest. So relaxing! After we had dressed for the day we headed back down to Oceanside. Enjoyed the remainder of the morning walking out onto the longest pier along the coast and observing the surfers, fisherman and people out for a stroll. Met one individual who had family near us and his son who is a bishop nearby. Perch was the target for the day as he indicated and we wished him luck. It's a long way to reel in any catch from the ocean up and onto the pier.

At the end of the pier is a great little famous restaurant known as Ruby's Since we were on the pier above the ocean we had to try the seafood combo plate and a famous shake. Yes, it was a bit cool weather wise the shake was a tasty delight. Enjoyed our lunch eating good fish and shrimp while watching the folks on the pier catching nothing but minnows for bait.

The rest of the day we decided to stay out of the wind and drove north and south along the historic 101 Coast Highway. Stopped for a brief spell at Oceanside Harbor and then turned south and drove all the way to Del Mar before turning back towards the resort. It was fun passing through towns such as Oceanside, Carlsbad, and Encinatas. Beautiful beach coast line for miles and just a relaxing lazy afternoon.

Finished our vacation by having dinner with Sean and visiting before returning to our timeshare and sadly packing our bags for the long trip home tomorrow morning. It's been another great chapter in our dream.

THE MUNSTER MASH

2010-11-04T21:18:00.001-06:00

It's that time of year when are family's true characters emerge. Each of us begins preparations week in advance as we prepare for our family reunion. Here are just a few pics of the Adam's Family Reunion and the Munster who showed up. Boo!

We even invited Pumpkin Harvey to the Party.

Only one way to train a dragon.

Never could train my pets or keep a leash on them.

We got the beer - let's party!

Is clothing optional?

The Grand Ghouls

Catch Anyone

Our Modern Munster Family

The Young Munsters

The Love Child

What an Animal

The Witch's Brew

Somebody set the Wabbits Watch- He's late again

I just had my teeth cleaned

I Spy...!

It was a grand mash to say the least. Hope to see everyone next year.

SUMMER TIME

2010-09-19T18:11:00.004-06:00

Okay, a lot has happen and occurred over the last three -four months. In fact, Cheryl and I were just commenting on how emotionally drained and tired we are today. How come you ask? Well let's look back over the last few months and see what has occurred.

Fishing with grandchildren, watching and playing with grandchildren, planning and preparing for Taylor's wedding, Eye Surgery, Grandma Pinkies' Funeral, a new grandson, Ryder joins the family, family picture and finally Friday, Taylor and Amanda were sealed for all time

and eternity.

Here's a few pics to remember the summer of 2010.

FUTURE OLYMPIAN

ONE, TWO, THREE..JUMP!

CHERYL VISITS TAYLOR ON PROJECT

ANYBODY WANT A RIDE?

THE BOSS IS ON THE JOB.

EYE SURGERY

BOSTON THE CONTRACTOR

5 GRANDCHILDREN SMILING FOR PIC.

PORTER CONSTRUCTS TOO

ENDOWMENT DAY

THE HAPPY COUPLE

THE CLAN

FISHING WITH PAPA

LEXI ON THE WEDDING DAY

ADYSON CHECKING ON PROGRESS

MARRIED AT LAST

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

GABE CONGRATULATES THE BRIDE

SEALED FOR TIME AND ETERNITY

LEXI EXPLORES THE TEMPLE DOORS

PROUD GRANDPARENTS

SISTER CONGRATULATE THE GROOM

It has indeed been one busy summer, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. Who could ask for anything better than 3 months with family.

Grandma Pinkie

2010-08-21T08:54:00.001-06:00

Recievd word after a troublesome day that my final grandparent, Grandma Pinkie, passed away late yesterday afternoon. I'm grateful for the time that I knew my grandparents and grandma pinkie. I'm sadden to have known the pain that she had to endure this last few years yet grateful that she has now returned home to love ones and her eternal companion.

I think that my eternal companion's comments on facebook say it the best:

Attitude is everything! Grandma Pinkie passed away today. She's larger than life & enriched us in amazing ways. I'm grateful for eternal perspective! I'm choosing to spend a little time & think about what a GREAT day she is having being reunited with loved ones. Grandpa, who was her other half & has missed every single day & her mother whom she loved so much. So, Pinkie have a great day! We love you & will miss you.

Thanks Cheryl for those words of wisdom and gratitude. We love you Grandma Pinkie and we are grateful for the time that we did have here on earth to know you and have you as our grandma.

A Poke in the Eye

2010-08-14T06:00:00.006-06:00

Thursday, August 12th visited the local eye specialist. It has been a good year since seeing him. Endured the dilation of the eyes and his initial exam was "mmm...oh...wow...mmm..wow look at that.... wow...mmm...a lots' hap pend with your eyes in the last year".

Okay, we were expecting some small bleeders and knew that I was having trouble with some hemorrhaging in the eyes. Let's go into the technician and have a scan completed for more details. Not a big deal. Oh, wait we need to do a IV w/dye to highlight the veins in the eye. Okay 1996 was the last time I had this done and yes I blacked out then.

Ensures everyone that I was over the needle in the arm fear and that I would be fine. I was right. IV was nothing. Sat up to the eye scan placed my chin in the scanner and begin to take the scan with dye running through my veins. One, two, three pictures and oh...the room begins to spin and I begin to sweat. Called time-out and pushed back with my head between my legs, took some deep breaths and felt back in control. Let's get this done the quicker the better. One, two..."Oh Hell" and everything went black. Yup, I passed out for all of about 5 seconds before being rev ivied. Had a sip of coke and finally endured the remainder of the test. Lesson learned. It's not the IV has it is the dye running through the veins that rocks my world.

Photos definitely show the need for some laser treatment. Doctor was hesitant to proceed however, after I had had such a rough time taking the photos. Ah, what the heck what's one poke in the eye more going to do.

First, poke was a shot of numbing agent to numb the entire eye area. Oh, I thought the pressure injected was going to bust my nostril. That was a trip. Next, Laser zaps..there is a bleeder zap zap zap and so forth. Some 3000 plus zaps completed the laser treatment or laser burns and finally one last poke with a Kellogg shot and my one eye was completed.

Let's see 3-4 days of swelling. Woke up on Friday the 13th and open my eye up. Okay all I could do was open the eye up to a small slit due to the swelling. It should be gone in a week or so. At least I wont' have to worry about going blind. Luckily for me I was able to spend Friday the 13th at home resting. Imagine if I had the surgery on the Friday the 13th what could have happened then.

A Day Outdoors

2010-08-01T17:38:00.002-06:00

Invited Jenny and her children (our grandchildren) to come and spend some time with us yesterday up the canyon. We found just the perfect spot for young ones to threw pebbles in the river. Of course grandpa (me) told Adyson and Lexi to go ahead and throw all the stones in the river paticularly where those fishermen are fishing. Hm...okay, I was polite and asked them to wait for a few minutes that the fishermen would leave and they did.

While my princesses, and Boston played along the river bank and threw some stones in the river, Papa was able to put his new fly rod and reel to work. To everyone's amazement, it only took a few minutes and Papa was yelling "Fish On"! Funny I didn't see the other fishermen catch anything in the same hole.

Grandkids got a kick out of seeing Papa catch the fish and some of them even watch me let it go. Of course it was Boston my grandson. Adyson and Lexi were off in a fairy tale of their own and soon lost interest in the fish.

Ended up catching two fish for the day, landed one and had several good strikes. Finished fishing around 1:00 PM and we just sat in the picnic area and caught a few zzz's and Cheryl read.

Another wonderful day in the Great Outdoors! Thanks Aydson, Lexi, Boston, and Jenny for spending some time with us up the canyon.

A Little Relaxation & ATV Riding

2010-07-25T08:05:00.004-06:00

Enjoyed the state holiday this past weekend by visiting our good neighbors Bruce and Jane at their cabin. Spent the day relaxing, taking little ATV excursions, spotting and observing the wildlife and even did a little fishing.

Tragically, we also experienced the link to the following news story.

ksl.com - Man killed in ATV crash in Summit County

Our prayers and thoughts go out to the family and the man's son who was riding with his father at the time of the incident.

Our day was nearly perfect otherwise. Who could complain about see not one, nor two but in fact five different moose enjoying the afternoon also. Even saw a calf with it's mother. An awesome sight indeed. Sorry no pictures somebody left the camera in the backpack at the cabin.

Even did a little fishing or tried on the trip. Bruce tried out his skills on the pond and I quickly grabbed my fly rod and reel. Of course I wanted to try out my new 4X rod and new Lamson reel. Hm... how does the reel attach to the rod? Oh, you have to grab all of the reel and not just the 4X spool. Yup, there I was a great PDM hatch happening in front of my eyes and the trout were dining.

Oh well, how could I let a little oops ruin the whole day. I got as much fun watching Bruce and the rest of the kids fish with powerbait and no hits.

Had to even laugh as my wife ridiculed me and recounted the story to our friends of how I scarred my children with my fear of heights on a family trip to Arches and the hike to Delicate Arch. Hmm...I wonder if she saw this article that published this weekend in the news. I told you so!

ksl.com - Climbing regs reviewed at Arches National Park

We hated to the day end as we conclude our little adventure of relaxation and fun. Thanks Bruce and Jane for a great time.

Home Again, Home Again, Jigdy, Jigg

2010-05-31T09:26:00.004-06:00

Sunday we took advantage of our last day of sleeping in. The hotel had 3-4 weddings over the weekend and could give guarantee us a late check out until 7:00 AM Sunday morning. Hm, so we asked for a wake up call at 6:55 AM and turned around requested a late check out which they allowed us to stay until 12:30 pm and then went back to sleep.

Now a afternoon, at the airport is always a adventure in of itself. It would be almost worth the price to purchase a cheap ticket and just go and sit at the terminals and watch and listen to people.

Hm, we listened to an argument between a girl and her boyfriend on the phone. Never could quite figure out what the argument was about; however, she missed her flight because she was unable to get a ride to the airport with her boyfriend. Okay, okay, a good 45 minutes of the "As the World Turns" and we relocated to other seats.

Caught our flight to Chicago and actually arrived early. Okay this is going smoothly. Yea, right. First we had to go to a different concourse to catch the flight home. Next as we arrived thinking all is well they announce that our plane was delayed. In fact, they had to swamp out our plane and our plane was on it's way from Washington DC and our flight would be delayed by over 45 minutes. ARGH!!!

Needless, to say we did arrive home safely after listening to all the problems in one of the stewardess life and all the people she knew and who her girl friends were dating. ARGH!!.

It's good to be home.

From Revolutionary to Civil War Times

2010-05-29T17:30:00.003-06:00

Saturday was are last day of really getting out and seeing the sites. After a lengthy discussion and much deliberation we decided to kick back and take it easy Saturday. First stop, Jamestown Settlement. What I share this information with you yesterday. Oh, you're so wrong. Jamestown Settlement is right next to historic Jamestown where we went yesterday. To confuse the general public, the National Parks Service operates Historic Jamestown, the actual original location of the fort. In addition, the state of Virginia has created a museum and operates it as Jamestown Settlement. A word of advice, adults you will want to go to historic Jamestown and see the original location and archaeological diggings. If you have small children and want to show them what the Jamestown settlement was like then take them to the Jamestown Settlement. Best Value if you have time for both do both. Jamestown Settlement depicts the life of the settlers and re-enacts that life style with Indian Villages, the fort, and the replica ships to explore. It was well done and worth the visit. We didn't spend a lot of time here but thought we should at least visit the site. Another word to the wise. Watch for falling tree branches. While contemplating where and how to get to the Indian Village which we could see through the forest of trees, and these are not small trees, we heard a large cracking and observed as a 1 foot in diameter tree limb snapped and began it's downward descendant immediately above the Indian shelters. Luckily have snapping a few more branches in his downward path the branch was stopped by other limbs and came to a uneasy rest. By time we walked a couple of hundred of feet around the path to the village, security had arrived with the yellow caution tape and corridor the area off and consoled the shaken Indian actors. Just a little excitement for the day. Next it was back to Yorktown. We had heard that their was a feud brewing and we want to see what all the commotion was about. What you say we have already shared our Yorktown experience with you. Oh you're so wrong. Well to time travel. We traveled from the Revolutionary time forward to Civil War times. Arriving in York Town we entered the battlefield to observe the Confederate and Union Field Camps. Walking over to the battlefield we observed a demonstration in gear used by the troops, how to march, how to fire their rifles, and how to make a bayonet charge. Kinda of cool if you ask me. Here we were observing the Union Army, talking to those soldiers who served in the Civil War and observing what the field camps were all about. It was a great way to cap off our trip and start thinking about a Civil War Historical Vacation. Now we had to check out of our timeshare this morning so it was late afternoon and we traveled back to Williamsburg, checked in to our hotel for the evening and then enjoyed a stroll into the Merchant area of Williamsburg for a nice evening meal and thus concluded our day.

Here's a video to help you all enjoy the experience that we did.

Where It All Began

2010-05-28T15:57:00.008-06:00

The year was 1607. In a race to conquer the American Continent, the British, Spaniards, and French had sent explorers to claim the land. In 1607, King James III of England sent a capital venture group led by John Smith. They arrived on the Eastern shores of Virginia. Their mission was to create a settlement where the resources of this land could be harvested and converted to trades and exports. In other words, how could this company of men become rich.

The group consisted of 104 men and boys. They explored several locations along the James River to settle but finally selected a small island and named the settlement Jamestown after their king. Here they created their own House of Burgess and began to make laws to live by. This was the beginning and the birth of our form of government today. This was the first original permanent English Colony.

For the next 100 years, the settlers faced the challenges of a untamed wilderness. By the end of the first year, half of the 104 men and boys were still alive. Diseases, starvation, and Indian attacks were a common theme.

Well the rest is as they say, history in the making. John Smith meets Pocahontas, John Rolfe learns to grow tobacco and exports it to England. Around 1699, they determined that the settlement was not the best suited location due to the swamp and they hence moved to now Williamsburg, VA.

I had to make sure and get a picture of the princess Pocahontas for my granddaughters. I can now sit down with them and tell the real story of Pocahantos and the her contributions to our country's history. She was a great lady.

While at Jamestown make sure that you take the 5 mile drive around the island and see what the island is like. Yes, it is swamping, but beautiful.

If you ever get the chance take the time to go to the original Jamestown Settlement and check out the archeological digs. This was a great tour and we learned lots about the settlement and what we are doing today to preserve this glimpse back into history.

This was a great site to visit and I found it most enjoyable.

Williamsburg to Mount Vernon

2010-05-27T19:24:00.014-06:00

This morning, we saddled our horses and began our trek to learn more about General Washington. I have become somewhat more interested in this man and how he conducted his life while here in Williamsburg. So we pointed the horses north and began our trek Northward. The trail took us through other familiar names associated with battlefields and history. Places such as Fredricksburg, Spotsylvinia, Quantico and Fort A. P. Hill. We also passed by places such as Richmond and Petersburg. Finally as we neared Washington D. C. we veered to the right and entered into Alexandria, VA.

Yes, some 2 1/2 hours later we arrived at Mount Vernon to learn more of the man we call the Father of our Nation. Yes, we have fast horses.

Mount Vernon was well worth the trip. It was a hot and muggy day, temperature well into the 90's; but any uncomfortable situations which we were asked to endure was worth the opportunity to walk the grounds and tour Mount Vernon. The home sits on a hill overlooking the Potomac River and provides a tranquil atmosphere to ponder upon the events that it has seen and the individuals whom lived within it's walls.

I was reminded of several facts that I had been taught and forgotten about Washington (i.e. he was a surveyor in his early youth). I also learned new and fascinating facts about President Washington and his family. He was a organized man who took great thought and preparations before commencing upon a task. Despite his lack of military experience, he without ever leading a campaign lead the colonist army to victory by outsmarting the British Generals.

We were also fortunate to have a local high school class perform for the audience as part of their senior project.

While touring the museum, we observed the shoes and a replica dress that Martha wore on her wedding day. I know that my granddaughters would be interested in these two items. So I made sure to include them in my blog for their appreciation of beauty and fashion.

The day was overwhelming and convinced me that given the opportunity again I would return to be fed again. Turning our horses Southward, we arrived back in Williamsburg some 3 1/2 hours later. There were many horses on the path as we headed home around 5:00 pm. Too many for my liking; but we did survive the rush hour madness. Tomorrow we travel to Jamestown.

Yorktown & Surrender

2010-05-26T17:42:00.006-06:00

Hm, we must be getting old. Cheryl and I again took advantage of the opportunity to sleep in and finally got started close to noon. Any regrets? No way the sleep and rest is much needed.

Traveled to Yorktown this afternoon and toured the battlefield of the final battle of the Revolutionary War. It was in Yorktown, that Cornwallis had set up encampment by order of Clinton to wait the winter out after capturing Charleston S.C. Washington seeing the opportunity while the British Troops were divided in half sized the opportunity and moved onto Yorktown.

One can see the actually earthworks that the British and American Armies created. The America's with the support of the French moved their cannons into position and began the bombardment of the British lines. Soon the Americans troop moved their lines and embankments to within 400 yards of the British lines. Then one night the French and Americans moved onto redoubts #9 and #10. Here the once tattered army of the colonies showed their true colors and fighting as professional soldiers with the French broke through the lines of the British and turning their cannons onto Yorktown pounded the British forces.

Soon Cornwallis realized the situation he was in and order a retreat across the River York. One thousand men started across the river and a tremendous storm prevented the retreat further. Cornwallis had only one option, surrender.

We walked through the Moore Farmhouse where on October 18th, 1781 officers from both sides met to negotiate the surrender terms for Cornwallis's army.

Imagine what the officers of each army must have thought and considered as they worked through the conditions of the surrender. Sitting in a small room with each other, the American Troops refusing to give the British an "Surrender with honors". The thoughts and debates that more than likely occurred as they came to mutually agreed upon terms.

We looked over the field now called Surrender Field where on October 19th, Cornwallis's army marched, over a mile long, and were order and complied to laying down their arms. This was the last battle to be fought in the Revolutionary War.

It was an honor to walk across the fields and inspect the earthworks where so many men sacrificed their lives for the creation of our country. It makes one stop and ponder the feelings of those that served and to walk across the same ground as men such as Washington, Lafayette, and others walked across and consider their internal struggles. An awesome day!

Finished our day with a visit to Victory Center in Yorktown and a quiet dinner along the River York. We had experienced some tremendous feelings today and surrendered ourselves to the nightfall grateful for the opportunity.

Conversations, Shopping, and Witch Trials

2010-05-25T20:46:00.007-06:00

Another late start today. Thank goodness for vacations, Cheryl and I are enjoying our time of relaxation and rest. Much needed time of rest and leisure.

Once our day began it began with a discussion with General George Washington. General Washington addressed an auditorium of people and allowed whom ever wished to ask him a question which he would respond too. Here is a man that is cynical, yet full of great wisdom and insight. A man of conviction, to his values and beliefs, a man of firm resolution. It was revealing to hear his reasoning and perception and come to a better understanding of whom he is.

Next, we spent a few hours in the Merchant Area enjoying the shops and dining. A tour of the capitol and jail concluded the day and another couple of hours sitting and watch people stroll up and down the street conclude our afternoon.

We luckily came across a place for Cheryl and I...well probably more me than Cheryl. We discovered the first hospital for the insane and mentally ill at Williamsburg. Touring through I thought how fun some of those early medical treatments could have been. Hm...I warned you and told you I probably belong in such a facility.

Finally, we arrived at the capitol and became the chief justices to the Royal Magistrate in the trial of an accused witch in the area. Another great insight learned of how the trials of the day were conducted and what was or not allowed in the court. This trial was only concerned with the facts that were brought against this woman and whether she met the conditions of being a witch. 38 not guilty votes and 44 guilty votes sent the woman to the jail until sentencing. Hm, Cheryl and I had varying votes. Guess, who was more sympathetic.

Late start, late finish, wonder what tomorrow will bring.

Plantations and Rebellion

2010-05-24T17:19:00.009-06:00

Happy 20th Anniversary to Cheryl and I

Today, we visited a couple of significant plantations along the James River. First, we toured the Shirley Plantation. An active plantation housing 11 generations of the Carter-Hill Family. Rising above the James River the plantation view of vast corn and wheat fields is a magnificent sight. This is the oldest continually owned family business in the United States and Virginia's first
plantation.

Edward Hill I descendant included the mother of Robert E. Lee who married a revolutionary war hero. Elizabeth Hill grew up at Shirley Plantation.

Also imagine all of the men of the plantation going off to war during the Civil War and the women of the plantation left to run the 950 plus acres. What was their thoughts and concerns when one morning they awoke to find the Union Army camped in their fields. Despite the fact, that their men were fighting for the Confederacy, they unselfishly cared for the wounded. As a result of their compassion, General McClellan issued a order of protection and placed two Union Guards to ensure that no harm came to the women nor the plantation. Thus the Shirley Plantation survived the Civil War one of the only few.

Next it was up the river to Harrison landing and Berkely Plantation. The Berkely plantation dates back to the first settlers of Virginia.

It was actually here that the first settlers arrived in 1619, before the Mayflower Pilgrims and they observed and declared the first official Thanksgiving. These settler were shortly alienated by the Indians and the Berkely Plantation did not see any active settlement for nearly three more years.

In 1726, Benjamin Harrison IV constructed the three story mansion and began to host important guest to his home including man such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. In fact, all of the first 10 Presidents of the United States visited and stayed at Berkely Plantation. Benjamin's son also known as Benjamin Harrison became governor of Virginia and signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. William Henry Harrison, Benjamin's son became famous for his efforts at Tippecanoe and later became the ninth president of the country and his grandson became the 23rd President Benjamin Harrison.

Berkely Plantation was utilized as an encampment for the Union Army during the Civil War. Lincoln visited the troops twice during the war and it was here that General Butterflied created a tune in his head and working with his bugler composed "Taps". A lot of firsts occur ed at Berkely Plantation.

Driving back to Colony Williamsburg, Cheryl and I envisioned the Revolutionary and Civil War Troops traveling down he same roads that we were traveling on and could see them marching to the battles of freedom. It makes one stop and think about what really occur ed in this area and who travelled the same paths.

Concluded the day at Williamsburg with the Revolution taking Center Stage, a visit by Lady Washington and General Washington. Here an wounded soldier is complaining to Martha Washington of the army not paying him and he is unable to work. It was a touching scene as Martha pays the soldier some money and promises to take care of the matter. This actor we became acquainted with and had several conversations with him. Oh by the way, he has never heard of the State of Utah.

A dinner at the Kings Arms Restaurant filled our bellies and we returned to our timeshare amazed at the circumstances and the events of what lead to the creation of our nation.

A Trip Back into Time

2010-05-23T17:50:00.010-06:00

We took our time this morning getting going but it was well worth it. Hey, after all we are on vacation right. Okay, it was noon before we got going. Who cares!

First, after breakfast at Sonic, we arrived at the Williamsburg Visitor Center and began our journey back into time to Colony Time Williamsburg. Walking through time and the town we experienced how the common folk (the poor); the middle folk (merchants, shop keepers; and the high society ( the governor, military and tories).

In the Governor's Palace characters such as Governor Dunbar, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Patrick Henry lived or conducted business here. It's easy to imagine the early colony residents living and surviving the revolutionary war.

Re-enactments of the events that lead to the war and what occured brought characters such as Bendict Arnold to life. Boo..

"WELCOME TO THE REVOLUTIONARY CITY"

A cry for independence!

A Traitor, Bendict Arnold.

A friend, Lafayette.

My wife loved the trip back into the future but due to the rain ( very little) and the humidity she has forbidden all photos of her. Something about she would look like a drowned cat... hm, I don't think so.

It was too bad that we had to come back to reality but our Lola directed home via scenic route and after a wonderful dinner at Mirabelle's Italian Restaurant we relaxed for the evening and planned tomorrow's activities.

Virginia Adventure

2010-05-22T17:53:00.004-06:00

Today, we began another adventure. Who the hell scheduled a flight for departure at 7:25 AM on a Saturday morning. That means our day started about 4:00AM. UGH!

Caught a flight to Norfolk Virginia...oh to get to Norfolk we first flew to Denver found a restroom, got in line and boarded the flight. Next it was to Chicago and then onto Norfolk. Today we spent in the air. Tomorrow we begin the site seeing.

Of course the real adventure today, was signing onto my own blogspot. Incorrect Username or is a incorrect password. Who knows and of course to solve the problem, you have to try all of the configurations. Hm, well after several attempts and trials, I managed to get the right configuration. Hurrah! I won't have to remember everything until I get home.

Needless to say we are grateful to be on the ground at our timeshare, Williamsburg Plantation, with a full stomach now and ready to catch some zzz's.

Ramblings of the Past Two Months

2010-02-07T13:23:00.005-07:00

Well it's only be a few...months since I last posted any happenings on my blog. It's not like anything hasn't been happening in my unusual dull life. Hm...let's see.

Christmas came and went with the New Year. Cheryl and I actually went to our timeshare and crashed for the New Year weekend there. Puzzles and videos occupied the weekend. It was a much needed break from everything.

Amongst the Christmas bustle, I was focused and able to select and announce my Core Leadership for our new Heavy Division. Now with the Core Leadership on board, it was time to begin the transition and strategies. The new year brought two strategic planning meetings, two annual business meetings, project site visits and sharing of strategic plans, engineer training, union negotiations and the usual day to day functions of keeping a business viable and profitable.

January was also filled with the on slot of projects to bid. Hm, in the last two weeks we have bid four projects in one day and three or four other projects. We are aggressively pursuing the work and almost had two or three projects by less than $50,000. They always say that second place is the best position to be when bidding the work because you probably didn't leave anything out of the bid. However, it just doesn't pay the bills.

Cheryl is off to visit her mother in the valley of the sun, while I freeze my tush off here.

Jenny also announced last week that we are now expecting our 6th grandchild. Boy do these kids know how to make me feel old. We are excited and thrilled with the news. She has been really facing a battle with the pregnancy and the usual cold flu season that has taken more than it's fair share with their family.

Rachel is planning on coming out in March and so we are preparing for their visit and look forward to seeing them.

Finally, Taylor well he didn't show up to work on Friday. Figured he had sluffed work to hit the slopes and yup, I was right. Came home Friday night to find him in bed with a dislocated shoulder. Work would have been more fun but he still doesn't believe it.

Now I'm in February and wondering what I'm going to do for the remainder of the year?

Last Week in a Glance

2009-12-14T19:32:00.004-07:00

Monday woke up to icy roads and snow. Flew to LA to ARTBA Western Regional Meetings. Dined with the stars at Crafts Restaurant. Of course us contractors didn't realize that to the side of us was Andie Mac Dowell and behind us was Jeff Bridges. Thanks to our supportive ARTBA staff we realized the facts after our stars had vacated. Oh well our dinner conversation was much more interesting.

Tuesday, awoke to a phone call from our department of transportation official who was schedule to present to the ARTBA on the state of affairs in our state. What's that you missed your flight. Oh and you want me to do what? Yup, I ended up presenting the state of affairs to 50-60 individuals for the state. Even had the Texas Transportation Director ask me to give his presentation. Flew home to snow and cold.

Wednesday received official notice that we were not successful bidders on the $1.1 billion dollar project that we were all counting on. Thursday, met with the University's CM Chair and reviewed Advisory Board Agenda. Presented to a construction management class on upper managements perspective of safety. Attended a dinner to express appreciation to our team who pursued the work. Friday focused in on reorganization and pursuing work and completed the day by conducting the Advisory Board for our University's Construction Management Program.

Saturday was the day to Christmas shop. Bought a large expensive gift for my wife and then had buyer remorse and returned the gift. Hm, ... hopefully, she will forgive me. Sunday more slushy snow. Family get together and a bit of accordion playing to top the evening off.

The start of another week has begun.

Thanksgiving Weekend

2009-11-29T16:01:00.011-07:00

Due to technical difficulties, I'm a day late in getting this posted. You know how it is there is always something not updated, something trouble shooting, or just doesn't work when you need it to on the good old computer. Okay, so I was trying to post a video of our Thanksgiving Weekend; however, due to operator error...no I mean technical difficulties I'm still working on the video. So you'll just have to do with the good old photo and dialogue.

Our Thanksgiving weekend started out with a party, that is a party for my Grandmother who celebrated her 95th birthday. At least we believe it is her 95th, she won't confess to it.

The whole family clan gathered and begin our Thankgiving Holiday by wishing her a Happy Birthday. Now this is one classy lady, and she has touched many of our lives and we just love our Grandma Pinkie.

Wednesday evening after the party it was time to create a salt brine for the Turkey to soak in over night. Thursday morning bright and early we rinsed the bird off, stuffed some herbs and basted the bird with butter. Then into the oven for family and me.

Meanwhile, tables were set and decorations arranged to create the perfect setting for a Thankgiving Dinner. Oh, did I fail to point out that this was the first time that Cheryl and I have hosted let alone cook a Thanksgiving Turkey. Hm, I wonder who really is the turkey.

About this time, the first annual Turkey Bowl in the park near our home was begining to unfold. A number of brother-in-laws, nephews, sons, and friends gathered to brave the perfect Turkey Day weather and play a game of pigskin. I believe there is a few Heismen Trohpey winners in this group as you can see.

It was now time for the feast. Thirty-five brave adults, okay, thirty three brave adults not counting Cheryl and I sat down and bowed our heads for grace. I believe there may have been a special blessing on the food. The meal turned out to be grrrrreat. The turkey was moist and tasty. There was plenty of food for all. Here are some of those times well wasted.

Afterwards, a quick clean up of paper plates allowed the family to visit and play games. Even had a match of Mario Kart going on at one point. I think that we all enjoyed the day.

Best of all was the time spent with family. We missed my younger brother and his family; but otherwise, all of my sisters and their families were there with my parents. I even better was the time that my children and grandchildren took to spend Thanksgiving Day with Cheryl and I. That was indeed the best part of the day. Thanks everyone for making this Thanksgiving Day the Best!

Ramblings & Family

2009-11-08T19:14:00.004-07:00

Well you all know that I'm concerned about the reorganization of our company and how I will structure my area of responsibilities. Decided two weeks ago that I would wait and see what will happen. Hm.., no changes or indication of movement. Well I take that back our support group is moving forward and HR and Safety have begun to move out of our office and consolidate into a central location.

Last week, attended another SLT and found out that not everyone is on the same page as evidenced in the meeting. Opinions were expressed from top management to senior management have how the meeting should be conducted and what should be covered. Makes it a bit difficult if everyone is not on the same page. I'm sure sooner or later we will get there.

Attended sister company strategic planning so as to demonstrate a unified effort and become more acquainted to how they conduct business and the challenges they faced. Came away frustrated and discourage. Truthfully, do not see a united front and concerned with no action. Determined that the only way that I'm going to obtain answers is to move forward until someone says no.

Put up Christmas Lights yesterday before the cold winter weather strikes. Beautiful day to be out and about. Started new exercise program with our new WII Fit program. Makes working out fun. Maybe I will lose that 25 plus pounds.

Missing my family this week. Thought a lot about Rachel and her family in Ohio. Thank goodness for blogs. She does a great job of keeping us updated on the family and the fun events in their life. Blessed to spend a few hours with Jenny today. Wished we could have seen the kids but it's that time of year when sickness abounds. Always makes me proud and happy to see my grandchildren.

Thankful to find my son with a gleam in his eye as he has found someone that appears to be special to him to date. He hasn't stopped talking about her for two days now. Time will only tell.

Thank goodness that through all of this journey called life, I have my best friend and wife to support me and my children and grandchildren to bring me joy. Life might be tough but the family makes it all worthwhile.

Time of Change

2009-10-24T10:17:00.006-06:00

Life comes at us in a blink of the eye. If we are not paying attention we missed the train. This has been a roller coaster ride for me over the last month. I thought that I should start recording some of the my thoughts before I have forgotten all.

Hm, in the past week...

Drove to Twin Falls to attend an Initial DRB Meeting and to see progress on project. The drive gave me good time to reflect on the reorganization changes in the company and how they will affect me and others. How should I organize my division? Who should I choose as my second in command? Who should I seek out for advice?

Drove home same night and wonder if I should attend the Rapid Bridge Replacement on Pioneer Crossing at midnight. Decided to not attend and laid awake all night thinking about it. Spent weekend creating a movie to show neighbors of our adventure to Greece last May. Sunday, rested all day and wonder if I should go down at midnight and watch the second bridge replacement. Too tired went to bed and laid awake all night wondering about the how I should organize my division.

New week and a new day. Rearranged schedule to accommodate meetings of my staff to begin transition into new organization. Would be nice to know that my staff has been called to such a meeting. Conducted performance review of Executive Assistant, met with Communications Director and discussed a number of items including reorganization, and tried to discuss more in detail reorganization with my supervisor.

Newly formed SLT Group met and discussed how to begin transitions to new organization. Hm, when are we going to educate all of our employees on changes. I'm handling numerous questions from employees now. Stressed the need to announce to employees ASAP. Met as a individual company and discussed reorganization, came out of meeting totally confused and frustrated. Hm, this doesn't seem to be what I envisioned. Laid awake all night considering organization of division. Tried to visit aging grandmother unable to due to flu. Wife concerned that I will contract flu bug.

Received advise on divisional organization and fielded more questions concerning the reorganization. Met with project teams and discussed project progress and scheduling concerns. Reviewed financials -worried about how to obtain more profitable work. Concerned with charitable donations committed by senior staff members and the cost. Who approved? Considered more reorganization structure. Suggested potential organization structure to supervisor.

Discussed organization changes with my wife. Been discussing with her for months. Wife is probably tired of discussion. Thankful for a supportive wife.

Drove to Duschene and met with project team and Owner reps. How can we work together better? Concerned with project team's frustrations. Concerned with Owner's perception. Thought more about division organization solidifying my organization. Received a phone call from a disgruntled, frustrated, and disappointed employee concerning his new role in organization. Concerned that we might lose this employee now.

Met with Carpenter Union and listened to a new proposal to settle our Agreement. Consider proposal. Received phone call from son asking if I could make a presentation to college in 40 minutes. Hm, sure why not. Reviewed backlog report and variance reports, discussed further reorganization structuring with supervisor still no clear direction, wondered if we would see an announcement today to employees.

Drove to university, presented to construction students why I love heavy highway work...hm look at the impact I have on every one's life. Also discussed with them the importance of gaining experience in the field and what we as employer look for in potential employees.

Back to office, thought more of how to organize division, reviewed estimate for mine project in Wyoming, reviewed several contract agreements and noted concerns.

Breathed a sign of relief to see a communicatoin to all employees concerning reorganization. Read communicaton. Concerned about communication and how employee will understand. Not well done! Recieved second communication just from a different person. Same communication.

Discussed project pursuits and divisional organization with VIP. Wonder more what should I do. Concerned about outfall of overall organization.

Okay, did I cover everything now. Hm...I wonder what will happen this next week?

Weekend Sight Seeing Adventure

2009-10-15T20:20:00.006-06:00

Okay all you history buffs, what famous Military Fort is in the picture and what battle made the fort famous?

A few hints? Hm..well the original fort was a government project that took nearly fifty years to complete. The original height of the fort was approximately the same elevation as a little more than half the height of the flag poles in the picture. The fort was just recently completed when the battle occurred that made the fort famous. Can you name the fort?

Well maybe our video of our weekend adventure will give you some insight as to the location of the fort and possibly the name. Good luck and enjoy the video.

Yup, we had a lot of fun. Oh, the fort? Nope, not Fort Sullivan. Fort Sullivan is on Sullivan Island across the bay from Fort Sumter. Fort Sumter is where the first battle of the Civil War was fought. South Carolina was the first state to secede from the United States at the time. The videos also shows Morris Island which is highlighted in the movie "Glory" and battle to take over Fort Sumter during the Civil War.

Brad Paisley Concert

2009-09-20T18:49:00.006-06:00

Well I need to let everyone know how much I enjoyed my birthday gift last night. Not much really to say than it was WONDERFUL!!

Thanks to my awesome family I was able to enjoy a great concert with one of my favorite entertainers.

I almost missed the concert because I failed to check where the location was and when I arrived at the small city amphitheater I got this sick feel'n that I was in trouble. A mad dash across to the west side of the valley and over 45 minutes waiting in traffic lines to get to the parking area... well yea, my emotions were running at full steam.

Luckily, we missed only a few songs of the opening act with Jimmy Wayne,but "Do You Beleive Me Now" was a great way to start the concert and then Dierks Bentley got us all going "Sideways" and I couldn't believe "What was I thinking".

I was well ready to "Get a little mud on the tires" when Brad began to entertain us. Songs about celebrities,alcohol, mud, women, and fish'n; well I appreciate Brad's insight into life. I have been a fan of Brad Paisley for a long time now and he didn't let us down last night. This guy is one high class act and the real thing.

Nothing better than sitting with my better half and listening to some great music for the evening.

Sheep Dogs and Splash Dogs

2009-09-06T16:34:00.011-06:00

Jenny called this morning and said the she and the kids were on there way to Soldier Hollow Border Collie Competition. Cheryl and I said, "Why not" and hurried and packed our belongings and headed up to meet them.

Now I nor Cheryl have ever been to a Border Collie Sheep Herding competition and had no idea what to expect. I had imagine a collie chasing a few sheep around, yelping at their heels and driving them into a pen. Hm, well I was somewhat close but it was much more complicated than my simple mind could imagine.

The collie would have to search and find the sheep on the hillside and then drive them through a gate, drive them to the sheep herder, turn them and drive them back up the hill through another gate, across the hillside through the last gate and then back to the pen. Once at the pen, the collie would spilt the herd for a brief moment and then drive them into a fenced pen. The owner and their dog would receive points for each task and it all had to be accomplished within 15 minutes. No small feat when you consider that the owner would give directions to the dog by way of whistles. Nothing but amazing.

Included in the competition were the Splash Dogs. This was a lot of fun to watch as the dog owner would hold a retrievable toy (rules would not allow anything that was alive or could be eaten) and throw it into the pool and the dogs would run and jump into the pool and retrieve the toy. Just look at these dogs fly!

Well as you can see by the pictures, we had a lot of fun watching these skilled dogs compete in an amazing way. We'll definitely keep this as a fun activity for future years to come.

Master of the Helm and Fishing

2009-08-30T19:47:00.008-06:00

Woke up yesterday morning with the urge to go fishing, fly fishing that is. However, we first had to try our hand at mastering the premium water skiing boat. Taylor has been dying to have us join him on his new boat and show us his new toy and his hot dogging skills.

After a few loops about the lake and becoming comfortable operating the boat, we began to see if I had indeed master the skills to operate the craft. Taylor, first with his solo ski on instructed me to hit the throttle and at 30 mph back off and settle in at a cruising speed of 33 mph. Hey, right! Off we went. Oh, now you tell me about the perfect pass setting. Okay this isn't so difficult.

Taylor was able to enjoy the early morning slightly calm lake has he moved from his ski, to wake board and finishing up on the surf board. Hey wait a minute where's the photo of Captain Jeff, Master of the Helm? Hm, my photography crew may be heading for a brusin.

This evening, I venture out onto the river to enjoy some fly fishing. This evening's fishing demostrates my abilities as a fisherman. I hooked one pig of a trout and landed another pig. Hm, the pig I landed has two hooks... hey that is my fly that the first pig took when he snapped my tippet. Yup, that's right, I hooked a fish that snapped my line and so I grabbed another fly and "Fish On!" was the cry.
Best of all I got my first fly back and my pig was let go for another day of fishing.

Hey, it would have been nice to have a photo of my pig. I tried reaching my photo crew by radio but some lame excuse that the battery had died was all I got.

So you'll just have to enjoy photos of my son surfing here and yes, I'm the captain creating the perfect wake for him to surf. I'm sorry, everyone will just have to believe that I am the Master of the Helm and a grand fisherman.

2009 HIGHLAND FLING

2009-08-02T15:19:00.024-06:00

Our traditional family get together for Highland Fling days happened this weekend. Started our celebration and get together with Pizza on Friday night, and a trip to the splash pad at the city center and then the grand kids sleepover. Saturday Morning, we had a great Grammy breakfast with eggs, bacon, and cinnamon rolls. Found a good spot for the parade and came home with a loot of candy. Toured around the park and visited a number of different events including the Scottish Games and Face Painting. After lunch it was time for cotton candy and a nap. Finished our get together with glow sticks, sparklers and fireworks. Here are some of the great pics from the weekend.

On our way to splash park.

One, two, three... jump!

Jump like this Lexi...

Hm..cheerleaders uh.

Lexi scores.

Boston is wondering what this whole rucus is about.

The Scottish Games.

Hey, wait a minute that long thrower has a pony tail. You mean they let girls do this too.

Mmm, cotton candy.

Glow stick fun.

We missed Taylor and his family..hm, that's right we have to get Taylor married first. We still missed him.

John and Rachel we all missed having you there this year. 1200 plus miles is a long way to come for the Highland Fling; but we all wanted you to know that we were thinking about you. Maybe next year.

That's All Folks.

Nichols Re-union

2009-07-27T19:34:00.010-06:00

Cheryl has been busy this year planning a family reunion for her Mother's side of the family. The Nichols have not gathered except for those unplanned events i.e. funerals or marriages. This was the first organized reunion of it's kinda. So we spent our 24th of July weekend in Midway "getting to know the family". Friday morning, 51 of us ventured into the great outdoors and hiked the trail to Timp Cave. A mile and half trail straight up the mountain well nearly straight up. The scenery of the canyon was spectacular and the cloud coverage made it bearable to endure the hike.

Cheryl and I had our cheerleaders. Adyson and Lexi,our granddaughters,one or two switch backs ahead would shout encouragement:

"Great Job Grammy..you're almost there" or "Go Papa, you can do it."

Finally, nearly 2 hours later we arrived at the entrance of the cave and enjoyed a great tour of the cave.

Adyson made great friends with our Forest Service Tour Guide.

It felt like we climbed from 0 to 6730 feet above sea level. Okay, it was only 5000 feet to 6730 feet.

The Nichols Family Cave Dwellers
Coming down the trail I was able to teach Adyson my granddaughter about fractions and if we split a pie into fourths we are able to eat four pieces. Interesting enough the trail was marked out in fourths also so as we hiked past each marker we would say "Okay we have eaten one piece, two pieces, three pieces and finally at the trail head we had eaten the whole pie. Hm, it was much easier eating the pie going down the hill then up.

Of course, Lexi was the smart one in the group as she persuaded her daddy to carry her down the trail in the backpack and she rested all the way down the trial. Man Philip where were you when I needed you.

The rest of the reunion we played a little golf and sat and relaxed and visited with each other. I think I heard someone even say that maybe we should do this every 5 years or so. Hm, maybe my legs will have recovered from the hike in 5 years. I'm game.

2009 Adventure #6 Gooseberry

2009-07-12T17:13:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, Cheryl and I found ourselves with the whole day to our self's. Hm...packed the car with some goodies and lunch, grabbed our fly rods and we were off first thing in the morning for an all day adventure.

We drove to Gooseberry Canyon with the thought of exploring our potential camping areas to bring the family or get away for a weekend. This area was beautiful. Halfway up Gooseberry, we pulled over and looked back down the canyon and were just taken back with the colors and scenery. I would highly recommend this drive to anyone, I'd even volunteer to be your guide if you would like.

Cheryl accused me of taking the drive to check out the construction project near the summit. Yes, the project was interesting and I took some mental notes as we proceeded through the project; however, being with my wife away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoying the great outdoors was what today was all about.

Our journey took us over the summit and into Lost Creek and down Seven Mile Creek. We were able to stop and walk about a bit enjoy the scenery. No pressure to hurry just take our time. As we returned home via Fish Lake we made several side trips to places of interest.

It was an awesome day to spend together and just take in the greatness of the day.

2009 Adventure #5 - Camping

2009-07-12T16:34:00.008-06:00

I'm a bit behind in my blogging so I'm going to try and catch up on some of the awesome adventures and fun that Cheryl and I have been having recently.

The last week of June amidst trying to complete a CM/GC Proposal, we loaded up the trailer that we had purchased last year and invited all to come with us on a camping trip over the weekend.

Friday evening, we pulled into the campsite just as a large thunderhead storm arrived also. Philip and Jenny were racing to stake their tent down and trying to keep all their belongings from blowing downstream. Taylor arrived just shortly after Cheryl and I and with his assistance we leveled the trailer out and open the doors and everyone climb in and enjoyed a good old fashion rain storm. We played games and just enjoyed visiting with everyone.

Saturday, we enjoyed the beaches (what we could actually stake out) of Jordanelle State Park. We built sandcastles and as you can see it was also fun to for some to smash some of the structures made of sand. It didn't take long for my engineering blood to come out and we even constructed a mammoth dam. Even the Corp of Engineers would be amazed at the innovations and quality of this earthen dam embankment.

Saturday evening, I pulled out the Dutch Ovens and cooked a feast for everyone to enjoy. The mosquitoes were a pain that we had to deal with and it made fishing that evening very unbearable. We all went to bed tired. Sunday, with a bit of luck, I was able to land one small fish that Adyson and Lexi enjoyed touching. Adyson even got to release it back into the river with a mighty throw that sent the fish about halfway across the river.

It was fun to get together with our children and grandchildren and spend time fishing, riding bikes, playing on the beach and just enjoying life. Even Porter enjoyed his first camping experience.

We were just living the dream.

Fifty Years Worth

2009-06-30T20:00:00.001-06:00

I celebrated my 50th birthday a little over a month ago. In doing so I have begun to reflect upon the progress and changes in the world that I have been fortunate enough to have witnessed. I was always amazed to hear my grandparents speak of seeing the progress of society in their life. For example, my grandfather's first job on a construction project was to keep the team of horses watered. Now we are using GPS controlled machines that practically operate themselves.

Hm...what have I seen in my lifetime? Well here's my list:

In the Entertainment World -
Black and White Television broadcasting favorites such as Rin Tin Tin, Lassie, and the Rifle Man. Sunday evening at my grandparents to watch the Wonderful World of Disney. Now days we have the "real thing" reality shows such as Survivor, Bachelor, American Idol and Dancing with the Stars.

We went to movies at the Drive In with be a large screen outside where you placed a speaker in the vehicle window to watch the show. Yes, there were also the standard movie theaters downtown but with only one screen, not the Cineaplex Theaters with a dozen screens to choose from.

Speaking of Technology...
Let's see... school teachers instructing the class on how to use a "Slide Ruler", then came the calculator era. Wow, my college professor would even let us use an HP41C to take our exams; however, we had to submit our program formulas ahead of time to him if we were to utilize any program features. The first computer I can remember took up a "small area" in our business. Small area defined as a room that was 15 feet by 12 feet. Just enough room to walk around the computer admiring the "State of Art". We've come a long way now with laptops, dual screens and the smart phones.

Oh how we could not reminiscent about the evolution of the phone. Remember the standard black rotary dial phone that was accompanied with usually a two or three party line. "Hello, Who's that other person talking to someone else on my phone?" At least in those days we always knew where the phone was... on the counter top. Now days with a remote in nearly every room we run around the house trying to find a phone to answer when it rings and yes I did check the cradle it's suppose to be in.

I remember also receiving my first "Cellular Phone" nearly as large as a small military combat walkie talkie. Man, was I hot then out on my projects with my new "brick phone" I was one productive machine. Finally, I have my cell phone now that plays all my favorite music, surfs the internet, texts, twitters and even tracks my schedule. Oh, yea, you're right I can even make a phone call with this smart phone.

I can't say for sure but I would dare say that in my half century of life, the average life span of the human being has also increased. Amazing what our medical knowledge can now do. Hmm, forty plus years as a diabetic has witnessed testing my urine 4 times per day to pricking one's figure 4 times per day. You can now obtain your A1C results within minutes instead of days. Don't forget about insulin applications, one, two injections to one injection every time I ate and now i wear a funny looking pager on my belt that they call a pump. But who would ever think that the strict adherance to a schedule would now become flexible for a diabetic.

If you think that that is amazing look at what we are doing with heart treatments. Speaking from experience, a quintuple (5) bypass one day and two days later, I'm up walking and beginning my rehab. Six weeks, and I'm back to work and feel better than ever.

In my lifetime, I have seen President Eisenhower to now our first black American President, President Obama. President Nixon who resigned, to President Clinton who truly defined the word "is". Transportation has gone from old black model Fords to fancy Corvair, to Hummers and now hybrids. I think that there is even a movie similar to the modes of transportation I have seen called Planes, Trains, and Automobiles.

Styles from short hair to long hair to back to short hair. Bell bottom pants and plaid pants to just plain Levis. What ever happened to the Converse Tennis Shoe?Where did Nike and Addidas all come from? Yes folks, I survived the 60's,70's,80's and 90's. I think fashion is just going around in circles. Kids today are wearing the same clothes I did in Jr. High and listening to the same rock groups. Remember, we were the originals!

Yup, I have seen a lot of things in my life time and will continue to experience many more awesome progressions as my life continues. Indeed, I have seen a heck of a lot of events and things but more importantly, my life has been blessed by these great events and makes me appreciate the good and bad. I look forward to another fifty years of progress.

My Best Friend

2009-05-24T20:25:00.005-06:00

Cheryl and I celebrated our 19th anniversary today. Wow, it only seems like yesterday that we were just getting married.

Hm, they say time flies when you are having fun. I would have to say the last 19 years have been not only fun but great.

I'm a lucky and blessed man to be married to my best friend. Cheryl has blessed my life and my children's life. Cheryl treated my children has her own and she blessed each one with her influence and her love for life. When life was tough, it is Cheryl who finds the humor in life and brings the life to the party. We never know from minute to minute what fun and zanny thing she might do that keeps us all smiling and loving her.

Thanks Honey, for the last 19 years. I'm looking forward to many more and you will always be everything to me. You are my best friend!

Mud on the Tires

2009-05-24T19:54:00.010-06:00

Yesterday, Cheryl and I set out to do some fly fishing. However, Mother Nature was not cooperating and due to the ominous thunder clouds, we detoured and began another road adventure.

"There's a place that I know about. Where the dirt road runs out. We can try out the four wheel drive. Come on now, what do you say. Girl I can hardly wait.
To get a little mud on the tires".
-Brad Paisley

Well in Central Utah, we found where the dirt road runs out and tried out the four wheel drive. We could hardly wait to get a little mud on the tires as you can see.

Wait, is that Tay in the picture. How did he get there?

Hm.. well let's just say with a bit of shoveling, jacking, three tow straps and three hours later we managed to get a lot of mud on the tires!

Home Again, Home Again, Jigging Jig

2009-05-10T12:23:00.001-06:00

Saturday, May 9th

Nearly became Roman citizens this morning. We arose at 4:00AM to catch our Delta flight. Taxi picked us up on time and soon we were dropped off with no questions asked in front of Terminal 5. Wait a minute the guard gates are all down and the taxi can’t even pull up to the curbside and the Terminal 5 is close? Our Taxi driver casual says well this is terminal 5 unloaded our luggage in the road and left us standing in the street wondering if we were in the right place.

Inquiries with all the airport employees reporting to work only indicated that Terminal 5 is closed and would open at 6:00 AM. Hm.., our flight leaves at 7:20 AM, and the terminal doesn’t open until 6:00 AM, okay maybe the Italian’s are more laid back then we thought. A few more early morning travelers arrive but nobody is going to Paris from this special American Terminal? Finally, terminal opens we rush into the ticket counter to obtain our tickets and only find no employees staffing the counter. Departure board doesn’t even show a flight leaving from Terminal 5 to Paris.

Guess what we have experienced a DETOUR Which way do we go?

By chance we were able to team up with a fellow American and his shuttle driver, a quick call to airport operator indicated that the Delta flight was being operated by Air Frances and would depart on time out of Terminal B. It is now 6:10 AM. The shuttle driver graciously transfers us and our fellow American to the proper terminal. It was a mad rush to find Air France, purchase tickets, proceed through security where they made us strip down to our skivvies almost, and run to the gate to begin boarding our flight. Luckily, we had found a great shuttle driver who made the difference.

Our flight then proceeded to Paris, where it began all over again. I’m starting to feel like O.J. Simpson in the old Hertz advertisements running thorough the airport and hurdling over anything our way. Paris we though that we had plenty of time only to find the security line stretching from Paris to New York. Fortunately, a security worker kept the next scheduled flight moving through security and with no resting from running from security to the gate we boarded our final connection to home.

We’re now off the ground and heading home…ZZZZZZ

The Roman Empire

2009-05-10T12:19:00.003-06:00

Friday, May 8th

Ah, finally our last destination by quirt of the flight schedule was the Roman Empire. After catching our early morning flight from Malta, we arrived in Rome around 11:30 AM. A quick nap and we had half a day to conquer Roman. Hm, I think that we came awfully close to seeing everything but the Vatican and we’re not Catholic so who cares.

We walked I believe through all of the ages of Rome, beginning with the 16th century and right through the 17th, 18th, 19th and finally ending in the 21st century. First stop was a tour of the Coliseum where the spectators were entertained with life and death. They even had the opportunity to sway whether Caesar should put a gladiator to death for failure to perform or not. Hm, and they think that we live in a barbican world today.

Next, we visited the Forum where the Roman City was originally created by Rameus. Here we witnessed and walked through the great temple of Rameus and saw the wealth of the Empire in those days. The marble may be all gone, as our tour guide indicated “borrowed by the Vatican, but the expanse of the temples and the city is remains. By this time we had only walked through the 16 and 17th century and our walk was just beginning in the few short hours that we had to discover Rome.

A casual and much need dinner along a street café was enjoyed and our waiter was most helpful in assisting to ensure that we had a relaxing, no hurry meal. Next we moved through the city to the Fountain of Trevor, the Pantheon, and finally the …… well a long, long walk back to the 21st Century which brought us back to the Coliseum where we enjoyed our last coke and tribute to Caesar before departing to our hotel to gain a few short hours of sleep before catching our early morning flight to Paris and Home.