Wednesday August 29, 2007
Pura Vida my amigos y familias,
Life in Costa Rica is definitely Pura Vida. We awoke to a beautiful day again this morning, a bit on the humid side however beautiful none the less. After a delicious French toast breakfast (that I made for everyone minus Storm and Amy since they were still away on their “date”), we got everyone dressed and ready for the day. Just about the time we were ready to go on our adventure walk, the Zbel’s arrived back home. The day before, the Zbel’s car blew it’s engine and proved to be a very stressful for them so today was spent trying to figure out what to do and how to take care of the situation. We left Storm to handling that while the rest of us headed out to Hacienda Baru to check out the local gift shop and rain forest. Since this trip was more about relaxation and helping out the Zbel’s to get ready for the baby and less about exploration, it was fairly low key and going to the gift shop was what Xander wanted to do since he wanted to pick up tiki masks made by the Baru Indians. These masks are made out of local tree bark and are carved, painted and decorated in the most extravagant fashion. Here are a few pictures of our favorites. They are beautiful.
Xander picked up his mask, Christian got a teak Tortuga so that he could have his very own souvenir and I picked up the book “Monkeys are made of Chocolate” by Jack ?. When you buy them at Hacienda Baru, he autographs every copy since the rain forest reservation is owned by him. Here you can explore the tree canopies, fly on the zip lines and take nature walks to see the Sloths, White-faced Monkeys, Tucans and other rain forest animals up close and personal. Next time we come, and yes, we will definitely return, we will take the tours, snorkel, whale watch, surf and so much more. We know all the things we want to do on the next trip so it won’t be one of those “I wish I would have…” trips. I am actually glad we did it this way the first time around here since it can be almost overwhelming with all there is to do and see. Costa Rica is truly one of the most beautiful places I have been. I would love to tour other Central American countries as I have heard a great deal about the beauty they also hold within their borders,
And since I haven’t written in this daily as I should have, I have totally forgotten about what we did this day.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Waterfalls, Ticos, blown motors and tag team driving
Tuesday August 28, 2007
I can’t remember the last time Bob and I had a schedule with absolutely NO plans, no email, no voicemail. We need to do this more often. This morning was sticky, humid and warm. It has not been truly hot here at all during this trip and the moments of humidity are few and far between. I sit here recapping our day with windows open wide, breeze blowing (of the storm variety breeze) and listening to the sounds of the rain (surprise, surprise). We actually have not had too much rain this trip and it is much like the rain we had in Oregon, either soft or hard, quick and over with in a few moments.
Today we were awakened to delicious homemade pancakes, again made by Storm. The kids were ever so happy since they were all in the shapes of Mickey Mouse. I think they ate more because of that. After breakfast, we headed over to Pozo Azul waterfalls on Escalara (which means ladder in Spanish) Mountain right beyond the tiny squatters town of Dominicalito. It was BEAUTIFUL! Hannah had a fantastic time, even jumping off the rock faces just beside the falls into the large pool of water. I was very surprised because the water was deep and she just learned how to swim however, she did it like a champ and jumped several times. Bob and Storm jumped from the rope swing a few times and Xander decided that the rope was too slippery for him to jump so he jumped from the same rock face that Hannah was jumping from, which was certainly high enough for my liking for the both of them. Our new friends, Alexandra (6), Ashley (4) and their parents, Bart and Kim (from Denver) joined us for the swim as well. The water was blue, beautiful and about 65-70 degrees, not too cold, not too bad!
We concluded our swim with a drive up Escalara mountain to see the property Storm and Amy purchased in the rain forest right across the road from Bella Vista, a homestead owned by the original settlers of Escalaras mountain. It is now able to be rented out and you can take horseback rides throughout the rain forest from there. I would absolutely love to come back and stay there, it truly had beautiful views of the ocean and rain forest. Right behind the property they bought, is the rain forest proper, which means that it can never be developed. Right next door to where they will build is a primitive soccer field and the local tico school where they will send their kids when the time comes. It was truly magnificent. It was realy neat while we were up in the rain forest we could hear all the Howler Monkeys up in the trees. I have yet to see one but I certainly know they exist as I have heard them every day while here. If only I could get a glimpse of a sloth or a monkey while here, would make the trip complete.
On the way home, Storm’s car gave way to a thick, black cloud of smoke and decided that he needed to get it seen about. The kids jumped in our car, we headed back to the house and Storm left to get the car seen about. About 30 seconds after we parted ways, Amy realized she had not keys to get in the house. So Bob high tails it after him and because we have no cell phones to communicate here, little did we know that Storm’s car completely broke down and Bob had to tow him to the mechanic. All while the boys were having “fun”, Amy and I were trying to pacify the kids and see if we could break into the house. After much ado, we conviced the local tico construction workers working on nearby villas to bring us an “escalara” and help us by going through the “ventana” to open the door. Just as soon as local tico went through the window, opened the door, who drives up? Bob. The timing couldn’t have been set up any better, however, Bob was already too late….screen was cut out, window opened and house broken into! All in a days work! After Bob changed from his swimming clothes, he headed out the door again to meet up with Storm at the mechanic since now we are the only ones with a car. Bob and Storm decide to have another “liquid lunch” while the car is being worked on, then headed up to Bar Jolly Roger to wait on Patrick to get there so they could come home. It is now 5pm and we still have not seen hide nor hair of them. I certainly hope they arrive soon since Storm and Amy are supposed to be headed out for an overnight date night at a local villa down the road that they won a 2 night stay and needs to be used. They will spend tonight and Bob and I will use the other night tomorrow night. It all works well since Amy is due to have baby boy # 3 in 5 weeks and is in need of a tiny break before her world changes entirely with the new addition.
So, here I sit and type, it is now dark, the sun has set and again, it is only 6pm. The sun rises promptly at 5:30-6am and sets promptly at 6pm daily. It has really turned my time clock around because I think it is a totally different time than it really is, it’s kind of funky but cool! The rain has stopped, the breeze is lovely and the sound of the waves crashing in the ocean is absolutely tranquil. I am sure I ever want to leave, I could certainly get used to this!!! Now if I can just figure out how to make a living here and talk my husband into it!!
Well, 6:30 rolls around and the boys walk in completely blotto from their liquid lunch. They said they “tag team” drove which means that Bob drove down the mountain (I am not quite sure how he managed that, lol) and Storm drove on the Coastenera (the coast highway), a fairly straight road and good highway. Neither one of them was fit to drive so I am sure that it was a sight to behold….
We sent Amy and Storm off for a romantic overnight getaway to the Costa Pariso, where they stayed in the honeymoon suite. The went for dinner at Confusione, a local Italian restaurant here in Domincal, then they headed back to the suite where they relaxed (okay maybe Amy relaxed, Storm just passed out) and enjoyed their evening sans children!
All the kids stayed back here with us while Bob proceeded to pass out himself and I cooked dinner, bathed the kids and put them down with the movie Lady and the Tramp. By the time the movie was over, Xavier and Aidan were asleep, Christian had already curled up with daddy and Hannah and Xander proceeded to head off for the night. All in all it was a good night. Bob really needed this “break” and have the ability to let loose. His job is so stressful and he rarely if ever gets to just hang out with the guys and have a good time…..
Until next time,
K&B
I can’t remember the last time Bob and I had a schedule with absolutely NO plans, no email, no voicemail. We need to do this more often. This morning was sticky, humid and warm. It has not been truly hot here at all during this trip and the moments of humidity are few and far between. I sit here recapping our day with windows open wide, breeze blowing (of the storm variety breeze) and listening to the sounds of the rain (surprise, surprise). We actually have not had too much rain this trip and it is much like the rain we had in Oregon, either soft or hard, quick and over with in a few moments.
Today we were awakened to delicious homemade pancakes, again made by Storm. The kids were ever so happy since they were all in the shapes of Mickey Mouse. I think they ate more because of that. After breakfast, we headed over to Pozo Azul waterfalls on Escalara (which means ladder in Spanish) Mountain right beyond the tiny squatters town of Dominicalito. It was BEAUTIFUL! Hannah had a fantastic time, even jumping off the rock faces just beside the falls into the large pool of water. I was very surprised because the water was deep and she just learned how to swim however, she did it like a champ and jumped several times. Bob and Storm jumped from the rope swing a few times and Xander decided that the rope was too slippery for him to jump so he jumped from the same rock face that Hannah was jumping from, which was certainly high enough for my liking for the both of them. Our new friends, Alexandra (6), Ashley (4) and their parents, Bart and Kim (from Denver) joined us for the swim as well. The water was blue, beautiful and about 65-70 degrees, not too cold, not too bad!
We concluded our swim with a drive up Escalara mountain to see the property Storm and Amy purchased in the rain forest right across the road from Bella Vista, a homestead owned by the original settlers of Escalaras mountain. It is now able to be rented out and you can take horseback rides throughout the rain forest from there. I would absolutely love to come back and stay there, it truly had beautiful views of the ocean and rain forest. Right behind the property they bought, is the rain forest proper, which means that it can never be developed. Right next door to where they will build is a primitive soccer field and the local tico school where they will send their kids when the time comes. It was truly magnificent. It was realy neat while we were up in the rain forest we could hear all the Howler Monkeys up in the trees. I have yet to see one but I certainly know they exist as I have heard them every day while here. If only I could get a glimpse of a sloth or a monkey while here, would make the trip complete.
On the way home, Storm’s car gave way to a thick, black cloud of smoke and decided that he needed to get it seen about. The kids jumped in our car, we headed back to the house and Storm left to get the car seen about. About 30 seconds after we parted ways, Amy realized she had not keys to get in the house. So Bob high tails it after him and because we have no cell phones to communicate here, little did we know that Storm’s car completely broke down and Bob had to tow him to the mechanic. All while the boys were having “fun”, Amy and I were trying to pacify the kids and see if we could break into the house. After much ado, we conviced the local tico construction workers working on nearby villas to bring us an “escalara” and help us by going through the “ventana” to open the door. Just as soon as local tico went through the window, opened the door, who drives up? Bob. The timing couldn’t have been set up any better, however, Bob was already too late….screen was cut out, window opened and house broken into! All in a days work! After Bob changed from his swimming clothes, he headed out the door again to meet up with Storm at the mechanic since now we are the only ones with a car. Bob and Storm decide to have another “liquid lunch” while the car is being worked on, then headed up to Bar Jolly Roger to wait on Patrick to get there so they could come home. It is now 5pm and we still have not seen hide nor hair of them. I certainly hope they arrive soon since Storm and Amy are supposed to be headed out for an overnight date night at a local villa down the road that they won a 2 night stay and needs to be used. They will spend tonight and Bob and I will use the other night tomorrow night. It all works well since Amy is due to have baby boy # 3 in 5 weeks and is in need of a tiny break before her world changes entirely with the new addition.
So, here I sit and type, it is now dark, the sun has set and again, it is only 6pm. The sun rises promptly at 5:30-6am and sets promptly at 6pm daily. It has really turned my time clock around because I think it is a totally different time than it really is, it’s kind of funky but cool! The rain has stopped, the breeze is lovely and the sound of the waves crashing in the ocean is absolutely tranquil. I am sure I ever want to leave, I could certainly get used to this!!! Now if I can just figure out how to make a living here and talk my husband into it!!
Well, 6:30 rolls around and the boys walk in completely blotto from their liquid lunch. They said they “tag team” drove which means that Bob drove down the mountain (I am not quite sure how he managed that, lol) and Storm drove on the Coastenera (the coast highway), a fairly straight road and good highway. Neither one of them was fit to drive so I am sure that it was a sight to behold….
We sent Amy and Storm off for a romantic overnight getaway to the Costa Pariso, where they stayed in the honeymoon suite. The went for dinner at Confusione, a local Italian restaurant here in Domincal, then they headed back to the suite where they relaxed (okay maybe Amy relaxed, Storm just passed out) and enjoyed their evening sans children!
All the kids stayed back here with us while Bob proceeded to pass out himself and I cooked dinner, bathed the kids and put them down with the movie Lady and the Tramp. By the time the movie was over, Xavier and Aidan were asleep, Christian had already curled up with daddy and Hannah and Xander proceeded to head off for the night. All in all it was a good night. Bob really needed this “break” and have the ability to let loose. His job is so stressful and he rarely if ever gets to just hang out with the guys and have a good time…..
Until next time,
K&B
Monday, August 27, 2007
The $4 battery fix, beach and beer day!
Monday August 27, 2007
I sit here on Tuesday actually writing the update for Monday as we were so busy yesterday…….we were relaxing. I know, a novel concept but a much needed one. Monday was filled with fun activities for the kids. Storm, Xander and Bob drove into San Isidro for restaurant supplies and to get Storm’s ATV (a common mode of transportation here) worked on. While in town, Xander tasted his first real empanadas and was in absolute heaven. I only hope that the one’s we have back home will delight him as much as these did. At the Maxi Bodega (the local Wal-Mart, seriously, complete with the Equate products) was where they went to pick up 60 kilos of chicken wings. Upon leaving, it seemed that Storm’s car was dead, completely dead. Not a tool in sight to work on the car, they befriended a local tico who determined that the battery terminals were bad. Now this is where I find it interesting….instead of replacing the battery, they tico cut off the terminals, yes, cut them off and created entirely new ones for it, soldered them on and like magic, the battery started right up! Can you guess how much this cost? A whopping, hold on to your wallets folks, $4. Yup, that’s right, FOUR dollars or 2,000 colones. In the states, someone would have convinced you on why you need to replace the entire battery for a cost of $50-$100, not here, they repaired the problem and charged you a minimal amount. We have learned that the tico’s are so friendly and willing to assist you if needed in any way. The highlight of Xander’s day was purchasing his very own Costa Rican machete. He feels just like a local now!
While the boys were on their adventure, Amy, the kids and I went to Dominical and had a fruit smoothie at Tortilla Flats then headed to a local vendor to pick up tiki masks and other gifts for the kids then we headed over to Playa Hermosa for a morning at the beach. We arrived at almost high tide so we didn’t stay more than an hour because with each wave, our belongings would rush out into the ocean, regardless of how high a ground we thought we were moving everything to. The kids had a blast. Hannah boogie boarded and I went out with Xavier and we body surfed the waves. Right there at the beach was a river run-off from the mountains with crisp, cool water rushing out into the ocean, this is where Christian and Aidan stayed most of the time playing. It was really a lot of fun.
Home to lunch, naps and another relaxing afternoon. Storm headed up Bar Jolly Roger to open up and get ready for the evening crowd. Amy, the kids and I headed over for dinner while Bob stayed home for a much needed “liquid break” and some P & Q! We went there for dinner since Storm had restocked the wings supply and Xander was jonesing for “Leo Wings” and so was I to tell the truth! Storm makes these delicious wings that I hope to be able to duplicate at home when we return. I am telling you, I am just going to pack Storm up in my suitcase and bring him home with me, he is one fantastic cook. It makes me think I need to get my kids (and my hubby) in the kitchen a LOT more often! After cervezas and wings, we were home for the night to the sounds of rain and lots of it! We got some true Costa Rican showers all through the night, it was wonderful!
K&B
I sit here on Tuesday actually writing the update for Monday as we were so busy yesterday…….we were relaxing. I know, a novel concept but a much needed one. Monday was filled with fun activities for the kids. Storm, Xander and Bob drove into San Isidro for restaurant supplies and to get Storm’s ATV (a common mode of transportation here) worked on. While in town, Xander tasted his first real empanadas and was in absolute heaven. I only hope that the one’s we have back home will delight him as much as these did. At the Maxi Bodega (the local Wal-Mart, seriously, complete with the Equate products) was where they went to pick up 60 kilos of chicken wings. Upon leaving, it seemed that Storm’s car was dead, completely dead. Not a tool in sight to work on the car, they befriended a local tico who determined that the battery terminals were bad. Now this is where I find it interesting….instead of replacing the battery, they tico cut off the terminals, yes, cut them off and created entirely new ones for it, soldered them on and like magic, the battery started right up! Can you guess how much this cost? A whopping, hold on to your wallets folks, $4. Yup, that’s right, FOUR dollars or 2,000 colones. In the states, someone would have convinced you on why you need to replace the entire battery for a cost of $50-$100, not here, they repaired the problem and charged you a minimal amount. We have learned that the tico’s are so friendly and willing to assist you if needed in any way. The highlight of Xander’s day was purchasing his very own Costa Rican machete. He feels just like a local now!
While the boys were on their adventure, Amy, the kids and I went to Dominical and had a fruit smoothie at Tortilla Flats then headed to a local vendor to pick up tiki masks and other gifts for the kids then we headed over to Playa Hermosa for a morning at the beach. We arrived at almost high tide so we didn’t stay more than an hour because with each wave, our belongings would rush out into the ocean, regardless of how high a ground we thought we were moving everything to. The kids had a blast. Hannah boogie boarded and I went out with Xavier and we body surfed the waves. Right there at the beach was a river run-off from the mountains with crisp, cool water rushing out into the ocean, this is where Christian and Aidan stayed most of the time playing. It was really a lot of fun.
Home to lunch, naps and another relaxing afternoon. Storm headed up Bar Jolly Roger to open up and get ready for the evening crowd. Amy, the kids and I headed over for dinner while Bob stayed home for a much needed “liquid break” and some P & Q! We went there for dinner since Storm had restocked the wings supply and Xander was jonesing for “Leo Wings” and so was I to tell the truth! Storm makes these delicious wings that I hope to be able to duplicate at home when we return. I am telling you, I am just going to pack Storm up in my suitcase and bring him home with me, he is one fantastic cook. It makes me think I need to get my kids (and my hubby) in the kitchen a LOT more often! After cervezas and wings, we were home for the night to the sounds of rain and lots of it! We got some true Costa Rican showers all through the night, it was wonderful!
K&B
Costa Rica....American Food, Iguanas and finally some rain!
Sunday August 26, 2007
Another day in paradise….we awoke to another beautiful morning, sun shining, clear sky and no rain. After enjoying a refreshing breakfast, we headed over to Rio Mar’s pool for a swim and lunch. The pool was really cool, it had these 3 tiki God concrete masks at the end that were actually fountains and had trickle water falls coming out of the eyes and mouth into the deep end of the pool. Right behind there were large palms and foliage and a small grassy area. Bob, with his great animal detection radar, found a 3 foot water iguana (lizard) that had the full spike on the head and was completely relaxing in the sun. Once Bob and Xander got close enough and the lizard was having no more of their encroaching on his territory, he got up on his back 2 hind legs and ran off up into the tree. Of course, I never got to see him, even as Bob and Xander were telling me to “look mom, he is right there on the branch, don’t you see him?”, so I get to take their word for it and just know that it’s there.
We ordered totally American food for lunch so the kids were happy. Christian mowed down on the quesadillas and chicken fingers. It was a great afternoon. Afterwards we were treated to Storm’s home-cooking yet again. I swear he is the best cook ever and he proved it yet again. Kim and Bart and their 2 girls, Alexandra and Ashley came over for dinner. We feasted on Fish Red Thai Curry and garlic bread. Both were out of this world. We have the recipe and are bringing it home with us to make for our friends when we return to the states.
We finally got some rain late this afternoon and into the evening. We also saw some long awaited lightening and listed to the wonderful booms of thunder as it passed over. Having not heard the soothing sounds of rain or the melodious sound of thunder in such a long time (we only get 5 inches of rain a rain and zero lightening or thunder), it was a beautiful sight and sound!!
It is late and I need to get the kids in bed. They are having a blast and I’ll update more on them later!
Another day in paradise….we awoke to another beautiful morning, sun shining, clear sky and no rain. After enjoying a refreshing breakfast, we headed over to Rio Mar’s pool for a swim and lunch. The pool was really cool, it had these 3 tiki God concrete masks at the end that were actually fountains and had trickle water falls coming out of the eyes and mouth into the deep end of the pool. Right behind there were large palms and foliage and a small grassy area. Bob, with his great animal detection radar, found a 3 foot water iguana (lizard) that had the full spike on the head and was completely relaxing in the sun. Once Bob and Xander got close enough and the lizard was having no more of their encroaching on his territory, he got up on his back 2 hind legs and ran off up into the tree. Of course, I never got to see him, even as Bob and Xander were telling me to “look mom, he is right there on the branch, don’t you see him?”, so I get to take their word for it and just know that it’s there.
We ordered totally American food for lunch so the kids were happy. Christian mowed down on the quesadillas and chicken fingers. It was a great afternoon. Afterwards we were treated to Storm’s home-cooking yet again. I swear he is the best cook ever and he proved it yet again. Kim and Bart and their 2 girls, Alexandra and Ashley came over for dinner. We feasted on Fish Red Thai Curry and garlic bread. Both were out of this world. We have the recipe and are bringing it home with us to make for our friends when we return to the states.
We finally got some rain late this afternoon and into the evening. We also saw some long awaited lightening and listed to the wonderful booms of thunder as it passed over. Having not heard the soothing sounds of rain or the melodious sound of thunder in such a long time (we only get 5 inches of rain a rain and zero lightening or thunder), it was a beautiful sight and sound!!
It is late and I need to get the kids in bed. They are having a blast and I’ll update more on them later!
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Costa Rica..... First 3 days
Saturday 8/25
I woke up this morning, talking with Amy and she was talking about what we were going to do on Sunday and next week. After that, the conversation went like this:
Amy – “I thought on Sunday we would go to….swim, come back, etc. etc.”
Me listening to what Amy said after that – “wah, wah, wah, wah, wah”.
My brain could not absorb that it was just Saturday. It felt like Sunday already (not that I am rushing it) and without clocks or a schedule, I totally lost track of time and I have only been here for just over 24 hours.
I am totally lost in tranquility. When we arrived on Thursday night, we headed straight to the Marriott Courtyard and right into bed. We were all exhausted. After showers, grooming and re-packing Friday morning, we ate at the restaurant downstairs in the hotel. We were treated to a fabulous breakfast of rice and beans, taquitos, scrambled eggs with ham (which Xander had 3 helpings of because he loved them so much), an omelet and waffle bar, fresh fruits and local juices, the works. It was delish!
We picked up our rental car and met another couple from NY that was also headed to Dominical on vacation. They had arrived the night before and been the victims of the dreaded tire slashing (in hopes that the robbers will be able to get their belongings once they pull over to fix the flat). That is a common occurrence here and so after we drove off in our rental car, I was very wary of every person on motorcycle that passed. Thank goodness, thus far in the trip, we have not fallen peril to such activity.
Our drive through San Jose, San Pedro, Cartago, San Isidro and finally into Dominicalito (little Dominical), was absolutely breathtaking! We drove right through the rain forest and to the top of the highest point on the Pan American Highway spanning from Alaska to Panama. We were lucky enough to not have any rain on our drive; it was actually quite beautiful, sunny and little humidity. After about 4 hours, we finally arrived at the door to our wonderful friends the Zbel’s. Storm, Amy and their 2 boys Xavier and Aidan treated us to dinner at the Bar Jolly Roger, where they are local proprietors of the establishment. The wings are some of the best I have ever tasted and the burger was 5 star. Amy, the kids and I headed back to the house while Bob stayed behind to lose all but $10 of his money in the regular Friday night poker tournament. He had a great time and it was good for him to get some guy time in with the locals.
We did meet a family from San Diego who were looking to buy some property and maybe move on down. It seems that while the ticos are the locals, the American’s aren’t far behind in the buying up the land. The squatters aren’t too happy about it so there is some unrest and conflict but for the most part the ticos are friendly and receptive to the gringos trying out their Spanish. I know just enough to get me in trouble, lol! Hannah has really embraced the culture and is already greeting everyone she knows in Spanish and returning the greetings in correct Spanish as well. I am very proud of her and our gardener Lucas will be too.
I spoke with Maureen today to wish her a Happy Birthday and to check on the house! All is well at home and it is late here so I will close for now. This is a wonderful adventure and I feel so blessed to be here. It is always a good day when we can wake up and see everything that is right before our eyes no matter where we live!
K & B
I woke up this morning, talking with Amy and she was talking about what we were going to do on Sunday and next week. After that, the conversation went like this:
Amy – “I thought on Sunday we would go to….swim, come back, etc. etc.”
Me listening to what Amy said after that – “wah, wah, wah, wah, wah”.
My brain could not absorb that it was just Saturday. It felt like Sunday already (not that I am rushing it) and without clocks or a schedule, I totally lost track of time and I have only been here for just over 24 hours.
I am totally lost in tranquility. When we arrived on Thursday night, we headed straight to the Marriott Courtyard and right into bed. We were all exhausted. After showers, grooming and re-packing Friday morning, we ate at the restaurant downstairs in the hotel. We were treated to a fabulous breakfast of rice and beans, taquitos, scrambled eggs with ham (which Xander had 3 helpings of because he loved them so much), an omelet and waffle bar, fresh fruits and local juices, the works. It was delish!
We picked up our rental car and met another couple from NY that was also headed to Dominical on vacation. They had arrived the night before and been the victims of the dreaded tire slashing (in hopes that the robbers will be able to get their belongings once they pull over to fix the flat). That is a common occurrence here and so after we drove off in our rental car, I was very wary of every person on motorcycle that passed. Thank goodness, thus far in the trip, we have not fallen peril to such activity.
Our drive through San Jose, San Pedro, Cartago, San Isidro and finally into Dominicalito (little Dominical), was absolutely breathtaking! We drove right through the rain forest and to the top of the highest point on the Pan American Highway spanning from Alaska to Panama. We were lucky enough to not have any rain on our drive; it was actually quite beautiful, sunny and little humidity. After about 4 hours, we finally arrived at the door to our wonderful friends the Zbel’s. Storm, Amy and their 2 boys Xavier and Aidan treated us to dinner at the Bar Jolly Roger, where they are local proprietors of the establishment. The wings are some of the best I have ever tasted and the burger was 5 star. Amy, the kids and I headed back to the house while Bob stayed behind to lose all but $10 of his money in the regular Friday night poker tournament. He had a great time and it was good for him to get some guy time in with the locals.
We did meet a family from San Diego who were looking to buy some property and maybe move on down. It seems that while the ticos are the locals, the American’s aren’t far behind in the buying up the land. The squatters aren’t too happy about it so there is some unrest and conflict but for the most part the ticos are friendly and receptive to the gringos trying out their Spanish. I know just enough to get me in trouble, lol! Hannah has really embraced the culture and is already greeting everyone she knows in Spanish and returning the greetings in correct Spanish as well. I am very proud of her and our gardener Lucas will be too.
I spoke with Maureen today to wish her a Happy Birthday and to check on the house! All is well at home and it is late here so I will close for now. This is a wonderful adventure and I feel so blessed to be here. It is always a good day when we can wake up and see everything that is right before our eyes no matter where we live!
K & B
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Busy, Busy, Busy getting ready for our trip to Costa Rica
Only 2 more bedtimes to go.....that is how Hannah is counting down the days......before we leave on our adventure! We are going to Costa Rica for 10 days to visit our old next door neighbors from Charleston. They have 2 children, Xavier-4 and Aidan-2 and are expecting itty bitty baby boy #3 in approx. 7 weeks. They decided that they wanted a more laid back-relaxed lifestyle and decided to take that chance in life most people are afraid to take, and move lock stock and barrel into the great unknown. 
Xavier, Amy and Aidan
Xavier, Amy and AidanAmy was one of my dearest friends in Charleston, the one you run to for butter and sour cream and whatever else you were out of. She was the one who provided me great support and friendship after my car accident. She was my friend that I could talk to about anything and she was never judgemental. Amy is a great mom, friend and I am so delighted to be going to visit her. She and Storm have 2 beautiful boys and they are on their own adventure of a lifetime. When we are there, we will have amongst us, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 12 year old kids with Hannah being the only girl.....it should be fun.
Xavier, Storm and Aidan
They live in Playa Dominical (on the Pacific central coast). We are flying into San Jose and then driving down to their house. This should be an experience in and of itself as I have read driving in CR is an adventure and could be treacherous, so we will be careful. We hope to get in a little touristy stuff while we are there however with Amy being due to deliver very soon, my job #1 is to help her in any way I can and give Storm a bit of a break for the daily doldrums.
So anyway, I will update later on our trip. I probably won't write again until we return on September 2. At that point, I will have 2 weeks worth of stuff to write about and LOTS of pictures so be sure to check back after Labor Day. Say lots of prayers for us to have a safe and wonderful trip!
XOXOXO,
K & B
Friday, August 17, 2007
Pray for Evan
If you happen to stop by today, please take a moment to send up a few prayers for Evan Cousineau. He is a 9 year old boy who lives here in San Clemente and plays on a water polo team that completes against Xander's. While we may be arch nemesis in the water, we are all kindred spirits on the land.
Evan's family is going through sheer hell right now and they are in for the toughest fight of their lives both emotionally and personally.
We have had several friends plagued by illness and suffering lately, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Evan's family is going through sheer hell right now and they are in for the toughest fight of their lives both emotionally and personally.
We have had several friends plagued by illness and suffering lately, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Emerald Bay / Catalina Island Post
Here is what was just updated to us by the Camp Advisor for our troop:
Dear Parents and Families of Camp E-Bay campers:
I just heard from Shauna Hull and she would like you all to know that they are having a great week at camp. They did War Canoe on Tuesday and slept out under the stars on Parsons Beach. The snorkeling over there was incredible. They have seen a bat ray and an octopus while snorkeling. Mostly everyone is completing their merit badges and there have been no serious injuries other than a few cuts and scrapes. We will be picking them up on Saturday at 2:00 at Berth 95, Catalina Sea Terminal.
We sent Xander an underwater camera so I hope he was able to get great pictures while snorkeling. I'll post them if he gets anything!
~K & B
Dear Parents and Families of Camp E-Bay campers:
I just heard from Shauna Hull and she would like you all to know that they are having a great week at camp. They did War Canoe on Tuesday and slept out under the stars on Parsons Beach. The snorkeling over there was incredible. They have seen a bat ray and an octopus while snorkeling. Mostly everyone is completing their merit badges and there have been no serious injuries other than a few cuts and scrapes. We will be picking them up on Saturday at 2:00 at Berth 95, Catalina Sea Terminal.
We sent Xander an underwater camera so I hope he was able to get great pictures while snorkeling. I'll post them if he gets anything!
~K & B
Long Time No Updates....Our trip to Palm Desert
Wow, I can't believe that it has been a week since I late wrote an update. It has been an oh so busy weekend and week. Where oh where do I start?
Last time I wrote I think I was getting Xander ready for scout camp. I drove him and 2 other families up to the San Pedro terminal to depart over to Catalina Island for a week long camp. He was very excited and before I left to come home, his tent mate and he gave me a laundry list of things they would like in their "care package" that he knew I would be sending. Asher (Xander's tent mate) has his mom there as an advisor so if I didn't add something in the box for him, he wouldn't get anything in the mail.
As I was leaving, I yelled across the way to Xander that I was going to be on my way, he was about 15 feet from me and hanging with his buddies. All of a sudden, he reaches out both arms and walks to me with this "I'll miss you mom" look on his face. Now mind you, there are hundreds of boys standing around, parents and others. For a 12 year old boy who normally banishes me to the outskirts of where ever we are so that I am seen but not heard from, when he reaches his arms out, gives me a huge, long-lasting hug and nuzzles into me, well, I almost lost it right there on the dock. That meant more to me than anything. Loving my kids is the most wonderful feeling I have ever felt and to get it in return is the greatest experience of my life! I love that kid like crazy and he is such a good kid. May he always be this sweet and loving!!!
On my way home from Long Beach I had a nice conversation with my mom. It was good to hear her voice and to just be able to share what's going on in our lives. I do miss them terribly and know at some point that we will make it back home but for now, phone conversations are always nice to share!
I was exhausted by the time I returned home so down for a nap I went. That is a rare thing for me, I almost never nap (it spoils my beauty sleep at night and boy do I ever need that beauty sleep, lol)! Afterwards we all headed down to the Kjell's house for a swim, wine and conversation with all our neighbors. We live in a great 'hood!
Monday-Wednesday I made an impromptu trip over to Palm Desert/Indian Wells with my neighbor and friend Maureen who lives across the street. She had her 2 girls, a boy from Italy that is staying with them and Debbie's 2 kids and then I had my own 2 kids. I am not sure if we were insane or what thinking that we should go alone with 7 kids between us. I guess since I am writing this, you know we survived the trip without any great incidents!!
When we arrived in the desert, my car thermometer read 111 degrees. WOW was it ever hot! We immediately hit the pool and poolside bar! I have never wanted to just stay in a pool without getting out in all my life. Once you were out of the water it was just hot, plain old hot! It was fun for the kids. The dive in movie for the night was Ice Age, the Meltdown which of course they had all seen so we headed to the comfort of A/C and take out.
Tuesday we headed to Cheesecake Factory for lunch then off to Knott's Soak City water park, FOUR hours later and the kids were exhausted (good for early bedtimes and a sneak for us mom's down to the lounge)! The kids had a great time in the water. I think that had I not had Christian with me, Hannah would have ridden every water slide possible that she was tall enough for. She is such a dare devil. She rode this one slide where you sit on top of the tube, hold on to the handles and it shoots you down this long twisty, winding tube and into the water. She rode that one many times. She loved all the rides, the more twists and turns and water, the better. Good thing she taught herself how to swim just the week before. I think she already knows the power of "the Secret" already. She thinks it, she can do it, there will be no stopping her in life. This should serve her well! I was very proud of her.
Christian on the other hand is my reserved, laid back, let me think about it and get used to it first kind of guy. He wanted to do things in his own way at his own pace and wanted nothing to do with the tall water slides. The baby slides and playing in the splashing water was just fine for him. He is definitely a mama's boy and needs me to be there every step of the way with him. He is adventurous in his own way and is getting ready to ride a 2 wheel bike with no training wheels. He rock climbs large walls, he rides a scooter from the tops of large hills to the bottom with no problems, doing turns, etc but the water is not a place he really wants to be adventurous so with this, we are cautious and let him do his own thing and that's okay with us.
We hit the outlets in Cabazon on the way home however it was too hot to shop! I didn't think I would ever say that but it was. The heat was oppressive and miserable. Needless to say, I came home with very little and a much happier bank account!!
Today is cleaning day around the house and working on my "to do" list, grocery shopping, etc. We leave a week from today for Costa Rica. I need to get many things accomplished before we head out on our trip to see our friends who just moved there from Charleston. So off I should go and stop the long novel that this is coming to be. I promise shorter updates for the next week. Take care and talk again tomorrow. ~K & B
Last time I wrote I think I was getting Xander ready for scout camp. I drove him and 2 other families up to the San Pedro terminal to depart over to Catalina Island for a week long camp. He was very excited and before I left to come home, his tent mate and he gave me a laundry list of things they would like in their "care package" that he knew I would be sending. Asher (Xander's tent mate) has his mom there as an advisor so if I didn't add something in the box for him, he wouldn't get anything in the mail.
As I was leaving, I yelled across the way to Xander that I was going to be on my way, he was about 15 feet from me and hanging with his buddies. All of a sudden, he reaches out both arms and walks to me with this "I'll miss you mom" look on his face. Now mind you, there are hundreds of boys standing around, parents and others. For a 12 year old boy who normally banishes me to the outskirts of where ever we are so that I am seen but not heard from, when he reaches his arms out, gives me a huge, long-lasting hug and nuzzles into me, well, I almost lost it right there on the dock. That meant more to me than anything. Loving my kids is the most wonderful feeling I have ever felt and to get it in return is the greatest experience of my life! I love that kid like crazy and he is such a good kid. May he always be this sweet and loving!!!On my way home from Long Beach I had a nice conversation with my mom. It was good to hear her voice and to just be able to share what's going on in our lives. I do miss them terribly and know at some point that we will make it back home but for now, phone conversations are always nice to share!I was exhausted by the time I returned home so down for a nap I went. That is a rare thing for me, I almost never nap (it spoils my beauty sleep at night and boy do I ever need that beauty sleep, lol)! Afterwards we all headed down to the Kjell's house for a swim, wine and conversation with all our neighbors. We live in a great 'hood!
Monday-Wednesday I made an impromptu trip over to Palm Desert/Indian Wells with my neighbor and friend Maureen who lives across the street. She had her 2 girls, a boy from Italy that is staying with them and Debbie's 2 kids and then I had my own 2 kids. I am not sure if we were insane or what thinking that we should go alone with 7 kids between us. I guess since I am writing this, you know we survived the trip without any great incidents!!
When we arrived in the desert, my car thermometer read 111 degrees. WOW was it ever hot! We immediately hit the pool and poolside bar! I have never wanted to just stay in a pool without getting out in all my life. Once you were out of the water it was just hot, plain old hot! It was fun for the kids. The dive in movie for the night was Ice Age, the Meltdown which of course they had all seen so we headed to the comfort of A/C and take out.
Tuesday we headed to Cheesecake Factory for lunch then off to Knott's Soak City water park, FOUR hours later and the kids were exhausted (good for early bedtimes and a sneak for us mom's down to the lounge)! The kids had a great time in the water. I think that had I not had Christian with me, Hannah would have ridden every water slide possible that she was tall enough for. She is such a dare devil. She rode this one slide where you sit on top of the tube, hold on to the handles and it shoots you down this long twisty, winding tube and into the water. She rode that one many times. She loved all the rides, the more twists and turns and water, the better. Good thing she taught herself how to swim just the week before. I think she already knows the power of "the Secret" already. She thinks it, she can do it, there will be no stopping her in life. This should serve her well! I was very proud of her.Christian on the other hand is my reserved, laid back, let me think about it and get used to it first kind of guy. He wanted to do things in his own way at his own pace and wanted nothing to do with the tall water slides. The baby slides and playing in the splashing water was just fine for him. He is definitely a mama's boy and needs me to be there every step of the way with him. He is adventurous in his own way and is getting ready to ride a 2 wheel bike with no training wheels. He rock climbs large walls, he rides a scooter from the tops of large hills to the bottom with no problems, doing turns, etc but the water is not a place he really wants to be adventurous so with this, we are cautious and let him do his own thing and that's okay with us.We hit the outlets in Cabazon on the way home however it was too hot to shop! I didn't think I would ever say that but it was. The heat was oppressive and miserable. Needless to say, I came home with very little and a much happier bank account!!
Today is cleaning day around the house and working on my "to do" list, grocery shopping, etc. We leave a week from today for Costa Rica. I need to get many things accomplished before we head out on our trip to see our friends who just moved there from Charleston. So off I should go and stop the long novel that this is coming to be. I promise shorter updates for the next week. Take care and talk again tomorrow. ~K & B
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Happy Birthday Via "Merlot"
Our good friends, Joe and Debbie Nix, hosted a birthday celebration for all the August birthday's on the street (Via Mero but we like to call it Via Merlot since we are all such vinos)!! Anyway, their beachhouse is down in Carlsbad and we spent the afternoon there with all our friends. The food was great, the pool was cool and the kids all had a blast! Here are some pictures of our day:
The birthday gang: Maureen, Katin, Drew, Christian & Xander (not pictured: Erin and Dave)
The birthday gang: Maureen, Katin, Drew, Christian & Xander (not pictured: Erin and Dave)
Tawni, Christy, Kimberly, Maureen, Denise and Debbie (Via Merlot Girls)
Thursday, August 9, 2007
Back to School Shopping Day
Yesterday (Wednesday) was a rather slow and peaceful day, thank goodness. After a day like Tuesday, I needed a break and some calm in the house.
Today started off with the hustle and bustle of cleaning, doing laundry and preparing for the weekend (I hate working around the house on the weekends so I try to get my "chores" done by Thurs). After vacuuming up 3 canisters of dog hair off the floor, I was completely disgusted and wondered how in the world 2 dogs can shed so much in the span of a day. I keep wondering where the 3rd dog is that I should be feeding with all these fur ball tumbleweeds rolling around my floor. Needless to say, I got them all up, bathed and got the kids ready for a long day of shopping!
I picked up Bob and we headed to Chick's, an outdoor store that carries everything for the "beach scene". We found some great things there for Hannah, Xander and 2 fantastic pieces of luggage for our trip. They are also starting a sidewalk sale tomorrow so I am sure I'll be back as I love a bargain! Next, we headed to the "dreaded" mall. I am NOT a mall girl, I like outlets and bargains however there were a few things I needed and could only get them at the mall. I did find a few bargains and so for now Hannah is set for clothes and shoes and Xander is almost ready. Our first trip up the Escalator proved to be a bit of a challenge for our eldest. It seems that he can't manage to stand in the upright position so took quite the tumble and gashed his knee open, it was quite a site. He managed to hobble around the rest of the day and put new skin on afer we got home. He seems to be much better now.
After a delicious "lundin" (lunch and dinner combo much like brunch) at Cheesecake Factory, we all waddled out and took our cheesecake to-go. The only problem with that restaurant is the fact that the menu has way too many choices and then the portions are huge. We came home with enough for fend for yourself night on Sunday! My favorite cheesecake there is the Banana Cream Cheesecake. It is so delicious, my 2nd favorite might be the vanilla bean, yummmm! Anyway, going there is always a treat as we only get there once or twice a year even though it is only a few miles from us.
So as I sit here this evening still feeling like a lead weight and eyes drooping, I think it might be time for me to find the comfort of a soft pillow and snuggle up for the night. Tomorrow is another errand day as we prepare for Xander's scouting trip. Maybe, just maybe, if I am not too tired tomorrow night, I will get back on and catch up. Otherwise it might be Saturday or Sunday before I get back on to update on this life as we know it.......Hasta Luego ~K
Today started off with the hustle and bustle of cleaning, doing laundry and preparing for the weekend (I hate working around the house on the weekends so I try to get my "chores" done by Thurs). After vacuuming up 3 canisters of dog hair off the floor, I was completely disgusted and wondered how in the world 2 dogs can shed so much in the span of a day. I keep wondering where the 3rd dog is that I should be feeding with all these fur ball tumbleweeds rolling around my floor. Needless to say, I got them all up, bathed and got the kids ready for a long day of shopping!
I picked up Bob and we headed to Chick's, an outdoor store that carries everything for the "beach scene". We found some great things there for Hannah, Xander and 2 fantastic pieces of luggage for our trip. They are also starting a sidewalk sale tomorrow so I am sure I'll be back as I love a bargain! Next, we headed to the "dreaded" mall. I am NOT a mall girl, I like outlets and bargains however there were a few things I needed and could only get them at the mall. I did find a few bargains and so for now Hannah is set for clothes and shoes and Xander is almost ready. Our first trip up the Escalator proved to be a bit of a challenge for our eldest. It seems that he can't manage to stand in the upright position so took quite the tumble and gashed his knee open, it was quite a site. He managed to hobble around the rest of the day and put new skin on afer we got home. He seems to be much better now.
After a delicious "lundin" (lunch and dinner combo much like brunch) at Cheesecake Factory, we all waddled out and took our cheesecake to-go. The only problem with that restaurant is the fact that the menu has way too many choices and then the portions are huge. We came home with enough for fend for yourself night on Sunday! My favorite cheesecake there is the Banana Cream Cheesecake. It is so delicious, my 2nd favorite might be the vanilla bean, yummmm! Anyway, going there is always a treat as we only get there once or twice a year even though it is only a few miles from us.
So as I sit here this evening still feeling like a lead weight and eyes drooping, I think it might be time for me to find the comfort of a soft pillow and snuggle up for the night. Tomorrow is another errand day as we prepare for Xander's scouting trip. Maybe, just maybe, if I am not too tired tomorrow night, I will get back on and catch up. Otherwise it might be Saturday or Sunday before I get back on to update on this life as we know it.......Hasta Luego ~K
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Terrific Tuesday (or not)!!
Good morning, I think it is going to be a beautiful day here in sunny, southern California. I was out watering our plants and veggies this morning and Hannah has the first flower on the sunflower seeds she planted. She is so proud! Check out her sunflower:
Okay, I spoke much too soon about a "terrific Tuesday". What ever was I thinking? All started out well, I left the kids here at the house while I went and picked up registration packets for Shorecliffs (the Jr High school Xander will attend in the fall). While I was gone, Xander decided Sasha (h
is Russian Tortoise) needed some fresh air and put her in her outside pen. I come home, of course all the kids are in front of the boob tube and I tell Xander that it is time to get chores done. I am upstairs and all of a sudden, he is sobbing that Sasha is missing. For those of you that are unaware of how fast a tortoise can be, well, they are actually quite fast when they get up on all 4 legs and get to runnin'. So, now we are scouring the back yard wondering where she could have gone. Thank goodness daddy put mesh fencing at the bottom of our fence all the way around the yard, nothing can get out of there! I am looking for deep holes where she may have buried herself. Nope, no Sasha. Now, I worry that our German Shepherd, Athena may have "gotten" her. So, I tell Xander to go look inside while I continue to look outside for possible "remains" in the event the dog had a small snack. About a minute later, Xander comes out, tears gone and anger on his face as he found Sasha in the middle of Athena's bed. Seems that Athena DID want a snack however, those tortoise shells are harder than you think and she was sucked up in that shell tighter than well........ So, now I am trying to coax Sasha back out of her shell, we are outside, Athena's inside (or so we think) an then all hell breaks loose in the front street.
From here, my adrenaline gets going because all I hear are the neighbors kids yelling for Athena to "stop" and get her off, etc, etc. At this point I am thinking that she is attacking or hurting one of the kids but that can't be possible because she would lay her life down for any kid. I race to the front yard,
with my feet never touching the ground, to realize that she is trying to "pin down" our next door neighbors dog, Shilo. Have you ever met someone that you had absolutely zero connection with and just absolutely couldn't stand to be around? That's exactly how Athena feels about Shilo. Athena gets socialized with other dogs and has no problems around any other dog except Shilo. So now I am grabbing Athena off of Shilo (who is about a 1/3 the size of my dog) and all of a sudden, Shilo thinks he's big and bad and goes for Athena this time. I am reaching my hand in between two dogs who have teeth bared, fur flying and I am yelling at both of them. It was crazy. My neighbors daughter, Mackenzie, suffered a slight grazing from Athena trying to get to Shilo and some road rash from falling down in the scuffle but other than that, everyone, including the dogs survived unscathed.
After that fiasco, I sat in my neighbor's driveway with her and just caught my breath. If you have ever been caught in the middle of a dog fight, it is a huge adrenaline rush, especially when one of the dogs is yours. I was exhausted. It was only noon but I was ready for margaritas at this point, unfortunately you don't want your kids to wonder why mommy is drinking at noon, so I refrained, but it wasn't easy.....
I cannot wait for our trip to Costa Rica in two weeks, I truly need a VACATION! This will be our first "real" vacation in over 3 years. I'll explain "why" Costa Rica in another blog update. We haven't been anywhere good since before my car accident and Christian was born, it is time! Can you believe that we have been here in southern CA for over 2 years now? In the last 13 years, we have never lived anywhere for more than 2 1/2 years, so we are coming up on a record. I truly feel like we are "home" now and can see us living here for many years to come. It is a great area for the kids because there is so much for them to do and be exposed to. Xander is finally blossoming into a wonderful young man and it is important for him to put down roots, grow and become a great citizen in this world without having to deal with being uprooted every so often. His needs are more important than our own at this point in our lives and we are definitely content in the small town of San Clemente. We are close enough to the big city to get what we need but still live in a quintessential small town with a main street right through downtown. It's like Mayberry at the beach! Now if only the real estate market would continue to fall......
Now, the kids are resting peacefully and I am trying to catch up on all the things I need to do so I should probably run and work on my laundry mountain and clear the hurdles of toys throughout the house. Looking forward to a peaceful afternoon.
After a refreshing nap, my dear friend and neighbor invited me over to her house for Carnitas and Wine, I am there! WIth kids in tow, we had a delicious dinner and great conversation. Debbie and Joe came down to join us before they headed off on a walk. It was so wonderful to spend time with good friends, enjoying good food and conversation after the long and draining day I had. It was a nice way to end the evening. So I guess all's well that end's well. Maybe this day wasn't too bad after all!!! I am blessed to have the friends that I do, they are always right there when you need them.
Missing my darling hubby tonight and looking forward to seeing him in the morning.
Good night. ~K
Monday, August 6, 2007
Linda Lane Park & Beach Play Date
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| Click to play Make your own Smilebox |
I hope you enjoy the mini scrap book I made. I love to use this as a quick outlet to send photographs to people in a creative way instead of boring, old attachments! Turn up the sound, I added music as well!!! I LOVE SMILE BOX! ~K
Happy Birthday to Nan (my mom) and Katin (our friend)
Christian, Hannah, Faith and Aubrey's feet!Fun in the sun, sand on our feet.
Run, jump and play with friends that we meet!
August is a busy month for birthdays. Gee, were people trying to keep warm in November and December???? It seems that August/September/October are busy, busy, busy months for babies, I should know, I have 2 born in August. Hmmm?Today is a beautiful day. We started out with a little "June Gloom" but the sun peeked it's head out around noon. Xander went to rock & roll camp this morning and I took the kids to meet up with their school friends at the beach park. Oh my goodness, I cannot tell you how much fun they had, I'll have to show you. Hannah and Faith were in the same preschool class and hopefully will be in the same K class this fall (crossing my fingers) and then Christian and Aubrey (Faith's sister) will be in the same preschool class at San Clemente Presbyterian in the fall. We are very excited that they all get along so well and both of our families have so much in common. I am thankful to know them and I look forward to many future play dates!! Check out some of the pictures (I am working on my photography skills, I'd love to turn it into more than a hobby, enjoy!):
Look at the great beetle we "rescued" from a near death experience when be landed on Aubrey's finger and she nearly smushed him. Here he is drying out his wings, getting the sand off of him. Within a minute or two, he flapped, buzzed and then took off into the great blue yonder.....at first that blue yonder was the sky. He was so big we could see him fly about 100 feet away. Not sure what happened but the big, blue yonder soon became the ocean as he met his great demise. Yep, he nose dived and is probably now a tasty treat for some fish in the sea! He was pretty while he lasted... Now that the kids are asleep after the beach, lunch and a shower. I am hoping they sleep for a while. I am going to take my shower, a small nap and then I shall return to share more pictures and stories from our day at the beach park!
I can't believe that it is almost 10pm. Where oh where did the day go? With Bob being out of town it really makes my evenings a little busier than normal and add in a "mandatory" Boy Scout meeting for parents tonight and 2 kids who were hungry, tired, sunburnt and crabby and what do you get? One very tired, cranky and crabby mommy who was VERY ready for the kids to finally snuggle into their beds and drift off to la, la land. So, here I sit wrapping up my day realizing that after the BS meeting that I now have another whole laundry list of things I need to buy and prep to make sure that Xander is "prepared" for his week long trip to Emerald Bay out on Catalina Island. Just one more thing to add to the very long list of things to do...is a mother's work ever done????
I can't believe that it is almost 10pm. Where oh where did the day go? With Bob being out of town it really makes my evenings a little busier than normal and add in a "mandatory" Boy Scout meeting for parents tonight and 2 kids who were hungry, tired, sunburnt and crabby and what do you get? One very tired, cranky and crabby mommy who was VERY ready for the kids to finally snuggle into their beds and drift off to la, la land. So, here I sit wrapping up my day realizing that after the BS meeting that I now have another whole laundry list of things I need to buy and prep to make sure that Xander is "prepared" for his week long trip to Emerald Bay out on Catalina Island. Just one more thing to add to the very long list of things to do...is a mother's work ever done????
The kids had a very nutritious dinner of pancakes and ice cream for dessert. Toss in a little tv for babysitting tonight to round it out and I think I get the mommy of the year award, don't you agree? Some days, it takes all I have, others seem so easy, today was fun but now I am ready for bed. Maybe I am crashing from the syrup and ice cream sugar rush.......
Good night! ~K
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Birthday Weekend - Happy Birthday to Xander
Okay, 2 birthday's down and my mom's and a neighborhood friend of Xander's, Katin's 15th b-day is tomorrow. Whew.... Saturday was actually Alexander's (I don't get to call him that often, :-)) and we actually had a relaxing afternoon. We were going to go down to Del Mar to see a horse race however, he said that he would rather hang out with us and his friends. So....off to the movies we went. Xander and Bob went to see the "highly acclaimed" Simpson's movie and the 2 little one's and I went to see Ratatouille. I can't speak for the Simpson's movie but Ratatouille was absolutely delightful. I would see that again. A great family friendly movie for kids, it was very entertaining. Both of our movies started at the same time however ours was about 20 minutes longer than the Simpson's movie, so Bob and Xander snuck in to watch the ending of ours!
Afterwards, we went over to Barnes & Noble. We can't keep Xander in books and he could spend the entire day in the book store just reading and perusing the aisles looking for something that he hasn't possibly already read. I bought his some dragon fantasy book that he wanted and then he bought the Sherlock Holmes Classics book (in the bargain section) for himself. He LOVES the classics and has read many of them. He will be one step ahead of the English teacher in H.S. when it comes to reading because he has already most all of the required reading. Every time one of his friends or their parents mentions that a book is required in a class, he requests to get that book and adds it to his collection. All this from the boy we thought would NEVER want to read. Thank goodness for Harry Potter, that first novel was his entrance into fantasy land. Bob would read a chapter to him every night in different voices for each character (long before there was ever a movie) and Xander was completely engrossed and realized at that moment that books could take him on far away adventures or teach him about real life lessons. So, I am thankful for the Harry Potter series, it created a reader in my home!!!
I talked to my dad tonight and got the update on my brother and 2 sisters. Daniel is headed to Iraq in September so please keep him in your prayers. We want him to return to his wife, 2 daughters and the rest of us safely. It's hell over there and I am sorry he has to go but I am also thankful for people like Daniel, it is because of him and others like him, we sleep safely at night and have the freedom we do! I am very proud of him. My other sister, Jessica, has her first baby due in a few months, I am very excited for her. Another girl will be added to the estrogen rich McKinney grandchildren gene pool for my dad and step mom. They are loving having all the grandchildren, it keeps them busy....among other things!
We spent the rest of the weekend just hanging out as a family, reading our new books and bbq-ing with neighbors. It was quite relaxing. I had to take Bob to the airport tonight, he is headed to Reno until Wednesday. This coming week should be fairly laid back with little to do.
It is late, I want to read another chapter and head off to sleep so I'll catch up again tomorrow! Good night....
Afterwards, we went over to Barnes & Noble. We can't keep Xander in books and he could spend the entire day in the book store just reading and perusing the aisles looking for something that he hasn't possibly already read. I bought his some dragon fantasy book that he wanted and then he bought the Sherlock Holmes Classics book (in the bargain section) for himself. He LOVES the classics and has read many of them. He will be one step ahead of the English teacher in H.S. when it comes to reading because he has already most all of the required reading. Every time one of his friends or their parents mentions that a book is required in a class, he requests to get that book and adds it to his collection. All this from the boy we thought would NEVER want to read. Thank goodness for Harry Potter, that first novel was his entrance into fantasy land. Bob would read a chapter to him every night in different voices for each character (long before there was ever a movie) and Xander was completely engrossed and realized at that moment that books could take him on far away adventures or teach him about real life lessons. So, I am thankful for the Harry Potter series, it created a reader in my home!!!
I talked to my dad tonight and got the update on my brother and 2 sisters. Daniel is headed to Iraq in September so please keep him in your prayers. We want him to return to his wife, 2 daughters and the rest of us safely. It's hell over there and I am sorry he has to go but I am also thankful for people like Daniel, it is because of him and others like him, we sleep safely at night and have the freedom we do! I am very proud of him. My other sister, Jessica, has her first baby due in a few months, I am very excited for her. Another girl will be added to the estrogen rich McKinney grandchildren gene pool for my dad and step mom. They are loving having all the grandchildren, it keeps them busy....among other things!
We spent the rest of the weekend just hanging out as a family, reading our new books and bbq-ing with neighbors. It was quite relaxing. I had to take Bob to the airport tonight, he is headed to Reno until Wednesday. This coming week should be fairly laid back with little to do.
It is late, I want to read another chapter and head off to sleep so I'll catch up again tomorrow! Good night....
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Happy Birthday to Christian! He's THREE!
Wow, I can hardly believe that my baby boy is a big THREE today. Wherever did the time go? I made him a special breakfast of pancakes and bacon (his favorite), he was VERY happy! Since Xander's b-day is on Saturday, Hannah and I are going to make them both a cake tomorrow and do a small joint celebration tomorrow night as a family. You see, I decided years ago that having 3 kids gets very expensive when you have to host birthday parties every year so we only host large parties on milestone year, i.e. one, five, ten, thirteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty one, etc. On a milestone year, we pull out all the stops and make it a huge deal, all the other years, we quietly celebrate with family. Although regardless of the year, each person does get a "birthday" week that begins on the day of their birthday for one week. They do not have to do any chores, take out the garbage, etc and are basically allowed to just hang out, play and have a good time. They get catered to by other members of the family during their week, not a bad deal!
So, today starts Christian's birthday week. He is happily watching tv right this moment (a rare thing since we don't watch a lot of tv) so I will wrap this up soon and head down to play. Later this afternoon we are headed to a friends for an afternoon of swimming and playing and enjoying the day!
So, today starts Christian's birthday week. He is happily watching tv right this moment (a rare thing since we don't watch a lot of tv) so I will wrap this up soon and head down to play. Later this afternoon we are headed to a friends for an afternoon of swimming and playing and enjoying the day!
Here the "Moose" is riding a friend's bike while we were at the beach in Carlsbad!
I am so excited for my darling. baby boy, he is now THREE!
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