Happy Birthday Rich!!!

This weekend we celebrated Rich's birthday at Moonlight Beach with a great big bonfire and monster mia tais made by my pseudo bartender sista-in-law Rey. They really bit me in the you know what! This was the perfect place to rejoice over an amazing individual. We missed out on sharing Rich’s BIG 30 last year while he was in Japan so we wanted to party hearty this year with him.


Rich was in his element on the shores of Southern California under a million twinkling stars, although it was a bit too overcast to enjoy them in all their glory. Rich, Pete, and the kids played a favorite game of volley circle in the sand, where you stand in a circle and “whatever you do don’t let the ball hit the sand!” We sat around a huge campfire in the sand, roasted marshmallows, and once again tried to solve quantum physics theories with questions such as “If God exists could he build a boulder so big that he in all his omnipotence could not lift it?” Christopher did his usual fire walking routine which he’s getting quite good at.


All in all it was a fabulous night filled with wonderful company and enthralling conversations. We are so happy to have Rich back on land with us again! Happy Birthday!!!


If you would like to see more pictures of this event please clink on this link.

Happy Birthday Michellene!!!

Believing hear, what you deserve to hear: Your birthday as my own to me is dear...
But yours gives most; for mine did only lend Me to the world; yours gave to me a friend.
~Martial

Today is a very special day! It is the day that one of my very best friends was born! Michellene and I have been friends for about 5 years. We meet at work and become fast friends shortly after. Rumor has it I was the one who got her pregnant with her second little boy. I found out that I was pregnant and I didn't want to go it alone so I willed it on her. I am very persuasive. How I ever got pregnancy to sound attractive and appealing is beyond me.


Our birthday girl is at home today nursing her oldest son back to good health after a small operation. Troi is doing very well and we hope to see him back to his old lively self in a few weeks. Michellene is celebrating her big day next weekend and I hope to have some pix to share with everyone from that wild and crazy event! Happy birthday Girl! We Love You!


Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional. ~Chili Davis


Our birthdays are feathers in the broad wing of time. ~Jean Paul Richter

Lost In The Middle of The Desert

This weekend we camped out in Borrego Springs at Blair Valley campground. For those of you not familiar with the names, we camped out in the low desert of California. Everything started off great . . . sunny skies, family, and margaritas. It was the perfect day.

Brenda tells me she wants to go on a hike and maybe leave the girls with the boys so we aren’t slowed down. After talking it over and figuring how much time we might have later for a kiddie hike we decided to take Nadia and Emily with us anyway. I asked Pete to join us because my backpack was going to be really heavy and I wanted some help. He suggested I leave Nadia there with him and he would take her exploring. I decided against that because I wanted Nadia to experience “Real Desert Hiking.” My backpack was so heavy because I have been watching Man vs. Wild and I wasn’t about to risk getting lost in the desert without some essential survival items. I made sure I packed a compass, a whistle with thermometer, flashlight with extra batteries, Beyer aspirin, a first aid kit with Neosporin, ace bandage wraps, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, a knife, a flint, a lighter, rope, 45 sunscreen, and extra food and water. If we did get lost we were set but what are the chances of that?

We drive over to the trailheads in Jason’s truck. The hiking party included Brenda, Barb, Phil, Emily, Nadia, and myself. Our mission . . . “To find the Mortreros.” We hiked about a ¼ mile in and Emily got bit by a cactus Cholo. She had needles in her foot and shoe. She was crying pretty badly but Brenda and Phil fixed her all up. It was at this time while Emily was screaming that Barb decided we should go back. “The trail ends here anyway, there is no more dirt path.” With that she turned around and headed back for the truck. We forged on, wounded and all, over the boulders and rocks until we did see a dirt trail. Phil followed us in about a ½ mile and decided to go back and check on Barb.

Nadia led us most of the way climbing up and over huge rocks. She loves rock climbing and she’s darned good at it too even at two years old. I was so glad I brought her along for the experience. We reached a valley and some rather large boulders and decided to turn around. The sun was starting to get low in the wind was beginning to pick up. It probably dropped about 10 degrees since we started. I guess I could have checked my thermometer but we weren’t lost so why would I need that thing anyway?

I decided to put Nadia in the backpack for our trek back to the truck. This made my backpack weigh close to 50 or 60lbs. On our way back we ran into Phil who was sent back to check on us by Barb. We headed up the trail into the rock village that marked the beginning of the trail. It should only be a short hike back to the truck from this point. We began walking around trying to follow a defined path but there didn’t seem to be one. Every perceived path would run you straight into a cactus or a yucca plant.


We tried several directions but were unsuccessful in locating the truck that should have been so close. Soon we were in a field of yucca plants witch didn’t look at all familiar. There were mountains all around us and I had a hunch that just behind the mountain on the right we would find the truck below. Phil, being the Sherpa he is, trudged up to the top only to find more desert. No sign of life anywhere!

This is right about the time my brain went into panic mode. I start looking over at my niece Emily who has no jacket on and think “what is going on, what are we doing? Why didn’t I leave my poor little girl at the campsite safe and sound with her Daddy. What kind of a mother am I bringing her into such danger? How selfish! WTF Mate!”

Just then we see a campsite ahead and my thoughts shift first to joy and then to fear. “What about the countless ghost stories I’ve heard on camping trips or the numerous horror films I’ve subjected myself to over the years. What if this was going to be similar to the “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” story? What if we go to them for help and they invite us into their trailer where the skin us alive, prop us up on poles, and roast us like pigs. Who would ever know? No way! We were going back into the desert and finding shelter in a Coyote cave for the night. My backpack would come in handy after all.”

“Okay, focus here, I do have cell phone reception so I should be able to just call Pete and tell him to come and save us.” Just then my phone rings, “It’s my Mother!” Of all people to have call you when you are about to become a vultures feast in the middle of the desert! “Uh yeah?” I couldn’t hide my fear, “we’re kinda lost in the desert right now we can’t seem to find the truck.” I filled her in on some more details and told her I would call her back in an hour to let her know on our status.

CLICK, I hang up the phone and I hear, “Phil” in the distance. I look up and see Barb through the brush. Was this a mirage? I’m thinking, “Wow, I’ve heard of people going crazy in the desert but I didn’t think it would happen this quick.” “Wait a minute, it is Barb!” Hooray! Thank GOD for those fluorescent pink pants and neon blue jacket! I guess when it comes to survival you don’t need much, just wear bright cloths! Thanks for saving us Barb!


We actually did have a great camping trip, if you'd like to see more pictures from our wild desert adventure please click on this link.

The Star Of India

The other day Nadia and I dropped “Daddy” off at the airport so we decided to take advantage of our location and visit the San Diego Maritime Harbor. First up on our tour was the Star Of India. I forgot my camera in the car so this was the only picture I have of our little maritime stroll. We walked passed several big yachts and sailboats and enjoyed the art sculptures along the way. We had a very nice morning. I think Nadia's highlight was chasing all the pigeons. She still believes she's gonna catch em one of these days. Who knows maybe she will.

Girl Fun!

This week was Spring Break for my nieces Hannah and Emily. I got to take them for the day and even got to enjoy them for a slumber party! It was great. These girls are growing up so fast! I remember when they were Nadia’s size and now they tower over her like giants. But that’s not all they do. Now they are the teachers teaching my daughter how to do things like how to feed the ducks, the proper way to climb a rock, and even which path to take while hiking through the brush. My, how they have grown. I don’t know where the time goes. It’s crazy!


We had a great time on our girl day. Our catch phrase for the day . . . "Shockie!" (It's a kid thing you probably wouldn't understand.) We painted our nails and fixed our hair. Then it was off to the park to feed the ducks. We played on the playground and with the ride on hydraulic fire engine. We hiked around the lake up to a beautiful gazebo and down through a campground where mouthwatering smells of burgers and hotdogs wafted through the air. We drove around to the other end of the park and counted horses along the way. I lost track after the first 10 but I did manage to count 3 steer (MOOOO). We found another playground with a couple large rocks to climb.


After this we were pooped. I was in no shape to cook after such an exciting day so we headed to Burger King for some chicken fries and some Sponge Bob toys. They had an indoor playground that the girls played in as well. We all grabbed our crowns and headed home for a little R & R. Once home it was time to veg in front of the boob tube, snuggle under the covers, and eat popcorn.


We had a great day, just us girls and I’m so grateful for the time I have with them. Before I know it they’ll be teenagers and I might not be as much fun for them to hang with. For now, I’m takin all I can get. I love these girls!

Bloom of the Month (March 2007)

I am a tad bit late in getting this one out but I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to share it with you. This is my favorite bloom for March out here in this region of California. It is called a Claifornia Red Bud and it is gorgeous. The pictures hardly do it justice you almost have to see it to believe it. The blooms are tiny but vibrant fuchsia colored flowers that closely resemble a small orchid. I am taken aback by it every year. Nadia and I are privileged enough to enjoy this beautiful bloom on our daily neighborhood walks. Sadly the bloom time is small and in only a few short weeks it is covered in leaves. I was fortunate enough to catch it this year for your viewing pleasure. Enjoy!!!

Happy Easter!

"Here comes Peter Cottontail, Hoppin' down the bunny trail, Hippity, hoppity, Easter's on its way."


This year we celebrated Easter at our house. We had an Easter Egg Hunt, played croquet, horseshoes, and yahtzee all while enjoying Pete's famous Pina Coladas. We enjoyed a fabulous dinner contributed by all. The food was amazing, the company and conversation was engaging and the memories will last a lifetime.


If you would like to see more pics from our Easter please click this link.

First Comes Love, Then Comes Marriage . . .

I just couldn't resist posting this one up here. This is Nadia's very bestest friend Kai. They are just two freakin cute!!! We all agree they look like an old married couple already!

Once Upon A Mattress

"Toto, I've got a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore!"

Oh, wait that was last years play. This year our talented little niece Hannah was cast into the role of chamber maid for this years school play "Once upon a Mattress." This is play is based off the story of "The Princess and the Pea." This year’s catch phrase was "I Love Fred," spoken by none other than the Prince himself. Fred? You may ask . . . why is the Prince in love with someone named "Fred"? That is Princess Fred to you, and she is also known as Winifred.


This play was full of fun, laughter, great songs, and amazing performances. My personal favorite was the cute little chambermaid first one on the right. My, was she talented! You could hear her every line and she was also the most animated. She was standing out from the rest of them and there were 21 all together. Her Name? You ask. Oh, I think it was Hannah something or other. Man was she great. Okay, I may be just a little bias since this little star just so happens to be my niece.

Great job Hannah! We can't wait to see what you do next year!

April San Diego Events Calendar

April 2007

Butterflies & Orchids Festival Escondito
Thru April 15. Wild Animal Park. Hundreds of exotic orchids are in full bloom in Narobi Village while butterflies of every shape, size, and color flutter throughout the hidden jungle, a walk-through neo-tropical aviary. Care demonstrations each weekend.
www.sandiegozoo.org/calendar/wap_butterflies_orchids.html">www.sandiegozoo.org/calendar/wap_butterflies_orchids.html

Oceanside’s Citywide Easter Egg Hunt
April 7th – Buddy Todd Park – Annual Easter egg hunt for the children of Oceanside. Three age divisions consisting of 3-5; 6-8; and 9-11year olds. Enjoy a fun-filled morning with the City of Oceanside. 760-435-5540

Padres Season Opens 4/6
http://www.padres.com

Woofstock – A Festival for Dogs & People
4-14-07 – A fun festival in Balboa Park open to the public and well-behaved dogs on a leash. Activities include the Peace, Love, and Walk N Roll Fun Dog Walk through Balboa Park (registration fee), canine agility and fly ball courses, costume contests, childrens fun zone, great food, live music and much more. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Southwest Regional Center for Canine Companions for Independence. 800-572-BARK

Gaslamp Quarter Easter Bonnet Parade & Hat Contest
4-15-07 – Come and stroll the Petco Park area in your Easter bonnet. Hat-making shop for adults & children at 11am. Easter Egg hunt, activities and entertainment to follow. 619-233-5008

Del Mar National Horse Show
4/19-5/06 – For more than 60 years the Del Mar National horse Show has been one of the most respected, distinguished and popular equestrian events in Southern CA. Consisting of three disciplines – Western, Dressage, and Hunter/Jumper, a great spectator event. 858-792-4288

Chicano Park Day
4/21/07 – Traditional Aztec and folklorico dancing, musicians, food, crafts booths, lo-rider car show. A free event. 10am-5pm, location: Chicano Park, Crosby & Logan avenues. 619-563-4661

Adams Avenue Roots Festival
4/21 – 4/22 Vintage blues, folk, jazz, country, and international music on 6 stages. Saturday: 10am-9pm, Sunday: 10am – 6pm. Outdoor setting: 34th & 35th Sts. At Adams Park. 619-282-7329

Encinitas Garden Festival and Tour
4/21 The event kicks off at the Olivianhain Town Hall in the heart of Olivianhain, where tour participants pick up maps and board double-decker buses to be shuttles through the tour neighborhood. Music and art round out the event.
www.encinitasgardenfestival.org

Oceanside Days of Art
4/21-4/22 The Oceanside Days of Art is a free two day outdoor arts festival held in downtown Oceanside along Pier View Way. This family friendly event is anticipated to include over 100 visual artists booths, 300 musicians, dancers and performers along with local food vendors. Free 760-4333632

Port of San Diego Day at the Docks
4/22/07 – The West Coast’s largest public celebration of Sports fishing! The festival, which signals the official start of Southern CA’s spring saltwater fishing season includes exhibitors, a children’s activity area, entertainment stages featuring music for all ages, art galleries, the Children’s Earth Parade and much more. 10am-5pm. Free 858-272-7370

San Diego Art Walk Little Italy
4/28-4/29 Don’t miss this free visual and performing art celebration set in the charming, historic neighborhood of Little Italy close to downtown San Diego. Over 350 emerging and established artists will showcase a variety of media including painting, sculpture, poetry, drama, video and design. Performance artists, music and Little Italy restaurants and shops will add flavor to this vibrant and popular event. 619-615-1090

Encinitas Street Fair
4/28-4/29 Encinitas Street Fair will take place from 9am to 5pm on Highway 101 between D and J Streets in Encinitas. Over 400 arts and craft vendors, non-profit and commercial vendors will be on hand. Three live stages will entertain visitors. There will be fun for the kids as well, face painting and rides. The 101 Artists’ Colony will also be present, displaying Arts Alive Banners, and offering live music. 760-943-1950

This wonderful newsletter was brought to you by Sigmund Penn.

Tea Time

It was a wonderful afternoon sharing tea, snacks, and girl talk with my wonderful sister-in-law, Rey. The plan was to treat her for her birthday to high tea at the Aviara Resort. Unfortunately Rey ended up coming down with something and we were unable to attend. So what do you do in the unlucky event of a cancellation? Move the tea party to her house of course.


It was perfect. We didn’t have to worry about being too loud or reserved and we could relax in the comforts of her warm home. We enjoyed a wide array of fine teas, delectable scones, and scrumptious petite tea sandwiches. For desert we made our very own strawberry shortcakes and drank champagne (well our impromptu version of it was actually white wine but it was still amazing). Nadia was in heaven piling on the homemade whipped cream as tall as she could stand. We played dress up with hats, scarves, feather boas, jewelry, and even a princess dress for Nadia. Cody festively joined in sporting, at first, a purple bandana and then really got into the scene with a lovely feather boa. We all sang “Happy Birthday” and Nadia added in a little “Cha, cha, cha” during the pauses.


It was a wonderful and relaxing way to celebrate another glorious year with a fabulous woman. Although it wasn’t planned this way I’m kinda glad she got sick. This was so much more fun than any stuffy old resort anyhow. If you would like to see more pictures from this day please visit this shutterfly link.

The Japanese Trio

Last week we had not one or two but, three girls staying with us. We usually host older students around 19 or 20 years old but this time our girls were only 13 and so cute. Two of the girls, Megumi and Aki, were from Shizuoka. Our third girl, Kayo, was from a province next to Shizuoka named Aichi. Both regions are widely known for their production of Green tea and their close proximity to Mt. Fuji.

We had a great time with the girls. They started off the week quiet and timid but by the end of the week they really came out of their shells. They each had a one on one accordion lesson with Pete, enjoyed an Electric Slide dance lesson from Jenn, and kicked our butts playing Uno.


It's funny, when we get our college students the school always takes them to the mall for a day of shopping. Our older students spend an obscene amount of money on various designer clothing, high end jewelry and hand bags, and brand name shoes. Our younger students have the same opportunity to go shopping at our extravagant California malls. They opt to skip all the fashion hoop-la and head straight for the candy. Mind you See's Canday, does technically count in California as designer grade candy. Typical pre-teens, too cute though! We will miss these girls a lot and hope to have the opportunity to see them again in the future.

Megumi


Aki


Kayo



Pete