Apples to Pears

 This Fall, my mom and I took the boys apple and pear picking in Julian.  Next thing you know I'll be growing my own pumpkins and sawing down the Christmas tree!

St. Francis

“Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.” 

~ St. Francis of Assisi

Wild Animals

I have my own zoo to manage everyday at home, but sometimes I like to get out and see bonafide wild animals.  These are my favorites from our recent trip to the zoo.

Oceanside Fire

Yesterday my MOPS (Mother of Pre-Schoolers) group went on a tour of a fire station.  At this point in the boys' lives this is a pretty big deal.  Who wouldn't want to meet their hero?

This particular fireman, Bobby, was incredible. I was blown away by the conversation he carried on with my boys.  He answered their questions with great care and detail, like he had all the time in the world.  I think they truly learned something! I am so grateful for the service firemen provide to the community.  Lord, keep them safe, give them strength!

Boys at the Bay

Last Sunday we spent the afternoon at Mission Bay.  Growing up we went mostly to the beach, so it was a pleasant surprise to discover the more serene atmosphere of the bay.

Lauren's Rainbow

“We have not the reverent feeling for the rainbow that a savage has, because we know how it is made. We have lost as much as we gained by prying into that matter.” ~ Mark Twain

After reading a previous post on this remarkable rainbow, my photographer friend, Lauren wrote to say that she could take my pictures to a new level...panorama baby!  Through the wonders of Photoshop, my three pictures are now one.  She takes simply beautiful pictures of her own, for you, for your wedding, your baby, your baby bump, your whatever!  Check her out at www.laurennatalie.com.  Thank you for your generousity to me, Lauren!

The Rainbow I Have Clutched

A couple weeks ago we had some pretty unusual weather that resulted in this glorious rainbow, one so large I needed three shots to capture it all.

“The true harvest of my life is intangible  - a little star dust caught, a portion of the rainbow I have clutched."

~Henry David Thoreau

Then we turned around and were taken aback by this spectacular sunset.  Thanks be to God!

Captain Hunter

Welcome to The OC, Captain Brian Hunter!  Our dear friend Brian, who was just promoted to Captain at the Louisville Trader Joe's, was in Newport Beach for training.  Hey, we live near there, and we want to see you!

Let's take him to the beach for sunset, Chris and I say to each other. 

With one thousand other people...

The crowds had gathered for a big wave phenomena that only happens a few times a year.

OK, moon's out.  Gotta run. 

Brian, next time bring Kendra and the kiddos. 

May God bless your family!

I Gotta Rock

Today Luke turned to me and said, "Mom, could you get me Dad's guitar, cuz I gotta rock!"

Love Learning

First day of Kindergarten.  Watch out world! 

My son is gettin' edumacated.

Almost ready to go Luke?

The little champ just marched right into class, grabbed a book, and we are now chopped liver.  I love you, Isaac!  And it is my prayer that you love learning.  Go get 'em!

Bullfrogs and Butterflies

Ah, camping.  Chris took the boys camping with his parents at Palomar Mountain State Park.  I am not in these photos not because I am the one taking the pictures but because I am at home, feeling warm, clean, relaxed, and smart.

Makeshift fishing line for...

...this bullfrog!

Luke, our self-proclaimed "worker guy" insisted on wearing this pack of Grandpa's on the whole mile or so hike.  I don't think there's actually anything in it, but then again, what do I know?  I'm at home feeling warm, clean, relaxed, and smart.

Oh boy, Luke!  Did you fall in the pond?

Good times were had by all!  Let me know when the RV arrives...