Carnival Cruise .. Fun for All All for Fun

Sneed and I were invited to join our friends on a cruise. Unfortunately, he ran out of vacation but said I could go if I'd like. So I jumped at the chance. Later when I was telling Taylor and Rob about it, Rob said, "You're the last person I'd have thought would be going on a cruise." I looked at him quizzically as he explained, "You don't eat, you don't drink, and you can't go out in the sun." Well, all he said was true, but in spite of that, I had a fantastic time...when surrounded by good friends, how can one not?

First photos on board on Carolyn's and my aft veranda

Our twin beds and the very compact bathroom unit

Looking towards the aft and the Carnival signature whale tail

L>R Beth & Richard, Willie & Polly, Peggy & Derrell, Carolyn & Anne

The Girls and the Guys

Peggy and Derrell dancing to "Unchained Melody", their song

Carolyn, next to Peggy, playing the card game Hand & Foot that she learned yesterday

Christmas Art

What creativity!

Miracle on Morton Street

Olsin, a small Santa, in a big chair ~ Dylin and Aedin passed out flyers inviting the crowds to the performance of "A Christmas Carol" being performed at the Queen Theatre ~ Dylin and Olsin studiously writing letters to Santa

The Queen Theatre Victorian Singers sing the National Anthem and later engage the audience in a sing-along

The covered wagon we rode on to view historic Downtown Richmond. Dylin had a bird's eye view sitting next to the driver.

This is a very cunning adaption of "A Christmas Carol". Listen for the references to Scrooge not donating to the Queen Theatre = )

We did it!

Taylor and I decorated the tree tonight - Oops! No angel 'cept the one sitting in front of the tree

2010 School Photos

Aedin, Third grade ~ Olsin, Kindergarten ~ Dylin, First grade

Thanksgiving

A gorgeous sky greeted me as I stepped out to get the newspaper this morning. The start of a wonderful day to reflect on the blessings we have amassed over the years. The order of the day was to journey down to Erika and Terry's for the big feast. Dylin called and asked when we were coming. I told her, "As soon as the bird is cooked". Her reply, "Why aren't you cooking a turkey?"

Aedin met us at the door with the greeting she had penned. Dylin set the table and made place cards for everyone.

Olsin had fun playing in the raked leaves. Aedin and Dylin barefoot sisters.

Aedin found a 'Puss Moth' caterpillar in the street. This time of year the caterpillars inhabit live oak trees and are indistinguishable from their bark. They are dangerous as they will sting and cause a rash. The playground at their school was closed one day recently as the caterpillars were discovered on the grounds. This one, according to Aedin, had already met its demise. So, she buried it with pomp and circumstance and a headstone for "Poisy" a nickname for poison.

Michael and Sarah

Michael grew up down the street from us here in Cinco Ranch. We were thrilled when his Mom and Dad, Pam and Jody, asked us if Marque could be in his wedding.

This joyous event was held at the Brookwood Community in Brookshire,TX. Sarah and Michael chose this venue for their ceremony because it holds a special place in their hearts. Brookwood is a God-centered, non-profit community for adults with special needs. It was founded 25 years ago by Sarah's grandmother, Yvonne Streit, with the hope of creating an accepting, structured environment for her own daughter with special needs. Sarah's brother is currently a citizen of The Brookwood Community and her parents work there full-time.

Sarah and Michael are such a sweet couple and totally committed to one another. As Sarah was saying her vows, her voice trembled as a young bride's voice is wont to do. After she finished the officiant said, "It's not going to be that bad, Sarah", which provided a bit of levity to the otherwise very poignant ceremony.

Jody and Pam, proud parents of Michael, adorning Marque's front bumper