Whirlwind trip

We had a whirlwind trip to Nevada/California over the President's Day weekend. Several months ago, we made plans to meet Ben & Tamara in Tahoe...Allegiant Air flies directly from Bellingham to Reno/Tahoe for VERY reasonable. Things happen and plans change, and Ben & Tam weren't free to come as planned. So, we spent a very fun day catching up with Darren & Lacey (my cousin) Friday and then headed for CA on Saturday to Ben & Tam's. The trip involves Donner Pass, at 7200 feet, so that was an interesting drive. We found out why everyone vacations at Tahoe - the lake and surrounding area is beautiful!!! We had a very nice visit with Ben & Tam, short but sweet. Sunday we were in their little meeting, back together for the first time since laying their beloved elder's wife to rest the Tuesday prior. She had an unexpected 3-week illness and then passed away. As you can imagine, it was a very special meeting. Monday found us back home to glorious sunshine! Did you get to see the lunar eclipse last night? Wasn't it spectacular??? Have a great rest of the week.

Weekend in Seattle

We had a fun mini-weekend in Seattle, with the primary purpose of our trip to see Riverdance. It was held at the Paramount Theatre, which is an AMAZING 80 year-old venue that is really a destination in itself. However, Riverdance didn't fail to amaze and entertain us for over 2 hours either! They have some great musicians and lots of high energy Irish step/tap dancing. The girls loved playing in the pool at the hotel all morning and so, all in all, I'd say it was a successful trip!

Snow Day

Today was our turn for a snow day...woke up to 20 degrees, wind and snow. School was cancelled much to the girls' delight. Rob decided to work from home today, as did the girls...here's some of their handiwork! Don't worry, they were wearing full snow gear during the construction phase!

Cousins

We had a short but sweet visit with Ben & Tamara and girls when they came our way on their way home to CA. Snapped a few cousins pictures - here's a cute one!

Our anniversary cruise

Rob and I celebrated 15 years on December 26th and celebrated in style with a cruise to the Southern Caribbean. We departed from San Juan, Puerto Rico and visited St. Thomas/St. John, Aruba, Curacao and St. Maarten. We had an amazing time, with highlights at each port and fabulous weather - mid to upper 80's all week! We came home to weather in the 30's, and haven't gotten warm yet! We hope you all had a wonderful holiday and are sending warm wishes for a happy and healthy 2008!

Make a photobook - it's easy!

Read Family Christmas

The Read family "Christmas" was yesterday at our house - the family is scattering over the holidays, so we celebrated a little early. Here are some shots to share our day:

Make a scrapbook - it's easy!

Christmas Gift Suggestions

To your enemy, forgiveness.

To an opponent, tolerance.

To a friend, your heart.

To a customer, service.

To all, charity.

To every child, a good example.

To yourself, respect.

-- Oren Arnold

The Read elves

This is way too much fun...you'll have to try it for yourself!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?id=1320358797

Thanksgiving in Oroville

We spent Thankgiving in Oroville this year, with my mom, Lynsey, Cody & Charlee, and our friends the Kindreds (unfortunately Katrina had to work!). The girls loved playing with the living doll - Charlee! Here are a few shots of them together! A special picture of them with Great Grandma Lucy too!

Johanna had a birthday!

Yep, she's seven. Hello Kitty was the theme this year. I redecorated Johanna's room this year as a surprise for her birthday. She likes the updated, more grown up look!

This is the new bedding - new coordinating wallpaper border, curtains, and wall art complete the look!
Oops, the flash was off, so a little dark here. Don't ya hate that!?