Treasure Island

Last month, we met up with family in the one and only Las Vegas, Nevada.  We shielded the kids' eyes for most of our morning stroll down the Strip, but allowed them to peek out just long enough to catch sight of this life-sized pirate ship at Treasure Island.  Very cool.

(To a two- and four-year-old, quite possibly the coolest thing ever.)

Our first earthquake

This week--Tuesday at 4:04AM, to be exact--we experienced our first earthquake since our arrival in southern California.  Luckily, it was a pint-sized one (4.4 on the Richter scale), but let's just say...

We hope it was our last.

Mammoth

Last weekend, we trekked up to Mammoth Lakes, California to hit the slopes.  It was spectacular.

The snow fell steadily through our entire stay and was piled high all around us--a true winter wonderland.

The kids loved every minute.  We can't wait to go back.

PS We'll post video excerpts of Jack's first ski lesson soon (provided we can figure out how to load it up to Blogger).  Stay tuned--it's priceless.

The official request

Little J has submitted his official request for "a black swimsuit and a surfboard."

We had a feeling this was coming!  Next stop: Jack's Surf Shop, Newport Beach.

1/16/10: The perfect Saturday

Morning at Dana Point Farmer's market

+

Afternoon at Salt Creek Beach

= The perfect Saturday.

We are loving life in California.

Happy New Year

How exciting it is

as time rolls forward,

to look ahead

and dream of all the good things to come.

Wishing you a very happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

Anatomy of a holiday photo

The location: Dana Point, California.

The props: Santa hats, "one size fits all."

Ok, maybe not all.

The assistant: Uncle Jess.

(Yes, ladies, he is this handsome in person.)

The portrait subjects:
Jack

Lauren

Caroline

Our attempts at the perfect holiday photo:

The best we could get before the camera battery ran out:

Works for us!  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all our dear family and friends!