soaking it up

Remember about a week ago, when I was laying in the warm, 80 degree temps of California and Mexico. Now I sit shivering in my sweats and hoodie, in the balmy 30 degree weather, looking out my window at patches of snow and dead grass. How the mighty have fallen. Just kidding. There are good things about this place too, right? If I wasn't married to someone who laughs in enjoyment when the weather is so cold it hurts (yes G is still wearing shorts to work) I might live in Arizona or Hawaii. Anywhere warm would be good about now.

My Aunt Holly

My Aunt Holly recently passed away. It has had more of an impact on my life than I thought it would. Aunt Holly was an inspirational person. She was so beautiful in a classic, Audrey Hepburn sort of way. But even more than that, she had an inner beauty that never could fade. She had a way of making me feel like I was her favorite. I don't doubt that I wasn't the only one that felt that way. She had a way of making everyone feel important and special. She was an example of a true Christian, she was so Christlike and served people out of love, not duty. I have been so sad the last week. I know that it's part of life, but knowing that doesn't make it easy. She was an amazing mother, which is proved by her amazing children. My heart aches for my cousins. I love you and Uncle Dave so much.

eating, and eating, and eating...

finally, some pictures from the cruise

We missed you, Frish!

Breakfast, the most important meal of the day, you know...

Lindsee, Ryan, and Logan...

The girls in their finery for formal night...

Gracie got to eat in the Rex Disco with her friends...

All Snails on Deck!

One day as we were about to take a break from swimming to eat, again, Sophie decided to morph into a snail. She donned her clever disguise (a pool towel, courtesy of the lido deck) and moved slowly and stealthily from the pool to the food. She would scoot a little then pause so no one would notice. We were laughing so hard. It was like a cartoon, you could just see her picking up the turtle shell, and hear the sound effects of the tiptoe until she put it back down to look around to see if anyone noticed. What a character.

Catalina, My Heart's Devotion

Our ship made a stop in Catalina, an island right of the coast of exotic California. The girls had fun with their dad at the beach, testing out the frigid water, and collecting lots of rocks. I explored the shops a bit, and then we all went together to see the sights. Some of the girls favorites were statuettes of food. We got to ride a ferry to and from the Cruise ship. One of the best days ever. It was clear and warm, we loved it.

Mini-golf, at sunset, on a boat...

Hannah Montana Karaoke Party

The girls really wanted to sing Hannah Montana songs Karaoke style. I told them if they cleaned all their other toys up, I would get it out. To my utter shock, they did. So we had a fun dance party, they all put on their Hannah Montana best (dresses and no ponytails or braids. There was a wig involved as well but they eventually went for comfort and the ability to rock.

Sophie Montana

Cuties at Christmas Time