Seasons of Change: October 2009

October 27, 2009

Pumpkin Patch 2009

pumpkin conqueror

pumpkin squatter

pumpkin pickup

the local natives

he in tee-pee

hanging out at the haystack

just plowing along

behind the scenes

me, Marlo with Macy & Sone

This is Andre's costume for the year, which he was able to showcase at a Halloween party. In years past, he's been a Pea in a Pod, a Red Baron pilot, Yoda, and Thomas the Train. This is by far his most dashing costume yet!

Palm Springs

Now I get why they call it Palm Springs!

We were able to spend one blissful week doing absolutely nothing but relax among the palms. The resort we stayed at had a water park--complete with a lazy river, fake beach and playground sprinkler for Andre the water baby. Plus, there were plenty of nice places to eat and shop for us adults, not to mention a very nice spa for a little pampering.

Flying the Friendly Skies

On our way back from Palm Springs, Andre charmed a flight attendant while awaiting our flight, so she got him into the cockpit of the plane. The co-pilot was a woman--very cool!

He is so tickled!

A Day at the Fair

What's summer without a day at the fair? So to the fair we went!

sweet treats

To ride or not to ride, that is the question.

(He did!)

carnival attraction

ferris wheel

(See Len?)

October 26, 2009

A Fond Farewell

One of the toughest things we had to do this summer was say goodbye to some very dear friends, and not just friends, but practically family! Angeli and Jay have been a significant part of mine and Billy's lives for many years. I first met Angeli when I was fifteen and it was through her that I came to know Christ. Because of this, I am forever indebted to her. She faithfully taught me through the Scriptures and has ministered to me in so many ways, as Jay has done for Billy. This couple has been a steadfast pillar of our church for years, and I can honestly say I never thought there would be a day when I would no longer see them on Sundays, but God has called them to do a work in Hawaii. So though we will miss them, we are excited to see how He plans to use them for His glory.

me, Angeli & Sone

Jeff, Billy, Jay & Junior

group shot

A Summer Concert

It's become a tradition that we attend at least one concert during the summer. For 2009, that concert was "No Doubt"! This year, I went with my sister and two good friends. Needless to say, we had a blast rocking with Gwen and the boys!

lawn seats

sisters

friends who are like sisters!

the opening act

A Summer Day in the City

Back in the early years of our marriage, Billy and I attended several summer Shakespeare in the Park events. One of the most memorable ones was "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the Rutherford Grove Winery in Napa Valley. The fairy costumes were enchanting as we watched the play at an outdoor garden on a warm, starry night. Fast forward to Summer 2009. This year we saw "Comedy of Errors" in S.F. A very different experience indeed! Groovy getups and multi-colored wigs represented an updated version of this classic play. All I can say is, only in San Francisco.

Leilani and I, during intermission

stopping for a family photo on our way home

the beautiful Golden Gate at twilight

Tea Party Favors

In early September, I had the privilege of throwing a birthday tea party for an old friend. Not old as in years, but in the fact that we've known each other for a long period of time! Being the girly-girl that I am, I take the most delight in pretty things. So, for this party, one of the things I enjoyed most--other than the company, of course!--was putting together these lovely little favors...

And here is the party celebrant, Margaret, with her guests

Anchor Bay

Northern California is blessed with breath-taking, natural beauty--from its Redwood forests to its rugged coastline. This past summer we had the privilege of enjoying a drive up the Sonoma Coast all the way to Mendocino, and stayed in a little town called Gualala. These photos, however, are from Anchor Bay which was just a short drive away.