Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Ezra Chalmers Hales!
At 6:20 pm on Wednesday, August 29, 2007, Ezra Chalmers Hales entered this world at 6 lbs. 5 oz. and 19.5 inches. Ashley had endured about 36 hours in the hospital trying to have as natural childbirth as possible, but Ezra's heart beat was dropping and ultimately Ashley had a C section to ease his distress.
When we saw him, a little after 7, Ashley was recovering from the ordeal and Bryce was holding him. He's a cute little one! Pray for Ashley's quick recovery and everyone's easy transition into new roles as parents and grandparents.
Friday, August 03, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
Jihad: The Musical
For my fellow lovers of parody and all things Scottish, check out this excerpt from the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh!
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
OC Camping
This last weekend we vacated our home after bagging up all of our food and cosmetics (Carolyn did most of it) in preparation for the tenting of our house and its fumigation for termites. Needing a place to stay, we headed to our 27' sailboat which is berthed in Dana Point marina for an 'upscale' camping experience.
I picked Carolyn up at the marina on Friday evening and then we headed to a wine tasting party at the Whitney's (fellow Israel travelers) in SJC. We ate appetizers and tasted ten different vintages as we learned to swill with the masters. I think we will have a very well-stocked wine refrigerator in about a week!
We had way too much stuff as is typical of any camping or vacation trip we take. More clothes than we need and more than enough groceries. Meanwhile, we walked over to the harbor for a variety of meals ranging from coffee and pastries to a Saturday 4 o'clock late lunch at the Beach House and watched the boats as they entered the harbor under a very light wind. In fact the wind was so light all weekend, we never made it out of our slip.
We tried out the various sleeping combinations on the boat including fighting for foot space in the V-berth or with Carolyn in the V-berth and me stretched out on one of the built-in sofas. We read, sketched, painted, enjoyed sunsets or cloudy skies, and walked around the harbor. The less-than-wonderful part was having to walk up to bathroom and enduring tepid, at best, showers.
As of Monday, we are back in the house and as of today we now have the gas back on so I'll finally be able to get a HOT shower!!
I picked Carolyn up at the marina on Friday evening and then we headed to a wine tasting party at the Whitney's (fellow Israel travelers) in SJC. We ate appetizers and tasted ten different vintages as we learned to swill with the masters. I think we will have a very well-stocked wine refrigerator in about a week!
We had way too much stuff as is typical of any camping or vacation trip we take. More clothes than we need and more than enough groceries. Meanwhile, we walked over to the harbor for a variety of meals ranging from coffee and pastries to a Saturday 4 o'clock late lunch at the Beach House and watched the boats as they entered the harbor under a very light wind. In fact the wind was so light all weekend, we never made it out of our slip.
We tried out the various sleeping combinations on the boat including fighting for foot space in the V-berth or with Carolyn in the V-berth and me stretched out on one of the built-in sofas. We read, sketched, painted, enjoyed sunsets or cloudy skies, and walked around the harbor. The less-than-wonderful part was having to walk up to bathroom and enduring tepid, at best, showers.
As of Monday, we are back in the house and as of today we now have the gas back on so I'll finally be able to get a HOT shower!!
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Waterworld 4th
Our 4th revolved around water. I began the day finishing up with our neighbors in the decoration of their party boat for the annual Lake Forest I boat parade. The Bethke's had decorated their home with flags and bunting while the boat was wrapped in red, white and blue with Uncle Sam perched in his wheelhouse atop the canopy of this modified stern wheeler. But this year, we forsook the champagne breakfast at the club and the parade that followed.
In the late morning, we headed down to the Dana Point harbor to enjoy the day and evening on our boat. Unfortunately, the parking lot reserved for boat owners was already completely filled by the time we arrived, but I was able to find an open space at the end of the "island" by the yacht club after having dropped Carolyn and all our gear at the dock. Carolyn had down a yeoman's job taking down the various coolers and sacks of snacks by the time I made my walk back from parking the car.
After calling Dennis and warning him of the parking problem, we got situated, affixed a temporary sun shield (which was a little too small as can be seen by my red face) and inflated our "Zodiac" boat. Dennis dropped off Gloria shortly after noon and ended up having to park on PCH and walk back to the slip.
The activity in the harbor was like a five hour water fight! We drove out in our inflatable into a barrage of boats wetting each other down with super-soakers, buckets and pump assisted hoses. Many wore "protection" consisting of shop eye protection, swim goggles, diving masks, umbrellas and even foul weather gear. We yelled our neutrality claiming we were the Switzerland of the harbor, and, for the most part, avoided the soaking afforded others who were either firing on others or bailing to avoid sinking.
Dennis took us out by the restaurants and then down the main channel, and then the outboard quit. The first time it was because we were out of gas which we quickly refilled, but the engine would keep dying only moments after starting again. This continued until we got close to the Pilgrim, and then it wouldn't start anymore, so we reluctantly 'accepted' a tow from the Sheriff's boat who berated the idiots who would act up even in his presence. He even threatened to arrest the guy who ran into us while we under tow. I think he was more interested in soaking down another boat than watching where he was going.
We enjoyed the afternoon watching the chaos in the harbor, swimming in the channel, and snacking on chips and guacamole. Dennis and Gloria left around 4:45 and we just hung out before lighting the BBQ and cooking up some really good burgers before the fireworks began.
We positioned ourselves on the bow for the show, and it began with a bang and some great fireworks including several that were heart shaped. But after about seven minutes, the fireworks just stopped. Five minutes or so passed, and a few more bombs burst in the air, and then nothing. We waited thirty or forty minutes, and with no additional displays, we packed up, locked up the boat, and got in line to leave the harbor. As we left around 10, the fireworks suddenly started up again! I guess the wicks must have been wet.
The only thing that would have made the day better is that the next day would have been a day off as well!!
In the late morning, we headed down to the Dana Point harbor to enjoy the day and evening on our boat. Unfortunately, the parking lot reserved for boat owners was already completely filled by the time we arrived, but I was able to find an open space at the end of the "island" by the yacht club after having dropped Carolyn and all our gear at the dock. Carolyn had down a yeoman's job taking down the various coolers and sacks of snacks by the time I made my walk back from parking the car.
After calling Dennis and warning him of the parking problem, we got situated, affixed a temporary sun shield (which was a little too small as can be seen by my red face) and inflated our "Zodiac" boat. Dennis dropped off Gloria shortly after noon and ended up having to park on PCH and walk back to the slip.
The activity in the harbor was like a five hour water fight! We drove out in our inflatable into a barrage of boats wetting each other down with super-soakers, buckets and pump assisted hoses. Many wore "protection" consisting of shop eye protection, swim goggles, diving masks, umbrellas and even foul weather gear. We yelled our neutrality claiming we were the Switzerland of the harbor, and, for the most part, avoided the soaking afforded others who were either firing on others or bailing to avoid sinking.
Dennis took us out by the restaurants and then down the main channel, and then the outboard quit. The first time it was because we were out of gas which we quickly refilled, but the engine would keep dying only moments after starting again. This continued until we got close to the Pilgrim, and then it wouldn't start anymore, so we reluctantly 'accepted' a tow from the Sheriff's boat who berated the idiots who would act up even in his presence. He even threatened to arrest the guy who ran into us while we under tow. I think he was more interested in soaking down another boat than watching where he was going.
We enjoyed the afternoon watching the chaos in the harbor, swimming in the channel, and snacking on chips and guacamole. Dennis and Gloria left around 4:45 and we just hung out before lighting the BBQ and cooking up some really good burgers before the fireworks began.
We positioned ourselves on the bow for the show, and it began with a bang and some great fireworks including several that were heart shaped. But after about seven minutes, the fireworks just stopped. Five minutes or so passed, and a few more bombs burst in the air, and then nothing. We waited thirty or forty minutes, and with no additional displays, we packed up, locked up the boat, and got in line to leave the harbor. As we left around 10, the fireworks suddenly started up again! I guess the wicks must have been wet.
The only thing that would have made the day better is that the next day would have been a day off as well!!
Friday, June 29, 2007
Jerusalem
The final three days of our visit to Israel were in Jerusalem where we started off by visiting the Garden of Gethsemani, a quiet respite from the clamor of the various ethnic quarters within the walled city.
Some of these olive trees in the garden were 1500+ years old. Perhaps some were even there as Jesus knelt in agonizing prayer while his disciples slept.
As we walked throughout the city, we were met with men and women who dressed quite differently from the sneaker wearing crowd from Compass Bible Church.
The moslem Dome of the Rock dominates the view of Jerusalem with it golden dome which rests on or near where Herod's temple stood before being destroyed by the Romans.
On our free day, we walked through the market place and purchased spices and a few other items as well as visiting the King David hotel which has welcomed many politicians and celebrities.
The presence of Israeli military was quite evident throughout the city, although I was amazed to see young female recruits walking in flip-flops with purses and carbines.
Standing on the rampart walls.
This is the site of the Garden Tomb, an alternative site of Christ's crucifixion and burial (rather than the Church of the Holy Sepulchre). Doesn't this look like a skull (Golgotha) to you?!
Entering the Garden Tomb through an enlarged opening which allowed easier access. A track existed to allow a stone to rolled in front of the opening. It was a much more serene and peaceful location the the Church and one which felt more in keeping with Biblical accounts.
Late Tuesday afternoon, we left the City and drove to a kibbutz for dinner before heading to the airport and our 11 p.m. flight. Overall, it was an excellent trip and one which will influence every Biblical passage that concerns the Promised Land when it is re-read. Shalom!
Some of these olive trees in the garden were 1500+ years old. Perhaps some were even there as Jesus knelt in agonizing prayer while his disciples slept.
As we walked throughout the city, we were met with men and women who dressed quite differently from the sneaker wearing crowd from Compass Bible Church.
The moslem Dome of the Rock dominates the view of Jerusalem with it golden dome which rests on or near where Herod's temple stood before being destroyed by the Romans.
On our free day, we walked through the market place and purchased spices and a few other items as well as visiting the King David hotel which has welcomed many politicians and celebrities.
The presence of Israeli military was quite evident throughout the city, although I was amazed to see young female recruits walking in flip-flops with purses and carbines.
Standing on the rampart walls.
This is the site of the Garden Tomb, an alternative site of Christ's crucifixion and burial (rather than the Church of the Holy Sepulchre). Doesn't this look like a skull (Golgotha) to you?!
Entering the Garden Tomb through an enlarged opening which allowed easier access. A track existed to allow a stone to rolled in front of the opening. It was a much more serene and peaceful location the the Church and one which felt more in keeping with Biblical accounts.
Late Tuesday afternoon, we left the City and drove to a kibbutz for dinner before heading to the airport and our 11 p.m. flight. Overall, it was an excellent trip and one which will influence every Biblical passage that concerns the Promised Land when it is re-read. Shalom!
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Shabbat
After arriving in Jerusalem late in the afternoon on Friday, we checked into our hotel and watched from our high-rise hotel room as traffic dwindled to nothing. It was Shabbat and everything closes down as we found out with elevators that stopped at every floor so you wouldn't have to "work" by pushing a button and cappucinos couldn't be made as a lever would have to be pulled or a button depressed.
So, Saturday, May 5, we boarded our bus and headed east towards the Dead Sea leaving Jerusalem to its Shabbat slumber.
The Dead Sea - The sun glistens off of a salt lake that is 32% minerals.
Our first stop was at Masada, the ancient desert fortress of Herod the Great which was occupied by Zealots as Rome sacked Jerusalem, and where they held out against the Roman legions for three years before commiting mass suicide as the Romans siege ramp allowed a final conquest.
About half of us decided to hike to the top of Masada, rather than take the perfectly good Swiss tram. With an elevation climb of about 900' and desert temperatures, I struggled to make it up in an hour (I think I worried our executive pastor if I was going to make it all) while a few young guys ran up the steep and stair lined path in about 20 minutes!
After lunch and my two minute ride on a camel around the parking lot for $2, we drove to an overlook which gave us a view of Ein Gedi, the oasis that David retreated to while being pursued by Saul and his men. Then it was on to Kumran and the caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found by a bedouin boy in 1947.
We finished our Dead Sea adventures with a "swim" or rather a float in the Dead Sea. A pastoral directive was made that everyone who hadn't been there before had to try it. Mud was slathered on as a beauty aid and we floated high in the water while reading the Jerusalem Post. Just don't get any of the water in your eyes or mouth!
So, Saturday, May 5, we boarded our bus and headed east towards the Dead Sea leaving Jerusalem to its Shabbat slumber.
The Dead Sea - The sun glistens off of a salt lake that is 32% minerals.
Our first stop was at Masada, the ancient desert fortress of Herod the Great which was occupied by Zealots as Rome sacked Jerusalem, and where they held out against the Roman legions for three years before commiting mass suicide as the Romans siege ramp allowed a final conquest.
About half of us decided to hike to the top of Masada, rather than take the perfectly good Swiss tram. With an elevation climb of about 900' and desert temperatures, I struggled to make it up in an hour (I think I worried our executive pastor if I was going to make it all) while a few young guys ran up the steep and stair lined path in about 20 minutes!
After lunch and my two minute ride on a camel around the parking lot for $2, we drove to an overlook which gave us a view of Ein Gedi, the oasis that David retreated to while being pursued by Saul and his men. Then it was on to Kumran and the caves where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found by a bedouin boy in 1947.
We finished our Dead Sea adventures with a "swim" or rather a float in the Dead Sea. A pastoral directive was made that everyone who hadn't been there before had to try it. Mud was slathered on as a beauty aid and we floated high in the water while reading the Jerusalem Post. Just don't get any of the water in your eyes or mouth!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Up to Jerusalem
On May 4, we left the Sea of Galilee area and headed south towards Jerusalem. Our first stop was Beth Shean, a Roman city which was destroyed in an earthquake but which is now being partially restored so its splendor can be experienced.
A main street was bordered with columns on both sides with broad walkways of marble or inlaid mosaics that opened to storefronts. The original shopping mall!
The Romans lived an easy life with public saunas (the short pillars in the above picture supported a floor and allowed hot air to heat it), steam rooms, gymnasiums, pools and public facilities complete with running water. You'd go down for a steam, massage and manicure before heading over to the amphitheater to watch plays or sporting or gladiator events. When you'd eaten too much, just go outside to the vomitorium to relieve yourself.
Then we were off to Gideon's Spring where Gideon, at God's direction, reduced the number of his chosen soldiers to only 300 before going to battle against the Midianites (Judges 7) by selecting those who drank by cupping their hand while keeping their sword ready in the other hand.
Afterward, we had lunch and a swim in Sachne National Park where many chose to jump off a thirty foot cliff into the water. I chose to float and explore a luminescent cave. Since it was Shabat, and services would be closing, we continued south and then up to the hills of Jerusalem to our hotel.
Before arriving at the hotel, we stopped for a brief overlook of Jerusalem from one of the surrounding hills. The Dome of the Rock with its gilded surface screaming for attention amidst other older churches, buildings and fortified walls of the Old City.
A main street was bordered with columns on both sides with broad walkways of marble or inlaid mosaics that opened to storefronts. The original shopping mall!
The Romans lived an easy life with public saunas (the short pillars in the above picture supported a floor and allowed hot air to heat it), steam rooms, gymnasiums, pools and public facilities complete with running water. You'd go down for a steam, massage and manicure before heading over to the amphitheater to watch plays or sporting or gladiator events. When you'd eaten too much, just go outside to the vomitorium to relieve yourself.
Then we were off to Gideon's Spring where Gideon, at God's direction, reduced the number of his chosen soldiers to only 300 before going to battle against the Midianites (Judges 7) by selecting those who drank by cupping their hand while keeping their sword ready in the other hand.
Afterward, we had lunch and a swim in Sachne National Park where many chose to jump off a thirty foot cliff into the water. I chose to float and explore a luminescent cave. Since it was Shabat, and services would be closing, we continued south and then up to the hills of Jerusalem to our hotel.
Before arriving at the hotel, we stopped for a brief overlook of Jerusalem from one of the surrounding hills. The Dome of the Rock with its gilded surface screaming for attention amidst other older churches, buildings and fortified walls of the Old City.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Sea of Galilee
It's taken a bit longer for me to post about our trip to Israel, but these postings will continue.
On Thursday, May 3, after visiting the Church of the Beatitudes, we continued our stops at various spots along the Sea of Galilee.
This was part of the ruins in Korazin and the buildings made from the black basalt stones of the area seemed to bear the burden of Christ's admonition (Matthew 11:20ff) for they had not repented even after experiencing many of Jesus' miracles.
This was the synagogue in Capernaum where Peter's house (supposedly) is shielded by a futuristic church built over and above its ruins.
For lunch, we experienced St. Peter's fish cooked just like the Galilean fishermen would have, however, I seriously doubt that Peter had multi-lingual place mats.
After lunch, we took a sail on the Sea of Galilee as a small storm blew through dropping a little rain on our excursion. It made us think of the much more violent storm that Jesus calmed with his voice. The Israeli and US flags were raised as a tribute to our country and the fact that Israel strongly appreciates American support.
On Thursday, May 3, after visiting the Church of the Beatitudes, we continued our stops at various spots along the Sea of Galilee.
This was part of the ruins in Korazin and the buildings made from the black basalt stones of the area seemed to bear the burden of Christ's admonition (Matthew 11:20ff) for they had not repented even after experiencing many of Jesus' miracles.
This was the synagogue in Capernaum where Peter's house (supposedly) is shielded by a futuristic church built over and above its ruins.
For lunch, we experienced St. Peter's fish cooked just like the Galilean fishermen would have, however, I seriously doubt that Peter had multi-lingual place mats.
After lunch, we took a sail on the Sea of Galilee as a small storm blew through dropping a little rain on our excursion. It made us think of the much more violent storm that Jesus calmed with his voice. The Israeli and US flags were raised as a tribute to our country and the fact that Israel strongly appreciates American support.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Mount of Beatitudes
Overlooking the Sea of Galilee, the Church of the Beatitudes sits at the high point of a natural ampitheater where Jesus gave the sermon on the mount. The natural setting allows those at either end of the area to hear a speaker clearly. The beautiful gardens provided a wonderful spot to start the morning and review that sermon and contemplate that we now sat close to where Jesus once taught. Carolyn took the opportunity to continue her travel sketches.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Israel - Tel Aviv to Galilee
After waiting 45 minutes for a pilot to arrive after our change in aircraft at LAX, we set off for Altanta where our two hour layover became a fifteen minute sprint to make our connection to Tel Aviv. All 50 of us made it, and we arrived in Israel around 6 pm Tuesday, May 1 after leaving Monday in the early afternoon.
We met our big purple bus and Ilan our tour guide and headed off to the Dan Panorama hotel on the shore of the Mediteranean. Attempting to reset our internal clocks, many of us walked along the seaside to the old port of Jaffa and held out until about 10 pm before hitting our beds.
With our suitcases outside the door by 6:45 and a buffet breakfast, all of us were on the bus for our first day of touring (a pattern that would continue almost every day). So, Wednesday morning we first stopped at Caesarea where Herod the Great had a summer palace, ampitheater, and hippodrome for chariot races and other competitions.
Herod's Ampitheater
Exit from Ampitheater
Herod had a fresh water pool as part of the lower palace that has since been lost to centuries of storms.
Beyond the Hippodrome, the remains of a Crusader's fortress from the 11th and 12th centuries lay at the edge of the sea. The vaulted entry required a quick ninety degree turn which would expose an attacker to the arrows, spears and hot oil of the defenders. This fortress architecture was one we'd see often in the remains of various battlements.
Touring other Roman historic sites, we made a short stop at a two-level aqueduct that provided running water (hot and cold - just kidding) to Caesarea. Then it was on to Mt. Carmel and the spot where Elijah challenged the 450 prophets of Baal. What an unfair fight that was!
This was the view from Meggido of the valley of Armeggedon, perhaps the spot for the final battle of all battles.
After a full day of touring, we finally arrived at the Sheraton in Tiberius a full 211.06 meters below sea level on the Sea of Galilee.
We met our big purple bus and Ilan our tour guide and headed off to the Dan Panorama hotel on the shore of the Mediteranean. Attempting to reset our internal clocks, many of us walked along the seaside to the old port of Jaffa and held out until about 10 pm before hitting our beds.
With our suitcases outside the door by 6:45 and a buffet breakfast, all of us were on the bus for our first day of touring (a pattern that would continue almost every day). So, Wednesday morning we first stopped at Caesarea where Herod the Great had a summer palace, ampitheater, and hippodrome for chariot races and other competitions.
Herod's Ampitheater
Exit from Ampitheater
Herod had a fresh water pool as part of the lower palace that has since been lost to centuries of storms.
Beyond the Hippodrome, the remains of a Crusader's fortress from the 11th and 12th centuries lay at the edge of the sea. The vaulted entry required a quick ninety degree turn which would expose an attacker to the arrows, spears and hot oil of the defenders. This fortress architecture was one we'd see often in the remains of various battlements.
Touring other Roman historic sites, we made a short stop at a two-level aqueduct that provided running water (hot and cold - just kidding) to Caesarea. Then it was on to Mt. Carmel and the spot where Elijah challenged the 450 prophets of Baal. What an unfair fight that was!
This was the view from Meggido of the valley of Armeggedon, perhaps the spot for the final battle of all battles.
After a full day of touring, we finally arrived at the Sheraton in Tiberius a full 211.06 meters below sea level on the Sea of Galilee.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Shalom!
Well, we finally leave today for our church-sponsored trip to Israel. Two long days of travel will bracket seven days of touring Old and New Testament sites as well as experiencing the new in cities quite old. Prayers for the safety and health of all 50 who will be traveling are welcomed.
If you want to keep up with our travels, starting Wednesday you can read about our experiences on the church website: compasschurch.org
If you want to keep up with our travels, starting Wednesday you can read about our experiences on the church website: compasschurch.org
Monday, April 23, 2007
God the Ultimate Artist
A week ago we were blessed with an amazing sunset where the colors danced across both cloud and sea.
Ordination Sunday
In the past, the 15th of April has always been a day of destiny re taxes as the Federal government demands that we provide them with the remainder of any monies due them. Now, it will mark a new and better anniversary, and of destiny, the ordination of Bryce Allan Hales into the Presbyterian Church of America!
The service was followed by a brunch hosted by John and Sally where we all congratulated Bryce on his accomplishment and prayed for his usefulness in the service of Christ.
Wanda stayed over night with us so we could head up to Christ Church around 9 a.m. to witness and be a part of the service which would include Bryce's ordination. We arrived to find John and Sally, Margaret, and the Crocketts already there and Bryce, Carter, Oliver and Ken dressed in kilts. Bryce's and Ashley's friends from Edinburgh, Craig and Judith, even managed to arrange their vacation to attend.
Scott, a PCA pastor from Santa Barbara, gave the sermon which centered on Acts 16 and the various types of people encountered by Paul as he preached from the rich (Lydia), downtrodden (slave girl), and hardened (jailer). He spoke on how all of these types will be congregants or persons seeking Christ in Bryce's future calling. The sermon was followed Bryce's responding in the affirmative to his call and the laying on of hands by the elders.
The service was followed by a brunch hosted by John and Sally where we all congratulated Bryce on his accomplishment and prayed for his usefulness in the service of Christ.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Easter
A long and fun day at the Hutchins' home this last Sunday, Easter. We were out of the house quite a bit earlier than the normal Sabbath as we drove to Monarch Beach to pick up Wanda for the 10:30 church service. Since it was expected (and turned out) to be a more crowded service, we got there about twenty minutes early before enjoying both the worship and the sermon.
Then it was home to put in the glazed ham, the potato casserole, and stuffed zucchini for our mid-day meal. Lisa and Katie made it to the house around 1:30 and Ashley and Bryce about a half hour later after Bryce had preached at Christ Church. The meal was great and we enjoyed catching up on Ashley's pregnancy and Katie's college and spring break plans.
Lunch was followed by an egg hunt (mostly chocolate) and then by our Easter tradition of a game of croquet on the common area lawn overlooking the lake. I think I've found my hidden sports talent as I with my black ball streaked through wicket after wicket traversing both 'fairway' and 'rough' so that I was able to reach the last wicket before any of the others had made it halfway. Then I chose to become poison by not hitting the last stake, and instead, searched out the others in my version of a death star. I eliminated them all only to be chastised for my malevolent level of play! Oh, the competition!!
After a second round in which I gladly set aside my mallet, we went back to the house for dessert and then a new game that Ashley and Bryce suggested. We split into two teams, the dream team of Bryce, Katie and Tor, and then the Others, and each person provided a slip of paper for each of four historical/current persons. A team then gave hints to each person's identity and points were awarded for each one ID'd correctly within one minute. Each team taking consecutive turns until all the people were identified. The second round used the same people, but this time, you only could give a one-word description. So, it helped to be able to remember the twenty-eight possibilities. And, finally, the third round used the same people, but this time you had to act out the person with charades. The breadth of pop culture was evident when both Britney Spears and Harry Belafonte were included as choices.
It was pretty funny to watch the charades required for Fannie Flagg or Calvin Coolidge! Everyone had an enjoyable time and all left with leftovers and chocolate.
Then it was home to put in the glazed ham, the potato casserole, and stuffed zucchini for our mid-day meal. Lisa and Katie made it to the house around 1:30 and Ashley and Bryce about a half hour later after Bryce had preached at Christ Church. The meal was great and we enjoyed catching up on Ashley's pregnancy and Katie's college and spring break plans.
Lunch was followed by an egg hunt (mostly chocolate) and then by our Easter tradition of a game of croquet on the common area lawn overlooking the lake. I think I've found my hidden sports talent as I with my black ball streaked through wicket after wicket traversing both 'fairway' and 'rough' so that I was able to reach the last wicket before any of the others had made it halfway. Then I chose to become poison by not hitting the last stake, and instead, searched out the others in my version of a death star. I eliminated them all only to be chastised for my malevolent level of play! Oh, the competition!!
After a second round in which I gladly set aside my mallet, we went back to the house for dessert and then a new game that Ashley and Bryce suggested. We split into two teams, the dream team of Bryce, Katie and Tor, and then the Others, and each person provided a slip of paper for each of four historical/current persons. A team then gave hints to each person's identity and points were awarded for each one ID'd correctly within one minute. Each team taking consecutive turns until all the people were identified. The second round used the same people, but this time, you only could give a one-word description. So, it helped to be able to remember the twenty-eight possibilities. And, finally, the third round used the same people, but this time you had to act out the person with charades. The breadth of pop culture was evident when both Britney Spears and Harry Belafonte were included as choices.
It was pretty funny to watch the charades required for Fannie Flagg or Calvin Coolidge! Everyone had an enjoyable time and all left with leftovers and chocolate.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Can You Read This?
fi yuo cna raed tihs, yuo hvae a sgtrane mnid, too.Cna yuo raed tihs? Olny 55 plepoe tuo fo 100 anc.
i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt! if you can raed tihs forwrad it.
i cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt! if you can raed tihs forwrad it.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Plumbing and Other Home Issues
After having water dripping from our master bathroom toilet for over two weeks every time it was flushed, two weekends ago I finally tackled its "repair". Saturday afternoon became an ordeal.
The tank had to be removed and with a fixture about 30 years old, the bolts securing the tank to the bowl were frozen, rusted, and immune to torque. So, taking my trusty hacksaw blade (not saw, as the frame wouldn't fit between tank and bowl) I sawed away at the bolts for what seemed hours. In the process, portions of the porcelain cracked! Then it was out to the front yard to wash out the tank (hi y'all, welcome to West Virginia), and then off to Ace to acquire the new fittings required. With new valves, gaskets, bolts and flushing arm, the tank was finally secured to bowl, and, of course, on the first flush, water again cascaded onto the floor!
Frustrated, I gave up for the day, only to awake the next morning having dreamt that I could fix it with another gasket sandwiched between the bolts and the tank. A cursory inspection of the guest room toilet showed a similar arrangement, so I was off on the second repair attempt. Tank off, bolts re-worked, tank re-installed - same result with the better part of the weekend spent on this.
So, the answer was a new toilet. How about one like the Toto downstairs? Seemed like a good idea even if we are able to proceed with a master bath remodel/expansion this year as the toilet could be re-installed. We called up our plumber (notice the sequence) and gave him the model number of the new toilet we wanted. Mid-week he arrives with the new model only to find that we have a 10" rough-in and the new toilet, and most new ones, require a 12" rough-in! Luckily, we didn't have to pay for it and he was able to find a cheaper one that fit. The only issue is that this toilet is a complete throw away with a new bathroom. Oh, the joys of home ownership!!
In preparation for a remodel, we've talked to a general contractor who is currently designing how our bathroom and closet could use the deck above our morning room. Carolyn and I gave them a list, room by room, of what we'd like to do, and I tremble at what the estimate might be. The list was somewhat depressing, because I don't think there were many rooms that we didn't foresee needing some work whether it was new flooring or a complete addition. But we really like our new kitchen and downstairs bath, and, of course, our lake adjacent location.
The tank had to be removed and with a fixture about 30 years old, the bolts securing the tank to the bowl were frozen, rusted, and immune to torque. So, taking my trusty hacksaw blade (not saw, as the frame wouldn't fit between tank and bowl) I sawed away at the bolts for what seemed hours. In the process, portions of the porcelain cracked! Then it was out to the front yard to wash out the tank (hi y'all, welcome to West Virginia), and then off to Ace to acquire the new fittings required. With new valves, gaskets, bolts and flushing arm, the tank was finally secured to bowl, and, of course, on the first flush, water again cascaded onto the floor!
Frustrated, I gave up for the day, only to awake the next morning having dreamt that I could fix it with another gasket sandwiched between the bolts and the tank. A cursory inspection of the guest room toilet showed a similar arrangement, so I was off on the second repair attempt. Tank off, bolts re-worked, tank re-installed - same result with the better part of the weekend spent on this.
So, the answer was a new toilet. How about one like the Toto downstairs? Seemed like a good idea even if we are able to proceed with a master bath remodel/expansion this year as the toilet could be re-installed. We called up our plumber (notice the sequence) and gave him the model number of the new toilet we wanted. Mid-week he arrives with the new model only to find that we have a 10" rough-in and the new toilet, and most new ones, require a 12" rough-in! Luckily, we didn't have to pay for it and he was able to find a cheaper one that fit. The only issue is that this toilet is a complete throw away with a new bathroom. Oh, the joys of home ownership!!
In preparation for a remodel, we've talked to a general contractor who is currently designing how our bathroom and closet could use the deck above our morning room. Carolyn and I gave them a list, room by room, of what we'd like to do, and I tremble at what the estimate might be. The list was somewhat depressing, because I don't think there were many rooms that we didn't foresee needing some work whether it was new flooring or a complete addition. But we really like our new kitchen and downstairs bath, and, of course, our lake adjacent location.
Monday, February 05, 2007
A Week in Canada
We left very early on Saturday (1/20) from LAX to Vancouver via Air Canada for a week long ski vacation.
We took a taxi into Vancouver, where we were staying at the Sheraton Wall Centre on the 30th floor. Three floors are owned by Club Intrawest, so we were able to use our resort points. It was quite a view and quite strange to see sea gulls flying about 15 floors below us.
Saturday was fairly sunny so we enjoyed a walk down to the harbor and took the Granville Island ferry (a party boat refugee from Lake Forest 1, I think) over to a restaurant and shopping area. We toured the market filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, fish on ice, bakeries, etc. In the area outside, people sat and drank coffee or watched the various street performers.
The next day, Sunday, was a bit more drizzly, so Carolyn bargained with the the driver for the Big Bus and got a 2 for 1 deal that allowed us to get on and off at various spots within the City. We briefly stopped at Stanley Park and marked it for a future visit when the skies are bluer and drier. As we left the Park, we saw a great sign welcoming us to Vancouver, "a nuclear weapons free city"; so I quickly put aside my suitcase nuke so that I wouldn't violate any city ordinances. Then it was off to Chinatown where we walked through a Chinese garden and ate Dim Sum at the Jade restaurant, coming away with food enough for a snack the following day.
We walked back from the Gastown area and found a sports bar not too far from our hotel. We were able to get a great table and watch the Colts beat New England with a great comeback! All the while enjoying some great beer and making friends with our neighboring tables.
Monday, as the rain became more steady, we checked out and grabbed the Perimeter bus to Whistler and Club Intrawest which is situated between the Fairmont and the Four Seasons and only 75 yards or so from the slopes of Blackcomb. We rented our skiis and toured the village after having checked into our one-bedroom suite.
Tuesday, we had a bit of moisture in the air so on the lower slopes it was a bit damp, but higher up the mountain (top of the mountain 8000') the snow was great! The following days it was sunny, but with no more snow, and the lines were short or non-existent. We enjoyed two days on Blackcomb and another two days on Whistler before returning to Blackcomb on Saturday.
We'll definitely go back again! Great skiing and meeting people from the Britain, Scotland, Australia, Eastern Canada makes a trip really fun and interesting.
As we left Sunday, Carolyn took a number of shots of the inland waterway that the road from Vancouver skirts. Many times she was looking straight down with no guardrail or shoulder as they are working on expanding the road to four lanes in time for the 2010 Olympics. When we got to the airport, Carolyn was stopped in security and they took away her small knitting scissors and some hair product (over 4 ounces) - she wasn't a happy camper because neither was cheap. Then the plane was late getting in and the flight attendants were even later as they were coming in from the East coast. When all was cleaned and re-fueled, we were an hour late so we didn't make it home to 1 am. I was pretty tired the next day at work, but the trip was certainly worth it!
We took a taxi into Vancouver, where we were staying at the Sheraton Wall Centre on the 30th floor. Three floors are owned by Club Intrawest, so we were able to use our resort points. It was quite a view and quite strange to see sea gulls flying about 15 floors below us.
Saturday was fairly sunny so we enjoyed a walk down to the harbor and took the Granville Island ferry (a party boat refugee from Lake Forest 1, I think) over to a restaurant and shopping area. We toured the market filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, fish on ice, bakeries, etc. In the area outside, people sat and drank coffee or watched the various street performers.
The next day, Sunday, was a bit more drizzly, so Carolyn bargained with the the driver for the Big Bus and got a 2 for 1 deal that allowed us to get on and off at various spots within the City. We briefly stopped at Stanley Park and marked it for a future visit when the skies are bluer and drier. As we left the Park, we saw a great sign welcoming us to Vancouver, "a nuclear weapons free city"; so I quickly put aside my suitcase nuke so that I wouldn't violate any city ordinances. Then it was off to Chinatown where we walked through a Chinese garden and ate Dim Sum at the Jade restaurant, coming away with food enough for a snack the following day.
We walked back from the Gastown area and found a sports bar not too far from our hotel. We were able to get a great table and watch the Colts beat New England with a great comeback! All the while enjoying some great beer and making friends with our neighboring tables.
Monday, as the rain became more steady, we checked out and grabbed the Perimeter bus to Whistler and Club Intrawest which is situated between the Fairmont and the Four Seasons and only 75 yards or so from the slopes of Blackcomb. We rented our skiis and toured the village after having checked into our one-bedroom suite.
Tuesday, we had a bit of moisture in the air so on the lower slopes it was a bit damp, but higher up the mountain (top of the mountain 8000') the snow was great! The following days it was sunny, but with no more snow, and the lines were short or non-existent. We enjoyed two days on Blackcomb and another two days on Whistler before returning to Blackcomb on Saturday.
We'll definitely go back again! Great skiing and meeting people from the Britain, Scotland, Australia, Eastern Canada makes a trip really fun and interesting.As we left Sunday, Carolyn took a number of shots of the inland waterway that the road from Vancouver skirts. Many times she was looking straight down with no guardrail or shoulder as they are working on expanding the road to four lanes in time for the 2010 Olympics. When we got to the airport, Carolyn was stopped in security and they took away her small knitting scissors and some hair product (over 4 ounces) - she wasn't a happy camper because neither was cheap. Then the plane was late getting in and the flight attendants were even later as they were coming in from the East coast. When all was cleaned and re-fueled, we were an hour late so we didn't make it home to 1 am. I was pretty tired the next day at work, but the trip was certainly worth it!
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