sessionsimpressions

Too busy to Blog

2010-05-13T18:06:00.001-07:00

Our calm and quiet (and boring) empty nest-hood took a turn in the fast lane. In reverse order, Brady and Ashlin had a 8 lb 14 oz 22 inch baby boy named Hunter Chase Sessions. Ashlin labored through Mother's Day and delivered at 2 am the next day. They will make great parents...as soon as Brady get finished with his finals. Gwen, Mindy and Ashlin went for pedicures and a movie before the labor came on.

As Ashlin was laboring, Garrett and Jay fixed the mothers- Gwen and Mindy omlets in bed. Two days before Jay pulled off a surprise 60th birthday party for Gwen with several of our close friends. This was Ashlin's last supper before the labor started. Garrett has been doing his final rotation with a local doctor before he graduates at the end of May. Two and 1/2 year old Carter found that Mindy's tummy has a baby sister on board.

Jay had to round up some medical support for the statewide Mormon Helping Hands project. He found a boy actually snacking on the best treat in town. He went nuts!!! Garrett was part of the medical team which included several doctors, a nurse, and an EMT and of course a podiatrist.

The weekend before, our dear friends from Alturas who live in Idaho flew in for a couple of fun filled days. They had treated us to their collection of snowmobiles years ago at West Yellowstone in Island Park. We did Angel Island on segways which was a blast, followed by a trolly ride and fisherman's wharf and the chocolate factory.

The next day was Sacramento with our traditional bike ride for breakfast where the kids joined us. Then it was onto the capitol where Arnold was not sighted and then to a boat ride up the American River.

SoCal: Kids, Wedding, Grave, Disneyland

2010-04-14T19:36:00.000-07:00

Due to the un-user-friendly nature of these blogs, this is in reverse order and the videos are at the end. The pictures are small, but they can be expanded by clicking on them. This is the lake near Ali and Troy's house. We are on a walk with Jack and Lucy.
The lake walk was preceded by a hike to the hill top time capsule where the coyotes must have discovered the buried almonds and broke into our box. Ali joined us and realized how steep it was. We were able to recover Ali's old Christmas card, an almond wrapper, and the box lid. This weekend was NOT the one to visit Ali and Troy. She was totally involved in a stake youth conference which ran for several days. In spite of this, they were great hosts.

Since we had done some volunteer work-we earned a day at Disneyland where the simple joys of feeding a duck was as entertaining as the rides. Jay and Gwen are chowing down on a massive turkey leg.

They could build many more attractions if the stroller parking was necessary, but then folks would not have a kid-excuse for coming. The kids ran right up to Goofy and gave him a big hug.

Nephew Mike Sessions' wedding to Sue was fantastic. After the wedding dress, it was then into more traditional outfits. The White House was a great place for the dinner.

The groomsmen are supporting Sue. Notice the gazebo in the background, where 30+ years ago, we had our wedding pictures taken in Irvine at the Woodbridge Lake. Here's Crystal's great family by the lake.

The Sessions children gathered at Marc and Doris grave site for a remembrance. We recalled how the folks migrated to Orange County. Nearby was the Head family grave site-which would be the "Headstone".

Nearby the wedding location, Gwen visited her mom, Elda's old home and Bill's avocado tree where she picked a couple. It was a very memorable weekend.

The guys did quite the dance at the wedding dinner.

This was a brief ride (after a long wait) but it was pretty extreme.

Again, the simple joys of a simple MerryGoRound satisfied the kids (and grandparents)

Special Olympic Memories

2010-03-28T09:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, a co-worker of 22 years and former boss Joe Lavagnino, came to Rocklin's Hardwood Palace (where I am sure my boys have played)(which is right next to the Sky Hi wall-to-wall trampoline place). He was with his daughter Lisa to support his Special Olympics son, John. This brought back several years or memories of our kids coaching involvement in this fine program.

There's John in the key with his eye on the ball-well sort of....as I would take his picture he would pose. He loved having his family there. He is the same age as our twins...that would be 25 for Tallon and, lets see, Brady would be 25 also.Our kids had the honor of acting as coaches and volunteers for Special Olympic events at Rocklin, Bear River, and Del Oro High Schools. It was more for the benefit of our church kids to let them feel needed and blessed and to realize the simple joys the Special Olympians felt.

Even though it has been a number of years, I almost could recognize some of the contestants yesterday.

I did not have any duties yesterday, like passing out the coaches tee shirts in year's past but I enjoyed watching John's team win by a close margin.

These were and are massive events with lots of support from the community.

Here's Ali and Holly with their contestant who they are obviously proud of.

Valentines and Chinese New Year Day

2010-02-15T10:07:00.001-08:00

What are the chances that Valentine's Day and Chinese New Year would be on the SAME day? Well the year of the Tiger started on Heart Day and we dinned on some traditional (?) Chucker meat shot and cleaned by Sid Kelly. It was nicely cooked by Linda with corn flakes and cheese.

Debbi Burgess brought a homemade salad and rolls and a pie cooked with the help of a gal name Marie. Jon had several helpings of the mellow tasting chucker. Gwen cooked the potatoes, rice, and some beef...just in case the chucker was a yuk-er

Jay reponded to the classic 99 cent store ad: "Attention all Romeos" and bought some very expensive gifts from the Good Choice and Bad Choice columns (not listed on this blog-to maintain a little good taste). The ladies are displaying their ever-so-tasteful wares.

We topped off the evening with a Snypes video call to the Doolittle's, in snowy Virginia, who are the founders of our dinner group gatherings. They had just finished Courtney's 18 birthday bash.

Jay made his traditional V-Day visit to get Gwen's students all out-of-control. They went nuts for his almonds..which wound up in the office. He did NOT wear his Santa Valentine's outfit from year's past.

Here's Gwen with Grandma Helen who helps in the class. The kids are wearing Valentines Day hats. Last week was busy for her with the school dance festival and Orientation for next year.

A few folks from the office did Dim Sum on Friday which was a treat. Jay loves his multicultural co-workers who brought him a chicken foot last week.

Jay's family has always loved other cultures. His exchange student time in Japan got him going. We are proud of our multi-cultured family. Mike who Crystal is holding is getting married in April.

Sportsman's Expo-again this year

2010-01-24T07:50:00.001-08:00

Since Blue Diamond's advertising consultant also handles this event, we get tickets which I distributed to many employees and friends. This is me with a dear dear which brought back memories of my hunting past. The older I get the Bigger were my bucks.

My big-rig Corolla fit right in with the 4 wheel drive, gun-racked, raised, dog carrying pickups. Notice the license: "Retrievers Save Game". My car should say "Toyotas Save Gas".

The Spash Dogs were hard to shoot mid-air, but they are always make a splash as they retrieve the pretend bird. Missing were the 4 wheel jeeps going over boulders.

The dog training demo was amazing!!! Steve's dog Digger has some training to do. Since our boys are or will be Eagle scouts, our neighbor, Steve joined me at the 100 year Scouting display.

I was not tempted to buy this expensive gun safe. Notice the marked down price of only $4,099. My guns are safe under the bed. The Boring booth was a mouthfull. A hunter behind me said the boar reminded him of his ex-wife...expecially with the hair under the mouth. Most folks were dressed in camo-all I could muster was a green Eddie Bauer coat. Most of the booths were for hunting guides and lodges who few could afford...including me.

Being a fisherman, Steve enjoyed the massive fly fishing pond. There were also lots of boats, but he could not find a single ski boat like his. We only ran into one co-worker. Joe Lavagnino brought his 2 boys-one in scout uniform.

Christmas 2009

2010-01-16T08:55:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas that included a few days at Bodega Bay was followed by Christmas in Rocklin where we finally got a family shot taken by our professional photographer, Ali.

The grandkids went bananas and so did the grandparents-but we loved it. The only problem with everyone leaving is that Jay is the only one to blame for messes now. We only did one dinner out the whole week to Costa Vida in Roseville which is the same as Cafe Rio in Utah.

Notice the ever present Ali camera on her lap. Notice the wierdo outside the window scaring the pants off the grandkids.

We know Ali posted all the unique (strange) gifts that were given, but a co-worker added to Jay's collection of pooping animals. North Face is a favorite brand of our kids, so we had to give Garrett a new startup company's spoof of the brand....Garrett wore the hat on the plane.

Gwen continued our pillow (in lieu of stockings) tradition by filling them with goodies. The kids had no trouble knowing which one was theirs with their pictures on them. Ali set up her traditional Santa Trap.

Santa came out of the closet for his annual visit. The grandkids were a little scared. We even took the hippy santa to the neighbors. The grandkids had blinking Rudolph noses.

We had some Christmas olympics with the bed jump.

Then there was the chicken dance led by one of Jay's many mechanical animals

There was a new routine that Garrett developed and Troy used on Jack.

Family Reunion: Bodega Bay

2010-01-01T13:59:00.000-08:00

As we considered a family reunion location, several options came to mind: Tahoe with snow, RV rental with cramped conditions, and Santa Cruz where we have stayed before. Then a co-worker mentioned that another co-worker had a home that he rents out at Bodega Bay. We got it for 4 days and 3 nights. It has 5 bedrooms and 4 baths, a jacuzzi, sauna, and fully equipped kitchen. It is on the first hole of the private golf course with a spectacular view (and sound) of the ocean. THE VIDEOS ARE AT THE END.

Here's Gwen and Jay from the porch and Gwen with the 3 grand kids with the same view.

Then there is the fantastic unifying table that seats 12. We ate all our meals there by assigning them out for some inter-family competition. It was a 3 way tie with Gwen and Jay as the winners-not having to cook or pay for going out.

Then there was the hot tub that got plenty of use.

The kids enjoyed watching the occasional golf cart drive by. There was even a golf ball than landed on the porch. Here's Jay up the rugged coast on our way to the redwoods.

There was an Gift shop where Garrett and Jay hung out. The red one was under the tree as a present for Jay from So. America in which he used to hang out. Then there was the 31 story tree where we encountered a 3 headed giant.

Surfer sponsor Troy, rented some boards and wet suits and the boys loved the waves even though the North Coast is known for surfers being part of the food chain. Even the grand kids tried their hand at surfing with the helping hands of Garrett and Troy.

On the second day the waves were not as nice and the boogie board was eaten up.

The Dune Sand surfing was almost as much fun (and required less equipment) than the water surfing. However there were some crashes and twisted necks.

AND finally our walk in the woods

Horsing Around

2009-10-31T12:40:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, a co-worker put on a horse training day for intercity kids from the Boys and Girls club. I helped since the stable was in Penryn where we used to live....AND because of my vast knowledge of horses-NOT. The kids got to do a trail ride. Deb quizzed them about the different body parts.

The kids brought their own helmets. They toured 6 different aspects of horse care including the poop patrol and grooming.

The beauty salon grooming was going well until the horse showed its appreciation with a big green present for the kids.

The Farrier aka blacksmith did a demo. I wanted to be fitted too. She had a horse foot model which I demonstrated since Garrett is in Podietry school.

Which brings us to our memories (as do many of our posts). The Peace Corps gave me money for transportation which came with a "pasada" which is a middle un-bumppy speed. In Alturas we had smokey for a few years. He was great but could really mark our lawn-which would flourish in the following year.

Gwen loved Smokey and would ride. Even in the snow the horses were ridden.

Even when we lived in Mission Viejo, an OC sidewalk rent a ride horse came around for Ali. Here's a sit down shot with Ali and Garrett and a friend. Our dog is showing his best side.

A Moving Experience

2009-10-21T18:59:00.001-07:00

Brady and Jay went to help Ali and Troy move from his company's built house to one of his former company's houses. The moving crew was Troy and Brady with Jack helping out. Here's their old house that was filled with Troy and Ali's handiwork.

This is the new house just a few block away. It has a 3 car garage-back to back and is bigger.

Jay's duties were to entertain the kids..which included Brady at times. He had more fun than the grandkids but really worked hard. Ali and Troy were busy packing.

I was entrusted with the kids for a trip to the pumpkin patch in Temecula. Here is Jack with Lucy looking through the Jack O'Latern.

The petting zoo was fun. However the smart goats would open the dispenser flap as soon as a coin was put in.

I was even trusted with the kids at the association pool where Lucy overcame her fear of water....or maybe became more fearful. There is a lake beyond the big pool.

We had to take a trek to the hill to dig up the time box and eat the candy and read the notes we left last time...and write new notes.

Meanwhile back at the house Ali is demonstrating our Christmas gifts of Emergency Food and her newly organized kitchen.

As Ali finished packing, Troy and Brady went to the BYU game in San Diego and I went to Don's house in Orange County where I had to survive for an hour in their back yard. I enjoyed their apples, tomatoes, and strawberries. I even recycled some (beyond the fence). Susan fixed a delicious dinner as we watched the game on TV. They just sold their house and will be moving to the beach. Then I visited my 95 year old dad in Laguna Beach. He was asleep and is on a liquid diet.

On the way out of L.A. we stopped at Jim's restored home which looks great-thanks to Don. It was then back on I-5 for the 80 MPH flight home @ 36 MPG after an enjoyable 3 days.

Jay's Growing up Adventures

2009-10-10T13:01:00.001-07:00

The Marc and Doris Sessions family enjoyed many trips and adventures. Mexico was a favorite destination. One summer we rented a beach house near La Mission. Years later, Jay's family tried to duplicate the enjoyment by renting a beach house near La Fonda. The pop top contraption could even carry our surf boards. Here's my brother Don with some of our friends on a surfing safari to Mexico.

What would a beach vacation be with out somone being buried? Here's Jay's brother Jim and Don (buried) and sister Dori with Rover and dad looking on. We had several visitors to the Mexican house (as we did in later years) including our cousins, the Johnsons. We had purchased some local lobsters which were still alive. Mom and Aunt Rosie are hauling them in.

We had a little visitor (a Mexican mouse) that had ventured out on our towel line. We don't seem to be too interested in him. Then up on the hill dad is putting the horns on Jay (who says humor is not inherited) below the water tower above the beach house. Here's Don and Dori with their cousins hanging out in the beach house.

Don was a good sport and would hang out with his older brother. We visited the church vaults up Little Cottonwood Canyon during a visit when Jay was at BYU.

The coast to coast trip of 1965 or so was made non-stop with Don and Jay in the little VW bug. Dad met us in New York for the worlds fair and then on to Niagra Falls and the Hill Camorah. Dad was always on a business trip. Dad and Don flew back to LA and I worked in Toronto.

I heart REI & Family Camping

2009-10-04T09:50:00.000-07:00

When an REI sale comes along, Garrett is on the phone announcing it. I bought 3 items for $80 which would have cost that much each. Then last month, the secret 89 cent sales came along and I bought some hiking shoes for $27. The secret is: if an item is $54.89 it is really 1/2 price.

Even though my REI membership goes back 30 years, it started by organizing a co-op in the Peace Corps. REI is also a co-op as is Blue Diamond Almonds where I have worked for over 20 years. Anyway after 2 years "camping" without running water on Indian reservations on my church mission, it was 2 more without comforts in Brazil.

But the love of camping started growing up. Here's my brother Don and me after summiting Mt Whitney. Our dad was a good sport with 3 boys to take us camping. He always found the most creative "rigs" to make things more comfortable and unique. This contraption was a pop top lean-to. We used it extensively in Mexico with the fear that someone would cut the rope and we would be tortillas.

We did a lot of backpacking and fishing. Of course the older we get - the better it was. As I recall those fish were at least a foot long.

More shots of the mountain-men brothers. We were never very well equipped, maybe that's why Garrett got a job at REI to get better outfitted.

Even our mom (who was far from a camper), joined in trying to relate to her camping sons. Of course she camped in style. Here we are near Lake Huntington with Jim, Crystal & even baby Richie, Don, Jay, mom, dad, and Gwen (in hammock). Notice the dart board on yonder tree. Notice the lounge chairs. Of course the lean-to pop-top was there too-out of sight.

The camping tradition continued with Gwen and me. Here's dad in his traditional one-piece zoot suit.

After a couple of years working in Panama, I drove this VW van back and Gwen and I used it for comfort-camping for a while. WARNING kids: the next post will be about our camping trips, so prepare to be embarrassed.

Summer Sessions Visitors

2009-09-20T06:32:00.000-07:00

It all started with a bike rack birthday present from the kids. We had to test it with our biking neighbors to our favorite Confluence American River bike trail. We also had some great visitors this summer including our nice niece Anne and Dan Harris on their way to Yosemite from Utah.

Dennis Gibson and Kay Smith show off their one handed biking skills.

We even walked up to the Cawver Cave and further up to the Quarry. Yes, Ali even took a spin for a Brookfields Biker breakfast

Jay is copying a biking technique learned from Garrett. He is videoing while peddling. He survivied without a crash.

During the summer, the Armstrongs joined us for a Kayak paddle at Lake Natoma. Then Gwen's brother visited on their way back to Idaho. They even too a spin for breakfast.

Jon and Debbi Burgess then joined us when the water was lower and we had to "portage" our boats to get to our secret place.

Here's Bob and Roberta locking up. Gwen's sister dropped by on her way to Utah with a real dog as a passenger.

Brady and Ashlin left their scooter at our place, so we had to keep it running. Jay has a "M" on his driver's license which makes him legal but not safe. Here's Jack teaching me the ropes.

A family who scoots together may opps together. I had some Primary Sunbeam substitute training with a lesson on friends, but I need more training to be a good grandpa.

Can-Slide-School-Expo Weekend

2009-09-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

The last weekend August was filled with activity that is presented in reverse order. The California State Fair at Cal Expo is always interesting. Ashlin and Brady had just driven non-stop from Chicago for 30 hours. The Fair Art winner was this 100,000 toothpick creation depicting different San Francisco sites.

The "carnies" had a few rides acquired from Michael Jackson's Ranch, so here's Jay with MJ. Of course Ashlin loved the animals, which brought back memories of our pigs through the years. Yum Yum.

The highlight were the motorcyle stunts. Brady was anxious to try these on their scooter which they used in Chicago.

Gwen had her Back to School where she lectured the parents on their duties. She had her look-alike welcoming them to her class. The dog is saying "be good or I will bite".

We had our annual Luau on a 100 degree day. Jay was the coolest (temperature-wise) one there because Jay always runs the slippery slide and gets completely soaked. The kids loved it. He even had a spray bottle of soap to speed the slide. No accidents on the 100 foot slide.

The weekend started off with Jay going right from counting canned nuts to canning tomatoes at the church cannery. It was an exhausting and dirty night where the tomatoes just kept coming and coming. No breaks were offered for the 4 hour shift-for fear that we would leave.

They say that a hair net will add 20 years to your life. Here's Mr. Tomato Head and the finished product destined for less fortunite folks on Welfare.

Here's the can shaker letting the product settle before the lid and cooker. Hot work

Gwen's New Kitchen-at long last

2009-09-01T19:53:00.000-07:00

On that fateful day of April 10-almost 5 months ago, Jay's Valentine faucet sprung a leak and ruined the floor and kitchen. Gwen is finally pleased with her new kitchen even if it took this long to repair.
Along with the new sink came a new stove and counter tops and cabinets....all of which had to be removed to insure there was no mold.
Then the wood floor that was ruined in the kitchen had to be matched with the hallway floor, so it was expanded into the family room.
The new green paint job was necessary since the wallpaper was ripped out. Notice Gwen's new rooster painting acquired from the artist at the Salt Lake farmer's market.
We then had to pop for a new refrigerator which opens way up to store food for just the two of us.
LESSIONS LEARNED: (1) Hire a plumber (2) Don't turn in an insurance claim (3) Patience (4) Use a disaster to upgrade (5) Camping out without a kitchen is fun-NOT (6) Eating out is a treat-NOT (7) Decorating decisions are delightful-NOT (8) Washing dishes in the bathroom is good hygene-NOT (9) Neighbors come to our rescue (10) Looking forward to inviting folks over.

Grandkids for a Weak

2009-08-22T10:52:00.001-07:00

We had the honor of having Ali and Troy's kids for a week that made us weak. Ali was up visiting and doing senior and family photos for her blooming (name of her business-Bloom Photography) business. We had the welcome sign out. Jay is teaching Jack shopping tips. All the food looked great until we got it home and had to eat it. Jay's going bananas.

Tip #1 for wanna-be grandparents-in-training......get a dog. This one came with a trainer for a while. Digger made himself at home with the kids. As you can see, he has great table manners.

A visit to grandpa's house wouldn't be complete without some danger exposure. Here's Jack with Tallon's Spanish sword in front of our new pond. Jack and Lucy are future snowboarders.

Since we were dogsitting Digger we had Pool privileges at our neighbors, Gwen is teaching Jack how to swim.....or vice versa

Here's what made it all worth while...Jack falling asleep on Gwen. Of course Digger is supervising. The kids enjoyed bath time. This is a clean shot...thanks to the wash rag.

Jay took a day off and it was off to the small but fun Folsom Zoo. The kids liked it so much-we left them there. This is a shot of my 3 tigers. The zoo also has a train which we rode.

The train was a kick. Jack and Lucy are maintaining our hunting tradition by petting the dear deer.

For some reason we had to go to the mall where we discovered KID-LAND

'Ali and Gwen did our traditional bike ride to Brookfields. I drove the kids down and met them for breakfast

'The wonderful week culminated with Troy flying up and enjoying Sunsplash for his birthday. We brought the kids over later and they had a ball.

Pioneers Then and Now

2009-08-01T10:43:00.001-07:00

In 1847, the pioneers came into the Salt Lake valley on foot. This year Garrett is doing a month's "externship" at the VA hospital also working on feet. So we decided to visit both sets of pioneers. Garrett and Mindy will be going back to Chicago to graduate next June.

At the This is the Place Monument, Gwen found grandfather, Sidney Hanks, and Jay found his, J Wyley Sessions listed as some of the folks who organized the tribute.

Garrett found a handcart, which some pioneers used to carry their belongings across the plains. Gwen's ancestor Ephraim Hanks rescued some of the handcart pioneers in the severe winter. Garrett is having a tough time-especially in his flip-flops and passengers.

The 24th of July is a state holiday and we went to the Pioneer Days parade complete with grandpa not knowing how to use the stoller and Pres Eyring with the bodyguards.

The Rose Parade may have flowers, but the Pioneer Parade has quilts. The street beside the Conference Center has a nice creek.

While Jay was bonding with Carter in the kids area, Gwen, Mindy and Garrett took in the weekly broadcast which featured many pioneer songs. Then we got together on the roof for a different shot of the temple.

We stayed with our dear friends the Sheraton's and the Marriotts, with Garrett, Mindy and Carter throwing in with us. We can't believe they wanted to hang out with us. We celebrated Garrett's birthday at a meaty Brazilian resturant....which brought back Jay's Peace Corp memories.

Since the VA hospital does not sleep, Garrett had to work so we hung out at the Gateway Center where Carter got wet with the water fountains

It was then on to a visit with Sessions relatives including 88 year old Aunt Amy who is doing great. This is a 4 generation shot. Another relative, Vickie Martin, had a Sessions Plum tree which we visited. She gave us some jam for the plum name for Patty Bartlett Sessions who's dad was the name origin of the pear. She not only delivered 4,000 babies, but also developed a plum.

It was then on to Gwen's sister, Joanne in Provo for a pool party where Garrett is doing the famous fish dive. There were lots of wonderful relatives.

We took the back way via Park City and Heber and Midway where the church and houses depict the Swiss origin of the residents. Joanne and Steve Thomas showed us the Salt Lake farmer's market where Gwen bought a picture from this artist which will hang in our newly painted and previously flooded kitchen.

Birthdays keep getting better

2009-07-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

Jay's birthdays keep improving. He wishes he could too. After a week of festivities, it was off to Tahoe for the breakfast buffet at Harrah's which has been shut down. Notice the Vikingsholm Castle's Tea house on the island in Emerald Bay (where the boys paddled to on our camping rafts) and the Tahoe Queen....Jay would be the Tahoe King.

The neighbor Gibson's visiting grandkids brought over Rice Crispy treats and rootbear. They are learning to spell my name better...last time it was Gay in lieu of Jay. Notice Digger as a cone head. We were dogsitting again. Then it was to dinner with the Burgess at the Olive Garden when Jay is strugging to blow out the candle. A free REI lecture on Desolation Wilderness followed. Oh what a birthday!!! The kids bought me a new bike rack for Gwen's car.

We also went to see a musical dinner show.....Forever Plaid and to a special touring Lincoln exhibit with the Burgess. Meanwhile, back at the Truckee River, it was a bike ride along the freeway river where some boaters did not always make it under the bridge.

Gwen views these bike rides as exercise, Jay views them as a good view. A foot bath in the river was just what the Foot Dr. (Garrett) ordered.

Along this 5 mile stretch of the Trukee, there is very little "white water". Folks even bring their standing paddling-surfboards. We want to do the 2 hour trip sometime. It is very tame but very beautiful.

Tahoe has 63 tributaries feeding it with this only one outlet. The original dam and gates were built in 1870. Tahoe has 4 times the water as the max capacity of Lake Mead. It is 22 miles long and 12 miles wide with 71 miles of shoreline. It is 1,645 feet at its deepest. We had a delightful lunch at Jakes on the Lake (notice the small steamer) and then biked back down the river.

To hum a few bars from the Beatle's song, Gwen is still feeding me and loving me...although I don't deserve it:

When I get older losing my hair,

Many years from now.

Will you still be sending me a valentine

Birthday greetings bottle of wine.

If I'd been out till quarter to three

Would you lock the door,

Will you still need me,

will you still feed me,

When I'm sixty-four.

Fourth of July memories

2009-07-05T16:42:00.000-07:00

We hope you all had a wonderful Fourth of July. With no kids home, we celebrated with neighbors and had a BBQ.

The military is usually recognized on the 4th, so here I am with my dad in his Army Air Corps uniform (later he was Air Force Major)(he was later called up for the Korean conflict).
Notice the Christian cross on his lapel since he was a Mormon chaplain.
Notice how proud I am of him since I was only 6 months old.
Notice the location at the bottom where we were stationed--Rockford Illinois which is just a stone's throw from Garrett and Brady near Chicago. Maybe baby Carter will have a similar picture some day with his dad in scrubs or in a white coat.

This is another shot of the family when it was complete with a girl finally!!! This was taken in our home of 30 years in the Hollywood Hills. Jay is the toothless kid in the back-where I would remain because of my height. Garret is 6'9", so I can finally be pictured in front of someone. Getting back for the reason for the season......Gwen's brothers and bro in law also were in military as well as Jay's brother in law. We salute you for your serivce.

Back to present time, here's our massive flag which we display every year. It came from Jay's mom's father who served in Siberia during World War One. It doesn't look that big but it is 8 feet wide. There was a parade around our neighbood.

Here's how Gwen's class does Flag Day with a parade and flags made in class. It is an exciting day for all the parents. The kids really get into it. They learn all about their liberties and rights.

Speaking of rights (and speaking of my dad), the right to bear arms is depicted below. I can just hear myself thinking...I want one of those some day. Sure enough I have a few..both arms and antlers. This was taken in Farmington Utah where my dad worked for Hill Air Force Base. Notice how happy Bambi is smiling for the camera.

At a Flag raising ceremony, Gwen and I were asked to share the history and meaning of the Pledge of Allegiance. She related some of the above experiences as the kids learn the pledge and say Invisible and Liver Tea and Just Rice for all. I shared the 1892 origin and the Bellamy (author) salute that was surprising used until 1942 when it was changed to one's hand over one's heart. We quizzed some of the 80 year olds and they confirmed they used the shockingly similar Nazi salute in grade school.

Finally, I have spent several 4th of July's out of the country. To me, those who have lived abroad, appreciate our freedoms more. In recognizing all the veterans at the ceremony, mention was also made of us Peace Corp volunteers which was a first for me. This was a farmer's cooperative that I organized in Brazil in the early 70's. It is pretty easy to spot the gringo. I kind of stand out like a sore thumb in the left side of the group.

Grandkids Visit = Busy-ness

2009-06-14T15:26:00.000-07:00

This weekend wore us out with some fun fulled time with Jack and Lucy. It is great to have kids visit and give us an excuse to do something. Lake Natoma has a great Cal State Aquatics center where we rented kayaks for a small fee. One hour was plenty to enjoy the wonderful weathers
Here's the boat people paddling all the way.
Row row row your boat Jay was shaking all the way.

Into the tunnel of love to the bayou

We have rented kayaks before and have paddled across the lake to the tunnel where the little back tributaries begin. We have not ventured that far back as we did with Ali and Troy during a visit this weekend. It was like being in the Florida everglades with lots of wildlife and NO people.

We had trouble keeping Lucy in the boat. Notice the ducks

After seeing a number or wildlife like deer and a turtle, we finally scared up a crane. Then we saw a deer. This is better than Disneyland....and these critters are real...and FREE

Here's Jay-bird getting another bird to take flight out of fright

When we got home, we had to get the mail....that would be the US male.......Jack in the Box

Ali and Lucy rode the cement slides down

We would bring the kids, when they were young, in Roseville for a free ride.

Jack took to the slides with no fear.

Ali worked up some fantastic storyboards with the grandkids which we proudly display at work.

Finally, Jack jumped for joy on our worn out trampoline. The springs are falling off, but it is still good for a jump. I never gets used.

Older folks & Property = JUNGLE

2009-05-30T08:26:00.000-07:00

This is our basketball court aka Jungle. As you can see it does not get much use. The ball would be flattened if dribbled here. The tampoline is equally overgrown for lack of jumps. Needless to say we are ready for the rest home or at least a condo with no jungle to maintain.
Notice the snow on our lawn. It keeps building up from the neighbor's Cottonwood trees across the street. It even jams up the mower.
The side yard and basketball court have been taken over by weeds instead of kids. Our weedeater needs Brady's golden touch to get it going. The b-ball court needs Tallons golden shot to dribble the weeds down.

More snow piled up by the sidewalk. Jay mowed last week but the snow was back in the afternoon. Garrett mowed when he was home for a few days. Kyle our neighbor mows also.
Here is the culprit-across the street where the ground is covered with the white stuff. At least we don't have a pool to be covered. Not that we don't have cottonwood trees, but they are in the creek and the wind blows the other way.
Here's Mr. Mower who removed the snow-clogged-up bag and is being showered by the flying grass. It is not the picture clarity it is the clipping that are flying. He was Mr. Green after the job.
BLOG UPDATE: Jay got the weedeater going and had dueling eaters with next door neighbor Derrik who was swinging his 4 cycle as Jay was getting shocked by a loose wire on our smoken' 2 cycle. They have to look at our jungle and his daughter Sara is the only one using the court these days. She squirted off the cut weeds after we did our eater-thing.

Monterey Memorial Memories

2009-05-24T20:16:00.000-07:00

Gwen's brother Larry (aka Hulk Hogan) and Susan came up from Paso Robles and met us to rent bikes. If we rented the tandum-Jay would be questioning if Gwen was peddling at all back there. Larry is pointing to the start and Gwen is pointing to the end (at the entrance of the 17 mile drive). It was overcast which made the ride cool.

Notice the light house in the background..on the golf course. Notice the arch behind Gwen (as she is talking on her cell phone). Can you legally ride a bike and talk on the cell now?

Pacific Grove has a butterfly as its symbol statue in the background. Then we took several shots on the golf course (photo shots that is)(even if Larry wished he brought his clubs)

Gwen found her little beach house in Pacific Grove overlooking the Bay. The bikers are returning their rentals to the shop near the aquarium. We topped off the day with a nice fish dinner on the warf where Gwen and Jay had eaten the night before.

We dropped in on friends staying in Santa Cruz and did the Boardwalk and had our fill of amusement parks. See the rules for the beach-Everything is prohibited. We stopped for Split Pea soup on the way back. Jay's Hap-Pea and Gwen is Pea-We

Gwen's Birth and Mother's DAY

2009-05-16T14:54:00.000-07:00

Gwen's birthday bought us her a free pass to Disneyland. Mindy's brother-in-law is a lawyer for Disney and got them free passes and Ali and Troy have "neighbor" passes, so Jay was the only negative cash flow. The sun glasses seem to be a generational thing...there is hope for the next generation. It was hot that day and the kids really liked the water features. No boys that is NOT a urinal

Thank goodness for strollers. Disneyland is full of them. Next time Jay goes he wants one too.

In spite of Ali's nice table setting, when kids are involved things get dissolved. Carter is eating high on the hog (no offense Garrett).

After the M-Day lunch that Troy BBQed, Jay and Garrett cleaned up. Jay ate so much that he looked like he was having twins as did Carter. Lucy is looking on in disgust.

"Some GLA-ma love for Lucy and some Jack love for GLA-ma"

Who is more scared, Carter or Jay. Carter is being a little bit bunny.

Here's Jay's 95 year old dad with all his 3 grandkids plus the famous 4 generation picture

Here's the tasty treats that Gwen made for her school Moms in our neighbor's kitchen since ours is out of commission.

At the Mom's Tea at school was a smashing success with lots of decorations and appreciative moms.

Gwen's brother Bob sent her Birthday flowers thinking it was a monumental one. She now has a bonus year to enjoy one more year of teaching. Notice Elda's book shelf in the background with the one survior fish eating fish in the tank.

For want of a washer the kitchen was lost

2009-04-19T09:14:00.000-07:00

As few posts ago, we shared Gwen's very personal gift of a new tall toilet which is working fine. This post is in tribute to Gwen's Valentine gift of a new kitchen faucet. Jay is proudly displaying his installation. Notice the nice counter tops.
Well the installation worked great for a couple of months, but as Gwen was canning strawberries with our neighbor Lisa, the hot water connection decided to disconnet. The canning project turned into a mop up project once Steve and Grant came over to try to find the water turn off.
They caught the water before it got to the carpet, but wood floors and water do not mix. Grant is supervising the mom's clean up. Needless to say the floor was sparkling....with standing water.
After a few days of trying to dry things ourselves, we called Farmers Insurance to file a claim since the wood slats were curling up a bit. They came out immediately in a SWAT truck complete with lights on the side that the neighbors thought were the ghost busters. They set up fans and sealed off the area . Here's bubble boy coming through the seal.
These moisture suckers have been going all week. The electric meter has been spinning all week. Farmers will reimburse, but sleeping with the noise is tough. Jay would feel more at home at Tent City next to Blue Diamond than at home. The big worry is MOLD where the insurance company does not cover. No mold so far.
This is the culprit....not just the rubber washer connection but the guy with the plumber's crack. Farmers is paying for us to eat out, but we have to deduct the cost of our usual meals at home....so anyone up for Lobster out?
Notice the counter tops. They are so clean they seemed to disappear. The moral of the story is forget practical gifts that require installation. Go for the harmless flowers, jewelry, clothes, etc. We did discover where the water turn off is. This may have a happy ending, since Gwen has been wanting marble counter tops for years.

Gwen & Jay's Day on the lake

2009-04-05T12:14:00.000-07:00

Since the Wheelers went to Utah, Brady borrowed their kayaks again and treated Gwen and Jay to a beautiful day on the lake
Gwen and Brady (and Buster) took right off on Lake Clementine, but Brady did a little tow to help things go.

Jay is trying to learn the ropes. The biggest challenge was to get into the thing. His knees are not quite all the way in.Gwen and Brady are keeping away from the Dam (pardon my language). This over-the-top dam is what makes this lake so beautiful with trees coming down to the water's edge.

Brady (and Buster) and Jay are racing to the shore. Brady out of competition and Jay out of fear of falling in since water and Jay have never mixed too well.

Gwen and Brady are ready to launch from Lower Lake Clementine.

The POD Squad Garrett still has Game

2009-03-29T08:45:00.000-07:00

The purpose of Garrett's trip was to play in the National Podiatry School Tournament at University of San Francisco which consists of only 8 schools nationwide. They come from Iowa, Miami, Philadelpha, Oakland, New York, Arizona, and of course Chicago. ( I am missing one?) His team won it again for the 3rd year in a row. For many of these guys, especially Garrett, it has been years since playing in high school or college. The good news is that the trip was all paid for.

The semifinal game was particularly rough. I yell out "you call youself doctors-you are more like butchers". That didn't seem to help to calm things down. There are 3 Mormon boys on his team with a good number of guys on other teams who he knew from BYU Idaho and elsewhere. The only injuries were foot problems to which I yelled "is there a podiatrist in the house". Gwen was the #1 cheer leader and constantly jumping up checking the score and encouraging the players. One of the refs asked if she had a brother playing today...which made her day.
Gwen and I had a delighful day between games in Golden Gate Park where there are so many diverse settings and people. We had lunch at Fisherman's Warf with Garrett. He flew back to Denver Sunday morning. After a month there, it is on for a month in San Clemente, and then another month in Salt Lake City. After this training it is on to his residency where there will be some $$ coming in.

CHECK OUT THE NEXT POST TO SEE HOW HE WORE US OUT DURING HIS VISIT

When the boys come home = Action

2009-03-29T05:56:00.000-07:00

Garrett made a quick trip to California after making a quick trip from Chicago to Denver where he will start the first of 3 "extern-ships".
Brady, Ashlin, and Jay picked him up at the Sacramento airport and whisked him right off to do a 1,500 zip line at the Moaning Caves in Calavaris Country (home of Mark Twain's famous jumping frogs). It was my treat (at only $1 per second).

After the Zip ride, the enthusiasm is overwhelming ? It must not have been too much of a thrill for these thrill seekers. The red Jeep is taking Jay back up the hill while the zippers have to walk.

THE NEXT DAY IT WAS ON TO LAKE CLEMENTINE.
Ashlin's dad, Paul, lent us a couple of his kayaks and it was off to the hill.

I never knew Brady was a duck hunter, or maybe he is a bird dog with his bird boat. Eitherway he has fun rowing through the grass and scaring up wild life.

After the long paddle across the lake, that has trees to the water's edge since it is an over-the-dam lake, it was a little rest at Upper Lake Clementine. Jay was resting (and reading) in the car.

The boys took a flashlight and were going to explore the Robber's Roost cave that is well known but difficult to rapel into without ropes.....next time.
These are not the rapids that the American River is known for, but it gave Garrett a ride.

This is the grand finale with Brady floating on air (aka clear clean water) at Upper Lake Clementine. This is where we usually go to rope swing and cool off during the summer. They paddled from Lower to Upper Lake access which is quite a ways. They have blisters to prove it.

Jay & Gwen's visitor sites

2009-03-01T14:12:00.000-08:00

We like to think we live in the center of everything. Within a few minutes or hours we can take out-of-town visitors to interesting sights. Jay's nephew Britten and his wife Sandra spent a couple of days with us and we enjoyed taking them to the nearby places within a few minutes of our home.

For starters, in the county seat of Auburn there is a dentist who crafted the symbol of Placer county...the gold miner.
Unfortunately he also crafted some hideous massive statues of Indian maidens. We wonder how this brings in business, since they are right in front of his dental office.
Then leaving Auburn and headed toward Coloma (where Gold was discovered) we love to bike or hike along the Quarry Trail with the 700 foot high Forresthill bridge in the background (which we also walk on).
This is Sandra and Gwen just headed out down the trail which follows the middle fork of the American River. In the summer it makes a nice swimming hole.
After a mile or so ride or hike we love to visit this old cave which the boys used to be able to enter and hang out. You can see down in a ways between the bars. Tallon wishes he could get back in.

With several forks of the American River coming together within a few miles of our home, there are countless sights including the overlook where the Auburn Dam was to have been built.

Headed up I 80 a ways, we like to visit Lake Tahoe and Donner Lake. This is an old bridge with Mindy posing. It was the old Highway 40 or the Lincoln Highway which went from coast to coast in the early days

Of course this is one (of many) favorite rock climbing places of the boys. Here's Garrett and Tallon hanging out over Donner Lake. For you city folks, we also have our share of commerical sights. The Roseville Mall is marvelous, but next door is "Fountains" which is really an upscale shopping area. Our favorite is the home movie theater store when you can sit (and shake) to some movies on display. There is also a Lucy shop there named for Ali's little one. Of course downtown Sacramento there is the Capital, Old town, the Railroad Museam, and of course, the Blue Diamond Almond plant (Jay is one of the Nuts who work there)

Then we expand our radius and take folks North to Lake Shasta. Here Garrett and Mindy did some waterskiing last summer-thanks to our neighbors-the Waters. Gwen is in front of the beautiful Sundial Bridge in Redding.
Then headed West are all the sights of the Bay area, Monterey, & Carmel. Here's Gwen in Mendicino overlooking the several arches in one of the ocean inlets. This is our favorite anniversary spot at a B&B.
Then South to Yosemite where we do a long day trip or rent these luxurous tent cabins complete with linens and a stove but the bathrooms and showers are a little walk away.
Here's Tallon and Garrett headed to tackle the cables on the back side of Half Dome. It was very crowded that day!!!!

Headed Northeast, another favorite spot is Sierra City where another neighbor has a cabin which we used one summer. Here's Brady and Ashlin back from a swim in the Golden Lakes with the Sierra Buttes in the background. This is also home of the Downeyville Classic bike race which the boys have done with only a couple of flat tires.

So if anyone wants to be subjected to this kind of punishment, you are welcome to come and visit....at your own risk.

Grammy & Grandpa's first babysitting Adventure

2009-02-15T17:40:00.000-08:00

Ali and Troy brought our two Valentines presents (Jack and Lucy) all the way from SoCal. They went to Squaw Valley for well deserved ski vacation and overnighter.

It all started with the Instructions.....

We got off to a pretty good start with nourishing meals and healthy appetites (especially Lucy)

After food on faces and in all other places, we headed for the big tub. With bubbles and all Lucy and Jack had fun drinking, playing, and cleaning inside and out.

With Lucy in grammy's new outfit and Jack dressed up, we couldn't wait to go show them off.

So we buckled up for fun and adventure and went to the park with Uncle Brady and Aunt Ashlin and to a birthday party.

Time for naps after following the Instructions with a relaxing story time. It put Jay right out!!!

After naps it was playtime!!!! Lucy found a perfect walker that got her off her knees. Jack is working the vacuum by sucking on the handle.

Then grandpa snuck Jack out of the house for some driving instruction, outdoor survival potty skills (since he is trying to master that) and other high adventures.

Then there was the motorbike training and skill saw skills.

Then it was some gun safety instruction sponsored by the NRA.

Finally it was gymnastic training for the Olympics.

At the END of a delightful weekend with our two Valentine presents, we sure hope this isn't the END of our future babysitting adventures.

Valentine and Wedding dress traditions

2009-02-03T19:57:00.000-08:00

Since Valentine's Day is coming up, I thought I would warn my sons what NOT to do. Tallon sent me this video in case I get Gwen another broom, can opener, mixer, or something pratical that she wants and needs. http://bewareofthedoghouse.com/browser.aspx I dropped into her kindergarten class dressed as Santa Valentine which played mind games with the kids-and I was banned. Last year I waited to be introduced and the kids guessed I was Gwen's grandpa. I just can't win. I even gave her a big kiss and the kids still couldn't guess who I was. Maybe I will just send flowers this year. Now here's a winner. My 94 year old dad had a pre Valentine treat. My brother Don somehow got all these babes to pose with him. Tallon wants to get a wheel chair since it must be a girl magnet.

Which brings us to Gwen's wedding dress which she made. PS that's Jay on the left. This isn't a Valentines Day tradition, but it used to be an anniversary tradition......to put it on each year.

Through the years she wore it with our Japanese exchange student and with a baby inside....both must have brought confusion to the folks viewing.

Our horse was spooked as Gwen climbed on board for this year's shot. She loved this anniversary present when we lived in Alturas

She is jumping for joy in her dress on our trampoline and other poses when we moved to Rocklin.

In Penryn, the tradion continued with drugstore cowboy Jay. Our Mexican neighbors in Alturas were probably wondering what Gwen was doing.

Now the wedding dress is put to the wedding march with the kids cracking up. The TV was left on when the kids sat down and were easily distracted by the cartoons.

Sportsman's Expo

2009-01-22T18:45:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, I got free tickets again to the International Sportsman's Expo at Cal Expo. Paul Wheeler, Ashlin Brett and his buddy drove me and we had a great time seeing all the trophies including this BIG animal (not the one on the left). Then I realized that we have had our share of animals. We raised a couple of pigs in Penryn and here they are hanging around the butcher shop. We did not name them, so when we ate them it was not as painful.

Even when we moved back into the civilization of Rocklin, wildlife found us in the form of this BIG snake.

Here's one of our deers with my Dear Ali hanging around the garage.

I think this was a sheep that I butchered. I think we took it to a real butcher to make the various cuts. We should not have named Fluffer since everytime we ate we blessed him. We nursed several lambs that were given to us by sheepmen where the lamb would not take to its mom. They called them Bummer Lambs

Alturas had small snakes and other critters. Deer would often graze on our lawn since we lived 15 miles out of town. This is a snall snake that Ali is holding

Grandpa had a Lawrence Welk time share in Escondido where to boys caught this fish.

Here's another snake in Penryn. This was one of our favorite goats. Notice Garrett wtih the 22 rifle...which he still has.

Ali is holding a deer from the company owned hills above Irvine where I worked. We later found several ticks on her.
This was my first kill again above Irvine.
I shot this deer (with the velvet antlers) with a bow. Let's just say I drew first blood. The deer ran off with my arrow in him and was hit by a truck on highway 395.

Edible Pets

2009-01-22T17:23:00.000-08:00

Back in Alturas, the kids are rounding up the pig and wearing pig noses (just to fit in). He was delicious also. We lived off this mother goat's milk for a year. When there was too much milk we made cheese. The problem was we did not know that our mama goat was pregnant until out popped 2 little ones. Only one survivied. Ali is hauling them back to the barn.
Don't worry we did not eat our horse. He ate us out of house and home. They are eating machines and take a lot of maintenance. Gwen loved riding. And yes I got bucked off once too. Garrett fell off once too. We survived the horse and he survived us. We later sold him.
Living on the edge of the National Forest, I could just drag the deer home for gutting and cleaning and skinning.
Here's Ali and Garrett helping drag Bambi home
WARNING: This video is pretty graphic. If the above shots have not bothered you, you may be ready to watch this short clip. Just before this clip, we had disected and studied the body parts. Ali is just cleaning up. Garrett makes the comment that they are Doctors. Who would ever guess he would be doing this for a living. And no wonder Ali had no problem with child birth after this episode.

Memory grove-trees that remind

2009-01-11T16:08:00.000-08:00

After Gwen's folks passed away, we inherited a live reminder of them in the form of a mandarin tree. We just picked 30 pounds of sweet fruit, after an earlier harvest. We think of Bill and Elda with every sweet bite.

Recently George Simpson, a neighbor, died. A few years ago I was helping in a clean up in his yard and he had me dig up a little palm tree that was too close to his window. We now have a massive tree to remind us of him

It looks like a twig between some of our planted pines and above our b-ball court, but in the summer this is a beautiful tree that reminds us of Kathy Haas who gave it to us. Don't go dying on us, Kathy.

Into the New Year

2009-01-10T12:15:00.000-08:00

Gwen is back at school with the exciting Fire Department rolling in. The kids (and her) got a kick out of the visit. She has a wonderful class (and her own classroom) this year.
Since Gwen's car needed more repair after the bike hit her side door, we got a loaner to drive to SoCal. They thought they were doing us a favor by upgrading us 2 levels which meant downgrading our gas mileage which on averaged 19 MPH. This Jeep Commander or mega machine was comfortable for Gwen Jay and Tallon's trip, but my little Corolla would have done 35 MPH.
Garrett used to practice rock climbing in our dining room-living room. Tallon had to summit to new heights to change the battery on the smoke alarm. We realized that they ALL go on when one goes on. We changed 5 batteries.
Here's one more shot of the Whaling trip on which we only saw the Sessions Whales. If anyone wants a free 2 hour trip out of Dana Point, Ali has 5 free tickets for another go since sightings are guaranteed.

Other Family New Years Activities

2009-01-06T19:12:00.000-08:00

We got to take Jack and Lucy on a short walk to their lake which was filled with ducks which we fed. Jack is a real runner and Lucy is a real observer. The weather was beautiful in that part of Southern California, whereas the coast and even Pasadena were fogged in.

From the Dana Point harbor we headed out to watch whales, but since the captain could not find any, Ali can come back again for free. Jack had a blast running around the boat. Jay tired to feed the seagulls out of his hand with a bagel, but they wanted shrimp.

Jay's mom is buried in Corona Del Mar so we visited her for some thoughts of what a wonderful lady she was. Jim had placed some flowers on the grave just prior to our visit.

It was then on for the family gathering that had several of Jim's Dori's and Don's kids and spouses. We never miss the traditional 4 generation shot since dad is 94 years old. He has a great laugh and I can usually get him to remember the last word in a nursery rhyme or in a song. He eats well and has great caretakers in his Laguna Beach home with 5 other seniors.

New Years in SoCal

2009-01-05T18:59:00.000-08:00

Tallon helped get Jack to the top of the time capsule hill. It was good to have him along, in case, I am not able to make it up in future years. I should have brought my walking poles.

Ali fixed a great Christmas (New Years) Day breakfast. Jack and Jay are toasting the New Year

Jack (the future teacher) is reading Gwen a book.

This is the time capsule (aka a tupperware box) filled with a photo of Gwen and Jack and a Nut bar that was still edible (sort of). We added a Baby Ruth in remembrance of Jack's recent potty accomplishment. We also added Ali & Troy's Christmas card with a little letter to Jack.

Christmas (actually New Years) come early at the DeGraff home. Jack is up at 6:30 and jumps in bed with us-along with Lucy.

Besides his super basketball hoop and his super bike, Jack loved his new BBQ. He knew just what to do in watching his dad cook on his real one. This garage sale special is proof that things don't need to cost much to make kids happy.

But (or Butt) the highlight was the whoopee cushion that jack will demonstrate. Jay tried but blew a hole in it and was patched up with some tape.

Sessions Family Traditional Values

2009-01-04T14:39:00.000-08:00

One Sessions Family value is Keep it Simple OR don't get too fancy OR The simple things are often the most meaningful

My bother Don, outfitted all the men at a New Year's Day gathering with Marc's mustache and English cap. His clowning years ago was with mom's fake overlay teeth that made them look hideous, but it takes his Harvard MBA to poke fun at himself.

My dad Marc played Santa to Ali and Garrett years ago

with mom's cotton balls for a beard. I have improved things a little

but not much. Here I am with Jack and Lucy trying to copy his

example.

Finally simple is best and camping is the best for bringing a family together. Dad bought this pop up contraption for the car. We would make many trips to camp in Mexico and elsewhere. We have tried to copy this tradition.

New Year Traditions

2008-12-27T17:57:00.000-08:00

New Years isn't here yet, but after a BIG meal or several BIG meals, we try to have a Sessions outing which has included bike rides, hikes, or some caving. Tallon led our neighbors and Jay to an awesome mining cave just near the Observation Center for the now-discontinued Auburn Dam. In the background is the American River after passing where the dam would have been built. It was a beautiful hike along an irrigation canal.

Miners must have been short back when...or we are just too tall. We had flash lights and went back in quite a ways. We tried several forks, but didn't find any gold, but we found a bump on Jay's head and a sore back.

Everytime the family is together we go down to the Sierra College courts for a tennis game. Gwen and Jay can just hold their own for a couple of games. Jay is particularly good as snagging balls.

SIX SESSIONS CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS

2008-12-26T08:14:00.000-08:00

Our annual Sessions Impressions letter has been done for many years featuring our family activites. This year's letter and picture is on this blog as a previous post. We have enjoyed weaving a narative theme with the photo. Most of the weaving is a stretch, but can make sense if you have an imagination.

Santa's outfit is getting a little weathered. It has survived youth fund raising, Garrett wearing it for Halloween, and a garage fire. The back is covered with soot. The beard resembles dreadlocks. Jay terrorizes the neighbors with a few visits. The belt is missing and the pillow is no longer necessary.

Gwen started making Bear Breads about 20 years ago for our neighbors and friends. After making over 10 breads this year, she is reconsidering the tradition for next year, now that our kids our gone. Maybe she will be baking just for the grandkids!

The Chirstmas morning breakfast Gwen fixes is always a treat. In years past, we have had egg casserole, homemade cinnamon rolls, and fruit. This year she served Ali's German pancake recipe with carmel syrup. When the kids were young, we would sing Happy Birthday to Jesus to emphasize the meaning of the day.

This shot does not do justice to our tacky Christmas lights that are more than 40 years old. We inherited them from Jay's folks. We should have a sign with an arrow saying "enjoy our decoration-next door".

Besides the family Christmas letter, since 2000 we have been composing a personal gratitude letter to each of the kids. They read it privately since each letter says they are the "favorite child".

We are not too old to have some new traditions, so could you share yours with us? Our kids are also coming up with their own fun traditions.

Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas.

Love Jay and Gwen

2008-12-21T07:40:00.000-08:00

Garrett and Mindy gave us their great bed which was visited by Carter each morning. We gave them an inflatable which will be available for others to use. They were the perfect hosts. We we had a brisk (as in fast and as in cold) walk over to Garrett's school and clinic where he works on the" 'soles' who come for help. This was one of our best Thanksgivings.

2008-12-21T07:37:00.000-08:00

No we didn't go ice skating, but it reminded us of New York City from the movies. There was music and a skat rental booth. It was right downtown, right near the Bean of Chicago

2008-12-21T07:31:00.000-08:00

Mindy and Carter are right near the Bean of Chicago and the ice skating rink, are 2 massive light lit pictures. During the summer water squirts out of the mouth. The picture smiles and winks. It is apparently all done with 2 different color lights. What an awesome city....to visit. Sometimes it is better visited at night.

2008-12-21T07:20:00.000-08:00

Who's keeping who warm in Chicago. Grandpa's pregnant with Carter.

2008-12-20T16:08:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite day trips has been to ride bikes around Angel Island. In Oct., we met Joanne and Steve Thomas and daughter Katie and had a great time riding the tram around the island. In the summer Tallon, Garrett and Mindy rode our bikes around the island. It has a beautiful view of the whole bay area including two prisons Alcatraz and San Quinten. Oct., is probably one of the prettiest months to go because of the fog. It was absolutely gorgeous, and to top it off we saw an airshow, and a fleet of boats for fleet week.

2008-12-20T15:18:00.000-08:00

Going back in time again to the November election. Here's our Halloween pumkin smashed in the middle of the street with our Yes on Prop 8 sign missing. We did most of the requested activites, but this was the most tragic.

2008-12-20T15:14:00.000-08:00

This is a little out of order (or odor) since this was my outfit last Halloween. One kid at the door thought I was a pink pumpkin. Of course I had a real whopee cushion set up and gave him a sit. I also gave a few away. It is not every day you can be a whoopee cushion. Fortunitely no one tried to sit on me.

2008-12-20T15:03:00.000-08:00

Well if you haven't seen our poor (literally) excuse for a family reunion...here's our "virtual" family gathering-of pictures of the family. Our corny brag letter is attached-if you have not already received it via tacky email or tacky blog mail.

2008 SESSIONS IMPRESSIONS OF IMPRESSIONS

We knew it would be a long shot to get the family together for a still shot, so we are holding our family together in picture impressions. More photos can be found on the referenced blog sites, since that is how our kids communicate and keep journals.

Jay and Gwen can be over-exposed since they remain empty nesters. They shot back to Chicago for Thanksgiving with Garrett’s family. Gwen has a picture perfect class this year which has improved her teaching vision. Jay is still counting the crop at Blue Diamond. They both try to enlarge people’s food storage in the area. sessionsimpressions.blogspot.com (updated annually-if at all)

Brady and Ashlin spent the summer in Chicago and found nothing negative in the area in selling alarm systems. He was the top salesman and hopes to copy his performance next summer. As the picture shows, Ashlin graduated from BYU and worked at Gwen’s school. bradyandashlin.blogspot.com

Tallon is at BYU in a Facilities Management focus. He went to summer school and worked and had no home exposure at all this summer. He did show up for a friend’s wedding photos. tallonsessions.blogspot.com

Garrett, Mindy and Carter have also been focused in their 3rd year (Carter-a little less) in Chicago doing Podiatry medical school. Radiology has been his toughest class so far. Carter is in the image of Garrett with lots of energy for a one year old. Mindy has made some colorful pillows and keeps a picture perfect house. gmsessions.blogspot.com

Ali, Troy, Jack, and Lucy are not camera shy since Ali hires out as a photographer. She often does several shoots a day. Troy is holding on to his construction management job in spite of the blur in home building. They like the Inland Empire area although they miss the beach snapshots in Orange County. degraffblog.blogspot.com

Merry Christmas and may you have the right focus this season. We hope 2009 brings you picture perfect health and happiness. We are grateful for so many dear friends we have been exposed to through the years.

2008-12-16T19:45:00.000-08:00

Also sometime during the last few years, we did a trip to Monterey with our dear friends, the Doolittles, where we went whale watching. We did see tons (literally) of whales and a few of our boat buddies barfing from the waves. We did recover nicely in the gardens of Carmel.

2008-12-16T19:42:00.000-08:00

The truth be told, we lead a pretty boring life. We have turned into the dapper dog sitting couple. We even had 2 dogs at once. As you know Gwen hates to stay alone, so she gets a loaner dog to protect her. The only thing that hurts is that she sleeps better when the dog is home than me. So I guess that puts me in the dog house.

2008-12-16T19:34:00.000-08:00

Sometime in the last couple of years, between weddings etc, Gwen and I got away for an anniversary. One night was in Half Moon Bay which was beautiful and the other in Napa Valley in Saratoga. Both B&B's were nice with some interesting guests.

2008-12-16T19:30:00.000-08:00

Besides Gwen and I spending Thanksgiving with Garrett, Mindy and Carter in Chicago, I flew back for his "white coat" ceremony which started his clinical phase of his medical training.

2008-12-13T17:51:00.001-08:00

My dad Marc is doing fine in his rest home with frequent visits by my brother Don. Here's Ali (when she was a brunette) during a visit. He asks if I am the oldest, so at least he know that I am a son. At 93 he is physically feeling fine. His attitude is so positive.

2008-12-13T17:47:00.000-08:00

After 30+ years of marriage it was time for a new throne for my queen Gwen. The problem was what to do (or dodo) with the the old one. Perhaps a herb garden? As of Dec 08 it still sits where it was planted. Anyone need a new head?

2008-12-13T17:45:00.000-08:00

In 2007 Tallon and Garrett did Half Dome with poor Mindy stuck with me in Yosemite Village

2008-12-13T17:42:00.000-08:00

In trying to make up history, here's a shot from 2007 when we all reunion-ed thanks to Mr. Marriott and the 90 minute time share sales pitch that we have tapped several years.

Zoo Memories

2008-06-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

Here we go with our annual attempt at blogging. We had a delightful time in San Diego with Jack and Lucy and Ali and Troy. Part of the joy of having grandkids is that it brings back fond memories of when you were experiencing the same joy and challenges. That was the case at the Zoo where Ali as a child is on the same train as Jack and seems to be petting the same goat.

Let's have a "coming out" party!

2007-05-07T09:26:00.000-07:00

Hear ye, hear ye...Jay is officially coming out! Into the blog world, that is. From now on, you can expect to hear all about his weekly grocery store buys, the new toys he found on e-bay, who he bugged with the video camera, and the b-day presents he bought for my mom (egg slicer & Tilex). We will also be expecting to hear a little bit about what's going on in the Empty Nest with he and Gwenie-poo (oh, and Tallon and Brady who they are in the process of "shaking"). So welcome, and start posting!

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2007-04-22T14:05:00.000-07:00

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