Growin' Love

11 Months

2011-12-03T10:41:00.001-07:00

What a big leap! Littles is walking everywhere. She can also get up on her own, and loves to try and chase after her cousins. She is very outgoing and chatty thing, and doesn't know a stranger. We had a blast with Grandma Patty, Papa Phil, Neely, Ben, Asa & Maisey over Thanksgiving. Maisey and Adelaide are two peas in a pod. So much fun! I only took video while there, so I am sorry, but I'm really bad about uploading video, it just takes longer. :) Anyway, here is 11month old Adelaide Rose!

10 Months

2011-11-11T14:34:00.001-07:00

Wow! There have been so many developments this month! Adelaide has 6 teeth, has taken a few steps on her own several times, stands for long periods by herself, and is super chatty to anyone who will listen to her animated stories (that only she can understand). She is still such a lover, but definitely squirms to get down a lot to discover many new things. Below are a few pictures from her 10 month "photo shoot". They are a little grainy due to the fact I was using my sister's camera, and am not as familiar w/ Kodak!

You can see some of her teeth in this one

Adelaide's Fireside Chats

Riding with Daddy

2011-10-10T09:33:00.003-06:00

Guess who got her first ride (not being ponied)!

She was so excited to ride with Damon, a cowgirl in the making. . . ?

Our little Buckaroo was squealing with joy!

9 Months

2011-10-10T09:29:00.002-06:00

Spotted Daddy during this shoot

Beautiful fall day!

Helping Daddy Cut Hay

8 Months

2011-10-10T09:25:00.003-06:00

7 Months

2011-08-09T09:23:00.000-06:00

Below are a few recent pics of Adelaide, now 7 months old!

Picnic

2011-08-07T23:44:00.001-06:00

Yesterday morning (at Amanda's awesome suggestion) we all went on a breakfast picnic above the Lime Creek trailhead. We had been talking about going on one since last September, when we had gone up Shallow Creek and had a picnic with Christa, my sister. Those were such fond memories for all of us, and yesterday proved to be a special day too. Everything was amazing - the food, the weather, the scenery, and of course the company. I kept thinking how much I love my life, and I'm sure everyone else was thinking the same thing too. :)

Baby Sage just chillin'

Logan had fun passing out plates and forks to everyone. Here he had just kissed Adelaide. I wasn't quick enough!

Mmmmm! Strawberry!

playing catch w/ Uncle Damon

Beautiful Mama & Baby

Daddy has food coma

Pups was so happy to run and play, and of course get some lovin' from me

our entertainment: Damon juggling

He was really good!

Some cute fuzzy fly I haven't yet identified

Snoozing w/ Uncle D

Blissed out!

We were at a softball game later that day, but had to capture this Sunset!
(I didn't take a pic of the game b/c 4UR team lost 27-7 . . . shameful!)

Yogurt

2011-08-07T23:11:00.000-06:00

YoBaby! Guess who discovered she really likes banana flavored yogurt! :)

Sushi

2011-08-07T23:00:00.000-06:00

Last Sunday Emily, Amanda & I had a hankering for some sushi, so we went to the Wild Ginger in Alamosa. Needless to say it hit the spot! We all left with full bellies and happy faces. Below are a few pics we took while waiting, thought they were too cute not to post.

Emily holding Sage

Yay for Girls Day Out!

Big eyes. She's getting so big and sits in her own high chair now

These days she's into feeling mamma's teeth

And giving kisses

Love her so much!

Mac

2011-08-07T22:44:00.000-06:00

Mac (the horse) has been in the Gibbons family for many years before he became a member of the 4UR herd. Here are some pics of another generation of Gibbons riding Mac. Thank you to Grandma and Cassie for the cute outfit and shoes!

Daddy teaching Adelaide to pet the horse, not pull his whiskers (poor Mac! He was wincing here)

So excited she was clapping

She was literally bouncing up and down in the saddle

I think she's a natural ;)

Getting further instruction from daddy on how to dismount after her ride :)

4th of July

2011-08-07T22:19:00.000-06:00

Adelaide and Emily experienced their first 4th of July in Creede this year. Below are some pictures of the parade. Later that night, (not pictured) we went to Brady and Amanda's for dinner, and watched the fireworks from their front yard. It was truly a beautiful day.

Em and Littles getting ready for the parade

Sitting outside Creede Beadery, Adelaide loved the parade!

Adelaide and her friend Lily

Lily waving the beads she caught

Littles caught a few herself

I was impressed w/ these side saddle riding ladies

Baby Sage

2011-08-07T21:45:00.000-06:00

Again, I'm trying to catch up on my posts, here are some pictures we took when Sage was just hours old!

Proud Daddy

Beautiful baby girl

Amanda feeling great not even an hour after birth, eating watermelon :)

Sage at 22hrs old

Hey everybody, did you see my new cousin?

Daddy and big brother

Uncle Damon holds her for the first time

6 Months

2011-08-07T13:02:00.000-06:00

Ok, so I'm really behind on posting, but here are Little's 6 month photos!

Visit to Cincinnati 6/2011

2011-07-27T13:33:00.001-06:00

I'm a little behind on my posting . . . Adelaide and Kiera flew to Cincinnati for Stephen's 8th grade Graduation. (Stephen is our nephew and Adelaide's Godfather) Below are some pictures from their trip:

Stayed w/ Nana & Papa Jack / Spent lots of time w/ the Godparents

Stephen's Graduation from 8th grade

Adelaide chastising me for taking pictures during church

Grammy & Uncle Ron / Seta Family

A fun day at Parky's Park w/ Aunt Caroline & Ellen

Swimming at the Seta House

papparazzi!

A trip to the Cincinnati Zoo

Relatives?

She loves her Aunt Christa who introduced her to all animals Thane Maynard style

Dinner at Nick & Tom's after the Zoo / Adelaide loves her Uncle and Aunts!

Our last day we went to the Butterflies of Brazil Show at Kron's Conservatory

Adelaidee grabbed this butterfly, we pried it out of her hands, but it was a little crumpled :(

She just started sucking her thumb here

Last on our trip a stop at Skyline and some more time with Grammy Adelaide (the original!)

Successful Business For Sale in Creede, CO - Classified Ad

2011-07-13T18:35:00.000-06:00

Successful Business For Sale in Creede, CO - Classified Ad

Cousins!

2011-06-20T09:32:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to post a few pictures of Collin, Adelaide & Luke from our visit to Cincinnati. Adelaide is 5 months old, and the twins are 3 months in these pictures. (their adjusted age is 3 weeks)

Damon's First Father's Day

2011-06-19T11:45:00.001-06:00

Below is a Video Adelaide made for her daddy for father's day. Thought we would post it :)

Happy first Father's Day Baby!

5 Months

2011-06-01T00:06:00.002-06:00

Adelaide is growing so fast! She loves to play peek-a-boo, is almost sitting on her own (she kinda does her own rendition of humpty dumpty :)), rolls from belly to back (visa versa), holds up her arms when you say "sooooo big", and definitely has her pick of favorite toys. There are no words to express the joys of parenthood!

Daddy love

a kiss for dolly

How big is Adelaide? Sooooo big!

Playing w/ daddy after a long day's work

Little Baby Girl Gibbons Shower

2011-05-22T16:03:00.002-06:00

On May 22nd, we threw a shower for Amanda & Brady's baby girl. We had it outside and were "showered" with some raindrops here and there. Overall it was a beautiful day. Below is a slideshow of pictures. :)

Adelaide on Solid food!

2011-05-21T11:00:00.001-06:00

Today Adelaide had cereal for the first time! She wasn't too sure about it at the beginning, but toward the end, we couldn't feed her fast enough!

Play Date w/ Lucy

2011-05-13T00:23:00.001-06:00

Adelaide's first play date was today, with little miss Lucy Jo Brittain (10 mos. old) It was one of our first nice days of spring, so the girls were able to play outside. They did so well, and were very entertained by each other!

Family Visit to Creede

2011-05-08T16:22:00.006-06:00

Finally I'm uploading still shots from the Creede family visit, although I put them in slideshow format as there were too many to post on this page! :)

Family Visit

2011-05-08T11:37:00.002-06:00

Below are a few clips from when Nana, Grandma Patty, Cassie & Ella, Christa & the Seta's were here for Adelaide's Baptism.

Baby Arden

2011-05-02T16:17:00.002-06:00

Today Gwen and Arden came over for dinner. Adelaide really loves other babies, as you can see by her interaction with sweet baby Arden!

Logan's First Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-28T22:44:00.000-06:00

We spent Easter with Brady, Amanda & Logan. Since Logan is just under two, we took it easy on him and only hid six eggs. He found them all, but had short playtime intermissions in between a few (which we edited out of the video). I think we were way more excited about the hunt than he was. :) Still, it was so cute to watch how quickly he picked up on this "new game".

Trip to Worland

2011-04-27T20:54:00.000-06:00

I am finally catching up with uploading videos, etc. So, sorry these posts are not in chronological order. :( Below is a video of little clips of our trip to Laramie & Worland (4/8 - 4/13). Adelaide met Papa for the first time, and Damon and Brady went on a Wagon ride with Papa through the badlands. Will post more soon!

4 Months!

2011-04-27T17:52:00.008-06:00

Adelaide is getting so big, I can't believe it! She is just full of smiles and coos these days. She can almost sit up by herself, and has found she likes to suck on her toes, or just play with them, and can pick up lots of things to put in her mouth. Below are a few (ha ha, more like a lot) of pictures from her 4 month "photo shoot".

Easter 2011

2011-04-27T11:28:00.004-06:00

Adelaide's 1st Easter! And it was COLD! Let's just say there was snow covering the ground when we got out of church. We were all confused whether it was Easter or Christmas! Below are a few pictures of Adelaide w/ Fr. Tomas (who will be baptizing her on May 7th) and a few outside church.

Glimpses of Adelaide II

2011-04-25T09:26:00.001-06:00

Here's a few clips if little miss at 3 1/2 - 4 mos.

Swimming!

2011-04-21T14:34:00.003-06:00

We found that Adelaide loves the water as much as her mommy does. Below is a clip from our trip to Worland. On our second day, Brady, Whitney, Bailey, and the three of us went to Thermopolis - home of the World's Largest Mineral Hot Springs. The hot tub and bath in the sink were taken at our hotel in Laramie. Enjoy!

J + K 4 - 15 - 2011

2011-04-20T02:46:00.002-06:00

My best friend since high school was married this past Friday. It was a beautiful celebration in the Valley of Fire outside Las Vegas. What an amazing moment in time for all of us!

Vegas Trip

2011-04-18T12:44:00.000-06:00

Below are a few photos taken during our trip to Vegas!

Cool "painting" made out of flowers, inspiration painting above it.

World's largest fondue fountain.

A ride on the gondola w/ mom and Jack in the Venetian.

A kiss in "Paris"

At the conservatory in the Bellagio

Nana reading to Adelaide (not too interested in this book!)

Matchy-matchy!

Glimpses of Adelaide and Logan

2011-04-04T16:50:00.001-06:00

While Amanda was at her friend's wedding in Phoenix this past weekend, we spent some time with Brady and Logan. Here are a few glimpses of what these two cousins have been up to.

Feeding Horses

2011-02-08T10:35:00.002-07:00

Adelaide's first experience feeding horses with mommy & daddy. I sing her the lullaby "All the Pretty Little Horses", and told Damon how lucky our little girl is to actually wake and have "All the Pretty Little Horses"! :)

Tanque Verde Ranch

2011-01-30T12:18:00.002-07:00

Damon was sent down to Tucson, AZ to attend a DRA (Dude Rancher's Association) conference. Adelaide & I were lucky enough to get to tag along. We stayed at the Tanque Verde Ranch, a beautiful Ranch Resort. (www.tanqueverde.com) Our room was right next to the pool, and close to the main lodge. The weather was beautiful (in the high 70's). It was Adelaide's first time to be outside and breathe fresh air without having to be bundled and zipped up in my coat! Below is a slideshow with a few pics from our trip.

Nana, Aunt Caoline & Aunt Christa Come to Visit

2011-01-17T12:40:00.001-07:00

On January 6th, Nana, Aunt Caroline & Aunt Christa came to visit us for a little over a week, which went by way too fast! Adelaide was just a little over two weeks.

Christmas 2010

2011-01-02T12:37:00.001-07:00

Adelaide, Damon & I were fortunate enough to have Gibbons, Miller & Shadden family come to Creede to visit us, Brady, Amanda & Logan. We had such a great time visiting, playing hockey on the pond behind our house, sitting in the hot springs, and sharing all the joys Christmas brings. This slideshow captures a few of the highlights.

2ND ANNIVERSARY TRIP TO TAOS

2010-03-31T08:57:00.006-06:00

This past weekend we celebrated two years of marriage! For this reason (and to get out of the cold) we went to Taos, NM. We left on Friday afternoon and went to the Sagebrush Inn. We had a nice dinner, danced to music by the Rifters, woke up and had a great breakfast before walking around the historic downtown Taos Plaza. We also went to St. Francis of Asis Church. This is supposedly the most painted church in the USA. It was built in the late 18th century, and took over forty year to build. The walls are over five feet thick, and you can see the straw sticking through the adobe. Red joined us on this trip, and was happy when we stopped at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory to get him a "Barker's Dozen" of white chocolate dipped Milk Bones. We didn't get a ton of pics, but here are a few . . .

RIO GRAND GORGE

Red established quickly he & Damon get the bed - and gives me a 'don't even think about trying to share' look. Hmmm, maybe we should have left him home . . .

You can see the straw in this picture.

In the downtown plaza

Prairie Dog - These little guys were everywhere!

Getting ready for a date in Alamosa on our actual anniversary date (Sunday).

b+z 3.13.10

2010-03-21T17:05:00.003-06:00

Below is a slideshow of a few pictures from Bragan & Zack's wedding. What an awesome day! There were sprinkles of rain here and there through the ceremony, and shortly after being pronounced man and wife, a beautiful rainbow appeared! I think a pretty heavenly sign of a blessed marriage :)

2010-02-15T06:53:00.000-07:00

The Hot Springs by our house.

Kiera and I baby-sat a combined 5 children on Sunday to let their parents get away to a Valentines dinner.

I snuck away from our baby-sitting long enough to meet with some friends and play a little pond-hockey.

This photo is actually a year ago this Febuary. Some friends wanted to try ski-jouring. So we tried. I think it was fun for everyone but the horse. Noche gave it her all though.

2010-02-14T09:25:00.004-07:00

Well, here it goes, wish me good fortune in my efforts to be better about updating our blog. Above is a picture of the gnarly tree outside our west facing window. Below is a picture of the window of our house through which the tree can be viewed.

Well, that darn moose is kind-of in the way. Our neighbors took these pictures of a cow and her calf last week, hanging out by the hot-springs:

This place really is blessed with beauty. Keep an eye out for more updates! Love to friends and family from Damon and Kiera.

Ella's Baptism 8/9/09

2009-08-19T10:19:00.003-06:00

Here's a slideshow from Ella's baptism. She has changed so much since our last visit. Reagan Mae, you are getting so big too! Can't wait to spend more time with these precious babies!

Frank Butler & Annie Oakley

2009-06-21T14:07:00.008-06:00

The ranch has two new barn kitties, Frank & Annie. Frank is all white with orange stripes on his tail and the tips of his ears. Annie is gray with white spots. They are so small (8wks.) that they are members of the Gibbons household for a couple of weeks. Red has taken to them, and is a good surrogate daddy. He shares his bed and gives them baths. In return they let him eat all their food when Damon & I aren't looking!

Visit w/ ReaMae & EllaK

2009-06-08T20:42:00.002-06:00

Caleb and I drove up to Laramie to meet Ella & Reagan Mae (Me for the first time!) It was a great visit with family, See Amanda preggers (So Cute!) and awesome to see everyone, especially Shelly!

Wagon Train April 09

2009-04-21T11:35:00.003-06:00

What a great experience, we had a great time with Papa too! We didn't get many pics on our camera, so I am waiting for another wagoneer to send a CD with bunches of photos, and I'll post 'em then. :) Our prayers have been with Peter, Cassie & Ella, who was born on Good Friday (April 10th) at 5lb. 4oz. We can't wait to come visit our newest niece!

Pair of Jacks Wedding

2009-04-05T09:49:00.003-06:00

On March 28, 2009, My mom and Jack were married. It was a beautiful wedding, a beautiful day, and just beautiful to have all the family together. They were married on our one year anniversary, so it was extra special for Damon & I. :)

Visit with Cassie & Peter

2009-03-02T11:38:00.004-07:00

This past weekend, Damon, Red & I drove up to Laramie to spend time with Cassie & Peter. We stopped in Ft. Collins and had lunch with Jennifer. On Saturday, we spent some time at Vedauwoo, and then did a small photo shoot so y'all can see cute lil prego Cassie :). Thanks for a fun weekend you two!

Christmas 08

2008-12-27T11:48:00.001-07:00

Christmas was at our house this year. We had Cassie, Peter, Urs, Mom, Phil, David & Phoebe come spend it with us. Too fun to even describe it all here. Hopefully the pics will say enough!

Thanksgiving 08

2008-12-02T11:36:00.001-07:00

CHOCOLATE!

2008-11-23T15:50:00.001-07:00

Every year Creede has a Chocolate Festival around Thanksgiving weekend. Damon and I decided to participate, and had to make 800 chocolates for patrons of the festival to taste. We decided on pumpkin truffles, which were a little much for the quantity we had to make! Did they turn out? They were pretty, but neither of us could decide whether or not they tasted any good, we were on chocolate overload!

Every year Creede has a Chocolate Festival around Thanksgiving weekend. Damon and I decided to participate, and had to make 800 chocolates for patrons of the festival to taste. We decided on pumpkin truffles, which were a little much for the quantity we had to make! Did they turn out? They were pretty, but neither of us could decide whether or not they tasted any good, we were on chocolate overload!

Corn Maze

2008-10-27T14:51:00.001-06:00

Ellen, Stephen & I spent the day wandering through a corn maze, and picking out our pumpkins for our Halloween Jack-o-lanterns.

Metamora

2008-10-13T15:44:00.001-06:00

Damon & I visited one of my favorite places - Metamora. It's an old historic canal town in Indiana, near where my Grandma grew up. It was a beautiful day! We ended it by going through the Metamora Corn Maze. Red found his way out first . . .

San Miguel - Day EIGHT (Last Day)

2008-04-06T20:56:00.000-06:00

Our last day :( We went to mass at St. Michaels, and then stopped in the Jardin on last time. For breakfast, we went up the street from our house at a place called Chocolate cafe. (Now your speaking Kiera's language.) We made our way to Leon airport, and were soon headed Cincinnati bound. We were very tan, well fed, and tired as witnessed by the last picture below ;)

In the Jardin for the last time

Breakfast at the Chocolate Cafe - Yum!

At the Airport - Plane ride home . . . we fell asleep and transformed into native Mexicans! As you can see, we got plenty of sun, plenty of food, and we're plenty tired!

San Miguel - Day SEVEN

2008-04-05T21:33:00.000-06:00

We went across the street from our house to the Art Center this morning, it's basically a school for the many different arts such as ceramics, weaving, painting, piano, guitar, etc. Gorgeous architecture and murals, the pics don't do it justice. Damon and I had fun with our own photo shoot, in a hallway where the lighting was just right. :) Later on that day we went to a "real" Mexican town, Dolores Hildalgo, about thirty miles north of San Miguel. Dolores has one big church and while there we witnessed at least four different wedding partys come and go. Turns out this is pretty typical on a Saturday for them, beautiful dresses, and great mariachi music. We ate a sack lunch in the Jardin across from the church and walked through the market district of Dolores, wonderful fresh fruits and vegetables, soup and beverage vendors of all kinds. And outside in a smaller garden at least five differently dressed mariachi bands hung out and awaited their turn with a wedding party. After a short run in with a road side donkey we were on our way back to San Miguel. In the evening, we caught an amazing show at the Theater, basically a smaller version of Cirque de Soliel (sp?) We were right in the front row, and sat next to a man whose wife puts on the whole production. He said that this is her hobby, they are full time sculptors by trade. During acts, a clown would come out and perform different tricks. At one piont he pulled Damon and three other men up on stage. He had them do exercises with balloons and then blow them up. After that he had the four of them sit on stools in a way where they were leaning back on each other. He then pulled the stools out from under them, it was a great balancing act. Damon should definately go into show business, he was a natural! After the show, we went to Romanos for dinner. We sat out on a rooftop terrace that was filled with many gringos from Canada & America. Without even really noticing, the whole terrace cleared out, and Damon and I had a romantic dinner with the whole terrace to ourselves. Damon leaned over to kiss me and there were fireworks. Literally! A whole show that went onfor about fifteen minutes. Another magical moment in San Miguel!

At the art center

Magdelena, our housekeeper & cook

More streets of San Miguel

Weddings in Delores Hildalgo

The Market in Delores Hildalgo

Inside the Municipal building in Delores Hildalgo / Leaving Delores Hildalgo, Kiera's new friend the Burro

The show at the theater & our rooftop dinner, I tried to take a good picture of the fireworks, but my camera died :(

San Miguel - Day SIX

2008-04-04T21:13:00.000-06:00

We started our day by walking around, visiting the Church of the Immaculate Conception, run by the sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. After, we sat in the Jardin and watched some american artists paint the scenery around us. Through small chit chat, we discovered one of the artists loves fly fishing. She found out we lived in Colorado, and said she's visiting a Ranch there this July, and asked if we have ever heard of a place called the 4UR Ranch? Small world! We basically roamed the streets the rest of the afternoon. Later that evening, we went to Gene & Susie Mann's house. It was incredibly beautiful, and the company was fascinating as well. They really loved Damon and talked horses most of the night. It was a very exciting evening, and we ended with walking around their estate, and petting their horses. We really have made some good friends here, and know this is not the last time we'll get together! :)

Church of the Immaculate Conception

Artists painting in the Jardin

More Streets of San Miguel

Cool doors down one of the many side streets

The Mann's House

San Miguel - Day FIVE

2008-04-03T15:43:00.001-06:00

Well, we did a lot today, but don't have many pictures, as we left our camera home. :( As a matter of fact, the pics below are a re-enactment, and not the actual time frame in which the below mentioned events happened. We went to Escondido, another Hot Springs resort, it was Fabulous! Afterwards, we came back into town, ran a few errands, and discovered we left the keys to the house- IN the house! Damon ran around trying to get ahold of the property manager, to no avail. I meanwhile sat on the stoop and cracked open a nice cold cerveza (beer), since I had nothing better to do. After a beer, a thought occured to me - there has to be a fire escape of some sort out of our building. I scoped the situ, and peeked inside the courtyard of a store that butts up next to our house. Sure enough, there was a ladder and it looked like it would work. Damon returned, with a list of phone numbers to try, and a very discouraged look on his face. I told him of the discovery, he checked it out, and next thing I know my husband had broke and entered into our own house. :) He had climbed up the ladder, shimmied across the gutter and jumped over into our terrace. Thank goodness that store was open still! Later that evening, went to a place called Romanos, to listen to some live music. We ended up talking to the owner and his friend instead, who were American, and a lot of fun to chew the fat with. The friend, a guy named Gene Mann, owns a ranch outside town, and invited us to come visit. Damon is on cloud nine! We had a great evening, and the weather here is BEAUTIFUL! Much love and peace!

San Miguel - Day FOUR

2008-04-02T10:05:00.000-06:00

Hola Familia, Damon aqui. Wednesday was incredible and busy as the pictures below will show. However as usual the best things are not caught on camera. That evening after a wonderful dinner at the house, prepared by our housekeeper, Magdalena, we went out for some live music and drinks at Romano's, an Italian Bar and Restraunt. Magnificent! Then the lively sounds of many different mariachi bands lured us into the Jardin, soon we found ourselves surrounded by twelve Mexican musicians. They played a traditional love song just for us as we danced. It doesn't get any better than that.

San Miguel in the morning

Hiking up the streets of San Miguel / Window shopping later that day

Out on the Town, after a dinner of Quesadillas - Yum!/Washing hands in fountain after petting stray dog - I miss Redders!

San Miguel - Day THREE

2008-04-01T07:02:00.000-06:00

This morning we hiked to the top of one of the outskirting hills, and had a beautiful view of the layout of San Miguel. On our way down we admired the architecture and landscape of several streets, ending with a stroll through the park, and a beer at an outdoor barbecue place. We then had lunch at home, and decided to check out the hots prings outside of town. We stopped at one place called La Gruta, and it was amazing. The hot spring water is pumped into a man-made cave, and flows out through a tunnel into two separate pools. We had so much fun, we may spend a whole day there later this week. :) For dinner, we had a yummy dish made by our cook, which we ate out on the terrace, right at sunset. It was beautiful! We ended the evening with a stroll around St. Francis church. Another perfect day! Damon and I feel this will not the last time we will visit San Miguel!

Hiking up to the top of the hill/burros getting a drink from a fountain

The view from the top of the hill, there was a fire off in the distance, it seems they burn a lot of their fields this time of year, wheter intentionally or unintentionally, we're not sure.

Having a beer at the outdoor barbecue (owned by Americans)-check out Damon's cool new shirt!

La Gruta hot springs, 'nuff said!

Supper at Sunset on our terrace

San Miguel - Day TWO

2008-03-31T09:34:00.000-06:00

We started our day slowly, eating breakfast on the rooftop terrace and listening to the bells ring from the many churches throughout the city. We had lunch at a nearby street stand, and spent the day wandering down different streets and meandering through the artisan district. There were many treasures, but we didn't take too many pictures. :) After walking in the hot sun and being on our feet most of the day, it felt great to grab some fresh fruit and a cold beer! We had soup for dinner, and ended the day where it started, on the rooftop, taking in the sounds and sights of the city . . . and dancing to them too!

Eating at the Street Stand / View of our house from street stand

Statue of Isador Allende / walking along the streets

Fresh Tortillas! / Entering into the Artisan Market

Hola from San Miguel! Day ONE

2008-03-30T08:23:00.000-06:00

We arrived in San Miguel around 3:30, after renting a car from the airport and having a beautiful drive through the back country of Mexico, stopping for a cow once. :) We met our housekeeper, toured around the house, freshened up, and walked around town. This place is UNBELIEVEABLE! There are hidden treasures around every turn in the road, in every corner. The architecture is gorgeous and ancient. we have a wall in our house that is around 300 years old! It's warm and sunny, and people are very friendly. We walked around the Jardin, which is the main area the town was first built around. It has trees, flowers, fountains,and a gazeebo. It sits in front of the church of St. Michael the Archangel, built in 1689. We watched a puppet show in the square, had soup the cook had prepared for us at home, and ended the evening with mass at St. Michael's. When Church was let out, the square was filled with music from a band playing in the gazeebo. Damon and I both commented we felt as if we were in a dream, a very good one! :)

At the Cincinnati airport, 5:30am - Waiting for our first flight

Stop for cow crossing, Driving into San Miguel

Outside St.Michael's Parish, and a tribute to St. Patrick!

In the Jardin, Street vendors & the Puppet Show

Visit to Creede

2007-12-22T16:17:00.000-07:00

Last week I flew into Colorado to see Damon. It was hectic at first - with my flight to Alamosa canceling and Damon having to drive to Denver in a snowstorm to pick me up. :( We fared well after that, but it's crazy how wet & snowy the drive was, as seen by the ice built up on the truck! The ranch was BEAUTIFUL - covered in 17" of snow, and an excited Redder pup was there to greet us too! Wow, the week went by too fast after that! We fed horses together, cut down our tree & decorated it, met Santa, attended Bill & Lori's wedding (friends from ranch above ours), and went to Durango for a photography show. Unfortunately, my memory card was full in Durango, so didn't get any pics. Damon was one of many subject matter in the photography show, and the best-looking by far! I was very proud! When I get the website link, I'll post it here so you can view those portraits as well. Damon, if i've forgotten anything, please add any input here, this trip was jam-packed fun, and I know I'm forgetting something!

Welcome Asa Anthony Wadden!

2007-12-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

Our little nephew is born! 6lb 8oz. We are so excited! Congratulations Ben & Neely! Can't wait to cuddle him...:)

Sarah & Wray Warner

2007-11-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Sarah & Wray! Married November 11th, 2007. Below are some pics (in slideshow form) from our trip to Charlotte, NC. It was a beautiful day, spent with many 4UR friends!

Halloween

2007-10-31T19:28:00.000-06:00

I went trick-or-treating with Ellen & Stephen, and got just as much candy as they did! Yes, I went up to each door and asked for my own candy, thank you. Trick was on them for giving candy to a 30 year old! Hee Hee. Ellen was Laura Ingalls from Little House on the Prairie, Stephen was Zorro, and I was a plain ol' pirate.

Pumpkin Carving

2007-10-29T19:28:00.001-06:00

Ellen, Stephen & I carved our pumpkins for Halloween. It was Stephen's first time to actually "carve" one, he did a great job! You can view our work below! Clicking on each image opens it up larger in another window. :)Ellen Carved the pirate, Stephen the cat, and I did the guy with his head on fire :)

A Day with Ellen & Stephen

2007-10-28T19:34:00.000-06:00

Ellen, Stephen and I went to Metamora, Indiana today to go through their corn maze (below). Metamora is an old canal town, and a lot of fun to walk through. We had a blast, and stopped in town to walk around and get some yummy hand-dipped ice cream!

Damon's Visit

2007-10-26T19:00:00.000-06:00

Time went by way too fast when Damon was in Cincy. Partly b/cwe had something planned every day! Between meeting with our Priest about the wedding, working on the guest list, and training Flica w/ Uncle Ron; Damon and I did get a chance to go to a haloween party with mom and Jack, and visit Uncle Ray and Aunt Barb at their place in Kentucky. I miss you babe!

Steamboat Springs

2007-10-11T18:33:00.000-06:00

The owners of the 4UR ranch treated all full-time employees (and their significant others) to an all expenses paid weekend in Steamboat Springs. It was an exciting time! Damon and I also had the chance to spend a day in Laramie w/ Peter and Cassie, it was so great to spend time with them at Newmann Center and get the "insider's tour" of the campus from Peter. Thank you to everyone for making it such a great fun-packed weekend! (P.S. Click on the pictures to see larger images)

Bragan's Baby Shower

2007-09-30T15:41:00.000-06:00

On September 28th, Mom, Caroline & I drove to Alabama for my friend Bragan's baby shower. Little did I know they had a surprise bridal shower for me when we arrived. Thank you so much again ladies! We stayed with Gwen and George (Bragan's parents and friends of my family as well) & Bragan's sister Morgan came in from Auburn. Our friend Elizabeth (and baby Connor), Bragan and I all got to spend some time together and have a slumber party too :) Below is a slideshow of the baby shower and some pics from the Auburn vs. Fla Gator game we watched at "Aunt Sharon's Barn". Thanks for a great weekend that went way too fast! Bragan, we're all excited to meet baby Grier Lillianne Patterson!

An Afternoon at Jack's

2007-09-27T14:33:00.000-06:00

On Monday, mom's boyfriend Jack took us to his place by the river in Patriot, Indiana. We boated, jetskied, swam, drank wine, and grilled out. Thanks Jack for the mini vacation! :) Below is a slidshow, I was too busy swimming to get many pics, but did capture a few memories...

Riding Brittany

2007-09-27T13:38:00.000-06:00

Deer in our front yard...not an uncommon scene. Notice the brown grass, we need rain!!!:(

Just thought I'd post a few pics of Uncle Ron and his girl. We are starting to train Flica, so hopefully I'll havve more pics soon.

Brunch at the Paters

2007-09-25T21:34:00.000-06:00

Bob and Emilia, Gimo's Bro-in-law and sister, invited the fam over on Sunday for cousin Rosemary's birthday brunch. It was an incredible spread (as you'll see from pics below)! Emilia is an awesome Italian cook, and made sure no one left hungry, or able to button their pants when we left.

Check out all this yummy food, Bottom: I'm stuffed, but still had room for dessert...

Top: Mom & boyfriend Jack, Gabe & Stephen Bottom: Rosemary using part of her bday card to accessorize, cutie patootie Gram

From L to R: Nina, Emilia, Bob, Zia Tecla

Sister hugs are so wonderful! :)

Top: Grammy & Mom, Gimo's "godfather face" Bottom: Jack should be a politician, Instead of kissses for the cook, we were kissed by the cook!

Kings Island

2007-09-11T14:54:00.000-06:00

I spent Saturday at Kings Island with Christa & Friends (Tammy, Jason & Jeremy) and the Setas! So much fun - we were wet, cold, and tired by the end of the night, but I'd do it again next Saturday...any takers??? :)

Poor Caeli

2007-09-07T16:33:00.001-06:00

Caeli, Uncle Ron & Aunt Sandy's golden retriever, hates thunder storms. Usually when it's bad, they will keep her inside, but unfortunately a few weeks ago, they didn't get home in time. She had jumped the fence during a bad thunderstorm and broken her leg. The result was surgery, two pins in her leg, and a full cast. The cast was soon replaced by a splint, which the family signed to wish her a speedy recovery. Get well soon Caeli! ;)

Beads! Beads! Beads!

2007-09-07T16:00:00.001-06:00

It was a great trip to creede, and very productive as well. Damon and I are so excited about buying Loverings Bead Loft. Everything just seems to be falling into place with buying inventory, having a place to rent, and our banker is excited to help us, having past experience with similar clients. As far as the mural, it sold for $275 at the salsa festival. I was a little bummed after having heard someone offered $500 for it back in July. Ah well, it's to be expected as I'm a no name artist out there. Hopefully after opening the store next spring and getting my work out there, things'll change for next salsa festival! :) So here's a few pics from my day spent at the bead loft. Check out the fun inventory...

I made a few friends with some of the regulars, who do beautiful work!

The earrings and necklace on the right I made for Ashlee, you'll see her wearing them at Tommy's in the pics below. Yay! It's so much fun to do!

Saturday night, after the Salsa festival and auction, Damon and I spent time with friends at Tommyknockers bar as a last hurrah before I left town. They had a really cool bunch of cats from Kansas come and play a gig, I didn't take pics, but Amanda, Ashlee and I grooved. It was great! The band was very Kneally style!

Mural in Creede

2007-08-27T10:27:00.000-06:00

This Labor day weekend Damon and I will be together, working out the details of the bead store, etc. Also, this Saturday, my and everyone else's mural will be auctioned off, and the money given to the town of Creede to purchase new park benches, garbage cans, flowers, etc. Pretty exciting! Below are pics from when Red and I painted the mural, and when my mom came into town to see it. (Right before Cassie's wedding) It was such a fun project, I can't wait to do another one next year!

Tye Dye For

2007-08-21T01:56:00.000-06:00

Ellen, my niece, is a budding young artist. Recently, she heard from her friends that there was an art fair taking place at the Covedale Theatre, not far from where we live. Adults and children alike can enter, display their work and sell it. She talked over different ideas with her friends, and decided to enter and do her very own line of tye dyed onesies for babies. :) I couldn't pass up the opportunity to help her with this little art endeavor, we had so much fun! She'll be selling her work on Saturday . . . I'mso proud!

Stricker's Grove

2007-08-17T16:40:00.000-06:00

Last Wednesday, mom, Christa, the Setas (minus Ellen who was at camp) and I went to Stricker's Gove for the Hoeting Realtor picnic. It was so much fun, although I think Christa and I OD'd on snowcones and cotton candy. Mom also got a chance to catch up with all her realtor friends. The only bummer is that no one would go on any of the "spinny" rides with me. I guess I'm the only one with the stomach for that in this family...

Cassie & Peter Miller 7/28/07

2007-08-16T09:48:00.000-06:00

We had an aewsome trip to Wyoming! It was so much fun to be a part of the celebration! Mom had a chance to come and meet the family too. Cassie & Peter, we love you both!

Kate & Kyle Michaels 6/2/07

2007-08-16T09:29:00.000-06:00

In the beginning of June, I flew into Creede to join in the celebration of Kate & Kyle's wedding, which took place out by station ten at the 4UR. It was a beautiful day, not to mention a beautiful bride & handsome groom!

Steph's Graduation Party

2007-08-10T16:36:00.000-06:00

Yay! Fun party! Congratulations Steph on your MBA, and your new job! I myself loved the extra touch of the XU cornhole game :)

Tea Party

2007-08-09T00:41:00.000-06:00

Tradition in the Cranert/O'Neill household. When the grandkids come to spend the night, they like to have a tea party, in which we all dress up however we want, and be whoever we want - provided we all still speak w/ a british accent and think we are better than the other, spinnin' our yarns over a spot o' tea and a nice crumpet... :) As you can see, mom, gram and I are all still kids at heart.

Florida 5/07

2007-05-30T23:40:00.000-06:00

This past May Damon & I had a chance to vacation down to Ft. Myers Florida. we met up with the bros and got to see Funkbone play, it was AWESOME!

We also had a chance to go to the beach and bum around, right across from the condo we stayed in. It was nice to not have a schedule we had to follow!

We got to spend lots of time with thw Weigands, which unfortunately I left my camera at the condo...and finished the trip fishing with Mycool & Tbone :)