新年好!

What do you find on a beach at low tide?

A lot of exposed rocks, breathing holes for sand crabs and a VERY happy Koko!

Mr. President!!

This day... nothing short of AMAZING!!!

Southern California Winter

Beach baby...............
Beach baby!
Papa & Koko watch for the next set

What do we do on a weekend off in January?? Go to the beach! Yesterday, Michael and I went to watch the Rincon Classic Surf Contest with Peter, Sora & Keoni. Today, a beach walk with Koko. Tomorrow, another day off! Hurray for l-o-n-g weekends!!

ROYALS!

Tonight, Devin and Kelly once again came together to coach the JV Royals. It might not look like it, but I honestly did watch some of the game. Although, watching the boys coach is pretty exciting!!

Danaus plexippus

Today, a venture out to see the monarch butterflies in their wintering site at the Ellwood Main Grove. It is the premier monarch site in southern California. Michael, Koko and I spent a couple of hours just watching as the butterflies gathered and flew around the eucalyptus trees. We are definitely heading back out for another visit soon!

"Sunshiny" Day!

The skies were gray over Santa Barbara this morning when Michael and I took Koko for a walk by the beach. Michael had the brilliant idea of heading over to the valley for lunch at our favorite, Trattoria Grappolo. Lo and behold, not only did we find fabulous food, but sunshine as well. This year has gotten off to a fantastic beginning! Here's to more of the same!!

HAPPY 2009!!!

Viva...

...Las Vegas!
After a small detour to Irvine (to pick up Derek), the boys, Koko, Michael and I all headed over the Cajon Pass and up the I-15 to Vegas. It was a quick trip there and back, but we packed in some quality family time and have many pictures to show for it! It had snowed just a couple days before we arrived and there was enough snow for a small snow ball fight between brothers. Most of the time though, we were indoors practicing our gigs as a family band and visiting and gambling with Grandma Minnie. We did venture outside again for a short time for the mandatory family portrait. Many, many thanks to the Ciarlos for putting up with all of us ~ with special thanks from Kokobella!!

BIGGEST, BRIGHTEST FULL MOON!

Well, almost ~ it's actually tomorrow night! Shortly after the moon rose this evening, I stepped out to take a look. It was incredibly clear! This is what I saw through the camera lens!!