Our Life & Times

Lehman Family Reunion

2009-03-30T12:28:00.001-07:00

We waited all year for this particular week in March to arrive... The time when all the Lehman children would be here for a visit .... Jay & Amy, Matt & Tasha, and Alyson & Ben.... The main focus of the visit was for Alyson's Baby Shower on the 28th.... but before that day was to arrive, we had a few days in between to spend precious family time together.... just hanging out relaxing and catching up.... Thursday evening we played a couple of games... Scene It and Taboo!! Bruce had Matt help him out with his lap top as he hasn't been able to get it on line and I had a few issues of my own with my computer.... The following pictures are moments of our time together ....

Alyson posing for big belly shot... Looking pretty good isn't she!!

Just a pretty shot of Tasha and Amy....

Hanging out watching TV, working on computers, and cell phones...

Armani' and Chewy getting acquainted....

Boys being boys.... Expectant parents enjoying a moment....

Matt & Jay chatting with Dad while he makes breakfast....

I never looked this good when I was pregnant!!

One afternoon, Grampa Bruce took us all out for a ride on one of the school buses he drives... What fun that was!!

Ben & Chewy making friends....

Alyson hitting on the shrimp....

Stopping off at Talcott Falls for a look see....

BIG NEWS!! Amy and Jay are expecting twins in October.... Some days weren't so good for Amy but she hung in there the best she could...Here she's taking a moment to rest with Armani'.....

Expectant Dad, Ben poking Baby Mac in hopes to get him moving about ....

Playing a game of Scen It.... Guys against the Girls!! The guys won!!

These were just a few of the moments of our few days together... Always our time together, too short but always filled with great memories to hold us over until the next family get together....

"Chandler"

2009-03-30T11:22:00.000-07:00

"Chase"

2009-03-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

"Charlie"

2009-03-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Alyson's Baby Shower

2009-03-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

March 28th... Alyson's Baby Shower.... Alyson went with the Winnie The Pooh Theme, which was fun to work with in decorating.... Her mother in law not only ordered her the cake for the party, but an additional smaller cake for them to freeze until Baby Mac's 1st Birthday....

With "loads" of help from Tasha and Amy, we got the place decorated for the party, which started at 1 p.m.... The men folk took the little fellas out for the day ....They had lunch out and then went to a movie...

Starting from the left: Ben's Gramma and Mom....

Alyson and her Mom (the proud new gramma to be)....

Alyson and one of her close friends from her high school days, Kelly....

Time to play some party games... Here everyone is trying to make out who the adult version of the baby pictures were... I only guessed two....

Another game involved sniffing diapers and trying to guess "What Daddy Fed The Baby"... For those weak in the stomach... the diapers were filled with different chocolate bar versions.... Her my good friend, Debbie trying to snif out what her diaper held....

It may be chocolate now... but the real thing is only a couple of months away for Ben & Alyson... Have fun you two!!

The big winner of the day...... Tasha!! She won a gift certificate for Starbucks!!.... You go girl!!

JoAnne and Alyson trying to find out what she's carrying... a boy or a girl... The needle got it right.... It's a boy!!!

You're suppose to hold the needle over the pregnant woman's wrist (from a string) and allow it to move on it's own... straight up and down.... boy ...... in circles.... a girl!!

Debbie holding it over Amy's wrist, who is pregnant for twins due in October.... They're hoping for a boy and a girl... AND according to the needle.... It's one of each!!

The little Momma to Be ready to open her gifts......

This basket full of goodies is from Amy.....

A cute littel piggy bank where Mom & Dad can discard their coins at the end of their day....

This gift bag filled with all kinds of good stuff to include "green" products, is from Tasha....

The Pack N Play is from me along with the other stuff in it......

Bruce put Tasha in charge of running his "new" video camera....

This quilt was homemade by my boss's wife, which is one of the gifts from me, along with a couple of crocheted crib blankets....

After all the gifts were opened, Alyson's cousin placed this ribbon hat on her head from all the gift packages.... Of course we had her model it for us...

Time for Alyson to cut the cake....

The shower was a grand success and Alyson received loads of great stuff for her new little baby boy.... The men were allowed to return... and I got Ben & Alyson to pose together for this shot....

Time to load up the gifts....

It was a snug fit but with a little push & shove, they were finally able to get it all loaded into their car ready for their trip home in the morning....

And of course, Dad had to have his final 'good-byes' with his little girl.... He's still dealing with the fact his baby girl is a full grown woman now, not to mention about to become a mother... We are both so proud of the fine young woman she's become and the wonderful mother we know she'll be....

Alyson & Ben... we so enjoyed our time with you (although way too short) and will be standing by waiting for that "special" call.... whether it be day or the middle of the night.... The call telling us of the arrival of our newest grand baby.... We'll be down in July to check him out.... See you then!!!

The Lehman Family 2009

2009-03-30T09:47:00.000-07:00

While we had everyone together and who knows when we will again, Bruce wanted to make sure we got plenty of photos of all of us together... Luckily for those of you viewing this entry, I'll only post the following three.....

Starting from the left: Jay - Bruce - Matt - Alyson

From the left: Jay & Amy - Alyson & Ben - Matt & Tasha

And here we all are together.... Amy, Jay, Alyson, Ben, Me, Bruce, Chandler, Charlie, Tasha, Matt and last but certainly not least... Chase... One big happy family!!

We had a wonderful visit and look forward to when we can all do this again!! Until then, we're already starting to miss each and every one of you... So let's make it soon!!

Semi-Retirement for Bruce

2008-10-23T03:46:00.000-07:00

Getting tired of the long hours and grind of the bread industry, Bruce finally decided it was time to consider other options... Starting with getting out of the business completely and going into semi-retirement.... So to help him/us celebrate the opening of a new door in our lives, Vaughn & Debbie opened their home (once again) to help me throw him a Surprise Retirement Party.... Actually all the work fell upon Vaughn & Deb.... My part was to keep Bruce oblivious of everything until the appointed day of the party... Although Deb and I did manage to get a little shopping time in for party favors the night before (I told Bruce we were shopping for a shower gift for a friend at church, which in part was true).... What's a party without balloons!!!

I think he was pretty much fooled right up until we pulled up in front of the Shoen's home... I think that several cars parked outside when we arrived, might have been a little give away, but it was when he spotted John & Linda's new KIA, that he started to put it together.... but I stayed mum and kept walking towards the house, Bruce following behind adding up the pieces of my suspicious behavior of the past few days.... I would have loved to have caught a picture of his face when he first walked through the door, but this is the closest I could get... ....

He was really surprised when he finally noticed his sister, Bonnie and her husband Fred in the room.... Of course with every good party there's always good food to accompany....

And of course, good friends.....

Bruce and Bonnie finding time to do some catching up.....

This may look like an ordinary cake, but don't let the outside appearance fool you... This is the ultimate of Carrot cakes.... one of Bruce's favorite cakes, I might add....

Bruce, getting a little help from Deb.....

This thing was packed full of flavor .... If anyone's interested in checking it out for themselves, I do know the chef who made it for us.... She's in the business and this is her Signature Cake.... And let me tell you... she knows what she's doing......

A gift from Uncle Paul.... I might add here that Bruce's new endeavor in life is as a school bus driver... He's already in training and loving the idea of a slower paced job where he can find time to enjoy life more..... Not so sure how much he's going to like driving around a bunch of noisy children, but hey it's only a few hours each day and the rest of the day he can recoup and who knows... maybe even get in a game or two of golf.....

Saying good-bye......

Last but certainly not least... a good-bye to his sister, Bonnie... Hopefully it won't be long before she and Fred will be back for another visit... This time maybe even an over nighter and we'll have more time to spend together and catch up on each other's lives... It was really great that we got this time with them and I know for Bruce is was one of the highlights of the evening for him...

Now time to move ahead into the next chapter of our lives.... Sometimes a little scary, yet exciting too....
I do know though, that whatever lies ahead.... we're in God's hands and HE has it all in control and we look forward to our new adventure together....

Visit From Jay & Amy

2008-10-22T15:32:00.001-07:00

In early September we received a visit from Jay & Amy, home on leave from Iraq..... They brought their little dog, Armani with them....

Here everyone just lazying around the house taking it easy and watching a little TV... A nice break for Jay & Amy.... A time to just relax and feel the comforts of home....

Well, OK, except for Jay having to help Bruce move in my new Dryer.... That did take a little bit of time away from the R&R part of their visit.... But they did get it in and all hooked up in no time..... Relaxing on the back deck.....

Armani, finding comfort in his Mommy's lap.....

It was so wonderful having the kids home for a visit and spending precious time with them ..... It was also a time for the two of them to regroup and refresh before returning to 6 more months in a war zone....

On their return, the plan is for them to stay somewhere very close to our area... build a new life for themselves here and start raising a family together... Bruce and I look forward to any part we might have the pleasure in sharing in that dream with them... Especially the prospect of "grandchildren" living close by once again.... Stay safe Jay & Amy... and hurry home... We love you and miss you!!! You are in our prayers always!!!

Visit From Ed & LIsa

2008-08-25T08:52:00.000-07:00

August 22nd.... My daughter and her new husband, Ed came into town for a weekend visit with Bruce and I.... They were just married July 12th.... They originally planned to marry August 23rd, but plans changed and they moved the date up a few weeks to accomodate other important issues going on in and around their lives at the time... Unfortunately Bruce and I were unable to attend the wedding, but understood fully their need to change their plans and gave them our full blessing ...... As they had already gotten the time off for August, they decided to pay us a weekend visit and call this their honey moon.... (They did get away for a few hours on Saturday for some time to themselves)....

Of course I had to take a few pictures of the newlyweds. throughout their visit.... Hard to tell they're in love isn't it.....

Showing off the weddng rings....

I think my daughter (finally) picked the perfect man for her husband... It is so easy to see how much he loves and adores her.... and she him..... Her children think he's just "AWSOME"....... ED... We welcome you into our family with open hearts.... Thank you for all you've done to bring the light back into my daughter's eyes and into her life..... I know God has plans for the two of you.... And I look forward to watching HIM bring them all into fruition over the coming years......

The Making and Devouring of "Ed's Famous Ribs"...

2008-08-25T08:18:00.000-07:00

Once our good friends, Vaughn & Debbie knew Ed & Lisa would be coming into town, Debbie immediately came up with the idea this would be a good time for them to finally get to sample some of the famous "Ed's Ribs" they've heard us brag about.... We ran the idea by Ed & Lisa, who agreed to our plan..... So Saturday afternoon, Bruce and I took them out to Sam's Club where we allowed Ed to pick out his choice of ribs to work with... Then Sunday afternoon, after church we all gathered around him in the kitchen to watch him do his thing.... (No pressure Ed)....

Possibly a little showman within???...

First step..... open the packaging and wash down the meat.... (By the way... These are baby back ribs).....

Placed in the baking tins ready for the next step.....

As we didn't have large enough tins, Ed had to cut each set of ribs in half....

Then he slices into the back sides ever so slightly so they can obsorb the ingredients better during precooking in the oven....

Adding the "secret" ingredients......

And a little touch of TLC also goes into the mix......

As Ed says, This is the most important step.... Making sure the tins are tightly sealed during the oven cooking.....

Instead of using the oven, Ed thought he's like to try something new and precook the ribs in Bruce's steele kitchen ..... It was a very hot day and we wouldn't have to have the oven running any more then necessary... (I still had to bake my Mac & Cheese)....

Once the ribs precooked the time required, it was time to start the grilling part of the craft....The Chef working his magic......

Mmmmmmm..... Mmmmmmmm.... Looking Good!!!

And.... Oh yeah... A little of Merredith's Mac & Cheese to go along with the ribs....

Table set... ribs served.... Time to eat.....

This pictures says it all I think... Need I say anything more??

A little editor's note here.... I DO NOT DO RIBS!!!.. I DO, DO ED'S RIBS!!! The others pale in comparison by far!!! These are the best ribs out there... Not only are they DELICIOUS.... the meat falls right off the ribs.... Delicious and tender.... We keep telling Ed he needs to open up his own little place... He says he's thought of it... And calling it, "Ed's Rib Shack"..... (Sounds good to me..... Now just take my reservation please)

A Little Wedding Cake Surprise For The Newlyweds...

2008-08-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

Unbeknownest to the newlyweds, I ordered a small wedding cake made so instead of just any dessert after Ed's famous ribs, we'd also take a few moments to celebrate the two of them and their marriage by presenting them with the wedding cake.... And of course you can't have a wedding cake without pictures of the couple cutting it....

Nice and easy does it.....

Open wide, Lisa.....

Congratulations Newlyweds!!! .....

Visit With Old Friends....

2008-08-25T07:53:00.000-07:00

Before coming to town, Lisa had called and asked if I'd help her get hold of some old friends from when she lived in New York... Ralph & Beth... She had lived with them for a short time and during that time they built a very close and loving relationship....She had hoped her and Ed could take an afternoon to visit them at their home in Lowville, but as it turned out they would be closer to our area and asked if they could just drop by our home instead... Well of course... We loved the idea...Here they are getting caught up with all the news in each other's lives since they last seen each other.... (the young fella over to the right is their grandson).....

Lisa & Beth....

Lisa & Ralph......

The quilt in the picture below, is a gift Ralph & Beth received for their recent 50th Wedding Anniversary... (They were also married on July 12th)..... Beth's sister, Birdie, makes quilts and she put this one together with the help of other family members... She sent each one the square material and asked them to create their own square with whatever they wanted to personalize their wishes to Ralph & Beth.... Once she got the squares back, she put them all together to make this gorgeous quilt....

Nice quilt, huh Vicky!!! Will send you some more close up pictures as well....

The Bride & Groom

2008-08-25T07:39:00.001-07:00

July 12th, Lisa's & Ed's wedding day!!!... I thank God for bringing such a grand fella into my daughter's and grandchildren's life.... The photos below are just a few from the CD they brought along with them for their visit.... Although I'm not the photographer, I think the one they had got some really good shots of them and we only had to edit a few... and then mainly to put some in black & while or a little cropping here and there... The wedding took place outside in the back yard of her best friend and Matron of Honor and her husband (the Best Man).... I might add here a HUGE "THANK YOU" to Cathy & Mark for all they did to make their wedding day a beautiful and memorable occassion for them!!! It was only the four of them, but Cathy and Mark not only provided their beautiful back yard for the ceremony, but also added some special touches such as champagne and chocolate covered strawberries to toast them after the ceremony... Took them out to dinner at a very nice restaurant, and then sent them off for the night at a lovely hotel for their honeymoon night..... NOW THAT'S FRIENDS FOR YOU!!!

The Beautiful Bride.......

The beaming Groom....

Hiding in the bushes and sneaking a kiss....

Posing and smiling pretty for the camera....

Wishing you both many, many wonderful and blessed years ahead!!!

WOW!! I'M 60 NOW!!

2008-08-05T03:55:00.000-07:00

August 4, 1948.... Day of my birth.... 60 long, long, long years ago.... (Thank you for that "kind" reminder, Vaughn)My dear "brother" Vaughn....

Debbie thought that since I would be turning "60", It should be reason to have a party..... So her and Bruce put their heads together (with a little help from me) to throw me a 60th Birthday Party..... She also thought I should have my very own tiara to wear.... I'm thinking "Why?" "Isn't turning 60 enough to deal with?"

Lots of good food to go around....

Pizza, pizza, pizza.....And we can't forget the beautiful birthday cake from Alteri's.... Chocolate cake with raspberry filling and of course chocolate frosting.....

For a change, I wasn't in charge of the camera... That was left to Bruce and our good friend, Lil....

Lil and her husband, Will...

Knowing my love for veggies (NOT), my boss, Pete, couldn't resist giving me a bag of zuchinni and summer squash.... Thank you, Pete... Thank you so very much!!!

He also couldn't resist giving me a flashlight .... The story behind that is Bruce and I had been experiencing some electrical problems (which our good brother, Vaughn was so good to fix for us in the meantime)... which left us without lights in our Master bathroom and our guest bedroom.... But to give credit where it's due... He and Kim also gave me a gift certificate for the Chocolate Cottage.... more than made up for the other two gifts..... Can't wait to hit that place....

My boss, Pete.....Our good friend, Donna....

My card from my favorite aunt, Aunt Bett... which she also reminded me, she's my only aunt, but she'd still be my favorite even if I had many, many more.... And I know I'm her favorite niece too.... Just don't tell my cousin, Jeanette, she thinks she's the favorite....

Debbie's and our new little kid sister, Karen.... isn't she just the cutest thing.... Welcome to our family sis....

MerMer and BonBon.... together again....

Debbie and me....

Debbie, knowing how much I've wanted bushes for around the house (like forever)... got me these two little bushes here.... Now I just have to figure out where we'll be planting them.... I have a couple of ideas.... So have your shovel ready, Bruce....

Our guys getting some fresh air on the front porch...... (I finally got my hands on the camera)....
Pete and Kim heading home (and trying to avoid me and my camera... didn't work)...

Thanks Debbie and Bruce.... What a great party.... I am definitely a blessed woman..... with great friends, and especially a great husband....

4th of July With The Russells

2008-08-04T02:50:00.001-07:00

The Russells arrived on the 4th of July.... They started out the day before (late in the evening) and drove through the night.... By the time they reached our place, they were a tad road weary and although Klaus & Olivia may have felt exhausted, the boys and the dogs wanted to burn off a lot of pent up energy after being coped up in the truck for several hours.... So off they went to the back yard to do just that....

The dogs greeting Grampa Bruce when he returned home from his work day .... They were excited to see him, and he them (right, Bruce)......

Finally calming down a bit and taking time to relax a bit.....

Klaus showing off his new truck to Bruce (the car expert in the family), so of course wanted to show him all the neat assecories he has.....

After a bit, Klaus and Olivia had to run off to set things up with some friends regarding their camping plans for the week ahead... Jasonn & Kyle stayed with Grampa Bruce and Nana.... And Nana decided it would be a grand idea if we took a trip to the Ice Cream Shop...... And all were more than happy to participate......

Jasonn indicating he has a 3 scooper here......

Mmmmmm..... mmmmmmmm good!!!

Kyle got a death by chocolate .... dipped in chocolate.... He's definitely my grandson!!!!

Mmmmmmm..... mmmmmmmm good!!!! And what a mess he made too.... I had to get extra (damp) towels to help him clean up.....

Even Grampa Bruce and I got into the act.... I had my usual medium soft vanilla in a cone (sorry, no picture as everyone was too busy eating their ice cream to get a picture of Nana)... But I got a quick one of Bruce as he was putting his away.....(He gets an ice cream sundee).....

Full...... mellow and ready for a nap.....

Nana and her boys.....

Once back to the house, Klaus returned and while Olivia was out shopping for camping groceries, he stayed busy on the phone checking in with his New York friends, letting them know they were in town for the week and inviting them to join up with them at the camp grounds....

Once Olivia returned, Klaus and I got busy making up some super duper Klaus/Mom "special" hamburgers and got the grill going.... We kept things simple, but also had a nice little cook out meal and sat around a bit and just chilled for awhile on the back deck....

I got Jasonn to water my flowers for me.....

When bedtime finally rolled around (8 p.m. ... thank you very much), the boys wanted to sleep on an air mattress out on the back deck, so in spite of Bruce's protests that it would get too cold for them, sleep out there they did.... At least for a few hours, but around midnight I heard them come in and this is where I found them the next morning... Of course, unfortunately for them, the Nana couldn't resist taking a picture of her sleeping fellas..... (Remember.... I'm your Nana... you got to love me)

The next morning things were in quite the rush for everyone.... The Russells had to get ready to head off camping and the Lehmans had to finish packing and get ready to fly out that very afternoon to Oregon for our 3rd Annual Air Force Reunion..... So lots of hustle and bustle going on.... Klaus took a little time to play with his dogs awhile before they all hit the road to go camping... and Bruce and I were right behind them in the opposite direction headed towards the airport....

Although we only got a short visit in, it was one we enjoyed very much... It was so nice to have that time together with the grandsons and with Klaus & Olivia.... (Yes, Olivia, and with Oreo and Chloe too) Who knows when we'll get together again... Everyone lives such busy lives and so far apart, we have to grab the time when we can.... Not my idea everyone lives so far away, but I also understand the reasons for it.... I'm happy that all is going so well for them in South Carolina ... It was a good move on their part.... And for that I'm happy!!! I know we'll have more get togethers in the future.... As they say, "WHERE THERE'S A WILL.... THERE'S A WAY"!!!! Love you guys and thank you so much for heading out early for New York so you could fit that time in with us before we left....

3RD ANNUAL AIR FORCE REUNION - OREGON - 2008

2008-08-02T07:28:00.001-07:00

After much waiting, planning, counting down the days.... The time has finally arrived for the 3rd Air Force Reunion... This year we all met in Oregon at John & Cindy's home ..... This will be the longest air flight I've taken, and believe it or not I wasn't apprehensive at all (well, OK, maybe a little).... We did deal with a few delays at the on start of our trip, but thankfully, we had enough lay over time between flights it didn't affect our connections.... Our flight didn't leave until 3:30 p.m. (Eastern Time) and arrived in Oregon 11:00 p.m. (Pacific Time).... (No this wasn't our plane... but thought it fit the thought).....

Arriving In Oregon

2008-08-02T07:26:00.001-07:00

The whole clan was there to greet us, even at that late hour of the day (11:30 p.m.)....

Here we have Phil, John (Our host), Bruce and Steve....

And then there's their lovely wives, who make their lives complete and full in every way...

Vicky (Steve's wife), Cindy (John's wife and our hostess), me and Val (Phil's wife)....

Everyone's anxious to get the vehicles loaded up and on the road back to John & Cindy's.....

John & Cindy's home.....

The view from our bedroom window was just gorgeous.... What a beautiful sight to wake up to each morning....

Who knows what lies ahead, but all we cared about is that we're with our good friends, and as for the rest...... "LOOK OUT OREGON... HERE WE COME!"...

Relaxing And Getting Reaquainted

2008-08-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

After getting a good night's sleep, our next morning started out with a delicious breakfast prepared by Cindy.... Eggs, bacon, sausage, and pan cakes..... Then off to church.... What a beautiful service they had too... Seeing as it was 4th of July weekend, they did their whole service around that theme.... At one point as they sang a melody of songs, behind the singers was a large screen showing pictures of different members of their church, or family/friends of church members who had or were serving in the military... And then, very unsuspectingly, there appeared on the screen a photo of our 4 guys taken back during their visit in New York... What a nice surprise..... After church we all headed back to John & Cindy's .... The plan was for everyone to just relax and get reaquainted with each other while also mapping out our plans for the week...

Steve checking out the sound on the piano.....

Of course, cameras going off left and right every where....

John & Phil taking a quiet moment to map out a few road trips for the days ahead.....

Some outside relaxation......

The chief Quilter in the group.... Vicky has made many, many gorgeous quilts.... Very talented lady here....

Val and Cindy are pretty good at it too.... Unfortunately I'm not, but the girls decided it would be a good idea to introduce me to the craft.... and believe it or not I find it very interesting and who knows, maybe one of these days I'll make my very own quilt.....

More outside relaxing and reaquainting....

Steve's and his guitar..... What better way for him to find to relax... (well, ok... maybe a ride on one of his motor cycles)....

Val & Cindy looking over some downloaded pictures .....

John & Steve in deep discussion.....

Snack time.....

Bruce doing what he enjoys doing best.... taking a little siesta.... (Lots of that going on with everyone).....

Phil helping Val out with some laundry.....

Steve showing off a pair of his "fancy" sneakers.....

It was great seeing everyone again and just having that little bit of down time to catch up and plan the events to come..... Good thing we took time to rest up, because things picked up considerably from there.....

Taking A Jet Boat Ride On The Columbia River

2008-08-02T06:33:00.000-07:00

In trying to come up with some fun things to do during the reunion, John and Cindy decided it would be a good idea that we all take a jet boat ride on the Columbia River and afterwards have dinner at a nice restaurant nearby.... (Sounded like a good idea).... So off went went.... Ready for our first adventure....

(I don't think anyone paid close enough attention to this sign... and and maybe we should have)...

So off we went..... not a clue to what lay ahead for us.... Had we known, would we have continued on?.... probably so... After all we were looking for a little adventure, weren't we....

(You're smiling now, Cindy)....

Look at these innocent, unsuspecting faces.... Just a group of good friends out for a fun boat ride on the Columbia River..... What a nice way to start things out.....

No fear here.....

Or here..... Just a couple of good ole boys out for a fun boat ride.....

Some interesting sights along the river.....

We had hoped to watch him reel in his catch, but we were on our way again before he did.... It looked like a really huge fish he was struggling with too....

This is the pilot of our boat.... he may look innocence... but don't let his looks fool you.... There's a very devious mind at work in there.... Very devious indeed.....

And it wasn't long before we found out just how devious..... It seemed like one moment we're peacefully floating along on the river taking in the sites about us, and before we knew what was happening, our good ole pilot sped things up a tad and we found ourselves bouncing down the river at breakneck speed... I thought for sure my back was thrown out of alignment .... But there was more to come.... As quickly as he took off.... he just as quickly brought our boat to a screeching halt, and with a swipe of his hands, spun her around in such a fashion that as I looked to my left I saw this huge wave of water coming right at me... Before I had a chance to react, I was drenched... right along with everyone else... (Oh yeah, did I mention our nice "captain" suggested that our little group might enjoy setting in the front row, which we later found out was the worst place to be.... Oh, yeah... You want to talk about devious minds... there's one for you).....

Here's Val using Steve's hair to dry her face....

And now a little breather before the next assault, our captain takes us closer to shore where we see these neat little boat houses.... Each one unique in its own way.... They're hooked to these tall posts so that as the river rises (and it has been known to)... They will be held in place as they rise right along with it....

Note the 96' marked at the top of this pole??... That's showing how high the river rose at one time.....

After a few more sites along the river and a few more drenching turn abouts.... our ride was over .... Didn't take any brains to figure out there would be no dining out for our little group.... There wasn't a dry area on any of us....

I think Bruce got hit the worse.... He could wring the water right out of his shorts, and there was still plenty left in them when he was done....

His shorts were so wet, they nearly hung to his ankles.... His sneakers were soaked through and through... He had to go out and buy a new pair the next day...

Wet.... Tired..... and ready for some dry clothing..... We all agreed instead of dinner out, ordering in pizza was more than satisfactory for us.... We just wanted to get home and dry off.....

So..... What's next John?......Cindy....??? Bungee Jumping??

Mount Hood

2008-08-02T06:32:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine.... just driving down the road and right there in front of you... sits this huge beautiful snow capped mountain...... It's like you can reach right out and touch it.... Beautiful!!! Simply beautiful!!!....

A Game Of Horse Shoes

2008-08-02T06:22:00.000-07:00

Bruce and the guys discovered a horse shoe pit in John's & Cindy's lower yard and decided to play a game or two.....

Looking for a misguided horse shoe....

Steve watching the guys ..... He just had surgery on his shoulder so wasn't able to play.....

Not sure who won..... but looked like the fellas had a good time and that's what really counts, right!!!....

To Helvetia And Back

2008-08-02T05:59:00.001-07:00

John and Cindy told us about this neat little place out side of town where you can get these really delicious burgers.... So off went went to check it out....

Not only do you get good burgers, they even have "JUMBO" burgers.....

But not necessarily made just the way you want them.....

In spite of the sign above, the cook as well as the waitresses were very friendly .....

They had these neat hats hanging from the ceiling, which added to the atmosphere....

Here we all are ready to order..... (I'm there too... just behind the camera)....

Some cute couples here don't you agree....

Steve decided to go for the "JUMBO" burger....

We weren't sure if he could eat the whole thing.......

But.... lo and behold.... He did!!! YOU GO, STEVE!!!

Phil's happy.... he convascated the chips for future road trips.....

It was a neat place.... Our burgers were very good and no one walked away hungry that's for sure.....

A Time of Song And Worship

2008-08-02T05:56:00.000-07:00

One of the things that makes our get togethers so great is our christian bond.... Although none of the fellas were (active or practicing) Christians during their air force years, the years to follow brought each through different life experiences, which eventually brought them into a relationship with Jesus..... Steve is the worship leader at his church and so brought along his guitar and some song sheets and we all sat around one evening singing some of our favorite christian music....

This evening of song and worship, was one of my favorite moments during our reunion.....

Visiting The Test Rose Gardens

2008-08-02T05:19:00.002-07:00

Yes, indeed.... Beautiful Oregon.... I was amazed at the many beautiful roses I saw growing.... EVERYWHERE!!! In the wild even..... Cindy told us about a Test Rose Garden and offered to take us there for a tour while the guys went off to check out a National Aeronautical Museum....

What a beautiful sight over looking the rose gardens.... Gorgeous roses everywhere....

Cindy & Val, taking time to "smell the roses".....

Looking pretty, girls....

I shared only a few of the many photos I took that day.... Just one beautiful rose after the other.... It was a most enjoyable afternoon ..... Thanks for the tour, Cindy.....

LEARNING NEW HOBBIES

2008-08-02T05:19:00.001-07:00

Here at home, Bruce's hobby is golfing.... Mine is my photography.... And now that we were in Oregon, we were about to learn a couple of new ones....

Making Pens For Bruce

2008-08-02T05:05:00.001-07:00

This remarkable red & black wood pen was made by Steve....

These following photos were shot as the guys puttered away in John's wood shop in the basement of his home....

Phil showing off a couple of the nice pens he made.... (Good job, Phil)....

Bruce and Steve with their pens.....

Steve and Phil enjoyed making pens so much they were at it every free moment they could find... Bruce, on the other hand wasn't as enthuesed about making pens as the others, but he did make me one, and was able to convince him to make one for my boss, Pete and his good buddy back home, Vaughn..... And he did a very good job too!!

Quilting For Merredith

2008-08-02T04:41:00.000-07:00

As I may have mentioned .... The other three ladies are into quilting.... Vicky is the pro of the group and Cindy close behind her... And Val is coming on board quickly herself... Now me, on the other hand, have never made a quilt... I have thought about it once or twice and even made a stab at it many years ago... but never got much past that point... So now here was my opportunity to check it out... up close and personal..... Cindy took us to her favorite little Quilt shop so we could do some shopping.... This little shop sits way out in the country surrounded by beautiful scenery everywhere.... That alone made the trip worth while.....

These are quilts Cindy made and had brought to the quilt shop to have them quilted (for lack of knowing a better term, basically they have a machine here that can do fancy stiching all over the quilt).... Didn't she do just a beautiful job!!!......

Now this table runner (below) caught my eye... The shades of blue and yellow spoke to me..... And Cindy suggested to me that Vicky might be willing to make one for me.... So I found a ready made package with similar colors and Vicky took it back to Kentucky with her to make..... She gave me a call the other day to let me know it was finished and would soon be on its way to New York.... I can't wait to see it!!! (THANK YOU VICKY!!!)

My material.....

Val, also found some pretty fabric to make a quilt with.... How about them bright colors!!!

Four happy shoppers.....

Back at the house, Vicky measuring out the material for my table runner, while Cindy works on one of her pot holders....

The Four Quilting Ladies......

With my left over material from the table runner, the girls showed me how to make a pot holder for myself.... Don't look too closely.....

Testing Merredith's Taste Buds

2008-08-02T04:27:00.000-07:00

Now those of you who know (and love me?), also know what a finicky eater I am... To the point it's down right embarrassing for me at times..... not to mention frustrating for those friends considering inviting me to their home for meals... You should know that Cindy and John went to a great deal of effort to provide good and interesting recipes for us..... And everyone enjoyed their meals with great relish.... except for ... (you guessed it).... me..... Thankfully they were great sports about it and didn't make too much of a fuss over my lack of enthusiasm in trying out new dishes.....

Vicky helping Cindy put together a broccli and cauliflower salad....

Now we're talking.... A chocolate Eclair cake.... Right up my alley... and oh so good..... (I got that recipe).....

Now noting the burgers on the grill below, don't go thinking these are just any ordinary burgers.... No way!! These, my friends, are Buffalo Burgers!!! Yep... Buffalo Burgers!!! Now who out there thinks for one minute this girl is going to eat one of them... Doesn't matter how good they look or smell or how much everyone loved them.... It just wasn't going to happen.... Note the two chicken breasts on the grill.... Guess who they're for....

We drove by a Buffalo farm one day, so I of course had to have Cindy stop so I could snap a picture of one of the lucky ones who didn't make it to their grill..... Or anyone else's for that matter... at least for that moment in time....

Now here's another delectable dish for the sea food lovers out there.... John's grilled salmon.... Looked good... Even I had to admit to that... but eating it was another story.... Although Cindy was able to convince me to try a tiny piece later.... And as she put it, now I can say,"I've tried it, and I don't like it".... Chicken for Merredith again!!! This time I shared with Vicky too... Seems she's not all that big on salmon herself.... I know a few of you out there are thinking we're nuts... and I agree... but that's what I'm saying about the embarrassment of being such a finicky eater... People go all out to give you the best and you're the "one" in the group saying, "No thank you".....

Another evening, John fixed us stuffed chicken legs... Now they were very good... I especially liked the stuffing he used.... Here he's showing Val how he puts it all together....

Looks good doesn't it!!!....

I really enjoyed this jello dessert.... and it's very easy to make, although time consuming.... You have to let each layer set before applying the next... But well worth the time and wait.... I made sure I got that recipe too....

Now this isn't just any mixture of berries... Note the yellow ones in there.... They're another form of raspberry.... I did try them... and I did like them.... Mayabe there's hope for me yet??

There were plenty more fine dishes during our visit..... Some home made banna bread for one, which I forgot to upload for this post...... Anyway..... one of these days I'm going to learn how to appreciate good food .... Meanwhile, I'm so thankful for such good and understanding friends who lovingly and patiently put up with me and my finicky ways....

Fun Along The Oregon Coast Line

2008-08-02T03:36:00.000-07:00

John & Cindy thought we'd all enjoy taking a day trip up along the Oregon Coast line... It seemed like a great idea, so bright and early one morning, we were on the road .... The guys decided since we'd be taking two cars, we should have two way radios with us.... Bruce was in charge of the one in our car... What a riot he was... I never knew my husband could be so funny.... I'd try to explain all he said and did, but it would lose something in translation... Just know... he was one funny guy along the way.... at least for me anyway..... Ain't that right, Rubber Ducky!!

We sat my camera on the top of one of the cars for this shot.... Note all those pine trees behind us... I use to think we were running low on trees.... then we visited Oregon and I've since reconsidered my thinking .... I never seen so many trees in my life..... And a good thing to know is that when they clear an area of trees, they also replant!!! Now that's a GOOD THING!!!

The guys are using the hand under the chin method to appear more youthful .....

I don't know if it worked for them, but for sure it did for us ladies.....

Lots of beautiful scenery along the way...... It was hard to decide which to post .....

It was also a very chilly day ......

This Sitka Spruce was very interesting... Hope you take the time to read what the sign says about it.....

One of the trails we walked on....

Heading towards the Light House.....

There was a neat little gift shop inside the light house.... And this was going to be one of their good sale days... With it being so cold, most of us ended up buying ourselves some hooded jackets....

Getting a closer look at the beach area.....

Phil and Steve getting their feet wet....

But not Bruce....if he can help it that is.... Steve and Phil did manage to get him close to the water's edge so I could take their picture, when a wave washed in over his sneakers and that was enough for him.... Forget about getting his picture taken, he was heading back in land....

Val enjoying watching the sea gulls and kites.....

Observing from above.....

A couple of Beach Comers....

Another Light House out on the ocean....

Every where we turned there was another beautiful sight to behold..... And not soon forgotten!!!

I Just Love This Man

2008-08-02T03:34:00.000-07:00

Bruce & Val Make a New Friend....

2008-08-02T03:31:00.000-07:00

While we were off here and there enjoying the rscenery around us, we came across this little baby squirrel... It was clear he hadn't had too much contact with humans, as he didn't seem to have any fear of us whatsoever.... Especially when food was in the offering.....

He came right up to Bruce once he realized he had something for him to eat....

And he and Val had quite the time together as well.....

Another Interesting stop In Our Journey

2008-08-02T03:12:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure just where we were here at this point ... But that bridge leads across the river into Washington State.... and we took a drive across it and back.....just because we could....

This was an old burial canoe for Indians......

Bruce and Steve gazing out over the landscape.....

What a beautiful sight to see.....

Reading interesting information about the area.....

Somebody sneaking a little smooch along the way....

This pole has a whole story written on it from one period in time to another (in words and pictures)....

Some close up shots.......

This was a map of the area where we were....

Camp 18

2008-08-02T02:42:00.000-07:00

We stopped at "Camp 18" on our way home..... What a very interesting place indeed!!! It's a huge log cabin Restaurant.... with the most interesting enterior.....

Cindy making a new friend of her own....

This was a young fella who took it upon himself to give us a guided tour of the restaurant... Very nice young man and really seemed to have a fondness for the place.....

Note the detail in these tables.....

And this beam ran the distance across the ceiling from one side of the room to the other..... The picture doesn't really do it's size justice.....

This area is in the lower level of the restaurant and is used for banquets.....

A cozy little sitting area in front of the fireplace....

Ready for some fine dining......

This was my plate... Aside from the carrots, right up my alley... Especially those mashed potatoes and gravey!!!! Mmmmmm mmmmmm GOOD!!! Nothing healthy about this plate of food....

Four hungry men about ready to dig in.....

The bibs look great don't they!!!

Bruce with our waitress.... Kinda looks like she's right up in his grill, doesn't it??

A plate full of Ribs for my man.....

Dig in Bruce..... Dig in....

A clean plate is a happy plate... Ain't that right, Ray!!

Multnomah Falls

2008-08-02T02:30:00.000-07:00

On our way to see Mount St. Helens, we stopped off at Multnomah Falls.... Another beautiful spot......

Next Stop.... Mount St. Helens

2008-08-02T02:21:00.000-07:00

On our way up to Mount St. Helens, we stopped first at the Visitors Center....

This mosaic art table was at the inside entrance of the Visitor's Building for Mount St. Helens....

Mount St. Helens......

Discussing our plans for the day.....

Mount St. Helen

2008-08-01T17:50:00.001-07:00

There she is.... Mount St. Helens.... What a magnificent sight to see as you're coming around the bend in the road....

Another view as we drew closer.....

Seems like we're right on top of the mountain, but from my understanding it was still 5 miles off from where we were.....

It was amazing to see all the devastation left behind after the eruption... And still so after all these years...

Checking Out the Devastation Left Behind

2008-07-31T15:05:00.000-07:00

These dead trees are what's left behind from when Mt. St. Helen erupted back in early 1980's...

If you look closely .... in the background, you can see still more tress felled to the ground from the eruption.....

Signs of New Life amongst the Devastation

2008-07-31T14:59:00.000-07:00

Where there's life.... There's still hope......

The Boys And Their Homemade Pens

2008-07-31T14:53:00.000-07:00

So here they are.... The homemade pens the guys worked so hard on during our reunion.... Those to the left were made by Phil and those to the right by Steve.... And that lone little fella in the middle belongs to my guy, Bruce.....

Are these some proud faces..... And as they should be.... Phil and Steve were very diligent and spent nearly every free moment down in the shop creating one new pen after the other..... Had there been more time, I'm sure they'd be there still....

So when will be hearing about your new Wooden Pen business, guys??

Saying Good-bye

2008-07-31T14:33:00.000-07:00

Before we were completely ready, the time to say "Good-bye" was soon upon us.... The week past very quickly.... Lots packed in, and many memories to take home with us.... The first to leave were the Ayers and the Gaddis.... Phil and Val were traveling by vehicle with Steve and Vicky and then they too would head off in separate directions.....

Bye Val.....

Bye Phil......

Bye Vicky......

Peace to you too, Steve.....

And they're off......

Last to arrive and last to leave.... Bruce and I wouldn't be flying out until later in the evening... Catching the 10:30 p.m. flight leaving Portland air port.... and heading home....

But before we left.... Bruce still had time to make a couple more pens.... I asked him to make one for my boss, Pete, and of course it wouldn't be right not making one for his good buddy back home, Vaughn.... So back to the wood shop for Bruce.....

Finally .... the last pen is made and ready to be packed for our trip home..... Good job, Bruce!!

Another wonderful, fun-filled reunion!!! Thank you John & Cindy for all you did to make our stay comfortable and filled with all kinds of neat adventures.... It'll be a while before we're done sharing our stories about all the things we did.... Already we're looking forward to our visit to Kentucky with Steve & Vicky.... Wow... a cabin in the Smoky Mountains!!! Just think of all the great photo opportunities we'll find there..... And, Steve, so looking forward to making my tie - dyed T-shirt!!! Maybe with your help, we can make some neat T-Shirts to equal the ones you make for yourself?? OK... might be stretching it a bit... but who knows.... You guys never made pens before and look at the great job you did there!!!

SEE YOU ALL IN 2010!!!

Visit From The Lehman 5 - June 2008

2008-06-16T04:15:00.001-07:00

Matt and Tasha had to come to New York for a special farewell party for one of their dear friends heading off to Vermont.... They stopped off to spend a few days with us on their way..... Fun days ahead for Grampa & Gramma Lehman....

It was a long trip for the Lehman 5, as well as a very early day for Grampa & Gramma Lehman getting ready for their visit... So it was easily decided bedtime would come early for us.... Not quite the same thinking for the boys.... Does anyone look sleepy here??....

Tasha said it was closer to 10 p.m. by the time she was finally able to quiet down the last child... Of course Grampa & Gramma wouldn't know that... they were already fast to sleep hours before... Getting plenty of rest for the fun filled days to come.....

Visiting Grampa & Dad on the Job

2008-06-16T04:05:00.001-07:00

Matt wanted to help Bruce on the job during their visit, so both Friday and Saturday morning he was up bright and early right along with his Dad.... Tasha and I decided to spend our Friday taking the boys out and about for the day.... starting with a visit to Sackets Harbor and then off to Old McDonald's Petting Farm .... But before we could get started, Bruce had called to ask us to drop something off to him..... We found him and Matt at his P&C stop.... so of course had to take a few pictures of our hard working men.... What a way to spend your vacation, Matt....

After their long day of work, Bruce and Matt headed off for a round of golf..... So it wasn't all work and no play!!

Sight Seeing in Sackets Harbor

2008-06-16T03:33:00.000-07:00

The boys were excited to immediately come across this cannon....

Posing on the gazeebo....

Off to check things out.....

Picnic lunch by the water.....

Big brother taking care of his little brothers...

Meeting characters from the past.....

Chandler pretending to be a soldier.....

Soldier Boy Chandler....

Chandler getting to hold the barrel of the rifle the soldier just shot.... He wanted Chandler to feel how warm it got after firing....

Boys being boys.....

Charlie living dangerously....

Picture taken by Chase....

After our little afternoon adventure in Sackets, it was time to take the boys off to the surprise place we had told them about .... Old McDonald's Petting Farm....More fun times ahead....

Old McDonald's Petting Farm

2008-06-16T02:56:00.001-07:00

After Sackets, we drove over to Old McDonald's Farm .....

Family Photo....

Getting up close and personal....

Poney Ride.... NOT HAPPENING..... JUST NOT HAPPENING!!!

With all the goats running about, Charlie was not pleased... not pleased at all... I think he thought climbing to the top of this little bridge, he'd find a safe place away from them.... Unfortunately for Charlie.... A little baby goat trying to hide away from all the hands on children also had the same thought and they met mid way a the top.... Next thing we heard was Charlie screaming at the top of his lungs and as we turned in his direction the panic in his eyes was so apparent as he was running as quickly as he could in the opposite direction away from the little goat.....

Chandler and Chase checking out a couple of baby goats.....

Chase petting Charlie's "vicious" baby goat.....

Some freshly sheered sheep.....

Checking out the bunnies......

Where to next???

I think this animal is called an Alpacea??? Now why it's considered a farm animal, I'm not really sure, but the boys did find him interesting....

Off on a a hayride........

Getting to feed the cows.....

Charlie not having anything to do with it....

Visiting the Christmas Shed.....

One of Santa's reindeer???

The closests Charlie was getting to any farm animal!!......

One more stop before heading home..... Ice Cream anyone??

Ice Cream Anyone??

2008-06-16T02:46:00.000-07:00

On our way home from MacDonald's we stopped off for a little ice cream treat.... Chandler gets First Prize for being the neatest ice cream eater.....

Chase came in 2nd.....

Charlie was in a category all his own......

I think still a long ways off from winning First Prize for being the neatest ice cream eater.....

Pillows & Blankets

2008-06-16T02:37:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure how this started, but there they were hauling pillows into the living room and throwing them on the floor.... It looked like a good idea to me, and I soon found myself helping them gather pillows from all over the house and throwing them in with the others... Each one was placed about carefully by the boys and then they ran about jumping and plunging into them..... Looked like lots of fun... I was almost tempted to join them... But had the good sense to remember I was no longer the child I would have liked to have been right then....

Then blankets were brought out to help fill in the gaps between the pillows.... It was a definite art on how each pillow and each blanket was to be spread about the floor.....

Charlie thought that because he was buried deep within the pillows, Gramma wasn't able to see him....

What fun it was to watch our darling little grandsons play and use their imaginations....

Making Camp

2008-06-16T02:28:00.001-07:00

After the pillow game, I decided to help the boys make a little camp for themselves on the back deck.... I threw together a few chairs and a small table covered with a sheet, threw down some blankets and pillows beneath and there was "CAMP"..... Chase was impressed that their camp even had windows (the lattice behind them) .... "Look, we have windows!"

Oh yeah... throw in a few snacks and a beverage each, and they were happy little campers!!!

Unfortunately, and much to the boy's disappointment, it started to sprinkle so it wasn't long before we had to break camp and pull everything back inside.....

Domino Man Chandler

2008-06-16T02:25:00.000-07:00

While Chase and Charlie played in their camp, Chandler amused himself with a box of dominos we found tucked in with some other games ..... He had fun stacking them and also lining them up and knocking them over....

Game Time with Dad

2008-06-16T02:18:00.000-07:00

After getting up in the wee hours of the morning to go off to work with Bruce all day Friday, once home again, Matt took some time to play a game with his boys, who were eagerly waiting his return...... A long day of hard work and feeling weary.... yet still, always ready to take some special time with his boys.... What a good Dad!!! (Might I add here that although Matt's energy may be running on low.... the boy's is still at high level)

Fun At The Park Playground

2008-06-15T16:16:00.000-07:00

Bruce and Matt were off to work bright and early again Saturday morning...... Tasha and I got to sleep in to around 6 or 6:30 before we heard the sounds of little feet moving about.... So up we got, and soon got them dressed and fed (mostly Tasha) and decided to take them to the park to help burn off some of the energy they always seem so full of.... (and we maybe not so much of).... Once there, the boys were off and about exploring in no time.....

Charlie hanging close to Mom.....

At one point, Charlie was running about when he slipped and fell in the stony pebbles beneath his feet.... Tasha was off on a bathroom run with one of the other boys, so Gramma to the rescue.... From that point on, Charlie decided he had enough of the playground and spent the rest of our time there on the bench with Tasha and I.....

In Fact..... he climb up on Gramma's lap and snuggled right down into a little nap for himself even....Gramma didn't mind one bit... Charlie is quite the little snuggler.....

Nothing holding back Chandler and Chase though.... They kept on going right up until we finally pulled them away two hours later..... I think they could have kept right on going another couple of hours if we'd let them.....

Just as we were getting the boys to wind things down, they found this picnic table to explore.... Charlie decided to join in one more time......

After a few run a rounds on the picnic table, we finally headed off towards home..... Time for lunch ...... and it wouldn't be long before Matt & Bruce would be home to join us.....

Steaks for Dinner

2008-06-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

On their way home from a hard day of working, Bruce and Matt stopped off and bought some steaks for our evening dinner...... Of course grilled on Bruce's new enfered grill, they couldn't come out any way but PERFECT!!!....

Good Grilling job, Bruce!!

Unexpected Nap Time For Chase

2008-06-15T16:07:00.000-07:00

It wasn't long after we returned from the playground, Chase was found snuggled up on Tasha's lap and slowly falling off to sleep.... He didn't even blink an eye when she laid him on the couch to finish his little nap....

Our sweet precious little boy..... Is there anything more precious than a sleeping child??

Another Visit to Chocolate Cottage

2008-06-15T16:01:00.000-07:00

When Bruce and Matt returned from work on Saturday afternoon, Tasha and I stole away for a little visit to the Chocolate Cottage.... This is the dessert we settled on.... Choices aren't that easy to make.....

And like the good girls we are.... we cleaned our plates.....

Hmmmmm... Wonder who I can bring to the cottage next???

Happy Father's Day Matt

2008-06-15T15:47:00.000-07:00

With the Lehman 5 having to head out bright and early for church service in Messena, Father's Day had to be scrunched into our morning before breakfast.... Once Chase heard Tasha mention Father's Day, he wasted no time in running off to the bedroom to fetch Matt's Father's Day Gift for him... Each of the boys made their own cards for Dad from my Hallmark computer program...

Once the cards were printed out they each added their own personal touch.... They were so excited to present them to their Dad....

Nice T-Shirt Dad....

I have to say here that I think Matt is one of the best Dads out there.... Not only does he work hard to support his family, but he always takes the necessary time to spend with them as well.... Your boys are very blessed to have you for their Daddy, Matt....

Happy Father's Day Grampa Bruce

2008-06-15T15:38:00.000-07:00

While the boys were doing Father's Day with Matt, Grampa Bruce was out in the kitchen fixing breakfast for every one... Matt & the boys brought him his gift and card.... Good boy, Grampa... Always read the card first....

Cute card....

Nice T-Shirt Grampa!!!

Once home from church, Bruce changed right into his new shirt and wore it all day..... I told him I should get a shirt for myself saying, "I'm with Grampa!"

I Spy

2008-06-15T15:35:00.000-07:00

While Tasha and Matt finished packing up, Grampa Bruce and the boys played a game of "I Spy"...... It's a good thing no one decided to spy something blue & white... May have taken them awhile before they guessed it right.....

Lehman 5 Family Portrait

2008-06-15T15:25:00.000-07:00

Before the Lehman 5 could leave, I was able to convince them to set for a family portrait.... Here are three of the photos I took....

These last two are especially for Aunt Amy(Her & Uncle Jay serving Iraq).... She had sent a picture of herself making a silly face... They wanted to send her a silly one too....

We had a wonderful visit... As always the time is way too short and passes way too quickly.... We love you guys!!!! Can't wait for your next visit!!!

My New Gazelle

2008-05-10T17:19:00.001-07:00

My Mother's Day gift from Bruce...... The Gazelle (Power Plus).... Growing discouraged with CURVES and not meeting my goal in losing weight, I've decided to step it up .... After our visit with Alyson, and checking out hers, we talked it over and decided to get one.... Bruce said he may even give it a try.....

While Bruce was working, I decided I could help out by getting everything out and all ready for him to put together when he got home.....

What a mess....

I decided to move everything to our bedroom (where I plan to use it) where it would not only be out of the way, but also more convenient for Bruce when he was ready to put her together...

Everything all laid out and ready to go.....

Just so you all know, I did feed him and give him a chance to catch a nap before "we" tackled the job of putting it together.....This was the only picture I was allowed to get of Bruce before I was let known, I was to take no more....

After 1 1/2 hours of steadily assembling all the parts, we made only one mistake and somehow managed to knock down the bedroom curtains before we were done.... But let it also be known.... not one angry word exchanged through the whole process.... How's that for team work.....

Now all I have to do is get a work out plan set into motion and stick to it.......(Ok, maybe cut back on 2nd helpings and maybe not so much dark chocolate).....

With some hard work and dedication.... I should reach my weight goal before we head out in July for our reunion with our good friends, (Bruce's ole air force buddies & wives) in Oregon......

Visit To The Chocolate Cottage

2008-05-05T03:46:00.001-07:00

Because I'm such a thoughtful and considerate friend, it wasn't until I turned my calendar over at work, did I realize that May 1st not only arrived, but was also my very good friend, Bonnie's birthday.... In my defense, I have had a few extra items on my plate of late, but still not really a good excuse for forgetting such a good friend's birthday.... So to make up for it, I invited her to join me at the Chocolate Cottage for a little celebration (after she got the "Happy Birthday Song" sung to her of course)..... This delightful little cottage is new to our area, but I think, if not already, will soon be overflowing with customers.... mainly of the female species..... As it was, it was fairly busy the day we were there.....

From the outside, it doesn't appear to be much to look at, and easily overlooked when traveling down an already busy street.... but once you know it's there.... not so easily forgotten or over looked...

As we entered the premises we could look right into their delightful little kitchen, the counter space just overflowing with all kinds of chocolate delights...... and the staff busily going about preparing tasty chocolate desserts to serve to their anxiously awaiting customers... To which Bonnie and I were looking forward to partaking ourselves......

This is their main dining area.... Note the little table over to the left... That's where Bonnie and I sat .... Isn't the room just lovely!!! It's like you've stepped into another world of sorts....

This... folks... is the dessert I had.... A chocolate mousse inside a dark chocolate cup, topped with home made whipped cream, and surrounded by a variety of tasty fruit, topped off with little bits of shaved chocolate pieces..... Mmmmmm.... Mmmmmmm.... Good!!!

Not sure what the name of Bonnie's dessert was, but another delectable choice to be sure.... Instead of sitting inside a chocolate cup, it sat on top of a dark chocolate cake......

And here we are... Smiling from ear to ear, as we not only enjoy the desserts before us, but also the lovely surroundings about us...... Definitely a place for the ladies to escape their busy days and forget about what stresses them out for that moment in time... and just enjoy being a woman.... doing what we all like to do.... eat chocolate and spend time with special friends!!!

Happy Birthday BonBon..... So glad we got together and had this time to catch up and enjoy our chocolate fantasies together one more time.... Hopefully many more visits ahead for us!!!

GRAND PRIZE WINNER IN PHOTO CONTEST!!

2008-03-15T09:04:00.000-07:00

Well after all the pictures I've taken through the years, you all had to know the day was coming when I'd have to enter a photo contest along the way.... AND I DID.... Actually, I entered a contest last year, but didn't even come close to winning... But didn't really think I would... My main interest at that time was to enter and scope out the winning photographs and LEARN.... Learn what I wasn't doing right, and learn techniques on how to at least get on display at the next contest, and who knows... maybe down the line, I might even win one.... Well this year's contest's theme was "So Many Difference, So Much Alike".... And I'm thinking to myself there is nothing I can come up with and came very close to just passing this year off... Then while rummaging through some old photographs I came across a photo I had taken last summer during Matt & Tasha's visit.... Bruce, Matt, and Chandler were relaxing out in the back yard, and while I was keeping busy snapping photos of everyone, snapped this one of the three of them as well..... And this folks, is my GRAND PRIZE WINNER!!!! And they definitely fit the them title.... So many differences... so much alike...

We were allowed to enter two photos.... So I also entered the "Mothers-in-Law".... I took this photo at our family reunion last summer.... The hands belong to my Aunt Bett, and her daughter in law's mother.... It seems whenever my Aunt and she would get together, she would want to hold my Aunt's hand.... SNAP!! Couldn't resist taking the picture.... Rumor has it that this photo came very close to becoming "Honorable Mention" but that they finally selected another.... which is way fine with me.... the other photographer did a grand job and deserved it!!!

Here I am receiving my prize.... which consists of $100.00, a $100.00 Gift Certificate for local photos shop, and a very nice Award Certificate!!

Bruce was on the ball and even got a picture of the sign set up in the reception area....

Here are some of the other photos....

From another angel....

Then we all had to pose for a group photo.... The four winners to the left... The three to the right are a student at the college, the Head of the college, and the owner of the local photo shop....

And here we are.... Honorable Mention, Grand Prize, First Prize, and Second Prize Winners!!!

What a grand time it was!!! Never in my wildest dreams did I really think I would win, let alone be GRAND PRIZE WINNER!!!

6TH ANNUAL HORSE SHOE TOURNAMENT

2008-02-11T02:44:00.000-08:00

February 9th, 2008.... The 6th Annual Horse Shoe Tournament.... Held in the backyard of our dear friends,Vaughn and Debbie .... Vaughn (of course) the originator of the game and the Master of Ceromonies.....

Let the games begin....

Number one (on my list anyway)... Making sure there's plenty of nurishment for all our players... (There's also hot chili and beef stew keeping warm in crock pots in the kitchen)...

Good temperature for the day's events... and even a clock to time the players (yes, they have only so long to play each match)....

The Score Board.....

And... Oh yeah... Let's not forget the Number One Rule..... (Thankfully the photographer isn't included, as long as I didn't forget my place while out on the field... players first)

Vaughn going over the game plan and rules with the players before the start of the Tournament...

The back porch is as far as the wives were allowed to go ....(which in reality they didn't really care.... they much prefered the warmth and comfort of the inside)...

Girl time....

Connie and her sister, Joyce...

The photographer taking a short break and getting my picture taken at the same time....

"Uncle" Paul still recovering from Pneumonia.... but not a good enough reason to miss the tournament, right.....

Patiently waiting their turn....

Walter up to play.....

Note the serious faces on the players..... Nobody takes this game lightly.....

Including Bruce, who was up at 3:00 a.m. in order to finish his route and be to the tournament on time, and also fighting a cold...

Dan's first time playing.....

Vaughn and Don going over the score board....

How much fun does this look.....

The new guy gets his turn....

A few of the guys relaxing between matches....

Pastor Mike's turn.....

Every body gets a turn....

Good way to keep the beverages cool....

Hotdogs anyone?....

Walter found it easier to play his game without gloves....

Sharing comments on the game...

Bruce and his partner, Scott...

And here they all are folks..... The players of this years 6th Annual Horse Shoe Tournament....

And this year's winners are..... Vaughn & Walter.....

Another good tournament shared with good friends..... Congratulations, Vaughn & Walter on your win....

Natalie Sky

2008-01-26T15:19:00.000-08:00

Natalie Sky.... Born on Christmas Day 2007 at 11:30 a. m..... Moriah endured over 30 hours of unrelenting labor.... When Natalie finally entered the world, Moriah told her mother she couldn't believe she did it.... Well you did, Moriah, and what a beautiful little girl she is too.....

Welcome to the World Natalie and into our family.... We love you sweetheart and look forward to the years ahead.... watching you grow, learn, and experience all that life has in store for you....

Always you'll be in our prayers .......

The Grammas and Grandbabies

2008-01-26T15:17:00.000-08:00

Lisa and Me

2008-01-26T15:15:00.000-08:00

Lisa is my oldest child.... As much as I love being a great grandmother, it's hard to also realize I'm also the mother now of a grandmother....

Great Gramma and Natalie Sky

2008-01-26T15:14:00.000-08:00

Sarah and Moriah

2008-01-26T15:13:00.000-08:00

Lisa, Sarah, and Kiara

2008-01-26T15:11:00.000-08:00

Lisa, Moriah, and Natalie Sky

2008-01-26T15:09:00.000-08:00

Gramma Lisa and Natalie Sky

2008-01-26T15:07:00.000-08:00

Gramma Lisa & Kiara

2008-01-26T15:05:00.000-08:00

Great Gramma & Grampa

2008-01-26T15:02:00.000-08:00

Bruce and I checking our our newest great-grand-daughter.... Natalie Sky....

Lovin Cousins

2008-01-26T15:00:00.000-08:00

Kiara and Natalie Sky....

Seth & Mikayla

2008-01-26T14:57:00.000-08:00

My grandson, Seth with his youngest sister, Mikayla.....

Lisa and Ed

2008-01-26T14:54:00.000-08:00

My lovely daughter, Lisa and her fiancee.... Ed... A very welcome new member to our growing family....

Aunt Kayla

2008-01-26T14:49:00.000-08:00

With Kiara...... With Natalie Sky....

Uncle Micah

2008-01-26T14:45:00.000-08:00

With Kiara..... With Natalie Sky....

Moriah, Adam, and Baby Natalie Sky

2008-01-26T14:25:00.000-08:00

My grand-daughter, Moriah with Adam and their daughter, Natalie Sky....

Time to Pick Up Sarah & Kiara

2008-01-26T14:11:00.000-08:00

Early Saturday morning, Lisa and I headed off to pick up Sarah and Kiara at Sarah's apartment.... Sarah was at her kitchen window ready and waiting for us....

Sarah had her apartment decorated really cute.... and although I did take plenty of pictures, I thought the one I would show is this one.... I liked how "Jesus" definitely is a welcomed visitor in her home....

Sarah is very musically inclined... She loves to write words and music to songs.... Here she's trying to share one of her newest songs.... Kiara decided she'd help..... I think she's going to follow in her Mommy's foot-steps.... Not sure Mommy is always going to appreciate the help... (smile)

Ok... we've checked out the apartment, listened to Sarah's music, and now it's time to head out to Walmart to do some serous shopping....

Kiara getting in a little nap on the way.....

Kiara Shopping With The Grammas

2008-01-26T13:57:00.001-08:00

After picking up Sarah & Kiara, we all headed off to Walmart to pick up a few things for the baby shower... Sarah went off in one direction to pick up a few things for school, and Kiara and the Grammas went off in another..... First stop along the way was to try on a few hats.... We all thought Kiara looked stunning in the leopard hat....

Down another aisle we came across a stuffed frog.... Of course Kiara had to check him out....

Then there was the stuffed Monkey.....

Choices..... choices.... choices.... What's a girl to do????

Get them all!!!!

Who's the fairest one of all??? Of course.... Princess Kiara.....

Flowers for our little Princess.....

Kiara and Gramma Lisa.....

Mikayla & Grampa Bruce

2008-01-26T13:55:00.000-08:00

GIANTS VS PATRIOTS

2008-01-26T13:47:00.000-08:00

Our grandson, Micah (9 years old), was appalled that Grampa Bruce and I were Giant's fans.... He couldn't believe we'd be for anyone but the Patriots... But then again, he does live in Massachusetts...

The boys have a $20.00 bet on the game.... As I understand it (according to Micah) when the Patriots beat the Giants, Grampa owes him $20.00..... (I'm not sure Bruce realized they had a bet on until he got a call from Micah following the Giants beating the Packers)

Lisa, Children, & Grandchildren

2008-01-26T13:43:00.000-08:00

(From left to right) Sarah & Kiara, Moriah & Natalie, Micah, Lisa, Seth, and Mikayla....

Some of Ed's Homemade Soup for Kiara

2008-01-26T13:34:00.000-08:00

Our first night at Lisa's, Ed prepared this great roast pork meal.... The next day he made soup from the left overs... Mmmmm..... Mmmmmm Good... Just ask Kiara!!!

Clean up time with Gramma Lisa....

Gramma Lisa sneaking in some smooches along the way....

Kiara Teaching Great-Gramma How To Play Patty-Cake

2008-01-26T13:30:00.000-08:00

Patty Cake.... Patty Cake.... Baker Man...

Is she just too precious or what!!!!

Making The Bunnies

2008-01-26T13:23:00.001-08:00

A few months back, my good friend, Debbie and I went to a baby shower for her step-daughter, Jenny.... At the shower they had these really neat wash cloth bunnies as favors..... I thought they were so cute, I brought one along to give to Moriah.... Lisa thought they were so cute, she talked me into helping her make 40 of them the night before Moriah's Baby Shower .....

All it requires to make the bunnies, are washclothes (number according to party size and clolors according to gender), rubber bands, ribbon, googly eyes, and something to make noses with... We bought some yarn and cut into small pieces for the nose.... Not really hard to do, but maybe a little time consuming.... You might want to plan a little more in advance then what we did if you decide to try this idea....

Happy Birthday "Sarah" & "Moriah"

2008-01-26T13:17:00.000-08:00

January 21st is both Sarah's and Moriah's birthday.... Sarah turned 20 and Moriah 19....

Lisa surprised both girls with a special birthday cake on Saturday evening.... Although a couple of days before their actual birthdate, it seemed the best time to do it, as we had everyone there and Bruce and I would be heading home on Sunday afternoon....

Don't the girls look real excited sharing yet another birthday together....

Well the cake was good anyway!!!

Ed's Famous Ribs

2008-01-26T13:07:00.000-08:00

Slow cooked all day in the oven.....

Then once basted ..... outside to the grill..... Brrrrrrr ..... it was cold out there too, but grilling was the only way to go according to Ed....

And hey.... with ribs that come out looking this good, and falling off the bone.... and did I mention DELICIOUS!!!! WHO'S GOING TO ARGUE WITH THE CHEF!!!!

Not me!!! Let me tell you folks.... Ed knows his ribs..... and if he ever makes it back up our way again..... we're going to have an "ED'S RIB NIGHT"....

Our Last Evening At Lisa's

2008-01-26T11:46:00.001-08:00

While I had all of Lisa's family together under one roof, as well as my youngest son Jason, who stopped in for an evening visit, I grabbed my Tri-pod, set it up in Lisa's little kitchen nook to get a group photo of all of us together.....

(From left to right, back row: Bruce, Me, Ed, Lisa, Adam, and my youngest son, Jason.... Bottom row from left to right: Mikayla, Sarah & Kiara, Moriah & Natalie, and Seth)

The trick is not to take too many shots in one setting, or the crowd starts to go a little crazy and turn on you..... and each other....

We really had an enjoyable visit.... Thanks Ed & Lisa for all you did to make us feel so welcomed, and comfortable during our visit.... and especially "THANK YOU ED" for the great RIBS!!! As always....DELICIOUS!!!

Natalie Sky's Baby Shower

2008-01-26T06:55:00.000-08:00

At last..... the day of Natalie's baby shower..... And also the day we return home..... Immediately following the shower.... Bruce wanted to make sure he was home in time to catch the Giants vs Packers game..... We were up bright and early that Sunday morning so we could head right over to the little restaurant where the shower was being held.... Lisa and Adam's mother, Barbara, worked together on the arrangements.... Barbara knew the owners of the restaurant and they were pleased to let them use their banquet room for the shower.... Isn't this a beautiful room.... There really wasn't much for Lisa and I to do when we arrived, except for putting out our little wash cloth bunnies and a few paper sprinkles for the tables....

It wasn't long before the guest began to arrive, and shortly behind them the guests of honor, Adam, Moriah, and of course.... Baby Natalie Sky....

Natalie's very first birthday cake....

And check out the buffet.... I haven't seen many baby showers with this fancy menu....

Rice Pilaf, Chicken Tenders, Beef Tips, and mixed vegetables.....

Over to the side was a beverage table set up for hot coffee..... As well as pitchers of ice water at our tables....

Each table was beautifully decorated..... (Note the added touches of wash cloth bunnies and the pink/white/purple paper sprinkles)......

And lots of gifts for baby Natalie.....

My grand daughter, Mary Ann was also there with her boyfriend..... I haven't seen Mary Ann in a few years so I was very pleased to see her.... and couldn't get over how grown up she is now... but should have figured she was as she and Moriah are the same age....

Adam and his mother, Barbara..... (I think baby Natalie looks very much like her grandmother)....

And here's Moriah with all her best girlfriends.......

Once the shower was close to being over, I gave Bruce a quick call to let him know.... He was soon there and after saying my good-byes to everyone, we were back on the road to home.... Bruce, me, and "Jane" (Our new GPS Unit)..... And by the way... "Jane" did a much better job of getting us home than "Sally" did in bringing us down..... Although we did confuse "Jane" a tad as we drew closer to home.... Interstate 81 (between exits 31-40) was shut down due to heavy snowfall and several accidents... We had to drive several miles on Route 11, through blinding snowfall, before finally coming out of it and eventually able to get back on Interstate 81.... All the while we were on 81, "Jane" kept trying to reroute us back onto the Interstate at every little town we drove through.... I think she was glad when we finally arrived home and she could take a well needed break..... I know we were!!!

Our Christmas Morning....

2007-12-29T11:13:00.001-08:00

Christmas morning arrived for us right around 7 a.m.... Once up we took our time getting around..... First a cup of hot coffee to get us started (International coffee is still coffee) and then we made our way back to the living room to check out our gifts from Klaus, Olivia, and boys.... Bruce and I had agreed not to get anything for each other this year as we had already gotten ourselves a few nice things throughout the year and really didn't want or need anything.... But it was still nice that we had a couple of gifts beneath the tree to open.... I really liked that they (Olivia) thought to put an "It's a Wonderful Life" angel on one of our packages..... She remembered our tradition every year of watching the movie with the Shoen's.....

Knowing that Bruce has his big ole Red Dodge Ram truck (with a hemi), they couldn't go wrong buying him stuff with the Dodge emblem ...

And oh the JACKET!!!.... He really liked that.... Had no trouble having him try it on and model it for me.....

Once Bruce was finished opening his gifts, then it was my turn..... I got a pair of really nice black dress gloves with a matching black shawl....

But I have to say, what I really liked the most were my charms.... One was of star fish, and the other of a dolphin.... The dolphin being my favorite, as it reminded me of our day at the beach when we saw them swimming in the ocean and of one of the pictures I took of Olivia and the boys and later saw I had also captured a picture of a dolphin jumping out of the water....

Thanks for the great gifts Russell Family.... We just loved them!!! But not as much as we LOVE EACH OF YOU!!!

2007 - Christmas Baby

2007-12-29T11:05:00.000-08:00

At 11:30 a.m., on Christmas morning, our grand-daughter, Moriah, gave birth to a beautiful baby girl.... Natalie Sky....... Natalie weighed in at 7 lbs 2 oz with a full head of black hair..... Wish I could post pictures but unfortunately, they live in New Hampshire and Bruce and I won't be able to get down to visit with them until mid January 08..... We received a couple photos via cell phone photograpy, which at least has given us an idea what she looks like but can't share here.... You can count on our return, I'll be busy posting plenty of pictures of our newest great grand daughter, our first great grand daughter, as well as my daughter and her family.....

Visit from Jay & Amy

2007-12-23T11:49:00.001-08:00

December 23rd..... Bruce's son, Jay, and his lovely bride, Amy, stopped in to spend a little time with us on their way to Albany to visit with her family......

This is their dog, Armani' .... Armani' will be staying with Amy's Dad while she and Jay are in Iraq (they're leaving in February).....

A family photo session before they leave..... (That tripod Bruce gave me is coming in real handy these days).....

Thanks.... Jay & Amy.... for fitting us into your busy schedule... we know you have a lot of family you're trying to get to in a very short period of time.... You'll be in our thoughts and our prayers while you're away..... Can't wait to see you again when you return home!!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!!