Have Chair - Will Travel

Emily New York

2011-06-29T12:11:00.003-06:00

Ready to go . . . Emily got the royal treatment from the JetBlue captain before departure.

Emily is ready for a ride on "Blue Kid in Town"

Joleen and Em at Miss Liberty

Emily poses at Carlo's Bakery . . . home of the Cake Boss

Emily New York

2011-06-29T12:10:00.000-06:00

The Cake Boss

2011-06-29T12:07:00.000-06:00

Took a trip to Hoboken on PATH to find Carlo's Bake Shop. The two hour wait to get in the home of the "Cake Boss" was avoided by Grandpa finding the ramp (shown in the background) and asking the door man how long before we could get in. The door man immediately got the ramp for us and we went right in. Lucky Day

Family Weekend

2011-02-14T18:59:00.001-07:00

We spent a wonderful weekend visiting with family in closest proximity to our home in Nevada. Melanie's
Aunt Diane and Uncle Ed live in Lincoln, CA and their daughter Becky and her husband Mario and 4month old son Kamden live in Cool, CA. We visited, ate, toured and generally had a great time. Uncle Ed took us for a spin in his plane.

Melanie is ready for take-off. The American River near Cool, CA

Spying on the Spy Planes. U-2's parked at Beale AFB, CA.

The Family - In Cool

2011-02-14T18:48:00.001-07:00

Family Photo - Aunt Diane (Grammi), Mario (Dad), Cousin Becky (Mom) , Kamden (a Cool little dude) Uncle Ed (Grampi)

Kamden with his Grandpa . . . . or Grandpa with his Kamden

The road to Cool, California from the air.

Arizona Hales

2011-01-24T20:51:00.001-07:00

Here they are. The Arizona Hales kids . . . . clockwise starting on the left . . . . Marlee, Porter, Sawyer, Macy, Addison and Sadie

Addison is serious about helping Uncle Joel fix his special salad for dinner.

Macy, Chelsea with Sawyer's help, Marlee and Porter concentrating on a rousing game on the Wii.

Sawyer, aka Soy Sauce, loves to watch "Happy Feet" between play times.

Christmas Eve at Joleen and Dave's

2011-01-03T16:51:00.002-07:00

Ten of the grandkids are gathered at Dave and Joleen's for Christmas Eve.

Cousins

Jorja, Ty and Ben watching the Christmas Story . . . enjoying the evening

Jared and Shelby as Nash trys on his new pj's

Snowy day at Mystic Hot Springs

2011-01-03T16:46:00.004-07:00

Modeling a Christmas outfit

Joel on stage at Mystic

A cold and snowy Christmas season.

Christmas Eve - 2010

2011-01-03T16:41:00.003-07:00

Getting to open a gift of two on Christmas Eve

Ben goes for it !

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

2010-12-06T17:47:00.003-07:00

To get to New York City, we first traveled to the Sacramento airport via I-80 and over Donner Pass, after a chains-required snowstorm. Slow, but absolutely beautiful.

We viewed the first part of the Macy's Parade from the 46th floor of our hotel. The view straight down was interesting, but the balloons seemed rather small. We then went down to street level at Times Square. Caught "Spidey" as he passed us on his way to the finish line.

This Smurf was cheery and playing to the crowd, including this good looking chick from Nevada.

Our only Christmas Market visit this year was to an indoor Christmas Market at Grand Central Station.

New York City at Thanksgiving

2010-12-06T17:35:00.004-07:00

Melanie found a spot to rest after chasing the wheelchair around the streets of New York. Her new salon of choice is Devachan Salon for Curly Girls.

John and his buddies keeping an eye on the 3.5 million parade goers at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Melanie remembering Nate on Thanksgiving Day in front of the W New York, Times Square.

Remembering Nate on his 26th birthday

2010-12-06T17:21:00.003-07:00

On November 28, Nate's 26th Birthday, we drove across the Golden Gate to Muir Woods to comemerate Nate's birthday.

At Muir Woods, at a beautiful setting near a redwood tree with a cave in the base (Nate loved exploring caves) Melanie is celebrating Nate's life. An emotional day to say the least.

Monroe - Mystic Hot Springs

2010-11-08T12:31:00.004-07:00

The path to the soaking pools. Patrons are on the honor system, Grandma and kids about to enter the Soaking Pools and Soaking Tubs.

Under the waterfalls. Soothing away the week's stresses.

Fun in the tub with the kids.

Sunset on the plateau by the pools and tubs.

Monroe - Mystic Nov 2010

2010-11-08T12:22:00.003-07:00

Posing by the animals at Mystic Hot Springs

The Go-Go went-went fairly well at the Springs

Remembering Nate at Mystic Hot Springs

Halloween - Virginia City

2010-11-03T10:33:00.002-06:00

Viriginia City - Lots of old, quaint little shops and a storied history. This is a recipe for fun for Melanie.

This vintage Rudolph Ride caught her eye. It was probably there in 1953 when I visited Virginia City with my parents. (I think I remember riding on it !)

I have to admit, the chili and BBQ at this place is the best I have ever had. Come early, there are only 4 small tables inside.

Taylor Swift at JetBLue - JFK New York

2010-10-29T18:12:00.005-06:00

After her whirlwind kick-off tour in New York City for her new album, Taylor Swift (a favorite of many of the 14 granddaughters)gave a private concert for JetBlue customers and staff at Terminal 5, JFK New York in the secured area of the terminal. I happened to be in New York that day attending to some 'bidness' and to visit my old friend Craig Smith. That evening I went to Terminal 5 to see if I could get photo for the grandkids. Her she is leaving the stage after her JetBlue mini-concert.

Ms. Swift was boarding a JetBlue charter flight to Los Angeles immediately after her performance. A few of us found out the gate from which she was leaving, and lined up for a glance and maybe a photo. Notice the little girls lined up with autograph books and pens in hand.

While Taylor Swft is pleasant and willing to interact with her little fans, she had a contingent of New York police, handlers, publicity people, private security people and a goon or two to whisk her from her changing area to the plane. Here she is being escorted (almost dragged through the hallway to the boarding area.

I did manage to get one close up as she was pushed down the hallway. Took this for all the granddaughters who are her fans.

Fleet Week San Francisco 2010

2010-10-12T16:47:00.002-06:00

Melanie's pillow

2010-10-05T15:42:00.001-06:00

Melanie bought this pillow after our move to Reno. She really does enjoy her sisters.

Family at Aubrey's Party

2010-10-05T15:40:00.002-06:00

Layne Nathan Gray all dressed up for the party !

Layne and his proud parents

Xavier at breakfast before the move.

Soleil shows off her pancake.

Farewell Party - Friends

2010-10-05T15:36:00.004-06:00

Kids had a great time on the trampoline at Julie and Lee's place.

Friends had a great time visiting at Julie and Lee's place.

Cousins had a great time in the sand box at Julie and Lee's place.

Aubrey enjoying the evening with friends and family at Julie and Lee's place.

Thanks, Julie and Lee !

A Day Trip

2010-09-27T23:46:00.002-06:00

Anxious to try out our newly licensed van on a road trip, we decided to meander on down to Virginia City, Silver City and Carson City. (City would be stretching the description - but a hundred and fifty years ago, they were boom towns for mining) p.s. the last time I was in Virginia City was with my Mom and Dad and Virginia City was less than 100 years old at that time.

We did not realize that it was "Street Vibrations" in Reno and surrounding areas. Thousands of bikers decided to visit Virginia City the same Saturday afternoon that we did. The streets were lined with bikes, biker dudes and dudettes. Lots of activity and Harley noise.

Some politician decided to campaign in a buggy.

In Carson City, Officer Dunmore decided to welcome us to Nevada. He personally stopped us near the State Capitol Building to visit about the rules and regulations of driving in Nevada. Luckily, he only gave us a warning for violating the two important sounding regulations of Nevada State Law he discussed with us. Nice guy.

Day Trip cont'd

2010-09-27T23:28:00.001-06:00

Just down the road from Virginia City is Silver City. Needed to mail a letter so we stopped at the Silver City Post Office.

Inside the Post Office were these beautiful ornate post office boxes and service counter. A throwback to the 1800's

A church sign in Virginia City.

Pics around town as requested by family

2010-09-27T23:13:00.006-06:00

This is the building where Melanie has her office. Sierra Nevada Corporation is a privately-held, fast-growing and widely diversified company operating in high-tech electronics, engineering, and manufacturing. Employees travel extensively throughout the U.S. and the world keeping the corporate travel department extremely busy.

This is one of the first buildings Melanie sought out upon arrival. The local library.

World's best Taffy ! Come visit us Jake.

An old miner, still looking for silver in "them thar' hills".

A Few House Pics for Family

2010-09-27T22:55:00.002-06:00

When house hunting in late August, we found a place which was handicapped accessible and brand new. Here are a few pics as requested by some family members. Here we have Melanie's Beach Bathroom

The Laundry Area

The family picture case . . . . featuring all 22 grandchildren

The Sister's and miscellaneous end of the bed photo display.

Go West, Young ? Man - Go West

2010-09-23T10:20:00.004-06:00

The "Beverly Hillbillies" from Utah are packed and on their way ! 520 miles on one road though beautiful high desert country. The recommended 55 mph for this rig was exceeded by about 25 mph with no mishaps.

For seven hours the view as seen in this photo never changed. Some 200 million sage brush later we arrived from the base of the Wasatch Mountains to the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Glad we weren't traveling via wagon train. (keep in mind it's only a 1 hr few minute flight from SLC (and Phoenix and Seattle) to Reno)

The Hunt for the "TREASURE"

2010-09-23T09:56:00.004-06:00

QUESTION . . . . What would be the first thing Melanie would want to find upon arriving at a brand new home ? Well, she can see it but she can't reach it . . . . so

here she goes on a quest to find her most treasured item. (The black object under the chair is Melanie's southside as she is heading north doing the U-Haul Crawl)

On the other side of the tunnel she must have found her prize as she is all smiles.

And YES ! she emerges victorious with her precious find. Her beloved Dyson Animal. All is well !

At the beach . . . Garden City, SC

2010-09-08T10:21:00.001-06:00

The Poulson kids

The Poulson Crew

Grandma and Grandpa

Garden City Beach, South Carolina

2010-09-08T10:15:00.001-06:00

Grandma and Grace staying afloat

Grandpa checks the outside world

Couple of cute chicks with matching shirts

Lots of chilin' at the pool, condo & beach

2010-09-08T10:03:00.001-06:00

Mitch with some serious hammock time

Sydney with some serious lounge chair time.

Gracie with some serious ice cream time.

Jill, Sydney, Mitch & Grace with some serious resting time.

Fort Sumter

2010-09-08T09:50:00.002-06:00

Fort Sumter, where the Civil War began.

Mitch, Jill Melanie and Sydney at Fort Sumter Two Rebs

Charleston, etc

2010-09-08T09:40:00.001-06:00

Melanie and Debra Green, Sweetgrass Basket Weaver, at Market Street, Charleston, SC

Hampton Mansion, Hampton Plantation, SC with George Washington Oak

Abby and Em's - A Gourmet Restaurant

2010-08-30T13:48:00.002-06:00

Here are the individual order tickets at Abby and Em's

And here is Abby, one of the proprietors. Emily was off managing the restaurant staff at the time.

Abby and Em's Restaurant

2010-08-30T13:44:00.001-06:00

Here is the regular menu for the restaurant. Notice the ice cream flavors are in living color.

Only employees, Abby, Emily, Andrew with temporary helpers Ben and Annie were allowed in the back room of the restaurant.

The children's dining area with patrons Tate, Soleil and Xavier about to partake in the delicious fare at Abby and Em's.

This is the Children's Menu at the restaurant

Tenacious Tim - Extreme Fighting Friend

2010-08-16T13:18:00.003-06:00

Here is Melanie with her new friend Tenacious Tim Anderson, Extreme Fighting Champ and Brazil Wrestling Federation Champion as well. Melanie was able to talk to Tenacious Tim about his Mom and life in general and found out that although Tim's profession is to inflict pain on opponents, he has a very soft and tender heart. They both teared up.

Tenacious Tim and Jelly Belly John, Extreme Fighting Champion -Wheelchair Division, hold their world championship belts.

Reno Tahoe

2010-08-10T16:12:00.001-06:00

North Sierra Street , Reno, NV

Lake Tahoe with N8

Crossing sign - Mama Bear and son, North Lake Tah0e, NV

North Lake Tahoe at dusk

Alabama Girls Storm San Francisco

2010-07-19T20:42:00.001-06:00

Sydney and Jill ridin' the Powell and Mason line on their birthday trip to San Francisco

Waiting for the Gold and Blue Adventure Bay Cruise at Pier 39.

At the park with G & G

Austin 2010

2010-07-06T09:53:00.003-06:00

A visit to Austin 4th of July weekend took us to Sea World in San Antonio with Rebecca and Jessica. Shown here awaiting the Ski Show.

Jessica's favorite ride at Sea World - Journey to Atlantis

In front of the church at the Mision de San Jose in San Antonio. This is the home of the famous Mariachi Mass.

Jessica and Angela with their Sea World friends, Coral the Dolphin and Elmo.

Disney for N8

2010-06-22T10:47:00.001-06:00

Like most kids (and parents) Nate loved DisneyLand. This trip was to visit on his behalf. Here Melanie stands next to Snow White's Grotto. From this point, the water circulates throughout the park.

It was a beautiful day to remember Nathan

In addition to seeing the new "World of Color" program at California Adventure, we rode the Midway Mania ride based on the Toy Story theme. Normal wait times were in excess of 45 minutes for one trip around the Midway, however, with the one accessible car we were able to ride 5 times in a row with no wait time. Sometimes it pays to be gimpy.

Sisters Trip Cannon Beach - 2010

2010-06-15T09:18:00.006-06:00

When the Sisters head to Cannon Beach, besides walking the beach, SHOPPING is always high on the agenda. Notice the radiant smiles as the shopping adventure begins. (Alyson was smiling too as she took the picture)

The "view from the room" this year is of the sun setting on Cannon Beach (Haystack on the right)

Besides walking on the beach and shopping, the seafood combo at Ecola Grill also places high on the list as a favorite in Cannon Beach

N8 loved the family trips to Cannon Beach and surrounding area. Here Melanie remembers him oceanside at Indian Beach.

Cancun - Memorial Day 2010

2010-06-01T17:36:00.001-06:00

Ready to head to the beach

Trying to keep his head above water.

Getting tips about shell hunting - very important

Chichen Itza

2010-06-01T17:29:00.012-06:00

El Castillo at Chichen Itza

Below - Shane and Yuhi York from New York City. Shane pushed the wheelchair around the ruins. Thanks ! You can always count on a guy with a BYU cap.

N8 the GR8 - Chichen Itza

2010-06-01T17:20:00.001-06:00

A Chichen Itza lizard stopped by at the ballcourt to say "hello"

Molther's Day Weekend 2010

2010-05-09T20:45:00.001-06:00

The traditional Kanab Mother's Day 10K was on the agenda again this year. Aubrey and Melanie crossed the finish line with a time which was six minutes faster than their previous best. All without any training !

In front of the Western/Cowboy themed HI Express in Kanab.

Fun with the kids at the hotel pool and hot tub. Soleil poses for the camera.

Remembering Nate at Jana and Alan's house.

San Francisco - Aubrey's big birthday

2010-05-03T07:29:00.003-06:00

Aubrey has a birthday this week. To celebrate her last year in her 20's, she and Melanie had a mother-daughter weekend together in San Francisco. China Town, Little Italy, Embarcadero Saturday Market, Fisherman's Wharf and a cruise around the bay were on the "decide as you go" agenda.

Besides Aubrey's birthday, they also took a moment to remember Nathan.

Brother's Reunion 2010 - "Our roots say we're brothers, our hearts say we're friends"

2010-04-28T17:02:00.013-06:00

I have limited pictures from the annual Brother's Reunion at Jason't place in Puerto Penasco. My camera was in Aruba at the time so these pictures are of the phone variety. Golf, beach, Rhino riding, acquarium visiting, games, etc. We had a ball. Yes, they are my sons, but they are also my brothers . . . . and my friends.

Jordan stocking up on Mexican style cheetos in a big way.

Jason rolled the Rhino on his foot our last night in Mexico. Rather than go to the ER, he waited until he could get to his office to do a panaflex x-ray of his foot. No broken bones. As you can see, he had to put his foot where his mouth should be.

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival - April 2010

2010-04-19T17:23:00.007-06:00

A "Sea of Tulips" dotted the valley during our trip to Skagit Valley. We saw plenty of tulips . . . but did not spot any whales, even though we were told that over a dozen gray whales are in the bay close by.

Posing in front of a small display at the Roozen Garde tulip farm in Mt. Vernon, WA. The field above was part of the farm.

TULIP Fest Apr 2010

2010-04-19T17:14:00.001-06:00

Travelled to Seattle to pick up Megan and Jeff and family to go to the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival and then to Whidbey Island to look for whales. Melanie, Megan, Kaitlyn, Jacob and Emily pose at the Roozen Garde Tulip farms near Mt Vernon, WA.

The kids had fun finding tulip petals and playing at the farm . . . even with a little rain.

Notice the Orca necklace that Melanie got from Sandra, the lady on the left who was at the Coupeville Whale information center, which houses the skeleton of Rosy, the 30 Ton gray whale.

Aruba - April 2010

2010-04-15T08:35:00.002-06:00

When Melanie moved to Texas shortly after Aubrey was born, a woman came up to her at church and said that she had a daughter with a baby the same age as Aubrey and that Melanie and her daughter, Jocelyn (Jo Beth), were going to be best friends. Well, 30 years later they are stil best friends. So off they went to Aruba to have a girls friendship trip together.

Melanie and Jo Beth were able to get some rays by the pool as well as some serious shopping and beach time and to remember the days when their kids were young . . . and they were too !

They enjoyed the natural beauty and wild life on the island which included friendly flamingos and . . . . .

a cousin of the Geico Gecko who showed up to help Melanie remember how fascinated Nathan was with lizards and all wildlife. A touching moment and memorable trip for Melanie and Jo Beth.

LA - Hollywood for N8

2010-04-15T08:09:00.004-06:00

We decided to visit the places where Nate lived during his short lifetime. One of his favoite places was Hollywood, where he lived for a couple of years. We found a park at the Hollywood Heritage Museum within a block of the place he lived.

Although near the heart of Hollywood, this park is a quiet and serene place with flowers and beautiful vegetation.

A place of tranquility for N8

Thank You note from Abby

2010-03-31T16:58:00.004-06:00

Abby is right ! We DID have a lot of fun at Disneyland and we had fun reading Abby's note. We should have sent her a Thank You note for being so sweet and helpful and cheering US up. Thanks Abs !

Abby takes over Disneyland

2010-03-15T09:52:00.036-06:00

Off to the Magic Kingdom with Abby. This trip had been planned and anticipated for many months. So off we went as scheduled to have some fun with Abby. Armed with her autograph book, we had a lovely lunch and met many princesses at Ariel's Grotto. Which one is the real princess ?

72 pictures and only 4 to post on this blog made for some tough decisions. Here Abby is about to visit Minnie Mouse in the Minnie Mouse House. then on to see Mickey at his place.

It would be hard to decide Abby's favorite ride . . . but Autotopia would be right near the top. She is ready to take the wheel

Abby's favorite food at Disneyland did not include any fruits or vegetables. It is also one of Grandpa's choices for all time good things to eat.

Thanks for making this time such a fun time for us Abby !

Nathan - Nov 28, 1984 - Mar 1, 2010

2010-03-03T04:26:00.009-07:00

Nathan and Gaz

SFO Mar 2010

2010-02-22T20:21:00.003-07:00

A quick trip to San Francisco. It's been several months since Melanie has been to China Town and she was having withdrawals. It was cold . . . but it's San Francisco. As Mark Twain said, "the coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco",

Cruisin' down the Embarcadero on the Trolley, this car was from Milan, Italy . . . circa 1930's

Took the tour of the bay on the Blue and Gold Line. The tulips were in bloom along Fisherman's Wharf.

The reason John endures the shopping trip up and down Grant Street in China Town is summed up in this picture. His reward is fresh fruit from the farmer's market, shrimp and crab cocktail and clam chowder from Fisherman's Wharf, topped off with some sourdough from Boudin's Bakery.

Alabama - Visit to the Poulson's

2010-02-11T20:56:00.001-07:00

You probably know that Jennifer, Chad and family recently moved to Alabama. Here are some pics taken at the Birminghan Vulcan Museum and Statue. Ya'll know that's a good lookin' family

Here are the three oldest girls modeling their "Alabama Girl" caps from the museum. Thanks Grandma !

Grandpa and the Poulson girls.

Gracie in the Museum store from yesteryear.

Fun at the pool

2010-02-11T20:46:00.001-07:00

The cold spell in Alabama was somewhat thwarted by a pleasant evening in the hotel pool by the Poulson kids. Had the whole pool to ourselves. Grace hung on to the edge.

A little Water Dancing or Synchronized Swimming by Jill and Mitch. Sydney was judging and gave them a perfect 10 ?

Gracie and Jill

Hoover Ward - Alabama

2010-02-11T20:39:00.001-07:00

Grandma and Grandpoa pose after Church with the newly called Teacher's Quorum President of the Hoover WardJen and her friend Patty after the Spanish Sunday School Class and just before Relief Society.

Jen and her new friend Patty just after Spanish Sunday School class.

Carole and Alan - Wedding in Denver

2010-02-11T20:26:00.001-07:00

Melanie's friend from CR England, Carole, and Alan, also an England guy, were married in Denver on February 5th. Leading the way is the lovely Matron of Honor.

The Bride and Groom - after the wedding, before the reception, dinner and dancing.

Sawyer Jordan Hales

2010-01-04T20:14:00.001-07:00

The Hales Family - Chelsea, Jordan and the newly named Sawyer Jordan Hales

The Hales Family plus Grandma and Grandpa Hales

Sawyer made the rounds . . . and was very patient and accomodating.

Porter and Grandpa ready to go see Sawyer.

Backyard Transportation

2010-01-04T19:57:00.001-07:00

Changing drivers for the next few laps. Addison waiting to ride shotgun, Macy takes a break, and Marlee moves to the driver's seat.

Coming 'round the corner and headin' for the straightaway with Marlee and Addison

Porter at the wheel. Addison shows him the way.

Macy takes her scooter for a spin on the court.

Oregon Coast

2010-01-04T19:36:00.001-07:00

Haystack Rock from Tolovana Beach. Nothin' but water.

Down the 101 to Tillamook and the cheese factory.

CannonBeach New Year

2010-01-04T19:26:00.001-07:00

The street lights are festive in Seaside.

The Seaside turnaround and stormy sea

No trip to Cannon Beach is complete without a stop at Bruce's Candy Kitchen.

The tide is at it's high with the beach almost covered with water. The wind and chill was typical for an Oregon coast winter day (or summer day for that matter)

Milk and Cookies with Santa

2009-12-22T21:30:00.003-07:00

Santa holds the group in his spell with some magic, some balloon tricks and some fun chatter. Mrs Claus just chuckled at the old man from the North Pole.

It was Milk, Cookies and Crafts for the kids.

Fun with the crayons

Makenna and a finished product

Milk and Cookies cont'd

2009-12-22T21:11:00.002-07:00

Jared, Shelby and Nash

Uncle Joel and Santa chat

Benjamin Peterson

Alex Gray

Kids with Santa & Mrs Claus

2009-12-22T20:58:00.004-07:00

Emily Reddish

Abby Peterson

Andrew Peterson

Makenna Meyers

Santa and the Big Kids

2009-12-22T20:39:00.001-07:00

We all had a fun time with Mr and Mrs Claus. Here the Hales and the Gray's pose with the jolly old soul and his wife.

The Hales Boys from Nampa

2009-12-22T20:24:00.001-07:00

This blog has a travel theme. However, there are some trips you never want to make. The weekend of December 12, 2009 was such a weekend, with a trip to Idaho to visit my brother Noel who was in the ICU at St Alphonsus Medical Center in Boise. We arrived Saturday to visit Noel in the hospital, however, Noel passed away at 2:00 am Sunday morning. His funeral was held Wednesday, December 16th. Here is an article from the Nampa paper regarding Noel and his life of service to others. http://idahopress.com/front/?id=28524

Lee and Marti met us at the airport before the funeral. Here Lee and I stop for a picture after the funeral at the family luncheon. Our big sister Janice passed away last Christmas time, and Noel this year.

Here we are with our spouses, companions, caretakers. Wish we could return all the service they give to us. Someday maybe. We will miss Noel . . . he will not miss the pain and suffering he experienced these last few years. Our love goes out to Loretta and to Noel's children. Lee and I decided that we will have no more of this kind of trip for many, many years to come.

Pool Party

2009-12-22T19:32:00.005-07:00

The weather outside was frightful, but inside the HI Express water park, it was delightful. Melanie arranged for a pool party sleep-over for the weekend with several members of the Gray family.

A couple of bobble-heads in the hot-tub.

The little girls wore themselves out swimming, jumping, laughing for hours in the pool.

Drove between pools with no mishaps.

The Journey Begins

2009-12-08T21:52:00.007-07:00

Arrived in Paris on the non-stop from Salt Lake. Bags came right out but no wheelchair showed up. After waiting an hour and a half, they brought out the chair, or what was left of it. It looked like a two ton shipping container had been dropped on it. After filling out some paper work for a claim, we pushed and prodded parts back into place, loaded it in the car and headed for Brussels.
In Brussels we came upon the best of the best Belgian Chocolate at a shop called Leonidas. Since my father, Leon K. Hales, was really given the first name of Leonidas, we could not resist gathering some momentos with his name on them to help us celebrate his 100th birthday this coming March. I believe he would get a kick out of chocolates with his name on them were he still with us. It does not hurt that the momentos are filled with the finest Belgian chocolate available.

From Brussels we (Melanie) began the routine of packing the car with the wheelchair in the trunk and suitcases in the back seat. Melanie has become an expert at this process and makes it possible (even with a Delta damaged wheelchair) for us to travel at the pace we do. She does the packing, loading, wheelchair pushing and GPS operating. All I have to do is drive. Thanks Dear !

Holland - Delft and The Hague

2009-12-08T21:23:00.006-07:00

Many of you know that Melanie is a collector of blue and white Delft Blauw China. Well, we made our way to "Mecca" or Delft, Holland and found the two officially sanctioned manufacturers of Delftware. Even the signs were in Delftware.

A display of the various stages of Delft Blauw manufacturing at the small shop.

By a Delft decorated tree at the Royal Delft factory and showroom.

From Delft to The Hague. In the background is the Mauritshuis Museum which houses Vermeer's most famous work, "Girl with a Pearl Earring" An amazing work which brought tears of emotion to Melanie when she viewed it in person. An Academy Award nominated movie by the same name, "Girl with a Pearl Earring" is available which tells a version of how Vermeer may have painted this masterpiece. The movie stars Colin Firth and Scarlett Johansson

Tulips and Cheese

2009-12-08T20:54:00.005-07:00

Stopping at the Blumen Market on a canal in Amsterdam.

Tulips available at the end of November

Waiting at the cheese shop near the flower market. Notice the shutters on the building.

Here is the rest of the building above the cheese shop. Solid wooden shutters for six stories up. A highlight of Amsterdam was a visit to the Anne Frank House. The story of Anne Frank and all the Jewish people affected by Hitler's holocaust is heart wrenching and, hopefully, a learning event for all mankind.

Windmills & Wooden Shoes

2009-12-08T20:47:00.001-07:00

View from the deck of a working windmill

Going Up

Bikes are a major form of transportation in Holland. In the cities, there are separate traffic signals for bikes and cars at each intersection. Melanie tried out this sweet number with a basket on the front.

Of course we made a stop at a wooden shoe shop.

Cologne Cathedral and Christmas Markets

2009-12-08T20:34:00.003-07:00

The pictures are a little fuzzy, but the setting is magnificent. The Cologne Cathedral or "Kolner Dom" whose main tower at one time in the 1800's was the tallest building in the world. It's main work of art is the "Shrine of the Three Kings" an ornate sarcophogus dating to the 13th Century which tradition says contains the remains and some clothing and artifacts of the Three Wise Men.

Christmas Market booths are set up in the square beside the Cathedral. There is an emphasis on The Three Kings at this market . . . and of course many booths (usually the busiest booths) with Bratwurst and Glugwein. There were 4 other markets in Cologne all with a little different theme and items for sale.

Melanie with the market in the background.

Back to Holland & France

2009-12-08T20:15:00.003-07:00

This picture was taken for us by a British tourist visiting the "Kerst Markt" or Christmas Market in Valkenburg, Holland. Valkenburg is a small town with a large Christmas Market held entirely in a cave. The caverns are expansive with literally hundreds of Christmas displays and booths.

Down the street from the market in a cave was a pleasant sidewalk cafe called "Au Soleil" The "warme chocomel" sure tasted good.

On to the northern part of France to the town of Lille, which also has a Christmas Market. Lille is a major transportation center for Northern France so it's Christmas Market attracts many tourists from Great Britain and other European countries. It is also a university town and the seat of government for the northern region of France. It seemed to me that the average age of folks we observed in Lille was about 25 years of age.
On our final night in France we visited an unplanned for Christmas market along the Champs-Elysees. The trees along the strreet were lighted with blue and white lights and it was delightful. The Eifell Tower light display at night was also spectacular. Paris is pretty anytime, but especially at Christmas time.

I fell out of my wheelchair on the sidewalk along the Champs-Elysees and was rescued by a very large (6'8" -280 lb) French and English speaking man who was strolling the markets with his wife and two young children. He literally picked me up and put me back in the chair. I am sure he must be a professional basketball player in a French or Euro league, but I never got his name.

We had dinner at Melanie's favorite restaurant in France, King Ludwig's Castle. Ask me where it is located some day.

American Girl

2009-12-08T10:28:00.008-07:00

An excited little girl ready for a birthday trip to the American Girl Store, LA. She packed weeks before and asked everyday if it was time to leave.

A stop in Downtown Disney set the tone.

Aubrey and Soliel pose with a gorilla

Pouring some hot chocolate at lunchtime for her birthday baby at the American Girl Store.

Vancouver - 09

2009-10-12T15:44:00.007-06:00

Made a quick weekend trip to Vancouver to enjoy it's beauty and people. We met up with Wei Yongle, friend from China who recently moved with his family to Vancouver. Wei has left the tour guide business and is studying hard to become an electrical engineer.

Here is Melanie observing the old and famous steam powered clock in the waterfront area of Vancouver.

Commuting across the Bay on the wheelchair-accessible AquaBus. Fun trip - fun friends

Puerto Vallarta - 09

2009-09-09T17:13:00.001-06:00

Labor Day weekend in PVR is becoming a habit. It always includes 1) Strolls on the Beach

2) Relaxing on the beach and poolside

3) Time in the water

and 4) some good Shrimp Ceviche, other Mexican dishes and this year a fine Argentine restaurant at the Marina.

PVR 09 - Our Buddies

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One of Melanie's favorite forms of relaxation is shopping. Here she is with our favorite vendor and friend Pepe. Pepe and his sons are almost permanenet fixtures on the beach by the Marriott. No trip to PVR is complete without a visit with Pepe.

After Pepe left for a family outing, Melanie had to check out Osvaldo's inventory of treasures.

Melanie relaxing after a hard day shopping on the beach.

PVR 09 - Churches Visited

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This is the main altar at the church of San Sebastian in the village of San Sebastian Del Oeste. This church was built in 1608 when Mexico was under Spanish rule. The town was a mining town where gold and silver were extracted and sent to Spanish royalty.

Another altar at San Sebastian.

The Ixtapa Ward meetinghouse near the airport. (basketball courts (2) outside)

PVR 09- Day Trip to the Sierra Madres

2009-09-09T15:51:00.001-06:00

On a day trip from PVR to San Sebastian Del Oeste we encountered paved, dirt and cobblestone roads.

After an hour or so traveling through the mountains, we encountered a small round-up in a village near San Sebastian.

San Sabastian Del Oeste is a colonial town established under Spanish rule in the early 1600's. Lunch on the main square at Posada Sol.

Looking over the plaza at San Sebastian toward the church of San Sebastian.

PVR 09 - An encounter with nature

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In the Atrium at the Marriott Casa Magna a display of some of Mexico's native animals includes the Jaguara Azteca, native to the Chiapas region of southern Mexico.

And best of all, Melanie's baby turtle, newly hatched and ready to be released in the baby turtle release program. These little guys are released at 8:00 pm which is the best time for successful release for survival of these little sea turtles. The instinctively head for the sea when released.

Melanie saying "good-bye" to her little friend as he heads into Banderas Bay and the Pacific.

Home through Guadalajara

2009-09-09T15:22:00.001-06:00

Melanie and Justino in the square at Tlaquepaque, shopping Mecca near Guadalajara. Justino, affiliated with the CREngland partner in Mexico, was kind enough to host us in Guadalajara during a long layover between flights. Thanks Justino !

We had breakfast at the world famous Casa del Waffle

Gray Family Picnic Aug 09

2009-09-09T15:04:00.001-06:00

A picnic in the park before Rebecca, Jessica and Angela returned to Texas and Megan, Jeff, Kaitlin, Jacob and Emily
headed for home in Washington

Another Trip to Sea World

2009-08-21T20:07:00.000-06:00

At the Salt Lake airport on the way to San Diego. When is the flight going to leave ?

On the San Diego Trolley on the way to Sea World. A little Pizza makes the time go fast.

Finally - Where's Shamu ? Oh well, Aunt Melanie found a hat shop. Who needs whales when there are shops around ?

Sea World

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Along with Shamu, the penguins, sea lions, seals, sharks, etc, a really interesting exhibit was the Manatee Rescue exhibit. Kaitlin now has a little Manatee stuffed animal she purchased. Way cute !

Trying to get up courage to pet the sting rays !

Kaitlin just decided to go for it. Melanie just decided to watch.

Waiting for the big show to begin. The night shows are really fun.

San Diego Stay

2009-08-21T19:38:00.000-06:00

Breakfast in bed for Kaitlin. Someone could get spoiled . . . . but she brought her own rice krispies.

View from the room of the San Diego Marriott Resort and Marina.

The pool was a mere 23 stories down from this room shot. Just beyond the grounds is San Diego's Seaport Village. The girls had some fun there.

Heading home from the San Diego airport.

Driving and Soccer

2009-08-21T19:26:00.000-06:00

Melanie took a Southwest flight early Saturday, Aug 8, to Seattle. Megan met her at the airport and they started the car journey with Kaitlin, Jake and Emily from Seattle to Salt Lake City. After overnighting in Boise, they pulled in early afternnon and the visit to Utah began. All survived the trip well as you can see from this photo.

Meanwhile, Jorja and her family invited me to go with them to a Real Salt Lake soccer game. We scored some excellent ADA seats and had a great time. Nice stadium . . . lots of fun.

Ben wanted to wrap up when the sun went behind the stadium wall.

San Diego - With Danelle and boys

2009-08-03T20:52:00.002-06:00

Melanie, Danelle, Erik and Austin took a little weekend pre-school trip to San Diego to visit the beach and Sea World. Melanie snapped the pictures,but she really was there. Here is a family group photo of the lucky boys with Danelle.

Brothers enjoying the beach at La Jolla.

Danelle joins them in the surf (sort of)

Sea World San Diego

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Austin and the birds.

Erik and Austin pose with a SeaWorld horse

The family and friends

Austin and Mom enjoying San Diego before the Dolphin performance.

Wei Yongle Comes to the USA

2009-08-03T20:24:00.006-06:00

The Spirit of Utah national guide for China, Wei Yongle, a close and dear friend of all travelers on the three Spirit of Utah China trips, made his first trip to the United States the weekend of July 25th. Melanie and John met him as he arrived in Seattle, later joined by Al and Elsa and a whirlwind tour of places and events in the Seattle area began.

A visit to Pike's Place was followed by visits to the Museum of Flight, Seattle Center, Space Needle, floating bridges, a reception at the Bothell Ward building for Al and Kay Carlisle's 50th Anniversary. Sacrament Meeting in the Bothell Ward Sunday morning

More visits through Sunday and Monday to the Asian Art Museum, China Town, Museum of Seattle History, Seattle Aquarium, Qwest and Safeco Fields, Seattle Waterfront, University of Washington, Microsoft Museum, a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island, etc, etc.

A reception for Wei was held Sunday afternoon at the home of Bob and Sandra Terry which was attended by the Seattle contingent of Spirit of Utah travelers. It was a wonderful visit with our good friend Wei.

SPIRIT OF UTAH

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Melanie brought the "Spirit of Uath" bus sign from the 2007 China group trip.

John and his buddy Bill "Goose" Ellis.

Wei with Sue Titus. Wei proudly wore his Utah shirt. The purpose of the shirt was to signify Utah, the State, not the team.

Melanie with Jan Bean, family friend and ward member when Melanie was a mere teenager.

Hales Family Reunion - Raging Waters

2009-08-03T19:48:00.012-06:00

Friday was Raging Waters fun. A favorite game was crossing the islands with the help of a rope net. Andrew was pretty good at getting across.

Tate loved going down the slide and then getting some more food to eat.

More fun with the ropes.

Jen and Grace playing in the water.

Snickers the Clown

2009-08-03T19:37:00.001-06:00

At the Hales Kids reunion, Snickers the Clown aka. Snickies made a visit to do some magic and tie some balloons for the little kids.

The cousins were in awe whiles Snickies performed his magic.

Each one got to choose his/her own ballon, color and shape from any type of animal or object they wished.

Here are the cousins who selected a parrot and a pirate eye patch.

Graceland & Memphis, TN July 4th, 2009

2009-07-06T17:13:00.002-06:00

Melanie is fascinated with signs, so here are a couple she took pictures of in Memphis, on our July 4th visit to Memphis and Graceland.

Since it was the 4th of July, we thought it might be appropraite to pay tribute to Elvis, who did serve in the US Army in Germany, by putting on a link to his "American Trilogy" performed in 1973. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpM3pQDezrU

Also, a little search of the rumored Elvis / Mormon connection yielded this little tidbit of information from Alan Osmond that some of you may find interesting. Fact . . . or Mormon Folk Lore ? http://elvisbofm.com/

Melanie at the Private Elvis portion of the Graceland Museum. Inducted at age 21 in 1958, served in an Armored Cav unit in Germany.

More Graceland & National Civil Rights Museum

2009-07-06T16:57:00.006-06:00

At Graceland, in the meditation garden and private cemetery, are buried Elvis, his parents, his paternal Grandmother and his twin brother, Jessie Gabon Presley. who was still born, (supposedly) According to the debut novel by New York Times writer Steve Carlson entitled "Almost Graceland" . . . well you'll have to read it to see the premise, but it is a book that "explores the power of loss and redemption in a moving portrait of Elvis at the end of his life".

After Graceland we visited the National Civil Rights Museum at the old Lorraine Hotel, the site of the assasination of Dr. Martin Luther King in 1968. This museum tells the history of the civil rights movement in the USA and the world. While purchasing our tickets, Melanie handed the girl working at the ticket office her ID and credit card. The girl exclaimed, "You're Melanie Gray ?" Melanie said "Yes, why?" She girl replied, "I'm Melanie Gray too !" Melanie said show me your ID and sure enough, there were two Melanie Gray's looking at each other face-to-face. Couldn't pass up an opportunity to take a picture of that in front of the wall at the National Civil Rights Museum.

Leaving Memphis - 2009

2009-07-06T16:38:00.001-06:00

On the corner of Beale Street and Second Avenue, just west of BB King's place was this poster advertising the Cochran Firm. We took this photo for Jared.

In Germantown, TN, a suburb of Memphis, while stopped at a stop light at the corner of Germantown Road and Farmington Ave, we were rear ended, not once, but twice by a lady from Illinois. Guess we should have called the Cochran Firm to bolster our retirement fund, but instead we called Hertz and the Germantown police.

PARIS SISTER'S TRIP - JUNE 2009

2009-06-17T21:26:00.000-06:00

VIEW FROM HOTEL ROOM WINDOW

After nearly a year of planning after last year's Sister's Trip to San Francisco, three of the Gray sister's committed to and embarqued on a trip to Paris and surrounding areas. Megan, Danelle and Melanie left SLC on June 6 and returned June 15. Many sites in and around Paris were visited as well as day trips to Giverny (Monet's home and gardens) and Versailles. Megan was the official photographer and has hundreds of interesting photos, but here are a few photos taken by Melanie or with her camera for our blog..

Sister's Paris Tfrip

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Melanie, after the sisters climbed to the top of Notre Dame -

Had lunch with Quasimoto

Danelle and Megan at the top of the Arc de Triomphe

Megan and Danelle at the Louvre

A Day Trp

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On the train to Vernon (Giverny and Monet's house and garden)

More train fun-

After a long day - conked out

Miscellaneous Photos

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Three Sisters at the Hall of Mirrors - Versailles
Two sisters trying to decide where to go next.
Cruising along the Seine
The French flag waving proudly

Hit a few shops (Many Actually)

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Antique Shop

All-A-Euro Store

Disney Shops at Disneyland Paris

Free breakfast sign at HI Express