Fall Happy Hour 2009, College Station, TX

First off, I would like to say 'Hi my name is Danielle and I am a slacker.' I hope you can forgive me, I have been busy/lazy/too 'over' taking pictures/without a home/traveling/no internet connection/crappy internet connection/ for the past several months. I will try to take it day by day and post pictures as they are taken from this post forward!

Here are some of the latest from Friday's Happy Hour. Those who know Athens know Friday Happy Hour is important and hardly ever missed. When Rudy and I arrived in College Station, this was not the case. College Station, being the land of strip malls and no downtown, has no place to meet-up and socialize that is unique like in Athens. So Rudy and I began to invite people out every Friday from 4pm until 6pm at O'Bannons - the best chain bar around that we could find. And twice a year, we have a Happy Hour of our own. Here are some of last week's pics.

Some of the faculty in Rudy's dept -

L-R: Amanda, Ulli, Rudy

Background - Jerry, the crazy grad student

They say everyone always goes to the kitchen.

Need a bigger kitchen!

We like wine - can you tell?

How many glasses?

Bea & the Shafers (more faculty) -

the cutest couple ever!

Rudy and Bill yacking it up...yo yo.

Bea and I -

Beatriz is a grad student who came to Fiji with us.

Sunset on the balcony

Hugh, Christy, Ted and Andrew -

probably 'community organizing' something!

Fiji Me!

Hey guys. No pictures this time - just a small update to let you know we are alive and well.

Just arrived in Brisbane, Australia today and headed to Townsville tomorrow (just an overnight stopover). There is so much to tell, I really have no idea where to begin.

Day 1:

Well, we picked our group of 18 students up at Nadi airport about a week ago and we headed across the large island of Fiji to a resort like backpacker accomodation. The first day (after arriving) was largely free so students could get to know one another and to sleep off the jet lag. The next day was a trip to USP - the University of the South Pacific for 5 lectures about Tourism and life in Fiji - socially, economically, environmentally, politically - customs, etc.....this is where the students got to know what is happening on the trip and what to expect. Since this is technically a study abroad group - they have academic responsibilities.

On our way home from USP, we stopped by the Fijian President's house to mess with the guards and the House of Parliment. Technically, the government has been in a coup recently (and they technically have a dictatorship), nothing was really going on but it was interesting to see. USP was in Suva - the largest city in Fiji and its capital. Again, once pictures are downloaded, you will see - it is a developing nation - so it looks more like India (in my head) then what one would traditionally call 'Fiji.' We were all exhausted still from jet lag so we headed back and crashed early.

I will write more later....

Bula!

Bula from Nadi, Fiji!

Rudy and I have arrived in Fiji a little over a day ago. After a 24 hour journey here (which was uneventful thank god!), we waited for our shuttle from the airport as the sun was rising. We both were and are still a bit jet-lagged, however it has not been nearly as bad as when we have traveled to Europe. I guess because the time difference is so great (17 hours) we have felt it less than a 6 or 7 hour time change.

So after we arrived at our hotel, we cat napped and ate some breakfast. Afterwards we took a taxi to another side of Nadi - where there are more beaches and scenery. On the way to and from though, the scene was more like what I would have pictured in India or Bangladesh - cars zipping through crowds, dogs running randomly, and people of indian and native Fijian decent walking to and from market. Afros are very popular here and men wearing sulus/skirts is common. All in all, very different from anywhere I have ever been!

Here are a few pictures of our hotel, beach, etc. We head off tomorrow to another area of Fiji with the students arriving from Texas A&M. Rudy, myself and a gentlemen named Lee are in charge of keeping them alive while on their trip abroad. Some of the students have never been outside of Texas, so needless to say, we are going to keep an eye on them.

Until next time....

Our hotel and view from our room:

The beach:

Milo Loves Salsa

Our friends, David and Alley, had a nice get together tonight.  We had fun cooking out, salsa dancing and talking with many folks from RPTS (Rudy's Department) and outside.  Here are a few shots:

What I brought - Greek salad on a skewer

Milo (he is a spanish speaking dog from Costa) trying to keep David and Alley from salsa dancing.  He was quite funny.  He kept on going between them breaking them up.  Can you say 'jealous'?

Milo gets his turn

Milo taking a breather after dancing the night away

Richard and Ashley were having fun looking at the doggy dancing.  (Richard is the IT genius in RPTS and has been very valuable to Rudy with all his computer woes).

Goodwill Gucci

I was so excited I found this set of 12 highball glasses at Goodwill.  I just had to share!  $3.00 + tax for the whole set. They were perfect for our dinner party a few nights ago!

Rudy and I break things almost daily - the drawback to concrete floors.  Victims this week included a butter dish and a votive candle holder.  So Goodwill Gucci it will be until we stop with the butter fingers.

Our New Home!

We are moving (urg) again this summer.  Although, We love our current flat, its a bit small.  Rudy is now working from home about two days per week and in one room, we are definitely cramped. 

These are the townhomes we are moving into - they are right across from a park/walking trails, outdoor concert arena, and we will be right on the bus line to the university.  Rudy can also bike to work (about a mile) safely - which has been impossible where we currently live.  The apartment/townhouses will have two pools, a huge 24 hour workout facility, a restaurant, a bakery, shops, a wine store...you name it....its here.  We are so excited!

We will move in sometime this August - once construction is complete. Here are some pics we took while checking out the progress the construction crews were making....

The one on the end is ours.  We lucked out because being on the end, we are the only ones with a wrap around balcony.  These are two bedroom, 2.5 bath, 1500 sq. ft townhomes.

This is not our kitchen but it will look something like this one.

In the park across the street

The hills are alive....with the sound of Rudeman.

Austin is....Our Kind of Town

As Rudy and I "adjust" to living in rural Texas, we find it is very therapeutic to run to Austin about once or twice a month.  We love eating at unique restaurants, going to farmer's markets, listening to music - all are things that Austin can provide!  Here are photos from our recent trip.

Whisk! - a relatively new restaurant in Austin.  More of a cool take out, locally sourced lunch place.  Great atmosphere, even better food.  You can eat in the kitchen with the chef or dine al fresco.

Barton Springs:  Natural, Spring fed swimming hole + park near downtown Austin.  It was already packed since it is quite hot here in Texas.  

Austin Botanical Gardens:

Austin Farmer's Market (AMAZING!) - you could find everything you need - fresh bread, pastry, local organic veggies, fresh fruit, fish - all while listening to bluegrass.  I was in heaven!

Remember the Alamo!

Its been quite awhile...I've been a bad, bad blogger!  

My parent's came over Rudy's Spring Break and we had so much fun!  This was their first trip to Texas since we moved here.  We went to Austin and visited the Texas Capital and then went on to San Antonio to see some of the sights there.  The Alamo, the Riverwalk and the missions (Catholic Diocese) in the area were quite facinating.  We tried to convince Dad to ask if there was a basement in the Alamo and he wouldn't (Google Pee Wee's Big Adventure).  I didn't take many pictures (Dad took most of them) but here are a few shots! 

The Riverwalk

Welcome to Beautiful Texas!

Mom and Dad's view from their hotel room.

The Alamo

Far From Home

I've given it a lot of thought and this move to Texas from Georgia has been as culturally different for me as New York is to North Carolina. It is coming to me in thoughts here and there - life is different here in Texas. We live in Texas (I am still in shock)! Rudy and I sometimes cannot grasp it. Why? I am not quite sure. In our almost 11 years of marriage we have moved about 5 times to different cities and towns - so moving is not new to us. I realize what made Athens different the second time around. We purchased our first home in 2004 in Athens. It was our home. I have not felt an attachment to a house since I first met Rudy in 1993 when my family lived on Lake Bend Way in Greensboro, NC. We still miss that house. And although we still own our Athens house, we miss it as well.

Ironically, we are now craving stability and somehow we dislike the idea of settling here. The job is excellent, the friendships have begun and seem sincere, my health is continuing to improve - why not settle here? Something tells us both, this is not "it." Only time will tell. There are many adventures ahead - for that we are certain!

For now, trips to Austin will have to do - we love Austin! And this weekend we are headed there AGAIN to relax and enjoy. We may even consider living there at some point - but for now, we will commit to another year in College Station.

Pull ups Potty Dance

Commercial that is so hysterical/bizarre/slightly disturbing:

Potty Dance:

Leisure Work

Rudy was at a conference for Leisure Educators in Salt Lake City. As you can see, 10 years of schooling in Leisure does definitely have its perks!  The Dr. of Fun AKA Rudy, apparently is having lots of leisure!

Rudy and several other professors went to Park City for an afternoon of cross country skiing. Apparently they saw a moose across the canyon and all were asked to keep quiet since Moose kill more humans in North America than any other animal (or so Rudy tells me).

Rudy is set to return on Sunday night.  Come home soon smoopy!

Knit-Wit

Here's my man - knitting a hat for his brother's girl, Stephanie.  It turned out great!  BTW, we do use the lights.  Not sure why Rudy has his headlamp on!?!

Stephanie was kind enought to take a 

picture for me with it on!  Thanks Steph!

Field Trip

Rudy and I took a trip a few weeks ago to Austin. We had a great day - a picnic, a trip to a museum and great 70 degree January weather. We are adapting to Texas and our proximity to Austin makes that a much easier.  We love Austin!

A few cool shots from our day:

eyes that follow you throughout the room

spaghetti like sculpture outside of the museum

Ancient Athenian coins (circa 120-190 AD)

Another Athenian coin

Our House..... is a very, very, very nice house

Every other year, Rudy and I head to Cincinnati for the holidays.  And I started a tradition of making a gingerbread house.  Rudy and his brother Joshua have created their own tradition of destroying the house at the end of the week.  Here is this year's house:

The before

The after

Happy New Year From Dudy!

What's For Dinner?

Just being silly...and we were bored (it is Texas afterall) so here is what we ate....Cajun Scallops with Succatash

Rudy cleaned his plate!

It was vest night at the Dunlaps...

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And the next day...for a holiday party....Peppermint Bark!  

Rudy's favorite!

Snow! Seriously, it snowed in Texas!

So we got snow...unbelieveable.  It's a Christmas miracle for Texas!  I spoke to people in their 20's who had never seen snow in their lives (and have always lived in this region).  It was fun while it lasted and made us all think it felt a little more like the holidays.  Of course, the next day was in the 70's but ....hey....it snowed!

Snowball to prove it snowed here.  

Come and visit and see the snowball, in person.

Sleigh Riding, Texas Style

So as most of you know, I traveled several places over the last few months (Canada, Baltimore, DC, North Carolina, Florida, Georgia and soon to be in Ohio) and I got it out of my system!  I decided until we have children, I wanted to go back to work.  We both realized I was driving myself nuts at home (there is only so much one can do) and I had an opportunity to go back into special events planning.  I began my career a long time ago with Marriott in DC area and I loved planning events.  Unfortunately, it is not a high salary so when Rudy went to grad school, I went into Human Resources.  

Two weeks ago, I took a position working with Bryan Parks and Recreation and I love it!  I was hired specifically for our large event in June called Texas Reds Wine Festival - but, I also work other events such as the holiday themed events we have in our local parks.  These are pictures from my first night on the job.  Our office hired a snow-maker from Colorado (12 hours away) to come and make snow for the kiddies.  I must say, although I thought it was a little lame when I heard about it, it turned out to be a really cool thing for the Texas kids to experience.  My memories growing up were of sleigh riding with all the kids in the neighborhood - Joe, Nancy, etc. and it was magical.  For one night, Bryan Parks and Rec was able to bring that to the kids here.  How cool.

My Nieces @ Thanksgiving

Olivia staring at her Aunt DD wondering why she (I) takes so many pics

Kira

Foot-Fights on Nana's couch

Travelin' Woman

A week or so ago, I was able to go to St. Augustine to pug-sit for my cousin Amy's 'babies' - Henry and Isabelle.  They were headed to Ireland for a week and a half and I went to their beautiful home to rest, read and relax on my own.  Solitude was nice. Here are a few photos of my trip.

Henry waiting for mom and dad to return.

Quebec City Part Two

More pics from our trip to Quebec.   We met some awesome folks from all over the world (hence, the name World Leisure Congress) and we went out for some biere (beer) and poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curd) one night.  We saw some hippies dancing and I am happy to report, hippies do drum and dance the same in Quebec as they do in Boone, NC.

The next day, Rudy was free to sightsee - so here are some of those pics of the old harbor in Quebec City:

10 Ans

We finally are celebrating our 10th anniversary!

les portes de Quebec

As I am walking around Quebec, I am wondering when we decided to design things differently.  By different, I mean less detailed, plain, without character in my opinion.  It seems in America as in Quebec, houses and buildings had more detail 100 years ago.  Why are these amazing doors still being created?  Or maybe they are and we just choose the standard door from Home Depot.

I took photos of doors throughout Quebec; it seems that life feels richer here.  There is more beauty in the details.  People seem to live with less - less square footage, less clothing (people often wear the same clothing several times in one week), less cars, even less food at the restaurants.  What I see more of is socialization in common places - bars and cafes are packed on Sunday and Monday nights with families, neighbors, co-workers.  They seem genuinely happy with less things and more community.  

Quebec City

Rudy and I excitedly left Bryan on Sunday morning for Quebec City. Rudy was asked to present a piece he had written at the World Leisure Congress held this year in Quebec City.  For those who are not familiar, Quebec City is the oldest section of Quebec and Montreal.  They actually just celebrated their 400th anniversary. Similar to Montreal, the preferred language is French but the majority of people know a bit of English. 

The city is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever been. Here are some photos from my many walks on my first day (click the pic to view more detail): 

 

Ketchup

Ketchup....from not blogging in forever!  Here's our life for the past several weeks! 

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Flowers for my birthday!  Tulips are my favorite!  

Thanks Cincy Dunlaps!

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Unfortunately, Ike came my birthday weekend, so we stayed inside all weekend.  We rented movies and watched them on our new TV (we joined the flat screen HD TV team and we looooove it!)

I took this photo from our parking lot.  A local lawyer's office had a sense of humor about the storm.  The eye of Ike came within 20 miles of Bryan but we were fortunate that there was little to no damage and no power outages in our area.

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Our first bbq in Texas was with some new friends.  We all have moved to Bryan in the last few weeks so we have bonded for sure!  Michel and his wife Shoham just finished up @ Yale in Connecticut, David and Alley just left Penn State in State College, PA.

Michel grillin' away

David and Alley (newlyweds!)

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Rudy's parents came last weekend for a visit and we had a great time in Austin on Friday and then in Bryan the rest of the weekend.

We went to the A&M vs. Army (Rudy's dad graduated from West Point so he is an Army fan).  It was very hot and sunny and as you can tell from the picture we were very high up in the stands.  It was Armed Forces recognition weekend and I could not believe the size of this flag they brought out at half time.  As usual, I had to take my camera out....

Rudy's Dad ran into an fellow West Point grad whom he knew when in school.  We all had a great time.

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The next day we decided to head to Messina Hof - Bryan's local winery which is about 4 miles from our apartment.  Apparently, TX is now in the top five states that produce wine.  Because of its climate (HOT and no rain) it is perfect for grapes. 

dorks in the vines

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Just a cool sign I found downtown....

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peepin out the window

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Got signs this week and now we are Representin on 'Main Street' 

(seriously, we do live on Main Street)

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Our first shindig we threw in our new home - happy hour for friends and some with Rudy's department on 10/3.  It was so much fun!

TX has the most beautiful sunsets

live music right out the window!

Rudy is diggin the music!

Cullin, Jenna and Torinto our neighbors

Fighting Aggies!

So Rude and I were able to go to our first ever A&M football game against Arkansas State.  It was quite different in many ways from the UGA football games.  First, they have this large procession of horse and buggy and the corp of cadets (2nd largest corp after West Point).  Also, the students are all required to know several 'calls' or cheers that are given throughout the game which was facinating to watch.

Thanks to Rudy's department, we were lucky enough to sit in box seats which were air conditioned and catered!

The highlight of the entire night (since we are not really football people) was the band.  They were incredible.  Check out the video below of one of their formations.

Reveille, the mascot.

Our view of the 50....

Taco Flavored Keeses from Texas

HOWDY!  Tejas is good.  Rudy had several days of new faculty orientation and I must say they treat their faculty and staff well here @ A&M.  We went to two different family oriented dinners this week - one where they brought about 15 different local restaurants and bakeries so we call could sample the College Station/Bryan flavor; the second was more formal and it was held in the George Bush Sr. Presidential Library.  Although I am not partial to the Bush legacy, it is a beautiful building.  The statue out front was made from some of the actual Berlin Wall.  Horses trampling over itsymbolizing the fall of Communism. 

 

Rudy's classes being on Monday and he is so ready to get this semester started.  This weekend he is taking a trip to Wichita Falls, TX (on the Oklahoma border) for a bike ride titled 'The Hotter than Hell 100' - 100 miles in northern TX.  Sounds like fun huh?  This is their logo...

I am doing well and still adjusting to the 'stay at home' wife lifestyle....it is nice!  For now, I am trying to get the apartment painted, unpack (almost done) and get my thyroid issues solved.  This week I went to see an acupuncturist which was amazing. I should have gone all along.

Saturday night we have dinner with some new friends in the department so I will try and take pics of that.

Until then....taco kisses from Texas!  Check out this video (hilarious!)....

Our New Address:

201 South Main Street

Apt#205

Bryan, TX 77803

Dudy Goes West

So Rudy's graduation (pics to come) went wonderful.  We left our friends and family on Sunday the 3rd of August to head 14.5 hours West towards Bryan, TX.  We had a tearful goodbye at Big City Bread 11am EST and our plan was to drive 10 hours to Shreveport, LA to spend the night.

After stopping in Vicksburg, MS for dinner, we realized very quickly that there was no where to eat.  So we continued on to Louisiana where we found a good ole Olive Garden.  We pressed on to arrive at 11pm CST in Shreveport.  We were exhausted but we made it. The next day was about four hours of driving and we entered Bryan/College Station, our new home.

Overall, in my opinion, the trip went well. Rudy is not a fan of being in the car more than 3 hours so he was a bit restless.  He and I split the drive and here are some pics we took:

Rudy so happy driving :)

crossing the Mississippi 

(I had never done that by car!)

the Louisiana Bayou at sunset

downtown shreveport

we're home...

front window looking out at dusk

our stuff

another front window view looking out

our side window views

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Rudy now wears earplugs to bed because these trains are loud and run twice an hour! Luckily, they run only three times per night. I grew up right next to a train so I have no problems sleeping (thanks to the Sarine tendency to be heavy sleepers).

St. Augustine

Before graduation and the move, Rudy and I decided to take some much needed R&R in St. Augustine, FL.  My cousin, Amy, and her husband, Marshall, were gracious enough to let us stay.  Their home is a block off the beach and has unbelievable views of the intercoastal waterway.  We even spent a few days with them on Marshall's new catamaran which is docked currently near Tampa area.  Here are the pics from our trip:

Happy Hour on the dock is nice

L-R: Cuz Amy, Me, Aunt Kathi (Amy's Mom) and Rude

Izzy, my godpug (Amy said that if she and Marshall 

die in a "fiery" plane crash, Izzy and Henry are mine).

Sunset on the dock

Izzy @ Happy Hour

Henry always looks so concerned

 - life is hard for a pug

Rudy and Amy shootin it

Amy and Marshall's house

Aunt Kathi & Amy

Dinner with friends of Amy and Marshall 

L-R: Amy, Tom, Vicky, Marshall, Me, Rudy and Uncle Keith.

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Video of Amy's reaction to a shot of jagermeister:

Pinky & the Brain

6 long years of graduate school have come to an end this week.  On Wednesday, July 9th, Rudy defended his dissertation and was finally awarded the distinction of 'Doctor!'  Emily, Doug, Rachel, Lisbeth (Rudy's work wife), Roz (Rudy's work Mother in Law) and I all went to watch Rudy present and 'defend' his research. Surprisingly, the defense was interesting and kept our attention for 2 hours!  After the defense, we all went out for a bite to eat @ Mirko (a new pasta place in town...excellent) and later on a dip in Emily and Doug's pool (thanks guys!).  Overall, an incredible day.

Friday, was officially my last day of work after a little over four years of working @ Ameliorate.  When my boss, Louie, the small frenchman, mentioned there may be tears, I quickly responded that i would not be crying any of them!  I have a feeling I will likely receive several calls in the weeks to come....

Here's a photo of Rudy post-defense.  Dr. Smarty-Pants!  Will his head ever return to normal?

Slim Shady

We have recently been adopted by a kitty named 'Slim Shady.'  He began to appear several months ago lounging on our porch on sunny afternoons.  He has been a regular @ Forest Heights for about the last two weeks.  We just do not know how to break it to him that we are moving!?!

Elvis has left the building

Words cannot describe how excited we were this week when Rudy turned in his dissertation! So we will let the pictures of "The King" and his peeps @ Trappeze speak for themselves. Thanks to those who came out....the Dr. Dunlap defense party coming soon.....

The 'red-fox', with the 'white man's overbite.'

Carlton is not touching Emily

Caleb just has those crazy eyes, ya know?

You know what I mean.

Dave, this may be a bad time,
but can I borrow your pressure-washer?


Peace, Lila...


Rudy and Mango

Ironically (or is it?) John Kirby, one of our bestest friends from High School (he introduced Rudy and I) came down to Athens for some lame workshop. Bonus for him he knew someone else in town... Thanks John for a fun week. You and Carrie look like Texas-lovers. Come for a visit.

Hotlanta

We went to Atlanta for our last hoorah with Corey, Yancey and Laurel before heading out West. Walking around town, shopping @ the new H&M and other wild and crazy things made the weekend more than memorable.

I wish I could pack them all in my boxes and have Mayflower (movers) drive them to Bryan. But that would be bad (for them). Guys, we will miss ya! Thanks for showing us a grand time.

Downtown view from Piedmont Park

Laurel studies bathrooms of the future

and there was one in Piedmont Park

Not sure why I have my hand like this....watch out for my claw!

Rudy likes his smothered, covered, chunked and with peppers. Seriously, why are you eating dog food?

Rudy obsesses about Corey's I-phone

and I caught it live on camera.

Rudy does not like his
picture 'being made'....can you tell?

Ok, this guy was a hoot with the helmet. He had quite a few cocktails and was enjoying the lovely ATL weather. With a helmet on.

No Corey, I did not loose your glasses. I did see that guy with the tats standing behind you @ Heretic wearing them when we left.....heh heh.

Corey and Yancey...awwww....

Randyfest 2008

Operation surprise Randy, aka "Randyfest 2008", went off without a hitch. We flew up on Friday to celebrate Randy's 30th year with Proctor and Gamble, his 57th birthday, Father's Day and the Dunlaps on their 35th wedding anniversary. Friends and family all had a blast.

The back of the T-shirt Danielle made for everyone

Randy taking it all in (check out the

front of the T's that say 'RandyStrong')

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Later on that weekend, we headed to the Hofbrauhaus (the one of few located outside of Munich, Germany - as a result of the large German heritage in Cincinnati). They drink like Germans (lots of beer) and play German music and there is always plenty of dancing on the tables with the authentic beer wenches.

Stephanie (Rudy's brother, Joshua's, girl)

winky, wink Doug (& Emily)

Rudy and Doug playing 'cornhole'

L-R: Rachel and Emily

Randy likes beer

Rudy and Randy getting ready for one of their favorite things - riding bicycles! They joined the Gears for Beers group on Father's Day Sunday (which was also Randy's 57th b'day). Fun Times.

Tiny Dancer

A cute little pic of my niece Olivia in the tu-tu I made for her. Emily showed me how to and it is so easy! I had to post it was too cute. I love and miss you, Liv!

Rolla

My favorite Corolla just rolled 200K! Yippee.....

Mom & Dad bought it for me new in college (March of 1997) and it is my baby. I wonder how we will survive in TX without air conditioning?

A Night Out in Bryan

Friday night was our last night in Bryan for awhile so we decided to go out to the nice restaurant in town, Madden's. Tara, the owner, was soooo nice to us. Tara and her husband Peter, the executive chef, are about the same age as Rudy and I; we hope to get together once we are in town in August. Tara was so welcoming she gave us a free dessert and a gift certificate as a house-warming present. Rudy and I are used to 'southern hospitality' but this town has really taken it to a whole new level.

Here are some pics from that night....

the neon sign RIGHT outside our window

(have you seen the Kenny Rogers Roasters episode of Seinfeld?http://www.livevideo.com/video/1347613C476044789D4C35E711991BBE/seinfeld-the-chicken-roaster.aspx)

Rudy posing with some statues (????)

Hotel right across the street

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back home in Athens....

we were surprised to see the

blooming hydrangea when we arrived home

some "volunteer" cukes and tomato plants -

our soil is finally so healthy and now we are leaving!

the Rosemary is taking over the world

Home, Sweet, Home

So here it is! This is our apartment in Bryan we will rent during this year while we search for a permanent home in the area more suitable for a family. We are excited about living in a downtown area close to restaurants, bars, a hotel right across the street, a internet cafe...you name it - it is coming to Bryan and we can walk!

We will be living there as of the first week in August so come visit soon!

Ours is where the lofts sign is advertised

exposed brick - we love it

Bryan, TX

We have been house hunting in College Station and Bryan, TX for the past several days. Here are a few scenes of downtown Bryan - a town adjacent to College Station going under major rejuvenation. See a local theater, a street shot of downtown, the hardware store, the palace outdoor movie theater, the library, a cool building in town, the la salle hotel, and a very quaint antiques market.

We spent yesterday afternoon wandering around the Bryan area and talked with several locals. It is very, very cute and typical of a small texas town. We liked it! Oh, it is extremely hot here as well! 95 degrees all week and it is not even Summer!

For dinner, we went out with Rudy's fellow collegue, David, and his wife Ally to a local Mexican join named Papa Perez. We have had some awesome Mexican and Tex-Mex Food since we arrived.

Ahhhh Spring

Some pictures of our Memorial Day Weekend.

Chilling and relaxing.....before

we head to Texas for house-hunting.

On North Campus looking up at the Trees


Rudy napping on North Campus

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We had fun hanging out at Emily and Doug's pool.

Cousin Joe and wife Jennifer came into town!

Rudy and Little Dog


Lloyd and Corey


Nice breakfast @ Big City Bread
(the best bakery ever...for reals)
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We love convertables!








Cousin Joey

Athens Farmers Market

Last Saturday, Rudy and I got up late, fed my neighbors baby chickens (sooo cute) and went to the official first day of the Athens Farmers Market @ Bishop Park. It was an obvious success - by 10:30am when we arrived they had sold out of veggies and all food! It was still so great to see the crowds of families coming in an effort to support local, sustainable agriculture.

We even ran into some folks from "The Farm" where Rudy did his research. They were so happy to hear of Rudy's new job developing a 'Community' major within the Recreation and Leisure Department @ A&M.

Hopefully, next week we can score some fresh veggies.

Stacy, a friend of ours, rocking it out as a volunteer

Celebrating Part Deux

L-R: Sorry Lila (I cut her off!), Rachel, Ami, Jonathyn, Mango doing his best sorority girl impression, Matt

Jonathyn and Bryan yo yo yo

Doug looks pretty serious (although I do not think it was!). Mango seems to be reaching deep to figure out what the hey hey Doug is talking about.

Me and Ami (god that was a full pour, eh?)

Believe it or not, the couple at the end of the table were Dunlaps (no relation). Carlton (in green) is interviewing them to replace Rudy and I once we are gone. They may be the bizarro Dunlaps once we are in TX. C, did they do well on the interview?

L-R: Emily, Lila and Rachel

Best Buds - Rudy and Mango. Mango began his PhD the same time as Rudy and I. He just scored a research position in DC @ the Smithsonian. He is getting his PhD in History. CONGRATS, MANGO!

Celebrating

Downtown Athens on Day #1 of celebrating the news about Rudy's job. Doug and Emily came down to visit with us at The Globe.

View from The Globe looking down

Lumpkin towards the Georgia Theater.

Clayton @ Lumpkin


Our happy (albeit tired) mugs


Emily must be laughing at something inappropriate

Our ride home (shah right!)

Paging Mr. Herman

check out where Dudy will end up...

www.youtube.com/watch?v=QltlctqfY4E

Get a Rope

YES, the news is awesome! Rudy has accepted a professorship @ Texas A&M! We will officially be in Aggie territory early August (after his August 2nd graduation here @ University of Georgia). Rudy was successful in interviewing against 3 other candidates - I guess all of those years in Debate finally paid off!

I am so very excited and proud of what we have been able to accomplish here in Athens. Although, I am deeply sad to leave our friends and family and our house here - we will have plenty of space for visitors in College Station (yes, Corey you will visit us in College Station)!

More to come later....

Doctor, Doctor

Hey guys. I has been quite awhile since we posted. As you can imagine, life has been a little nutso in the Dunlap household! On top of three interviews all over the US (Arizona, Massachusetts and one this coming week in Texas), Rudy has been as busy as can be with end of semester duties with his students and putting the finishing touches on his dissertation (due on June 25!!). He will finally 'defend' his dissertation (essentially the final meeting amongst all of his dissertation committee members) on July 9th. Although officially Rudy will graduate on August 2nd, July 9th is really the day which will determine if he will graduate. You can bet we will go out on the night of the 9th to celebrate Rudy finally becoming Dr. Dunlap! Check out this hilarious link to a clip we will likely quote often once Rudy is officially a Doctor....:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Lge2_H_8IQ.

Danielle on the other hand has been busy at work and also has been getting the house ready to rent out. We seemed to have scored some awesome tenants which we invited over for dinner the other night. They seem like great young women. They move in on July 31st and it is quite the relief we can cross that off our list of things to do.

We will keep you up to date in the next few weeks as we will found out where we will be living in the Fall. We hope it will be in College Station TX @ Texas A&M. Texas is one of the top schools in Leisure and specifically has a Community focused position which is the research area Rudy is most interested in developing. Rude leaves today for TX and will be interviewing over the next several days.

Dreaming about being an Aggie....

Double Mint

Rudy's mom and sister Rachel came to visit this week (her Spring Break from UC). We love visits!

Cute Pic of Rudy's sisters with their men

doing their best double mint commerical.

L-R: Rachel & Caleb - Emily & Doug

Blue Steel Wednesday

Some more 'ham it up' pics from Mexico. Do your best Blue Steel! Are you an ambi-turner? If needed, google "Blue Steel" for this to make sense.

Jules and Greggie-Poo


Yo its O!

Nice Kiddies Sunglasses you dork!
(Danielle's Bro, Jeff)

I call this one
'Rudy Rocking the Kiddie Sunglasses'

"Yo Shorty! (Kira) its your b'day,
we're going to party like its your birthday!"

Bow Wow Wow Yippee Yo Yippee Yea

Our Easter Sunday was spent playing fun games at a get-together at Brian and Sarah's.

Rudy and Rachel's man, Caleb, getting ready for the next round. Check out those game faces (nice double sunglasses, Rude).

Dennie and Susan somehow do

not look too intimidated by Rudy and Caleb.

My Sis in law, Rachel and Ruby, aka, Rubels. Sweet coat, Ruby.
__________________________________________________

Earlier in the day we went to Caleb's house for a dog party.

Little Dog, Doc (brown lab) and Bea (Yellow Lab) all chillin

Doc saying "hey"

Emily and Doug's new puppy Little Dog

Pinball Wizard

Our friend Mango playing Ms. Pacman at 283 Bar on Friday. Barrett, Mango wants to challenge you to a Pacman Tourney.

Cool 80's lighting effects, eh?

CONGRATS!

Greg and Julia are engaged,

Jeremy and Rebecca are prego with baby #2!

Lots to celebrate!

Me-hee-co Part Dos

Mom, Olivia and Kira hangin poolside

Olivia Sarine the next Michelle Wie

Dudy lovin Mexico

Hangin out with Manuel, our favorite bartender

Vic and DD

Olivia swimming for the first time on her own

Rudy and the Mexican Michael Jackson - who's bad?

I wonder who Kira gets her curls from?

Yo - Kira be chillin with a drink (milk/leche) poolside

Kira and Dad

Kira and Greg getting their swing on

No worries in Mexico - Kira and Greg see a plane overhead

Rudy and Jules getting their swing on - at the swing bar

The Sarine Compound by the Pool

(where we hung out everyday)

Farkle Family Spring Break 08

The Sarine clan headed to Mexico for some R&R. We stayed at the Moon Palace Resort outside of Cancun. My brothers and their loves and children and Dad and Mom came. 12 of us in all.

Farkle Family goes to Mexico.

Here is part one of the crazy pics.

DD and Rudy's view from the balcony.

Julia Goolia and Greggie Poo @ the Gift Shop

Everyone on DD and Rudy's bed for Happy Hour.

Olivia and Uncle Rudy

Julia found a coconut.
DD insisted we open it - it was not easy.

Dad chillin on the veranda.

DD and Rudy on the beach in our SPF 45.

L-R: Jeff, Rudy, Jeremy and Jules enjoying or
painfully sitting though Karaoke on Night #1.

Olivia smiling for the camera @ the pool.

Iguanas are all around the resort.

Julia refusing Greggie's kiss.

Spring Break 08...yeah Dad.

Partying like a rock star.

Kira's best pouty pose.

Retro Video Friday

For all you 80's kids out there....its and oldie but a goodie. (check out Fergie in her youth - got to love the hair!)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnsHpPNltBw

Chilling in Pine Valley

Emily (my sis in law) and I always gather for Wednesday night crafting and watching Project Runway at Pine Valley (PV). Unfortunately, this week was not without its issues....Emily's chair collapsed underneath her. We used this opportunity to goof around a bit. (Sorry Douggie Poo).

Crafting Project for 2/27 - knit new chair for PV

Yes We Can

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjXyqcx-mYY

Happy Birthday, Daddy-O

Yikes Dad is 6* - eeee gads!

We love you! Dudy

P.S. We will be sure to celebrate in Mexico (only 3 weeks away!)

Roadtrippin

Dudy headed to Asheville, aka Ashevegas, this weekend for some leisure with our friends Joe and Lisbeth, aka Jisbeth. Flyfishing, listening to the Avett Brothers in the car, nights out in Ashevegas, great food. We love NC and catching up with old friends.

Rudy and Joe hating me because I made them pose with their gear.

Joe practicing casting

Rude is excited to finally use his new gear

Garvin , aka Garve-man or Garvy baby

cracking Lisbeth, aka Lisdeath, up

L - R: Garve-man, Lisdeath,
Yon-ton, aka "look at my new Griiiillllll"& Shana

Rudy and Stuart, aka Stew-rat,
waiting on dinner @ Tupelo Honey (yum!). Stu - just remember to put the gun down and take the red shoes off!

Joe and Cinnamon (I have no idea what his real name is)

Rude and Garvy

The car ride home:

Hips Don't Lie neither do videos, Joe

Partners in Crime

Happy 38th Mom and Dad Sarine - We love you!

Field Trip to Elberton, GA

This weekend we took a trip to Elberton, GA, the granite capital of the world (oooooo!), to check out the Georgia Guidestones (aka the stonehenge of Georgia). Check out this website for more information:

http://www.radioliberty.com/stones.htm

Butler and Fouqueau excited about the trip

Our motley crew

Danielle looking for the North Star

After the guidestone, we headed back to Athens
and on our way stopped in Watson's Mill State Park for a hike. This is the old powerhouse of the Mill.

A Georgia Christmas ornament

HILARIOUS MATT DAMON VIDEO

OK, so I had to attach this link to youtube. For those who are offended easily by vulgarity, do not click on this! Hilarious..... I love Matt Damon....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnVJZkDuVBM

Snehta

So Rudy and I are beginning to plan the rest of our time here in Athens. Some of the things we will miss most about Athens are our friends gathering on Friday Happy Hours. Socializing over good beer and wine and of course plotting to take over the world. Ya know, the usual. Here are a few pictures from 1/25's Happy Hour at Trappeze - a new European style beer joint right in downtown.

DD's surprised mug when learning about the play

Douggie-Poo was selected for the part of Andy

off-off broadway rendition of The 40 Year old Virgin.

Cast & Crew out to celebrate the news

Mango, Stage Director, and Doug
discussing lines for the play


Laurel and Emily, Costume Designers


Lila, Choreographer

Greggie-Poo and Julia Gulia

So Greggie-Poo, Danielle's youngest bro, and his girlpal Julia Gulia came to Athens for their first visit. We enjoyed a bit of snow Saturday morning and of course some of the highlights of Athens - the Grit (the local vegetarian restaurant) and bars.

GP & JG @ the Grit (their Tofu rocks!)

Joe, Matt aka Jesus & Greg

Dudy in fine form


Our buddies, Carlton and Amitabh


Donald and Rudy

DD, GP and JG @ Transmet (FYI, I am standing in this pic and Julia is sitting. She's 6'. I am not).

Where's Rudy Thursday

Snow in Ga 1/16/08

Can you find him?

The Modern Man

Lucky Me, I married a man who likes to bake. Here's some visual documentation of Rudy's first Boule - per the Breadbaker's apprentice. Délicieux!

The Dunlaps

How flattered we are to have birds named after us. Corey and Yancey named their resident cardinals after us. They said that they were going to miss us this coming Fall and this would be a way to keep us around longer. Awwww....how sweet!

Danielle

Rudy Red

Happy 34th JR

Happy 34th Birthday, Jerm! Check in yout closet for your regifted present from Dudy. It's under a bunch of clothes! HAHA! You gadget freak, you. Just like Dad.

P.S. Save a piece of cake for Rudy, please.

RIP, Shadow Kitty

Ok, so I know it is a little weird to be writing about my dead cat - but, for those who knew her she was an awesome kitty. She is missed terribly - and maybe one day Dudy's hearts will ache a little less. RIP, Shadow Kitty! Today is her 3 year anniversary of being gone.

yes, that is a real mouse

Dudy is Fabulous in 08

Words cannot describe the excitement we have for the coming year. Cheers from Dudy!

Christmas in G Town

Christmas in Greensboro 12/21/07 - 12/28/07 - We had fun staying at my parents new house just north of Greensboro in Summerfield, NC. Olivia, my 2 year old niece was the highlight of the holiday. It was fun hanging out with my brother Greg & his girl Julia Gulia and my other brother Jeremy and his wife Rebecca and of course, Mom and Dad. It was great! We miss you Jeff, Vicky & Kira!

Olivia opens a gift (Dora the Explorer!)

Olivia was upset when her souffle fell.

Rudy finally gets his long awaited
monkey pillow...sheesh. It's a long story!

Dad was presented the 1st Annual Sarine Golden Pheasant award.
It is a regifting award to be presented to the most deserving Sarine each year. It must be traveled with throughout 2008.
Good Luck with that in Customs, Dad.

Julia Gulia gets her 'Hiccupptamus' book. Making a little of fun of Julia's permanent hiccups! Tee Hee!

The weird orbs in Greensboro. We packed the entire clan in my parents Suburban and headed off to watch the orbs.
They do Christmas a little different there in G town.

JR and Becca watching the orbs.

Hey JR, I see friends.

Greg and Rudy "enjoying" themselves (see the pain in their faces?) as their legs were being crushed in the back of the Suburban. Notice red solo cup in Rudy's hand. Essential to dull the pain.

Video of Olivia saying her favorite Aunt DD and Uncle Rudy's names:

R is for Rowan

Rowan Mila Stanley was born on October 4th.

She is our new goddaughter and we are so excited she is here! We had a recent trip to Greensboro for the holidays and we able to see her and her parents, Barrett and Joanna.

My first hat ever knitted....was for Rowan.

The Christmas Spanish Tortilla

Silent night, holy night....all is calm.......until the Spanish Tortilla (similar to an American omelette) sticks to the pan! Oh Lila....it was still delicious. Maria, take a look! HAHA!

Lila and Mango's Tree (notice beautiful paper ornaments!)

Rudy assisting Ms. Lila to unstick the stuck tortilla

That' a girl....

Estava delicios!

Night Out With The Days

The Days came to town and we had a great meal at the Last Resort. We miss them so much now that they are in Tifton, GA. Come on guys, you know you want to move back.

The Days! Mara Dare, Cal and Little Grayson Anne.

Leslie, The Days and us.

O Christmas Tree

Finally, we have our tree up! It has been cold here in GA the last few nights which is nice. We played our Charlie Brown Christmas CD and hung our favorite ornaments. It was very cool.

Some updates:

• Rudy is headed off to a funeral tomorrow for a student of his who passed away on Saturday. It came as quite the shock since Rudy had just taught him in class the previous Wednesday. Please keep he and the department in your thoughts as it has been a rough time for such a close-knit group.

• On a lighter note, it appears we will have a new neighbor moving in towards the end of this month. He came by last night and seems like a great guy! YIPPEE! After close to 8 months of the house being vacant, we are very happy to have someone move in.

• Finally, Rudy has done a preliminary interview with State University of New York @ Cortland. It appears to have gone well and we are waiting to hear as far as an in-person interview. They generally do not grant many, so cross your fingers!

The grinch is our 'angel' at the top of the tree

Kira Wishes You A Merry Christmas

We Are Family!

My Aunt Joan is turning 75 and we all headed to her surprise party on Friday, the 23rd in Corinth, NY. It was so fun getting to see all of the cousins, aunts and uncles. It has been several years since I was able to see some of these folks - and it was great. Hopefully we can get together more often.

Happy 75th Aunt Joan!

Aunt Joan and Me

My bros, their wives and kids!

Kira Cutie Pie

Kira and Olivia
watching the paparazzi

Jeff and Mom

My uncle Jimmy (center) and
his two sons Daniel and Kyle (more cousins)

Chris and my cousin Marcy

Mom and Carrie (yes, another cousin)

O and Kira playing a duet (Chopsticks?)

Me and my cousins Shannon and Marcy

Three out of the six Fenton kids: Jimmy, Joan and Mom.

Shannon and her boyfriend Ninja Joe

The Welches and their chicklet smiles

Helen and my cousin Tim

A Crazy Thanksgiving

We had a great Turkey Day. Our friends Lila & Chris came over and Garvin came from Ashevegas. Emily, Doug, Joshua, Stephanie and Rudy's parents completed the group (we missed you Rachel!). Here are the pics:

the before

the after

The prettier pictures:

Rudy's bro, Joshua and his girlfriend, Stephanie

Emily and Dad

Me and the boys

The not-so-pretty pictures:

Blue Steel Tuesday

http://www.wikihow.com/Do-the-%22Blue-Steel%22-Pose-from-Zoolander

The Avett Bros

The Avett Brothers - 11/7/07

This is one of our favorite bands right now. They are from Concord, NC and are a mixture of punk and bluegrass. Scott and Seth Avett and the bassist Bob. They are incredible live - check 'em out (videos below). Although it was a "school night" and we were out very late, it was quite worth it.

We missed you Greggy Poo and Julia Goolia!

http://www.theavettbrothers.com/site.php

Who Says You Can't Go Home?

Flight home to New York to see my family: $350

1 roundtrip train ticket to Newark Penn Station: $15.25

Seeing Bon Jovi sing "Wanted Dead or Alive" in New Jersey with 15,000 of your closest friends: priceless

11/3/07 Bon Jovi concert. They played for 10 sold-out nights @ the new prudential center in Newark. This is a fuzzy shot of JBJ and Richie Sambora.

My sister-in-law, Vicky and I.

Vicky is Jersey girl, so naturally she is a fan.

My brother Jeff, Vicky, friend Mike

and I waiting on our train

Vicky & Rosie (another Jersey girl)

Sam & Sal (AKA President of the'I wanna be the

5th member of Bon Jovi' Fan Club)

Vicky & Jeff

a fairly clear shot of the stage - check it out - Bon Jovi has gone country - they even have a fiddler (click to zoom)

fuzzy shots from the big screen of JBJ

stadium shot

Beginning shot of "Wanted Dead or Alive"

Kira Cutie Pie

The Restivos

NY Pics: Joe is one of my closest childhood friends - he's my fourth Italian "brother". He and his wife Annie have two adorable girls - Giannie and Leah.

Joe and Leah

Giannie and Leah and I

Annie and Joe

Leah is talkin smack

Sistas

The sistas and their men.

Congrats to Emily & Doug - engaged on October 26th!

Emily is proud of her sweater - she knitted it herself!

Caleb and Rachel - happy times!

Fall in Brevard, North Carolina

Rudy and I headed off this weekend to visit our good friend Stuart in Brevard, North Carolina (WE MISSED YOU KATIE!). The weekend was full of adventures - flyfishing, hikes, and midnight rides on bikes through Brevard. Here are some of our pictures.

Hiking in Cedar Mountain, NC:

In Brevard:

Katie and Stuart's House

My transportation for a night on the town

Rudy's ride (P.S. the reflector worked)

Stuart's Ride

Us @ a bar in Brevard

We ran into Andre -

a great friend of our from the High Rocks Days -

it was great to reminisce

Wacko Jacko Lanterns

Rudy's pumpkin

Danielle's alien...

Tara's spider - the 2007 winner of


Corey and Yancey's annual pumpkin carving contest


I believe this one was Walter's pumpkin - how cool?!

Birthday Boy, Rudy

Rudy is 32! All of our friends went out to the National, a cool new restaurant in Athens. I made up dozens of buttons for the staff and guests to wear - the picture below is the one I used in the button. Look real hard in the group shots and you will see them! We like to call it Rudy's 'Hollywood' picture.

The before pic

The after

Drew, our favorite boy-wonder

bartender @ our favorite bar, the Globe

Emily and Douggie Poo looking so hip. Nice chicklets, D.

Lisbeth, Rudy's 'work wife' and Rudy. (kidding!)

Carlton, Sugar, Rudy, Corey & Yancey.

The boys surprised Rudy with a liquor attache.

Now Rudy is apart of their special club.

The Bag Lady

For those of you who know me well, I always bring my reuseable bags into the store. Check out this site to understand my plight as the 'bag-lady.' I hope it will inspire you too to use reuseable bags and say no to plastic or paper.

http://www.reusablebags.com/

It's a Pine Valley Halloween

By Carl (the fish) & Josie

By Doug, Esq.

By Emily

By Shawn

Chattanooga

Sorry it has been awhile! We have been so busy lately. To catch you up - in the month of September - we went to Charleston, then Rudy left for Utah, then I went to Greensboro, then Rudy left for Indianapolis, then I left for South Georgia, then we left for Chattanooga. We are home the next few weekends - Thank the Lord!


Rudy has now finished about 2/3 of his research out at the Farm - and although we rarely see each other these days - we know it will all be worth it next year.


He has begun the process of applying for positions - in various states - Utah, California, New York, Washington (State) and Tennessee so far. We will continue to update you as the interviewing and applications continue. Who knows where we will end up!

Here are some pictures from last weekend when we met up with Rudy's family and friends in Chattanooga, TN.

Rudy and his Momma

Riverside Chattanooga

Mom, Dad and Emily crying after Georgia lost to Tennessee (Or are they crying because of split beer?)

Everyone relaxing riverside

Mom, Dad, Danielle, Rudy, Emily & Doug

Stormy Weather

Olivia, my niece, always prepared

for bad weather

Emily and I preparing to go out into a monsoon

in Greensboro (in style)

Those Baby Blues

My beautiful niece, Kira

Foux De Fa Fa

For a good time watch this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHuOrJQua_c

I Say It's Your Birthday

Had a wonderful time @ Sotto Sotto for my 31st. It is a small Italian Bistro in the Virginia Highlands section of Atlanta.

Birthday Dinner for my 31st @ Sotto Sotto

Rudy, Lisbeth, Joe, Mango & Lila

Charleston, C'est Mon Favori

Over labor day weekend, Rudy and I were able to celebrate our 9th wedding anniversary. Here are some pictures from our trip to my favorite Southern town.

In the heart of Charleston

King Street

College of Charleston campus

The lush marshland

Fountain in Waterfront Park

Rudy enjoying a cigar in the market

Cutie Pies

Caleb & Rachel sittin in a tree....

Fun With Magnets

Lila and the newest member of our group - Maria!

Lila

Lila and Me

"People Let Me Tell You Bout My Best Friends..."

Douggie Poo & Emily

Emily & Rudy

Us

Lisbeth and Momma Roz Berbary

Charlie's Angels: Caroline, Molly & Emily

Mango & Lila

Happy 5th Anniversary

Yancey and Corey

Harvest

Festa 8.11.07

Danielle and Sasha

Farm Fresh Sunflowers

Lila wearing Klompen (her party shoes)

Group shot in our 20 square foot kitchen

Two of my favorite people - Rudy & Emily

Walter & Emily and Grandmother Rogers' poundcake

Donald (aka Sugar)and Carlton and their liquor attaches