Destin vacation

We didn't know what to expect, but it turned out to be a fun week. In spite of long hours driving with the six of us in the car, it all worked out - we were especially proud of Charlie and Tucker for being little troopers during the journey - only a couple of short-lived meltdowns. Of course, rotating entertainers (especially reading books) Myka, CiCi, and Ben kept the show going and the little men happy. I did all the driving which meant I missed out on some time playing with the twins, but on the other hand, I enjoyed full leg room for the entire trip :). We just had a great time, in spite of the hordes of people and long waits for dinner on some nights. I can't imagine that Charlie and Tucker could have had a better time anywhere else - the sand, waves, helicopters, boats, planes, etc. - always something going on to capture their attention and imagination. Although a much pricier vacation than Charlcie and I usually indulge in, I'll have to say that having a 3 BR condo on the beach, with umbrellas and chairs each day, was pretty cool.

 CiCi relaxin' while twins enjoy their private pool under the umbrellas

Bluebird days

We have five bluebird nesting houses scattered around this year and each has produced two sets of babies. It is so much fun watching the numerous bluebirds we have handing around here now. Country living is special!

 New address sign

Bluebird family: parent on the flanks and four juveniles in the leaves along the trunk

Visit from our friends Doug and Ann

Doug is my closest friend from the Navy days and we have stayed in touch and get together as often as we can (which is not often enough as careers, families,etc. tend to influence schedules). Doug and I enjoyed many adventures while on shore leave in the Mediterranean and actually took in a lot of European cuisine and culture along the way. We once obtained passports at the US consulate in Trieste, Italy, and enjoyed an 11-day independent train tour from Salzburg, back down to meet the aircraft carrier down in Taronto, Italy, with stops in Munich, Paris, and other stops along the way. We rented a car in Naples to journey to Rome for a week-end. I could go on about our adventures pre and post-marriage. We have had some wonderful times together over the decades. Doug could write an extensive book about his world travels and Doug and Ann, together, could fill volumes detailing their world travels. They spend most of their time living on their sail boat, most recently in South and Central America. They currently are dry-docked in Mexico and are attending to their home in coastal Maryland. They certainly thrilled us when they decided to detour for a few days to come visit us while enroute to Maryland. The four of us can always have the most enjoyable times without much fanfare, simply through hours of conversation, relaxation, and a lot of hearty laughter. We always look forward to our times together. There is nothing so valuable as truly great friends.

 Great friends Doug and Ann

 On the Cotter trail

 Looking for trout in the stream at Cotter Park

Water temperature check

Tami and Chris visit: May 2015

Tami brought Chris down for his first visit to Mountain Home. The plan was to do some kayaking, but high river flows and inclement weather ruined those plans. We did have a great visit and hope we get to do it again soon and are able to float the river next time.

 Chris and Tami

Charlcie and Tami