Jackie's Shot

Birthday Without Alot Of Fanfare

2010-04-17T13:37:00.010-04:00

Well I guess you might say turning about 52 is not a big birthday year. I don't even think he received a single card this year. Don't feel to sorry for him though, Jim and I certainly would not let his birthday sneak by. Jim made a beautiful cake from rice cakes. Probably a recipe you aren't familiar with but certainly one the birthday boy was excited to eat. A nice whip cream topping provided the perfect topping to rest his birthday candle. He did get a few treats too after his steak dinner. A long walk through the neighborhood was next in order taking time to smell the roses for sure.

I am sure you're probably checking your calendars and seeing what special occasion you missed. But don't worry he was just happy to have a sunny day and a special dinner with two of his favorite people or parents.

Yes, Misha turned nine on Tuesday which is 52 in human years. He is happy as ever but acting a bit older. He still gets that lil spring in his step when the sun is burning brightly and he gets to go out for a long walk. He has to pee a bit more often, usually every tree or fire hydrant. Wait I guess he has always done that so maybe not age related. But at night time he now needs a little lift off our bed and placed in his snuggle bed.

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie & Jim

Our New Stove

2010-01-31T21:04:00.004-05:00

Just before Christmas Jim and I came to the conclusion it was time to look for a new range. We found an electric double oven with convection heat from Kenmore and decide to buy that and also an above stove microwave. Well it was delivered last week and we have been successfully using the stove top and ovens but installing the microwave would take a little time. Jim needed to run a new 20amp circuit with hid behind the cupboards and design a wall support because the existing cabinet would not support that extra weight. He worked hard this week end getting things prepared. Today was the big day. Shawn came over to help left it while it was being attached. It ended up being an easy job since all of Jim's work matched perfectly to the actual brackets and hardware. It looks so nice and such an improvement. I love having some more counter space to with the microwave above the stove.

It was just Jim and me for Sunday dinner but with all his hard work this weekend he certainly needed to be treated to a nice dinner. I made a nice roasted chicken that had been marinated with lemon, fresh rosemary, and sweet onions and olive oil. It turned out so tender and juicy. We also had some nice roasted acorn squash and some whole wheat rolls. All was delish and Jim thoguht that was the best roasted chicken ever. ;)

A Very Crooked Pic But This Is Our New Stove

Chicken Ready To Go Into The Oven

Cooked Chicken

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Winter Blast In Erie

2010-01-03T18:15:00.008-05:00

Finally getting the Wintery Snowy Blast that usually hits us hard until the lake freezes. Jim and I took a drive around Lake Erie today despite the freezing temps and strong winds. I managed to jump out of the car for a few minutes at a time to fire off a few quick pics. Not sure if you can tell how windy and cold it was from the pics but I hope you can get a sense of our Wintery weather.

Thank you for looking and leave a comments. ~Jackie

Wonderful Holiday

2010-01-01T19:24:00.015-05:00

We have had a wonderful Christmas season this year. Starting back at Thanksgiving with all the Bakers in for Thanksgiving, the wonderful wedding, extra time with mom and dad before they headed out to ski country, a wonderful Christmas dinner with Patrick and Shawn, a fun party here with Jim's family the other night, a nice quiet New Year's Eve with just Jim and me sipping champagne and eating left over appetizers... well the list goes on and on.

Today we went to visit with Jim's brothers and families at the beautiful home of Diane and Bill. It is always a wonderful time visiting with them and enjoying many laughs, lots of great food and drinks.
This year was a special blessing because Santa Claus brought Skyler an extra treat and left the family airline tickets to fly from their warm sunny home in Florida to visit the freezing cold and snowy weather of Pennsylvania. Not only did he manage the tickets somehow he brought just the right amount of snow for sledding and snowman building but not to bad to keep us from visiting.

Here are some fun pics of Andrea and Skyler loving the snow and Winter weather.

Ready For Some Snow Fun

Snow Family, dog and all
(is this not the cutest snow family ever)

Family Portrait

Andrea

Skyler

Beautiful Cousins

Snow Angels

Christmas 2009

2009-12-25T21:17:00.020-05:00

Wonderful day and meal although a bit quieter than Thanksgiving. Kara, her husband Michael and baby Elliana celebrated in SC. Mom and Dad celebrated at Stan and Alison's. I bet it was an exciting morning there with Sami opening her surprises from Santa. Julie and David stayed home in ABQ and went to a very nice special Christmas Buffet. Dianne, Jay and Abby stayed at their home in Virgina to enjoy a special relaxing Christmas without travel. I hope you all had wonderful day in your own tradition.

We serve Prime Rib on Christmas Day. Its a real treat and I scour magazines and cook books for other delicious treats to accompany the meat months in advance. This year I tried a special Porcini and bacon sauce to accompany the prime rib. I think we all loved it except for Shawn who stuck with the basic but always good beef gravy. For a festive treat Jim wanted a cheesecake but wanted a lighter fluffier style. I found the perfect recipe in the November edition of the Southern Lady Magazine called Key Lime and Raspberry Dessert. It was every bit as delish as it was pretty looking.

Here are some pictures from today.

Early Shot of the Table
I love using the family china and silver to set a beautiful table

Place Cards
With three joining us for Christmas dinner it is most important to have assigned seating to avoid that last minute rush to find a chair. (lol)

Misha is Looking Forward to Some Treats
Jim likes to give Misha a treat or two this time of year.

Prime Rib Roasting In The Oven

Lots Of Candles For Christmas

And Centerpieces

Amanda and Shawn

Favorite Angel Ornament

A Cute Pair

The Excitement Of The Year Poppers
(they might be out growing this tradition)
Grand Finale
very delish tasting

The Gang

Thank you for looking. Happy Holidays!

Featuring the Band

2009-11-13T23:12:00.011-05:00

Jim and I went to a High School Football game tonight to watch our Niece who plays the flute in the High School Band. Our niece although only in middle school made the h.s. band and tonight was preforming at a playoff game for the District 10 Title. They looked great and sounded wonderful. I was able to fire off a few shots.

Thank you for looking. Jackie

Keep Your Hands Off The Cookies

2009-10-26T19:19:00.006-04:00

I am not sure how many times I have had to say that to my kids growing up. Well I guess my life has come full circle. I know I heard that phase many times growing up, repeating many times to my three children and now today I unfortunately forgot to tell my Mother "Keep Your ands Off the Cookies!"

Let me explain...

I have been very busy the last few weekends baking special Spingerle Cookies. I remember these cookies growing up. They were a favorite that my German Grandmother made on very special occasions. I thought it would be a beautiful way to bring in some of my daughters heritage into her upcoming wedding by making these special cookies for cookie trays. I researched the best recipe, looked for that perfect mold, ordered some great anise for a traditional flavor, and ordered the secret ingredient to the best Springerle cookies, Hartshorn. The cookies have been turning out great. But occassionally I find one or two that don't make it in the real cookie tins but instead a tin of misfits for our snacking. Just yesterday I robbed the can for her when mom and dad came for dinner. After they left from dinnere I made my last batch. Its a tedious process where you make your dough, roll it, then flour and cut each cookie individually then place on a cookie sheet to dry. This drying process lasts over night. Then they are baked the next day. Actually this is one raw dough that you absolutely can't eat raw. The amonia is toxic.

Mom gives me a call at work today asking if our dog Misha wants a walk. It was a beautiful day here in Erie so of course our little yorkie would be thrilled for a mid afternoon walk. It never occurred to me that she would go in the dining room and snatch cookies of the drying sheets. But to my horrified eyes I saw two empty spots on my cookie trays. After calling mom and her admiting she took two cookies and just ate one because it tasted kind of funny off I went to call the poison control center. I reached a operator that chares for the minute so I then called the House On The Hill that I purchased the ingredients from. They were very helpful in telling me she will be fine but unfortunately may suffer from terrible gas and stomach problems tonight. Eek.

If you have not seen Springerle cookies here are a few pictures.

This is the raw cookie drying

Cooked Cookie, Still Stays White Just Gets Thicker

Secret Ingredient

Well, Mom, Hope you are doing ok tonight. Love Jackie

In the Woods

2009-07-30T19:04:00.006-04:00

I took these shots while Jim, Kara, Michael and I hiked at Table Rock. This was just hours before she went to the hospital to deliver little Elliana. They took us on a two mile hike in which Kara did amazingly well. Jim and I were the rookies, huffing and pufffng in the 95 degree temps and high humidity. Here are a few pics.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Pics from the Smokey Mountains

2009-07-27T22:08:00.007-04:00

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Long Drive Home

2009-07-25T12:41:00.006-04:00

Well Jim and I headed home last Saturday around noon. We were so sad to leave number one reason was it was so fun getting to know little Elliana but also because Kara was feeling so terrible after her epidural. She was having a severe reaction and just basically had to stay flat or suffer froma terrible headache. Michael actually took her back to the hospital later that day and they did a patch procedure where they re injected her own blood into where the epi was placed forming a clot so that she was not leaking spinal fluid which was causing the terrible headaches, neck problems and even ringing in her ears. I am so happy to report that she is doing wonderfully now. Jim and I took a very scenic routes home so I did take lots of pictures. Here are a few that I liked but honestly I have not had much of a chance to look at them yet. Getting back to work from vacaion is never fun. It takes awhile to catch up.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Michael Made Dinner

2009-07-17T22:16:00.009-04:00

Michael cooked out tonight and made the most wonderful meal. A wonderful salad, pasta salad, fresh corn on the cob, a Polish dish that I won't even try to spell but it too was delicious made with cabbage, onions, and noodles. He topped that off with delicious marinated Fillet Mignon with his special marinade. Dinner was just wonderful. The weather even cooperated with a brief rain just before dinner cooling things down. We ate outside in their back yard and it was so relaxing. We celebrated with a little welcome Elliana cake and a nice bon fire afterward. It was a special evening to finish off our trip. We will see them tomorrow morning but then we must leave. It is going to be terribly sad. I get teary every time I think about it.

Anyways... here are a few pics from tonight, also some misc. ones from tonight of Elianas adorable room, first bath, some beautiful roses Kara received, and bassinett.

Elliana is now 3 days old

2009-07-17T13:08:00.010-04:00

She is so beautiful and totally precious.

Elliana one day old

2009-07-15T17:30:00.007-04:00

Finally they are home. Not many pics today. We left at 2:00 pm and it was a steamy 95 degrees+. Kara is still uncomfortable with a head ache and her neck is bothering her. Her doctor think she may have pulled a muscle in her neck when she was in labor. She is thrilled to be home. Elliana is doing very well nursing and seems to be doing great. Kara is doing great from having the baby but is bothered by the head ache and neck pain. All in all she is really doing very well but did need a nap. Michael made Kara a nice bowl of cereal she wanted with blueberries and a bananna, she fed Elliana, put her down for a nice nap and waved us off to enjoy a dinner at a Mexican Restaurant around the corner.
Jim, Michael, Patrick and I went out to dinner and when we returned they were all thankfully sound asleep. I think that now Kara is home she will be much more comfortable and happier.

Elliana Theresa Arrived

2009-07-14T14:25:00.005-04:00

The delivery of little Elliana went wonderfully. Michael and I stayed in the room the entire time. Truely the most unbelievable experience. I can't explain right now the awesomeness of hearing her cry as she was being delivered. Just amazing.

Michael cut the umbilical cord. He is so proud. Once she was born it was just minutes and they cleaned the room and all left. Michael, Jim and I have been able to stay with Elliana and Kara. We have all had turns holding her. She is so little, sweet and perfect.

Her are some quick pics. She was born at 1:22 pm at 5 lbs and 11 oz.

12 Noon

2009-07-14T12:06:00.005-04:00

Well it was a tough two hours but things are much better. Kara has an epi in place. She is 4cm dilated and 90% effaced. Kara is so much happier now and WAY more comfortable. She even accepted a sour green jolly rancher. She is permitted a little bit of hard candy to suck on occasionally. She is feeling so much better that Jim Michael and I may go grab a quick bite to eat.

A Welcome Snack

By the way they turned the sound up of the fetal monitor. It is so cool hearing Elliana with us.

10:30 am

2009-07-14T10:38:00.003-04:00

The doctor broke Kara's waters about a half hour ago long with upping the pit. Contractions are rolling one on top of another right now. Michael and I are trying to be very supportive. She has decided she will need an epidural. She is in the cue but it maybe a long wait. Its so hard seeing her in pain right now. Brings tears to your eyes. Michael is quick to try to make a joke to brighten her up. Or asks her to make comparisons of pain. For example does it hurt as bad or worse than a fall while snowboarding at Winter Park? I asked her about some old soccer injuries but she is saying nothing compares to this. So we are patiently waiting for the anesthesiologist trying to support her and give her words of encouragement.

Michael Trying To Coach Her Through A Contraction

9:30 am

2009-07-14T09:38:00.002-04:00

Not much to update. Kara will be checked by the doctor in about 45 minutes. They may decide at that time to break her water to make things progress a little faster.

Kara and Michael catching a little sleep while they can

July 14th 7:00 am

2009-07-14T07:18:00.003-04:00

Kara had a comfortable night with not a lot of progress yet. They are not allowing her anything to eat and she is hungry all ready. I feel so sorry for her. We are not eating in the room so that we don't tempt her.

As you can see in the picture she is stuck in bed but has her cell phone, i pod and a game boy. Her hospital room is beautiful with a window along one of the walls that looks out onto the 2nd floor roof garden. Everything in the hospital is so mellow and perfect for Kara. She loves the outdoors and they have this beautiful theme through out the womens hospital with green leafs and a very natural look.

07-13-09 8:00 pm

2009-07-13T20:58:00.006-04:00

We enjoying a wonderful dinner at Calhouns . Kara ordered a steak and ate every last morsal. It will be awhile until she will be eating and she certainly will need the energy.

After dinner we headed to AnMed Health Womens Hospital

Kara pointing to the floor information to Labor and Delivery

Kara at admissions and get her first hospital bracelet.

Kara is in a beautiful room and his very comfortable. She will be in this room for the labor and delivery. Here is Kara comfy in the bed.
More to Come

Prayers to Kara

2009-07-12T23:15:00.004-04:00

After nine months of pregnancy Kara is going in the hospital tomorrow evening where they will induce the birth of hers and Michael's baby. The doctor feels this is best for the baby but Jim and I actually get a benefit too, we live 12 hours away so knowing the baby will be born tomorrow or early Tuesday we were able to drive down today so we can visit, help and actually I may get to take some pictures while Kara is in labor/delivery. So exciting.

On the drive up Jim and I had stopped at a rest stop. Jim went in the visitor center to gather some maps and tourist information and I was looking at some flower plantings outside. That is where I saw a sign reminding us to remember Kara and her baby in prayers that all goes well. I saw a praying mantis sitting on one of the black-eyed-susans. I have only seen a few in my life so I ran back to the car to grab my camera and took a shot.

Thank you for looking and for saying a prayer or sending positive thoughts for Kara and their baby.
~Jackie

4th of July Fun

2009-07-09T20:20:00.031-04:00

We had a fun family get together at our house on the 4th. Mom and Dad who usually celebrate the 4th in Colorado stayed a few extra days to celebrate. We had a nice group from my side and Jim's side of the family sharing lots of laughter and good food.

To help the chef, our guests filled out little stars indicating if they wanted steak, chicken or hot dogs and how they wanted it done. They were welcome try try a nice fresh Key Lime Mojito Coolers.

Here is one of the lucky guests now....... enjoying a Mojito.

Dad and Patrick just chilling while they decide what appetizers to try

Christine seems to be enjoying some shrimp and nachos

We were lucky here in Erie after a week of rain and even floods the 4th was just beautiful. Sunshine even beaming down.

Taking a little time to catch up with Family and enjoy
before Jim starts the steaks

The Grill Master

What wonderful food we had to eat.....Steaks and Chicken perfectly prepared by Jim, a wonderful fresh salad that Cheri was begged to bring. Its just so delicious and she pairs it with her homemade dressing. Mom and dad brought corn on the cob that they were told was part of the first pick crop of a local farmer. It was so tasty and sweet. We had baked potatoes and fries and mushrooms sauted in butter to top off the steaks.

But Dinner is just not complete without a dessert made by Diane
To go along with the Patriotic Colors for the day she made a beautiful Red-White-Blue Angel Food Cake but picking a dessert should not be easy so she made another most tempting selection for those that can not resist chocolate. It was a fudgey rich flourless sensation.

Some were smart enough to try a bit of everything

Distillery District, Toronto

2009-06-04T20:49:00.012-04:00

Continuing with some shots from our little trip to Toronto we stopped at the Historic Distillery District. Although not far from the crowds and noise of the busy city traffic you would think you are in a European village. The streets are pedestrian only and are full of artist shops, bakeries, and cafes with outdoor seating. We were visiting early in the season but it was still very enjoyable and a nice relief to bumping along the crowd filled sidewalks in down town. Here are a few shoots from the area.

By the way the wide angle shots of the district I took with my new lens that my husband bought for me from Van Tuil Camera shop in Erie. I love the lens and that they do such a nice job helping customers find that perfect gift ;)

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Visiting China Town

2009-05-28T08:07:00.000-04:00

First thank you for all the nice comments yesterday. Several of you made reference to its similarity to Pikes Market. Gosh I hope to visit Washington State again. St Lawrence Market is close but without some of the excitement like the flying fish.

Tonight I am going to take you to China Town. Its a very busy and bustling area in Toronto. Not as large as you would find in California or New York City but still very interesting. I just love the variety of fruits and vegetables. Many I have never seen before or would have no idea how to prepare them. The shoppers certainly don't have any doubt however on what to purchase. They rush in with their little shopping bag on wheels and have it filled to the rim with noodles, fish, spices and fruits that would create a colorful and tasty dinner.

I really felt rushed on my trip to Toronto to get shots. Everything happens so quickly. Certainly the use of a tripod is out of the question as is fidgeting to long with settings. It still takes me a few seconds to long to figure out that perfect formula balancing exposure and my ISO and my shutter speed. Also a reflector would have come in so handy to try to bring some life to the couple of people I shot but anyway I think you can see some of the fun and sites found in Toronto.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Toronto Get Away

2009-05-27T21:18:00.010-04:00

Jim and I took a few extra days off including Memorial Day on Monday and escaped to Toronto just before the requirement of pass ports were necessary. The weather was beautiful and it was so enjoyable to be outdoors in the fresh Spring air touring the city and dining at the outdoor patios. I was excited to take some great shots but they seem to be more on the ok level. None the less it was wonderful that the two of us could get away together and enjoy the hustle and bustle that goes on in a big city.

Tonight I thought I would share some pics took at the St. Lawrence Market. Similiar to a large farmers market there was plenty of fresh sites from fish to flowers and of course some very interesting people. We headed here early in the morning so it was the perfect spot to try a fresh baked pastry. Jim picked them out and they were marvelous.

Thank you for looking ~Jackie

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T20:53:00.008-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all Mothers and Woman out there. Today I spent part of a wonderful day with my Mom, who I think is about the BEST mom in the entire Universe. We went to a lovely brunch at Under the Clock down town and had the best Eggs Benedict's. Under the Clock is so fun. I love the big windows looking out onto State Street and watching the people go up and down the street. I think back to when I was about five or six to when I would have breakfast with Santa here in the old Boston Store. What a treat it was back then to go shopping.

Before having brunch with Mom I joined some fellow Erie Photography Club members with a great chance to photograph Orchids that were in a competition from the local club. Did you know there is over 28,000 species of orchids. There were so many beautiful displays. Besides seeing the beautiful flowers and displays I also got some wonderful lessons in photography. I am so happy I learned how to set a custom white balance. I think it will help me especially shooting snow or sunsets etc. Big thank you to Tim and Patty for helping us out and sharing your expertise.

Here are a few shots I took today. Thank you for looking.

Thank You ~Jackie

Full Moon Tonight

2009-04-08T22:58:00.003-04:00

I was at Presque Isle tonight wanting to take a picture or two of the sun setting when I noticed behind me the full moon rising and the sky very clear. Here are a couple pics. In the first shot you can barely see the moon. It is on the pink yellow row going across. Its more visable in the second shot.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Phipps A Great Day

2009-04-07T20:59:00.007-04:00

The photos I will share tonight may seem like adding salt to a wound for once again it is snowing in Erie but on Sunday it was a different story. Waking up to sunshine here in Erie with clear blue skies was a real treat. We decided after Church to drive a bit further South to Pittsburgh to visit some in your face Springtime at the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. It was wonderful with outdoor temps near 70 and the gardens inside busting out with colors only found in the biggest box of Crayons. It was a great day.

Here are some shots from the day.

Thank you for looking.

~Jackie

Yea!! April Brings Springtime to Erie

2009-04-01T15:00:00.000-04:00

It was such a sunny day here for the first day in April. I was envious looking out the windows at work and seeing the clear blue skies and sunshine pouring in. Jim and I both looked at each other while leaving work and said yep lets enjoy the evening especially since tomorrow the weathermen/women are forcasting rain here in Erie. We headed home and grabbed the camera and tripod and headed to Presque Isle for a nice hike.

It was a busy place walkers, joggers, people roller blading and biking. It was only about 50 degrees but the sun was shining and after a long Winter theres no better place to welcome April and Sprintime than Presque Isle. Presque Isle is a heaven for nature lovers, birders, and photographers. Every season has some special variety of plant or wildlife making its appearance. Today Jim and I were searching for a sure sign of spring buds on trees and maybe an early blooming dogwood.

One of the treats of spring that Jim and I look forward to is the Yorkshire Dogwood Trees blooming. They are one of my favorite trees and our weather here really encourages the most awesome blooms. I don't know if the site of white snow for five monthes and the lack of leaves on the bearing all the naked trees or if its the bright pink bloom with the fuzzy center but nothing beats the Yorkshire Dogwood in bloom. Sometimes I wonder about the spring blooming trees along with the beautiful Magnolias and Cherry trees the blooming season is so short but it really is worth it and is really one of those nautures wonders kind of thing.

Well, I did capture kind of a nice shot that I thought I would share of the Yorkshire Dogwood. Hope Spring and April are busting out in your area. If not enjoy our sign of Spring and maybe look a little closer for unique signs in your neighborhood.

Happy Aprils 1st from Jim, Misha, and me ;)

Deer Neighbor

2009-03-30T21:15:00.006-04:00

Gosh I have not posted in so long. Sorry about that. Now with Spring approaching I will get out more and practice improving my photography.

Tonight, I took Misha out for a walk while Jim was working on a few things in the basement. I got a few houses down and Misha stopped to sniff some trees. I saw three of the cutest deer about 20 feet from me. They saw me staring but they were not startled, instead they were kind of playing and prancing around the yard rather joyfully. Of course I left the house without my camera and I knew they wouldnt wait for me. So off we went to finish the walk. Coming home I noticed a deer in the woods across the street. So this time, I ran in the house grabbing my camera leaving Misha in the house.

The deer heard me and ran off to the ridgeline over looking the Bay bluff but was silhouetted nicely with the sun begininning to set. So I did take a few shots.

So here is a shot of our deer neighbor

That picture reminds me of another dear that Kara and Michael will be expecting in late July or first week in August. They found out their baby is going to be a little girl. They have picked out the cutest nursery theme that features some woodland characters especially a deer. Jim and I are soooo excited to see our first grandchild.

Thanks for checking in and hope I can start posting more often now that the weather is improving.

Just Ducky

2009-02-10T17:35:00.005-05:00

Well today was one of those days, rainy, dreary most of the day but Spring is in the air. Tomorrow is actually expected to reach near 60 degrees. So I thought it was only fitting to show some more duck pics.

I thought this first shot was so funny. I could think of about 100 titles for this one.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Feb 8th

2009-02-08T20:17:00.007-05:00

Well the skies were nice and clear blue today despite the colder temperatures than yesterday. It made a wonderful day to shoot some pics. Today I was trying to take pictures of mallards and geese. While shooting at a spot I saw a fellow photographer. I have run into him several times at Presque Isle. His work at capturing wildlife there is simply marvelous. I think of myself as fairly brave, I will go nose to nose (slight exageration) to moose in Colorado but this guy pratically can feel the foxes breath on him as they exhale. Well, he does have some wonderful zoom lenses so hopefully he stays at a safe distance. Anyway he was kind enough to give me lots of pointers on shooting wildlife, no hunting license needed. I need lots of practice but got a few captures that turned out ok.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Saturday Feb 7th

2009-02-07T15:50:00.008-05:00

Well I made my Saturday trip to the Peninsula to take a few shots. The snow started to melt on the Bay leaving a smooth layer of ice that was as smooth as glass. The first picture is of the bay shooting down at the ice. Also took pics in the woods and of a guy playing the horn off by himself in a picnic grove. He said he didnt mind if I took a few photos.

Kind of a strange variety from today but thanks for looking.

~Jackie

Feb. 4th

2009-02-04T22:02:00.004-05:00

It is getting hard for me to see the beauty of Winter the last few weeks. We are getting record snow totals-all ready the 4th worst Winter in our cities record books and we still have a good month to two of snowy to come. Now, the snow is piling high on street corners making it difficult to make a turn at an intersection. You have to kind of nudge your way into the intersection to see over the mound for oncoming traffic. The snow now has lost that fresh look and now looks polluted with dirt, exhaust fumes, and even that yellow stuff that you warn your kids not to eat. But today while heating my lunch in the microwave I decided to try to capture some fresh snowflakes. Not a terrific success but it did allow me to see the beauty once again with winter and its many flakes. (not talking about my family here) lol

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Winter Down

2009-01-18T19:14:00.006-05:00

We have been having a real cold spell. Temperatures below 0 most of the week with wind chills below -10. We have also set all kinds of snow records, midway through January and all ready having over 100 inches of snow this Winter. But, today was a bit warmer, a nice tolerable twenty degrees. Even though we didnt have any sunshine it was nice to go out and capture a few pictures. I came across some pigeons this morning some how enduring the winter blast with their natural down. (hence my title)

After capturing a few pics a nice steamy hot coffee was in order. I headed up State Street to a McD's. Leaving the drive-thru I saw the strangest sight. So I had to pull in and take a quick pic.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Week Blog Assignment: Texture

2009-01-12T18:59:00.006-05:00

I am trying to participate in a weekly photography blog whose purpose is to get a shot daily and trying to capture one on an assigned subject. This weeks assigned subject is Texture. I shot this quick capture while on lunch so I did not have time to venture to far. I like the texture of the rough brick against the smooth ice. There is also some fuzzy green moss but that is just a stain right now.

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

Winters Beauty

2009-01-11T14:50:00.006-05:00

After a few days of snow and thickly clouded skies a little bit of Blue was seen today with even some bursts of sunshine. I headed to Presque Isle. The plows cleared the major roads there but I was not able to get off at some of the hidden locations I like to check out. I did however see a few signs of Winter Beauty to share.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Udder Loneliness

2009-01-07T19:58:00.003-05:00

No, not me but I did take a few pics of some cows that were eating from a feed truck and noticed in the distance one poor fellow by himself. As I was looking through the pics tonight I felt sorry for that one cow udderly alone. Actually when I was taking the picture I thought he had the best spot in the field.

Thanks for looking.

~Jackie

Learning a New Lense

2009-01-04T15:04:00.010-05:00

Jim got me a wonderful new lense for Christmas, a 100mm 2.8 macro lense. It is definately going to take some learning. Here are a few first shots from my new lense.

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

Presque Isle Beauty

2009-01-03T21:43:00.009-05:00

Today was a beautiful day here in Erie. It was a cold day but the sun was shining and actually very calm and little wind. I went to Presque and was amazed with the reflections today. The bay has not froze over but just starting and it cast such a beautiful landscape. Here are a few pics looking ove the bay to the city.

And a few more from other areas at Presque Isle.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

SnOOOOw Much Fun

2009-01-02T19:27:00.009-05:00

Sometimes living where we do in a colder climate we forget the beauty of the Winter Season. The freezing temperatures, slippery ice and dangerous road conditions can get a bit tiresome. Lucky for us we had a visit from our little niece from Florida. Her excitement to roll, play, dive and even eat the (white) snow rubs off on all of us. Even dh who fell on ice while walking Misha on Christmas day and breaking a rib was excited to join the family on a sledding adventure today. Lots of fun pics from the day.

Andrea

Skyler Misha came to enjoy the day

There were a couple of spills today but no serious injuries

A Friendly Hello From Christine
Best Friends
Sisters

RickDiane

The Mysterious Russian Woman

If you were on the side lines like Jim nursing his broken rib, Bob nursing his shoulder from recent surgery, myself shooting pictures or the rest of the crew sliding down the hill it was apparent we all had a great day.

Looks like it is time to head home for a nice cup of steaming hot cocoa

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

Misha has a Visitor

2008-12-23T21:28:00.003-05:00

Our dog Misha had a little visitor today. She is 5 years old and full of excitement awaiting a visit from Santa.

~Jackie

December 22

2008-12-22T19:43:00.004-05:00

Its beginning to look like WINTER....brrr

I took the following pictures Saturday at Presque Isle. I really needed to go shopping Saturday but the sky was awesome and we just had an ice storm so you know that calls for a brief side trip for a mini photo shoot. Luckily it was freezing and I did not wear a hat or gloves so that did keep me some what to my tasks to do that day or I might have wanted to wait all day for the perfect shot.

Thank you for looking. ~Jackie

Christmas Elves Finishing Up

2008-12-21T16:33:00.013-05:00

Gosh it has been over a month since I last wrote an entry or shared pictures. Before Thanksgiving Jim and I started our annual family Christmas project where we work together to create a little homemade gift. Jim loves woodworking and I love to paint. We rarely have time for either of those activities though out the year so it's a fun time when we can pull some ideas together and come up with some sort of Christmas creation. As much as we love this project boy is it hard work!!!! We really challenged ourselves this year. Last year I bought Jim a router so that necessitated a design which he could round the edges. He was very busy with all the special features cutting notches and building little jigs to make some of his steps easier. My job painting was a little less imaginative but I still found plenty of time to whine that I won't be able to figure out how to paint the face or why did I put so much holly on these? lol. Well, any way we got all 16 done and all in the mail last week or delivered personally and are so happy they all reached you safely and that you loved them. Thought I would share a few pics of the elves at work.

Jim Wearing His Dad's WoodShop Apron to Begin the 2008 Santa

Early Faces

Me Painting in the Background

A Few Finished Santas Backside View

So in these last few days before Christmas and the cold winds and snow are blowing outside Jim and I are inside, relaxed that our project is done and looking forward to Christmas day. Kara dear, you know how much I will miss you this year being your first Christmas away but I know you and Michael will have a nice Christmas down in S.C. Hope you can all relax a bit this week. Merry Christmas all.

Green Finger Project

2008-11-10T18:42:00.008-05:00

Abby went to DC this past week end with some classmates to participate in a Green Festival. This is a festival devoted on education and awareness of environmental initiatives that DC is participating in along with education forums devoted on sharing how neighbors, community non profits, and city departments are working together to make their cities healthier places to live. STERIS, the company Jim and I work for are working hard to release Green products to surgical suites and other healthcare or scientific labs.

In the right had column of my blog you may notice a section titled Family Links. The first link titled Abby Goes Green will set you up to a U-Tube Video.

When you click that link the video Abby is on will cue up. You will see a screen that looks similar to my screen shot below. See where I circled in red...You will see an option to view this in high quality. It is best to watch this in high quality. If your computer states to view this in low quality click here do not do anything. Your system is all ready defaulted to high res.There is music playing so make sure your speakers are on. By the way Abby is the first one up and the cutest so be watching.

Thanks for looking.

~Jackie

Sunday, November 9th

2008-11-09T17:53:00.005-05:00

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

November 08-08

2008-11-08T17:10:00.005-05:00

This morning actually turned out to be fairly nice. I went to Presque Isle to take a few shots before grocery shopping. Thanks for looking.

~Jackie

November 5th

2008-11-05T19:44:00.004-05:00

With the time change last Sunday I have very little time to take any daily pictures. Knowing that it was going to be a beautiful day here I decided to pack my camera and head over to Presque Isle for lunch. Gosh!!!I wish I could have stayed all day waiting for some wildlife to appear but only had a few minutes to take a few shots. Sometimes its nice just to get some fresh air.

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

Happy Election Day All

2008-11-04T20:18:00.006-05:00

Jim and I cast our votes in Pennsylvania today. Despite hearing stories of voters waiting in lines for hours we found our voting district much slower. We voted during our lunch hour and did not have to wait in line at all. I cast vote number 516 and Jim was 517 for our district four location. Well I am sure everone will get there fill of political talk today so I will post a couple scenery shots from Wintergreen Gorge.

By the way I hear Kara and Michael are feeling much better. She hopefully will listen to Auntie Di and stay away from those tanning booths and Nana and Papa don't worry that orthodontia work did pay off. I also hear they may consider taking some vitamins and Kara is always on the look-out for a nice face cleanser.

Hope you enjoy these shots. The leaves are falling quickly now.

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

11-03-08

2008-11-03T18:48:00.004-05:00

I was all ready to post just a beautiful fall picture that I took at WinterGreen Gorge when I got a disturbing email from my beloved daughter Kara.

Kara, after graduating from college moved from PA to the lovely state of South Carolina. I promise when Jim and I drove her down this summer we were relieved to see such a beautiful small town with friendly caring people. Kara got a nice job in her field after only a couple weeks of searching. Despite her couple pleas of a little financial help till she got paid we were really happy to see Michael and Kara living in a beautiful home and both beginning great careers. We have talked just about daily and I never have felt worried about her changing at all. I can see her in my mind that sweet young woman glad to finish school and ready to start her next adventure. I guess, especially with Michael by her side being a school teacher and all I just really thought they would take care of other. To be honest I am not sure whats going on. Even Michael has changed so much. I am sure there are other parents out there that think their child changed so after leaving home but gosh this is just so drastic. I almost didn't recognize them. I know a mother will always love her children but I tell you she is testing me. They did send a pic so I guess I will update you all since you probably havent seen them in a few months.

P.S. Sure I probably could adjust skin tones and fix red eye in Photoshop but right now I am just so shocked.

Kara and Michael together. Picture taken October 31st, 2008

Happy Halloween all. Kara and Michael thanks for the pictures. You two are the best.

~Jackie

November 02, 2008

2008-11-02T17:30:00.002-05:00

A quick pic I took today at Winter Green Gorge

Tail End of Fall

2008-10-30T20:35:00.004-04:00

I went to Presque Isle tonight after work. Its so sad now having only about another hour of sunlight. Erie was back to more normal temperatures for Fall so I took my camera and headed to the beach for a few quick pictures. I was kind of sad to see much of the leaves are way past peak. Of course yesterday there was up to 8-10 inches of snow in the surrounding town so I should have realized there would not be much of a show. Still nice to see a few lingering signs of Fall colors and a beautiful sunset with lots of pinks. Here are two pics from tonight.

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

Blue Heron

2008-10-29T22:43:00.002-04:00

I took this shot of a Blue Heron at PresqueIsle this past summer. I cropped in a bit from what I shot to get a closer look. Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

Monday October 27-2008

2008-10-27T19:46:00.004-04:00

A month ago I went to the Erie Zoo with the Erie Photography Club. We were able to go in for free and also enter about an hour before the zoo opened for the day. In return, all those that attended have to donate a matted 8x10 that they will auction off at their Fall fundraiser. Well the prints are due tomorrow so last night I finally made a decision on one to print. Printed it on my printer on some great paper went to Michaels Craft tonight after work and picked up a really nice double mat and assembled it. Gosh!!!! Talk about waiting till the last minute.

I guess some of my procastination stemmed from not taking a picture that was really really good. But with it printed and matted it does look very nice. Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

October 26, Sunday

2008-10-26T11:16:00.005-04:00

Well a couple days ago I told you I would tell you about my class at the Art Museum. Thursday night was our last class for a beginning Photoshop class for Photography. Last Spring I started working on a small project at work that I would design and send out our company's monthly eNewsletter. This was a project that I was thrilled to try even though it wouldn't mean more in my paycheck. But as a bartering tool I said I think I really need Photoshop CS3 to do this right. So since May I have had Photoshop but mainly used it to create some very basic things not necessarily use it in photography. When I came across the Erie Art Museum schedule for Fall classes I had been dying to get into the Photography class then by chance I saw this class offered too. I am so glad I took it. The Art museum gets the greatest teachers in. This class was taught by two local professionals. Its funny but when I think of relatively small town Erie, PA I didn't realize the wonderful artistic talent that is here, or how many working professionals there actually are. Ellen Anon who is a freelance photographer and writer and actually authored a wonderful book with Tim Grey called Photoshop CS3 for Nature Photographers. If your into working with any type of photoshop or elements program and want to make the most of your photos check this book out. Art is more of a commercial photographer so he offered a different perspective than Ellens which really gave us a nice mix of what kind of a work flow we could implement in processing. Both of their approaches were similiar on the fact that photoshop isn't going to take your poorly shot photograph and make it great but instead take a great shot and give it that Wow or make it come alive look.

Now in six weeks you cant learn all the program but we were all able to take peices of the lessons and apply them to our work flow when getting a digital file ready to print or share on the web. So here are a few pics and some simple photoshop techniques showing before and after. Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

p.s. Since these were not great photos to start so you probably wont being saying wow!!!!lol But just sharing some improvements.

Thursday 10-23

2008-10-23T22:00:00.003-04:00

Tonight I had a class down town at the Erie Art Museum. Super class taught by Ellen Anon and Art Becker. Both incredible professional photographers. Maybe I will have some time tomorrow to talk about that but before class I stopped at Perry Square to catch a picture of the fountain with Pink water to bring awareness to Breast Cancer. Its late so I will post only one.

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

October 21 2008

2008-10-21T19:17:00.008-04:00

Here are a few more pictures from the weekend.

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

October-20-2008

2008-10-20T21:30:00.005-04:00

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

Some Last Signs of Fall

2008-10-19T21:43:00.007-04:00

October 15 2008

2008-10-15T22:41:00.005-04:00

Well I had my last class tonight of the beginner to photography class. Our class all did really well and all of us certainly improved upon where we were when we started in September.

There was talk of Art perhaps offering an intermediate or advanced digital class in the Spring. The exciting part of this would be we would actually move from the brick and motar classroom to out in the field. Very tempting and with the amount of pics I have been shooting lately I am confident I would be ready for the next class. I would also like to work on some special lighting conditions like night time shooting or maybe in rain or fog.

So I didn't take any new pics today but will show one that I took Sunday at Chaut. Lake. I wasn't sure if I liked this shot at first. I saw these neat Chinese lanterns in a window and loved the reflections. I didn't capture the look I had really wanted but I kind of like the shot anyway.

Thanks for checking in all. ~Jackie

Tuesday, Oct 14

2008-10-14T21:47:00.005-04:00

Well tomorrow is my last Photography class in the Beginner Digital Photography class I am taking at the Erie Art Museum. It has been taught by Art Becker who has taught and shared so much over the last 6 weeks. Before this class I always shot in an auto setting and really didn't understand the relatinship between choosing your aperture, shutter speed or ISO. Of course I haven't mastered all yet but I feel challenged instead of intimidated in making the decisions of what I want from the shot and setting my camera to get those results. (hopefully) So if any of you are from Erie area and really want to learn the basics take his class. Here are a few general pics from this week, I think I shot most of these in Erie. Thanks for looking.

Chautauqua Lake More Pics

2008-10-13T19:28:00.008-04:00

One of the neat things about Chautauqua is the unique houses. Here are a few more pics, mostly showing some of the unique housing. Thanks for looking.

Chautauqua Lake

2008-10-12T17:44:00.007-04:00

This area was once again blessed with gorgeous weather. With clear blue skies and temperatures near 80 it was truely spetacular. Jim and I loaded Misha in his car seat filled with a bag of treats and cold water and headed to Chautauqua Lake in New York State for a little day trip. Chautauqua is such a neat town and I took lots of pictures. Here are a few quick pics from our day. Yes its true our Misha is a dog and safely rides in his car seat in the back. This way he gets to look out the window and be safe.

Letchworth State Park

2008-10-11T20:53:00.012-04:00

Yesterday Jim and I took vacation days and headed to New York State, Letchworth State Park. We had hoped to see the Fall leaf change at its peak. Unfortunately it was not as colorful as we hoped but we did enjoy a wonderful day together. Besides hiking around we enjoyed a great lunch at Iris Inn. Here are a few pics from our day. Hope you enjoy seeing them.

Monday October 6-2008

2008-10-06T21:46:00.006-04:00

Another assignment in my class this week is a few still lifes. I think I definately need some practice here but I will share a few fun shots I took tonight. Jim set up a couple lights for for me and hung a blanket and bravo!!! I have a little make shift studio. It was sooo fun.

Sunday October 5th

2008-10-05T20:13:00.015-04:00

Today Jim and I took a nice drive around Peek and Peak and North East area. We were hoping for a bit more sun and more signs of Fall but I did take a few pictures to share. This week in my photography class we are working on landscapes. So I took a few landscapes and other scenes. Let me know if you like any of these.

These particular characters pretty much told us not to step any closer.

Thanks for looking. ~Jackie

Picture of the Day Sept 30 2008

2008-09-30T20:39:00.004-04:00

Today I finally talked Shawn into letting me take a few pics of him at Presque Isle. The lighting was so nice. I actully have quite a few shots I really like. Here are two I downsized. Not sure if these are two of my favorites but I do like them.

Lions....Tigers...Bears... Oh MY!

2008-09-20T21:18:00.006-04:00

And then there were the Giraffes

My 3rd Portrait

2008-09-17T21:35:00.002-04:00

This concludes my homework assignment for the week. I am so excited. I have put my camera in manual setting and using permenant locktite to leave it forever there. No longer will I be tempted to set the dial on a pre-programed setting.

For my 3rd portrait I took a shot of my dear husband Jim sitting in his MG. Looking at it now it probably isn't the best pose making him turn his neck around.

I have only done one or two black and whites so it was a little test for myself.

My Second Portrait

2008-09-16T21:35:00.002-04:00

I went down to the North Pier just missing sunset. I passed a group a kids who asked if I would take there picture with their camera. No problem. Then the kids starting chiming in that they wanted me to take their pics with my camera and send it to them for their face books etc. So I thought sure I need a few portraits for my assignment this week. Here is one that I liked.

Head Shot of Patrick

2008-09-15T23:13:00.002-04:00

For my beginning photography class my first assignment is a few portraits. First on the list is a head shot. Patrick was in town for the night before flying to Boston so he quickly became my first suspect.

Picture of the Day 09-14-08

2008-09-14T20:51:00.007-04:00

Here are a few pics of a Blue Heron I took at Presque Isle today. I was so excited to see him. I think they are the neatest looking birds.

Picture of the Day 09-07-08

2008-09-07T19:30:00.003-04:00

Another shot I took when Jim and I went to Niagra Falls last Tuesday. You know me I sometimes take so many shots, then I scan thru and pic a couple good ones. I went back to that folder of pics today and opened a few more and thought this one was kind of coincidental. I was trying to take a picture of the woman looking up at the rainbow and the falls thinking that was kind of a nice shot. Then I get home and look at the images and notice that the hood or sleeve on her disposable rain jacket looks like angel wings.

Piece of Heaven on Earth

A Couple Shots of the Falls

2008-09-05T19:04:00.005-04:00

Jim and I took an extra vacation day after Labor Day and headed to Niagra Falls for a day trip on Tuesday. What a wonderful sunny and Blue sky day we had. Tuesday was a great day to visit with US and Canada both celebrating Monday Sept 1st as holidays it was a nice quiet day without alot of crowds. Here are a couple quick pics.

Photo of the Day 09-03-08

2008-09-03T23:26:00.004-04:00

Sajewski Family Picnic

2008-08-31T23:52:00.011-04:00

It was a wonderful day to enjoy a outdoor bar-b-que on our new patio today. Jim's brother Bill, Diane, Christine and Andrea from Mercer and Jim's brother Bob, Cheri and Stephen from Erie joined us for a nice end of Summer celebration. Shame on me for not taking any pictures during the day. Sometimes it just seems so intrusive to whip out the camera and spoil everyones laughter and relaxed time but I am always sorry afterwards for not catching some fun pics.

The food was all terrific. Jim made his wonderful lamb kabobs, Diane made two great Greek sauces to pair with the lamb. They were wonderful and really enhanced the flavor of the lamb. Cheri brought a wonderful salad. Besides looking so colorful all the greens and veggies in it tasted so fresh and just picked. She also made a delicious cold plate with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and lots of garlic. I love tomatoes and mozzarella cheese this time of year. In fact I made almost the same dish but baked it with zuchinni. It too tased very yummy.

Even Misha felt part of the party today and made a new friend. Andrea made sure he had plenty of treats and attention. She even took him for a nice walk and did a little lesson with obedience training and had him sit, and sit stay to earn a treat. .....Thanks Andrea for helping out and keeping him nearby.

We also celebrated Bob's Birthday and enjoyed a delicious Coldstone Ice Cream Cake. Yes, it tasted as good as it looks here.At around 8:00 in the evening we all headed over to Waldameer. The brave members of the Sajewski family wanted to try the new Ravine Flyer II. If you have not heard about this its Waldameer's newest roller coaster and has a 85 foot drop at its highest elevation. Another neat feature of the coaster is that it actually crosses over Pennisula Drive. You might have guessed that Jim and I sat this one out but there were many takers to meet the challenge of the coaster. I think I may have over heard Andrea singing I have the Golden Ticket in my hand.... Ok maybe she wasn't singing it but her excitement when Cheri handed over the tickets sure made it seem golden.
Despite warning signs about how intense the ride was

there were five brave souls that would wait in line for at least 45 minutes for that 90 second thrilling ride. Stephen and Christine being the extreme thrill seekers were going to wait in line for that coveted first seat on the coaster. I hope you all had a g-r-e-a-t ride.

Photo of the Day

2008-08-26T21:48:00.001-04:00

Sunset at the Bay

Photo of the Day 08 05 08

2008-08-25T21:43:00.001-04:00

Official Dog Walker

Gudgeonville Bridge

Photo of the Day 08 24 08

2008-08-24T10:06:00.002-04:00

Marina at Presque Isle

Photo of the Day 08 23 08

2008-08-23T11:20:00.002-04:00

Amish Landscape in Mercer County

Photo of the Day 08 22 08

2008-08-22T21:30:00.001-04:00

Lighthouse at Presque Isle

Photo of the Day 08 21 08

2008-08-21T22:04:00.002-04:00

Old Mill in Central South Carolina

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2008-08-20T18:11:00.002-04:00

Central, South Carolina

Photo of the Day

2008-08-19T18:07:00.002-04:00

Kara and Michaels New Home

2008-08-18T20:01:00.009-04:00

Well Jim and I got safely home tonight after a very busy and tiring week-end of driving with Kara to her new home in South Carolina. I know you are all anxious to see pictures of her new place so I will skip the chatter for tonight (I'm exhausted anyway) and share some pictures of their new place. It is a very charming place with lots of character. I am sure they will be very happy there.....Calvin too. By the way notice all the beautiful artwork created by Michael. I just love the picture he painted of the two of them while waiting for Kara to move down. It is above the mantle in the living room.

A Night At The Track

2008-08-09T22:36:00.005-04:00

Jim and I went to Presque Isle Downs tonight to check out the new race track. We actually didn't go to bet on the races although it looked fun but instead I toted along our camera to try to get some nice action shots. After a few races we had hoped to go to the Clubhouse restaurant and lounge for a good burger. The races were fun to watch and I actually got a few nice pictures before the storms came blew in pelting hard rain and lots of thunder and lightning . We headed to the Clubhouse only to find that they were not taking any more seating for the night. Oh well. It was still a fun night.

Back Yard Projects

2008-08-05T21:06:00.009-04:00

Well this summer has been flying by so quickly. Its well into the first week of August....school will be starting soon for our nieces and nephews. A couple big firsts this Fall for our families...Sami will be starting kindergarten, Travis will be starting college, Skyler will be attending a new school and someone will actually not be attending school this Fall for the first time in about 17 years. Thats right Kara will be finishing college this Summer. Her last final is a week from this Thursday. Hip-hip-horray.

One big project we have been working on this summer is our back yard. We hired Shawn to put a nice patio in for us. Which led to Jim wanting a nice awning to cover it. Funny how this just keeps rolling along. Then we decided it would be so nice to have the grill off the enclosed porch so we hired Shawn again to expand the patio to include an area for the grill. Which led to Jims most recent project a roof over the grill. This will allow him to grill in all kinds of inclimate weather. I am sure Alison and Robin realize even though its rare we sometimes get rainy - snowny -sleet and any other weather condition that may typically cause one to cancel their grilling plans.

Here are a few pics today showing off Jims new awning. Please don't make the mistake and call it a roof. Awning = no permit required. Adding a roof=permit and reassessment of taxes. I'm sure you can imagine how nervous Jim is that someone won't understand its just an awning. lol

Jim's Awning Project

I'll post a picture of the finshed patio and awnings in a couple days. Just waiting for a nice sunny day. Or..... better yet... come on over and join us for a drink or something yummy.

Don't worry there was a small reward that Jim was able to enjoy after he finished his project. He took the MG out for a nice ride.

What a Beauty

Shawn Scores an In The Park Home Run

2008-08-01T22:00:00.007-04:00

Another exciting night of Erie Big Ball. Although Shawn's team lost there was plenty of excitement tonight. Jack the teams vetern and inductee to the Big Ball Hall of Fame was back on the pitcher mound tonight. Shawn played short and made countless great plays. Shawn not only was a force to reckon with on the big "D" he also led the team on offense capping his times up at bat in the last inning and pounding a line drive to the fence making a home run and RBI.

Shawn Digging Deep

A Couple Pretty Fans

Give Me Some "D"

Excitement Over Shawn's Home Run

Tough Loss But Always Good Sports

John Came For Dinner

2008-07-27T21:13:00.004-04:00

We had a very nice visit from Uncle John for dinner. He came to Erie this morning and is staying at mom and dads tonight and heading back to Emporium tomorrow. Mom, Dad and John went down to the dock today to look around. It was a beautiful day here with a slight breeze.

Joing in the dinner festivities was Shawn and Amanda, and Kara. We enjoyed chicken shish-ka-bob with lots of great grilled vegetables. We also served fresh local corn on the cob and a casserole dish of zucchini, fresh sliced tomatoes, and mozzarella.

For dessert we had a yummy lemon meringue pie with white chocolate curls on top . Delish!!!!

Big Ball

2008-07-26T19:22:00.008-04:00

Shawn has been playing on a Big Ball team this year. Jim and I went to his game last night and had a fun time watching. Unfortunately the team he plays on lost but Shawn played very well making a couple runs and did a great job pitching for the team. This is Shawn's first time playing ball since little league but he does a great job at short and pitcher none the less. They pitch far different than his little leaque games. They throw underhand and try to get it very high and drop on the plate. Very tricky but he is doing really well learning the tricks and struck out quite a few players last night.

As you can see when he is batting here the ball is much larger than a standard baseball. Also no one wears a glove.

Today mom and I went to Presque Isle for PI Days. It was a great day for the beach, hot temps just right to jump in the cool lake water. However, we were not in the water... but walking around with Misha looking at craft show. I did manage to come across a few special creatures who wanted there picture taken.

Wonderful Night to Attend a Concert

2008-07-24T22:15:00.004-04:00

Mom called tonight when I got home from work and invited me to meet her and the Monahan clan at Fronteer Park for an outdoor concert. A local group Ischsbaha, which is a roots-oriented Celtic folk band enterained the nice size crowd. The music was light and fun and you could tell the group appealed to the very young and those always young at heart with there catchy and often funny verses.
Molly and Brandon are in town visiting from Eastern PA with their two little ones Adam and Sarah. They are both so adorable. Little Adam could have spent all night I bet running around the playground. Sarah stayed very content while being cuddled with mom or dad and her little dolly tucked under her arm.

Val and her three are also in town from Youngstown for a couple days. Kara, Maggie and Patrick are growing up and appear to be getting ready to sprout past mom very shortly. The last time I saw your three Mike and Val was a 4th of July fireworks at Mercyhurst about 4 years ago. Your girls are growing up so fast and are both so beautiful. I was lucky enough to catch Kara resting on the ground for a beautiful picture. Maggie is just as beautiful but I unfortunetly didn't get a shot this time.

Happy Birthday Dad

2008-07-21T19:32:00.011-04:00

Today is Dads 78th Birthday!!!!!

We had a nice little cook-out yeaterday to celebrate. Patrick, Shawn, and Kara all made it over with Mom and Dad. Dad's request was something real simple. So we had grilled hamburgers , turkey burgers, potatoe and macaroni salad.

The special Birthday Choir didn't show -up so we had to make do.

Of course we finished up with a delicious Birthday Cake. Jim and I stopped over to Mom and Dad's with Patrick earlier Sunday and saw some great Birthday cards. I also looked through Dads Get Well cards. There is a huge stack and they are really so special. Its nice to know Dad has so many great friends.

P.S Julie... just because you sent him more cards than anyone else that doesn't mean he loves you best. Dad told me "he loves us all the same" ... chuckle chuckle.

Happy Anniversary

2008-07-16T21:35:00.007-04:00

Today is a special day for Mom and Dad and Dianne and Jay. They are celebrating their wedding anniversaries. Mom and Dad are celebrating 48 years and Dianne and Jay are celebrating 20 years. I can't believe it was twenty years ago that we were on the Puget Sound witnessing the beautiful wedding they celebrated. Dianne I still remember that beautiful ballerina pink sash on your antique dress. (Thats why I used pink text on your years) Congratulations to all of you and hope you celebrate many more happy years together.

Off topic....I am going to post a few pictures of Mom and Dads condo. They repainted many of the rooms and has a very nice South-Western flair. We really enjoyed staying there.... thanks mom and dad.

Some Early Shots from Winter Park Area

2008-07-12T10:27:00.011-04:00

Our trip has been wonderful so far. The weather has been beautiful as has the scenery. We spent a day going up corona Pass and ate our packed lunch. We took a day trip to Leadville to look at some old Gold and Silver mines. Our trip to Rocky National Park was unforgetable with the close-up meetings to moose, elk, deer, sheep, and a funny little marmut. We took a chair up Winter Park and walked around the mountains a bit. Well these are just a few of the great day trips we have done. Here are a few pics.

Shots from The Art Show and Sami riding her bike

2008-07-06T16:53:00.002-04:00

Sami's Birthday Party

2008-07-06T11:09:00.009-04:00

Stan's Big Game

2008-07-05T00:31:00.003-04:00

I forgot to mention earlier that Stan went to go play basketball with some friends in the afternoon. I got a pretty cool pic of stan taking on LeBron.

We're In Colorado

2008-07-05T00:12:00.009-04:00

Its been such a busy day. Sorry I don't have time to tell all about our first day here but these pictures will tell a story. Having a great time.

Well we are all tired out and calling it a nght. Happy 4th of July all.

Better Every Day

2008-06-30T21:36:00.004-04:00

Dad is feeling better every day. Kara, Mike, Jim and I went to visit him tonight. We got there just after he had walked the halls. Mom and Connie visited him earlier this morning. He is looking good. Dad makes everyone that visits, including the nurses sign is special Heart pillow. The nurses are enjoying dad as a patient so much that they all chipped in and got him a special tat. Jeepers!!! We had better get him outa there soon.

Kara visiting her PopPop

Dad Is Doing Great

2008-06-29T14:17:00.005-04:00

Its amazing to see dad and think it has only been two days since his major open heart surgery. He is still recooperating in the hospital but expects to be discharged Tuesday. He needs plenty of rest so we have been trying to visit him in groups so that he does not have visitors interrupting him through out the day. Hamot hospital patients that have gone through open heart procedures all get private rooms. This morning Mom, Patrick, Jim and I visited and signed his huggable heart pillow.

Dads room is now decorated with lots of incentives to get better soon. Filled with tennis pictures featuring the families newest tennis star Sami, ski pictures and even a picture of dad on the tennis court running after a shot.

Here is a picture I took this morning of dad. By the way he is getting up and around his room now. Notice he is not even hooked up to iv's anymore.

When Mom doesn't Know Best

2008-06-28T10:51:00.010-04:00

Everyone knows Mom's treatment for whatever is ailing you is to go outside get some fresh air and exercise. I think I was about 10 years old when I first learned her treatment approach for our colds or aches and pains. I can remember that cold snowy day and I didn't feel well enough to go to school. Mom knew the perfect remedy was to go enjoy the fresh air by hitting the ski slopes at Peek-n-Peak. Fresh air and exercise wasn't a remedy just for colds it was the old stand by for what ever ailed you. I can remember many walks with mom and Connie where mom would tell us she got a Rx from the doctor, maybe an antibiotic and after two days it just didn't seem to be kicking in and that maybe she should stop the pills and what she really needed was a good long bike ride. I can't count how many times before moms knee replacement she would be stumbling on her bum knee aching and she would just reply "no it doesn't hurt to bad... I just need to walk a little further and it will be better".

So... over the last couple months when Dad would mention "Gosh!!!I seem a little short of breath on the tennis court" mom could easily diagnose this as maybe needing a bit more warm up time or just aging (dad after all is approaching 78 in July) or it could be that he is playing Austrialian doubles where its him against two on the other side of the net. Mom also would be quick to note that sometimes when she starts out on a big hill biking it takes here a few minutes to build up then shes fines. Well dad being a little wiser about what was going on and this may not just be typical aging went in for a physical including a stress test. Thus began his very quick relization that a serious problem was going on. After the surprising results of the Heart Cath. it was apparent that dad was suffering from multiple major heart blockages.

Here is Some Art Handiwork From Dad Heart Surgeon Dr. Fitzgibbons

So now it was the doctors calling the shots. He was to stay in the hospital until Bypass surgery could be done. Dad and mom watching Wimbledon just a couple hours before being wheeled down for surgery.

Once down to the OR Staging area again we waited. Unfortunately no tv here. Dad remained pretty calm. Finally the go ahead that dads surgeon, who by all the staff refer to him as a genius was ready to fix his broken heart. (actually his heart was strong and healthy just clogged arteries but broken heart sounded so much more poetic)

Ready to Roll

It was a long stressful afternoon. Hamot Hospital provides a beeper for the family so that they can walk outside, have lunch or whatever. It was very nice to be able to leave the OR waiting room occasionally and have lunch and enjoy the fresh air. Here is a picture of mom waiting for the final beeper signal that we could go see dad.
So now the GREAT news. Dad is really doing well. Surgery went great. The doctor reported he has one heck of a strong Heart.

Many thanks for the hospital staff at Hamot including all the small things they do to make such a stressful time more comfortable. Dads Heart surgeon and anesthesiologist were absolutely amazing.

Many thanks to Dianne who stopped mom and dad from going to play tennis last week and from lifting weights at the YMCA. Thats right... after dads stress test he had a week until the Heart cath. So when Dianne called to see what they were doing and mom stated they were going to the court to hit some balls she brillantly advised him not to do any athletic activity until the cath. Who knows what could have happened. But what we do know now is dad was very near a fatal heart problem and now he going to be better than ever.

Stan...... you better start practicing your tennis game.