Home Sweet Home

Well we’re back from a three week tour that has taken us from California to Calgary to Coaldale and back again (roughly 6500 km total). Needless to say I’ve spent more time in the Montana than necessary and become very well acquainted with the ipod that Shelley gave me for my birthday (I can hear that laughter - please stop it). Our time in California was very enjoyable, particularly the chance to reconnect with some of Shelley’s relatives that we got to spend some time with when I was studying in Fresno. We got to watch one of Shelley’s cousins get married and to try to convince the other two to come north and try their hand at the Canadian dating scene (Katie, Hillary, I know you’re reading this - the offer still stands).

Fresno was cooler than I expected for this time of year but we did make a pit stop in Las Vegas on the way home and got to experience some 47 degree heat. The picture below was taken outside the Paris hotel in a brief moment of insanity where we strayed away from the comfort of the air-conditioning. Immediately after this shot was taken I raced back into the lobby gasping for air, drawing quizzical looks from a few patrons who were taking a break from the slot machines.

We got home in time to celebrate the birthdays of two special little ladies and to spend some time with our families. For those keeping score Julie is now four and Lana is two but they would be a dead heat in an arm wrestle. The picture below says it all. Julie is contemplating the beauty of the candles while Lana is wondering if the entire cake is for her.

Overall this was a much needed break for us and it was great to spend time with family. It will be good to get into the routines of life here again and to get our kids used to a more normal schedule (while getting ready for #3). I hope you’re all having a restful summer.