Growing Older But Not Up!

Cycling With a View

2010-05-30T15:10:00.000-07:00

Our adventure across five states wouldn't be complete without adding a little cycling. We would have loved to add more cycling to the trip however, mother nature wasn't cooperating with our plan. Our first opportunity to get the bikes out was in Bryce Canyon. We spotted a sweet paved bike path with rolling hills on our way to our campground. The views of the surrounding mountains and red rock tunnels were beautiful. Our total trip was 30 miles down to the visitor center and back. The ride down was great, mostly downhill runs with fun curves, and the weather was crisp and perfect for riding. The way back was a bit different, climbing back up with wind gusts that moved both of our bikes over at times. Overall it was a great ride but next time we'll bring our Mountain Bikes as the single track was epic.

Our next opportunity to ride was in Montana at Glacier National Park. We read that part of the park was closed due to an avalanche but figured we could ride into the park a ways before they turned us back. The Park Ranger told us that we could park and ride approximately 15 miles in from the Avalanche parking lot, so we dutifully paid our $25 entry fee and drove in. We rode the bikes approximately 3 miles to find a sign that indicated we couldn't ride any further...we were bummed to say the least. We did enjoy some beautiful views during the short ride and we can't wait to go back and ride further Into the Sun Highway.

We had a break in the weather on Friday and rode out from Lazy Creek Ranch at the head of Whitefish Lake to the top of Big Mountain and back. The ride was about 24 miles round trip and the views were spectacular. The climb up Big Mountain was about 4.5 miles from the turn-off to the top, with grades averaging 8%. This climb was like two rock store climbs in a row, definitely one of the toughest I've done. One of those climbs where I start whispering profanities under my breath because I'll be damned if the mountain will get the best of me.

So Three rides is not what we had hoped for, but definitely worth hauling our bikes, with our horses, and our dogs, across five states.

Ringo Lost and Found

2010-05-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

Ringo is our 15 year old Jack Russell Terrier and from the day I brought him home he's been a handful to say the least. I have had many dogs in my life and they are all special in there own way, but Ringo has always been one of a kind. I bought him in the parking lot at Costco. He had two other brothers and I asked the owner which of the three was the calmest as I watched them all running around in circles while chewing on each other in the back of her station wagon. She pointed to Ringo and told me that he loved to cuddle. I brought him home and within a few days he ran out into an open field in front of my house and proceeded to get his head stuck in a gofer hole. I pulled and pulled his body and watched the ground cracking above his head...I was just about to run and get a shovel and was relieved when the ground released him. He didn't catch the gofer but he earned points for trying. From then on he lived up to the infamy of the JRT breed. He killed numerous squirrels, gofers, mice, rats, bunnies, and he even swallowed a frog whole! He would carefully assess a situation and determine what he could get away with, yep this dog is a thinker... He loved to swim in the lake where we lived, but once he was in, there was no catching him...unless you had a boat! When he was locked up in the yard, he would bark at the ground squirrels that loved to tease him, hence the nickname "little bastard" from our beloved neighbors. Now that you have the background on Ringo, I can tell you that at 15 years of age his health is failing and we know that we have limited time with him. We decided to bring him along with us on our Montana adventure, and he's been a really great little traveler. He's a bit senile now as he can't hear and his sight is going..but he's still spunky enough to enjoy all of the places we stopped in. When we arrived in Montana, we were fortunate to stay at Lazy Creek Ranch where the dogs could roam off leash. All of the dogs pretty much stayed put, but because Ringo is a bit senile and well..he's still Ringo, we had to keep a close eye on him. Well, we didn't watch him closely enough and as he assessed the situation, he realized that we weren't watching him and took off on his own little Montana Adventure. We realized that he was gone within minutes and the whole family (six of us) started scouring the ranch. We looked in the cabins, we looked in the creeks, we looked at the neighbors...but no Ringo. Three hours of searching went by and we decided that he may have been nabbed by a wolf or coyote which frequented the area..and we gave up. Cathy (Terry's Sister), told us that the wolfs and coyotes were well fed on deer and rarely go after dogs, but we couldn't figure out what would have happened to him. I sat down on one of the cabin steps and started to bawl..after all, we'd been through so much together..he's truly my best friend. Cathy left to go run some errands and a few minutes later came back, opened the door to the truck and handed Ringo to us. I'll never forget the smirk on her face as she told us that she found him down the road at a neighbors ranch. He was wet of course as he'd been playing in the creek and probably chased a few ducks or geese along the way. We couldn't believe that a 15 year old, malady ridden dog could evade us for three hours! One thing Ringo has always done, and that's live his life to the fullest...he is definitely the dog that will end his life, body all worn out, bone in his mouth, barking, "ruff, ruff...what a ride"! My life of course has been richer and most rewarding thanks to Ringo (AKA...Mr. Peabody). A big thanks goes out to the search party and to Cathy of course who brought him back safely.

Lazy Creek Ranch

2010-05-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

We are fortunate to be staying at one of the most beautiful ranches in Whitefish, Lazy Creek. While it's truly a great vacation for us to be here, our horses are in heaven. They have really nice corrals and daily turn outs in green, grass filled, pastures. It's possible that they will refuse to load back up in the trailer when we decide to go home (which may be never). After a busy weekend of celebrating and visiting with family, My sister in-law, Cathy lead us on a trail ride where we enjoyed a beautiful view of Whitefish Lake.

We've been on several rides during this vacation and some of the best times were spent riding around the ranch and enjoying the scenery.

Fifty Years and still going

2010-05-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

We arrived safely in Whitefish, Montana Thursday evening and we've been having a blast ever since. Which is the reason why I haven't updated the blog in a few days. The main reason for our trip was to celebrate Terry's parents 50 year anniversary. We organized a party at the Moose Lodge and friends and family came to celebrate and honor Therese and Terry. It was so nice to meet all of Terry's relatives and long time family friends. At the end of the party as we were saying our good bye's, one "Montana" phrase that I heard from everyone repeatedly was "it is nice to know you", as opposed to "it was nice to meet you". They were all such warm and genuine people and I really enjoyed getting to know all of them. Therese and Terry are such an inspiration, after 50 years, they are still in love and having a good time together.

On the road again...

2010-05-20T10:10:00.000-07:00

We woke up in Bryce Canyon yesterday to a beautiful, clear and crisp morning. We decided to take advantage of the great weather and trailered the horses inside Bryce National Park. There's only one place you can ride in the park and you have to get on the trails before the park starts their official trail rides. We rode in an area called The Cathedral, and it was truly amazing.

After the ride, we loaded up the horses and headed out to Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. It was a long day of driving, about 7.5 hours on the road. So, to be consistent...here's the mapquest stats. Total Travel Estimate: 6 hours 31 minutes / 422.12 miles Fuel Cost: $191.40 at 7 MPG.

We stayed at a private ranch owned and operated by John and Shelly. They were really nice people, very hospitable and the views were amazing. Dylan and Cochise watched the cows and wished that they were out in the pasture chasing them around. There were two new calfs born that day, one just a few hours before we arrived. We let Gridley, Shadow, and Ringo run around off leash..Ruby had to stay tethered due to her Jack Russell attitude problem.

After the horses were settled and fed, we headed into town for a soak in the hot springs and a shower...what a great place to stop for the night. Today we're on the road again and headed for Whitefish, MT. The four dogs are crashed out on the couch next to me, Terry's hands are appropriately placed in the 10 and 2 position..and I've got Willy Nelson playing on my iPod.."on the road again, I just can't wait to be on the road again, seeing placed that I'd never thought I'd be..I just can't wait to get on the road again"...

Plan B

2010-05-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

We woke up Tuesday morning to rain and snow flurries as the forecast promised. We discussed our options and decided to take the day to relax. About an hour into relaxing with four dogs in the camper, we opted for plan B. We drove into Bryce Canyon National Park and checked out some gorgeous views.

It continued to rain/snow on and off all day, but it wasn't bad enough to deter us from enjoying our day. We decided to load up the horses and go to Thunder Mountain Trail in Red Canyon.

Our destination was Kissing Rock followed by Inspiration Point. Terry and I have been on some steep and scary trails before and this ride was right up there with some of the most challenging trails. It made my stomach queasy in a few spots but the views were so incredible, that I had to push on and put my fears behind me. I'm so glad that I did. Our horses, Dylan and Cochise did a great job maneuvering the narrow trails and technical spots. One of the most difficult parts of the ride for Me..."The Gap". The trail is a single track and it looks like the sides are going to crumble away. As you can see, the views were amazing!

Pictures don't really capture the full beauty of this land. The ride was a bit chilly at times especially when the wind would blow snow flurries on us, but it was totally worth it. I'm so glad we opted for Plan B.

Bryce Canyon, UT

2010-05-18T18:54:00.000-07:00

Gridley finally settled in on day two of our trip...nary a plastic bag was used.

We arrived in Bryce Canyon on Sunday at Ruby's Inn around 4:00 PM. Our first camping spot was so close to our neighbor that we could literally reach out and touch them from the camper. The second spot was a glorified parking space..with full hook ups..but the third spot...sweet.

On Monday we learned that a storm was blowing in on Tuesday..so we made the most of the day..a 30 mile bike ride on the red canyon bike path..

Followed by a horseback ride on Cassidy trail..rumored to be used by Butch Cassidy himself.

Rocking Horse Ranch

2010-05-16T10:27:00.000-07:00

We survived our first leg of the trip and camped for the night at RHR right outside of Las Vegas. The horses had nice corrals waiting for them with beautiful views of the mountains. Gridley got sick one more time and then proceeded to pee all over the couch and a little on me before the day was done.

We opened a bottle of wine immediately and I cooked a nice smoked chicken pasta dinner with garlic bread before bedding down for the night.

Hopefully day two will be a better day for Gridley.. just in case, I've covered the sofa with a plastic tarp and I'm heavily armed with plastic bags in my back pocket. We're headed to Ruby's campground in Bryce Canyon, Utah. Mapquest calculates at 4 hours 19 minutes / 239.15 miles Fuel Cost: $116.98 at 6 MPG...yep that's right, not 8 MPG...we've revised it to 6 MPG!

The Big Adventure

2010-05-15T12:35:00.001-07:00

We are off on our big adventure to Montana with four dogs and two horses in tow. Our first stop is Las Vegas which mapquest calculates at, 5 hours 32 minutes / 334.77 miles Fuel Cost: $125.00 at 8 MPG. We will be boarding the horses at a private ranch just outside of Vegas and camping out for the night. We have a vintage camper called the "Dreamer", equipped with a small bathroom, kitchen with a four burner stove and a refrigerator. This is the first trip for our dogs, Gridley a five and a half month old huge German Shepherd, Ruby the rambunctious Jack Russell Terrier, Shadow our well behaved corgi/lab, and Ringo our 15 year old Jack Russell Terrier. I decided to ride in the camper with the dogs, mainly because I wasn't sure how Gridley would respond. Within the first hour he started vomiting, but I was quick and caught it with a paper towel (the quicker picker upper). The second episode wasn't so successful as the paper towel wasn't quite big enough. The third, fourth, and fifth time, I used a plastic grocery bag..ah hah! I dosed Ruby with some rescue remedy, which seemed to work for her.. I tried to do the same for Gridley, but, well you know... Terry finally stopped for some Gas after about 3 hours and I let the dogs out..and..Gridley had the runs. Ringo, however, was comfy in the queen size bedroom accommodations.

Georgia Mountain Folk Visit Ojai

2009-09-19T09:00:00.000-07:00

I finally convinced my brother to board a jet plane and leave his rockin ranch in Georgia to visit us here in Ojai. He and his beautiful wife Sandy arrived on a Friday afternoon and well, let's just say, the party didn't end until they left on the following Wednesday.

We enjoyed a beautiful day at the beach on Saturday, Sandi was rippin it up on the boogie board while Rick hesitantly went in the water.. I think he was afraid of getting his hair wet.

Saturday night we hosted a barbecue at the Acacia Mansion before heading out on the horses for a full moon ride. Barbara and Charlie Jerviss, Rick and Sandy, Terry and I all chowed down BBQ chicken and Barbara's yummy broccoli salad.

Barbie's crackin up and Charlie's tryin not to..

Back at the Acacia Mansion after a fabulous moonlit ride..

A visit to Ojai would not be complete without dining on delicious Sushi at Sakura

Campei Kevin!

After Sushi and Lot's of Saki - Rick was feelin fine on the way back to the house

The following day Sandy and I went shopping downtown while the Boys went on a horseback ride..then we all four had massages outside by Henrietta Purcell (LOVE HER!) and had a soak in the cedar tub. Here's Rick enjoying a soak before his massage..

After our relaxing day, I made lasagna and we chillaxed in the backyard..

Sandy kicked butt on the pinga pong table..

Tuesday we all loaded our horses into Barbara's trailer and went to the beach for a fantastic ride... This was my brother's one and only request for his visit.. He had a permanent grin on his face.

Ellwood Mesa has some spectacular views..it's a very special place for Terry and I as it's the site where we had our first date and where he proposed to me.. It was nice to share this wonderful spot with our friends and family.

Sandy on Cochise

Yee Haw!

Barbara looking fabulous..

On their last night with us... Sandy and Rick branded our fireplace mantle

Sundays in Ojai

2009-09-19T08:18:00.000-07:00

Well, It's been awhile since I've updated my blog and our lives have been so full that there's quite a bit of news to catch up on. I thought that I would start with a piece on our fabulous Sundays in the Ojai Valley. I've lived in many cities in my life and I can truly say that Ojai offers more than any other. The scenery is spectacular, the weather is conducive to year long activities, and the people are warm and wonderful. And, like our good friends the Jerviss' like to say... "there ain't no party like an Ojai party"!

Our Sundays usually start off with a bike ride through the mountains or along the coastline. Below is a view of Lake Casitas from the top of Casitas Pass...it's a bitch of a climb, but as you can see..it's well worth it.

I decided to try taking a self portrait while riding back to the house...I don't care who you are, cycling helmets just aren't pretty!

After riding we usually meet up with our friends, Lori and Roy at the Farmers Market and purchase some delicious local organic fruits and vegetables.. Here's a pic of Terry and Lori

Immediately following our procurement of produce we go across the street to the arcade for lunch. Lori and Roy pedaled over in style in their custom made quad mobile...

The Arcade in downtown Ojai offers great views while dining alfresco..

Vesta is one of our favorite restaurants for lunch on Sunday...great food, great wine, and great friends... Life in Ojai is awesome!

Sleeping In

2009-07-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

After a difficult work week and a Friday night out with friends, I was really looking forward to sleeping in Saturday morning. In preparation for my extended slumber, I closed the plantation shutters to prevent early morning light from peaking in, fluffed my pillows, closed the windows, and strategically placed my earplugs in to muffle my husbands snoring. Ah, glorious, precious sleep quickly followed. I was having an amazing dream of several well muscled, abbilicious, men (details not ready for prime time), when I heard a faint sound of barking. Barking? Barking is not part of this fantasy, which one of you guys brought your dog along? Okay, it’s not part of my dream, it’s my dog in the backyard! I roll myself out of bed, cuz the hubby is obliviously still snoring and check out the backyard activity. Ruby and the Raccoons are at it again, “RUBY, RUBY, RUBY, get in here!” I look at the clock and it’s 2 a.m. in the morning, “Crap!” I climb back into bed, secure the earplugs (husband is still snoring away), and try like hell to resume the delicious dream I was having. No such luck, “Damn dog!” Well, at least I get to sleep in. I was sleeping very deeply, the most precious type of paradoxical sleep, the REM state, when I feel these little feet marching up and down my body. Feet to chest, feet to chest, back and forth, back and forth, it’s the cats! The trick is, don’t let them know that you’re awake. Don’t move, don’t open your eyes, lie completely still. They’ll go away. Feet to chest, feet to chest, back and forth, back and forth, it’s driving me nuts. I can’t do it, I can’t lay here under the cat parade any longer. I lift the sheets, turn over, and gracefully kick the cats off the bed. I opened my eyes to check out the time, it’s 5:30 in the morning! I started dozing off again, when all of a sudden light comes poring into the room. I open my eyes, to see my cat on the hamper, opening up the shutters with one paw while peering over his shoulder at me. I quickly pull the covers over my head and ignore him. Bam! The next thing I feel, is the cat landing on my stomach like it’s a trampoline. I shouted, “You little SOB, get out of here!” I get a little cranky when I’m sleep deprived. And, yes, the hubby is still snoring away. One more hour, that’s all I ask. I start dozing off again, when I hear a rattling sound. The cat is rattling the plantation shutters while peering at me with his wicked little eyes and that devilish little grin. “Stop it, you little jerk!” I shouted. My other cat, is now pacing back and forth on the floor meowing. Not a sweet little meow, more like, meeeeeeoooooowa, and it’s getting louder and louder. Forget water boarding, this should be the form of torture Obama takes a stand against. I decide not to concede to these evil, furry, little creatures that think the world revolves around them. I push the earplugs in further, put another layer of blankets over my head, and hunker down. Feet to chest, feet to chest, feet to chest, bam, bam, rattle, rattle, rattle, Meeeeoooowa, all right, I give! Maybe I’ll sleep in another day.

Parrot Heads Party .....yet again!

2009-05-23T12:06:00.000-07:00

Jimmy Buffet concerts are an annual tradition for the Baptiste's and Mackey's.. Hank and Judi Baptiste traveled from Greeley, Colorado to partake in the celebration. Tina and Kalvin decided to join us again this year. The concert was held at the Verizon Amphitheatre, where the tailgate party is almost as much fun as the show. We loaded up the back of the truck with Sand, Lot's of coolers filled with beer and food...and the Tiki Bar! BYOB means... Bring your own Bar!

We arrived at the venue early, however, they were not letting anyone into the parking lot until 3PM.. So everyone lined up on the side streets and started partying.. There's no stoppin a parrot head from partying.

Once they let us into the parking lot, we unloaded the bar and started to set up... The Police and Security company quickly told us that we can not unload our bar into the parking lot. We waited awhile and tried again... but they were on it, and once again said that the bar was not allowed. So, being the law abiding flexible citizens that we are... we compromised and set up the bar in the sand in the back of the truck... It turned out to be pretty cool cuz we had a great view and we were quite popular as everyone wanted to take their pictures at the bar.

Terry and Hank... JB Concert #20 something..

Judi and Hank

Parking Lot Party Scene

Passin out on the table...These youngins can't hang with the old Parrots!

The Morning after in the parking lot of the Double Tree... The Party Continues!

Team Sorting

2009-04-12T09:40:00.000-07:00

Charlie called us up last Friday night and asked us if we wanted to go Team Sorting... We didn't know what team sorting was, but we said why the hell not? So we loaded up our horses in Charlie's trailer and headed to Somis. There's no rocket science involved in Team Sorting... basically, you and your partner go into the pen and the announcer calls out a number. Each cow has a number, and your job is to sort out the cows in numerical order and move them into the adjacent pen. Easy right? Well, maybe for Charlie who took home $52 in prize money... For me... not so much! But we had a hell of a good time... which was what it's all about. The only thing missing was "Balls Out Barbie"... who was in NY.. Check out Charlie's winning round! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_-1z97rVgU

Here's Terry sorting out his cow..

Dylan and I with our game faces on... number two...number two...

Go Janet, go Janet...

Charlie (AKA - "Mr. Type A") was all buzniss..

Piedra Blanca

2009-03-15T07:44:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday we saddled up the horses and trailered to Piedra Blanca which is about 40 minutes from our house in the Sespe Wilderness. We're so fortunate to have such beautiful scenery so close to us. The trails are somewhat technical as the horses have to carefully place their feet on the rocks and maneuver on narrow single track. It's best not to look down sometimes as the drop can be significant at times. A good experienced horse is key! The views of the Sespe and the rock formations are truly spectacular. Our favorite trail partners Barbara and Charlie Jerviss joined us - what a great day!

My Handsome Husband

Charlie and Barbara took the lead

Charlie and on one of their fine looking steeds... this horse is for Sale.. Wish I had some $$

We took all three horses (Terry ponied up Jane) - we couldn't leave Janey home, this is one of her favorite trails.

Barbara and Charlie under the rock formation which looks like an Indian's side profile

Lunch time at the Piedra Blanca Creek Camp - I made paninis-great trail grub.

Love on the rocks - in a good way!

Charlie after a panini lunch

Err....

Heading back..

Barb being the vertically challenged found a rock to mount back up - after nature called.

Charlie - being the well mannered fella that he is... waited til we got back to the trail head to take care of business... His horse couldn't fit in the bathroom, so he waited patiently.

Ojai Mardi Gras

2009-02-22T08:47:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at the annual Ojai Mardi Gras last night. People go all out every year and show up in fantastic costumes. The Ojai Mardi Gras band rocked the roof off and we danced until after midnight.

The party started out at Kristina's Kantina....

Terry, Teri, Kristina, Barbara, Charlie, Tina, and Kalvin (AKA Queenie)

Kalvin tried on several wigs before picking the right one....

Kristina helping Kalvin with another choice...

We all voted... and he was definitely a blond!

Charlie trying on a wig...

Terry tried on a wig and decided to add it to his look... he found his character for the night... English Rocker Dude!

Kalvin and Tina having way too much fun!

Barbara and Charlie

Me and Kristina

Terry made a new friend..

Lori and Roy looking Fabulous!

The costume contest winner... He really nailed the theme.. Venetian Vibrations

Kalvin earned his beads..

Patricia on stage rockin the house and looking gorgeous!

Don Cardinelli.... master song writer, guitarist, venetian King!

The Ojai Mardi Gras Band...with guest appearance by Smitty West

Party is over... here we are back in the Double Dutch Bus!

Another fun night in Ojai with our friends...

Valentine's Day Excursion

2009-02-16T08:53:00.000-08:00

Terry and I decided to take advantage of the nice California winter day and drove the Porsche up to Pine Mountain. Our destination was Sagebrush Annie's, which is located in VentuCopa, off Hwy 33. Approximately one hour or so from the house. Sagebrush Annie's is a beautiful rustic and charming place, known for their award winning wines and gourmet dining. We were too early to enjoy dinner and they were booked two weeks out... however we really enjoyed the wine and the owners, Larry and Karina Hogan. Larry continued our education on the fine art of wine making and gave us a wonderful tour of their facilities. Karina stepped out from the kitchen where she was preparing a gourmet valentine's day meal for some very lucky individuals who planned ahead. You can read about them and take a tour of their facility online..http://www.sagebrushannies.com/about.html.

What a great way to spend the day...

There was quite a bit of snow in the mountains... this is only about 20 minutes from our house. We drove with the top down and the seat heaters on.

Terry at the wheel..

We stopped at "The Place" and had really good Elk burgers. The owners Alick and Vicki were really nice. Alick took us for a tour around the property and showed us a little bungalow which you can rent for a night or two...

Inside "The Place", Terry poked the fire while we waited for our burgers.

After our burgers we stopped in at Sagebrush Annie's

Here I am wine tasting and having trouble deciding which one I like best.. they're all so good..

Larry and Karina - proprietors extraordinaire..

Love the wine!

Cupid's Victims

2009-02-14T08:21:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day! Being the true romantic that I am... I wanted to update my blog today with pictures of some of the most fabulous couples I know. Cheers to all of you!

Eddie and Claire

Don and Patricia

Ray and Lucille

Kevin and Naomi... with Terry in the middle.

Mom and Dad

Cindy and Renita

Sandy and Richard

Barbara and Charlie

Donnie and Scotty

Tina and Kalvin

Kristina and Andy

Hank and Judith

Cathy and Brad

Shawn and Mona

I couldn't leave us out! Kauai 06

Super Bowl 43!

2009-02-08T10:23:00.000-08:00

After a night of rockin the casbah - or Movino.... we all recovered nicely and ended the celebratory weekend with a Super Bowl party at our house. Kalvin and Terry decided to set the TV up in the back yard next to the Tiki Bar since the weather was so perfect. Everyone brought their favorite super bowl munchies... We had taquitos, 7 layer dip, babyback ribs, Caribbean chicken wings, meatballs, fresh yellow tail, killer peanut butter cup brownies, and cake... Man... did we pig out!

One of the super bowl commercials was in 3D... Here's a bunch of us wearing the 3D glasses.

Rachel brought her geetar and entertained us with her beautiful voice...

Donnie and Scott stopped by to enjoy the festivities..

Whew... what a great weekend! We definitely partied like rock stars... but I have to say, I don't bounce back as well as I used to. I was pretty useless on Monday... I basically just kept my seat warm and my cubicle occupied for the day... the lights were on, but nobody was home!

Thank you to all of my wonderful friends and to my handsome husband... life is good... really good!

Party at Sakura!

2009-02-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

The celebration continued at Sakura. You can't beat Sakura for damn good sushi, courtesy of Kevin San and saki bombs, courtesy of Eddie San. Barbara, Charlie, Patricia, Don, Kristina, Andy, Kalvin and Tina all partied like rock stars.

Eddie's setting up the saki bomb extravaganza! Check out the video clip on my youtube links.

Tina was thirsty!

Terry doing a saki bomb old school style!

Several Saki Bombs Later....

We may be forty something, but we can still party all night. We decided to keep the party going at Movino the local wine bar, and danced to some great live music. Obviously, none of us were in any condition to drive, so we called Dutch (AKA the Double Dutch Bus...). Dutch performs a great service for all of us aging alcoholics and drives us from one party spot to the next and then finally home. Eddie decided to go with us to Movino... Here we are in Dutch's bus.

Krazy Kristina!

Kalvin and Tina..

Terry, Eddie and Christina at Movino.

Barb and Charlie...

Wacky Mackey's

Teri's Birthday Trail Ride

2009-02-08T09:00:00.000-08:00

I wasn't really into turning another year older and didn't feel very celebratory after losing Ashley and going through a bit of a scare with Ringo. Terry and my Friends did a great job of pulling me out of my funk. We started the weekend off doing one of the things I love most, riding my horse with our friends. Barbara and Charlie met us at the trail head with several of their new awesome looking horses. Kristina, Andy, and Mona joined us on the ride.

The preserve is a beautiful stretch of open space, with spectacular views. Here we are cantering up the hill towards Chianti's meadow.

Here's a great action shot of Me and Dylan - pony tails flying!

Charlie enjoying the view...

All Girl Posse!

The whole gang!

Ashley May November 1993 - January 23 2009

2009-01-24T12:10:00.000-08:00

Last night I lost one of my best friends, Ashley May. She blessed me with 15 years of love and precious memories. The loss of a pet is always so very difficult, maybe because they provide constant companionship and ask for very little in return. Food, Water, and Love. Ashley was such a sweet soul, she enjoyed simple things like laying in a nice warm sunspot, being brushed, and she loved food. When she was younger, I had a cappuccino machine - and she enjoyed the warm foam that formed on top of the steamed milk. She would come running every time she heard the milk being steamed. She was also known to lick the butter if I made the mistake of leaving it out! Another one of her favorite activities was carrying our slippers or socks around the house. She would make this really funny meowing sound while she was finding a nice spot to hide our slippers.

I was looking through the want ads one day and found an advertisement for a calico kitten that was up for adoption by the Lange Foundation. I drove to LA to see her, and fell in love with her instantly. They said that she was found wandering the streets of LA by herself and was taken to a local shelter. The Foundation would visit local shelters and foster pets until they were adopted. Here she is at the age of 7 weeks just after I brought her home.

One of Ashley's favorite past times was lounging... I bought this leopard spotted bed for her and it soon became one of her favorite chill spots.

My other cat, Calli was very close to Ashley. They would constantly lay together and groom each other.. They were truly the best of friends. She was here with Ashley when she passed and knows that she's gone. She is very quiet today and is obviously suffering from a heavy heart as we all are. Ashley was one in a million and we will miss her very much. I'm hoping that I will one day see her again in heaven on the rainbow bridge. http://www.rainbowbridge.com/Poem.htm

New Year's Resolution

2009-01-17T09:09:00.000-08:00

Wikipedia defines New Year's Resolution as a commitment that an individual makes to a project or the reforming of a habit, often a lifestyle change that is generally interpreted as advantageous. The name comes from the fact that these commitments normally go into effect on New Year's Day and remain until fulfilled or abandoned. More socio-centric examples include resolutions to donate to the poor more often, to become more assertive, or to become more economically or environmentally responsible.

I've started to give some thought to what I would like to commit to in 2009. Up for consideration are; eat less, drink less, spend less, wine less, and lounge less. Hmmmm? Sounds completely boring and most will probably be abandoned before the month of January is concluded. Why do we set ourselves up for failure with these resolutions? It's better to set goals that are definitely more attainable so that we don't beat ourselves up for not reaching them later. A more achievable set of resolutions would be; laugh more, love more, dance more, and enjoy life or as the french say "joie de vivre". So, today I think I'll take my four good dogs for a walk, ride my horse in the local mountains, and later invite some friends over for dinner and then get totally trashed at the local wine bar - Movino! I will dance to live music, thinking I actually look good as I'm getting my groove on... But in actuality - I'll just be another white chick who lacks rhythm. In the morning, I will be significantly hung and start my usual mantra, "my head hurts, my feet stink, and I don't love Jesus" and "why did I drink so much last night"... But I'll have great memories of the day (up until a certain point when a certain number of brain cells have exploded, at which time I won't remember crap). I will however, feel rewarded for fulfilling my 2009 commitments.

If you have already set your 2009 goals.... you still have time to reconsider. I think Joi de vivre, should be on the top of every one's list.

More Island Fun

2009-01-10T10:11:00.000-08:00

We packed as much in as we could during our vacation and enjoyed every moment.. if my previous blogs have not convinced you to visit San Pedro / Ambergris Caye... this should seal the deal! And there's no better place on the island than Changes in Latitudes - clean rooms, great breakfasts, and great people!

Here I am enjoying breakfast at Changes... Fresh local fruit, great coffee, and today, I believe it was oatmeal pancakes! Yummy..

One of our favorite bars is BC's on the beach... Great drinks and really great nachos!

Here we are waiting for our Pizza at Pedros... Who needs delivery when you can drink and play pool while waiting for some of the best Pizza on the Island.

On our last day we decided to sail to Caye Caulker and snorkel in the Hol Chan preserve... There's nothing more relaxing than sailing...

Here we are coming back from our first snorkel trip -

Cindy and Renita took the water taxi over to Caye Caulker and met us for lunch... I had some delicious lobster caught in these traps.... yummmm...

Terry relaxed after his meal in a weathered blue chair.... Kenny Chesney would be proud!

We made it safely back on the boat and headed for San Pedro... Mac Daddy was ready for a nap! Mom enjoyed every moment of the sail back.

We all have a great time laughing under the sails...

Our last night we enjoyed a great meal at Sunset Grill.. We decided it was hat night, so even our waitress found a hat to wear while she served us in style.

Now I know that this looks like a lot of fun.... but I don't want to give you the impression that law and order does not exist on the Island... The Neighborhood is watching... even if they have blood shot eyes from a night of partying!!

New Years Day

2009-01-10T09:28:00.000-08:00

After a night of partying, our livers still in tact, we woke to a rainy morning in Belize... None the less, we made the best of it and headed out to St. Georges Caye which was in the opposite direction of the storm cloud and we ended up having a great day. We met some really great people, Tammy and her three gorgeous kids, Bryce, Faith, and Chad. Jim (our Captain), Robert, Anne, and of course, Cindy and Renita! Terry made a great jug of bloody shots (Bloody Caesers with extra Vodka). The Party continued....

Cindy, Faith, Chad, and Bryce..

Mac Daddy and Mac Momma enjoying the sand bar at St. Georges

Cindy, Mom and Dad... Someone's telling a tall tale!

Here we are at the split on Caye Caulker...

Tammy and Renita the Reggae Queen...

Anne made the mistake of telling Terry that the thing to do at the split was to swim the channel... the currents were pretty strong.. Here he is on the other side...

Ahh... safely back on shore...

Bringing in the New Year was unBelizable!

2009-01-09T19:28:00.000-08:00

After a wonderful Christmas celebration we were off to Belize to visit two of our most favorite people in one of the most beautiful places in the world. This was our third trip and we were pleased that we were able to convinced Mom and Dad to come along with us. The moment I arrived on the Island of Ambergris Caye I felt relaxed and at ease... almost as if the big weight of life's responsibilities was lifted off my shoulders. There's definitely something magical about that Island - Isla Bonita!

Here I am on our first night there at the Tackle Box... two dollar tacos and one barrel rum is good for the soul!

Here's the gang.... Cindy, Renita, Mom, Dad, and Me.... saluting the photographer... Mac Jr!

New Years Eve... all dressed up Island Style ready to go to to the chicken drop! What exactly is a chicken drop?

Here we are getting ready to win big bucks... we placed our bets on which number the chicken will take a crap on... now we're just sitting back, enjoying our drinks and waiting for the chicken to take her infamous crap!

Ladies and Gentleman.... the star of the evening located in the right far corner of the board....

Here we are having dinner at Hidden Treasure restaraunt... we entrusted our chicken drop numbers to Dennis Wolf (local talented singer). Little did we know.. we won the $500 drop!

Later that night... after collecting our winnings, we went to Picasso restaraunt to enjoy one of the best deserts on the Island... cracked coconut. As you can see by the pic below, We are in full party mode... Terry had a few props on hand for this picture... including the gorgeous Cindy by his side... (Mom and Dad... the cigarette is just a prop!). Renita decided to try on the glasses too!

Terry and Renita try on the Tiara... I'm ready for my close up Miss Deville!

After many Belikins, Panty Rippas, and Rum punches... we actually made it to 12:00 AM! We brought in the new year with an amazing display of fireworks! Happy New Year!!!

Mac Daddy and Mac Momma Visit Ojai

2009-01-09T19:04:00.000-08:00

The Mackey's arrived in Ojai the night before My Mom and Brother left for home. We managed to all have breakfast together before the shuttle came and took my Mom and Mike to the airport. Mac Daddy and Mac Momma had a few days to visit with us in Ojai before we jetted off to Belize for our New Years celebration. Luckily we had really nice weather while they were here. We had a few nice dinners at home and enjoyed nice fires by the Christmas tree (courtesy of Terry Jr. or should I say Mac Jr...ha! I crack myself up!)

Here's a picture of Mac Daddy by the fire... Obviously I fed him well and the fire felt nice..... real nice...

We convinced Mac Momma to go on a horseback ride with Terry in the preserve... Here she is at the ranch - Mac Daddy is seeing his Cowgirl off.

Here she is on the other side of the Ventura River near the orange groves... Does she look relaxed or what?

The river crossing is a piece of cake for Dylan and Mac Momma!

Back at the T-T Saloon with a glass of wine!

Christmas Present

2009-01-09T18:23:00.000-08:00

This year we were very fortunate to have my Mom and my brother Mike visit us for Christmas. We decided to have a few people over for Christmas Eve. Mom, Mike, and I made Prime Rib with mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans with roasted pine nuts, and Coconut Cake for desert. Kalvin, Tina, Carter, Patricia, and Don all came over to celebrate the evening with us!

Here's Mike whipping up the frosting for the coconut cake with Mom giving him a taste... He was making quite a mess, so we put an apron on him.... What a good sport!

Mom laughing and having a good time!

Here's Kalvin and Tina opening their gifts... what a cute couple... awwww...

Here we are after the meal enjoying music courtesy of Don and Patricia.... and Kalvin trying to figure out how the toy harmonica that came in the Christmas Crackers works...

Tina and I wearing our Christmas Red!

We had a little jam session after dinner.... Here's mike playing guitar with Mom enjoying the music (and the wine!).

Don, Patricia, and Terry (playing the Uke!)

Christmas Day - the boys (Kalvin, Terry, and Mike) decided that they wanted to play ping pong... Here I am playing Mike... needless to say I kicked all of their butts, not once but twice. All those years of playing ping pong in my Grandmothers game room finally paid off... now I just need worthy opponents (oooooh!)

We decided to go wine tasting in the Santa Ynez valley the day after Christmas... My friend Chris is always willing to go wine tasting... it didn't take much to convince her to join us. This was our first winery, Sunstone, and already we had purchased enough wine to need a box!

Riverview Ranch Games and BBQ

2009-01-09T17:47:00.000-08:00

I've been away from the computer for a few weeks, so I'm catching up on the adventures of T-T. We had a great time playing horseback riding games at the Ranch on December 14th. The games were meant to be fun.. not too serious, but the T-T competitiveness quickly reared its head (a little horse pun..get it... reared??? - okay maybe not so punny). The games included riding bareback with a buck under your butt - the person who was able to walk, trot, and Lope, without losing the buck the longest, won all the bucks. The second game was musical cones, when the music stopped you had to have your horse at a cone - couldn't go back only forward. And the third game was walk, trot, and loping with an egg in a spoon.

Here's a picture of Terry loping around the cones.. he definitely has his game face on...

Here's Dylan and I coming around on the outside... sorry Leanne - but I gots to get to the cone.

Cochise and Terry passing the competition - They ended up winning this game!

Don't drop the egg!

Games are over.... time for some BBQ

Christmas Past

2008-12-13T09:23:00.000-08:00

Christmas time.... Not sure I'm ready for Christmas yet. Every year it seems to arrive quicker than the year before. Maybe that's because they start putting the Christmas merchandise out in the stores earlier each year. This year they didn't even wait until Halloween was over.. they mixed the Christmas merchandise with the Halloween costumes. What's up with that?

Christmas is a time to reflect back on the year and also think about Christmas past. I often think about the times I've shared with loved ones and pets that are no longer with us (in a good way). This year has been a bit difficult as I lost my Dad a month ago, so he's been on my mind a lot. My Dad was not around very much when we were growing up... when he was with us he really knew how to make two little kids happy on Christmas day. Here's a picture of the fabulous array of gifts my Dad (or Santa) provided. Cars, Puppies, and lots of toys... oh boy!

Dad and I arrive at the Family Xmas Party

This year I also lost my Grandmother or Nana as we called her. She was the most magnificent family matriarc. Nana worked pretty much her whole life, she owned a bakery, then taught Dance to both Children and adults, and ran a property management company. She was a real go getter and as sharp as they come. Truly a woman we can all look up to. We lived with her for a few years and she dressed me up like a doll and taught me how to properly pose for the camera. Here's a picture of my Nana and Captain Bud (My Grampa) and a picture of my Brother and I in front of the Christmas Tree - oh and Rudolph was there too.. I would love to find another plastic rudolph that lit up like he did. They just don't make those anymore.

And finally, we lost a few of our four legged friends over the past few years. We lost Chianti, our beautiful Mare this year, and Bristol and Ranger previously. Here's a family Christmas picture we took a few years back.... Hmmm?? How did we get all of those creatures to stand still?

From left to right, Dylan, Terry and Calli, Teri and Ashley, Polly, Chianti, Ranger, Ruby, Ringo, Bristol, and Shadow.

As we reflect back on Christmas past we enjoy all of the special memories that we have with our friends, family, and pets.. While they may no longer be with us physically, they are with us in our hearts and their memories will last forever.

I would love to see some of your pictures from Christmas past and read some of the special memories you have... please add your pictures and comments..

Merry Christmas!

Barbara's Birthday Celebration

2008-12-07T10:57:00.000-08:00

We had a great time Friday night celebrating Barbara's Birthday! The back room at Sakura was packed with friends and family. Eddie brought out the big bottle of Sake which lead to a hilarious round of really bad karaoke. Needless to say, American Idol won't be knockin on any of our doors. Enjoy the pictures!

2008-12-07T10:31:00.000-08:00

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2008-12-07T10:20:00.000-08:00

Oakview Boyeeez

2008-12-07T10:10:00.000-08:00