Sunday, December 25, 2011

Merry Christmas from Lehe Paine!

We had a wonderful Christmas and hope that all our friends and loved ones did, too.  The kids got some nice gifts from the family and were thrilled with this year's big present from Santa--a Wii!  They got a few games and can't wait to try it out--I'm just happy to see it fits nicely in the one spot we have for it!  Katreina's request for "food for starving kids" was fulfilled via food pantry and shelter donations in Illinois and a Heifer gift of chickens.  I'm immensely proud of her for asking for that, and even more proud that she was happy when she actually got it instead of a bunch of toys.  We were even surprised by a visit from some of our dock neighbors, and we were all spoiled by the crew of Libre Vie.  We ended the festivities with what has become a new favorite boat breakfast--Immaculate Baking Co. cinnamon rolls.  Yum!  Now we're off to Gaithersburg to visit Frank's family and continue the holiday gluttony with shrimp and grits.  After a great trip this has been a great Christmas.  I can't imagine topping it next year!
The kids were very happy!

Thanks, Libre Vie!

Saturday, December 24, 2011

We're ready!

We made it home early today as the train was 2 hrs ahead of schedule--when has that ever happened when flying?  That gave us plenty of time to check the mail, unpack a little, make a nice Christmas Eve dinner, and bake cookies.  The kids are showered, presents of pjs have been exchanged, the table has been lowered, the tree has been brought inside, and the snacks are in place--we are ready for Santa!  Now it's time to get to bed--NORAD has him about to cross the Atlantic!
"Please come to our house, Santa!"

Friday, December 23, 2011

Warming up in FL

Where, oh where have we been?  Florida!  While cruising there would have been great, we still have to work so we took a new (for us) landlubbers method--the train!  We actually took the auto train overnight from Lorton, VA to Sanford, FL (just north of Orland) and it was a wonderful experience.  Roomy, relaxing, and we arrived well-rested for a week of Disney fun!  My sister and her family, as well as Grandma and Grandpa Powers, joined us at Shades of Green resort which is right on the Walt Disney World property.  It was just a wonderful trip! 

The weather was amazing and my sister and I relaxed by the pool the very first day.  We visited Downtown Disney, went to a Very Mickey Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom, spent 2 days each at Magic Kingdom and the Animal Kingdom, and made a quick stop at Hollywood Studios.  The kids (of all ages!) had a blast and it was a marked difference for me, having spent last Christmas in Dubai and away from the family.  Frank and I were really surprised at how our kids have grown into the rides, really enjoying the roller coasters and water rides.  I loved seeing all the animals, but really it was just awesome to get away from work and enjoy time with the family.  It was especially nice getting to see the cousins all play together. 

Now it's back to MD to make preps for the big guy to come tomorrow night!
We're ready to see Santa and Mickey!

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

It's Party Time!

It's getting colder here at Herrington Harbour, but we're keeping it warm on Lehe Paine!  Tonight was cause for great celebration as Trent turned 4!  He's a crazy, fun little guy and we love him a bunch!  He chose a Spiderman theme for his party and got "the" gift--a new scooter!
Happy Birthday, Swabby!

Sunday, December 4, 2011

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!


It's tough to tell from this photo (and it is ALWAYS dark when I get home!), but the arch did indeed get installed on the 1st and we have our lights up!  Candy cane rails, up and overs, a wreath on the helm and another on the ladder, and a tiny Christmas tree atop the new arch.  The inside is decked out, too, and I love the glow of the lights off the cherry wood interior.  There are a few other boats in the marina that are decorated--U and T docks are looking good!