San Diego - Coronado Island

Hoover Dam

We decided to go see the Hoover Dam on the way to California. It's something we've attempted to see in the past a few times but never *quite* made it! I was happy we got to do it this time. It was really neat. I used to work for the Bureau of Reclamation so it was interesting to see what they are doing down there! The project itself is absolutely amazing -- some techniques used by civil engineers were unproven, so they were venturing into unchartered territory. Yet they started the project in 1931 and finished in 1936 two years ahead of schedule. The workers worked 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. And it all started because the Colorado River was seen as a source for irrigation water. It was a loooong way down!

Inside on the tour - it was really interesting! Um...not

quite sure what Ben is doing with his arm!

Emma was out! It was 115 F that day!

This bridge was just amazing

Mario booked an awesome place for us to stay in Henderson.

{and I do mean awesome!}

In the garden at the resort

Ben out on the terrace

65th Anniversary Party

Emma's 1st Birthday!!

On June 28, 2010 at 3:52 a.m., my daughter was born. I can't believe she's 1 already! The year flew by. A lot happened in that one year - we moved when she was only 5 weeks old (and have since moved again!) She is now walking and is trying to talk. After a lot of indecisiveness about the cake design, I decided to go with the ladybug (with invitations to match - I was feelin' a little crafty!)
I love my Grandma!

A pillow or balloon?!
Ready to dig into the cake!
Mmmm....that cake was good!

California - beaches and gardens!

Field of Dreams

We passed by this field of flowers on our way home in Castle Rock every day! We feel very fortunate to have lived in such a wonderful community where Colorado beauty surrounded us each day!

This was the view from our house! Very peaceful and beautiful.

We miss it so much!!