Marvelous Monteray

November 31, 2009

Ever visited the Monteray Bay Aquarium? If not, better start making your travel plans! We explored this beautiful place of wonder along with the Callis family and the Carter family, which made it double the fun. After locating the fine accommodations that Mrs. Callis arranged for us (she's a professional "priceline.comer"), we set off for a stroll along the coastline, taking pictures along the way. The older I become, the more I am struck at the beauty of God's creation. Instead of running along with the Littles, hopping from one sight to the next, I find myself joining the adults as they quietly stop and marvel. Somehow, it takes time to take soak it in and let the wonder evolve into praise. Despite the tugs and cries of restless Little's, this process is a worthy one.

When we found a beach at the end of our stroll, a few of us 'Biggers' backtracked to a spot of grass we had noticed for a game of Ultimate Frisbee. Lots of fun, as always, but definitely something Miss Parish needs a lot more practice on! Supper in the motel room tasted delicious after the afternoon at the beach. Even more refreshing was the weight room and pool we visited after dinner. The next morning, we made it to the aquarium on time, and thus began another day of wonder and awe at some of God's most awe-some of creatures!

An interesting angle, yes, but the only way to get all of us in together at this location! Thanks to Phillip and Eden Callis for the set-up.

There are times when the faces refuse to be stifled. :-)



This is a random photo, but I couldn't resist posting it anyway.


Chattin' . . .

Children of light.


Beach combers

The Callis's took the opportunity to take some family portraits of the Carter family.

Catching up
Hmm . . . frisbee or photography? Which one will he choose?









The seahorses were fascinating! Even kissable. :-)



Stepping out on the deck for a good view and a few pictures.

Jimella, Eden and I were able to stay in our own room during the weekend. It was a treat to get to know them better as we shared some great stories, laughs, and girly conversation.





Reflection fun.

This was the first time our family had met little Hannah Callis. What a precious bundle of new life!



Aren't these knee's just darling?

This 'touching' exhibit was quite interesting for the littles.

Jellyfish . . . a marvel!


After saying goodbye, we found a beach side Mexican restaurant in which to relax, gulp down much needed water, and catch up with each other. We had a wonderful time enjoying these delicate and fascinating creatures, but even more so, spending time with our precious friends and family in Christ. We are so blessed to know you, and treasure our fellowship with you!

God bless~

From Quebec to Califonia

A few weeks ago, we enjoyed a visit from the Adams family. Originally from Modesto, but currently living as missionaries in Quebec, this homeschooling family was traveling through California to complete some law exams necessary for their studies. They had found our blog online, and contacted us via email about meeting each other while they were in the area. It was great to visit and learn about their unique life in Quebec and the way the Lord is working in their lives.

After the chess game,
They offered to help bring in an old/but new to us hutch that Mom found at an antique store. It was exceptionally heavy, so we were glad for the extra man power.

With the weather turned cooler, and the hill beginning to turn green again, a walk outside is both energizing and satisfying to the 'beauty palette'. In addition, walking and visiting just seem to go together.

Thank-you Adams family for the visit. It was great meeting you!

Something is missing . . .

Can you tell what it is?

New Office!

November 12, 2009


Thanks to the Lord's goodness, Dad's business, Mangini Associates Inc., Telian, Parish, McClain, celebrated the opening of their new office building October 14, 2009. I was asked to snap some photos of the event, which spelled 'fun' for me! Through the past few months, I have had the opportunity to step into this world, my Dad's world, a bit more. It is hard to explain what it means for a daughter to see her Daddy in action, to meet the men who work with him and witness the sincerity of their respect for him, to see the fruit of his honesty and integrity. My heart swells with praise for God's work in my Father throughout his life.



The ribbon cutting- don't you love the scissors? The middle couple is Dad's partner and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Michael Telian, while the couple on the left is Mr. and Mrs. Chris McClain, the other partner in the business.







This is Dad, Grandma Shirley, and Great-Grandma Lucille, with Rick and Susan Mangini, the original founders of Mangini Associates. Mr. Mangini has a great sense of humor as you can see from the picture below. :-)





The office gals: Candace, Bridget, and Julie.



Dad and Jesse G. have been working together for years, and he appreciates Jesse's work ethic and honesty. It's wonderful for friendship to coincide with work.



It was a blessing to share the evening with Mr. and Mrs. Werzinski! The
Carter and McCracken families were able to come as well. It meant so much to share the evening with our dear friends.



Before Grandma Shirley moved in with Grandma Lucille, she worked with Jamie McClain's mother. Their status as co-workers soon grew into friendship.



Dennis and Judy Hustsell,fellow believers have been a part of Mangini Associates for many years.

I apologize for the pictures on this post that don't have an explanation. Format problems are to blame. :-)