The VanderHoeven time machine

Cruise 2012 P. 3

2012-02-13T19:41:00.000-08:00

One of the things that we did was Karaoke. I loved when Brian went up cause he loved it. I don't have a photo of him. I have one of him on the last cruise. This is Pam, Karen, & Kirsten singing. They did really good. Ady sang Louis Armstrong, twice!

We spent a lot of time in Club Fusion. Bob won I think $350. Go Bob! We had a lot of activities their in that club. Between the 2 Cruise's it was like our home.

2012 cruise P 2

2012-02-12T18:26:00.000-08:00

Well, here we are on Princess Cays. This is the 3rd time for Pam & I. Bob & Karen had the most time there but I don't know how many times. It's one of the best days. There are lots of food, snorkeling.

CRUISE 2012

2012-02-05T17:33:00.000-08:00

The cruise this time was on the Crown Princess. It's a sister ship of the Ruby that we were on lst cruise. It had a few modifications. On this cruise was Pam, myself, Bob, Karen, Ady, Kirsten, Christian, Her sister-in-law Shelley & Mary. The Cruise was from the 28th of Jan.-5th of Feb.

Pam, myself, Mary along with the Vander Hoevens left Seattle on the 27th on Continental. We landed at Houston. We had about 45 minutes till we left for Miami. We had a hotel and it was a Marriott on the beach. It is fun to just check out the sights before you go on a cruise. We don't like to travel the day we depart. There can be to many problems. It's also odd to see the sun set and not over the beach. Wait for part 2.

2012-01-01T21:44:00.000-08:00

Christmas this year came & gone like a flash. It seems like it comes faster every passing year. It also gets more crowded every year. Unfortunately not every one was able to make it. Danial Walsh got off his mission in time for this years party on Christmas Eve at the Lutz's. There were the same traditions & we made some changes to other traditions.

The white elephant that we do every year was changed to something different. Linda ran it. We picked the presents & instead of taking turns picking we circled around the living room, thru the dinning room, thru the kitchen, then thru the entry hall back to the living room. Linda read the story, presents changed & then we openned them up. we sang the traditional Silent Night in the 8-10 different lanquages. That is always fun to listen to. We started at 6:30, we all were able to get home at a good hour. Jacki had their baby the 23rd so needless to say the Keanen family couldn't make it. Chris & cat couldn't come either. We had a lot of fun.

Bowling for bucks

2011-12-14T23:24:00.000-08:00

There was a time when a lot of us would go to Fort Lewis & bowl for bucks. That's when you would pay an entrance fee & hopefully you win some money. They had certain combinations that had a pay out. Some were modest, some were high. Jeff had the highest with a winning of $150. Of the people that came were Judy, Jack, Jeff, Val, Karen, Bob, Ady, Oma, Pam, Bryon & myself. It started out being $10 to enter. Then it went to $15. It started at 1900. We had to be there before 1830 to sign in. Then after it was over, usually at 2300, we would hurry to Federal Way to the Dairy Queen in Twin Lakes & eat some food & Ice cream. Some bought bowling balls. Even had holes drilled. By the time Pam & Judy got theirs we quit going. Val was pregnant with Josh & they stilled smoked in the bowling ally & it wasn't good for her. By the time we wanted to start again they stopped it. It was some fun times!

Elma train ride 2011

2011-11-28T00:05:00.000-08:00

This past Summer we were able to make time for a train ride. We went to Elma & took the train.

There was Jeff & Val along with their boys, Pam & myself. We had a very fun time. Pam made the mistake of wearing white on an open car. A lot of her "white" wasn't so white anymore. The trip took about 1 & a half hours. Half way we were able to get out & just hang out. Our schedule this past Summer along with the VanderHoeven were filled up & I was happy that we had the opportunity of riding the rails.

Cruise 2000

2011-11-27T19:52:00.000-08:00

There is a reason why I'm doing the 1st 2 Cruise's. We're going on a 4th cruise, Pam & I & I want to have all 4 blogged. This time we went on the Western Caribbean. We sailed on Princess this time. We left out of Ft. Lauderdale. Coming on the cruise were Oma, Opa, Pam, myself, Jeff, Val. It was in November of 2000. We had fun in Jamaica. We floated down a river. The local were jumping out of the trees to splash us. Then we jumped out into the river on a rope. Poor Pam ruined her nails & it really hurt also. We had fun in Tulum. We didn't make it back to dinner. It was OK, we had a blast. Riding that bus was a scary thing. We didn't know that we would make a few trips in that area in the near future. They had great entertainment, food. I am looking forward to the next cruise.

2011-11-24T23:40:00.000-08:00

As usual we had a great time with our Thanksgiving day. We had alot of people. We had some people who hadn't been to Thanksgiving for a long time. It was Linda & Mario's 1st since the days of using the church building on Om's last Thanksgiving. Jamie Vander Hoeven was here & it has been 2-3 years for his last time. Matthew's 1st in 3-4 years also.

Last night Judy & Linda came & helped Pam, myself, & Matthew in getting the house ready for the big day. They were a lot of help & much appreciated.

Of course football was a part of the day. There are 3 for Thanksgiving. Only 1 matters of course, the Cowboys. (who won!)

There3 was enough food that if we wanted to start all over, it was all ready there! It was a most excellent meal, 3 huge turkeys sacrificed their lives for us. We eve n shared with the dog. The most lucky dog in the world. We all talked about what we were thankfull for. Brians friend, Jasons friend, & Mario's familyjoined us on that. Afterwards it took 2 shifts to clean up. It was successfull. It helps to have a dishwaser! Thank-you all for coming. Pam l;oves doing this so, it makes it worth the effort that she puts in & it makes her very happy when you all come.

1998 Cruise Part 2

2011-11-18T16:37:00.000-08:00

We had fun on board also. At dinner was a great time to try new & different foods. Above is Ady tryin Escargo! As you could see, hedidn't enjoy it to much.

The middle photo we are approaching St. Marteen. We had a very fun day there. Below are the waiters we had. Tony & Ernie are their names. Tony was the main one. He was from India. Ernie was training & from France. Of the 3 cruise's that I've been on so far, they were the best. Tony was making up time spent in India.

Cruising 1998

2011-11-18T16:25:00.000-08:00

In 1998, November, we went on our 1st cruise. We did the Eastern Caribbean. We really had a fun time. we left out of Miami. We got there the day before, a must when cruising. We stayed in a part of town that you have to be very carfull. With us were Oma, Opa, Pam, myself, Jeff, Val, & Ady. Ady & I went to Burger King cause we were hungry. With the type of people hanging around we thought that we would have to RUN to our hotel! We made it. The AM that we woke up we tested our snorkel gear in the swimming pool. It worked. The 1st photo is the adult game were you had to find things. I need to find a bra. Lets say I found one. The next 2 were in Nassau. We were at a Mcdonalds & for the 1st time Pam wanted me to order. I missed all the fun. There was a local family sitting there. The mom who was big hauled off an hit the hubby! Then she took the kids and ran into the bathroom. She didn't like the fact he was eating some of the kids french fries. As he was sitting there he replied "I'm going to get that woman!" Then he got up and proceeded to bang on the bathroom door for them to come out. Then she came out with the kids & belined to the door & out of Mcdonalds. I missed the fun cause I was ordering!!!

Camping in the Great Northwest

2011-11-17T23:08:00.000-08:00

We as a family love to go out & be part of the beauty of this state. We use to go out a lot.

Above we like to test our luck. It was at the end of Summer so, we didn't have to worry about the water flooding. Below We like to hop around. All these trips were between 2000-2003. That was a hghlight of our camping. Our kids loved going on these trips.

Here are some of the beauty. Below is in the cascades . We were right in the middle of some of the most beautiful part of Washington. We arrived late . We ended up pitching our tents in the dark using flashlights. But! When we woke up the next day we were surprised to see the beauty that u see below.

There will be more trips.

Moving

2011-10-09T21:03:00.000-07:00

Linda & Mario moved back to our neck of the woods this weekend. They are now living in Lake land Hills. I know that area really well. I use to drive FedEx & that was part of my route. In fact I delivered to their house. On Saturday Ady , Kirsten, Jeff, Val along with Pam & I helped them with unloading their Budget truck. Then on Sunday after church & dinner we went over to help them some more. Moving is tuff but, I know they like coming home.

Reno 2011 PT. II

2011-10-05T21:48:00.000-07:00

One of the places that we went to while on our vacation to Reno was Lake Tahoe. The Sirrine's like going there. It was a favorite for the Vander Hoevens while living in Sacramento.

The place we like going to is Zephyrs Cove. The family would always go there so, we made a tradition also. The water of course was COLD!

The weather was really good, the scenery was great. we found what was left of the show Bonanza's mock home, but I couldn't find anyway to take a photo. I heard someone said that you can. I didn't have time to find out. It was another fun vacation.

Reno 2011 PT. 1

2011-10-04T22:34:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Pam, Mike, Michelle, Bob & Karen went to Reno. We drove in a big SUV. We left from Opa's house on Thursday Afternoon. That was the central point. We got as far as Yreka California before we decided we should stop. After a big breakfast we took off. It was better seeing the sights than driving in the dark. One of the 1st things we did was go to Virginia City. We went by train, Steam Engine. We were there for the outhouse race. There was a lot of "Potty Humor." Karen & I checked out the Crypt at the Washoe Club. The Ghost were afraid to talk to us.

While the girls were at Hairspray, Bob & I drove around and found the temple. It's a small one in a beautiful neighborhood.
Then there was our Angel Moroni that we saw. We were driving along Virginia Ave & the van you see below passed by! "What the heck??!!!" we asked each other?

I can't help taking a photo of "The Sign!" The food was good as usual.

Steam train ride

2011-09-24T15:47:00.000-07:00

Today Pam, myself along with Jeff, Val, and their boys went to Elbe Wa. to "take a ride on the railroad." When we got their we waited for the engine. To our surprise a vintage diesel came instead. I know that I was disappointed. Then the steam train came. I was excited. We boarded and went to the open car at the front of the train. It was a move that I don't think we'll do again if we have a future trip. Pam was wearing white & she turned black!! It's funny now. The kids loved it. But, since we were following the engine we got all the sut, leaves & bugs along the way. I know 2 people who will be travelling in the enclosed cars next time! We the mexican food restaurant inn went to eat at the Eatenville location. It was the same place Jack & I took Aunt Mary Ann & Uncle Erwin to years ago. I will be riding a steam railroad again next Friday on the Virginia & Truckee railroad with Michelle, Bob, Karen.

Europe 94

2011-09-23T23:12:00.000-07:00

Back in 1994, Oma & Judy came over for a visit. We had a really good time. We went to Holland & Bavaria/Austria. This 1st story, or 1st half is of Holland. They flew into Amsterdam, Pam, myself with Jacob & Michelle were there to pick them up. We stayed for a couple of days. We went to see Volendam and the historic village with the old windmills. I don't know how to spell it & that go's for the sell check also. Judy was really excited to taste some of the old Dutch favorites when it came to the food. The food there is really good. At dinner in the hotel they had some fun desserts.

Oma was right at home when it came to being in Holland. That makes sense since she is all Dutch!

Our trip to Germany & Austria will come later. Our family, are blessed to have such fun on trips. It's even better when you have your own tour guide!

SUB-ZERO

2011-09-20T20:57:00.000-07:00

Last week the Walsh's, Linda & Mario has finally opened their Ice cream store. It's a long time waiting. The name is Sub-Zero. The "Cool" catch is they "make" your ice cream right in front of you! Special order mind you. There are a lot of different flavors & ways to make ice cream.
They are in a great location. They are next to Best Buy. It is a high traffic area. They should get lots of people seeing this fun place. Jack is really good at PR so that is a plus. It's difficult to run a restaurant. Your are married to the business. We all will help if needed. A lot of family works there with friends. It seems like people like it. They are having a lot of people come in. They have been at the Federal Way's Farmers Market. They have been in the paper & I hear on King 5 news. Good Luck with the business.

France

2011-09-11T22:46:00.001-07:00

This trip to Holland was fun. But the trip for me in France was really special. Pam & I spent a lot of time in Europe but! not in France. Some of the other members of the party been to France But like us enjoyed the time in France with their spouse. On the way to Paris we stopped to see Normandy. We stayed in Caan. Now on Sunday they had a Farmers Market. They are big in Europe. They are usually on Saturday but this one was on Sunday which was good for us cause we didn't get there till Saturday. We would've missed it. Above is Pam, Karen checking out the vendors.

Our Hotel was near the Marina. It was a beautiful water way.

Above is the castle, fortress for William the Conquer. He ruled England but from the Normandy side. Below is his grave.

Walking the small streets of France, in a small town is pretty fun. You can't help be amazed were you are at!

Below is our Hotel.

It's a little intimidating in France. None of us could speak French. In Europe it helps if you at least try to speak their language. Pam did a pretty good job. Driving the Freeways there takes a toll. We took them a little but , it was more fun taking the back roads. You see more of the way the locals live. The way they had the directions on the signs just confused us a whole lot. After being lost a couple of times we realized how to read the signs. It's nuts trying to figure out their signs.

More Normondy

2011-09-10T03:26:00.001-07:00

I think this is Jack. This is the Battery that the Rangers were after when they were scaling the cliffs. The reports said it was active and had to be taken out. Unfortunately they were not active.

This is how deep the holes are that the shells from the ships caused. They were all over! There was no surviving if you were exposed!

This is Omaha Beach. It was the bloodiest beach of them all! General Omar Bradley almost called it off cause of the bloodshed! I am very thankful for what all the soldiers had to go thru for the world to be free. A lot of brave men and women! Thank you all!

Normandy

2011-09-10T03:01:00.000-07:00

During our trip to Europe we visited Normandy. This was something that I wanted to do for a long time. When we were stationed in Germany we tried but, for some reason we couldn't get there. Well, we finally did. Above is some of the coastal defense. There were a few remaining.

Above is were they buried the soldiers 1st. If you don't know how it works is this. As they are going thru the area, they have Grave registrations come thru & try to identify the bodies 1st. Then they bury them in an temporary grave & then after the battle or war they try to figure out were the remains go. This is were they were before the permanent cemetery.

Above is 1 of I think they said 5 women that are buried in the cemetery. They were killed during the battles. A brave woman who people hardly know was there.

Here are some more coastal defenses. Can you imagine having to storm the beaches with bullets flying all over & people dying all over? It had to of been horrible! I'm thankful for those who did make the sacrifice. I'm thankful for all who had to endure that "Day of Days!"

"You had to be there!"

2011-09-08T22:22:00.000-07:00

Back in 1990 times were uncertain for the Sirrines. Our unit was being deactivated & the nation was going to war. Pam had plane tickets to Washington to have Christmas here. We couldn't afford one for me, especially since we weren't sure if I could go to Washington for Christmas or to war. The time came when they said we could go on leave. I ended taking the bus. As we were going in Utah we passed thru Price Utah. I saw the famous JB's restaurant & I started to chuckle. The guy next to me who befriended me asked what was so funny? I looked at him & couldn't explain it. I replied " You had to be there." What had happened was back in 1988, the Lutz's, 4 kids, the Sirrine's, 3 kids, Ady, 3 kids stopped at the Jb's to eat breakfast. Kids under 12 eat free. Well, there were 10 kids under 12, double the amount of paying parents! We went thru the line, wiped it out. We then went thru a second time, Again wiped it out. Then we went a 3rd, wiped it out. We walked away full! We're pretty sure the store manager was happy to see us leave & as I rode thru I noticed that they do not have that buffett anymore or the kids under 12 eat for free either! You had to be there. I'm sure the kitchen was a lot emptier after we left!

2011-09-05T20:56:00.000-07:00

Karen & I went up to the top of the Arc-De-Triumph. It had a great view. I've already been to the top of the Eiffel Tower, Pam didn't want to go up so, Karen & I went up on the Rc. It's to celebrate the Military Victories. It was built by Nepolean for Nepolean's victories at first. Now it's for all successful military operations.

Josh went up before us so the threee of us tok a photo for a job well done.

Paris #2

2011-09-05T20:30:00.000-07:00

Pam & I ran into Karen, Mary & Josh by accident. As we got off the bu we were heading toward the Opera House. Pam has always wanted to see it. I've past it before but thought nothing of it last time I was in Paris. As we were getting in line there was Karen, Mary & Josh! As big as that city was we run into some of our party. We checked out the Opera house & I was amazed! I was glad that we did see it. It was just gorgeous! It is Worth a visit for those who is going to Paris. Notre dame is amazing. To think that they had no idea what a treasure it is a 100 years ago! I've known in America it took us a long time before we started to restore & maintain our historical stuff but, I didn't think of that problem in Paris.

I had to take this photo to prove that we were there. It was a place in the 1800 where the rich lived & shopped. Even thought the shops that they have there are still highly priced, the commoner like us could still walk down the most famous street in Paris. The Walsh's were at the Louvre. They really enjoyed it. It's like our Smithsonian.

Our hotel was the Eiffel Seine. It was just a few blocks from the Eiffel Tower. We could easily walk there. That also were we picked up the bus for getting around the city. Most of the travel people on tv won't tell you about the bus tours but they are fun. We did it in Washington DC, Pam has done it in London,and New York. I wished I had 1 more day for the Versille. I was there before but, would like to see it again.
I was in Paris in April of 1980 as a single soldier on a tour. Pam was 15 in June of 1980 with her family. Then in 2010, 30 years later we were there together as a married couple.

2011-09-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

During our trip to Europe some, some of us went to Paris. I know I'm skipping Ca an but! I'll get back to it. Paris was very short. It was very fun. We bought a bus pass on double Decker bus's that takes you on routes thru the city & you can get on & off the buss whenever you want. So that's what we did. We checked out the most famous street in Paris. It was the Ave Des Champs Elysees. After we accidentally ran into Karen, Mary, Josh we got off there and strolled down that famous street. We ate lunch there. That was incredible. Even though the street isn't like it was during it's heyday of the 1800's, it's still pretty cool. When in Paris, do as the Paris people do. The outdoor Cafe's. It was really fun trying to fit in. A bit of warning though! Soda's cost a lot!!!! One mourning I got up to get something at the store & I decided to watch the people of Paris. I watched the people as they went to work. TV cannot really show you how people in other place's live. Sitting there and walking with them is the best way that you can see how others live.

When we got to Paris, we turned our vans at the airport. Then we had the bright idea of taking the metro train system to our hotel. It was an experience that is not forgotten. The train was almost empty until each stop more & more got on until it was standing room only. We also has all the luggage! There was a stop that some trouble makers got on. They tried to con me by throwing something on the floor by my feet & tried to distract me so they can steal something. It didn't work.

Jacob & Danial missionaries.

2011-09-05T19:30:00.000-07:00

I was to lazy to go back to see if I wrote a blog about Jake going on a mission. This is our 3rd of 3. He's went to Mozambique in Africa. 5 months before that Danial, his cousin went to Argentina for his mission. His mission is just south of his dad Jack Walsh. They are just as proud of him as we are of Jacob. Danial will come home this December, Jacob will be coming home in May. The 2 of them have a blog that the moms are updating for them so, if you want to see photo's and see what it's like in each mission you can.

Camping Labor day weekend 2011

2011-09-05T15:52:00.001-07:00

This Labor day weekend the Vander hoevens, Jeff & Val with their boys, the Sirrines Pam, Mike & Michelle went to camp at Cascades Peaks campground near Packwood & Randal. We had a very good time there. It might have been hot during the day but we had some pro's. It got chilly at night, having shade trees during the hottest part of the day helped. We also liked the fact it didn't rain! We checked out the Flee market that Packwood has every Labor day. We all went on Saturday & came home on Monday. We had our loud music people, our talkers till late crowd. We brought our dog. She loved it. There we're a lot of dogs there.

Pam bought a little stove. It was a Washington Husky. We found a normal fire pit after someone left. They use a big Semi-Truck rim for a fire pit! So Pam bought a large bucket to use for air flow, since we have 2 at home we left that there also. We burned all the wood so I didn't have a bundle of wood in my lap on the way home.

Of course we loved having the fire. We went thru a lot of wood. Some even tried swimming. Rumor has it that the water was as cold as Lake Tahoe. Just saying.

Hopefully next year we could go camping again. We as a family use to enjoy camping as long as it didn't rain. It was a real fun time. Until next year.

Viva Las Vegas!!!

2011-08-26T23:57:00.000-07:00

Back in December 1996, we took our 1st vacation in a long line of vacations. I wasn't working at an airline at this time. We were able to get some tickets at a good price. In our party was Oma, Pam, myself, Judy, Jeff & Val. We stayed at the Monte Carlo. Oma loved going to the McDonald's cause she would collect the 101 Dalmatians. The 1st thing we did was to find the best Buffet. We did at Sam's town. Back then the food was pretty cheap in Vegas. Not so much any more!

We saw every casino, took the monorail, walked a whole-------lot! Back then Vegas was trying to be "family friendly!" so, the MGM had a small amusement park. That's when a Elvis impersonate was flirting with Oma.

Of course Oma had to try the BIG slot to win big. It didn't happen. The amusement park was a blast. It was chilly & hardly anyone was there. While we were on the log ride and when we get to the end we would yell out "AGAIN, AGAIN!!" We went again without getting off.

Some couldn't stop playing Wheel of Fortune at the airport. We were stuck there for 4 hours. There was a massive thunderstorm. We even were struck on the way up

2011-08-26T23:34:00.000-07:00

As was waiting for Pam to fly in, I went to the cemetery to see Oma, Grandma, & Doris. They were watering some of the cemetery so I visited Oma. I parked the car facing her grave & I realized how her being there fits!

As my thoughts were in the past, I'm looking at the grave, then the airport behind her. I realized that some of my best memories of her is traveling! So many of our trips with Oma started at that airport that is right behind her mortal remains! She loved traveling. She loved it better when she was with her family. I wished that I had more photo's of her but, they are on another computer.

She never imposed herself on the vacations. She never passed up a chance when asked to come along. I know that our kids are grateful for the chance to share those memories with their Oma.

Temples

2011-08-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

When we were at Josh & Tarah's wedding we noticed that there were 3 sealings at the same time. The temple looked like it had 4. On the way to the freeway we noticed 2 more temples. If all these temples were that busy, it makes sense why so many temples in Utah. It's nice to see the temples busy. That's the way it should be.

Utah trip

2011-08-17T19:22:00.001-07:00

Pam, Michelle, myself, Bob, Karen went to Utah to represent the family for our really good friend Josh Johnson. He married Tara Hansen on the 12th of Aug. 2011 in the Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple. It was a beautiful Temple with Beautiful people for the wedding. It was great to meet his family. It was nice for me st see Mary Jane on her turf. The wedding Reception was later that night in Draper. When we saw Josh then he was wearing tennis shoes, Converse to be exact. Pam asked how he got away with it the bride pulled her dress up to reveal her Converse shoes!!!! They make a perfect couple.

We also got to see our kids. We happened to be there when it was Logan's 3rd birthday, he's our grandson. We met at the Red Robin at the mall. It was great to get together with our kids.

We went to what I think they call Provo Canyon. We went to a place where a set of falls were at. Jamie & Londi climbed to the top. They went thru the water up! Then we had cup cakes for a birthday cake & then Logan opened up his presents. We of course went to Salt Lake City but we didn't stop. We just looked around the sights. The city is getting pretty big. The SLC thru Provo is getting really big!

Friday Bob, Karen, Pam, Mike, Chelle went to a canyon off Sandy. We stayed in Sandy. It had Alta ski resort. It was very pretty. Chelle did a zip line.

The last night there we went to Chuck-O-Rama. That's the 1st for me. Guess who was there? Jimmer the BYU standout! He was sitting in the next booth over. It looked like he was with his grandfather. Jason & Matthew thought it was pretty cool.

I was able to go with Matthew to See a BYU football scrimmage. It was very fun. Matthew has 4 friends with him. He filled me in with all the needed info. He even knows a few of the players.

Uncle Ludy And Aunt Tonie were at the wedding also. It's always nice to see them also. We we're able to meet Landies parents. They are very nice people. His dad & I share the military experience. Both of us were in the Army. We are glad to meet them.

Disneyland 2011

2011-08-07T16:18:00.001-07:00

In may of this year, Jeff, Val, and their kids came with us, Pam, Mike and Michelle to Disneyland. It's one of those vacations that keeps us busy and we have a lot of fun going.

This time we went in May. It was not hot, but not cold. One of the most fun things we did was playing baseball in the pool. We have to have someone in the family get a 20' X 40' pool so we could have a tournament here.
Jeff did something that was pretty fun. He took some old photo's and took them and taken other phto's in the same place. You have to ask him to see what I meen. It was pretty cool what he did.

This time we were going to see if we can go on every ride. I meen EVERY RIDE. We made over 65% the 1st day. We fell short, but we had fun trying. Matter of fact we had fun riding the kiddy rides. I haven't been on some of them for many years.

California

2011-08-07T16:07:00.000-07:00

This time that we went to Disneyland we changed things up. Some were by choice, some not. First we didn't fly Alaska, that was strange. I'm so use to going to the Delta concourse. We flew out of A concourse, Virgin American. This time we started out in Huntington Beach. We've never been there before. It was fun. We saw a surfing competition, even for kids. We saw great Sandcastles. The weather wasn't perfect but nice.

I was able to fulfill one of my dreams. I was able to see the grave of John Wayne. Everyone who knows me, knows that he's one of my idles. This is the closest that I ever got to him. I grew up watching his movies.

It's fun travelling and more fun when u have other people travelling with you.

Can-Cun 2002

2011-05-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

Back in Nov. of 2002 some of us went to Can-Cun. Those who came was Pam, Mike, Oma, Jeff, Val & Ady. We went to the Barcelo for the 1st time. It was an all inclusive. We took advantage to every thing but the sin drinks. We had our favorite table at breakfast & dinner. Lunch was at the pool along with drinks, basketball, sunning & a topless German. We even had oma play some ball including splashing water in the face. One of the excursion's was to Coba. Ady took a swim in the lake were the crocks swam. We took canoes out and did a zip line. The locals feed us lunch. We swam in the cenote. We bought honey from a family and we doubled his monthly income. The honey comes from bees that doesn't have any stingers. Oma, Jeff, Val and I took a bus to Playa Del Carmon. We just shopped around. At the ruins most everyone went to the top of the temple.

Dancing

2011-04-26T19:25:00.000-07:00

The last day was at sea. We had fun on both "Days at Sea." That night most of us was sitting on the deck & they were dancing a lot of different types of dancing. It was fun for most of the people in the family and all around us. It's really fun on the ship. You could have as much fun or be just as bored. I had fun taking photo's of the dancing. You really don't want to see me dance. I'm better behind the camera than in front. Especially dancing. It was a cool evening, a fun evening. We are looking forward to going on another cruise. We thank the cruise director for the fun.

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T23:33:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was Easter. As usual the party was at the Sirrines. In attendance was Opa, Bob, Karen, Brian, Jackie, Terrence, their boys, Judy, Jack, Laura, Jennifer, Justin, Ady, Kirsten, Christian. We of course had a lot of food. Did I mention we had a lot of food?
After we ate we played "Minute to Win It" & we had fun. Ask the neighbors what they thought of the Hicks in the cul-DE-sack?
Did I mention We had a lot of food? Some of the games needed no talent what so ever. But! they did require some kind of cordination.
There is never a dull moment during that game. Of course the weather cooperated. We always want to have cold, windy and wet days when we have a party outside dont we? We like to thank everyone who came and made Easter of 2011 a fun one. Until next year.

Carving

2011-04-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

On our cruise we seen a lot of fun things. One time as I was watching a hot game of scrabble, they started a food carving event. We were in the Atrium. The game was over but the carving was just beginning. Even though I was watching them carve, I was still amazed how they did it. At your right are the carvings. You have to be amazed that wat you see are food! They would display them at the meal times or at Princess Cays. This is truyly amazing art.

2011-04-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

One of the fun things to do on the cruise is entertainment. You have it in the theater, the lounges and etc... I realize that even though the talent is pretty good, I usually don't hear from them outside the cruise ship. There is one sad story. Hate to tell you. Our first cruise there was a singer/comedian named Blair Shannon. He was a really good singer and was pretty funny. Sad was that his wife died 6 months before of Leukemia. Well, I thought I'd check him out before we went on our cruise to see what he's up to. I met him so, I was curious. I found out a couple of years ago he & his girlfriend was in their Miami hotel when an argument was going on outside their room. He stepped out to see whats going on and was shot and killed. Sad. But when his wife died they had a 6 month old daughter. He mainly played the Cruise line circuit. Now back to our time at hand. We had some good talent on the Ruby. We say a great magician named David Cats. There he is above with Laura and Braylee. He did things that you looked and said "What the Heck? How did he do that?"

Then there were the 2 comedians that we liked. There's Carlos Oscar above and Darrell Joyce below. They were in the Explorers lounge. They had a 1-1and a half hour show. They tried to show you how funny life can be. Ask Judy about people under 5' are like?

We really enjoyed the shows. It was a great way to unwind.

2011-04-09T23:46:00.000-07:00

After we got off the ship the fun continued. We found our way to the Everglades. On the 3rd of April we left the ship in our rented vans and found our way to Gator World. Here we rode the air boat. If you seen Flipper, same kind of boat. were all able to go on the same boat. They are good about it. He started out slow. We had to clear the area. As we went along he would explain a lot of newt things. Then he got out in the open and let her go. They go pretty fast. We noticed that you could get lost really easy in that place. When we got back we ate some Gator. Well, a little gator, a lot of Pork. Some liked it, some not. To each there own. After the show we were able to see the show about the Gator, and other things of the Swamp. 'Yes there were Karioki also. Below is Brian. He loved it! He really enjoyed it. I enjoyed watching him. Karioki is getting to be tradition. Brian & Jack are the only ones who did it this time. No way for me. I don't sing!

2011-04-04T20:38:00.000-07:00

This is an Air France A340 that flew right over our heads. I have never experienced anything like that before! The beach is at the end of the runway and the planes fly so close that you think you can reach out and touch it. No matter what it's not a good idea. This is in St. Maartin. The sand was perfect along with the company.

2011-04-04T20:19:00.000-07:00

Our stop on St. Maartin was a blast. We rented a van & drove around. This time no topless beaches.

We found a place that was still destroyed by the storm from before we were there in 98. We found a foundation that overlooked the beach & the shell of the pool was still there, Then we went to the beach. Now this was no ordinary beach. This beach was at the end of the runway of the airport! It was great! We would get blasted & planes flew over our heads. Bob & his sons were on a excursion.

Cruise #2

2011-04-03T18:55:00.000-07:00

It was fun having dinner. We had the Botticelli Dining room. Our time for dinner was 6 PM. It comes with a 4 course meal. By the time we got thru the week our wait staff knew what we wanted. I always had ice cream added. Jack usually had 2 or more to see if he liked it. I really enjoyed the Steak & potatoe most of the time. Pam likes her cheasecake. The girls liked there speciael drinks. We all really enjoyed dinner. I don't know what the other table did, so I can't report what it was like there. Until the next blog, good-bye

Cruise #1

2011-04-03T18:40:00.000-07:00

On the 27th March some of the familt loaded up on the Ruby Princess. The Sirrines, Pam, Mike, Matthew, Michelle with the Lutz's, Bob, Karen, Brian, Jason along with the Walsh's, Jack, Judy, Laura & friend Braylee, along with Mary Jane, Josh Johnston. The 1st day we loaded up on the boat but, it didn't leave till 5:30. We had a long time to get to know the Ship. At 6 PM we had Dinner. That was our time every night. The Walsh & Sirrine family had table 21, the rest hade table 20. Our waitress was from Romania. The 1st stop was Princess Cays. We did a lot of snorkeling. We did some of the VanderHoeven Amazing Race. One task was to write your name in the sand. We had a difficult time at that. We thought that the Island was beautiful! It was in the 90's with the humidity almost matching! After what we heard it was a great week to leave Seattle! This was the 1st 2 days of the cruise. We loved it.

2011-03-06T15:10:00.000-08:00

Just an extension of the other video. Actually this was filmed 1st. As I was saying last time we would stop at a moments notice & check things out. We have fun just going with the flow. No boundaries, we plan something & we would be flexible.

Europe again

2011-03-06T14:50:00.000-08:00

When we were in Holland we would shot from the hip. When we saw something we liked, we would stop and check it out. This is after we saw a bakery. We were very happy to stop. Very fun.

2011-03-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

Again we made the trip to Pacific Shores. As usual we had a fun time.

We didn't have the usual numbers. We only had 7 people & 3 dogs stay the night. It was Bob & Karen, Mike & Pam, Michelle, Sarah & Laura. We made it on a Friday night. The girls went to see if there were any boys but ended up bowling. The adults went to the sauna. The next day we spent a lot of the time on the beach. The dogs absolutely loved it. also Jeff & Val came the next day. Jeff just got back from Atlanta & we're glad they still came. It's the 4th time being there. We always enjoy the beach. We always end up when it's cold. We had a killer kick ball game last time but , we had a better fire this time.

The houses were remodeled & looked very nice. The only thing is they took out the fireplace. We hope to see more out next time.

A Christmas with Oma

2011-02-20T12:53:00.000-08:00

This is Christmas of 2003. Opa just out of the hospital from back surgery. We always had Christmas eve at the Lutz's with few exceptions. Then a lot of us would make it to Oma's & Opa's house.

Here are some photo's of the family of that Christmas.

I remember we always had fun with the time together. Now it's hard to get together while the kids are getting married or going off to school. Christmas will always bring a smile to my face when I think of all the time together.

Oma always like making the village. She even started to buy the granddaughters theirs.

Oma's last Christmas

2011-02-20T12:29:00.000-08:00

It is a hard thing to talk about a subject that affects your life like death. I hope that Everyone will see this as a good memory. I really loved having Oma around. She was always fun to be with. Here is Christmas of 2004. We had it at Jeff & Vals house so Oma didn't have to travel so far.

This is Pam with her new sexy underwear! Hubba--Hubba!

Oma taking part like she always had. She loved being surrounded by her kids & grandkid. We always were gathered together at Christmas.

Jack loved his new White Elephant present.

The individual families always had a part to play. Below is the food.

Christmas 2010

2011-01-27T21:25:00.001-08:00

At Christmas we have traditions that we follow every year. One of those traditions is it usually is held at the Lutz's. We always have the White Elephant gift exchange. It was really7 fun this year. Uncle Ady included a picture that he drew.

Conner made sure that he got the biggest present which was the best. The painting!

We would sing Silent Night in many different languages. Since there are a few returned missionaries and people who are from foreign lands that required to speak a different languages, its great to hear from them all.

Jacob gets set apart

2011-01-27T20:52:00.000-08:00

It was a wonderful time that our 3rd son went on is mission. Mozambique Maputo mission. Danial went a few months earlier to Argentina, same country as his dad Jack.

Our family & friends share the time together. We have the traditional family photo. We wished that Chris, Cat & Logan were ther. We missed them.

Goat Lake

2010-11-25T20:13:00.000-08:00

It has been a long time since we camped so, last year Jeff, Sarah, Josh, Jacob & I went to Goat Lake. We ended up going over 6,ooo Ft. We made camp for 1 night. It was very cold. Then the next day we went up to the lake itself. It was snow flurries that made us even colder. It was mid August!

European vacation Part 1

2010-11-24T23:50:00.001-08:00

We had a rough time getting to Amsterdam. We finally got out of Seattle about 9:30 PM. About 80% there we learned that because of the volcano's in Iceland, we were diverted to Scotland. We landed in Glasgow. They gave us one choice. To go to Iceland & wait for a flight to Amsterdam. We decided no. We ended up in Endenburg to fly to Amsterdam. It ended up costing a lot of money but!!! Those who went to Iceland stayed there 3 days. We had bungalows & 2 rental vans we already paid for so that would've cost more. Another stamp for the passport!

Back in April May of 2010, Opa took his kids & their spouses to Holland. Some of us went to France afterwards, some went to Germany, Austria, Italy & some went home after Holland. Those who went were as follows. Opa, Mary Jane, Josh, Karen, Diane with Frank, Ady with Kirsten, Patricia, Christian, Judy with Jack, Pam with Mike, Jeff with Val. If I forgot someone, shot me later. I have more segment's to go.

One of the places we went were Amsterdam. We went twice. The first time we went to see the Richsmuseum. That is were they have a lot of Rembrandt. That is including the Night Watchman, which is VERY IMPRESSIVE, even for those who aren't into art. Ady was like in the Celestial Kingdom.

At the end of the day we ate at a local Cafe. When in Europe do as the Europeans do, EAT. We loved just sitting, eating and talking about the day's events. It's fun to people watch. Ask Mary about her being towed on the walker. Never take your eyes off the person as you are pushing. Jack, Josh & I were looking up at a guy who was sitting on a ledge of his flat like he was going to fall. But he wasn't the one who fell! Mary was! She was a trooper. She said she was fine. We knew better!

We took a canal ride. It was fun. Our Travel Agent got us a real good deal. I happen to know where she lives, I think she will get a tip! It's a fun way to see the City of Amsterdam.

When we decided that we wanted to park outside the city and take the train in, Then we had to buy tickets for the train. We had to have cash cause the machine wouldn't take debt cards. So, everyone had to pull together & put their money together. Afterwards we handed out 50 cent Euro coins so everyone could go to the bathroom. In Amsterdam you had to pay 50 cents to use any public bathrooms! We also went to the Ann Franks house. I've been to Amsterdam 3-4 times & that was a 1st. For those who went, it was very nice.

Adian's return

2010-11-24T21:10:00.001-08:00

It was a quick 2 years. I hoped he was able to learn the language that fast.

Adian going on a mission & coming home

2010-11-24T21:01:00.001-08:00

When Adrian went on his mission there was a lot of stress. Oma was with cancer & he knew that she wouldn't be there when he came home. He was a brave young man.

These photo's are when he was being set apart I think. It was a long time ago. I thought I should share them with you.

I will have the homecoming on the next blog. There are a lot of missionaries that have went out and a lot that will be going out. I know that I'm thankful for these young men.

Can-Cun #2 2002

2010-11-22T19:10:00.000-08:00

This time I'm not using photo's. In November 0f 2002 we made a trip to Can-Cun. Present were Oma, Pam, Mike, Jeff, Val, Ady. This is when we stayed at the Barcelo for the 1st time. As Ady would say, "Your resort isn't as good as ours!" We went thru the Mexican Customs. It had a stop sign with green & red. You hoped for the green. The pools had a bar at the end. We had endless Diet Cokes! We played basketball in the pool. We had a German lady that thought she was still in Germany. Very little on at the pool. We went to canoe in the Gator invested lake, Zip-line, And the Se note. We took a rest in the hammocks, Ady swam in the Gator invested lake. He almost became bait! Of course there was a lot of food. I took the basketball game serious. Best of all, it was a very relaxing time except for those who had keys that didn't work. I had the best fade-away shot. It was great to go there when it was November cause it was nice & warm. We missed the Michael Jackson show. We either got there a day late or left a day before the Friday of the show.

2010-07-31T23:46:00.000-07:00

A few months ago we went to Virginia City and had a lot of fun. What Jacob and I did was even more fun. We spent the night there. We stayed at the Silver Queen Hotel, reportedly haunted. We stayed in a room that a lady saw something and ran away, never again returning to Virginia City. We also took a Ghost Tour. It was our 2nd one. The 1st was in Gettysburg. This even included our hotel. They took us into room 11, were a lady committed suicide. Then we went to the Pypers Opera House. Built in the 1880's, the 3rd one, other 2 burned. They saved part of #2 on this one. We went inside and a lot of the guest had what they call the K2Y reader.

They think that if there is a ghost, the lights go off. All of them were going off. I didn't feel any ghost at all. The 1st 2 photo's is the Opera house with the one in the middle of the 3.
to the right is the Washoe club. Back in the day this room was

used as a temporary mourge durng the winter. The ground was

frozen so they embalmed the bodies there. Now it's a storage

room! The bottom 2 left are the front of said buildings.

Virginia City

2010-07-31T23:37:00.000-07:00

About a year ago We went back to Virginia City. We always have fun going. This time I was able to ride the Steam train. This engine wasn't one of the original but it is over 100 years old. The last train that the virginia & Truckee owned was 28. The original company closed down in the 50's. It was started again with the engine being #29.

We were able to ride in the open car. It was a beautiful day. The 2 miles covered 90% of the original route. I did have a blast going back into history. This is the only wasy I can do that since I don't know anybody who has a time machine that works.

Koekenhoff 1

2010-05-15T22:53:00.000-07:00

One of he days that we were in Holland we went to Koekenhoff. It's a beautiful park with lots of tulips & other flowers. It's hard to explain how beautiful it is without being there. Here's Patricia & Christian on a cycle. I found the VanderHoeven clan rooming the premises. They are enjoying the beauty.

I'm trying to figure out what Jack has found. Typical Dutch wonder!

We are about to leave the park. As usual they have souvenir shops at every tourist place & Koekenhoff is no exception. I almost bought bulbs & had them shipped straight to me but!!! I had to be careful with he funny money, "The Euro!"

Train ride into Amsterdam.

2010-05-13T22:21:00.001-07:00

After Pam figured out how to get the tickets, we're on our way. Since I loaded this picture 1st, I need to talk about it. Ady was judging who was the "The best of the West." We would clap for the person he would say. The loudest applause won. I wonder if he really knows that people were laughing and mocking us as we were leaving? The ride into town was pleasant. It beats driving in Amsterdam, trying to park and all. We saved time not having to try and find parking!

After we got there we had a WC break. NO Cokes for you!!!!!!!!!!!!

We are3 talking and waiting for the train. That day we say the Ann Frank house, The red light district, passed a few Coffee shops. Now it's time to get on a train. We need to get the scrooges on board.

It was a very pleasent day. We all enjoyed it.

A trip to the city of Amsterdam.

2010-05-12T23:08:00.000-07:00

When we went to Holland we decided to divide Amsterdam up. We decided to stop outside the city limits and take the train in. Well it took us about 20 minutes to figure out how to use a machine that didn't take $20 notes. here's how it looked when we were buying tickets.

Proud to be an American!

2010-05-12T22:53:00.000-07:00

I wasn't there to hear the story. But, let me repeat it for those who did hear the story. We were at the American Cemetery at Margraten, The Netherlands. We were there during their version of Memorial Day. Some saw an elderly man put some flowers on a grave. Ady asked the gentleman in Dutch, "Sir, why did you put flowers on that grave? Why that soldier?" The gentleman replied "I was 9 when the Germans took over Holland. I was a teenager when young Americans like this one gave up their lives so I and my fellow countryman can live in peace. I have adapted this grave to put flowers on it to pay my respects for the youth of Americans who sacrificed their lives for us willingly." For the first time I didn't want to take a picture. It's times like this that makes you swell with pride And thankfulness for those young men. Maybe on Memorial Day next year we should reflect the real meaning before we start our fun.

Easter 2010

2010-04-06T21:40:00.000-07:00

This Easter we had it at the Sirrine's We had lots of food, games & some traditional basketball along with family. Even though our family is getting smaller in Washington, we still had a great turn out. Tarrance's sister here. She seemed to enjoy the rat race.

The kids tried to pose for Uncle Mike. I'll give them an A.

Here are my models for one of the games.

I have people at work that think I'm crazy for a big family. I'm thankfull for a big family. Being crazy also helps. It's nice that we can entertain ourselves. Until the next party!

4th of July 2008. Part 1

2010-03-26T22:28:00.000-07:00

This had to be one of the best. We really had fun with the fireworks. Is this family extreme or crazy? Whatever it is it makes life fun.

He enjoyed the food for sure!

Let the battle continue!!!!!

The carnage of war!

Preparing for war.

Cousins.

The Walsh's

Oh how much WE Love these! We'll be seeing a lot more of these in the near future.

California Adventure, the letters

2010-03-26T22:15:00.000-07:00

Here we are at the letters at the park.

Disneyland 2010

2010-03-17T22:54:00.000-07:00

This year the Sirrine's along with Jeff , Val & their kids made our pilgrimage to Disneyland. We've gone there before together. The last time was 2003. We also went to Hollywood. We took a tour in a limo around Hollywood. Below is a picture at the Kodak Theater. It was a cloudy day so we can't see the Hollywood sign.

Above we checked out the cemetery next to the Paramount Studio and found the man of a 1000 voices.

Sometimes I really like this photo!

We always take a picture hear. The two families have changed since 2003.

We are having fun and survived it all. We we're able to go on all the rides. We even enjoyed the kiddie ones. The weather was worse there than up here. We sucked it up. We made our way to the Mcdonalds in Downey. That is tradition as apple pie is American!

Disneyland 3

2010-03-16T23:15:00.000-07:00

This is walking down Main Street. This is always fun memories.

Disneyland 2

2010-03-16T23:10:00.000-07:00

This is the 2nd part of Disneyland. I haven't downloaded all of it on the computer so I don't have it all. I would like to put more on later. Going to Disneyland is a favorite with our family.

Disneyland

2010-03-16T22:22:00.000-07:00

This is something I've done for the 1st time. Please bear with me while I learn how to do this. This is when we are entering Disneyland. I'm trying to put them together. Once I can burn a dvd I will have it all together. I am learning the way my camera works & the blogger also.

Mazatlan

2010-03-09T21:32:00.000-08:00

I have always loved going to Mexico. Since the 1st time we went in 2002 we went down several times. We have been in a dry spell lately though. I think the last time Pam & I went was 2006. Here is another blog for Mazaltlan. It was Oma's last time she went on a trip with us. This is late 2004, or early 2005.
This photo is with our favorite servers. We sat in the same area & they liked us. (and our tips!)

This is one of our favorite things to do. We love the beach. It's usually warm and beautiful. It's always relaxing sitting there as the sun sets.

The Dutch Consulate. We were walking around and saw a bright side of the town.

This is were oma & opa is watching out at their kids having fun. It's hard not to have oma come along with us on our trips. She always had so much fun.

This is Pam on the bat phone calling to switch arrangements. Our flight was full so we had to make new plans. Pam & Karen made that possible. What great connections. Now we are making new Mexico plans. Pam found a Barcelo in Cobo San Lucas. How about it?

Christmas

2010-02-17T22:33:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Eve I wanted a photograph of all who was present. There was a good reason for it. In 1999 I took a photo of who attended that year. It was the end of a century. When 1999 came around I thought it would be nice for a 10 year photo. I have both photo's made into 8X10 so I couldn't put the full photo's on. I thought it would be fun to see the difference.. Maybe I can take one in 2019?

Disneland & Hollywood!

2010-02-17T21:55:00.000-08:00

Recently The Sirrines, the remaining that are home along with Jeff/Val and kids went to California. We went to Disneyland & Hollywood. The weather was like here so we felt right at home. On the trip to Hollywood we stopped at a couple of cemeteries. Here I am with the man of many voices. The next 2 photo's are at the Kodak Theater were the Academy awards along with American Idol is held at.

At Disneyland we had fun. One of the days it rained...all....day...long. We wimped out and had poncho's. We even had fun with the kids ride. I remember them when I was a kid. It felt strange not having our other children with us. What was strange was the 1st time we went there with Jeff & Val we had 5 kids to their 2. This time they had 4 to our 2.

Jake's Mission Call

2010-02-17T21:43:00.000-08:00

It has been a tradition in the family that we get together to watch the future Missionaries open their calls.

We would gather around with phones with the family members who can't be with us so they can hear also. I do not have the ones who went on before on digital so I am starting with Jake who is going to Mozambique Maputo Mission.

Christmas Day 2009

2010-02-17T21:31:00.000-08:00

I'm breaking tradition. I have ran out of things for this blog. So, I'm doing things that are current. They will become history sooner or latter.

On Christmas Day most of us usually get together at Opa's place. 2009 was no different. We did the usual things like talking, puzzles & stuff. Then we drank beer. Nonalcoholic beer.

2009 is in the history book. Our next big thing as a family is the BIG trip to Holland, France, & Germany.

Boating on Belton Lake.

2010-02-14T18:50:00.000-08:00

This might be a little odd. Bob & Karen with kids came down to visit us once and we had a blast. We did Sea World, among other things. One time stood out in my mind was when we boated around Belton Lake. We did it twice. The 1st day was with the kids, Pam was at work. The second time was the grown ups.
When we went with the kids I forgot my camera. It's one of the few times that I did so. We rented a 22 foot party boat. Bob and I took turns driving. We would jump off into the water and swim. We acted like a PT boat and would shoot our make believe guns at the airplanes and helicopters as they flew by. We even closed in on a tree and claimed it as "Sir-Lutz" for our family. It was our Island! It was a fun day.

Viva Mexico!!!

2009-11-23T20:16:00.000-08:00

We have taken a lot of trips to Mexico. This is one of them. It was on the West side though. This first pictures tells us a lot. It seems like we never stop eating! This is the slide we were having fun on before we were kicked off.

Eating again!

There was other fun we had but I'm banned from talking about it.

2001

2009-11-23T20:11:00.000-08:00

Continuing on with the new found photo's. The first photo is at Boomers Baptism. A group shot of the kids. The next two photo's are of Oma. She is missed by all of us.

2002

2009-11-23T19:56:00.000-08:00

Again I'm here with pictures recovered from Pam's office. This time It's the year 2002. The Photo on the left is at the ocean. The next two pictures are at Knotts Berry Farm. We had a real fun time.

The next two photo's are the girls. How they have changed since then.

It's really fun to see the changes with the kids over the years. We have had

a lot of fun over the years & I love to go over the phto's & see the fun we

had.

Fun times

2009-11-23T19:48:00.000-08:00

The pictures that were at Pam's office are here. They are some good ones. The one with Oma is at Jackie's wedding. I was dared to wear the garbage bag but that was overturned. Out comes Oma with the bag on. She was always fun to have around. The next picture is at Holland. It's a tradition to go there & eat. I'm looking forward in going when we are in Holland. It's always fun eating the great food.

Last 4th at the compound.

2009-10-18T19:59:00.000-07:00

We had a lot of fun on 4th of July's. This is the last one we had at the compound. We had food, games, wrestling and the park for fireworks. We continue with the parties but, different locations. We even had the women arm wrestling.

Land anyone? Halloween

2009-10-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

In 1996 we went to a farm here in Bonny Lake and had a fun time. It was a change from other Halloweens when the parents passed out candy or took kids around. We went on a monster truck ride, a haunted buss ride. I'm looking forward on going again.

The Sirrine's and Jeff and Val 's family thought about buying land. We even took a trip out to a place were they were selling 10 acre3s for about $40,000. It was a long drive. It was a fun drive anyway. It seemed to be to long of a drive just to spend a weekend. This county though is cool cause the population is so low that it's considered a "Frontier" area. One of these days.

Christmas

2009-10-16T00:37:00.000-07:00

We had some strange "White Elephant gags, BUT!!!!

Oma's village.

Moving

2009-09-19T21:04:00.000-07:00

When we moved while we were in the Army, we would visit family. This one time in 1987 we were moving to Texas. We came up here & one of the trips we made was to Vancouver Canada. Here you see how young everyone is. We had a fun time and drive to and from.

Here are the kids that we had at the time. Pam was pregnant with Matthew. I know it's a short blog but a fun memorie.

Reno.

2009-07-23T18:25:00.000-07:00

Our trips to Reno have been fun. The 1st 2 have been with Oma & Opa, & the VanderHoevens. I'm going to talk about the 2nd time going. It was in June of 2002. The 1st day we went to the Ponerosa Ranch. Jeff & I love to watch the show but! the trip to the ranch was pretty fun. We took the hay ride up to the breakfast area. It was fun going up. Someone tried to rob the breakfast money. He didn't get away with it. The breakfast was good. They had scrambled eggs, sasage, bacon, pancakes,juice & it's "all you can eat!" Believe me, we filled up! Then we went to the playground. This is when Jeff almost broke Chris's fanny. Ask about it. It's hard to put into words. It was acdually funny after we knew Chris was alright.

Then you either took the hay rude to the front of the house or took a walk down the hill. We took the walk. It was around this area that they filmed oart of the outdoor shots. You felt like you were in the show.

Oma & Opa was taking a break.

This was going to be their get away cottage. But we had reservations with the Silver Legacy allready.

When you get to their town there was lots to do. This is Hoss's mine shaft. It throws your balence off big time. It was fun to go through.

This is the rock climbing was. Sarah, Matthew, Michelle. & Aunt Valerie were the only ones who tried to climb. There were 2 winners. Can you guess who they were? Matthew & Sarah. Way to go Matthew & Sarah.

We finnaly made it to the house. They didn't film anything at this house. It was only a replica that was made with permission. The guy who took care of the horses for the crew came up with the idea to build it, the studio gave him the permission & it was built in 1967 & ran until 2004.. The son gave to high land prices & sold.

The 2 hats & vests were the actual ones that were worn by Hoss & Little Joe.

The barn.

I lost the picture of Lake Tahoe. It was the next stop that day. The water was very cold. Below is Virginia City. We went there. Hear we sit at the Delta. Before this shot I was taking a picture of Jeff, Val, their kids & Oma with Jeff's camera & it wouldn't work.. The Ghost?

We took the mine tour. The guid who is behind us, a little drunk.

We took a tour of the Mackay Mansion. We used the money Oma won playing the slots. I thought a ghost was there. There was the curtans moving when no one in the room, windows shut & no ac. Hummmmm!

This is the school they had until 1936.

4th of July, 2003; Tourch lite Parade.

2009-06-16T20:40:00.000-07:00

I love having parties. Mostly when the weathe cooperates. This is in 2003 & we all met at the COMPOUND. That's when we still had a shade tree. Do you realize I don't have a picture of the tree down. Unless I overlooked it. If anyone has a photo with the tree laying on my front yuard, PLEASE let me copy it. Here is one of those sunny days. And of course OMA & OPA.

Of course we had games & lots to eat. Of course there was basketball.

Then there was Celebration Park.

Of course the music. Some danced to it.

Remember the Torch lite Parade? For those who went we had fun inspite of the crowds when we would leave. There was going to Westfair to get food & we would eat at our seats. The runners that came & gave the little girls high fives.

We had fun just visiting.

Cherry Hill #3, again.

2009-05-26T22:03:00.001-07:00

This blog is mostly vacation. The 1st 3 are photo's that I can't do over again. That's why I like taking pictures. The 1st one is in front of the Ricks collage sign. It no longer exist. IT's now BYU-I & there is a building being built there. The next two are Jeff running, jumping & rolling. This is at the sand dunes in Idaho.

Then there was a time we were waiting for someone in front of the Hogi Yogi. It reminded me of Jackie cause she worked at one.

This is when we had Easter in 2001 at Oma's & Opa's.

The McDonald's at Milton.

Waiting for Oma & Opa from their cruise to Europe. We met them & wanted to hear how much fun they had.

Cherry Hill #2, The vacation continues!

2009-05-23T22:20:00.000-07:00

This is the continuing saga of our great vacation. This happens to be one of my favorite vacations. The Sirrines, Walsh's & the VanderHoevens went from Cherry Hill Utah to Yellowstone Wyoming. In the 1st 2 photo's you see Buffalo's & burnt trees. Uncle Jeff helped fight that fire.

This photo is at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. It was beautiful!

This is some serious elevation!

This was fun to watch probably the most famous Geyser in the world.

Cherry Hill, 2001, Part 1.

2009-05-19T18:42:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to do this one for a long, long time. The first 2 photo's aren't Cherry-Hill but!!!There's a good story behind it. I'll try to remember the way it went down. Some how Jeff got a hold of the hose & threatened to soak Oma. She said he wouldn't do it. She dared him. BIG mistake! You don't dare Jeff. Even Oma. She got soaked. I don't remember how Jeff got soaked. I was getting my camera. THIS was a KODAK MOMENT! At this time Oma's van was new & didn't want to get in wet so, they put on garbage bags. What a crazy family!

This is the Cherry Hill. One time a friend of Judy's asked what was so special about Cherry Hill. They stayed their by recommendation & This particular person didn't see what was so great about it. I answered "Tradition!" Then he understood. The family started out when it was just a Cherry farm & a pool. Pam's first memory there was this is the place were she learned how to swim. The family has had lots of good memories before the extended family & after. The next 2 photo's are bottlenecks at cardiac canyon.

This is Jeff & Sarah coming out of the slide.

Jack & Daniel.

Oma of course.

Before the swimming suit split.

One thing here was so funny. We had a BIG ball. Jeff jumped on it & it popped! The noise was very loud. Just minutes before that happened I moved the cam corder so it's not on tape. I had the whole half we were on in view. Bad timing.

Michele & Laura? Please tell me who the other child is.

I love family traditions. They are great memories for a life time. People who don't have a family miss out a lot!

Disneyland again, 2002

2009-05-17T21:27:00.000-07:00

During 2002 a lot of us made a lot of trips. We did Disneyland many times & we always loved it. Thisw trip was for Chris. It was his going away trip before his mission. There was Matthew, Adrian, Steven, the neighbor, & Brandon. This 1st photo is waiting in line. We were one of the 1st ones.

They bet Matthew that he wasn't man enough to take a picture with a stranger. Guess who won the bet?

This should've been the 2nd photo. We just got in the park. Hardly anyone there.

This is at the John Wayne airport. This is with my hero. The closest I've ever been to John Wayne.

Mt. Ranier, 2002

2009-05-13T20:26:00.001-07:00

Here's a mini-trip that our family took with Oma, Danial & Laura. We had a fun time & loved the hike. As you could see it was a beautiful day. It's always fun to go there.

This shows where we were & how far up we were. It says were 6,000 ft exactly.

I always loved taking Oma with us any where we go. She was always fun to have around.

Many Events

2009-05-12T21:32:00.000-07:00

Back in 2002, they opened up the football stadium. It's really incredible. They had an open house & we got tickets thru Val's family I think. We had a fun time. Behind us on tyhe 1st photo is Safeco field behind us. Now we don't have the memories at this stadium as the baseball one BUT! When the Kingdome was there we had A LOT of great memories of the M"S.

The Seagals.

The Swimming pool fun. This is 2002. Another great memory. Opening day is soon!

Now this is one time that I'm relying on second hand news. This is the slop house in Penn. They beat the blue haire bus just in the nick of time. They had to nearly run to beat them.

This is when I need help from the people that were there. If you have photo's & memories please submit them

Grandma & last good air show.

2009-05-06T22:44:00.000-07:00

The 1st 3 photo's are the last time that most of us saw Grandma alive. It was the usual Sat. get together at the compound. It was beautiful weather.

Oma tried the guitar I'm not sure how well she did.

This is the last photo that I have of Grandma. I miss the Friday afternoons when I would visit her. Here we are at the last really good air show. They had all the cool stuff out. This is right before 9/11.

Who would've thought that we could have a picture with this airplane in the background?

Camping & Hiking #1

2009-04-28T17:41:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a fun blog. The guys in this family loves to camp & hike. Lately though it got away from us. We all have different schedules, Sun/Mon. off, Sat/Sun. off, Thur/Friday off. It's hard to get together & do the things that we like to do. The 1st 3 photo's is when we were out in the Gig Harbor area. This was in 1998 time frame. A long time ago! It was the 4th of July time frame. The year before was at the Ensign Ranch.. I have an earlier blog about that one. The 1st photo is we were putting rocks all over Oma. The next 2 are at The park in Redmond. We watched the fireworks from there.

The next few are at Mowich. (sp?) The year was 2002. Jeff & Jacob is in this photo. What we did was drive out Friday afternoon, stopped at the Albertson's in Bonny Lake to get snacks, we couldn't have a fire so we couldn't cook. I didn't think that in 4 1/2 years later I would be living there & seeing Albertsons a little more often.

Above it's Jeff & Jake, below also. The bottom we were able to see the Port of Seattle.

This is Jake & I.

Does Jeff remind you of somebody? This is at the lookout tower. I think it was at 5900 ft.

This is Jake in an arm of a tree. I thought it was interesting to take a photo. It looks like a weight lifters arm.

This next hike I can't remember what year. Ady, Jake & I went out on a day hike. I can't remember exactly where this is at.

Balancing act.

Modern day Moses coming off the mount. This is part of the John Wayne Trail.

This is the trail that we've done twice. I would love to do it again with my dog. I don't have any pictures of the hidden falls. I'll do that next time. That was when Sarah stepped on a bee nest, that was fun. This is the group that went this time. 2002 also.

A bridge that was on the way.

This is the bridge that was at the 5 mile mark, our turn around point. Also where the 2nd set of falls. I went to this place before with our scouts & the falls had more water. The next time I post about camping & hiking I'll post the 2nd of these trips.

The end of the day. We are done!

Past Times

2009-04-26T09:20:00.001-07:00

Here are a mixture of things that have went on in our lives. The 1st 3 photo's are the Republican picnic. It was the last one that we went to. It was at the fair grounds. I forgot to check the date on the back of the photos, so I don't have the year.

This is one time that Ady, His older 2 boys, Matthew & I went camping. I forgot were it was at. It was by the Hood Canal area. It was a beautiful place. By the time we set up camp, it was dark. They had a campsite closer but closed it to make it natural.

I have one of these pictures allready but, It seems like Ady is always tasting something wierd!

Times together

2009-04-23T21:19:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time since I've written. Sorry. This set of photographs are from 1 album. I'm already done with it. That is why I'm dipping into my slides. Remember when Pam & Judy along with Oma they did those killers stuff for the Relief Society? Well, we got the popcorn popper from I think Jared. Of course we had to try it out at our house.

This is one of the fun times we had on the trampoline. That thing got a lot of use over the years that it was at the compound. Oma was a big part of our lives. Someone once said a good mother is the anchor of the family. That was true with Oma. These next 2 photographs helps tell the truth of that statement.

Can you say caveman? I just love this picture!

This is in Mexico. I remember going to church as a kid like this. You don't see much of this here in the states.

This is when we went deep sea fishing. This is before most of the group got sick.

This is the Banana boat. It was fun. It was the 1st time for most of us. After he dumped us out in the ocean I'm glad he didn't just leave us there.

This is Joe, Val's brother. We went to Spooner Farms & he won the sling shot competition & this was his prize.

New Blogs.

2009-04-14T22:45:00.000-07:00

I'm getting into blogs that are redundant. For a while I was the only one taking pictures. Now everyone has a digital. Jeff takes a lot of pictures so, it seems like everyone has similar pictures. Please excuse the repetition. What I like to do is get suggestions from anyone on blogs. If any of you give me some Ideas when you see me & give me some pictures of that blog, I'll do a blog about it combining mine & the person who gave me the Idea. I will also give the credit to the person who gave the Idea. If you also give details or even writes something I'll put it down. That way I have not only my photographs, but yours & a better variate. I'm all ready dipping into publishing my slides for ideas. Maybe if I don't overkill on pictures. Talk to me to make sure the VanderHoeven history is written down. What I like to do is change the format a little. I'll need the stories from everyone written down so I could put them on the blog. I was going from 1995. I've all ready broke that rule a time or two. Then I'll get with Jeff cause he has all the cool slides from when all you were growing up & then we could publish the stories. They need to be written down for the generations that will follow. I can't do the stories before 1981. I only could do stories after that. If you do have stories & pictures that YOU like to do get with me & I will help you get on. Chris did 3 blogs on his own. It will be great to see the stories from different prospectives. Thanks.

Lots of things to talk about.

2009-04-12T20:19:00.001-07:00

Here we are at Yellowstone. I started out doing slides on this trip, but I ran out of film & had to by some prints. That is why I have these two photographs.

Here I met Jeff & Val & their kids at the Burbank airport & visited the Ronald Reagon Library. It was a fun day.

This is one of our favorite things.

Taking that Dam tour!

During Oma's sickness. We are behind the Federal Way ballfields.

Camping.

Again the Cherry Hill trip.

1995 Again.

2009-04-07T20:24:00.001-07:00

I'm going way back again. I blew these pictures up from slides. This is so odd to see the kids this age. We are getting older. After my dad died, I realized that we are one person in our direct generation left before WE are the oldest generation. It's our turn to take the torch. Now these kids are collage grads, married, having children themselves. Were getting old.

This is the pregnancy test. One was right, one wasn't. Below we are building Ady's fence.

This is at the wetlands.

Look how young the kids are.

The gathering point.

2009-03-29T21:40:00.000-07:00

During the summer months we would spend time outside. We would all get together on Saturdays & eat, play, tell stories, talk about what happened that day or past week. Then we would eat again & start all over. We didn't need a reason, but we usually had one. We would meet at different places namely the compound, oma/opas house, the church. We would enjoy the sun.

At the church.

A game that Uncle Ady thought up.

Pikes Place Market.

A BIG JOB!!!

2009-03-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

Back in 2002, the kitchen at oma's & opa's had a make-over. The family spent countless hours working on this project. It even got to the point that people were yelling from their houses for us to "SHUT-UP!" It was a very tiring project. Everyone had jobs above the work on the kitchen. I think it turned out great.

Scotty came & helped. See the autographs?

You don't see this room a mess often. Except when it comes to food. But it didn't look like this.

I'm pretty sure that Mom liked what she saw.

Back again.

2009-03-22T21:19:00.000-07:00

This is back in 1987. This is when we were on our way back from Germany. We of course ended up in Washington. We went to Vancouver.

This is after the ride up a gondola.

This is Aunt Judy being silly. Then of course sitting around the back porch. You can see it's before the deck.

Going way------back.

2009-03-16T19:52:00.001-07:00

I thought I would go way back. The picture above is Chris & Linda. They were born in 1983. This is at their house in Texas. Below is Thanksgiving, same year. This is at one of our friends place in Killeen Tx.

This below is in Austin Tx. The park is named Zelker Park. I think I spelled it right. It's a strange but fun place. The spring that Pam & Ady is at is natural & stays the same temperature all year not matter how hot or cold it gets. Ady & I went swimming once in it. The park is divided in half. One half is yoga people & the other is 30 something people.

This below is at Walsh's in Tyler Texas. We were there for 1st Monday. It's a big Flea market.

Below is at Los Alamo's. We visiting Family on the way to Germany.