4th in Review

Hi all,
Hope everyone celebrated America's birthday with pride!

JULY 3

We had a full day of fun with friends. Actually, the fun started on July 3. We carvaned down to Monterey; did some ocean and tidepool exploring. We found tons of starfish and some sea lions lounging in the sun amongst some rocks in the ocean. We played with some crabs and admired all the varities of shells.

After a yummy lunch, we continued our trip down the highway to Santa Cruz. I had not been here in at least 5 years. We ventured onto the boardwalk along with 5,000 others. The kids were in heaven with all the rides. There was a good band on stage so we listened to the tunes for a bit.

After a very long day, the kids ran out of gas so we headed home. We did stop for dinner at Macaroni's (very delicious).

Upon our arrival at 11:00 p.m., everyone quickly and happily got ready for bed.

JULY 4

Today was dedicated to having fun with friends. We started off the festivities at our friend's Matt and Meghan's. All the kids had a blast playing in the pool (water guns and all). We had a BBQ lunch -- yes, we ate all weekend (isn't that what holidays are all about?).

From hear we headed to Peanut's and Monica's to a large gathering of friends. Again -- more eating (ribs, chicken, filet, hot dogs, sausages, potato salad, pasta salad, chips/dips, watermelon, ice cream pie). The kids, again, found the pool.

We hit the golf course for a spectacular view of the fireworks (which consisted of shows from 6 cities). It was a bit breezy but we bundled up and weathered the wind.

The troops finished off the evening with a poker game while the kids hit the hot tub. Never a dull moment in The Wood.

It was a spectacular day of friends, fireworks, fun and food!

Hope your holidays was as bright as mine.
V

Happy Birthday America

Happy 4th to you and yours!

Please take this time to reflect on our wonderful country, all the brave men and women guarding and fighting for our freedom, and for all those that have fallen in support of this great nation.

I love America!

Enjoy your day with family and friends.
V

Nothing is worth more than this day.

- Goethe

10

Today starts my 10 years of married life. I'm so in love and am very lucky to have found a man that respects me and my children. He always puts us first. We adore him and idolize him. We respect and cherish him. We love and honor him.

He always:

- makes me laugh

- is supportive

- is there

- surprises me

- is easy going

- helps me

- listens to me

- cares about me and the girls

- loves me

- wants the best for our families

I am thankful for everything he's taught me the last 9 years. He has taught me patience, unconditional love, and hope. We have been lucky enough to share many special times in exotic places (we love to travel). We share a lot of common interests and never get tired of each other.

We married on June 30, 2000 at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. It was a fairytale location blessed with family and friends, beautiful settings, and impecable service. I will never forget that day.

Happy Anniversary Greg - I love you and can't wait for the next 9 years.

(I should have posted this yesterday but couldn't get my scanner to work -- nonetheless, we are starting our 10 years today - can't wait).

In love,
Veronique

I Survived

Hi all,
Back from another fun-filled trip to Vegas!

Tried a few new places this time and saw a few new shows.

Here's the recap:

- Dualing Piano Bars (New York, New York and Harrah's)- totally fun and great to sing along

- Bautista's Hole in the Wall - great Italian restaurant in a little alley; the food was yummy and the atmosphere was priceless; live accordian player (at least 90 years old); reservations recommended; the place was packed.

- Taco's and Tequilla - a casual mexican restaurant inside the Luxor -- the food was very good

- Toby Keith's Bar and Grill - always a favorite place for country music, dancing and drinks

- The Bellagio Buffet - my favorite place to dine; the food and presentation are excellent; I love the chocolate dipped strawberries - I usually put down about 20.

- Terry Fator - this performer is incredible. He was the winner of "America's Got Talent" and boy is he talented; he is a ventriloquist; he is also a singer and his voice is breathtaking; I would highly recommend his show if you visit Vegas.

- Criss Angel - DO NOT go see this show; it was horrible. There was no suspense or surprise to his illusions and it lacked class, style, and professionalism.

- The Improv (Harrah's) - highly recommended if you want a good laugh; the headliner was seriously funny - my ribs hurt the next day - a great stress reliever.

- The South Point Resort - I always stay at this hotel; great value for the price. This facility has a movie theater, bowling alley and equestrian center; it is very clean and is located about 5 miles south of the Mandalay Bay (still on the Strip)

I did my share of swimming and laying out -- the temps were 105 and above every day!

I am now settling back into reality - I know I will have a tough week (the trip was worth the adventure).

Happy trails,
V

No Rain Dance Please

Yes, it's raining in Vegas - so very strange.
It's not keeping us from having fun.
Last night we went to the Improv and laughed hysterically - just what the doctor ordered.
I will continue this later -- need to head out.
Viva Las Vegas,
V

Sin City

Hi all,

I'm fast approaching my departure to Sin City (Las Vegas). I'm so looking foward to the fun, sun, and excitement of this city that never sleeps.

It's nice and warm there at the moment (triple digits) -- perfect for lounging at the pool.

I'll be sure to report back on any exciting stories along the way.

Stay tuned.......

Cheers,
V