The summer officially began with a quick trip to Paris to visit our friends the Morrison's (from Manila). We took some time to stop by a few museums. This included the Pompidou ( with is all about modern art)
Weston was especially confused by this style of expression, and why it was worth so much money. He even tried to hang up his jacket on a priceless work.
This one was made by naked young girls rolling around on the canvas. We thought it was a wild boar.
On the other hand, the Louvre was right up their alley. We spent all day exploring the galleries, and trying to tie in their history lessons. They were good sports.
However they would have rather spent all day feeding pigeons in front of Norte Dame. In fact we went back this twice while we were in town. Much cheaper then a museum I suppose.
We had a great time. Visiting new places.
Exploring the city with our friends.
And pondering the amazing art work. The Monet's were a big hit.
We came home to our new house in Ireland. It was obvious we had been gone a while, as the local Fox population felt comfortable sitting in our yard. This has since changed. I think our Dog has something to do with it.
While we are no longer right on the sea, we are just a short stroll away from a rocky beach and view of Killiney Bay (with Dalkey island in the distance).
After two hectic weeks of moving, it was off to the US. I found time to visit my old friend Frank (from my Manila days as a kid). It was great to catch up. We picked up right where we left off. For better or worse?
Then it was Family reunion time. Out first stop was the Thurston gathering in Yellowstone.
The kids had a great time, catching up with familiar cousins, and meeting people they had no idea even existed!
Then off to Tahoe for the Jackson family reunion.
More of the same. Lots of family, food and activities. Both locations were spectacular, but I did not take many pictures.
We spent one afternoon up at Squaw valley. I had no idea it had a roller skating ring at the top of the mountain? The results were mixed.
Weston refused to give up. Falling again, and again, and again. He even went back later on his own to try, and fall, again. No broken bones.
Shaynie decided it was not her thing almost right away. End of story.
We spent a few other days playing some heated Volleyball matches with the family...
While the kids swam in the freezing waters. I am sure Weston felt right at home - back in the Irish sea.
The kids enjoyed playing with some of the younger children, and meeting new cousins (or second cousins once removed!)
We took a bike ride the last day. What a great trail!
Then went to visit the new Donner memorial and museum. We felt hungry afterwards, so went home to have some junk food.
Before we knew it, we were back home. We ended the summer, on my birthday, playing golf at Powerscourt. We even stayed the night at the hotel. Just like old times. Believe it or not - this was the first time we have played golf in Ireland. If you saw us play, you would probably believe it.
Unfortunately Rebekah's Uncle Dave was there to witness the horror. Luckily he was a good sport and coach. As a golf pro, we hope he has seen worse. Regardless, it was a nice way to end the summer.
