New York City

Friday was a fun-filled day. Kelly and I visited NYC with some of our family. We took the train from Newark, New Jersey all the way to the World Trade Center remains. Then we rode the ferry to Ellis Island. On our way over we say the Statue of Liberty. Once on the island we visited the Immigration Museum. Once we arrived back at the city we took the subway to 42nd Street and walked to Times Square. Times Square was quite an experience. There were huge crowds of people everywhere. We saw tons of stores, and of course we had to make a stop at the American Girl Place. To finish off our day we grabbed some dessert, hopped on the subway and took the train back to Newark. It was a great trip.

The World Trade Center

As we rode the train into the city we were able to see the remains of the World Trade Center. After we walked out of the station I took pictures through the fence. It was quite a sight.

American Girl Place

While we were in New York City we visited the American Girl Place. Kelly brought her American Girl doll, Felicity. Her cousin, Annelise brought Kit. The store was packed with little girls and their dolls.

Riding the Train

We rode the train from Newark, New Jersey to the World Trade Center station in New York City. Here's Kelly with her cousins, Emily and Annelise.

The Statue of Liberty

We took the ferry from Battery Park to Ellis Island. On the way we stopped at the Statue of Liberty to drop off passengers.

Ellis Island

We visited the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

New York City

Mandi in Times Square

Tom's Christmas Present

Mandi couldn't wait any longer so she gave Tom his Christmas present on Christmas Eve. He guessed what it was before I brought it down, but he still loved it.

Kelly's Miniature Horse

Pop-Pop and Mom Mom gave Kelly a miniature horse for her birthday. The horse's name is Sierra, Si Si for short. Kelly was so surprised when she saw the horse. There are actually 2, but one is Kelly's very own. Every day we go out and feed them before letting them out to pasture. They are a lot of fun for everyone!

Kelly's Birthday Party

We celebrated Kelly's 7th birthday at the art studio. She and her friends chose a ceramic to paint. Of course, Kelly chose to paint a horse.

Singing "Happy Birthday"

After painting at the art studio, we went to McDonalds for Happy Meals and cupcakes. Kelly had fun opening her gifts.

Only 9 Days Left!

Kelly made a paper chain to count down the days until we leave for Pennsylvania. On Monday there were only 9 days left! We are so excited to come home.

Kelly received a certificate of achievement at her school during a special "Thinker Reception". It was special because only 2 children from each grade were nominated.

Kelly receives her certificate.

Kelly holds her certificate.

Kelly loves to ride the motorcycle with her daddy.

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving was low key this year. Mandi made the meal. We had turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce and yams-yum!

Kelly loves her American Girl, Felicity

Kelly's Early Birthday

Meme, Jonathan, Uncle Mike, Aunt Kelly and Kelly's cousins sent her birthday present early. Kelly opened it yesterday and was sooooo excited. Now her American Girl doll, Felicity has some pretty dresses. Kelly says, "Thank You to everyone". She absolutely loves them!

Making Pasta

Tom picked up a pasta maker the other day. He and Kelly made fresh spaghetti for dinner. Mandi made her yummy sauce. It was lots of work, but well worth the time.

Enjoying our homemade spaghetti!

Marine Corps Ball 2007

This year's ball was coordinated by Tom. It was held at a resort called The Bahai, located on Mission Bay. Here we are before the ceremony.

A Marine Band played for the ceremony.

The Color Guard

Wheeling in the cake for the cake cutting ceremony.

Tom played The Marine Corps Hymn on the bagpipes while the cake was wheeled in.

Sleeping Beauty

Kelly loves to read. She always has her nose in a book. Some of her favorites are Junie B. Jones, American Girl and A-Z Mysteries. This particular night she feel asleep while reading.

Our Horse Girl

Kelly wore this outfit and riding hat on Halloween for school. It took some chiding, but she finally wore it.

Happy Birthday Tom

Tom celebrated #35 this Wednesday. We had a delicious dinner at our friend's, despite the fires. This was Tom's yummy cake.

Is That Raw?

Yes, here are Tom, Lou and Rob chowing down on raw ahi.