Becoming a Bunch

Architecture in Spain

2009-11-14T17:19:00.006-06:00

More Churros, Please

2009-11-14T11:05:00.004-06:00

Alex learned all about churros and chocolate on this trip and quickly became addicted. In this picture, he had finished off the last churro and was quite distressed.

The Roman Ruins of Baelo Claudia, Bolonia, Spain

2009-11-14T10:35:00.008-06:00

On our last full day in Spain, we traveled to Bolonia (about an hour and a half from Alan's parents' home) to visit the Roman Ruins of Baelo Claudia. The ruins, which are amidst an active archaeological dig, are of a fish salting community situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the mountains. The ruins are wonderfully preserved from the basilica to the theater. Perfectly arched walkways, artistically carved steps, and beautifully constructed pillars make you realize just how advanced the Romans were. The town was developed about 2000 BC as a maritime link to Tangier. The museum at the site houses much of the sculptures that have been uncovered, but the grounds allow visitors to get a glimpse of ancient life. Alex loved exploring, as did the rest of us.

Building Sand Castles with Nina--Video

2009-11-14T10:16:00.000-06:00

Jerez de la Frontera Zoo

2009-11-14T10:11:00.006-06:00

Medina Sidonia, Cadiz, Espana

2009-11-14T09:56:00.005-06:00

Arcos de la Frontera, Espana

2009-11-07T15:13:00.005-06:00

I believe that my favorite place to visit on this trip has been Arcos.

Castellar, Medieval Village, Spain

2009-11-07T09:05:00.006-06:00

These photos were taken in Castellar de la Frontera in Cadiz, Spain. The Moorish castle dates from the 13th Century and many of the outlying buildings and casa rurals are occupied by squatting hippies selling their wares. The hippies began squatting in the castle in the 1970s and currently, the government is trying to reclaim the village. The castle has been somewhat reclaimed and is now a parador for visitors. The day we were here was clear and we could see Gibralter and Africa from the castle. We also ate at an amazing little bar. The road to get to the castle is long and winding, essentially big enough for a small car to maneuver the curves. However, we met three full-size tour buses on the road and were certain that we or the buses would be hurled over the edge of road at any moment. Lots of fun!!

Handsome young man

2009-11-06T02:18:00.003-06:00

Ice Cream

2009-11-04T09:59:00.004-06:00

New Friends--Barbecue in Puerto

2009-11-02T03:36:00.009-06:00

Alex met several new friends at the barbecue we had on Sunday--Leire, Bruno, and Helio. Leire kept kissing the boys but all Alex was interested in was a hug.

Rockstar Album Cover--Or make that, rockabilly

2009-11-01T06:59:00.002-06:00

Sanlucar Market, Espana

2009-11-01T06:16:00.019-06:00

Alex was mesmerized by all of the sights, smells and sounds of the Sanlucar market. The market is very traditional with all kinds of meat, fish and produce available. Eggs, meat and fish in the open air--very unusual for Americans but very normal here.

Osborne Bodega, Puerto de Santa Maria, Espana

2009-10-29T13:48:00.004-05:00

Chasing Pigeons and Hanging with Street Musicians, Cadiz, Espana

2009-10-27T08:41:00.006-05:00

En la playa--Puerto de Santa Maria, Espana

2009-10-27T08:08:00.009-05:00

Alex's first experiences on the beach. Most of these photos were taken by Alex's Aunt Laura (Alvaro's girlfriend). Thank you, Laura, for capturing such beautiful images.

George Washington Carver

2009-10-17T15:47:00.007-05:00

Today, the weather was brisk and the sun was shining. We opted to avoid the crowds that would be gathered in Carthage at the Maple Leaf festival in favor of enjoying the peace of George Washington Carver National Monument. It had been several years since I had ventured to the park and I was happily suprised with a new museum and fun activities for Alex.

My favorite times

2009-10-17T14:39:00.003-05:00

Since Alex was born, my favorite times are when I am watching him sleep. When he is tired, he usually wants his mama and when I am snuggling with him, he stretches his hand up to my face, patting me saying, "my mama". When he sleeps, he makes little snoring sounds that remind me of his daddy and when he wakes, he smiles like I am the only thing in the world worth waking up to. I never knew that something so small could make me so utterly happy and at peace. I am thankful that I am the one that he calls mama.

Solo Drumming--watch the expressions!

2009-10-11T20:38:00.000-05:00

Fun Weekend

2009-10-11T19:15:00.009-05:00

We enjoyed a fun-filled weekend with a trip to Apple Butter Making Days in Mount Vernon (where we saw a scary monster truck in the parade), horseback riding at the College Heights school carnival with Ayden (where we also got to check out a helicopter and a firetruck), bike ridining with Daddy, and brunch with friends (Deanie and Keelie). Life is good.

Helping with the Laundry!

2009-10-08T15:19:00.003-05:00

Disclaimer: I would never allow Alex anywhere near the dryer without me right there. This was a one-time activity and I will not allow him to do this again. It is still cute, however. But, to those of you concerned about my son's safety, have no fear. He was told no, no, no just as I was snapping the pictures!

Seneca Football Homecoming Game

2009-10-04T08:26:00.006-05:00

Friday night was the Seneca High School Homecoming. Jim (Alex's grandpa) was being recognized as a letterman from 1963, so we went to see the game and watch him be recognized. Alex loved all the excitement and he especially loved the band. He was not impressed, however, with the mascot. :)

Our Happy Boy

2009-09-27T19:10:00.006-05:00

Alex Counting in Spanish

2009-09-27T19:08:00.000-05:00

Tio Juan--My Favorite Toy

2009-09-27T18:25:00.008-05:00

Alan's brother, Juan, is visiting. Juan has quickly become Alex's favorite toy.