Hi Everyone,
Wanting to follow the example of my good friend, Jeanette (who sends out a weekly newsletter), I thought I would send out one of my own which will chronicle the happenings in our lives here in Germany. I'll start out with an occasional email, then maybe progress to attaching pictures (and videos?), and then graduate to an actual blog (Marie is my blog hero). I've always felt a step behind, especially when it comes to technology, so it may be a long process -- some patience might be required!
If anyone is wondering about the newsletter title, it comes from the band name I came up with for our newly formed family band which consists of Christian (C), Lissie (L), and Bryant (B). The C, L and B morphed into "CeLeBration!" one day as I was driving in the car and the band members pretty readily approved of their new name. Occasionally, the band gets a special guest appearance from some other family member (i.e. Daddy Tracy). Christian has started teaching me guitar too so who knows when a guest appearance from me might happen -- some more patience might be in order!
Well, it has been one week since we arrived home from out five week trip to Utah, Idaho, Montana and Washington. My jet lag has progressed like this: Finally falling asleep at 5:00 a.m. one morning, then 3:00 a.m. a couple days later, and then 12:30 a.m. the night before last. Then WOW, I actually slept all night last night! But the real amazing news is that C, L and B have had no signs of jet lag whatsoever.
Our trip to The States was eventful and fun-filled. Here is a sampling: Allred Family get-together, patriarchal blessings, Emily and Jake's wedding, learning how to make corsages and boutinnieres, reception in Highland, Allred Family picnic, driving to Idaho, playing Catch Phrase, a marathon hair day with Grandma Minnie, rock-climbing, water-skiing at Lucky Peak, horseback riding, driving to Montana, tubing the Clark River, huckleberry picking, kayaking with amazing Aunt Kay, buffalo burgers, driving to Spokane, late night floral design classes by Will, Lauren and Steve's wedding, trips to the Spokane airport (Matthew finally arrived!), reception with debut performance by CeLeBration!, Silverwood Amusement Park, driving (all night) to Seattle, three weeks with Marie, Will, Bella and Liam, more Catch Phrase, photoshoots, shopping, Keane concert in Seattle, drive to Salt Lake City, catch planes home to Germany!
Okay, so I think we've had enough entertainment, driving and weddings to last for a long, long time. It was great to see so many friends and family -- something we hope to repeat next spring.
Love, Mom/Lisa
