It's nearing the end of 2009 and I have enjoyed many activities and the world has had it's share of tragedy, challenges and good points. In all, I remember more good than bad personally, since I seem to always look at the 'glass as mostly full'. The world in many places has continued toward a tragic downward spiral, yet we need to make our own individual contributions in order to keep our part of the world at peace. Above is being on the West Coast, Texas visiting Wayne Shockey, working on home projects or being in Nashville with Civil War history - it has been a good year for me.

...Up to July 4th 2009

Since my trip to Texas and visiting Wayne Shockey also dba Specialized Maintenance, I have been heavily involved at work; our plant location would receive a visit from the Mars, Inc. Chairman of the Board, Linda Mars. A few weeks following her visit, I travelled to Franklin Tenn. to attend a company training seminar named, the Mars Experience. Nashville area is very green compared to Southern California and it was enjoyable to be involved in the Mars Culture - at the same time see all the trees and green countryside. Upon returning back the home and work, everything came back to the usual routine.

Garland Texas Awning Cleaning Visit

I was visiting Wayne Shockey in Texas and he had me go out with him on an awning cleaning project. I had fun taking photos with a Nikon D50; after returning to his home, Wayne took my photos and created this very good video/slide presentation.

Please visit Wayne's web site at: www.awningcleaningservices.com

Santa Ana Botanical Gardens

Melody and I went to Santa Ana Botanical Gardens in Claremont California and took Alena and Ava; we timed this visit when the spring comes and displays new wildflowers. We spent enough time that later, Ava really ran-out-of-gas! We usually go to the gardens two or three times each year.

Lewis Family Visit - Corona

We had a great visit with parents/grandparents in Corona at Senor Miguel's. The visit was planned shortly after the birth of Sienna, (bottom right) and she is Rayna's fourth sub-unit. We also had fun seeing James and Christina who were good enough to come with their parents, Bob and Sheri. Enjoy - Mom and Dad!!!

Nature in Temecula

Here is some great examples of our recent trip to the back-country of Temecula where we had an enjoyable day with all the natural beauty of the area. Enjoy.

Back Country - Wildflowers

Here is one example of Temecula backcountry wildflowers. More photos to follow