The Paudlers

Strike in Sicily

2012-01-22T07:22:00.000-08:00

Last week, the Italians had a BIG strike all over Sicily. The truckers, farmers, taxi drivers, and fisherman were striking over several issues, one of the main issues being extremely high gas prices. They blocked major ports, roads, and tolls which stopped goods from being imported and caused major congestion all over the island. They used their semi trucks and tractors as blockades, and the protestors crowded around these areas for a week, day and night. All gas stations were completely out of gas. It was crazy.

Our base was effected. People were being stranded at their homes and work with no gas. The commissary was completely out of milk, eggs, and meat. There was even a shortage of certain diaper sizes. We had a lot of uncertainty during that week, because nobody knew how long the strike would last.

It's over now. We have gas in our tanks and milk in our refrigerator. I'm not sure if the strike caused any change for the locals, but we're glad it's over for now.

No milk at the Commissary, but lots of cream for your coffee.

This aisle is normally filled with meats.

Happy New Year's from Mount Etna

2012-01-01T11:17:00.001-08:00

We spent the last day of 2011 and the first day of 2012 sledding on one of the world's most active volcanos. We can see Mount Etna from our home in Sicily, and it's only about an hour and a half drive from our home to the top. New Year's Eve was really cold and windy on Mount Etna, but New Year's Day was beautiful, clear, and sunny.

We are always telling our boys how thankful we are for these unique experiences. I want to make sure they know this is special. They've done so much traveling over these past few years. I want to work hard to make sure they are thankful kids.

This is where we went sledding. You can see smoke coming from the top of the volcano. Pretty amazing.

* * *

Mom and Max

* * *

Lincoln was focused on getting to the top and getting as much speed as he could.

* * *

DJ at the top of some lava rock that made a nice little hill to sled on. You can see the top of the volcano smoking in the background.

* * *

Max was not happy on New Year's Eve when it was windy.

He cried most of the time.

Today, on New Year's Day, it was beautiful. He had a lot more fun.

* * *

Happy New Year's!

Happy 3rd birthday, Lincoln.

2011-12-25T08:32:00.000-08:00

Lincoln was the only baby born on Christmas day at the

National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD.

* * *

Lincoln tore through his presents with such intensity.

He was more focused on tearing through the wrapping paper than on what was actually inside.

* * *

I know, I know. This a a pretty sad birthday cake compared to his brothers'.

I guess that's what happens when your birthday is on Christmas.

Next year, Lincoln, we will try to make you a more creative cake.

* * *

Dear Lincoln,

We can't believe you're already three years old. You've spent most of your little life living in Sicily, and traveling all over Europe. We moved here when you were almost 7 months old. The Italians love you. They all say you look like a little Brad Pitt. So far, you've traveled all over Italy, and have been to Germany, Austria, Scotland, Paris, London, and Malta.

This has been a busy year for you. You were potty trained within a few days at 2 years and 10 months. You were the easiest so far. You also learned how to ride a bike without training wheels that same week. Everybody stops and they turn their heads as you speed past them on your bike with no training wheels. Nobody can believe it. You look too little to be doing that! We've watched you race down hills, jump over speed bumps, and lift your feet in the air and say "wweeeeeee" on your little bike. You have no fear.

You've grown very attached to your brothers, and you are always asking "where is Noah?" and "where is DJ?" and "where is Max?" if they are not around. You love sharing a room with DJ and Noah. Soon Max will join you. He's just a little too young now. You've learned all of your letters and the sounds they make. You are anxious to join Noah in his reading lessons. I think you are growing and getting some of the benefits of homeschooling your big brothers.

You are also difficult some days. The whining can drive us a little crazy, but we know it's all part of being three. We love you and can't wait to see what God has in store for you. We pray that you will love Jesus, and that God will show us how to best love you, teach you, and encourage you. Happy birthday, Lincoln!

Love,

mom and dad

Buon Natale

2011-12-25T07:06:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas everyone. This is our last Christmas in Italy. We had a fun time staying home this year. No traveling. Just spending time together.

We added a new tradition this year. We've done an advent calendar for the past few years, but nothing like this. Thanks to an idea from a friend who passed along this blog post (http://lillightomine.com/light-em-up-2011.php), we had an extreme makeover on our Christmas countdown calendar. As we counted down to Jesus' birthday, we did a random act of kindness each day for the past 25 days. Jesus taught that it's better to give than receive. Each day we did a little something to give to others. One day, we brought in all the shopping carts at the Commissary. Another day we brought plastic candy canes filled with candy to the guards at the Navy gate just to say thank you and Merry Christmas. And another day we left money at restaurant with a note saying that our family was excited to focus on others this Christmas and that we hoped this little act of kindness would make their day. Each day, our boys were excited to find out what we were going to do. Such a simple thing, and yet it felt life changing to me and our family.

The Paudler tradition of Gummy Bears in the stockings continues . . .

* * *

There is our Advent Christmas Tree countdown calendar.

* * *

Our monkey bread tradition was started by our friends the Bosnyaks when Carey was in elementary school.

* * *

Max had fun wearing Carey's stylish new slippers.

* * *

Our private jet to Naples

2011-12-10T21:57:00.000-08:00

The boys and I think Tom has a pretty cool job. For the past few years, he has been flying the Admiral all over Europe and Africa.

Last weekend, Tom surprised us with a trip on the Gulfstream! We flew from Sicily to Naples on the mainland, and we were the only passengers on this 12 seat jet. It was only about a 45 minute flight, but it was so much fun. As long as the Admiral isn't on board, military dependents can fly Space A (free!). We stayed two nights in Naples, and then flew back to Sicily.

On our flight to Naples, there was A LOT of turbulence. Poor Max struggled and ended up throwing up all over me! At least it didn't get in the Admiral's seat! DJ and Noah were able to go up to the cockpit and learn a little more about flying. That was definitely a highlight for DJ. The transport safety specialist didn't make any meals for this short flight, but he did give the kids lots of candy from his stash in the back. That was definitely a highlight for Noah.

One of our favorite stops in Naples was at L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. This was the BEST pizza we've had in Italy! I don't have the words to describe it. If anyone has read or watched Eat, Pray, Love, this restaurant is the one they talked about in the book/movie.

We also took a train to Sorrento and walked around the Amalfi Coast. It was beautiful!! Oh, and Max got his first real haircut at the barber shop at the base in Naples.

The base airport in Sicily.

* * *

From the base airport, we took a quick shuttle ride to the jet.

* * *

Oh boy, this is going to be fun!

* * *

A view of Mt. Etna from the sky!

* * *

L'Antica Pizzeria Da Michele

* * *

Taking the city bus to the train station.

* * *

At the Naples train station.

* * *

It was about an hour train ride to Sorrento, which is the gateway to the Amalfi Coast.

* * *

Ever since Noah was about 3 years old, he has had this strong urge to draw. He amazes us sometimes with his drawings. We always make sure to pack a sketch book and pencil in our bag. We'll be in the middle of doing just about anything, and Noah will say "I need to draw something" and ask for paper.

* * *

Just got off our hour train ride! We made it to Sorrento. Now it's time to explore.

* * *

We had such a fun day exploring the Amalfi Coast. The weather was beautiful too. Now it's time to get back on the train and head to Naples.

* * *

We had a few hours before our flight home and grabbed the chance to get the boys' haircuts.

* * *

This was Max's first haircut! He was not happy about it.

* * *

Noah needed to stop and draw this fire hydrant.

* * *

Thanksgiving in Tuscany

2011-11-28T05:14:00.001-08:00

This was our last Thanksgiving in Italy, and we wanted to get away and do something special. We decided to spend the four day weekend in Tuscany on the mainland. It's only an hour and 15 minute plane ride from Sicily. It's surreal to be eating breakfast at home in the morning and then standing in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in the afternoon.

So we stayed in a hotel in Pisa, and then rented a car to drive around Tuscany. It was breathtaking, and we lucked out with amazing weather. We climbed a famous bell tower in Siena, went to see Michelangelo's Statue of David in Florence, and climbed the Leaning Tower in Pisa. We also walked through an American Cemetery from World War II in Tuscany. A four day weekend doesn't sound like much, but we came back feeling like we were gone a week. So much to be thankful for!

DJ and double digits

2011-11-18T20:49:00.000-08:00

DJ turned TEN on November 10th! So hard to believe. I really wanted to make his birthday special this year. I kept going through different big ideas, getting disappointed when each plan wouldn't seem to work. Then we finally decided to make it a special family day.

Tom took the day off from work, we declared NO SCHOOL, and we focused the day on making DJ feel special. I was surprised when at the end of the day, DJ said this was his best birthday ever. I'm so glad. I need to remember that. It doesn't have to be over-the-top to be special.

DJ wanted a World War II theme. Yes, you read that right. I think we have a history buff in the making. He woke up to a special gift from his best friend Isaac, who recently PCS'd to California. We had a pancake breakfast and then headed off to the World War II museum in Catania. This museum was really well-done. We had the whole place to ourselves on Thursday morning and had a fun time exploring. Then back at home, DJ had fun opening presents throughout the day and playing with them. At night, we had cake, Big Al's pizza, popcorn, and watched a War documentary.

Happy 10th birthday, DJ!!! You are one special kid. You have so many gifts, passions, and talents, we're always wondering what God has in store for you. I remember hearing Uncle Paul say in one of his sermons, "Do something so big that it has to be done with God in it." I think of you as I remember that saying. I imagine big things in your future, but the most important thing is for you to grow up knowing how much God loves you, and how much you love Him. I hope you don't ever forget that. You are a blessing to us and your brothers. We love you!

In the simulated bomb shelter. It was powerful.

* * *

Noah just realized he could see himself in these things. Lincoln joined his big brother in making silly faces. This is one of Noah's hobbies.

* * *

Hey wait a second, I thought you said no school today!!!

This was a highlight for me.

Even though DJ said "YAY, no school!" this is what he wanted to do for his birthday.

Little does he know, his day was full of learning!

* * *

Max wants to learn too!

* * *

A box full of grenades! What can be better than that?

* * *

Noah picked this out just for DJ.

* * *

In the afternoon of his birthday, Tom took DJ to get his first military id.

The kids have to be 10 in order to get one.

* * *

Trick or treating

2011-10-31T11:59:00.001-07:00

It's our last trick or treating in Sicily. The boys dressed up as the Final Four NASA Astronauts. Everyone loved their costumes, especially because the Final Four real astronauts had recently visited our base.

The rainy season is here, and it poured out tonight. We only made it a few blocks, but the boys were happy to come home with a little candy and watch It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown on itunes. Tom is away on a work trip for a few days but the boys each picked out their Gummy Bears to save for him. With it only being me, I wasn't able to get as many cute shots as I was hoping. Maybe I'll have them dress up tomorrow so I can take a few more.

Max was not thrilled with his costume.

* * *

He was trying to find a way out of it!

* * *

Once we got outside, he forgot about how unhappy he was. The other boys loved dressing up!

* * *

A Paudler record?

2011-10-28T23:51:00.000-07:00

Lincoln, who is 2 years and 10 months old, learned to ride his bike with NO training wheels yesterday. Now he's riding all over the place. He's so proud of himself, and we're proud of him too. We think this might be a new Paudler record?? :) We posted a short video clip below the pictures.

Possibly even better than learning to ride a bike, Lincoln is officially potty trained too! Good job Lincoln!

Lincoln's victory dance!

A peak into our classroom.

2011-10-22T23:50:00.000-07:00

Taking our homeschooling on the road to Normandy and Paris.

2011-10-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

Over Columbus Day weekend, we took a three hour flight to Paris. Then we rented a car and drove about two hours to Normandy. Tom found a cute, little hotel on the beaches of Normandy (near Gold Beach). That's where we stayed for our first two nights.

* * *

For the past month, we've been studying D-Day. We watched about a half dozen documentaries, memorized facts from our Normandy iPad app, and took a trip to the library to check out a D-Day book. DJ, who is just about to turn ten, knows more about D-Day than most college students. I'm amazed. This is one of the things I love about homeschooling. It's fun to watch our kids get excited about learning.

* * *

We walked through the American Cemetery.

* * *

We shook their hands and thanked them.

* * *

Good view of what is left of Mulberry harbor which was critical to the success of the Allied victory in WWII.

* * *

Omaha Beach

* * *

Bomb craters left from the bombing of Pointe Du Hoc.

* * *

Army Rangers scaled these cliffs.

* * *

German cemetery where over 20,000 Germans were buried. This was first an American Cemetery until it became a German one. Stark contrast between this cemetery and the American one.

* * *

So much history. Time to leave Normandy and drive back to Paris. We stayed a night in Paris and even had a view of the Eiffel Tower from our hotel room! We were able to watch it light up and sparkle at night.

* * *

A little side trip to Toys R Us. Look what they had built in the Lego section!

* * *

We spent two full days in Paris. It reminded me a lot of NYC. This picture is in front of the Louvre where we saw the Mona Lisa. We learned that Mona Lisa was Italian!

* * *

Time to go back to Sicily. Au revoir Paris!

Happy 5th birthday, Noah!

2011-09-11T10:03:00.000-07:00

Five years ago today, on September 11th, 2006, Noah was born at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD.

DJ and I were on a trip to NYC just a few months before Noah was born.

Tom was in Iraq.

That's my brother and nephews in the background.

* * *

Here we are as a family of four.

* * *

Such a sweet little guy.

* * *

How did he turn five so quickly?!

* * *

Now we're a family of six!

* * *

Noah got a Lego space shuttle for his birthday. This was his first BIG Lego project that he put together. With a little coaching from his dad and big brother, he did great!

* * *

For his 5th birthday, we spent the morning at the beach.

* * *

Then we had Lego cupcakes.

* * *

And of course, a few presents.

* * *

Happy birthday, Noah. I can't believe you're five. You are so full of life. You love to play with your brothers and friends, draw things, build with Legos, and act silly. Dad and I love you so much. We hope that you will grow up to love and serve God with all your heart. You are one special boy.

The Final Four - What a day!

2011-09-09T08:11:00.000-07:00

What an A-M-A-Z-I-N-G day we had yesterday. The final four astronauts of the space shuttle Atlantis came to Sigonella for a visit. The Commander Chris Ferguson, co-pilot Doug Hurley, Rex Walheim, and Sandy Magnus came to the flight line for a tour. Then we met them later in the evening for another presentation and Q & A time. They brought a special piece of America with them yesterday. What a special group. We were star struck.

The astronauts getting off the bus for a tour of the Gulfstream hangar where Tom works. Tom and DJ had a special time talking with the astronauts.

* * *

Tom watching the astronauts sign DJ's space book.

* * *

I overheard the astronaut Hurley asking Tom, "So what do you fly?" and Tom pointed to the Gulfstream behind him. The astronaut told Tom how they train for their shuttle landings in a Gulfstream.

* * *

The astronaut asked who wants to be an astronaut? DJ quickly raised his hand.

* * *

Signing DJ's space book. They also gave patches and shuttle pins to the kids.

* * *

Group shot of Tom's squadron and families with all four astronauts in front of the Gulfstream.

* * *

DJ getting the Commander Ferguson to sign his book.

* * *

Astronaut Sandy Magnus. I don't think we'll ever forget this day.

* * *

DJ built a Lego Space Shuttle and had each astronaut sign by the spot where they sat on Atlantis. We'll keep this Lego on a special shelf!

* * *

DJ brought his drum sticks for Commander Ferguson to sign.

He's a drummer in an all astronaut rock band!

* * *

After signing autographs, the Final Four did a short presentation at the base movie theater.

* * *

Rex Walheim

* * *

Christopher Ferguson

* * *

Doug Hurley

* * *

DJ and I sat in the third row. I had our babysitter Rosa stay home with Max, Lincoln, and Noah. Tom had to fly to Kosovo in the afternoon so sadly he missed the evening presentation. I wish Tom could've been with us, but it was a special time with DJ.

Unfortunately, we didn't end the evening on that exciting note. When we came home, Lincoln and Noah came running to the car to greet us. DJ got a little excited and accidentally slammed the car door on Lincoln's hand. Our doctor happened to be taking a walk and passing by (nice part about our little base). He looked at Lincoln's hand and told us to head to the ER. Thankfully, it was just bruised pretty badly. Even with that ending, we still had one of the best days that we will always remember.

Aeolian Islands

2011-09-09T05:08:00.000-07:00

We spent Labor Day weekend in the Aeolian Islands (just north of Sicily). We took a ferry to get there. It was a hot weekend. We walked along the beach, swam at the hotel pool, tried searching for restaurants that were open before 7pm for our hungry kids, and had some of the best granita since we've been in Italy. I just realized I'm not in any of the pictures!

Tom and Max waiting for the ferry.

* * *

Enjoying the ferry ride.

* * *

Time to get off!

* * *

Lipari Island

* * *

At the hotel.

* * *

Walking around the town.

* * *

Tom (oh, and the kids) hit the jackpot with this popsicle shop!

* * *

Which one should we choose?

* * *

Park by the beach.

* * *

Max

* * *

In front of our hotel room.

* * *

Noah relaxing.

* * *

A park close to our hotel.

* * *

We watched this fisherman bring in his fish and sell it to the locals.

* * *

Our big Summer vacation - Scotland and England

2011-08-05T05:43:00.000-07:00

This was our big two week summer vacation to England and Scotland. We flew into London Stansted Airport, then spent one night in Doncaster, two nights in Stirling, 7 nights in Aviemore, 1 night in Manchester, England, and 1 night in London. This trip took a lot of planning and was quite the road trip and adventure.

We had just arrived in London. The boys did great on the flight.

* * *

Now it's time to go through customs and then get our rental car.

* * *

From the London airport, we drove about three hours to Doncaster, England.

* * *

We got a good night's sleep and then had a good breakfast.

* * *

Time to get in the car and continue our road trip.

* * *

This was our second stop. Stirling, Scotland. We stayed two nights in this charming town.

* * *

We took a walk to the Stirling Castle. We lucked out with amazing weather.

* * *

Picture in front of Robert the Bruce Statue.

* * *

Here's where we dropped off the boys so we could have a date night.

Just kidding.

* * *

A statue of William Wallace.

* * *

Having dinner in Stirling.

* * *

Max has had enough sitting. He wants to run.

* * *

We drove to Edinburgh, Scotland for the day. We found a great park near the castle.

* * *

Again we lucked out with beautiful weather. We had anticipated rain everyday!

* * *

We walked around the park looking at all the monuments and learning a little history.

* * *

Tom took the three older boys on the merry-go-round. What you can't see is Max's tears.

He was upset that he didn't get to go too.

* * *

A view out our window from our hotel in Stirling.

* * *

Our hotel use to be a school but had been renovated.

* * *

Before we left Stirling, we made a stop at the William Wallace monument.

* * *

During our trip, DJ read two books on William Wallace.

* * *

Tom, DJ, Noah, and Lincoln climbed to the top. 262 stairs!

Carey missed out on the morning workout.

She stayed in the car with Max during his morning nap.

* * *

They made it to the top!

* * *

What a view!

* * *

You can see the William Wallace monument sticking up in the distance.

* * *

This was a scene many times during our two week vacation.

We planned many of our driving times during their nap times.

Next stop - the Scotland Highlands where we stayed for one week in a little town called Aviemore.

* * *

This was a favorite spot for our family. Rothiemurchus Estate near our new hotel. The boys were able to feed the fish and go trout fishing.

* * *

We all rented bikes and went on a three hour bike ride!

* * *

Lincoln and Max weren't too crazy about this idea. I think they would've preferred riding their own bikes. Max napped for a little bit but cried a lot of the time.

* * *

Even with the crying, we got to see some of the most beautiful scenery.

* * *

Time for a break.

* * *

The boys had fun getting wet before we finished up our biking.

* * *

Off to find the Loch Ness Monster! The boys are getting rested before the big adventure.

* * *

Noah is studying about the Loch Ness Monster before we get to the lake. We went to the Uquhart Castle on Loch Ness and were able to listen to the bagpipes.

* * *

Landmark theme park in Aviemore, Scotland.

* * *

DJ going down the slide by himself, the scary one.

* * *

DJ climbing the tree like a monkey with no fear and then doing the sky dive.

* * *

Pictures of one of the lochs in Aviemore where we stayed.

* * *

We visited Scotland's free roaming herd of reindeer in the Cairgorn National Park.

* * *

Poor Noah. In this picture, he was on the recovery. He had gotten an ear infection a few days into our trip. He ended up with a 104 fever and we took him to the local medical center. In this picture, he's still not feeling great but doing better. We're glad we brought our double jogging stroller. We were able to still able to go out while Noah rested and recovered.

* * *

They had this outdoor activity center at our hotel.

* * *

While the boys jumped on the trampolines, Max followed around the activity center's dog.

* * *

DJ, Noah, and Lincoln jumping at the same time.

* * *

Tree top trail at Landmark theme park. We did this park on two different days.

* * *

Lincoln is a natural fisherman, catching his first trout on Rothiemurchus Estate near our hotel. Lincoln insisted on doing everything by himself to include carrying his fishing pole to and from the lake. Noah also caught his first fish or rainbow trout here.

* * *

Enjoying the clown show at the hotel.

* * *

We drove to the Eilean Donan Castle, one of the most photographed castles in Scotland and where the movie Highlander was filmed.

* * *

Our hotel also had a fun zone or indoor play area for the kids. Our hotel was super kid friendly. We only used the fun zone for 2 of the 8 days we were there because the weather was too beautiful to be inside!

* * *

We stopped here to get some snacks for our road trip.

* * *

They had some big trout at Rothiemurchus. Dad was in heaven. We fished here for four out of the 8 days were in Aviemore.

* * *

DJ doing a nice job of a reeling in a 3-4 pound rainbow trout.

* * *

Eating in Manchester, England We drove five hours to Manchester from Aviemore and spent the night here prior to driving to London to take the plane ride home.

* * *

Manchester, England

* * *

Walking around Manchester.

* * *

Our last day in Manchester.

* * *

While I got to spend a little time shopping in Manchester, Tom surprised me by finding this music store and bringing Noah and DJ inside to get sized for violins.

* * *

DJ and Noah are ready to start violin lessons next month! Even though Noah isn't smiling in this shot, they both are really excited to have violins. Lincoln cried for about an hour after leaving this shop. He couldn't understand why he wasn't getting a violin too.

* * *

ONE

2011-07-18T21:04:00.000-07:00

Where has this year gone?!

One year ago today, our little Sicily baby was born at the naval hospital in Sigonella. I've been trying to enjoy every second with Max. He's been such a sweet little guy.

We had a small family celebration at home tonight. He had his favorite Italian nanny Rosa and her daughter visit him. We ordered a special cake! And of course, it was fun to watch ~~Lincoln, Noah, and DJ~~ Max open his presents.

We love you Max Caleb! We are excited for the years ahead, to watch you grow and find out what God has in store for you. We pray that you will know and love God with all your heart, that you will have a special relationship with Him. We pray that you'll do something so big that it can only be done with God in it. We pray that God will give us wisdom in the way we raise you, love you, and teach you. We hope you'll have fun, sweet relationships with your brothers. You are a blessing to us. We are so thankful for you. Love, mom and dad

Max is walking and talking.

2011-06-25T23:52:00.000-07:00

Max started walking at 10 months old!

baseball

2011-06-09T06:21:00.000-07:00

DJ played baseball on the 9-10 year old team in Sigonella, Sicily.

He pitched most games. I really like this picture of him.

* * *

Strawberries

2011-06-05T06:36:00.000-07:00

We went to the Strawberry Festival in Maletto (Sicily) today. Such a perfect day! I'm so glad we went.

May

2011-06-03T05:38:00.000-07:00

May was a fun, busy, memorable month.

Carey's mom was here almost the whole month. We did some traveling around Sicily while she was here. We also took her to the base to show her the jet that Tom flies. We had a great visit. It went by too fast!

Here are a few pictures from May.

Switzerland

2011-05-25T05:18:00.000-07:00

We spent four days in Switzerland. It's a beautiful country. Just like I imagined. Lots of green grass, wild flowers, snow capped mountains, and little towns with cobble stone streets.

Since Carey's mom came out for another visit this year, we asked if she could stay a little longer so we could plan two separate small getaways while she watched the boys. One to Rome and one to Switzerland. Carey's mom not only survived watching Lincoln, Noah and DJ, but she made some special memories with them. Thanks (again) mom!

We hiked, shopped, walked a lot, took a train and cable cars, took a toboggan ride, ate new foods, and just had a fun time.

Our hotel in Lucerne, Switzerland.

* * *

In order to get up to our room, we had to take the funicular railway or cable car up to the hotel. The funicular railway is the shortest one in the world.

* * *

Shopping

* * *

We found a candy store with 12 flavors of slushes. Tom's dream come true.

* * *

We found a park bench along the water, had ice cream, and took in the beautiful scenery.

* * *

Lots of cafes along the water.

* * *

The famous chapel bridge in Lucerne. Constructed in the first half of the 14th century as part of the city's fortification.

* * *

Picture in front of the chapel bridge and water tower. Water tower is Lucerne's trademark and the most photographed monument in Switzerland.

* * *

We ate dinner at this Fondue restaurant.

* * *

Yum

* * *

We stopped here on our drive to Interlaken which was about an hour from Lucerne.

Views like this everywhere along the way.

* * *

Beautiful countryside

* * *

We took a train up the mountain to Kleine Scheidegg which gave us views of the Jungfrau and Eiger Peaks. We got glimpses of these great mountains as the clouds moved in and out.

* * *

Our happy traveler.

* * *

Getting ready for cold winters.

* * *

We took a Gondola and cable car from Kriens up to the top of Mt. Pilatus, near Lucerne.

* * *

A little church tucked away in the mountains.

* * *

Breathtaking

* * *

Halfway up the mountain we got out and both did tobaggon rides. This tobaggon ride is the longest one in Switzerland. Almost a mile long slide!

* * *

View of the toboggan slide.

* * *

A short clip of Tom going on the toboggan slide.

* * *

Rome

2011-05-16T05:45:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a weekend in Rome. I still can't believe it. My mom is here for a month, and she watched the three older boys (thank you mom!!) while we went to Rome with just Max. It's only about an hour flight away. We stayed at a great hotel within walking distance from lots of historical sites, shops, gelato and pizza places. We took a tour of the Vatican/St Peters and the Roman Forum/Coliseum. We both fell in love with this city.

Our hotel

* * *

On the corner from our hotel . . . you can see the Coliseum in the background.

That's how close we were!

* * *

We found a new favorite pizza place near the Trevi Fountain. We ate there twice!

* * *

Yum!

* * *

Tom and Max trying to figure out which way to go.

* * *

Our 9 1/2 month old is seeing the world. Too bad he won't remember any of this!

* * *

Trevi Fountain

* * *

In front of the Trevi Fountain

* * *

The Italians call this an elephant fountain. Max couldn't resist it.

* * *

The famous Spanish Steps built in 1717.

* * *

Mommy and Max on the Spanish Steps.

* * *

Max at the Vatican.

* * *

We did a three hour walking tour of the Vatican/St Peters Basilica.

* * *

Max did pretty well. He needed to get down and play every once and a while.

* * *

Standing outside St Peters Basilica. Max was taking his nap.

Thank you Ergo carrier!!

* * *

Streets of Rome.

* * *

View of Rome from Palentine Hill.

* * *

Roman Forum.

* * *

Tom and Max

* * *

Tom and the Coliseum.

* * *

Inside the Coliseum.

* * *

What Max is up to at 9 months

2011-05-09T20:50:00.001-07:00

I don't know how it happened but Max is walking/scooting all over the house with the help of holding onto furniture and push toys. In this picture, he's showing you how he stands up without holding on. If music is on, he'll stand up, let go, and dance a little! One of my favorite new things that he does is to shake his pointer finger when I say "no, no."

Spring time

2011-04-24T05:25:00.000-07:00

Our neighbors gave these olive trees to us when they moved.

Noah trying one of the games at the Easter Egg Hunt and Carnival on base.

DJ wasn't planning on playing this game, but he agreed to show Noah how to do it.

Noah has been using his art scissors to trim these trees. Not a bad job!

Max didn't mind hanging out with the Easter Bunny.

These made great Easter baskets for collecting the eggs! (thanks Sue!!)

The hunt was divided up into ages. Tom helped the little guys collect eggs

while DJ was with his friends in the older section.

It was such a warm day that all the chocolate candies in the eggs were melted!

The boys were looking for the golden egg but had no luck this year.

brothers

2011-04-21T00:46:00.000-07:00

DJ's Spring Break

2011-04-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

Our 3rd grader had an amazing Spring Break! DJ went with his Grandpa Larry and Grandma Loree to Rome. Then from Rome they went on a Mediterranean cruise for almost two weeks! They went to places in Italy, Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey. DJ's highlights were just being on the ship and staying up late to watch the different shows at night. They had a water slide and his friend from school was on the same cruise! In the mornings, the cooks began to know him for his ability to eat four omelets for breakfast. He also loved getting off and seeing the different countries. One of his favorites was Ephesus. They did a 9 hour tour! He got to see Saint John's tomb and Mary's house. When they got back to Sicily, we spent a few days taking them around the island.

Thank you Grandma Loree and Grandpa Larry for making this trip such a special time for DJ! We enjoyed your visit too. Here are just a few pictures. It was almost impossible to only pick a few from their 2, 534 pictures! Some of the pictures are from our time with them in Sicily, and the rest are from their cruise.

London

2011-04-10T23:06:00.001-07:00

This was definitely one of my favorite places in Europe so far. We have a vacation budget and a list of places we want to see before we leave. We have about a year left. London was at the top of our list.

We just got home yesterday. It was actually a last minute trip. We hadn't planned on going this soon. Tom's work schedule changed and he was able to get some time off. We found a pretty good deal to London and decided to go.

DJ is on a cruise with his Grandma Loree and Grandpa Larry so it was just us and the three little guys. We had an amazing time. Beautiful weather everyday.

We tried to keep the boys busy on the three hour plane ride. Whatever it takes! Cookies at 9 am, gummy bears, coloring books, surprises, Curious George on our ipods. We try everything. We made it for most of the trip without making too much of a scene.

* * *

It's hard to tell from these pictures that Lincoln had a few meltdowns.

Lincoln helped keep Max busy for some of the flight.

It was cute to see them laughing and playing together.

* * *

After we landed, we took the train to our hotel.

* * *

Noah's famous funny face.

I was disappointed with the boys' haircuts before we left.

The Italian barber gave them each a nice bowl cut.

* * *

Breakfast at the hotel. One of the highlights!

* * *

They call the subway The Tube.

* * *

I can't remember if this was a kind hug or an I'm frustrated with you hug or a mommy's making me do this for the camera hug.

We did a ton of walking.

* * *

Wish we had DJ here for the family shots!!

* * *

We walked across The Tower of London bridge.

* * *

The weather was sunny and in the 60s everyday.

* * *

The locals said we got really lucky with the weather. It's usually not this nice in April.

* * *

We took a tour of the Tower of London.

* * *

The Tower of London has the crown jewels and many other interesting artifacts.

* * *

The kids had a fun time at the Princess Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens. Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park can almost be considered one and were the private hunting grounds of King Henry VIII.

* * *

The play area is also called the Peter Pan Playground and has a big sand pit and pirate ship.

* * *

Max had fun crawling around and exploring too.

* * *

Noah loves to draw. He took a notebook with us just about everywhere.

* * *

It's hard to tell from this picture that Lincoln had a few meltdowns on the bus.

Gotta love two year olds!

* * *

Peaceful protestors.

* * *

Shot in front of Big Ben.

* * *

We took a ride on the London Eye, the tallest ferris wheel in Europe.

We had amazing views of the city.

* * *

We went on the Hop on, Hop off Bus tour of the city.

* * *

Camden Market

* * *

Lincoln liked the horse!

* * *

In front of Buckingham Palace.

* * *

We took a tour through the church at Westminster Abbey where the royal wedding will be in a few weeks!

* * *

Noah with his notebook in Westminster Abbey. All he wanted was for us to find a place for him to write. I think this is a good spot!

* * *

We took two trips to Whole Foods.

* * *

Holland Park

* * *

See Max's two front teeth!!

* * *

Lots of beautiful homes near Holland Park.

* * *

We had to get up at 3:30 am to catch our plane home. It's about a three hour plane ride from Sicily. We landed in Palermo and then had a three hour car ride to our house. It was a tiring day! Lincoln fell asleep on the couch when we got home.

What we've been up to

2011-03-22T00:01:00.000-07:00

I'd love to write in more detail about what's it has been like these past few days. About what it's like to be living so close to Libya. Have you seen a map? About what it was like going to sleep on Sunday night and listening to F-16s flying outside our window for hours knowing where they were headed. What a strange feeling. Going to our commissary and not being able to get normal things like yogurt and tortillas because they're out. They aren't use to supporting the increased number of people who have suddenly arrived. Driving home and seeing media cameras set up outside our little base.

We've been glued to the news. I wish I could share more but I'll just leave it at that for now. Things are definitely different around here.

On a much lighter note, things aren't completely different. Here are some pictures from the past few weeks. Nothing too exciting. Just pictures of the family.

DJ's 3rd grade science presentation

2011-03-21T23:57:00.000-07:00

DJ and his friend Kyle had to prepare a science lesson for their class about density. They worked hard and did a great job.

Seven is a big month for Max

2011-03-21T23:33:00.000-07:00

So I don't forget . . . this has been a big month for Max.

At seven months Max started

-crawling more on hands and knees

-sitting up without support

-able to go from crawling to sitting

-pulls himself up to a standing position with the help of couches, chairs, etc.

-two bottom front teeth came in

-loves baby food peaches

If only the guys at work knew . . .

2011-03-15T12:05:00.000-07:00

No wash cloths for Tom!

* * *

He almost has it!

2011-03-02T09:41:00.000-08:00

Noah (4) reciting Psalm 23.

Saturday in Sicily

2011-02-13T06:09:00.000-08:00

On Saturday we drove to one of our favorite places in Sicily. In the Summer Taormina is packed with tourists. Today it was a ghost town. The weather was sunny and in the 60s. Beautiful!

This one is for Grandma Linda and Grandpa Frank. See, the sun really does shine in Taormina!

* * *

Taormina with Mt. Etna in the background. I made Tom stop the car and pull over so I could take this picture. Isn't this view amazing?

* * *

Am I the only one?

2011-02-09T23:09:00.000-08:00

It seems like I'm constantly multi-tasking. I know most of you can relate, especially when you're parenting little ones, but have you ever done this?

Yesterday I put Max in the living room with several toys while DJ was at the kitchen table doing his homework. Noah and Lincoln were coming in and out from the backyard as they played. While all this was going on I was trying to wash and cut vegetables for a salad plus keep an eye on Max. I was doing this while answering questions from DJ and helping with the little guys' requests.

I continued to answer 3rd grade math questions and fix a sippy cup of milk. Then I peaked in the living room to check on Max. He was gone. I looked down the hallway. He wasn't there. My heart sunk. I had that panic feeling. Where did my scooting 6 month old go?

Then I realized.....he was in my arms. At some point I had picked him up!

A few pictures and a video....just for fun.

Lincoln and Max

* * *

Lincoln

* * *

Lincoln loves his baby brother.

* * *

Tom was on a 10 day trip (TEN DAYS). I was putting Lincoln to bed and then walked into DJ and Noah's room. I found DJ reading the Bible to Noah. It was a sweet moment because nobody told them to do this. I had to take a picture.

* * *

DJ and his friend Isaac were looking for ants in the backyard. They were making an ant farm. Noah and Lincoln helped too.

* * *

It might not be the best choice but it works for us. Noah and Lincoln sit on the counter and watch DJ leave for school in the mornings. Sometimes they even eat breakfast here.

* * *

DJ working hard on a science experiment.

* * *

science experiment: floating ice boats

* * *

Max and Lincoln hanging out together.

Max is 6 months old today!

2011-01-19T01:01:00.000-08:00

I can't get over how much Noah and Max look alike.

* * *

Picture from Max at 6 months old today.

* * *

Video clip of Max in action from this morning.

* * *

At Max's 6 month check-up, he weighed 16 pounds 8 ounces (23rd percentile). He was 26.18 inches (30th percentile). His head 44 cm (66th percentile).

Mt. Etna's erupts.

2011-01-13T09:32:00.001-08:00

A view of Mt. Etna from our house this afternoon about 4pm. Another eruption!

* * *

Last night Mt. Etna had a pretty spectacular eruption.

Unfortunately we had no clue and we were inside putting the kids to bed.

This morning our cars, outside toys and furniture were covered in ash.

* * *

Some of the ash on our outside chairs.

* * *

DJ sweeping up the ash. It was an exciting day for this nine year old.

* * *

Two bags of ash!

Max is on the move!

2011-01-13T09:20:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday Tom!

2011-01-09T00:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Tom,

How did I get so lucky? You are the most amazing man I've ever known. Thank you for being a great husband and friend. You have taught me so much. Our boys are blessed beyond words to have a dad like you. You are INCREDIBLE. I love you! Happy birthday!

Love,

Carey

One of Tom's big gifts was the weekend to himself. I watched the kids all weekend and let him sneak off and relax, read books on his new Kindle, etc. He said it was one of the best birthdays ever. I guess when you have four kids, being able to relax at home is a rare gift.

* * *

Noah picked this present out just for dad.

* * *

DJ saw this jar of pickles and knew his dad had to have them.

* * *

We ordered a big black cake. Can you tell?

* * *

After everyone had a piece, I said I wanted the cake to be thrown away. I don't need any temptations around while I'm still trying to get off this baby weight, and while Tom is trying to eat healthy. We let the boys have fun and dig in before it got thrown in the dumpster. DJ said we should make that a tradition. He also said he had a stomach ache.

Name

2011-01-03T09:55:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Buon Natale 2010

2010-12-25T02:42:00.000-08:00

Happy 2nd birthday Lincoln!

2010-12-25T01:09:00.000-08:00

Lincoln was born two years ago on Christmas morning. We're learning about ways to make his birthday special. This year his Grandpa Frank and Grandma Linda bought a big ball pit for him. That helped make his birthday a big hit! We set it up in the evening and made cupcake cones for him. Here are a few pictures from his 2nd birthday!

At Lincoln's 2 year check-up, he weighed 30 pounds (73rd percentile). He was 34.6 inches (54th percentile).