Stimuli

The big topic these days is "stimulus" or "stimuli" or "stimulation". We are, of course, hoping that everyone everywhere is economically stimulated but we also hope that you're finding stimulation in other ways. Hmmm, does that sound weird? Well, you know what we mean.

As for us, we are staying active (thereby being intellectually and physically stimulated) and have been doing a bit of soul searching. Been exploring the idea of a country home to escape to when the joys and tribulations of suburban life get to be a bit too much. Seems like a good time to buy and would be doing our part to turn this crazy economic downturn around. We saw some beautiful land in the Catskills and are dreaming about that little cottage surrounded by lots of open space and fresh air. We'll see. . .

We're also approaching our self-imposed deadline to add a four-legged creature to our little family. I would gladly push that deadline back but the kids will have none of it. We're scanning the area shelters and waiting to find that young pup in need of a home. We're leaning toward a spaniel but if anyone has thoughts on a dog breed that would suit us, let me know.

In the meantime, we're getting outside as much as possible and spending time together and with friends. All good stuff. Let us know how "stimulated" you're feeling these days.

These first pictures were taken at the Palmyra Nature Cove, which is located just south of the Tacony-Palmyra bridge on the New Jersey side of the Delaware River. It's a wonderful place with a lot of walking trails and wildlife. The kids enjoyed themselves immensely, especially since we let them "walk on the river."

We also got the chance to visit with old and true friends, and the kids made some new ones.

In the picture above are Nadine Poveromo's 3 children, our kids, Susanne (Kradenski) Phillips' children. Stacey Swens' son, Jack is also buried somewhere. We used our children and the guise of a "superhero party" to get together--fun times.

Below are some shots of Evie's Valen-Tiny slumber party. The girls (and Nate) spent nearly the entire time writing songs and rehearsing them--it was amazing. I had each of them sign a contract so that when they make it big, they remember where they started.