Switzerland

The land of cheese, chocolate, and mountains. It was my first time seeing falling snow.

Verona, Italy

Welcome to the city famous for Juliet's balcony. Superstition says that if you touch the breast of Juliet, you will find true love!

Venice, Italy

We were prepared for the throngs of tourist in Venice, but not for the windy cold. We stumbled upon a gem-the coolest book shop in the world that featured a gondola filled with books inside the store.

Austria

A stopover in Austria was a treat. Innsbruck, the site of the 1976 Winter Olympics was picturesque, inexpensive, and the place for the best gelato.

Europe 2016

When the opportunity arose to take 17 kids to Europe, all expenses paid, I wholeheartedly jump at it! First stop.. Germany. Highlights included snow, Neuschwantstein Castle, a concentration camp, and Marienplatz.

Skateboarding

What can I say; we are an active family. If not bodysurfing or surfing, we're usually outside doing something…this time skateboarding!

Surfing

Surfing has taken over as my favorite hobby over baking. The meditative routine of waxing my board relaxes me as I silently pray for a safe and fun session. Paddling out is exhausting but catching a wave is a high I look forward to every time.

Nutcracker 2015

Auditions took place in September and two months of rehearsals led to a show stopping production of the Nutcracker where Anna danced her heart out as a Chinese pretzel.