David Multer

It’s been a long time coming, but I’ve finally gone off the deep end and purchased a boat. Living in Santa Cruz, fishing with Gabe, and loving the ocean in general have conspired to drive me temporarily insane. I’ve kept my eye open for a particular model of boat for some years, and I finally chanced on one a guy was selling out near Fresno. A quick drive to check out the boat and the deal was almost done. A few weeks later that resolved an engine problem and we’ve got a new addition to the family. The C-Dory 16 foot Angler model may be small, but it’s one awesome boat, especially for these waters. Welcome little Nemo to the family.

Charlotte and Monica head over the hill to take advantage of the last day of vacation when Charlotte isn’t working. First stop is Santana Row and a bit of food and shopping. Crate and Barrel are showing off a collection of some Maria Yee furniture. I guess the Geek Squad impressed her with their cool cars. It’s a great day to check out the Winchester Mystery House. Charlotte even runs into a bunch of old friends from years ago. Talk about a fun surprise. ...

On the way back from San Diego, we stop in Hollywood to visit Universal Studios for the day. A quick shuttle bus from the hotel and we’re on our way. The studio tour is a great chance to see movie making in action. The backlot is very cool. Hard to imagine so many movies filmed right here. King Kong and the raptors are waiting for us as usual. ...

It’s a tough choice where to go in San Diego with so many attractions and the short time we’re staying in the area. Legoland loses out by a nose and we’re off to SeaWorld. The dolphin show is a hit and it’s lots of fun watching people get dowsed. Pete sits with Gabe a few rows closer tempting fate. The Beluga whales are so cool. The manatees aren’t too shabby either. ...

Time for a quick road trip down to San Diego to see the Mishky’s and a few sites. After the long drive we stop for dinner in downtown Coronado. A few shots with Gabe’s favorite animal and Elvis. A very interesting combination. Time to catch up with Lynn and the family while the kids bond playing with their new XBox.

Lots of great gifts greet the family this year. Santa made Gabe very happy with a new iMac, and Charlotte got a big surprise with an iMac to replace her aging crappy PC. Monica’s new iPod was a big hit too. There was also a new Playstation 2 with games for all.

The Multer, Hoyem, and Peyser families converge on Val’s house for Christmas dinner. A few presents for Gordon before the festivities begin. While Gabe works on his skateboarding moves. The kid’s table is busy with lots of cousins that are growing up very fast.

Nick’s got some friends over today to work on a project for school. They’re putting together a movie that shows off the self defense maneuvers they’ve learned. I think they’re practicing some of these before the camera rolls for real. But then again they may just be having fun.

Another hike, another gnome finds a new home in the woods. Looks like Pickle gnome is still enjoying himself.

Charlotte’s work party is just down the street from us over at Peachwoods restaurant. It’s a good chance for me to meet the rest of the Maria Yee gang.