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.

Charlotte is out hiking today with her friend Sally and it looks like they’ve found a nice new home for Pickle gnome.

Santa’s got a unique style out here in California. He wears a Christmas color Hawaiian shirt, rides in an outrigger canoe, and his reindeer are surfers. Of course he’s still got the hat, belly, and jolly laugh. Quite a few people show up at Capitola beach for his visit, including Charlotte’s friend Sonia and her family. Doesn’t look like we can expect snow anytime soon. Gordon has a great view of the action from his place. I was out on a ride this morning, but I couldn’t miss swinging by to see Santa and the family. ...

Thanksgiving is over at George’s place this year. Though it’s always a great time of year with family, we’re giving thanks that we’re not cooking the turkey this year. First a little warm up on the trampoline. Though it will be raining tomorrow, today is a great day to spend outdoors. The feast is a real pleasure as always. The kids have a great time together, though they skipped the food throwing from previous years. I’m sure George and Ellen are happy about that. ...