2004 on Multer family website

Spiky hair Gabe

Fri, 31 Dec 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Taking the boys out for their haircut has become kind of a ritual for me. We head out to the barber where I get my usual #5, Nick gets his usual, and Gabe gets the spiky cut. He’s always very proud of his new look and is never shy about posing for a picture with the new doo.

Christmas day with family, presents, and lasagna

Sat, 25 Dec 2004 00:00:00 +0000

I think Nick is trying to get Nibbles to spill the beans about Santa. It doesn’t look like he’s talking though.

Everyone patiently awaits the tearing open of the presents. We didn’t go as overboard as in most years, which was a nice change. I think Gabe enjoyed getting his new fishing books from grandpa.

I know Monica loved her new feety socks.

Max and Nick really enjoyed the Nerf blow guns. Max demonstrates the superior kung fu technique.

Playing tourist at the aquarium

Thu, 23 Dec 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte took Ira, Karen, Max, and the kids down to the ever popular Monterey Bay Aquarium. A lot of the water life shots came out fuzzy, but I think the effect is kind of nice.

I hear Gabe was a bit of trouble during the trip, but the family photo reveals none of the trouble earlier in the day.

The North Carolina Multers come for a visit

Wed, 22 Dec 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte took everyone to downtown Santa Cruz for a bit of shopping and such. I’m not sure if they actually bought cookies to go with these photos in front of the best smelling place on Pacific Avenue. Though that honor may be in jeopardy with the recent arrival of a Coldstone Creamery just down the street. Of course Noah’s Bagels is pretty awesome as well.

A late night swim over at La Madrona’s is a nice way to top off the day. Max and Gabe are looking for trouble in the hot tub.

First time for track riding at the velodrome

Sat, 18 Dec 2004 00:00:00 +0000

After so many years of riding road bikes, I finally decided to give track riding a shot. Since I’ve been planning on getting into racing this season, it occurred to me that racing at the track might be a whole lot safer than a criterium, and the races are a lot more frequent. It’s a bit of a drive to the Hellyer Park Velodrome in San Jose from Santa Cruz, but I really am very lucky to live this close to one. Not a whole lot of velodromes in the USA.

The girls take Gordon to the Rosicrucian museum

Tue, 14 Dec 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte took Valri and Gordon over to San Jose to visit the Rosicrucian museum. They’ve been making regular visits to a variety of local landmarks while their dad is in town. The museum and library really are unique and well worth the visit. Monica’s class was just there on a field trip a week or so ago. Sure wish I could join in on one of these trips sometime.

Abby the lap dog

Tue, 07 Dec 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Abby might not look like much of a lap dog, but that never stopped us.

Silverback holiday party

Sat, 04 Dec 2004 00:00:00 +0000

The Silverback Systems holiday party was held at the Plumed Horse restaurant in Saratoga. It’s pretty rare that Charlotte and I have a chance to get really dressed up for such an event. It’s also a rare opportunity to see many of the engineers in something other than jeans and t-shirts. That’s certainly my standard attire in addition to the usual sandals.

Walking in the redwoods with the girls

Mon, 29 Nov 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte goes for very fast long walks in the redwoods of Henry Cowell park a few times a week. Today she’s doing the walk with Paula, Margot, Sonia, and Dyana. I often go with Charlotte on Sundays, so I know very well how incredibly beautiful these trips are. We sure are lucky to live in such a great place.

Walk in the redwoods, Pasatiempo art show, and Capitola

Sun, 28 Nov 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte and I do a fast long walk through Henry Cowell on Sundays. We try to do a slightly different route every time and we’re always rewarded with great views and beautiful trails. Today is certainly no different as we enjoy another spectacular winter day in Santa Cruz.

Later that day Charlotte heads up to the Hollins house for the Pasatiempo art show where Valri is showing off a few of her paintings.

Exploring at Greyhound Rock beach

Fri, 26 Nov 2004 00:00:00 +0000

George and his family stayed with us for Thanksgiving this year. Following a huge meal over Valri’s house and a restful sleep at ours, we head up to Greyhound Rock beach north of Santa Cruz. George and Ellen haven’t been to this beach before, and it’s one of our favorites. I’m sure we’ll be taking them back there again sometime soon. There were plenty of fun things to keep everyone busy. Climbing on the rocks, mining for crystals, exploring tidepools, and just soaking up the sun.

The Hoyems visit the aquarium

Tue, 16 Nov 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte takes Varli, Gordon, and Karen down to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Looks like Valri is trying to make her way into one of the exhibits.

Charlotte took some great photos on this trip. Everyone looks very interested in the feeding.

Back at home Daisy enjoys one of her many hiding places.

Gordon Hoyem's 80th birthday

Sun, 14 Nov 2004 00:00:00 +0000

We’re off to George’s house to celebrate Gordon’s 80th birthday. Gordy and his family, Karen, Valri’s family, Bea, Renee and her family, and our family will all be there for the big party. Charlotte took Gordy and his family up to San Francisco for the morning before meeting up at George’s place.

Gordon and Annie join in the hotel strike. Someone must have been wondering if child labor issues were at stake as well.

Taking Gordy and family out to the redwoods

Sat, 13 Nov 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte took Gordy, his family, and Gordon out to Henry Cowell for a walk in the redwoods. It’s a great loop trail with plenty of fun for the kids. The big tree half way through is always a treat. It’s hollow on the inside like many old redwoods, but this one is big enough for quite a few people to fit inside. It’s a bit of a crouching down effort to get in, but there’s plenty of room once you’re inside. Annie and Gordon certainly enjoyed it.

Gordy and the family visiting in Capitola

Fri, 12 Nov 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gordy, Donna, Annie, and little Gordon are in town visiting for big Gordon’s 80th birthday this weekend. They’re staying with us for a few nights, and it’s sure great seeing them sometime in addition to the usual summer trip to Bootjack. Charlotte took them down to visit with Gordon at his place in Capitola. It’s always a great trip when you get to visit the beach. Luckily the rain gave us a break today.

Gabe, Doug and the sea monster

Mon, 08 Nov 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Doug is over for some play time. Out front I suspect they’re taking a break from playing wall ball while they recreate a scene from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. They don’t have an octopus, but the snake works very nicely.

Monica's birthday

Fri, 05 Nov 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Monica turned 12 today and we celebrated with a dinner at a local Chinese restaurant followed by some cake and presents back home. Everyone gets so excited no matter who gets the presents.

The cookies and cream ice cream cake was popular with everyone. Monica had a bit of trouble with the trick candles Charlotte used. We nearly set off the smoke alarm.

I think Monica really enjoyed all her presents. Books, movies, an umbrella for school, a new backpack, a figurine, and a few others.

Halloween on the Santa Cruz Wharf

Sun, 31 Oct 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Monica is doing the Gothic witch thing this year. She came upstairs to show me her costume while I was working on the computer, and I was totally freaked out. I immediately had very scary visions of the teenager to be. Of course I calmly told her she looked great. Meanwhile Gabe is still looking cute as a button in his snake costume.

Charlotte took them down to the wharf during the day as a warmup for the real event later tonight. There’s even a couple of classic Woodies behind them. Later that evening we walked around the local streets and then hooked up with the Peysers to collect a bit more candy on the other side of the neighborhood.

Annabel, pumpkins and umbrellas

Thu, 28 Oct 2004 00:00:00 +0000

These photos were taken a few days before Halloween, or as our neighbors call it, ‘The Devil’s Holiday’. Annabel dressed up as a pink poodle for Halloween (sorry no photos of that - duh!) and got lots of candy. She smells each one for a hint of peanut butter. Annabel cannot tolerate peanut butter in any form or fashion. Funny stuff!

Nick's birthday

Sun, 10 Oct 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Another birthday arrives for the Nick man. Plenty of presents including books, Playstation games, and Lego creatures. His favorite meal includes a ridiculous amount of matzah brie and sour cream. A nice big cake tops it all off.

Nick and Nibbles

Tue, 28 Sep 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Nibble’s favorite person has got to be Nick. It’s easy to see why when he’s treated just like another member of the family. All the kids enjoy a juice box when they’re thirsty.

Ohlone Day at Henry Cowell

Sat, 18 Sep 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gabe was very excited about heading out to Ohlone Day over at Henry Cowell park in Felton. I guess it was a big deal at school and he was particularly interested in the spear throwing he had heard about. We brought Doug along to make sure the day was a big success. First stop is a demonstration of starting a fire without a match or a flame thrower. Gabe’s attention appears to be drifting as the guy is taking way too long to get the fire going.

Nick's first cross country meet of the year

Fri, 17 Sep 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Nick is doing cross country again this year and their first meet is over at SLV.

Boat show and a visit with the Hoyems

Sun, 12 Sep 2004 00:00:00 +0000

We headed out to the boat show in Oakland again this year. It was plenty of fun as usual, and I’m drooling over a new fishing boat called a C-Dory these days. After spending the night at Jack London Square, we headed down to visit with George and his family. Charlotte went out for a hike with George and Ellen over at Crystal Springs.

Back at the their new house in Hillsborough the rest of the crew entertains themselves with media and Maddie. Charlotte can’t resist a picture of Valri’s colorful wine glasses.

Wetsuits really do grow on trees

Sun, 05 Sep 2004 00:00:00 +0000

The new wetsuits have been getting a lot of action lately. The usual routine after a day in the surf is to hose them off and then let them hang to dry. The tree out front is out of the sun and does the job nicely.

A really big bonfire at Rio Del Mar

Sat, 04 Sep 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Time for another fun day down at the beach, but this time we’ve got a huge group joining us. There were a million kids and many of our good friends. The heat wave made for a great day and plenty of people didn’t even bother with wetsuits. I really enjoyed hanging out with Jan and Teren too.

Fun in the surf at Manresa

Sun, 29 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

We finally stopped by a local sports store and bought some decent boogie boards. We picked up a wetsuit and board for Gabe so he could join in on the fun as well. Down at Manresa state beach it’s time to break in the new equipment. I think Gabe is addicted too now. Margot and her family joined us for what was a great day even if the fog never broke.

Boogie boarding and bonfire at Rio Del Mar

Sun, 22 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

We’re off to the beach again for a get together with a bunch of friends down at Rio Del Mar beach. Paula, Margot, Ingeborg, and their families joined us with lots of food and ocean fun. First a little warm-up playing in the sand.

Then it’s time to put on the wetsuits and hit the waves.

When it got late, the kids had fun over at the lifeguard station while the grownups had time to catch up on things.

Doug's birthday at the boardwalk

Mon, 16 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Ellen comes down with the kids to have some fun at the boardwalk for Doug’s birthday. The pirate ship has a great view and Zach goes for the best seat on the end. Gabe and Doug go for the tamer middle seats.

The trio gets in a bit of spinning action.

While everyone else tries to get sick on this monster.

This is one of Nick’s favorite rides.

Fishing with Monica and Gabe

Sun, 15 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gabe is still in withdrawal from the constant fishing in Michigan, so we head out into the bay off the Capitola wharf. Monica is along for trip this time also. We catch our usual collection of small fish, though the big ones still elude us. We caught a lot of very small halibut, so I’m hoping we’re getting closer to catching the big fish.

Our old friend Ed comes to visit in Santa Cruz

Thu, 12 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

It’s been almost 20 years since we last saw Ed Van Buskirk and his family. We all worked together at Burroughs in Boulder. Since then we’ve been living in California and Ed and Barb have been in Kansas City. They came out for a whirlwind tour of the Bay Area and we’re so happy they stopped by Santa Cruz for a visit.

Going away party for Kim

Wed, 11 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte’s very good friend Kim is unfortunately moving away along with her kids Lily and Jack. We’ll all miss her very much. Charlotte, Paula, and many more of her friends have a going away party where people can say goodbye. We’ll try to see them as much as we can for the few more days she’s still in town.

The new bathroom is complete

Mon, 09 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

All the hard work on the new bathroom is finally complete. Everyone pitched in with the building, painting, flooring, window coverings, and more. It’s going to be a real pleasure taking a shower from now on over at Rose’s.

A trip along the Superior shore

Sat, 07 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gordon’s best friend Bob Stevens (uncle Steve) just passed away, so they head up to Lac La Belle for the memorial.

Meanwhile the rest of the family enjoys the shoreline from Lac La Belle down to the Tobacco river.

Dredging the dock area

Fri, 06 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

The sand has been really building up for quite some time around the dock. Gordon has someone come and dredge the area and pile the sand on the shore. You know the kids are going to have a blast with this gigantic pile of sand.

Fishing near Chassell

Thu, 05 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

George and our family take the pontoon boat out for fishing near Chassell right across Portage from camp. They caught a whole pile of crappies. Gabe and I like to joke about these fish, but who wouldn’t?

Mexican night for dinner

Wed, 04 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

George and Ellen put on a Mexican food night for everyone. I know my family loves this stuff, and the porch at Rose’s is always a great place for an informal get together.

Rock picking at Calumet Waterworks

Wed, 04 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Another great close destination is the Calumet waterworks. We love to search for Lake Superior agates and other cool rocks. You really want to go on cooler, windy days to avoid the bugs.

Charlotte finds a few old photos of local cyclists. I didn’t run into groups anywhere near this size when I was here.

Boating, fishing, and a campfire

Mon, 02 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gabe, Doug, and Zach have a turn with the paddle boat today. They are quite the trio. It also looks like another pontoon boat fishing trip is in order.

Later that night, everyone gathers around for a fire on the beach. It’s great to have George and his family around, even if I had to leave the day they arrived.

The girls take out the paddle boat

Sun, 01 Aug 2004 00:00:00 +0000

I can’t recall ever taking out the paddle boat before, but Lindsey and Monica decide that’s no reason they can’t start something new. I think they had some rudder problems, so Karen glides in on her kayak to check things out. Looks like they’ve got a few boys caught in the prop as well.

Trip to the Quincy Mine

Thu, 29 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Today we’re going underground at the Quincy Mine in Hancock. We all look so stylish in our yellow hats as we ride the tram down to the entrance.

We all look so attentive as we absorb mining lore from our excellent guide.

Back at the surface, Charlotte takes a bunch of really great pictures of the old buildings.

Monica tries water skiing

Tue, 27 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte is helping Monica with her first water skiing experience. She’s got to be thinking, how am I ever going to stand up on these things? Gabe helps out with the picture taking with a nice shot of the dock. Needless to say, there originally were a lot more photos just like this one that I deleted.

An evening trip to Jacobsville

Mon, 26 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

It’s a beautiful night so we’re off to Jacobsville some swimming, fishing, and maybe a campfire. We’re working the same spot Gabe caught last year’s pike, but we’re not having any luck so far this year. It’s really shallow on the beach side and Monica really loves heading way out even if the water is really cold.

Back home it’s hard to capture how amazing the sunsets can be, but we can always try.

Family fishing on Lake Superior

Sun, 25 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gordon is taking my family out to the big lake today for a nice trip and some fishing experiments. We’re going to try for some salmon using the downriggers. I think everyone enjoyed the boat ride. Monica and Gabe even had a turn driving the boat.

The fishing didn’t turn up any salmon, but we did manage to get a small lake trout. A fish always puts a smile on Gabe’s face.

Lake trout fishing on Superior

Sat, 24 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Looks like the bald eagles are up early this morning along with a few crazy fisherman.

Gordon, Gordy, Charlie, and I are heading out to the big lake this morning to get our fill of lake trout.

The fish were pretty small this year, but they’ll still be some great eating. Cleaning this fish always attracks plenty of kids including Gabe and Doug.

Gordy at the little pond

Fri, 23 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gordy has been taking the kids out to the big pond pretty much daily. First a stop at the little pond to check for bait and frogs, then out to the big pond to see if any trout are on the lines. Of course Gabe likes to make sure he makes every one of these trips.

Time for a long training ride

Mon, 19 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

I’ve been doing four hour training rides from Bootjack every other day that take me past places like Mohawk, Gay, Eagle River, Lake Linden, Copper City, Five Mile Point, and Big Traverse. I’ve wanted to do a loop that gets all the way out to Copper Harbor, but it’s a bit too far from Bootjack. Charlotte took me out to the Tobacco River park near Gay to cut an hour out of my ride. This ride took me to Lac La Belle, up the hill to the covered drive into Copper Harbor, up Brockway Mountain Drive, down to Eagle Harbor, and then back. Really a beautiful ride and finally a few hills!

North Country 100 century ride in Wakefield

Sat, 17 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

I brought my Serotta up north this summer so I could really pound back the miles. I didn’t trust the airlines with my Trek, but the steel frame made it no problem. Turns out there’s a century ride in Wakefield called the North Country 100. The Serotta is way too uncomfortable for 100 miles, but 100 kilometers is perfect. Quite a few less mountains then I’m used to, but it was a beautiful ride around Lake Gogebic.

Visiting with Scott in Ishpeming

Fri, 16 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Scott is up at the Bolger place in the Michigan North Woods Club for a long weekend. It’s a great excuse to see Scott, Bridget, and Annabel.

The community has a number of private lakes with boats tied up to a dock for member use. Scott takes us out for a bit of fishing on the largest of them. The rain managed to restrain itself while we enjoyed the great outdoors.

A quick stop to visit bishop Baraga

Thu, 15 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

My brother is heading up north to his place in Ishpeming, so we’re heading south for a quick visit. The Bishop Baraga shrine beckons to us from the highway. If it weren’t for the swarms of black flies, it would have been nice to hang out for a while. This guy has got quite a view.

A nighttime cruise on Portage lake

Wed, 14 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

There’s more than enough boats to choose from at camp, but there’s nothing better than the pontoon boat when you’ve got a pile of kids looking for some boat action.

Another smallmouth for Gabe, and a new bathroom

Tue, 13 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gabe is the proud owner of yet another smallmouth bass. Sure is nice that uncle Gordy doesn’t mind cleaning all these fish so much.

No day can go by without a swim in the lake.

This year’s big project is a new bathroom in the clubhouse by Rose’s cabin. It’s sure going to be awesome to take a shower without spiders joining you.

The Yooper Olympics

Mon, 12 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

I don’t know who came up with the idea, but the gauntlet has been thrown. The kids meet out front for a test of foot speed. After a few sprints I think they see it turns out the same every time. And the gold medals goes to…

A group trip to Hungarian falls

Thu, 08 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Time to round up the troops and enjoy a local nature trip. Hungarian falls is close and always memorable. A few group shots before the kids are set loose.

A number of nice photos of the falls and the view.

A few more group shots before heading out.

No day trip is complete without a lunch break, and the official Yooper food of choice has got to be the famous pasty.

A few more Hoyems arrive in Bootjack

Mon, 05 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte’s brother Gordy’s family joins in the Yooper activities. The golf cart is always a big hit, as long as everyone can avoid crashing it into things. Lots of fishing out on the dock as usual. Charlotte adds to the fun with a few smores. Life is good.

Fun in Portage lake

Sat, 03 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Another great way to enjoy yourself up north is getting dragged around the lake. The kids prefer the comfort of the inflatable tube. The older ones usually go for the water skis.

Gabe has his own creative way to enjoy getting around in the lake.

Dock fishing with Gabe

Fri, 02 Jul 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Time for another summer trip to Bootjack. One of Gabe’s favorite ways to spend his time up north is out on the dock fishing. Most of the time it’s rock bass, but here he’s caught a smallmouth bass. If you’re really lucky you can catch a northern pike. Gabe is hoping to beat last year’s gigantic pike. Keep working those lines.

Beach party and bonfire at Twin Lakes

Sat, 26 Jun 2004 00:00:00 +0000

We met up with a few friends down at the beach today. Monica got to try out her new wetsuit during some boogie boarding. I bought myself one as well, but we plan to try them out together down at Manresa tomorrow. Hopefully Monica won’t get too tired playing in the surf today.

Plenty of good friends, conversation, and food.

As the sun goes down, it’s time to get the bonfire going. It’s also a good place to warm up after many hours in the water.

Getting wet at Raging Waters

Fri, 25 Jun 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte took the kids and some friends over to Raging Waters in San Jose. I’ve never been, but it sure looks like non-stop fun. The slides are gigantic, and the wave pool looks like it’s getting a lot of action.

I wish that I had duck feet

Tue, 22 Jun 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte has to have some of the most unique feet around. As far as I can tell, she actually has 4 pinky toes on each foot. Maybe this is the future of feet and we’ll be seeing more feet just like these. I have heard that from an evolutionary perspective, we actually only need one toe on each foot. She doesn’t appear to have any problem walking around on these beauties. It doesn’t look like any of the kids have inherited these peculiar digits, but we may have to wait and see. I have of course come to love these very special feet along with the rest of my wonderful wife.

Pool party at La Madrona

Wed, 16 Jun 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte and the kids headed over to the La Madrona pool and tennis club for a little get together. The ladies enjoy some time talking, while the kids make the most of the pools.

Some of the flowers from our backyard that the deer missed.

Enjoying the day at Manresa beach

Sun, 13 Jun 2004 00:00:00 +0000

What better way to spend a beautiful Santa Cruz day than at the beach. We wanted to try out a beach that was a bit more remote to avoid the crowds. Manresa State Beach fits our needs perfectly. The shallow area is just packed with sand crabs. Monica even manages to find a clam.

This is as close to the water as Nick will get. He’s a warm water kind of guy. Nick could have pointed out the gob of sunscreen on Charlotte’s chest sometime during their walk down the beach.

Monica graduates from Elementary School

Fri, 11 Jun 2004 00:00:00 +0000

A big day for Monica. Next year she’ll be going to Middle School with Nick, and Gabe will be on his own. Time marches inexorably onward.

School is almost over

Thu, 10 Jun 2004 00:00:00 +0000

It’s the last week of school and the kids are obviously very excited. The last week is also filled with more fun and less work. Today is crazy hair day and Gabe went all out. I wish my hair had turned out this good.

Meanwhile Nick gets a few well deserved awards for a very good year of effort.

Fishing off Capitola wharf

Sun, 06 Jun 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gabe and I haven’t been out fishing for quite some time, so it’s time to break out the poles. Gabe got up bright and early at 4:30am this morning. No way I’m getting out of the house before 6:30am. It’s a great day and there’s no one else out for some reason. I’m sure happy to not see the usual mob scene down at the wharf. Once out on the bay, we start catching kingfish almost immediately. We even snagged a pretty big octopus this time, though the picture is a bit blurry. Nothing like a nice cup of cocoa to help pass the time.

The latest from Valri's studio

Wed, 02 Jun 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Some of the latest work from Valri’s studio.

Dorothy and Britta

Sat, 29 May 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte headed over to Aunt Bea’s house with Valri today to visit with her Aunt Dorothy and her cousin Britta. They were up from southern California, so it was a great opportunity to visit with them.

Monica's artwork

Thu, 27 May 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Monica’s artwork was on display at the Brook Knoll open house tonight. I think we have another budding artist in the family.

Gabe and Nibbles go for a swim

Sun, 16 May 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gabe gears up for a swim at La Madrona, while Nibbles dries off after his dip. Notice any resemblance?

Heading back to California

Mon, 10 May 2004 00:00:00 +0000

We’ve had a great trip, but it’s time to head back home. The happy travelers endure one last ride in the airport shuttle and then a long flight home.

Mother's day in Philadelphia

Sun, 09 May 2004 00:00:00 +0000

We stayed with my mom for our visit out east. Kyle and Rachel spent the night, but now it’s time to head over to Lynda’s for hanging out and BBQ.

Carole, David, Jonathan, and Joni headed down for the day as well. It was great seeing everyone.

Lynda likes Valri’s paintings so much, she created print versions from some postcards she had picked when she was last out in California. They turned out great. I wanted to show Valri and Charlotte how great they looked.

Lynda's 40th birthday

Sat, 08 May 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Lynda had her big 40th birthday party the weekend before her actual birthday while I was on my SVEF bike ride. I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to sneak out to Philadelphia for her actual birthday. Since we had to bail on Monica and Charlotte’s trip to Chicago for Rachel’s birthday, we decided to surprise her by bringing Monica along too. The scene at the restaurant worked out just like I had hoped.

David's hair really is blue

Sun, 02 May 2004 00:00:00 +0000

I offered to color my hair blue for the recent SVEF bike ride in exchange for large donations. A few people were generous enough to take me up on my offer, so I didn’t want to disappoint. It didn’t come out as dark as I expected, but you get the idea. Thanks to those that helped me raise over $1000 for our schools.

SVEF century bike ride

Sat, 01 May 2004 00:00:00 +0000

The day of the big fundraising ride has arrived. Charlotte has been working incredibly hard with a number of other people to pull off our 2nd annual SVEF century ride for the local schools. Last year’s ride to Big Sur was a load of fun, though our first year was very loosely organized given that there were only about 15 riders. This year we’ve got over 70 riders and it’s as well organized as some of the biggest rides I do this time of year. Everyone is excited to get rolling.

Another track meet for Nick

Fri, 30 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

It’s back to SLV high school for another track meet. I couldn’t make this one, but it looks like Nick is continuing to enjoy himself.

Nick's first track meet

Fri, 23 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Nick enjoyed cross country a great deal at the start of his first semester. This semester he’s doing track and seems to like shot put and the long jump. His first meet is over at San Lorenzo High School over in Felton. It’s an awesome day and I decided to take off early from work to be there. It was fun seeing Joe and other friends from school. The sprinklers came on late in the day just to make things interesting.

Monica's DARE graduation

Mon, 19 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Monica completed her DARE course, so it’s time for the graduation event. Lots of Scotts Valley notables are there for the event.

The Sea Otter Classic

Sun, 18 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

I talked the family into heading down to the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey. I tend to overload them with bike stuff, but I’m convinced they’ll really enjoy this one. The drive down is very scenic. Should have rode down on the bike.

This mountain bike area was quite the collection of technical ramps and jumps. These guys have amazing bike handling skills.

We spent a lot of time in the expo area. Lots of great booths, fun, and food.

SVEF Mountain Challenge training ride

Sat, 17 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

The second annual SVEF Mountain Challenge century ride is coming up again very soon. Last year’s ride was a big success and raised quite a bit of money for the Scotts Valley schools. This year we’ve got lots more riders and hope to blow away our previous fundraising efforts. Charlotte has been spending a ton of time helping out with the organization of the ride. I just have to ride the bike, which I love anyway. I’m out for a nice long ride with people like Matt, Craig, Eric, Kevin, Ron, David, Chimene, John, Mary, and Bill.

Nick makes Honor Roll again

Thu, 15 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Nick cranks in the A’s again. Time to collect another certificate for the big man.

A family bike ride

Sat, 10 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

I’ve been taking Monica out for a long ride down to Wilder Ranch lately. The rest of the family isn’t quite up for that long a ride, but we decided to meet up with them to ride along the San Lorenzo river bike path. This ride is the big day when Monica makes it all the way back to the house. We’ve got a few hills to conquer at the end of this ride. Go girly.

Another trip to San Francisco

Fri, 09 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte and Varli are off to San Francisco again to visit the Wax Museum and the Ripley’s Museum. They take the world’s most beautiful highway and pay homage to father Junipero Serra along the way.

First stop is . This shop is full of really cool dead things to eat. Just the kind of place the kids will love.

Charlotte just had to stop by the frog place again. I think she wanted to get a better photo of the sign in the window than in the previous visit.

A trip to the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Mon, 05 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte, Gordon, and Valri head up to San Francisco to check out the modern art at SFMOMA. Unfortunately it turned out that a lot of the best exhibits happened to be closed, but it sounds like the trip was a success anyway. How can any trip to San Francisco not be.

Salmon season has begun

Sun, 04 Apr 2004 00:00:00 +0000

We just had to squeeze in a bit of fishing before Gordon heads back to Michigan. The start of salmon season is the perfect excuse. I’m trying my best to forget that I just did the Tierra Bella century bike ride yesterday and have to get up at 4:30am for this fishing trip. The trip out to the fishing spot takes forever, and it’s unbelievably cold.

The trip back is a solemn one given the poor results. The guy next to me caught three, George caught one, and I think 2 other people caught one. I had one on the line, but the line broke near the boat. We had way too many crossed lines and I lost my tackle two or three times. Let’s just say it wasn’t one of my better trips. It was great going out with Gordon, George, and Charlie though. It would have been really great if Gabe could have come, but I think it was the right choice to not bring him. Had to include a gratuitous shoe shot.

A nice day for a walk in Capitola

Tue, 30 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Karen got Charlotte and Valri some feather boas. Charlotte proudly shows off her gift.

Gordon takes the girls out for one of his long walks around Capitola. I think they were a bit freaked crossing the trestle bridge.

Back at the house, it’s time to relax a bit with Aunt Bea and show off those boas again.

Some great shots of a great blue heron hanging out by the beach. I think he believes he’s a pelican.

Visiting Natural Bridges

Mon, 29 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte and Karen head down to Natural Bridges beach. Looks like Karen is on the lookout for western shore birds.

Gabe's birthday

Sun, 28 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

We’ve got a full house this year for Gabe’s birthday. Karen is in town visiting, George is down with the family, Kim brought Jack and Lily, and Gabe has invited 9 of his friends. Time for one last peaceful photo before the madness begins.

The favorite play area in our whole backyard has got to be the trampoline.

The rope swing comes in a close second.

After burning a bunch of energy outside, time to head indoors for some pizza, a balloon fight, and then some Playstation.

Exploring at Capitola beach

Sat, 27 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

While I’m off riding in the mountains, Charlotte takes Gabe and Doug down to Capitola. The tide is low enough, you can make it around the edge of the cliffs.

Karen seems to be enjoying herself.

Quite a collection of sea creatures await the intrepid explorers.

Back at the house the flowers are enjoying the sunshine.

The Hoyem girls and dad in Monterey

Fri, 26 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Karen is visiting and joins her sisters for a trip down to Monterey. First a stop at MBARI in Moss Landing, then down to the Monterey Bay harbor and wharf.

Our founding father Gabe Washington

Thu, 25 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gabe is giving a presentation on George Washington tomorrow at school. We check out the look before heading off to bed, and I’ve got to say he looks very impressive. I guess this is how future presidents are made, but I am hoping he steers clear of politics.

Nick as the Green Knight

Tue, 23 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Nick will be playing the part of the Green Knight at the school play tonight. His class gets ready for the big production.

Unfortunately a lot of the pictures came out way too dark, but you get the idea. It appears that Nick’s wooden axe can’t quite make it through his neck. Turns out that pulling off that helmet is tough as well.

A little fun by the tennis courts with Nick’s friends before heading back home.

Loads of kids at Capitola beach

Thu, 18 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte heads down to Gordon’s place in Capitola with kids in tow. To raise the level of fun just a bit higher, Val and Kim’s kids join in as well. You really can’t tell how cold the ocean really is from the way everyone is playing in the water. Take my word for it, it’s freezing.

Nick and Gordon steer clear of the frigid waters.

Then it’s time for pizza back at Gordon’s place.

A leprechaun for Gabe

Wed, 17 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

It’s St. Patty’s day and the kids in Gabe’s class had an important project to complete. Gabe failed to catch a leprechaun last year, but he’s very determined that this year’s trap will be a success. It’s a two stage trap. The first stage has a spring-loaded door with a bunch of shiny pennies tempting the little green guy into the trap. Once inside, he’ll fall through a hole into a nice little home Gabe created for him. Bright and early, Gabe is ready to check the trap. Unfortunately a very thorough check of every corner of the trap fails to uncover his whereabouts.

Gordon and the girls in Capitola

Tue, 16 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Gordon’s really been enjoying his home away from home in Capitola. And who can blame him with such fantastic days and his wonderful daughters coming to visit all the time.

The Multer boys

Mon, 15 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Just a few random shots while hanging out in the living room.

Nick has Gabe on a leash and Abby is very jealous.

Solvang century ride

Sat, 13 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

I had heard that Matt was headed down to Solvang for the 100 mile and was immediately jealous about riding in the beautiful Santa Barbara area. Then at work on Friday, Oran told me he decided at the last minute to drive down and do the ride in the morning. I was so happy to hear that Charlotte was up for a last minute weekend road trip, so off we go bright and early Saturday morning.

Lunch at Loch Lomond

Sun, 07 Mar 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte headed over to Loch Lomond with Gordon, Valri, and the kids. I had my regular ride with the UCSC cycling team, so Charlotte spent those hours enjoying the beautiful day with family at the lake.

The newts are active this time of year, and there’s nothing quite like a cup o' newts with your hot dog or hamburger.

There are plenty of places for the kids to climb around and enjoy. There’s also no shortage of sticks for the boys to play war and poke dead woodpeckers with.

Another day in San Francisco

Sun, 29 Feb 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Another day in San Francisco finds our intrepid tourists wandering about the wharf area. Gordon seems to have some fondness for the various statues about the city.

The old amusement items down at the pier are kind of spooky.

Of course the people hanging around the pier nowadays seems to be just as spooky.

Tourists in Chinatown

Sat, 28 Feb 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte and Valri took Gordon up to San Francisco for the weekend. Looks like the first stop was Chinatown. Some great photos of really big frogs. The sign makes it crystal clear they’re only for eating.

Then it’s off to Ghirardelli Square and some comedy.

This time it's war

Sat, 21 Feb 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlie just got a new airgun and has been wanting to head over to our house to try it out. He invited just a couple of his friends to have the pleasure of being fired on with a stream of hundreds of pellets per second. Some of these kids take this pretty seriously. I’m glad Nick is on Charlie’s team.

Admiring the Pokemon collection

Sat, 14 Feb 2004 00:00:00 +0000

It’s almost like a trance state when Gabe and Doug start looking through their Pokemon cards. I couldn’t resist grabbing the camera and taking a few shots. It’s almost like an episode of Wild Kingdom.

Crazy hair day for Monica

Mon, 09 Feb 2004 00:00:00 +0000

It’s crazy hair day at Monica’s school today. Looking just a wee bit crazy.

Monica the baby bird perch

Thu, 05 Feb 2004 00:00:00 +0000

The baby birds are getting big incredibly fast.

Baby bird feeding time

Tue, 03 Feb 2004 00:00:00 +0000

The babies are growing fast, but not fast enough with this nasty bird formula. It really brings back the memories of the kid’s formula days. Fortunately these babies don’t wear diapers. They are really funny when they eat. They bob their heads a mile a minute until their crop looks like it’s ready to blow. They’ll be feeding themselves really soon now.

Birds are everywhere

Sat, 31 Jan 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Val is out of town for the weekend, so our bird collection temporarily grows by one. I’m hoping the big parrot doesn’t eat one of our cockatiels for lunch.

The Hoyems are always welcome

Sun, 25 Jan 2004 00:00:00 +0000

George, Ellen, and the kids are down for another visit. Our kids always love playing with their new dog. She’s quite a bit cuter than our baby birds.

Wandering around Moss Landing

Fri, 23 Jan 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Charlotte took her dad Gordon down to Moss Landing to enjoy the day. I think they had lunch over at Phil’s Market, which makes me really jealous. They checked out the harbor and the vessels of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Insitute (MBARI). The institute does some amazing research and they get to play around with some really great high-tech toys. Makes me think about those years long ago when I considered a future in marine biology.

Storm clouds off Capitola beach

Fri, 02 Jan 2004 00:00:00 +0000

Val and her family are off to ski country and Max is staying over with us. Abby always enjoys having a friend over to play. Sure wish Joe was here too.

In between storms, we head over to Capitola to check things out. The rain breaks for long enough to have some fun on the beach. No chance of getting a tan this time of year. Plenty of driftwood and shells worth checking out.