This week brought sad news from home. Wade's grandpa passed away on Tuesday. It is news like this that I think all expats hope doesn't come - it is hard to miss out on the family times when they are most mundane, and when they are joyful...but especially lonely and sad to not "be there" in times like these.
Wade wrote of his grandpa for the eulogy...One of Grandpa's favorite stories is of a time when, driving from Sioux City to Salt Lake City, I informed him that once we reached Salt Lake, he wouldn't be boss any more. I emphasized this by getting right up to him and waggling my small index finger, and shook my head. I was corrected by my mom upon arriving home, when she told me that Grandpa was the boss of everyone in the family. Boss or not, I always looked up to him as a somewhat gruff, but kind and caring man. And while he often threatened to cut my hair like his, he never did. It didn't even matter that he made me mow his lawn a different direction every third day – he was paying me to cut his lawn like a golf course. Later in life, I have his guidance to thank for many things. I was able to apply his lawn mowing training when I worked as a greens-keeper at the local golf course. But more importantly, I was able to apply his wisdom on dealing with people as a matter ofprinciple. Grandpa always believed in treating people fairly. He was a man who could negotiate (as many of us remember him doing in the Stock Yards), but he had a reputation for being a fair trader and his integrity gained him respect by all who knew him (although there is still some question regarding his "luck" at cards). My fondest memories with him include going to the baseball games at the park in town and during the hot humid Sioux City nights, coming upstairs and sitting on his lap while Johnny Carson went through his monologues. He was the best Grandpa a boy could hope for and I am proud that he had such an influential role in my life.
Robert Miller
Jan. 13, 1921 - Oct. 23, 2007 Age: 86 Residence: Greeley
Tribute: Robert (Hack) C. Miller was born to Harold Hamilton and Irene Russell (Corbitt) Miller in LaHarpe, Ill. He graduated from Stronghurst High School in 1938 and was a former resident of Stronghurst, Ill.; Peoria, Ill.; Corning, Iowa; Sioux City, Iowa for 28 years; and Grand Junction for 17 years, moving to Greeley in November 2004. He joined the United States Navy and served from 1944 -1946. He was in the South Pacific during WWII and was in Japan when they surrendered. Upon returning, he became a livestock buyer for Wilson Company, retiring in 1982. Mr. Miller is a past member of the Lutheran Church in Stronghurst and the Methodist Churches in Corning, Sioux City and Grand Junction. Since moving to Greeley, he has been a member of the First United Methodist Church.
His greatest times were fishing, golfing, and playing cards with his sons, Bob and Bill. He also loved being with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears fan.He died Tuesday at North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley. Survivors: His wife, Doris Miller, of Greeley; two sons, Robert Nolen Miller and wife Diane of Greeley, and William Harold Miller and wife Connie of Orofino, Idaho; and six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by: His parents; and a sister, Betty Schaley.
Funeral Service: 1 p.m. Friday at the Allnutt Macy Chapel. Interment: Linn Grove Cemetery.
Notes: Contributions may be made to the North Colorado Medical Center Foundation in care of Allnutt Macy Chapel, 702 13th St., Greeley, CO 80631. Please view online obituary and sign the family guest book at www.allnutt.com.
We'll miss you Grandpa.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Monday, October 22, 2007
Coming "home"
We said our good-byes at the Goa airport. I have to admit, there was more than a teeny bit of me that wanted to get on the plane to the US too (even if it was a much longer journey). It had been an awesome time, with family, great food and great amenities. And the visit (especially with my mommy) did bring up that nagging suspicion that I had acclimated and just forgotten about the developed world and its amenities. "Oh, you live here...are there any more dishes... that match?" "Does the power always go out like this?" "Where can we get some....(fill in the blank)?" "How long until... (fill in the blank)?"On the journey from the Bangalore airport home, over the garbage strewn streets with stinky cows and dilapidated buildings...I managed to put myself into quite a mood. The reality of family visits and exotic beach vacations coming to an end had me unreasonably, but nonetheless completely crabby. The light at the end of the day was a text message that the sea shipment with a care package from home had arrived. And although we didn't have a driver (and aren't allowed to drive even to the other side of the neighborhood), we walked over to take a look and take what we could carry. That was awesome...inside the box was toilet paper, Lucky Charms, gummy bears...a veritable treasure trove from home. And when Grayce, an adorable six-year-old mentioned she "loved" Lucky Charms, I looked at her with the instinctive defensiveness of a lion guarding its prey. And while I wouldn't normally cling to a box of Lucky Charms like they were a lifeline worth wrestling a six-year-old to the ground over, these...these are unusual times.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Goa: aka Beach Vacation part 3
Day three in Goa was a little hazy, rainy. But that didn't interfere with our plans to spend the day at the Park Hyatt spa for the girls while Caden was off to Park Hyatt briefly and the guys hung out. Actually it was a perfect day to spend the day at the spa. 
Katie and I did a joint sea salt body scrub and facial. It would seem that underneath the first 3 layers of your skin, there is a layer that is quite soft. So if you just start scrubbing.... ok, I don't know if I'd recommend that again, the massage part was nice and the facial was divine. And Mom actually got a massage that she liked! I know if she kept trying...
And by the time that we got our manicure /pedicures in a hut-style structure with a view of the Arabian sea, the weather was quite nice.
The resort really was beautiful.
And Caden enjoyed every minute.
It was really relaxing and fun. Really, why leave?
We concluded that evening with a wonderful meal at the Goan restaurant.
We got in a little pool time the next morning, and then packed up for the airport and good-byes. It was a great beach vacation and a great end to a really special visit.
Katie and I did a joint sea salt body scrub and facial. It would seem that underneath the first 3 layers of your skin, there is a layer that is quite soft. So if you just start scrubbing.... ok, I don't know if I'd recommend that again, the massage part was nice and the facial was divine. And Mom actually got a massage that she liked! I know if she kept trying...And by the time that we got our manicure /pedicures in a hut-style structure with a view of the Arabian sea, the weather was quite nice.
The resort really was beautiful.
And Caden enjoyed every minute.
It was really relaxing and fun. Really, why leave?
We concluded that evening with a wonderful meal at the Goan restaurant.
We got in a little pool time the next morning, and then packed up for the airport and good-byes. It was a great beach vacation and a great end to a really special visit.
Goa: aka Beach Vacation part 2
It was beautiful weather on Friday and we made the most of the day at the resort...it was super cute to watch Caden at the beach, and he and Wade had some great discussions about jelly fish, starfish, and other ocean facts.
The pool continued to be a big hit with Caden, and pretty much everyone took turns in the pool with him...
Caden was practically a fish between the pool and his bathtub.
Katie decided to take the opportunity to go for a run while the rest of us leisurely strolled. But Dad decided to join her...for a leg of it.
And what is a beach vacation without a magnificent sunset?
The pool continued to be a big hit with Caden, and pretty much everyone took turns in the pool with him...
Caden was practically a fish between the pool and his bathtub.
Katie decided to take the opportunity to go for a run while the rest of us leisurely strolled. But Dad decided to join her...for a leg of it.
And what is a beach vacation without a magnificent sunset?
Goa: aka Beach Vacation
Our visit with my parents and Katie concluded with a family vacation to Goa, a beach resort town on the SE coast of India. After much internal turmoil, I sided with the "we're only here once" philosophy of fiscal restraint, and splurged for two ocean view rooms with the Timeless Moments package at the Park Hyatt. "Go Big or Go Home" one colleague recently told me.
We settled into the rooms which were awesome, with views of the Arabian sea and had a drink and snack in the room before taking a walk along the beach. It was a hot night but not raining. The resort had trails spread over the grounds and we enjoyed the peaceful walk trailing after Caden on his quest to get to the ocean.
And Caden was ecstatic on the beach, thoroughly enjoying throwing rocks in the water.
And after dinner that night, was the first to suggest he take a bath. In fact, he was the only one to make use of the tub. The second night he even went ahead and added the rose petals to the water.
And early the next day, we set about making use of what is supposedly the largest pool in India. It covered a good length, with two waterfalls in the middle, and I felt like it counted as a workout.
After talking about all the things there were to do in Goa, it ended up that we did not leave the resort once. It was gorgeous and thoroughly relaxing right there... more pictures to come.
We settled into the rooms which were awesome, with views of the Arabian sea and had a drink and snack in the room before taking a walk along the beach. It was a hot night but not raining. The resort had trails spread over the grounds and we enjoyed the peaceful walk trailing after Caden on his quest to get to the ocean.
And Caden was ecstatic on the beach, thoroughly enjoying throwing rocks in the water.
And after dinner that night, was the first to suggest he take a bath. In fact, he was the only one to make use of the tub. The second night he even went ahead and added the rose petals to the water.
And early the next day, we set about making use of what is supposedly the largest pool in India. It covered a good length, with two waterfalls in the middle, and I felt like it counted as a workout.
After talking about all the things there were to do in Goa, it ended up that we did not leave the resort once. It was gorgeous and thoroughly relaxing right there... more pictures to come.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Finishing the visit in Bangalore
Wednesday was an uneventful day. Dad went to Chennai for a quick work visit to a development center he works with, and was glad for the opportunity since he was practically "in the neighborhood." He flew out in the morning, and was back by late evening to meet up with us out for a nice dinner at BBQ Nation. It's one of my favorite restaurants with all you can eat "sizzlers" aka kabobs that you cook right at your table. Caden fell asleep at the table and was half-asleep as we got in the car. But when his grandma asked half-rhetorically why are there so many dogs in India, he sat bolt upright and scolded her: "grandma! They're not called dogs in India, they're STRAY dogs." Apparently, our lesson on don't pet dogs that don't have a collar has made an impression.
Thursday was departure day for Goa with an early afternoon flight. Dad was ready to head for the airport upon awakening (a little bit anxious I should say), while I wasn't even packed. Oh the different styles (more to come on that). I strolled up to lunch, and couldn't help but observe that I'm really glad I don't have to cut the lawn with a hedge clippers. Heck, I don't even have to cut the lawn here.
Our last lunch was up at the clubhouse in Palm Meadows, and was pleasant despite the time schedules. Wade had disappeared to get Caden from school, and there was "Danger" of being late to leave for the airport at the favored six hour lead time.
But we were still happy and took a minute to take in the clubhouse scenery before heading to our beach vacation.
Even Caden made it and had time to eat his fish and fries, and then join in the crowd demanding immediate departure.
And we were off...
Does someone look a little stressed?
As it were, we made it to the airport in about 20 minutes, cleared check-in without delay and had only 90 minutes to wait to board our plane. But both Dad and Wade were happy, and insisted we clear security as soon as possible and find seats close to the gate, checking in every three minutes or so as to whether we could board now. They also learned a fun fact about India's airports and planes - non-alcoholic beer only. It's fascinating to me as well that although admittedly type A (really, I admit it), I prefer to travel without a schedule. At least I'm happy to get to the airport at any time before departure, swing my luggage on board and jump on as the plane starts to taxi...
Thursday was departure day for Goa with an early afternoon flight. Dad was ready to head for the airport upon awakening (a little bit anxious I should say), while I wasn't even packed. Oh the different styles (more to come on that). I strolled up to lunch, and couldn't help but observe that I'm really glad I don't have to cut the lawn with a hedge clippers. Heck, I don't even have to cut the lawn here.
Our last lunch was up at the clubhouse in Palm Meadows, and was pleasant despite the time schedules. Wade had disappeared to get Caden from school, and there was "Danger" of being late to leave for the airport at the favored six hour lead time.
But we were still happy and took a minute to take in the clubhouse scenery before heading to our beach vacation.
Even Caden made it and had time to eat his fish and fries, and then join in the crowd demanding immediate departure.
And we were off...
Does someone look a little stressed?
As it were, we made it to the airport in about 20 minutes, cleared check-in without delay and had only 90 minutes to wait to board our plane. But both Dad and Wade were happy, and insisted we clear security as soon as possible and find seats close to the gate, checking in every three minutes or so as to whether we could board now. They also learned a fun fact about India's airports and planes - non-alcoholic beer only. It's fascinating to me as well that although admittedly type A (really, I admit it), I prefer to travel without a schedule. At least I'm happy to get to the airport at any time before departure, swing my luggage on board and jump on as the plane starts to taxi...
Friday, October 19, 2007
Gandhi Jayanti
October 2nd was a holiday to commemorate Gandhi's birthday, and the only day for the "girls" to go out shopping. We met up for lunch at Sunny's with two other cool expats for a lovely lunch (although no liquor - on account of the holiday. Huh.) 
After lunch, we headed over to Commercial Street for some shopping, with a heavy emphasis on jewelry! Luckily we brought out favorite jewelry shopping expert with us, and made it in to our favorite shop - a small place (about the size of a walk-in closet) with a large display and boxes and boxes of more choices if what you see isn't exactly right. At the end of it, the power went out (perhaps a sign we should stop)... but we had to wait for it to come back on so we could pay with a credit card given our bill exceeded our rupees on hand. It was a fun outing, and we wrapped up the holiday with dinner at home with our fave friends.
After lunch, we headed over to Commercial Street for some shopping, with a heavy emphasis on jewelry! Luckily we brought out favorite jewelry shopping expert with us, and made it in to our favorite shop - a small place (about the size of a walk-in closet) with a large display and boxes and boxes of more choices if what you see isn't exactly right. At the end of it, the power went out (perhaps a sign we should stop)... but we had to wait for it to come back on so we could pay with a credit card given our bill exceeded our rupees on hand. It was a fun outing, and we wrapped up the holiday with dinner at home with our fave friends.
Caden learns to ride a bike
Caden has always been a bit of a daredevil - all "boy" as I like to sum it up. And so at four years old and one day, he decided he could ride his bike without training wheels. And while I could barely watch, luckily Dad was there to chase him down the lane...
The first go was successful but brief, and (most importantly) without injury.
And of course, a week later, a new big blue bike arrived with another expat's shipment. And Caden demanded the training wheels be removed over my feeble objections...and he hasn't gone back since! Go Caden! (And has anyone seen my heart medication??)
The first go was successful but brief, and (most importantly) without injury.
And of course, a week later, a new big blue bike arrived with another expat's shipment. And Caden demanded the training wheels be removed over my feeble objections...and he hasn't gone back since! Go Caden! (And has anyone seen my heart medication??)
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Mom says: "I could do this"
No trip to Bangalore would be complete without brunch at the Taj West End. After Saturday's festivities, that is just where we headed! And it is especially great to be met there by wonderful friends and fellow expats...
The experience and the food are truly oppulant.
It's also a good time for the kids, with a lawn surrounded on three sides with a hedge and layered with games (including a bouncy).
And of course there's the dessert counter...
It is here, at the end of a lovely afternoon of good friends, food and unlimited free-flowing champagne that mom dropped one of my favorite quotes of the trip..."I could do this, I could live here" she declared triumphantly. Yes mom, most of us could live at the Taj West doing champagne brunch!!
The experience and the food are truly oppulant.
It's also a good time for the kids, with a lawn surrounded on three sides with a hedge and layered with games (including a bouncy).
And of course there's the dessert counter...It is here, at the end of a lovely afternoon of good friends, food and unlimited free-flowing champagne that mom dropped one of my favorite quotes of the trip..."I could do this, I could live here" she declared triumphantly. Yes mom, most of us could live at the Taj West doing champagne brunch!!
Happy 4th Birthday Caden!
I know it's cliche, but Caden is growing up so fast! It's been an amazing thing to watch him grow and still bring us joy every day. We feel so blessed to have such an incredible kid - we love you SO MUCH Caden!
His grandma also brought him so many presents that we had to spread them out over the week leading up to his party. The flight suit (BIG) and matching helmet, complete with patches from Jeff's fighter squadron was a big hit...
Scooters have been a popular thing, especially with the bigger kids in the neighborhood. And Caden of course had expressed his interest. Wade and I talked about it though and decided that he was still too young and they are too dangerous. That is until Grandma came, and Jeff and Katie bought him a scooter for his birthday. And Wade, out shopping with them, "forgot" our discussion - go figure. Oh well, I guess the kid shouldn't be denied that kind of indulgence just because we moved 9,000 miles away!
The day of his party was much anticipated. Wade had of course made all the arrangements with the party planner, and I have to say -- WOW! It was quite a production.
The set up alone, with the welcome sign, popcorn machine, fishing game, butterfly game, face painter, hanging airplanes and fighter plane cutouts and background...and of course the bouncy jumper, had Caden pretty happy. So much that I figured if none of the 50 odd people invited came, he would still have a great time.
But where there's a party, there's a crowd in Bangalore! I was astounded at how many people came and how fun it was - it is one of the great things about his school and neighborhood that there is such diversity and so many kids.
The party planner also did a bunch of games with the kids that were a lot of fun to watch and the kids really seemed to enjoy. And I thought how much easier my job is than getting 20 some little kids to follow directions and stay engaged.
I took a break to visit the face painter and get my "mom" tattoo...
And then it was time for cake. A big deal here in India, and the kid gets to cut it, and is then fed a piece by the parent. It was a bit of a flash-back to his first birthday, where he similarly not interested in eating the cake. I'm not actually sure he's mine...except that he looks so much like Wade...
And to cap it all of, there was of course the airplane shaped pinata filled with candy...
It was a super fun party and Caden cleared more presents than I thought possible, taking us several days to open them all. Hopefully he remembers it as the party of his lifetime, as I'm not sure what we could possibly do to top it. Luckily we have 11 months to think about it...but I'm sure they'll fly by!
I took a break to visit the face painter and get my "mom" tattoo...
And then it was time for cake. A big deal here in India, and the kid gets to cut it, and is then fed a piece by the parent. It was a bit of a flash-back to his first birthday, where he similarly not interested in eating the cake. I'm not actually sure he's mine...except that he looks so much like Wade...
And to cap it all of, there was of course the airplane shaped pinata filled with candy...
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