Dussel-dor-aff

We have never thought much about Dusseldorf  (or Dussel-dor-aff, as our British GPS calls it) other than our locale for catching flights from here to there, but after some German friends and neighbors told us how much they liked it, we decided to go for the day. We loved it! We knew it is a business and financial hub, but it is also so much more. It is the state capital of North Rhine-Westphalia and if you ask the Germans they will tell you it is where "pretty people" live. Dusseldorf is a trend-setter in art, fashion and style. We were also struck by the French influence in the architecture and culture, which now makes sense after learning that Napoleon dubbed it "my little Paris." As we walked along the Konigsallee we felt as if we were on the Champs-Élysées. We started at the Aqua Zoo (aquarium), followed by visits to a few parks and then to the Old Town and the Rhine. Here's a few pics from the day-

First stop, the Aqua Zoo!

                                                  Jake discovered that he loves Penguins.

                                             A stop to see the sharks for Auntie Lindsay.

                                I thought Jake's expression was pretty good. Bria seems to love it.

                                                                       Nord Hofgarten

            Thought we would pop in and say hello to Lucky Day, Dusty Bottoms, and Ned Nederlander.

                                                 We loved all the great parks we visited.

                                                                          The Ko (coo).

                 As it was the start of Oktoberfest we saw and heard many bands in the Old Town.

                                                  Just a few people in the city that day!

Unfortunately I didn't get any pictures along the Rhine, but thanks Dusseldorf for an unexpected great day!

The Last Supper

Before we went home in August we had to say goodbye to some dear friends, the Cavanaughs. Cara and I met right after we moved to Germany and we immediately discovered we had a lot in common. When we met Colin for the first time (in Lederhosen of course) he and Bill bonded over fine Scotch and Belgium Beer. Several holidays, date nights, costumes and babies later we are so thankful to call them friends. We were spoiled to have them live so close and also to have known Ellie since the very beginning. What a truly happy, smiley baby she is! We miss them daily, but we know that great things are ahead for the Cavs, and are happy they can be back in Cali among family, friends and sunshine! Later in life Jake, Bria and Ellie will probably roll their eyes as they listen to their parents recount their crazy adventures in Germany. Looking forward to many Keleher/Cavanoni reunions in the future!

                                                               The last dinner together.

 I sure do miss seeing this big smile everyday!

 

 

Until the next time....

New England Summer

In August we headed home for the first time in 2 years. It was so wonderful to catch up with so many friends and family members and introduce many to Bria for the first time. Our schedule was busy with a wedding, a baptism, a visit to the shore and many parties in between, but since we normally miss out on all these festivities, it was great to be able to attend. We want to thank everyone who took the time to come see us. I think Jake summed up the trip best when he said, "Mama, I am sooooo happy." We agree, Jake!

Be forewarned, there are a lot of pictures, but we have many events to document from the trip...

To begin our adventure, the kids and I took our our first military flight to the US. Following in his Daddy's footsteps, Jake has a fascination with airplanes, and whenever we go on a plane he always says, "wow, thank you!" Bria enjoyed trying to run into the cockpit on numerous occasions. They didn't sleep, but they had a lot of fun!

 

 

We were so lucky to be in Connecticut the same time as my college roommate, Erin. The visit was too short, but it was so fun to be able to get the kids together to play. It's too bad we live so far away, Jake and Jackson make a great pair. Thanks Duds for a fun day!  

Jake and Jackson

Bria and the boys

Next was a visit from another very important Erin. Erin and I have known each other for over 20 years, and have been through many milestones together. It was so fun having her stay, and it was no surprise that Bria took an instant liking to her. 

The first weekend we celebrated the wedding of another life-long friend. Bill and I grew up with the bride and the groom so the wedding was a big high school reunion. What a beautiful bride and wedding and we wish the couple a lifetime of happiness!

Erin, Becky and I hosting a party for the bride.

Sar diz-Alger and a few of the girls in town for her nuptials.

Mazel Tov!

Next stop was the Connecticut shore to show Jake and Bria what the beach is all about. They were very happy to spend hours digging in the sand and go sailing on "grandpa's boat." Thanks Nana and Grandpa for hosting us and for gathering all the family together for a party to welcome us home.

 

 All the Keleher cousins together for the first time. Can you tell which 2 don't live around these parts?

 Every ship needs a Pirate.

 "Lobsta"

"Sunglasses-check, SPF 75-check...ready for the beach."

Next we headed back to West Hartford to celebrate Bria's Baptism. Bria's personality is definitely developing and I think the entire congregation was entertained by her strong-willed independence and curiosity. I was fortunate enough to have the same minister confirm me, marry me, baptize Jake and now also baptize Bria. Thankfully he has a good sense of humor and didn't take offense every time Bria swatted his hand away as he tried to bless her with the baptismal water. She also decided she did not want to be carried down the aisle during "Jesus Loves Me," she was going to walk by herself. His final sentiments were, "Good luck!" Thank you, I think we might need it! And a big thank you to my parents for hosting the family for a wonderful brunch and to all our siblings for making the trip to be there. 

 It's my baptism!

 Best attempt at a family photo.

The Trumble girls...loving Bella's silly face.

 Brothers O'Keleher

Hanging with Uncle Ted

 The Trumble Family

 The Keleher Clan

 Yummy looking lipstick Bella.

Back to the beach for a few more days of sunshine before it's time to leave.  

 

 Walking on the beach with Nana and Grandpa.

 Morning kayak ride with Daddy and Grandpa.

 "Get me off this thing!"

 Sure do miss this view.

 Time for a sail.

"We're sailing!"



 

And finally a pit stop in Oklahoma to catch a flight back. We had just enough time to see some very special people.

 Jake and Wyatt- Visiting our old neighbors and good friends, the Hagues.

 Bria and Ella- Ella is already a great babysitter.

Miss seeing this girl everyday, but can't wait to meet baby Harrington.

 

Thank you again to everyone that made our visit so special. Hopefully the memories and sunshine will sustain us through a dark and cold winter!