Our Merry Christmas 2008 Blog Update!

Christmas 2008! Our second one that is being spent so far away from family and friends! But you are in our hearts as we look forward to the calls, letters, emails, and visits very soon!
Like no other, this time of year brings cherished memories of the past and excited thoughts and plans for the future!

WOW – summer came and went fast this year! Fall was beautiful and winter came to the Las Vegas valley like we couldn’t ever imagine seeing! SNOW in the desert! December 17 – it started falling about noon and didn’t stop for hours! We’ve the pictures to prove it!
We all had some chuckles at the local news that evening. Tourists in their holiday and tropical garb, waiting in line to get a picture of the famous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign down on the Blvd. Someone even built a snowman and that picture was shown on the national news the next morning! I've posted the link below for what the national news had to say about us! To view - just copy and paste the link into your browser.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081218/ap_on_re_us/western_weather

Thankfully, we’ve warmed back up to above freezing and snow has melted into the desert. We look forward to seeing all the beautiful flowers in the spring that this amazing event helped produce!




I personally missed some of the summer and the fall season altogether! It was here…but my mind was elsewhere! Most of you knew – I experienced some issues and long-story short, ended up having surgery for a total-hysterectomy. I think the days leading up to it were the hardest. Waiting. Patience isn’t something I am good at. Plus, it seemed that with every test required before this type of surgery, another issue presented itself.

On Halloween 2008, I was finally admitted and the surgery completed with only a few minor complications. After a four-day stay – I was able to come back home and we’ve been recuperating ever since!
While it is said that the healing process is slow – in my book that is an understatement! Seemed like forever that I could even laugh without discomfort! But as I mentioned above – I’m not patient.

All that is behind me now – I’m doing fantastic! Back to work, able to laugh, and even vacuumed the floors without any issues!!! Still move a bit slower then what is normal and bending over requires some concentration but from what we’re told – this is normal!

The boys are doing well and still happily working at their jobs. We have so much to be thankful for in this time of hardship around the globe. There isn’t a day go by that one of us doesn’t say those words.

Robert was recently put in charge of the Convention side of the Mandalay Bay property. His job is to set up all the phone/data lines for the customers during the numerous conventions that are held there.
He moved into a big office that (so far) he doesn’t share with anyone. He describes it to look like more of a hotel room then an office. A water cooler, refrigerator, and microwave oven help keep him working in style!

Randall – not much has changed for him with his work or play! He’s healthy and happy with his schedule of both! Right now, his biggest complaint is being cold! I dug out his long johns and wool sock stash awhile back for him to wear under his uniform and while at home when the weather changed. The look I received should have been captured on camera. “It’ll never be THAT cold, mom.”
A few days ago, I watched from my desk as "Linus" came dragging his blanket from his room to his computer chair! . It’s 67 degrees in here!! We’re definitely acclimated to desert living…. SUMMER desert living!



He’s also been busy becoming accustomed to all the amenities a good job can provide! He recently updated his “cubicle” with the purchase of a nice desk, new computer, and huge monitor. He then completed the update by nabbing my lazy-boy easy chair! When he asked – I made the mistake of saying “if you can move it upstairs by yourself and by not messing up the walls in the process, you can have it.” As you can see by the photo – he accomplished both.


Again, it is time to sign-off and get this sent out! We wish you all a beautiful Christmas and an amazing, happy New Year!! From our family to yours, take care and keep in touch!!
Robert, Crystal, Randall, Bindy, and the Flock!

Summer 2008 in Las Vegas!

More then I can count now – I’ve been reminded that my Blog is in the need of attention!
Another summer in Las Vegas has found the three of us have settled into a life of comfort surrounded by sunshine and everything that comes with it on a daily basis!


The heat came upon us this year about the last week of June. We went from leaving the doors and windows open in order to experience the cool breezes of spring and within a heartbeat – slamming them shut and cranking up the air conditioners! It didn’t get as hot this summer as the first one here. Nor, did we experience the monsoons like the year before. We only had one big rain that passed over our neighborhood….causing a river of muddy water to wash down our street for about 20 minutes. I had one of those ideas that some of us get when later reflected on cause us to say, “what the heck was I thinking!” I ventured out with my trusty camera to take some video of the downpour…during this blond moment – flooded it and the kitchen/dining room too! (I left the patio door open) A couple of good things came from this though – my tiles were left sparkling clean and hubby bought me a new camera!



Robert is knee deep in changes at his place of employment! He is still working for NEC and employed on the Mandalay Bay property, only now he’s moved up the chain of command to a higher position. We’re still in the dark as to exactly which position he’ll be maintaining (Hotel or Convention) as the folks stepping aside are still trying to figure out exactly WHERE in the country they wish to transfer to. We’re crossing our fingers that decisions will be made soon and we can fall back into somewhat of a routine of schedules. At it looks now – Robert will be doing the 9 –5 thing…..Monday through Friday. We’ll see! Whatever the decision, Robert still enjoys the responsibilities and environment of the "Bay"!

Randall is still employed with Allied Barton and working the graveyard shift – his “dream job” as he refers to it! A real night owl this one is! He recently celebrated a couple of things - first, he’s been with the company for a year now and qualified for his first paid vacation! He’ll be taking that in October and a trip back to Beaverton to visit friends and family is planned.
The other celebrated event – our kid turned twenty one on the 20th of September! We were fortunate to have guests visiting and together we all helped make his birthday a pleasant one! Our day was spent down on the infamous Fremont Street! Old town Las Vegas! Lots of laughing, exploring, walking, some gambling, a nice dinner and the whole Fremont Experience topped off a wonderful day! An 80’s band hosted the live entertainment on the street that evening with lots of sing-a-longs and dancing included! The light show that is held nightly on this street was incredible….with flashback videos and music by Queen! This won’t be a birthday that he’ll easily forget – especially since his pocket jingled with cash from his winnings on the slot machines!






























Me – well, I’ve settled into a much enjoyed lifestyle too! I still miss my best buddies and the get-together functions that we enjoyed throughout the year in Oregon! However, they keep me updated through our frequent hour or more telephone conversations!! And we’ve been fortunate to have a few of them visit since moving! Now….when are the rest of you coming out here!!



Birds! I’m still involved with birds! This past month, I signed up the business and attended the huge Super Zoo Convention held at the Mandalay Bay Event Center. Originally, my friend Kimberly and I only planned on attending one day of this event……but after 7 hours of festivities, we were invited to attend the Meet & Greet party hosted by the Super Zoo Organizers! We had so much fun meeting so many wonderful pet lovers that we came back the next day! One thing that really amazed us – how much product is distributed at these conventions! We were told to bring totes and such for taking home samples but we brought carts/wagons and ended up stashing stuff in Robert’s office before going back for more! If it was pet related – this convention carried it! Anything from food, treats, clothing (human and pet), books, etc… it was there and we brought it home! For me – I only have …….yes ONLY have seven birds and a guinea pig! Pretty spoiled ones at that! We picked out a few of their favorite items and donated the rest to several pet organizations that Byrdbell Company helps support throughout the Country.
Our calendars are already marked for next year! Should anyone want to read more, here is the link to the SuperZoo website.

http://www.superzoo.org/exhibitor.html

Before I put this writing to rest – I wanted to let you all know that I’ll be on a Sabbatical of sorts for awhile. Nothing as exciting as a vacation from work, a book writing, or to fulfill some goal! Unfortunately, I’ve had some medical issues over the last few months and a total hysterectomy is in order. Without going into detail, lets just say that while I’m apprehensive about the whole surgery thing and especially the recovery period, I’m excited that I’ll finally have my health back and along with it ENERGY and a pleasant nights sleep!
My surgery is scheduled for October 22 and we’re told that I should expect to remain hospitalized for 4 days or so. With the help of the two men in my life – I’m confident that things will be back to a happy normal in no time!!


Thanks bunches to all of you that write, phone, email, and try to keep in touch! Especially in the last few months! You’ve helped me through a difficult time and supported us with your love and care long-distance! We miss you!
Lots of Hugs!
Crystal

PS> Below is the link to our YouTube account. Anyone who enjoyed the antics of our birds in person can view their silly behavior online now!

http://www.youtube.com/user/LadyByrdbell

Friends, Flowers, Fireworks, and More From Las Vegas!

Greetings from our little corner of the desert! We hope this finds you all well and enjoying your summer!

A very busy month we’ve already had! Summer has officially arrived and with it HOT temps! Surprisingly, we’re cooler by about 4 degrees from last year at this time. (that coming from the weather gal.) We must be used to it as it really is pleasant as long as you are digging a ditch directly in the sun. Ok….that’s a lie. I’ve tried sitting in it for a bit just to absorb some natural vitamin D and within about 15 minutes….I look like I’ve been broiled. Now my friends from up North in Valdez ….well….they spent every morning for an hour or more sunbathing in the back yard! Both went back to Alaska sporting amazing tans!


Randall took his first vacation since coming to Las Vegas! He was able to travel back to Beaverton for a few days and visit with his friends. Had to chuckle at his attempt to pack his own suitcase! All long-sleeved shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, etc...with little knowledge that the weather in Oregon would be the hottest on record for the year that weekend! Not to mention the humidity .....of which we have virtually none of! I called him a couple of days into his trip and asked him how things were going. He said "I've never sweat ed so much just sitting in a chair." Despite the temps, he had a great time, misses the guys and his dad but realized that Las Vegas is now his home at least for now. One thing that he’s noticed – folks at one time or another end up here for a visit! He was only home a couple of days and a friend came into town for the Fourth of July holiday. They spent a good share of the time at concerts and underage clubs throughout the valley. He’s still not rested up from the events.
Randall’s work is going well. He’s content at his post as well as the graveyard schedule he chose. My kid has never been a morning person so sleeping all day suits him just fine.

Robert also took a vacation this month! We didn’t plan on any trips to anywhere out of the valley, as we’ve not seen everything HERE yet! Most of the time was spent relaxing, checking out some of the local smaller casino/resorts that are not on the strip, attending movies, and just catching up on being together!



As mentioned in the start of my Blog, my gal pal from up North visited with her hubby, Lloyd for over a week! They were here at Christmas but only for a few days. This time they stayed with us! Debbie and I have been friends since Kindergarten in Nome Alaska! Our friendship has been an amazing one with our lives intertwining throughout the years. We never run out of things to talk about and we drive others nuts with the constant chatter. Not to mention all laughs!
During their stay, we planned several outings ……some to places Robert and I have already checked out and others that were new to all of us. They also gave me time to catch up on work around home and took off for a few hours on their own. I’ve posted a few photos of some of our/their adventures.





One of our drives ended us up at the Freemont Experience which is located downtown (old town) on Freemont Street. Personally, this could easily be one of my favorite places! The street is shaded from the hot sun but still lets in the light…..don’t ask me how they did this but the filter makes it comfortable to walk around all the booths and shops that line the street on even the hottest day! If we thought daytime was amazing – nighttime is incredible! They have a wonderful light display accompanied by live music that goes on throughout the evening. The casinos that line the street are replicas of old town. Some even sport the coin-in/coin-out slots! The hotels are smaller but seem more friendly without all the bustle of the Strip. Another nice feature – you don’t have to walk five miles to see everything! They’ve really fixed this place up over the years so if you’ve been to Las Vegas and never thought about visiting Freemont – it’s worth checking out!



Another day trip ended us back out in Pahrump. This time, we visited a couple of the Brothels. The signs say that the “PUBLIC IS WELCOME”, but we decided against it. We did visit the gift shops but while the items hosted funny sayings – I couldn’t imagine where I’d wear any of that stuff! And I sure as heck wasn’t going to encourage my kid!






We were told that a couple of them feature good food. Perhaps another time….
While out in Pahrump, we found a very nice RV Resort. This place was like an oasis in the middle of the desert. Big trees, grassy areas, sandy beaches, and a beautiful little lake. It also included a nice size pool, small grocery store, and a casino/restaurant right on the property. A very nice place to camp….IF I liked camping. A word of warning… In July, when the temps are in triple digits – don’t take your shoes off and walk the sand to the water edge. After two steps, you will be RUNNING to the water to soothe your burnt feet. This is spoken from an experience I won’t soon repeat. It actually would probably have made a funny home video if anyone could have stopped laughing long enough to work the camera. Instead they threatened to leave me out there instead of bringing me my shoes! Very funny guys.

With our friends back home in Alaska and Robert and Randall back to work, life is pretty much back to somewhat of a normal routine around home. We've all some great memories of the last few weeks and pictures that will remind us of our first vacation in Las Vegas! Thanks for sharing them with us! Please write when you can! We'd love to hear from everyone!
*HUGS*
Crystal, Robert, and Randall

May Daze :)

My blogs seem to get farther and farther in between! For that, I apologize! The more settled we become into every day life in Las Vegas - the more we forget that those that don't live here too, are not a part of the happenings!
Not to mention that others may not even give a hoot as to what changes my cactus are doing in the backyard, how bright or hot the sun is shining on us today, or how many crickets I chased out of the house! Guess that's the beauty of a BLOG - you have a choice if you want to read about us or not.

Here it is - the last week of May. The air conditioners are pretty much a daily hum again after a few months of quiet. We "celebrated" a couple of records in the weather department this month. A record high for this time of year AND a record low high. Temps actually went from in the triple digits to a low in the 50's all in a matter of a week. This being in MY area. Now.....not far from us up on Mt. Charleston - they had snow shower them during the Memorial Day weekend. That's a big thing for them! Here ...down in my neck of the woods, we had some rain. SOME rain. Not even a half inch in 3 days of predictions. But....it was rain. Just enough to spot up the windows on the house and cars. And to give my plants a sip of nature .......water not coming from a hose!

Speaking of my plants - amazing what a bit of sunshine and water does! Comparing the size of things just a few weeks ago - they don't even look the same! My little "HERBY" cactus is huge and sports not only beautiful flowers but his paddles have grown tremedously! Not to mention - his thorns! DANG! Yes, Christina - my dear friend, you warned me! I think of you every time I observe Herby and his achievements! Still thanking you for the lovely piece of the desert - and silently cursing this plants way of thanking me from saving his prickly self from the garbage truck!




















As seems to be the norm around here - whenever we get a spare moment, we're off on another adventure to discover what this State offers to share! This month was busy with more of those discoveries!
Early in the month - Robert and I drove out to the Red Rock Canyon area to have a better look. While this is an amazing place all year round with it's beautiful sculpted mountains - it especially holds true in the spring. The colors of everything in bloom are incredible!! We took a short hike to enjoy the scenes up close and a few of our pictures are shared here. LOL.....posing isn't something I enjoy and with my dear husband trying to keep up with my "freak outs" due to the occasional visit of a bug or two to my body - the pictures actually turned out ok. Have I mentioned - I really HATE bugs....especially when they are on ME! A Steve Irwin I'll never be.. Although - I am reminded that those creepy crawlies are actually needed.
































Ok.....enough of the stuff about bugs. Red Rock offers a long list of things to do for the nature lover. Miles of paths lead to some amazing places. While we didn't get much off the main road - we look forward to seeing more when time allows....or the day when I'm not in a skirt and sandals! As I found out soon enough - there is a reason why these particular shoes are called sandals.....my feet turned an interesting shade of brown after such a short walk. One thing I am especially excited about seeing - the wild horse and burro herds that frequent this area! And Robert already mentioned - "No....you can't have one". We'll see.

Another fun (for me!) place we visited - Cactus Joes!! A place out in the canyon that hosts acres of everything cactus!!! I had a ball out here .....just walking, ooohing, aaaahing, and trying not to touch all the wonderful items! Not only do they have a ton of different cactus, but they offer a huge selection of statues, yard furniture, fountains, pots, etc.. The prices are very reasonable. I came home with a few treasures to dot my landscape! My greatest find was a two foot diameter aloe vera! I'm told that this particular healing plant only holds medicinal value if it is over three years old! Well.....this one should help in curing when Herby ails me. Below are a few pictures of our visit. I could have spent the entire day browsing.....but there were other things to be done!








Unfortunately, I'm out of time for this writing! Hopefully, this finds you all well and enjoying the coming of summer! We look forward to hearing from you all when time allows. Until the next time - may life treat you well!
*HUGS*& Scritches from -
Crystal, Robert, Randall, the birds, and Bindy!

April....No Showers But LOTS of Flowers!

WOW! April 26th 2008!! Already! Gads, we’ve nearly hit the ONE YEAR mark for our relocation! This year is zooming by and before we know it – I’ll be digging out that Christmas tree again! Some of you are probably just putting yours away as the weather in some places is making it seem like December…..still!!

Speaking of weather – same old stuff around here! Sunshine, warm….temps are definitely spring-like. They’ll feel more like summer this next few days – we’re supposed to be in the 90’s.

One thing that spring brought around our place is flowers! Amazing when you live on a rock pile as Randall refers to it. I keep reminding him – he could be mowing….and mowing and mowing…..not to mention, the weeding!

This morning, I opened the doors to let in the early cooling breeze and was greeted by the most beautiful bloom on my Herbie (cactus)!! I must have made some noise as seconds later, Randall come downstairs asking what had happened. LOL….he (typical man) rolled his eyes at my happy dance and upon seeing the flower – threatened to pick it!! Brat! Anyway, I took some pictures to share the color that is peeking through my yard pebbles!

Life is treating us well here in Nevada.

Randall is still employed with Allied-Barton. His schedule has become more then full-time graveyard shifts so a social life has been limited to his computer and online games with his Beaverton buddies. He doesn’t appreciate the extra hours much ……until the paychecks come in! We’ve reminded him on more then one occasion …..welcome to the real world!!
He is still enjoying his new car – and especially likes the fact that the accident mess has been finally settled. Insurance paid off his Honda in full as well as the extra financing that we had with the trade-in. So…his payments now are almost half of what he WAS paying and he has a nicer car (mom’s opinion!) The insurance rates didn’t go up either. Apparently, we have what is called “first accident forgiveness”! Wooooo hoooo!

The kid and I had a mom-son play date this last week. Haven’t done that in a few months and figured it was time! We did some shopping and then spent the afternoon at the movies! We then met Robert later that evening for dinner. Very pleasant day – we’ve decided we need to do that more often.

Robert declined the job offer of relocating to the Hilton property. Before it was to take place, we took a drive over and spent some time checking out the place. Nice hotel-casino but it is located in a not-so-nice part of town. The north end of the strip has become a bit rundown over the years and with the old apartments and such – well…..lets just say that we’ve become spoiled at the new south end of the strip. Then the drive home…..we planned it just as he’d be getting off of work at 5pm. Took us 45 minutes just to get home! Compared to the 10 – 15 minutes it does now!
Anyway, there were a couple of other smaller deciding factors but long story short – he gave notice on his decision immediately. He’ll remain at Mandalay Bay for now. Just look at the photo above at the beautiful gold towers in the sky! Truly, no other property takes on such a sight!

We’ve had some friends visit this past month. A couple new to Las Vegas and others that are well-seasoned to the area! I must say that walking is a big part of living here! Seems that one can’t go anywhere without putting a few miles on the poor little feet! So, if you are planning on visiting – comfortable shoes are a must-have!! And not NEW SHOES! I’ve already made THAT mistake.

Paula and Terry were part of our "walking tours"! LOL.....did you guys survive your visit?? It was great seeing you both and we hope that this part of your vacation was at least ..interesting! First visits to Las Vegas can be a bit overwhelming in that it really isn't what most would define as a "relaxing" place. After getting back home, I realized that we didn't take many photos! I did manage to capture one though - in front of the beautiful flower arrangement at the Four Seasons! Just the start of what felt like our million mile walking tour....the one that ended at the M&M factory! Can't believe I escaped that place without a treat!

During one particular visit to the Strip, while waiting for our friends – we did some playing at the slots. After about 10 minutes of button pushing and lever pulling, Roberts machine erupted into a lot of noise and put on a great light show! He won a nice jackpot of $750 on his penny machine! He attracted quite the crowd and I swear his face must have hurt by the end of the day from the smiling he did! Congratulations Honey!

Me – I’m doing my best to stay ahead…….or not to far behind in the toy business. My customers seem to know that they have to wait a bit longer for their products as with the move and Roberts schedule – I’ve lost my helpers! The work is still enjoyable though – I get to be home with my family, birds, and still earn some spending money. Not to mention the fact that I can choose my own schedule! This is particularly nice when the guys have different days off.

It has been nice hearing from you all via emails and phone calls! Life keeps us busy and moving in different directions – but keeping in touch makes everyone seem closer! Thank you for that!

Best Wishes and Lots of Hugs,
Crystal