May 2009 - Two Years and Counting.

Wow! Again, time has gotten away from me. Last time I wrote in our Blog was the end of January. Here it is MAY 2009!! We’ve been here in Las Vegas two years this month! The only time it feels like it – is when I visit this Blog and realize why I’m writing! We sure miss you all!
So, I’ll try again to fill everyone in on the happenings of the past few months. Where to start…



Might as well begin with our weather as it usually does come up somewhere. We’ve begun summer early this year with temps being in the triple digits already. The plus side, the desert as well as my yard is in full bloom! We’ve shared the view in a few photos! The downside – my fair skin doesn’t allow for much sunning! And the pollen count is high so Robert has the sneezes quite a bit this past few weeks. All in all – we can’t complain!


Wind has been a real issue a few times these past few months. While it is normal to have a daily breeze, we’ve had more then our share of gusts. One particular evening, it wreaked havoc on some of my plants. As we try to look at the positive to any situation, this time it was a trip to the garden center (I LOVE THAT PLACE!) to purchase some bigger pots! Also found a few more gnomes to grace my garden! This ….I inherited from my mother and grandmother! And to think I actually thought they were weird for having those funny little red-hatted men in their yards!



Robert’s being kept busy at the Bay (how we refer to Mandalay Bay). He’s enjoying his work in the huge Convention Center. It keeps him fit and active with the 5 – 10 mile hikes he takes around that place on a daily basis. While home (which isn’t very often – he’s back to working 6 days a week!) he can be found tinkering in the shop, pulling weeds, washing the truck, or if I can get him to sit still long enough – watching a movie!






Randall’s has been working steady at his graveyard post. He’s also kept busy with the Kingdom of Vega organization. He participated in his first “Crown War” this past spring. The event takes place in order for the Kingdom to choose a new King. Folks come from all over to attend this three-day celebration.
He packed up his equipment and camped out with the troop! He was a bit overly-excited about all of this….. upon driving up the highway out of town, I reminded him via cell phone that our knight-in-burlap with his shiny sword and silver mustang had forgotten his bed-roll and food.
Oh…..and no photos to share for this one. Apparently, his camera has an issue with staying charged for more then three minutes.

Me – springtime has found me being bit by a few bugs! The friendly kind…not them ugly, creepy things that crawl around the desert and sometimes venture into the house! Crafting! I’ve taken up the crochet and knitting needles again. After a few scarves and a pile of dishcloths, I’m ready to take on a bigger project.




And quilting! A long time gal pal has (long distance and through email) put me back in touch with playing with fabrics!
Sherri sent a beautiful wall hanging that she made especially for me! A photo is posted here but the picture doesn’t do it justice! It’s AMAZING in colors! Hand stitched all in flowers throughout! She’s titled it “Crystal’s Garden”. And it truly is a gift to be treasured!
I’m ready to try one for myself using scraps that I’ve saved for many years. For some reason, flannels have captured my attention. Time will tell what comes of this one. But I’m very excited to be back with needle and thread!



Geocaching is still calling to me occasionally! With the weather being hot again – I won’t be going out much. However, I was invited to an interesting event a few weeks ago! Some folks with our local geocaching club got together and put on a FLASH EVENT.
Very interesting time! Met some new folks, found some caches, and enjoyed being outside on the strip on a beautiful spring day! Oh…and I won the drawing for the “First To Find” geocaching coin! (You’ll have to read up on this one, as I’m still a newby at this thing and don’t fully understand it enough to explain it all.)


(I’ve posted the link below so in case you are interested, you can read first-hand exactly what was involved.)
http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?guid=3a6f6c9c-e5db-40a5-ab4b-008082faca8b


Oh…. And there was a video of the event that made YOUTUBE. Yes, I’m in it. Link is below.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WC7GGAGkvvY

We’ve had a few visitors this past couple of months! Robert’s cousins drove in from California. They are part of the Celtic Society and came out to enjoy the gathering for the Highland Games. (If you are interested - you can read what our local newspaper had to say about this event at the link below) http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/apr/18/annual-highland-games-celebrate-all-things-scottis/

As Robert had to work that weekend, we didn’t attend the games themselves but managed to share in some of the festivities that were hosted that evening down on Fremont Street! We shared a wonderful dinner with Greg and Randa and then enjoyed the marching of a hundred Pipers and Drummers from all over! The sounds and sights were amazing! We had a great time and look forward to their visiting again soon!





In April, my Uncle Colby and Aunt Mary from Nome Alaska arrived for a visit! They gave new meaning to SHORT visit! On one of their every-ten-years-or-so travels across the US, they stopped here in Las Vegas for a quick hello and hug! I did manage to capture a few photos as a reminder of their visit! It was a joy to see them…just wish it could have been longer!


Well, I’m sure that we’ve left a lot of stuff out but we’ll have to share that later! As usual, time is limited for me to write as much as I’d like! We hope that life is treating you well, you are healthy and happy, spring is arriving in your area, and that we hear from you often! Take care!

January 2009

January 2009. A New Year.

January has come and gone and I felt the need to sit down and write before another month has come and gone!! The happenings around here seem endless with little time in the day to do more then contemplate picking up a pen or keyboard! As I’ve gotten older, life seems to be sailing by at gale force speed! Someone asked me awhile back if I could have one wish – what would it be? My answer was to be cloned. Why???…..so I could take a nap and not miss anything!

With the New Year comes a new look to my Blog! I'm still learning my way around in here and upon each visit - I find some new and fun things! Hopefully this format will help in reading my writings! For some reason, my paragraphs all run together once the Blog is posted. Thanks for your patience while I learn to work out the bugs of HTML!!

The New Year rang in uneventful. Well….if you call fireworks going off while I was trying to sleep “uneventful” – then, yes…it was uneventful. We had made and shared our resolutions that evening during dinner. With the most important one being that we are forever thankful! Someone once sent me the writing below and it is something that I have memorized over the years.

May you have enough happiness to keep you happy.
Enough trials to keep you strong.
Enough sorrow to keep you human.
Enough hope to keep you thoughtful.
Enough failure to keep you humble.
Enough success to keep you eager.
Enough friends to give you comfort.
Enough faith and courage in yourself to banish depression.
Enough wealth to meet your daily needs.
Enough determination to make each day a better day than yesterday.

January brought us to both happy places and a sad one as well.

Health wise, the boys both came down with colds! Something we don’t see often in our household. For some reason, it avoided me. Probably because I was needed to find the Vicks, fill the humidifiers, and stock the tissue boxes! They (boys) were miserable for the first couple of days, but now (a week later) still sound funny but seem to be coping. We’re hoping with the warm weather coming this week that the symptoms are gone soon!

Weather! Our cold spell came and went…..and we hope it stays gone! While it’s been in the upper 30’s for lows at night, the days are warming to near 60 and being forecast for even upper 60’s this coming week! The sun is out and skies are a beautiful blue as always. We consider ourselves so lucky when the weather channel shows tapes of what our friends and family are dealing with! Maybe they’ll consider relocating one of these days!


Robert has been putting in a bit of overtime this month – working the occasional Saturday when he’s needed. The Conventions are keeping him very busy! Not to mention that they keep him in great shape with all the walking he does!
We just learned that MGM signed a five-year contract with NEC, so we’re confident that our job security is in place…at least for now! Something to be very thankful for in this economy.

Randall is moving up the ranks in his job too. He’s been recommended to take the lead position at his post. If this goes through (the lead guy wants to retire) then Randall will go to days and his weekends will be free! With the social life he is creating here – this new schedule will work out much better then what he does now. Sleeping all day and working all night.

Speaking of a social life, Randall and I have embarked on a new adventure! We’ve joined a club of sorts. The Kingdom of Vega! A non-profit, educational organization that was created in 1991. We are all about re-creating the Middle Ages through hands on experience! I’ve posted the link below should anyone want more information! The website is simple, to the point, and the pictures show some of the things that take place.

http://www.ecs-vega.org/index.html

We’ve been busy researching our new personas….names, time periods, garb, etc..! While Randall’s main focus is the Chivalry part, he’s learning that the arts can be fun as well as educational! He’s designing his own wardrobe and with mom’s help, he’s learning to sew! He’s even created his own patterns! Apparently, this will help earn him the points needed to become knighted later. I’m not sure how everything works yet – research is a big part of this organization and we’re both having fun with it!




Byrdbell Company is back and running at warp speed again! As usual, I’m backed up but enjoying the ability to be working again! We’ve developed some new designs, which will be introduced, soon on our website. Speaking of that website – we’ve found a lovely person to update and maintain our online catalog! She’s already worked magic just fixing some of the things that were in need of attention! It won’t be long before she has all of our new products listed! We are VERY excited! The link is listed somewhere on my BLOG should anyone wish to visit!
http://www.byrdbell.com

On a sad note, we lost our beloved little guinea pig this past month. We think we witnessed her having a stroke early one morning and she passed on but a short time later. Bindy had been with us only a few short years but was loved and will be sadly missed. Rest in peace, little boodles.


The birds are doing great! They seemed to have forgiven me for messing up their schedules while I was recovering. Tommy still has a bout or two a day of separation anxiety. Screams his head off if anyone gets between me and his line of vision. Who’d have thought that birds could develop such behaviors! We’re working with him daily to give him the encouragement he needs to put his fears to rest. Thankfully, we’re noticing improvement daily!


Well, that’s about all I have to report for now! We love and miss everyone and hope to hear from you when time allows! Until next time, stay warm and safe!!

Best Wishes,
Crystal

PS< To post a comment - run mouse over white box below. The COMMENT link will become highlighted. Click on that. The font has become invisible down there for some reason.

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