New Year’s on North Beach

Wednesday, 01 Jan 2020

Lisa, Lucy, Ella, and Olivia took Roxy and Yana out for a beach adventure on the first day of 2020.

We greet 2020 with mixed emotions, as both Yana and
Lucy will depart home to pursue their respective academic goals.

Yana will probably head to Assistance Dogs of Hawaii on Maui in February.

Lucy’s destination will be revealed in the not too distant future!

Spring Break in the UK

Thursday, 10 Mar 2019

Lisa, Lucy, and Olivia are spending their Spring Break in the United Kingdom. After nearly 24 hours of planes, ubers (almost), and automobiles they managed to arrive in the quaint river town of Twickenham. And after 8 more hours (of overnight survival training at their Airbnb), they checked in to the “ever so civilized” Alexander Pope hotel.

Each day the trio headed off for a new adventure in and around London. Today they visited the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, Blenheim Palace and the home of Lisa’s friend, Nick Watkins, in the village of East Ilsley near Newbury, Berkshire.

The Watkin’s family home is also a structure of historical significance. It is a Grade II* Listed Building that dates back to the 16th century – roughly 200 years older than Blenheim Palace. It is officially known as Ilsley Hall. The photograph above is taken in front of the entrance to Nick’s home.

We are most appreciative of Nick’s skill as a photographer. He managed to capture all three of the elusive trio in a single shot – a feat rarely achieved during this excursion. Well done Nick!

Ilsley Hall, Broad Street, East Ilsley, West Berkshire, Great Britain
Ilsley Hall, Broad Street, East Ilsley, West Berkshire, Great Britain
Walled Garden
Tea and Cake
Olivia, Nick, and Lucy

The Royal Mews

Wednesday, 20 Mar 2019

When exploring London there is really no better place to start than the Royal Mews – especially if you like visiting our equine friends.

It is just off Buckingham Palace Road – across Lower Grosvenor Place from The English Rose Cafe and Tea Shop (not one of Brenda’s favorites spots).

The Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace is responsible for all the road travel arrangements for The Queen and members of the Royal Family.

Skiing Crystal Mountain

Saturday, 10 Feb 2018

Lucy and Papa slipped away from Oahu for a mid-winter ski trip to Crystal Mountain, Washington

Lucy did amazingly well for her first time on skis – thanks to her athletic prowess and her amazing instructor, Mr. Mike.

And, it was amazing that Papa didn’t break anything –  the last time he skied was in the mid – 1990’s

Our heartfelt thanks to Heidi and Mike….we had a BLAST…you’re the best!