Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Our Russian Friends

Below are some pictures from an event we hosted last Sunday, welcoming our Russian friends Sasha and Alexander from St. Petersburg. Through Bill Lincoln and his organization CRI (conflict resolution institute) we get to meet and entertain some of the most fascinating and interesting people (check out my post a few months ago when we entertained the Vice President of Afghanistan in our home).
We had a wonderful evening, with beautiful weather and great friends. Through the amazing translating skills of Gregory, we were able to talk U.S. politics, gain insight regarding the invasion of Georgia by Russia and their feelings about Putin's leadership.
I cannot emphasize enough how beautifully Gregory translated, and at the end of the evening I was shocked to find out that he had not traveled with Sasha and Alexander, but that he lives here in the city and through a mutual friend was recommended to accompany them for translation services during their stay.
The ease with which he blended the conversation left me amazed that only one day after meeting each other, everyone was able to enjoy so many seamless conversations on such a variety of topics. I look forward to getting to know Gregory in the future, and hope that he becomes a part of our extended network of friends who visit regularly.
Sasha and Alexander came bearing gifts, including the requisite bottle of vodka which was enjoyed by all (and disappeared all too quickly) and a shirt for me which is pictured below.
Their openness, immense capacity for joy and fascinating tales from their homeland entertained us well into the night.
I look forward to their return this week, before departing back to Russia next Tuesday, and am so very excited to be hosting them for dinner again this weekend. No doubt I will have more pictures to post after that : )


Front yard conversations



Sasha, Kathi and Laura
Alexander, Sasha, Kathi & Laura

Alexander (in foreground) and Sasha

Alexander and Sasha
Gregory




Monday, September 15, 2008

Congratulations Corky!

My Uncle Corky, one of Rick's older brothers, has been honored at Texas Tech university for his dedication to that institution for over 40 years.

Jacob has fond memories of attending Texas Tech football games with his Grandma & Grandpa and Corky. We're so happy for Corky!

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Excerpted from the Lubbock Avalanche Journal-Photos courtesy of Elizabeth Mitchell:

Red Raiders Football Notebook

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Sunday, September 14, 2008
Story last updated at 9/14/2008 - 4:06 am

Oglesby honored

Texas Tech's newly renovated weight room in the Athletic Training Center was renamed in a ceremony Saturday for a soon-to-be 40-year athletic department employee. The weight-training area was christened the Gerald "Corky" Oglesby Strength and Conditioning Center.

Oglesby is a former Tech men's assistant basketball coach and head track and field coach.

The renovation was funded with a contribution from Tech supporters Terry and Lynda Fuller.







Here's a pic of Jacob in Lubbock with Grandpa Oglesby, Uncle Chris, Aunt Pearly, Cousin Tyler and Uncle Corky from a few years ago.

Friday, September 12, 2008

Ike

Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of our Texas Bryant family-hunker down and stay safe everyone...very relieved to hear our Houston contingent has evacuated to BaBa's house in College Station. Still facing threats from severe winds, torrential rains and tornadoes so again, stay safe and we'll be keeping an eye on the news reports and anxiously awaiting word after the storm passes.
We love you all:

Allen, Tanya, Jacob & Austin...


Sunday, September 7, 2008

Soccer n Stuff

More pictures; Jacob had his first soccer game today-he had a great time, but was winded VERY early on! Made me realize how much more exercise he needs : )
We have games every Sunday through November; hope some of you local yokels can join us sometime.
Also added a cool picture of a hummingbird feeding on one of the flowers in the front yard; I can't believe I actually got this shot!
The boys have their first full days of school tomorrow, Jacob starting 3rd grade and Austin starting 1st. I think they're happy to be going back, but not nearly as happy as I am!

Jacob's first game-September 7, 2008


Allen, soccer dad!

'Ribbit

Charmander

Their new "piggy" banks


Friday, September 5, 2008

Seafair 08

Better late than never (?) Here are some pictures from our Seafair party in early August: