Katie has graduated, and with the end of high school comes the end of many other things. She will not pursue sports in college, having decided to concentrate on her singing. Community college tuition is far less than private high school. Gone are the endless parent-child arguments over grades and homework. We agree to let Katie manage her education from here on out. Parent-teacher conversations are a thing of the past, replaced by student-teacher exchanges.

Turning over responsibilities to our now young adult daughter is a part of the learning process, and one that should start before graduation. Some kids get it at an early age, while others never seem to catch on. But we all need to learn to live our own lives, to find our own way, and to define our own values. I pray that Katie has the foundation to build a life of her own that is fruitful, prosperous, and joyful.

Post Office honors "The Simpsons"

I can't believe that the Simpsons have been put on postage stamps. Here is Homer in all his glory. Someone at the post office misunderstood when they were told that stamps are issued to honor "historical" figures and events. To their credit, however, these are not considered commemorative issues.

The Fremont Christian girls beat Emery High in two straight games to capture the post-season league tournament, which gives them an automatic berth in the NCS tournament, division 6. The FCS Warriors finished second to Emery in league play but got their revenge on Emery's home court.

Katie "The Beast" Hayes scores on a lay-up in second-half action. Final score: FCS 41, Emery 40. Needless to say, it was a nail-biter to the end.

Grant and Dawn get married

Father and daughter entered in this horse-drawn carriage.

Their first kiss as husband and wife.

*clink* *click* *clink* went the glasses, and the happy couple obliged us with another kiss.

The setting was idyllic, the weather perfect, and LOVE was in the air. The grounds of the Grand Tradition Estate are something to behold.

Thanksgiving at Laurie's house

What a wonderful dinner we had.

Franco meets his second cousins James and Katie.

We were treated to a beautiful sunset

A rose in Gary's garden

Friends, Wine, and Bocce

Livermore is a great place to do wine tasting. Friendly people, uncrowded tasting rooms, good wines, and great weather make it ideal.

We tried a game Bocce: David shows off his winning form.

Crab Night!

Guests of honor Prabha and Amar came all the way across the country. We were so glad to see them that we threw a little party.

Our first crab night this fall was a big success. The food was great (and plentiful), lychee martinis were the favorite drink of the evening, and wonderful desserts capped the meal.

Dmitri's chocolate lava cakes were a big hit.

Thanks Mary, for the BLUEBERRY pie!

May's caramel cheescake.

Everybody wants to be a rock star.