Happy Halloween!

We had a great Halloween hanging out with neighbors. This beautiful bride was on the porch across the street. Pretty creepy at night!

Murder Mystery Party

Our friend, Kim, threw a 20's themed murder mystery party for which we all dressed up. Each person had a character to play throughout the evening as a murder mystery unfolded clue by clue.


The whole cast.


Tara, Kassia, Kristie and me


Jeff and Jason, looking suspicious.

Party #2

Conveniently, we had a 2nd costume party to go to Saturday night with some of our Albuquerque friends who live in Arizona.


On the way there. Thanks, Kristie, for the ride!!!!!!!!


Me and Jen


Me, Jeff and Trav (as the guy from Back to the Future, hence the checking of the watch)


Jeff, Mike and Scottie

Camelback Mountain Hike

During the week of October 19th-25th, we had a teaching intern from the University of Northern Iowa staying with us and interning in my classroom everyday. It is a special program the University does that allows students to clock intern hours while also experiencing a week in the life of a teacher. My intern, Rachel, had never been to the southwest so Jeff and I decided to take her hiking on her 2nd night in town. I don't know that she was expecting the rapid incline of the hike or the unexpected climb down in the dark but she was a good sport about it and it was an enjoyable week having her visit.


About 20 minutes into the hike.



Gorgeous Arizona views


Here we are at the top!

A Day Off!!!

We took the dogs out on the boat today for a much needed day of relaxation. We have both been working 55-60 hours/week lately and were thrilled to get some time to just relax.

The Love of a Family

Today our family suffered another sad loss with the passing of my grandfather, Robert B. Hendrick. In the wake of this loss I am again reminded of the most unbreakable bond in life, that of a family. Blogging about something as significant as this seems so trivial in comparison to the indescribable impact my loving family has had on my life. I'm doing it not only to pay tribute to my wonderful Grandpa Bob, but to thank my own father, not only for being an amazing human being, but also for opening up during this difficult time. The journey has been painful for everyone but your willingness to share has made all the difference. I love you, Dad, and Grandpa will be missed dearly.