The party madness - something fishy is going on!

Pre party, Liam takes a spin on his new "trunki" ride-on suitcase (yes, suitcase) with his new police helmet for show...

As predicted, it was one big goat rope. Liam seemed to have enjoyed himself -- as did his guests. Big hits were the pinata and fishing. A good time was had by all and mom and dad weren't TOO traumatized after all.

Liam and co. practice their casting skills...

The kids had a tough time figuring out what to do with the pinata!

The scrum (and near plumber's bum!)...

Happy 4th Birthday Liam!

Today is Liam's 4th birthday. He's growing up so fast! Just got back from a week in Seychelles (pics to follow) so going like mad around here to get ready for his first big birthday party Saturday. We're expecting 20-some kids. Tactical error on my part, I fear.

Will add pics and a report tomorrow. Wish us luck!

Happy Easter!

We spent a very rainy Easter at Virginia's place where Liam enjoyed (and overindulged) a spirited egg hunt. It was the beginning of a tropical depression that eventually saw island-wide flooding that wreaked havoc on traffic and infrastrcutre Wednesday. We're back to normal now.

A fantastic trip to Jordan

Sunset over the Dead Sea

I recently had the opportunity to spend a week in Jordan for a conference. We were fortunate to have time before the official conference start to visit the Dead Sea and then headed to Petra for a day -- definitely one of the Seven Wonders of the World and something I urge everyone to see! The scale is phenomenal and it's hard to get your head around the fact that it's 2,000 years old!

In between, we had a fantastic conference (consular leadership and development), I had a chance to meet my new boss (Mumbai), and we did a bit of sightseeing, shopping, and restaurant hopping around Amman. Fantastic city -- a nice mix of old and new (lots of Starbucks and even a drive thru) and definitely a place I'd consider for a future posting (despite the dangerous neighborhood and very visible security -- and the shooting in our hotel -- I felt very safe!).

Our fabulous trip to Rodrigues...

In honor of Steve's birthday, we took a trip to the neighboring island of Rodrigues with our friends Tim, Mel, and Sarah. Rumor has it that Mauritius was like this 30 years ago. Regardless -- it was an amazing four days. The scenery is spectacular -- dramatic mountains and valleys, pristine and clean beaches. On top of that, it was immaculate and the people were SO friendly. We took a day trip to a neighboring islet -- and for a time were the only people on the beach. We visited a school that teaches disabled Rodriguans life skills and then employs them in making crafts out of coconuts (beautiful), we sampled local cuisine (octopus curry, anyone?!), and saw some local performers do the sega. It was an utterly relaxing weekend in fantastic company and we're itching to go back before our time is up here!

Terrance Simien wins a grammy!

The Embassy sponsored Terrance Simien to come to Mauritius last fall -- he and the "zydeco experience" were AWESOME! They performed a couple of times around town and it was absolutely riveting -- fun music and the first time I'd really heard zydeco. The guys were fantastic - and great American "ambassadors" for zydeco music. Recently, he and the band won the first ever best zydeco album grammy. Available on Amazon -- I urge you to check it out!

Happy 41st Birthday Steve!

Kung Shee Fat Choy!

Liam celebrated Chinese New Year at school. Here he's
pictured with one of his favorite teachers, Danielle.

Cavadee 2008

This year, we decided to avoid the traffic and check out some Cavadee celebrations close to home. This temple hosted quite a large procession.

Beth and Bob Arrive!

We were thankful to have Beth and Bob visit from Maryland. It was a whirlwind tour -- but we had a great time! Certainly hope they did as well!

Welcome 2008!

Once again, we feted with the Ormistons and co. We rang in the new year at a black tie/beach event -- right on the coast. Wonderful company, food, and tons of fireworks at midnight to go with the bubbly. One of the most memorable events ever! Even Liam and his buddy, Murdo, got into the spirit (but were soundly asleep by midnight...).

a Christmas catamaran trip...

A view of Mauritius from the sea...

Steve and Wendy

Wendy, Jody, Sebastian, and Karen

Barb and Bill

Margaret and Sebastian

Taking advantage of the visit of the spouse of a colleague, we went on an Embassy-organized all

day catamaran trip. This time, we went easy on the "pirate's punch" and have full recall of our day out on the sea. It was great fun and a good opportunity to spend time with Margaret, a former colleague visiting from Beijing.

Steve drives

Steve - waiting for some out of body experience

Survivor, AmEmbassy Port Louis

More Santa?

We spent Chrsitmas afternoon with the Ormistons and a large group of family and friends. The kids frolicked in the pool (yes, those are his underpants) and then entertained a visit by Santa before sitting down to a traditional roast dinner. A fantastic day with old and new friends...

Christmas 2007!

Father and son enjoy a bit of pre-Christmas baking...

One of the best holidays ever. Liam was enchanted by everything Christmas this year -- and for the first time, he was totally invested in it! Santa visited Pereybere (there was some concern about reindeer and the tropical climate but he made it) and a good time was had by all!

Christmas morning magic...

Liam's first shave with his brand new Scooby Doo razor