A Magical Wedding!

What an amazing weekend--probably the most beautiful wedding ever.

On Friday night, we had the rehearsal, followed by the rehearsal dinner and cocktail party.

The dinner was quite amazing--I'm not sure how many courses of wine we went through John made a wonderful FOB toast (with everyone at the table saying "don't screw up" before he opened his mouth).


By the time we had finished the first course ("Seafood on the Rocks"--seafood crudo, shrimp cocktail, cervice, and oysters) and the second course ("Organic Iceberg Salad with Garlic, Gorgonzola and buttermilk dressing for me and "Dungeness Crab and potato leek soup for John), we thought the dinner was over....then the Pork Porterhouse and roasted rack of lamb showed up. With each course we were served both white and red wine- specifically chosen to pair with the food. Then dessert came and we had both champagne and a sweet dessert wine with our "creme brule and the Upside down apple cake with vanilla ice cream. After all that, we took the private SFO trolley (running an ongoing loop from the restaurant back to the hotel) and went on to the cocktail party.....

On Saturday, we took the trolley (2 trolleys running a continuous loop between the hotel and the Ferry Building where the wedding was held.).

The trolley pulled up to the Ferry Building The Ferry Building is one of the major architectural icons in SFO-- opened in 1898 with a beautiful clock tower (modeled after one in Seville, Spain). As we got out of the trolley, we stepped onto a white carpet flanked by six 5 foot planters filled with white hyacinths. It was like walking into a red carpet event. The carpeting went up the stairs to the second floor. As we walked in, we were met by a staff of tuxedoed waiters with trays of champagne and wine. The Ferry Building architecturally is reminiscent of the old magnificent train stations- huge arched windows and this feeling of grandeur.


John and Ann
They made the space very intimate with draperies and soft lighting, tall glass vases with branches and floating candles surrounding the circular wedding seating. It was very unusual- a wedding in the round. The center of the floor (all mosaics) was a patterned circular mosaic-covered with flower petals in lilac and white and purple. Surrounding this were rows of white chairs. While we sipped champagne, a 3 piece orchestra played classical music.
The ceremony itself was quite lovely--the mayor of SFO (Gavin Newsome) was extremely charming as the celebrant.


Stephanie was absolutely gorgeous--she literally glowed--and John fulfilled his father of the bride walk down the aisle so well.

Instead of doing traditional readings, they had their friends and family speak. First, Jim's "brothers" spoke about family and it was quite touching. They truly have embraced Steph as part of their family--quite a tribute to her, because she not only had to make Jim fall in love with her- but also his two kids and the entire swooping family of 5 "brothers", mother and 13 kids.

After the brother/cousins, they had the couple who introduced them talk about friendship,
then had two of their closest friends talk about how to have a long, happy marriage. Then the vows--and it was over!

While the family went outside for photos--the rest of the group were moved to a huge room overlooking San Francisco Bay--with a bar at least 20 feet long. They had a clown and magician there for the kids. (During the day on Saturday, they had a trolley that took the kids to the Children's Museum for a scavenger hunt).

While the guests were enjoying the view and the drinks, the room where the wedding had taken place was transformed by a staff of what seemed like 1000's- into the wedding dinner and dance.

The tables were spectacular. Steph's new "mother in law" , Ann, is not only beautiful, charming, interesting and beloved by her entire family, she also designs jewelry. She designed Steph's wedding ring (gorgeous beyond belief)--and also made 200 beaded napkin rings for the wedding.

Dinner was wonderful--the first course- safrron poached pear salad - served with a 2007 Chalone Estate Chardonnay. Second course- a filet of beef tenderloin (perfectly cooked--how do they do that when they're serving 200 of them?) with sweet potato and chive puree, garlic-braised broccolini and spinach tamarind demi-glace. Served with a 2007 Chateau de Beaucastel Coudoulet Rouge....
Third course--a dessert trio of banana split trifle (layers of graham-cracker crust, toffee, banana custard and vanilla-bean whipped cream), chocolate caramel tartlet (dark chocolate tart shell filled with vanilla-bean caramel, macadamia nuts, coconut and topped with dark-chocolate ganache and gold salt and finally, snicker bites (mini bars of caramel, peanuts and gianduia chocolate with a crisp rice crunch)--served with a 1986 Chateu D'Yquem.

The wedding cake was very unusual (never did get to try either the "chocolate with candy bar cream" or the chantilly with raspberry sauce" slices.)
After dinner, the band started. They were SO good!...a black band that played R&B and great old songs. We were on the dance floor immediately--and stayed there for most of the night. Two of Jim's brothers joined the band and played bass guitar with them....perfectly.

Cleveland- A Trip Down Memory Lane

This year our Cleveland trip was a little less stressful- the parking lot was sold and now just a part of family history. But, we were “hosting” a visit from John’s sisters, Alice and Mary. They wanted to come in to their hometown to look at it from a different perspective- a walk back through time and family history. With all of the research on all of the family lines, John had been able to identify family property in Cleveland dating back to the 1800’s. So, we took the girls on a 3 day walk through history.




Alice (or, ‘the worm’- known for her ability to talk her way into anyone’s house) was in great form on this trip- on our first morning, we were able to get into 3 of the old family homes.


Imagine 4 strangers (and a dog) knocking on your door and worming their way into your house for a tour down memory lane. It was really interesting--lots of old stories and I think that the current homeowners enjoyed the visit as much as we did. One of the homeowners even gave the girls 4 hand-painted doors from their parent's bedroom closet (sounds strange- but they were quite lovely- and I think they plan to convert them into serving trays).

John did an amazing job of pulling together old family photos- then taking the girls to the sites and using the photos to bring the sites to life. They were thrilled- seeing places where their parents, grandparents and great-great grandparents lived - and seeing the old photos and taking pictures of themselves in the same sites. We even stopped by a popcorn factory that had family connections back to the 1880's.

The Humphrey Popcorn Company had ties back to John's Harlow relatives and there were stories passed down in the family about a popcorn stand. So, we were given the grand tour- and walked out with bags of popcorn balls and taffy. All in all, a very successful - but exhausting trip

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Summer in Salem

After a month of what seemed like non-stop rain and cold, the sunshine has come out and we are enjoying our waterfront view. Waking up every morning to this view just starts your day out right.

We've had a great time so far--catching up with old friends. John even caught up with an old army buddy, Charlie. A few bottles of wine and the army stories kept us in stitches.

And, best of all, we got to have an afternoon with Steph and Jim - before they took off for their holiday in Japan. They flew in from NYC for the afternoon and the weather cooperated- giving us a gorgeous sunny day for lunch on the Salem harbor.

Bob and Camille's Adventures in NOLA Continued...

The next morning, we met Brem and Dippa at Petunia’s for brunch. With a wait for a table, they offered drinks while we stood outside—alcoholic drinks only- no coffee, tea or soda! We had a rather disastrous brunch – the waitress messed up the order- and then was indignant about it. We did get to, once again, live vicariously through Bob and Camille’s adventures. After leaving us the night before, they went back to the Pirate’s Alley Café and met up with some real “pirates”…. Aarrrrghhh! They had another late night/early morning.

We said our goodbyes to Brem and Dippa and it was off to the “Katrina Tour”. The tour went through New Orleans- seeing the Convention Center, the Superdome, the Lakeview area, Gentilly (where most of the deaths occurred), New Orleans East, St Bernard’s Parish and the Lower 9th Ward. In the Lower 9th Ward, we saw the hordes of volunteers working on Musicians Village

After the tour, it was back to Tujagues for their famous beef brisket and gumbo – for a little appetizer. Then, we found a great local bar called Coops for dinner.

The next morning, things were a bit slow in Mudville. The New Orleans nightlife was finally catching up to Bob and Camille. But, with only one more day left, we dragged them off to continue exploring the city. We took the ferry to Algiers and saw Mardi Gras World. Then, we drove to the Garden District and had our favorite – a Domilice’s shrimp po-boy. We took in the IMAX “Hurricane in the Bayou” then, along with Chloe, went out for dinner at the Bulldog. Chloe’s first restaurant experience- and she did great!

A 6:25 A.M. flight on Sunday and Bob and Camille were back to the real world and we were back to a much more quiet lifestyle.

Bob and Camille's Adventures in NOLA

Back in NOLA! This time, instead of staying in Kenner by the airport, we took a chance on the French Quarter RV Resort. What a beautiful place- paved streets and pads, a gorgeous clubhouse and the best location in the city. Well, it does border a fairly “rough” part of the city (and in NOLA, that’s saying something. Although, the news in the city was of a decrease in the murder rate –formerly the highest in the country. But, the murders were replaced by armed robbery- primarily tourists in the French Quarter.) The high concrete walls and barbed wire at the top were signs that outside the confines of the resort, things were a bit dicey. But, with 24 hour security, we felt comfortable and settled in for our stay.

We still were running without a spare tire, so we spent some time getting that situation remedied and reacquainting ourselves with NOLA before Bob and Camille (John’s son and daughter-in-law) arrived. On Wednesday, they landed about 4:00 – but with one bag missing. Camille was not happy to be without her bag- full of her new clothes and make-up. But, she was a real trooper (and even managed to get a new outfit out of it). The weather was threatening and we were hoping that we weren’t in for a Louisiana storm. After introductions to Chloe, a check-in to their B&B in the French Quarter, we headed out for dinner at Deanie’s Seafood Restaurant. We had crawfish and seafood and wine and got caught up. After dinner, the wind was kicking up and we were at the far end of the Quarter. The old folks were ready for bed, but the “kids” were just starting their evening. We reluctantly watched Bob and Camille walk towards Bourbon Street, the streets already filled with partiers and the music rocking out of the bars.

The next morning, we arrived at the B&B to start our full day of exploring NOLA. Bob and Camille piled into the car with stories of their adventures. I’m not sure what time they made it to bed that night/morning, but they had certainly started their NOLA trip with a bang. After strolling the entire length of Bourbon Street and having a few drinks, they got back to the B&B and ended up in the hot tub. The night manager joined them, striping down to his tighty whities, and brought champagne and brandy. They proceeded to drink and party all night. When a guest would come for check-in, their new friend would throw on his clothes, and, dripping wet, check them in and head back to the tub.

Needless to say, the morning was a bit slow for these two. But, they were up for a ride on the St Charles Streetcar and a walk around the Garden District. We had lunch at the Napoleon House where they have the most wonderful muffalettas. While some claim that the Central Grocery has the best in town, we love the toasted version at the Napoleon House – as well as the atmosphere. After lunch and some more walking through the French Quarter, it was time for our “Cocktail Tour”. My third and John’s second “Cocktail Tour”, it’s still a great way to learn a bit more about the history of the Quarter and find some great bars. Brem and Dippa met us for the evening.

One of our first stops was back to the Napoleon House. The building's first occupant, Nicholas Girod, offered his residence to Napoleon in 1821 as a refuge during his exile. Napoleon never made it, but the name stuck, and since then, the Napoleon House has become one of the most famous bars in America. Their signature drink is the “Pimms Cup” (my personal favorite). At the Napoleon House, they serve it with a cucumber – just the best summer refresher.
Pimm’s Cup
Fill a tall 12 oz glass with ice
Add 1 1/4 oz. Pimm's #1 and 3 oz lemonade.
Then top off with 7up.Garnish with cucumber

At Pirate’s Alley Café, Bob and Camille tried a “Green Fairy”, a concoction made with absinthe (130 proof). While they tried the “Green Fairy”, when it’s mixed with gin, it’s “The Obituary Cocktail”, mixed with champagne, it’s “Death in the Afternoon” and mixed with vodka, it’s a “Russian Funeral”. (The Green Fairy is made by pouring absinthe over a sugar cube balanced on a slotted spoon over a tall glass. It’s followed by water poured over the sugar cube. The cube is then burned and crushed into the drink. A chemical reaction ensues- causing what appears to be fairies flying through the green liquid. (Note: Absinthe is a strong-herbal liquor distilled with wormwood and anise. It can contain other aromatic herbs like star anise, anise seed, fennel, licorice, hyssop, veronica, lemon balm, angelica root, dittany, coriander, juniper, and nutmeg).

At Tujagues, the second oldest restaurant in New Orleans (1856), we tried a “Woodland Plantation Punch” (way too sweet) Originally an all men’s bar, there were no chairs. The men stood at the bar (and, not wanting to lose their place at the bar, would pee into the trough under the bar). Today, the bar is a great local hangout.

With stops at Muriel’s, Courtyard of Two Sisters and Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, we ended the night at Café Maspero’s to sample their gumbo then had a nightcap before sending the “kids” off for the rest of their evening.

One wedding and a surgery

Chloe had her surgery last week-- no more options for motherhood for her. She did great--was back to normal by the following day-trying to keep her calm is the toughest part. She should have her stitches out this week- so she can get back to her normal crazed self.

John went to Jane's wedding (Kate's daughter) on his own last weekend. We didn't want to leave the dog in a kennel- so I opted to stay home (but still keep the new dress, shoes and bag!) Not a bad trade-off. He had a good time--most of the family was there- so he got a chance to catch up and spend some time with Steph. Wedding went off without a hitch--and evidently everyone had a great

On the other hand, John's PC died- so had to send it in to HP. Naturally, it arrived back with the hard drive re-imaged. So, he lost some of the photos that weren't backed up. But at least the data made it on our backup drive. But, all emails are gone- and now we have to reload all the software, etc. What a pain. He still doesn't have email working--so we're sharing my PC until we can get it fixed. On top of all that, our car had to be towed back to VW (key wouldn't go in the ignition..) and our cell phone has taken to making calls on its own. (What a way to make new friends- the phone will repeatedly call the last dialed number). Since this is our 3rd phone in less than 90 days, we got a new one (an upgrade, at that). It was supposed to arrive via FedEx for Saturday delivery (yesterday). But, turns out that they don't do Saturday delivery here--so we had to follow-up on that as well. Does anything work anymore? Needless to say, it's been a very frustrating week. (Oh, almost forgot the taxes-- we had some strange investment that gave us tax credits on our income taxes --never really understood it. Well, the partnership was liquidated and the properties sold--giving us a gargantuan capital gain on our income tax (totally unexpected). We owe a ton of money to the government --and also to the State of Massachusetts. And, to add insult to injury- it put our income into a bracket that disqualifies us from the Bush tax rebate!

Spring in San Francisco

We finally made the trek back to San Francisco. The drive from L.A. was uneventful (of course, we did our patented Sunday travel – especially helpful when you’re traveling through cities. Something about 70’ of motorhome driving through busy rush hour traffic brings out the worst in those drivers trying to get to work.

We got settled and drove to the marina to see “The Boat”. Bob and Camille sold their house in Oakland and (like father, like son) decided to downsize and move into something that moves. They opted for a “land yacht”- a Grand Banks cruiser. We ended up spending many an afternoon on the boat, drinking Corona’s and noshing on Bob’s amazing concoctions. (Where that boy learned how to cook is a puzzle – John is incapable of boiling water- and Bob has become one of those remarkably creative chefs! Lucky Camille!)






Bruiser, Bob and Camille’s 85 pound Olde English Bulldog had just come back from the vet after getting “fixed”. Poor dog, but lucky us – he was a bit less rambunctious than normal. In addition to the dog, they have two beautiful cats, Frank and Guiness. The dog (and cats) enjoy fishing off the boat with Bob.

When we weren’t relaxing on the boat, Bob and Camille were introducing us to the best dives in SFO. No one understands our love of dives as much as these two and they continually astonish us with the quantity and quality of their finds. One afternoon, we were sitting with the bike messengers at the outside picnic tables at Zeitgeist (corner of Duboce and Valencia). There was the motorcycle bar, Rickenbackers, with antique motorcycles everywhere- hanging on the walls, from the ceiling. Our favorite was Malloy’s Irish Pub in Colma.
Colma was founded as a necropolis in 1924. Land in SFO was becoming too valuable to use for cemeteries, so they selected the town of Colma for future burials. In fact, the city of San Francisco sent out eviction notices to their cemeteries to remove their bodies and monuments. Colma inherited hundreds of thousands of bodies. Many of them went into mass graves as there were no relatives to pay the $10.00 for removal. Today, they have 1,500 above ground residents and 1.5 million underground. Their motto is “It’s Great to Be Alive in Colma!”

While Bob and Camille were working, we entertained ourselves – taking a food tour of SFO. With stops at the Ferry Building for coffee, Acme Bakery for sourdough bread, Chinatown for a huge tasting, North Beach for cannoli and a tacqueria at Market & 6th, we successfully ate our way through the city. We ended the tour at the Buena Vista for Irish coffee. Bob and Camille joined us and cousin Sarah (in town for the weekend) stopped by.

With all of his family research, John was able to track down a long-lost cousin and we took a drive to Portola Valley to meet with Burt, his wife, Ellen and son, Eric. Their house, deep in the redwoods, was a labor of love for them. They had built most of it themselves. It was a great day, giving John and Burt a chance to catch up over many years.

Rewind...back to SLC

A drive to the factory, just in time for our 6 am appointment on Monday to turn over the Essex to Ken’s team. Then, we were off to O’Hare to catch our flight to SLC to meet Alice. We had forgotten how unpleasant flying is…they’ve managed to make it even more awful than the cattlecar experience that we remembered from our corporate days.

We got into SLC, got our car, and arrived at the hotel just in time for our dinner with Claudia and Richard.

We had quite a schedule- touring the city, all the Eleanor sites, the Mormon history, and dinner with Matt and Jay, Robin and Bear. Alice got quite a bit of material for her book. Time flew…..

Before we knew it, we were back in Nappanee with a completed coach and off to Cleveland.

Nauvoo Pageant

Unbelievably, we decided to do a few more days of Mormon/family history--visiting such exciting places as Mt Pisgah, Iowa and Nauvoo, Illinois.

We met Mary and Alice in Nauvoo. We wanted to show the girls the family history in Nauvoo and Carthage. We gave them the "works", taking the tour of the jail in Carthage where Joseph Smith was killed, the gravesites of Joseph and Emma Smith, and walked through the old building of Nauvoo.

Then, on Friday night, we were with all our new Mormon friends under the stars watching a “fascinating” performance of the Joseph Smith Story.