Monday, February 22, 2010

House Hunters a/k/a Meeting Planner Hotel Hunt

Two days of last week I spent in San Diego visiting, evaluating and analyzing hotel properties for the PCL Seminar in October.  One hotel was remote - Del Mar (1) with the availability of a shuttle to reach local restaurants, another downtown - Gaslamp Quarter (2) located with a multitude of restaurants and near to PetCo Ballpark, one a resort - Mission Bay (3) some restaurants in the vicinity, three restaurants on the property, great meeting space, worlds apart from the bustle of downtown.

Part of the decision process involves pricing and location.  Of course, the downtown property is by far the most expensive and the northernmost is the least expensive.  The prospective attendees considerations would motivate my decision as they enjoy having a multitude of restaurants and other facilities nearby. The purpose of this meeting is primarily business but should include some relaxation.  So did I choose property #1, property #2 or property #3?   That depends on what is acceptable on the pricing structure.  TBD tomorrow!

Saturday, February 06, 2010

Nicke's Haircut

Nicke had a haircut this week and we've made a coat from an old XL sweatshirt to keep her warm when she goes out.  Unfortunately, she didn't wear it to bed last night.  As the evening cooled, she ever so subtly requested to be covered up with a blanket.  Not very subtly actually.  She'll be wearing the sweatshirt to bed tonight!

Still Life

Arranging a still life, with color and texture makes for an interesting photo and gives me an opportunity to be a little "artsy."  This was lots easier than trying to draw these objects by hand.  A variety of objects with smooth and rough edges; some reflective, others matte surface; some with qualities of wood, glass, cloth, steel, or food; some with tones of  light or dark;  several shapes and patterns, are frozen in time and created a depth of interest that may cause one to focus on some of the bounty provided by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

Punxatawny Phil and the Red Robin of Spring

The robins have spent much of the winter around our development.  What a wonderful reminder that Spring will be coming in about six weeks.  Phil and the robins are harbingers of what is to come!  It won't be long.

Blackberry Pie

This afternoon was spent baking a blackberry pie.  The reward comes later today when we cut the pie with some friends.  Eat your heart out Mrs. Smith!