Kumquats and such

After our nap, we were ready to explore some more and find a good place to eat, so we hopped in a taxi and headed to the Savoy Grill . It was inside the incredible Savoy Hotel  where rooms are 500 pounds per night! The outside displayed beautiful flower beds like this one to the right. When we arrived, I was a bit nervous that we were seriously underdressed, so Jason asked the maitre d and he responded, "I think you're dressed perfectly fine, even for Americans!" So we perused the menu and made a quick decision to get a table. The waiters were dressed according to their roles: 1) white shirt & long black apron - just deliver food...no talking to the customers 2) white shirt and gold vest with a short black apron - pour water/wine and short conversation with guests and 3) white shirt, black jacket, black pants and no apron - head waiter - no delivery of food, check on customers regularly. It was a definite change from the restaurants of J'vegas where you typically ...

We arrived at Dulles Airport in the early afternoon, and after a quick check-in, found ourselves at a great little wine bar where I sampled a few champagne options and Jason tasted three different wines. The flight was right on time and somehow we found ourselves in the business class portion of the plane (with an empty seat next to me!). We each enjoyed our own TV screen where we had a choice of movie or television program. We were served wine, two meals and a snack. One of the best things they included was a small packet with an eye mask, a pair of socks, a toothbrush and toothpaste! This came in handy as we were told by friends that we should sleep as much as possible to combat the time change. That was great advice, because once we landed, it was about 7:30am! Luckily we were able to check into our hotel super early after taking the Underground from Heathrow Airport. We ditched our bags, broke out the tourist book and started walking.   Gorgeous hotel room at the Rembra...

Just after the new year's weekend, our dear friends, Lauren & Adam, called and said they were passing through on a whirlwind road trip. Naturally we insisted they come and stay for a couple days. They arrived on the 4th and Jason worked a half day and then came home to prepare a delicious meal. He made French Onion Soup and Coq Au Vin, both of which were phenomenal! The following day, we hung out around the house and then drove to base to meet Jason at the O-Club for lunch. After a half day of work, we headed home and lounged around the firepit in the backyard. It was such a great time and Reagan loved Adam & Lauren: That evening, they treated us to a fantastic dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants, Ducks . We were so thrilled to see them and cannot wait for their wedding in May! Thanks so much for visiting! We love you guys!

Typically a toast reserved for tequila shots, but I like it, so we're going with it. Jason bought a round of Jameson for the boys (and me) close to the end of our time at the bar. No words will express just how much Keith did NOT want to take this shot (and probaby Fish too!). Thank goodness Colleen had the camera at the ready: Note the lack of smile on his face (far right for those who don't know Keith) Glazed over, but willing to take the shot anyway...good friend Hmm, maybe if I sip it... Here's where it get's good...keep looking at Keith Taking it like a man. Good work Keith.

On the Sunday following New Year's Eve, the guys were excited to watch some football and the ladies were excited to relax at home! So we did just that. But after a bit, we decided to go to the bar and meet the crowd and get a bite to eat. Reagan had a blast hanging out with her daddy: It may have taken a few days to warm up to him, but now this kid is really "daddy's girl!"

As you know, we got to spend the New Year's weekend with the Belward's in Raleigh. One of the best parts of the whole weekend was watching Max ham it up for the camera. I know he's not even a year yet, but the kid know's when to smile (trust me, I've got his 6-month pictures from school!). Here are a few of my favorites of this super happy little guy: Give me the keys dad, I'm ready to go! Max and his beautiful mama! Love the hair! Hail to the Redskins! Someone had too much fun:)