Danish

While looking at Danish immersion camps (one in Oregon and one is Minnesota) we came across the most amazing statement.

This is about 180º different from our experience.  God morgen, or good morning, is something like, "Guh morn."  Maybe we'll pass on the camp and just go back to Denmark instead.

Growing up

I am finally ready to let go of these shoes (or maybe all but one pair).  Former wearer shown at right.

Another day in paradise

A beautiful bike ride in the mountains yesterday, a beautiful hike in the mountains today.  Having a waterfall as a destination was the highlight for me.

taken along the way (photo by A.)

also taken along the way (photo by A.)

next to running water with a great view

Guess who stood in the waterfall?

Guess who just got their feet wet?

Tour de Big Bear

Judy, "I think I could make 25 miles."
Darling husband, "I think you can do 50."

So with a little trepidation I set my alarm for 4:45 a.m. and we drove off to ride for Tour de Big Bear (altitude, about 7000 feet (2100m)).  No mass falling during the mass start (a long time worry of mine), no walking of hills, and only a sight sprinkle.  I would do it again.

Mass start for 50-mile group (love the outfit on the guy on the left).

Bonus of being on a tandem - no problem taking pictures on the route.

At the second rest stop at the Big Bear Discovery Center.

another view along the ride

third rest stop at Big Bear Area Regional Wastewater Agency

Fourth rest stop at Big Bear Animal Park, hosted by a classic car club - cute bike wash, which David walked through.

Finished with smiles.

New Dorm

Looking north.  Can you figure out what the deck of rocks is for?  Run-off area for rainwater?

Several years ago Pitzer College built a new residence hall that was fancy-schmancy, but also earned a gold LEED Certification.  Now the next round of building is done and while we were out on a little bike ride we decided to poke around.

looking south

the courtyard

My favorite part - the wall of succulents.  This is the dark part under the overhang in the first picture.

I would show you more, but we got kicked off the grounds.

Takes a lickin'...

...But keeps on tickin'!  Look what I found while hanging up the laundry.

New year

In with the new (left), out with the old

It is a sign that school is about to start when I need a new calendar in order to mark the events for the academic year.  After many years I am switching to a new brand, but similar style, of calendar.  It does not have lines for each family member.  I never used them, so I was happy to get an unlined calendar.

Interesting facts about the upcoming academic year include:

• The colleges start after Labor Day and public schools start before it.
• The kids still get a week off for Thanksgiving, but the colleges do not.
• Neither spring break aligns with major spring holidays.
• Commencement is not on Mother's Day.

I hope your August is off to as good a start as mine is.