What's been going on

I know I have been slacking on the updates, sorry..... So here's what's been going on. The hotel we work at recently hosted the national ACF convention. Although the days were long (16+hrs) and two of our chefs left ( 1 quit, 1 transferred before the event) I was able to meet a number of great chefs as well as work with some interesting food. One such item was the below pictured dragon fruit. Its taste is similar to a kiwi/watermelon but at about $17 lb, it is not something that I have access to everyday. But this was the ACF and our chef had ordered 100#... , now that's good eats! (thanks Alton)

After a long July, Crystal and I are looking forward to a few getaways in August. First off Crystal turns the big 26 on the 1st...So don't forget to call and wish her a Happy Birthday!! Next up Jennifer and Jason's wedding in Dallas. Jen and Jason were kickball teammates of ours out in Denver.. and Jason is Crystals close friend from college. 2 weeks later we will be attending what will surely be the wedding of the year, Sarah and John's..( check the link on the left for more info. ) It'll be a nice retreat from the turmoil of the city to be able to relax and enjoy their wedding in picturesque New Hampshire. Following the wedding Crystal and I are headed out to Vegas (Vegas baby, Vegas!!!) for a three day visit.... open invitation to all interested.... 4 days 3 nights 8/22-8/25. I not sure if Crystal is more excited about the gambling, sunning by the pool or the 110 degree weather. Odds are its the heat! Photos of all the summer adventures to follow.

Mike D's Wedding

Alex, me, Mike, Dave and Jeff

Reunion 2

FIREWORKS!!!!!
Storm clouds rollin' in
Patrick, Patrick, Katy and Teagan enjoying some video games


So once again this year at the reunion I was not only asked but actually encouraged to purchase fireworks. The youngsters enjoyed the fireworks display, but not nearly as much as I did. Although the highlight of the night was when one of the rockets went astray and ricochet off of one of the cars. I tried to keep it quiet, but no such luck. The kids stormed into the house shouting, "Fireworks hit the car! Fireworks hit the car!" So much for being discreet. Fortunately no damage was done and we were all able to drive home, despite the torrential rains. Crystal and I only had an 11hr drive home on Monday. Looking forward to next year.

Reunion 2

take it slow on the hills
crystal taking it easy ( and falling way behind!!!!)



The 2nd annual Laughna family reunion convened again this year in the smoky mountains of eastern Tennessee. Although not all could attend from last year ( Sarah and John were truly missed) , we were able to connect with some new family members. We enjoyed an afternoon of whitewater rafting and Crystal and I put our bikes to good use on a leisurely 11 mile bike ride through cades cove.