Thanks to my Co-workers

George bought me dinner at the North Country Brewing Company and sent me this internet card... only my closest co-workers will understand!

My favorite candle... Sweet Pea by Cottage Hill Soaps!!! Thanks Dawna!
Pretty flowers... Thanks JoBeth!

Another Birthday Buddy

Chris is only 2 days younger than me. We instantly became best of friends upon meeting one another. Here are a few tid-bits of our younger days:

1. Chris has many names: Christina, Chrissy, Bell, Marshall???
2. We talked too much in 1st grade, which is why this picture only shows me graduating... Sorry. :)
3. For her senior pictures, she had the biggest hair I've ever seen.
4. One time we rode double on her bike. We started at the top of the hill by the barn. As we gained speed, we hit a little pot hole and biffed it. I landed on top of her. She skinned her knee pretty bad. Hmm... she got hurt, and I didn't. SORRY... You were driving!
5. One time I wrecked my parent's van while she was with me. I asked her what her parent's reaction would be and she said "They will pretty much probably never let me go anywhere with you ever again." I was devastated!
6. One time she was hanging out with Wendy and when I went to pick her up, they faked that Wendy was drunk and puking behind a tree. I was HORRIFIED!!!! But it was just a joke.
7. We spent a few weeks this spring getting back to the grind... we milked cows for David. It was like stepping back in time! Loved it!
8. One time we went out for a moonlight ride on the horses. She made it almost the entire way without mishap... at the very end, she was clotheslined by a tree in the yard. This one still cracks me up!
9. Another time we went riding when she was NOT allowed to go... she got hurt. Oops.
10. She was a bridesmaid in my wedding... I will always be grateful. Thanks Chrissy. It meant a lot to me.

Enjoy your birthday! We still have 7 years to save up for our exotic birthday vacation!

Birthday Boy!

Happy Birthday John!

Happy Birthday John!!!! Sorry, I don't know if I have 10 funny snippets to share, but I will tell you about when I first met John... the day I decided that I liked him for sure...

I flew into Pittsburgh from Lexington and Amanda and John pulled up in her car. He was driving. She introduced me and he loaded my luggage into the car. Then he so politely opened both her door and mine. (nice touch)

We went to lunch at Eat N' Park, as was customary when she would pick me up at the airport. I learned that we shared a birthday and thought - COOL!

Here's the quote that won my approval... He said... "I knew when I met your sister that I had met 'Miss Right,' I just didn't realize her first name was Always." That cracked me up... so I replied "And don't you forget it!"

Over the months that followed, they picked me up at the airport on a number of occasions. We went fishing almost every time! Even if the fish aren't biting, the crawfish are! Thanks for taking them off my hook John!

Welcome to the family John. When can we go fishing again?! I miss that! Enjoy your birthday... and many more!

Birthday Buddy

Happy Birthday
Birthday Buddy

Re-Re (a.k.a.) "Amanda" or "Mandy" is almost old now!

Ten snippets of Amanda's life:

1. She was born on the day that Elvis died
2. She was my Maid of Honor (Thanks)
3. One of her famous quotes "Don't touch the rolls!"
4. Men with belt-buckles the size of dinner plates are attracked to her.
5. She once broke my middle finger because her candles stink!
6. Despite what she says, she's still just a tiny bit sorry.
7. She married a man who shares a birthday with ME.
8. The first time I took her dancing, she finished every drink I started without my knowing and finally my friends pointed out to me that she was drunk! How did I not see that happening?!
9. One time after a night of dancing, we got Cheesy Beaner and she barfed on my living room floor... YUK!
10. She was Dairy Princess... just like me!

She is a fabulous person... I love her... and wish her the greatest birthday ever!!! Enjoy it Re-Re!!!

Trivia Question:

What does "Re-Re" stand for? Anybody know?

Cousin Sean White arrived. He has recently applied for a job in Alaska. WOW! It was a delight to see him again.

Sean brought something special for Dad - a new book. Dad was impressed and eager to share with Keith.
P3... No his head is not sprouting fire! He is standing in front of the tiki torch. He's really into racing people on his bike.
Big Paul... Can you say PINK? After the necklace in the reunion pictures, the pink hat is nothing more than confirmation! His feminine side is on display... but why shouldn't it be? He is expecting a baby girl later this year!!!! Congrats!

Daniel... Do you think he really needs a helmet riding this particular bike? As if he has far to fall...
Is it me, or is there somewhat of a manhunt going on in the background?
David is happy-go-lucky! Showing off his feet... what?! Those shoes are on the WRONG feet!!!! He's still learning.



This is one of those pricelice pictures... everyone with a different expression. Love it!

Historical Day

August 13th is full of historical events...

It's Dad's birthday. Here he is in one of his most notable poses. (He's a baby hog) Among his alias's: Wendell, Daddy, Grandpa, Uncle Pa-Pa, and Pinball. He's one of those guys that sometimes you just don't know what to get him for a gift. If you ask him, he will likely tell you exactly what he'd like... but then it's not actually a surprise. Over the years I have found that he likes a particular magazine subscription - Farmshow. Other than than, I have recently found a few more "needed" items to get him... shorts, socks, shoes, etc. Happy Birthday Dad. Enjoy it!

It's Rachel's birthday. Rachel is married to Keith's Dad, so she is my Step-Mother-In-Law. She lives in North Carolina. I can't wait to go visit! Some of her interests of which I am aware are... collecting owls and gazebos. When she lived in Cincinatti, she worked on the side as a wedding coordinator. She loves weddings! She is a delightful lady. I only wish we could visit with her more! Enjoy your birthday!!!!

It's Rob's birthday. Rob used to be the newest member of the Vulhop family... (He joined the "inlaw club" when he married Tammy) until he was upstaged by Hayden. He's married to Keith's sister, Tammy. They live in Cathedral City, California, which is near Palm Springs. He is a delightful fellow. We haven't seen this couple for some time as we live so far apart. Again... another family member that we see way too little of. Needless to say, we hope you have a fantastic birthday!

It's Carolyn and Greg's anniversary. Here's one that I don't have a picture of. Sorry. Carolyn and Greg boarded my horse for me for about 10 years. I have since moved on, and haven't actually had much contact with them recently. I do always remember that her birthday is August 2nd and their anniversary is August 13th.

So there we have it... August is full of these kinds of special days. Today just happens to be one of those multiple multiple celebration days! Enjoy everyone! We plan to live it up with a picnic at Mom and Dad's this afternoon! YIPPIE!!!

Beautiful Ending For A Long Day

On my way home I noticed there was a fireworks show. As soon as I hit the flats past the Valencia post office, I had a front row seat. One after another after another. Great show! I pulled over and took a couple pictures. I'm still reading up on the instructions for my camera, so these aren't the best. I didn't know I'd be needing to know so much so soon. Oh well... Enjoy! (If you click on the picture, it should enlarge)

Birthday Biffs

This evening I was invited to a birthday dinner for one of our horse-friends, Janet. It was at the Runway Restaurant and the turnout was good. Rene'e was one of the planners behind it and Chrissy and Jamie came too. It's always good to see them.

As we were walking out, Chrissy was telling me about the time that she fell down the steps there and how embarassing that was. I was just about to tell her a similar story of mee tripping outside of church, when I stepped off the sidewalk into a tiny divet in the ground, twisted my ankle, and landed on my hands and knees. Of course the crowd hovered around me, which makes me nervous anyway. Then someone exclaims, "Look, there's J.J.'s skin on the sidewalk!" It was funny, but OUCH!!!! Wanna see my boo-boo? It throbbed the entire way home and is still burning.

Saturday At The Strip

Keith and I headed for The Strip this morning, expecting to catch breakfast at DeLuca's, which is supposed to be one of the best breakfast spots in Pittsburgh. Unfortunately, when we got there, the line was so far out the door that we opted to skip breakfast, shop around and grab lunch instead. We picked up a couple birthday gifts, and Keith got a new Steelers hat. We checked out Palate Partners. It's a wine tasting store. We didn't taste any wine today, but we looked around. Despite how full our wine rack looks, we actually only have one full bottle. The rest are empty. (Saving them for Ricky - he makes his own)




Lunch was at Cafe On The Strip. This seemed like a melting-pot type spot to eat. Despite the Italian Flag-ish sign, the interior was a mixture of country, modernish decor. The tables had red and white checkered table clothes. There were black and white photographs on the brick walls. There was a huge shelf on one wall with grape vines and large candles. Interesting. The menu featured freshly made Tiramasu desserts, fresh squeezed lemonade, specialty type sandwiches, like roasted red pepper sandwich, and an array of pizza and pasta flavors. Keith had a breakfast frittata and toasted Italian bread. I had a greek pizza - spinich, tomato and feta cheese on a thin crispy crust. Healthy and yummy.

We checked out a lot of different spots. We looked at artsy type stuff. There were so many vendors along the street. There was someone selling hand-made leather bound journals and sketch books. If I would have had more money to spend, I know just who would appreciate something like that so much. Maybe another time. We shopped in a couple of Asian stores looking for "sticky rice" and some special kind of coffee that Keith had on his trip with the Asians last year. Anyway, we didn't get either. There is something different about this "sticky rice." It's sticky, but so much better than the usual rice. This is the kind of rice that our Asian friends advised us to get. In Lexington, you can get it at Walmart... along with an array of other Asian specialties like Kimchee.

We did not go into the Pennsylvania Macaroni Co. this time, although this store is somewhat significant to The Strip. They sell more than pasta. You can fill your own jar full of olive oil. They sell candy in bulk. They sell all sorts of cheese -- you've got to have a nose for it. All those cheeses blend together and have a rather ripe smell. They sell an array of olives in bulk. They are set out in 5 gallon buckets and you scoop out as many as you want. An interesting store none-the-less... Just not what we were after today.

You Are Invited

COFFEES AROUND THE WORLD

Tuesday - August 15, 2006

2-3 PM at Starbucks - Freedom Road

Yes, that's right! YOU are invited. Keith will be participating in the Coffees Around The World seminar at his store. He will actually be teaching about the coffee's aroma and body. His coworker will cover acidity and flavor. They will discuss brewing techniques and will be offering samples of a number of blends. They will share tools to assist your taste-buds in identifying the intricate details of the tasting and offer a little bit of background about where the coffees are from.

There is no cost to attend, but sign-up in advance is necessary! He'd love to see you and share his expertise!

Coffee Congrats

Keith has earned himself yet another pin at Starbucks indicating that he is"Genuine." His co-workers have given him a number of special cards indicating that he was doing a good job in many areas of his job. Once he had a full set of these cards, he cashed them in for this pin. This came with a fancy certificate and a note from his superiors. They affectionately referred to him as their "Keith of all trades" and elaborated that his detailed eye and high standards are what helps to keep the store great. Good job Keith! I always knew you were genuine!

Keith has passed yet another milestone in his Starbucks experience. He has completed Barista 201 training! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! Now what? You may ask.... Onward with "Coffee Master" training. YIPPIE!

The Coffee Master is the "Know-it-all" coffee person at Starbucks. Every store has one. This person is considered an expert in coffee tasting and often makes his or her own blends. He is so excited! This is something he was inspired to seek not long after he started working at Starbucks; however he was actually invited to do so after sharing some of his coffee experience with the Regional Manager at her last visit. His trained palate for tasting makes him an excellent candidate. Way to go Honey!

Limited Edition

This morning's coffee, Bella Florentina is a blend of Costa Rican and Panamanian coffees, specifically from Bella Vista F. W. Tres Rios farm and Panama La Florentina. Thus the combination name. Its complex aromas and bright, crisp, and juicy flavors leave your senses reeling. Hints of carmel, slight earthiness, slight spiciness are all present. The acidic nature leaves a very clean feeling in the mouth. For an interesting twist, continue to smell and taste the coffee as it cools; the complex nature allows your senses to pick up other various and interesting aromas and flavors as the coffee sits and cools, meanwhile increasing its clean and bright feel.

We are tasting this with a piece of cake... yellow with chocolate icing. I was amazed that the coffee accentuates the flavor of the cake more so than the icing.

At first whif, I said "I smell lemon." Although I was sure I was mistaken, Keith says I'm learning. I looked on the website and what do you know... it proclaims that this coffee does have "citrus" notes. Ah ha... I AM learning! Oh how I wish that I had made lemon cake instead of plain old yellow cake.

This delectable delacacy can be found at your local Starbucks for a limited time... and at the Vulhop household this week... until it is gone!

Mom... This one's for you...

I got a birthday card in the mail with a note that says "This reminded me of your mom. I thought it was funny." I thought so too.

Something New

Keith and I checked out the Pittsburgh Mills Mall about a week ago. we found a store in the Mills that sells home stuff. We happened upon this wine rack and snatched it up fast. It was on clearance... so a good buy. I had been looking for something that would hold my wine glasses. I also like the iron look.

The trip was inspired by his desire to know where 910 goes, so I showed him. I also showed him where the Oakmont Golf Course is where the 2007 US Open will be held. It doesn't mean much to me, but to him it's something special.

Morning... no time to chat

But thought I'd share something I found funny...

Check This Out

You check the MOSQUITO ACTIVITY forcast in your area. Neat... and WHY?

Manicure Myth

I was up bright and early this morning. Keith had the clock set for 4:45 AM because he was opening at the store this morning. I tried to sleep after he left, but actually only tossed and turned until 6AM and then decided to get this day on the road!

First item of business... Housework. I did the dishes, cleaned the bathroom, swept all the downstairs AND the stairs, and even tidied the living room. Ahhhhh... I love a clean house!

Then I ran down to the car wash because my new car was getting REALLY dirty! So now it's squeaky clean inside and out. My next item of business...

My nails! They were getting really long and I have been overdue for getting a manicure. I never used to do this at all, but since Keith as been working, I have been treating myself to it about once per month. So what is this "Manicure Myth?"

Remember before I said Amanda and I went to this one place and there was a bowl of fruit in the waiting room... Which we soon noticed was placed infront of a Buddha statue? Well, I have a new place I go now. It's a clean place and they speak English that I can understand, and they are real nice. So today I was checking out the display counter of things they have for sale... And noticed this one spot where there was an old cup of coffee in a styrofoam cup. It looked like it had been sitting there for maybe a week. YUK. At further inspection, I realized that this place also has a Buddha shrine of sorts. (although not as large) There was a bottle of water, some incense, a few little statue type things, and this old cup of coffee. Interesting!

So I'm wondering... What's with the Buddha shrines anyway. I did some preliminary net-surfing to see if I could dig up some information on it, but it remains a myth. None of the sites I've tapped into have any clear link to "offerings," "shrines," or anything of the like. Oh well...

I suppose what I might learn from this is... These people believe in something enough to display it in the forefront of their business. Do we do this with our faith? How do people know we are Christian? Of course, we live our life a certain way and that speaks for itself. BUT... I'm thinking that we could do a better job of it sometimes. Anyway, I have yet to understand why they do this the way they do. On second thought... Do I really want to know? I think I'm just curious.

Okay, enough of that. My friend is meeting me shortly and we are going to go shopping at the Strip District. Oh what fun! It's been a while since I've been down there. And on that note.... I'm off!