Presenting . . . .

Madison and the McCool Beginning Band . . . .

(now read that whole intro again using Grandpa Lang's "presenting" voice)

These 6th graders had their first concert just 3 1/2 months after first picking up their instuments. I'd say they sound dang good! Click below to have a listen.

Tonight's forecast . . . .

0% probability for snow

In fact our walk tonight was so sticky, Molly barely made it up the street.

(right now the computer reads 80 degrees at 11pm)

Sending warm thoughts your way.

It's Christmas Eve on Guam . . .

. . . .and all over this isle.

But us Langs - we're a bit homesick from across all these miles.

Together is where we'd most like to be -with family and friends across the vast sea.

So what can we do that's almost as good? Let you visit from your home to our neighborhood!

We've prepped for your visit stocking up at Cup and Saucer
The best cinnamon rolls the island has to offer.

We've prepped the house with Christmas decor.

It sort of adds spunk where it's normally bore!
Madi and Mickayla have baked tons of cookies
Meanwhile, David worries about paying his bookie. (watching the Cowboys stinkin it up)

*Sidebar: Molly totally looks like a Muppet! Look at those arms!

We've made you some cider - it's our family tradition.

Just steer clear of the crazy elf as you head towards the kitchen.

We'll ooh and aah at the tree and enjoy the warm glow

As we chat about how the Mainland's covered with snow.

What visit would be complete without a trip to the beach.

Never mind that it's dark - feel the sand on your feet.

It's time to wrap up our gathering. We wish you could stay.

Merry Christmas one last time from Guam, USA.

(o.k. - now I'm a bit teary. sniff.)

I can't believe it!

My baby is 12. My baby!

She's grown from "my shadow" into a lovely young lady.

Santa's working

Last night was the branch Christmas party.
Santa wasn't able to make an appearance due to unforeseen circumstances. An announcement was made that the jolly old soul was very busy working up at the North Pole.

This morning at church - our buddy Maddax told Dave "Santa's busy working at the pool".

Only on Guam!

My late night theory:

Don't you love how your mind works wonders when you're lying in bed trying to fall asleep? Putting that brain to work going over and over and over every single little thing.
Allow me to share my latest "late-night AHA". . . . .

I think the tao tao mona have internet access.

It seems that when I put something out there into cyberspace I get jinxed.

I chatted on FB about how I love the weather in December; 27W blows in a few days later.
I mention Molly chasing shrews outdoors; now I have my own indoor version

I haven't quite figured it all out though. I keep mentioning orders but NOTHING is happening!

Indulge me.

While Dad's Away - Take TWO!

It's not all fun and games when Dave's gone:

Quoting this morning's Marianas Variety:
"THE so-called “banana storm” that could have potentially brought another devastation to the island missed Guam last night, according to weather officials. Tropical depression 27W made its way past just south of Guam last night."

The prep for a coming storm wreaks havoc on my emotions.

Every time I stopped somewhere yesterday I was asked, "Are you ready?"

Honestly - I don't know.

In our 4 years here, we've been lucky enough to avoid anything that I would consider "big".

I have seen pictures of devastating storms in the past - and I know I don't want to experience the aftermath of one of those. (knock on wood)

It's more of the hassle of securing the yard that I don't care for too much.

I honestly don't think Dave has ever been around for this fun exercise.

And wouldn't you know - in the midst of all this weather hoopla Molly had unexpected surgery.

While Dad's away . . .

Molly still plays (at 11pm).

We bake all day.
And we're keeping the frogs at bay.
Even the grandpa ones almost as big as Molly!

And lo . . .

The LouHoo!

Still in tact even after a good round of shrew chasing.

example of a stinky musk shrew (or more commonly known as the house shrew):

These guys are stinky, sqeaky loud little buggers that roam our neighborhood and houses like they own the place!

And they leave the most nasty presents EVERYWHERE!

'Tis the season . . . .

The season is right.

The air around here is suffused with achievement, satisfaction, relief, gratitude, and justified pride. December couldn't have been a more appropriate time for David to pin on LCDR (that's Lieutenant Commander for you non military folk)

David has come a long way in his accomplishments. His style is a mixture of experience and ambitious, youthful energy (of course that energy comes from his scavenging treats from everyone.)
(O.k. - and his KISS mug).

I thought one of the nicest compliments of the day came from Capt. Holdridge,

"You got here because of who you are. Don't change."

With the help of Steve Clifford (a fellow promotee) - David realized his promotion date was December 1st. It was a heluva day around here after that realization. We had been planning this pomp and circumstance for Jan 2nd - not December!

It's a pleasant oops - just a lot of prep.

I'm humbled by David's ladies - they pulled all their contacts and resources to put out a wonderful spread for 0730 (that's 7:30 AM). We had lumpia, empanadas, pancit, mini sands, breads and bagels! I am going to miss them more than I miss Costco (and that's A LOT!)

If we can throw together a promotion fiesta with 19 hours notice - I have faith you'll survive your week too!