Jackalope Ranch

We made our way to Jackalope Ranch to see Mark and to check out the place. I brought my camara thinking I'd snap a few shots but it was a little crazy and eye opening to see what exactly Mark was always talking about. Of course, when your daughter excitedly screams "DAD!" from across the restaurant it doesn't make for a relaxing time. The place is huge, beautiful, has an awesome patio and the best happy hour prices. That being said, on a gorgeous day like yesterday, it's jammed packed and easy to see why he's so exhausted. It's only been open a week but hopefully everyone has a good enough experience to come back again.

Christmas morning

Finally! The best gift was his long awaited Nintendo DS. This made his Christmas the best.

Drew and her kitchen that Santa brought but seemed to think Uncle Randy gave it too her.

Santa put princess make up in her stocking. She couldn't wait to put it on.

A few of the games for the DS that we now can't seem to get him to turn off.

Christmas Eve 2008

I'm very behind on posting pictures but I figure better late than never. Christmas Eve was one of the best yet. Drew completly caught on to Santa and Peyton's was literally bursting with excitement. Through the night we had friends and family stop in and out and it made for a relaxing Christmas. Drew is pretending to sleep so she doesn't have to take a picture.

One of Uncle Randys gift. A life size Dora that scares me when I walk into her room at night it's standing up against the wall. Drew seems to love it though.

Before bed, the cookies are set out for Santa but we can't forget the reindeer. They need their strength for the treck around the world, so carrots and hay are set out.

One of the fun thing this year was tracking Santa online. Theres a website that shows each of his stops, how long he'll be there and where he's going next. Once Peyton saw Santa hit Arizona it was

chaos. I've never seen a kid have such anxiety and have a need to go to bed. He didn't think he'd get to sleep fast enough. It was funny and cute. I'm hoping it lasts for a few more years.

Our View

This is the view we have of the mountains from our from door. The aftermath of all the rain last week. So pretty.

Christmas Photos

I was adament this year that we take a family photo for our Christmas cards. Drew is 3 and we still haven't had a proper family picture done. So, last Sunday, after nap time, everyone got dressed and headed into the back yard. Jen was our photographer and I'm so happy with the shots she took. Most of you got your cards already but if you haven't then here's a preview. Finally, my empy frames in my living room have been filled.

Wine Party

The Hershbergers has their 2nd annual wine party. The have such a gorgeous, spacious backyard that is absolutely great for entertaining. Mark had a touch choice and decided to stay home to watch the De La Hoya fight so Lisa was kind enough to be my date, not to mention the designated driver.

Now, the only problem with hosting your own wine party is that sometimes you're enjoying the wine and you accidently forget about the food. That's okay Court, we know you're a good cook.

The Vegas

The Vegas! So, here's how it all went down. Mark puts his 2 week notice in at Morongo. A few days later they tell him they think it'd be best if he just left and they pay him out. Sweet! We got to have Thanksgiving together and now a whole week of time off. What's a couple to do? Take off to Vegas!

We booked the rooms the day before we left and headed off for some one on one time. We both know with the new restaurant opening alone time is going to be a rarity. Thankfully with the economy the rooms were super cheap even on a holiday weekend. We ate lots, as usual, took naps, shopped and laughed until our stomachs hurt. The best sight seeing in Vegas takes place from a patio table facing the strip. We sat there and had the best time people watching while partaking in several cocktails which probably made things funnier than they were.

Mark taking on the "Brown Bomber" Joe Lewis

HOLY MOLY!!! Elvis is alive!

Bon Jour Mon amour

Thanksgiving

As we all know it rarely rains here. On Thanksgiving we had some drizzles, some sun and an awesome rainbow. Mark got to be home with us for the first time in 8 years since Morongo so kindly asked him to leave. I was excited we were able to spend the whole day together, eat until we felt like puking and just relax. I unfortunatley don't have any other pictures besides the rainbow but at least I have the memories. In his business it's rare to have any holidays off so we made sure to enjoy every second.

Horse Play

Some of our good friends have horses out here and invited us to take the kids for a ride. They of course, were afraid the minute we got there and opted to play on the hay bails instead and watch the horses from the fences. It was a fun family outing and were happy they invited us along.

Goodbye Casino Morongo

Hello Jackalope Ranch. Mark resigned last week after 4 years as the Executive Sous Chef at Casino Morongo. He accepted the position as Executive Chef at the new Jackalope Ranch that's supposed to open early January out in Indio. I haven't seen the property but will take his word that it's amazing and beautiful and the place to hold a wedding or private party. I'm so excited for him to be able to create menus, use his talent and have fun again. But, I'm a bit scared with the economy and the amount of hours he'll have to work. Thank goodness for wine.

Back in August Casino Morongo hired a new manager who liked to live by the saying "it's my way or the highway". This made Mark's job impossible and frustrating in so many aspects that he decided it was time to go. There is nothing worse than going to a place you are so unhappy at. Not to mention I couldn't take the stress of his venting anymore. Casino Morongo and this manager gradually took over every conversation we'd have even if it wasn't the topic we started out with. It's a relief that's not the case anymore.

Many have asked how Chef Christophe took the news, but he too left in late September. They both had a great time working together first in Santa Monica 8 years ago, then at Morongo, but all good times must come to an end. Good thing we live 3 houses apart :)