Our Grand Family!

We feel so blessed that our kids get a day with both sets of grandparents!

 

The Tehachapi Loop

THE TEHACHAPI LOOP IS A RAILROAD ENGINEERING MARVEL FROM THE 19TH CENTURY. IT ENABLED TRAINS TO PASS FROM THE SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY (CALIFORNIA) TO MOJAVE.
The construction was undertaken by American engineers and Chinese workmen. The Chinese were "Cantonese", mostly recruited from Canton (now Guongjhou) area. Construction tools were mostly dynamite, picks and shovels. Many of the workmen were killed during this dangerous work.

The Chinese workmen referred to the Tehachapi Loop as "Walong".There is no such word in Cantonese. Since the workmen spoke no English and the Americans spoke no Chinese, the English interpretation of Walong could come from either of two Chinese expressions.

James W.H. Wong suggests that "Wa" could have really been "Wan" = coil or coiled, and that "Loon" in Cantonese could sound similar to Long to the American ear. "Loon" = Dragon. In this case, Walong would be "Coiled Dragon", which also seems an appropriate name for the Tehachapi Loop.

 

 

 

More Fun at the Beach!

 

 

 

 

Family Fun at the Beach!

 

 

 

 

Grandma and Grandpa came from Iowa. We've been having lots of fun!!

More Snow=NO SCHOOL=More Fun!

We may be falling behind in our studies but we've sure been having some fun in the snow!!! Last night brought another storm and we have about 8 inches in our yard. No traffic was allowed in our community without 4x4.

The "BIG" Kids

I know this blog tends to revolve around two little ones that have blessed our family. BUT....there are a couple of amazing teenagers that you need to hear about.

Yesterday, Mark and I were in awe of how the Lord has blessed us with Nick and Amy. In a time where many parents are dealing with major stress regarding their teens, we watched as Nick and Amy were both up at 6 am on a Sunday to serve the Lord with their talents. Nick was leading worship at Mountain Bible Church in both services. They even had a special song planned for their leader Mike, who was getting baptized that day. Amy was off to church to sing in the youth praise band at Bear Valley Church. They were leading worship in all three services Sunday.

Both kids did an incredible job. How blessed we are!!