Happy Father's Day

Seano and Patrick...you recognize the sweaters, no doubt. I chuckle when I look at this adorable photo. Dad, Frank, David and I at the Notre Dame vs. BC, sitting on the 50 yard line OF NOTRE DAME...When we won by 1 touchdown during the last minute, I thought we might not get out of the stadium alive! (Honestly!!! FR. SUWALSKY nearly got in a fist fight!)

What A Wonderful World: Prague and Rome

Prague Castle from the Charles Bridge was literally AWESOME. Clean and efficient city by day, stunning by night. A GREAT big thank you to Patrick and Nell for being such great hosts.

We realize weekends are time to relax, and you knocked yourselves out wining and dining us.

THANK YOU :-) The best of Prague was Nell and Patrick, followed by Prague Castle and the Afghan dinner.

Happy hour on the rooftop terrace of Hotel de Campo de Fiori included the most delicious Gorgonzola cheese EVER with salami that I even liked! The panoramic view of the city of Rome

was only topped by the view from the top of St. Peter's Basilica, quite possibly the most beautiful church Dan and I have ever experienced. Ironically, we stayed 25 feet from Rome's famed Campo de Fiori farmers market, yet missed it DAILY by getting up and out too early and home too late. Attached a photo of the Trevi Fountain. I threw a coin backwards over my shoulder to ensure we would return to see all that we missed this first trip. Patrick, near and dear to my heart is the photo Seano took of you in front of the graffiti Prague Angel. Attached for you...is my Rome angel. Not as humorous, but still an angel for you from me. :-) Thanks again for the sweet Mother's Day gift...taking the time to do that during your busy trip to Venice was thoughtful and endearing...as you are. Nell thanks for sharing your trip experiences with us

over wonderful dinners...we love to hear about your adventures.

We took a very early a.m. tour of the Sistine Chapel...and accidentally landed in St. Peter's square for the Papal blessing...A prayer I stole from Denzel Washington's grandmother, " Bless my children, and my children's children..." For my family, friends and health, I remain grateful.

Italian on the Hill @ Rigazzi's

It was a difficult loss watching RHS vs SLU in sudden death.

(Great game, but the RHS boys in blue were disappointed. So was Dad. Dining with Kieren, Ed, Ryan, Pradeep, Peggy, David and Seano was a delightfuldiversion. We missed you, Patrick and Nell!

RHS Lacrosse Coach - Dappered up

I drove over to St. Louis from the Lake of the Ozarks MJJA conference to meet Dan and the RHS coaches, parents and players for tomorrow's FINAL play off. Jay stole the show by showing up with a purple shirt, and matching purple and white stripped hat :-) Thought Seano and Patrick would enjoy this. Will meet up with Seano and Suwalsky tomorrow night. Patrick and Nell, wish you were here. FYI...I bought a new fangled camera for our trip, so my old digital is yours. Simple and sweet, with much love.

MOM/Robin

What A Wonderful World

Common ground

RHS won 1/4 finals...on their way to STL

Yesterday was a perfect lax day. Temps in the 60's, blue sky and the fresh spring green leaves and grass surrounding young men in blue and white...Made me a little melancholy ...so many years on the side lines rooting you on!

To chase the sadness away, I took a photo of the water boy to make you and me smile :-)

LOVE MOM

Angels and Demons tonight...Opening night at the Palace

http://www.themovieinsider.com/m3580/angels--demons/

MAMA...song by relocated son after Chinese Earth Quake

http://www.npr.org/templates/player/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=103906236&m=103911121

A year after a devastating earthquake, Sichuan province in China is still rebuilding. Many children remain separated from their parents. To raise awareness of victims still in need, folk musician Abigail Washburn and electronic artist Dave Liang spent two weeks in Sichuan to create Afterquake, an album that mixes actual sounds of the rebuilding with the voices of relocated school children.

After Washburn performed at one of the schools, she says, students came up to her to share their own songs and stories. Washburn tells NPR's Melissa Block that there were many emotional moments when little girls would sit on her lap and say, "I don't know how to believe in myself anymore. I don't trust the world. I don't trust life."

Washburn says she was shaken to the core by that, but would offer her encouragement.
"I said, 'You've got to believe in yourself. When you're down — sing, sing. Your voice is so beautiful, you should sing. It will make you feel better,' " Washburn says.

The stories and songs recorded for Afterquake are full of loss and heartbreak. But in the process of recording, Liang says, he was surprised by the children's optimism.

"From the darkest depths, these children were actually able to find so much happiness, especially in the school. It was an amazing communal experience," says Liang, producer of the Shanghai Restoration Project. "The earthquake definitely brought them all closer together."
Hear Melissa Block's full interview with Abigail Washburn and Dave Liang by clicking the audio link at the top of the page.

A Woman With A Sense of Humor

Some Old Photos to make u smile

Teaching Seano and Patrick to ski...a little down time with Dad after a long day... LOL :-)

Having a BLAST in Chicago with Seano and Katie

Seano and I went to Thai
upon my arrival on Thursday night. Loved catching up and hearing about his life, friends and work. Met lovely
Katie Mc and spent the afternoon on Friday sitting in the sun, visiting with Kieran, Seano, Katie and Pilazzo. Last night, we lucked out. It was so very beautiful in Chicago, the nicest sushi restaurant HAD space (because no one wanted to be in a dark place on a nice evening). Managed to stay awake and visit Kieran's place until about midnight. We were hoping to take the Architechtural tour, but it might be sold out. Rain and thunderstorms seem on their way for today. More later.

Simple cure for FULL MOON BEHAVIOR at work

http://www.gnn.com/article/viral-video-that-makes-us-smile/413323

Happy Easter with much love! We miss you guys!

In between Thai Brunch and dinner with the McLaughlins, Dad filmed this for you. Miss and love you lots.

Bi Partisan Support of CASA

Below, Congressman Joe Aull, Mary C, Leo G, Terri K and

Cynthia C. To the right is Leo G, Cynthia C, Mary C, Senator Bill Stouffer, Tamara B and Terri K. I just love the "Forgotten Children cut outs) (Seano and Patrick...do they remind you of the pink children who use to live in our living room?)

What a long and crazy week in Jefferson City, MO's capitol. We are pleased that right or left, black or white, rich or poor, male or female, democrat or republican...all can join together and speak up for a child victim of abuse in court.

Obama's speech in Prague: The Obama's in front of Prague Castle

Nell and Patrick...How was Paris?

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/7984353.stm

Best Career Cities

http://realestate.yahoo.com/promo/best-places-for-business-and-careers.html

YOGA in India...or in Kentucky

A little Catholic Humor

This information is for Catholics only. It must not be divulged to non-Catholics. The less they know about our rituals and code words, the better off they are.

AMEN: The only part of aprayer that everyone knows.
BULLETIN: Your receipt forattending Mass.
CHOIR: A group of peoplewhose singing allows the rest of the Parish tolip-sync.
HOLY WATER: Aliquid whose chemical formula isH2OLY.
HYMN: A song of praiseusually sung in a key three octaves higher than that ofthe congregation's range.
RECESSIONAL HYMN: The last song at Mass often sung a little more quietly, since most of the people have already left.
INCENSE: Holy Smoke!
JESUITS: An order ofpriests known for their ability to find colleges withgood basketball teams.
JONAH: The original 'Jaws' story.
JUSTICE: When kids have kids of their own.
KYRIE ELEISON: The only Greek words that most Catholics can recognize besides gyros and baklava. (for you non-Catholics it means Lord have mercy)
MAGI: The most famous trio to attend a baby shower.
MANGER: Where Mary gave birth to Jesus because Joseph wasn't covered by an HMO. (The Bible's way of showing us that holiday travel has always been rough.)
PEW: A medieval torture device still found in Catholic churches.
PROCESSION: The ceremonial formation at the beginning of Mass consisting of altar servers, the celebrant, and late parishioners looking for seats.
RECESSIONAL: The ceremonial procession at the conclusion of Mass led by parishioners trying to beat the crowd to the parking lot.
RELICS: People who have been going to Mass for so long, they actually know when to sit, kneel, and stand.
TEN COMMANDMENTS: The most important Top Ten list not given by David Letterman.
USHERS: The only people in the parish who don't know the seating capacity of a pew.
Little known facts about the Catholic Church in Las Vegas : There are more churches in Las Vegas than casinos. During Sunday services at the offertory, some worshippers contribute casino chips as opposed to cash. Some are sharing their winnings - some are hoping to win. Since they get chips from so many different casinos, and they are worth money, the Catholic churches are required to send al lthe chips into the diocese for sorting. Once sorted into the respective casino chips, one junior priest takes the chips and makes the rounds to the casinos turning chips into cash. And he, of course, is known as The Chip Monk. :-) Thanks for sharing this, Seano.

Health Care for Women :-)

Subject: Fw: health advice for women...

IMPORTANT HEALTH ADVICE FOR WOMEN * Do you have feelings of inadequacy?* Do you suffer from shyness?* Do you sometimes wish you were more assertive? If you answered yes to any of these questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist about Margaritas. Margaritas are the safe, natural way to feel better and more confident about yourself and your actions. Margaritas can help ease you out of your shyness and let you tell the world that you're ready and willing to do just about anything. You will notice the benefits of Margaritas almost immediately and with a regimen of regular doses you can overcome any obstacles that prevent you from living the life you want to live. Shyness and awkwardness will be a thing of the past and you will discover many talents you never knew you had. Stop hiding and start living, with Margaritas. Margaritas may not be right for everyone. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use Margaritas. However, women who wouldn't mind nursing or becoming pregnant are encouraged to try it. Side effects may include:- Dizziness, nausea, vomiting, incarceration- Erotic lustfulness- Loss of motor control- Loss of clothing- Loss of money- Loss of virginity- Loss of bladder control- Attraction to ugly men- Table dancing- Headache- Dehydration- Dry mouth- And a desire to sing Karaoke WARNING:The consumption of Margaritas may make you think you are whispering when you are not. WARNING:The consumption of Margaritas may cause you to tell your friends over and over again that you love them. WARNING:The consumption of Margaritas may cause you to think you can sing. WARNING:The consumption of Margaritas may make you think you can logically converse with members of the opposite sex without spitting.

Irish Happy Feet

Sully's Plane parading the streets of E Rutherford NJ

Happy Birthday ANNE

Nice talking to you. Hope you and Ellen have a great visit. Happy, Happy Birthday AND St. Paddy's Day!

Patrick and Nell: I got a WII

Stopped at blockbuster to rent The TUDORS, since Dad is gone for the weekend. They had 2 wii's for sale and I bought one for you :-)

Love, MOM/Robin

p.s. do you mind if I play with it until you return state side?

Michelle and Stacy in Prague

SO, Stacy P. was trying to get a job as an attorney in the Obama administration. I asked her why she wasn't applying with Michelle's staff, since she had formed a relationship with her while working on the campaign? Found out today she just got hired to be the point person for a Michelle Obama visit to Prague. Patrick, she asked me for your email....and I gave it to her...

SO, Nell and Patrick, if you get a chance to meet with Stacy AND MICHELLE, please put in a plug that rural Missouri CASA would come ALIVE with Michelle Obama as a guest speaker for child victims of abuse.

(Please plant the seeds!). I am so excited for Stacy!

Mimi's surgery

Mimi had shoulder surgery today. Apparently, due to her age, they kept the medication to a minimum. Thus, Deedy reports a little more pain than was expected. Although the procedure was successful, the next two days will be challenging for both Deedy and Mimi. Thanks for keeping them in your positive thoughts and/or prayers.

Incapacitated but NOT due to Green Beer

All those years (6 to 43 ) tapping, dancing, cheering, aerobicizing have done my knees in! Have been nursing a potential tear on the right leg for years - why I stopped skiing. Ironically, I joined a WALKING team in Lexington and got a little overenthusiastic with my 10,000 steps a day to that wonderful song, JAI HO....Have a green beer and think of me @ 2:45 p.m. on St. Paddy's Day going under the knife with Dr. TJ. Looking forward to a more active April and possible visit to see Sean in Chicago :-)

Steve Wozniak, Co Founder of Apple on Dancing with the Stars

SOOOOOO, did anyone see Dancing with the Stars tonight?(Or will you admit it?) Steve Wozniak went to High School with Dan and me (Homestead High School, CA). Married the most beautiful girl in the school, Suzanne Mulkern. She later went to law school and I was honored to lend her some law books when I lived in San Fran. Small world. What a great ATTITUDE he exudes!

Children's Trust Fund License Plates arrived

License Plates
You can help prevent child abuse by proudly displaying the official Children's Trust Fund (CTF) license plate on your vehicle. All CTF plates feature the distinctive green child's hand prints logo and a "prevent child abuse" message. Ten thousand active CTF plates equates to $250,000 annually that would be distributed back into local prevention programs throughout the state and support CTF grant activities.

You do this…Make an annual contribution of $25 or more to CTF by sending a check or money order to: Children's Trust FundP. O. Box 1641Jefferson City, MO 65102-1641
Or make a credit card donation via the Internet or by calling 1-888-826-KIDS (5437).
Your entire donation can be designated to your local license plate partner (pdf) by providing their name or county on your check.

If you qualify for a two-year license registration, a $50 minimum donation must be made to CTF. Contact your local Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) contract office for more information. We'll do this…CTF will send you 1) your "logo use authorization" statement (donation receipt), and 2) an application for personalized license plates (DOR 1716).
For new personalized or stock plate requests…Complete your application and send it along with your logo use authorization statement and the annual DOR $15 plate fee to the Driver and Vehicle Services Bureau, P.O. Box 100, Jefferson City, MO 65105-0100 (573-751-4509).

March19th: Sicilian style food from St. Joseph's Table

http://catholickey.org/index.php3?gif=news.gif&mode=view&issue=20090227&article_id=5566

A dear friend of mine who is possibly the sweetest, most spiritual woman in KCMO celebrates a fun tradition with her family every Lent. They spend time together as a family. Her father treats the entire (HUGE) family to dinner at each of the St. Joseph's tables in KCMO area.
I had never heard of this tradition until we came to the Midwest. Historically, these tables were set up on March 19th, in honor of St. Joseph, and proceeds for the delicious Sicilian foods sold were given to the town poor.

Full Irish Breakfast downtown KCMO

Dad and I had a charming morning in downtown KCMO where Browne's serves a full or vegetarian Irish Breakfast. Great group of people! Nell, we made baked bean sandwiches, peppered and salted, and toasted YOU :-)

Hudson River Landing: Cool as a cucumber!

NO DWT

Sat in drug court yesterday. A darling young girl spoke of crashing her car while driving while texting...Heard on the news today that the driver of the train crash in CA last year had texted 22 seconds before failing to stop. I hope no one reading this ever texts while driving. Dangerous. Bet this is going to be a whole new area of legislation soon. My mantra: TEXT while WAITING IN LINE :-)

An older, tired-looking dog wandered into my yard.I could tell from his collar and well-fed belly that he had a home and was well taken care of. He calmly came over to me, I gave him a few pats on his head; he then followed me into my house, slowly walked down the hall, curled up in the corner and fell asleep. An hour later, he went to the door, and I let him out. The next day he was back, greeted me in my yard, walked inside and resumed his spot in the hall and again slept for about an hour. This continued off and on for several weeks. Curious I pinned a note to his collar: 'I would like to find out who the owner of this wonderful sweet dog is and ask if you are aware that almost every afternoon your dog comes to my house for a nap.' The next day he arrived for his nap, with a different note pinned to his collar: 'He lives in a home with 6 children, 2 under the age of 3 - he's trying to catch up on his sleep. Can I come with him tomorrow?'

Happy St. Patrick's Day (a wee bit early...)

While on vacation in Rome , I noticed a marble column in St. Peter's with a golden telephone on it. As a young priest passed by, I asked who the telephone was for. The priest told me it was a direct line to heaven, and if I'd like to call, it would be a thousand dollars. I was amazed, but declined the offer. Throughout Italy , I kept seeing the same golden telephone on a marble column. At each, I asked about it and the answer was always the same: It was a direct line to heaven and I could call for a thousand dollars. Then I finished my tour in Ireland. I decided to attend Mass at a local village church. When I walked in the door I noticed the golden telephone. Underneath it there was a sign stating: "DIRECT LINE TO HEAVEN: 25 cents." "Father," I said, "I have been all over Italy and in all the cathedrals I visited, I've seen telephones exactly like this one. But the price is always a thousand dollars. Why is it that this one is only 25 cents?" The priest smiled and said, "Darlin', you're in Ireland now. It's a local call."

Angels and Demons Tour of Rome: The Path of Illumination

http://www.angelsanddemons.it/

Patrick and Nell. Just home from dinner with the Hances. Kirk made a great suggestion. Said to google Angel and Demons to see if a tour existed in Rome. Sure enough, one does. Dan and I will take it in June. If you would like to go, it is my treat...I am counting on you to taste test restaurants while you are there in March so as to give us great advice. Much love, Robin/MOM

Answers for NELL in Red :-)

100 must haves
1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the (elevatored ) to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Eaten squid
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person (in JUNE!)
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching : Seano, Pat and I found a DEAD whale on the beach in San Fran. cool
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp In June
67. Bounced a check (oops :-)
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar NO THANKS!
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican (this JUNE!)
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day

Dan visits with MIMI and CADEN Connelly in CA

Editing umor to make YOU smile :-)

Proofreading is a dying art….
=A0
You can't believe some of these are true.
=A0
Man Kills Self Before Shooting Wife and Daughter
<=span>
This one I caught in the SGV Tribune the=other day and called the Editorial Room and asked who wrote this. It too= two or three readings before the editor realized that what he was reading =as impossible!!! They put in a correction the next day.

--------------------------=-----------------
Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says

No, real=y? Ya think?
=A0
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<=span>
Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers
<=span>
Now that's taking things a bit far!<=span>
<=span>
----------------------------------------------=------------
Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over
<=span>
What a guy!
=A0
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<=span>
Miners Refuse to Work after Death

No-good-for-nothing' lazy so-and-so's!
=A0
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J u venile Court to Try Shooting Defendant<=pan style="font-size: 36pt; color: rgb(55, 96, 94); font-family: Tahoma,s=ns-serif;">
<=span>
See if that works any better than a fair trial! ----------------------------------------------=-----------
War Dims Hope for Peace
<=span>
I can see where it might have that effect!
=A0
------=---------------------------------------------------------
<=span>
If Strike Isn't Settled Qu=ckly, It May Last Awhile
<=span>
Ya think?!
=A0
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<=span>
Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures<=pan style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Tahoma,sans-serif;"><=span>
Who would have thought!
=A0
---------=------------------------------------------------------
<=span>
Enfield ( London ) Couple Slain; Police=A0Suspect Homicide
<=span>
They may be on to something!
=A0
---------=--------------------------------------------------------------
<=span>
Red Tape Holds Up New Bridg es
<=span>
You mean there's something stronger tha= duct tape? Oklahoma's new construction progr=m!
----------------------------------------------=-----------
Man Struck By Lightning: Faces Battery Charge
<=span>
He probably IS the battery charge!New Study of Obesity Looks for Larger Test Group
<=span>
Weren't they fat enough?!
=A0
---------=-------------------------------------
Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas in Spacecraft
<=span>
That's what he gets for eating those beans! ----------------------------------------------=--
Kids Make Nutritious Snacks
<=span>
Do they taste like chicken?*************=**************************
<=span>
Local High School =ropouts Cut in Half
<=span>
Chainsaw Massacre all over again!=span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Tahoma,sans-serif;">
=A0
******=********************************************
<=span>
Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors
<=span>
Boy, are they tall!
<=span>
*******************************************
<=span>
And the winner is....
<=span>
Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead=/span>
<=span>
Did I read that right?
=A0
*********=*****************************************
<=span>
Now that you've smiled at least once, it's your turn =o spread the stupidity and send this to someone you want to bring a smile t= (maybe even a chuckle). We all need a good laugh, at
=A0
Least once a day!
=A0

Can't help but MOVE: JAI HO (My Destiny)

Recently, I joined a group in Lexington MO. willing to wear PEDOMETERS daily as part of a health movement. As a team, we all aim to walk over 10,000 steps per day. If I can listen to this song on my ipod, it will make those last 5,000 steps easier. Check it out. GREAT song from the award winning movie, Slum Dog Millionaire!

Advice from friends about Rome, Italy

Our friend Carmen Thum asked me to give you some info on where to stay in Rome. Sorry for the delay in getting this info to you Robin, but I've just gotten back to town - I hope it helps you out. Here are my favorite hotels and a little about why I like them. We've stayed at almost all of them and the few we haven't, we've been to them to eat or visit friends.
First, I'd suggest that you stay within the confines of what is considered the "Old City Wall" - the area where the vast majority of Rome's most famous sites are. We stayed a few minutes taxi ride out of this area at a very nice villa for a surgery meeting we went to, but we found ourselves always taking a taxi down there. This area is especially nice because if you don't mind walking, you can get to most every site on foot.

Hotel name - area name within Central Rome - comments

Campo de Fiori - Campo de Fiori - probably the best bargain we found. Near the famous Piazza Navona area and the Vatican
The Raphael - Piazza Navona - like a museum in itself. Real Italian. Best Piazza area in Rome with beautiful Baroque buildings and churches and the most vibrant area for tourist hanging out.
Scalinata di Spagna - Piazza di Spagna - at the top of the famous Spanish Steps, a great location with a neat terrace area
Hassler -Piazza di Spagna - also at the Spanish Steps. one of the most famous hotels with a great roof top restaurant
Bernini Bristol - Via Veneto - very good bargain with shopping and dining close, right across the street from the US Embassy and near the Piazza Barberini, and the beautiful churches Santa Susanna (The Catholic Church for Americans in Rome) and Santa Maria della Vittoria.
The Grand - Quirinal - although it's pricey, it's probably our favorite and if I was only going to Rome once, I would stay there. - Luxury with Old World style - you gotta go to the restaurant there. Not too far from the Trevi Fountain.

have some more, but these are the top 6.

Hope this helps. Let me know if you need any more info.

Academy Awards

Hi Patrick and Nell - Not sure how you watch tv and am wondering if you have the time to watch the Academy Awards...I am sipping coffee and just watched the trailers for the Best Picture Nominations. (available via real player)

This year, I have only seen one, Benjamin Button, which I adored. It seems like Slum Dog is the movie to beat. Want to see Milk. We lived in San Fran during that time...

I am taking Margarita to NOON brunch. Friends are coming over for Thai to watch the AA tonight. Wish you could be here....

Will keep my laptop near...love and miss you....casa.robin (skype)
MOM/Robin

Iron Man McGinnity

My dad died when I was 9...But before he died he filled me up with a ton of Irish Lore to be proud of. (Descendants of Irish Kings, etc. etc similar to: The Princes of Ireland by Edward Rutherford.). Each child needs to believe some magical story of one's heritage... One of the stories was that his uncle was Iron Man Joe McGinnity. Attached a photo. Quite frankly, I see the strong MCGINNITY resemblance that so many I have met refer to...The dates make sense...My father, William James McGinnity was born in 1903...Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Robin Neil of the CAPA board, I was able to give Seano and Patrick this baseball card for their memory box...Someday, I hope to have the time to research this history to gift to Seano, Patrick and Nell...

Budapest

Pat and Nell, a friend of ours just returned from time in Prague and Budapest. She insists it is a must see...and is conveniently located so you can take a weekend trip. Nickname(s): "Pearl of the Danube"or "Queen of the Danube", "Heart of Europe", "Capital of Freedom"

We are sooooooooooooooooexcited about seeing you both in June. Still researching hotels in Rome. Will start (re) studying Italian soon. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality. Patrick...JW's birthday is 2-24. We are taking him to dinner on the 26th...

Happy Valentine's Day from Dad/Dan

Happy Valentines to Pat and Nell on Lincoln's Birthday

http://www.skypevideocards.com/card.php?id=646815&hash=a2cb9094bf8b5c2f11d0b8e61905f8ed453ac0d0

Autism: does the measles vaccine cause? Courts say no...

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090212/ap_on_go_ot/autism_ruling

Prague

Did you guys know the movies, "The Brothers Grimm" and "A Knight's Tale" were filmed in Prague? Loved your latest blog. Looks like a great adventure, but for the water :-)

Sweet Photo of Patrick and Nell

Nell, I hope you don't mind my sharing this photo tagged onto Patrick.

Most folks my age refuse to join facebook...so I will try to double entries.

I hope to blow this up huge! What a sweet memory this photo will be 50 years from now for you.

Happy (Early) Valentines Day to you both. I can't wait to see you in June. (Studying Italian again....:-)

Hugs/Robin/MOM

Children's Health Coverage!

Details from the health insurance bill that the President signed last Wednesday include:
-Continues coverage through 2013 for 7 million lower income children
-Expands coverage for another 4.1 million uninsured
-Makes 2.4 million children eligible for the program who otherwise might have access to private insurance
-Provides an aiddtional $32.8 billion through September 30, 2013 by increasing federal excise taxes on tobacco products. The tax on cigarettes will go up 62 cents to $1.01 a pack.
- Provides $100 million in grants for states, local governments, schools and other to enroll eligible children
-Requires states to offer a dental benefit
-Allows states to offer SCHIP dental coverage to children whose private medical insurance does not cover dentist visits
Obama signs bill extending kids' health insuranceBy KEVIN FREKING and PHILIP ELLIOTTAssociated Press Writers President Barack Obama on Wednesday signed a bill extending health coverage to 4 million uninsured children, a move he called a first step toward fulfilling a campaign pledge to provide insurance for all Americans. It was a victory for Obama a day after his nominee to shepherd his broad health care agenda stepped aside amid tax problems.Obama used an ebullient East Room signing ceremony to continue his push for his plan that would provide universal health insurance, even as he spent much of the previous day admitting he "screwed up" in naming former Sen. Tom Daschle to spearhead the health care overhaul. He wrapped the signing event in another pitch for his separate $819 billion economic plan that now is under consideration in the Senate and faces Republican opposition."As I think everybody here will agree, this is only the first step," Obama said of the bill that reauthorizes the State Children's Health Insurance Program."Because the way I see it, providing coverage to 11 million children through CHIP is a down payment on my commitment to cover every single American," he said to applause before turning to the economic recovery bill."It won't be easy; it won't happen all at once," Obama said. "But this bill that I'm about to sign, that wasn't easy either."Obama and his advisers see the economic crisis as his window to push through many of his campaign pledges. Renewable energy, financial regulation and even rural Internet access all have been tied to repairing the nation's fractured economy. In the process, Obama has exposed his plan to criticism and questions that threaten to jettison the first major legislation his team has assembled."I refuse to accept that millions of our children fail to reach their full potential because we fail to meet their basic needs. In a decent society, there are certain obligations that are not subject to trade-offs or negotiations, and health care for our children is one of those obligations," Obama said, signaling he was readying for a fight.Obama has faced a difficult week, his second full one in office. Daschle, the former Senate Democratic leader, withdrew his nomination as secretary of health and human services after acknowledging he failed to pay taxes on a car and driver provided by a Democratic fundraiser. His departure also left in the president's team a large gap for someone to usher through sweeping reform Obama has promised.The children's health bill calls for spending an additional $32.8 billion on SCHIP, which now enrolls an estimated 7 million children. Lawmakers generated that revenue by raising the federal tobacco tax.Health officials project that there are about 8 million to 9 million uninsured children in the United States.The bill went to the White House fresh from passage in the Democratic-controlled House, on a vote of 290-135. Forty Republicans joined in approval.Most Republicans, though, criticized the cost of the legislation. They also said it will mean an estimated 2.4 million children who otherwise would have access to private insurance will join the State Children's Health Insurance Program instead."The Democrats continue to push their government-run health care agenda - universal coverage, as they call it," said Rep. Pete Sessions, R-Texas.The bill's passages has long been a top priority of Democratic lawmakers. In late 2007, President George W. Bush twice vetoed similar bills. The Senate passed the same bill last week. Obama made it a top priority in his first 100 days and one step in his push for universal coverage by the end of his first term."President Obama and Congress are demonstrating that change has come to Washington, and we are moving forward to improve the quality of life for American families struggling during these hard times," said Rep. Charles Rangel, D-N.Y., chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.SCHIP was created more than a decade ago to help children in families with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid but too low to afford private coverage.Federal money for the program was set to expire March 31, barring action by Congress. To cover the increase in spending, the bill would boost the federal excise tax on a pack of cigarettes by 62 cents, to $1.01 a pack.Opponents of the bill complained that the tobacco tax increase hits the poor the hardest, because they are more likely to smoke than wealthier people. Many also took exception to expanding the program and Medicaid to children of newly arrived legal immigrants.Republicans said that they supported SCHIP and providing additional money for the program. However, they argued that Democrats were taking the program beyond its original intent and encouraging states to cover middle-class families who otherwise could get private insurance."This debate is about, do we want a children's health insurance program that covers every child in America with state and federal dollars regardless of their ability to pay?" said Rep. Joe Barton, R-Texas. "Do we want to freeze out the private sector for health insurance?"But supporters said that ensuring children had access to adequate health care was a matter of priorities. Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J., said an estimated 4 million people have lost employer-sponsored insurance in the past year."Do they keep their families' health insurance or do they put food on the table at night? During this economic recession, these kinds of decisions are unfortunately becoming more common," Pallone said.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~Obama lifts restrictions on kids' health coverageBy KEVIN FREKINGAssociated Press Writer
President Barack Obama made more children from middle-class families eligible for government health insurance Thursday by lifting a directive imposed by his predecessor.In 2007, the Bush administration said it would strictly adhere to guidelines that limited the scope of the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
A year later, it backed off its threat to penalize states that enrolled middle-class children without first proving they had enrolled nearly all poorer children first.
In a memorandum issued Thursday, Obama completely lifted the restrictions, which many governors and Democratic lawmakers said were nearly impossible to meet.
Obama said in a letter to the Department of Health and Human Services that "tens of thousand of children have been denied health care coverage" because of the directive.
Under the restrictions, at least 95 percent of poor children eligible for Medicaid or SCHIP had to already be in those programs before states could begin using federal funds to cover higher-income children.
Also, states covering higher-income children had to make sure individuals were without health insurance for one year before they were allowed to get government-sponsored coverage.Obama's memo was issued a day after he signed legislation that will enable about 7 million children to continue coverage through SCHIP and allow another 4 million to sign up.
"The way I see it, providing coverage to 11 million children through SCHIP is a down payment on my commitment to cover every single American," Obama said Wednesday at a White House bill-signing ceremony.
The measure was similar to two bills vetoed by former President George W. Bush. It was pushed through both the House and Senate by Democrats eager to give Obama an early victory on health care.Most lawmakers and advocacy groups in the health reform debate acknowledge that the next steps toward reform will be harder than expanding SCHIP, given the increasing federal deficit.
More ambitious changes envisioned by Obama will face entrenched interests in the health care community and Republicans who oppose expanding government-funded insurance.
"Republicans are committed to making health care more affordable, more accessible and offer more options to American families," said Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo. "Unfortunately, the only options we've seen so far this Congress would push us to a one-size-fits all government-run system."
And not all Democrats are on the same page with Obama. Montana's Democratic Sen. Max Baucus, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee, plans to put together a bill that has the same goal as the president but takes a different approach to achieving universal coverage.
Obama acknowledged the difficulties of reforming health care at Wednesday's bill-signing ceremony."It won't be easy; it won't happen all at once," the president said. "But this bill that I'm about to sign, that wasn't easy either."---The bill is H.R. 2.

Jon Lecuyer's Project in the Philippines: Hope for a Child Resource Center

https://www.peacecorps.gov/index.cfm?shell=resources.donors.contribute.projDetail&projdesc=492-342

I recently joined FACEBOOK. Incredible way to connect to friends all over the world. Received notification of this project in today's e communication.

More Caden...

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Feed 100 children...

A great BIG thank you to Anne Condon for introducing me to one of my favorite Christmas gifts this year...I just used it in the grocery store. It is a small zippered bag which unfolds into a large, pocketed cloth bag. The clerks in the store thought it the coolest thing yet...and they didn't even realize the humaniartian element to it. THANK YOU ANNE.

The newest FEED bag, the FEED 100 bag available starting May 1st exclusively at Whole Foods Market nation-wide! Each FEED 100 bag will provide 100 school meals to hungry children in Rwanda through the UN World Food Program (www.wfp.org)
Help us reach our goal of provide all the WFP school meals in Rwanda for 2008 and buy your FEED 100 bag!