Highlights from Mali

I recently returned from a trip to Bamako, Mali (West Africa). It was an amazing place like no where else I've ever been. I thought some of you might enjoy a few highlights.

The local Field Staff

Malian Taxi

Pile of Melons

Car Pool

More scooters than people

The contrasting difference of Paris

Technology

I've haven't been able to rip myself from my computer this past week because of this lovely invention. Skype has been my saving grace this last week while my husband is on the other side of the world. I'm not a tech savvy person who's up on all the latest trends, but this has been amazing. I love it that I get to see Eric everyday and talk about all the adventures he's having. Once he sends some pictures, I'll update you all on his adventures.

Oh Mexico!

Since I have been apart of the Crane clan, we have only had one, maybe two, traditional Thanksgivings. I have to admit that I love their style because this year we spent it in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico! We spent the week snorkling, dancing with the locals, relaxing, and people watching on the boardwalk (one of my favorite things to do). It was an incredible week! The weather was perfect. The company was fantastic. I would do it all again next week if I could.

Thanks Joe and Janet for such a great trip!

Here is a detailed description of each picture:

1. Kim, Me, Eric and Taylor on the boat getting ready to snorkel

2. Real, live turkeys that our resort brought in for the festivities

3. Mason with his sunscreen not quite rubbed in. At least they have it on, right Dan?

4. Me and Amber on the boardwalk

5. Fajita Republic- all the kids are zonked out from the bus ride. Taylor and Mason look like they've had a long day.

6. Me and Eric at the waterfall in Yalapa.

7. Sawyer, Mason, Tanner, and Wyatt playing in the sand

8. Eric and Mason swimming together.

What we did this Summer

I know this is long overdue, but here are a few highlight of our summer.

What's in a Name?

So I used to think that picking out a name for our child would be a walk in the park and I've always valued other people's opinions, until now. I was speaking with a few people regarding what we were thinking our child's name should be and a random person, not in the conversation, chimed in, "That is an awful name. Why would you do that to your kid?" I was in awe that this person felt comfortable enough to be so honest. Later on a different person said, "It sounds like a dog's name." I have to say I was a bit offended because I loved the name. Now I know why some people keep it a secret until the very end. All I can think about now is a dog and the humiliation my child might face if I name him what I was planning on.

If you have any non-humiliating suggestions, please let me know. We've got nothin!

Not Forgotten

I know that it has been a while since I've updated our blog. I apologize for not keep you all in the loop, especially since there are so many things going on. I promise that a massive update is coming soon! I'll catch you all up on Baby Crane, our new place, and the amazing summer that we had. As for now, enjoy your week.

Boys- 5 Girls- 0

That's right folks. Add another boy to the ranks in the Crane Family.