Gia & Rick make Hollister Freelance

Gia Borelli and Richard Warren were married Sept. 27, 2008 at Old Mission San Juan Bautista.

CLICK HERE:
Wedding: Borelli/Warren

The Wedding Weekend Reviewed

Well, finally getting back to reality after a whirlwind few weeks. See, I was busy getting married and honeymooning in Mexico. The time went by really fast, which everyone warns you, but what can you do. I enjoyed it all thoroughly and was able to rest a bit near Puerto Vallarta for 8 days. Gia and I stayed at a small resort with a private beach for the first 5 nights in Sayulita. The final 3 nights in a high-rise all-inclusive hotel in Nuevo Vallarta called RIU Hotel Vallarta. The two locations couldn't have been more different and had only one thing in common, they were both near the beach. Our villa in Sayulita was called Playa Escondida and there were only a few couples there the whole time. We had literally had the beach chairs, hammocks and private beach area to ourselves most any day. We also would be among the only people in the pool and hot tub. The exclusive outdoor restaurant was so empty that the famous chef would sit with us for dinner, and come up with customized concoctions. We were treated so well, it was amazing. In fact our whole Mexican vacation was that way, from the drivers, hotel staff, and even medical facility. See, I got and ear infection about half-way and hoped it would pass. I ordered the wrong medicine since I didn't know the words for wax buildup in Spanish. Later when in Nuevo Vallarta we walked into a private medical facility and I was immediately taken care of by the Dr. who spoke perfect English. I couldn't get over how this would never happen in The States (I have Kaiser).

At the RIU we went out to buffet breakfast, lunches and dinners until we ate so much we had to hti the gym and go to the disco. Later we regrouped and enjoyed the spa and had a fancy dinner out. We enjoyed watching the entertainment provided by the young sports/entertainment team who we played water volleyball with earlier in the days. We met several other couples who were married on the same day as us, and I enjoyed trying to figure out how far apart in hours our weddings took place, accounting for time-zones.

Our wedding weekend was so wonderful. From the rehearsal dinner, where we had 70 guests for the Spanish themed outdoor dinner with tapas, paella, tri-tip, sangria, etc. This party, in honor of my late mother, was planned and executed by me and all of my siblings and came off well. It was fun to see a lot of people dressed in red and black. The decor, which Anita and Maria did, was amazing. The house was graciously provided by our family friends, Yvonne and David Perez. After my opening remarks, my Dad did an invocation and everyone, hungrily lined up for the main courses around the Spanish dining time of 9:30. By 11 we were all exhausted and needing rest for the next day.

The wedding day included me delivering chairs, doing finishing touches at the reception site (The Ranch) and going to Radio Shack before a final run by Taco Bell. I got to The Mission in time, but it required some playful running through the streets on San Juan Bautista while the video camera was following me and my best man, Altie. To my surprise, our priest hadn't arrived and didn't until 3:00 exactly, the time we should have started. After about 20 min. he was ready while I poured the holy wine and picked out his vestments. Somehow, we managed to take a whole series of photos in the garden with Altie and my Dad while waiting. The procession was really long, and as I was emotionally watching Gia appear backlit when they opened the large wood door...she immediately came out of her fancy Christian Louboutin red healed shoe. I went from crying to laughing right quick. When we finally got on with it there were other funny moments, including our vows. I proclaimed, "this is a tough crowd" at least once.

For the ceremony, I brought Gia a handkerchief that she had given me that read "JOY" on it. This was one of the 7 she made for me for an earlier AIDS ride. I also brought her the compass she'd given me, which I had previously dismissed to let her know I hadn't forgot the gift. I held a small delicate hanky that was my Mom's.

Following a pictures on the altar, with my family outside and just us in the garden we got in an old car and headed to the reception. We were greeted well while in the rumble seat driving up the road to The Ranch. Missing out on most of the cocktail hour we were swept right to the tables. Gia's Dad did a funny toast focusing on how I should look out for his "smiling" mafia conciliaris. Altie did a great best man toast from the heart and Carla, the maid of honor, followed it up with a hilariously written speech that included several suggestions on how to survived the Borelli family. Gia and I thank everyone and we got on with the festivities which included a special Limoncello toast and my Dad's famous wedding skit that included a lot of hat wearing.

Everyone seemed to enjoy either hanging out in the haybale couch area, indoors watching the slideshow I created, under heat lamps, or on the dance floor. Dancing continued well into the night.

Some responses we've gotten include that this was the best wedding they'd ever been too; and I wonder if everyone just says that about the most recent good wedding they enjoyed.

Sunday, we finished things up with a brunch at San Juan Oaks for family and out of town guests. After doing some cleanup and opening a few presents, we were back to San Francisco Sunday night in time to regroup for our Monday morning honeymoon flight.

Wedding Update less than a week

Wow! It's really getting down to the nitty gritty. Everyone says the same thing, something to the effect of: "don't stress, it will all turn out alright, the important part is your love for each other, etc." Well that's all true and good advice, but I'm in the thick of it here folks. There are still many errands to run, calls to make, and not everyone is on MY time frame. I'm waiting for piano's to be tuned, meat to be picked up, napkins to be monogrammed, etc. Not sleeping near enough, which is causing stress to add to the stress.

Trying to relax, I swear, but with the San Francisco Jazz Festival pre-festival starting while I'm gone there is much work to be done before I leave town (Wed) so I'm trying to deal with all that as well. I think Gia's going to kick me out if I don't back off.

My brother Peter visited for 24 hrs. which was a nice break, but also distracted me from the tasks I had planned to do this weekend. I was telling someone this is the longest I've gone w/o watching TV in years. I did manage to catch the Emmy's on DVR.

Gia called in sick today (she deserved to) and was trying to get our laundry done and run some errands when I left her. We'll see how she's holding up tonight.

Off to a meeting at Davies Symphony Hall (a marvel) and then home for more stuff like writing vows, and practicing our first dance. Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick!

Monday Wedding Update

In an attempt to share what's going on with me I'm going to make every effort to blog on a regular basis between now and THE wedding (Sept. 27). My objective being three-fold: to openly put in writing what it is I need to do and accomplish in these final weeks; allow the reader some insight into what the final weeks of wedding preparation entails; and to communicate with my mass audience a little of what's going on for me lately.

Gia's been away for the 4 days, starting with her bachelorette party weekend in Aptos where numerous of her closest friends have gathered in and out of a beach house. Today, however, she is attending the funeral of her Dad's long-time business partner, John O'Brien, who passed away a few days ago. Just yesterday her Uncle Marvin Grimsley died after his long illness. Marv, married to Gia's aunt Maria was very close to the family as lived just blocks away from The Borelli's. The funeral is scheduled for this Saturday.

Meanwhile, I have to figure out if I can attend the funeral as I previously scheduled to work a major event at KQED with stars of the 60's including Carol Lawrence and a bunch of musicians in the Pledge event of the year. Lately I've been working both in the office at SFJAZZ, doing about one show a week all summer, and picking up a few night and weekend shift at the Q (KQED). This additional income has come in handy with all the wedding expenses that one incurs at this time.

My credit card company (CitiCard) offered me something called, "life events" or something to that effect, that allows for a delay in payments for a 2 months. The charge a fee, but apparently it's less than if I'd pay the normal APR. Meanwhile, I'm getting all these points, which I have no idea how it works. All I know is I wasn't able to work out a free honeymoon trip, which I hear is what others do.

I've been known to do a lot of reading and research on certain things, but with finance I'm like a deer in the headlights. My Dad, on the other hand, is the master of all things financial. And Gia is quite good at keeping track and investing, I could learn a thing or two from them.

This weekend, my nephew and best man Altie came over and we headed into The Mission for dinner. The vibe was pretty kewl in SF as the Power to the Peaceful concert was going on, led by Michael Franti. Ironically, he came into the restaurant we ate at, Bissap Baobab, with his entrougage in toe. Later we had drinks at a few places and I showed Altie a taste of the club life for one last time as a single guy. It was fun, but I was reminded of why I'm happy to be married and away from the dating game.

Just as Altie left on Sunday, and the 49ers lost their home opener, my friend Colleen came over for a visit after her angel workshop. We had a great dinner out at the Citrus Club, a noodle bar, and a nice conversation that lasted so late she got home around midnight, and wrote me this morning to say how groggy she was but how worthwhile it was regardless. Co and I go way back and our conversations are free-flowing and wonderful.

I had intended on spending the entire weekend with Katherine Heigl (the hot one in Grey's Anatomy) but ended up only watching her in "Knocked Up" and saving "27 Dresses" for when Gia's comes home. But with the funerals, wedding planning, work and appointments, it's unlikely Gia will take time for a movie. I squeeze in the Netflix when I can, but it's not a priority for the wife-to-be.

I managed to put off my secret wedding project on account of all the visitors. This project, although planned in my head for about 6 months, has seen little daylight in actually coming to fruition. But I hope to make up for it tonight and in the weeks to come.

Today, I'm back at SFJAZZ, where I'll do some paperwork and potentially leave early to get to the passport office. Gia pointed out that we needed passport updates for our Mexican honeymoon which is recommended but not required, I think, and we are running out of time. I figure it will all work out.

Lately, it's been my M.O., to relax and not worry about things so much and allow them to take their course. Also, allowing Gia to play her part as the bride who makes the final decisions. Oh, my Dad would be happy to know that the final step on the cupcakes has been determined.

Our Wedding or Not?

So much work has gone in to it.
The dedication of many fine individuals.
A production like no other.
A spectacle.
Secrecy and surprises.
Music, spirituality, history.
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~
~~
~
~
~
No not our wedding, but the Opening Ceremonies of the Beijing Olympics.

The famed director Zhang Yimou produced what in my view was one of the most amazing spectacles I've ever seen on television. How incredible was that when the drummers, in unison, pounded on their light box drums. The choreography of so many performers blew me away. How about that scroll film image on the ground and later on the projection overhead? The site of big Yao Ming along with the young earthquake hero. And the final torch lighting, when the retired athlete ran sideways along the amazing 360 degree image above.

That will be one to remember, as will our wedding, in it's own way.

Check out this photo stream: http://www.flickr.com/photos/kathy_zhuang/sets/72157606629275736/

Groomzilla, Reno 2008

This past weekend I had the good fortune of spending a few days (and nights) in Reno with my closest friends and 3 of my 4 brothers. We didn't have any fun, and nothing happened other than a lot of gambling and some eating. That's what I'm supposed to tell you.

Truth be told, there was a roast, multiple Top-10 lists, plenty of drinking, some singing (I was honored to reprise "Hey Jude"), goofy dancing, race cars and miniature golf.

Those who attended were:
Altie Ford, "D" as in L.T.D., my nephew, friend and Best Man
Butch Green, "R.L.S.", one of my oldest and dearest friends
Wayne Purves, "Cool Wayne", my ol' tennis buddy and roomate
Jim Arballo, "Pastor J", the best guy to have around at 3am
Rob Smet, "Big Rob" the smallest guy of the bunch, and my ol' friend from youth ministry
Eric Allen, "E.A." or Eazy, my boy and co-worker
Kevin Warren, "Kevinino", Brother #3
Sean Warren, "Uncle Seany", Brother #2
Ken Warren, "Rummy", Brother #1

We also had names for the 7 of us (before the brothers arrived on Saturday)..but they shall remain a secret among the dwarf's.

I am so grateful to all the boys who showed up and did all the planning, picked up tabs, teased me relentlessly (a form of affection) and took my jokes with a grain of salt. I especially want do a shout out to Butch (Jesse) for his pre-planning and itinerary.

I'll never forget Groomzilla weekend, July 18-20, 2008...and neither will Reno.

AIDS LifeCycle Summary

I recently completed my fourth consecutive AIDS/LifeCycle.

The photo album tells a bit of the story from our final training ride with margarita’s in Sausalito, to all seven days of the 545 mile journey from the City of St. Francis to the City of Angels, followed by my birthday celebration, Gia and I enjoying Santa Monica Pier, relaxing at her brothers’ in Weslake Village and visiting my friend Cady at Sony Pictures.

I met lots of new friends and was re-acquainted with many old ones who come from all over the country. One thing I’ve learned is that the more years I do The Ride, the more emotional it gets as well as more fun. Each year seems to bring new and yet familiar moments of joy that are difficult to translate.

Some highlights include meeting some Hispanic children in Gonzales. I carried with me a youth bracelet that I kept for years. Upon running into this small group, I asked, “If anyone can tell me why we are riding, I’ll give you this bracelet.” They hesitated as clearly English was not their first language. I pointed to my shirt, looking for the word “AIDS”, or anything familiar. Just before I gave up, the eldest boy profoundly said, “You ride to help the sick people.” He got it, and I was so moved. That is truly the reason we do this ride.

Shortly thereafter, I met two riders doing their first century ever and just as we were hitting 100 miles on my odometer we stopped suddenly for a photo op. Grateful, they went in for the final 5 miles. Although it was getting late, suddenly inspired, I raised my bike above my head and began screaming to the riders passing, “You just completed a century!” “Thanks for changing the world!” “Way to ride 100 miles, you rock!.” One by one they responded with, “Thank You,” “I Love You,” and so forth. Many were suddenly aware that they just completed their first century. It was a truly spontaneous moment that went on for nearly an hour until the final riders approached. Boy was I emotionally and physically drained that night.

On Quadbuster, Day Four, there is a notorious 1.8 mile vertical climb. I decided I would attempt it twice: once for myself, and a second time for others. On the way down, I was shouting and encouraging folks. I made the loop back and sought out someone who especially needed encouragement. I met a weeping Kara, and gave her a long push all way up the hill. She told me her legs were burning, and I gently talked with her letting her know she could do it. This is tricky business, helping someone with one hand, while staying balanced and climbing your self. Kara became stronger as we finished, and with a big push over the hump we dismounted and there were hugs and kisses galore. She was grateful for my help, but I was so impressed with her perseverance not to stop that I didn’t once consider my own pain…until camp that night. You’ll see our “victory” photo (she’s in a green jersey while my mouth is awkwardly agape).

In the “it’s a small world” category, I re-met a veteran bicyclist, who has been doing the ride for years and after discussing life a little deeper came to realize that he worked with my sister Peggy for many years at CalTrans and even attended my brother-in-law David’s memorial in 2001. (Peggy, I forget John’s last name but he’s in the photo just after Kara and right before the first Grease Pinky’s shot).

I was so moved on the last day, which coincided with my 43^rd birthday. The night before I had friends sign a personalized white jersey. Many left messages of well wishes and all included their names and rider numbers so I can stay in touch. This was my 2^nd year of uniquely wearing all white on the final day. It was a big hit, and will go down as one of the great days of my life. I was literally stopping traffic in that outfit (near the end of the ride I directed traffic near Peet’s coffee).

This year I introduced a personal philosopher I call BikEvangelism. Being a BikEvangelist, to me, means spreading the good news of kindness, doing for others and acting in a way that Jesus would, if he rode a bike. Never underestimate how helping to fix a flat can change someone’s day or entire ride experience and gain you a friend in the process. So far, this is an internal philosophy but I hope it spread a little on this ride and will carry on in the future. Come to think of it, I believe Jesus was on this ride. How could he not be?

I am so lucky to have the support of all my donors, family, friends, co-workers and of course Gia, who I dedicated this years’ ride to. Thank you all! But I want to especially thank my sister Susy, brother Steve, Cady and Gia for meeting me at the finish, making signs, bringing leis, and making my birthday so special. Also, gracias to Jaime, Lisa and Ana-Sofia for joining us at dinner and for providing that wonderful cake.

The photo above is with Lenore on Day 7, whom when she is not being an angel for ALC, is one of my volunteers at SFJAZZ, among other things.

P.S. There are tons of videos on YouTube, just search: AIDS LIFECYCLE.

Click here to see my photos: http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=e45gba8.5ejvsxcg&x=0&h=1&y=-gmtauo&localeid=en_US

AIDS LifeCycle 7 starts TODAY!

It's the first Sunday in June and that can only mean one thing. Today is the start of AIDS/LifeCycle. I'm off and riding in a matter of minutes after Gia drops me off at the Cow Palace. Even though this is my fourth years, there are still nerves and excitement. I've prepared by body, my bike and my baggage...there little more to do. Oh yeah, but ride 545 miles to Los Angeles. Truth be told, it's going to be great. It always is. And when one keeps in mind others who are suffering from HIV and AIDS, a little discomfort like using port-a-potties and setting up tents and having sore muscles and rising at 4:30am, isn't all that hard.

I wanted to make one final post in order to THANK all my supporters, those who have done so financially and emotionally. I especially want to thank Gia, my fiancee, who I am dedicating this years ride to - for all her support at home. She's been terrific - even in the midst of wedding planning. And she'll be with me on my birthday in Los Angeles and a few days after when we spend the weekend there. I'm so impressed by my group of donors that it's garnered me speechless - which is hard to do.

I dropped off my bike and did orientation Saturday, and it was so great to see old friends. Especially those from out of the Bay Area, whom I only see annually. Gia and I had a glorious dinner last night at a nice Italian restaurant with our neighbors.

If you would like to keep track of ALC 7 go to: http://experience.aidslifecycle.org/2008/support/

Messages of Support on ALC

On Sunday I rode what will be my last major training ride of the season, 101 miles. We left at 6:30am and I didn't return until nearly 6:30pm. A long time on a bike. But it was an amazing day, and I met more beautiful people that will be on THE Ride, June 1-7.

Anyone can send electronic messages of support via the AIDS/LifeCycle website that I'll be able to check every day at camp. I'm rider #3121. http://experience.aidslifecycle.org/2008/support/

Thank you for all your support.

Brother Sean on Mother's Day

I STILL MISS MY MOM

I went to church on Mother's day this year thinking of Mom and all the times at church at Sacred Heart or St. Benedict's. I was remembering one time at Sacred Heart when Mom seemed to spend the whole mass sad and crying, perhaps thinking of her own Mom or someone who had died. I thought of happy times and sad time, but I most often thought of how much I still miss my Mom. I spent the whole day at the gym watching basketball games and at halftime of each game players were given a rose to give to their moms. How I wish I could still buy roses or alma rocca or see’s candies for Mom.

Outside the gym was a Mothers Day concert and reception. Lots of little old ladies some walking with a cane that reminded me of Mom. I smiled opened doors, said Happy Mothers Day,to countlest Moms and Grandmothers, but the more I thought about it the more it made me think of how much I still miss my Mom. I spent the evening trying to avoid thinking about it, I went shopping, watched TV and had dinner by myself. Then as I went to bed that night I couldn’t help but see the pictures, my shrine of Mom, happy, vibrant, smiling, loving, warm. I felt her hugs, her hands, her faith and her unconditional love. I was able to sleep well that night. The next day I saw pictures of Kevin’s 50th birthday party, how proud she would have been of all of us getting together sharing and caring. Looking at Altie as a dad, watching the bright blue eyes of Elijah, and anticipating the excitement of the summer and Rick and Gia's fall wedding. How can I honor her, How can I help take what she has given me, How can I help the legacy?

My thought and prayers are with all of you this day and always.

May God Bless You, Keep You Safe and Hold You In The Palm Of His Hand. I think of all of you often, you help to comfort me when times are sad, life goes on, but you must know I still miss my Mom.

Love,

Sean

ALC Journey Continues

FUNDRAISING:
I'm pushing ahead in my quest to ride for the fourth consecutive year in AIDS/LifeCycle 7, despite a busy schedule and a few minor setbacks. As I've mentioned in prior posts I have experienced much joy from training and completing "The Ride." In order to continue I must raise a minimum of $2500.

My fundraising has picked up but I'm still about $1000 away from the minimum with only 5 weeks to go. I need your help. If you're reading this you must care a little about me and my journey. I've had former co-workers donate $100, a friend of Gia's who I've never met pledged $1 per mile, one of my volunteers personally donated $500 (again) and is asking others to view my homepage. Please consider a donation of any amount so I can join my friends and family at the finish (my birthday) on June 7th.

DEDICATION:
The first year I dedicated the ride to my late brother-in-law and friend David, as I rode his TREK bicycle and channeled his beautiful spirit. I carried his picture throughout my training and all the way to LA.

The second year I rode for myself. I know it sounds selfish, but I was under strict orders from my therapist and it was necessary for my personal growth.

The third year I dedicated it to my late Mother who passed away the year before. I carried a precious picture of her on the beach when she was young and her smile lifted me over many a hill.

In the year in which I will be married, this time I've decided to ride in honor of my bride-to-be, Gia. I hope to carry a picture of her beautiful face and recall what makes me so happy (and no doubt do a little wedding planning in my head). Help me to make this a reality.

Please click here: ALC HOMEPAGE, for more information. Thanks.

__________________________________________________________________

Support me for AIDS/LifeCycle 7

AIDS/LifeCycle 7

545 miles - from the City of St. Francis to the City of Angels

June 1-7, 2008

For the fourth year in a row I'm participating in AIDS/LifeCycle. It's a 7-day, 545-mile bike ride from SF to LA which makes a world of difference in the lives of people living with HIV and AIDS.

In 2005 I began a journey to complete "THE AIDS ride" during the week of my 40th birthday. Little did I know these four years later, how it would change my life. I am be fully invested in the mission of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, have been a Training Ride Leader for three consecutive years, met so many wonderful people and personally have raised over $11,000 for the HIV/AIDS beneficiaries.

I’ve been preparing for the summer launch. Here's a bit about what goes into the training season:

In September of the prior year there is thank you ride. This is when after a few months of rest that many of us begin to decide if we're going to do "the ride" again (although some have already signed up during the previous ride). In October is the kick-off the season ride and around this time is also when Training Ride Leader (TRL) re-certification begins. This year well over 100 volunteer TRL's were certified in the Bay Area alone. Training rides start appearing on the ALC online calendar in November and December.

On January 13 was the big kick off event, and this year the sign-ups were cut off to the first 2500 around just after that event. Series training rides are being created in January. Most rides are Category 2 (10-12 mph) and the most popular of which are Ben's Sunday rides which run about 16 weeks with an increase of 10-15% in miles each week. I help lead some of the series and other rides like the Hollister Hills Ride I created in 2006. By February we're in full force and there are multiple rides on the calendar on even given weekend in SF/Marin, South Bay and East Bay.

By March everyone is going full force and riding several days a week. The idea is to build up saddle time and get used to riding multiple days in a row while also not peaking too early. In April and May one might be doing 80-90 miles on Saturday and 50-70 on Sunday. I personally ride to work several days a week, do a solo ride during a weekday and get in one long "official" ride on the weekend. My schedule is complicated from March-June with the jazz season, so working everything in is quite the challenge.

This year Day 0 is March 31 where we drop off our bikes and wait in lines to register. It takes 1/2 the day and you get to see everyone coming together for the first time from newbies you helped train to ol' friends from years past. I love Day 0 at the Cow Palace as it is a nervous exciting reunion of sorts. On June 1 we'll arrive with our luggage and after announcements depart "as one" heading to Santa Cruz for our first camping night. This is the only day everyone leaves at once, as the subsequent days will be an open staggered start from 6:30-8:30am. Most people leave around 7am.

Each year I have celebrated a birthday on the ride. This year I am stoked that it will be on the final day where the natural celebration will be in full force. Should I wear white (for victory) again?

Now you know a little more about the process and all the work that goes into making “THE ride” so enjoyable for me. Help me support the San Francisco AIDS Foundation by giving what you can. We'll keep riding until AIDS and HIV are a thing of the past.

Peace and Love,

ALC Rider #3121

P.S. For more information and to donate online go to my homepage at: www.aidslifecycle.org/3121.

Wedding Plans (officially) Announced!

So we finally have a firm date, church and reception location to announce as of today:

Gia and I will be married on September 27, 2008 at Old Mission San Juan Bautista. The ceremony will begin at 3pm. The reception will immediately follow with full dinner and dancing at Don Christopher Ranch, also in San Juan.

We are currently working on hotel options and registry info for our guests. We'll be sending out electronic "Save the Date" cards soon.

Thanks for your patience during this difficult decision. We are super excited and moving forward with the details.

THE Wedding Countdown

Wedding Update Part 4

So Santa Cruz is out and San Juan Bautista is in. Close to "home" and quaint as heck.

We are almost sure of a Sept. 27 date but I'll leave the details out for now as we need to firm up the church to match the venue and make sure everything lines up time-wise before making the official announcement.

Suffice to say this has been an arduous process of selecting the all important city, venue and date. Much longer than we planned. However, I believe that through our perseverance we've selected a location and place which accommodates all of our wishes. No curfew, a great caterer, outdoorsy, etc.

I look forward to posting on here when we are 100% sure, and will give everyone invited hotel/inn options at that time.

Thanks for all your support during this stressful time. Now the fun part of preparing the details.

Maria's Hot Latte Challenge

I have a new game for the family, involving the photos below, and having to do with my favorite drink -- a hot latte! As I was going thru the pictures, I associated some right away with members of our family. I decided to come up with one for each of us 12 "kids", like Mom did for us with the prayer windows, and that's when I got the idea to make it a game.

Since there are 14, I included Mom & Dad. I went back and forth with some of them, but now chose one for each. Anyone could play and some of the "symbols" could be associated with the spouses and families, but just guess Mom, Dad or one of us sibs, by matching up ea. name with a #.

The winner who gets the most matched up correctly will get a prize from me --- maybe coffee, or chai latte for Rick.

Love you a latte (hee hee),
Maria

Coffee Art:
There is a restaurant in Vancouver...actually three where they dress up the lattes. You get to watch them create the pictures. What can be done with coffee, cream, milk & imagination? For the coffee lovers and others just to enjoy the art.


Add the number after the name and email answers to Maria:

+Mom=
Dad=
Ken=
Peggy=
Bonny=
Susy=
Sean=
Cefe=
Maria=
Josefa=
Kevin=
Peter=
Anita=
Rick=

1)


2)


3)


4)


5)


6)


7)


8)


9)


10)


11)


12)


13)


14)

Hollister Hills Ride

Check out my ALC buddy David Gaus' blog.

Wedding Update Part 3

We're getting closer to choosing a location and date. Gia, Carla and their mother Josephine did some site visits on Monday while in Santa Cruz. They liked two of the places we had on our list and we are in the midst of choosing one of them, hopefully soon. I won't reveal all the info just yet, but both are essentially retreat centers that will accomodate all the elements we are looking for. We're looking forward to a full weekend of activities in either the 2nd or 3rd weekend of October. Stay in touch!

Wedding Update Part 2

Gia and I spent a rainy Tuesday looking at wedding venue sites in the Santa Cruz/Aptos area. Each of them are different and we are yet to make the big decision. We're hoping to go down and do more site visits the week after next.

For me, this feels like one of the biggest decisions as it will effect so many other factors from vendors to which city we will end up in to the overall cost. We are getting a bit anxious but not too worried quite yet, as our wedding plans are tentatively set for October, we have over 8 months.

I'm excited that we have secured a tentative church and priest which was my first choice. This could be changed, however, if we don't settle on a ceremony venue in Santa Cruz.

We are going to be cashing in some favors and are asking some friends/family to share their skills like photography, singing, decorating and DJ'ing.

P.S. Who said orange was a bad color for October?

Wedding Update

Plans are not set yet for our potential Fall '08 wedding date; causing sleepless nights and trepidation in the Warren-Borelli household. We are weighing the merits of Hollister, Aptos and San Francisco locations. Our hopeful choice of Pietra Winery is on hold as they determine if doing a wedding after 2 years is going to work for them during wine making season.

Also looking into churches and chapels. Reading The Knot book and browsing online with HereComesTheGuide.com and more.

Some advice we've been given is to not reveal too much and therefore open your plans up for debate and potential let down, but I'm of the open book variety, always have been. The bride-to-be and I are of a bit different thinking on things, so we have our own compromising (read: convincing) to do. But it'll be fun to get creative and do some things traditionally and others with our own flair and uniqueness. Of course, time, money and the like are great equalizers.

We've been in touch with some ol' friends after long absences as a result of the engagement and have enjoyed reconnecting. We thank all those who sent nice engagement cards, I didn't even know that was so common.

Gia's brother Stephen took some engagement pictures of us on Christmas/Proposal Day and one is posted on previous post. I'm hoping to get the others to share soon. Meanwhile here's one of Gia and my future brother-in-law, Frank.