People have been asking about my whereabouts this past summer, so I’m giving you a quick rundown. To say this was a once-in-a-lifetime happening could not be more accurate. I am so grateful for the opportunities we had and the support of my wife Sandi for helping to make the summer of 2011 perhaps the most memorable of my adult life. Here’s a condensed chronological view of John’s Epic Summer:
May 31 – The guys gather at the Black Raven to hoist a pint and help me celebrate the Big 5-0. Friends from various intersecting circles gathered for a few hours, and we had a great time together. Check out the venue http://www.blackravenbrewing.com/ and a cool photo album: Pictures from John and Sandi Adami
June 1 – My Birthday! Jeffrey and I spent the afternoon together at Safeco Field watching the Mariners take on Baltimore. The Orioles got the go-ahead run in the 8th winning it 2-1. Didn’t matter, being at the ballpark with Jeffrey was a great present. Only to be surpassed by …
June 4th – the U2 360 Tour comes to Qwest Field! Awesome concert, again accompanied by Jeffrey. I’m a big fan of the group, and they did not disappoint. Yes, I bought the t-shirt.
June 13th - Nikki’s High School Graduation – a blur of activities and celebrations honoring Nikki and her classmates at the International School. This unique school graduated 68 talented students, all of whom are college-bound. My flexible schedule allowed me to accompany the kids on their all-night grad celebration following commencement. Congratulations Titans, Class of 2011! http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2154298378788.129283.1286290734&type=3
June 26 – July 26 European Vacation!! What an amazing, wonderful, memorable experience! The four of us jetted over to the UK with one roller bag each, and spent a month circling the continent. From Cambridge to London, on to Barcelona, Rome, Florence, northern Italy, Geneva, Paris, the Rhine, and Amsterdam. Literally thousands of pictures, fantastic memories, great times with cousins and friends. We’re making plans to go back!! (link to photo albums will appear here)
August 7 – 14 Alaska Cruise! My wonderful parents-in-law celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary by inviting the clan on an Alaskan cruise! Two grandparents + six children + five spouses + nine grandchildren = one fantastic week!
August 26 – September 1 Calvin College! Sandi and I accompanied Nikki to Grand Rapids MI for several days of shopping and orientation as Nikki embarked on her new life as a college freshman. Could not be more thrilled with the school, students, educators and the other families we met. Check out the Knights of Calvin – www.calvin.edu. Good luck Nikki – you’ll do great!
There was one event that put a sour note on the summer, and that was the fire that burnt down my childhood home on Vashon Island. It’s been a rental since 2007 and largely emptied of personal belongings, but it was an emotional blow none the less. The place went up in flames the morning of August 31st and is a total loss. Cautionary Note: BE CAREFUL WITH OILY RAGS – THEY REALLY CAN SPONTANEOUSLY COMBUST. Sorting out insurance and cleaning up the property is likely to continue for quite a while. We are very thankful no one was injured. http://www.vifr.org/apps/public/news/newsView.cfm?News_ID=26
So I ask you … was taking the summer off the right choice? Let me put it this way … if YOU get a similar opportunity, TAKE IT! You won’t regret it one little bit. Ciao!
