The Stoops Men

We were incredibly thankful to have Brad's entire family together for a few days during our visit to VA (the first time since Christmas 2002!). Time was way too short, but we're thankful for family and for the great few days we had together. Pictured L to R are Brad, Mark, Scott and Dad.

Brooke: Busy at the Beach

Brooke didn't quite make it into the photo with her cousins (below), so she gets a solo shot. Whether digging in the sand or crashing into the waves with her dad, she couldn't get enough of the beach! She just turned 1 year old and is now realizing that it is much more fun to walk than to crawl. She continues to be a source of great delight for our entire family.

6 Stoops Girls

Our girls had a blast in Virginia Beach spending time with their cousins, uncles, aunt, and grandparents. This was a shot down at the beach. Our girls (Chloe, Grace, Elise) are wrapped in the white towel flanked by their cousins Finley, Emily and Katie.

To Spain & Back

Just home from a 10-day trip to the Andalusia region of Spain (southern region). Having never been to Spain before, I had no idea what to expect. I knew they are known for olive oil, but I had no idea just how big an industry olives were in this particular region. The olive groves literally spread out as far as the eye could see in every direction. I was also a bit surprised how rugged the landscape was. Quite scenic, and also reminiscent of southern California (minus all those olive trees!). Too bad my olive oil got confiscated enroute back to the U.S. :-(