With that, if you have not seen How to Train your Dragon then you are missing out. It has an excellent message along with humorous moments. The flying scenes are breathtaking with or without the 3D-glasses. It does not matter if you are a kid or an adult, there is so much built into this film that all will enjoy. Just beware that the food costs as much or even more than the cost of the movie tickets, Yikes!

Now on to food, we have bought and electric grill for our patio called The Bistro. It uses infra-heat to cook meat from the inside out. We had the juiciest burgers ever! Even the next day, I took some to work and my co-workers could not believe how juicy they were the next day too. We marinated a Beef Tenderloin in brown sugar-and whiskey, then put it on the grill. It melted in our mouths. Yummy! We have also tried pork chops and chicken. We love to grill, so this grill has been such a wonderful addition especially since summer is on its way. Many may criticize that electric grills are not the same as charcoal, but this grill can use wood chips to enhance that smokey flavor, so we will not miss out at all on the flavors of true grilling. As summer approaches, think about getting your own Bistro!

After grilling, there needs to be family fun. WII Resort is so much fun to play for the whole family. We each get to create a personalized character. Then we can be on same team or play in competition mode. There is archery, jet skiing, water skiing, sword fighting, Frisbee, golfing, etc…..It is much more of a workout than one would think. My arms are sore the next day after trying to shove my son off the platform during a competition. He usually is the one to knock me off, but I am a good-sport. There are so many choices to get the kids and adults off the couch, jumping around, laughing, and squealing with delight.

From our family to yours, we wish you many happy moments in these tough times. We are thankful for our many blessings, sending blessings to you and your family today.

DDF

There are inspirational quotes lining the walls that teach wisdom, kindness and responsibility. Sensei Bob makes sure the parents are welcome by having coffee, tea, and snacks available. He is one that likes to create a family atmosphere, so he enjoys providing gifts for his students during Christmas. He made sure the kids had a safe place to go on Halloween night, so we are very thankful to have such a positive influence on our son who cares for him. We can entrust that he will encourage and reinforce our values. Sensei Bob and students participated in ninja night where the kids get to spend the night at the dojo. They had a blast and just to reveal what kind of sensei our son has, he built a trophy to create a bit of competitiveness between dojos. The winning dojo got to keep the trophy until the next ninja night.

Our son has three group sessions and one private session each week. It takes time and dedication for the whole family, but we believe it is worth it, especially when the dojo is filled with the sounds of kids yelling “kiai.” Pronounced key-eye and means: spirit yell.

Sensei Bob uses different teaching methods to meet the needs of many types of kids. There are students with Down syndrome in our son’s class. He is strict and expects students to listen, respect, and to perform to the best of their ability. He rewards them not only for performing, but also for following instructions or being helpful to a fellow student. The kids are learning the competitive techniques of karate, but also team work, self-discipline, how to focus, how to concentrate, positive attitude, patience, and how to deal with emotions. Our son is learning that he needs to practice if he would like to test for his next belt. Sensei Bob is direct with our son when he can see he had not practiced, so he reinforces what we are teaching him at home. Our son is learning that he will not win every time just because he shows up, but that he has to lose gracefully, and beyond that show good sportsmanship.

Sensei Bob uses stars and ninjas to reward students along with his verbal cues that make kids smile, jump up and down, and try harder. He has a way of joking with the kids on their level while teaching a new technique. He is like a big kid when he is teaching the group, but very serious during the private session. He really strives to help our son perfect his movements and learn the art of balance. He has a knack for seeing which two kids would work the best together to gain sparring skills. Our son and his best friend have practiced together and are exciting to watch as they perform a kata, DM, or pinan.

When we signed up our son he was provided a dogi (pronounced ghee) with the USSD patch, DVD, and book. We were able to set up a monthly payment plan. We were able to buy the sparring gear as a special. Our son has three 45 minute group sessions and one half hour of private lessons. He took part in his first competition which was a humbling experience for him since he did not earn a trophy, but we were proud to see him perform in front of a huge audience.

It is said that our kids are the best investment, so we believe that the experiences our son is having at the Canyon Gates dojo are priceless. If you are interested at all in an activity that will teach more than just a sport then give a USSD dojo a visit. While there, check out the “free session” provided for all new comers. There are always specials to get you hooked as a parent, child, or adult student.

Check out the USSD site:

http://www.ussd.com

None of the three Blue Men speak the entire show or even at the meet and greet after the show. Those eyes seem to look right through you. Their expressions have three distinct personalities that are portrayed with such comfortableness that it just seems normal. Audience participation is huge, so they were walking all over the chairs, through people, and along all walkways; those piercing eyes looking mesmerized by the foreign non-blue audience members. Then they choose a couple of people to do skits with them. I don’t want to give too much, but the two they chose did an excellent job of playing along.

From the toilet paper water fall all over the audience, the music, the colors, the band, and shifting gears every ten minutes. My brain was on overload, but loving every minute. They are just disgusting enough to make the adults go “Ewww,” but the kids squeal in delight. It is a family friendly show that has a little science lesson in their on how the eye can be tricked. Very impressive with the intense music in the background.

The band members were really great after the show. We got to take pictures and talk to them. They really love being part of show. The Blue Men did not speak, but posed with us for pictures. They did nod at compliments, so that is enough for me. If you have not seen the show yet, then take your whole family because it worth the adventure.

DDF

The night got off to a great start with comedian Josh Wolfe whose material included topics about his teenage son and daughter. He was able to set up the tone for the night with his potty jokes and how he met his wife. It was love at first sight for him which ended up being a very funny story. Gene Watson and his band were then introduced which the best song of the night was “There ain’t no trash in my trailer.” They also played “The Devil Went Down to Georgia” and “Sweet Home Alabama.” It was only the beginning of an extremely delightful night.

The audience was on their feet when Larry the Cable Guy was brought onto the stage. We laughed for so long, our ribs are sore the next morning. His new CD is going to be another huge hit. The man who coined the phrases “Git R Done,” “Lord, I apologize,” “I don’t care who you are, that’s funny right there” is still working on new phrases like “I’m madder than a ………..” He then fills in the blank with lines like “I’m madder than a midget with a yo-yo.” His Al Gore skit was too funny, but with just enough truth to make a point. Listening to him relive memories of his family and now his two kids just made him more personable. His ability to twist a story or make observations on life that we may ignore is what makes him a very talented comedian.

If you have the opportunity to see him in person then it is definitely worth it. He will have you laughing throughout the night. Check out his new CD. It is going to be a huge hit just like his “Git R Done” CD which has sold over 1 million copies and is now certified platinum. “Tailgate Party” will leave you in hysterically laughing, so get on his site and see if he is coming to your town and don’t miss out on one exceptionally talented comedian.

The biggest question is how do some get out of the poverty, no dads, moms who have to sell their bodies, loss of faith, heartbreak? How do some kids come out stronger and better people while others give in and just stay to repeat the mistakes of the previous generation?

Then there is the question of “is it fate” or did God intervene because in the movie there were a set of circumstances that led Oher to being adopted by his family. If not for that one moment on a cold Thanksgiving night would his story be the same? Just a thought, God may be a bigger part in our lives more than we think. Oher, for some reason listened to the right voice and it led him to the life he has now.

We watched a few of his interviews which showed his humbleness, insight, and thankfulness toward his life. he wasn’t ashamed of his life, but instead felt blessed. It is nice to see his story especially when we all have envied others because of money or opportunity. We assume they all have lived a privileged life, but each person has their own story.

If you have not seen the movie, then go and get inspired. We left the theater wondering how we can do more and then just seeing our own adopted daughter’s car, it made us smile since we have this young woman who we are so proud of for what she has overcome. She has taught us a lot too, so go see the movie and think about your idea of what makes a family. That is what we got out it.

Thursday is Glenn Beck’s The Christmas Sweater which was in the previews. We will be there. Hope to see you! We are changing our thinking about so many different things: family, religion, politics, America, freedom, giving, family, and most importantly; God.

Why has believing in God become so negative? Watching the movie, these were good Christian people and why not portray them that way. Don’t let Christ be left out this year. There are a number of good people out there, just look at our founders.

As we live in the legacy of our fathers this season, may we all be proud to show love for our country and each other……..

DDF

As soon as Saving Abel took the stage with songs from their debut album, they began with New Tattoo,” “18 Days,” “Drowning (Face Down), and finished with “Addicted.” They kept thanking Vegas for being hyped up for the 1st band. The audience was invited to the after party where they were going to hand out with fans. They did some chanting and were very personable with the audience. Saving Abel introduced the other bands while interacting with the audience. One of the main highlights was a texting contest and the winner got to keep the guitar they played that night. They also got to sit at the table later with pics and back stage passes. They do this every concert so they do love their fans.

With his energy, raspy voice, and gruff look, many of the younger girls in the audience said he is one “hot, sexy” rocker. Even Saving Abel said the ladies would all be turned on after his performance. We were meeting Nickelback during his performance so we relied on our younger members to fill us in on his set. He sang “I Almost Told You That I Loved You” from his new album, Metamorphosis.

Can’t help but notice the crazy hair of the drummer, Cody, along with his talented drum sticks. They had plenty of jokes, anecdotes, and personal stories that made the audience more electrified along with songs from their new album, Take It To The Limit, such as “Up All Night,” “Use Me,” and “Loaded And Alone.” They also played songs from their Extreme Behavior album like “Lips of an Angel,” “Get Stoned,” and “Better Than Me.” Their range from hard-core to melodic makes Hinder one of the most eclectic bands on our favorite’s list.

As for Nickelback, it was hot and heavy from the moment the explosives sounded as they walked on stage. The lighting, pyrotechnics, heat from the flames or the wall of falling fire behind the set drove the audience into a frenzy of jumping and screaming. One amazing collaboration was when Chad asked lead (Austin) from Hinder and Papa Roach to accompany him on singing “Highway To Hell” by AC/DC. It was AWESOME! Heart and soul was on stage, with an awe-inspiring drum solo by Daniel Adair. Chad Kroeger would call pals and back stage workers out to thank them. He would personally ask questions of people in the audience. He even had beer brought out to give many a beer shower. He is no one for being G-rated, so he is wild with the F-word being the favorite of the night, but even so, he comes off so humble and inviting. On their site he states they do not take anything for granted which comes out in the concert. He was singing for two hours while playing the guitar, running all over stage. His brother bringing up the harmony and guitar solos. They must have played every song from every album including songs from Dark Horse like the nasty songs “Something In Your Mouth, and “S.E.X.” Then thanked the troops and dedicated “Gotta Be Somebody” and “If Today Was Your Last Day” to those who want to change the world for the good. They then moved into songs from past albums like “Photograph,” “Far Away,” Rockstar,” If Everyone Cared,” “How You Remind Me” and “Animals.”

The ending was nothing but spectacular with the fire, popping of gun powder, and the light show that ended still with that adrenaline rush that ran through the whole night. It was like the concert just began and had not just ended. All the bands put on a show that was so full of force and grit that even though we could not hear each other after it was all over we still were basking in the raw intensity of the talent on stage. Then we went home and had a shot in honor of the drunken fest after-parties we were not at, so cheers Chad with your Rum and Coke and us with just a hint (okay half a bottle) of Partida tequila in honor of one rockin’ concert.

As soon as Saving Abel took the stage with songs from their debut album, they began with New Tattoo,” “18 Days,” “Drowning (Face Down), and finished with “Addicted.” They kept thanking Vegas for being hyped up for the 1^st band. The audience was invited to the after party where they were going to hand out with fans. They did some chanting and were very personable with the audience. Saving Abel introduced the other bands while interacting with the audience. One of the main highlights was a texting contest and the winner got to keep the guitar they played that night. They also got to sit at the table later with pics and back stage passes. They do this every concert so they do love their fans.

With his energy, raspy voice, and gruff look, many of the younger girls in the audience said he is one “hot, sexy” rocker. Even Saving Abel said the ladies would all be turned on after his performance. We were meeting Nickelback during his performance so we relied on our younger members to fill us in on his set. He sang “I Almost Told You That I Loved You” from his new album, Metamorphosis.

Can’t help but notice the crazy hair of the drummer, Cody, along with his talented drum sticks. They had plenty of jokes, anecdotes, and personal stories that made the audience more electrified along with songs from their new album, Take It To The Limit, such as “Up All Night,”  “Use Me,” and  “Loaded And Alone.” They also played songs from their Extreme Behavior album like “Lips of an Angel,” “Get Stoned,” and “Better Than Me.”  Their range from hard-core to melodic makes Hinder one of the most eclectic bands on our favorite’s list.

As for Nickelback, it was hot and heavy from the moment the explosives sounded as they walked on stage. The lighting, pyrotechnics, heat from the flames or the wall of falling fire behind the set drove the audience into a frenzy of jumping and screaming.  One amazing collaboration was when Chad asked lead (Austin) from Hinder and Papa Roach to accompany him on singing “Highway To Hell” by AC/DC. It was AWESOME!  Heart and soul was on stage, with an awe-inspiring drum solo by Daniel Adair. Chad Kroeger would call pals and back stage workers out to thank them. He would personally ask questions of people in the audience. He even had beer brought out to give many a beer shower.  He is no one for being G-rated, so he is wild with the F-word being the favorite of the night, but even so, he comes off so humble and inviting. On their site he states they do not take anything for granted which comes out in the concert. He was singing for two hours while playing the guitar, running all over stage. His brother bringing up the harmony and guitar solos. They must have played every song from every album including songs from Dark Horse like the nasty songs “Something In Your Mouth, and “S.E.X.” Then thanked the troops and dedicated “Gotta Be Somebody” and “If Today Was Your Last Day” to those who want to change the world for the good. They then moved into songs from past albums like “Photograph,” “Far Away,” Rockstar,” If Everyone Cared,” “How You Remind Me” and “Animals.”

The ending was nothing but spectacular with the fire, popping of gun powder, and the light show that ended still with that adrenaline rush that ran through the whole night. It was like the concert just began and had not just ended. All the bands put on a show that was so full of force and grit that even though we could not hear each other after it was all over we still were basking in the raw intensity of the talent on stage. Then we went home and had a shot in honor of the drunken fest after-parties we were not at, so cheers Chad with your Rum and Coke and us with just a hint (okay half a bottle) of Partida tequila in honor of one rockin’ concert.

The MGM can hold ten thousand fans, so the arena was packed. As the legendary classic rockers, ZZ Top, walked on stage the whole arena erupted in unanimous shouting. The excitement of seeing the trio together with the synchronized steps and memorable MTV videos playing in the background while entertaining us with songs like “Legs,” “La Grange,” “Cheap Sunglasses,” “Pearl Necklace,” “Got Me Under Pressure,” and “Sharp Dressed Man.” The guitars seemed to be having a conversation between each other and we had the privilege of listening in.

The fun of picking characters in Guitar Hero is that you can pretend to be a brilliant guitar player, but we have nothing on Joe Perry and Slash playing side by side. Listening to 10,000 fans singing Happy Birthday to Slash was one of the most memorable experiences of our lives. Only Steven Tyler can walk on the stage as one of the sexiest men alive in a bright gold flowing jacket, sequined camo-style tight pants, and scarves wrapped around his microphone. He was on fire onstage going from one side to the other. He never stopped moving and when he did address the audience he was very personable and funny. He joked with one woman who was sitting down when he came on stage. She was really close to the stage and he yelled for everyone to get on their feet. She did not so he looked right at her and belted, “I said get your *** up.” With that she bolted to her feet and he went on to sing his first song. He also pushed his microphone into people’s faces to finish a note or sing the chorus. It was so much fun to watch his interaction with his band along with the audience.

Aerosmith is classic rock along with a bluesy sound that swept through the audience like waves of elation with songs like “Sweet Emotion,” “Walk This Way,” “Back in the Saddle Again,” “Toys in the Attic,” “Same Old Song and Dance,” “Rag Doll,” “Love in an Elevator,”  “Pandora’s Box,” “and “Dream On.” Aerosmith was inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame on March 19, 2001. Columbia Records released Just Push Play. Just Push Play was the first Aerosmith album to be produced by band members Steven Tyler and Joe Perry (along with Mark Hudson and Marti Frederiksen). “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” which was the theme song for Armageddon was a highlight of the night with Liv Tyler on the screen behind him. Between the guitar battles and gyrating on stage, it was an evening of heart pumping music by legendary people who we try to mimic on games like Guitar Hero. Get your tickets before the tour is over! Absolutely the most Awesome concert ever…….

The MGM can hold ten thousand fans, so the arena was packed. As the legendary classic rockers, ZZ Top, walked on stage the whole arena erupted in unanimous shouting. The excitement of seeing the trio together with the synchronized steps and memorable MTV videos playing in the background while entertaining us with songs like “Legs,” “La Grange,” “Cheap Sunglasses,” “Pearl Necklace,” “Got Me Under Pressure,” and “Sharp Dressed Man.” The guitars seemed to be having a conversation between each other and we had the privilege of listening in.

The fun of picking characters in Guitar Hero is that you can pretend to be a brilliant guitar player, but we have nothing on Joe Perry and Slash playing side by side. Listening to 10,000 fans singing Happy Birthday to Slash was one of the most memorable experiences of our lives. Only Steven Tyler can walk on the stage as one of the sexiest men alive in a bright gold flowing jacket, sequined camo-style tight pants, and scarves wrapped around his microphone. He was on fire onstage going from one side to the other. He never stopped moving and when he did address the audience he was very personable and funny. He joked with one woman who was sitting down when he came on stage. She was really close to the stage and he yelled for everyone to get on their feet. She did not so he looked right at her and belted, “I said get your *** up.” With that she bolted to her feet and he went on to sing his first song. He also pushed his microphone into people’s faces to finish a note or sing the chorus. It was so much fun to watch his interaction with his band along with the audience.

Aerosmith is classic rock along with a bluesy sound that swept through the audience like waves of elation with songs like “Sweet Emotion,” “Walk This Way,” “Back in the Saddle Again,” “Toys in the Attic,” “Same Old Song and Dance,” “Rag Doll,” “Love in an Elevator,”  “Pandora’s Box,” “and “Dream On.” Aerosmith was inducted into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame on March 19, 2001. Columbia Records released Just Push Play. Just Push Play was the first Aerosmith album to be produced by band members Steven Tyler and Joe Perry (along with Mark Hudson and Marti Frederiksen). “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” which was the theme song for Armageddon was a highlight of the night with Live Tyler on the screen behind him.

Between the guitar battles and gyrating on stage, it was an evening of heart pumping music by legendary people who we try to mimic on games like Guitar Hero. Get your tickets before the tour is over! Absolutely the most Awesome concert ever…….

There is something to be said when an artist can walk on the stage with just her presence and a guitar; that is powerful. Jewel began her concert with her version of “Over the Rainbow” which was mesmerizing. Then in her humble way she asked the audience what songs we would like to hear. Then joked about herself, life, and experiences as she played each song. She is an ACOUSTIC GENIOUS. It is hard to fathom that her vocal range can move from a whisper to powerhouse in a matter of a few notes. Her vocal range tells a story because if her range was different then I would not have cried during “My Father’s Daughter,” or “Hands.” She has a knack for emphasizing certain notes that hit the heart, mind, and soul. When Jewel sings the audience is deathly quiet listening intently to how she spins her lyrical stories such as “Intuition,” “Stronger Woman,” “Foolish Games,” and “Who Will Save Your Soul.”

Another treat was her opening act, Ashley Monroe, who writes her own songs too.  Her song “Used” was our favorite. She had the honor of singing along with Jewel and we have to say the duet was wonderful. Their harmony complimented each other so what an unexpected treat.

Two hours of non-stop vocal brilliance that culminated in her very popular yodeling skit which she learned at the age of six when her parents performed Vaudeville. This talented woman is also an artist, so go to her website to view her art work. Another way to keep up with her busy life is to follow her on twitter or read her blogs on her website. She is a very open, honest, and caring artist which is why she is in our top ten on our myspace. We are looking forward to Jewel returning to Las Vegas soon. We highly recommend you see Jewel in concert. It is a very unforgettable experience.

www.jeweljk.com