08.20.2010: Talking Stick Casino

There is a new remodeled casino about 5 miles from our house. So, one day, in between out chaos and travels, we decided to check it out...a mini-"stay"cation. So we went over there to explore the casino & hotel...and check out the restaurants...oh, and have a few drinks and play a few slots! It turns out to be a gorgeous casino/resort. It has nice little bars (with good prices), nice views, lounges, very clean...good slots! So we explored & took some pics. We will definitely be back for drinks & mini-getaways! There is also a restuarant on the top floor called "Orange Sky". It is arguably the BEST restaurant in Phoenix! The views are amazing, there is an awesome bar area with live music & floor to ceiling windows....and thats all before you even get seated. So, on the dinner & the lobster bisque....best I have ever had....moment of silence in honor of the bisque. Ahhhhh...

Then the steak....holy moly...takes a pretty good steak to impress me...as I have had my fair share...but this one was amazing. In the top 3 easily!!! Then the sides.....mmmmmmm! Service was fabulous! Wine list was extensive and very well priced. Oh, and George Benson was eating at the table next to us. All in all....a great amazing experience!!I hope it never loses that amazing feeling, as we will definitely be going back again soon!!!!

Disclaimer....no, I was not paid to review the restaurant...but wouldn't mind some comps for the props...in case anyone is reading! :)

View out the side...to the north west-ish

Always the standard self-shot....

Just thought this would be a cool pic

Pontificating....

In the elevator on the way to the top floor....

If anyone comes to town (or is already in town) and would like to go...just give us a call...we will sacrafice our time to show you around!!! :)

08.14.2010: First Charger Game of the Season! GO CHARGERS!!

On Sat, a group of us went to the Chargers vs Bears pre-season football game. It is hard to get the kids to regular season games since they are always on Sunday or Monday (and they have school & everything)...so we took advantage of a pre-season game to all be able to go together. Mom & Dad got a bunch of extra tix for the game so we could all sit together right in their section. It was a blast...the kids had a great time! Although at some point they became more concerned with the guys walking around with the food....specifically cotton candy! Andrew got good at calling them over then looking at Brent & Alisa for the cash! Haha! They were all decked out in their Charger stuff that Mom & Dad just got for them. It was also the week before Drake's 8th bday...so it was kinda a pre-birthday celebration for him as well. We had a REALLY GREAT time!!

08.14.2010: Visit with Gramma & Papa

On Sat, before the Charger game, we all went over to visit Gramma and Papa. They were out on the patio enjoying the beautiful morning....and watching Pokey eat his lettuce. Pokey is their desert tortoise....and, of course, he stole the show!! The kids loved finding dandelions for him to eat and petting him and feeding him his lettuce. I don't think Pokey was too excited to see all of us, as he is used to quiet...so he chased us around a few times. Drake got a little too close with one flower for him and Pokey ate part of his finger too. Guess he thought it was attached. Scared Drake, but only pinched the tip of his finger. Turned into a blister that lasted over a week....although he didn't mind....he shared it for "show and tell" at school on Monday! The other kids found it amazing that he was bit by a turtle! :)

Nana only pet his shell...that was close enough for her!

And Pokey is on the move....and Nana jumped in Alisa's lap!!

He loves toes and toe nail polish....so if you are not wearing shoes...watch out!

Yes, another fabulous Durbin talent...we can all do it!

Nana likes showing off all our hidden family talents! :)

Grandparents and the kids!!