Daily Archives: 06/29/2008

(Community Matters) Two of our very dearest friends are Joe & Tana Christie. Last night we celebrated Joe’s 75th birthday with his family and a small group of friends.

original pic: AAS

Joe’s a former State Senator from El Paso, Chairman of the State Insurance Commission, US Senate candidate, oil & gas guy, manufacturing entrepreneur and rebel rouser who traveled with Charlie Wilson to Afghanistan. He’s been a dear friend for at least 15 years, as well as a confidant and mentor.

Tana & great nephew, Tiger Woods-to-be Quinlen

Joe’s nephew-in-law David Sparks, daughter Molly Christie Benson and David’s daughter, future Olympic swimmer Delaney

niece and sports entrepreneur, Jenny Sparks

Lily & Chris Fabre

Mark, Pamela & Craig

Tamara, Steven, Robert & Charles

Delaney & Ivy

Very fun granddaughters Lily & Ivy

My parents embedded a spirit of hospitality in me. Joe & Tana reinforce it constantly with their gracious, easy & inclusive ways of hosting.

(Community Matters) She’s been really shy this season, not sure what that’s about. Mostly just hangs in water or along side rocks but off of the deck. Last year we could nearly pet her.

hmm, not sure this will even show. See her head peeking out under the flat rock