Picard

Phone Number

2011-07-26T18:45:00.000-07:00

Gavin told me this afternoon (very proudly) that he got 2 girls' phone numbers at school today!

what do i do with that? :)

A rare find

2011-07-26T18:28:00.001-07:00

it is a very rare thing to find a peer that challenges me, inspire me, and one that a have tons of respect for. they are few and far between.

i have found 2. I feel blessed to have found 2...they are not on my direct peer team, but they have become MY team...not the team i lead, but the team i am a member of. a rare find.

the 3 of us meet every week. these monday afternoon conversations have challenged me as a leader more than any other conversations in my entire career.

I am bummed because one is moving to Hawaii...so good for her...a move that came from one of our monday afternoon conversation. but she is such a rare find, so selfishly i am bummed to lose her....but i think we will figure out a virtual bridge for our monday conversations.

We threw a good bye party for her and the team she leads. We made this video...some great leadership lessons in it....so much to learn by just hearing her people talk about her.

Private Jets = Stress

2011-07-19T19:43:00.001-07:00

So when people come to town in a private jet to attend something you are planning....I've learned that it usually makes me stress out....

This little event my team started last year to celebrate our partners (employees), got a little bit more important this year, when THE private jet full of "important people" came.

It was a Coffee Master graduation for 19 pretty amazing partners. My team of managers are becoming a very well oil machine in making these crazy ideas of mine happen. We move seamlessly into execution phase...with everyone working extremely and equally hard. A true team.

(They say i become a "hot mess" in the final phases of event planning...so true. they do a very good job putting up with me)

This is the final picture of the evening...can you see the relief and exhaustion in our eyes...

This is a sea of pictures from the evening...because we worked really hard on the details...so it makes me feel better to post them.

details

we had these amazing dancers open the night....

Loved having all the families there to celebrate these great partners (employees)

I had nightmares of the audio visual not working all week...but each video and each microphone worked perfectly.

surprising our "partner of the quarter"...so fun...

details

Our Hosts of the evening...they did great.

details

Things get a little intense when you are tasting coffee with the President of the Company.

Giving some final words to the coffee masters...

Not a great final picture...it was crazy at the end...everyones sweet families trying to snag pictures....unforgettable night, that came to fruition because of an AMAZING group of leaders...but I am SO glad it is OVER!

Our Garden

2011-07-19T19:29:00.000-07:00

Catching up here....my team started a new project last month to raise $ for The Adventure Project's Grow Campaign.

We love this garden that we found. Its so fun to have our own place...that supports our local community and global coffee growing community.

Check out this video to hear more about it:

(yes, these girls are amazing, and they work for me...I am very lucky)

I love my boys...so supportive...and there every step of the way with me.

Have I mentioned we have great neighbors....

2011-06-23T21:12:00.000-07:00

Father's Day

2011-06-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

Church, Classic Car Show, and Colorado (not really but its feels like Colorado where we went hiking)!

details

2011-06-11T17:18:00.001-07:00

Lately

2011-06-11T16:38:00.000-07:00

Nate finished another guitar neck...pictures don't do it justice...

Grapes are starting to come in

We heard of a some great free architectural salvage...rented at truck

got home with this

and some great solid oak antique molding

to use or to sell?? hmmm

...still recovering from an overnight MSNBC shoot featuring the partnership we have at Crenshaw High School....i am too old to stay up all night.

His new girlfriend

2011-05-26T20:56:00.001-07:00

So Nate got a new car...well not a new car...a 60 year old car that is new to him. He is giddy.

I was not keen on the idea, but he worked hard to sell his truck and find a classic that could be a daily driver without spending any money.
Motor works great...V8 if that means anything to you...and lots of projects on the interior to keep him busy. He just gazes at it...like a dream come true. He gets numerous thumbs up as he drives around our little town. He loves it.

Gavin sure does love it to0.He joined a Studebaker club with a bunch of men twice his age...he always said he was born in the wrong generation. Old House, Old Car, Old Soul.

I do, however, think it looks great next to the house.

Vacation

2011-05-15T19:36:00.000-07:00

We have been back from vacation for 2 weeks...we are ready for another one. Pictures will have to do for now.

easter eggs and real eggs

my dad, gav, and nate

He is 7

2011-04-17T19:19:00.001-07:00

We spent a few nights at circus circus in vegas for Gavin's birthday on our way to Colorado. We are definitely not vegas people, and circus circus is far from nice....but to a 7 year old kid, it was awesome. But as we walked around, Gavin did say "Why is Vegas so trashy!"

We spent most of our time in the arcade in the back corner with the oldest game in the building...an old sky ball game....decades old...Nate and I are always drawn to this stuff, but it was Gavin that choose this spot. He played the day away.

Done

2011-04-10T15:27:00.000-07:00

Crazy Week, and I am so glad its over!

I learned a lot about the level of control freak that I am. HAHA ...seriously details are important to me, because I understand that details eliminate distractions when you are trying to create a moment and create momentum.

Did the details that I delegated meet my expectations this week?...not so much...BUT I hope these missing details were only distracting to me, and that we created some memorable moments for hundreds of hard working people this week.

Event in Beverly Hills:
One highlight of the week was Howard giving me the "spirit of starbucks" award. Alway a bit starstruck around him...

Crenshaw Community Service:

Stress Week

2011-04-01T16:12:00.000-07:00

Happy April...I am about to start what I have affectionately called my Stress Week for the last 4 months.

Ironically, it has nothing to do with my birthday that is on the horizon...30 does not sound like something I want to be...but I have no time to stress about that...too busy...

Tuesday: I am planning/hosting 550 partners (employees) and my ceo at the Beverly Wilshire in Beverly Hills (the pretty women hotel). I feel like we are planning a huge wedding.

Wednesday: Hosting several executives in the stores in my district

Saturday: Plan/host over 600 volunteers in South LA on a huge community service project...the details are just overwhelming.

I hope that I live through this stress week, and that in Beverly Hills and in South LA, that these 1200 people are happy and inspired when its over. Months of planning all coming to fruition in the same week.

Stress week.

...I have not been a great boss lately with all of this extra planning work...but my sweet team, surprised me (well tried to surprise me...no one can really surprise me) with a dinner party. It was a few hours of a break with my favorite people...a break I would have never taken if they had forced me to.

They graciously gave me a new kindle...something I really wanted, but would never buy for myself. I feel blessed, as usual, to have such amazing people work for me.

oh yeah, and I blogged about them (and this week) at Starbucks.com. Its on the bottom right of the home page.

Back to work!

WATER

2011-03-22T03:00:00.000-07:00

I am just 1.

1 of over 100 bloggers joining the blog-a-thon today, March 22 to ask ten of my readers donate $20 to The Adventure Project’s Keep It Clean Campaign.

The Problem: One third of all handpumps installed in the last twenty years in developing countries are now broken. And 4,000 children die every day because of lack of clean drinking water. We feel that’s unacceptable. So we’re thinking differently.

The Solution: Instead of drilling more wells, we’re using our charitable gifts for something revolutionary – to train and employ handpump mechanics. The mechanics earn an income, bringing themselves out of poverty, and they save lives – turning water back on for thousands of people each year.

100% of every donation is tax-deductable, and will support The Adventure Project’s Keep It Clean Campaign for India.

Donate here, Donate now:
http://www.theadventureproject.causevox.com/

Los Angeles Community Service | Starbucks Coffee Company

2011-03-09T20:09:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles Community Service | Starbucks Coffee Company
Making this come to fruition will consume me this month...so much to do...but it will be amazing.
I love that I work for a company that does this stuff to celebrate their Anniversaries.

another week

2011-03-06T15:38:00.001-08:00

Another work event, that my amazing team pulled off!
I am so incredible blessed to work along side of some of the most amazing leaders.
"you've got to love your people, more than your position." John Maxwell

very rare to get this many of my partners out of the stores at the same time...

Nate had another amazing show.... another new guitar player that he adores. He has been very blessed as phenomenal musicians continue to wait in line to play with him.

this week

2011-02-17T18:04:00.001-08:00

Nate has been busy making these...he is getting quite good!
He sold his first one last weekend! We could be on to something...

Between guitars, he is very helpful with my "projects." I came home from work one day and said, "I need 50 cross sections of a branch about 6 inches wide, with bark on the outside, that I can burn the word Leader on." He looks at me like I am crazy, and tells me I am going overboard again....but then I come home the next day to him cutting up a branch he salvaged from tree trimming company.
They are turning out exactly like I wanted....
On Monday, we got to celebrate Valentines Day over breakfast...no wait time, and school makes a great free babysitter. We have learned that breakfast is the best date time!
After almost 9 years in LA, I am really starting to appreciate the LACK of weather, and the constant 70 degree weather...its always a great day for a stroll up in our local Monrovia Canyon.
Above...this is the look Gavin pretty much gives us all the time now...when did he grow up?
Below...the boys chasing a lizard around the park.

Love these boys

he is pretty cool

2011-01-29T16:49:00.000-08:00

Video from Nate's Show

2011-01-28T16:35:00.000-08:00

catching up

2011-01-19T18:21:00.000-08:00

we are busy and I am not good at blogging.

I took a few days off before the new year to recoup and get some time with the boys before another insanely busy year started. We experienced the Science Center for the first time...Gavin loved it.
Gav continues to grow up, still great a Math, and just got moved into the advanced reading group...which is a miracle for any son of mine. Club Penguin is still his obsession.

Nate's been playing shows, another one this weekend.
Nate's new album got licensed to a new show on MTV, called "i used to be fat"... so if you watch it you will be hearing Nate's song. the last episode had 4 different song in one episode. pretty cool.

Starbucks just added MLK Jr Day to our observed holidays...so we can all volunteer! So I was busy planning a day ON, instead of a day OFF for hundreds of people. Turned out pretty cool.

My team for whom I am extremely grateful!

One of my special managers, Yuli, got chosen to go to Costa Rica to visit the coffee farms... she came home with amazing pictures and amazing stories. She got to deliver personal messages to our farmer support center from my team... that was supper special for us. I am such a coffee geek.

Life is not slowing down anytime soon.

Nate's blog

2010-12-30T11:02:00.000-08:00

Trying to convince Nate to work through his catalog of songs, telling the story behind them.

http://nathanpicardwork.blogspot.com/

let's see how it goes...

Christmas Morning

2010-12-25T11:26:00.000-08:00

I love the joy and excitment on his face.
As he was struggling to unwrap one present, he said "I need someone with nimble fingers to help me." haha...not sure where he learned that word or how to use it in a sentence...such a big boy.

Annual Christmas Eve Party

2010-12-25T10:09:00.000-08:00

The annual Bernero Christmas Eve party was amazing as usual. From Santa & Sleigh Rides, to amazing food and amazing guitars....

Crafts

2010-12-21T16:40:00.000-08:00

My Crafts

Nate's Crafts

Slightly obsessed

2010-12-11T10:03:00.000-08:00

Gavin is slightly obsessed with Club Penguin...he doesn't like stopping right in the middle of a "mission"...even to go to the bathroom.

Every day

2010-12-10T17:50:00.001-08:00

I wish I could give away awards to deserving leaders every day...so much fun!
The pictures tell the story....

Delivering a empty phase to Linh....she will need it....

Car after car for hours drove through the drive thru....delivering her flowers, balloons, and messages

Then...celebrating with the team...and watching this video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zRwYdyVypmQ

I got tears...That is what I was shooting for!

so fun....she is quite the leader...

I wish I could do this stuff every day...

ADVENTURE

2010-11-23T17:19:00.000-08:00

FIND OUT MORE:

here and here

Videos

2010-11-13T16:04:00.000-08:00

Nate's song for Andy...

We are feeling the need to "name" the guys that play with nate.... "the vacancy" is his first idea.

did I mention Nate's new phenomenal guitar player...

show

2010-11-12T19:06:00.001-08:00

Nate has a new guitarist, Doug, playing for him. He engineered and produced Nate's album and Nate is a huge fan... so its a honor for Nate to have Doug on stage with him... find out more about him here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doug_Grean

tonight

2010-10-31T20:04:00.001-07:00

gavin enjoyed giving out candy

traditions

2010-10-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

"garage" band

2010-10-30T18:13:00.000-07:00

A Month in Review

2010-10-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

So here we go...trying to catch up

I had my 10 year anniversary with Starbucks.

I went to an off-site meeting with my boss and peers! A video of our fun.

Then I took my district away...amazing time with my amazing team. So proud of the team they have become.
another video

I think I had more alcohol in those 2 retreats than I have had in my entire life. Thankfully, all my peers and managers understand my disdain for alcohol and make me mini versions of all cocktails that keep my nice and sober.

I spent a great week in New Orleans...we gave away $100,000 to some great organizations, did an MSNBC shoot, and built a playground in a local community. Its gonna be a big year for Starbucks and Community Relevance... I will be very busy.

Nathan had an AMAZING CD Release Party!
Check it out...
Go buy the album at www.nathanpicard.com

Then...I went to DM Conference. I received this...

Then there was coordinating AIDS Walk

Nate turned 31 and has begun a new guitar making hobby…he is currently working on a guitar made from the old wall boards from our garage. Its beautiful! I will show it to you when it is done. How does he know how do this stuff? Love him!

Some of my favorite people got marriedI made this video for one of the receptions... cute starbucks love story.

AND GAVIN! He is growing up so much. Losing teeth, becoming a wiz at math, loves skateboard and baseball cards, and has a obsession with club penguin. He is growing into such a little man. Love him and have missed him so much with my eventful month!

the end

Blogging is hard...

2010-09-25T20:05:00.000-07:00

...when you are busy.

And we have been busy...and we will continue to be.

Gavin started first grade with a GREAT teacher, and Nate has found himself in the classroom already being the amazing volunteer that he is.

Nate's CD arrived, and he has a big CD Release show coming up in a few months and has been rehearsing a lot.

As usual, work is busy for me. Several big project complete, in time for more to come. I did take my team away for last week for a retreat...it was everything I hoped for and more. So incredible lucky to have so many amazing people working for me.

On Tuesday, I leave for New Orleans...to work on the company community investment strategy. It should be good, but 2 trips in one month is hard.

I miss my boys.

It is HOT

2010-08-25T19:30:00.001-07:00

Trying to beat the heat

Vacation

2010-07-30T19:09:00.000-07:00

Esmey

2010-07-25T13:48:00.000-07:00

Gavin and his good friend Esmey spent most of the summer doing this...

Then they would do this....

They wrote him a song

2010-07-21T17:51:00.000-07:00

This is Gavin's last week of kindergarten(he is in year round school). Today, Gavin's class had a special presentation for Nathan. Nathan has volunteered every Wednesday in Gavin's class all year. Every time I see Gavin's teacher, she raves about how she and the kids adore Nate.

So today they sang him a song that they have been working on writing for him for quite some time. They knew it would be special for him, since they have had him play guitar and play songs he wrote for Gavin several time this year.

Nate said they put him in the special chair and all sang this song for him. Nate almost cried. Then they gave him a big card and plant that they had all signed for him.

nate is pretty amazing...and so much better at this "stay at home parent" thing than i could ever be...

Festivities

2010-07-01T18:28:00.001-07:00

On Monday, my team put on an extravagant graduation ceremony for an elite group of partners that had just been certified as coffee masters. We decided to make it an extra special event as they received the coveted black apron. Friends, family, and co-workers all showed up to honor this special group.

Why does my team do these things?

Well, I am starting to think we do this stuff because we like to giving ourselves extra work and stress. :)

But, really, once again... totally worth it.

Friends and family that have worked at Starbucks are probably the only ones who will understand this video, but I am just so incredibly proud and inspired by this partners.

Thurgood

2010-06-30T21:10:00.000-07:00

Attended another event last night for the company.

Powerful one man play starring Laurence Fishburne that we sponsored.

I had the pleasure of good company again for this event.

....these 6am to midnight work days are taking their toll though...

more later on the other work festivities this week

father's day

2010-06-21T17:46:00.000-07:00

We went on a long, hot hike. It was good, and good for us. Gavin was not so sure as we were going up the hill. He made it and did great.

The river was a great place to rejuvenate.

this town

2010-06-20T18:13:00.001-07:00

we love it.

movies in the park last night.

card

2010-06-16T19:00:00.000-07:00

You are cool
You make me happy
You are as cool as a Rock Star
Your favorite place is the recording studio
You love to play guitar
You are really good at guitar
I feel happy when you play music

It's crazy how much Gavin understands Nate. I feel the same as Gavin...Nate is so cool, makes me so happy, is a total rock star, and I feel so great when his plays music.

I feel so blessed to be married to a man that has the courage to do what he is made to do...and count it such a blessing that Gavin gets to see his dad do what he loves.

Gala

2010-06-13T19:38:00.001-07:00

Galas are slowing becoming a part of my job. Last night, I represented Starbucks at the Global Green Millennium Awards.

High heels, dresses, celebrities, and fancy food usually not thing, but I got to bring some of my favorite co-workers this time...the great company made is worth it.

Pierce was sitting at the table next to us.

some of my favorite people

Food was gross...we went straight to in-n-out on the way home!

New song for Gav

2010-06-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

They really do go everywhere together....

Visit

2010-06-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

Nate's mom came for a short visit last weekend. We took her to our favorite beach at Crystal Cove.

Pride

2010-05-29T09:29:00.000-07:00

My team hosted an amazing week with the focus on some of our important pillars of ethical sourcing, environmental stewardship, and community involvement.

We launch our recycling program that raises money for water and had special coffee seminars every day of the week. I was so proud!

Check out this drive thru ...aren't they cute!

Over

2010-05-22T16:53:00.001-07:00

We had our last t-ball game today. Gavin loved t-ball. Nate and I learned a lot. I always thought working for corporate America was "political".....but corporate America has nothing on the t-ball field.

my recent project

2010-05-19T20:38:00.000-07:00

Turning my stores' trash into water.

Home

2010-05-08T19:10:00.001-07:00

We are finally home from the hospital. It was incredibly difficult to keep Gavin entertained the whole time.

Here is he kicking a balloon around... the nurses kept on wondering how his IV would get so tangled up!

We had a quick visit with the girls as they passed through town!

Spider

2010-05-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

Looks as though a spider bite was probably the cause of the infection(cellulitis). We are still in the hospital until tomorrow. Swelling is going down, and restlessness is kicking up!

Gavin sat on the window most of the day longing to go outside.

Really?!?

2010-05-06T19:40:00.000-07:00

So, we noticed last night that Gavin's finger was a little red and swollen...and now we are in the hospital for the next couple days.

We are still a bit perplexed. We called our doctor this morning, he told us to come into the office...he looked at Gavin's figure for a few seconds....and then send Gavin directly to the hospital.

Something about an infection in his blood or his tissue...we still are not sure. He has an IV, and will be getting doses of antibotics until the swelling goes down.

Gavin is in no pain....just very bored from sitting in the hospital all day.

the culprit

31 Miles of Beaches...

2010-04-26T20:09:00.000-07:00

....were transformed on Sunday by HUNDREDS of Starbucks volunteers.

What a huge project...what a great day....great results, great cause...

Starbucks partnered up with Portraits of Hope to paint 158 Lifeguard Towers. Next, they will install panels of art that were painted by children in the hospital.

The beaches will never be the same.

And now I am going to take a break from planning massive community service programs and sleep.

(not likely)

more birthday pics

2010-04-17T10:53:00.000-07:00

Gavin was asleep in the car by the time we had exited the parking lot...Just too much fun!

Happy Birthday Gavin

2010-04-15T21:02:00.000-07:00

Gavin went to bed early last night, so he could wake up early to open all his presents. We obliged. Early this morning he jumped out bed and wanted to start immediately...no time to get dressed.

The theme this year was Wii and he was thrilled. So many great faces...

Today, we are at a hotel swimming and then back to disneyland tomorrow...cake with friends this weekend! We love spoiling this little, I mean BIG boy.

Friends

2010-04-14T17:01:00.000-07:00

It was so great to have our dear friends out for the week! As we were gallivanting around Southern California, I kept thinking, "I forgot how nice it is to just be in the presence of GREAT friends." We packed in a lot of fun in a week and I'm still surprised by how well the kids held up with all the activities.

Disneyland

Cupcakes

Coffee with just Steph

Hiking

Street Fair

San Diego

We LOVE you Steph, Casey, Evan and Caden!

New Songs

2010-04-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

Nate just finished recording some new songs in Scott Weiland's studio....his favorite place to record.

Check out Everything Girl, Tell Me, Faster, and Whatever It Takes here! They are amazing.

Steph and Casey are here

2010-04-09T09:25:00.000-07:00

Beach and Sea World down, next is Disneyland...

lately

2010-04-05T13:52:00.001-07:00

We had a nice family Easter morning before Nate headed off into the studio. He is excited to get some more songs done in a great studio.

My team of managers spoiled me on my b-day, as did Nate and Gavin. Very Blessed, and I love the people I work with and my boys VERY MUCH! I was feeling a little old turning 29...but the sweet cashier at the movie theater asked Nate and I for our student IDs on our date...so that made us feel much better.

another

2010-04-03T18:21:00.001-07:00

This does a little bit better of a job representing the magnitude of our Day of Service a few weeks ago.

Citywide Day of Service

2010-03-21T09:50:00.000-07:00

Another crazy day down...should have about a month of "downtime" before the next big thing.

I coordinated over 400 stores volunteering at 30 schools throughout LA on one day.

This was my team at Jefferson High School in South LA.

more t-ball

2010-03-19T20:51:00.000-07:00

Good Question

2010-03-13T21:29:00.001-08:00

Gavin asked today, "If vegetables are good for you, then why did God make vegetables so gross and candy so good?"

T-Ball

2010-03-02T19:09:00.000-08:00

They just don't make baseball pants small enough for him...

Video Shoot

2010-03-02T15:57:00.001-08:00

Day One of Nate's Video shoot. Its gonna be pretty cool. Even Gavin got his acting debut...and got recruited for GAP in the process. (We will see if that pans outs).

Pics from Nate's Show

2010-02-27T18:38:00.000-08:00

Jake and Dave

2010-02-27T18:24:00.001-08:00

Gavin's best friends moved this week to North Carolina. The afternoons in the neighborhood will not be the same. Gavin has been very sad all week. He brought them good-bye cards that made for them each day this week.

.

2010-02-22T19:38:00.001-08:00

We are not friends

2010-02-22T19:11:00.001-08:00

This is what the next two weeks have in store for me.
Heels and I are not friends.
I dislike them with a passion.
Add tights, skirts, jewelry, and makeup and I am not a very happy person.

Hopefully, the Executives and Harrison Ford (who I will meeting/dining with) will be worth it.

OK...I guess they are cute.

the event....

2010-02-15T19:22:00.001-08:00

Surprised

2010-02-13T19:19:00.000-08:00

So today I had another big work event that I organized.
As these events approach, I always get mad at myself for doing this extra stuff--I get tired, stressed, and usually sick. This time...the same...didn't sleep for days due to excessive work and sickness.
BUT still I do these things...BUT after they are DONE I am always so glad I did it!!!
Today, was the no different.
A special event with all the leaders in my district. The managers, the assistant managers, and supervisors--about 75 of us. I never get them all under one roof, so it was very special for me.

And to top it all off...my group of store managers...actually surprised me with a video, actually two videos, for me. Somehow they put it together without me knowing...and even got it into the powerpoint presentation I wrote. Pretty sneaky and very sweet.

Here they are...and yes, I do have the best people in the world working for me.

I love it how they used Nate's songs...

T-ball starts this week.

2010-02-07T19:19:00.000-08:00

We got some practice in this afternoon.
Somehow, Nate got wrapped into coaching and I got assigned Team Mom.
Not sure how we are going to fit it in our schedule....

Just making fun of ourselves...

2010-02-07T15:06:00.001-08:00

It's funny, right? At least we do not take ourselves too seriously. :)

Promo

2010-01-30T19:41:00.001-08:00

Gavin's wall

2010-01-24T17:03:00.000-08:00

This is Gavin's new thing...tape up pictures on his wall above his bed. There seems to be a theme.
(excuse the mess on the bed)

-

2010-01-23T16:18:00.001-08:00

Just Nate

2010-01-17T10:32:00.001-08:00

After 13 years of being in a band, Nate has made the decision to break out as a solo artist. It is something he has wanted to do for years, but never felt it was the right time until now. Nate gives 100% to everything he does, and understanding that he had to make a choice between the Beautiful Criminal and a solo career...he has decided to dissolve Beautiful Criminal. He is grateful that the friendship he had in Beautiful Criminal remain intact and strong. Members of both Beautiful Criminal and Martyrs & Poets have both already signed up to be contributing musicians on Nate's Solo Album. Nate could not be more excited about doing something that is all his, but at the same time share it will ALL the guys that have backed him up for the last decade.

Nate's manager, Victoria, will continue to represent him as a solo artist. She is his is biggest fan, and believes in him as a solo artist. She will continue to drive his career as a performer and a songwriter.
So Nate's excited and nervous. Confident and insecure...and as usual his emotions have facilitated some amazing writing.

My dad has been working on getting www.nathanpicard.com up and running...Nate has begun blogging there and a large portion of his catalog of songs are there as well. Free to download. Many of his new solo recording are available there. Check it out. He also has a fan Facebook now...make sure to friend him and share the news.

As we embark on the next phase of Nate's Career, I could not be more proud of my husband.

This is becoming my creative outlet

2010-01-06T18:10:00.000-08:00

This is a little video I made for my team for our, "we survived the holidays alive" party.
Once again...maybe not very interesting if you don't know us...but as their leader it makes me teary watching it.

Have I mentioned...

2010-01-04T18:11:00.000-08:00

...that I hate meetings? Really, why do we have meetings? Granted, I host meetings often...and I like it when I am in charge of the meeting and have my people in one room...but they are never more than 2 hours. How can sitting in a room all day wear you out so much?

Gavin is back in school today after a MONTH off. Nate was glad to drop him off and have some peace and quiet to work on his new project, but by lunch time he was missing Gav and wanted to go pick him up to play.

I can't decide which...

2009-12-30T20:25:00.000-08:00

...picture to post from our sunset walk on the beach in Santa Barbara after Nate's vocal lesson. So get ready for a ton of pictures.

His next project

2009-12-27T16:56:00.001-08:00

Christmas Morning

2009-12-25T12:45:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve

2009-12-25T11:14:00.000-08:00

After attending another amazing Christmas Eve party this year, Gavin now believes that Santa Clause makes a personal visit on Christmas Eve to deliver a special just for Gavin.

He remembers Santa knocking on the door last year, and waited anxiously by the door for him this year.

Who?

2009-12-15T20:58:00.000-08:00

As we were driving around running errands this evening, Gavin asked us, "Who wiped my butt when I was in Mom's tummy?"

hmmm

This week

2009-12-06T10:14:00.000-08:00

Nate played a show last night for the East Hollywood Toy Drive.

River and Gavin watching their Dads play

On Thursday, it was the annual Monrovia Christmas Parade! We love this town...

Just sayin...

2009-11-18T20:07:00.001-08:00

People magazine just named Johnny Depp the sexiest man alive....I agree.
In all seriousness, every time Nate wears a hat...people come up to him thinking he is Johnny Depp.
Nate is going to kill me for posting this...haha

"Beautiful World"

2009-11-14T17:57:00.000-08:00

I know, I know.
Lots of videos...but its the best way to show off Nate's amazing songs.
I love how Nate's music can turn simple images into magic.

another day, another song

2009-11-11T19:45:00.000-08:00

the band went in to record a few songs this week(in STP's own studio)
here is one of the songs, with pictures of them in the studio

Halloween

2009-11-01T17:27:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, my camera reader isn't working...so no pictures.

Nate was playing at a Harvest Festival for a Calvary Chapel in Ventura. So Gavin dressed up as Spiderman (again) and we drove up the coast for the show. Turned out to be a great night hosted by a great church that took great care of the band. Its amazing how much nicer people get the furthur out of LA you go...

It's not very often I can watch Nate on stage and Gavin in the bounce house at the same time. I was very content. Nate enjoyed the kids as opposed to Hollywood bars he is usually playing in for Halloween.

Gavin played his heart out.
Nate played his heart out.

Good night.

My Husband

2009-10-29T20:54:00.000-07:00

So, Nate has been working on a solo project on the side of Beautiful Criminal. Its something he has been wanting to do for a long time, but time/money/resources just have not aligned until now. He is only halfway done with his album, but the first 5 songs are AMAZING. Don't get me wrong, he loves being in a band...but he is experiencing a new type of freedom in his art...to create as he always has, but not be boxed in by relationships/egos/expectations, etc.

This is one of his new solo songs. I cried the first time I heard it. It is a beautiful song about our marriage...and from my inside perspective I understand/feel every lyric. It paint such a picture of our lives together. I am so blessed to be married to him...and how many girls get so many great song written for them!?

Cards

2009-10-23T15:36:00.000-07:00

Gavin has been making tons of Birthday cards for Nate all week. He comes home with a new batch everyday from school.
Gavin has a lot of love in his heart for his dad.
I make it into some of the pictures, but usually Gavin draws him and his dad inside the house, with me outside in the rain. :)

The Crew

2009-10-21T19:18:00.000-07:00

Nate's Birthday

2009-10-21T19:05:00.000-07:00

So Nate turned the dreaded 30 this week...a day he has been dreading for a long time! His brother tried to make it better by flying out and taking him to Las Vegas. Unfortunately, Nate's feelings about turning 30 made him very ill and he spent all weekend in his hotel bed with a fever. Turns out it may have been H1N1...poor Nate, he really does have the weekest immune system in the universe.

So it was just Gavin and I for the weekend...we had lots of fun with diet coke and mentos explosions and baking a cake for Nate's birthday together. Nate only likes German Chocolate cake...and no matter how hard I try...I just can't make German Chocolate cakes look pretty.

Unfortunately, Nate had been too sick to even blow out his candles...but we couldn't keep Gavin from eating the cake any longer. So now we have an half eaten cake with "unblown out" candles on top.

Praying this year hold amazing things for Nate and less sickness!!!

Parent Teacher Conference

2009-10-17T19:09:00.000-07:00

We had our first parent teacher conference today.
Something about it made me feel old, but it sure was great hearing someone else gush about Gavin.
The teacher(Ms Berger) could not stop talking about what a joy Gavin is to have in class.
She says he is very social but compassionate. Popular, but accepting of everyone. She told us about how he takes care of one of the shy girls that speaks zero English. Gavin is always looking out for her, and does not let anyone make fun of her.

Ms Berger spoke of how smart he is and what a sponge he is. He learns whatever is thrown at him and willingly solves problems on his own. He is on his way to reading and writing sentences, and knows the difference between republicans and democrats (seriously! lol).

Ms. Berger spoke about how she can tell by his demeanor just how loved he is. She went on and on, about the kisses and hugs he gets from Nate in the morning, and how he runs to Nate in the afternoon. She spoke to how in everything Gavin does and how he acts, it is evident that he is confident that he is loved.

Gavin is amazing...and his dad is so amazing. I am so grateful for the special bond these two have, and I know it will serve Gavin in all his years ahead. Nate has done a phenomenal job preparing Gavin for kindergarten, life, and the world.

So proud of Gavin and so proud of my wonderful husband.

"Pumpkin Fair"

2009-10-10T15:01:00.000-07:00

Gavin has been begging to go to a "Pumpkin Fair" all week. We both have been working A LOT....but we actually had nothing to do today....so Gav got his visit to the "Pumpkin Fair."

blue

2009-10-07T16:49:00.000-07:00

Gavin's teacher said Gavin is the first student with blue eyes that she has had in over 4 years. :)

They are beautiful eyes!!!

Worth it

2009-10-06T20:06:00.000-07:00

I picked Gavin up from school, quickly finished his homework, got back in the car to pick Nate up from work and then we headed for a 2 hour drive to Santa Barbara.

Now Gavin and I are waiting in the car for Nate. He is taking vocal lessons from this guy

Nate has had several vocal coaches over the years, but considering this one has been one his favorite singers since he was a kid makes it a little cooler.

How many people get to work with the icons who were on posters on their walls in middle school? Pretty Cool.

Its totally worth the every other week drive up the coast.

What a great weekend!

2009-09-21T18:05:00.000-07:00

I took the managers in my district away this weekend for a little retreat. It was such a great trip. It was awesome to take these L.A. managers up to the mountains. We had fun celebrating our year, and recognizing each other with a nice "awards" dinner under the stars. We spent the next day alone on the mountain, reflecting on our leadership and setting goals for the coming year.
It was just a great time!

Here is a video I made for them to remember all the fun. Its long, and probably not very interesting unless you know us:)

Another amazing leader...

2009-09-11T20:13:00.000-07:00

...that runs one of my stores. She is amazing. I got surprise her with this video in front of a couple hundred managers. It was so fun watching her as she realized it was her store at the beginning of the video.

Giving recognition to incredibly hard workers is one of my favorite things in the world!

Gavin's week

2009-09-07T21:29:00.000-07:00

Not only did Gavin start kindergarten this week, he also had some other major accomplishments for a 5 year old.

After quite a bit frustration, Gavin mastered tying his shoes...he would practice for hours...he was determined that Kindergartners tie their own shoes!

Then today driving home from work, I ran into Nate walking, and Gavin riding his bike with no training wheels. Gav was beyond excited to riding on two wheels.

He is growing up too fast.