Mother's Day

We are not 'two peas in a pod', in fact we're more likely sewn from different vines.

But amidst all our differences there's a unity that is bound by trust and immeasurable love.

For you are my mother.

You are the one...the one who gave me life.

Who mended my scrapes, quieted my fears, taught me to love selflessly.

You helped me to understand exactly who I am, a daughter of God.

You taught charity through your actions, humility by your demeanor, and grace was ever present in your loving face.

We may not seem alike in the ways of the world...but I pray that my actions and thoughts, as I am a mother now, may emulate those taught daily and lovingly by you!

Happy Mother's Day Mom!

Homegrown Salad

Isn't this gorgeous? Home grown, green, lush, perfect. It was lunch just waiting to happen... that is until I had the first bite...

Yuck! Bitter! Spicy! Truly disgusting! Ok, so the lettuce (a mesculan mix) was not a good choice...but on the flip side, the snails seemed to love it! I'll try again in the fall with a different breed. In the mean time, we are enjoying the occasional strawberry that manages to escape the jaws of the roly-poly's!I really can't wait until the tomatoes are ready...

Road Trip

Spring Break and it was time for a road trip...

First stop - Pismo Beach

Seriously...I love the central coast---just so dang beautiful!

Then we were off to San Luis Obispo...the very place we will someday retire.

And this colorful little picture below....Gum Alley. Disgusting, isn't it?

It was Thursday afternoon. We hung out downtown hiking around the creek.

And stayed around for the main event...the weekly Farmers market.

Roasted corn....juicy, wonderful BBQ...Fabulous FRESH produce...

And lots and lots of people!

After a good nights rest we drove up the coast to San Jose. This drive is amazing!! Takes a little longer but the views are spectacular! Sorry, no pictures. They wouldn't do it justice.

Friday night we took in an A's game with Todd's cousin Matt and his wife Michele.

Then Saturday we spent our time in the city...we drove DOWN Lombard Street....

Across Golden Gate bridge...

Spent a couple of hours at a museum in Golden Gate Park and took in the sights everywhere we could. That evening we enjoyed tamales and good company back at Aunt Jody's.

Sunday was Easter and the kids enjoyed a fun little egg hunt, courtesy of Matt and Michele.

We had a great time...even though the greater portion of our Easter was spent driving home in the car. I guess next year we will get to document the "Sunday Best" look on Easter!

As for the rest of us...

We took a trip to the zoo...

Took a ride on the quads... This little one dreamed of going swimming...

And then discovered the joy of toilets...

and I turned another year older...

What he's been doing lately...

Let's go Dodgers...

Let's GO!

What I've been doing lately...

First, we built the box...

Then we placed the box, filled it with all kinds of good stuff, built a trellis, and decorated with rocks. And so far, everything is growing...peppers, tomatoes, lettuce, green onions, basil, cilantro, cucumber, green beans, baby carrots and strawberries. Then because one is never enough....we made another.
What should we plant?

Now if I could just find a way to eradicate all of my lovely gopher friends....

A Happy Return

Todd returned today from a week-long trip to Boston. I announced at dinner that "Dad and I" were going to spend some time together tonight so "you kids" have to be in bed by eight.

Says Ethan, "I know what you guys are going to do! You're going to play Wii!"

Yes Ethan, we are going to play Wii...of sorts.