Ponderosa

Scott, Judy and Len and I went to a new area of the Sierras to hike and explore. Ponderosa is just South of the Sequoia National Forest (not Park). The hike we went on took us to groves of beautiful big trees.

My Patio - A work in progress

I meant to take a "before" picture, but I forgot and have to make do with a "during" picture.

From Redwood City to Portland

Meg and Al moved from the Bay area to Portland and I helped them. We worked hard and also had a great time. They have joined a co-housing community in a cool neighborhood called Overlook. I like it very much and look forward to spending more time with them in the future.

Catalina

I went to Catalina with Scott, Kathy, Steve and new friend John. We sailed all the way around the island - four days. We snorkeled everyday. I had the greatest time - the sea, the animals, the friends. I would go again tomorrow.

First, we went to Disneyland

Alix asked if we could go while she was down before she started summer school at UCSC. We had many laughs and adventures. I didn't go on Space Mountain and I never will again.

Eureka!

The kids and I went to the mountains yesterday. Our goal was gold mining at the Julian Mining Co., but the real goal was a short road trip with my two best buds. The greenery and wildflowers were unprecedented. We day dreamed about having a country place: goats, chickens, bees, and a horse each for Molly and John.

It was cold up there, and cloudy but not rainy. We were the only customers at the Mining Co. - the only ones the whole day! The guy was super nice and helpful. We learned a bit about local history and how to pan.

I got specks and the kids got only a little more, but we did get semi-precious stones that the Co. had 'seeded' the sluice with.

We ended with hot chocolate and pie from Duddley's Bakery. The best part was the drive and the baby goats.

Spring

I don't know why I am so excited about Spring this year. Maybe because of the warm weather after all the rain. The yards and canyons and hillsides of San diego are abloom!

Also health abounds in our family - a state I've learned not to take for granted this year. Anyway, I'm highly motivated to renew our home and create the perfect backdrop for all the good times on the horizon. I'm not posting any before pictures, but maybe I'll post after ones. Or better yet - invite you over for tea.