California Dreamin'

A road-trip to California made us remember those good ol' days. We had a wonderful time with dear friends and family, capturing a few clicks to re-live the adventure (but missing snapshots of many special parts of the trip). We got to see our two special godsons (and sadly, didn't get photos with either one!), had the chance to meet two new little additions since our last trip to the sunshine state, and got to catch up with lots of friends. A full and exciting trip by all accounts.

We wished we could have stayed for another few days to see more pals, but alas, it was time to return home full of California dreams (though not much actual California sleep, yawn).  

Emily, Lucy, and Mary loved "surfing" on Clear Lake. 

Time for a swim, Mary! 

SUP-ing fun.

Lazy afternoons in the hammock. 

More popsicle went down Ryan's chest than into his mouth. Time to go jump in the lake! 

Fishing from the dock. 

A Webster Hall reunion for these UCD boys. 

A little fun with the luggage cart (quite possible the most fun part of a hotel stay with three children sleeping in one room). 

A hot, tired trio on the Caterpillar in Davis park. 

Time in the hammock at Meadowlark Field. 

Ryan (finally!) was introduced to Meadowlark. 

Cowgirl up, Mary! 

Lucy doing some fancy-smancy hand maneuvers on Pepper. 

Grooming sweet Pepper after riding. 

The Loeb-Mullen kiddos (minus one), together again! They didn't miss a beat getting reacquainted. 

Post pool popsicles. 

Hog Heaven

Pigs were a'swimming in their salted caramel ganache pen. 

Lucy turned 7 in hog heaven, quite literally. Our delighted girl was surrounded by incredible friends, origami pigs created with the partygoers, and a cake of hogs swimming in the most delicious muddy ganache.  Her celebration was elevated to an even higher level because the grandparents and our precious Aunt Suzy were here for the festivities. A day to remember-- and a year ahead of pigtails and pig tales of the start of a super seven!

Our lucky Lucy, with Irish eyes that were smiling all day long. 

In a circle of pals, Lucy wished her 7-year-old wish. 

Even the youngest party goers enjoyed toasty s'mores. Pretty sure none of their older siblings would have been permitted to have a s'more at the ripe ol' age of one... the benefits of being the baby of the family!  

Lucy fashioned an origami party hat for herself. She was truly "Queen for a Day," basking in the love of her family and friends.  

Origami pigs created by the party guests and big sister Mary. 

Summer's Arrival

Summer is officially here. Which means our days are free for treats like these fabulous cones from the legendary Salt & Straw ice cream house. 

Good thing the garden bounty can help with healthy eats to balance those summertime treats!  

The Placebo Effect

Tonight Mary was complaining about pain in her ankle.

"It really hurts," she said as she massaged it.

"I'm sorry it hurts, darling. Anything I can do for you to help it feel better?" I asked.

"Yes. You can give me some candy." Mary replied.

"Candy?? Is that the new remedy for sore ankles?" I inquired.

"No, but the candy will be a good distraction from my pain. I'll be so busy enjoying the sweet taste that I won't be able to focus on how much my ankle hurts." Mary said with a twinkle in her eye.

Cousin Musical

When you get an invitation as nice as this, you'd better believe you'll be there at ten o'clock sharp! 

And here was the original musical score, performed by the cousins three. What a treat!

Papa Lilies

It makes me smile to know that these lovely calla lilies, plucked from the garden during a rain storm last night, are with beloved Papa today at Mt. Angel. We miss him so. 

(Thank you, John and Patty, for being the special couriers.) 

Salutations

Mary recently sat down to write thank-you notes for her birthday gifts. When she was finished, she handed them to me to address and mail. I was surprised to notice that there was no salutation (Dear Grandma...) on any of the notes. Each one just jumped straight into the body of the letter. 

I asked Mary why she didn't include the customary greeting. Her response: "Oh, Mom, that is so old-fashioned! Nobody does that anymore."

Sigh. Me: "Mary, it's important. We still use greetings." 

"But Mom, I've watched you write lots of texts and emails without it." 

Ouch. We really are role models, even when we don't think they're paying attention. 

Note to self: 9-year-olds are ALWAYS paying attention. And also: maybe I ought to edit this post to add, "Dear Gentle Readers," at the top.