• Ok, so I get a bit excited when two things I love come together so perfectly – the two things that came together today: beer and environmentalism.  Yes, that right, beer and environmentalism.  Sierra Nevada brewery in Chico makes amazing beer but does it with sustainability at the forefront.  From their car park with huge solar cells to the way they transport the beer.  You can check out their practices here.
    And let's face it, I would be less than enthusiastic if the beer sucked – but that is not the case.  To wit, the sampler we (4 of us – and boy we could have used another) tried during our lunch.  I have eaten at the pub here a few times but never tried the sampler before – one word – Awesome. (side note – I really wish India didn't have such silly restrictions for bringing beer back otherwise I would have bought a case).  The folks at SV deservedly get kudos on both fronts.
    Ohh, yeah, my favorite – the Crystal Wheat…yum!
  • Serendipity waved her magic hand again.  My visit home corresponded with Seana's baby shower…and while my visit was too short, it was so great to see the expectant couple surrounded by loving friends and family.

  • The most important meal of the day is even better with good friends, fun conversation and of course, homemade french toast.  What more could a girl ask for – thanks guys!

     

  • With a few of my favorite people….

     

  • I have always been fascinated by trees and forests.  There is a beautiful small patch of redwoods nearby our old home.  This was the place where I went to think, talk with friends, breath great air, or just feel like I was part of something bigger than myself. 

    While home I was able to spend some time in my favorite place with one of my favorite friends.  The park and trails were truly magical the morning K and I went; the hills were super misty (gotta love the micro climate) making for a beautifully cool walk, interesting light, decent pictures and some dirty shoes.

     

  • We had the kids for the day and decided that riding miniature trains and rocking horses would be a good way to spend a few hours….

     

  • Who doesn't love a parade?  Especially when you get to ride shotgun in the COOLEST car (privileges of age I suppose – my brother rode in the back…)

    Yep, that's right!  I got to sit next to my Dad as he drove his 64 1/2 Mustang in the 4th of July parade.  This car has been in our family since my Dad and his father bought it while my dad was still in high school.  I still love hearing the story about how my Grandfather, after seeing the car in a magazine, went down to the dealership and bought one.  Amazingly, he let my Dad drive it home.  What a trusting fellow to let a teenager behind the wheel of a brand new car.  It should be noted dear reader, I have yet to drive this car…acheem – Dad? 

    Anyway, it was a ton of fun and the whole family turned out to watch….here are a few snip-its of the parade courtesy of Dar.
    Post parade activities included a massive Mexican lunch where rewards were given out for driving and photographing the festivities.  Apres (actually it should be despues) lunch some, who were clearly worn out from the excitement, festivities, and food needed a nap……oops, siesta!  Ahhh the joys of summer.

     

  • I thought the traffic was bad in India…only to be reminded how bad Bay Area traffic can be….took me 3.5 hours to get home from the airport – which sorta sucked after spending the previous 38 hours traveling…

     

  • Walking back the other day from yoga I noticed a number of students doing some very cool graffiti on their building….sponsored of course….I went back yesterday to take some pictures..

    I also spotted this, loved it and thought I would share it.

     

  • Urli's are a typical welcome found outside of Indian homes…I love them and finally found one for outside our front door that I liked.  I put a lotus flower in it as well as some plumeria blossoms.  As with all flowers, meaning and symbolism have been attributed.  

    My favorite for the lotus is purity of mind and as for the plumeria, I like one of the Hawaiian meanings – the flower represents the bond between everything good.  Ours is ready to welcome folks to our home….now….we need the visitors.