Ferry Building, San Francisco

A few weeks ago Tom and I had a fabulous, kidless weekend in San Francisco. I enjoy the fresh feeling there, and especially like the Ferry Building. I've found not many know where it is or what there is to love.

It's on the Embarcardero, but past the more famous Pier 39, at the Market Street intersection. The Ferry Building is filled with small local businesses, especially food establishments. You can find all your specialties: gourmet mushrooms (Far West Fungi), artisan cheese (Cowgirl Creamery), and delicious, warm-from-the-oven bread (Acme Bread Co.).  This trip I had a hamburger from Prather Ranch Meat Co., a delicous combination of meat, blue cheese and apple chutney. The fries were yum too, and Tom was fond of the cane sugar root beer.

The attraction for me doesn't stop at the shops. It's a fun place to people watch where, at least outside the building, you see locals jogging and protesting, taking a break from their working lives, bundled up for another day by the bay.

Jimmy Lived Here

Last month we decided to rent a cabin at Sundance ski resort, which marketed itself as "Home of a Hollywood Celebrity." After finalizing the rental I decided to google the address and see if a celebrity name turned up.

Turns out Jimmy Stewart used to own it. We love him! It certainly flavored our time there.

This was our first experience with the concept of renting a place and inviting everyone to come visit, and it turned out to be the best way to see family and friends and feel you had a vacation too.

 We also went tubing at Soldier Hollow in Midway. We had so much fun listening to country music while being pulled up the hill via rope tow. That day made for some great family memories!

My Running Career

Let me begin by saying it's all Tom's fault. He decided when turning 49 that, by the age of 50, he wanted to be "in the best shape of my life." Nicely, he asked if I wanted to join him in his fitness quest. So he's been working out with a trainer and has new muscles neither of us knew he was capable of having. I joined a running class, was professionally fitted for great running shoes, and began working with a certified running coach.

Six weeks later . . . and I'm hurting! While running last week my knee, and then my hip, began hurting. It's only gotten worse. No fall, no "pop," just noticed an achy sort of pain. I started walking and didn't push myself, but apparently I've suffered a running injury. My primary care doctor said to give it five days, take anti-inflammatories, and stretch.

I'm making an appointment to see a specialist tomorrow. I foresee surgery.

But maybe it won't be as bad as I fear.

I really miss moving freely. I even miss exercising. I don't believe I am meant to be a runner.

Out of Control

"Out of Control" by Heath Robbins

This painting made me laugh until tears were rolling down my cheeks! Talk about art which makes a connection with it's audience . . . .

You need the backstory. It's Thanksgiving morning. I'm preparing for 25 guests. This past week each of us have succumbed to a stomach virus (except Bryce, thank heavens). Kids have been home all week. Husband has been at work or in bed (worse). Get it?

Each time I take a look at the painting I see something new to enjoy. Because no matter how crazy this week has seemed, it never compares to this poor mom in "Out of Control" by Heath Robbins. Enjoy!

Yes, We Bowl

It all started with Elijah's marble jar. If he filled his mason jar by making "Good Choices" then he could do something fun. It took a month to fill his jar. His request? To go bowling with his good friend M.

Two months (and daily prayers) later, we finally went bowling with Ms family. To spice things up we agreed the winners' picture would be posted on the loser's blog.


We are officially The Winners but the scoreboard doesn't tell the whole truth. I gave myself a spare by resetting the pins (good trick--have to remember that one). T. gave me my second strike in the last frame (way to distract, Tom!).

Elijah is earning more marbles. This time he's aiming for Boomerang's with his buddy N.

Tom is my Ken Doll

Tom has made it clear: he needs (wants) new clothes for Christmas. He wants to update his look for work which in the past has been jeans and a company logo golf shirt (he works for a software company where the dress is "wear anything you want").

I haven't shopped for him in a while and don't feel current with male trends, so I've turned to the internet for advice. And found there is little to help.

But I like this look. Tom would say "I don't like v-necks" and "I don't like t-shirts under sweaters which hang out the bottom."

But I say "Get used to it, because I like this look and you gave me the job."

He is my Ken doll. Pictures to follow.

Through Grayson's Eyes

I sometimes download pictures and discover Grayson has taken a few on his own. It's always fun to look at the world through his eyes.

I especially love that the pumpkin one reveals the little sneak himself!