January 2010

This month we made time to catch up with friends on the trail, over dinner and at our home.

January 1st - The obligatory "Happy New Year" Hike

We caught up with the Ogier's (and Alan too) and hiked a few miles up Mt. Lukens.   The area was devastated by the Station fire back in August 2009 - as you can see by this first image.  Black trumps green, not much vegetation around. It's really sad to see so much of the foothills wiped out. But our hike was nice!

Danielle, Kathy, Drew, Alan & Virginia

Back down off the mountain, the sunset took over.

January 15th -  A Visit with Laura, Therese & More

Laura's not one to keep in touch too often, but when she does reconnect - it's big.  She and her sister Therese made a special visit to our place for a short (and rainy) hike and dinner afterwards.  

Our conversation drifted between our friend Lisa, congrats on our recent marriage, and promises to send out the chili recipe.  Great times!

Virginia, Me & Laura	Me, Beth, Virginia & Therese

January 23rd  - A Bluebird Morning to Remember

After a week of cold and rain, Saturday morning gave way to bluebird skies, snowy peaks and a nip in the air.  We could see the snow on Mt. Lukens from the kitchen window - and knew it probably wouldn't last long. We downed coffee and toast as fast as possible to hit the trail for a view.

We had one of those gorgeous winter hikes:

January 25th -  Blackie

With two cats already in our small home, we found ourselves in a situation where we had to make room for a third.  Three female cats and a wife, my masculinity is taking a beating. But it's only temporary (ahhem - Blackie that is).

She was in a bad situation and Virginia opened her heart and took the required action to get her into a better living environment (our house).

While she's been with us, her health has improved 100%.  After a week of topical ointments, antibiotics and two trips to the vet she's free of mites, fleas and worms. A 2lb drop in her heft confirms our strict diet is working.

Are you interested in having her as your own? Blackie is a very mellow, easy going and needs a good home.  Contact me for more information! More pictures of Blackie.

January 30th -  Dinner with Tommy & Songyuan

Buca di Beppo is a very lively Italian place - adjacent NBC/Universal Studios along the Universal City Walk.

Luckily I had made reservations, it got crowded quickly on a Saturday night.  Our foursome included Virginia and I, her brother Tommy and his wife Songyuan.

Besides the picture below, check out this Puzzle Picture as well.  (HINT: Virginia's family will enjoy this especially!)