CA Road Trip

Howie and I headed to CA on Saturday

to see the kiddos and help with a few projects.

It was a perfect couple of days

filled with planting, yard work, great dinners and

lots of talk and laughter.

Ben had been thinking of an herb garden for his porch,

so we found a good set up at Lowes and viola!

Hannah has a small dirt area out her back door

perfect for a patio and garden, so we spent a day,

clearing and cleaning off the ivy wall

and Hannah pulled out about 10 lawn bags of debris.

Then Tom and Hannah went back to the store for pavers

and Tom began laying 54 of them perfectly level.

Ben and I watched while Ben also cooked and

I organized some cupboards.

David and Howie were helping?

Hannah has promised pictures upon completion.

I also repotted and potted new plants for a lovely little corner.

Industrial lights will be strung and it will be a cozy retreat.

THEN there was THIS...

One of the most delicious meals ever.

PERFECT RIBS and TRI TIP and INCREDIBLE

Roasted Potatoes.

Horrible photo, just trust me.

Prepared by our favorite cook Ben.

He uses a sous vide first for hours

and then the magic of his

seasonings and skill.

We made yummy noises throughout the dinner.

We raved so much that Ben said he now

doubted our sincerity.

These three are so incredible.

I adore them and miss them.

My last night they took me to the cutest

Irish bar up the street.

I have declared it my bar.

The vibe and fish and chips were perfect.

I can't wait to go back.

I am blessed and never take it for granted.