In addition to attending the wedding, I was fortunate to be able to visit with Robin. Robin and I taught English together for several years. She is now back in Santa Cruz with his husband, Dennis - he's in the background - and her son, who is the organic gardener. Robin is continuing to teach at San Jose State University and she is writing a new mystery. It was wonderful to re-connect with Robin. Thank you for the lovely vegetables!

The first picture shows Diane's daughter, Kristin, and Diane's best friend from high school, Ruth. In the second picture are Jessie, the proud grandmother, with Brett and Tenley! The celebration included all close friends and family. We had a wonderful time wishing Brandon and Sophie much happiness!

Here is my good friend of thirty-six years - we started teaching at Newbury Park High School the same year - surrounded by her sons, Brandon, the groom on the right, and Brett, the best man, on her left.

The sentiment that each of us came away with was that Brandon and Sophie are truly in love. They know each other well and find happiness within their relationship! This picture, taken just before the private Jewish ceremony, captures that feeling!

Brandon and Sophie chose a beautiful spot for their elegant wedding. We drove to the summit of Highway 17 and then dropped down to the site. As you can see, the setting was exquisite!

They were married in a semi-traditional Jewish ceremony. The canopy was created by Sophie's mother and grandmother. Sophie and a friend of hers created a lovely brochure for the attendees, so we could understand not only who was participating in the ceremony, but the significance of the various segments. The one that was new to me and was very significant was the bride and groom circling each other to create their own space as a couple and new family. The rabbi had known Sophie since her birth. The music was traditional and lovely. Sophie and Brandon wrote their own vows, too, which were representative of them as a committed couple.

I was fortunate to be included in the Heiken-Messer rehearsal dinner at Michael's in Santa Cruz. The setting was lovely on a heated patio with a view of a creek below. It was Brett's thirtieth birthday, and I met his daugther Tenley. As you can see, she is beautiful!!!

Diane's brother, Scott, was pleased to have his wife, Ann, and her son join the family from Sweden. Chritopher celebrated his 23rd birthday on August 15th, the day of Brandon's wedding. We had much to celebrate!!!

Skatepark Benefit

Trevor and his friend Neil worked diligently to create a fundraiser for the local skatepark. The event progressed perfectly on Friday, August 6th. Trevor had a beautiful spot in Murphys with DJ's and a reggae band from Sacramento. He got a liquor license, and he and I served beer and wine for the first five hours together. Neil's parents donated and barbecued the chicken and tri-tip, plus all of the fixings. Although the crowd was comparatively small, all costs were covered and the rest went to the skatepark. With better publicity, next year's event will be huge! Melissa manned the entry.

Did I tell you Collin is cute?

Nana tried to read to Collin repeatedly, but he prefers that Mama read to him. So, here is he holding the book Nana tried to read!

Collin's favoritie activity at home is to play with pillows. Did you know that pillows can provide endless fun? Collin and I played all three days! First, Collin insistes that I give him all the pillows, even the ones supporting my back. Then, he plunges into them, giggling. Next, he kicks them on the floor. He looks plaintively up to see if you will pick them up. If not, he gets off the couch and throws them back on the couch. He lifts his arms up to get back on the couch. Simply repeat endlessly to play correctly!!! Did I tell you being a grandmother is great fun?

Yucaipa Park

Heather and Josh enjoy being outdoors as much as possible. Collin thinks going on adventures is fun, as long as they do not require long incarceration in the dreaded carseat! This park is only a mile from their new house. Heather and Collin enjoy long walks or jogs in the park and the surrounding areas. Josh prefers to ride his bike. Nana and Collin walked in the park on Sunday, while Collin's mom went for a run and his daddy went for a bike ride! Collin and Heather enjoy lots of time at the park. Collin's lastest trick was learned from Grandad Mike - throw the wood chips!

Visit With the Erquiagas

I spent three days with Heather, Josh, and Collin. We had a wonderful visit. Who knew being a grandmother would be so much fun. Heather and Josh have just moved into a home of their own in Yucaipa, California. It is so cute and perfect for them. They have a three-bedroom home with hardwood floors, lots of light, and a nice backyard patio with a view of the mountains. Collin and his daddy are very happy in their new home!