the group photo!

 The Tiapos (aka Fluf) Gang last Sunday. Such a delightful day in and on Chef Sarah's patio. This was late in the day and it was getting a bit chilly so our hostess, on the end (left), was wrapped in a blanket. But still a lot of warmth all over and throughout the day.

in less than 3 weeks

 I have a bit of work to do before I fill out the ballot and mail it in. Mostly the confusing propositions and just a few of the lesser candidates require some research. Well worth the effort to keep our democracy alive, especially during these perilous times.

there is potential here...

 Still waiting for Doug's group photos, but in the meantime...last night I watched some Animals on Netflix, with Ben  Affleck and Kerry Washington. So far, so good and more tonight.

Sunday in Napa

 So much food and fun, thanks to Chef Sarah. Another perfect Tiapos with delicious food, as always.  We await the group photos from Doug's camera, but until then you do get a glimpse. My piece was about my "new" family on the East Coast and of course folks were intrigued. Top photo is Sam with his art, he is always such a great addition to our group and his fresh garden tomatoes? The best. Also grateful to Doug who did the driving and did not get lost once. Feeling blessed again.

and now, the Finals!

 I saw a lot of purple on my walk yesterday afternoon ~ men and women and kids wearing the colors of our amazing Valkyries Women's Basketball Team. So much fun and such a lovable and joyful group of young women who are giving the Bay Area a huge bolt of energy. Go Walks!

meet my "new" parents

 Catherine Beall and Charles Flook of Frederick County, Maryland. How did they meet? Was it a romance or a one night stand? They were not teenagers, in their twenties. We think Mom was in college. My adoption was private and at 10 days old my Aunt Kit of Mckeesport, Pennsylvania, brought me to Pasadena, California, on the train. I cried all the way. I still well up quickly and way too often.

back on the Farm

 Yes, I'm home in SF after this whirlwind trip. I did want to show you where Sister Jane spent the first nine years of her life, dodging cows as she walked a long way to catch the school bus. Flook Farm is now a lovely park in Frederick County, with an official plaque dedicated to the Flook Family. So very beautiful here with walking paths and picnic tables. And, of course I'm happy to be home and Annabelle has forgiven me for leaving her and we are pals again. Now the laundry. Grrrrrrrr.