Christmas 2007

This holiday season has found us traveling all over the state of CA. I flew to San Diego to be with my whole family (Dec. 16-19), then hopped in the car on Dec. 21 and off we went to Monterey/Carmel for the night. We went to visit with a couple sets of friends, have dinner at Joe Rombi's La Mia Cucina (excellent!), took a whirlwind tour of the Monterey Bay Aquarium (I had to see the otters!) and then drove over to the central valley town of Newman to see Farmer Jeff's papa, wife and sister-in-law. We were there from Dec. 22 until today and then drove back here to have dinner with Jeff's mama, brother and Aunt K. It has been a fun time and we are so happy now to be back with our babies.

There have been some very special highlights. I would have to say that being able to see all of our family members is at the top of the list. Quite wonderful.

I received some lovely, thoughtful and unexpected gifts. From my dear husband, one of the gifts he gave me was a watch with the Virgin of Guadalupe on the face. I have an unexplainable connection to her and am deeply touched by this gift. We received art work, towels, items for the kitchen and they were all with motifs of chickens, farm animals or just really pretty things.

The unexpected gift was from Bridget, the Great Chicken Mother. She knew that I was disappointed the Modesto Poultry Auction was not held yesterday and seeing that she needed to make room for her incoming white Faverolles, she GAVE me TWO of her beautiful Salmon Faverolles hens. It was so great to hear them talking to us as we drove them home today.
(She is pictured here with her favorite Faverolles Rooster). The new girls, not yet named, are safely protected from the elements and the other chickens. I promise to give an update.

Now for a moment of Gratitude: I am grateful for all of the wonderful people in my life. God bless each and every one of you. Everyone in our world can teach us something and allow us to practice unconditional love. May I forever keep my heart, mind and soul open to new people, opportunities and experiences.

Merry Christmas!