Well, it has been awhile since my last post because I went on a trip up to Northern California. My family normally does an annual 'mini-reunion' over the summer. However this year, with my grandpa's cancer he couldn't handle the traveling. So instead of heading to Lake Tahoe we all just rallied around him. :) We didn't get to go anywhere exciting, and it wasn't our typical vacation, but it was wonderful. I LOVE my family. And it is so nice to simply sit around a table laughing and talking with the people who know you the best. Our tradition on these mini reunions is that each couple has a day to cook and do dishes. So no one has to cook or wash more than once and once your day is over you are free to enjoy everyone else's delicious specialties. It may sound silly but it is SO much fun planning a menu for 14 people. On my day I did a typical breakfast that consisted of waffles, fruit, eggs and bacon. For lunch I went simple and made a variety platter of pita sandwiches; turkey, chicken salad, roast beef and ham with a bread bowl of spinach and artichoke dip and watermelon. For dinner I decided on making a few roasted lemon and herb chickens (that turned out WAY BETTER than I have ever made before), home-made herb and dill potato salad, and home-made macaroni and cheese. It came out great and everyone enjoyed. I was so happy because the year before I felt like a total flop when I made this spinach pasta dish that was delicious BUT my uncle couldn't eat due to an allergy I was unaware of! (that particular uncle couldn't make it this year so my dip at lunch didn't threaten any lives!)
Anywho, it's the simple things in life that make me tick. And spending a week and a half with all those people has left me with a permanent smile. In addition the chemo has done it's job and my grandpa's cancer has shrunk by half! PRAISE THE LORD! All in all, a pretty good trip. Other than the fact that it once again reminded me of how much I love the foothills and long for the day that the hubby, kiddos and I can move back! (P.S. I still adore Southern California, was even born down here, I just miss being close to our parents!)
