Sunday, March 1, 2020

San Diego Living

This adventure began on a Tuesday at the Old Walker Field Airport on a gorgeous Grand Valley afternoon. Not a cloud in sight and minimal wind, perfect recipe for taking flight.

Flying Over Las Vegas - The GTREEN Building is the MGM
My seat on the first leg was next to a delightful gal from all places CRESTED BUTTE. We chatted the whole 40+ minutes about everything and everyone. One of my best flights from GJ to Salt Lake City. The rest of the trip was completely uneventful. SCORE


My first order of business was hitting the Administration Building in downtown San Diego. I mailed in my $$$ and paperwork but never heard a peep back. Tim and I personally walked in and got the inevitable run around. Go To That Room, Wait In This Line, Go Over There, etc. We were then told that in order for me to become deputized we would have to wait 30 days??? Thats when I took charge. I was extremely polite and pulled the COLORADO card and explained just how happy I would be to escort those papers downstairs for all the appropriate signatures. The Clerk Says," WE WILL CALL YOU WHEN THE CERTIFICATE IS READY." Sure, Government Agency Call Me?? Sure


We left downtown and made a "quick" stop at Costco and talk about visually stimulated. That place in unreal and I had no idea about the amount of Organic items they stock. All the alcohol was relatively cheaper. Beer wise! Spirits were about the same price as in Colorado. We then drove over to the store to pick up a few miscellaneous items and realized the Spirits were almost $15 more expensive than back home. Couldn't believe the sale price on the VooDoo Ranger though. Dig That


Tim asked me to have a look at his vows that afternoon. No Problem. He had a very elementary "paragraph" and I was concerned as I am no creative speech writer. So I asked him about Amanda and jotted down some key words. Wrote out a rough sketch/outline and then asked Tim HOW HE REALLY FEELS. "Close your eyes and what do you see when I say Amanda?" I then wrote his vows and he was so stoked! He took it as his own and jumped into character immediately. You could literally see the weight lifted of his shoulders. A Moment That We Will Never Forget. The pieces were easily falling into place. Zen Baby Zen

Our Backyard Work Station - Making It Happen 
Onto BBQ'n the night away with friends and family members of the Bride And Groom. Some of the faces I remembered from previous visits and many of the attendees where from Kentucky, Sac-A-Tomatoes, and various parts of SD. So under my goals, REMEMBER NAMES, thats were I was coming from. I fixed on the association game of recalling their name 3x and associating them to their specific seat around the fire. Worked Pretty Well


Off to northern San Diego the next morning. San Diego is so gorgeous and in Full On Springtime Mode. Hillsides painted in emerald shades of green, the lush cacti was blooming, and all the erect flowers appeared so damn healthy as they wait for pollinators. Devine I Tell Ya


Arrived in the afternoon and the sun feels much hotter inland than along the coast. Duh. I was a wheeeee bit dehydrated and started pounding H2o while mixing up my detox potion. I picked a few fresh lemons and oranges of T & A's trees, fresh organic garlic, and fresh organic ginger. I grated and mixed it all together and took mom on a walk while that concoction married. We walked and she explains in great detail the workings of her neighborhood, who's who, what yards received the Yard of the Month Award, pointed out the TWO murder homes, and dropped names of original home owners that I nodded to and responded with," Oh Yeah, Those Folks." Not in a dick headed demeanor but I don't recall that stuff. So & So from 1979 hosted such & such party. But this was one of my other goals, BE PRESENT. Engage & Play Nice 

My Nieces Some 6 Years Ago - Such Kids 
Pretty wild to be back at my mothers place as it a museum of artifacts and what nots. First thing through the door she says," Welcome Home!" I didn't make any fuss but that is not my home, never felt like home, and that place carries so much turmoil from my youth. And whats with all the bells and alarm chimes?? Any door that opens has its own chime. The lamp post out front makes a doorbell sound as you walk by. And all the Phuc-N Clocks ticking and tocking! It Was So Age Appropriate


But then, There Is This Guy. All Is Right In The World. Except for him as he was REALLY trying his best to grab a little shut eye. My butt rubs were clearly wrecking his daily nap time. But he is such a cuddlier in the mornings. He jumped in bed with me and wormed around until it was Go Time. We choose to believe he likes people But In Reality, he believe every human has a treat just for him. Right


P & P & I sat out back and enjoyed a few beverages and reminisced and chatted about upcoming travel plans. Quite relaxing really. Purposely No Mention Of Politics, Religion, And Partners. Another goal was BEST FOOT FORWARD. You know, taking the high road. KISS - Keeping It Simple Stupid


This was wild!! The amount of growth over the past 30+ years was mind boggling to say the least. The above photo is where my friends and I would ride our BMX bikes to the "Trail Head" of Black Mountain. You can clearly see the road that has been cut into the hillside. Later, I heard that there is a whole new MTB Trail System on the north side of Ole BLK Mountain. Wish I Had Done My Research


I drove my mom through old neighborhoods and ended up here. This location is now a massive green grassy park above my high school. CRAZY. That pool, I spent four years practicing water polo and swim seasons in. Countless hours!! Then went on to coach Freshman High School Water Polo all through the 90's while finishing up my own collegiate career. All of of those school buildings to the right of the pool were obviously built after my time. That area was the old soccer field as soccer fields and football fields were always separated. Also, the band/drill team practiced there before taking the field during Friday Night Halftime Shows.


Everything from the ballfields on is ALL new to me. Back in the day, there was an old dirt road that meandered all the way to Del Mar State Beach. This was an all day adventure as a kid and I'll bet that my mom would have cringed had she known about this. That road housed numerous migrant working camps and she is totally fear based. I never had any problems and skated kidnappings both ways everyday during the summer months. It just wild to me to see all the business parks and residential areas now. AND What Do They Do For Water


Now, there is the famous HOF ballplayer Ted Williams Parkway that ends in Del Mar from my mom's house. Its ONLY six miles, minutes away, and offers the most spectacular bike path along the parkway. Had I known this, another missed opportunity on my part, would have rented a road bike while I was in town. Flipping Amazing


So Friday rolls around and no word from the Admin Folks. Surprise Surprise. So around 3ish I headed downtown to storm the building and create some waves. Pulled into a metered space that had 45 minutes still, NICE. Walked in and Erica says, "Your From Colorado?!?" NICE. She says she has my certificate. NICE. I only waited for about 15 minutes and she hands over my packet. Nice. The State Of California Authorized Me As Deputy Commissioner of Marriage. NICE


I captured this photo, the Admin Building as well, sent to T & A. They were tickled pink! With my certification in hand, the wedding is now officially happening. Its Party Time


Many of you may already know this, I Am A Real Gene Wilder fan. This gum-ball machine stopped me dead in my tracks. Love This


Friday around 5pm was the rehearsal dinner at The Pearl in Point Loma and the site of the ceremony on Saturday. The place is beautiful and them folks JUST finished a full on renovation. They were even installing the door locks on my room, even after I had checked in. They were apologetic but I told them that my door would be wide open until Sunday Evening. No Worries! The T & A Wedding would be the first after this renovation. EVERYTHING was brand spanking new. And The Pearl just might never see a ceremony such as T & A's again. 


The rehearsal was warm buttery smooth, the dinner was prepared onsite and deliciously amazing, and my room was quickly established as the hospitality suite. Surprise Surprise!?! The meal served consisted of perfectly roasted vegetables, mixed green salad WITH edible flowers, and savory based chicken wings. Two brews were served that Amanda hand picked out. A fantastic chewy DOUBLE I.P.A. and a Mexican logger that I shied away from. Again, another evening of laughter, dynamic friends, and sipping on the good stuff. Exceeding All Expectations


Saturday morning ( 02/22/20 ) poured rain. Poured is an understatement. The streets of Point Loma were cascading like rivers of fresh tropical water features. For me, it was bitchin to witness and I danced around like a little kid with my shoes off. I continued to reassure T & A that rain on your wedding day was a true good luck measure. And for those two, totally ideal!! They were so cool about it. About everything really. The photo below is when the first sight of sunshine peaked through from those ominous clouds just hours before. Clearing sky, postcard beautiful, and the ocean air smelled so clean. Phuc- Yes


Tim & I hung in my room while Amanda and her two daughters were treated to a professional hair and make up session. Tim casually rehearsed his vows and we laughed with all the folks popping in my room at different times. Dropping off center pieces, offering any assistance, and just having fun in general. Me, still without shoes, dress shorts, and my favorite light weight white shirt from Cambodia ventured on down to the lobby area for more meet and greets. Still doing my best to remember names. By 4pm, the photographer took T & A and kids off for their photo shoot. I took that time to crank on my 2019 birthday show by The String Cheese Incident in my room. As I was finding my center, random faces popped in to express some encouraging words or ask questions or whatever. Everyone of them scanned me over and hesitantly made the comment of " You Look ( slight pause ) Nice??.!?" Too Funny

Photo Credit - J Butterfield
Just as the magical time of 4:56pm rolled into play, Tim & I made our way down the backstair case. We stood off to the side, out of sight of the guest, and waited out the last minute seating and beverage needs. Tim's soon to be Uncle in Law came by to say some very kind words to Tim. That is when it dawned on me that I had written out this entire ceremony, choreographed our parts, went over important cues with Tim, but had absolutely no introduction. None What So Ever. Sh*T Fire!

I waltzed my way out and open with,"How About That Good Luck Charm Of A Rainy Enriched Morning??" The attendees went nuts and I knew we were in for a urbane ride!! I introduced my self and explained how the Great State of California granted me the title of Deputy Commissioner of Marriage. I told a very quick story about how Tim reached out on August 15th 2019, in my model of the world, expected the best man speech as were in Elementary, Middle, And High School classmates. " WoW, am I ever honored!!" were my exact words. I then asked for a welcoming round of applause for the mother of the Bride. Then the first set of parents of the groom and then the second set. Closed out with, "All of us are privileged to be here today to witness this ceremony. " Everyone Cheered And Clapped

Photo Credit - J Butterfield
Ladies and Gentelmen.. We hit all of our marks. I never stumbled once and spoke with grace, integrity, and from the diaphragm. T & A asked me to spare down my speech from the original as they really wanted a short, sweet, and to the point ceremony. And that is what we did. I was so proud of Tim for nailing his vows, never projected any sort of nervousness, and spoke so cool and clam while slipping on Amanda's wedding ring. As I was talking about how deep their love for each other or something to that matter, I Paused and said to the crowd, "You Know, Like A Tony Gwynn Long Ball Deep." That was a huge hit and we all took a second to laugh and honor the late T Gwynn. Complete improv moment. I am telling you, the second best wedding I have ever witnessed and by far the best wedding I have ever had the privilege of being apart of.

Photo Credit - J Butterfield 
As the parents and attendees walked towards us, you could see how "pleased" "happy" "excited" everyone was. So genuine and so kind. Hugs and photos were on the agenda for about an hour. As for me and my interactions, not one not two BUT three couples asked me if I would officiate their weddings. The other standard reply I had for everyone when asked about how many weddings have a done."Including This One Today, One." Their faces were reading pure amazement. Everyone confessed to me how great T & A appeared and everyone expressed to T & A how great I was. Throughout the night T & A & I giggled about all the positive feedback and how we gave each other all the credit. I also shared with folks about how something is really easy to do when you believe in the cause. Tim And Amanda are beyond in love and truly are best of friends. They compliment each other so well and have always looked out for each others best interest. Its Refreshing


Another huge hit that T & A pulled off was a photo booth. They hired a guy who arrived with a small trailer. The trailer had been gutted out and remodeled into a welcoming photo booth. Tons of costumes!! Each group took 5 separate photos, the pictured were developed, and then the prints were issued right out of the side of the trailer. BRILLIANT!! Take your photos, move on out to grab your photos, and makes room for the next group coming in. I am telling, fantastic addition to an already fantastic day.


Oh, dinner after the wedding you ask???? Holy Smokes!! T & A went all out!! Waiters roamed around with fresh hot samples on small pizza paddles all night long. My favorite by far were the stuffed crab cakes. Delightfully prepared chicken breast on skewers were so handy. Bite size macaroni shells stuffed with creamy mashed potatoes. Everything that passed my way was mouth watering. Everyone raved about all the desserts but I knew they would give me hiccups. Happens anytime I mix sweets and alcohol. My Lose But A Damn Good Day


The next few days were spent seeing old high school friends, previous workmates, and more BBQ'n under a moonless sky. This is the view from where I spent a majority of my high school years in San Diego. Only those two closest rows of homes ( solar panel house was the cut off house to the neighborhood ) down below existed back in the 80's. Everything else is "new" and so many humans. Again, what do they do for water?? And I never saw one person utilize that park way down there were all that green grass is. CRAZY


Drove over to the Torrey Pines State Beach and I really enjoyed that. Parked the automobile and went for a little walk. The ocean breeze was almost too cold for me but the walk was much needed. Reflecting, enjoying, and processing game plans with each step towards the future. That afternoon, T & A & I ate the most boss fish tacos. Fresh Cabbage, Fried Calamari, Mahi Mahi, and Yellowtail with fresh beans, guacamole, and homemade authentic salsa. Another mark on my goal list, BLISS OUT. We laughed together all afternoon long. Affirmative


One of those BBQ evening was beer can chicken and smoked beef ribs. The last of the remaining friends and family in town popped over. Quite a few brought dishes to add to the mix. Super casual and relaxing after a full spectrum of weekend execution. Only a couple of us lasted past the midnight hour. I happily maned the fire pit until it was just that hot coal glow. Oh Yeah


And check out that masterpiece above?!?!? I threw that sucker back in 1989 and Tim still had it in his garage. Missing a little hair, just like all of us as we age, still functional. That Totally Touched Me 



The photo above was on my last night. I shot this out the backseat window as Amanda drove us down to the Coronado Brewery. Not bad for an old iPhone6 at 35+mph. We met up with more friends that night, few more well crafted brews, and had a blast catching up. Anyway, this photo is over looking Mission Bay and Festa Island. Back in the day, Tim & I hosted a number of bon fires on Festa Island. Its been alcohol and glass free for almost 30 years now according to Tim. However, back to the evening, every brew I "sampled" at the brewery was excellent. The food was outstanding as we all shared dishes. Actually, the pizza slice I tried was just OK now that I recall it. But Totally Award Winning Beers  


Needless to say, my head never found a pillow before 1am. I call that feet maximizing your itinerary. I remember sitting here before my flight and thinking about if I was going to be able to stay awake.

Even more impressive is the fact that I am very lucky person with incredible friends. I traveled to Sunny San Diego, meet new faces, saw old friends, remembered familiar faces, and was part of a gathering that created life long memories. This, even today as I type this, fills my heart with love. Love And Friends... Perfect Combination

Departing Salt Lake City
Entering Colorado
,


GOALS FOR MARCH:


  1. Reflect upon those moments in time
  2. Importunateness of my time
  3. Define my workout schedule 
  4. Express gratitude 
Thanx For Checking In,
Cheers

60 comments:

  1. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
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    1. oops - I Read This As Spam - my apologizes

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    2. It Was The Swim Suit Link That Made Me Think You Are A Spammer - Feel Free To Comment But Please Don't Add Sales Links

      Cheers

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  2. Just a brief post then. Loved every word and photo. You are not a boring person, that is for sure.

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  3. Hello, congrats to the bride and groom, it is cool you were the marriage commissioner. Great photos, I love the cute pup, ocean views and sunset. Happy March, have a great day and new week!

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    1. It Was Definitely A Privilege - Thanx For The Positive Comments - Happy March To You As Well

      Cheers

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  4. Nice article and beautiful photos. I like your background photos

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    1. Many Thanx And Glad You Like The Photos

      Cheers

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  5. What a great post, Padre. I felt like a guest at the wedding, super photos and a superb narrative. Well done!

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    1. Much Appreciated For Sure Mr Bill - Nice To Have You Back On The Net Again

      Cheers

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  6. What a fantastic weekend. Your descriptions were so vivid I felt as if I attended the wedding. Your photos are fantastic. Everything look so big and spread out compared to Boston. Thank you for the armchair travel.

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    1. Armchair Travel - Brilliant - I Appreciate Your Words For Sure - SD Is Really Spread Out - Like Crazy Spread Out

      Cheers

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  7. It was certainly an incredible and unforgettable day.
    How nice to see the places from the days of childhood, to see old friends and meet new faces.
    I believe the wedding ceremony must have been very beautiful.
    I liked all the photos, but I especially loved the first one with a night view from the plane and the photo of the palm tree against the sky.
    I agree with you, love and friends is a perfect combination.
    Greetings from Lisbon

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    1. So Glad You Like That Vegas Shot - Obviously It Was Stunning To The Naked Eye - Flying Over The Dark Desert Of Utah And BAM - Sin City - The Palm Tree Shot Was So Simple But Captured My Eye As Well - Thanx For Checking In From Lisbon - Be Well

      Cheers

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  8. Sounds like an amazing time--you have to agree that old friends are indeed the best friends. Which reminds me, I have to call my BFF from high school--her dad is in poor health and I need to check in. We're having out 40th HS reunion this year and while I'm a little anxious about going--I don't keep in touch with very many people and I don't know if I'll recognize a lot of them. Yikes. My parents still live in my hometown but in a different house. Like you, I was not attached to the house I grew up in. Lots of good times, but also many dark moments. Going back to the past always awakens all those memories, doesn't it? And why does it feel like it was just yesterday that I lived there but I can't remember a damn thing from yesterday! LOL I have to take your advice and that is be present, engage, and play nice.

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    1. Yes, Amazing!! Please Call Your Friend Soon - Call All Your Friends - Time Fly's When You Are Having This Much Fun - Sure Does, Tough Memories And Wish We Weren't Subjected To That BS - Thanx For Taking My Advice!!

      Stay Strong
      Cheers

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    2. You Know Wendy, I Thought About Your Comment Today At Work. I Failed To Recognize Your Honesty. Thank You. Seriously, Thank You.

      Big Hugs

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  9. Cool captures of precious moments in images and words. Congratulations on being granted the title of 'Deputy Commissioner of Marriages'!
    Cheers to the amazing crafted beers!

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    1. Many Thanx Magic - Quite The Honor - The Brews Were Outstanding - Thanx For Checking In And Welcome Back

      Cheers

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  10. Congratulation for being Deputy Commissioner of Marriages!
    Seems a great moment in San Diego, love to read your post and enjoy your amazing photos. Thank you for sharing.
    A hug.

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    1. Right On And Thanx!! Your Words Are Very Kind And I DO Appreciate Them - Pretty Good Photos For Old Technology - Love Virtual Hugs

      Cheers

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  11. Amazing time! I always enjoy your pictures and the dog is sooo cute☺

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  12. Congratulations!
    The photo of mountains with snow is cool.

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    1. Window Seat Of An Airplane, Gotta Dig It

      Cheers

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  13. It sounds like you've been having a great time...and I really love those stunning photos!😊😊
    It is always such a pleasure to visit here.
    Such a cute dog too...😊

    Have a fabulous day!

    Cheers!

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    1. A Wonderful Time For Sure And Stoked You Love These Photos - Thanx For Checking In - Super Cute Pup

      Cheers

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  14. ...a place that I've never been to.

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  15. What a super time you had Padre. Brilliant to be able to preside over the marriage of your friend, a really special thing for you both! Sounds like the whole occasion was a huge sucess. Good food, good drink and excellent company.. as the song goes 'who could ask for anything more' 😊

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    1. Incredibly Grateful My Dear - A True Success - Agreed, Excellent Soundtrack To The Post - Many Thanx Perth

      Cheers
      P.S. Thanx For Always Streaming My Shows

      Delete
  16. The entire wedding and visit was a Masterpiece! But I especially loved seeing the masterpiece that you threw so long ago. It must have been wild to be back where you grew up after so long. This was a smile-inducing read!

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    1. Your Too Much KB - I Thought About BLK Dog And Checked In For Sure - Its A Royal Pain In The A$$ To Reply With The iPhone - I Sure Enjoy Your Photos!!!

      Stay Strong,
      Cheers

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  17. What a exciting and adventurous trip. It was fun to read about. Glad city hall actually ended up working for you and I always love a good Costco trip. So does my wallet (not). San Diego is such a cool city and no time is better than in Feb or March to escape a little winter weather.

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    1. You Are So Right - It Was Exciting, Costco Is Rough On The Wallet, And SD Is Beautiful This Time Of Year - Thanx For Following Along

      Cheers

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  18. WoW!! you captured some amazing images of this very exciting trip. i have always thought that delivering flowers would be an awesome job, i think marrying people might be even better!!

    getting the runaround is never a surprise, a trip to costco is never quick....

    and i like your goals for march, it's good to write them down!!!

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    1. Interesting. Delivering Flowers. Not To Be A 'Debbie Downer' Delivering Flowers To Funeral Homes Would Be A Drag. The Old Government Runaround Is The Norm For Sure And Costco IS An Adventure In Itself. Its Always A Good Idea To Have And Write Some Goals. Now, I Just Need To Follow Through.

      Cheers

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    2. well...i meant delivering flowers to peoples homes, i have always thought that would be so fun. marrying peeps is way better!!

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    3. well..a funeral home is a home
      HHHEEEEEeeeee HHHHHEEEeeeee
      Please, I Say That With All The Best Intentions Possible
      But You Are Right, Marrying People Has A More Desirable Result
      Enjoy The Rest Of The Weekend

      Cheers

      Delete
  19. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  20. A lovely trip including reunion with families and old friends. Thanks for your visit.

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  21. Excellent I don't know much of your history so this post ticked off a few boxes, it is strange how we reflect on our connection to our youth and the landscape around us. Many Happy years to the newly wedded couple.

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  22. You had a very animated trip and from what I can see you manage to do so many things because you plan and schedule your time very well.
    P.S.: I also find it hard to remember the names of all the persons in a group unless I get to talk with them.

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    1. Some If It Was Scheduled And Some Of Its Was Flying By The Seat Of My Pants - I Am So Rough With Names, Tired To Picture Them Sitting Around The Fire - Worked Pretty Well - Keep Talking

      Cheers

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  23. You do such a nice job of documenting your trips. I don’t think I have ever had a disappointing trip to California.....it is such a beautiful state. I know your friends not only appreciated you being there but for doing such a nice job officiating.

    I appreciate your well wishes over on my blog.....Janey

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    1. Wonderful - CA Sure Does Sell Its Self - Been Thinking About Your Shoulder - Stay Strong

      Cheers

      Delete
  24. It can be bittersweet to visit places of your youth. Especially in S CA... so much constant growth and change, it's hardly recognizable. I totally suck at remembering names. Thanks for the tips!

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    1. Try This Next Time

      Place The Person You Meet To A Spot In Your Living Room - So & So Sitting On The TV, Whats-Its-Face Laying On The Coffee Table, & She She On The Left-Side Of The Couch With Her Drink Propped Up On The Rest

      That Association My Help With The Visual As Well - Good Luck
      Cheers

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  25. Such a lovely trip and so many beautiful pics here!
    Kisses, Paola.

    Expressyourself

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    1. Excellent Trip And Not Bad For An Old iPhone6

      Cheers

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  26. I would like try this beer :)

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    1. Thankfully I Didn't Stop After Just One

      Cheers

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  27. I like the IPA. Nice Text ;) I Like.this pic ... Great that you SAW a lot of friends

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    1. Its Wonderful Spending Time With Friends Under These Conditions

      Cheers

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  28. Wonderful post - and now a beer, please (OK, maybe a tad early at 08:15 am).

    ReplyDelete