Birthdays

Merced, California: The Plague of Flies continues. Jogging today was not fun. I circled the (now closed) Castle Air Force Base and can now claim running with your mouth closed is actually quite difficult.

Even if you are jogging slower than a turtle.

Never mind. We had birthdays to celebrate. Errands to run. Salads to prepare. Today we were celebrating the birthdays of Brother Bill and Sister-in-law Ginger. It seems the celebration has continued on for days and days now... but tonight was the penultimate party. Our job was to contribute a Caesar Salad and appetizer.

DT and I headed out to Costco with Brother Kent. You would not believe what I found in the beer aisle:

Brother Kent exploring the speakers

It seems I am the last person on the planet who does not know about cases of Bud Light (in bottles, by the way) that include speakers for your iPod. Why is this necessary?

Confused.

Just a bit.

Anyway, the family gathered tonight at Mom's for a birthday bash. Brother Kent grilled Rib Eyes and roasted potatoes with fresh herbs from his garden. I made a pretty decent Caesar. Mom baked a cake. The Birthday Boy and Girl only had to show up, eat and open their gifts.

Beefy Rib Eye Steaks


Taters


The Birthday Girl Ginger (Bill's wife) opens a gift (sweet, cute niece in the background)

Are ya'll working out our Family Tree?

Birthday Boy Brother Bill opens his gift


Chocolate Rum Cake

DT and I are so lucky to have a wonderful family and so happy to be here to celebrate birthdays.

Until my next update, I remain, your sweet correspondent.

RV Park: Castle Air Museum - We stay here quite often as it is close to family. Basically a parking lot with 8 RV spaces. Dry camping available if the campsites are full. Full hook-up sites with 50 amp. No cable, no wifi. Dump station. First night fee gives you membership to the Air Museum. No frills here. Pets welcome - lots of lawn for them to roam. On-site host, Sandy, is a very nice lady. $30.