What I'm reading right now...

"I love a man in a uniform" by Lily Burana. Written by a woman who never figured she'd marry a military man AND Uncle Sam. Check it out.

Going for the Gold.

Last week I nearly lost my family in the Gold Country. No, we didn’t accidentally leave someone behind at a rest stop or abandon a mouthy kid along Highway 49. We came down with a fever — gold fever.

For more Surrendering to Motherhood, click here.

Do not take.

Another newsroom posting.

Hot pink with a twist of zebra.

These days, the "it" place to shop for the under 14 crowd is "Justice" formerly known as Limited Too. With trendy clothes at bargain prices (a 40% off coupon is widely available) it's hard to beat these deals. Little Ava, almost 10, edges closer to "tween" status day by day. Good thing she still sleeps with her blankie.

Rollie's rockin' hat

Here's my friend Rollie Lovall with her newest accessory. This is a woman who appreciates bright colors, red shoes and funky hats. Hats off to you Rollie, 83 years young.

Happy Anniversary to me.

Fifteen years ago this summer, I took on the role of mom for the first time.

With such a title you’d think there’d be some kind of pin or sash, or better yet, a crown. But no, us moms get none of the above. Our children are our reward, right?

For more Surrendering to Motherhood click here...

49er Ava

Sutter Gold mine, Sutter Creek, Ca.

The secret steps

Hidden behind Restaurant 498 in Murphys, Ca. we find secret steps to a hidden door... Peering inside we see only a seamstress dummy.

Murphy's and Angel's Camp rocked! Thank you to Scott and Jennifer for letting us use your super cool timeshare.

The one, the only

Allie Du-wheeze!!!

The clean up.

I’d plotted. I’d planned. I’d circled the scene repeatedly, waiting for just the right moment to attack.

Then last week I did something I’d wanted to do for a long time: I cleaned out my daughters’ bedroom.

For more Surrendering to Motherhood, click here.