Christmas Fantasy in the Woods

The amazing, beautiful, wonderful Tilden Park puts on an event every winter called Christmas Fantasyland. Tom and I went last year and it was one of the most delightful things we did the whole season. The most fun part is winding your way through the park in total darkness until you see on the hill the shimmering lights of the carousel and the enormous Christmas tree. They have Santa, reindeer, a shetland pony, hot chocolate, the carousel and many beautifully decorated trees. This year, we have already gone once and plan on going back again with friends as soon as possible. I can't get enough.

Tom-onaut.

Robo-me.

Holiday magic!

The sock monkey themed tree, for my "fan base."

You're Turning Violet, Violet!

Weekend Getaway: Cambria

Because we knew we wouldn't be together on Thanksgiving or my birthday, my parents met Tom and me in Cambria, CA a couple of weekends ago. We had a lovely time together and were able to add some extra fun to the trip by stopping at Big Sur on the way down and Wahoo's on the way back up.

Beautiful Big Sur.

In Morro Bay.

Can you spot the ground squirrels?

On the grounds of our charming hotel.

Christmastime at Rickemanor

Take that, chipmunk.

Thanksgiving!

After a disastrously long drive home from Orange County after Thanksgiving last year (11 hours!), Tom and I determined that we should hold our own gathering in Berkeley this year. We were joined by our dear friends Courtney and Mikey, who did half the cooking for our fantastic vegetarian feast. While it would have been nice to be with our families, we made do and had a great time.

So full.

From this picture, it would be reasonable to assume that we only had lemons, cranberry sauce, and non-dairy butter spread for Thanksgiving. Thankfully, this was not the case.

Mmmm... sweet potatoes, stuffing, Tofurkey, carrots, green bean casserole, mashed potatoes.

My list of things I am thankful for does not include seeing this facial expression.

New Zealand's Pride