Day 517 – Grayson’s Journey

Dear family and friends

Grayson slept in a bit this morning while Regina and I decided on some spring "updates" to the landscaping. We probably should have done this at the end of February when spring really starts here in Southern California – it is already starting to feel like summer here because Easter is so late!

When we did get Grayson up we had a wonderful breakfast of omelets – a bit of a change from his normal routine of cereal or frozen waffles. But isn't that what Saturday mornings are for? The omelets were made with grilled chicken, pesto and feta cheese with a hint of sun dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Not a bad way to start the day, and no carbs for the diabetic (me)!

After breakfast we headed to the La Canada Farmers Market for a pile of fresh vegetables for the week. It was packed with more vendors than I have ever seen today, and it was fun to be out and out in the glorious Southern California sunshine.

Later this afternoon I went to church to rehearse with the vocal quartet for Easter Vigil. As always it will be an awesome and fun service. Cheryl Speer does a great job of selecting the music for this service and it is always my favorite of the entire year. Easter Vigil marks the end of Lent, and is the first celebration of the Resurrection in the church year. If you can make it, join us in front of Salem Lutheran Church at 7:30 PM for the blessing of the new fire and lighting of the Paschal Candle. The service follows in the sanctuary.

This evening we gathered to say farewell to Zack, Lauren's boyfriend, who is heading back home to Kentucky after an extended stay here in Southern California. Rita, Richard, Austin, Xixi, Regina, Grayson and I joined Lauren and Zack to celebrate friendship and enjoy great company. He is a great kid, though it seems that the term "kid" seems to encompass a wider age range than it did earlier in my life!

It was a wonderful day in the sun and beauty of Southern California enhanced with the warmth of family and friends. What a great day!

Pax!

Brant