Modesto Merrymaking

The first stop on our California trip was Son Tony and DIL Ie's house in Modesto, a city in the Central Valley. The most convenient way to get there is to fly into San Jose in the southern part of the San Francisco Bay area.

Froom San Jose the drive to Modesto is approximately 100 miles. It usually takes 90 minutes, although commuter traffic can add another hour or more. In order not to get caught up in the evening rush hour traffic Hubby Tony and I got a very early start on the front end, flying out of St. Louis at 6:20 am. We changed planes in Denver, and because of the two hour time difference, arrived in San Jose at 10:40 am. That allowed us to take our time getting to Son Tony's. We stopped for lunch in downtown Livermore (the approximate halfway point) and afterwards walked around that area. We pulled up in front of Son Tony's house mid-afternoon. All three grandchildren were watching out the window for us.

While we were there we were privileged to be a part of two baptisms (Granddaughter Evee and Grandson Ian entered the Catholic church). In addition, Hubby Tony and I got to hang out with the family and play games. I got my daily orange fix from the tree in the backyard:

As large as my hand, extremely sweet, and juicy

On my birthday, each of the grands picked out a individual cake from the grocery store for everyone to enjoy. The family serenaded me, and then the kids cracked up over my age.

Just enough for everyone to have a bite of each

All too soon the wonderful weekend came to an end. Monday was a work and school day, so Grandpa and Grandma gave everyone a big hug and kiss before we got in the car to drive back to San Jose, where the next part of our trip awaited.

Five years ago today: Sprouts Begone!