Memorial Day.........................

This is a special day to remember those that we loved and lost through the years. There are so many that touched my life and today, besides my darling Gary, I remember my mom who lived to be 93, my dad who lived to be 87, Gary's mom Alma who lived to be 96. Also remembered are Randy Lutz, Gary's dad, Al, and several who died recently; Marv Smith, Sam Holland and my Aunt Marie. Memories keep them alive in our hearts................

A Holiday Weekend..........

Some of our favorite people (Mari, Stewart and Ann) were dinner guests last night. What started out as a simple meal turned out into a spectacular event because Roger wanted to prepare some of his favorites, too. Right about the time that our guests were thinking of leaving the fireworks started at River Place so it was a perfect ending to an enjoyable evening.

Today the outdoor pool is open for the season; warmed to 82 degrees with all the lawn furniture in place and Portland is ready to celebrate the beginning of the Rose Festival. Roger and I are planning to take a drive into the Wine Region to visit a winery that has been given rave reviews - - but there's just one slight glitch - - It's cloudy, wet and gloomy which tends to "dampen the spirits" so I'm going to start the day reading the Oregonian in front of the fireplace instead of out by the pool. We're promised 72 degrees and sunshine tomorrow so we're hoping for a reprieve.

Razor Clams.........................

It's likely that I talked about razor clams before but since my readers are my age, you've likely forgotten, just as I have.

Today was my "me" day with a pedicure and manicure followed by lunch downtown at Jakes. Fresh razor clams were on the menu and since they are seasonal I made an order.

Most of you reading this remember Mac and Pat Tadena in the "good 'ole days" when they hosted abalone dinners. Abalone today is just a fond memory but razor clams are a good substitute. They have a more tough consistency but they have a similar taste so it's a chance to remember the earlier days when we enjoyed some great parties. My only regret is that I have lost touch with Pat and Mac.

http://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/shelfish/razorclm/razor10.htm

The clams today came from Washington State. In a week we're on our way to Vancouver BC so maybe we'll get even closer to the source of these delicious clams.

This afternoon Roger and I visited an International market for the first time and we found food products that are not available in a general grocery store. Roger was excited to find fruit and vegetables that are only found in the Middle East. My favorite was a choice of fresh caught fish so tonight we had True Cod. I'm anxious to get back to try the fresh wild salmon and red snapper.

Party Time ---------

It's Monday night so that means it is "party time" - well at least this week it is.........

Our friend Cheryl hosted a dinner party for about 15 friends and we were included in the invitation. She lives on the 9th floor so it was a perfect evening to enjoy the view of the river area (Mt. Hood was obscured by clouds).

We knew only a few of the guests so it was a great opportunity to meet and make new friends - most from nearby.

We learned about an International market about 5 miles outside of Portland that we'll visit this week.

Great food - new friends - a good way to start a new week.........

Two years.........................

Two years ago we lost a loving husband, dad, grandpa and friend. Rest in Peace, dearest Gary.

Another Week....................

It is said that time goes fast for those who have fun so that pretty much describes the last week.

Nothing exciting but just a progression of pleasant days filled with enjoyment.

Liz did well with her knee replacement on Monday and is now on the road to recovery,

Lori had a great birthday celebration entertaining friends with her new raclette machine,

Roger and I took care of dental and medical appointments and Cheryl and I enjoyed an afternoon of lunch at the Culinary Institute and shopping at Macys and Chicos, downtown.

Yesterday Callie joined me for a walk to the Farmer's Market and lunch down at the river and today we've been lazy, cooking and enjoying the weekend. While I write this Bella is busy getting a tummy rub from Roger. Now it's time to watch a movie.

Happy Birthday, LORI

Today is a celebration of Lori's birth, forty-"some" years ago on a Saturday afternoon.

I send my love and hope that your day is extra special just like you!

Happy Birthday from Mom........................