These are the ruins of “quicksilver” (mercury) mines.
In operation from 1847 to 1976, these mercury “quicksilver” mines were highly important during the California Gold Rush, since mercury was used to extract gold from ore.
Time-lapse
After 2 so-so attempts to capture a sweet time lapse sequence of my orchid blossoms emerging, I was finally getting it right. This was the 3rd blossom of my favorite orchid — the white one that has been with me for a couple of years now. I was stoked to finally have my camera setting right. There was only one problem…
Bring it
For his 24th birthday, BoBo wanted to see Kobe Bryant, his childhood hero, play at Staple Center. He really wanted to see the final game but the tickets were insanely expensive for that game. Instead, I treated him and YaYa to the game against the Jazz.
I found this photo of the game showing the view from their seats which they took with my camera that day. The game wasn’t nearly as exciting as that final game where Kobe finished off his basketball career, but not until he’d scored 60 of the 101 points. Nonetheless, I think the boys were thrilled to have had the opportunity to see him play one last time.
Prom
How does it happen that my baby boy is now just months away from adulthood? I know we parents are dedicated to raising up our children to become independent, healthy, happy and hopefully successful adults. But who prepares us for this inevitable point in their lives…and ours?
I realize that YaYa has yet another year of high school. Still, the watching this day and evening unfold was one of those moments where a parent cannot deny that their child is growing up.
Later in the night, I thought back to the proms I had attended during my high school years. I wondered if my mom went through the same feelings. Perhaps having four children, instead of just two, made her long for the days when we would fly the coop. Who knows?
Similar to what I sensed with YaYa, the stress and excitement of getting ready made up much of the experience. While I only remember bits of the actual dance, I remember many of the moments leading up to it. The dress, getting my nails done, and paying to get my hair done. This stands out for it was so traumatic: I cried when I glanced at my reflection in the mirror for the up-do was so not me. There was so much hairspray that I was afraid to take it down. [Read more…]
Baby BoBo
What’s the 1st thing you think when you see this photo? Okay, maybe not the first thing. And, NO, he doesn’t know I’ve posted this photo. [sheepish grin]
Do you wonder how the heck he got to be a grown man? I mean, just look at that uncovered wall socket!!! SERIOUSLY! What kind of mom…?
Seriously, when I think about BoBo’s baby years, I remember myself as being overly protective where his safety was concerned. Really. The number of fights about the carseat was huge. And, yes, I really did cut the grapes in half. I mean, after I took care of that baby in the PICU who aspirated a grape and nearly died, how could I not?
Thankfully, he celebrates his 24th birthday today!