Marino Moves To Fullerton

We were able to visit my son-in-law Daniele's brother, Marino in his new apartment in Fullerton.  Happy to spend an evening helping him settle in to his new environment.  After some shopping trips to buy some needed items, we enjoyed a fun dinner with him in downtown Fullerton at a greek restaurant, Kentro.  

 Cheers to a new adventure for you Marino!
 

A pre-anniversary dinner celebration on Saturday August 22. The next day we celebrated 34 years of marriage. Time flys when you are having a good time!

A Sunset Cruise of the Long Beach Harbor

On Thursday August 20th we were able to take a wonderful cruise of the Long Beach Harbor. 

 It was a perfect summer evening to sail.

 Our ship "The Christopher" was waiting for our group.

This tour was  courtesy of our 5th district Councilwoman Stacy Mungo

 She had invited 100 lucky residents in our neighborhood on a 1 1/2 hour long cruise. Mike and I were thrilled to be among the ones chosen for this 2nd annual city sponsored tour.

Port Commissioner Rich Dines gave a wonderful narrative tour of the harbor answering many questions about the importance of the port of Long Beach. 

 One of the many cargo loading docks at the port

"The Port of Long Beach is one of the world’s premier seaports, a primary gateway for trans-Pacific trade and a trailblazer in innovative goods movement, safety and environmental stewardship. With 140 shipping lines connecting Long Beach to 217 seaports worldwide, the Port handles trade valued at $155 billion each year and supports hundreds of thousands of jobs in Southern California."

 What a wonderful tour of the harbor on a warm August evening. A special thank you to our 5th district Councilwoman Stacy Mungo.

Day Tripping in Venice (California that is)

Last week I spent a wonderful day exploring the west side of town. My friend Sherri took me on an adventure in Venice, California. 

 Walking through the eclectic bohemian Venice neighborhood provides lots of visual treats as well. 

We begin our morning starting with a fun shopping experience at "The Mart Collective" at 1600 Lincoln Blvd., Venice California.

 So much fun memorabilia. 

 Sherri had a special place picked out for our lunch.  I loved it. It was a restaurant on Rose Avenue called, 
"Cafe Gratitude"

 Beautiful patio dining as well as   lovely interior seating

 I loved all the thoughtful interior design. Check out the tile in the bathroom. I love it!

 Everything here is designed  to make the patrons feel blessed and grateful including the menu which is 100% organic and plant based.

 Food items are named with positive adjectives such as "flourishing",  "Adventurous","dynamic"

 Signage throughout the cafe reminds you to be in a blissful, appreciative state

Such a lovely, peaceful and positive place to dine.

This delicious bruschetta with heirloom tomatoes was called "Present"

 I am also reminded that I am always grateful for desserts! Sherri and I shared two decadent wonderful treats.

 Chocolate brownie delight

Fresh fruit compote

 

A special thank you to my dear friend Sherri!  What a fun adventure in Venice!