Yes, we have been regulars at the DQ the last few days. My dad is visiting and he likes ice cream. Thankfully, we have a DQ near the house, just like we did in Maryland. Actually, I’m not sure if it is actually a good thing. But they have a special menu with 2 items for $3 or 3 for $4 or 4 for $5. We’ve been alternating between the small dip cones (3 for $4) and the small sundaes at the same price! And the sundaes come with whip cream and nuts (yum!). We weren’t sure those extras were included in the special price so it was a nice surprise. Anyway, we have been regulars at the DQ for dessert.

In case you were worried about our extra calorie consumption, we have been working off some of those calories. We hiked the Lands End trail in San Francisco which was beautiful. We saw some dolphins frolicking in the ocean and a seal just hanging out in the water. We walked along the cliffs in Santa Cruz and saw another seal looking for a warm dry spot in the sand. Cute little guy. And we also watched the surfers for a bit. Today we took a tour of Stanford’s campus which is beautiful. And there’s also been time to explore the neighborhood and play catch at the park.

Playing catch is my quintessential dad activity. Growing up we used to play in the street, with gloves and a baseball. No sissy softball or tennis balls here. I have vague memories of my dad oiling my glove and getting it ready in his workroom. I still have that glove too. Anyway, my aim is still as good as it was (which wasn’t very good) and I need more practice because I’m throwing too many rainbows and my release point is very inconsistent. But it’s been fun and dad is patient.

I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July! We grilled out with Bill’s steakhouse dinner - tri tip steak, creamed spinach, baked potatoes and grilled green peppers and onions on skewers (because we have a ton of green peppers from the garden). It was very good! We saw some fireworks and boy was it chilly! I could have used my mittens. I was in jeans and a fleece and I wished I had grabbed a warmer jacket.

I’ve also had some time to knit. I started my Mara shawl and it’s moving along quickly! It’s an easy knit and a super-cute shawl.

All in all, I’m having a great visit with my dad and life is good!