More Than Kids

The Secret Trail

My mom and step-father moved from Fresno to a five acre property in Tollhouse, California about thirty minutes up the foothills from Fresno. When they first moved up the hill, I did not understand their reasons. I also wondered if my children would enjoy the property.

My kids love it, especially "the secret trail," that runs along a small creek... even the neighborhood dog likes the trail.

 

The Secret Trail - Images by bryan farley

 

All I Want for Christmas

When I was a little kid, I remember the song, "All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth..." Maybe that was the title or those were the main lyrics; I am not sure. But I remember singing the song when I was about seven. Or, I remember adults singing the song to me.

Now, I am an adult and my daughter is almost seven, and we are singing the song to her. And perhaps because my younger child is thinking about teeth, he calls icicles "Ice Teeth." This week, we saw Ice Teeth at Shaver Lake, California.

 

Two Front Teeth for Christmas - Images by bryan farley

Thanksgiving Holiday with the Grandparents

When I was little, I remember making pudding with my mother. I remember being comforted when I was sick or hurt.

Now that I am parent, I can relive those memories by watching my children with my mother and step-father.  I finally understand why parents pressure their children to have kids. 

Thanksgiving at the Grandparents - Images by bryan farley

bf

 

Isaac Brott Memorial Day 32 to 64

As the days became shorter, cooler and wetter, I continued visiting before school. 

We celebrated Halloween. The Giants won their first World Series since moving to San Francisco. There was an election. (Jerry Brown is Governor again; the last time he was Governor, Isaac had not been alive.)  Visitors brought gifts for Isaac's 16th birthday.

More animals seem to be visiting... and the people continue stopping by the memorial to grieve or remember or both.

 

Isaac Brott Roadside Memorial _ Day 32 to 64 - Images by bryan farley

These photos were all taken before the Thanksgiving holiday, from October 18th to November 19, 2010.

bf

Elephants Everywhere

A year ago, the JEA National Conference was held in Washington, D.C.

One year later, we traveled to Kansas City, Mosouri. The political climate has changed too. It seems that elephants are everywhere.

Kansas City Elephants - Images by bryan farley

 

bf