My Birthday in Livermore

The Saturday before my birthday we went to visit my parents. I wanted to go hiking and take some pictures, so my parents watched Ava while Rich and I went to the Portola Redwoods State Park. We had a lovely afternoon hiking the trail that led to Tiptoe Falls. We were able to go slow and take as many pictures as we wanted. We each had our own camera which made it more enjoyable for both of us (I didn't have to share the camera and Rich wasn't bored watching me take pictures). The trees and tiny waterfall were beautiful and we had a wonderful time.After the hike we headed back to Livermore to have dinner with my family. We went to Cattleman's and had a nice time. Unfortunately, Ava decided the waiters needed to sing to me, so my family arranged the serenade. I did not enjoy that part of the meal!

Back at my parents' house we prepared for cake. My mom makes the best cake and I eagerly await my birthday each year so she will make me a checkerboard cake. I love it so much that I am pretty stingy about sharing it. Every year each family member gets a piece and then I take the rest home. I share a little more with Rich and Ava, but I eat the majority of it myself. I know that sounds bad, but it is just that good.

Ava is probably the only one that can get away with this.