When it all just comes together

Today was one of those days. Things just worked out, not that there weren't obstacles, surprises and awkward moments, but solutions presented themselves and they were more than adequate and often even pleasant.

Even though our morning was hectic- what with all the cutting, stamping, stapling, stickering and such- picture a 2 year old with stickers, a 4 year old with stamps & a stapler and a 10 year old who keeps setting down her scissors withing reach of the 2 year old- the ensuing afternoon was sweet. The evening was eventful. I was a supermom who saved the day several times- but it sort of just happened. Things seemed to fall into place and the universe provided what we needed when we were ready to receive it.

Our homeschool group celebrated together- somehow all the photos I took were lost, but tonight G-pie shared some of her confections with me as she showed me her basket full of fun, unique, nifty and thrifty treasures- her favorite was the hand drawn one, she marveled at how much time it would have taken to do those for the whole group.

One of the great parts of having a 10 year old is that we are better prepared, more flexible and even experienced at these sorts of occasions: the social traditions and rituals of children and their mothers. A charming time of chit-chat, a plentiful potluck and happy children, sharing something sweet-and I am not referring to the lollies and kisses.

It was a splendid day- a chance to begin feeling the change that spring is bringing.

It has become a quest of sorts...

Well this baby girl that I am cooking up in my offspring oven seems to want more pig flesh. Such comfort food for a former Texas girl, and today I was in need of comfort. After twisting my ankle and busting my back on a tiny toy I have been alternating ice, heat and movement to see if I can regain mobility that is a little less wobbly, waddling and woeful! I searched Yelp and after a stop at a place I limped right out of... I brought home the bacon. Well, carnitas, actually...

Recently I have been scouring North Orange County for the yummiest carnitas (see today's review on Yelp!) after being accosted by the smell emanating from a tiny taqueria next door to the Cherry on Top where G-pie enjoy monthly mommy/daughter dates. She happily ate her cold colorful concoction, but I was not satisfied with the creamy chocolate in my cup. I went next door where the smell was originating and discovered deliciousness (see that review here). Unfortunately we found that they weren't very consistent in delivering that delightful dish. And so began my quest.

Since I can't literally hop right now... I will blog hop!

Living the Life

Do you love the sounds a guitar string makes when it is perfectly plucked?

Do you like the feel of warm sand between your toes and a baby boy cuddled up sleeping on the towel next to you?

How do you feel about carne asada tacos, perfectly marinated, with cilantro, fresh corn tortillas, diced tomatoes and super spicy salsa?

How would you like to hear a tiny three your old voice, say "You're the best mama ever" as you carry her down to the waves for a splash in the cool Pacific waters?

If this sounds like a nice day- you'd like my life then. I do most days, too.

Notes to self:

• Three hours is not enough time to run 3 errands in the OC on a sunny Friday afternoon- and Wal*Mart's garden center is apparently where everyone is headed to!
• Salt Creek Beach has a lovely spot for weddings- the floors of the bathroom are, however, pretty gross... (barefootOCmama will not leave her flip flops behind next time she rushes off to take J-cakes to the potty)- but we should go to the beach more, it really is worth the work.
• Northgate Market has marinated, ready-to-grill carne asada- and it is delicious.
• My middle neice is 11 now. Time it does fly... take time to watch, even the flights of fancy.
• Ask Sugar Daddy to play guitar more often.

Tonight's post is brought to you from...

...my bed, where I must rest my weary self. Happy Friday, be well and sleep peacefully.