After a rather busy two weeks of winter break during which I played catchup on so many things I have fallen behind on over the past nine months of the kids being home from school, I promised myself and the kids I would take today off from cleaning, organizing, filing, sorting through mounds of paperwork. and all other unpleasant matters I have been tending to. I kept to my word (mostly) and it felt well-deserved, to say the least.
We started the day with long walk and hike through the hills and equestrian trails of Hidden Hills. It was a gloriously cool day with not a cloud in the sky. My favorite kind of day. We visited with horses, goats, donkeys and the like. For me, an avid walker, it was the perfect way to spend the first hours of this new year.
After our walk we came home, had a nice brunch and then spent the rest of the day playing games and for me, trying not to do any work. I didn't make it the whole day, but for me, a consummate work/chore-aholic, I did pretty well (if you don't count blowing and raking leaves for about 30 minutes in the front yard; paying all bills due prior to January 15th; finishing a few loads of laundry; and vacuuming for awhile. which I do compulsively everyday). For me, this was like a spa day!
On our walk this morning, we discussed our New Year's Resolutions at Garin's urging. Here is what we came up with:
Garin - Go back to school in person, if at all possible
Catherine - Do more art
Miles - Watch more movies
Graham - Read less and play with toys more
Jana - Read more books, if I can somehow find the time
It was only the first day of this new year, but we got off to a good start. I actually was able to read for a little while today and we watched the movie Togo on Disney Plus tonight at Miles' suggestion, which was fabulous. I like the way Miles thinks. I am going to add watching more movies to my list of resolutions as well. I have a lot of making up to do for 2020.
The kids enjoying a few of our neighborhood. equine friends.
Hiking up some steep hills to reach the top and enjoy some stunning views. Fitzy was a trooper, never slowing down even on the steepest. hills. So very impressive for an eleven-year-old pug.
The view was well worth the steep climb.
Visiting with a few more friendly neighbors.
Miles, so tempted to pet this beauty, but knew better because of his severe allergies.
This sweet soul surprised Miles with a gentle kiss on the forward (right on top of his hair so as not to trigger his allergies). Miles reaction, "This was the best day ever." It was. as if the horse knew how sad Miles was that he couldn't pet him.
We had a Mexican feast for dinner: Tamales, refried beans, salad, guacamole and chips.
Graham and Miles melting the marshmallows on the stove for our fancy dessert.
The final product. Perfect Rice Krispy Treats made with love, to start the New Year right.
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