Out And About: The Ruth Bancroft Garden

Last Saturday I visited the The Ruth Bancroft Garden in Walnut Creek for the first time (definitely not the last).  The garden is a spectacular extravaganza of succulents in different sizes, shapes, colors and textures. It was originally planted in 1972 by Mrs. Bancroft who became interested in water conserving plants after moving to the dryer climate of Walnut Creek from Berkeley.  Her passion for drought tolerant gardening matured into a dramatic botanical display that both inspires and educates its visitors.  My visit (not so happenstance) coincided with one of the garden's quarterly plant sales.  Following my neighbor's advice the two of us arrived at the garden well before the sale began to ensure first picks.  We shopped till we dropped.  Take a look at few of my favorite images from that day.

Many, many thanks to AM, my neighbor, friend and fellow plant enthusiast for introducing me to the Ruth Bancroft Garden.

The Life Of Loki

It's been 2 weeks since we brought Loki home and we're all enjoying him immensely.  Our children love playing with Loki and are learning to care for him with daily walks, feedings and an occasional grooming (no bagging of poop yet).   I'm taking comfort in his company while the kids are in school and Alex, having grown up with 5 dogs [at one time] is relishing the canine companionship.  Take a look at the leisure life of Loki:

A Four Pawed Christmas Present

For some time now, our children have been asking for a dog, so Alex and I decided that this Christmas would be a great time to fulfill their wishes.  With the help of the incredible staff at Arf, a local animal rescue center, we found the perfect canine.  The newest family member is a ten month, ultra chilled, sweet mannered, amazingly soft to the touch canine called LOKI.  Meet him: