I couldn't resist...

Isn't it funny how we as humans impose our own emotions on our pets? For example: The remaining two chickens I have are doing fine, but I'm convinced they are sad and lonely without their sister. In reality, they probably already forgot about Rafiki (RIP!). So what does this mean? It means I went out and bought 2 baby chicks to add to our family....

Introducing, Poppy (a Rhode Island Red) and Noche (a Black Sex-link):

I got them yesterday at the Higby's feed store in Dixon, and oh my goodness are they adorable! Poppy was quite the loud one on the car ride home, but both have seemed to settle into their new digs just fine. Because they have spent the first 5-10 days of their lives being handled by people in the feed store, they actually like to be picked up and cuddled. Which is the best!

Vacation blues and good news!

It's my first day back, and I've already got the vacation blues. Most of you probably follow me on facebook/twitter/instagram, but in case you don't here's a recap of my crazy week of "vacation":

I started out my vacation by taking a quick trip to Truckee to have a "retreat" with myself that mostly involved strategizing for J. Jasper Events. I got to stay and visit with my friend Kim, which was a great added bonus. Though the weather was super windy, I still got to put my toes in Donner Lake:

I had to leave Truckee quickly, as I got a text from Paul that one of our chickens was severely hurt. Poor Rafiki was attacked by a raccoon who snuck into the coop. I had to bring her into the vet to put her down. I was crying a lot and was slightly embarrassed because, hey, she's just a chicken! But, she's my chicken (one of the first we got) and she's like a pet to me. We had a proper burial for her and some of the neighborhood kids said goodbyes. Emma even made her a tombstone:

Part of my "vacation" was catching up on J. Jasper Events stuff, because in case you didn't already know - I've quit my "real" job and will be working for myself starting mid-August! I am so incredibly excited and so happy to have supportive friends and family that have helped me reach this decision. So on Wednesday evening I found myself sipping champagne at the Fairmont Hotel, meeting with my clients who are getting married there in November. As I started driving home, I snapped this photo - it was a gorgeous night, the meeting had gone really well, and I was content.

I ended my trip in Santa Cruz, meeting clients, friends (old and new) and family. I also visited downtown SC (which I haven't been to in ages) and walked by my old stomping ground, the Red Room. This is where Paul and I met, so it always has a special place in my heart:

And today it's back to the grindstone. I'm excited to finish out the last 3 weeks I have here to move onto bigger and better things (i.e. making J. Jasper Events bigger and better!)

Weekend Rules

You may have already seen a few of these photos, but I wanted to share with them you anyway! This weekend was pretty awesome - I taught my first jam class through Lifecrowd in SF. We made a batch of apricot and a batch of strawberry jam. There were 6 participants, and I think all of them had a really good time! I'm still trying to find their photos online - but for now, Erin and Jenny's instagram shots will do (yes, a few members of LTD made their appearance):

Jammin'

I don't think you're ready for this jelly.

On Sunday, I was able to meet up with my dear friend, H. K. Hummel, who was in Sonoma County for a short visit. We were able to have a picnic with friends at Sugar Loaf State Park, take a walk with Coco, eat yummy snacks, and have good catch-up time. We were also able to squeeze in a few good shots:

Sonoma County view

Fancy an outdoor shower?

Best outdoor clawfoot around...