Neighbors Welcome Gifts

JM Perez By JM Perez1 min read748 views

Two days ago, we received a “Welcome To the Neighborhood Cake” from the Robinsons, our kindhearted neighbors from across the street. It looked delicious and I told my husband he could take it to work and indulge with his co-workers (which of course, they loved). We moved to this quiet neighborhood a couple of years ago and this thoughtful gesture shows that it’s never too late to reach out to others.

Cake.
Our “Welcome To the Neighborhood Cake.”

Today we received another surprise gift from our newest, next door neighbor, Gregory. He moved here about two months ago and was doing major renovation in his home along with his friendly twin brother, Arthur, whom I’ve seen a few times around and finally met Saturday morning. My husband and I were having a conversation in the kitchen early this evening when the door bell rang. It was a good surprise seeing Gregory holding a basket full of delicious Armenian bread in his hands. I was so touched!

Armenian Bread.
Armenian Bread.

It’s a blessing to know a few good people and I am so grateful for wonderful neighbors.

Mother’s Day at A Botanic Garden

JM Perez By JM Perez1 min read634 views

Mothers are irreplaceable and life would never be the same without them. I know for sure that mine wouldn’t. I love being a Mom and more importantly, I’m blessed to have a wonderful Mom.

We spent part of our afternoon at the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden in Claremont, CA. This event was sponsored by Rain Bird Corporation and we received four free tickets provided by the company as well. The purpose of this event was to raise awareness of America’s Public Gardens and their important role in promoting environmental stewardship, Education, plant conservation and water conservation in Communities nationwide.

It’s impossible for one to see all the beauties this botanic garden has to offer as it is spread across 86 acres. We walked for almost two hours, admiring the native Californian plants, learning a little bit about each one and of course, taking pictures and videos. We will have to come back to see more areas of this amazing garden.

Ticket Booth.
Ticket Booth.
 Flags.

Garden Flags/Signs.
Re-creation of a Tongva family complex and dance arena.
Re-creation of a Tongva family complex and dance arena.
Gazebo.
Gazebo.
Giant Sculpture.
Giant Sculpture.
Mother's Day 2009 (Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden).
Mother’s Day 2009 (Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden).

Our day wouldn’t have been complete without stopping by Mix Bowl Café, our favorite Thai Restaurant in Pomona, CA.  I highly recommend this Thai Restaurant for its high quality authentic Thai food, the great customer service it provides as well as the warm and welcoming environment.

To all of you, beautiful and strong Women, I wish you a blessed day filled with love and appreciation.

Weekend In Maryland

JM Perez By JM Perez2 min read791 views

We returned home yesterday from a three day vacation in Maryland. It was the first flight we took together as a family. At first, I was worried about flying with a one year old; but it actually turned out great. He was calm, well behaved and slept almost through the entire flight. For me, those were signs of a wonderful weekend.

The White House by night.
Partial view of the White House by night.

One of my brothers picked us up from the airport along with my dear Mother and dropped us off at the residence of my other brother. As soon as I got a chance to close my eyes, I slept almost half a day. My brothers got to meet their nephew for the first time and we met their significant others. Despite everyone’s busy schedule, we had a great time and we created beautiful memories that will last forever.

On the morning of our last stay, my brother surprised us by driving down to Chesapeake Beach Veterans’ Memorial Park (one of the major attractions). It turned out to be a lovely day and we quietly walked along the Chesapeake Bay. While visiting a shop on North Beach, my Son had his eyes on what appears to be a Vintage replica of a Leviton Truck by Branch Electric Supply Company. After making some purchases, the shop owner decided to gift him the truck. Oh, boy, was he happy.

Beach Sign & Decorative Paddle with Lighthouse Scene.
Beach Sign & Decorative Oar with Lighthouse Scene.

Of course, the trip wouldn’t have been complete without seeing my friend and sister in Christ, Emilienne, who drove all the way from Virginia on our last night with her sister and daughter to see us.

Joan and Emilienne.

As much as we enjoyed being around those beautiful individuals, we are very happy to be home and grateful for a safe trip, to and fro.