My parents came to California earlier this month and we rented a house in Santa Cruz for the 4th. It was so restorative having stress-free time with family, where we didn't have a birthday, a bridal shower, or a wedding to plan, we just got to hang out and enjoy the summer. We barbecued every day and ate out doors, took long walks, played frisbee, got to read and sew and play music and spent time at the beach. The house was massive, and perfectly accommodated our family. In addition to Jeffery and me, my parents, and Marina, my brother, his girlfriend, and her dog joined us, and my best friends Devin and Raeann stayed a couple of nights as well. We got hooked on Settlers of Catan, drank piña coladas, sautéed baby squash blossoms fresh from the garden, and ate up all the oysters we bought in Marshall. And I had a terrific eyebrow day and had to take a picture. I am really lucky to have such a great family, and I love how we spend our leisure time. Here's looking forward to many more family gatherings ahead.