Prologue William Gooch was consumed with the prospect of gold. The journey from the flat plains of Missouri over the rugged Sierra Mountains was treacherous. They would leave for California at dawn’s first glow. He watched his slaves, Peter and Nancy, load the wagon with needed supplies. There was only one more thing William needed…

On a crisp February morning, 811 people representing 83 countries gathered in the floor of the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium. Their backgrounds were varied, but they were unified in a singular goal — to become citizens of the United States. The process of paperwork and studying for the citizenship test takes at least three years. For…

Savor -to enjoy with appreciation; dwell on with delight. Amy and I have been ramping up our culinary prowess and learning new recipes.  I had never thought to add nutmeg to a cheese filling, or fresh ginger to chicken and yet that is what we have been doing. The kitchen smells wonderful and even the…

One of the things I did in Colorado Springs while visiting our kids was wander through a local farmer’s market with my daughter-in-law, Roxanne. There is just something about picking up fresh produce and meeting the farmer who actually grew it. The smell of chilies being roasted over an open fire, freshly baked goodies, and hand picked bouquets of…

What a beautiful day for a wedding! Yesterday we had the honor of witnessing two people make a vow to love ~ honor~ and respect from that day forward. Michael Vennerstrom’s and his new bride AnnMarie was breathtaking as  she walked down the isle to “Great is Thy Faithfulness”. We were thankful we were able…