Molly and Brandon 2008!

So glad that Molly and Brandon came down to visit for a long weekend. It was cool to have some repeat visitors, although the first (non-family) repeater was Jason! They were here last summer when the deck wasn't finished and we were still pretty new at exploring it all. This year, with a little more experience under our belts, we knew where to go and what to do. Either way, with those two, it's always super fun!

Our trip to the farmer's marked concentrated on produce versus live plants; I quickly killed that delphinium that Molly picked out last year- oops! It was easy to focus on the lovely tomatoes and peppers. Molly brought the green goddess dressing which was awesome to put on those heirlooms or just about anything! I'm extremely excited cause I just made a big batch of it myself! Delicioso!!

These goats were tied up in the back of a pick-up truck and we petted them (and thought about our goat farming friends Dan and Rebecca).

Next on the agenda, a plane ride. The weather was clear and sunny and the skies were calm, so CD took Molly and Brandon for a quick ride up to see Trinidad head just north of Eureka. Due to weight limitations I got grounded! They had a smooth ride and landing and Molly even got to "drive" it!

That evening we went downtown to see the thriving artist community at Eureka Arts Alive. The second Saturday of every month, the stores in Old Town Eureka become art galleries and people come out in droves. It's a swirl of art, people and music. Afterwards we headed to the Shanty Tavern for a refreshment.

Sunday we awoke to enjoy Brandon and Molly's specialty: Orange Challah French Toast. It was buttery and light, with just a bit of maple syrup to make every bite melt in your mouth!

Next we headed to Willow Creek for some sun and heat. As most of you know by now (as I constantly complain about it) the weather here is a bit cool and cloudy- and we needed respite!

CD looks on as Brandon and Molly take a dip:

While there we spotted someone pulling a big salmon out of the river, unfortunately it wasn't wiggling or on a hook, but looking very dead indeed. As curious as we are, we had to go and poke it with a stick!

That evening our friend Craig came by and we grilled and enjoyed the last of the green goddess dressing. We also had a fierce Boggle competition!

On Monday CD had to return to work, so Molly, Brandon and I headed to the beach and then to the woods. We had a great last day exploring, eating and laughing.

Samoa Dunes:

Arcata Community forest:

The visit felt short and we look forward to seeing them again soon! Thanks again for coming to visit!