Maypole

Our 16th annual exercise in general mayhem was especially memorable with the return of maypole pioneers, Deb Pasternak and Naked Bob, who made the trip from Boston.

With every passing year, more kids are infiltrating this sacred ritual. Odd how that happens.

The party also fell on my 40th birthday, which wasn't nearly as traumatic as the day I turned 30. On that day Sarah beat me for the first time (in tennis). Then, in an attempt to distract myself I tried giving our dog Reggie a bath. As I lowered her into the tub I felt (and heard) a sinewy pop in my lower back. It was the first of many warranties that have gone out over the last 10 years.

This year the weather was perfect. A steady stream of familiar faces poured in and for a few hours we reconnected, filling in the gaps that grow wider with time.

Many thanks to all who help us keep this tradition alive, most notably Jeff Cleveland - without whom we'd simply spiral off into the void.

Check out the pics here.

Sami

We've added a new member to the family. Meet Sami Tami Troy!

Not too long ago this very sweet puppy was living on the streets of LA with a homeless person who was beating her. Thankfully, she was rescued by Officer Tami of the LAPD and delivered to the Downtown Dog Rescue, a non-profit agency that cares for abused and neglected animals from the Skid Row section of Los Angeles. They named her Tami in honor of her hero.

When we first met Tami, the girls kept calling her Sami, and the name has stuck.

She is very affectionate and fun-loving. We think she has some Aussie shepherd in her. Maybe some Bernese Mountain Dog as well? She loves to herd the girls in the backyard.

We look forward to many adventures with Sami.

Willa's 6th

Gabby and Grandpa were in town for Willa's Birthday Bash. She celebrated with her good friend, Lauren, who is also turning 6.

Highlights included an exhausting performance by Mr. Fun, the traditional lynching of a pinata (2 in fact), and lots of pizza, cake, etc.

Click here for a small collection of pics.