Abby might not look like much of a lap dog, but that never stopped us.

The Silverback Systems holiday party was held at the Plumed Horse restaurant in Saratoga. It’s pretty rare that Charlotte and I have a chance to get really dressed up for such an event. It’s also a rare opportunity to see many of the engineers in something other than jeans and t-shirts. That’s certainly my standard attire in addition to the usual sandals.

Charlotte goes for very fast long walks in the redwoods of Henry Cowell park a few times a week. Today she’s doing the walk with Paula, Margot, Sonia, and Dyana. I often go with Charlotte on Sundays, so I know very well how incredibly beautiful these trips are. We sure are lucky to live in such a great place.

Charlotte and I do a fast long walk through Henry Cowell on Sundays. We try to do a slightly different route every time and we’re always rewarded with great views and beautiful trails. Today is certainly no different as we enjoy another spectacular winter day in Santa Cruz. Later that day Charlotte heads up to the Hollins house for the Pasatiempo art show where Valri is showing off a few of her paintings. ...

George and his family stayed with us for Thanksgiving this year. Following a huge meal over Valri’s house and a restful sleep at ours, we head up to Greyhound Rock beach north of Santa Cruz. George and Ellen haven’t been to this beach before, and it’s one of our favorites. I’m sure we’ll be taking them back there again sometime soon. There were plenty of fun things to keep everyone busy. Climbing on the rocks, mining for crystals, exploring tidepools, and just soaking up the sun. ...

Charlotte takes Varli, Gordon, and Karen down to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Looks like Valri is trying to make her way into one of the exhibits. Charlotte took some great photos on this trip. Everyone looks very interested in the feeding. Back at home Daisy enjoys one of her many hiding places.

We’re off to George’s house to celebrate Gordon’s 80th birthday. Gordy and his family, Karen, Valri’s family, Bea, Renee and her family, and our family will all be there for the big party. Charlotte took Gordy and his family up to San Francisco for the morning before meeting up at George’s place. Gordon and Annie join in the hotel strike. Someone must have been wondering if child labor issues were at stake as well. ...

Charlotte took Gordy, his family, and Gordon out to Henry Cowell for a walk in the redwoods. It’s a great loop trail with plenty of fun for the kids. The big tree half way through is always a treat. It’s hollow on the inside like many old redwoods, but this one is big enough for quite a few people to fit inside. It’s a bit of a crouching down effort to get in, but there’s plenty of room once you’re inside. Annie and Gordon certainly enjoyed it. ...

Gordy, Donna, Annie, and little Gordon are in town visiting for big Gordon’s 80th birthday this weekend. They’re staying with us for a few nights, and it’s sure great seeing them sometime in addition to the usual summer trip to Bootjack. Charlotte took them down to visit with Gordon at his place in Capitola. It’s always a great trip when you get to visit the beach. Luckily the rain gave us a break today. ...

Doug is over for some play time. Out front I suspect they’re taking a break from playing wall ball while they recreate a scene from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. They don’t have an octopus, but the snake works very nicely.