Richard’s math class was the hour before mine; we shared the same room as well as the same instructor. One Valentine’s Day I found a note in my locker directing me to look out the window of the math class, where I would find my Valentine gift.
Today, in an effort to avoid the mass consumerism that has overtaken the holiday, I still bake, only now it’s biscotti for friends. While this twice-baked delight is a great deal of work, the smells that permeate the house let us know that the holiday is near. Paired with a special bag of coffee, which I purchase on sale, the biscotti make a special gift for the postal person, the propane-delivery man, and the secretaries at the college where I teach.
These volunteers are the quiet heroes who ask nothing in return for the hours they spend attempting to make the world a little brighter for those less fortunate.
Judie Rae's tribute to her no-nonsense, yet nurturing, adoptive grandmother Hettie.
Nevada County is blessed with miles of hiking trails, each one a separate treat. On the trails that are near water, Sierra newts put in a spring appearance. Their bright orange bodies stand out in the crystalline water, where they swim and bask, amusing watchers of all ages.