Echo Echo Echo, Mountain Mountain Mountain

Busy weekend, but unlike last Sunday (spent at work), I'm here with my baby hanging around the house, our family of animals in some state of proximity. Shadow curled up on the rug in the library. She follows me around as I go from here to there and outside to take a look at the condition of my garden. It could use some tending, and I sigh, wishing I had more time to linger there.
Yesterday we went back to the San Gabriel's. This time taking the Sam Merrill Trail that winds and switches its way back and forth and up and around the mountainside to the ruins of the White City on Echo Mountain. We got a late start and the coolness that the overcast mornings would have provided burned off early. The trek was hot. But it was worth it.We explored the mountain that was once a destination in the late 1800's and early 1900's and which remains a destination to hikers and bikers (and birds?) today. A beautifully maintained trail leads to beautiful views and shady groves. On the outskirts of the rubble we discovered the Echo Phone, so we bounced our voices off the mountainside.
I packed us a little lunch of Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, raisins and Sunkist oranges (making Will nearly cry with joy) which we enjoyed at the old picnic area.We continued to pass hikers on their way up, seeing the exhaustion from the heat in their flushed and sweaty faces, but knowing they would be greeted by a little oasis at the top.Later today we'll be taking Will's mother, Casey, to Castaway's for a Mother's Day Brunch. I'm looking forward to seeing her and hearing the latest predicament she's gotten herself into and what outrageousness she may be up to.

And to my Mom, Happy Mother's Day!!!! I love you. XXOO. I think of you every day and I can't wait to see you.