Happenings Around Tucson and a Philly Happening for Dessert

A couple of weeks ago Brad's brother Barry, his wife Wendy, and their kids Kelsey and Kyle came down from Phoenix for an overnight. We hiked in Saguaro East National Park on one of the last reasonable days to hike before the really hot weather set in. The park is only a few miles from our house.

The saguaros were in full bloom and they were spectacular.

Last weekend I ran in a 5k and I don't mind telling you I placed second in my age group for females. Shocker, I know, and it was my first time I'd ever placed in an athletic event, which was no small thing. It was proof that training for speed pays off. (But full disclosure: it was a small race.) Much more important than placing second was that my time was better than I had trained for or hoped for.

Remember that the saguaro were blooming with white flowers a few weeks back? Now the white flowers have matured into red fruits. (They look like red flowers but they're fruits.) The birds are crazy for them. I took this picture earlier this week and didn't need to use any filters to get these great colors.

It pleases me greatly that all three of our kids are such enthusiastic and able cooks. Every now and then it's fun to brag a little about their accomplishments, especially when it's way more than I ever hope to accomplish myself. Case in point: the Napoleons that Peter made the other day. Every part of these beauties is made from scratch, even the puff pastry. Just as they're a perfect dessert to end a meal, they're also the perfect ending to a post.