Hike turned golf tour

Today after Mass, Patrick and I decided we should get out and really enjoy the beautiful San Diego weather. We drove over to the Torrey Pines State Reserve to go hiking. The parking lot was closed so we drove up to the driving range and parked on the side away from the driving range. We had a lovely hike.

The kids found a cool cave, and we took the path all the way down to the beach and back up to the top.

Well, 2 hours had passed and when we got to the car the gate to the range was open, but the gate on the side was closed. We were locked in to the maintenance side of the Torrey Pines golf course. There was a back gate open in the rear of the lot, but that led out to the course. We waited for a threesome to tee off and tried following the path to get out going around the building. It was not an exit. BUT fortunately one of the employees was there. Larry told us that finding the keys to gate would take too long, so he told us to follow him in his golf cart across the course to an exit on the other side. Can you imagine what the golfers were thinking seeing a black Suburban following a golf cart around the course? I couldn't help myself, I had to take pictures.

What made this even funnier was that they are setting up for the Buick Invitational. So we had to drive through scalfolding and around platforms and tents.
They will need to add to this sign to watch for large black vehicles careening it's way towards the exit.

Madigan's First Reconciliation

Madigan received a sacrament yesterday, First Reconciliation. It was a beautiful service, nothing at all like my first confession. We had the chance to take some photos on the side of our church. OK, I'll admit it I was taking practice shots for First Communion which will be on May 23rd. Yes the dress was a Christmas gift from Uncle Gordy and Aunt Linda. And her tooth was fixed a few days before - so BIG smiles!

Waiting with Dad for the service to start.
And a picture with her Faith Formation teacher - ME!
Opening blessing in front of the baptismal font.
After confessing their sins for the first time, at the foot of the the crucifix, the kids place a paper heart where they have written the names of all of the people that they love and who helped them prepare for this sacrament. There is a family prayer recited at each station.
Then we moved to the paschal candle and lit a candle.
We used that candle to light Madigan's baptismal candle. We then walked down the main aisle to the baptismal font. For a final prayer and blessing.