Our lunch date at SUSHI TOWN

I believe everyone is allowed at least one thing they just won't eat, but my thing is you gotta try it at least once. Today I tried sushi for the third time. My brother introduced me first to sushi in San Diego about six years ago and I became violently ill after trying it. I got brave and tried it a second time about three years ago and didn't take more than a sniff before my gag reflex activated.

Along with starting a blog, one of my new year's resolutions for 2010 was to give sushi another shot. Now I really did this for Pete and he is one of those sushi lovers and always complains that we never get to go out for sushi. So today Pete took me to Sushi Town, a cute little restaurant near his work where he goes with his co-workers once in awhile. It was one of those places where sushi plates go around like sail boats on a stream (see first pic). We came in and sat down and I was really feeling it. I loved the whole idea of picking a plate that was floating by. So I decided to just go for it. I grabbed a cucumber roll and just went for it and popped it in my mouth. Pete about fell off of his chair in disgust. He informed me that I needed to eat it with my chopsticks slowly and dip it in soy sauce. I guess I am not a master in the art of sushi or using chopsticks. :)

Well the cucumber roll about did me in. SO our nice waitress suggested a few other rolls I might like. I did not like any of them nor did I even taste all of them as the ole gag reflex was back. Pete was laughing by this time and then I started laughing too. I ended up picking a plate of watermelon that floated by and then a spring roll (both non-sushi items). Thank-goodness Pete was satisfied with the rolls he chose. He loves the spicy tuna ones-even the name scares me.

Our lunch date provided some mid-day humor, but it did not provide me with a miraculous love for sushi. I think I've given up after try 3! I have a sushi loving husband and a lot of sushi loving family and friends who all tell me I just need to try the right thing. Maybe one day I will come across it. . .but I don't think I'll be trying it again any time soon!

Whoever said "third times the charm" did not say it in relation to me and sushi.

Simple moments and memories are the ones that last a lifetime!

Picture one: Nellie cuddling with her favorite toy. Picture two: My grandma made Pete his favorite brown bread for his birthday! Picture three: My dad and I at the Beaverton farmer's market. We got this beautiful pot and some tomato plants. We also ate some delicious crepes!

My parents came to visit us for Mother's Day weekend and it was a weekend of good times packed full as usual. Packed full of simple moments and good conversations. We enjoyed the nice Portland weather, went on a couple outdoor runs, and tried a new happy hour. Most of all we spent quality time together. It is weekends like this one that leave me feeling happy all week!

April Showers Bring May Flowers. . .

Happy May 1st! Can you believe May is already here? Where did April go? We kicked off May 1st with an exciting start. I had my March of Dimes walk for babies this morning in Astoria which went really well (see picture). Thanks to all of you who supported our team! Pete played a nice round of golf with a friend and had a birdie on the 9th hole. Not that I even know what a birdie is. Golf is not really my thing, but I'm glad Pete enjoys it :) We did some cleaning and catching up this afternoon and even took a nap. I cannot remember the last time I took an afternoon power nap. . .this must mean the month is off to a great start!

Spring is in full bloom. Our plants are potted and I see beautiful flowers popping up all over the neighborhood. It brings a smile to my face. In my opinion, May is a month of new beginnings, growth, sunshine, and joy. It is the start to more time outdoors and staying lighter longer. Pete is looking forward to starting his softball league this week and I am looking forward to more running outside in the fresh air.

Near or far. . .rain or shine. . .good day or bad day. . . We hope you are blessed by the start of a new month and that you step out with your best foot forward and take time to smell the roses! :)