My brother Scott has challenged me to a traveling contest to see who can experience more of the world first.  Here he floats above Rio.

Not a bad haul for a St. Patrick's Day parade in New Orleans.  I could have made an Irish stew.

Last week I spent 5 days in New Orleans for work and had a fabulous time visiting my old apartment (now condemned from Hurricane Katrina), Teach for America friends, and school where I used to teach.  Half the city is recovered and the other half is empty - hard to imagine until you see it.  

I even had time to see the end of the St. Patrick's Day parade where krewes tossed beads as well as cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, Irish Spring soap...

My favorite prizes: a black/blue boa and and a stuffed animal for my nephew.

The annual Easter egg hunt in San Diego was a hit but alas, I did not win.  The coveted victory was a tie between Hayley and Tamara.  I will need to start training now for next year...

Brandt and I visited Chris Cheng in San Francisco and indulged in the city's fine cuisine.  Spork - home of the best fancy burger you'll ever taste.

Exploring the Los Angeles Travel show in Long Beach with Josie.  Next destination?  Puerto Rico.

Brandt raced and finished the Baja 1000 in November.  Here are a few photos but click on the Baja 1000 link at the top-right to view the full Picasa album.  If you didn't already know, Brandt is awesome.

Celebrating my birthday with my brothers, parents, and Brandt.

Steering along the San Diego boardwalk with my mother-in-law and sisters-in-law.