Vagabonding

Over the last week or so, we've been fortunate to have some time off together. With that, we took a Monday day trip to Pasadena.

With the Rose Parade just a few days away (when we went), City workers were setting up bleachers along Colorado Boulevard in Old Town.

After a great lunch at 1810, it was a day spent shopping.

On our way home, we stopped by the Rose Bowl, where the parade's floats were being decorated, marching bands were rehearsing and security was in full force.

Since 'SC played in the Emerald Bowl the day after Christmas (so pathetically disappointing), we went down to The Grove on New Year's Day.

One of my favorite parts of The Grove is the view of the downtown skyline from the top of the parking structure. I have this deep love for the LA skyline -- and the view from The Grove is unparalleled.

Part of The Grove's complex is Farmer's Market -- which just celebrated its 75-year anniversary. After picking up some fresh fruit, we sat for some nice sandwiches and classic Southern California people watching.

While there's a wide variety of retailers at The Grove, only a select few meet our fiscal standards -- we're not the family to pay $200 for a t-shirt -- but we'll certainly browse the bookcases at Barnes & Noble.

It's great to be able to spend some quality time with each other -- especially during the holidays. And even more so when "the holidays" continue to offer 60 degree weather.