A pear party and a pair of parties

This weekend was a busy one, starting and ending with pears (and apples) while going to a couple parties in between. As I write, one last batch of applesauce is reducing on the stove, so I guess it's not over, yet.

The pears and apples were from one of Melody's co-workers, who ended up with many boxes of produce; we ended up with about a full box of fruit. The pears were pretty close to being way overripe, so we made the filling for a pear pie (put it into a zip-top bag and throw it into the freezer; when we're ready for a pie, make the crust and pop in the defrosted filling), 8 half-pint jars of pear butter, and a couple quart jars of pear sauce. There weren't as many apples, but we did end up making a recipe of apple turnovers and what will be a couple quarts of apple sauce. This was all in two days and around a couple parties; as you can imagine, we all but lived in the kitchen while at home this weekend.

The first party was Saturday night. It was at the apartment of another of Melody's co-workers and was a combination house warming/birthday party (for his partner). Lots of food and interesting people (including someone who knows a person with whom both Melody and I have worked very closely). The apartment seems to be in a great location (Fremont neighborhood) and looks pretty spacious.

The second party was another birthday party - this time for my cousin's granddaughter who is one year old. My cousins flew out from Ohio to be there, so it was great to see them. The great thing is we also get a chance to see the Tashima clan and catch up. Not surprisingly, there was lots of food and everyone had a great time.

Toshi looking at gifts

Toshi playing with her dad, Paul

Toshi's birthday cupcake

Kara (mom of the Toshi, birthday girl) had a great idea for part of the party. She made up a box which is a Time Capsule which she'll present to her daughter when she turns 18. It was fun to see the different things people thought up to put in there which will be opened in 2025 - a mix CD, photos, letters, and a newspaper clipping of Toshi's great grandfather's experiences during WWII.

After all that happened this weekend, Melody and I could sure use a work week to relax!