Off to the sea in Malibu for the wedding of my niece, Hanna. We will also visit with family we haven’t see in ages. The skies were blue and the sun was hot. What a way to celebrate, and a taco truck to boot! It’s been years since our whole family has been together. After 2 days in the sun we headed north to Oregon to visit my “second” daughter, Kristen! We passed national forests dried up and desolate from the water shortage. Pity to see such devastation of the land. Just as we were leaving sunny California on I-5, a beautiful site pooped into view…Mount Shasta!!!!! GREEN… Still cook’n and camp’n, and our breakfast is filled with sautéed kale with smoky bacon and onions!

2016 October 13: Sea Side Fun.


I'm Melinda Stevens and living the life of a beach bum was inevitable since my father was a lifeguard for the city of Los Angeles. My memories of growing up on John Street in Manhattan Beach, California were filled with joy, excitement and adventures; until my world, as I knew it, fell apart when we moved to Del Mar, California. My father was offered the position as Captain of the lifeguards and we started the slow migration to the small deserted stretch of beach in 1963. At twelve years old, this seemed like the end of my life. Remember, I’m writing with clear hindsight now, ok somewhat clearer… Little did I know this would be the beginning of a new journey and give a bit more clarity to many of the events that led me to this new cooking adventure.
You look so beautiful in that picture! Love you both 🙂
Thanks!!!!