California is one of those places I have a love-hate relationship with. I grew up in the Bay Area, but ran screaming, when I felt like I just couldn’t breathe anymore, to Texas in 2000 searching for open space and big skies. I love the California coast, Big Sur, Monterey, Sebastopol. I love San Francisco, although, whenever I’m there I wish it were Hitchock’s San Francisco in 1958. I hate that California has gotten so crowded and the vibe so hectic. I hate the highways and crazy traffic. I hate the harsh demanding angle of the sun in mid-summer. And I hate that so many people who I love live there.
Eliana, my 2 year old niece
It took my sister Suzy with her family, our folks visiting and a fair amount of organizing on her and my other sister Kathy’s part to bring the west coast Avila’s together. It was a hot Central Valley afternoon and I got to visit with folks I haven’t seen in more than 10 years. It was loud (in the best way possible), there was much wine, Portuguese conversation and food flowing freely. I spent much of the time holding back the tears and simply watching everyone interact and talk. Let’s hope it’s not another 10 years before I see everyone again. Maybe I can get them all to move to Oregon…;)
Cheers!
The Cousins
Dad
The Brothers
Figs from my Uncle Tony's Farm
Uncles
Cousin Mark and my best friend when we were wee kids
Suzy and Elli
Beautiful shots Dina!
Beautiful pictures.
Thank you, Michele! -d
CUTE FAMILY!!!
Thanks Liz! -d