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It’s Wednesday morning as I write, and it’s my middle daughter’s birthday. Her nickname is perfect for the day. Cayla Marie’s “other” name is “Cakes.” I’m really not sure how all that worked out – my oldest, Shannon, is “Pie” and Mariah, the youngest, is “Root Beer.” Nobody else uses those nicknames, it’s a Dad’s special, and the why and how – who knows? So, Happy Birthday across the miles Cakes Marie, your proud Father loves you and wishes every happiness today and always.

Eleven days are left of the carnival season and Mardi Gras is quickly approaching. Although much of the religious importance of Mardi Gras has given way to secular celebration, the spirit of the season is alive and well. This week, I share the personal importance of this holiday and a family recipe to celebrate with.

Disney on Ice does it again, bringing its usual cacophony of color, imagination and creativity that children and adults have come to expect. All the favorite Disney heroines and heroes are here, presented with spectacular special effects and the usual Disney sparkle.

Easter is the most important day of the year for Christians, and it arrives relatively late this year: April 20. However, it is preceded by the preparatory season of Lent, which begins on March 5 for most Christians (and March 3 for those following the traditional Eastern Orthodox calendar).

Call it the Circle of Life or Survival of the Fittest - wild animals in the wilderness die of starvation, diseases and predators. This is a natural part of life and most wildlife rehabilitators take a hands-off approach and let nature take its course. For instance, at Ano Nuevo I saw baby elephant seals lying on the beach in extreme distress. The ranger explained marine mammal organizations don't rescue these animals, as heartbreaking as the situation is. Instead, their mission is to rescue those creatures harmed due to human causes, such as caught in fishing nets and choked by plastic six-pack rings.

I realize that while it is not always a simple task to get things in order - or keep things in order - having your affairs in order is a thoughtful and meaningful endeavor. As we are in full swing of tax season and have many important documents already out, I thought some attention to time management might be helpful.

I bought a new car and it hates me. Worse, it's smarter than me. This is not a good thing.

When Mark Hoffmann is not delivering mail for the U.S. Post Office, he's busy creating art. Though the Morgan Hill resident calls himself a local artist, he has thousands of followers across the country. He is whimsical and fun-loving by nature - and it shows in his creations.

With the deadline to file for candidacy more than two weeks away, some intending to run for Santa Clara County elected offices in the June primary have already reported growing war chests for the upcoming campaign.