Our porch as we depart. I thought our raggedy-ass scene and wanton cat-house business might be made the funnier when contrasted with the glamorous lifestyle we were hours away from dabbling in. As it turned out, I was right.
Grey and a little clammy; we flee Aberdeen!
I’m unsure if anyone has appreciated a flight more than Nels. He was delighted. Phee acts like a pro. She’s flown about three times as often as he has though.
Crater Lake. When I’m in a car, I read and re-read the map. On a flight, I survey the terrain. Stunning – and humbling.
OK seriously, airline-that-shall-not-be-named – y’all should know better than to talk up your coffee on a plane heading out of Portland, Oregon. There’s nothing you can do to compete!
Um, that’s more like it? In-N-Out Burger. Peerless restaurant. Last time I was in CA we had a death in the family but you bet we made time to get here.
#swerg #swergittySwergSwerg
#noFilter
One of about three massive pool attractions at the Hyatt Regency in Huntington Beach. The most lush accommodations I’ve yet had the privilege to experience.
Night-swimming right away. Of course.
We met my mom out for dinner. This place was like a massive warehouse of seafood. You know that Simpsons episode where Burns dredges the entire seafloor to make “Li’l Lisa Slurry”? This place was like that!
Ralph made a friend!
Phoenix impressed us with her LOVE ACUMEN
Morning: two beds, many blankets, sleeping children. Perfect day outside. Time to swim!
Feeding the Hyatt’s koi. The biggest I’ve seen. Kind of horrible in their way.
Breakfast: the family loved this place – a waffle-oriented scene. But me? I needed something more
TACO-RIFFIC
Phee – another swim.
Doppio Zero. The owner loved his product and the family there was entirely sweet. Also: the best cannoli I’ve ever, ever tasted:
At my grandparents’ place on Saturday night: at the bonfire. I was pleased my children – despite not knowing many of their relatives, and the guests, who were there – were not too shy to pick up a musical instrument or two and do some playing.
At the hotel, after yet another swim! My only regret on the trip: a room service meal. I wasn’t hungry enough for it and it was awfully expensive. Delicious, though!
Sunday morning: farewell to my grandparents’ place. Forever. That’s a little rough.
This pic: somewhere in between lunch (with my mother) and our trip to the Aquarium of the Pacific.
(Nels, a li’l scared to pet the rays)
For some reason, in the lorikeet aviary I was the only person graced with a bird on her shoulder. My smile is one of pure delight!
Finally: almost home. And – sadly, some li’l truckers had to take a break: