Celebrating Mom in the Desert

Brian invited mom and I down to his house in Palm Desert so that we could celebrate mom's 85th birthday. We had beautiful weather so I got up at sunrise and went on a long walk around the golf course and took photos.

Mom

Mom sitting on the deck at Brian's Palm Desert house.

 Brian, Mom and Luann at Elvis Presley's Honeymoon Hideaway - Palm Springs.  You'll notice that we are sitting in the exact spot that the photo of Elvis and Priscilla was taken -- back in 1962.  It was amazing how "state of the art" luxury in the 60s is really nothing much 50 years later.

 Mom sitting on one of the fun chairs at the Riveria Resort in Palm Springs.

 We celebrated mom's 85th birthday at the Riveria -- pretty nice!

 Brian, Mom and I at the Riveria -- they just spent $75 million renovating the resort. It's a really fun blend of Las Vegas, retro 50s, and modern architecture and furnishings.  The food was fabulous.

 Mom, Brian and I at Brians in July

 Mom with Jordan and Alex and Ginny's mom.

 Mom with Jeff, Micah and Kaia.

 The sunset from mom's living room.

 The farm house where mom grew up.  Grandpa Ettore built the house and barn.  Lynden Washington.

Weekend with the Budds

I had a great weekend with Jeff and Wendy and the kids -- even had a chance to eat some take-out Thai food that was delicious and cheer for Micah (a La Mirada Mariner) at his t-ball game.  Lots of fun. I love the way Kaia is very precise as she tries to say words. They are loving their new kittens, Watson and Crook.

Over 20 Women joined us for The Springs Retreat

We had a great retreat at St. Anthony's in Three Rivers. The Team led the chapels on various aspects of the Love of God. It is amazing how the Lord meets our deepest needs as we get away from all of the stuff in our daily lives that keep us pretty distracted and spend some time focused on Him.  I don't know why we resist opening ourselves to the love of God...but we certainly do.

Christina, Rachel and Lamia were in my small group.  We really connected quickly and had a great time together. 

The Springs Blog has more photos and information.