(No photo huntin' today - we're too busy partying in Palm Desert)
It was depressing to wake up this morning knowing that we were soon to leave San Diego; it had been a wonderful time. Both Paul and I have declared that this is a city to which we must return. It goes on the list!
After packing and loading up the car we headed back down to Ocean Beach where we grabbed some snacks at Azucar, the Cuban bakery that Shannon raves about. We took our snacks to the pier - the longest pier on the west coast. We watched the surfers catching a wave and the elderly folks fishing for today's dinner. At the end of the pier we ate our stash from the bakery. After tasting these treats I can see why Shannon frequents this spot on a regular basis.
Back in the car we headed up to Palm Desert. There were two possible routes - the fast route or the scenic route. Clearly we took the scenic one. Our route took us high up in the mountains over Palm Desert. It was dry and desolate there but at the same time beautiful in a haunting sort of way. As we started down the other side there was a scenic vista where we pulled oveer and got a stunning view of the valley below - an urban oasis in the midst of the desert.
I noticed that I had a message on the cell phone. I couldn't get a signal but I knew that it was Palma wondering where we were. We raced down the mountain (literally, I don't think I needed my foot on the gas pedal once during the descent). Once in Palm Desert we had no trouble locating Palma and Brad's house.
It was great to be back - we had fun catching up with Brad, Palma, and Sandi. No sooner had we brought our luggage in when Palma was handing food our way. Ahhh, the life! Sandi and Palma were busy with the party prep . . .
After lunch we did a few things to get ready for today's big party. Paul enjoyed a swim in the pool. Wine was drunk. Laughter flowed. I knew immediately that it would be a stellar weekend.
Later Brad, Paul, and I popped out to the wine store. We stocked up on some great wines that we can't get at home - our prerequisite for wine purchases when we are on vacation.
When we got back to the house Terry, Kathy, and Colleen had arrived. Prosecco was being drunk and the laughter could be heard from the street. This was our sort of action so we immediately joined in with the fun. That prosecco sure goes down well. . . .
We were shocked when we looked at our watches - it was getting late and we were meeting up with a group of the sowtravel gang for dinner at a restaurant called Amici. We quickly showered, dressed, and were out the door.
The restaurant had located our group in a private room at the back of the restaurant. We met Jane and Ken who were already there. Soon we were joined by Marcia, Dave, Kathy, Terry, Colleen, and Kathy. Lots of hugs and laughter were exchanged as we all caught up with one another.
Palma had arranged for a two course set menu. There were three appetizers to select from and about five mains. I had a delicious asparagus and grilled artichoke salad with a citrus dressing to start with. It was a wonderful beginning to my meal. For my main course I ordered veal medallions which were served with mushrooms and artichokes on top - YUM The restaurant gave us a great deal on vino which made for a wonderful evening.
After we left the restaurant we headed off for gelato - imagine a gelato spot in Palm Desert. It was delicious. We sat outside and chatted - when you closed your eyes you could almost imagine that you were in a palazzo in Italy enjoying gelato with a group of wonderful friends.
Today the party . . .
Hi Jerry, Ok, not only am I feeling sorry for myself for not being there, but I am drowning in self pity too... :(
Seriously, I am glad that you are all having fun. I am also enjoying your San Diego visit. Lucky you! All these vacation days!!!
Posted by: Eden | October 25, 2008 at 01:03 PM
Jerry & Paul...
Please think of poor little me sitting here in St. Louis and wishing I was with you.
Posted by: Deborah | October 25, 2008 at 01:07 PM
Jerry-I'm enjoying reading about the fun you all are having, even though I'm sad that I'm not there enjoying it with you. Keep up the fun!!!
Posted by: Cindy Ruth | October 25, 2008 at 01:19 PM
I am also enjoying reading about your fun in the sun. Wish I was there also!! Enjoy!!
Posted by: girasoli | October 26, 2008 at 12:12 AM
Eden - we were sorry to ahve missed you. I hope that you're feeling better.
Deborah - were your ears burning? LOL
Cindy - plan a trip to California next October . . .
Girasoli - it is a shame that you couldn't get a cheap flight from the islands LOL Does such a thing even exist?
Posted by: Jerry | October 31, 2008 at 04:48 PM