LA

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After we left San Francisco Friday morning, we headed South on I-5 again, this time through the dry and dusty Central Valley. There were huge almond groves, olives, truckloads of oranges, and a lot of other fields we couldn't identify, all watered by irrigation, and with water an increasingly scarce resource in California, many of the fields and groves looked pretty parched. We also passed a large brushfire, with numerous helicopters and airplanes swooping around, attempting to get it under control. It was a reminder of how fragile life and work can be in this enormous, beautiful, but frequently unpredictable state.

We arrived by late afternoon/early evening at Gilmer and Steve's house in Sherman Oaks. They welcomed us to their home and ushered us to their backyard patio, an oasis of plant life and relaxation that became our headquarters for the next few days. On Saturday, we opted for a calm and peaceful day of catching up on laundry and chilling on the patio. Steve was very ready to take us on a tour of the many wonderful sights of the LA area, but the company and the atmosphere at their house was what we really needed.

Sunday, following a great brunch at a local deli, we got ready for a barbecue. Not only did Steve and Gilmer host the three of us, they also hosted my nieces and nephew, along with their S.O.s and members of S. and G.'s extended family, at a backyard cookout. After great sandwiches and birthday cake for Alec and Kristin (S. and G.'s niece), whose birthdays were on the 2nd and 4th, we settled around the firepit for cigars and whiskey. Steve, that was the best bourbon I ever tasted, and better than I ever hoped to taste. Thanks for sharing. And Gilmer, you pulled out all the stops to make it a memorable visit. You are both truly special to us, and we look forward to seeing more of you after you make the planned move to Kentucky.

It was so good to see Joe, Annie, Lauren, Warren, and Jeff. As the West Coast members of our family, they are not as likely to be available for family gatherings, so this party complemented the reunion that began our journey way back in September.

After consulting with our hosts, and with the maps, we decided our next destination would be...Las Vegas.

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Photos

Andrew and Alec in their new favorite spot
So comfortable, it was difficult to leave.

Gilmer chillin' on the patio
Our busy hostess still found time to relax with us on the patio

At the barbecue
Annie, Joe, Lauren, and Andrew enjoy the party

Comments

[anonymous]

We miss you boys already. Loved having you here. God speed. Love Gilmer

[Lauren]

Vegas, how exciting! Hope you three have a good time. Looks like you had a very relaxing time in LA; I'm sure you needed it after all of your travels (and driving!) Miss you all. Love, Lauren