LAS VEGAS IN DAD'S NEW VAN

Well, it seems we all decided to give Dad's new van a trial run. At first we thought we might try Mexico. However Yogi, our dog, didn't have proper papers for reentering the country. So Dad suggested Las Vegas. He hadn't been there for over 30 years. We went on Wednesday morning and returned Friday afternoon. It is about a four and half hour drive. Ron did all the driving. I guess he just wanted to. Dad and I both offered to do some.

We showed Dad about as much as he could take. It was a bit overwhelming I think. There is a lot of walking involved even though we did use some trams, people movers, skyways, and even a taxi once. We camped at Circus Circus for two nights. Everything worked perfectly with his van.

On Thursday we visited New York New York, Mandalay Bay, and the Luxor. I made sure he rode on the inclinator (that's an elevator that rises on an angle) in the Luxor. We missed many places, but also saw a lot. That's Vegas for you. Thursday evening after wine at the campsite Dad decided to rest. Ron and I went to check out Wynn's, the newest hotel. We also watched the Siren show at Treasure Island.

Friday morning we headed home and we are now back at Outdoor Resorts.

A VISIT WITH THE DICKSONS AND MCCOMBS

It is always so sad when the guests leave. Today we said goodbye to the final visitors of more than three weeks of company. We have had such a fun time. Last Monday Patty came to town with Melissa, Angela, Mason, Kelly, and Dustin. We hung outby the pool most of the day. Dustin and Kelly waited until "24" ended before returning home.

The rest of the week the remainder of us just visited every day. We did as much pool sitting as possible. We did go out for shrimp tacos a couple of times. Dad even joined us once. He and Uncle Ron aren't big on eating out. We did eat every night on our patio under the stars and talk and share. I will surely miss everyone.

Mason is the best baby. He hardly ever cries and entertains himself for hours. He snuggles and cuddles easily. He really is a "mellow man". He looks great in shades,too. Don't you think? Angela is precious. She is bright and sweet. What a blessing they are!

Matt must have missed his family very much. He drove six and a half hours in heavy traffic just to spend one day down here with them. He is a very special Daddy.

Anyway now they have all left and I miss them already. Life is like that I guess. I really enjoyed all the company. I know Dad did too. So we move forward.

EASTER SUNDAY

What a wonderful day with the family at Aunt Cosie's and Uncle Bob's. You name the food and it was there. Spaghetti with meatballs and sausage, turkey with filling, ham, potato salad. The delicious food was never ending. There were at least seven pies and two cakes. One cake was to celebrate Uncle Bob's birthday.

Dad joined us and hopefully enjoyed the event. It is always so great to have a holiday at the Yanovicks'.

LISA'S VISIT-----PART TWO

OK. Heather drove to Outdoor Resorts with Grammie on Tuesday and stayed until Thursday.Mostly the girls spent time in the sun visiting. Heather got a beautiful tan. We always loved having Mother here and Heather was a bonus.

Dave and Olivia came down on Wednesday. They stayed until Friday afternoon. One morning they even treated us to breakfast at the Resort Cafe here. Dave really wants Olivia to like it here.

Saturday night Lisa and Grandpa dyed eggs and Easter morning after church we took Lisa to breakfast before she drove home and we headed to L.A. for Easter dinner at Aunt Cosie's and Uncle Bob's.

WE ENJOY LISA'S COMPANY ----PART ONE

The morning after Ronnie left, on Monday, Lisa and I headed to Disneyland. We had an absolutely perfect day. We went on all our old favorite rides and some new ones. Lisa's favorite land is Adventureland. Fantasmic was so amazing. We stayed until the fireworks ended. We ended up at our hotel around 11:00pm.

The next morning we were up early to go to California Adventure. Now this is the place with all the wild and crazy rides. Lisa is one who loves the roller coasters and free fall rides. Her personal favorite was Hollywood Tower with some 14 story drops. Quite thrilling, actually, and we did that one twice. My favorite ride was Soarin' California. It was like hang gliding through all of California's most beautiful places. They even include the frangrances of pine trees and orange groves and Pacific surf. I loved it. We had dinner at an Italian restaurant in Wine Country. Too cool! After the Electric Parade we drove back to Palm Springs where Heather was waiting up for us at Outdoor Resorts.

GREAT TIME WITH AMY AND RON

MARCH 30 THROUGH APRIL 9TH

Amy and Ron flew into Palm Springs Thursday evening, March 30. Early the next morning they left for Mexico to witness Amy's brother, Aaron's, exciting and romantic engagement to the love of his life, Christina. But I will let Amy tell you all about that event.

On Sunday they returned to Outdoor Resort with Amy's parents, Mike and Kathy. On Monday the group, minus Amy and with Ron, my husband, headed out to opening day at Dodger Stadium. Amy and I stayed here just enjoying the sun and each other's company (also my Dad's).

On Tuesday Ron and Ronnie returned from L.A.. Wednesday the men went golfing at the Westin-Mission Hills. Amy and I went to a Spa for body wraps, a facial and a massage. These were Christmas gifts from Ronnie and Amy to Ron and me. That was so wonderful. (Thanks, kids).

Thursday evening we all took Grandpa to an absolutely beautiful hotel on the hillside for cocktails. It was one of the nicest places I have ever been. On Friday we went into El Paseo for dinner at Picanha's, a Brazalian barbeque. There's an experience I would wish for everyone I love.

All in all we had a perfect visit. Lisa joined us on Saturday which was the beginning of her Easter break. More of that in my next blog. Ron and Amy left after that weekend which is always sad.