California

Better than the Bowl Game

I am just getting around to writing this, but shortly after Christmas, we went to Palm Springs to visit Melissa's oldest brother for a few days. It was the first time in six years that we didn't go to the Hawkeyes bowl game. It was raining when Melissa, the boys, grandma and I landed outside of L.A., but by the time we got to their house it was already sunny. Their home it stunning and backs to a PGA golf course. Another of Melissa's brothers was already there with his family when we arrived, and the third brother arrived the evening of the 27th.

We stayed at a beautiful resort hotel near the house, with the Sierra Mountains for a back drop. If any of you ever wondered what a $50.00/couple breakfast tastes like, I can now tell you. But I'll also tell you this: It was damn good. The weather was very nice, and we only ventured out of the hotel and house twice: Once for a casual dinner (we all took turns making dinner the rest of the time) and once to go the grocery store. The kids had a great time playing with their new scooters, football and swimming. The adults had a good time just talking and relaxing. On the 29th, when Iowa played Texas, Melissa's brother went out and bought a bunch of monster cable and moved the flat screen t.v. outside into the shade. Melissa made tailgate items for brunch and dinner beginning with breakfast burritos in the morning and chicken and burgers for dinner. (Hey, I had to fill the coolers with beer, pop and ice). The Hawkeyes actually played pretty well before losing by two points.

As you probably recall, President Ford passed away at that time. He was from Rancho Mirage, which is about two miles from Melissa's brother's home. You could hear the twenty one gun salute from the patio. Very cool. It was a very relaxing and enjoyable time.