birthdays, beaches, boxes, blonds, brunettes and a redhead

we went south to see the son who is there (the west coast one)
it was a wonderful time, much to short though.

we visited the home of ray and charles eames, royalty of modern design of the 40s, 50s, 60s.....
their home is a bit boxy but quite cool.


this is an eames elephant, it's in the yard for the grandkids (they are grown now though...) it's a museum anyways. i just thought it was cute.


this is a sneaky picture into their studio, it was a no no but Bill did it anyway. that is the second eames chair ever created, a cool thing for a designer guy like Bill.


then it was off to universal studios. we had gone there years ago and decided to try it again. compare it to Michael's place of employment, the fabulous Disneyland! it was fun, but doesn't even compare to Walt's Magic Kingdom.

Michael and Claire were chosen to act in a show. it made it especially entertaining.


Claire fighting a GIANT CAT (Michael played the cat).


after more fine acting from Claire they killed Michael. they eventually brought him back to life (thankfully).


but then they sliced his arm off. it was gross.


Michael and Clarie proved to be such fine actors they then added Laura to the show to assist in sound effects. she looked lovely on stage.


so yep here they are, the stars of the show!


Joe and Heidi were able to join us at 4:30 a.m. it was very nice of them to make the long drive. so we hit the beach the next day. we walked way down to Ruby's for lunch. it was super far but very yummy.


Joe likes the ocean he is is a bit of a fish in that way. he likes to be in it every day.


Mike, he got wet too.


Laura looking like lovely Laura on the beach, she would like to be courted someday, by a wonderful young man...


silhouette of sisters.


that evening i was surprised with a wonderful rooftop birthday party.


it was very festive, fun and quite special!


there were boxes of presents!


pretty birthday flowers.


cool beverages.


there was very nice sharing, they said really nice things about me. i cried.... they made me feel good.


Laura told her dad he actually looked cool, he was super excited and proud. amazing what a pair of flip flops does!


it was a marvelous special evening. i am not sure why no one got a picture of the SPRINKLES! oh my, so delicious we gorged on them for two days. i only wish i could get them here!
the sun went down on a lovely day.


the birthday girl, 47 now.


i missed wil & kris so much i cried but it was a great time. although as i said, to short. we are already planning next year (for a week this time), have the date set and are actively seeking someone to house swap with.

thanks to all of you for your calls and cards for my birthday, you are all such wonderful people and i treasure your love and friendship. i appreciate you remembering me on my birthday.

thank you my family i adore you all! also the redhead. (o:

x