Finally the weather cleared up and we were all ready to get outside and have some fun. Eric had the brilliant ideas of biking on the beach path. So we rented some bikes at a little shop right on Venice Beach and were off toward that distant ferris wheel:
Right behind you, Ma!
Given that I hadn't been on a bike in about 12 years, I was sure I was going to be the first to take a spill. Balancing was easy when you're moving fast, but harder when you slow down suddenly to yield to all the walkers who were not supposed to be on the bike path. Mom was the first one to hit the deck, but she was smiling and laughing the whole time:
Of course, I attempted to whip out my camera to get a photo of her lying on the ground laughing, and she was too quick. I said, "Wait—wait! Stay down!" But she stood up. And now she will forever remind me of what an insensitive and ungrateful daughter I am, and how this will affect my inheritance.
Our merry band of bicyclists rode from Venice Beach up to Santa Monica Pier and beyond, 8 miles round-trip:
Our merry band of bicyclists rode from Venice Beach up to Santa Monica Pier and beyond, 8 miles round-trip:
Mom:
My bike didn't fit me well and was super-awkward. Or perhaps it was just the rider... in any case, riding was a blast and now I definitely need to get my own bike.
Kelley and Eric decide it's time to head back. Fortunately he knows where the car is:
Mom, Aunt Martha, Sister Kelley, Cousin Brad and me. 65 & sunny beats a Kansas City Christmas any day!
We stayed and enjoyed some wine and appetizers 'til the sun set, then drove home to have our gift exchange, since I was leaving Christmas morning. I should sell these photos as postcards!
Now, finally, I can share the gift I created for my Secret Santa recipient, Ms. Martha. I've been planning this thing for months and couldn't wait for her to open it!
Ta-daah! Some of my nature photography for her house: 2 on canvas and 4 framed (the Maine buoys aren't pictured yet):
Eric had drawn my name and ordered several things that I really wanted from my Amazon wish list. Yay, Christmas!
We had so much fun we couldn't bear to leave...
But this sublime view of the Grand Canyon on the flight home cheered me right up!
It was a memorable and fun-filled trip. Thanks, family!
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