Palm Springs

My birthday has already come and gone.  Coincidentally, Joseph's firm retreat was the same weekend as my birthday.  My inlaws were kind enough to watch the kids, so we had two full days all to ourselves!  We stayed at the JW Marriot in Palm Springs.  The lobby of the hotel has a small dock which offers boat rides through large glass doors to the outdoor pond.  Needless to say, we had a marvelous time together.  Our favorite outing was 2 1/2 mile aerial tramway to base of San Jacinto.  Though the valley was 100 degrees, within our 10 minute ride, we were in a cool crisp 70 degrees.  We then hiked four miles through the valley where there was still lots of snow and ice!  The best part was the view from the top.

We thought this flower arrangement was beautifully unique.

  It's a strange feeling to stand on snow after living without it for so many years.  We kept thinking of how much the children would've enjoyed the novelty.

 Pam and Dave were so sweet to greet us Sunday afternoon with an amazing birthday feast.  The children were so happy to present me with gifts and cards.  Joseph had prepared this german chocolate cake the night before we left, so it was patiently waiting upon our return.  What a wonderful way to kick off another year.  Thanks to my family for making it a special birthday.