Saturday, August 31, 2024

My happy place


If there is one place in the world that I adore and to which I will always return, it's the Wasatch Range in Utah. This week, we spent three gorgeous sunny days hiking and taking in the scenery in Deer Valley and Park City.

Main Street still has all the appeal of a quintessential Western town...

But Park City and Deer Valley are also much more built up than they used to be.

So many places to dine al fresco...

In summer, you get to see how much beauty hides under the snow.

The real treat it is taking the ski lifts up the mountain to breathe the fresh air among the aspens and evergreens.

Can't beat the views

We couldn't have been luckier with the weather, too.

Walking "Jenni's Hike" trail above Park City.

My favorite hiking partner is always ready for adventure.

We take turns in the lead

An art project hidden among the trees?

Silver Lake Lodge, Deer Valley

View of the Jordanelle Reservoir from the top of Bald Mountain

Jordanelle is the site of tons of new building and expansion of Deer Valley ski area.

Skiers ride the lifts in snow, while mountain bikers catch a ride in summer.

Stein Erickson Lodge in Deer Valley

The mid-mountain area called "the beach" -- perfect for R&R in all four seasons.

Good vibes :)



















 

Saturday, August 17, 2024

Covid, again

 This has been a good summer so far, but much of it has been spent at home because we've been sick, either with Covid or RSV. But if you're going to be sick, southern California is a good place to do it. Here are a few highlights of summer 2024 so far.

Starting with neighborhood flowers...


Sweeta and Avina were reunited with the Osmani family in Santa Ana. 
Plus, baby Taha is growing up.

Sina isn't a baby anymore either.

Ava's niece visited from Israel, and we celebrated Ava's birthday with a picnic by the sea.

Also celebrated Regina's birthday with friends.

John honed his barbecue skills in the hot weather.

The beach provided some respite from the heat, too.

And I'm getting really gray in my old age!

Fall promises some fun travel... here's hoping we all stay healthy!




















Thankful for my Midwest family

 Hannah hosted the holiday in Madison   Delicious and fun! Now I know the benefit of having kids… so they grow up to do the work! John was o...