Idyllwild, California

Saturday, April 5- Monday April 14, 2014 Idyllwild, California

We met a delightful couple, the Martini's, two years ago and have had some great conversations ever since. They share the same eagerness to see the world as we do and have shared their delightful townhouse on Sunset Beach, Ca. Their Idyllwild property was bought by Mark's dad back in the 1930's and; Mark and his dad put this home on the property in the 70's. It has been a retreat for the family ever since. Evidence of Thanksgivings, Valentine's Day and birthday celebrations abound the home making for great  memories.

Idyllwild was a neat little place to just kick back and relax. Our cute little home, a three bedroom, two and half bath provided just enough room for a quiet  retreat for everyone to enjoy. Surrounded by tall pines, beautiful little pink blooming manzanita trees, and awesome rocky craigs, we all enjoyed walking the quiet streets of a close little community while exploring the quaint  shops and  people who have settled into this closenit, dog friendly community. Did I mention the people proudly voted the mayor to be a very friendly Golden Retreiver? What have we observed? Rabbits, lizards, chunky squirrels, and lots of friendly people all in a peaceful setting with just near perfect temperatures.

                                                             Pines and Pink Blossoms

After visiting the local post office and pharmacy, we  wandered past the beautifully carved display in the town center. The life sized animal carving displayed critters that live in the area...coyotes, squirrels, chipmunks, various birds and other animals...quite an exhibit!

 

 

 

We walked on into a shop to enjoy the local wares when the owner pulled us into a local songfest with two guitar players and singers encouraging us to sing along, "Rock me mama like a midnight train". What a great place to just let your hair down and enjoy the moment! This is definitely a Larry   Hixson kinda of place.

The trip to and from Idyllwild provides lots of curves....reminding my man of his motorcycle.

 

 

We did manage to do some car trips around of the area...out past Desert Palms to see the Salton Sea and indulge in Fig Milkshakes while seeing the numerous turbines of the desert.

 

We also enjoyed going into La Jolla to have dinner with Debi, Lindsey, Chad and Kathy.

 

                                   Strolling along  La Jolla...watching the sea lions and seagulls

                                                Chocolate treats....too many choices!!!

                                       Debi and I were hoping for a fabulous La Jolla sunset!

                                                  The sea fog moved in before the sunset!



                Larry, Chad, and the girls went horseback riding the following morning in Hemet.

My does time fly! Can't believe that our time with our loved ones went by so quickly while staying in the Martini's little get away! Where did the nine days go? One thing is for certain, every minute with our family was precious and we certainly did create some fantastic memories that will last a long time.

With hugs flowing, everyone packed up and went their seperate ways on Monday morning, planning to meet up again in Lake Tahoe in ten days.