Every Autumn for the last 5 or 6 years, my sisters, and mom when she's in the country, have all gathered for a weekend get together. I've only made it back for one of these, and this year dear dear Katie surprised me with a plane ticket to L.A. for sisters retreat at my sister Jenny's new home. Oh it was so wonderful!! I love my sisters! And this one was extra special because SILs Katie, Lisa, and Sarah Jane were able to come. And extra, extra special because my mommy had just returned days before from her latest mission to Africa with my Dad and was able to be there, too. What an incredible group of women! I learn so much from them and love them and love being able to be around them. My Aunt Karen popped in for a few events as well. What an amazing weekend.
There was a lot of sitting around and chatting, something we do so well.
There was the incredible view of downtown L.A. from Jenny's house. Wow, so gorgeous!
On Saturday morning we walked down to the farmers' market and ate fresh bread and tamales and Oscar and I enjoyed a little jam session in the park.
(Thanks Katie or Victoria? for taking these pictures.)
On Saturday night we were treated to a performance of Arsenic and Old Lace at the original Glendale Center Theater. It was a lot of fun! Except that we were all exhausted and at one point I think every single one of us took a little nap during the play. I'm sure if anyone in the audience was watching our section, they thought we were the rudest. So neat to see where all the theater life in our family got it's start. Grandma and Grandpa Hale are still blessing lives because of their vision and hard work. Cousin Tim Dietlein is running the theater, and it was great to see him as well.
On Sunday we took a field trip to Glendale to see the homes Mom and Dad lived in as kids, just down the street from each other, and where they met and first fell in love. This was really special for me to see. It felt like seeing a part of my own life in a way. I also borrowed this picture Katie took of Mom and the school where she taught English when she and Dad were newly married.
Mom's House:
Dad's House:
Mom's School:
It was just such a treat of a weekend. I feel like I have the best mom and sisters and sisters-in-law in the whole world. So many wise, talented, funny, interesting women and I left feeling like a better person. Katie and I got to sit together on the flight home and talk about it all. She is such a dear friend and I'm just so darn grateful for her in my life, and for her generosity in helping make this trip possible for me. I love you, Katie! Hooray for sisters!
1 comment:
Hey, I just came across this little gem. When did you write it? I feel so loved!! What a fun trip! And I feel the same way about those sissies and mom of yours. So wise and inspiring - all y'all. I like Joey OK but I really just married him to get into the family. Best decision ever.
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