To Temecula, CA

Aloha Everyone,

Today’s drive was challenging. J.J. had to navigate through heavy downpour, fog and wind buffeting Honu. On top of it all, our iPhones kept on buzzing with Flash Flood alerts. It took 6 1/2 hours behind the wheel to cover 350 miles.

Our daughter-in-law had prepared a hot lunch and she waiting for us. Our children also suggested that we stay with them rather than continue our drive. It was tempting, but after a wonderful lunch, J.J. and I decided to adhere to our original plan and drove on to Temecula.

With a simple salad and hot soup for dinner, J.J. and I plunged into a box full of letters and magazines which we need to get through before visiting my Mother.

Aloha -- Cathi

Rich and Margie - Our Neighbors at KOA Gila Bend, AZ

Aloha Everyone,

We were amazed to see Honu looking shiny and clean. J.J. explained that it’s because there is very little pollution in Mesa, AZ.

Arrived at KOA Gila Bend in two hours including a leisurely lunch at Mimi’s Bistro. I ordered French Onion Soup and Reuben. My dishes were quite photogenic but not to my taste. J.J. graciously exchanged his French dip sandwich and corn chowder with me :-).

Special Valentines desserts were tasty but not healthy for us! Oh well, we have weaknesses for chocolate and cheesecake.

Rich & Margie from San Diego are newbies in retirement. They are on their first major road trip with their 5th wheeler. Rich retired from the Department of Defense as a civilian contractor. Margie had a long career with a dental office. On their way to Organ Pipe National Monument, the couple’s goal is to visit all of the national parks.

When I brought out our flat granddaughter and her friend, Rich brought out his “No Name” gnome and Margie her little bird. Rich loves Harley Davidson motorcycles and his “No Name” gnome resembles him.

Aloha -- Cathi

Safely Back in the USA

Aloha Everyone,

J.J. and I met Francisco at the American Airlines gate. He is the International and Borderland Program Manager for the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Francisco travels frequently to Mexico to coordinate, plan, and implement joint wildlife research and management projects. These projects are agreements between Arizona State and the country of Mexico.

Denny’s Restaurant is located adjacent to La Quinta Inn Phoenix Sky Harbor. Having had unsatisfying past experiences with the quality of food and service with this chain, the two of us had no expectations. We just wanted to have a hot meal after a long day of travel.

Our server Mark was pleasant, efficient and helpful. J.J. ordered a T-bone steak and I had a light, healthy meal of omelette with egg whites, cottage cheese plus fresh fruits. As you can see from the photos, the presentation was very appealing and the food was excellent.

I inquired Mark if there has been  a management change within the Denny’s organization because the quality far exceeded what we have been accustomed to. I was able to obtain the contact information of SAS Restaurant Venture, who is the area franchisee.

Restaurant business is heavily depended on the quality of food and customer service. Having a winning combination of Mark, an exceptional server, and a skilled chef in the kitchen, Denny’s Restaurants in Phoenix certainly is worth mentioning to our friends.

Aloha -- Cathi

Unforgettable Images of Mexico City

Aloha Everyone,

One of the biggest advantages of using iPhone is its ease. For those of you who know me, I wear my iPhone around my neck so that I can react to any photo opportunity quickly.

It was difficult to sort through so many incredible and colorful images that I’ve taken over the last 5 weeks.  

I hope through these images, you can feel our love for Mexico City, with its rich history, culture, amazing food and wonderful people.

Aloha -- Cathi

Street Musicians

Aloha Everyone,

On Sundays, some streets in Mexico City are closed. Use is limited to bicyclists, scooters, skaters and walkers.The large crowds are entertained by talented professional level musicians as well as those with questionable aptitude.

Over the past 5 weeks, we listened to a cellist accompanied by a soprano who gave riveting performances of Ave Maria and O Mio Babbino Caro.  

Here are photographs of some music performers with talent and those who fall in the other category.

Aloha -- Cathi