This past weekend we were able to get away for some rest and relaxation.
Our friends, Bob and Jan, invited us to come and spend the weekend with them in Palm Springs where they have a second home.
This puppy dog did not like us at first! But, with alot of patience and gentle attention, Patch became our good friend!
This is the view from the front of their home...
It was so relaxing to see the mountains, right there! And the evenings were so clear that we could see the starry sky!
In their backyard they had several fruit trees, rose bushes, and of course--palm trees!
On Saturday morning, we went with Bob to an air show at the Palm Springs Airport. In the museum we saw several planes, (and also tanks, cars, etc) from WWII. The man that had purchased many of the planes and cars that were on display, was originally from Mlps, MN so we heard a bit about his life as well.
If you look closely, you'll discover that this plane came from Minnesota...
Jim and I had to try out the vintage motorcycle!
This was one of the planes (the PBY Catalina) that was flown in the show. It was interesting to see how much time it actually took for the prop plane to get started. (Later, I'll try to post a couple videos of two of the planes that we saw)
One whole room was dedicated to Pearl Harbor and the war that was fought on the sea. Because it was Veteran's Day weekend, there were many vets in and around the buildings. It was fastinating to listen to their stories. Bob is a former Marine, so he shared some of his experiences with us also.
Downtown, next to the baseball field, the Veterans were honored by this display of flags. The waving "Stars and Stripes" stretched on around the block and was many rows deep. It made me proud once again to be part of this great nation, and also very thankful for the many people that have given their lives to defend my freedom. "Freedom isn't free!" Thanks to all who have paid the price!
On Sunday morning, we were thrilled to join Bob and Jan in celebrating together with many other people, as they dedicated their new church.
The courtyard and entrance area.
The front of the church had a beautiful stained glass window. We also ran into some other old friends at this church! It is exactly one year ago since we moved here, and God continues to surprise us with new and old friends that He brings our way. Wonderful!
And the perfect ending to our weekend was a stop at Jamie and Krista's house on our way home! We got to see the "new" media room that Jamie has been working on, and also to see the plans for the nursery for our GRANDSON! We are so excited to be close by so we can share in this joy.
Out came the many boxes of decorations and holiday greens and reds...this place was a real mess for several days, but the results were very pleasing!
The little snowmen (and ladies) found a shelf with plenty of snow...
And the Christmas village found a picturesque spot on top of the piano.
And my Christmas cactus is once again loaded with blossoms! It has really thrived in this California sunshine. 
Even the outside of our house is all decked out with sparkling lights! What a wonderful time of the year! A Merry Christmas to all of you family and friends!
We are so thankful for our sons! Micah and Becky arrived on Wednesday evening so we had a few extra hours with them before the rest of the guests came. We are thankful that they will be moving closer to us the end of December.
Photo op for Krista's family... 
Micah and Becky enjoyed being together, since they have been separated so much the past five months because of his schooling.
And of course, there was a little bit of comparison of bellies...
