The first few days in LA

 

Deborah’s eldest sister Judy and her husband Connie have lived in their home for 40 years. You would never know it as Judy has a wonderful eye for colors and decorating , and updates have been frequent. Our first dinner was with Deborah’s other brother Dan and his wife Susie, nephew Tony and his wife Sandy, hosted by Judy and Connie. A lot of stories and laughter.

We took possession of the condo at Manhattan Beach on Tuesday, March 17. Although a little tired it has some nice views, is close to the beach, and a short drive from the Torrance Kents and UCLA.

An inviting view from the dining area to the deck

The view from our deck

The view from a walking path, the bike path in the foreground

 Walking along the Strand, the walkway near the beach, I have been struck by some of the architecture as well as the proximity of living area to the walk ways.

Later that night Deborah’s brother Ted and sister Cecelia arrived from Toronto. As you read this you may be reminded of the magician pulling repeated rabbits out of a hat! For this trip, we are at quota, the other siblings; Susan, Chris and Robert remain in the cold and snow.

The next day , Dan, Ted and I played El Dorado Park golf Course, it was designed by golf legend Ted Robinson, Sr. and built in 1962, measuring 6,921-yard, par 72 is home to the prestigious Long Beach Open and was ranked among GolfLink’s Top 100 Golf Courses in 2008. I believe it was one of the venues of All Star golf, which ran from 1957-63. A classic golf course with no gimmicks, highly enjoyable.

That evening we celebrated St Patrick’s Day a day late with brisket, green mashed potatoes and cup cakes I am sure were laced with Irish whiskey.

Cecelia ever skeptical

Sue and Dan Kent

Lawyer Kent using words and gesturing, a technique in court presentations unique to Quebec Grads

Susie Kent, Dan’s wife has been so hospitable. She set lent us her van, complete with bikes and bike rack. Ted, Cecelia, Deborah and I cycled from Redondo Beach north to Manhattan Beach. A return trip of 15 miles, on pristinely kept pathways exclusively for bikes. We felt like real Californians.

Deborah and Cecelia with pre ride maintenance

Ted, pre ride readiness

Hugh,Deborah and Ted during a brief break

Ded and Cecelia at Manhattan Beach

The sun keeps shinning and the temperatures are ideal. Tonight (March 20), daughter Catherine flies in, she will stay at Hamish’s tonight and we will all meet for breakfast at UCLA