Los Angeles Trip

This past weekend, Brett and I went out to Los Angeles to attend my grandfather's memorial service.  He passed away in February after a battle with Leukemia.  My grandfather was such a wonderful man!  We decided to wait a few months for a service so that the entire family could be together.  Here are some pics from the trip

We arrived last Thursday...on Friday a bunch of us took a trip to the Getty Center.  It is sooo beautiful.  Not only is the artwork wonderful, but I think I just enjoy the building and the gardens even more!!  It was a perfect California day.

My grandmother (Jessie) and I overlooking the LA skyline.  From this view you can actually see their house...so cool!

Some of the beautiful gardens!

Brett and I enjoying this weather!

My brother and mom....look at that view!!!!  Wow!

My Mom (Val), grandmother, cousin Amber, and aunt Sue....on this great iron bridge in one of the gardens

Since my family loves food....we had to stop at this wonderful cafe for lunch.  I had the most amazing salad with a glass of white wine....ahhhhh!  California perfection!








On Saturday, our family hosted a wonderful party at my grandparent's house.  All of their friends came from throughout their life as well as our extended family.  The food and drinks were amazing!  Here are a couple of shots...

Before everybody arrives...my grandmother has a great backyard with views of downtown and "the hills"

There is my sweet husband helping out with what he knows best...tending the bar!  haha!  He was so great.  Actually several of the guests just started calling him "Birmingham" when they would come up to order a drink.   He was a hit!

My three favorite people, Brett, Mom, Cameron (brother).  All the guys in the family wore some of my grandad's quintessential bowtie's to the party.  My grandfather wore a bowtie to work every day since he was in his 20's.  He said he started wearing a bowtie after one day, his regular tie got caught in a plane's propeller and almost caused a horrific accident!  Yikes!!

My mom and her best friend Elaine (aka...my pseudo aunt)  She flew down from Saratoga, CA...was so wonderful to see her!!









My Grandfather wanted to be creameated with his ashes spread in the Pacific Ocean.  So, Sunday we went down to the California Yacht Club (where they have been members for over 40 years) and had a military salute.  It was very moving and meaningful....They played taps on trumpet and then presented my grandmother with a flag.

After that, we all boarded a yacht that we charted and drove several miles out into the Pacific.  We all got a chance to tell our favorite grandfather stories.  Along with his ashes, we also tossed purple onions and flowers.  (I think he ate onions at every meal and COULD NOT live with them!)  Our tribute to him.....

That night we all went to Lowry's Restaurant to cap off our celebration weekend.  That was his absolute favorite restaurant and we all ordered the Prime Rib in his honor.  All in all, this weekend was perfect!  What a way to honor a great man and with all of our family together.

Brett and I flew back on Monday night....and back to reality.....we have been busy this week between baseball games, 5th grade banquet, softball games...whew!!!  Brett is headed down to Auburn as we speak (3rd day in a row!!) as we have the kids this weekend.  I am on call tonight but will head down in the morning.  I will post some new pics of the house (drywall and trim are done!!) on sunday!!!