I still have a ton of Palm Springs photos that I’ve been wanting to share. One of my favorite things we did was tour some of the “hip” hotels. A place where you might spot a famous face. The only reason I know this is because both my sis and “L” are naturally cool and know about these sort of things. I missed the boat on the cool thing…however I’m a fast learner, and I’m up for anything.

I felt like I traveled back in time when we hit the Ace, circa 1972. This place is one of the “hippest” hotels in Palm Springs if you’re under the age of 25. Okay so I’m double that, but who cares! I had a blast people watching. I love to photograph people, still figuring out a way to be more sly. This is when my iphone comes in handy. A bit less obvious than the chunky Canon.

I’ll post some of the images now, and the rest very soon.

retro urban coolness

Sparse is cool.

2:00 a.m.? Who's up at that time?

Pool Play.

No slides....not cool.

His pony tail is better than mine.

Her figure is better than mine.

Love the palm trees.

Tats work at the Ace.

See more tats!

Wonder if he has tats?

Is that my daughter?

Where's the rose?

More Ace Hotel pics coming soon…stay tuned!

Isn’t if funny that when we’re young a nap is the most dreaded word on the planet, and when we’re older it becomes the greatest four letter word we know. I’ve decided n.a.p.s. stands for “Naps Are Perfectly Sane”. I love a good nap. A lot of people say they can’t go over 20 minutes when catnapping, or they morph into a sloth. Not me…..an hour does me just fine. Sixty minutes of REM brings me back to life, and makes for a productive night. It ensures the familia will have “real” food for supper, and I won’t have to walk to the garage. The garage is where Americans keep the monster freezer that’s filled with Costco edibles. You know the stuff, food that all tastes the same and is ready to eat in nano seconds.

Before dosing off while stretched out on my beloved patio swing, I took a few shots. Here’s what I saw…

A final update on the Pedaling for Parkinson’s Project fundraiser. The lucky winners of “Starshine” reside in a charming seaside town called Santa Cruz, which is located along the California coastline. YES! the beach! How utterly perfect is that! Yes, Starshine was smiling when we dropped her off!

We arrived in Santa Cruz at noon, and were warmly greeted by Greg and Ching, two of the nicest people I have ever met. We also had the pleasure of meeting their precious pooch, Suki. Whatta love!

I felt like I had known this couple forever, an instant soul connection. We were given a tour of their amazing yard which boasts over 50 species of magical bamboo. Heaven on earth is the best way to describe this paradise.

We chatted inside their peaceful home, and enjoyed a tender and insightful conversation. It was such an uplifting and positive day, a day I will never forget. This was the perfect ending for a story about love.

Many thanks to everyone who kindly supported the project. Thanks to you we raised $1,782. for Parkinson’s research!

If you love shooting photos, check out my new fave website….Photojojo. Man I’m crazy in love with this store! It’s ran by a group of young hipsters who offer up camera coolness to the max. If I’m bored I click on Photojojo and droooooool.

Here’s a peek at a recent purchase….the Digi Clover San. This little green guy is way too much fun. It fits in the palm of your hand, weighs a little bit more than an ounce, and it’s digital! It takes standard SD cards, and even has a self-timer and video mode. whoop whoop! (one AAA battery)

If you like vintage toned pics and want some soft retro-looking images…get the Clover! It’s designed to fit on keychain, however I hooked mine on a black lanyard where it easily hangs around my neck. Here are some “Greenie” pics I took earlier today. (Cost $55.)

The Riviera Palm Springs is a California luxury resort where abundance overflows. At least that’s what the brochure says. After meandering through the stunning grounds of this gorgeous hotel, I have to say….the description fits!

My camera clicked non-stop while my eyes feasted on the Riviera’s luxurious atmosphere….just take a gander below. No, we didn’t stay overnight. We were booked at another fine establishment called the Casa O’Donnell (my wonderful sister’s awesome house). My sis and brother-in-law actually make you feel as if you’re staying in a five star resort.

Fluffy comforters and crisp linens. Amazing gourmet meals (brother-in-law bakes, brews, and BBQ’s like a master chef). Swimming pool complete with surround sound, thick yummy towels, and fruity drink service. And of course something a fancy resort can’t provide, endless love and laughter. Thanks guys for spoiling me once again…loved it!