Thoughts in Random Patterns

Happy Winter Solstice

This year winter doesn't start until 12/22 as the solstice comes on the late side, but I've been celebrating a very un-snowy time in Keystone by hiking.  You can see the snow covered mountains in the background, but the hiking trail is almost entirely dry.  Brooks and I had a lovely time. 

 

 

 

Brad's Birthday Bash Finale

 I'm back in snowy frigid Boulder after a week in mostly sunny Scottsdale, and the memories of our friend-filled birthday celebration week are helping keep me warm.

 On Brad's actual birthday night, we had Japanese food at Sushi Roku restaurant at the W Hotel, where they did a wonderful job of making the evening special.

The happy group:

The happy couple: 

Brad wearing the beautiful scarf his mother made for him - as a headband:  

 Excellent tuna sashimi: 

 A thoroughly chocolate cake: 

 

And fireworks: 

 

 

We had a lovely experience at the Sanctuary at Camelback, playing tennis, taking advantage of the spa, and lounging by the pool and hot tub.  I've always said that I can't imagine living in a place where there isn't snow in wintertime, but I may be changing my mind! 

Flowers blooming in December: 

The view from the pool from Casa 5: 

Tennis at Casa 5: 

The living room at Casa 9: 

The best part of all, of course, was having friends and family gather together to celebrate.  We're looking forward to  next year! 

 

 

Brad's Birthday Bash Begins

We are in Scottsdale this week with a bunch of friends, celebrating Brad's 46th birthday.

View from our balcony:

Dining room for our group opening dinner at XII at Sanctuary at Camelback:

The happy group: 

The happy couple: