We departed from the NW for warmer climates on December 9. With me freezing all the time, warmer seemed like a better option for winter this year, plus I didn’t want to give up Thistle adventures just because of a little cancer. Nope. I wanted to travel still, no matter what!
We needed to scurry down to the Palm Desert area as my first SW chemo treatment was already scheduled so we couldn’t stop and visit with family and friends as we headed south, much to our disappointment. We are hoping to set up a schedule on our return trip that will allow time to make some visiting stops as we head home.
After rushing down to Palm Desert for treatment, then meeting with the doctor, my treatment was cancelled due to logistics issues at the treatment center (with only 4 chairs), and issues regarding my lack of tolerance to chemo buildup. So, I picked up a mini vacation from chemo. Right away I felt slightly better, giving me more energy to enjoy the holidays and a visit with Brad and Yessi.
When we first arrived we camped in Joshua Tree and were delighted, as always, with Joshua Tree’s stunning beauty. The majestic Joshua Trees, dramatic cactus, monumental rocks, big sky, not to mention watching the climbers, all enchanted us, as always.
After a few days we happily, delightedly and ecstatically welcomed Brad and Yessi. They spent ten days with us, flying away to home again the day after Christmas. Before the government shutdown made Joshua Tree off limits (we didn’t want to add to the crowds, many of which were gravely misbehaving), we enjoyed a few days of hiking this beautiful place.
But, Brad being Brad, more adventure was needed. So off to the Palm Desert Tram for a ride to the top of the mountain and a two day pack trip for Brad and Yessi.
The hike from the top to Idyllwild for Brad and Yessi, back to a campground at Idyllwild for Ed and me. Brad and Yessi reported a fantastic hike to the top of Mt. San Jacinto, reaching 10,000+ feet elevation and snow. A warm Thistle, with heat, for Ed and me.
The wrap up was Christmas in Idyllwild, bike riding, dining out, snow on Christmas morning, and a
collection of gifts, funny to useful, we’d been opening each evening for days. A very special holiday no matter which angle I view it from!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
~~~
“You can kiss your family and friends good-bye and put miles between you, but at the same time you carry them with you in your heart, your mind, your stomach, because you do not just live in a world but a world lives in you.”
Frederick Buchner
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