my mother in law visits us at least once a year, wherever we may be! she always visits for close to two weeks and it is lovely to have enough time with her that taking an afternoon nap or traveling for a few days to an amazing destination within driving distance isn’t out of the question — it always provides quality time.
her last visit was as wonderful as it always is.
she was able to attend class with me one of the days, is was a theory and practice-based course. the day she attended we were taught to weave baskets using rope and yarn — a craft that is a “right of passage” in the occupational therapy profession due to its history in providing therapeutic interventions via arts and crafts. this was actually very challenging enjoyable for the both of us and i loved that she was able to see my school and how wonderful the faculty is.
this visit happened to run over the 4th of july, and it was one of the best holiday’s we’ve had possibly ever. we were invited to a family friend’s beach house in san clemente and spent the day relaxing and enjoying their beach with amazing food and company. there was even an unexpected air show from the base towards the end of the day that was really awe-inspiring.
we also drove up to the Capistrano and completed the tour at the once mission now a museum — so much beauty and history lie in that place — it was really beyond beautiful.
after the mission, we continued driving out to dana point to catch the ferry to Catalina island. we planned on exploring — we did a little exploring and found long weekend of good eating and drinking. it was all a true staycation. we visited the island museum, full of history and at the time a chihuly exhibit, both of which were well worth our time. the island is partially known for its beautiful tile production. we found a few i couldn’t leave behind and are now in our house, the holden rod and red-tiled photo was a floor of an italian restaurant where we stopped for a drink. there was a golf cart rental company which allowed you to take the cart around the harbor for an hour in lieu of hiking the same trail. some of the sights rivaled the caribbean. there are so many areas of the island to explore, we cannot wait to return for some snorkeling and backpacking.
regardless what we choose to explore when Joni visits, we always have such a wonderful time. We love our time with her so much and cherish her greatly.
