We wanted to be part of our grandson’s wedding in Southern California. We didn’t want to fly because Ramona‘s ears can no longer tolerate air travel. Although we would have liked to take the train, the cost, by the time we tried to book it, was ridiculously high. Thankfully, our daughter Lisa and her husband Dan suggested that the four of us drive to the wedding.
Because of Dan’s work schedule, we chose to make the journey in three days. 30 hours of driving time translates to 10 hours of driving per day. Stops for gas, bathroom breaks, and eating, extends those days.
Our first nights stay was in Lyons Kansas, where we stayed at the Lyons Inn, A modest Motel, 1/3 of the way to our destination. The next night we stayed at the red roof inn in Gallup New Mexico, again, a modest motel, 2/3 of the way to our destinations. The following night, we arrived at our Motel in Fallbrook California, where my grandson lived, and where the wedding would be.
The Rodeway Inn was, perhaps, not the most Luxurious of motels, but, despite some annoyances, was close to where the wedding would be and reasonably comfortable. Having arrived on a Thursday, two days before the wedding, allowed us enough time to unwind. The best part was, being able to sleep-in the next morning.
That first evening, after his work day, Kyle, our grandson, stopped at our room and joined us for a martini - a family tradition I started, and participated by very few of our family members. I call it a tradition anyway.
The next day, Friday, would be the wedding rehearsal, then, Saturday, a wedding at one of the more lovely park I have ever seen.
The Grand Tradition Estate & Gardens is an awe-inspiring thirty acre property with a massive tent with large a stage suitable for the incredible band that was hired for the reception. The ceremony site, within the eighteen acres of thematic gardens, seven waterfalls, and a heart-shaped lake, had a waterfall backdrop, just perfect on this lovely day.
Then - the reception. Dinner, drinks, laughter, music, dancing, dancing, dancing - I slept well that night.
The next day we attended a brunch at our new daughter-in-laws, parents home. More food, more drinks and, most of all, ability to meet relatives not easy to get to know at the reception.
Then - to my sons home for the night, followed by a journey to Joshua Tree State Park the next morning.
Click here for our journey home.
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