As a most magical day, the excitement and discovery, while defined differently now than when I was six, still prevails. With thoughts of redemption… open hearts…open minds, we set forth into this special day with the wide eyed wonder of a child. What would we see? Who would we meet? And what messages would we receive and be able to share with you?
Blessed with beautiful sunshine and a breeze that felt like the ocean currents, we clipped in and headed out into the world. Uncharted, we first went to see the flamingos at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort. Valet was busy with families coming and going. Where did they come from? What was Easter like for them? The flamingos and Canadian geese never disappoint…such vibrant colors.
Left turn Clyde! Out of the resort and headed west, Sunnylands was the next destination. A stop we frequent, the gardens are always in bloom, one plant or another. A true treasure in the desert. They had so much for the kids to do. I was particularly drawn to the reptile display hearing the squeal of little girls as they touched the slithering lizards and snakes. So good to teach the children about nature and what is present here in the desert.
Part of our adventure is always looking for that bike-friendly street, often one block from main throughfare. And we found a few this trip.
Still traveling due west, we traversed into Palm Springs as downtown is always fun. The people watching is amazing.
Past Demuth Park where cycling groups often meet, we continued on streets used during the Palm Spring Century (each February). These roads are familiar and bring back fond memories.
Once downtown, we rode, walked, rode more, walked again. We were being tourist in our own environment. Stopping by Our Lady of Solitude, services could be heard while a patient ‘dad’ waited outside with the baby.
Back to Palm Canyon, we walked by one of our favorite restaurants, The Blue Coyote. And we chuckled at the sign at the curb. Being a nurturer/fixer, this sign spoke to me. 😊
Back to Palm Canyon, we enjoyed more people watching and capturing the nostalgic mid-century vibe. The sky remained crystal clear and airplanes floated through the air.
We next discovered the Cancer Survivors Park. I’m sure we’ve driven and ridden past this park many, many times. But we were on ‘moseying mode’ today so we stopped. What we experienced was a deep and sober message…a message which reaffirmed why we are riding across the USA this summer…because some of you can’t ride now. The deep sense of purpose, the importance of sharing a message, sharing this experience, propelled me from one message to another. I know I am not alone when I say I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when I received the call that my father had been diagnosed with cancer. And I know some of you are struggling with cancer…in your own lives or the lives of those you love. I was driven to record and share this message with you. Hope is so special and if/when it is stolen from you, everything changes. How special, on this Easter Day- a day of hope-this beautiful park presented itself. I am still in awe how timely and touching this place is.
Next, we went to see Marilyn and found other friends along the way. The Palm Springs Art Museum is another jewel in the desert. Truly worth taking a day to enjoy!
And just beyond, there was more incredible beauty. The Artists Center at Galen featured a Sculpture Garden and inside, an art exhibit with shadows/reflections. The Center had the most engaging, enjoyable volunteers making this a ‘must return’ location. We spent time speaking with Andy. So fun sharing stories about life. Very special.
Continuing east, we headed to El Paseo…another fun people watching place. In route, we traveled along Sahara Rd, just on block off of Highway 111. Wow! Beautiful homes and beautiful landscaping.
By 3:30, our tummies reminded us we hadn’t had lunch yet. Hum. I wonder what’s open on Easter Sunday? Maybe, just maybe, we could grab lunch at La Quinta Brewing Co on Technology Road! Drew loves their fish and chips and the blackened fish tacos are out of this world (and gluten free!) Jack waited on us…so fun to chat with him. We met others enjoying their Sunday afternoon…coming and going, in their favorite vintage car or with comments of nicknames!
Bellies full and feeling so happy, we headed home. The only thing that could make the day better (besides soaking muscles in the hot tub at home) was to see a road runner. And indeed, wishes do come true.
Thank you for traveling this day with us. It is unforgettable!
April 20, 2025