Blogging from Movie Colony

Every year since I was in middle school my family has spent Spring Break in Palm Springs, CA. Even as my sister and I grew older, went off to college, got married and had families of our own, my parents still upheld the tradition of bringing everyone together for a sunny vacation. At first we’d rent a small time-share condo that was close to town so that us girls wouldn’t have to rely on my parents to shuttle us back and forth when we wanted to go shopping or seek out boys our own age. Over the years as our vacation needs evolved (private pool, separate bedrooms for the kids, enough bathrooms for everyone) we graduated to a larger house. Not all have been great (I distinctly remember having to sleep in a room with a creepy clown motif one year), and others have wonderful. This year is spectacular. Beyond spectacular! The house (palace, really) is located in a part of town called “Movie Colony” named because of the high profile neighbors it once boasted. It’s filled with beautiful artwork, Mexican pottery, and unique mementos from famous guests that once visited. It was built in 1929 in the Spanish-Colonial style that was (and is) so popular in the area. It. Is. Beautiful! But it’s not about the house (mostly not), it’s about the fun had within. What once started as a week of excessive tanning and boy-hunting has slowly evolved into a relaxing retreat for loved ones to catch up, swim, and enjoy good food. Below are photos I took around the property this morning. Later this week I’ll be posting more photos and recipes for sunny, light, California inspired dishes. Enjoy – I know I will be!

{ One of the many living rooms }

 

{ A large dining room in case we ever choose to eat indoors }

 

{ The kitchen I will be cooking from this week}

 

{ A pantry full of fun, festive serving platters }

 

{ The office where I’ll be blogging from }

 

{ The Toddler enjoying an alfresco lunch }

 

{ The Mexican Courtyard  }

 

{ The back gate, but why would you ever want to leave? }

 

{ My too-cute-for-words nephews up before dawn patiently waiting for the adults to take them swimming }

 

{ The house is full of tiny doors and hidden rooms, perfect for a game of hide-and-seek! }

 

{ And finally the pool! }

More to come tomorrow!