Desert Weekend

Larry and I had such a nice weekend in the beautiful California desert with our friends, Jacquie and Bob. There's just too much to talk about. I've uploaded a few slide shows 'cause pictures really do tell the story. I know there's a lot to look at here, but my pix might save you a trip!

First stop, The 1960's era Desert Hot Springs Spa for lunch.

Next stop, the Lautner Motel in Desert Hot Springs. The real estate sales photos make this place look waaaaay better than it really is. This place needs lot of work, but could be great.

We drove into La Quinta to Jacquie's and Bob's house. They graciously hosted us in their lovely casita for the night. The next morning we all drove to 29 Palms for the Art Studio Tours. First stop was Shari Elf's Art Queen Gallery and Crochet Museum in Joshua Tree.

We headed back to 29 Palms to Benjamin Bottoms' family home and sign museum. Ben is a painter and has an incredible collection of vintage signage on the property.

It was closing in on 4pm, the time that the 29 Palms Historical Society Weed Show was about to end! We wanted to get our votes in for the best display of weeds and desert objects. We were rushing back and forth along Highway 62 all day!

We finally had a chance to rest before dinner at the 29 Palms Inn. They grow their own vegies on the property. Everything is delicious and fresh.

On Sunday morning, we arose bright and early (due to the divine time change). We had a quick breakfast and then drove over to the 29 Palms cabin and studio of artists Mary-Austin Klein and Diane Best. Their artwork was excellent, but the standout at this stop was the vintage 1950's desert cabin. Everything had been perfectly preserved. The owners even had the original receipts for the "catalog" cabin and built-in metal kitchen. Even the furniture in the cabin was original!

We had been searching for Noah Purifoy's art and sculpture site for awhile. After much computer research, we finally found it. Noah passed away a few years ago, but his foundation has maintained his assemblage art site for visitors.

The antithesis to Noah Purifoy's area is the studio of Bobby Furst in Joshua Tree. Talk about organized and perfect! Bobby's artwork makes you think. He uses found objects in his work. He was getting ready for the closing party to the Art Studio weekend and welcomed us to look around.

After our tour, we waved a fond farewell to Jacquie and Bob as they headed off to Las Vegas. Larry and I drove back to L.A. after a most interesting weekend! Phew!