Playing Tourist.....

My sweet cousin Greet, and her adorable husband Marien, came from Holland to share in the joy of my Mom's birthday.

Greet remembers me as a child in Holland ( something about my red shoes or coat???? ), and I remember how our friendship grew as we both became pen-pals when we learned to write.

Over the years our relationship remained close....Greet was a bridesmaid when Jim and I married. We have shared joys and sorrows, and now we had a wonderful chance to spend time together again.

Our first meeting was at the Crystal Cathedral where we had the chance to worship together. I know my prayer was one of gratitude....for years of friendship and the time for us all to be together again.

We got to do lots of fun things....time at the beach.

A lovely birthday luncheon for Mom in La Jolla.

Greet and Marien found a cute surf shop...and the perfect gift for our newest Grandbaby!!!!

We had a chance to reenact a photo we took ten years ago at Swammi's.

There was a bit of wine tasting in Temecula.....

...where I also shared with Greet the joys of quilting at the Coop!!!!!

We had a memorable day in San Diego where we visited the Bob Hope monument...a MUST see for all who come to our beautiful city.

Greet and Marien reenacted a famous scene in our history...after all they were celebrating their 30th Wedding Anniversary!!!

We took a lovely sunset cruise on a paddleboat.....

What fun memories we shared.

The two weeks went much to quickly....here is Greet soaking up all the sun she could in San Clemente. Hopefully it will keep her warm and toasty when the Dutch winter comes.

Momma made a wonderful final breakfast...and then suitcases were closed and it was time to leave.

A lovely visit and we can't wait to see them again. Love to our favorite Bakker family....we miss you so much and look forward to seeing you in Holland!!!!!