Western Spirit-Scottsdale

We had a sole day in Scottsdale before returning to MKE. A visit to the Western Spirit, Scottsdale’s Museum of the West was perfect. The current exhibit was photographs taken by Barry Goldwater of native Americans, long before he got into politics and served as Senator. In his youth he has a chance encounter with Ansel Adams who praised his work. 

There many collections of spurs, saddles, halters, chaos, guns, and all things western. 

The bronze sculptures by John Coleman were outstanding. 

And we got into the Western spirit too!

Fun Times in Palm Springs

Well, the Garfields, Van Reusens, and Schnells are all still friends after a week together in sunny Bermuda Dunes (Palm Springs). The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. And Petra’s home with three en-suite bedrooms was perfect, even with its little quirks. Plenty of golf, eating, drinking, laughing, shopping, political discussions, an infamous night of cards playing 31, and lots and lots of Mahjongg, made for a quick week. 

The house was on the Bermuda Dunes golf course. And it’s for sale. It can be yours for a mere $800K. 

We attended the Indian Wells art show, but only Schnells made an acquisition. 

Rick and Jim played 5 rounds of golf with Kathy, Tony, and Mary playing two. Jean proved to be an excellent cart driver and caddie for Mary. 

A visit to the Sunnylands estate of the Annenbergs was fascinating. It has served as a retreat for 8 past presidents. Annenberg was a media mogul and served as ambassador to the UK under Eisenhower. The gardens were lovely, but we unable to tour the mid-century modern home (25,000 sq ft). Next time. 

There was an exhibit of bird photos taken at the estate. 130 varieties of birds have been sighted at the property. 

And we had our own Elvis with us at the Big Rock pub.