4th of July Vacay!

We took a spontaneous trip to California for the 4th of July this year.  I was extremely burnt out (and literally quite sick) from working HUNDREDS of hours in the month of June.  I just needed a break and some sun so Riley and Sandy's house was the obvious choice.  They were gracious enough to cancel their much better Independence Day plans and let us and our furry children invade their home.  It was honestly my favorite trip ever to their house, usually I don't get to use the pool!

 

{Pictures above are Riley & Sandy's pool/fire pit in their backyard, Palm Springs Aerial Tram and Mount San Jacinto park at the top, the Shield's Date Farm, and fireworks on the 4th.}

For as long as I have visited Palm Desert, I have wanted to ride the tram up the mountain.  It's about 6000 feet, so the temperature is 30 degrees lower on the top and pretty wonderful in the summer!  The mountain is really pretty with giant pine trees and lots of cool boulders.  I'd love to go up there again in the winter.  The date farm was also really fun for me.  I learned so much and was absolutely fascinated by date growing.  The shakes were great too!  It was a perfect get away for rest and relaxation.  The dogs seemed pretty annoyed by the long drive, but all in all I'd say it was definitely worth it.