Memorial Weekend Special Anniversary Gift of Love: A Trip to Hollywood
I just returned from a trip to Hollywood, California. My son, Chris, flew my husband and I out to see him there for a long weekend in the son. No pun intended, but I have jet lag right now. Lol! We had to all get up at 4 am to catch our plane back home to Detroit. The trip was a gift for our 42nd wedding anniversary. We hadn’t seen Chris for Christmas, so this was a much-needed visit.
Our Trip to Hollywood
Strangely, the weather was out of the ordinary during our trip to Hollywood. It was in the upper 80’s Fahrenheit in Detroit the week before our visit and in the 60’s in Los Angeles. I told Chris we were coming to cool off. Lol! It did turn out to be very comfortable.
All his life, Chris loved movies. Now, he is a manager at one of the top three management companies in Hollywood. He manages writers, actors and directors. He also produces movies and streaming series. So it’s no surprise that we watched movies together every evening after dinner!
Friday Afternoon Arrival in L.A.
After Chris picked us up from the airport, we settled in to his apartment. We relaxed with a homemade dinner and watched the remake of “West Side Side Story” directed by Steven Spielberg.
Saturday, Our Anniversary
We spent the first day at Santa Monica beach. Even though temps were only in the 60’s, the sun was warming. So with the combination weather, the go-to LA outfit has turned to shorts and a sweatshirt. My husband, Russ, was brave and waded in the cold water. We had snacks, walked on the beach and watched Chris’s partner, Pedro, play volleyball.
It was our anniversary, so Chris had a reservation for a special dinner at Jones Hollywood Italian restaurant on Santa Monica Boulevard.
Then we returned to Chris and Pedro’s apartment to watch “Harriet,” based on the story of iconic freedom fighter Harriet Tubman.
Sunday on Our Trip to Hollywood
After brunch, we visited the Griffith Observatory. We parked about a mile away in order to get some uphill walking exercise. Unfortunately, the clouds were in the way so the big telescope wasn’t open on this day. But the exhibits, scenic views and discussion with the tour guide were worth the visit!
After we got back from the observatory, Chris and Pedro made dinner for us and we finished off a bottle of Cabernet.
Then we watched “Hearts and Minds,” a 1974 American documentary film about the Vietnam War directed by Peter Davis, requested by Russ. It was hard to watch the violence and devastation caused by the war. But it is a must-see because it is an eye opener!
Monday, Our Last Day
Chris and Pedro made grilled egg and cheese sandwiches for breakfast.
Then they briefed us on the television series they have been watching called “The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst,” a true crime documentary. We watched the final episode of this real-life drama that is still going on. It looks like there may be more to come in the future as information continues to be uncovered.
We spent the day relaxing at the courtyard swimming pool across from Chris and Pedro’s patio space. It was warm and sunny this day, so it was a good time to get a little swimming in.
After a late dinner, it was time to pack up and get ready to catch an early morning flight home.
Heading Home
It was exciting to see our beloved son and to be given such a wonderful anniversary gift. Pedro had come up with the idea in the first place and we love him for it. They treated us so very special every single day. Our heartfelt thanks to them both!
P.S. The Boeing 737 didn’t fall apart! ;D
Let’s Connect!
Do you have memorable moments to share from past trips to Los Angeles or Hollywood? Do you have relatives who live there? Maybe you even live there yourself! Let us know if you have favorite spots you recommend visiting. Please leave a reply below.
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Angie
What a wonderful break, I’ve never been to Hollywood. Your son has made a great career out of movies. Thanks for linking!
Hi, Gail – It was a much-needed mini-vacation and I am very proud of my son’s hard work and dedication. Thanks for dropping by! – Angie