Sad canine faces guarded the entry door as we packed up to leave the gracious hospitality of the Chapman’s. Our stay had been so comfortable and easy and we are very grateful. It was time to move on and we did so by noon in order to pick up Debbie at the El Cerritos del Norte BART station since plans for the arrival of a few members of our team changed just a bit.

Turns out, both Lori and Laurie had their flights either changed or cancelled due to computer breakdowns at Southwest Airlines. A few texts and phone messages went back and forth then we got the following Slack…..

With the Double L’s heading up Hwy 5, Debbie arrived at San Francisco Airport and boarded BART for the hour ride to meet with us. The Starbucks where we chose to wait, well, let’s just say it was less than appealing, and we ended up listening to music in the parking lot until the train arrived.

Once we found the house at 130 Oak View Drive in San Rafeal, our home for the next four days, we again bow down to Lynne and her ability to find us the perfect lodging. The house is nestled among the oaks with an incredible view, a tree growing out of the second floor deck and a beautiful hawk soaring above. (Though Lisa swears it is a turkey vulture. We are going with the hawk…much more romantic.) With room for 20+, a central area which will fit us all and stunning panoramas of the Mill Valley, it is truly perfectly suited for the Pink Bragade.

The evening transpired to one that affirms why these trips are such an integral part of all of our lives and our experience with the Avon Walk. The warmth and friendship we share, the laughter and blending of talents and interests that a makes this such a workable group. We savor every minute and every flavor of being together and are reminded just how fortunate we are to be the ones who are healthy enough to have this opportunity.