Yes, you deserve an explanation. What’s a blog if the blogger doesn’t update it? Nada Zip Zilch! When I left for Buddhist camp in Arizona, I had a vague hope that I’d be able to write at least once each week, but alas that was not the case. Between studying, finding my tent in the dark, running from class to class, working in the Nectar Lounge and cleaning the bathroom on Mondays, I didn’t have a spare moment. About four weeks into my stay in Arizona, I decided to travel to New York for an additional two weeks of study. Stay tuned for more details about my two month adventure. But right now, more pressing matters are at hand!
Taking the train from New York’s Penn Station to L.A.’s Union Station, I arrived just in time to attend the Downtown Repalone Holiday Extravaganza. And what a party it was! When I left L.A. at the end of September the resort staff had just begun Christmas decorating operations. One tree was decorated and a few sprigs of pine boughs had been hung here and there. The state of affairs on December 6 was a mind-blowing revelation of twinkling lights, eight decorated Christmas Trees, an under-tree Christmas village that inexplicably grew into a Christmas town, curio cases displaying rarely seen Disney Christmas knick-knacks, and our own Karen sporting knee-high boots and a very sassy Santa suit mini-skirt.
Guided by the bright glow of a hundred-thousand exterior decorative lights, guests began arriving on property at 6pm. Passing through the Christmas Arch (a.k.a. the Polish Wedding Arch), they poured through the doors bearing all sorts of potluck items – sweets, savories, favorite family recipes and chef-inspired delicacies. Beer, wine, margaritas, Cape Cods, and Spiced Cider flowed from the bar. Guests mingled throughout the property, enjoying the fire pit, admiring the soft glow of the Covered Wagon, sharing intimate conversations in the Secret Side Yard, and strolling along the Grand Patio Lanai. Departing guests collected their individually hand-wrapped gifts and bid good night to Karen.
Hosting several VIP guests for an overnight stay, the resort staff prepared a late morning breakfast. Eight guests gathered in the Grand Dinning Room to enjoy Jessie’s homemade coffee cake, Ruth and Pam’s breakfast casseroles and John’s bacon and eggs.
After a day dedicated to maintenance and cleaning, the resort has returned to normal operations. Guests are encouraged to come by during the holidays to enjoy the incredible holiday décor. Be sure to check in with Karen for a VIP behind-the-scenes Holiday Extravaganza tour and buffet.
A phenomenal resort destination! To all who come to this happy place, welcome. Downtown Repalone is YOUR bar! "All I Wanted Was a Sink!"