Even though we lost a day due to inclement weather and travel snafus, it's been a fabulous vacation.
Our last full day here was spent much like the previous ones...early morning hot tub and pool, coffee and breakfast, some touristy stuff in the morning, then lounging around the pool and fire pit for the rest of the day.
Today's "touristy stuff" involved a trip to a fabulous vintage shop called "Wonderama":
Not sure if the bison is for sale, but it sits outside of the shop as a unique reminder you've arrived at someplace special:
Our big find today was an original 1950's "Galanos" coat for Karen:
James Galanos was Amercia's leading fashion designer, a true "haute couturier" who designed for stars like Rosalind Russell and Marilyn Monroe, as well as leading political figures like Nancy Reagan. He's now retired, 90 years old, and living in Palm Springs...and we found one of his creations that fits Karen perfectly at a price that didn't break the bank. Score!
We also wandered downtown in the evening and visited the Palm Springs Art Museum:
A very cool, mid century modern building, but we were in between exhibits, so not much to see...however, we did spot this Shag "mad men" type painting, number 1 of only 200:
Shag is a famous "mod" painter who has exhibited around the world, and has a shop in Palm Springs. His painting captures my mom and dad's world back in the late 50's, early 60's...they had a sense of style and class that's largely missing from much of today's world.
One place where it's not missing in action is Palm Springs...and no place encapsulates that mid century modern vibe better...
Hate to sound like a paid advertisement, but if you're a mid century modern fan looking for someplace warm to escape the winter doldrums, you can't do better than the Desert Riviera Hotel...Judy, Steve, and Traci are the best and will do everything possible to make your stay relaxing and hassle free...and owners Rick and Martha are regularly onsite making sure their guests are comfortable and happy. As I've said before, there may not be heaven on earth, but Desert Riviera Hotel comes pretty darn close.
We fly back to the frozen northland tomorrow, but right now I hear Arturo Fuente and Jim Beam calling me...
the green ash tray is from Wonderama, too... |
Last night in paradise...
Later, mcm fans...