June 18, 2007
I left SoCal more than 10 years ago, but I've managed to maintain some good friendships with friends who stayed in the area, and I was excited to reunite everyone. I've become a pro at arranging group get-togethers, and for my SD gathering, I chose Old Town. Everyone I keep in touch with came, including two of my cousins! We had a great time catching up, reminiscing, and enjoyed delicious margaritas and Mexican food, which you cannot find anywhere in NY. Thanks everyone for coming, I had a blast!
After roaming around downtown SD's Gaslamp District, my friend TJ took me on a quick tour of Hillcrest and a stop at Presidio Park. I don't remember ever coming up here, but there's a beautiful old mission up on a hill overlooking the city.
They even have an old wine press.
It was an absolutely gorgeous southern California day.
Check out the view!
There were also jack rabbits munching on the lawn in front of the mission.
Next stop - Old Town San Diego. It's like a little Mexico, with shops selling authentic folk art, clothing and gifts, and lots of Mexican restaurants. It's quite a charming place to visit.
Bazaar del Mundo is a set of shops selling very colorful crafts and gifts, most of which seem to be of Mexican influence.
This very large parrot outside the shops screeched so loud I had to cover my ears!
After a little shopping, it was time for margaritas at Casa Guadalajara.
Mmm, mango margarita, perfectly refreshing on a hot summer day.
My cousins Lisa and Sharon joined our reunion. Lisa currently works at UCSD, and will be entering grad school there in the fall, and Sharon just graduated two days ago!
Jeannine (my next-door neighbor in the dorms our freshman year, and my roommate after we graduated) with her husband Ken.
And our friend TJ is responsible for Jeannine and Ken meeting in the first place! Just call him cupid...
Jerry lived directly upstairs from me in the dorms, and Dale (who drove down from Irvine!) lived a couple floors higher.
Roommies! Alma, Dale and I lived together from our Sophomore through Senior years at UCSD. Alma and I also lived together for a year in Albany (in the Bay Area) in 1996.
Jeannine and me
My old roommies, Alma and Dale
My UCSD reunion: (clockwise from top) TJ, Jerry, Alma, Dale, me, Jeannine and Ken