From the time I was about 5 years old my parents owned a vacation home in the Palm Desert area. They started out with a mobile home in a private community and worked their way up to different condominiums in private, gated communities. It was my favorite place to be. Pool, tennis court, golf course, shopping.
A typical day would find me and my mom sitting by the pool or curled up on the couch reading our books. It was the definition of relaxation for me.
Breakfast could be something as simple as a bowl of cereal or cantaloupe but for my mom and me it was bagels with lox, cream cheese and capers. When lunchtime rolled around we took out all the fixins to make the best deli sandwiches. Today, that’s still my favorite lunch! At night, my dad might barbeque steaks, or we’d make homemade pizzas (each person made their own!). It didn’t matter what we had, meals always tasted better when we were at our house in the desert. I slept better too. Maybe it was because the environment just encouraged rest and relaxation.
We rented a lot of movies too. After dinner, we’d gather around the couch with our bowl of popcorn and watch the newest flick or two. I know how fortunate I was to grow up in a family that could afford such a place and it not even be our primary residence. I know how blessed I am to have such incredible memories and grateful I was able to share the house and “lifestyle” with my own daughters. For almost 40 years I had access to this mini-retreat.
My mom passed away from cancer in 1994. Her death is still the most emotionally devastating event I’ve ever experienced. Spending time there after she died was bittersweet. I could still feel her in every room. I’d walk past the living room and my mind’s eye would see us both curled up reading. I’d step out on the patio and see her eating breakfast while she and my dad shared the morning paper. As I walked through the house I was reminded of her creative side. Much of the artwork on the walls was painted by her.
A few years ago my dad finally sold the house, and as you can imagine, it was really difficult for me. I’d grown up there and most of my memories are tied to the special times with my mom. In addition to the various art and sculptures, there was a framed recipe that hung in the kitchen. It was there for as long as I can remember. I don’t know where she got it or how much it cost, but it’s hanging in my kitchen now and its value is priceless. Of all the recipes I have, this is by far my favorite. I hope you enjoy it and prepare it often.
My Bungalow Days 