Union Station

We took a train ride with our visitors from Gibraltar. Our destination Olvera Street, and China Town. John and I sat separate from our friends because the train was full of summer travelers. We enjoyed a cookie and coffee while holding hands and looking out the window, for our one hour train ride. We arrived in Los Angeles, at the Union Station, which is just opposite of our destination Olvera Street.

The Union Station was built in 1939 and is known as the "Last of the Great Railway Stations" built in the United States. I was amazed at the architecture of the building, with Art Deco Lights and travertine marble mixed with terra cotta tiles. I felt like I was in a film and I tried to pretend there was a film going on. The station originally served the Santa Fe Railway, Southern Pacific and the Union Pacific.

We traveled with our son James, and our nephew Tyler, along with our friends Tim and Carla, and their two sons. All of us had a great time being together seeing Mexican Dancers and exploring and shopping, on a hot summer's day. I purchased a leather purse from Olvera Street, for $6.00, and in China Town, I purchased a China Hat, (cone shaped) for my back yard gardening for $2.00.

Today, our friends left Southern California. We gave our hugs and good byes this morning. Fun memories will be remembered, and we were grateful to have spent time together after being apart for sixteen years!

Bloom for the Lord,
QB

Gibraltar

Gibraltar, a Rock island with more than a thousand years of history. The majestic Rock, faces the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea, is a wonderful place that offers a unique blend of heritage and culture. The Rock Apes are perhaps the best of Gibraltar's attractions.

We have friends visiting us for two weeks from Gibraltar. Our friends, Tim and Carla and their two sons are a a unique blend as well. Tim is from England, and his beautiful Spanish wife Carla, born and raised in Gibraltar. They have two sons, Nicholas, 15 years old and Christopher, 14 years old. My son James, 15 years old has been a good host, giving the boys his room and showing them around our neighborhood. My daughter Laura Beth, has graciously given up her room for Tim and Carla. They are comfortable and happy to be in the United States of America.

For their holiday they came to see the Spanish history here in California, while visiting and exploring the Missions up and down the coast of California. They are currently visiting the San Juan Capistrano Mission.

Tim and my husband John are having a nice time reminiscing and talking about the history of Gibraltar. "The Great Siege Tunnels" Excavated by the British army, these tunnels form part of the most impressive defence system anywhere. Interesting story about the Great Siege of 1779-83. They can go all night talking about World War II Tunnels as well. My husband loves to talk about history, he is full of information.

One day I will write about my John's collection of impressive soldiers of all different wars from all around the world. These little tiny soldiers make up most of our office room.

Tomorrow, I want to share about the extraordinary species of trees in Gibraltar.
Bloom where you are planted.
QB