Desperate Measures

Sometimes, when you really want something, you are willing to take desperate measures. In this case, I really wanted to see James Taylor and Carole King in concert. Their Troubadour Reunion tour came to Phoenix on the same day we left for Japan, so we missed it. Phil said, "If our kids can follow their favorite band across the country, why can't we?" So he searched and found a concert on a weekend night in Las Vegas.

This is where the "desperate" comes in. I absolutely hate Las Vegas. So to go there would take desperate measures.

Chuck and Jan joined us and we drove the 5 hour trip to Las Vegas, each taking guesses at how long it would take to get through the Hoover Dam traffic (Jan won). We stayed at the Element (Starwood's "green" extended stay brand), located on the edge of LV.

The concert was at the MGM Grand Arena. The only way to get to the venue is to go through the casino. Very manipulative.

Chuck took some pictures with his phone:



They performed their well-loved favorites with the same voice and energy from 40 years ago. A simply fantastic concert. I'm glad we made the trip.

Celebrating in Michigan

We had much to celebrate. Mom Sytsma turned 90 in February and Dad Sytsma turned 90 on June 21 and it was their 69th anniversary. So all of their children and many of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren gathered together by Twin Lakes in Michigan to celebrate.

Most of us stayed in motels in Mancelona, but we spent most of our time at Ken and Jackie's cabin to eat, visit, play games, swim and take walks.

Mom with Ginger and Phil

Dad with Jannika, Jillian, Sarah, and Angel.

Phil and Jillian

Grandpa Ken and Silas

Grandma Joy and Maya

Carolyn and Mom leaning on Phil.

Mom and Dad

The Sytsma Clan

We are so very thankful for Mom and Dad!