LA Was A-OK

Los Angeles, CA

Our short stop in LA made up for in intensity what it lacked in duration. Super Lehra was waiting for us when we hit the ground. It is good to have a friend that does not have a nine-to-five job. We headed straight for the In-And-Out in Pasadena to score a life-giving batch of burgers, fries and shakes then over to Juan's to enjoy the meal. We also helped ourselves to a few beers. Thanks, Juan.

Lehra took me over to REI to get some new shoes whilst Jason sorted the plan for the evening. We then regrouped at the Juan Cave for a much-needed nap. Come evening, it was time for the Mexican food that the OC has been craving since Siberia. Of course, Margaritas was the place. Jason's Dad, his lady-friend, an auntie, Juan, Leon, and Ben all made it for the refried feast. The food was excellent as usual. Hopefully it will keep the cravings away for at least a couple of months. It would be expensive to make an emergency side trip to LA from Africa just to score some burritos.

Juan drove Jason and I down to Yuu-Yuu's to meet Eileen and Dr. Lauren (and a few other kids whose names I can not remember) for an intense karaoke jammy-jam on the YY's newly expanded song list. I was very pleased to find that they now have REM's "It's The End of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)". I have been looking for that track on karaoke boxes the world 'round. I could have just stayed put to find it. No matter. Nothing puts a smile on my face like belting out the oldies with some of my oldest and dearest,

It was back to Juan's around 04:00 and up again at 07:00 to shower, meet up with Lehra, and head out for the airport. Juan dropped off the newly enlarged OC crew. One security check, two coronas, and a breakfast burrito later we were leaving LA behind for the 2nd time in 6 months. It was a little easier this time, but not for the reasons I expected.