THE SISTERS TAKE RENO

Was the “Biggest Little City in the World” ready for this invasion?  Well, ready or not, we came, we ate, we laughed, we saw, and we loved it.  Below, how it started … from left to right in chronological order.

For some historical perspective, I am the youngest of three girls very close in age.  Whenever one of us has a birthday ending in a “0” or “5” it is marked by an overnight trip typically to Palm Springs or Santa Barbara. But when there’s a milestone ending in a significant “5,” it was time for a weekend away.

Why Reno (of all places)?  We have dear cousins (cuzzies) who moved there last year and we wanted to see why they are so thrilled with their decision.  Reno was a no brainer for them due to extended family having lived there for many years.  Thus began the plan.

While Margie’s big day isn’t until December, we decided September was better weather-wise and to avoid the holiday craziness.  Reno is an easy flight from the convenient Burbank airport.  But I was surprised how long it had been since last flying Southwest!  I didn’t even bother to check for TSA Pre-Check as it’s automatic for me (not this time though).  But sadly no humorous announcements I had come to expect on Southwest. Hmmm, too risky? I certainly hope not.

One of the best surprises was keeping the tradition the hubby and I have for every take-off that was offered without having to ask my sisters — holding hands.  He and I do it without exception, even if we’re fortunate to be in spacious seats one in front of the other! I’ve often risked a strained shoulder to maintain that tradition.  It is a wonderful way to start a flight which I highly recommend.

We met up with cuzzies Linda & Debbie for lunch at Two Chicks, a breakfast and lunch diner featuring lots of egg-based dishes.  Everything we had was terrific and offered the first opportunity to meet, greet and hug.  Plus, unlike most of my trips that have meals and/or guides booked, we had more of an “outline” for the weekend. I guess I am capable of “going with the flow.” Who knew?? I am happy to report that every restaurant was just terrific.

Reno is an incredibly easy city to navigate and nothing is very far nor did we experience any traffic.  We gathered for shabbat dinner and saw the beautiful home where our cuzzies now reside, along with their 4 cats and 5 chickens.  I’m sure there will be more to come!  If you know anything about California real estate, you can appreciate gaining 3x the square footage for about the same cost with a move from Southern California (specifically an L.A. suburb) to Reno.  We had a splendid evening of catching up, breaking bread, turkey tacos and delicious desserts.

         Below, Abbie and the chickens followed by Shabbat blessings

“Why are you going to Truckee?” asked the incredulous hubby when told of our Saturday plans.  He resided in Reno for 3+ years a long time ago so he has a working knowledge of the area.  Perhaps Truckee wasn’t the charming town then that it is now.  We shopped and ate and loved it.  Then it was time for the birthday girl to see Lake Tahoe for the first time!  And what a site to behold in all its grandeur.  Even if it just means dipping a toe in the cold and clear water, it is well worth the drive.  I envy the cuzzies living a mere 45 minutes from all types of winter sports possibilities which is another added bonus Reno offers.

Below, lunch at Bar of America in Truckee 

Below, viewing magnificent Lake Tahoe from above Incline Village 

Dinner at Skyline Kitchen & Vine celebrating two September birthdays and the big one this coming December

Cuzzies Barry & Debbie hosted brunch on Sunday morning.  Below is Barry’s Bar featuring some of his very impressive collection of “brown” liquids.  I am not an afficionado but it is quite something.

And how it gloriously ended!  Cuzzies L-R: 

Barry & Debbie Cole; Linda Cherry; Bridget, Josh & Enzo Cole; birthday girl Margie Meadow; Abbie Maxfield; Janie Grauman, Erika Cherry & Mike Maxfield; & me

So the Girls Take Reno turned out to be a joyous weekend of reconnecting, discovering, and promising for a return visit.  It won’t take a lot of convincing for me and I know my sisters as we unanimously agreed a great time was had by all.  Until next time: