I realized that I never shared anything about the weekend the ‘rents came to town!
My mom and dad came up for graduation and allowed their daughter to play tour guide for a few days following. It was fun to show them a little bit of the sights and sounds of the city that has been my home for the past 2 years.
Day One.
The fun began on Friday with an airport pickup and battling some good old LA traffic.
I think one of the highlights of the weekend was my dad saying he was impressed with my driving. A huge compliment considering that my family has a saying: “you’ve pulled a Toni!” whenever a vehicle is damaged 
A tour of campus was next and my parents were able to watch the “Finals Sprint” in which students make the final run for the office to turn in papers & assignments before the office closes at 5pm.
Having made my own sprint earlier in the day, I quite enjoyed being on the spectator side!
Strolling through Old Town and dinner with the roomie followed.
Day Two.
Saturday was graduation day. An early start for everyone followed by many pictures, smiles and poses.
And yes, I wore a dress and heels.
A yummy lunch of Thai food followed.
That evening we headed to the beach and mom and I splashed in the waves while my dad watched and held our bags. Thanks dad!
After the beach we went to the Griffith Observatory. Seeing the city lights at night from the hills has become a new favourite of mine.
Day Three.
Sunday was “take the parents to presentation” day. We went down to MacArthur Park and the ‘rents got to hear some of the stuff I’d been working on all quarter.
Evening was a stroll through South Pasadena through my favourite park and gawking at some of the incredible houses.
Day Four.
Monday began with a delicious breakfast at Marston’s.
It became a bit of an improv day as plans for the Getty were put on hold due to the tour guide forgetting that Monday’s the Getty is closed…
Instead we walked down Rodeo Drive and drove through Beverly Hills.
Then we made our way to the Huntington Library & Gardens. I’d never been so I was excited! We were not disappointed. There was something for everyone. History for my dad. Art for my mom. Nature for me. Actually, I think we all enjoyed all three!
Wanting to give the full “student” experience, happy hour at Yardhouse was next.
Day Five.
Tuesday we rode the metro into downtown and explored. Pershing Square, the Public Library, the Financial District, Grand Central Market where we enjoyed some delicious pastries.
We hopped back onto the metro to hit up Hollywood. Not the star-struck type, I think we spent less than 5 minutes tracking stars and handprints!
We took the metro back to Pasadena and then it was goodbye.
We had fun. Laughing. Talking. Just spending time together.
It was good to catch up.
My parents have given me so much. They encourage me. Challenge me. Believe in me. Dream with me. Remind me of who I am.
I am thankful.
