January 1st, 2008 was a beautiful sunny day in Palm Springs. I was invited to a New Year's Day brunch at a friend's elegant estate in the legendary Las Palmas section of Palm Springs. The Las Palmas neighborhood is comparable to Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, but the homes here have much more land. That was the one thing that irked me about many of the homes in Beverly Hills- they cost a fortune, and they are right on top of each other. Anyway I digress. Since this was a private affair, I am limiting my photos to respect the privacy of the hosts and the guests, some of whom are titans of industry and dignitaries who relish their privacy. 
above: the view from the house looking west, toward the beautiful San Jacinto mountains. The tables were beautifully set with linens and flowers throughout the grounds and around the pool. guests could meander and relax. I enjoyed a Bloody Mary by the rock water fountain in the far corner of the property, enjoying the music that was piped throughout the grounds.
above: the patio was an inviting and comfortable place to chat with some
shade from the mid-day sun.
above: Chef extraordinaire. This is Marilyn from St Louis, a faithful reader of this blog. She is the cousin of the hosts and is visiting Palm Springs over the holidays. She was cooking for days and did a marvelous job. Her apron reads: "Because I am a culinary DIVA, this kitchen was designed for Moi". (Mags, I think you need one of those too)
above: I couldn't wait to dig into the brunch, which was delicious. The white hydrangea floral centerpiece was stunning.
above: My favorite part of any meal. Dessert. I was mostly good and only had a few but I literally had to leave, otherwise I would have emptied the table! It turned out to be a wonderful afternoon filled with stimulating conversation and lots of laughs. I made a few new friends and celebrated old friendships as well. A perfect way to ring in the new year. Steve, thanks for a wonderful party!
-Rick Rockhill
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