Here is the story of Lovely Rita. Back in 2005, our family all met at Brent and Pam’s in Utah for Christmas. Mike and I had our 25^th wedding anniversary that same December, so we arranged to take a short cruise out of Long Beach, CA, before renting a car and meeting the rest of the family in Las Vegas as they all arrived by plane, and then driving to Kayenta from there.

Rita sneaking into the carry-on

Prior to the trip, we had spotted Rita in a La Conner gallery in the fall and knew that Rita had to become part of Brent and Pam’s poolside life. But we had to get her to Utah. Now Rita may be a lovely lady, but she’s really not very svelte. In fact, she’s made of concrete and weighs, um, a considerable amount. We felt the only way to get her to Utah was to have her accompany us to Long Beach, join us on our cruise, and then enjoy the ride to Kayenta in Utah.

Rita and the towel bunny partying in the room

So we carefully bundled Rita in our carry-on luggage. Rita, however, caused quite a stir in security at SeaTac. In fact, they were not completely fooled by her alluring looks and suspected that she was the bomb, er, could BE a bomb. So she was swab tested for explosives (she passed), then scrutinized thoroughly by a supervisor, then very grudgingly allowed to join us on the plane. Phew!

Rita enjoying the pool hijinks

Rita lazing on the deck

Surprise! It’s Rita!

Rita had a very nice time on the cruise. She was really a very good traveler- no seasickness, no whining, and she’s very neat. She did so enjoy shipboard life.

She was lovingly welcomed into Brent and Pam’s life at the Christmas festivities that year, and has enjoyed a full life in the sun and fun of Kayenta.

Rita, pre-makeover

Rita, all dolled up

But life was starting to get just a wee bit drab, and it was decided that she needed a makeover. Pam and Tami were happy to indulge her desire to be the life of the party, and we are sharing the results with all of you. Party on, Rita!