A California Christmas

Every other year, we spend Christmas in California with my family. This was our year to travel, so we loaded up the family mini van and were on our way. We usually make the trip in two days and stay overnight at a hotel half way. Sometimes, I think this is the kids' favorite part of the whole trip. The roads were pretty icy, but we made it to out hotel without any major problems and had enough time for dinner at McDonald's and a swim in the pool. The next morning, the girls both woke up with tummy aches and threw up the entire rest of the drive. We just gave them each a bowl which were meant to be used as gift baskets)and put the pedal to the metal. Needless to say, we made many extra bathroom stops the second day. We arrived at "Grandma Neen's" house by dinner time and they were both fine the next morning. Isaiah is still blaming McDonald's and has sworn never to eat there again. Overall, it was a long trip but lots of fun and good to see everyone. Here are some of the highlights from our trip.

First, we stayed at my mom's house (aka "Grandma Neen) in Mariposa for 4 days. It was still a little cold there, but much warmer than home.

The kiddos with their Grandma Neen.


Storytime with Grandma Neen.


I love this picture of Lucy with her Great-Grandma Andre. They were having so much fun together.


I just had to snap this picture of Isaiah doing the dishes at my mom's house. Good job, Isaiah!

Next, we traveled about 3 more hours to see the rest of the family in Salinas. This is where we all started shedding our jackets. When we got out of the car, Lily said, "Whoa, it isn't even winter here!" We spent Christmas Eve with the Lindquist family and Christmas day with the Arii's. Our poor kids were so confused about who was who. They have so many grandmas, grandpas, aunts, and uncles.

All of us with my brother and sister-in-law, Uncle Aaron and Auntie Ashley.


The girls attached themselves to their Auntie Ashley right away.


This is my cousin Kristy's husband's cousin's daughter, Taylor. Did you get all that? Her and Lily were instant friends.


Lookin' good, Isaiah.


After Christmas, we had the chance to take the kids to Monterey, which is one of my favorite places. I have so many good memories from there. We walked out on the wharf, ate lunch, and went to the Aquarium. I even got to break out my sunglasses, which I haven't worn in months.




My mom was also in town, visiting her in-laws so we got to meet up with her again.


You would never see this in Tri-Cities-a giant Christmas tree next to a palm tree. Love it!


The Aquarium was soooo crowded, but the kids still loved it and had a blast.


In the wave exhibit.

Lucy LOVED the penguins. She even got to have her picture taken in a giant penguin egg.


I think we are all glad to be home, but it is hard to get used to the cold again. Guess we will all be breaking our winter coats back out for the next few months :)