California fun!

So we recently got back from our short trip to Southern California. We only stayed 5 days but we all had a really good time. Unfortunately, I wasn't a good picture taker this time and only got a few pictures. But I will share the best of what we have.

The Sunday before we left, Matt encouraged Jacob to write a packing list for himself and I just had share. We obviously had to make a few minor adjustments... This is his list, spelling and all.

Jacob Dresup (Jacob dressup)
Underwere (underwear)
Close to eese (clothes to use)
1 swim soote (1 swim suit)
1 goglse (1 goggles)
1 fun gam to (1 fun game to...play?)
1 spidr-man movee (1 Spiderman movie)
1 zorro movee to woch (1 Zorro movie to watch)

I thought it was pretty funny. We now know the things that are important to kids!

Because I am so hugely pregnant, we decided to let this be a more relaxing trip. We only planned a couple of activities one being our annual family reunion, of course. Here are some fun pictures of family reunion, beach day.



It only took Katie a few times of having the water wash up on her feet before she decided that it really wasn't for her. The whole rest of the time by the water, she stood up on the sand, watching it with this pose... and no, Katie is not stand RIGHT next to the sun, that is actually Robert's back.


Jacob on the other hand was an ocean fiend! He LOVED boogie boarding and anytime anyone was down at the beach, he went along to get some practicing in.


Here's my VERY handsome husband! I love him so much and I am glad we had this fun time to spend together. He thought it was a blast to be at the beach with all the brother-in-laws so they could all go boogie boarding together and they stayed out in the water a lot of the day.


This was a picture perfect moment. I think it's a pretty funny picture. Just had to include it, my apologies Michelle.


We also went to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. I have to admit, it was a bit of a disappointment but the kids did seem to have a good time and that's what matters right? Here is a picture of the kids feeding the birds nectar. We lucked out and found two very hungry birds so all who wanted to, got to hold the cup while the birds feasted.


I include a picture of me merely out of obligation to document that yes, I was actually there. Actually, I don't mind having my picture taken but it's just that I am usually the one taking the pictures.


The kids watching the sharks and sting ray in one of the exhibits.


Jacob really liked touching the Sting Ray's in the petting pool. We had a hard time pulling him away from this place. Ashley and Katie on the other hand... Ashley would barely touch them and then squeal out of nervousness. Katie would only touch the water and squeal and laugh. They all had fun though and they were proud of themselves for being as brave as they dared!


Ashley and Hannah showing their true, inner beauty.


Jacob's fabulous picture taking skills. He is a true professional! I think this is a sea dragon, if you can actually see it. I thought it was a really cool sea creature.


All in all, we had a very great time during our little vacation. I wish we could have stayed longer but I am glad we were able to go.