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California Dreamin'

Some time in late December/early January I started to get itchy.  Itchy for warm weather.  Itchy for a break.  Itchy for some quality family time.

Justin and I started talking about booking a vacation and it occurred to us that Jordan and Julia might be interested in joining us for a California adventure. Their little guy, Jett, had yet to meet Nana and Papa, so we invited them to come along.  It didn't take long for them to agree.  We booked our flights and house rental shortly thereafter.  We shopped VRBO and airbnb, and definitely got the better deal on airbnb.  A great 3 bedroom/2.5 bathroom townhome in sunny Carlsbad.

We flew out on a Monday afternoon and connected in LA to arrive in San Diego.  Even though it was nearly 10 by the time we arrived our airbnb host still greeted us and showed us around the place. Justin and I quickly tucked the kids into bed, and then we passed out as well.  Travelling with a threenager and a very busy almost two-year old can certainly take it's toll.

Tuesday we spent some time at the beach, had lunch with Nana and Papa, spent some more time on the beach, watched the sunset on the beach, and had In'n'Out for dinner.  A great first day!

Wednesday was fairly low-key.  Justin had arranged for me to have a vacation massage, so that we a really nice way to start the day.  We picnicked at the beach and soaked up copious amounts of much-needed Vitamin D.

Thursday was the best.day.ever.  Justin and I have always talked about waiting to spend money on going to any sort of Disney theme park until our youngest kid was old enough to ride all the rides. However, Via is obsessed with Minnie Mouse, and has been for the better part of two years.  That might not sound like much, but when you think about it that's more than half of her life so far. We couldn't think of anything better than seeing her meet her best friend in real life, and it was so worth it. She loved loved loved meeting Minnie Mouse.  We hadn't told her where we were going, so the whole Disney daytrip was a total surprise.  We spent about 5 hours at Disneyland, met 5 characters, and went on 4 rides.  That was plenty for our little crew.  Soren and Via both passed out on the way home since they were both way overdue for naps.

We spent some more time at the beach on Friday and then made our way out to Murrietta to visit with Nana and Papa again.  Nana made a great meal, and Justin's Aunt Kim and Uncle Clayton were there as well.  It was great to visit with everyone.

Saturday came too soon.  Time to pack up and head back to the land that wants for more sunshine.  It is always nice to come home, but that trip got me dreamin' about more sun, more often.  :)










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