San Diego

 We had a busy and fantastic week in San Diego last week. We started with a birthday luau for our niece, Chloe who turned 3. It was so much fun.

Chris & Sara had the party at Santee Lakes at the splash pad and the kids had a blast...except Jenna. I thought she was getting better about water, but she was not having any of it. She was totally freaked out and would only get close when Casey held her and helped her play a little. She was much more comfortable safely behind the fence. I hope that will get better as she gets older. Growing up with a pool in the back yard, and camping at the beach every year, I have a real love of the water and would be so sad if her discomfort continued.

It was so nice to have all the family together, plus some! I was reminded once again how grateful I am for my family. And I am equally grateful that Sara's in-laws and her friends love her and her children as much as do. As I continue through this life, I realize it really does take a village and Sara and Chris have surrounded themselves with a great village! 

 On Sunday we headed to South Carlsbad State Beach for our annual camping trip with the Loughs/Powells. We didn't have campsites next to each other this year. So it was a bit of a trek to visit each other. Which was kind of a bummer but over all it was a great week full of naps on the beach, the kids driving the car the, not nearly enough pinochle, frolicking in the ocean, watching "There's a Monster at the End of the Book" on the iPad, and family bonding. 

How cute is my mom? 

Chloe had the time of her life on the bogey board. 

So many kids, so few iPads

We also took Malan family pictures. It was a nightmare. I'll be completely honest. Half the family didn't want to be there. The photographer was and hour late so the kids were all hot and over it before we even started. At least some of the pictures turned out okay. Wish I could associate it with better memories.

The whole fam damily

My Dad and Holly

My mom and Bob

For the last part of the week we got to spend some time with Casey's mom and sister. Marnee was in town for a conference and so Lorrie joined her and we had dinner in Old Town and then spent the next day at Balboa Park. It was great to see Marnee and Lorrie again!

We had, as always, a great week in San Diego. I'm so happy that I get home as often as I do. I'm grateful that Jenna gets time with my family and more specifically her cousins. I want to thank (publicly) Chris and Sara for giving us a roof over our heads every time we come to town. We know it's not always convenient or easy, but you never fail to be welcoming and open. We love you and will be eternally grateful for your hospitality.