Lilypie Angel and Memorial tickers

August 3, 2011

Vacation: California

It's been some time since we've taken a non-medical related vacation...last week was our first getaway in years! 

I have a sister who lives in Pasadena and Ryan has a brother who lives in Manteca, so a drive to California was created.
Our concern was how Ayla might travel....but she was the perfect traveling companion, hardly a peep and she did so well!

First, we had to locate an awesome pair of sunglasses to protect the eyes;  
 My opinion: they look quite smashing!
Amy (my sister) offered Ryan $1.50 if he'd walk down the streets of Pasadena wearing these but he declined. Curiously.
 Family-style dining at Tim & Amy's! The food is always delicious....nahm...nahm...nahm...
 Our first time eating at an 'In & Out Burger'.
The lines were crazy long but the food was great, especially the fresh-cut fries.
 Along Venice Beach there was an oddly decorated house: medieval style complete with statues of gargoyles, dragons, devils and wild-looking creatures hanging from the sides of the house and rooftops.
Fascinating!

We took the train to the historic Los Angeles Union Station- what a gorgeous, unique station!

This fountain was in one of the Union Stations waiting courtyards so Amy and I posed for a sister-pic. 
From there, we rode the trains into Hollywood for a walk down the crowded, busy strip. Of course, we had to stop and see the famous Hollywood Stars feet and hand prints!
 We stayed a few days with Amy & Tim then headed up towards Manteca to visit Rustin & Lisa (Ryan's brother) for a few days.

While there, we took advantage of naps and relaxation- much needed!

 The boys playing dodgeball in the backyard at Rustin & Lisa's house.
Then it was off to Manresa Beach for the day!

This picture reminds me of 'Baywatch'...haa haa!

 Ryan was learning to surf on the longboards....


 ......While I lounged on the beach with Ayla!
She took an extra-long nap which resulted to sunburn on my pasty arms and legs (and I was even wearing 50 SPF).

 The Cureton Family talked themselves into being buried in the sand- awesome!
 Rustin and Ryan proud of their burial accomplishment

It was a great getaway and fun time spent with family- too bad it had to end!
In total we spent 33 hours on the road = 2,200 miles. Next time: airplane has my vote!

2 comments:

Ogden Family said...

Amen! Heidi I am such a airplane advocate!!! Fun pictures and I know this may sound weird, but sometimes when life has sooo much medical in it, it is strange to go on vacation. Lots to pack, but you are able to leave some of the normal stresses behind. Not all (just picture our family of 6 in an airport with wheelchairs, strollers, kids riding on wheeled luggage, etc) but it is so fun to relax and enjoy friends and family. Hope your summer has been great.
Heather

Barrett, Melinda, Angel Trinity, and Baby Zander said...

I'm so glad you guys had a super fun trip...I'm also super happy we had the chance to FINALLY meet in person. Ayla is beautiful!!!