Aug 19, 2012

California

We spent this last week in California visiting Mark's youngest sister, Jennifer and her husband Jeff (Gonzo).  Though the reason for the visit was a sad one, we enjoyed the visit and lending our support the only way we know how...by loving them.

The first day we arrived, they took us to the beach.  We forgot the camera...doh!  The weather was beautiful and the Ocean...FUN!  The waves weren't good enough to have Gonzo teach us how to surf, though Kenny had fun trying.

The next day, we went to the Aquarium.  The last time we were there, Kenny was around 20 months old.  We all enjoyed it.  I think Mark most enjoyed pushing Jen around in the wheel chair.  I think Jen will opt out if the opportunity ever presents itself again.



 Notice the big fish coming after us to the left.  EEK!





We thought it funny that this bird choose this spot for a rest.

Petting sharks...

and a sting ray.







Our last day there was spent swimming at the hotel pool and then at the LA Temple Visitor Center.  Lunch did not agree with me that day and well...I got overly acquainted with the restrooms at the Visitor Center.  I didn't feel up to taking pictures here.  :(  The Visitor Center has recently been redone and it was done quite well.

It was nice to be able to go swimming...outside...in the morning...and not be cold.


That evening, Mark and I and Gonzo and Jen went out to eat at a burger place called Umami.  The food was AMAZING!!!  We then joined up with our kids and Grandma at Jen's place for the last of our visiting.  Gonzo took me down to the beach to play beach volleyball.  I'm always amazed at how much harder it is to move around in sand.  I thoroughly enjoyed myself though.  I'll be working on my sand movement for next time Gonz!

The drive there and home was uneventful which is a good thing I guess.  But it was incredibly long, ugly and boring.  I'm grateful to be back in the beautiful Pacific North West!!!

So the reason for the visit...
A sweet baby girl who was born to some amazing parents, did not make it.  How thankful we are to know that they will be reunited again someday.

3 comments:

Becky said...

I am so sorry to hear about your sister and brother in law. We will keep them in our thoughts and parayers. I know it can be hard to know what to do or say but honestly, I can't think of a more lovely thing than what you and your family did for them with your visit. I am sure they truly appreciated it.

Christine said...

Oh that is heartbreaking! I'm happy you guys were able to go spend some time with them and have fun. Next time...take me with you??? ;)

Jennifer's Kitchen said...

I know exactly how you feel. I am so sorry for them and their sweet baby. We had this same experience earlier this year, as you know. And you're right--loving them is all you can do, and it's what they need. How thankful I have been this year for the gospel and for the temple sealing!

I am glad you guys got to spend some time as a family! The aquarium looks awesome, and I KNOW you loved the swimming!! :)