Sunny California

Ellie and I just returned from vacationing in sunny California. My sister-in-law, Shauna, took her four kids down for Spring Break and needed someone to come along, and I was the lucky recipient! We stayed in a beachhouse owned by Shauna's grandparents in Newport Beach. It was a good time, away from the cold (and snow) of Utah. We all enjoyed spending time on the beach - one day in particular was perfect with just a slight breeze and nice, hot sand. The other days were a little chilly and windy to spend too much time at the ocean (of course, that didn't stop this crazy bunch of Utahns from trying!). We went for walks on the boardwalk and I especially enjoyed rollerblading. Ellie had a great time playing with her cousin, Aspen. The car ride there and back wasn't as bad as we had anticipated. The kids traveled surprisingly well, thankfully.

Ellie had a grand time at the beach. She was not afraid of the ocean, and was ready to run in and go swimming. In fact, she preferred having her feet in the water over playing in the sand, although she enjoyed that too.

l.


Ya'll should check out Shauna's blog as she will surely be much more detailed and post some good photos of our get-away.

Meanwhile, back in Utah, Nick was working hard. He is in the process of putting up a gate and fence at the sides of our house. So far, he has leveled some ground, and has several post holes dug. It will be nice to have it finished - along with our other long list of things to be accomplished this spring and summer. Now if only the weather would cooperate. Our tulips and daffodils are all in bloom and look beautiful.