California Getaway
This has been the longest winter in all aspects of life. Literally, spiritually, emotionally, physically… every other “ally” ending word you can think of. Sigh. I mean, honestly, when will this cold, rainy, darkness stop??? We were in a rut, I really was starting to question God all kids of “why me” questions and then the entire family got super sick! I had a sinus infection and a cough that I finally got under control after five weeks with some Chinese meds I found in California (they’re herbal). Oren – the baby- had an ear infection in both ears that we treated with essential oils but then developed an ugly cough that took us to the ER that got him on antibiotics for pneumonia! Guys, it was time for a getaway. Roundtrip tickets were only $96 per person to California so we booked it as soon as I found that deal. ( I did a post on what to pack for the boys on the air plane)
We arrived last Saturday to my husband’s second family’s house ( very good friends of my husband’s family). Our host was this mega strong, beautiful, super mom, amazing woman that poured so much into me the entire time we were there. She raised nine kids, and has a few handfuls of grandchildren, is a breast cancer survivor, a rock of a wife. The way she does things is effortless, always has a smile on her face and sees the bright side of EVERYTHING! I want to be like her when I grow up. Anyway, she had two rooms ready for us and the fridge packed for our disposal, and the best crepes with every jam she could pull out of her pantry.
My husband grew up in LA, and wanted to walk memory lane with our boys in tow.
First stop was Santa Monica Pier. Super touristy, and I liked it! The beach is packed, awesome people watching ops. The Pier is packed with venders selling souvenirs, musicians and performers line the pier so there’s never a dull moment. Jasper is super into bird chasing these days, he got a very special treat with a few pigeons landing on head because a “pigeon man” put some seeds on his hat. It was the cutest. The rides are pricy so we didn’t go on any and saved all our amusement park energy for Knots Berry Farm.
I didn’t love Venice beach though. It had a very dark spiritual feel that did not sit well with me and we had to leave.
The next day we went to Knots Berry Farm amusement park. My husband had so many child hood stories from that place. He just lit up talking about it. Every ride had a story, had a memory. It was pretty awesome to share that with our boys. I really loved Knots. I think it’s my favorite.
The day after that we headed to Laguna Beach. I loved it. I loved the privacy, the little shops, and the gelato! We spent the day there. Exploring, and getting much needed Vitamin D. It was Oren's first beach experience. He ate so much sand. He was so focused running the sand through his hands and feet. I think it's the calmest he's been in a long time, screamed his head off when we had to leave at night. My boys are made for the beach.
Simon’s birthday was Friday. He turned 8! So, before planning the trip to California we asked him if he wanted a party or to do a cool family trip. It was a surprise until he chose. He wanted a party at first but then said “you know, I go to so many parties, I rather do a getaway because I know it will be cool”. So we planned the trip. On his birthday we took him to Sea World. He had a blast!!! Told us it was his favorite birthday ever. ( gosh, we didn't take too many pics at Sea World, I guess we were having way too much fun)
I loved that the yards are pretty small on all the individual properties in the LA area. BUT, the yards are full of fruit trees, succulents, palm trees, and grape vines. They all have a little spot to get away. I loved it. I brought some succulents home. I hope I don't kill them.
We had an awesome getaway. Super needed.
I love to Celebrate life. I love to celebrate the gifts the Lord has given me in my sons. I encourage you to take a little trip with your kids the next birthday. Parties are awesome, but with family getaways that are specific to that child are unforgettable. And the bonding time! Vlad and I really needed some time together, and with the kids without distractions from work or exhaustion.
Ps, I’m going to post a few tips on traveling with kids and packing light on the next post.
