California Dreamin Part 1

Disclamer: Sorry about this post and the next few that folow, it is a little long, but I wanted to remember some stories! If you don't want to read it all at least enjoy the pictures!!

Friday morning was the beginning of the Flygare Family vacation to California. It all started with Holly, Jessica, and Hailey driving down to stay with us on Thursday night. Ellie loved having the visitors and started showing off for them with her new dance moves. Friday morning we got up bright and early and headed out to Anaheim. Our drive down was quite uneventful til just past Baker when Brady checks on Ellie and she has poured her entire sippy cup all down her front and was sitting in a puddle of water. She didn't mind it so she stayed that way until Barstow where we got the "emergency" outfit and dried out the seat while enjoying a burger @ In and Out.

We finally made it to Anaheim and Angel stadium for the the Angel/Red Sox game. We got there early enough for batting practice, Ellie was a little anxious so I was worried about the game, but once it started she settled down and enjoyed watching the fans. Luckily, we saw a few great plays, but our Red Sox's got beaten by quite a bit despite our cheers. After the game we drove down to La Jolla and met up with the rest of the family @ the hotel.

Saturday was the reason for our trip, Brady's sister graduated from National University with her Masters in Education. Brady and I got up and drove past Torrey Pines Golf Course, the site of Tiger Woods big win a few weeks ago, and around downtown, so Ellie could take a little nap in the car. After she woke up we walked around the gaslamp district and went to the graduation. Meredith Baxter, the mom from Family Ties, was the keynote speaker and did an excellent job. We sat at the back so that Ellie could wander around. Now that she walks that is ALL she wants to do. However, during one of her breaks she was sitting on the chair between Brady and I and all of a sudden it dumped her out the back and she landed on the floor. She wasn't hurt, just a little startled! After the graduation we went out to eat and Ellie was not a very good girl. She didn't want to sit in her highchair, she didn't want to eat, & she didn't want her parents. She just wanted down, well, at this restaurant it was not really an option, so we spent some time outdoors. At this point we are thinking it could be a long trip!

With a good nights rest we got up early and headed to the Wild Animal Park with the Johnson Girls and Grandpa. It was nice and cool there, Ellie loved the animals. We went inside a huge bird cage and Ellie wanted to take a bird home. She was laughing and talking up a storm to the birds. She also loved the MeerKats and gave them kisses through the glass. She also loved watching the lion cubs wrestle and roar and scare Jessica half to death. Then we went on a tram ride that takes you through an African Safari. It was really cool to see all the animals roaming around together. I was leary about this park at first, but after going I would definitely go back. The animals were very active compared to most zoos and there were lots of trees that kept us cool!

After coming back to the hotel for a little nap time and waiting for the other group to get back from the park he headed out again. This time we went into Old Town to celebrate Ellie's birthday with Brady's family. We ate at Bella Pizza and it was so delicious, except for the chocolate pizza. Hersey bar and cheese do not mix well!! Ellie was much better behaved this time and enjoyed opening her gifts. She got some new clothes, a few toys, a soft cuddly blanket, and a tutu and princess crown. They were all adorable and she loved them. When Ellie got sick of her seat Haily took her on walks. If Haily wasn't with us, I don't know how we would survive, those two are quite a pair and are having way to much fun together!!