Three Ring Circus: California

In March, Kelsey and I were talking about how we missed each other and came up with a plan to take time off work, split a plane ticket and make a reunion happen. And... we did! I was not really excited about the flight because it was hours on a plane with a fidgeting little (almost) one year old, but the destination was worth it!

The plane ride out was difficult as expected. She was great and never cried or bothered another passenger but she is a light sleeper and had a hard time resting so she was up and moving and wanting to play and move around. It was hard to keep her entertained but we made it!! We spent the first day with Kelsey and Seth just resting and being together. The next day brought meal planning, grocery shopping, barbecuing and Kelsey had a friend with a one year old over so the girls could swim and play. It was a beautiful Saturday in sunny California and I felt so at home and at ease with my sister. Sunday was church at AV and lunch with the Lentz's and Lantz's. It was wonderful seeing everyone and re-introducing my old family friends to Scarlett. She was playful and friendly and we had a great time catching up. I missed Nick so much and wished he could have spent the day in Laguna with me, but we will be back another time together. Seeing my parents old house was hard, there were many many good times there when we were all together.

The week was school for Seth and working out and eating out with Kelsey. It was so fun and I hit all the food spots I miss in my small New York town. I had Mexican food, Mediterranean food, and Vietnamese food! I spent Wednesday night with Tison and Madison in Long Beach. It was great food, and GREAT company. It was nice to catch up with Tison, it was very nice to reconnect. Scarlett stayed with Kelsey while she slept so I got to just let my hair down for a couple hours. Thursday was Seths 9th birthday. I couldnt believe not only how big he was but how well behaved he was and how fun he was to be around. He opened gifts that Zack hid around the house and Kelsey and I brought treats to his class. That night we had a less than stellar dinner at TGI Fridays (at his request) but he enjoyed it so that was all that mattered. Friday I spent the afternoon baking Seths birthday cakes for his party with Katie and Madison and we got ready and went out to BJ's for dinner that night. It was great to see them and catch up, as always. I have moved around alot and miss my friends but its nice to know that we dont skip a beat when we are all back together. I am blessed very much with there friendship.

Saturday was a HIT! at Seths party. SO many kids and families showed up to celebrate and it was great. All the kids had a chance to hit the pinata but Seth got to break it. The bounce house was great, especially after all the trouble it was to get it there. And the cakes turned out awesome! Scarlett was in a great mood watching the kids and playing with a balloon. Saturday night we (Kelsey, Zack, and I) went out with Ej, Brendan and Jasmine. I miss Ej so much, it was good to be around him again. He didnt feel well and the night didnt turn out all that great but it was still nice to catch up. Sunday we relaxed and I took Seth to the pool and to get frozen yogurt. He offered to pay.... such a sweet kid. I miss him so much so I wanted to just soak him up.

I had to leave late Monday night and we flew all night from 11pm to 930 am to get home. It was a better flight as far as Scarlett just slept in my arms and again didnt bother any of the other passengers but it was difficult for me to sleep and I was so exhausted. We caught up our sleep and got back to work when we got home. It was a great trip and I cant believe how much God has blessed with my best friend, my sister. She is my biggest supporter and she keeps me on track. I love her so much!!