San Diego Get Away

We got to enjoy a quick getaway to San Diego.  We had planned it over the 3 day Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday, but then realized that James didn't get Monday off at his new job.  

We went down Saturday and came back Sunday, but still had plenty of time to play and enjoy beaches, sunsets and perfect weather.

We met up with cousins at the beach.

It was a warm enough day the kids went out and played in the water.  

In addition to beach on Saturday (where we actually got pictures) we also went to Old Town to the Mormon Battalion Center and into explored some of the shops. 

Sunday after church and visiting the temple we went to Torrey Pines lookout.  The kids were more interested in the remote control vehicles.  A couple people were driving their 4 wheel drive remote control vehicles through the caves and ditches there.  It was pretty impressive and they were nice to let the kids be involved.

  The sunset that we went to watch was gorgeous.  Winter sunsets in Southern California are amazing.

Horse Races

Headed to the race track has become a winter tradition.  We usually go in the morning to watch the horses warm up while having breakfast at Clockers Corner, but this time went to seem some of the races.

We talked with the trumpeter between races.  He hasn't missed a race in 30 years!  He took requests and kindly played "Jingle Bells" for Preston.

We had fun picking out favorite horses and cheering them on.

Brielle seemed to choose by the name of the horse, Preston picked random numbers.  Ethan, who I thought would be the most into it with his competitive nature was mostly interested in the snacks.  

But, once he satisfied his hungry he loved getting up close to see the horses speed by.

Hike to Hollywood

After living in California for 8 1/2 years (much longer for James) we finally hiked to the iconic Hollywood sign.

It was a fun day with lots of friends and family for company.

The hike was a bit steep on a hot day, but these cousins made it fun with lots of silly games and requests for pictures a long the way.

Brielle hadn't been feeling well the day before, but perked up for the hike and enjoyed her cousin time also.  

We enjoyed the views from the top.  The kids were surprised by how big the letters are when you are up close, and also that they are staggered so much.

 The cave was a favorite hangout

We stopped at In n Out afterwards where the kids got a well earned shake to cool off.