Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Los Angeles

After spending a few days in San Diego it was off to LA to visit some friends for the weekend.  Andrew's best friend Erik just recently returned from a deployment to Iraq and we were fortunate enough to be able to line up our weekend with a little surprise welcome home weekend for him.  Two of Andrew's other friends from high school John and Mike flew out for the occasion as well.

After our horrendous 4 1/2+ hour car ride from San Diego to LA (it is supposed to be a little over 2), we made it just in time to meet up with everyone at dinner.  Erik knew that we were coming but he didn't know John and Mike were going to be there, and he was very surprised.  I am always amazed to watch these guys together, they have been such close friends for so long and I find it amazing that they have been able to sustain their friendships over the years.  Its not just one or two of them that have stayed friends, but lots of guys that are spread out all over the country and in various stages in their lives.  Every time they get together its like they have never been apart, its just really cool.  Anyhow, the girls made it through dinner and by the time we were done they were exhausted, so Andrew came back to the hotel with us and helped me get the girls to bed and then met back up with everyone for an evening of bowling.  The next morning, we got up and had a nice breakfast at the hotel and then headed over to Erik and Danielle's house (they live a block from the beach) and spent the entire day at the beach with everyone.  It was a fantastic day.  The girls had a blast digging and playing in the sand and Abby was even braved the cold water temperatures and spent a lot of time IN the water.  It was great having the house so close to the beach, we went back up for lunch and Olivia was able to take a nap.  After a long day in the sun we went back to the hotel to get cleaned up and then went back to Erik's house where they cooked us a fabulous dinner.  The girls and I went back to the hotel and Andrew headed out for one last night with his friends.  The next morning we packed up and made our way home.  It was a wonderful little vacation for us, and one I am glad we went on.  

Erik and John


Nice paci Erik!!!


Here are some shots of the girls on the beach.  My girls absolutely adore the beach and I love watching them play together in the sun and sand.








Brr, the water is still chilly!





Taking a break in the shade with a nice cold drink


Building a sand castle.  Abby and Olivia played so well together at the beach.
 
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