L.A., Take 4

Yes, we went to L.A. again to see Nana and Grandpa for two whole weeks. Unfortunately, Nick couldn't take time off work and it was just Josie and I. 16 days is definitely too long when daddy isn't along. But we did have fun and Nana and Grandpa were thrilled. This is the longest I have been both in L.A. and away from Chicago since I moved here nearly 11 years ago. It was great to have plenty of time to spend with friends and family and we were even able to have tacos at Alison's birthday party and surprise Auntie Erin by attending both her baby showers.

One of the first things we did after arriving was join Aunt Michelle, Uncle Malcolm and Cousin Cashel at the beach. We walked from their condo and spent an hour or so on the sand. Josie wasn't really sure how to take the surf. Here she is experiencing it and then looking a bit shellshocked.


but she loved playing with her cousin in the sand


And then we all enjoyed a yummy lunch at The Shack. While the last time we went I had the Shack Burger (a yummy cheeseburger topped with a Louisiana Hot Link), this time I opted for the delicious Patty Melt. Soooooo good. Everyone was tired but in surprisingly good spirits.


We also went to a farmer's market on Sunday and the playground on many other days. It was an outdoor playground with these nice padded floors and great stuff for all ages. Some of the times we went everyone thought Josie was a boy. I can't imagine why.


We also took a trip to the aquarium in Long Beach. It was great. Josie got to pet some sort of ray, was mesmerized by sharks and kelp and had a great time watching her cousin get super excited by all the fishies. We even fed some birds, though Josie wasn't nearly as interested as Cashel.


Back at my parent's house, Josie showed us again what an avid reader she is


Took some piano lessons


Hung out with Cashel


Discovered child cabinet locks


Learned how to go up and down stairs



and slept really well


But perhaps most exciting, Josie took her first unassisted steps!


Of course, a visit to LA wouldn't be complete without a visit to the sushi bar


and now we are back in Chicago for a little while at least. No more LA until Christmas but maybe we'll visit somewhere else in California.