Trip to see Grandpa!!

Over spring break, I took the kids and Grandma to visit grandpa in California. We were all super excited to go on a trip and get away for a few days. It's quite a long drive but the kids were Star Wars Troopers or Rainbow Troopers depending on which child you're talking to.

The obvious highlight was visiting with grandpa. We only get to see him a few times a year. Both, Tyler and Maleina, loved swimming in the pool. I thought it was chilly and I swear kids are immune to the cold like that. They swam for a few hours three different times in upper 60s to low 70s. Burrrrr!!!



Towards the end of our time in CA, grandpa took some time off work and we went to Monterey to see the aquarium and eat at a delicious restaurant called The Fish Hopper. They have the best clam chowder I have ever tasted!




The next day we drove along the coast over to Carmel and had to stop in at Pebble Beach just for a picture and souvenir for dad.

After seeing Carmel we were ready to travel back to grandpa's apartment. However, grandma had different plans. I fell asleep and woke up along the coastal highway on our way to San Fransisco. It was a beautiful drive (a little curvy for my tastes) but overall very nice and enjoyable. Tyler was super excited to see the Golden Gate Bridge. I must admit, I wanted to see it also.




When we finally made it there, the skies were blue and no fog it sight. It was gorgeous. When we got to the other side and got out, I decided I wanted to run back across the bridge. Very impromptu, but totally worth it!!! I will do this again although I will have to walk because I am going to bring the kids with me.




Our final morning there I decided that I needed a picture of the kids with grandpa in front a sign that said, "We speak Woof!!" Meaning, the apartment where grandpa lives is pet friendly. The kids had gotten a kick out of the sign all week long. However, note to self, don't try to get a nice picture just before leaving. A few tears were shed making eyes extra sensitive to the light.

We sure had a blast. Thanks grandpa for taking time off and showing us around! We love and miss you tons!!!!

Fire Station

Making sure Maleina is tall enough to get in the driver's seat!


Maleina had a chance to go with her preschool class to the local fire department in March. She loved seeing the engines and getting to be in the back of the paramedic truck. The firemen were so cute with the kids and getting them involved and excited to learn. One of the highlights was when an actual call came in and they had to leave with the lights and sirens on. All the kids were a little in awe watching the firemen get ready in their suits and in the trucks to leave to take care of the fire that had occurred. Luckily in the incident they were called out to, no one was injured.

Kuyki-Do

Tyler has been taking Kuyki-Do martial arts since September. He loves going and learning all the kinds of martial arts. One of his favorites is sparring with his classmates.

In March Grand Master Kim came and visited the Dojo along with his wife. Tyler had the opportunity to belt up from teenage white belt to a yellow belt in front of Master Kim. He was super excited and nervous at the same time. He did well and achieved his new rank as a yellow belt.

After the rank tests were finished, Master Kim spoke with everyone about what he has learned in his life. He presented a lot of information about using your mind, body, and spirit all together to succeed in life. If you stop taking care of one part then the other two cannot thrive. I was impressed with his presentation and felt he had a lot to say to help everyone be the best they can be.