Destination: California

We braved the airports with two kids under two on flights and layovers that lasted well over 10 hours. We flew straight from DC to Sacramento and then took an express flight north to Crescent City. The kids did...okay. By the end of the day they both were ready for bed.

After the first few days of jet lag the kids were ready to go. I think Dane had the most fun. Being able to run, and hike, and play with out someone telling him to watch out for cars, to get out of the road, or to stop. Matt's parents live far from the main road that Dane was free to wander. He loved picking tomatoes from Grandma's garden. He loved feeding the birds. We actually spent so much time throwing rocks in the river that he happily got in the car when it was time to go. We honestly thought he could throw rocks in the river until he grew old. Dane loved being outside.

Eliza was just happy to be along for the ride. She was the light of the trip. Her smile and quick laugh was a sure crowd pleaser. She was awesome at waking up at 4:00am....and even better at going right back to bed. What a kid! She loved all the attention....as long as mommy was holding her. Towards the end of the trip she was much more comfortable and willing to be held by anyone.

One excursion was to the Smith River in Jedidiah Park. The water was cold. The kind of cold you put your foot in and go, "burzzzies, that's cold." Then quickly take your foot out. You might try it one more time just to make sure it really was that cold. Leave it to our kids to tromp right into that water, cover themselves with sand, while sitting chest deep in this 50 degree water. We couldn't stop them. Even Eliza couldn't get enough. She loved walking into the water as far as we would let her (usually to her chest) and standing their. Finally we had to pull the kids out of the water, blue lips and all. They love water. Pools, bath tubs, rivers.

Matt and I enjoyed having a few more helping hands around to entertain and take care of the kiddos. We were able to go on a hike....almost just the two of us. However, it was great to have Eliza along for the journey. We panned for gold- a true California adventure. Nope, we didn't find a darn thing. We also came to the realization that panning for gold was for the birds. I suppose we don't have the patience. We threw more rocks in the river. Made a quick trip to the ocean and enjoyed being near family.

Our trip back to DC was....long. It was an awesome way to spend our anniversary- trying to keep two kids happy for 8 hours of flight time. What could be better! The kids really did a good job considering what we were asking them to do. Be happy while staying in one seat. We made it back home safe and the rest is history.

We had a great trip! Lots of great memories! Can't wait until we can all be together again!