A California Christmas

Our theme song this week has been:

"The sun is shining, the grass is green, the orange and palm trees sway. There's never been such a day, in Beverly Hills, L.A...."

While we are not in Beverly Hills, we are in the L.A. area visiting my dad and step-mom for Christmas. We came in late Saturday night, which was actually Sunday morning. After attending church, later that day we went on a walk to the cactus farm around the corner from my dad's house. The kids thought we were in some tropical paradise and wanted to take pictures of very palm tree we passed and enjoyed seeing the cactus too. 

I never took pictures of palm trees growing up!!

cactus and dinos, right around the corner

Starting the walk with Grandpa.

Monday we went to the beach, I didn't pack bathing suits because the water is cold in the summer, so I thought it would be too cold in December. (Growing up here, we never went to the beach in December to swim). Of course the weather has been super warm and pleasant, but we survived the beach with our clothes on, though Austin was in his undies by the end since he tripped in the water filling up his bucket and Erik fell over toward the end. 

Right before Austin fell over. 

Grandma introduced Erik to Danimals (drinkable yogurt). A BIG hit!

chasing seagulls

Trying to block out the bright sun.

Austin and Victoria ran back and forth about 30 times (Austin in his undies).

What is a trip to Cali without visiting Grandpa's orchard?

Christmas Eve and day were spent enjoying time with family, friends, and fun. (How often do you go to the park on Christmas Eve?)

Our lovely Mary

The kids all got some cute furry friends from Santa.

Go Blue!

Austin sleeps with this every night.

Uncle Kevin spoiled the kids with gifts and giggles.