Cast of Characters:

Me, 34 (at the time), trip planner and Dizneemom!
DH, Carl, 40, willing participant
DS, Josh, 4, coaster enthusiast
DD, Natalie, 2, daredevil - wants to be a skateboarder when Mommy let's her!

Dates: 12/20-12/28; San Diego and DL

Hotels:

Holiday Inn, Carlsbad
The Lafeyette, San Diego
Castle Inn, Anaheim

The Planning

We began planning our Christmas trip in April 2007. It was our turn to travel to the in-laws for the holidays. In years past, our visits haven't always been the best. For some odd reason, my M-I-L and I stopped seeing eye-to-eye after the kids came. In early 2007, we came to a quiet truce, and I didn't want to blow it. Our last successful visit before that was our 2005 trip to DL - so, why not go again?

I called my M-I-L and told her what I was thinking. She is not a planner. Two days in advance is too much planning for her. I told her that I understood she might not know right then, but that I needed to make a decision because I would have to save for any trip. She said whatever we decided was fine with her, so, naturally, I decided.... DL!!!

I paid off the trip slowly. I tried to pay for things that could be refunded, in case something happened. Over the summer, though, I found City Pass tickets at Costco for a great discount.... and, we just happened to have the money at the time!! So, with everyone still on board, I picked some up for my family. The deal - well, they had to be used by 1/7/8. So, if we didn't go at Christmas, we had to go shortly after.

My husband had asked that we do something besides DL on our trip. He knows how much I love DL, so he would never ask me to give it up. He just wanted it to be a trip that wasn't just DL. I guess I could give that to him!!! Well, with the CityPass tickets, we could also do Sea World and the SD Zoo.... and, my son had been dying to go to Legoland.... hmm. We talked it over and added three days in San Diego to the beginning of our trip!

In late August, my S-I-L moved back hom to Utah with the kids. She was going through a really rough time with her dh. No one knew how long she was going to stay in Utah, if she'd move back to Washington with the kids, or....

In November, M-I-L finally called and said she did not think she could go on the trip. S-I-L was really struggling and she did not feel right leaving her. Plus, she had just started a real estate business and did not think it was good to leave it - she thought if she came with us, she would be spending the whole time doing business and not enjoying her trip or time with the grandkids. On the one hand, it was so nice because my M-I-L, not the planner, called me so far in advance - that was a good sign of respect! On the other, we were booked into our hotels with some steep cancellation fees. Hubby and I talked again and decided that we would just take the trip, anyhow! Off we go!

We had planned to leave on December 20 early in the morning - at around 4:00 a.m. I was going to drive the first shift, while hubby and the kids slept. I am a night owl, so this would not bother me. By the time I got too tired, they would be waking up and we could switch. My plan was to have everything packed and ready to go by the 18th, so that I could come home from work on the 19th, have an early dinner, and go to bed. Oh, the best laid plans of mice....

DECEMBER 19, 2007

As scheduled, I went to work. I was supposed to work 11-5, but had already decided that I needed to leave early. My boss was also leaving for her Christmas holidays that day, so she did not have a problem with my leaving early.

The kids went off to preschool with my hubby and we had agreed to meet at our BART station at 1:30. (BART is the Bay Area subway system). I was cranking along on the work I needed to complete when my phone rang - - it was our intern who had just graduated from law school. I had completely forgotten I had offered to take her out to lunch as a gift! She was in town, as we had scheduled, and I absolutely could not cancel on her! She had made a special trip!

I got off the phone with her and started looking for my wallet in the office. I had flung my bags down when I got in in a hurry to get all the work that I needed done. Finally found the wallet, but my ATM card was not in it!!! I looked all over the office and then realized, with a sense of dread, that I could not remember getting it back the day before when I used it to pay for a lunch... uh-oh.

I still had time, so I decided to run down to the nearest bank branch and get a temporary replacement card. This is what I did the last time (about 6 years ago) that I missplaced my card. I had to wait about 15 minutes - at which time, I called my friend to tell her I'd be late. It was finally my turn at the bank... wouldn't you know it, they no longer issue temporary cards, but they could expedite a replacement - which would not get there for 5 days. But, I would be on vacation!!!

I had my paychecks with me and no cash, so I went up to the teller and asked him how much cash I could get back from the deposit - he said the limit was $900! So, that is what I did - I cashed my check and took $900 in 20s. That felt so weird, walking around with all that money.

Went to meet my friend for lunch - they said the wait was 20 minutes, but we waited for 45. Our waiter was sloooooow. But the food was great!!!

When I got done, I realized it was already 1:30. I called my hubby and told him that I would meet him at 2:15, instead. He was running late, too, so that really helped!! We had to pick our son up from pre-k, so I couldn't be late or he'd have to leave me at the BART station until about 3:30.

I rushed back to work and had about 10 minutes to finish 25 minutes worth of work - I *never* thought I would get it done!! I did, and RAN to the BART station. The train came right away and I hopped aboard, excited that I would be there on time. Until..... right outside my station, the train stopped for a delay!!! Luckily, and unusually, I was able to get cell reception, so I called them. We pulled into the station right at 2:20, and I was in the car by 2:25. So, off we sped towards pre-k. (Man, I was so tired by this point!!!).

We had a few things we needed to do. Take the car over to the shop for a fluid test. Go to Target for some last minute needs, including exchanging a DVD player for a dual screen portable. Go to home depot to get keys copied for our dog and house sitters (plus an emergency set for my folks). Go to the grocery store. Oh, and did I mention that my hubby had to be cross-town to help my brother (big drama, but needed to be done) by 5, and then we had to rush BACK to pre-k for a christmas party for my son???? So much for the leisurely start to vacation.

Well, we got the car looked at, the Target trip done, and home depot. WE got hubby over to my brothers and then Josh to pre-k. While he was at the party, Nat and I rushed over to the grocery store - - we promised my brother we would stock the house if he house sat. Plus, we wanted some munchies for the road. We finished shopping 5 minutes before Josh had to be picked up. It was almost 8:00 and no one had really eaten since 12:00!!!

Well, while waiting for Josh to come out of his party, my other brother called. He wanted to get together for dinner. Since we hadn't eaten, we agreed to pick him up and go to Dennys - the kids' favorite. The meal was good, we had fun - and then hubby called. Could we pick him up (my brother was supposed to drive him home). So, off we went to get him and then drop my brother off at his house, and then go home and finish what we were supposed to have done by 6 that night - including cleaning the house.

December 20, 2007 - The Day My Back Stood Still

At 11, I finally went to sleep. By that point, I was pretty sure we were NOT getting up at 4:00 a.m. Sure enough, the alarm went off at 4:00 a.m. and I did not get up. It was pouring down rain and I didn't want to be tired and driving in the rain.

At 8:00 a.m., we got up and Carl and I loaded the car while the kids slowly woke up. The car was fully loaded, and all we needed to do was get the kids in the car and then move the car bench (which we had removed from the back seat to make room for the luggage) into their room. Carl took Nattie to the car, and I lifted Josh. I walked two steps out the front door, and my back went out. I couldn't carry Josh and I could barely walk. I was in so much pain!

Josh was crying because he thought he broke me. He wouldn't walk on his own, and I couldn't carry him, so I had to leave my 4 year old! and run to the car to tell Carl what happened. I was supposed to drive the first leg, too! Carl was naturally concerned - wondering if we should postpone the trip! (HA!) I convinced him I would be fine - and he ran off and grabbed our sobbing son! We convinced him he did not hurt momma - and Carl finished packing up the car while I made peanut butter sandwiches for the kids from the cooler we packed (Best idea, ever! We ate the whole drive there and spent no more than $30!).

At 9:30, we were finally off! First stop - the store (we forgot ice for the cooler). Second stop - gas. Then, we were on the road!!!

We stopped in Half Moon Bay to get coffee and some doans for my back. It was really killing me, and I was afraid that it would really be bad if I had to sit all day in a car in one position. While in the safeway there, I noticed they had discount tickets to Legoland! Woohoo! This was the only ticket we didn't have in our Citypass. So, I snatched them up!!

We had decided that we would take the drive leisurely. We were going to go down the coast and then, somewhere around Monterey, we would switch over to the 5 and take the quicker route. Unfortunately, we missed the turn off, and ended up driving the coast the entire way to Santa Barbara!

I will say one thing. Wow - that was a beautiful drive. If I remember nothing else about this trip, I will remember how cool it was that all of us got to see waterfalls from the side of the road and just all that beauty.

We stopped to get the kids out of their pjs and to just stretch our legs around 1:00 - at a place called Rugged Point (or something like that). It is a little resort area on a cliff. It has a hotel, some shops, and it is just beautiful. The kids were so good, we stopped in the little shop and bought two ice creams, crayons, and two coloring books. The place was idyllic until I saw the total bill - $25!!! for coloring books and ice cream???? (sigh).

Back in the car, the kids finally fell asleep. I took the wheel for the first time, feeling much better, and drove until Santa Barbara. By this point, it was nearing 5:00, and we thought we should get some dinner. My idea was to get out of the car and rest awhile. My hubby thought we should grab and go. He was grumpy and wanted to get to the hotel. (sigh). We ended up at In-N-Out. I was fine with it, but the kids were not happy. They cried and cried - they don't like hamburgers, and Josh wasn't impressed with the wish burger (as in, I wish there were meat in it - just a grilled cheese). They had been good kids and were tired of being in the car! I don't blame them!!

We started the drive into LA - by 8:00, we were in Los Angeles, and we found the traffic... :( With a quick look on the map, I realized we could take the Long Beach freeway and then catch up with the Riverside, which would get us to Carlsbad in a round-about sort of way. This turned out to be perfect. We by-passed most of the traffic!!

We finally made it to the hotel in Carlsbad at 10:00. We were thrilled! The Holiday Inn was fabulous. Even better - they put us in a room that was 3 doors down from the lobby, and it had parking in front!! Not much walking, and we were in the hotel room and in bed, quickly.

Called to check up on the dog, and we were off to sleep by 11:00. Our only plan for tomorrow was Legoland and to check into our San Diego hotel.

Stay tuned....

I should add that I found my ATM card right before I left the office that day... crisis averted.

Loving your report!!! more, more more, said the greedy Potterphreak!!!

How fun . . . feels like we are traveling along with you. Glad you found that ATM card!

OK, so you are in Carlsbad, and.........

December 21, 2007 - We Came, We Saw, We Dried a Lot of Tears

Today was the day my 4 year old had been begging for ever since I brought home a brochure from a business trip in June - - we were going to Legoland!!!

We woke up around 10:00 a.m., after our long drive the night before. We were still tired, but ready to being our vacation! We quickly packed up and then headed to pack up the car. I reached for our camera bag and wanted to take a quick picture of the kids with our digital camera - - they were doing something cute and I wanted to memorialize our first night's stay. Hmm, where was our digital camera? I searched the ENTIRE car and nothing.... (we never did find it... :( )

We went to check out of the hotel and they let us know that not only could we keep our car in their lot while we went to the park, they would give us a free shuttle ride to and from Legoland! Plus, they gave us a coupon for the Ruby's across the street - free meals for the kids. Since the first shuttle we could take was over an hour away (they were booked for the other shuttles), we headed over to Ruby's for breakfast.

Ruby's was great. I had a hamburger - since it was almost 11! Everyone enjoyed their meal. I certainly did. Afterwards, we went shopping a little and then went back to the hotel.

At last, we were on our way to Legoland!

We arrived a few moments later, took the stroller out of the van and got everyone set up. We walked into Legoland and I'm not sure what I think. Its kind of small park feel - like a city playland, but then it has a big roller coaster you can see prominent from the front.

We headed over the bridge and had to stop. They had lego animals - an elephant and zebra. The kids LOVED it. They thought it was so neat. Then, of course, we had to go on the safari ride.

I should note that, at this point, I have no idea where we are and what the rides are called - none of them are labeled on the Legoland map - - something I found mildly annoying all day. It was hard to orient myself with a map that gave no information - just pictures!! Plus, none of the rides had a description or said anything about the height restrictions ... which means we couldn't find out if we all could ride, sometimes, until we got up to the line, itself. That made for a LOT of tears.

So, back to the safari ride. The line was about 20 minutes long. I loved the fact that they had a play area for the kids (and an adult) to wait in. It was like a holding pen - all the kids could go in there while one person in the party waited in line. Then, when it was time to get on the ride, the ride operator would open a door to let the kids join you in line.

I was surprised, though, that the ride had a 34 inch height requirement. I was a little worried because our two year old is small, and we had just measured her - 33 and almost 34 inches. They were strict and stuck her up against the height bar. I'm thinking, o.k., what is going to happen on the ride??? NOTHING! It's basically sit in the ride, ride around a track, and look at plastic animals. Now, I am the first to assume that a height restriction is placed on a ride because it was appropriate - -- but, it felt like they put a height restriction on IASW!!

So, after the ride, my son wanted to go on the Dinocoaster. For reasons, I am not exactly sure, Carl promised to take Josh on the coaster, and then changed his mind and said we'd come back later. I didn't want to make a big scene, but I didn't think it was fair! So, instead, we went to the bone dig zone.

What an odd place. Its basically a sand box with cement bones hidden underneath the sand. For $5 (or so) you can "rent" a bucket and shovel and brush for digging out the sand. Or, for free, you can just use your hands - since the bones are only about 1/2 an inch under the surface. Worse, watch where you are walking because it is easy to trip over the bones and they are HARD.

We decide to continue walking - and find the splash zone. Its about 75 today - windy and sunny -so, we weren't wanting to get wet. However, the kids had a good time playing with the interactive water exhibits - especially the musical fountain.

Then, we noticed that a ventriloquist show was about to start. So, off we went - and sat in the front row. The ventriloquist was really good, but I didn't think all of his show was really appropriate - in an uncomfortable sort of way. However, my son raised his hand and volunteered, and that was a nice highlight for us!

By the end of the show, my kids decided they wanted a snack. So, we went next door to a little cafe, which had outdoor seating near a playground. The kids wanted pizza, so we got two kids' meals, and then we split a salad and something else (can't remember - was not impressed...). It was about $35. The kids' pizza was disgusting. The bread was hard and it looked like the sauce was painted on - it barely covered the bread. The cheese was also thick and hard. My kids love pizza and they barely ate any of it. The salad was alright, but the dressing was overpowering.

Not really satisfied, we continued towards the driving school area. They had the ride we saw at the beginning of the park - basically pedal bikes on an overhead track. The kids really, really wanted to go. So, we walked over that way, only to find out after we got into line that it had a 44 inch height requirement. We couldn't tell where the exit was and didn't want to run the risk of getting separated, so we reluctantly got out of line. Both kids started crying.

My son then saw the driving school. I knew that the kids could drive them themselves - exciting for them! So, off we went. We got into line, and there, on the wall is a sign - 3 and up. So, once again, my daughter could not ride. Josh was so excited, though, that I couldn't not take him. We decided to wait it out and see what the operator said. Yes, it was wishful thinking. I never would like to get my kid on a ride, but I was so bummed that she could not go. So, the operator asks how old she is, we tell, and she, of course, says she's too young.

So, Carl agrees to take Nattie over to this helicopter ride - which raises helicopters on these long poles and then the kids can control up or down, right or left. Kind of like Dumbo, only not in a circle - each helicopter hovers on its own pole. Turned out to be great because she loved it.

Meanwhile, Josh and I wait with the MOST annoying mom of our trip. She had a 3 year old son who was acting up in line. So, mom kept coming in and taking son over to a naughty spot - and then she would bring him right back into line. They were right in front of us. So, finally, boy really acts up and mom says he can't go on the ride. So, she leaves.

We file into the last part of the line and her two other kids go in and then we are told we have to wait for the next one. Josh is sad - like all kids, waiting is hard - but I tell him, hey, cool, we get to pick first when its our turn. So, we start looking at what car he wants to drive. So, we almost have it narrowed, when I feel a little jostle, and, yep - Mom is SHOVING her son in front of mine to get back in the first place in line. Funniest thing - she says to her oldest son (who has been trying to get her attention the whole time) "Oh, I wanted to compliment you about waiting so patiently ..." (but, Mom, I really have to tell you....) "QUIT INTERRUPTING ME! I"M TRYING TO GIVE YOU A COMPLIMENT! WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU!"

I just had to crack up. She was just so obliviously rude to everyone around and then she's telling her son to be polite and listen to her compliment...

So, finally, our turn. Josh goes on and, let's just say, we have no worries about him getting an early driver's license....

He finishes and then we meet up with Daddy and Nattie - she wants to go on the helicopter ride again. So, off we go for another ride. It was actually pretty fun.

After that, we wandered on back to the lagoon area and found the little motor boats. It reminded me of the motor boat cruise from the DL of my youth. We went on that - way fun. The kids in front of me had no clue how to steer. Nattie and I were in one boat and we tried to go around them, right as they banked - right into us, and turned us all around! Well, there is only enough room for two boats in a row, and we had oncoming traffic - and the kids couldn't figure out how to turn us forward again. It was pretty funny. We finally drifted far enough away that we were able to turn our boat around and go past them to the exit.

After that, we wanted to find a bathroom - and went the wrong direction. (One reason why the map was so annoying - - it was hard to figure out where anything was, especially with a potty training preschooler...) On the way, we saw these ladies with the best looking ice cream. It was still very warm and sunny, and we had been walking around and it looked so good. So, we went off in search of it. Well, everyone we asked told us a different place - all but the right place!! We finally found it in the lego play zone - an area with tables full of lego blocks. But, we couldn't take the stroller in and we had way too much stuff to leave it outside - - including our camera. So, we took turns going in to get ice cream.

When we came out with our ice cream (it was EXCELLENT), of course, the wind had come in and it was freezing outside! LOL!!

By this time, we were getting pooped, so we decided we would do one more ride and then go back to the hotel. We still had to drive to San Diego and check into our hotel there.

We finished our yummy ice cream and then walked back to the lagoon area and decided to ride on the pirate ship. It was a swinging pirate ship, but it turned in the middle of the ride to the side. The kids were dying to ride it - even the 2 year old - so we promised we would go on it if Nattie could make it on the ride. She was JUST big enough (she must have moussed up her hair that morning because she just fit the 34 inch requirement)

I have to say the swinging pirate ship was the best part of the day. I thought it was scary!! The kids "wheed" and giggled throughout the ride - which is good, because I thought my two year old would be scared once it got going. Nope, she LOVED it.

After the pirates, we were ready to go. We were all tired. I know we missed a whole bunch of the park, but it was already 4:30 and we were all getting sleepy. So, we called the hotel and the shuttle was on its way.

We did a little bit of shopping (we're not huge lego fans, so it was pretty easy) and met the shuttle.

Back at the hotel, we grabbed our van and headed out to San Diego. It took us about 30 minutes to get to our exit and we headed out to the Lafayette. It is in a questionable area of town. The Lafayette lobby is gorgeous - Disney worthy. The staff was fabulously nice. They have a great breakfast in the morning.

The rooms are in need of some work, but they did just fine for our stay. Our room was quite large and we had a kitchen area and the bathroom was nice. We even had a gorgeous deck, with french doors, overlooking the beautiful - and quite large - pool.

Up the street was Dennys, so we went and had dinner. Then, we went to the hotel, set up the portable DVD player, and watched Nemo while we fell asleep.

Tomorrow... The Zoo that Ate New York.

(I promise I will post the entire trip - I'm doing it day by day as I have the time. Only two more days till we get to Disneyland!!! I promise!!!)

December 22, 2008 - The Day of Nostalgic Flying

We got going a little slow this morning - getting out of the hotel room around 10:30. Our first stop was the drive-in McDonalds up the road for some breakfast. This was a great idea - breakfast for the 4 of us was under $10! And the $1 drink (the HUGO) lasted me all day and some of the night... LOL!

We set out to find the San Diego Zoo - with directions from the hotel front desk (I can't say enough about the staff at Lafayette. The hotel was a little run down, but the staff was top notch). It sounded like it was quite a drive. Really, it was about 3 minutes away!

It seemed like we weren't in the right place. Its the world-class San Diego Zoo, and its in the middle of a residential area - there is a junior high or elementary school next to the parking lot, which looks like any parking lot you'd find outside a DMV. None of the theme park trappings - you have to wait for the inside of the park for that! At first, I wasn't sure we were in the right area!!

One thing we had been told by my parents was to make sure and get the transportation package so we could use the busses inside. (I'd agree!) So, we waited in the ticket line and a nice employee came and asked what we needed. When I told him we just wanted to add on the transportation package, he told me that our City Pass tickets INCLUDE the transportation! Wahoo! That saved us about $20! Yay City Pass!!! (I would *definitely* use these tickets again if we were doing more than DL!).

We go inside a very short line and are directed over to the double decker zoo bus tour. We get in line for the bus, and the overhead announcement indicates that small children can see more and are safer on the bottom level. So, we decide to do that. We have fun passing time in line by looking at the birds in the aviary to the left of the line. The kids are so excited!

The bus takes you on an overall tour of the zoo. This is where I realized we could have spent weeks at the zoo. The zoo is humongous! I was overwhelmed already and I was just sitting down! The ride is about 30 minutes and covers a good amount of animals. Sometimes, the kids can see well on one side and the other side of the bus can't see, but its about 50-50 as to what is on the right side of the bus, what is on the left.

After the ride, we left and went to rent a stroller. With the area of the zoo, we realized we were going to have to have two strollers. Josh LOVES to run and walk, but he is still only 4 and he would be tired at the end of the day, I'm sure. While I got the strollers and some disposable cameras, Carl took the kids to see the flamingos - one of their favorites. The flamingos were all dancing around - and I have never seen so many! There must have been 100s!

We headed over to the Children's Zoo - a good start for the kids, I think. They have unusual animals for a Children's Zoo, and my favorite thing of the day was their sea otter exhibit. They've built an underwater exhibit area so you can watch them swimming. The top area is rocks and a water slide. The otters have to be some of the happiest creatures I've ever seen. They play so much - they looked like they were having a blast. Plus, they kept swimming by the glass and posing for pictures! This was one of the highlights of the zoo for me. They also have neat animals like small monkeys, different birds, and a small fox. Some animals I had never even heard of before.

They were annoucing a show about to start, so we headed over. It was in the ampitheater and it was a zoo explorer. I didn't understand the point of the show. It wasn't particularly educational. Besides that, it was kind of disgusting. She'd call up volunteers - mostly kids - and then challenge them to eat animal dung and stuff (really, tootsie pops and things). It just turned my stomach. I wanted to leave 1/2 way through, but Carl didn't want to be rude.

After the show, we decided we were hungry, so we went looking for food. Best deal of all are the kids bucket meals. You get a cool sand bucket, drink, main dish, fruit, chips, and cookies - for, like, $7. Carl and the kids each got a corn dog meal. I got a cheese burger, I think. The food was quite tasty. They seem to have a really good variety, too.

After our lunch break, we took the skyfari down towards the polar bears. For those who have never been, the skyfari is a much higher, much longer, version of the skyway - complete with green buckets! The ride takes a good 10-15 minutes, and you are WAY high in the air. I am a tad bit afraid of heights - so much so that I threatened Carl if he did not stop rocking the car by trying to take pictures! Still, it was the highlight of my trip - it reminded me of those skyway trips of my youth!

We got off the skyway and walked down the path toward the polar bears. On the way, there are all kinds of African creatures - like bongos, dik diks, tommys.... some, I had never even heard of before! By the time we got to the polar bears, though, the kids were starting to melt down. They were physically tired (Heck, I was, too!), and, as much as they wanted to look all over the zoo, it was just too much walking for them - - even with the transportation.

We made the executive decision, after watching the polar bears for awhile, to go back to the hotel, relax, and then head out to dinner after some down time. We caught the skyfari back to our strollers, and then let the kids pick out their souvenier for the day on the way out. (They are so cheap at this age! Nattie got a magnet for $2 and Josh a bucket of animals for $4!)

We headed back to the car, got turned around, but finally made it back to the hotel. We were leaving the next day, so, I started to tidy the room. The kids wanted to play with their toys, and we also put Nemo on the portable DVD. (We were actually able to hook it into the t.v. at this hotel, which was nice).

At about 6:30, we headed out to Old Town to a restaurant called La Pinata. My parents recommended it. It was wonderful. It is an authentic Mexican restaurant. We started off with the quesadilla bread - kind of like a flat bread pizza, only it was a tortilla crust. It was soooooo good. I got a ground beef burritto platter, Carl got a beef platter, and we got the kids a side of rice and beans and some tortillas. They also had cheese. The food was wonderful - I was stuffed. We also got the fried ice cream to split for dessert. I don't remember how much the bill was, but it was surprisingly small for all the food. Afterwards, the kids got to pick a toy from the surprise basket.

Finally, we headed back to the hotel and to bed - - tomorrow, we were leaving San Diego after stopping at Sea World.

All I can say about our day at Sea World is YOU WILL GET WET!

More later....

Really enjoying your trip report!:) Can't wait for the next episode...

Also, I know the spot you referenced while writing about your trip down the coast--Ragged Point. The restaurant there is one of our favorites. We stop there when we're staying in Cambria. What a beautiful spot!

I am enjoying your trip. I live in San Diego . We have passes to the zoo and sea world which we bearly use. Don't know why we live so close. Can wait to read the rest of your story

Looking forward to each day! thanks again for sharing. :)

thanks for reading, guys!

That's right - ragged point. Nice place.

I can't post again until Wednesday, but I promise to post then!

I am really enjoying your posts! Thanks for telling us about your trip!

December 23, 2007 - Aren't Towels Super Absorbant?

Woke up a little later than usual - about 10:00, and had to quickly clean up. We had just found out the night before that our hotel had a free breakfast until 11. We wanted to take advantage of that before we checked out and headed to Sea World. Our kids are big breakfast eaters, so we would be saving quite a bit if we had them eat breakfast there!

My husband was out doing laundry (God bless him!), so I quickly packed up the rest of the room and got all the suitcases up against the door. I got the kids dressed and then waited, and waited....

About 10:45, Carl walks back in the room and wants to immediately start packing the van! Even though we talked about the breakfast the night before... Urrgggh. So, after a few moments of frustration, we agreed to go to the breakfast and then pack the car and get going.

The breakfast was great for a free hotel breakfast! It had bagels, biscuits, and even make-your-own waffles. They had all kinds of toppings for the goods - butter, blueberries, fruit, yogurt, powdered sugar, and even peanut butter. If I had been thinking, I would have grabbed some peanut butter packets to go! Nice set up and a nice last little touch for our stay.

I must say the only negatives I had with the Lafayette were the overall neighborhood and the run down nature of the rooms. However, I do have to say that those concerns were minor. The rooms were nothing worse than I've stayed in B&B's in Europe, and they were quiet spacious. The hotel was quiet - even though full of some college football fans. The pool was humongous and so beautiful at night - it was all lit up. The pool view from our private deck was very relaxing. And, I cannot say enough about the staff and the overall customer service we received. They do have underground, gated parking, so even the fact that it is in a not great neighborhood is not too much to worry about. I would stay there again.

We quickly packed up our car with the rest of our things and headed out for our day at Sea World. The area was familiar to us as we had accidentally gotten lost there the day before when looking for the mexican restaurant! The drive was about 20 minutes and soon, we were pulling into the parking lot. Now, I LOVE Sea Worlds parking lot. Its $5 (I think) for regular parking - or, you can pay $10 for "premium" parking ... which puts you in the first 6 rows! Totally worth the extra money, imo. Especially at the end of the day!

So, we parked about 4 rows back from the front entrance, and then walked into the park and got a map. There were quite a few things closed, including a few shows. It didn't really matter because we were only planning on spending a few hours there before heading to Anaheim - we wanted to be ahead of the evening traffic. We noticed that "Pets Rule" was starting in about 30 minutes, so we went over to the Petco Stadium to wait. I stood in line while Carl and the kids went to explore. Oh, I forgot to add that we rented a really cozy double stroller for the kids that day - it was huge and I think it was only $6.

Pretty soon, we were let into the stadium. I was so busy looking at things, I took the first seats I could. I didn't realize we were sitting in the splash zone! About 10 minutes before the show was about to start, my son looks at me and says (drum roll, please....) "Mommy, I have to go potty!" Well, luckily, there was a restroom right next to the stadium. Unluckily, if they left and the show started, they would not be let back in. So, they ran!

Meanwhile, I had to tell about 20 people who came at the last minute that the other two seats were occupied by little boy in the restroom and daddy. I was greatful when I saw them running back through the gate - they were the last two people let in the stadium. They sat down and few minutes later, the show began.

Pets Rule was awesome and worth the trip. My kids LOVED Pets Rule and would have watched it over and over all day long if we let them (we didn't). One funny part was when they were throwing frisbees for the dogs. This one dog LOVED his frisbee so much that he had to attack it every time he caught it - and the poor trainer had a difficult time getting it away. The dogs and animals looked well cared for and like they were having a lot of fun. All the animals in the show are rescue animals. Afterwards, they let the kids come up and pet the animals with the trainers and ask questions. That was great!

After the show, my son REALLY wanted to go to the arcade. He likes to think he's playing games. We let him sit at the driving games and play car for a few minutes (Free game - he doesn't know it costs money to actually do it!).

We decided we were ready for lunch, so we headed off in search of food. The one place we wanted to go to - the BBQ place - had a big sign saying it was closed for remodelling. It also said it in the map. (We learned later that it wasn't closed - a small sign said "open during construction"). So, we headed over to the next place we saw - Italian. Sounded good. It wasn't.

We headed into the line - it was very short. My son decided he wanted to stay with me, so I had to entertain him in line - he was getting really hungry, which equates to jumpy and squirmy. Just what you want in line!

We got up to the counter and it was pandemonium! I wanted a salad, but they had CLEARLY been sitting out way too long. Plus, a salad which consisted of no more than one lettuce leaf was $8! If you wanted the cesar (same size), it was $10!!! Instead, we got one sampler pasta plate ($15 - for some inedible noodles, which were undercooked and eggplant parmagiana), one meatball sub (alright, but the sauce was tasteless), two kids meals - pizza (my pizza lovers would not finish it), and drinks. The bill was over $50. ANd the food was disgusting.

After lunch, we realized the dolphin show, right next door, was about to begin. So, we headed over to the show and walked in. The stadium was packed! We tried to stand up at the wall with the kids, but people kept pushing in front of them and they couldn't see. Carl went to look for seats, and finally found some - down front. In the splash zone.

I have to say that in the splash zone at Pets Rule, we got "misted" with water. Having never seen a Sea World show before that one, I thought - alright, splash zone means you'll get wet, but they are not going to soak us in December, right? WRONG!

We went down to the very front row - GREAT seats for the show. We got amazing pictures of the dolphins up close. Luckily, we bought two rain ponchos and a towel from the vendor - our souveniers. (Hey, I thought the towel would keep us warm!) When the dolphin came to splash the first time, I held the towel up to protect Nattie, and we both came out fine. Unfortunately, I didn't realize in time that the dolphin was going to do it again! I tried to hold up the poncho and towel, but the water was coming too quick and the poncho started slipping. Not wanting to have Nattie get soaking wet, I, a good momma, DOVE on top of her, shielding her from the water. The water, instead, went straight down the back of my shirt and pants. Let me tell you, that water is FREAKIN COLD!

The kids loved the show. Luckily, we had brought THEM a change of clothes - so we headed back to the Pets Rule bathroom to change them. BTW, that bathroom has a great little, private, changing area for babies - its got a nice, very long counter, a rocking chair (for nursing), sinks, and even baby wipes. Its tucked away in front of the restrooms, but shielded from most people's view (unless you are walking into the bathroom).

At this point, it was pushing 3:00, and we knew we needed to get on the road. Although we thoroughly enjoyed Sea World, it was time to go. We headed out, first stopping to buy the kids their daily souvenier (again, cheap - I paid less than $10! What good shoppers they are!). The nice thing was that sea world let us take the stroller out to our car. We were loaded with kids meal lunch boxes, wet towels and ponchos; etc.

The kids fell asleep on the way to Anaheim - which, without traffic, took us about 40 minutes! I thought it would take us awhile!

We quickly found our hotel - Castle Inn - and pulled in to check in. They had our room ready and gave us the key. We were on the top floor, which was nice, and just a few doors down from the elevator. We pulled the van over and got the kids out - and a few suitcases. We went up to our room - while Carl finished unloading the car, I began unpacking.

After we got done unpacking, we rested for a little bit - I think I took a nap. The kids wanted to play with their toys in their own room (we had a two bedroom hotel room - separated by a little hallway and bathroom area).

Around 6:00, we headed out in search of dinner and target. We decided on a Coco's down the street, and in the same parking lot as Target.

The Cocos was horrible. We ordered an appetizer because everyone was starving, right when we sat down. We also ordered drinks. Then we read the menu. I had read it 400 times before we even saw our waiter again. He asked us what we wanted to drink - like he had never even been to our table before!!! So, we told him, again, and also ordered our food. Nearly 30 minutes later, he returned with our drinks. After another 15 minutes, we began getting crafty. We were right next to the service station and there was a full bread basket right there, just prepared by another waiter. We grabbed it and fed the kids some bread.

20 minutes later, Carl flagged down another waiter and asked him if he could please bring us the soup that came with our meal. Our waiter showed up 10 minutes after that and asked why we wanted our soups. We were hungry, duh! So, he brought the soup out - - it was cold.

Another 5-10 minutes, and our food comes to the table. He had his hands full, so we didn't think anything of the fact that he didn't have the kids meals - - we assumed he would be going back to get them. We fed them some of our food and waited. 10 minutes went by and he came and said they were out of vegetables and fruit - - which is what we had ordered for the kids! Now is the time you tell us??? So, we ordered a side of rice for each of them.

Another 10 minutes goes by and he comes back with one bowl of rice and says they've run out. What is going on!!! They were not that busy! My son decided that he could live with a grilled cheese sandwich, so we gave the rice to Nattie and ordered that, instead. It finally came 20 minutes later. It was partially burnt.

By this point, I am so fed up, I just can't stand it. The kids are squirmy and I just can't take it - - so, we decide to head over to Target and let Carl pay the bill. He wanted to say something to the waiter and I hate those kinds of conflicts - even where they are deserved. (Turns out the cook had quit in the middle of the shift and no one knew what to do - - but, still!).

I take the kids over to Target, and we start stocking up on some goodies for our room. The idea was to have snacks and breakfast in the room. This really worked out for us! Well, about 20 minutes later, Carl calls - he just paid the bill. They gave him a free slice of pie for his ordeal. Personally, I think the meal should have been free - and I normally do not ask for things free, but it was just a horrible experience and I won't be back.

After I hung up, I thought about the experience and remembered the appetizers. I called Carl back and asked if he checked the bill carefully since there were several things we ordered but never got. He checked and, yep, every single thing was on the bill - - so, back he trudged to Cocos hell. They gave him the difference back.

So, we did a quick jaunt around Target, picking up some things for Christmas, and stuff for our room, and then headed back to the hotel.

After baths, we crashed.

Tomorrow - Our Date with Mickey Begins!

What a wonderful trip report so far! I'm looking forward to the rest of your adventures!

I've been down to San Diego frequently. Usually take the train from Los Angeles, which is an adventure in itself. I will go to La Pinata restaurant when I'm there next (this Summer). I checked their website and it looks great. The Lafayette Hotel sounded interesting too. I usually stay in the north end of the Gaslamp District, just south of Balboa Park. There are so many wonderful activities in Balboa Park. You should plan a family trip and spend days in that area. In addition to the zoo, there are fantastic museums, very impressive organ concerts on Sunday afternoons, and the International Village. All great activities for kids (bring a stroller!!!).

I wrote up a trip report on a fun experience I had recently at DL, called Disneyland Whistle Blower. Take a look if you have a moment. Anyway, I'll watch for further posts on your trip. Thanks for sharing your adventure with us!

Enjoying your trip report! :)

I think we were at Mimi's while you were at Cocos! I don't like Coco's except for breakfast. Love hearing your report.

I think we were at Mimi's while you were at Cocos! I don't like Coco's except for breakfast. Love hearing your report.

We *really* wanted Mimis, but were so tired, we knew we didn't have the energy for both Target and then going back to Mimis - - - and we really needed some stuff for the next few days. :(

December 24, 2007 - The Most Goofiest Date

Today, we all woke up with the most dreaded vacation dilemma - a bad head/chest cold. That didn't stop our desire to go to DL - but it sure did stop our energy. Instead of the plan to get up and go early to Toontown and Fantasyland, we ended up sleeping in and slowly meandering to the park.

We decided to take the shuttle to DL from the Ramada around the corner. We had stayed there before over Christmas and remember the shuttle as being convenient and prompt. Well, things must have changed! The shuttle is supposed to come every 20 minutes - - after 40 minutes, we almost gave up, but saw one coming.

We hopped aboard and were on our way!

We got to DL shortly and realized two things - the ticket lines were long (and we needed to exchange our vouchers) and we were hungry. Once again, we also needed to rent one stroller. With the kids not feeling well, we knew they would need to ride around in the strollers all day, rather than walking and tuckering themselves out.

I got in the ticket line and saw that they had a length-of-stay stroller pass advertised. Now, that could come in handy since, at this point, we were planning 4 days in the parks. So, I asked the ticket seller. She did not seem to know anything about it and told me that she did not rent the strollers, but to go in the park and they would take care of me. I thought it was odd since its listed on the ticket window, but....

Once inside, we got the stroller. It was a madhouse and I completely forgot to ask for the length-of-stay pass. No idea what it is or how much it costs....

Now that we had that taken care of, we were hungry. We decided to stop at Carnation on Main Street, but, when we saw the line, we kept moving. It would have been at least a 45 minute wait. No thank you!

We decided, instead, on the Plaza Inn. I had been here once before, but had no memory of what they had other than chicken. I went in to purchase everything while Carl and the kids found a seat. This was, by far, the best meal of the trip!

Carl and I each had chicken. I got one grown up plate and one kids' plate to split between us (more than enough food and we are big eaters). The kids each had pasta. The total bill was about $30, so it was also one of our cheapest meals!

I got the best service here. I asked the cashier if I could leave the tray for a moment while I took the first tray over to my family. He said sure - when I turned around, he was following me with the other tray - - he even grabbed silverware for us!! I wish I had gotten his name - but I did send a compliment to disney with the time I was there and his description - I hope he got kudos!

After lunch, it was time for some rides! We headed to the tip board and saw a minor wait for Pirates. The kids enjoyed Pirates before, so we decided to give it a try. They loved it! Josh wasn't so sure at first, but when I began pointing out all the animals to be found, he forgot all about the scary pirates and began hunting for the cute pigs, instead. He really liked the dog keeping the pirates in jail!

After Pirates, we wandered around the stores by Blue Bayou. We went into an ornament store, where the CM was tickled by the fact that we let our kids in there and they were actually good! He said he hardly sees kids because parents are afraid their kids will break everything. We just remind the kids that certain places are "look, don't touch" stores and this was one of them. If they get to be too much, we take them out - but they enjoy looking, so its hardly a problem.

We also went into the pin store and got them lanyards and one pin, each. Nattie picked dumbo and Josh picked something from Meet the Robinsons - one of our favorite movies.

After that, the guys decided they wanted to go on the Treehouse. I didn't want to climb up all the stairs, so I waited for them and people watched. I LOVE people watching in DL! What better place???

We decided to continue our tour around DL by heading towards FL. We thought we would try to get a ride in on the carrousel or Casey Jr. On the way, we passed the reindeer roundup, so we decided to check it out!

The reindeer roundup is so neat! Santa comes and hangs out there with his reindeer! So you can pet them and say hi to them! The kids thought that was great! Then, we went in to get pictures with Santa. My kids were shy, but Santa was great with them. They asked him what kind of cookies he would like them to leave and he asked them what their favorite was - well, guess what? They both like the same cookies - chocolate chip! Amazing!

After Santa, we sat and watched part of a show that was going on at the roundup and talked with a very nice CM. He told us a funny joke, but I can't remember it now! :(

We toodled over to fantasyland next. It was so crowded, it was hard to get anywhere! On the way, we stopped on the bridge and watched Big Thunder for awhile. We were toying with letting Josh ride it later and wanted to see if he liked it from seeing it. He thought it looked like a lot of fun - until it broke down in front of us! So, we moved on before they started the evacuations.

In Fantasyland, we decided to do the carrousel. The line was not too bad - we only had to wait two cycles. It was so annoying, though - when it became our turn to get on the ride, some family shoved their way through the exit when the CM's back was turned and shoved their kids on the ride! And, they took the horses right in front of my kids, so I could not sit with them - I ended up taking a seat on a stationary bench further back because that was all that was left. Urrgggh. (Sigh) Oh well.

At this point, it was getting to be about 4:00 and we had reservations for 6 at Goofys. I knew I wanted to do some shopping for the next day, so we decided to just slowly meander to Goofy's Kitchen for our dinner.

We headed to Main Street, where the kids picked treats for Santa Claus. Of course, we had to get a chocolate chip cookie!

Unfortunately, we got separated in the bakery. It was so crowded, and I went to look at something with Josh, while Carl went the other way with Nattie. I thought he understood we would just walk through the stores and meet at the exit. So, I kept shopping down Main Street until I got to the Emporium and didn't see them - then I worried. Well, I finally went outside and saw them outside the exit!!! Uggh.

After that fiasco, we went to World of Disney. Now, the only hitch with not having two strollers was in WoD. Both kids were tired and I needed to buy some things for the next day - - so, I couldn't have both kids with me. But, Carl had a hard time carrying one kid and pushing the stroller. So, we finally compromised. He took the kids outside for 30 minutes and I shopped. It was hard to go through all of WoD in 30 minutes, but I managed!!

When I was done shopping, we headed to Goofy's Kitchen. Here, I had another urrrrgggghhhh moment. (well, several, actually). I had bought a travelocity voucher for a princess meal. It specifically says on the voucher that it can be used for any meal on property. When I made the reservation, I was told that I would have to pay the difference in price between the voucher and the cost of the mal- which, I was told, should be about $5 per person, or $15 (Nattie was free). Wrong - the bill came out to $50!!! If I had known that, I might have just chosen to do the princess meal that came with the voucher....

The second urrrrgggh moment was that we were not told we needed to exchange the voucher anywhere. I had to walk all the way to the check in desk to exchange it - which makes no sense why they couldn't do it at the restaurant. Just a minor grouchy moment - but they could have told me when I made the reservation.

We were seated about 20 minutes after I returned with the correct vouchers. We were seated in the back, in a walkway area near the kitchen. When we walked up, Chip was just leaving the table next to us, so I thought, great! This will be great character interaction. WRONG. The *only* character to come to our table was Goofy - and that was after I practically begged him to please come take a picture. It was weird - the characters would walk past our table, but stop at the tables on both sides of us.

I would have told our waiter, but he was never there but for about 5 minutes at the beginning to take our drink orders and then bring the drinks. My husband asked what kind of coffee drinks they had and the waiter rattled off several. He did not say that they would cost us extra.

I went up to get food for the kids. I like this buffet. It has good selection for kids and adults alike and the food is quite tasty. After I came back, Carl went and got his plate and then I went and got mine. I tried a little of everything. My favorites were the stuffed chicken and stuffed sole. Yummy! The kids liked the popcorn shrimp, mac n cheese, and hot dogs. We all liked the dessert selection.

After dinner, we posed for pictures. I thought they were included in the package. Boy, was I ticked when we waited for another 15 minutes to see the proofs (they were horrible) and then found out they cost a lot of money per print! (Sigh). I was really ready to go back to the hotel.

So, I'm gathering up my things and here comes my waiter, chasing after me. "Miss, miss, you did not pay your bill!" he yells towards me. Remember the coffee? Turns out the specialty coffee my hubby ordered was $13!!! I was horrified that he yelled at me like I was purposefully running out on the bill and mad that it cost so much!

We walked out to the parking area and got a cab back to the hotel. I was glad because I had just enough cash on me to pay for the cab and a tip.

After that, we went to the hotel room and got the excited, but tired, kids tucked into bed. The adults then did what adult parents do on Christmas Eve to get the joint ready for the next day - and we had so much fun, too! We decorated the room and some other things - and left plenty of room for Santa to bring lots of toys.

Tomorrow - Santa Brings an Ark but the Animals are Starving

Can't wait to hear the rest of your report! It sounds like you guys had a great Christmas trip

Can't wait to hear the rest of your report! It sounds like you guys had a great Christmas trip

We really did!

I promise to finish the trip report tomorrow or the next day. I was in Utah for a wedding and didn't have time (or web access) to finish it up! Its coming... thanks for being patient, everyone!

December 22, 2008 - The Day of Nostalgic Flying


The bus takes you on an overall tour of the zoo. This is where I realized we could have spent weeks at the zoo. The zoo is humongous! I was overwhelmed already and I was just sitting down!

Your story reminds me of the saddest/funniest mom I ever met at the zoo. I was there one day (used to be go often when we lived closer) and there was a mom in the endless panda line with her family. They were visiting from Canada and were on what I think of as the "Crazed California Visit." Disneyland one day, Knott's the next, Sea World after that, then the Zoo, and on and on. Not even one day for a break or a trip to the beach!

As you mentioned, the zoo is HUGE. And it is on a pretty steep hill. This poor family was sunburned and exhausted. The mom asked me what I recommended they do to make their day at the zoo easier. I did give them a few tips on kid highlights and navigation, but mainly I suggested she send the kids to the children's zoo with hubby while she visited the margarita stand!

I still think of them whenever I plan a trip. :eek: Hope the rest of your trip was a little easier.

We found the zoo to be huge, too. Very tiring. I'm glad we started the day with the bus ride all over the zoo. At least we knew what we were missing when we left early! Oh, and we had a "loud discussion" on the way there because we had a terrible time finding the place. I would love to go back and really spend time there, perhaps more than one day.

We always plan our vacations with a day of rest here and there to allow us to recoup, do a little laundry, visit the beach, relax. I'm always afraid it will be a waste of time, but once we get our rest day, I'm glad we did.

<tapping on window>

Hey!! What happened?? Where did the trip report go?! I have been enchanted and enthralled and I want the rest of the story I paid for...Oh wait, I forgot, didn't pay for it. hee hee :fez:


Please to continue?

I'm sorry, I'm sorry! Alright, here goes....

December 25, 2007 - Why Did Santa Close All the Restaurants?

As most of you know who have young kids, this day started EARLY. Santa came in the middle of the night and completely decorated our hotel room, complete with a whole table full of gifts for the kids. I'm surprised he didn't wake the kids - who could see the table from their room - or us grownups, as the table was right in front of our bed.

Nattie woke up about 6:30 a.m., and came running into our bed - right past the table, completely missing it. (I swear we have to get her eyes checked....). It wasn't until I turned her around and said, "Oh, my, Nattie, LOOK, Santa must have come!" that she squealed in shock and delight and went running for her brother - JOSSY, JOSSY, SANTA, SANTA!

Josh came blaring out of the room a minute later, tearing towards the pile of toys under the table. He has always had a honing mechanism for just what is for him, and, sure enough, he walked right to the ark and said, "Mommy, look what Santa brought me!?!" Sure enough, that is what Santa brought him.

Neither kid was interested in opening any presents. They set down right on the floor and started playing - at 6:30 a.m., barely awake. So, we went with it.

At 10:00 a.m., we finally finished opening presents. We hadn't brought all the presents - - many stayed at home. The kids loved what they had, though, and it was a good reminder that maybe they didn't need a whole lot anyhow.... ;)

Originally, we had planned to buy an extra day on our passes and spend the day in Cal Adventure. However, since everyone was still feeling under the weather, we decided to just have a down day and stay out of the parks - - or so we thought.

Around noon, we started getting hungry. Its Christmas, so I thought we would go out for a nice meal. I knew Cheesecake Factory was set to open soon, and we love Mimi's - so, stupidly, I thought we could play it by ear. (Hey, we never eat out on Christmas - how was I supposed to know it might be hard to find a place....).

So, in the car we got and out of the lot we drove. 30 minutes later, we had been in the parking lot of every restaurant within a 20 square mile radius, getting increasingly hungrier (and I getting a migraine). Not a single restaurant was open that I could see. O.K., except for maybe that creepy one that everyone on MP complains about whose name escapes me right now - but I wasn't going to even go there.

Finally, we just decided to go to Downtown Disney.

The first place we came upon was Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen. I had read the menu before coming and thought it sounded decent. Plus, I liked the vibe of the place - and, more importantly, they could seat us right away!

Our waiter was fantastic. I just wasn't impressed with my food. The kids got mac n' cheese. The portion was HUGE and the little bite they allowed me to take was fantastic. Very creamy and tasty.

Carl got the soup sampler. It was very small, but he really liked what he got.

I ordered the turducken Christmas special. Now, I have heard great things about turducken from friends who have had it. I never had it before and it sounded good. Its supposed to be moist and tasty. Plus I figured with the creole seasoning, it would be very flavorful. I was wrong. It was bone dry and had absolutely no flavor. It tasted like day old leftovers that had been sitting out. Very disappointing.

The best part of lunch, though, was sitting on the patio overlooking DtD and just relaxing. We gave the kids disposable cameras and let them take pictures. We timed the monorails. We just had a good time people watching and enjoying watching the crowds without being trapped in them.

After lunch, we walked through a few DtD stores - checking out the discounts at WoD (and buying a few more things). We went into build-a-bear - this place is nuts - and saw many kids spending their Christmas cash....

Finally, we stopped at Andersen's Bakery and picked up sandwiches for dinner. We did not want to risk not finding a restaurant to eat dinner.

After walking around for awhile, we decided to call it a short day and rest up for tomorrow. We went back to the hotel, set up the portable DVD, and took naps. The kids wanted to play with their toys, so we let them have a nice long bath (with toys) and then play in the pajamas until dinner.

We all hit the hay around 10, with visions of Mickey in our heads.

Tomorrow - Josh Soars to New Heights.

Glad to have you back sharing your story. Looking forward to your further adventures!