Fourth of July

We were really excited to spend the Fourth in San Diego. We decided we would spend the day at the beach, grill out for dinner and watch Legoland's fireworks from the end of our street. 

The plan was to load the car with all of beach stuff early, drive down to the beach, leave the car there and walk back to the cottage. Well, us and the rest of Carlsbad had that idea because when we got up at 6:00 am we could see that the beach parking was already full. On to Plan B. Which we didn't have. No biggie. 

We decided instead to start the day by heading to Ocean Side and spending an hour or so there then coming back and thinking of a Plan B. 

I had to get a picture of them in their flag shirts.

Reese is actually looking at the neighborhood cat. He came by to say Hi and Reese was so excited that she literally scared him up the tree. 

She's not taking her eyes off him

In case we forgot there was a cate up there

Last year I started yet another tradition... our family beach foot picture. 

That was first on my agenda before anyone when out to play.

Jax of course had to wear his swim suit, because he was getting wet, no matter how chilly it was. 

Once the foot picture was taken he was off!

Brian joined him shortly

Reese and I hung out for awhile.

But I'm only good enough for a so long then she needs her Daddy and Bubba.

I probably should have put her in a swim suit. 

After lunch and a nap for Reese we headed to the 'real' beach. 

As we were driving back from Ocean Side Brian said, "I wish we had one of those big tired wagons. Then it would be easy to pile everything on it and walk to the beach."

Well, his wish came true! As he was looking through the big Rubbermaid tubs full of beach gear he came across a wagon! We had hit the 4th of July jackpot! 

He loaded it up and walked down to the beach with Jaxon while Reese was sleeping. 

Then the four of us headed back a bit later. 

Yep. Even I pulled the wagon. I do do CrossFit after all.
:)

Now loads of beach pictures!

The day was ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL! 

I never thought I would love a family picture with me
in a bathing suit, but I do!
This is my favorite!

After several hours of water, sand and sun we headed back to the cottage, grilled out, put Reesey to bed and enjoyed a nice evening with s'mores and fireworks. 

It was a perfect 4th! Can't wait to do it again next year!

San Diego Days 3 & 4

And the San Diego Adventures continue! Days 3 & 4 were spent shopping and at Legoland! 

Our morning ritual... Jax & Reese on the hammock. 

These two melt my heart. I love how much they love each other. 

Reese found the fountain. It had water. She wanted in. 

After shopping we headed down to the beach for an a bit. 

Hip hip hooray for family pictures! 

IT would be nice if everyone looked at the camera. 

Perfect! 

While on our shopping trip, Jaxon picked out this necklace for Reese. 

She loved it. She walked around showing it off. 

Then she broke it. 

sigh.

We did a marathon Legoland visit! We hit the aquarium, theme park AND water park all in 7 hours! Yeah. We were exhausted.

Let me just say that this trip to Legoland was 100 times more pleasurable than our last visit 2 years ago. (It's funny looking at those pics. I was desperately trying to hide my very new pregnancy. And looking at my on the rides with Jax explains a lot about why Reese is the way she is!) That was miserable! For several reasons. I am happy to report good times were had by all! 

In case you're wondering, that brontosaurus is made with 435,000 Lego blocks.
You're welcome.

Seriously? Can she ever smile?
I swear she's a happy girl!

There was a "Character Band" singing and dancing on the lawn and our little party was in heaven! 

She was partying like it was 1999!

See those 2 boys in orange? Yep. Her dance partners. Girl isn't shy and goes after what she wants. We're in BIG trouble!

Dancing with Daddy. Thank goodness!

One of the Lego Chima

This part was HILARIOUS! 

This little toy thing was something that she LOVED! At one point two much older kids (7-8 yrs old) came by to play. she was not having it so she screamed at the top of her longs and pushed the boys away! The boys looked at each other and  left. 

Really? She's one guys! Aye aye aye.

She also made a friend. The only kid she would let play on her controls. They formed an instant bond. So cute. 

Jaxon built a winning Lego racer! This was he winning car. His car was faster than about 6 others and he won this crown. He was beyond excited!

After Legoland we went back to the water park for about an hour. Brian, Reese & I were exhausted, but Jaxon was not taking no for an answer. We were hoping Reese would fall asleep so then one of us would have to sit with her while the other ran around with Jaxon, but no such luck. 

She feel asleep about 3 seconds after walking out of the Legoland gates. Of course. 

I can't say this enough, but we have had a GREAT time! 

:)