I left my heart in California, part 1.

I was born and raised in Southern California, just about 3 minutes from my grandparents, who live in Orange. I don't get to see them nearly often enough, so they were our first stop. My grammy is a very special lady. She can do just about anything, and whether she's baking a cake, or sewing doll clothes for her great grandchildren, or decorating her gorgeous home, it turns out top notch. Plus, she has a knack for making everyone feel extra special (see here). I had such a nice time visiting with her. Summer evenings on her back porch, with my grampy's favorite jazz music playing in the background are my favorite.

I love that my kids pull the same toys from her closet to play with that I did as a child. That train must be at least 35 years old. 

Elliot is going through a super hero phase.

Our next stop was my brother, Matt's, house where we stayed for a couple of days and got to meet this sweet guy. Dane is the newest cousin and he did not disappoint. He is only slightly adored. :)

I think Matthew and Katie's house is Mabel and Oliver's version of heaven. I hardly see them when we are there. There is always a fresh breeze blowing through the yard, and there are bikes to ride and hills to explore and some of their very favorite cousins.

Elliot got his fill of baseball with Max, and Stella and Sadie are two peas in a pod, what can I say.

Thank you for having us, Parkers!