California in September

Collin and I were lucky enough to go visit my family in California for a week in September. Michael had the ICMA conference in Seattle. Originally we thought I would go with him and leave Collin in CA with my family. But logistically that was getting too crazy and expensive and exhausting for being 30/31 weeks pregnant. So then Collin and I were just going to stay home. But then Southwest had an amazing deal on tickets- $55 each way. I had enough points and Collin was still free and we felt like we couldn't let the opportunity pass.

We started off the trip with a bang- Collin threw up within a few minutes of my mom picking us up from LAX. When we left Texas he was acting totally fine. But then he slept on the plane which was really odd and was feeling a little warm and acting clingy and whiny. So that was a nice, stinky start to our trip. Made for some good memories cleaning everything up with my mom in a fast food parking lot. I must say I was really surprised at how well I handled myself during the whole ordeal and wasn't gagging and throwing up too. A little mommy blessing! So the first couple days were pretty low key but thankfully no one else got sick! Another blessing!

Some highlights from the trip once Collin was feeling better!

Playing in the backyard! How I can't wait to have a backyard of our own!

Cousin Elle's soccer game

The General Women's Conference with the girl's in the family. Lindsay was still on her trip with Shaun so she didn't get to join us. But it was so fun to have Madi there who had just turned 8. We went to Olas for dinner (always have to get my fix while I am in town) and then enjoyed so many chocolate desserts after the broadcast. I left Collin in the care of my Dad, with some help from Spencer (thanks Spencer!). When we got home he was in bed, and my dad said he ate 2 (!!!) hot dogs for dinner. My dad also introduced him to pickles, which he loves and now has to have almost everyday for lunch. Coincidentally, he also realized his love for mustard (and has almost every day now) after having lunch with Anie and Calvin on this trip.

Handsome boy on Sunday!

Boppi's birthday! Realized that this was the second year in a row we got to celebrate with her. Last year we were all in Utah/Wyoming for Grandma's funeral.

We rode a trolley with Chloe and Bryan. This little Daniel Tiger fan was so excited! 4 months later and he still talks about it.

Bumping bellies with Anie! So excited for Derrick to have a cousin just a few months younger then him. He and James will be the best little buds!

Playing at Spencer and Anie's. He was loving the trike and helmet.

Playing with Miso, my parent's cat

Fun on the plane on the way home. We got a row to ourselves. Yippee! Collin had a blast playing with our empty cups and straws. He kept saying he was playing the drums with them.

It was a great trip, although a little exhausting. But I am so glad it worked out for us to go and that we were able to take advantage of Collin's free flying status one last time.