A week of firsts

Cousins at Quail Gardens.

My sister Jenny and her family have been here visiting from Nashville for the past 6 days.

I could write a blog entry about what a great time we're having, how wonderful it is to be together, all the fun stuff we've done, how much I miss her and love her sweet family, etc. etc. etc.

But I recently did that, and to do it again so soon would just be nauseating, wouldn't it?  Blah blah blah, I love my sisters.

So instead, I will mention a few "firsts" that have happened over this past week...

FIRST TIME 10 month old Jackson has been to our house.
The cousins have had a great time playing together and Sam loves taking care of the babies.  I think Jackson's favorite part of his time at our home has been Bailey the dog (much to the chagrin of his anti-dog parents).

FIRST TIME attending a local event in Cardiff. We went to Cardiff-by-the-Sea's 100th birthday celebration parade on July 2nd.  Bands, beach cruisers, dogs, yoga clubs, local surf hero (Rob Machado).  It was cute, and it was totally Cardiff.

Can you guess which one is the surf hero?

FIRST TIME hiking at Torrey Pines.  Wow, wow, wow.  What took us so long to discover this place?!? We will all try to forget about the part where a snake slithered across Jenny's flip-flop wearing foot. Ewwwww. Instead we will remember the AMAZING views and mellow kid-friendly 2/3 mile trail loop.  I can almost guarantee you that if you come to visit we will take you here.

FIRST time Jackson was dressed up like this while visiting our house.  But certainly not the last. I told you I'd post this picture John!

FIRST TIME I have actually been sore the next day from body boarding.  My husband is so proud.  We spent the 4th of July at the beach...with the rest of San Diego County. It has been a long time since I have experienced such a "friendly" ocean; great water temperature, small waves, and plenty of people playing in the surf (which always makes me feel safer because the odds of a shark getting ME have to decrease with so many people in the water, right?).  My husband is not proud of this last comment.

John had to head back to Nashville today, but we get Jenny and Jackson for two more days.  Then, on Thursday, will be Jenny's FIRST TIME flying alone with her kiddo.  Don't worry Jen, you will do great, and it will be totally worth it for an extra two days together!