Weeeeee're baack! And there is a lot of catching up to do!
The Blizzard of 2010 has definitely taken a toll on the
metropolitan DC area and Mike and I were lucky enough to miss most of the torture. Although we were across country enjoying the warm weather, I still felt anxious about us not being at home for the 'big storm'. First, I missed Lily like crazy and she was on my mind 24/7. And to be a homeowner comes with many blessings, but also worries that a snow storm of this stature could do serious damage!My biggest worry was coming home last night to flood in our house because of frozen pipes, too much snow we couldn't even get through the door, and yes morbidly I thought our cats could have died because of starvation and we would find them frozen. Luckily we did not experience any of that!!
Yay, and instead we came home to a tired but relieved baby girl who was excited to be back at home in her own bed, two cats(still alive :) ), and two parking spots along with our walkway that had been shoveled by my wonderful brother, father, and in-laws. Oh, and no flood! A great ending to a great trip!!!
Mike and I were so lucky to have this get-a-way, and I have to thank my parents and in-laws for making this happen. We are so lucky to have them locally and it has really helped when Mike and I want to maintain our social life. PLUS, grandparents get special time with their Lily!!! It makes a trip easier when you don't have to worry about who your child is with and whether she is
ok. I KNEW Lily was
ok, and that she was having the time of her life!
While Lily was having the time of her life, Mike and I were too. Kara and Mike
McDermott, our great friends who moved away to San Diego, were so wonderful not only as hostess' but it was no surprise that we all had a GREAT time! Mike took full advantage of being on vacation and enjoyed a cocktail, or two, each and every day! I, myself, didn't mind a drink either, but Kara and I were certain we needed a detox for at least one night! Mike M. introduced us to the making of
felafel's while Mike P. introduced making Martinis (extra dirty). It was a super experience all around. We also stayed active while there as we hiked Torrey Pines and Iron Mountains. Both although in completely different areas displayed spectacular views of San Diego, the beach side, and mountain side....one of the many splendors of California. We also enjoyed bike rides into La
Jolla and down the boardwalk. Biking is such a 'cool' thing to do in San Diego, and although it took a little getting used to, cars on the road bow to the bikers. It was definitely weird riding along with traffic! Kara and I also had a nice time shopping. We caught some great deals at Roxy, and also up a down
Garnett St (main street in Pacific Beach) were some great boutiques with super cheap stuff!
So there was drinking, trying to stay active, site seeing, shopping, and.....of course, how could I forget, EATING. Mike M. is known to be quite good in the kitchen and he again proved his status. It was nice to know we didn't have to eat out every night while there. It was an added plus to not have to spend the money, but also another great way to spend quality time with friends. Steak one night, crab legs another,
felafel's and more, Kara and I even made a
uber good salad one night. Although it seemed as though we were eating and drinking most of the time, it was all worth it!
Another special aspect of our trip was that I got to see my great friend Kate
Uhle. She is an original to San Diego, meaning one of the first of our friends to move out there. It was so great to see her considering it has been 2 1/2 years since I last saw her. One night she took us all out in Ocean Beach, where she lives now. She also introduced us to some stellar fish tacos. It is so nice to see on old friend and know that nothing has changed even though our visits are very seldom. It is a sure sign of a real friend when you know you can jump right back to where you left off. Kara, Kate, and I had a great time
reminiscing of high school and catching up with our real grown-up lives now.
Overall, our trip to San Diego was nothing but fun, and it is no surprise to me that we would like to go back. We have agreed our next trip out there will be to
Napa Valley, where Kara and Mike will meet up with us. Although it is nice to have friends on the west coast to visit, I still miss my friend Kara....our chats, our walks, our laughs, etc. I can't help but say that I want her back on the east, but I am so happy that her and Mike have found such a wonderful place to be. They are very happy
newlywed couple and it is
always a breath of fresh air to spend time with them. Thank you Mike and Kara!!! We love you very much!
I have decided that I need to get better at doing interactive things with Lily, and art, of course, is one of them. I actually have started reading 'What to Expect: Toddler Years' and it is amazing how spot on the explanations are for a 14mos old in correlation to Lily. I have become most concerned with discipline which is when I turned to the book, and there I found that it is totally acceptable and appropriate for a toddler to begin art. Today's attempt was a success only because I sort of forced it for some birthday thank you cards I wanted :) but I could definitely tell that she was interested. I will continue to work with the supplies I recently purchased and see what masterpiece will come of it all!
