West Coast Baby!

Isla and I have been roaming the west coast this summer. In July we spent 5 days in Santa Cruz with my dear friend Shannon (Auntie Shanni) and then in August we went to Santa Barbara with Gretchen, Charlotte, Marisela and Ethan for a few days. We took the car for both trips and Isla was a champ! I had a blast driving along the coast - we really live in the most beautiful state! Santa Cruz was extra special because Shannon and I went to Santa Cruz when we were little. It brought back so many happy memories and it was wonderful to be back in northern CA with cool foggy mornings and emerald green forests. (I think a little part of my soul permanently resides on a foggy beach). Some of the highlights of the trip include watching a pod of dolphins leap out of the water only 50 feet from the shore, visiting with special high school/theatre friends Nan and Katy, visiting Ano Nuevo state beach to see the elephant seals, and having an early birthday celebration for Auntie Shanni.Isla cuddles with Auntie Shanni and Millie.

THE WHALE!!!

When you don't have a hat, improvise with pink pants! (We improvised with these in Santa Barbara too when Ethan got cold and needed some pants.)

Shannon, Nan, and Katy on the Pier

Daddy (Andrew) was never far from our hearts!
In Santa Barbara we stayed with a family Gretchen used to Nanny for. They were so welcoming - putting up with us, three babies and my crazy diet. We had a wonderful time relaxing at there beautiful home, visiting a baby swimming pool at their club, and having a beach picnic.

Next week we are going to the Puget Sound to visit Andrew's dad, stepmom, stepsister and her boys. We are so excited to introduce Isla to her Grandma Teddy, Aunt Nell, and cousins! (Also, if wildfires break out in Whidbey Island a few weeks after we leave we will confirm that Isla does in fact have supernatural latent pyro powers.)