Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Sunny California

We recently returned from a trip to California. We went down for an interview Tommy had in Sacramento. We took advantage of the opportunity to head down to LA where my Aunt and Uncle live. We had a great time hanging out at their house, going to the zoo, and being surrounded by the holiday buzz. Our only regret was (and it was a big one) that we didn't ever eat at an In-n-out Burger. We just kept missing them. I guess now, if not for any other reason, we have an excuse to return. Although it wasn't warm by any means, it was dry with blue sky and by the time we got home we were convinced that we're ready for some sunnier weather. However, I know as soon as summer comes again, I will be reminded of why I don't ever want to leave Oregon.
My mom flew in right before we were leaving so we got to have lunch with her. It only made us wish we'd had more time.
This one is actually no relation to my family (as far as I know), but we had a blast watching her.
The flamingos were beautiful, but the smell was disgusting.
Jessie's favorite part was riding the pony. She is still talking about it.
This is the view of my Aunt's house in LA. This picture certainly doesn't do it justice.
It took Jess a while to figure out that this girl was not real.

My Aunt Vivien with Tegan.

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Blue Elmo

The time has arrived when Jessie has found that special something that she just cannot live without. I kept waiting, wondering what it would be; a pacifier, blanket, maybe an old cell phone. Then in a day's time she decided it was like her world was not complete without her blue Elmo. At first Tom and I tried to explain that it was actually cookie monster, but to no avail she is 100% convinced this is Elmo. We have decided to make peace with it. Now instead of catching Jessie in the act of exploring in the cupboards, throwing beads all over the floor or writing on something she shouldn't be, I find her tucking Elmo in, reading him a story, feeding and burping him, and even giving him chocolate chip cookies (he"s got the chocolate around his mouth to prove it). I'd say all in all that blue Elmo has been a positive addition to our family. Now, my daughter shirtless in 2 of the 4 photos, that's a whole seperate blog.