Friends and family

While our trip was mainly due to a hockey tournament,

It really was all about this...

Oh how we've missed our friends and family in California.

The foxy biotch, Heather.

My two favorite gals, Ruby and Jules.

Crazy Uncle Paul

Q-man and Logan.

The betrothed. Lukas and Chloe.

Our Captain, Uncle Pete

Logan, Chloe, Emily and Paige

Friends since birth.

Friends through birth...

It seems like yesterday when we were planning their first birthday parties...

over Ruby burgers and fries...

No one could ask for better friends!

Or family!

(Yes, that includes Daper Dex)

We love you all so much and are so thankful that we were able to spend such precious

 (albeit short) time with you all.  

Disneyland

And since no trip to So Cal would be complete without a trip to Disneyland...

We went.

My budget photo op from California Screamin'

And Tower of Terror...

(you know after spending $500. just to get in to DL, I wasn't about to shell out any more cash than necessary)

Our visit was perfect timing because the Haunted Mansion was transformed into The Nightmare Before Christmas.  Which, personally, is my most favorite ride.

Then we took a turn on Splash Mountain...

Yeah, it's all fun and games until someone gets wet!

Our favorite photo spot...

The new and improved Star Tours

(my second favorite ride!)

A spin on the tea cups...

literally.

Soaring over Tomorrowland on a rocket.

And paying respects to Mr. Disney.

Later in the day, Heather brought Lukas and Quentin, 

so the fun continued into the night!

Just like old times!

Calico Ghost Town

On our way home, we took a quick detour to the Calico Ghost Town.  I was born not too far from here.  Most of my family has visited here at one time or another.   Last time I was here I was about Logan's age.

Even though Logan was a bit disappointed there were no real ghosts,

it was pretty cool!

Vegas Baby!

Two weeks ago we flew off to Vegas, by way of California for a Roller Hockey tournament.   We decided to extend our trip to include a visit to So Cal.  

After flying into LAX, we had a quick visit with Grammy Dee before taking off for Vegas. 

Our journey included a stop in Baker to see the tallest thermometer in the the world. 

(And Del Taco)

As soon as we arrived, Craig suited up to play his heart out.

The kids were super excited to see cousin Trevor, who came to watch Uncle Craig.

And a couple more handsome men came to watch. 

Grandpa Keith and Grandma Kathy, Taylor and Aunt Debra also came in to watch.

Craig did an excellent job, even scoring several points for his team, helping them make the finals.

Unfortunately they didn't win...but there were still plenty of smiles,

because we were with family!

Back at our hotel we found plenty of fun to keep us busy.

Chloe entertained everyone with a personal flute concert.

And the pool is always a good idea in Vegas!

After some good bye hugs to Taylor and Debra,

We headed over to Brett and Lisa's for more family fun.

We sure love our Vegas family!!