Saturday, July 11, 2015

CA Vacation Summer 2015

We recently spent a wonderful week in sunny southern California.  We returned to our favorite condominium complex where we've vacationed several times in past years.  It's on the beach so of course that makes playing in the sand and waves convenient.  There's a huge pool when we get tired of the beach (or just don't want to get sandy).  And everyone loves the hot tub after a long day at the theme park (this year it was Lego Land - 3 days!).  Angela loved this particular condo unit, especially falling asleep each night with the sound of crashing waves lulling her to sleep each night!

View from the condo balcony... I can almost hear the waves
Beach view from condo looking into tropical courtyard
Condo pool area with beach in background on far left
We loved or lodging accommodations and amenities, but we didn't spend much time inside.  We had fun in the sunny (but not hot) California summer weather.  Beach, pool and three days at Lego Land kept us busy.

Luke wasted no time getting sandy at the beach... this was about 20 minutes after we arrived
Yep... soak it in... total cuteness
Maddie catches a wave on her boogie board
Luke finds the perfect place for a sand castle
Arriving at Lego Land on Luke's birthday
Maddie pilots her Lego plane
If Luke drives a real car like he did this Lego car.. we're in big trouble
Big sister waits in line with little brother
The wait is over... weeeee!
Maddie in Lego Mini Land... notice Cafe Du Monde and the French Market in the background
Kids and Mom ride the Bionicle Blaster
It's not the most exciting ride, but the line was short
Beetle Bounce always gets a smile, unless you're Angela in which case you cry
Mom and Maddie waiting for Dragon Coaster
Some say people in California are so fake... I couldn't agree more!
Luke performs the one-hand wave while still controlling our helicopter
These horses are very well trained
Not to be outdone, Maddie shows her horse riding abilities
We had to get a photo with Emmet... Everything is awesome!
The sign is good advice for plastic and real sharks
Fun in the sun and a new hat too
Maddie models her new Unikitty nightgown
While on vacation, we celebrated Luke's 5th birthday.  He had a party with friends a few weeks before his actual birthday (see blog post here), but of course we had a celebration on his actual birthday.  After a day at Lego Land, Mom and Maddie quickly set up the party while Dad and Luke took "the long way" back to the condo after parking the car (and Dad distracted him for few extra minutes).  Luke's eyes lit up when he walked in and saw the presents, balloons and cake on the kitchen table.

Dad, kids and Minion eagerly await blowing out candles
Luke excitedly opens a birthday gift
Of course... Legos for your birthday after a day at Lego Land
Luke gets so excited when opening his gifts... I love his enthusiasm
Jake's Never Sea Mini Sub is a big hit
The fist of several hours playing with Legos... not sure who loves this more, Dad or Luke?