The Finale

Now, for the finale of our splendid vacation. We were going to go home on Sunday, which happened to be Mother's day, and Ava's birthday. On Saturday, we were going to visit Mike's cousin who lives about 1 hour closer to home. I started thinking about just leaving Saturday night, and driving through the night to be home for Mother's day and Ava's birthday. (the thought of spending both celebratory days all day in the car did not sound fun)

So, we packed up, and went to visit family, and was on the road by about 5:30p.m. I am thinking, this will be good...we can be home by about 2:00-2:30 depending on how many stops we have to make.

Then, the terrible happened. While driving through the narrows between Mesquite, and St. George flashing lights behind us appeared. We were not really sure what we were doing wrong. Mike was definitely not speeding, as it was dark and the canyon is quite swervy. As officer Robinson, of the Arizona Highway Patrol comes to the car, he asked us where we were headed, which we told him we were on our way home from Disneyland, and proceeded to ask for Mike's license, registration, and insurance. (I am frantically looking for the insurance, and am unable to find it... Double Trouble!) He then asked us if we knew why he pulled us over.....I hate that question. Don't you think if we knew WHY you were pulling us over, we would NOT have done it!

He explained that he had been following us, and had watched Mike cross over the white line 4-5 times! Ok, I admit, I did hear the bumps as we crossed the line ONCE....not 4-5 times. He told Mike to be honest, he needed to check him out. (I was going to tell him to go straight to the breathalyzer, because Mike lacks great balance and coordination anyway) He said he would go back to his car, check a few things out, and come back. This could really ruin a fabulous vacation.

An answer to a prayer? Not sure, but this kind officer was swayed by our family vacation, and the guilt of ruining it...maybe....or maybe he was just doing his job (which I appreciate), and thought my hubby was a drunk driver. For whatever the reason, we escaped with only a warning, and advised to stay within our own lane. Thank you officer Robinson...I wish you and your family a great year!!!

The Beach

The kids loved the beaches in California. This technically was the first time they had ever seen the ocean. When we went to Disneyland a couple of years ago, it was in February, and too cold for the beach, so we took them just to see it and look at sea shells. It was dusk, and got dark shortly after we arrived. This year, it was their second favorite thing. In fact, we had a free day with nothing planned, and we went over all of the options including the zoo, Sea World, Lego Land, Knotts Berry Farms, and other fun places in the brochures....they chose another day at the Beach! So we spent a day at Huntington beach and a day at Newport beach. (I think their decision had something to do with their dad buying them boogie boards at target while we were there) They loved them! Jordan and Lexi

Mike, Jordan, Lexi, and Ava

Lexi

Mike and Ava

I loved all of the old houses that were right on the beach at Newport.

The Stratosphere

I must back up a bit, now that the kids in school and "catch up" on the busy Summer we have just had. On our way to Disneyland, we stayed in Las Vegas at the Stratosphere. The kids love to stay there because they get to ride the elevator clear to the top, and look out over the entire city.Jordan and Lexi on top of the Stratosphere...

All of us inside the stratosphere looking out...

Lexi took this picture of us

The kids posing right out front of the Stratosphere

We only stayed one night there, and then we were off to Disneyland. The kids were so excited in anticipation, that I think next time we will be driving through the night (while they sleep).