poolside vacation

Last week we were in California, to see Adam & Noelle and their six kids.  The trip there was pretty awful - Kyalo did not sleep much, and spent most of the flight climbing all over me.  I was totally worn out by the time we got there, and ready for some pretty chill time by the pool.  Which doesn't really happen when you have to keep an eye out for the 16 month old.  Still, I was able to rest and recover, thanks, mostly to Dexter and his willingness to give me breaks.

I was in California last year, but without Dexter who had to stay behind in Kenya. It was great to be there with him this time, especially since the only other time he'd been in California it was "June Gloom" the entire time we were there and we spent our days on the beach bundled up.  This year, California weather came through, and we spent most of the time at the pool.  There were many talks and plans about "field trips" to wineries or museums, but then I think we realized that seven kids might make that a little challenging, so we stuck close to the pool.  No one complained.

We also had a friend of Noelle's come to their house to take family photos. . .the whole point was to get a big group shot of the whole family, but my mom & I were talking today and we realize we didn't even do that! Whoops!!! Next year . . .

Kyalo adored being with his big cousins who were such good playmates for him. Caroline is non-stop activity and kept him thoroughly entertained.  And Abby became his first official babysitter, staying with him (and the others) so the six adults could go for dinner.

Kyalo is still a huge fan of pushing things, and pushing  people is way more fun than anything.  He spent a lot of time pushing his cousins around in this cart.

 Jack and Vivienne

 Vera - the newest member, 6 1/2 months

 Abby & Kyalo

 cousins!!

 Vivienne

Jack

I didn't get a shot of Adam and Noelle, either.  The photographer had her own camera so these photos were the ones I could catch on the side. Maybe in a few weeks I can post some of hers.

The rooms we had at the hotel had a little patio, and Dexter, Kyalo & I were standing outside one day. I thought the light was nice and snapped some photos...

 I love this photo a lot.  Kyalo's always pointing at something.

It was another whirl-wind trip, filled with lots of good meals (hello, Lobster flown in from MA!, and Adam's home made, home ground hamburgers), good conversations, and lots of laughter. 

I can't wait til we're all together again!