A Picture Story About Gamma's Easter Visit

 

Gamma thought she wasn't a beach babe...until...

we gave her the beach- packed with her sweet son, grandchildren, daughter and a little shade.  The sun and peaceful waves certainly didn't hurt.  Eventually I wanted to whisk her off to visit the Farmer's Market, where I just knew we would find all kinds of adventures staring us in the face, literally.

Oooh, what is this...

...sea urchin.  Yes, she talked me into trying it too!  Hmmm,,,it tastes like ocean :-)

It was time for a little rest, and some behind the counter shopping.  With a some relaxation under her belt and her new bling around her neck, she was ready for more fun!  

Here in OB, we are all friends.  Everyone speaks to each other, behaving as if they have know each other for years.  She took every opportunity to exercise that freedom...

...while enjoying the hand painted artwork at the hostile too.

On our way to the zoo the next day, we took the best detour EVER, to the Before I die... wall.  Before she dies, she desires to be happy with all of her family, oh and bungee jump too!  Wahooo!

Breathe in. Breathe out.  The precious moments while observing my mother-in-law communing with the birds  at the San Diego Zoo were priceless, and will last me a lifetime. 

Rowan and Kierce received so much love during this super fun visit!

...and Merrick found some extra love too, while waiting for a table at the famous OB Noodle House.  This kid is forever making new friends of all ages, he actually prefers adults.  It's so fun to watch him captivate just about anyone.  He certainly didn't give up a tickle this easy for the ultimate tickler- Gamma. 

Now this was the place Colleen had been just dying to experience.  These cuties dove right into some sake after watching a celebratory, birthday sake chugging contest.

This was one of the best meals out I have ever enjoyed.  Thank you Mom for getting us there to try some new and exciting dishes!

Although, we couldn't let Gamma leave without trying a GIANT pizza!

...or a staring contest at the famous Phil's BBQ,

with a side of uber yummy onion rings, and sloppy ribs.  Don't forget the bib!

While Gamma rested on Easter Eve, we enjoyed some egg coloring with our dear sweet Abigail,

featuring all natural food dye, and Crayola creativity.

On Easter Sunday, the kids enjoyed an egg hunt and, see the paper strips in Kierce's hand?  ...scavenger hunt too!

After church, we thoroughly enjoyed a beautiful afternoon at my brother and sister-in-law's homestead.   As you can see, Rowan was not in any mood for a picture, but check out the photo below. 

She does indulge me from time to time, and I feel so blessed when she does.

It was really difficult to say goodbye to this gem, but I find peace in knowing that no amount of distance could ever unsync our hearts.