San Diego Field Trip

Paxton's forth grade class trip this year was an exploration of all things ocean in San Diego. I volunteered to go along as a chaperone and so joined the 32 kids and a dozen or so adults last week on a very memorable adventure.

We got on the bus on Wednesday morning and arrived in San Diego in time for supper at Seaport Village. It was the first time seeing the ocean for some of the kids. The next morning we visited the beach briefly (with strict orders not to get wet!) and then spent most of the rest of the day at Sea World. The kids were all looking forward to the roller coasters and souvenirs, but we had instructions to see some specific exhibits and shows too. This was supposed to be an educational trip after all!

There's lots to see at Sea World and I think we saw most of it. Including the Orca show.

Paxton in the shark tube.

Paxton got up the nerve to ride one of the coasters too, so he was pretty proud of that.

After Sea World we all got on a fishing boat for a short ride out to the inlet of San Diego bay and back. The biologist on board had the kids help pull up a net and then explained some of the critters that they caught. She also had some specimens in live tanks that they could look at and feel and once we got out to the ocean we got a chance to see a grey whale come up for breath a few times.

After the boat ride we had pizza and a bonfire and then 32 kids and most of the adults were very ready for bed.

On Friday we ate breakfast in the park in La Jolla and walked down to Seal Beach. We learned that sea lions can walk on their flippers, but seals just flop around on their bellies. Most of the seals on this beach were sleeping.

The last stop of the trip was to the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. Fascinating.

We returned home Friday night and as I was tucking an exhausted little boy into bed Paxton said, "Thanks for going on my trip with me Daddy."

You're welcome buddy.

Ready for Visitors

We're settling in to the house, starting to think about what to do with the landscaping. Seems that the answer for most around here is, "Nothing."

We planted a few ocatillo anyway, and moved some rocks around in front. Definitely not finished yet. The back yard is to be determined...

We're thinking that we may see a few more visitors here in Southern AZ than we did in Illinois. True so far.

A & J came to visit even before we were moved in to the house, then Andrea's brother and his family were in the area in January so they stopped by for supper.

Andrea's aunt and uncle came to visit in February. First use of the RV pad!

Next came Andrea's mom and dad for a few days, and then my folks brought their RV down and stayed for the week before convention. Very special.

We're excited to see more of you. Give us a call!

But it's a dry heat...

First 100 degree day of the year on Sunday, May 6th.

Kid Pics

I was back in Illinois last week and was reminded by a dear friend that I hadn't updated my blog in a while. "I'd like to see some pictures of your kids!" she exclaimed. My apologies. Here's a few recent ones.

Paxton turned 10 in January

And obviously didn't get a hair cut until well into February. At the Tucson Gem Show.

Kenrick took his first flying lesson in February.

Anya excels at building cozy places to read.

Anthony and I explored some new trails in March.

And Kenrick and I managed to keep our bikes out of the cactus in April.

It's been a busy first half of the year.