We have created a lovely tradition in our family of spending a great week in California at least once a year. It seems like we have fallen into a pattern of doing the same things every time we visit. But we have such a good time, why change it, right?
Before we headed to Lake Arrowhead, we went to the Orange County Swap Meet. Knockoff designer sunglasses, watches, and purses is always a good time.
Sunday, we had a great day going to church with John, Sondra, and Joel.
On Monday, we were in Lake Arrowhead. I love this Mountain lake with the cool, crisp breeze and pine trees; the cold water, and sandy little beach. It’s incredibly therapeutic. I would never be able to completely relax like I’m can in Arrowhead if there wasn’t wakeboarding to be had. This year, some good friends came with us which made it even better. 
Emma accidentally hit Abigail with an oar. We thought about seeing if she need a stitch, but decided a band aid would suffice.
The kids were playing red light/green light. They kept themselves super happy. 
Abigail kept collecting rocks, and calling them her seashells. 
Emma and Tom and Krista’s Abby were best friends while we were there. She made Abby a cake for her 5th birthday which we celebrated on Wednesday.
Gabriel had fun on the beach and the kayak. He was a little timid to get in the water because it was so cold. 
Wakeboarding was especially nice this trip because we brought a borrowed wakeboard with us (Thank you so much Johnny!!!)
Mark and I tried to do 360’s with no luck. (we were able to get around on the water, but not in the air)
It was fun to watch our friends wakeboard.
Tommy Marshall (I love this picture)
Kim Marshall 
Krista Jones
Friday, Mark had to work so I took the kids to Knotts Berry Farm. It was a great day to go. The weather was overcast and cool. The lines were not bad either.
Emma and I had a little mother-daughter date that evening and we went back to ride some of the bigger roller coasters. (Something I’ve been waiting for since she was born) She is just barely 48” and I had her wear some big wedge sandals just in case they gave us a hard time. Emma was so fun to be with, she even rode Ghostrider with me, which is pretty darn scary. I’m such a proud Momma. 
In between swimming and playing with Grandpa and Grandma, We squeezed in a quick trip to the beach. It was really cold and windy, but the kids had a lot of fun regardless. 
awww. for cute.
It was so windy, Mark could play Frisbee with himself. 
A blessing from this trip was being able to spend time with Sondra. We all love her so much. Emma has such a special bond with her and Abigail wanted to be with her all the time. Gabe loves to get hugs and kisses from her. It was a gift to spend the past week snuggling in her bed and showing her the great caterpillars we caught.
I love that this has become a tradition for us. It’s a special time.
