Going Back to Cali

Ib and I decided to take a 4-day weekend road trip to Santa Cruz for Memorial Day. Not that we need an excuse to go to SC, but we were really anxious to finally meet Jameson and hang out with the rest of the Lettner family, as well. So we packed our bags, loaded up the puppies and hit the road. Instead of leaving in the middle of the night, like we usually do for the 14-hour trek, we left right after work and stayed in a hotel in Indio, CA.

Saturday morning, we got up and continued on our drive. Once we hit SC, we took the puppies to run on the beach and tire them out before invading the Lettner residence. We set up their crate, which was fascinating to Analise. She was determined to sit in it. Then she wanted to sit in it with the dogs. She insisted that we "lock" the door, too. Eventually, she even brought out her blanket and tried to lay down in it for a nap. What a funny girl! Nini had run to the grocery store just before we arrived, and this is the scene she came home to. She kept reassuring us all weekend that we're going to be great parents...we just might need a bigger crate!

Uncle Ib and Jameson spent some quality floor-time, bonding. What a couple of cuties!

Monday morning Analise and Uncle Ib were cutting a rug in the living room. She loves to dance!

After a delicious breakfast at the Red Apple Cafe, we went to pick strawberries at Gizdich Ranch in Watsonville. Analise took a single bite out of each berry before putting it in the bucket. She just wanted to make sure they were sweet and ripe.

Jameson kept a watchful eye on the dogs. Though he wasn't real keen on Vinnie's puppy-kisses, he was a champ! Cooper's behavior was especially impressive. His patience (and anxiety) around kids is improving, and he only tried to chase Littles once (or twice).

The road was long and our visit was short, but we had a great time! Thank you Markus, Nini, Analise, Jameson and Littles for your hospitality. We love you all and can't wait until we see you again!