Way back around Memorial Day we started our summer off with a bang by heading to California to visit my parents in Modesto and Ephraim's brother and sister-in-law in Prunedale. (Another drive-24-hours-straight vacation brought to you by our marathon driver, Ephraim. I think he broke a new record by only stopping to sleep for 15 minutes in Wyoming)
 |
| We loved seeing the giant sequoias at Calaveras Big Tree State Park |
 |
| We had no idea we'd be in 40 degree weather in June! Chilly but beautiful. |
 |
| A Dedicated Dad |
Next stop was Aunt Paula and Uncle Phillip's. They're caretakers at a farm so the boys were delighted to see and help with all the animals. Max loved riding the pony Licorice and hiking with the donkey (we forget his name).
 |
| Griffin playing with cousins. |
 |
| After our hike. |
The boys loved the Monterey Bay Aquarium especially the touch tank and jelly fish.
Our next stop was the beach to explore the tidepools and play in the sand. The boys were fascinated with the anemones, crabs and fish.
Next stop was the beautiful Oakland Temple visitor center. Gorgeous views of the bay!
We headed to San Francisco where we feasted on sourdough with havarti and Ghiradelli chocolate.
 |
| Delighted sourdough bread eater. |
 |
| Mom and Dad on the wharf |
 |
| The boys at a Giants game. |
We spent our last day in California at Yosemite. I felt like I was walking around in a postcard the whole time. Definitely a must-see national park.
We stopped in Utah on our way back and were able to see more family and friends.
 |
| Hiking in Salt Lake City with Uncle Jake. |
We were lucky enough to be in town for our new cute nephew Ryan's baby blessing and for my grandparent's 65th Wedding Anniversary. It was so nice to get to celebrate with them.
 |
| Two wonderful people! We love you! |
