Journeying

Hubby Tony and I have just returned from another visit to California to see the kids and grandkids.

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Two thirds of the visit was with Son Tony and his family in Modesto in the Central Valley. Granddaughter Gee is a two-year old toddler and Granddaughter Evee an infant. Their ability to get things done is limited, so we helped out where we could-cooking, washing dishes, and general straightening. The two generations of Tonys worked together to hang a television and cabinets in the family room. I did yard work, trimming bushes and pulling weeds and an aggressive landscape vine that was growing up surfaces and across the grass. 

The afternoon temperatures were high (sometimes pushing 100 degrees), but in the morning it was pleasant to be outside. Tony and I walked-to the grocery store, a coffee shop, and restaurants for lunch. One day we drove to the city's farmers market. Another day we ventured to a state park and hiked in redwood groves.

Before and after Modesto we spent time in the San Jose area with Son Brian's household. Tony and I were able to do some walking adventures both by ourselves and with Grandson Jay. The second weekend we went on a field trip with the entire family. Grandsons Dee and Ell are three, and have definite opinions about what they do and don't want to do. With the addition of Grandma and Grandpa the adult/child ratio was just right.

To make the whole trip even more memorable, Son Donald also flew out for a couple of days. For the first time since the end of 2019 all of the family was able to be together. Donald spent time at both of his brother's houses, and one morning the boys went out together for an adventure and lunch.

The getting together with the family part was wonderful. The getting home part left a lot to be desired. (To be continued...) 

Five years ago today: Paw-lease