Labor Day in San Diego

What fun! For the last summer holiday the whole family went to California to visit more family.

Amanda brought weird foods and souvenirs back from Russia.

Andy couldn't figure out how to make a breakfast taco. Hint: don't use whipped cream and fruit topping. Those are for waffles.

Grandpa showed his new plane to me and Ben. Ben got to go for a ride!

Sea World! Still a fun place to go, even on a crowded holiday weekend.

They had cats that did tricks!!! CATS!!



Ben drove the rented Lincoln Town Car.


Buffet dinner! I realize these pictures are not that great, but I was too busy eating to bother moving around for better composition.

Then we went to the beach at Torrey Pines. I haven't been in the ocean in a long time. We saw a pod of wild dolphins!

And then back home :-) in time for school on Tuesday. We had kept Jem at the kennel recommended by our friends, Beds n' Biscuits. They were sooooo much better than the last place we took her. Instead of keeping her locked up all day they have indoor and outdoor play yards where she can run around with dogs all day - her favorite past time. They're very polite and accommodating and they do cute things that are totally cheesy, but I love anyway. Like sending her home with homemade biscuits and a report card.

It says "We enjoyed getting to know Jem! She did great in the play yard and met lots of new beagle pals! She will want lots of rest and treats when she first gets home (she told us to make sure to mention the treats) :-) We look forward to her next visit."

I totally love that. We already have a reservation for Thanksgiving. Indeed, she was very tired and slept for most of the next two days. Like they say, a tired puppy is a happy puppy.