The Timmerman Family: Our Vacation

Thanks to the invite of some wonderful friends, our family went on vacation.

A simple statement, a simple thing: vacation.

The truth is, we have never taken a family vacation. I guess the last time we did was our honeymoon (almost 13 years ago)... and that was before the boys were born. The only time Austin has ever been out of the state of Missouri was a trip to Cahokia Mounds 15 minutes from St Louis, and when we crossed the state line into Kansas to pick up Randy's truck.

So our trip was kind of a big deal to us! Our friends, Doug and Christina had told us we were welcome to come and stay with them, so we took them up on it! They have 3 boys that are very close in age to ours, and we only see them when they make it back to Missouri, so it was great to get to spend time with their family.

We flew out there, and I think everyone should have the experience of taking a child on their first airplane ride...it was so much fun to see their excitement! After layovers going there and back, they are both veterans at loading and unloading, watching for the seatbelt sign, and taking out liquids at security. I think their favorite part, though, was picking out which drink they would order when the flight attendant came by.... That and take off...

I wasn't sure what I would think of California, and I have to say it was not at all what I expected. They live in the Temecula Valley, which is about an hour south of Riverside, and an hour North of San Diego... but inland, not on the coast. It was dry and really reminded me of being in the desert! It was a great location for going and seeing things, though, as we were about an hour's drive from many places. We were pretty much on or in the water every day, and even though we went to NO amusement parks or attractions that the area is known for, I think we got to see California for it's beauty and charm. I think it will be something the boys will always remember....