Christmas Vacation 2008, Page 7

12-26-08 Rain, snow, or wind, it wasn't going to matter. We were going to the beach! It turned out to be a sunny day, but still a bit cool. I love the sound of the waves, so this was a relaxing morning even though we beach hopped.

These law abiding citizens are covering up the sign that said "Keep Out".

The previous pictures were taken at Gaviota Beach. We enjoyed the long dock that jutted into the water. It gave a great view of the coastline. There were many fishermen and women hoping for a bite.

Grandpa finally got into the family look for pictures. The kids knew they would wear him down.

Now we are at Refugio State Beach. This beach was sandy so the kids took to the very cold water. Marissa and Whitni made it to their waists, but they were freezing the rest of the day.

Sand wars are above.

This was where I wanted to make a sand castle with Rock. That didn't happen so the kids and Dale made their own version of a snow man, a sand man.

Yes it does have arms, eyes and a nose, all courtesy of the waves.

I know we took pictures of where we ate lunch in Santa Barbara. It was a dock that had many shops and restaurants on it. We ate at one - outside - that had birds everywhere. They were outside and inside the restaurant.

After our lunch we drove through Santa Barbara looking for their police department. My children have finally got on the Psych train. Dale and I have enjoyed it for a couple of years now. They would watch episode after episode in their condo, so it just seemed natural for them to go to where it takes place. The outside is apparently what is in the series but the children were disappointed the inside didn't look the same.

Dinner was late, only reservation we could get at the Hitching Post. Most of the things we have done have come from suggestions from Greg Neff, who went to school in Solvang. Both he and Sue recommended the Hitching Post for its great steaks.

Yes, the meal was delicious but the fun part was the waitress. She is kneeling between Dale and I. She truly enjoyed our family and Dale's brand of humor. She took no guff off of him and that was fun to see them sparring.

All have left now on this Saturday morning. Mom, Dad and Nick left at 6 am. The rest of the children left about 9:30 this morning. They will be driving to DeAndra's folks and spend the night. They get to see Rock one more time. Dale and I are waiting around Los Angeles and Anaheim until our plane leaves for Mexico at 1am. Our Christmas vacation in Solvang is at an end. I hope you enjoyed this daily update of our trip.