Then came Santa Monica

So, after flying to Seattle we started part two of the vacation by visiting Kyle, Amy, and our two beautiful nieces in Santa Monica. It was a huge family ordeal with lots of people! The big event was our newest Broadbent family member was having her baby blessing. It was lovely. Santa Monica was so hot though, we were all eager to get to the cool Oregon coast. We were only there for a weekend, but fit a lot of things into our schedule for it being such a short time.

 Can you believe how big Anabelle is now? She has the sweetest personality. We are blessed to have extraordinarily sweet nieces.

 Why did I not have my nice camera for these? We just brought along our little Canon point and shoot to the beach this day. The picture quality isn't terrible, but when I see pictures like this one of Kev and Anabelle I wish the quality was a little better. He is obviously one smitten uncle.

 She is a total California girl. No fear when it comes to those giant waves or icy water.

 Best pals.

 Honestly, does this need a caption? Adorable.

 Anabelle and Aunt Ashley. Anabelle looooves her time with Aunt Ashley.

 Yes, I came out into the sun to enjoy time with my nieces. Meet Amelia, who stole my heart at first sight.

 Sleeping beauty.

 Kevin running around enjoying some California sunshine.

My love.

 So neat to see stained glass at one of our church buildings. This Santa Monica building also has a beautiful mural and courtyard!

 In my usual fashion, I couldn't hold back from taking pictures of the delicious food we ate. This is a bruschetta served as a breakfast item at a little bakery called Amelia's.

 Same place. Kevin's egg sandwich.

Paigey's choice--a chocolate croissant better than any you have ever had.

I was so excited to get a call from my brother asking if we could sneak away for a few hours to spend some time with him, his wife, and little boy. I hadn't seen my brother in almost a year and hadn't seen my nephew or sister in law in a long time either. I was over struck with joy and wept as soon as I saw them. It was absolutely wonderful to see them so unexpectedly. We just walked around the pier and the promenade, chatted, and ate tasty food. We're grateful that very soon Corey, Amber, and Lane will all be in Virginia with us.