Cousin time in Cali!!

So, my first time away solo was to see my bro in Vegas in 2016! This year (2017) I got to go visit my cousin Susan in San Marcos, California for 8 days!! The first three days were a bit hectic, and it wasn't until the last two that we really got come good quality time together and we wanted more time together so bad! So I called Andrew and he was ok with it, so I switched my flight and stayed an extra 3 days, originally I was there for 5! It was such an amazing trip, one that we will both always remember. My cousin just had her 5th baby and he was 4 months old at the time and super super fussy. She was literally so exhausted and my heart went out to her. Her husband was super busy at work and she normally had to face each day solo on little sleep. One day as I was driving the thought came to me to fly out and help her out! Andrew was supportive of it, so off I went a few months later in February. It was a very special time for us to reconnect and make new memories. Share our hearts and bond like cousins do. We loved our visit, and I didn't want to leave even after 8 days! I love her kids and I am glad I got to spend some time with them! It's been 1.5 years now since our visit and I am trying to get back! I hope I can later this year and bring Jayna and Jesse...we shall see. Shopping at Target! Niveha and I in our cool glasses!

The one day we wanted to go to the beach, it was foggy and rainy and windy! We even pulled the boys out of school to go and then they were so unimpressed with the weather and trying to find a spot to set up! We finally found a spot where it was sunny! I especially loved sitting and enjoying the sunshine cause it was February and snowing back home!

Some pics of the scenery... I couldn't get over how different the landscape is in California compared to what I am used to! A totally different kind of beauty.

Sue and I being silly! Glad I snapped these, cause they were our only pics together from the whole trip!

I got to cut and colored Sue's hair with some balyage hilights! She has the prettiest hair, I have always loved her hair! We went and got supplies at Cosmoprof and with the help of the oldest in watching the fussy babe, we got it done! Isn't she so pretty!? Even in her PJ's!

I was elated to go shopping for some maternity clothes and a bathing suit since there is basically only Tyme Maternity in Victoria! And it's so expensive there! I found some awesome pieces of clothing:) Just a few of my finds...

We went to the park near their house and I snapped some photos of Sue's kids except Jamieson, I didn't get any of him! But here are the girls, Niveha and Annalise, Sue and Benson doing what he does best;) Then some of Macayden rollerskating!

I am so grateful for family and the close bonds I have. Sue is like a sister to me, she is one of my best friends. We don't get to see each other too often, but we just pick up where we left off. I love her so much and look up to her in so many ways. Until next time California...