Santa Cruz

Grandpa and Grandma rented a house by the beach in Santa Cruz (Capitola). We spent a week up there with them and Uncle Robert, Uncle Mike, and cousin Kira, after visiting “Airplane Ah-yi” for a few days.

Cool house! 0.3 mile from the beach. 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, bar-b-q, hot tub, all the amenities included.

The four of us took over spacious loft room.

The kids found the toys!

We went over to San Jose to pick up Grandpa and Uncle Mike who took the train. Too bad it was after Evan’s bedtime. He would’ve gotten a kick out of seeing the big train.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Cool kids section with lots of hands-on exhibits

Lunch at Bubba Grump. Yum!!

Santa Cruz Boardwalk

Sunset at the little beach by the house. It was getting chilly. No getting in the water.

Uncle Mike was dubbed the “rainbow warrior” by Evan. Yup, he’s manly enough to carry it.

Roaring Camp Railroad in Felton

Wonderful ride through the redwood forest on a steam train.

The Mystery Spot. Weird, strange, wacky place that attracts many geeks and nerds. It explains why there were so many Asians visiting. Gravity just doesn't seem to behave the way it's supposed to... or is it just our perception??? Hhmmm...

This place totally messed with my equilibrium. I was so dizzy just stepping in the building, let alone getting on the table and wall to pose for pictures. Ok, I get dizzy standing still on flat ground. Forget about it. I snapped a few pictures and got out of there as soon as I could.

Billiard ball that rolled UP the board.

We met this lady visiting from Mexico who twisted her ankle. Grandma talked with her and got her some ice. She was very appreciative. She was with a large group of friends. Hubby and Uncle Mike ended up being photo props for the lady and her friends. Uncle Mike was picking up ladies…. and guys. ;o) It was hilarious.

Beach day

Emma accidentally drank some sea water and promptly threw up all over. She learned to have her back toward the waves like Baba suggested.

Grandpa relaxing with his carving.

Aahhh… I miss that hot tub. Hubby, start saving your lunch money. ;o)

Playing boardgames (Candyland and Chutes & Ladders) with Grandpa. Grandpa had a winning streak! Go, Grandpa!! The kids were such sore losers. Emma would’ve rather lose an arm than go down a chute. She had no trouble pushing other people down the chutes though.

Santa Cruz Wharf