A Visit from Grandpa Payne, David, Lisa, and Jayden

We were so excited that Grandpa Payne, Uncle David (Lloyd's brother), Aunt Lisa, and their son, Jayden, came out to visit us June 19-23. They had to drive quite a long time in the car to make it all the way from Utah. We feel so grateful that they were willing to make the long drive because we didn't know if we'd survive a trip to Utah with 7 people in one minivan. We had so much fun with them while they were here. We swam in our pool, played games, swam in the pool at their hotel, visited, and enjoyed being together. They even brought us all presents which they claimed were because they always forget our birthdays. The presents were unnecessary, but the kids loved them! On the Saturday they were here, we went and took these portraits. It's a rare moment when we're all together so we wanted to take advantage of it. After our photo shoot, we went to McHenry Recreation Area, one of our favorite spots near the Stanislaus River. We had a barbecue, played in the river, and floated down the river in a couple rafts we have. It was such a hot day so the cool water from the river was so wonderful.

Grandpa Payne with all his grandkids.

Our kids with their cousin Jayden. He's almost 5.

Our family

Lisa, David, and Jayden

On Monday afternoon we traveled to Santa Cruz so we could spend the evening at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This is an annual summer tradition for our family. At least once a summer, we go to the boardwalk on a Monday or Tuesday evening. On these days, called 1907 nights all the rides are only one ticket and hot dogs, drinks, and cotton candy are only 75 cents. It's a real bargain for our family! There are a lot of kiddie rides for the little ones. We love the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and the carousel where you can throw rings at the clown's mouth as you ride. We had a great time as an extended family this year.

Courtney, Jayden, and Katelyn on the Freefall

Me and Cameron on the Ghost Blasters.

You get to shoot ghosts as you go through the ride!

Jayden and Lisa on the kid's roller coaster.

Conner and Courtney on the Sea Dragons.

He was a little nervous, but ended up liking it okay.

Lloyd, Kylie, David, and Courtney and Katelyn (below) on the Cliff Hanger.

Jayden and Cameron on the planes.

Cameron and Grandpa Payne
Conner didn't know what to think of cotton candy at first--it doesn't feel like food, but he quickly figured out what it was.

It was a terrific visit for all of us. We are so grateful for our family and they way they touch our lives.