Fun in Newport Beach

Ahoy, I sail!

We finally decided to take advantage of living semi-close to family and planned a Memorial weekend trip to visit the O'Kelley/Daniels clan in Newport Beach. Brandon and Rebecca hopped on board and we knew we were going to have a rollicking good time.

Rebecca and I drove out Friday morning with the girls. It was only four hours door to door and the girls did really well. Ryan and B-man drove out that evening after work.

We loved seeing Shannon and Graham's house and I'm fairly certain that I would be happy living the rest if my life in Newport should the opportunity and $$$$ arrive :).

The O'Kelleys certainly spoiled us. We went to Balboa Island and rode the Ferris wheel.

A quick look at the ocean for Willa, but we opted to save a real beach outing for another visit. She was in awe and exploring when we needed to get going so we sent Dylan to go get her. He held her hand to bring her back. He is a very sweet nephew and cousin.

Graham reserved a Duffy boat for a night ride through the bay on Saturday evening. We brought dinner to eat onboard and it was so pleasant! Poor  June was the only sad one because of her giant life jacket. Willa looks a little sour here, but I think she just didn't want to pose. She had a great time.

Rebecca snapped this of Willa and Claire. I love her expression! I think these two will be good pals.

Claire also had a fancy jeep that Willa was in love with. She called it the "beep" and was so so so excited when we finally let her take it out.

Lastly, we drove up to Westwood on Sunday to see Bishop Rudd and his family and to attend church. He was our USC bishop and then immediately got called as bishop of his family ward after five years at the USC ward! It made us so happy to see them and their cute kids. 

It also felt so right to see him conducting in his usual manner.

We also lucked out seeing Ryan's other law school chum Scott and his girlfriend Aubrey, since he attends that ward now. Seeing old but true friends is such a blessing! It has been 3 1/2 years since we left and returning to our old stomping grounds brought back a lot of emotions.

Mainly, we were so grateful for our time at USC and for the eternal friendships we made there.

We drove back this morning with very worn out kids. It was such a great trip, we hope that Shannon and Graham aren't too tired of us because we hope to see them often.