California Love

"let me tell ya a little story bout the wild wild west...."

Figured i should quote an excellent Hip Hop song from my generation =). Well I just got back on saturday night from my trip to beautiful Carlsbad, Ca. I got to fly down there for almost a week to spend time with my family and see my amazing nephew! This trip was great and a perfect time to step outside of real life to just have some fun. I'm not going to lie, when I visit Cali, i really have the easy life. The monday I arrived, it was actually raining some and of course, since I am now an Oregonian, I was blamed for bringing said moisture. Though i must say, California could REALLY use some more of it! The rest of the week was in the 80's, while back home in portland we are hitting about a 60 degree high. So, unfortunately i was forced to go back to wearing shorts and people lovingly pointed out the fact that "Greg, you are really white... i mean seriously, go outside for a while." Ok, maybe that is a little more dramatic than what people really say but they definitely aren't shy in bringing up this fact.

So probably the most amazing part of my trip was the time that I got to spend with my nephew and just seeing how much he has grown and how much he is progressing. I was seriously awe struck as this little boy who the last time i saw him, struggle to lay on his belly was now close to walking. Matthew brings so much joy to so many people, it is truly awesome.I figured this would be a good time to incorporate a picture of my nephew. Yes, we are definitely wearing matching Chargers outfits!!!! What better than Matthew all "Charged" up! Something you will notice about this picture, besides the fact that it he is the cutest kid in the world, is how he is pointing directly at the camera. His new thing these days is to point everywhere and have you take him there. This technique rarely works when adults use it but is very effective for this young man. It is pretty much amazing! He is becoming a little boy, no longer a baby.

The rest of the trip was great! It included a full thanksgiving dinner (since I won't be able to make it down for thanksgiving this year). And boy, i will tell you, that was a feast to remember. I don't know if it is the fact that I sometimes have to live off Top Ramon or just that the food was that excellent, but we had a great time. This trip also had a bunch of visits with friends that I haven't seen in a while. It was so nice to be able to have fellowship with these people that have so blessed my life. Overall, this was a great trip and a true blessing for me.

You have to admit, there is something nice about returning home after a trip. Sleeping in your comfortable bed, having everything you need (especially when it comes to musical instruments). Don't forget, going outside and being reminded of the need for a coat. I think right now I am just overjoyed with life. I have so many blessings and have just been able to do so much. There is probably more to say, but I feel i should wait until another time.