Family Time in Tucson

Bowling with Auntie Janet and Christopher

It was kind of scary trying to travel by airplane for the first time with two kids, two carseats, a bow case, regular luggage and a stroller. We almost missed our flight going out because we stood in the wrong line! Apparently, if you're traveling with a lap child, you can't get in the Express Check-In line. Anyhow, by God's grace, the flight was delayed and we barely got on. Inspite of all that, it was so nice to see Rachel having a good time with her cousins from faraway places and reuniting with her grandma and uncles. I think it's important for her to experience new things outside of her comfort zone here in San Jose and see desert terrain, bowling alleys, jackrabbits in the backyard and cactus on the freeway. Since coming back, she's been asking to return.

Amanda, too, enjoyed her time especially with Randy's mom. The two bonded so well that Amanda only left the house once during the entire trip, which was to Uncle Victor's Christmas dinner! The rest of the time, Grandma opted to stay home with her! Randy and I even had a chance to have a nice meal out at Terra Cotta...with really yummy food!

Rachel's favorite older cousin, Caitlyn!

Christopher, Caitlyn and Rachel-"On the count of three, say 'Cousins!!!!'"

Amanda with her Great-GrandmotherRachel and Uncle Mark messing around
Family Bath Time...heh, when you're traveling, you have to improvise!
Amanda's first attempts at sitting up and checking out the pandas on her chair!
Mom and Rachel making cookies for Auntie Shirley's cookie party!
Brandon, Emerson and Rachel...Texas and California cousins at play!
Amanda and her Grandma