THE NEWTON'S

Thursday, May 30th.  As much fun as we had in Yosemite, we were ready to pack the car back up and head on to our next destination.  We slept in a little bit and then hit the road to Santa Rosa.  Rich's parents live there in the same house Rich grew up in.  It was fun to go by his elementary school, middle school and highschool.  For the kids to see his cross country meet courses, and where he had his summer jobs.  We got to the house and settled in, ate some dinner and had to break out the traditional Newton croquet game.  It was the first time in a long time the kids had played, but they all had a great time. :) Friday, May 31st.  We all needed a more relaxing day.  We slept in a little bit that morning, and then headed over to the lagoon to enjoy the beautiful day and play in the water.  Sand, and sun are always a great combination with our kids and I enjoyed every minute playing in the water and watching them play in the ...

This is a picture heavy post... so much to show! :) Monday, May 27.  We stayed at a hotel near the southern entrance of Yosemite.   We were just a windy road away from Rich's all time favorite National Park.   He grew up coming to Yosemite for vacations frequently and it was neat to recognize parts from our first family vacation there 11 years ago.  We got some lunch at the little general store and took the bus over to the grove. The area used to be much more built up with buildings and parking areas, but they have tried to return the areas to their original state after they realized the parking lots were damaging the trees.  I remembered the little store from before and we continued the tradition of ice cream from the store after our hike around the trees. Then we drove on up to the Yosemite valley.   It is a gorgeous drive and view.  Rich's parents and my parents both met us there at Yosemite lodge.   The rooms were larger than we ...