Yosemite, Lake Tahoe and Napa Valley

It was the spring break and we just got back from road trip. Places after places. We visited Yosemite, Lake Tahoe and Napa Valley. There was still snow at Yosemite and Lake Tahoe, it was also where the kids had their first snow tubing experience. They love it! It was Spring, and snow wasn't as fine for play, but was good enough.

I used to think California is a state of theme parks, but this trip has enlightened me beyond. We did lots of beautiful sightseeing and indulged in gourmet food and wine in Napa Valley. Simply high life. What I loved most out of this trip was the many beautiful family shots we had. Thanks to a sturdy tripod and breathtaking views.

We did snow tubing in Lake Tahoe, yet again. The kids tried on the tube carousel, where a machine would pull the child filled tubes in rounds.

 

Snow tubing in Yosemite, Badger pass ski area

 

Our half attempted snow man

 

With our built snowman

 

We are the snow angels!

Yosemite fall

Love the snow!

Napa valley would be a really nice place for the kid-less, especially if you're into fine dining. But, with kids, fun goes on. We tasted wine, they tasted grape juice. We visited a few wineries, gained some knowledge about wines and bought some back for drinking leisure too. I love Napa for it's fine food and wine. And those chocolates you find there are really good!

We also visited the Old Faithful Geyser, where the underground river water erupts because of the heat pressure. It was nice watching, but I thought it wasn't anything impressive. What's more fun seemed like feeding the goats and sheep in their little petting zoo. 

 

A great visit to the Castello di Amorosa winery. We loved it the most!

Animal therapy

 

A break from theme parks to scenic travels can be therapeutic. We did lots of walking with the kids, we even did a down and up slope trail with Jazz using her walking feet. Walking moments give us bonding moments, we chatted and chatted. So looking forward to next getaway again.

Spelling

Jazz's first spelling test - 3 words and 3 letters. Tiger Mom in the making. Roar!

Rhyming 'at' words

Age up

Another year of aging. Celebrated my birthday with two little ones home and a dinner out. It was my initial intention to stay free on this day; hands off everything, snug in bed till the body feels like moving and no washing or chores. But we know Mothers don't get days off. At least, this is what I would do if I worked. Take a day off work to rest with no distractions.

When birthday falls on a day when the man's at school and 2 little ones are home, it's still much about keeping those hands occupied. Nonetheless, I had a great day bonding with them at home. Due to time zone difference, my Mum called to wish me an early birthday. Simply sweet of her. Spouses here really surprised me. Bel made me a lovely birthday cake, ST got me bath salts, oh such luxury. Yes! We've a bathtub here. HP got me shower cream and body lotion. Thank you ladies for your thoughts! My man got me roses and my favourite cake - Red Velvet cheesecake from cheesecake factory! Oh so yummy!

After having kids, there seemed a greater reason to get cakes and candles for celebration. They love singing birthday songs and blowing that candle out. Always a One candle policy after crossing that 21st mark. Less is better when you age. 

 

Lovely thoughts from the man and ladies

It's the Mummy's day

 

As I begin to age up each year (The only thing that goes up and not come down), I pray for increased wisdom in parenting the kids and being my man's best helper. Also in hope of aging gracefully each year.