All systems clicking

So far, so good. The kids are getting along *pretty* good, with just a pillow fight this morning. But it was a *happy* pillow fight. I have the three kids in the room with me and it looks like a war zone with bras holding down the bathroom, but...it's vacation.

Today we are going to Universal and also (the thing I can't wait for) meeting my nephew Jacob. He is 2 (almost 3) and we never got to see him. My brother named him (middle name) after my husband (middle name). He (my brother) was upset because he was waiting for us to come out to tell us that. These are the things it hurts to think about.

Yesterday we did the whole tourist-y thing. The Chinese theater, pictures with ragged characters (we got the kids and their Uncle with "Jack Sparrow") and a visit to the new Highland shopping center. My purse strap broke (why does that always happen on vacation?) so that was a good thing. I got a new one (bigger and roomier for all of "their" stuff) with well sewn on straps. We then went to Rodeo Drive and, sadly, (or good if you think about it) most of the stores were closed and/or closing. I came *this close* to getting a Coach purse, because I always tell myself I'll do it some day... but I am to cheap to actually do it.

Last night was dinner and watching fireworks at my brother's. We were thinking about going to Newport Dunes... but you have to get up rather early and we slept in. I wanted to meet a dear friend of mine (none of that appears to be working out) but it was too late to find a parking spot. We'll have to plan something else I guess.

I love my nieces. They are so sweet and funny. For 6 and *almost*4 they are very smart and very good talkers. Also, very good huggers. Which is just the medicine that Auntie needs when surrounded by so many painful memories.

So that's what's going on with us. What is going on with you?

Random trip photographs

The Day Before

For once, I have *most of* my clothing packed for tomorrow. James begged me to not be running all crazy tonight, so I did it. Although, I will still be running crazy, of course. There are still toiletries to pack, the Yukon to drop off (I told my mom she could take it to WI for my grandma. A prescription (I need a root canal, I guess) to be picked up and a million other things. So, instead, here I am. Because I am not here as often as I want to be. I have been suffering from some crazy form of "people fear", outside fear, life fear...you could call it really. I have shut off from a lot. I realized it was hurting my children so I have to work harder.

I have joined this decade, finally, by buying a NintendoDS for the flight. Nik has one (James has the PSP). I thought it would be fun because everyone is always talking up BrainAge and, also, this way Nik can contact me on the flight from whatever seat she is in.

Nik's best friend is coming with us, as well. She has always been like another kid to us so I am looking forward to spending some time with the two of them before college calls them away.

What I wish most is that I could live someone else's life for awhile. But that's not possible, is it?

I plan on taking the laptop with me and hope to post updates as we go along.