Summer Fun

On the 24th of July we flew out to Northern California with Russ' family to visit his dad's cousin Gary in Sonoma County. The first day we visited the Redwood Forests. You can see how big the trees are. That was pretty fun although I learned that you need to be prepared for a jacket at all times in that area.

Later in the week we went to the drag race at Infineon Raceway. Elliott was a hit in the crowd that is for sure. He was so cute in his ear muffs. He had fun dancing to the music and watching the fast cars vvruum by.

Sonoma is wine country so we had to hit a few of the local wine vineyards. Gary actually works at Cline and Jacuzzi so we got a behind the scenes tour. Of course we also had to pick ourselves up a bottle! That stawberry syrup sure hit the spot! We were probably the only ones not at the tasting table on the tour that day. Elliott is petting the donkey that is one of the owner's pets. The Jacuzzi winery is an exact replica of the famous family's estate in Italy. It was beautiful.

Russ' birthday was also this month. Since it was 08-08-08 we had a party with some friends. We played in the water and paddle boat and everyone just watched the crazy boys play on the trampoline. The Olympic opening ceremonies were also that night. We got to watch a little with our friends although the boys were so entertaining that most of us stayed outside.

The day after we got back from California we headed straight for Las Vegas for the furniture market. Boy, it is hot down there all night long. We didn't work the whole time. We were able to see the sights and Russ and Elliott played and played in the pool while I was at market. Our favorite place is the Bellagio. The gardens are gorgeous. Elliott loved the water show and the trains. My favorite with the miniature version of the Bellagio featuring the miniature water show and even the advertising screen outside.