jacks and livi were off from school the whole week of thanksgiving, so we decided to head down to santa barbara to spend time with grandma susie and papa bob. my parents are so kind to let our WHOLE family come crash at their home...we all crossed our fingers that herbie, carter and uco would all get along - otherwise it was going to be a very long week!
thankfully, they all got along great and herbie was accepted by his uncles with no reservations. the three furry boys had many trips to the dog park and spent a lot of time in the backyard wrestling, chewing on balls, and following lyla around while she ate. while i know we give herbie a good life, i think he would have happily stayed behind to enjoy warm weather, a big backyard, plenty of playmates, and daily outings to the park or beach. don't worry, herbie, we can soon book our next stay at Casa Hull!
 |
| loaded in our rented mini-van and ready for a long trip down to SB |
 |
first stop was stanford...john and jacks went to the
football game while we passed time on campus |
 |
| thank goodness for the mini-potty - even if lyla had a few false alarms! |
 |
| a festive red fountain for the big game |
 |
| we stopped for the night in paso robles |
 |
jacks was the first asleep and the last to wake...
herbie was starting to lose his patience in the morning |
 |
| first item on the agenda once we arrived... |
 |
| fresh-squeezed orange juice |
 |
| lyla was able to entertain the dogs for a bit |
 |
| while i tried to read in peace |
 |
carter would make a fabulous therapy dog...
he just wants to be pet ALL THE TIME |
 |
| carter, uco, and herbie are patiently waiting for a crumb to drop |
 |
| herbie had a blast at the dog beach |
 |
| it was low-tide and perfect for the kids too |
 |
| a pretty peaceful way to spend an afternoon |
 |
| carter and uco graciously offered up their bed to herbie |
 |
| my mom has a few rules about dogs on the furniture |
 |
| clearly, i follow them to a T |
 |
| doggy pillows are the best! |
 |
| peanut butter sandwich anyone? |
 |
| what a mug shot! |
 |
| can't wait to make brownies with my helpers!! |
 |
| time to get some exercise! |
 |
| vacation looks good on you, lyla |
 |
| i'm getting the hang of this whole lounging thing too |
 |
| that's my girl! |
 |
| this chair was highly coveted during our visit |
 |
each night ended with a little wrestling match
(can you spot all 7 creatures in this picture?) |
 |
| all the kids beat up on john |
 |
| and carter just stood in the middle, hoping for a little affection |
 |
| so many cutie pies in one bed! |
 |
| we took a "hike" to get a peak at a neighbor's horse |
 |
| sister selfie |
 |
| let's hit the road! |
 |
| they love that they get to ride in the street...this ain't san francisco! |
 |
| passing time at the restaurant |
 |
| best buddies |
 |
| herbie and his uncles |
 |
| not exactly a successful family picture |
 |
| not perfect, but i'll take it! |
 |
| jacks had no problem smiling perfectly here |
 |
| after a week in SB, we hit the road bright and early |
 |
the kids and i enjoyed a little movie in the backseat,
and then lyla FINALLY took a nap!!!!! =) |
