Random Road Trip

Hello friends! Mom asked me to write a post on her blog about our random road trip we took last week (only fitting, since the trip was my idea). Mom and I decided to run away to California for a few short days. I wanted to a see some close friends and Grandma and Grandpa Lillywhite before heading off to serve a mission. I've been really busy working in the deli and the bakery of a local grocery store and figured this was my last chance to get away from the pressures of work and mission paper stress. Mom tagged along as my driving partner (and to see Debi and the Lillywhites too).

Day 1 (Jul 12)
We decided to get a head start on the road by driving to St. George and spending the night with Dad's aunt and uncle, Craig and Bonnie Lillywhite. It was fun to chat with them for awhile when we first arrived. We appreciated their generous hospitality.



Day 2 (Jul 13)
We arrived in Yucaipa (sp?) just in time to help Debi organize some bedrooms. At the last minute she had been asked to host some foriegn exchange students. The students never actually came, but at least Debi was well prepared. Later that evening we celebrated Steve's birthday by going to dinner at Olive Garden. (Happy Birthday Uncle Steve!) It was good to relax and be with family after such a long drive.



Day 3 (Jul 14)
The next day Mom went to the Redlands Temple with Debi while I drove down to San Diego to visit my friends. After their session, Mom had to go to In-and-Out Burger (a ritual I've never really appreciated) and then drove by the old house in Fontana. Meanwhile, I visited the temple grounds in San Diego, went seal-watching on La Jolla Beach, and played board games with my old roommate and her husband. I found out that my friend is expecting a baby in December. It was great to catch up and talk about our plans. Mom and I met at Grandma Lillywhite's house in Orange.



Day 4 (Jul 15)
On our last day in California, Mom and I went to go see a movie and then headed to the beach. We decided to see Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. Afterwards we took our rollerblades and a picnic lunch to Newport Pier. Mom forgot her swimsuit so we just waded in the shallow water and relaxed in the sand.

The trip was a great experience. I was able to see family and friends, read a couple of good books, and gain first-hand experience with navigating Southern California's freeway systems.