Birthdays and Beaches and Princesses, Oh My!

Having our birthdays so close together does have its benefits. On June 25, we headed down to our old stomping grounds in the OC for some birthday fun. We stayed with our wonderful friends, the Merciers and Cooks, who were wonderful hosts and hostesses. Ali loved seeing her buddies, Patrick and Cassidy, and was super excited to have some quality time with Miss Melanie.

However, the main reason the trip occurred when it did was take advantage of the "free ticket on your birthday" at Disneyland. Since kids are free until they turn three, this was the perfect time to go. We felt like quite the rock stars when every employee we ran into wished us happy birthday (after seeing the birthday pin we were given). We rode rides, danced in the parade, and most importantly (in Ali's mind, at least) met SIX princesses (Ariel, Jasmine, Mulan, Snow White, Cinderella, and Belle for you princess lovers out there). We also saw Alice (which Ali was VERY excited about as well). The teacups were a family favorite. And Ali left with a crown that flashes colored lights (leave it to our daughter to pick the tackiest crown of the bunch).

We also spend time at the beach, where we were able to catch up with our friends, the Darts, buying some new Rainbow sandals, eating many meals with great friends, and going to the beautiful wedding of Jenn and Kris (which happened on a great day; July 3--our fifth anniversary!)

All in all, a great vacation. We were sad to leave. Here's a pictorial guide to the trip:

Ali super excited to see her buddy Patrick


Having a blast on the teacups.


Our friends, the Darts (Jason couldn't make it to the beach)



Josiah LOVED the beach. He could have spent days there!


Ali and Cinderella. She was so excited to able to meet and talk to the princesses.



Ali and I "doing the twist" with one of the parade dancers.