Emily's 10th Birthday

Emily turned 10 on Valentine's Day. She received homemade gifts from her siblings. Brian and I gave her several pairs of earrings. She requested BBQ ribs, potatoes, broccoli casserole, whole wheat rolls and chocolate chess pie.

For each child's tenth birthday they are able to take a trip with either Brian or me. Emily's only request was that we walk through the shops in Laguna Beach. Laguna Beach is well known as an artist community. We spent the morning walking through the shops and marveling at the creativity of the various artists. We had lunch at BJ's Pizza Grill. Emily had her first deep dish pizza.

After lunch Emily and I went to Crystal Cove State Park. We spent some time exploring the tidal pools, walking on the beach and just sitting in our beach chairs relaxing and enjoying the beautiful view.

Later that evening I took Emily to dinner at the Rainforest Cafe. Our table was located next to one of many large aquariums located throughout the restaurant. There were also life-size gorillas and elephants that occasionally made noise. The restaurant was a bit loud but definitely unique.

After dinner we saw a stage production of Charlotte's Web at the South Coast Repertory Theater. It was very well done. When Wilbur escaped from his pen ("Pig's out! Lurvy, pig's out!"), he ran through our row. Emily and I were both quite surprised!

Emily and I both enjoyed the activities we did throughout the day, but most of all we enjoyed spending the whole day together.