California

Well it's been 3 weeks now living in California. Now that we are settled I plan to do better about blogging. Well where do I start. Our first 2 weeks were more like a vacation in California. After the unloading of boxes and more boxes (and my sister yelling at me that I brought to many clothes) we felt settled in our new apartment. Kristen came to help us and see California for her first time. She stayed for 2 weeks and we enjoyed having her here. I don't think we would have gotten everything done without her. Thanks Kristen!! You're the best!! Jim was off work for those 2 weeks, so we hit the beach, Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Pier, the pool, Hollywood, etc.

We are living in Santa Monica. We are 10 blocks from the beach (10 minute walk), amazing shopping and great places to eat! Our apartment is on the corner of 11th and Montana. Montana has a ton of upscale shops, food, cleaners (on every corner) and nail places everywhere. We have a fantastic location. I barely drive at all. I can walk to the grocery store, the bank, cleaners, the mall, post office, Addison's school. You name it I can walk there. I love that.

Jim started work this past Monday and Kristen was gone-reality set in. Addison and I are left to explore this big place by ourselves. We joined the YMCA, visited a park, went to story time at the library, went shopping and rode her bike around the block a few times. Addison is going to go to school 3 half days starting in September. She's ready to go and being around other kids will be great for her. So until then, Mommy will just have to find things to do each day. His first week of work went well and he's busy already. He's had a lot of late nights already this week, but are happy when he's home.

Let me share some things I "like" and "getting used to" about living in California.
"Likes":
-the weather is beautiful (although very chilly in the evening). Reminds me of my favorite season Fall! The people here say the weather is horrible right now but we are enjoying it. If we drive 15 minutes from Santa Monica the temperature goes up 15 or so degrees. I guess since we are so close to the ocean it makes it cooler.
-being able to take a run and see the ocean next to me!
-walking everywhere
-having my cousin Lisa close by!
-the fact that there is a Nordstrom & Juicy Couture Store in my own city!!!
-that Addison has adjusted so well-she's a trooper!
-that cars stop immediately whenever you are crossing the street at non stoplight intersections!
-the Farmer's Market-yummy!!
-Cooking healthier (California inspires you to do that)
-Our new Church-it's beautiful and the music is great (plus the the Governor Arnold and his wife belong there too! We saw them one Sunday)

"Getting Used To":
-living in an apartment (after living a house)
-not having a backyard for Addison to run around in
-the white walls in the apartment
-the super super small washer and dryer in the apartment
-not having my family or friends to hang out with! (this is the hardest)
-being asked "hot or cold" when I order chocolate milk for Addison when eating out.
-people don't follow the guidelines of walking on sidewalks here-STAY TO THE RIGHT!
-that everyone has dogs and they bring them everywhere (including nice stores)

Well enjoy some first few photos!! Any visitors are welcome!!