May 2: Homeward bound (VII)

On the way back we stopped over for a couple of days in Los Angeles, staying with Daddy's friend Buz. We didn't do any of the LA touristy things, but we did have a fun and relaxing time.

Click on any image to see a larger version; use your browser's ‘Back’ button to return.

Image 0069-4197 Canon PowerShot S45 1/319 sec., f/2.8 2007:04:30 00:04:04 UTC (c) Keith & Carolyn

Aidan in Santa Monica. Along the waterfront at Santa Monica are these lovely palm trees, and last time we were here Aidan was 4 months old (bonus bigger version). He's a bit bigger now! (yes, it's a different palm tree).

Megan in Santa Monica in front of the same tree.

Image 0069-4195 Canon PowerShot S45 1/249 sec., f/2.8 2007:04:30 00:02:46 UTC (c) Keith & Carolyn

Image 0069-4198 Canon PowerShot S45 1/60 sec., f/2.8 2007:04:30 03:50:50 UTC (c) Keith & Carolyn

Aidan and Megan shared a bed for the first time while we were at Buz's, and it was also Megan's first time sleeping in a proper bed! They seemed to appreciate being together, and slept better for it - and Megan was very good being in a bed without sides: she only got up two or three times, and then (after Mummy lay with her for a while) she settled and was quite happy. The next night she didn't get up at all!

Our main activity the next day was Griffith Park, a big park in LA which has lots of attractions within it, including the LA Zoo, a big observatory, and lots of hiking. We went on a model train ride, to a big playground, and then to Travel Town, a collection of railway and tram cars from LA's past. We were sad to see the week after we got back that there was a large fire in the park, and much of the bush was destroyed. Thankfully there was no significant damage to the other attractions.

The Inn of the Seventh Ray. Billed as the most romantic restaurant in Los Angeles, we were a bit apprehensive when Buz took the four of us here for the last night of our stay. But we needn't have worried - the restaurant coped brilliantly with two somewhat hyper small children, and we all had a lovely time (even if Daddy did get a bit soaked by a stray upturned water glass, and Megan did try to drink the fountain).

Image 0069-4230 Canon PowerShot S45 1/60 sec., f/2.8 2007:05:01 01:59:49 UTC (c) Keith & Carolyn

The restaurant is in Topanga Canyon, and you eat sitting outside under a clear canopy right next to the stream, with bush sloping up the canyon immediately opposite. With fairy lights, soft New Age music, lilac tablecloths and petals everywhere it truly deserves its reputation! We loved our meals, and the kids loved theirs and ate them in their entirety(!!). Highly recommended!

Image 0069-4234 Canon PowerShot S45 1/60 sec., f/2.8 2007:05:01 02:26:20 UTC (c) Keith & Carolyn

Megan playing with the petals in the fountain.

Then we got on a plane and took the long flight home. We had a wonderful trip: it was so good to catch up with so many people, and to see New Zealand again after too long away. But after three and a half weeks away, it was good too to be back home again. Thanks to everyone, and we hope to see you again soon.