The gift of a trip

Make-a-Wish gave us the unforgettable gift of a trip.  It was a vacation from life, and after the last nine months of life we have had a vacation from it was the very best kind of gift.  For six days all we had to do was play and be surrounded by people we love and who love us.  I don't think that Anya could have asked for a better wish.  Some of the highlights include:

The dolphin show at Sea World - Anya was perfectly still and in awe.  When asked what she thought about it immediately after, she said "I was just quiet."  Which is true, she didn't say a word during it.  I'm not sure she even blinked.  After it had time to sink in a bit, she claimed it was the best part of the trip, and that was only day two.

Playing in Bryn's room - does it get any better than a cousin nearly the same age with a room full of toys and a great imagination?

Feasting on sushi made precisely to Anya's liking by a great uncle and a great cousin.

Many animals to be seen at both the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park including pandas, gorillas, and, of course, giraffes.

Learning to ride a two wheeler!  

Beach day - never mind that the pacific ocean is frigid, my girls love to swim.

First amusement park rides - not only does Sea World have animals, but it has a kid's amusement park.  Anya has dreamed about going on a rollercoaster, and while this wasn't quite a rollercoaster, I think it fulfilled that desire for a bit.

It is hard to condense such a fun-filled trip into just a few paragraphs.  In addition to all of these highlights, there were times that were just as fun hanging out with family, eating delicious meals, and soaking up the warm weather.  We all came home with an extra smile and memories that we can turn to when we need an extra boost.