Quality time with Grandpa Hoagland

Ready for FUN!

Grandpa & Duke - finally buddies


Kisses for Grandpa


Julia & Grandpa


Hanging out...


Butternut squash... JJ's favorite!


Outside the aquarium

Julia and Grandpa looking at the 'weedy sea dragon'

Mesmerized by the 'pot-bellied seahorses'

Beautiful San Diego day...

Cheese!

So intrigued by the 'fishys'

My Dad came for a visit and we so enjoyed our time together! Julia took to him immediately! Grandpa fed her, played with her, took her on walks and even changed some diapers. :) During Dad's visit Julia began saying 'ma-ma', became a skype social butterfly, began eating pureed foods and FINALLY graduated from newborn diapers to size one!!! Girl was busy!

While Dad was visiting we enjoyed delicious food and wine, most that Dad 'whipped up' - he always makes it look so easy! Dad and I took Julia for her 6 month pictures; it was so nice to have and extra set of hands, made it much easier. Julia was so cooperative and happy, the photographer was able to capture some great shots! We also went to Balboa Park and the La Jolla Birch Aquarium, both Dad and Julia's first time. Julia absolutely LOVED the 'fishys' and seahorses; all of the vibrant colors and movement. It was so amazing to experience the aquarium through her eyes. It was also extremely special to spend the anniversary of Jacy's passing with Dad. It's always a special but hard time of year and day, but really nice to spend it with Dad. We concluded the celebration of the day with going out for Sushi and then to Claim Jumper to indulged in some dessert, of course I had 'the usual' - toffee pudding in honor of Jacy Carolina! She continues to be such an inspiration and such a bright light in my life...

We REALLY missed Dad when he left. Actually, I think Duke was the most depressed! He went from 'mad dogging' dad, growling and snagging Dad's spot on the couch when he would get up, to becoming a faithful walking partner, snoring in Dad's lap and giving him kisses! It was so funny to see Dukes transformation with Dad. Crazy Duke - loves affection, but if you're a 'stranger' to him he doesn't think he wants anything to do with you. I guess in Dad's case he figured if he wasn't gonna leave then there were two extra hands that could be made to good use petting and loving on him! We miss you Dad!!! :)