Totally agree with you about wanting to take the little one on trips and see things. Glad you were able to get away and do this. That playground looks really fun! As does the aquarium. That whole area is so beautiful (I was in Monterey one night and stayed with a friend while I was passing through, many years ago - still remember how pretty it was there).
I think vacations are so important. I remember family trips when I was younger and am so grateful for those trips and sacrifices my parents made to take us on trips to DLR or the beach. From what DH said, in his younger years, his family was too involved with sports so Summer was all about travel ball and spending thousands there. I want DS (and any future children!) to go and see places.
This guy was pretty much saying that we're not parenting correctly if we don't know how to control our child
At least stop growing for my wallets sake!
Love the mini-trip update!
I can't believe all of Calvin's beautiful hair. Izzy is getting more, but such a baldy compared to him!
I remember seeing a DIS thread about kid leashes that was pretty heated. But I agree with you - every kid is different. Some really like to run off. And, if you're in a crowded place, why take chances with their safety? We don't have a harness, but I'm not opposed to them. Izzy did go through a short phase of wanting to run off, but is generally pretty good about sticking near us lately. I remember having to make a hold-my-hand-or-ride-in-the-stroller rule in NYC, though. Some places are okay for her to toddle around near me without holding a hand, but some are not. But, yeah, some people have very strong opinions on the issue.
Cute that he was running after the dog on the beach! Izzy's absolute favorite word right now is "Doggie" and she is obsessed with all dogs. She has to look out her bedroom window every night before bed in case there are any dogs walking by.
Glad you had a good little getaway and hope there is more fun in store for your family this summer!
That looks like a fabulous weekend getaway. We went to the Monterey Aquarium with my parents probably 5 or more years ago now, but it was a great time, we really enjoyed it. I'm glad you had a great time, it's so nice that you take your mother along with you on these trips. That's kind of how Arline felt to us, sort of mother like, but that she needed to get away.
I can't believe how big Calvin is getting. Pretty soon we're going to be still catching up on each other's TRs and he'll be going to college, it's scary how time gets away with us!
You need to follow Mark's (Captain Oblivious) TRs, he has a great sense of humor, much like Andy (who also follows his TRs) and he has a similar perspective of giving their kids experiences rather than stuff. He just wrapped up last year's trip to Aulani and is planning a trip kind of like the one I just wrapped up, but a few different stops like the Grand Canyon and DLR. If he were following this TR he would send me another check in the mail for this shameless plus like he did when I plugged his TR (yet to be written) on my own TR!
And who's to judge on the whole harness thing? I'm not a parent at all and I think kids need to be contained. Kudos to the parents who keep them on a leash!
But that will be fun to see/read!
I don't blame you. His curls really are gorgeous. Enjoy them while you can! I can't even get a ponytail out of Izzy's yet, but it is coming along at least!
That really threw me for a second, because (ironically) that was the nickname of the person I visited in Monterey 10 years ago!
If he's understanding what you say, I think he's doing fine. Izzy was like that for a long time, then recently started spewing out not only words, but also small sentences. Things I had no idea that she knew or could say. I'm sure he'll hit that point soon and you'll be amazed. It is pretty cool when they can ask for what they want (mostly for cheese, in Izzy's case...and doggies, of course
) She still doesn't talk a lot, but it's pretty cool when she throws out a random phrase. I will vouch for Captain Oblivious' TRs too! (And there's a check in the mail to do that? Sweet!I'll need to find him then. I'll look for him on your TR.
) I read his Hawaii TR to prepare for our trip and really enjoyed it. And (spoiler alert) I think he hit the nail right on the head when he described the importance of travel and making memories with his kids in his wrap-up post for that report. So true!
What a fun update!
I love that part of California. That's a cool mini-trip. Looks like you all had fun; harness and all.
Let me know if you do!I don't blame you. His curls really are gorgeous. Enjoy them while you can! I can't even get a ponytail out of Izzy's yet, but it is coming along at least!
That really threw me for a second, because (ironically) that was the nickname of the person I visited in Monterey 10 years ago!
If he's understanding what you say, I think he's doing fine. Izzy was like that for a long time, then recently started spewing out not only words, but also small sentences. Things I had no idea that she knew or could say. I'm sure he'll hit that point soon and you'll be amazed. It is pretty cool when they can ask for what they want (mostly for cheese, in Izzy's case...and doggies, of course
I will vouch for Captain Oblivious' TRs too! (And there's a check in the mail to do that? Sweet!
Usually I'm just a lurker but I have to say it is amazing how much your little boy has grown since the start of your TR!
I've loved reading about all of your adventures and can't wait to read more. We don't have a trip planned any time in the near further so I'm using all the TRs to feed my Disney obsession.
P.S. I don't have any kidlets but I totally agree with you on the harness thing. Sometimes they are the safest thing for kids.
Sometimes it's just easier to read than to respond and I so get that. 
I'm still here!
So sorry I haven't commented for a while, I've been struggling to keep up with everyone's TRs lately!
Calvin is getting so big and even more adorable - such a sweetie
Backtracking slightly to your last Epcot update, do the F&W booths close at 9pm even on a EMH night?
If they do, I need to review our plans for October!
Tutto Gusto sounds like a good late night option for us if it stays open during EMH
Hi Linda good to see you!
You know, I don't think they stay open for EMH nights. That's just what I had read on the DIS. But don't take my word for it, hopefully someone else will be able to chime in and help you.
I bet you're getting excited for your trip. It's not too far away!
Looks like y'all had so much fun! I was loving every picture.
I cannot get over how much hair Calvin has! I think our little one will be like that too! He's already getting so much!
One of my favorite pics of the update? That grin Calvin had when throwing sand on Dad!
She had a really bad cough, achy body and a slight headache. She was attempting to get up and get ready too, but I told her to please stay in the room and rest and relax and slowly get ready. I think she was relieved that I was forcing her to do this. So DH and I were talking about we should do and he suggested just going over to the MK for a few hours and then head to Epcot later in the morning/afternoon, since the booths dont open till later anyway. Perfect. 
