Saturday we packed up early and headed downtown on the train (yes, we took public transit in Los Angeles! I know!! I was a little conflicted myself...as a native SoCal kid it was weird, uncomfortable, and unnatural not to be driving. But as a former Bostonite it was totally normal to haul the kids on the train to go downtown!). It was remarkably easy and the Gold Line (runs from Pasadena to Union Station) was nice. The train ride would have been enough for Ellie, however, once we arrived at Union Station the fun began. We got to play tourist in LA.
We headed first to Oliveria Streer and to the adobe (oldest house in Los Angeles) for some history lessons and cultural experience. The adobe was really nice, complete with a giant cactus and historic furniture. Ellie was interested in the kitchen as well as the kids bedroom.
We then hoofed it past City Hall and to Grand Park. The whole time Ellie was singing "nobody walks in LA". It was humorous. Cal and I took the long way through Grand Park as we couldn't go straight up the stairs.
Once we reached the top of the hill we all got a close look at the Disney Concert Hall, which Ellie declared was not her favorite architecture. She said the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion was better looking. I said that both have a place in architectural history. She became bored with my architectural commentary and started to sing again.
We made our way to the Central Market for lunch where after the miles we had walked everyone was happy to sit down and enjoy good food. After lunch Ellie, Cal and I navigated out way home via the trains (Red Line to the Gold Line) and Nick and his parents made their way to Staples Center for the 'Hawks vs Kings game.
Sunday was complete with a quick tour of Old Town Pasadena and lunch. Then we headed to Yogurtland so Ellie could show off her latest obsession.
Monday Nick, Ellie, Cal and I went to a party for one of Nicks friends and coworkers who is leaving but spent the late afternoon and dinner with Grandma and Grandpa. Ellie was very keen to show off her new baseball playing skills and insisted everyone partake in numerous games all weekend. She also showed off her bike riding and scooter skills. Her grandparents were very agreeable to play with her anything from princesses, to baseball, to Playmobil, to drawing and coloring.
Tuesday was special as Ellies school had an Open House. The open house was intended for the kids to show their parents their work and what a typical day is like. Grandma and Grandpa Harrer got to come with us and see all that Ellie had learned and what she is working on. She showed off her reading, writing, and math skills impressing all of us.
After the Open House though it was time for the requisite good-bye photos. Although we are sad to say goodby to Grandma and Grandpa Harrer we all had a lot of fun while they were here. And although Cal slept for most of their visit (allowing us to do quite a few fun things) he did share some of his giant smiles and laughs with his grandparents.
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